BlueStone Press

The best source for local news from Marbletown, Rochester & Rosendale

Published the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month | Vol. 28, Issue 12

June 16, 2023 | $1.00

Frost, smoke and dryness Rondout Valley farms roll with the punches Ann Belmont BSP Reporter “It’s always something when you’re farming!” That's a quote from Will Leibee, owner of Back Home Farm in High Falls. This spring has been full of "somethings," a May with hardly any rainfall, a frost on the late date of May 18, and then days of

thick smoke pollution drifting down from Canadian wildfires. Farmers are a resilient bunch – they have to be – but dealing with these challenges has meant at minimum a lot of extra work and, for some, major losses. The frost event seems to have had the greatest impact, especially on orchard owners and berry growers. Here's a great description of the atmospheric me-

chanics of a frost by John Wightman of Wightman Apple Farm in Kerhonkson: “Cold air is more dense than hot air … the best way to describe it, it’s like molasses. If you poured it on a topography, every place there’s a pocket, that frost will settle in. And it won’t start flowing downhill till it fills that pocket up.”

See Farms, page 15

Ready the cannonballs

Rochester discusses green initiatives

Rosendale pool opens for the season Madelyn Crews BSP Reporter Come one come all who have a towel and sunscreen. The official opening of the Rosendale Community Center Pool will be Saturday, June 24. Hours of daily operation are currently set for noon-7 p.m. An hour is reserved for early lap swimming on weekdays, 7-8 a.m., for all early birds. Swimming lessons and pool membership now have early sign-ups available. Swimming lessons for residents are $50 per child per session and $70 for nonresidents. The prices for Rosendale residents are as follows: $6 for adults 17 years and older, $3 for seniors 65 years and older, and $4 for children above the age of 3. Every child 2 years old or younger is permitted free admission. The daily prices for non-residents are doubled. Membership fees for residents are $95, $65 for single seniors, and $200 for a household of three with the option of a $25 charge per additional member. Nonresident prices are $150, $100 and $300 ($35 per additional member), respectively. A PDF detailing these prices is available in the recreation and youth section of the forms and document page on the Town of Rosendale’s website. Passes can be purchased at the Rosendale Pool ticket booth. After nearly 60 years and thousands of paying and playing patrons, the grounds were no longer safe to use. The dire need for a makeover was glaring, so action was taken at the speed of funds. The newly renovated pools are set to make a splash this sweaty summer. One group sure to

A new generation of ownership at RV Veterinary PAGE 11

Apples just beginning at Stone Ridge Orchards. Photo by Elizabeth Ryan

Grace Molenda BSP Reporter Rosendale Pool is opening on June 24. BSP file photo will bring back memories.

make many a splash is the Rosendale Rapids swim team. Their season is scheduled to begin practice once the pool is filled and ready. The competitors are led by Natalia Giunta, who’s been head coach since 2019, and supported by numerous assistant coaches. Registration for the team this season is unfortunately closed due to all spots being filled, but if you’re interested in swim meets or becoming a member next year, check out the team’s information page at rosendalerapids. swimtopia.com. At the Rosendale Town Hall meeting on May 3, Aiden Baker, Lia Berry, Andrews Digman, Claire McFarland, Ella Foss-Sellitti, Owen Hattenbrun, Morgan Hicks, John O’Sullivan, Isabella Parisio, Mason Perusse, Faith Rodrigues and Laszlo Sterling were hired as temporary recreation attendants. This role encompasses operating stands to overseeing events. At the Rosendale Town Hall meeting on June 7, the Town Board hired Gabrielle Baker, Owen Hattenbrun, Grace McArdle, Damon Reed, Dylan Ring, Caroline Steeves and Alana Florencio-Wain, Paige Baxter, Jill Creegan, Dylan Diallo, Luke Kotsides, Iris Laves, Benjamin Mcgahan, Clara Samko, Jack Samko and Mackenzie Snair as part-time lifeguards. These certified

individuals will be on duty until September – until the pool closes or classes begin, whichever comes first. Alas, the Rosendale Pool does not have CPR classes for non-employee persons. If you’re not currently certified and interested in lifeguarding or potentially saving a land-bound life one day, the Community Training Center of the Kingston Fire Department and the Wallkill EMS are two local institutions that provide CPR training for groups and individuals. Contact methods can be found on Ulster County’s HEART Safe website. It takes a couple of hours to learn the techniques. It takes a couple of minutes to save a loved one. The pool and buildings on the grounds are the embodiment of Rosendale’s dedication to quality recreation. The sheer number of people and power and perseverance it took to reanimate a landmark of fun, and now to maintain it, is a feat of force. Those who make hot days cool until the sun sets (maintenance workers, office officials, volunteers, in addition to those nominally mentioned) make all the difference for so many visitors. Congratulations to the many locals on their employment, and welcome to the patrol platoon! Recreation clerk Doreen Whitaker is the person to contact for further inquiries.

FUN Raising party for the MCC PAGE 20

The Rochester Town Board met in person on Thursday, June 1, at the Harold Lipton Community Center, Accord. Members in attendance included town supervisor Mike Baden and board members Erin Enouen, Adam Paddock and Charlotte Smiseth. Councilman Michael Coleman was not present at the meeting. Baden opened the meeting by announcing that “as of the end of May, the Town of Rochester has zero debt … and that’s something I think a lot of communities can’t say.” This information arrived as tax season closed in Rochester, with a total of $7,446,872 collected at time of meeting. Another opening update addressed resident inquiries about the O&W Rail Trail improvements, which were slated to start in Rochester in June. The Open Space Institute has appointed contractor P.E. Colluci of Gardiner to complete the project*. According to Baden, “The goal is still to be completed by the end of October, and so we look forward to getting that started soon.” Construction may impact access points within the Town of Rochester, but Baden promised that “the trail will remain open” for summertime use. Following the supervisor’s update, Enouen announced that the Environmental Conservation Commission will

See TOR, page 8

51st Annual Road Race on July 4th PAGE 12

Page 2, June July 1, 16,2022, 2023BlueStone , BlueStone Press Press

Farewell to the stars: honoring our horoscope columnist's legacy In the time-space continuum that has such a remarkably good record of bringing people together in the Rondout Valley, my instant attraction to Joanne Ferdman circa 1996 might not be surprising. But nearly 30 years after we were introduced, I can still feel her warm big smile that lit up the room at Lydia’s Cafe. When I spoke to Joanne this week, we shared that Visit the folks memory we are next door both so fond of. She agreed then, completely on the spot, that she would write a horoscope column in the BlueStone Press, a newspaper I was just planning to start. She remembers being thrilled at the prospect of her own column. Her commitment to her astrology column and this newspaper over the last three decades has been nothing short of stellar and an ongoing inspiration to our staff. Now at 94, Joanne has decided it’s time to bring her column to a close. Joanne feels well and continues to learn new things. She’s making jewelry with a beading process and has lots of family to love her, with three daughters, grandchildren and now a great grandchild. Thank you, Joanne, for hanging with us through a lot of life and ink. We’re all grateful to have had you by us for all these years around the sun.

ment was so solid for a long run. I think I was able to maintain my consistency when I realized I was looking at real life. Yes, bad things can happen and do, but when you see it in advance, you can deal with it. I didn't check, when I was to be operated on for a knee replacement, until it was after the fact. It went bad, but had I looked, I would have seen the problem would take three years – and delayed the surgery. Tell us a little about your family and how you’ve managed to stay so intellectually vibrant in your later years? My basic philosophy has always been – keep learning. You may be primarily interested in one thing (astrology), but I also play bridge and tennis, travel, meet people and enjoy books (ideas). I am happy to acknowledge my four children all have successful careers, advanced degrees, and read books.

Q&A

How did you get into astrology? When my children were quickly becoming adults and leaving for college, I became restless and began looking for new ideas. A close friend took me to an astrologer (I was very new and skeptical). I sat and listened and felt she didn't know what she was talking about. So, I went to the library. Soon I found that a course was given at the local college, and I signed up – and changed my life. What about astrology kept you interested? I had been a psych major, but never used it professionally. Now I discovered there is a regular progression of growth, i.e., the Saturn return and the Uranus opposition and the birth chart and progressions give this information that can be used to make better

Joanne Ferdman Profession: Astrologer, BSP columnist Age: 94

decisions – knowledge about the future. Tell us about your time living in Stone Ridge? I began to teach in a local school, studied, and soon found myself invited to join a group at the Fallsview Hotel to lecture on martial arts and spiritual ideas that included astrology. Eventually, I was asked to lecture at other hotels as well. I found my life taking a new turn with interesting people, so I moved to Stone Ridge and remained there for over 10 years. Eventually, I worked at the Mohonk Mountain House and was a Saturday night regular. When you think about your column, how did you keep so consistent in your output for every issue for three decades? I mean, life happens and your commit-

Fresh Air & Strawberries!

What are the stars saying about the rest of this year? I have great hesitation giving any long-range prediction, but I DO FEEL WE HAVE BEEN PUT ON NOTICE that there will be financial troubles ahead of us because of the tremendous unrest around the world. – Compiled by Lori Childers, publisher, BSP BSP community – We are looking for two columnists to fill the space on page 19. Joanne wrote every issue, but we’re thinking it would be best to find two columnist who could each write once a month. Interested? Know someone who might be interested? Please have them email bluestonepress845@gmail.com or submit a note of interest on our website at bluestonepress.net, and we will get back to you with more information. Thank you.

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BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 3

Financial adviser says, 'electric bus mandate not thought out' Mandated electric buses use electricity from diesel fired power stations Amber Kelly BSP Reporter Financial adviser Dr. Rick Timbs gave advice to the Rondout Valley Board of Education at its June 13 meeting in the district office and began by saying, “I want to thank Alyssa and Joe Morgan for all their help in delivering this plan. Transportation is a huge expense, and you’ve got a lot of kids to run around as well as special ed runs, athletic runs, so your aid has gone up, but I believe it will ebb out.” New York state’s fiscal year 2022-2023 budget established a nation-leading commitment for all new school buses purchased to be zero emission by 2027 and all school buses in operation to be electric by 2035. The last annual ASBO conference (Association of School Business Officials of New York) focused on the state’s new zero-emission school bus. The event was held on Oct. 4, 2022, in partnership with the Rockefeller Institute of Government. Timbs has investigated the school bus zero emission mandate by 2035, and said that each electric bus will cost closer to $400,000 versus $150,000. As a firefighter, Timbs knows that those buses burn at 3,000 degrees so you cannot park them close to each other, which will require bigger buildings for garaging. They need more protection and should not be parked outside. He noted that the staff must be trained to work with zero-emission buses. Some parts will no longer work. “You are going to need extra storage space for the extra batteries,” he said. “The state wants you to amortize the cost of the electric buses over 12 years. The problem is the buses are only going to last eight to nine years. By the time you get to 2035 the buses you already have may no longer be feasible. … To me, this is a good idea that was not fully thought out. This is a California model where they have rolling blackouts just trying to do what they are doing now. Meanwhile New York is closing nuclear power plants. The power plants that are going to be used to power your buses are diesel fired,” Timbs continued. “I have clients who have applied for the grant you were awarded but were turned down. Something tells me that in a few years, you’ll be turned down and they’ll get the grant. Because there is not enough money. … There are 50,000 buses that will need to be purchased in New York state. I went to every vendor in the (recent conference), and not one of them could deliver to me 20 buses next year. Fifty thousand buses needed at the same time. All the capital projects going in at the same time. This is not going to work. I was meeting with a district the other day, and they believe this is going to break their budget in half. “This is going to be very expensive. It’s not that this may not be worthy, it’s just that this may not be the plan. Tell you what, go down to your electric company and tell them you are going to need enough electricity for 30 buses, or 35 with visiting teams, and ask them what year it is going to be there.” Regarding the restricted fund balances, Timbs said, “You do have a workers’ compensation reserve of about $250,000. The

only thing I would say about this is that it is adequately funded. As a financial adviser, I’m glad to see that money in there. The comptroller may think it is overfunded, but I must say, technically speaking, workers’ comp claims could come in at any time and you are trying to protect yourself. The thing I like about the workers’ compensation reserve is that should the district need some money for some emergency purpose, at any board meeting they could transfer money out of this reserve into another reserve, or into the general fund, so it is Timbs nice to have a workers’ comp reserve. “You have an unemployment reserve. This one here is also a good one to have. People come and go and you have to pay the unemployment benefits, depending on what goes on. I would probably guess that the comptroller would believe that this is overfunded a bit, and you could adjust this. I wouldn’t move all of it, but maybe some of it.” Timbs said that the retirement funds are really done well, with a gentle increase each year. The reserve for employee benefits is less easily transferred. He said auditors could give guidance on if it could be reduced any. Pointing to the capital reserve line, Timbs said, “Here is the shining star. Somebody … this district has had its thinking cap on. I like the use of fund balance to build a capital reserve. Matter of fact, your debt service and your state aid for capital renovations are dropping off in a few years, and this reserve will come in handy as you plan another capital project. Having money in here is an excellent way to offset taxpayer impact. This is a jewel right here, this is fantastic, so kudos to the board and central office for doing this. This is evidence of excellent planning.” With voter approval, capital reserves can also be made for vehicles, pickup trucks, snow ploughs, classroom furniture and technology. The workers’ comp, unemployment and retirement reserves can also be shifted to other needs. The reserve for employee benefits is just right, not too much, but not too little either. “The district has really kept up with capital projects,” Timbs said. “I am impressed with these reserves so far. It is evidence of long-range planning by the district. The comptroller may have a problem with a few things that we can move around, but I’ve got to tell you this is one of the best plans I’ve seen, so kudos.” State aid is the largest number on the page but is only increasing at 3% because other districts with more poverty are being prioritized. “The cautionary tale here is to let the district know that over time there are going to be huge constraints on your revenue,” Timbs said. “They are simply not going to grow at the volume that you would like. Look at it this way, if your major aid category, is huge by far, and if inflation continues to move at 4 or 5%, labor costs go up, inflation goes up, the price of materials goes up, this will put pressure on your revenue and ultimately, I believe, pressure on your budget.” Building aid is going up because of previous capital projects, but will end in a few years. Timbs said that the aid from the

See Buses, page 7

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Page 4, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press

Smoke gets in our eyes (and lungs) Ash fell into the Rondout Valley's topographical bowl, located between two mountain ranges Anne Pyburn Craig, BSP Reporter Starting last Tuesday and continuing on into the weekend, the Rondout Valley (and much of the Northeastern U.S.) was enveloped, to various degrees at various times, in a nasty haze of smoke that originated in Quebec, as Canada experiences an especially chaotic spring wildfire season. A weather pattern that lasted for several days was keeping the smog close to the ground, and the Rondout Valley’s specific topography, located between two mountain ranges, may have exacerbated the local issue. One thing’s for sure: We weren’t loving it. In response AQI graph showing Cottekill testing area from fire.airnow.gov to the health advisory issued by the New lated complaints. “In spite of the several Consider investing in an air purifier. York state division of the U.S. EnvironWildlife, of course, also rely on oxygen days of smoke seemingly causing a lot mental Protection Agency, Rondout of respiratory issues, we did not see a Valley schools canceled all activities that but don’t have the option of staying indoors with the windows shut. “This corresponding increase,” says hospital couldn’t be moved indoors, and towns, is the peak of the baby bird season up CEO Steve Kelley. “It may be like smokas well as Ulster County, issued advisohere, with so many songbirds raising ing that first pack of cigarettes … It also ries of their own. their nestlings, and raptors with fledgcould be that the news and communi“Not good, not good,” says Claudia ling ‘teenagers.’ Young birds have faster cations from public health officials kept Sidoti, part of the ownership team at heart beats than adults, so they breathe the folk most at risk inside where there Mill & Main Provisions on Main Street was less smoke.” in Kerhonkson. “Driving home the other in and out faster too,” says bird and wildlife rehabilitator Annie Mardiney. Blame Canada? day, the sun looked all orange-pink, “Breathing harder and burning more The over 400 wildfires raging in totally abnormal, almost as if it must be calories is normal, but I have to assume Eastern Canada, many of them started fake. Sometimes it seems like it’s getting by lightning strikes in places firefighters better and then the wind shifts and we’re that breathing smoky air for even a few covered in haze again. We’re fortunate to days can put them over the edge, make can’t reach, combined with prevailing them less responsive to danger or less have indoor and outdoor spaces at our winds and atmospheric conditions to restaurant; I feel bad for those who don’t able to spend energy learning to fly.” bring us this unwelcome gift from the Despite the widely reported and have the choice to do business indoors. north. In the New York City area, the decidedly irritating respiratory effects, The daycare where my daughter works smoke combined with the pre-existing Ellenville Regional Hospital didn’t as a nurse canceled because teachers experience any ER visits from smoke-redid not want to go outside.” Wildfire smoke is toxic, being a mix of gasses and fine particles from everything consumed in the flames, from vegetation to building materials that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Besides the haze, the invisible particles – described in scientific shorthand as PM2.5, meaning smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter – can be inhaled and cause health concerns in the short and long term, especially for people who have pre-existing heart or respiratory issues. “Tuesday, the day it rolled in, people From shoots to roots Arborculture were definitely experiencing irritated at it’s finest eyes and some breathing difficulties,” Gavin Kiersted says Jolie Herbst, a landscape designer Certified Arborist with Marbletown-based Earth Designs 845.901.9579 • gkiersted@yahoo.com Cooperative. “We called the day early and canceled field work on Wednesday and Thursday. We did manage to find some indoor work to get done, but it’s lost time for those people on outdoor projects – we of course have to prioritize health over getting the work done.” If staying indoors isn’t an option, experts say the N95 masks (remember 44 NEW TIERS NewSUPPORT Support Tiers those?) and respirators are a wise choice when the region’s Air Quality Index bluestonepress.net (AQI) is above 300. AQI numbers can be searched by ZIP code or town at AirNow. gov; the scale runs from 0 to 500, and the general public, as opposed to members of high-risk groups, typically starts to feel effects around 150. To keep your indoor air as clean as possible, experts say, keep the windows shut and avoid indoor combustion like candles or smoking materials, and avoid vacuuming or otherwise stirring up RECEIVE A BLUESTONE PRESS HAT! additional dust. Run your AC if you can ALL SUPPORTERS ALL SUPPORTERS RECEIVE do so without outdoor air intake (most A BLUESTONE PRESS HAT! window AC units recirculate indoor air).

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pollution to create air quality closer to what is routinely experienced in heavily industrialized cities like Jakarta and Lahore. The unnerving part is, there’s not a lot either the Canadians or any other humans can do about it, at least in the short term, and we may be in for more of the same as hot, dry conditions persist in wooded areas too isolated to be maintained. Fire is a natural part of the forest’s life cycle; controlled burning can mitigate some of the risk, but is rarely employed – it’s a rare community that would welcome a controlled burn in its own backyard, and forest management folk know this. “Grooming” forests the size of Canada’s is clearly impractical. Canadians are discussing starting federal fire prevention and/or emergency management agencies; both of those are currently handled at the provincial level, and resources are stretched thin this season by the sheer magnitude of the problem. Any particulate pollution created in the normal course of human events combines with the smoke to worsen the issues, and the hotter, drier weather experienced in many places – here included – means more wildfire. So, although our air quality rates as “good” today, investing in that air purifier, sealing up your building envelope at home and at work, and keeping a few masks around is probably a good idea. Says Herbst, “we're still in an extreme drought. You can see the grass dying. It's been extremely dusty this whole spring, and you know it barely snowed this winter, so there was no snow melt. Exceptionally dry conditions can obviously contribute to wildfires, and this is just going to keep happening.”

BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 5

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Page 6, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press

Subdivision on Lucas under discussion Another long night for Rochester Planning Board Ann Belmont BSP Beporter Marc Grasso, chair of the Town of Rochester Planning Board, opened its June 12 meeting with his monthly trivia tidbit. "The population of the Town of Rochester in 1703 – can anybody guess? – was 334 people," he informed everyone. He also offered the information that "In 1928, the town had three post offices, in Alligerville, Kyserike and Accord.” The first item on the agenda was the public hearing for Inness NY LLC, the official entity owning the Inness Resort on Bank Street, off Whitfield Road, in Accord. Inness' application to put in a new utility building drew several comments. Several of the resort’s nearby neighbors who live on a private road had come to voice complaints about things other than the utility shed. One man complained that Inness Resort has brought noise pollution, trespassers and other annoyances since renovating the property several years ago. He has a separate complaint lodged with the town about Inness' leach field and septic tank. As far as the utility barn, unless its construction would decrease light pollution, he declared himself to be against anything that Inness is trying to do at this point. Another man on the same private road said he wanted to make sure that the utility barn didn't cause more trouble for the neighborhood, without specifying what that trouble might be. His wife also spoke, saying that previous construction caused cracks in the walls of their home, with the result that she is wary of any new construction projects by Inness. Board member Rick Jones wondered if the requirement for “dark skies” lighting had actually been met; headlights shining into neighbors’ windows was supposed to be blocked, but reportedly it has not been. Outside events weren’t applied for, but are happening anyway, according to people living close by. Inness' representative from Peak Engineering, Nadine Carney, urged neighbors to get in touch with Peak or Inness or the town building department with their concerns. The board voted to hold the hearing open. Grasso told Carney, “You have some homework to do.” After a monthslong hiatus, an application from DeJager Realty LLC for a 13-lot subdivision on Lucas Turnpike was back before the board, with Nadine Carney again as representative. DeJager has proposed a conservation subdivision, which calls for a percentage of the 95-acre parcel to be set aside as open space with the lot owners having equal access to it for recreation. The town's engineering consultant Greg Bolner from CPL was in attendance. For DeJager, classed as a major subdivision, Bolner had recommended ecological analysis of the parcel as well as historic and archaeological reports. Town counsel David Gordon talked to the board about how to judge the application and its ramifications for the future, using the professional expertise of their advisers from various fields. ”Home rule means that we have citizen decision-makers on planning boards,” he said. Then Grasso read aloud a series of questions from the State Environmental Quality Review called an Environmental Impact Assessment. The board voted on each one. Would there be little impact on groundwater from the proposed building of 13 new homes on Lucas Turnpike, or a lot? On surface water? On stream turbidity? On local wells? Many questions related to possible adverse effects on water; others, to habitat loss for endangered species, to loss of prime farmland, to light pollution, to whether the project was "consistent

with community character," and so on. The vote was "moderate to large impact" on many of the water-related questions. Bolner was charged with writing up a summary of the board's SEQR findings, which will then be communicated to DeJager through Nadine Carney. The board has yet to decide whether to make a positive or negative SEQR declaration. As Grasso explained, positive would mean that the board doesn’t feel – based on the information they have – that the land parcel is suitable for the proposal, and DeJager would have to make major changes in its application. In the case of a negative declaration, the board is satisfied that the application can go ahead with only minor revisions. Jones expressed concern that Bruce Barber, an expert in wetlands and soil who consults for the town, was not asked to attend the meeting. Wildlands Holding Company was next on the docket. Michael Fink, the owner, and his representative Bob James were both there, presenting Fink's application for a four-lot subdivision of 60 acres on Rock Hill Road, near Alligerville, with some modifications the board had requested. Historic/archaeological remains were negligible, according to the required expert analysis. A habitat study had been revised to include the endangered northern long-eared bat, which has been found on the property. The highway and fire department had OK’d the driveway plan, Grasso reported. Rather than wait for the

DEC, which will probably ask Wildlands to honor seasonal restrictions on construction to protect the endangered bats, the board decided to simply make that restriction a condition of approval. SEQR determination and a public hearing on the application were scheduled for July's regular meeting. David and Claudia Waruch's 15-acre, two-lot subdivision at 145 Upper Cherrytown Road was back before the board, having already gone through its public hearing last month. The Mombaccus Creek runs through the property, an issue of concern for the board. The board members seemed divided on whether enough protections were in place to protect the waterway in perpetuity. Gordon, the town attorney, commented, “Map notes are a relatively weak form of enforcement … people are making money, the building inspector comes around once a year and slaps a fine," not really a deterrent. The applicant pointed out, "We’re already regulated by the DEC." Some restrictions were added to the conditional approval, which was granted to the application, to protect the creek and a buffer area close to it, such as prohibiting clearcutting or motorized vehicles.

Other applications in progress Mandy Patinkin and Kathryn Grody petitioned to combine four lots they own into a new three-lot configuration on Clove Valley Road. Their land abuts the Mohonk Preserve and includes a conservation

easement limiting its development. Arthur Gillett proposed to reconfigure his three lots on Rock Hill Road/County Route 6 into three differently-shaped lots, with the intention to build a house for his parents and one for his friends, according to a representative. Ian Read, owner of a 5-acre parcel off Dug Road, intends to divide it into two building lots. There was much discussion among the board and adviser David Church about whether there was need for a private road or just a shared driveway. Read was told he needs a waiver from the building department because he has so little frontage on Dug Road. Turu Illgen, architect, owner and rep for 15 Railroad LLC, owns 4 acres at 35 Hill Road, Accord, which he plans to divide into two lots. His application has been reviewed, and the board set a pub hearing and SEQRA decision for July's meeting. A property on Boodle Hole Road, with owners identified as Potokar and Rosenfeld, was also up for subdivision. The 9 acres will become separate lots of 3 and 6 acres. The location is right near the bridge over a creek. Bill Eggers, representing the project, agreed with the board to reconfigure the lot lines and to find out where the high-water mark is, since there is a flood hazard there. Board members will drive by and have a look so they can understand the location better.

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Briefs Marbletown Democrats to meet with District Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha Sarahana Shrestha, Assemblymember for District 103 (including Marbletown), will meet with Marbletown Democratic Committee, 7-8 p.m. Monday, June 19, in Room M-15 of the Municipal Center, 1925 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill. Shrestha will discuss the accomplishments of her inaugural year in the Assembly and also an agenda for the coming year. Currently, she serves on the Assembly committees for Aging, Energy, Local Government and Tourism. The monthly meeting Shrestha will include discussion of plans for a voter outreach event at the Municipal Center scheduled for Wednesday, July 19, and for fall events leading up to Election Day. All interested voters are welcome to come and participate. For more information, email john.p.harrington15@gmail.com.

NY State Internet Access Survey NY is asking its residents to complete an online survey about their internet access. The New York Internet Access Survey, being conducted by the state’s ConnectALL Office, will aid in the effort to obtain public funding to expand high-speed service. The survey can be accessed at http://bit. ly/connectall-survey. Filling out the survey should take no more than 15 minutes. The survey will close on June 30. Questions? Write to DigitalCommission@co.ulster.ny.us

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Digging a Deep Hole Town of Rochester revisits parking restrictions at beloved swimming hole Grace Molenda BSP Reporter At the Rochester Town Board meeting on Thursday, June 1, town supervisor Mike Baden addressed municipal concerns over parking on Towpath Road near a swimming area known as Deep Hole. During peak swimming season, Towpath Road is annually overwhelmed by visitors seeking relief from the summer sun. But the issue isn’t the visitors, it’s their vehicles. “It is posted ‘no parking,’” Baden noted. “People park there anyway.” The current landowner has installed boulders to limit parking along the unpaved roadway and even built a small parking area to safely accommodate those determined to take a dip in Deep Hole. Overflow from the designated spots obstructs access to an emergency water source used by the fire district, causing the Town Board to take more stringent action against the droves of drivers. “Unless we put somebody there all day every day, we’re never going to totally stop people from parking there,” Baden said. However, the town has not been able to find an agency capable of patrolling the road frequently enough to deter unlawful parking. According to him, the State Police

Buses from page 3 last 12 to 13 years is going to drop off like a rock. The stability for the tax cap will be gone, unless the district fills the aid ceiling by having another project. “My suggestion is to look at a capital project down the line, maybe start to have discussions this summer about it,” Timbs said. The pre-K incentive grant is considered seed money and does not even cover cost of startup. Going forward, all expenses will fall to the district. In the five-year budget plan, general support salaries are projected to increase 21.2% by 2027. The cost of instruction is projected to go up by 14.8%. In districts across the state, the expense of students with special needs is increasing rapidly and is having an effect on budget, so instructional-other expense is projected to increase by 39.8%, from $6.5 million to over $9 million by 2027. Transportation is projected to increase by 32%. “I’m hopeful that these two numbers hold. What I’m a little concerned about

Official signs, a parking lot, and an access trail are new developments at the Deep Hole swimming hole on the Peter’s Kill in Accord. Photo courtesy of Melissa Hewitt

“have already indicated in the past that they are not going to enforce … they don’t have enough manpower.” Board member Adam Paddock asked if there was “any advantage to change it from a no parking zone to a fire zone, maybe where we can here is that the contractors will start buying zero-emission buses and transfer the cost on to you here. We do have a pretty good increase in 2024-25 and another one in 2026, but we don’t know if it will be enough, so that is something we have to keep an eye on over time.” Over five years, expense for retirement is going up 7% and Social Security is going up 15%. “What really has me concerned after retirement is health insurance, looking like 35.6%. I’ve got to tell you I have some districts at 60%, and some at 20%, but none under 20%. The phenomenon that’s going on with health insurance is that whether you are self-insured or you belong to consortia, you’ve got a separate plan.” During the Covid pandemic nothing was going on except Covid. Since that time, health insurance plans are going to have to cover all the procedures that were put off. The cost of pharmaceuticals and procedures is also going up. The BOCES capital project over the next few years will bring an increase in aid, but not enough to cover it, so that is additional expense in the budget. Timbs point out the fact that the tax levy was below the tax cap this year was great for taxpayers, but will kind of freeze that

put … fines that are significantly higher … If we change the signs and it’s a thousand dollars, I mean, how bad do you want to go swimming?” Further discussion addressed the landowner’s desire to designate two accessible parking spots at the swimming area. Baden suggested that the town support the designation, but Paddock expressed concern, saying, “I like the fact that people use the space, but I think when we put in spaces for people to be there we take on a responsibility and liability to the people that are in there. We are literally creating the spot for people to use that.” Board member Erin Enouen sided with Paddock. “I don’t think we should be creating parking spots for his property,” she said. Baden dissented, noting that all lawful and unlawful parking spaces are situated “on the public roadway.” Following discussion, the board resolved to purchase 10 additional “no parking” signs for installation on Towpath Road. Baden planned to contact the fire district and “ask if we can put a chain that they can … get in there quickly if need be” to access the obstructed water source. Although the motion was passed, years of contention suggest that this will not be the final word on the fate of Deep Hole. revenue stream for next few years. In summary, Timbs made the following recommendation. First, reexamine 2023-24 fund balance carryover and reallocations, try to cut expenses wherever possible without impacting program delivery, maybe not replace a retiree if student count is low, for example. The budget could be examined during the current year to be aware of both budget revenue and expenses for estimate versus actual. Reevaluate purchases. Monitor labor scarcity issues, and develop a long-range, thoughtful plan to prepare for a possible state funding cliff 2024-25 and 2025-26. The costs associated with contracted zero-emission bus mandate will be expensive. The district needs to research costs for buses and transportation facility and develop a financial plan and timeline. Lastly, Timbs said the district must monitor the tax cap and note growing use of appropriated fund balance in the years after next year for three years in a row. The district needs to be aware of super majority tax levy limit implications. Bus mandate information from: The Rockefeller Institute of Government and NYSERDA New York.gov websites

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Page 8, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press

TOR

Briefs

from page 1

Nonprofit animal sanctuary in High Falls opens its barn doors to visitors Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, a local nonprofit organization that rescues farmed animals and provides them with lifelong care, is now open for visitors. Guests are invited to attend scheduled, ticketed tours happening every Saturday at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. from May-November. Attendees will have the chance to meet some of the 400 rescued farmed animals who call the Sanctuary home. Upon arriving, visitors will have the incredible opportunity to hear the rescue stories of the individual animals they will meet and learn more about animal agriculture and farming through those stories. Tours include meeting cows rescued from dairy farms and chickens from egg farms, both large and small. Rescued goats, sheep, pigs, and turkeys are also on the tour route, each with a unique and inspiring story. “Our tours showcase the unique personalities and strong bonds of the

Tours provide the experience to meet goat families who have stayed together for years at the Sanctuary after being saved from death, senior pigs who get to live peacefully in the Sanctuary’s retirement barn, and cuddly sheep who may be shy upon meeting but love interacting with guests after getting to know them.

animal residents, educate visitors about animal farming, and encourage people to make compassionate choices with animals’ wellbeing in mind,” said Woodstock Farm Sanctuary Education Manager Anna Balser. Tickets for tours must be purchased in advance. All proceeds from tickets benefits the work of the nonprofit, including the Sanctuary’s ongoing animal care, rescue work, and advocacy initiatives. For all visiting information, visit woodstocksanctuary.org/visit.

be hosting its annual Tire Brigade on Saturday, June 17. Volunteers will meet at the Berme Road rail trail entrance in Kerhonkson at 10 a.m. to pull tires from the Rondout Creek. According to Enouen, “they’ve counted 108 (tires) in the little stretch that they’re talking about doing.” Baden explained that hurricane conditions have swept “many, many tires” into the Rondout and that “over time they re-expose themselves.” To facilitate Saturday’s tire pull, Enouen shared that the ECC is “looking for people with boats or canoes” and “hoping to find people that will have extras … so that more people can participate.” Paddock’s constabulary report echoed Enouen’s environmental concern, noting that “garbage dumping of household trash and other debris on town roads continues to be an issue,” and “shortterm rental properties continue to generate many complaints, especially on holidays.” To prevent household waste from piling up outside, Baden recommended that residents make use of the town’s recycling program. All plastic bag products can be processed at the Town of Rochester Transfer Station on the first Saturday of every month, where volunteers collect these items to be repurposed into a park bench. The community initiatives described

by Enouen and Baden reflect a continued commitment to maintain environmental integrity in Rochester. During the June 1 meeting, the board extended Local Law 6, a moratorium on actions subject to building permit, site plan, special use permits or subdivision review. Exemptions may be granted to special projects, but Local Law 6 dictates that the moratorium exists to prevent environmental consequences of overdevelopment. Later discussion spotlit an exciting proposal from Josh Aviner of Hideaway Circus, who applied to host an event at Accord Speedway. According to Baden, the event is set to take place on Sept. 5 and 6 and will combine “elements of contemporary and classical circus … outdoors under the vast canopy of sky and stars on a custom built circular stage and aerial rig.” The board issued preliminary approval for the event provided that all parties remain in agreement on what measures will be taken to ensure acceptable safety, sanitation and sound levels. OSI describes their, Growing Greenways: West of Hudson Greenway Trails Vision Plan (“Growing Greenways Plan”) as a "vision to enhance and connect seven of the region’s historic rails, canals and carriage roads into one, accessible public trail system that will provide improved access to nature and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors and promote local economic activity and tourism."

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BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 9

Public hearing scheduled for purchase of the Osterhoudt Flats property on June 20 Six resolutions pass at Marbletown’s first Town Board meeting of June Brooke Stelzer BSP Reporter The Marbletown Town Board meeting was held on Tuesday, June 6, in person at the Town Hall, Rondout Municipal Center on Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill, and streamed on Facebook Live. Five board members were present: Rich Parete, chairman and town supervisor, along with Ken Davenport, Daisy Foote, Don LaFera and Tim Hunt. Six resolutions were presented and all carried, 5-0. Ev Mann updated the board on the Marbletown Community Center fundraiser, set

Briefs Emergency preparedness class in Accord Presented by the Town of Rochester Recreation Department, this emergency preparedness class will be held at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 27, at the Harold Lipton Community Center, 15 Tobacco Road, Accord. The 1½ to 2-hour presentation with Q&A on the hazards that may be found in Ulster County and how to prepare for them will be taught by Michael J. Madison, deputy director/emergency manager. Those who plan to attend must call the Recreation Department to sign up at 845-626-2115.

to take place from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, June 17. There will be food, entertainment and an online fundraising auction. The goal is to raise funds to help with repairs to the Community Center. All are welcome. Resolution 56 sets a public hearing for purchase of the Osterhoudt Flats property in Stone Ridge. The public hearing is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 20. The Town Board is considering the acquisition of Osterhoudt Flats using funds from the Community Preservation Fund. The Community Preservation Fund does not yet have sufficient funds to finance the acquisition of Osterhoudt Flats, and other means of initially financing said parcel must be considered and utilized, such as grants. Resolution 57 appoints Laura Anker to the Historic Preservation Committee. Anchor serves on the Environmental

Commission and is an active volunteer in the community, and the board noted her service to Marbletown. Her term on the HPC will expire on Dec. 31, 2026. Resolution 58 is a water infrastructure agreement with Ulster County. The town wishes to use Covid relief funds to extend the existing water supply system into Stone Ridge. The county has given towns up to $500,000 to upgrade or extend sewer lines, a contract that Parete signed in the passing of the resolution. Parete noted that the town’s median income is “too high” to be eligible for state grants, and Davenport stated that extensive and complex conversations need to be had prior to work starting, including conversations surrounding real estate, infrastructure and spending. The board agreed that a task force of experts will likely need to be created to execute a phased

Marbletown Seniors meetings and group trips Open to all those over 55, whether living in Marbletown or not, the Marbletown Seniors hold their meetings at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., across from Key Bank in Stone Ridge, at noon on the first Friday of each month for lunch – bring a dish to share or drop $3 in the basket on the food table, and at 1 p.m. on the third Friday – make a dessert to share or drop $2 in the basket on the dessert table. For more information on the meetings, call Donna Lamerson at 845-750-8616. The Seniors group upcoming trips are Tuesday, Sept. 12, to Villa Roma, Callicoon, with a Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers tribute and a dinner of roast loin of pork, chicken Frances or filet of cod, for $58, bus departing at 8:45 a.m.; Wednesday, Oct. 18, to Riverview Inn., Matamoras,

plan, including the number of homes that will be included. Resolution 59 allows the town to hire a part-time highway department laborer for the summer at the rate of $21/hour. Resolution 60 is a contract with CSG Forte Payments, a card processing service that will allow town members to pay their bills, or payments for passes or permits, with credit or debit cards. The system will also allow ACH payments. The town expects the system to “go live” in two to three weeks from the June 6 meeting date. Parete noted the town will still accept cash and checks. Resolution 61 is a pest control service agreement with Pestmaster in the amount of $1,650 to spray the exterior of the Town Hall at RMC one time per month. Physick Estate Trolley, Lights Tour of Cape May, free time at Washington Street Mall, and a visit to historic Smithville, for $557/ person double occupancy or $726/person single occupancy. All trips leave from and return to Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Route 209, Stone Ridge. For more information and reservations, call trip chairperson Sharon Letus, at 845-687-9162.

Palentown’s 1-room schoolhouse

Pennsyylvania, where Jeff Krick will do a tribute to Elvis and guests will enjoy appetizers on arrival, plus a choice of breast of chicken, top round of beef, veg and potato du jour, dessert, coffee, tea, iced tea, soda and open bar, beer/wine, with trip price of $58, bus leaving at 9:15 a.m.; and Wednesday-Friday, Dec. 6-8 to Gaslight & Gingerbread, Christmastime in Cape May, New Jersey, with two nights lodging, two breakfasts, two dinners, a tour of 179

Hamlet talk The Hamlet Talk Series, brought to you by the Town of Rochester Historic Preservation Commission about Palentown will be held at 1-4 p.m. on June 25, at Palentown’s 1-room schoolhouse at186 Palentown Road. "Join us as we take a trip down memory lane listening to guest speakers reminisce about living and working in the town of Rochester, changes over the decades, the hamlet of Palentown, and attending the one-room school house." Refreshments will be served, all welcome.

Page 10, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press

Memoriam Ronald Keizer

KINGSTON—Ronald E Keizer of Kingston, 66, passed away on June 7, 2023, at Health Alliance Hospital in Kingston. He was born in Kingston on Oct. 25, 1956, to the late Ronald J. and Margaret L. (Short) Keizer. He attended Kingston High School. He also worked for the N.Y.S. Department of Transportation in Kingston, for 18 years. After retiring he went on to spend his days with his dogs and grandchildren who he loved unconditionally. Ronald is survived by his wife, Evette (Ferrari) Keizer; his son, Kevin Keizer; his daughter, Krystle (Keizer) Gibbs, and her husband, Mark; his grandchildren Aaran Galewaler, Alexander Keizer and Marilyn Gibbs; his sister Alice (Keizer) Waite and her husband, Larry; Margaret (Keizer) Napoli and her husband, Ed; along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Donald Keizer. Visiting hours will be 2-4 p.m. Sat, June 17, with a service at 4 p.m., at George J. Moylan Funeral Home, 2053 Route 32, Rosendale. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Ulster County SPCA

Libby Maye Christiana

ACCORD—Libby Maye Christiana of Accord passed away on June 8, 2023. She was 55 years old. Libby was born on July 6, 1967, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the daughter of the late Addie Maye Christiana and Clayton "Chris" Christiana. Libby lived in Ulster County since she was a toddler. She was an amazing cook (her chicken parm was legendary) who enjoyed keeping up with family and friends on Facebook. She was a great lover of all kinds of music and gave shelter to all who needed it. As for pets – she would take in any and every stray. Libby embodied the statement, "If you have anything at all, you have enough to share." Most importantly, Libby was a loving mom, nana, partner, sister, and friend. In addition to friends and a very large extended family, she will be most deeply missed by her sons, Larry Chander and Shane Christiana (Faith Bach), Libby's life partner, James Heredia; her siblings, Angela Ennenga Nugent, Therese Ennenga Morales, Edward Ennenga, Thomas Ennenga, Steven (Shannon) Ennenga, Larry (Barbara) Ennenga and Holly Christiana, as well as her only grandson, Valen Chander, who Libby utterly loved and adored. Libby was predeceased by her brother, Kevin Ennenga, and sisters Nancy Ennenga and Pamela Christiana. Memorial visiting hours will be held noon-2 p.m. Tuesday, June 20 at Humiston Funeral Home, Kerhonkson. Lunch will follow at the Accord Park. Because Libby so loved lions, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in her name to lionguardians.org. Personal condolences may be left at www.humistonfuneralhome.com

Cynthia Ann Bryant-Bajtner

KERHONKSON—Cynthia Ann Bryant-Bajtner, 51, of Kerhonkson, died peacefully on June 10, 2023, at her home. Cindy was born on Dec. 4, 1971, in Jersey City, New Jersey. She is the daughter of the late Thomas Bryant and Alice Wynne. Cindy loved making people laugh. She welcomed everyone into her home and treated them as though they were her own family. All of her children's friends would call her "mom," and Cindy would joke that they were the children she didn't have to get fat for. Bajtner Cynthia loved photography and taking pictures of her family and nature. Cindy loved life, being outdoors and going to the theater. Cindy loved traveling to the beach and tanning for long hours. She loved playing Pokeno and having dinner once a week with her husband, David, her older sister, Mary Ellen, and her brother-in-law, Mike. She is survived by her husband, David Bajtner; her three children; Wayne (Autumn) Kershaw III, Brittanie (Richard Lucero) Kershaw and Kylie (Januelle Han Velazquez) Kershaw; her step-daughter; Dakota Kershaw; five grandchildren: Collin, Alli, Wyatt, Arrow and Josie. Sisters Mary Ellen (Mike Aylmer) Bryant, Wendy (Troy) Hoage of Englewood, Colorado, Alice Bryant of Dallas, North Carolina, formerly of Kerhonkson. Brothers Richard (Stephanie) Bryant of Lancaster, California, and Thomas Bryant of Pennsylvania. Stepmother Helen Mena, stepsister Barbara Bryant and stepbrother Bob Bryant, all of California. And brother-in-law Wayne Kershaw Sr. Many nieces and nephews also survive. In addition to her parents, Cindy was predeceased by her sisters Patricia Kershaw, Donna Bryant and Tracey Bryant. There will be a celebration of her life held at the Hudson Valley Resort in the Empire Lounge at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17. In lieu of flowers, donations in Cindy’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Noble rancher Charles A. Noble

ACCORD—Charles Noble passed peacefully in his Accord home in the early morning hours of June 6, 2023. Charles’s journey began 74 years ago, on Dec. 13, 1948, in Albany, and brought him across the country and abroad before landing him in New York City in the early 1970s. There Charles met Francesca Harris, who would become his wife. In 1983 the couple bought a small barn in Accord. Together with friends and family, they renovated the barn into a home and lived there as weekenders for a decade before moving to the Hudson Valley full time in 1993. During this time they welcomed their son, Oliver Noble. Charles spent 20 years as a pension actuary – rising to the position of vice president at Alexander & Alexander Services – and nine years as an administrator at Mountain Laurel Waldorf School, where he helped shepherd the institution to financial stability. But it was away from a desk, and outside with the land and animals, where Charles finally found the work that satisfied him most. In 2004, he started his grass-fed beef business, Movable Beast Farm. Over the next 15 years the operation grew from a single animal to more than

Charles Noble

80 cattle. Grass-fed beef, from the descendants of Charles’s herd, are now available at Grass Roots Farm and Tongore Farm. He is loved and will be missed by his wife of 42 years, Francesca Noble, his son and daughter-in-law, Oliver Noble and Jamie Brzeski-Noble, his brother Daniel Noble, his extended family and many dear friends.

'Lover of people and art' Dr. Frank V. Boyer

STONE RIDGE—Dr. Frank V. Boyer, an educator, poet, art critic, curator and scholar, died on June 1, 2023. He died suddenly of natural causes after having had some recent health issues. Frank Van Skiver Boyer was born near Carthage, Illinois, March 13, 1949, into a family of professors. He grew up in that small town milieu until 1964 when the Boyers moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin, where Frank attended Bradford High School, after which he moved on to the Boyer University of Wisconsin. In 1977 Frank moved to New York City and became an active part of the Lower East Side performance art scene, with a one-year residency at Tompkins Square Library, working on group and solo shows. He also worked as a teaching artist during the 1980s and early ’90s, co-leading with choreographer Charles Dennis performance and video workshops at the Boys’ Club of NYC that resulted in “Rock the House,” a performance by Lower East Side minority teenagers, presented at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe. During this time he also taught workshops for the elderly and mentally ill through Hospital Audiences Inc. He found time to travel, having picked apples in France as a college student and later traveling to China to see the Great Wall and the terracotta army. In New York Frank married Joan Marie Koztowski and they had one son, Brendan Boyer, who now lives in California. The young family left NYC for the Hudson Valley in the early 1990s. Frank’s wife predeceased him in 1995, and Frank devoted himself whole-heartedly to raising Brendan. From the mid-1980s, Frank had pursued graduate studies at NYU, completing an M.A. in Humanities and, in 2000, a Doctor of Arts and Art Theory degree. He taught for many years at SUNY New Paltz and SUNY Ulster. He also taught English at several maximum security prisons, whose student-inmates he invariably spoke of with understanding and respect. His

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devotion to his students, charged with his knowledge of literature and art, his love of ideas and his quirky humor, created a memorable classroom experience for thousands of students over the years. Recently Frank had been devoting much energy into curating art shows, one in California, another at SUNY New Paltz, of the paintings of his longtime friend, the Polish-born artist Jan Sawka. Since Jan Sawka’s death a few years ago, Frank continued working on curatorial projects with Jan’s daughter and wife, as well as starting books on the artist’s work with them. He was looking forward to concentrating on those projects after his retirement, which took place only a few days before his death. Frank was a lover of people and art. He loved reading and writing poetry. He loved the poetry groups with which he was involved in the area, and appreciated others’ poetry, and the poets themselves, enthusiastically. He loved to cross country ski and to rollerblade with friends. Spiritual if instinctively heterodox, he loved hiking the woodsy roads where he lived. Recently back problems had slowed him down and he’d undergone a serious operation in December, from which he was slowly recovering, looking forward to renewing his active life. He was also planning on listening to all of Proust on tape-again-in the near future. With Frank more often than not any mundane errand might be lit by a spark of genuine human contact and laughter with strangers. He brought energy, enthusiasm, and ideas into every room he entered. He will be missed by many of his friends in the area and scattered across the country. He will also be missed by his family, who loved him deeply. Frank is survived by his son, Brendan, his sister, Judy (Charles) Ashley of Kenosha, Wisconsin, his brother, Charles (Anna) Boyer of Wellesley, Massachusetts, his nieces, Katie Ashley and Holly (Brett) Cothern, great-nephew Alex Cothern, and family friend Shelley Wyant, of Kingston, New York. There will be a private interment next to his wife Joan in Fair View Cemetery, Stone Ridge. Plans will soon be announced for two memorial services, one this summer for local friends, and a second in September for academic friends and colleagues.

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June 16, 2023

Local money, local ideas

Page 11

Rondout Valley Veterinary Associates under new private ownership Dr. Kathleen Laux takes the helm continuing the tradition comprehensive care and rehabilitation of local pets Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter Rondout Valley Veterinary Associates has a new owner with a familiar face. Dr. Kathleen Laux, who has been with the practice since 2014, purchased the business in the spring of 2023 and is excited to continue the tradition bringing superb and personalized veterinary care to the pet lovers of the Rondout Valley area. Born and raised in Westchester County, Laux's love for animals blossomed at a young age. “When I was 9, I went on a Girl Scout trip horseback riding, and that’s where it all began,” says Laux. “My parents then let me go to a week or two of horseback riding camp, and that was when I was hooked. Horses are just so large in size, but yet you can really connect and feel like you have a special bond with them." The experience prompted her to announce to her family that she planned to be a veterinarian when she grew up. While the flights of childhood ambition are often swayed by time, in Laux’s case she stayed true to the course. After high school she attended Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, earning a dual degree in cell biology-biochemistry before heading to Cornell University, where she earned her doctorate in veterinary medicine. After completing her degree, Laux embarked on a journey to expand her veterinary expertise, interning at Rhinebeck Equine, where she gained valuable knowledge and honed her skills. It was during this time that she began to explore and fall in love with the Rondout Valley area. Next, Laux took on a job as an equine veterinarian in Chicago within the hunter and jumper circuit. The intensity of the horse show circuit eventually led her to shift her focus to small-animal medicine, and she began working with cats and dogs in a different hospital in Chicago. In 2014, Laux and her husband – whom she met on a horse farm during college – made the jump to relocate. Her husband, a recently minted civil engineer at the time, found a job opportunity in Stone Ridge. “He had followed me to Illinois,” says Laux. “We were at the point where I

New owner of Rondout Valley Veterinarian associates Dr. Kathleen Laux (left) and founder Dr. Eric Hartelius

wasn’t doing what I came to do in Illinois any longer and said that we could move wherever he got a job.” The job, as it turned out, wasn’t far from her old Rhinebeck stomping grounds and was located in Stone Ridge. After the move, Laux started working as a relief veterinarian at various hospitals in the region, and it was during this time that she discovered Rondout Valley Veterinary Associates. The practice welcomed her as an associate in August 2014. Talks about purchasing the business began about two years ago. “Eric Hartelius, the former owner, started the practice in 1996, and it’s been in its current location since 2001,” says Laux. “I would say it was kind of a mutual thing … He’s getting closer to retirement age and we really wanted to keep it a private practice, and this was a way of doing it and still having Eric on board for a little while longer. Some of the benefits of private versus corporate practices are that vets have the ability to make medical and financial decisions more easily, and there’s an intimacy to a privately owned practice.” The practice extends beyond routine care and diagnostics. Laux is highly skilled in medical treatments and preventive healthcare, as well as surgical procedures. At

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Rondout Valley Veterinary Associates, she and her team of about 14 offer a range of services, including radiographs, ultrasounds, spaying and neutering, cesarean sections, spleen removal and foreign body removal. Additionally, the practice’s Hudson Valley Animal Wellness Center offers a dedicated rehabilitation center, which is unique to the area. With an underwater treadmill and a range of physical therapy options, the center plays a crucial role in helping animals recover from injuries, particularly after orthopedic surgeries. Laux believes that this holistic approach leads to not only fuller but also faster recoveries. When pressed as to what some of the most proactive preventative care pet owners can focus on, Laux says to focus on keeping your pets at a healthy weight – and not falling for grain-free diets for dogs and cats. She also stresses the importance, especially in this area, of a rigorous tick and flea routine – regardless of whether or not the animal is an “indoor” or “outdoor” pet. Laux happily calls Stone Ridge home to this day and shares it with her husband, two children, two dogs, one horse, one pony, one guinea pig, and 11 chickens. Despite her advice to those pursuing veterinary careers to “do anything else if you can imagine it,” she admits that she can’t imagine doing anything else. Laux says she is excited for the new chapter. “I want to offer superb medicine while ensuring that people feel like they can talk to a doctor and receive timely follow-up care. I want them to feel like they continue to be a part of our family, especially if they’ve been coming here for a while. It’s important that they know that we enjoy coming to work while also giving their pet the top care." Laux finds great joy in witnessing the positive impact she has on her patients' lives. "I love that feeling of knowing I've made an animal feel better or improved their well-being," says Laux. Rondout Valley Veterinary and Hudson Valley Animal Wellness are at 6006 Route 209, Kerhonkson, and the Stone Ridge Veterinary Clinic is at 4011 Route 209, Stone Ridge. Learn more by visiting https://rvvets.com or calling 845626-5555.

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Athletics, recreation & fitness

June 16, 2023

July 4th Road Race readies for 51st running Jeff Slater BSP Reporter On the Fourth of July the Marbletown Road Race will have its 51st running, thanks to the efforts of Larry Skalla (“Coach Skalla”) and Bob Johnson and many others who help put on the race. “The Town of Marbletown is proud to sponsor the annual July Fourth Road Race,” said Jill McLean, Marbletown Youth and Recreation director. “We have a great group of volunteers who make this happen every year, along with the endless dedication of the Skalla family who started this road race 53 years ago. This will be the 51st running because we were unable to hold the event for two years during Covid. We look forward to seeing many racers who have run this year after year and the new faces that will be running it for the first time.” This race, an event that brings the community together, has a lot of history behind it. Larry Skalla, who started the race, said, “I couldn’t do it without the help of Bob Johnson and his wife, Marcene, and the 27 volunteers who help, like the Stone Ridge and Kripplebush fire companies and the Marbletown First Aid Unit, Jill Mclean and Jess Phelan from the Recreation Department and countless others.

It is an opportunity for people in the town and outside of the town to participate in a healthy activity. There’s also a lot of camaraderie amongst the runners, and it is a social event.” Some of the volunteers are Dave Nichols, Fran Palmieri, Joe Brown, Pat Lopiano, Andy Lutz and Carl Pezzino. Bob Johnson, on his start at helping Skalla put on the race, said, “I had run the race many times before, and the next year was going to be the 20th anniversary of the race, so I offered to design a T-shirt that had two X’s on the shirt. It was in my opinion one of the best shirts we’ve had and I’ve designed the shirts ever since. This year we’re pulling out all the stops, and it will be a surprise for folks running in the race.” The Rev. John Capen, who has run the race for many of the years and is 85 years old, said, “I just ran a marathon last week, and this is the only race I do other than marathons, other than a race in Warwick through the Lions Club. I try not to be in last place in the race. I was in charge of the race for one year, I think in 1976. I’ve run the race every year except for the time I was in Newburgh.” “The Marbletown Road Run has always been one of my favorite races,” said Matt Spiring. “It’s a well-run, fun race, and I’ve lived in Marbletown most of my life, so

Festive runners at last year's race

I’ve felt the hometown connection since the beginning. Larry (Skalla) was a teacher when I went through Rondout Valley High School in the 1960s, so there’s that connection as well. Throughout most of the 1990s and the early 2000s I ran the race competitively, amassing some excellent times and a large collection of Marbletown Road Run T-shirts, but I stopped running

What a run! RV track continues strong run as girls win sectionals, girls relay team has third place finish at the states, Kayla Oakes medals at four events Jeff Slater BSP Reporter 2023 was another fantastic season for the boys and girls track and field teams at Rondout Valley. The boys team, led by a very strong group of talented seniors, was able to place third overall in the MHAL championships, held for the second year in a row at Rondout Valley’s new track.

Kayla Oakes, Riley Owens, Jacqueline Kennedy and Olivia Waruch – The girls 4x100 relay team on the NYS podium after a third-place finish and Kayla Oakes on the podium after her first-place NYS Championship finish. Photos by Jake Maloney

The boys also placed third overall at the Section 9 championship held on May 25, when Rondout hosted 24 class C and D

schools from around the section. The girls team took second place in the MHALs and won the Section 9 champion-

completely in my late 50s. Last year, when I was 74, two high school classmates of mine, John Hartman and Bob Cairo, and I walked the race. The three of us are planning on walking the race again this year. It’s always great at the after-race gathering at Marbletown Elementary School (which was my elementary school) to see and chat with people I know that I haven’t seen in a long time,” said Spiring. “Steve Schallenkamp and the Onteora Runners Club are the glue that holds this race together,” said Johnson. And about Skalla, Johnson had this to say, “It has been a pleasure to work with Larry. He’s a great all-around person. You mention Larry’s name and you have an ace in the pocket. His ultimate motive was to get kids involved in something healthy. He also coached my kids and still attends sporting events. He keeps saying he’s going to retire, but the Marbletown Road Run is his trademark brand.” There are 13 divisions including one for time estimation. Prizes are awarded to the top three finishers in each division. Registration is from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at Marbletown Elementary School and the race is at 9 a.m.. The course is 2.3 miles long, and to get one of the specially designed T-shirts you must be one of the first 150 folks to register. Hope to see you out there! ship for the second year in a row. Coach Jake Maloney (sprint, jump and hurdle coach) said, “This year’s track teams were an amazing group to coach. Our seniors were eager to finish their final season of track and field on a high note. Many of them achieved long-standing personal goals this year and were also an excellent group of leaders for our younger athletes. I am very proud of both the boys and girls teams for their accomplishments at the MHALs and the sectionals.” There were many performances of note. Jacqueline Kennedy was the 100-meter dash MHAL champion. Kayla Oakes was MHAL long jump champion and broke the school record and was also the triple jump Section 9 champion and MHAL champion. Thomas Clark was the 400 hurdles MHAL and Section 9 champion and the 110 high hurdles MHAL champion. Julian Browne was the 110 high hurdles Section 9 champion. Olivia Waruch was the 400-meter hurdles MHAL and Section 9

See Track, page 15

More Rondout Valley sports magic

Kerhonkson Elementary School students lead the parade during the opening ceremony of the Rondout Valley Central School District’s Special Olympics event.

The Rondout modified softball team finished their season undefeated with a record of 8-0. Team members: Brooke Baul, Amara Catizone, Paiton Czerkas, Audrey Dennin, Peyton Kastanis, Lily Lalli, Lyla Lemister (Not pictured) Ceila Mead, Helena Molitoris, Adrianna Moran, Ella Morse, Graycie Walsh-Kompass, Natalia Wisneski, Payton Worden, Layla Worden, Coach: Courtney Coffey. Photo by Tiffany Mead

BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 13

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Letters policy Please send letters to the editor to the BlueStone Press by email at bluestonepress845@gmail.com or submit at bluestonepress.net. Or send to P.O. Box 149, Stone Ridge, NY 12484. Include your name, hometown and daytime phone number. Letters should be fewer than 500 words and may be edited for clarity, brevity and taste. Letters won't appear in consecutive editions from the same author. The BSP hopes that, in the spirit of community dialogue, readers and writers in the letters section are respectful of a diversity of viewpoints. We desire considered opinions on issues of local interest. Call 687-4480 with questions.

Your letters, views & ideas

June 16, 2023

Summer Solstice 2023

Our wildlife To the Editor: I am fed up seeing dead animals on these small roads. Drivers are rushing themselves to death but it isn't their own deaths but those of creatures out to feed their young during the spring season. Drivers must slow down and keep their mind on the road and not on problems, ambitions, or fun. Drive slowly! The life you kill may be more than one. If that happens, know that I will not love you. Roberta Gould Hurley

Join the community at Saturday’s FUNraiser! To the Editor: Marbletown is a remarkable place to live, not only because of the people we call neighbors and our beautiful landscape, but also because of the facilities and activities we have at our disposal. One of those facilities is the Community Center that sits on Main Street in Stone Ridge. It offers large, open rooms, generous parking, and regularly welcomes seniors and the holistic health community, the Repair Café and education programs for kids. Countless birthday and anniversary celebrations, concerts and memorial services remain as important memories. The space and well-appointed kitchen are available to all residents on a first-come, firstserved basis. We know that buildings, like people, need help as they age, and the Community Center is no exception. On June 17 between 5 and 7 please join in a FUNraiser to honor the Community Center. There will be food, music and

Track from page 12 champion. Greta Sutherland-Roth was the 2000-meter steeplechase MHAL and Section 9 champion and broke the school record as an eighth-grader. And the 4x100 relay team with Riley Owens, Kayla Oakes, Olivia Waruch and Jacqueline Kennedy won the MHAL and Section 9 championships. At the NY state championships held on June 9 and 10 at Middletown High School, Rondout did quite well. Jacqueline Kennedy took 20th place in the 200-meter dash and 22nd in the 100. Senior hurdler Chris Kay took 10th place after beating out teammates and friends Thomas Clark and Julian Brown at the state qualifier. Eighth-grader Sutherland-Roth took 23rd in the steeplechase and qualified for the nationals in the middle school division in the 800-meter run. Junior Thomas Clark took 11th place in the 400-meter hurdles. Junior Olivia Waruch took 10th place in the 400-meters hurdle with a personal record of

much more. Come and show your support. Come and learn more. Come and be part of Marbletown’s future. Come celebrate community at the Community Center. Hope to see you there. P.S. The event is free; donations are welcome.

Wendy Saul Stone Ridge

The Hudsonification of Accord To the Editor: Wealthy developers, such as those who have a hospitality group based in the city, and then come to this area, cannot help but serve their own investment interests and those of their class. As in any colonial situation, this is a structural reality that pertains regard-

1:08.61. The girls 4x100 relay team of Riley Owens, Kayla Oakes, Olivia Waruch and anchored by Jacqueline Kennedy placed third overall and took home a NYS championship medal. Kayla capped off her amazing season with a sixth place medal in the triple jump and won the NYS championship in Division 1 with a long jump of 18 feet 25 inches. She then moved on to the New York State Federation Championship, which includes all public and private schools, and was able to pick up her fourth state championship medal with a sixth place overall in the long jump. Kayla will compete at next week’s National Championship at U Penn in Philadelphia. Kayla will attend Division 1 Stonehill College in the fall and participate in track and field. Kayla and Greta will be joined by seventh-graders Samantha Schneller and Shawn Whitaker, who have both qualified for the 100-meter dash in the middle school division. Anne Gullickson, distance coach, said, “This year’s outdoor track and field team was one of the most talented and hard-working teams we’ve ever had at Rondout. These athletes put in so much work and training throughout the season. I was constantly impressed by their results

less of the "good intentions" or moral character of the individual developer. Who benefits from or needs a luxury hotel in Accord? Certainly not the community of people who live here year round. Take a look at the Google reviews for the Accord Market. Virtually every review has been written by someone who identifies him or herself as a "local guide." What in the world is a "local guide?" Are these reviews from real people or a PR firm? How many "local guides" does the Accord area need? All the "local guides" have written rave reviews of the Accord Market. The only negative review, written by an Accord resident, echoes precisely my own opinion of the market: a staggeringly overpriced operation foreign to the needs of the residents.

Kristin Ross Accord

during the season. As a distance coach I was particularly impressed by two rookies this season. One was Greta Sutherland-Roth winning the Section 9 steeplechase as well as the D2 steeplechase at the state qualifiers and placing 25th at the states. After qualifying for the states in the fall, this was not a huge surprise. And a standout rookie for the boy’s distance squad, Owen Shaffer-Sermini, who ran an incredible time of 4:45.31 in the 1600-meter race at the Section 9 state qualifiers. Owen will go on to compete in the Junior Olympics this summer.” “With the high number of athletes and schools participating in track in our section, just making it to the New York state track and field championships is quite an accomplishment,” said Maloney, “so I am very proud of all our athletes who made it. The girls 4x100 relay team was dominant all season and able to run a season best time when it mattered most and take a top-three finish at the state championship, and to have Kayla medal in four events and win the state championship in the long jump was truly amazing.” Congratulations to Rondout’s outstanding track and field athletes. Go, Ganders!

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BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 15

On accident Dear Wally: I cringe when I hear people say something happened “on accident.” What happened that makes this OK? – Jan Wally replies: Uggghhh, Jan, it grates in my ears as well. It seems to fall out of the vape-filled cake-holes of the younger set marching in some sort of three-legged grammar callithump, but I’ve heard it used by people solidly into their 30s, which actually doesn’t seem especially young. The nugget of it is that it’s incorrect. Sorry, kids! This float is broken. Reroute the parade! And if the offense were ticket-able, that $175 citation would be for going the wrong way down a one-way street. (And 2 points on da license.) I realize language sometimes coddiwomples, twerks* and Wally Nichols evolves with head-spinning alacrity. My teenager can likely construct a sentence with unholstered slang that would make perfect sense to her and her friends and yet would be indecipherable code-talk for me (oooof, to me?? Crap, never mind …) . It’s a common and historical tactic of the oppressed to skirt the oppressive regime’s perception radar, or put

Dear Wally

another way, it’s how teens communicate without parents knowing. The generational strata of linguistic confusion can be wafer thin. Like, five years difference in age can mean one does not understand. Add Grandpa’s hearing loss (and white noise flatulence), and Junior’s mumbling, discursive, Minaj-mouth and all’s gone to shite at the underfunded Dept. of Grammar and Comprehension. The “it” age for owning and changing language is probably 15-18. Grammar always has some commonly accepted rules (that I violate all the time with my solecisms and syntax grabs), but the veil to the grammar afterlife is thinnest in these years. (*see? Twerk wasn’t even a noun or verb before K … (fill in the blank with any combination of letters and it’s likely a proper first name) Kardashian came along and the wiring in her callipygian caboose short circuited. A very, very short circuit, which caused all hell (and some butt cheeks) to break loose … Obfuscating and gaming language, however, is way different than hijacking it and giving it a swirly in the boys’ bathroom. It enters the toilet “by accident” and comes back out soaking wet, with a new beehive hairdo, and humiliated as “on accident.” And yeah, it’s just wrong. We’ve made room for prepositional latitudes (having one’s period vs. being on one’s period) but “on accident” just sounds lazy and dumb*. (Can’t say dumb anymore because dumb – alternate spelling duhm – now means hot, which also means cool, which also means fire and

Farms from page 1 Some of Wightman's trees showed frost damage, but “I have good air drainage,” he said. His orchard is on a slope. “The cold air, when it starts to build, will flow down the hill. I have some trees with frost injury at the bottom of the tree, but you don’t find any at the top. I’ve seen 3 degrees difference from my toes to my nose, in a frost situation," he said. "Seriously." Davenport Farm in Stone Ridge produces strawberries, an especially vulnerable crop. "We had a bad freeze. We were up all night, watering everything," said Bruce Davenport. Paradoxically, farmers can protect tender vegetation from frost with a layer of ice. Wightman explained, “Calories are generated by ice freezing. So as long as you keep water on, it’ll never get below 32 … the ice is touching the plant, but as the ice is formed, it gives off heat.” For this to work, though, you have to spray all night, or as long as the temperature is below 32 degrees. “If you don’t keep the water going till the ice melts,” then the blossom or fruit bud will freeze. Another strategy is wind machines, which mix the warmer air above with colder air at the surface. However, if you want one, they start at around $50,000. Wightman, who doesn't use either of those options, declined to forecast how his apple crop would turn out. “I'll tell you the day I pick it and I bite into it,” he said. Elizabeth Ryan of Stone Ridge Orchards reported, “I still have about a half a crop ... and we’re very grateful to have that. When you lose your crop or part of your crop it’s a body blow." Ryan has three orchards in three different locations, including the one in Stone Ridge. “The higher parts of that farm were frost-free, the lower parts were very vulnerable. You can see the frost line in the orchard.” This is not the first time, she added. What with one thing or another, "I don’t expect a full crop every year.” The May 18 freeze settled into low-lying areas. Ryan noted that a lot of the recent residential development in the Hudson Valley has taken place on hilltops with expansive views, “and a lot of these were [formerly] fruit sites.” Erin Enouen of Long Season Farm in Kerhonkson reported losing a couple of days’ worth of asparagus to the frost. "It turned to mush … But we were able to harvest it the next week," she added, because asparagus spears will regrow, giving several harvests. “Vegetable farmers tend to have successions of things,” so even when plants are damaged, it’s not a seasonal washout like berries or apples can be. At Back Home Farm, "we had to row cover a lot of our crops," said Leibee, especially basil and squash. "If I hadn’t done that, yeah absolutely they would’ve been affected." The extreme dryness of May and early June, normally months to expect pretty good rains regionally, posed another challenge. The Hudson Valley Farm Hub in Hurley got lucky with an isolated thunderstorm in the middle of May, according to manager Jeff Arnold, so their water situation wasn't too bad. “We irrigate the veggies out of the Esopus creek, so unless we are in a drought, there is usually not an issue there. But the majority of our cropland

Apples just beginning to form at Stone Ridge Orchards. Photo by Elizabeth Ryan

that is devoted to crops like wheat, corn and dry beans are un-irrigated, so when it gets dry we definitely see that in the yields. But it wasn’t to that point yet this spring." Enouen said, “In the spring we’re usually timing plantings just before it rains, so we don’t have to worry, we can push through more items on our to-do list because we’re not having to worry about setting up irrigation. This season, that has to be done before you end the day. The combination of it being so dry and such high temperatures, and then some really low temperatures, it’s just been a hard season, and you can see it in the plants. By this time last year, with a similar planting date, they were ready, and this year they’re not. With irrigation, you’re never matching the water levels you get with good rainfall. The next day everything just looks so much better ... It was a little terrifying how dry it was over the winter, and I think everyone fears that if we don’t get rainfall this is going to be worse than last year.” The smoke from Canada took farmers, like everybody else, completely by surprise. Besides having to be careful about people working in the fields while there were official warnings to stay inside, there was an impact from suddenly canceled outdoor farmers markets. “Here we are picking strawberries, and they closed the markets for two days,” commented Ryan. Leibee relies on regular sales through Grow NYC. “Today got canceled because of the smoke,” he reported on June 9. “That’s something we couldn’t plan for. I wrote an insane

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also means fly but which doesn’t mean firefly. Or so says Urban Dictionary …) “On accident” also doesn’t make evolutionary sense except for maybe the accidental lightning in a bottle phenomenon of a broadcast medium (internet/ social media?) that can reach billions of people quickly that is in the hands of key “social influencers” who simultaneously goat bleat out the same mistake enough that it gets traction and normalization through blunt trauma repetition. Inasmuch as nothing succeeds like success, sometimes nothing succeeds like failure. It’s definitely a wonky thing and we are in wonky times. But it also doesn’t matter because if a new generation knows what they mean by using the (incorrect, for now) expression, then language has mutated to ensure survival, which is more than we can say about the 80-ish years of our lives. Fighting the mutation is as futile as raking the sand at the beach. Or yelling at the ocean to be more careful. On spite of it all, I hope you have a joyous life, Jan! –W Got a question for our advice columnist or just want to run into him with your electric scooter on or by accident because both of you were wearing noise cancelling headphones and drinking Celsiuses? Email him at cwn4@aol. com email to Grow NYC, like, ‘You guys can’t just cancel the market at the last minute. Our employees’ pay comes from this market.’” Although the smoke was lessening, the DEC guidance was to limit all outdoor activity. "We took a $5,000 loss. Bigger than any drought could do, that’s for sure … it’s really hard to make a right turn in a couple of hours. I did call a couple of local restaurants that I do, and they said, 'Sure come set up your stand here in the parking lot.’ That was nice. But it doesn’t really help too much." Enouen said, “Farm workers work outside so when this type of thing happens, you have deadlines, you have planting, people have to make decisions about the level of work that can be done, masking in the field. It’s a very busy time of year … Farmers in New York state haven’t had to deal with smoke pollution that impacts work. Omigosh, you think about drought, you think about cold, you think about rain, but you don’t think about working in unsafe air pollution levels." As for the smoke affecting the plants, Ryan said,“I feel cautiously optimistic." As California vineyard owners have learned, “Smoke taint can hurt the grape crop very badly. I believe we’re OK. But I think it’s a real wake-up call, not that we needed any more wake-up calls! I have many friends and family who farm out West, and let me tell you, they’ve been through hell and back.” For her part, Ryan is willing to entertain the idea of change. “We have 50 agroforestry experts from the USDA and Cornell having a national meeting at our farm … they have grants to help farmers plant more resilient crops. They are focused in particular on black currants, chestnuts and curly maple as three income-producing diversification crops. I am diversifying as fast as I can.” As an organic farmer, Leibee hedges his bets by growing 150 different crop varieties on his 20 acres. “We try to grow only things that are certified organic. The crops we grow are bred for taste, not necessarily resilience to drought or pests – you can’t have it all ... years when it’s dry, certain things do better, like peppers, and other years when it’s wet, other things do better … If you grow only a couple of crops, you’re more prone to risk. Instead of picking crops for drought resistance, we just diversify, big-time, which is the organic way to get around tough weather conditions. In the end, it all balances out. Somehow we scrape together a living at the end of the year,” he said wryly. “If I couldn’t laugh, I’d be in the wrong profession.” Ryan said, “Despite all of this, I’m an optimist. I know that sounds ridiculous! It’s a huge amount of work, but the joy of growing food for people … When it works, it’s so incredible. But you have to have nerves of steel."

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Page 16

Your friends and community

June 16, 2023

WISE project brings RVHS community together while focusing on the houseless Jeff Slater BSP Reporter Laila Rotella, a senior at Rondout Valley High School, had a “give away” event at the Big Bubble in Kingston on Saturday, June 3, as part of her WISE project, “Helping Hands in the Community.” Andy Lutz, program adviser, said, “The WISE Program at Rondout Valley was instituted by the vision of Frannie Hertz from 1998-2021 and has continued with the excellent leadership of Patricia Abi-Hassan. While the pandemic became a difficult hurdle for students, the program has continued and this year has been a remarkable effort. An experiential, project-based program, WISE (Wise, Individualized, Senior, Experience) intends to assist students as they transition from the classroom to the real world. Students take on a project which they exhibit passion for and write daily in journals and meet once a week with a mentor. They conduct research, including interviews with professionals in the field. At the semester’s end students give a public presentation assessed by a panel from the community-based task force made up of parents, volunteers, staff and students. This past Saturday, Laila Rotella sponsored an event intended to provide, at the Big Bubble in Kingston, with some last-minute help from Jordan Scruggs. During her last semester at Rondout, Laila asked the school community to donate food, toiletries and clothes. She gathered these items and hosted a “give away” event for the houseless. Laila along with some volunteers laid everything out on tables; families and individuals were able to help themselves. There was also fresh food and drinks for all. Laila was able to create a warm and inviting environment. Her kindness and caring were ever visible while she was helping those who attended,” Lutz said. I asked Laila about her project. How did the school community respond to you asking for items for the project? The schools were super supportive. The intermediate school also joined in. Everyone was so supportive and caring and willing to help. Did you get more than you hoped for? I did get a lot of clothes. But what I really wanted was hygiene and food, but that’s what I got less of. But everything I got helped in every little way, and I definitely

Laila Rotella with her mother at the “give away” event she organized at the Big Bubble Laundromat in Kingston with items she collected for the local unhoused community. These items were collected during her WISE project at Rondout Valley High School.

wouldn’t have gotten as many knitted hats and blankets if it wasn’t for Ms. Abi-Hassan and Ms. Glass. They went above and beyond to help and get donations. How was the “give away” event? It was good, the turnout was OK. At first it was a mess, but I met amazing people that also helped the community. I feel like the event wouldn’t have the turnout that we did. I definitely would have liked more people to come, but I feel like it was great! What was the hardest part of the project? The hardest part is definitely when I started to lose faith and had to overcome my anxiety. I started to lose faith there were no donations and I felt like I wasn’t doing enough! My anxiety kicked in a lot as well because there is a lot of communicating and reaching out involved, and I felt like maybe I wasn’t doing enough, or everything wasn’t going to fall into place. But the outcome was more than I expected, thanks to the community. How did you let people know about the event? My mom mostly did that. She posted on sites that most people in need are on. The person I met the day of the

event also helped to spread the word on websites, and then many people came through because we were in a town where most homeless people were, so many came because someone else told them. What did you provide for folks who were in need? We provided warm food them to eat that they can access without a kitchen, nice slightly worn clothes that many didn’t have before … warm, nice, knitted blankets, hats. It gave them access to a safe place at that time and hygiene products they might not have had before. Kristine Glass, Laila’s mentor, said, “Laila was a pleasure to work with and develop such a wonderful project. She was vulnerable and opened her story to the world. She impacted many lives during this project, including my own. The unhoused situation in Ulster County, along with the rest of the world, is heartbreaking. There are many causes Laila highlighted … during her project. Laila is the kind of student who is going to make waves of change in the world. I am more than proud of her and her accomplishments. She will go on to do wonderful things and her kindness will impact everyone around her.”

Art & music in the woods with RVHS Human Rights Club at the Rail Trail Café There is a natural backdrop and canopy of trees, a small sound system, a few lights, and open ears and hearts at the Rail Trail Café, 310 River Road Extension, Rosendale. Upcoming performances and events include, noon-2 p.m. Saturday, June 17, Rondout Valley High School Human Rights Club and the Environmental Club for social justice conversations, resources, and actions. Learn about local organizations such as the Ulster County Human Rights Commission, Amnesty International Mid-Hudson, Stopping Danskammer and RiverKeeper, and ways to be involved in being "a part of the solution" with local youth. All donations will go to the RVHS HRC to continue their human rights work locally, nationally and globally; also on June 17, Sarah Urech, 3-5 p.m., singing jazz standards and songs with musicians Ann Belmont, Todd Anderson and Fre Atlast, members of Hudson River Playback Theatre, and guest performers; and Harpist Julia Howl Haines with Educator Matoaka Little Eagle with music, voice and story, 5:30-7 p.m.; on June 18, Clear Light Ensemble with classical Indian ragas, 1-3 p.m., and Honoring the River of Life (Guswenta) with Native author/musician Evan Pritchard, 4-6:30 p.m.; Redwing Blackbird Theatre Puppet Parade and Cantastoria honoring Hannah Arendt, 5-7 p.m. Friday, June 23; “If truth be told,” reading of local authors led by McKenzie Kell, 1-4 p.m., and Madarka, playing klezmer, Roma, Balkan, Romanian and Russian folk music, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, June 24; Chanting with Ned and Lynn, 11-12:30 p.m., and Brazilian and American jazz guitar, vocals, saxophone, flute and percussion with Ann

The Rondout Valley High School Human Rights Club, Mohonk Consultations’ 2020 Distinguished Achievement Award winners. (Front, left to right) Diana Zuckerman, KaseyArnold, Victoria Nazario, Rasheen Smith, Dior Williams, Lena Pileggi. (Back, left to right) Justin Startup, Katherine Reynolds, Aria Sickler Avery, Alma Sutherland-Roth, Bryce Hopper, Emily Bartolone, Brooke Bogart and Jennifer Callan.

Belmont, Todd Anderson, Fre Atlast and special guest Sarah Urech, 1-3 p.m. Sunday, June 25; the music of Barely Lace with Annie Roland and Carrie Chapman, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, June 30; singer, songwriter and musician Lisa Klotz, 1-3 p.m., and poetry with Noelle Adamo and Brett Bevell, 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, July 1; Into the woods with David Lopato on keyboards; Jim Donica, bass; and

Chris Bowman, traps, percussion; 3-5 p.m., and Gisela Stromeryer, Poem Journeys, 6-7 p.m. Sunday, July 2; and Barely Lace, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, July 7. A basket is passed at all events, and $10 or pay-whatyou-can is suggested. Visit railtrailcaferosendale.com or call 845-389-7714 for information.

BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023, Page 17

Kudos

Lucy Sante Photo by Guzman for Upstate Diary

A reading and conversation about transition with local award-winning author Lucy Sante “Changing genders was a strange and electric idea that had lived somewhere in the recesses of my mind for the better part of my 67 years,” said Lucy Sante, in an article she wrote for Vanity Fair in 2022 in which she described the process of her transition from Luc Sante. “My desire to live as a woman, I could see now, was a coherent phenomenon, consistently just under the surface of my nominal life for all those decades, despite my best efforts to pretend it wasn’t there.” Sante, born in Verviers, Belgium, lived in New York City for 30 years, and now lives locally. She is the author of many books, including “Nineteen Reservoirs,” “Kill All Your Darlings,” Folk Photography” and The Factory of Facts.” Her memoir, “I Heard Her Call My Name,” will be published by Penguin in February. Her awards include a Whiting Writers Award, an Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, a Grammy (for album notes), an Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography, and Guggenheim and Cullman fellowships. She taught in Columbia University’s MFA writing programs and recently retired

after 24 years teaching writing and the history of photography at Bard College. This event is presented by “Prosendale,” launched on March 9 of this year, at Rosendale Theatre with the first in a series of literary programs, “Memoir readings by local authors for Women’s History Month.” This, the second event, will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale, to celebrate Pride Month. Considering the recent increase in attention to transgender issues, unfortunately with an explosion of anti-trans legislation in some areas of the country and as an increase in violence against trans individuals, the producer of the “Prosendale” series decided that a thoughtful and sensitive program about transgender issues could offer the public a deeper understanding of these issues with, hopefully, an increase in compassion and a decrease in fear and prejudice. It was with this goal in mind that Joyce Sprafkin, Ph.D., a retired clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychiatry from Stony Brook Medical School, invited Lucy Sante to be honored as the sole author to be featured at this “Prosendale” event for Pride Month. Sante will read an excerpt from “On Becoming Lucy Sante,” which was published in January 2022 in Vanity Fair. There will then be a conversation between her and Professor Jason S. Wrench, the current editor of the Journal of Intercultural Communication Research for the World Communication Association and professor in the Department of Communication at SUNY New Paltz. “I’m deeply disturbed by legislative backlash I’m seeing against the trans community in our country today,” said Wrench. “Hearing Lucy’s story breaks down these walls of misunderstanding and fear.” This event, sponsored by The Golden Notebook in Woodstock, will be selling copies of Sante's most recent book, “Nineteen Reservoirs.” Tickets are $12, $10 for members. For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

Scholar kudos More than 230 College of Saint Rose students earned a 3.9 average or higher in the spring 2023 semester and were named to the president's list. Among those on the list were Olivia Degraw of Kerhonkson and Matthew

Smith of Tillson. The College of Saint Rose (www.strose. edu) is a dynamic, progressive college in the heart of New York's capital city. Josh Dorney of Stone Ridge was recently named to the president's list at the State University of New York at Potsdam. Dorney, whose major is music education, was among 716 SUNY Potsdam students who were honored for academic excellence in the spring 2023 semester. To achieve the honor of being on the president's list, each student must have satisfactorily completed 12 numerically-graded semester hours, with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran recognized students for earning a spot on the spring 2023 president's list. Among them were Michael R. McCabe, a veterinary service administration major from Stone Ridge, and Julia I. Nace, an applied psychology major , also from Stone Ridge. To earn a spot on the president's list, full-time students must earn a 3.75 or greater GPA during a single semester. www canton.edu. Elyssa Dewitt of Kerhonkson was recently recognized with a silver-level leadership milestone through SUNY Oneonta's LEAD (Leadership Education and Development) program. Dewitt, who is studying English at SUNY Oneonta, earned this distinction through a commitment to improving oneself and enhancing knowledge by exploring leadership opportunities, participating in campus organizations, and serving the campus community by taking on recognized leadership roles. Completion of this level requires attending 19 events designated with a learning outcome (three must be diversity events), actively participating in four recognized organizations, completing three online courses (Foundations of Leadership, Personal Development, Organizational Development), and serving as an officer in a club or organization for at least two semesters (average of 219 hours to complete). All students can choose to participate in the LEAD program, which aims to better prepare them for life after earning their degree by providing a comprehensive picture of leadership and the skills needed to be a good leader.

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Page 18

Arts, culture & entertainment

June 16, 2023

Interesting times We’re just a smidge away from the summer solstice, the longest stretch of daytime sun in the whole year. But nonetheless, there’s a fire burning in my woodstove. The air is still chilly, but at least it’s good to breathe again, says airnow.gov and also my lungs. And the weird spring drought has broken and much-needed rain is finally falling. Well, both rain and caterpillar poop are dropping from the sky as I write this. The baby spongy moths are back in triple force. According to Wikipedia, the old Chinese curse, “May you live in interesting times” can be traced to a short story from a Chinese writer in the 1600s. The original phrase is said to be, "Better to be a dog in times of tranquility than a human in times of chaos." Maybe things weren’t great for dogs there and then, but here and now, most have it pretty good. So I’ll take the liberty to update that to chickens, a type of livestock whose lives are still so often nasty, brutish and short. Though not at my address. The lives of the ladies and gents who reside here are generally cushy, spoiled and long. Their lives will hopefully get even longer since their refurbished, hawk-safe aviary has reached completion. Some recent, radical shifts in pecking order should help too. Basically, Copper, the old rooster, has been demoted, and Hank, the young’un, has been given the corner office. It happened by accident. I divided the

Susan Krawitz

flock to keep Copper from picking on poor ailing Rosa, which made things better until it made them dramatically worse. Rosa died, and when the flock was reunited, the longstanding rooster truce crumbled like dried eggshell. Bleeding combs and wattles followed, and then, oddly, both had limpy left legs. Copper was segregated in the hospital coop, pending re-homing. And Hank, the one with the fresh genetics, was placed in charge of the hens. Much clucking and fussing followed the shift. Feathers were deeply ruffled. Then next, who could have guessed it? So much poultry peace. Copper’s favorite hen is not Hank’s, and with her demotion, rigid caste lines vanished. And also, spiteful head-pecking. Leg feather pulling. And chasing certain ladies away from the best of the compost gems. Former enemies are now friendly. Instead of angry squawking in the coop, there’s now just the cheerful chorus of egg-laying success. This flock’s been through a lot lately. But right now, it all seems to have served as a team-building exercise. They appear to be a united force instead of a hostile tribe. A peaceable kingdom. And it’s really, really nice. Making things even nicer is what happened to the apple tree that caused so much calamity at the end of winter by falling on the chicken pen fence. As planned, we chopped its limbs off and propped up the stump. An orchardist friend grafted tiny shoots to its flattened top. And every single one of them has taken. In spite of the dry weather. In spite of the long-standing chill. In spite of the caterpillars I pick off each morning. The tree was large and healthy, but so riddled with cedar-apple rust, it never offered edible fruit. The grafts,

however, are modern varieties that resist this disease. Some have even sprouted blossoms. Maybe next year, there will be apples. Maybe this worst thing was actually the best thing that could have happened to that tree. And maybe I can stop worrying about the next weird thing that’s going to drop on us all. Maybe all the shifts and changes we’re dealing with lately might actually be some kind of long-game positive loop. And while I’m fantasy-looping, I’m going to try to rope in the caterpillars. You know, frass is actually incredible stuff. Some species can shoot it like bullets at their enemies. And it’s full of beneficial microbes, bacteria and fungi. Which to a gardener means great fertilizer. I accidentally gathered a lot of it. The plastic bucket I keep next to the greenhouse’s eaves is finally full of rainwater, and it’s tinted emerald green from the frass collected on the roof. Could there be a better, more cost-effective plant booster than fecal tea made from organically raised, ethically sourced, free-range hyper-local caterpillars? OK, this is a stretch. A big one. These prickly creeps are clearly decimating the oaks. I could get a ladder and bug-pick every tree for the rest of the summer, but that wouldn’t make a dent in the damage. I dearly hope the trees recover, but saving them is yet another thing on a rapidly growing list of things completely out of my control. But the sweetest, most satisfying drink I’ve had lately is the lemonade from the sourest lemons. Maybe it’s the signature mocktail for Interesting Times.

June bugs I have been so busy with my life that I haven’t been able to drive around town to see what is happening. So, my apologies if I have missed anything new and/or exciting. What I have not missed is that it is June, and my housemate turned the heat on. Listen, I was like, “YES!!’” But, isn’t June supposed to be warm? Or have I truly missed something? Instead of wearing flip-flops, I have been wearing sweaters, and that doesn’t seem right. I feel like we breezed by the March winds, waded through the April showers, and breathed in the May flowers. The rest of that saying is June bugs, so maybe the chill is good. Perhaps it keeps the bugs away, so I guess I’m OK with the sweater. June has been pretty crazy thus far, and it has only just begun. [Cue in Carpenter’s music] In no particular order, there was a movie or TV show filming in Rosendale, and I didn’t even notice. In fact, I clearly don’t even know what it was. The sad part is that I live in Rosendale and drive Around town past the Fann’s Plaza at least twice daily. Wait, is it still called Fann’s Plaza? Never mind, please don’t answer. I’m calling it Fann’s Plaza anyway. While we are still chatting about Rosendale, I’ve heard more fire alarms this month than I ever have. One day after work, I stopped by Widow Jane’s to take a breath and dance in the cave. Luckily, no one caught me dancing because I can’t. So, on the walk back to my car, I ran into a Snyder’s volunteer. He told me that a brush fire broke out, more on the Iron Mountain side than the estate side. No damage occurred to the estate, which is awesome. Whatever side it was on, thankfully, our fantastic fire departments came to the rescue. Shout out to these amazing people who, unlike most animals, run into fires to save lives and property. Rumor has it that some kids started the fire by trying to light cottonwood seeds. Side note: I like to imagine cottonwood seeds are fairies in flight sprinkling wishes everywhere. Hey, I dance in caves, don’t

Kelly Wright

Kelly's strawberry memories

act surprised. Anyway, the kids saw this ridiculousness on TikTok and thought they would join the trend. Listen, Tokkers, relax. Yea, fire is neat, but destroying a forest is not. Where is Smokey Bear when you need him? Bring that guy back. Honestly. Speaking of fire, we had a creepy, apocalyptic moment going on for a couple of days. I walked out of work and thought my eyes were computer logged. Not only was the air quality crap, but our world also had three days of different colored smoke-filled vibes. Red, orange and yellow are what I saw. It was so unsettling that I almost went into full zombie apocalypse mode and wanted to head to Sam’s Club, a brilliant place to avoid zombies. No windows, food, water, pillows, I’m there! Thankfully, I was fine, but Canada and the U.S. were not. Here’s the thing, though, because a lot of people were complaining, be grateful we just had smoke. Be grateful that TikTok didn’t turn us into Canada. Now the smoke is gone, it’s chilly, and – good news! The Rosendale Street Festival is happening again, this year. I’m not going to lie, I am sort of glad I’m mov-

ing. Last year, I went to Jersey for the weekend and came home the last day of the festival to find a man sleeping on my front stoop. Yes, true story. It was late at night, I was carrying my bag, walking down the sidewalk, and I see some random guy camped out. So, yea, no surprise to anyone that I am glad I won’t be playing the role of Festival Airbnb this year. I do wish everyone a fun time of drunken shenanigans though. More good news is that it’s strawberry picking season, and school is almost out! My first summer job was picking strawberries at Pee Wee Acres. (Who remembers THAT place?!) I was in eighth grade and made 25 cents a pint. Needless to say, I ate more than I picked, so that job didn’t last long. Note to kids getting out of school: Aunt Kelly says maybe find something other than picking strawberries if you’re looking for a summer job. And, reminder, please don’t try to become a social media influencer either. If you feel that you must go down that rabbit hole, please don’t involve fire. Just use social media to research local news so you can write a humor column. OK? Thanks.

BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 19

Mucho Taco When renovations began on what is now Upstate Taco, I was psyched. So were many others. I wasn’t quite sure how this iteration of a taco joint here in Stone Ridge would end up or play, but I couldn’t be more thrilled, and it’s nice to have even more culinary diversity in the area. Tacos are pretty popular now, and many places are getting creative with their menus, so we no longer expect (or accept) the narrow channel of just tacos. The easy place to start is with the extremely generous portions. You won’t leave hungry, Wally Nichols and these days, that’s not nothing. There’s a wall-mounted DIY sauce shelf that makes personal condiment decision making less imperative and maybe also less dangerous! But choose wisely and those sauces can send the meal. That’s also where you can self-serve water and grab disposable utensils. Upstate strikes a solid balance of pretty fancy/pretty casual for a self-order, self-seat establishment. The service is excellent, and the atmosphere (including Mexican music!) is charming. The owners (professional restaurateurs and spouses Sasha and Mauricio Miranda) did a great job with the details and decor. A clever mash-up twist on two favorites, the Quesaburros present as a folded large tortilla with rice, beans, three

Put a fork in it

Horoscopes The planets are beginning to shift – spreading out over additional space and time. We experienced Mercury turning retrograde back in April, when Pluto had only a small personal effect. But now Saturn will turn retrograde on the 17th. This will affect everyone, for better or worse, as we stumble along trying to complete projects and decide whatever needs to be done. Now that there is a greater distance between planets, there are more aspects in our individual charts, allowing for more diversity and choice. The new Moon on the 18th is in the sign of Gemini, the twins, and is the time to communicate or to sign up for further education.

Your Zodiac

ARIES: 3/21 to 4/19: Mars, your ruling planet, is now Joanne positioned with Venus in your 5th Ferdman solar house of creativity. This position bodes well for any creative venture or love affair. In addition, both Jupiter and Uranus are positioned in your 2nd house of money, suggesting this is a good time to expand your business ventures – especially at the new Moon. TAURUS: 4/20 to 5/20: Venus, your ruling planet, is conjunct Mars and is positioned in your 4th solar house of home and family. In addition, with Jupiter and Uranus positioned in your 1st solar house of Taurus, as well as the new Moon reinforcing positive energy, you

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cheeses, cream, chopped kale and choice of sauce. The variations include De Carne Asada (house spiced and marinated steak) ($15.75), De Tingo Pollo (slow braised chipotle chicken), De Conchinita Pibil (slow roasted pork shoulder with achiote), De vegetables (sautéed zucchini, tomato, onion, jalapeños and cilantro,) and the aforementioned Senecilla ($12.75).

should be able to make up slightly for past shortfalls and make plans for the future. GEMINI: 5/21 to 6/20: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 1st solar house. It reaches into the 2nd house to conjunct the Sun and additional income. Your career may take a new turn that requires an adjustment of sorts, but the new Moon in your own sign will provide guidance. CANCER: 6/21 to 7/20: The Moon child deals with the new Moon with great difficulty since it falls in your 12th solar house and falls behind the scenes. The Sun, however, gives you a great push to increase income and conserve capital. You may also want to take another look at a former artistic hobby that has become of interest once again. LEO: 7/21 to 8/22: The Sun, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 12th solar house (working behind the scenes). However, Mars is leading Venus in your 1st house of personality. There are many ideas and interests that are beginning to take shape, leading you to new ideas and interests. As you meet new people and become more active you will find the right idea. VIRGO: 8/23 to 9/22: Mercury, your ruling planet, is now positioned in your 10th and 11th solar houses that include both your career and the money from it. Mars and Venus are positioned together behind the scenes in your 12th house but seem eager to try out some of your new ideas to increase your income. You’ll probably not be really interested in socializing at this time. LIBRA: 9/23 to 10/22: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned conjunct Mars in your 11h solar house, receiving income from your career. This is a productive time, with you keeping a close watch on the smallest details that add to the bottom line. The new Moon is also working in your favor – providing energy to check the smallest detail. SCORPIO: 10/23 to 11/22: Your two rulers, Mars and Pluto, continue to form the bookends of the planets

The Mulas are melted quesa Oaxaca sandwiched between a stoneground corn tortilla. Varieties include just cheese, kale, veggies, chicken, meat, and can be supplemented with cumin-scented long grain rice and pink vegan beans. The pricing hovers around $7.50 Of course tacos (taqueria style) are readily available with all the aforementioned ingredients but also come with fish and/or veggies and are priced similarly to the Mulas. Snacks and salads are plentiful and interesting. From a kale-based César salad (includes radish and micas) to the nopales (seared cactus paddle, salt and lime ($8.75), to homemade soup ($9) (tonight’s was chilled asparagus, vegetable base with cream, with tortilla strips), to the guac and chips with jalapeño and lime ($7.75), to the tostada de Tinga de pollo that includes cortina cheese and smashed bacon, you will please the whole table. And in good weather, that table can be outside, just a few steps from the service window. For further authentication, the drink menu includes some cool Mexican sodas –Jarritos mandarin, guava and toronja (had to look this up! Grapefruit, so Fresca, sort of). Also intriguing is the mocktail “Como,” which is bitters, cardamom and mandarin ($6). They do have a full bar, and also a bar to drink it all at! Maybe try the Mezcalita (mezcal, crimson amaro, passionfruit) ($14.50). Tacos are great all year round, but especially now that the weather is excellent, head over for some comedor al aire libre at Upstate Taco. Open 11 a.m.-8p.m. Monday-Saturday.

as they appear in the sky. Mars remains in Leo while Pluto is directly on the cusp of Aquarius. In between we find the Sun promoting your career while Mars is pushing Venus to bring you a crop of good business reports. SAGITTARIUS: 11/23 to 12/21: Jupiter, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 6th solar house of daily work with the help of Venus, meant to expand your potential for successful results based on your daily attention to the smallest detail. The new Moon will help you along the path by bringing your product to the right people. CAPRICORN: 12/22 to 1/20: Saturn, your ruling planet, is in your 3rd solar house of education and communication and is positioned in the sign of Pisces. Neptune is also in this house, the ruler of Pisces, making it rather difficult for you to ignore your fascination with an artistic inclination. Why not just give it a chance and enjoy the moment? AQUARIUS: 1/21 to 2/19: Uranus, your ruling planet, very slow moving, remains positioned in your 4th solar house of home and family in the sign of Taurus. Thus, we find your concentration on financial matters is quite natural. However, you are primarily interested in kicking up your heels and getting ready for a socially fine time. PISCES: 2/20 to 3/20: Neptune, your ruling planet, continues near the end of your 1st solar house of personality highlighting your very creative nature and talent. With Saturn also in the 1st house, it's important you realize that it's time to begin a regular saving project to protect yourself from any temporary loss of income in addition to having a regular income. Joanne can be reached at 561-744-9962. She is available for private telephone consultations if you want more information relating to your personal chart. Treat yourself, and you will learn what to expect from the current transits and receive an overview of long-term goals. Remember to read both your Sun sign and your Ascendant.

Page 20, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press Saturday Creature Features presents ‘Creature From the Black Lagoon’ (1954) The Rosendale Theatre is proud to present perhaps the single most famous and best loved monster of the 1950s, “Creature From the Black Lagoon,” 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at the theater, 408 Main St., Rosendale. A mega-smash hit with audiences upon its initial release, “Creature From the Black Lagoon” inspired two sequels and has thrilled audiences to the present day. The film tells the story of how a modern-day river expedition through the Amazon jungle encounters a prehistoric being and the battle to see who will survive. See the classic with full theater sound on the big screen! Admission is $10, $6 for members and those in costume. For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989. ‘Ancestral,’ a solo show by Elisa Pritzker, at the Wired Gallery in High Falls Many years ago, Elisa Pritzker visited the lands once inhabited by the Selk’nam people in Southern Patagonia in Argentina. This peaceful indigenous tribe went extinct after encountering migrant Europeans in mid-19th century. By 1930, they had all but a few fallen victim to the invaders' desire to find gold and exploit their region through farming. When Pritzker went to Patagonia, she felt their lost presence through a mysterious wind that enveloped her, and ever since she has channeled their artistic soul through her own creations. "My art," she said, "is eco-ancestral, intuitive, universally primal, and my iconography points towards the mysteries of life. It all began with a pivotal trip to Patagonia when I had a magical encounter with the original Selk’nam people and their positive shamanic daily traditions, cosmology, body art painting – all in consonance with the natural environment. My telling is to look back to look forward." Meet the artist, Elisa Pritzker, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, June 17, 18, 24 and 25, at the Wired Gallery, 11 Mohonk Road, High Falls. The “Ancestral” exhibit runs through Sunday, June 25. For more information, visit thewiredgallery.com or call 682-564-5613. It’s a Pollinator Party, and everyone’s invited! Cooperative Extension of Ulster County master gardeners are hosting a pollinator party in honor of National Pollinator Week. Pollinators provide one-third of everyone’s food and most of the flowers too. They do essential work, and it’s time to honor them. Bring the whole family for a day of pollinator fun, filled with activities for the kids, informative talks, Pollina-tours of the garden, giveaways, and more. Come discover how to create a pollinator-friendly habitat in your backyard and celebrate pollinators with the community, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Xeriscape Garden on the grounds of SUNY Ulster, 491 Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. Learn more at ulster.cce.cornell.edu/pollinatorparty23. Kevin Cook, Gayle Fedigan and Robert Trondsen exhibit The Mark Gruber Gallery, owned and operated by Marbletown’s Mark Gruber, presents its latest show featuring local artists Kevin Cook, Gayle Fedigan and Robert Trondsen. The show, which runs through July 1, at the gallery in the New Paltz Plaza, New

D&H Canal Museum & Mid-Hudson Visitor Center Open Everyday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

High Falls Flea Market at Grady Park Weekends, weather permitting 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

www.canalmuseum.org/events

1315 MAin Street, High Falls 845-687-2000

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David Gonzalez and Raina Sokolov-Gonzalez (shown here) will perform, tomorrow night, at the FUN Raising Party for the Marbletown Community Center.

FUN Raising Party for the MCC tomorrow night Join the community, tomorrow evening, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St./Route 209, Stone Ridge, for an evening of live entertainment and more. The FUN Raising party features music by local multi-talent David Gonzalez and Brooklyn-based recording artist Raina Sokolov-Gonzalez, speakers from the community, locally sourced refreshments, and auction bidding for everything from Bardavon tickets to gift certificates donated by

Paltz, features paintings in oils by NYFA fellow Kevin Cook, works in pastels by Gayle Fedigan and landscapes by Robert Trondsen. The Mark Gruber Gallery has hours, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; Sundays and Mondays by appointment. For more information, contact Gruber at 845-2551241 or visit markgrubergallery.com. Marbletown’s Mira Fink part of ‘Terrain, landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes’ exhibition Among the many local artists featured in the exhibition “Terrain, landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes” is Marbletown’s Mira Fink. The exhibit will be on display through Sunday, July 2, at Emerge Gallery, 228 Main St., Saugerties. For more information, visit emergegalleryny.com or call 845-247-7515. Rondout Valley United Methodist Church Car Show This event will be held, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Rondout Valley United Methodist Church, 25 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge. DJ Brian will be there. Breakfast and lunch will be served. There will be a 50/50 raffle and door prizes, All rides welcome, trophies at will be presented at 2 p.m. Preregistration is $12, $15 on the day of the show, with spectators free. Fun for everyone. For more information, call Tom at 845-687-9061 or 845 532-7801.

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local eateries, wellness practitioners, artists and more. Admission is free, donations gratefully accepted. All money raised will go into an account specifically earmarked for repairs to the Marbletown Community Center's historic building; donations are tax deductible. For more information, visit Love Our Community Center's GoFundMe page, https://gofundme/26f31aa7, or contact nplumer52@ gmail.com or 914-388-7155.

Little Ones Learning Center adds and expands programming A free early literacy program, Little Ones Learning Center, located at Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Route 209, Accord, recently added a day to their program and rented a second room in the church. Their Story Times are currently 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays (June 21 and 28) and Saturdays (June 17, 24 and July 1) and 3-5 p.m. Thursdays (June 22 and 29). The program, which includes stories, crafts, socialization and free time to explore the many early learning activities available, is geared toward children 0-6, but all are welcome. Parents/caregivers are required to stay with the children. For more information call 845-750-4112 or email LOLC12404@gmail.com. Lake Awosting beach opens for one weekend before starting its regular season The swimming beach at Lake Awosting will open for one weekend only, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.. Saturday, June 17. Then, starting the following Saturday, June 24, the beach will be open seven days per week through Labor Day, staff and weather permitting. Located approximately 4 miles by foot or bike from the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson, the site features a smooth rock slab beach on the remote and beautiful Lake Awosting. For more information, call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

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Lake Minnewaska Beach opens for the season The beach at Lake Minnewaska will open 11:15 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Saturday, June 17, for the swimming season. The small beach, which is located along the northwestern shore of Lake Minnewaska, will be open seven days per week until Labor Day, staff and weather permitting. For more information, call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-2550752. Long way to the waterfall at Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, environmental educator, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday, June 19, for a 5-mile loop hike on the High Peter’s Kill Footpath and the Awosting Falls Carriage Road. The footpath section of this hike features sections of trail with steep, rocky, and narrow footing, which some may find challenging. All participants should come well prepared with appropriate footwear, food and water. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Preregistration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752. Junior Sportsmen’s Program takes aim at knowledge and safety for all with free classes. Each Thursday at 6 p.m., May-October, with upcoming classes on June 21 and 28, students of all ages come out to the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club Junior Sportsmen’s Program. The archery class, taught by Pete Sarr, chairperson of the program, is alternated every other Thursday with firearms, with both programs held at the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club, 95-105 Scarawan Road, Stone Ridge. Students of every level, from first timers to seasoned hunters, from kids to mature adults. All necessary equipment is provided for the program at no cost. Call Sarr at 845687-9305 or visit marbletownsportsmensclub.com. Homeschoolers June Bloom hike Students will get a chance to engage almost all of their senses as the homeschoolers group discusses the anatomy of the flower, their role in the ecosystem, and the importance of pollination and preservation on this hike, 1-3 p. m.. Thursday, June 22. This program is recommended for homeschooled children aged 7-12 years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752. Thursdays at Clove Valley Community Farm of High Falls Join community organizer Aileah Kvashay and friends, 4-7 p.m. each Thursday, through Nov. 2, with upcoming gatherings on June 22 and 29, at Clove Valley Community Farm (park to the left of the barn), at 81 Clove Valley Road, High Falls, for open-farm work party, food sharing and co-creative fun. Whether working the gardens, shopping at the farm stand, preparing for the farm-to-table dinner, or enjoying the beauty of nature, be a part of the magic. Arrive early and stay for the community dinner. Wrap-up at 9 p.m. Work-trade for farm fresh produce. Dogs must be on a leash for this event. For more information, visit clovevalleycommunityfarm.org. ‘Share your family stories,’ a roundtable with Courtney Edwards Courtney Edwards, whose private practice is in Stone Ridge, will facilitate a group discussion about family history to discover deeper meaning behind the stories families pass down through generations. Many local families have stories of the building of the Ashokan Reservoir. The Ulster County Historical Society would love to hear those, and as historians, they are interested in all family tales. Perhaps an immigration story? A tale of struggle or triumph? Join the community in a lively discussion and discover how others make sense of their family history through storytelling and digging into old records for clues, 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Ulster County Historical Museum, 2682 Route 209, Marbletown. The event is free with museum admission. No reservations required. For more information, visit ulstercountyhs.org or call 845-377-1040. Bobolink migration art and theater workshop will Stone Ridge art instructor Jill Obrig Join the community, noon4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at Mohonk Preserve, 3197 Route 44/55, Gardiner for a 4-hour family friendly workshop taught by award winning Stone Ridge

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BlueStone Press, June 16, 2023 , Page 21 Events continued from page 20 artist and teacher Jill Obrig. Families will create materials to perform a dance of the bobolink migration together from the Hudson Valley to Argentina for a captive audience. Bring creativity, enthusiasm and extended family to this special art workshop. Registration is required for all participants ages 5 and up. Children must always be accompanied by a registered adult. Cost is $45/family. The public is encouraged to attend the 3:45 p.m. performance at the Slingerland Pavilion. For more information and registration, visit mohonkpreserve.org. Rosendale Seniors monthly meetings, events and trips The Town of Rosendale Seniors meetings are held at the Rosendale Recreation Center, 1055 Route 32, Rosendale, twice a month, excluding November and December, at 1 p.m. every second Wednesday (July 9), for a social meeting and on the fourth Wednesday (June 28), at 10:30 a.m. for the executive board meeting, and 1 p.m. for the business meeting. Rosendale Senior trips, open to all ages, will sponsor an overnight tour to Branson, Missouri, courtesy of Diamond Tours, Sept. 16-24, nine days and eight nights. The tour, departing 8 a.m. from the Rec Center, consists of motorcoach transportation with eight nights lodging including four consecutive nights in the Branson area, 14 meals of eight breakfasts and six dinners, and admission to three morning shows (Dublin’s Irish Tenors and special guests the Celtic Ladies, Doug Gabriel Morning Show; and a Neil Diamond tribute) and three evening shows (The Haygoods Show; Presley’s Country Jubilee; and “Queen Esther,” at the Sight and Sound Theater). Cost is $1,029/pp double occupancy. Call Chickie at 845-658-2414 or Hal at 845-658-9020 for more information. For videos and group pictures, visit grouptrips.com/chicky. Rondout Valley Lions Club New members, men and women of all ages, are wanted and encouraged to join the Rondout Valley Lions Club, serving the towns of Marbletown, Rochester and Rosendale since Oct. 18, 1950. “We serve” is their motto, and this is what they do. The Lions meet at 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday (July 9), and at noon on the fourth Thursday of every month (June 22) in the conference room of the Rondout Municipal Center, 1925 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill. For more information on being included in the club’s next meeting, contact Sue Curcio, president, at otrlsc@gmail.com or Janet Sutter, treasurer, at janet.sutter@aol.com. American Red Cross blood drive at Marbletown Community Center There is a powerful mental health component to donating blood. Donors often say they feel happy knowing they may have helped save more than one life. And as with any act of community service, participants may end up making a new friend at a blood drive or donation center. The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Marbletown Community Center 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge. For more information and to schedule a donation, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-Red-Cross (1-800-733-2767). Marbletown Seniors meetings and next two group trips Open to all those over 55, whether living in Marbletown or not, the Marbletown Seniors hold their meetings at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., across from Key Bank in Stone Ridge, at noon on the first Friday, July 7 (bring a dish to share or drop $3 in the basket on the food table), and at 1 p.m. on the third Friday, July 21 (bring a dessert to share or drop $2 in the basket on the dessert table), of each month. For more information, call Donna Lamerson at 845-750-8616. The next group trip will be on Tuesday, Sept. 12, to Villa Roma, Callicoon. The trip includes a Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers tribute with a dinner of roast loin of pork, chicken Francese or filet of cod. Cost is $58. The bus departs 8:45 a.m. On Wednesday, Oct. 18, the group will travel to Riverview Inn., Matamoras, Pennsylvania. Jeff Krick will do a tribute to Elvis. Guests will enjoy appetizers on arrival, plus a choice of breast of chicken, top round of beef, veg and potato du jour, dessert, coffee, tea, iced tea, soda and open bar, beer/wine, with trip price

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House Fire Benefit Concert at the Rosendale Theatre What happens when Tom Chapin, Guy Davis, Professor Louie & Miss Marie, Walt Michael & Co., Brenda Bufalino & Michael Sansonia, and the Vanaver Caravan come together? An incredible evening of music, song, dance, and a dynamic, heartfelt festival not to be missed! Last month LouAnne Kirkwood and Mark Murphy lost their entire house to a fire. Murphy is a beloved bass player and the "rock steady musician" in the Vanaver Caravan. Kirkwood was a former kindergarten teacher at Mountain Laurel Waldorf School in its early years. Love poured out to them, but more support is needed as they work to rebuild their lives. All the performers will come together for this benefit concert, 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 23, program, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. Both Murphy and Kirkwood have always been there for everyone else. Now it’s time to come together and be there for them, show the love, and raise the roof. Don't miss this evening to remember! There is ample parking behind the theater. Tickets are available at rosendaletheatre.org or at the box office. Donation levels are $200, $100, $50 or $20. Checks and cash will also be accepted at the event. Checks should be made out to Mark Murphy. Can’t attend? Donations can also be sent to Mark Murphy ℅ The Vanaver Caravan, 10 Main St., Suite 322, New Paltz, NY 12561. For further information and tickets, visit rosendaletheatre.com or vanavercaravan.org or call 845-658-8989.

Local authors, David Gonzalez, Elana Bell, Matt Spireng, and Jai Chakrabarti (not pictured Karen Jenson)

‘High Falls Voices, works and words of local authors’ event on June 29 The High Falls Conservancy presents its’ summer event, “High Falls Voices, works and words of local authors.” Join the community to hear readings and performances by five highly talented and widely honored poets, writers and performance professionals who call greater High Falls their home, at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 29, with Matthew Spireng, Karen Jenson, and David Gonzalez, and at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 6, with Elana Bell, and Jai Chakrabarti, at the Sheeley House, at the corner of Lucas Turnpike and Fairview Avenue, High

National Theatre Live presents ‘Good’ David Tennant makes a much-anticipated return to the West End in a blistering reimagining of one of Britain’s most powerful, political plays. As the world faces its Second World War, John Halder, a good, intelligent German professor, finds himself pulled into a movement with unthinkable consequences. Olivier Award-winner Dominic Cooke

American wine educator and the founder of the Windows on the World Wine School, Kevin Zraly has been described as America's most famous and entertaining wine teacher.

Presentations at D&H Canal Museum The D&H Canal Historical Society will be inaugurating a series of presentations entitled "Makers of History" in its Mid-Hudson Regional Visitor Center, at 1315 Main St., High Falls. The program will feature people working and living in the area whose work is of national, and even international importance. Tomorrow, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, features Kevin Zraly, author of the nation’s best-selling wine book, “Windows on the World Complete Wine Course.” Zraly will cover the changes in the wine and food world over the 50 plus years of his career, which began as the bartender in the Depuy Canal House Restaurant. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 per person in support of the Canal Society and its mission. Also at D&H, “The Raging Canal,” an immersive look into the lives of marginalized communities who made the canal a successful endeavor, presented by Siren Theatre Company of High Falls and written by Tricia Anderson and Caitlin Connelly, with performances at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, and at 4 and 7 p.m. Sunday, June 18. Admission is $25. For more information on both events and more, visit canalmuseum.org or call 845-687-2000.

Falls. A reception with light refreshments will follow each performance, along with an opportunity to speak with the authors and purchase signed copies of their books. As with its other programs, the High Falls Conservancy is making this event free of charge to all, with donations gratefully received. Seating will be limited, so secure a spot by calling or texting 917-7058711, or emailing highfallsconservancy@ gmail.com. For more information, visit highfallsconservancy.org.

directs C.P. Taylor’s timely tale, with a cast that also features Elliot Levey and Sharon Small. Filmed live at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London, the play will be shown 2 p.m. Sunday, June 18, at the Rosendale Theatre. Admission is $15, $12 for members. For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

Movies With Spirit presents screening of ‘Samsara’ documentary in Stone Ridge Showing the dueling rhythms of nature and humanity, “Samsara” is this month’s Movies With Spirit screening, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Vivekananda Retreat, Ridgely, 101 Leggett Road, Stone Ridge. Shot in extra-wide 70mm film, providing IMAX-like resolution, the wordless documentary, with musical accompaniment, explores the wonders of the world, from Asia and Africa through Europe and the United States. It shows sacred sites and natural beauty, along with human excesses and industrial sprawl. The film’s segments include sublime temples in Myanmar and a lava-oozing volcano in Hawaii. These contrast with the decadence of France’s Palace of Versailles and animal cruelty at a Danish intensive livestock production facility. The film also takes viewers from a halogen-lit freeway in Los Angeles to a darkened, locked-away prison in the Philippines and from a hyper-busy “factory city” in China to an equally busy junked car wrecker in California. Directed by Ron Fricke and produced by Mark Magidson, “Samsara” expands on themes the two expressed in the film “Baraka,” which Movies With Spirit screened in 2012. Fricke and Magidson named the later film “Samsara” after a Sanskrit word that roughly means the ever-turning wheel of life. The 2011 movie runs for 1 hour 42 minutes and is rated PG–13. Its trailer can be found at tinyurl.com/samsara-movieswspirit. The monthly Movies With Spirit series, organized by Gerry Harrington of Kings-

“The Thousand-Handed Goddess of Mercy,” performed by 21 dancers in Photo credit: Oscilloscope Laboratories

ton, seeks to stimulate people’s sense of joy and wonder, inspire love and compassion, evoke a deepened understanding of people’s integral connection with others and with life itself, and support individual cultures, faith paths and beliefs while simultaneously transcending them. The films are screened in diverse places of worship and reverence across Ulster and Dutchess counties at 7 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month. Movies With Spirit has no religious affiliation. The screening will be followed by a facilitated discussion. Refreshments will be served. Attendees over age 12 are asked to contribute $10 a person. For info about “Samsara” and the rest of the Movies With Spirit series, contact Harrington at 845-389-9201 or at gerryharrington@mindspring.com. Details are also available at facebook.com/movieswithspirit.

Page 22, June 16, 2023 , BlueStone Press

Bloomington Fire Department Food Truck Fiesta

Events continued from page 21 of $58. Bus departs at 9:15 a.m. All trips leave from and return to Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Route 209, Stone Ridge. For more information and trip reservations, call Sharon Letus, at 845-687-9162. Events at the Kiva, at MaMA The Kiva is located behind Marbletown MultiArts, MaMA, at 3588 Main St., Stone Ridge. Upcoming events include Kol Hai’s Renee Finkelstein for a Shabbat of music, movement, and meditation, 7 p.m. Friday, June 16; Sonic Tonic Sound Bath, 6 p.m. Sunday, June 18; Family constellations with Jadina Lilien, 6 a.m8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 22; Playback Theatre with Judy Swallow, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 25; Cacao and sound healing, 7 p.m. Friday, June 30; Family constellations, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, July 1; and each week are Zoom Sunday gatherings at 11 a.m.; the meditation, movement and conversation group led by Wes Ostertag and Ev Mann, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays; Kiva Dance, 11 a.m. Saturdays, jaynemielo@gmail.com, lorilynmeader@ gmail.com; and in person, Tuesday meditation, 6:30 p.m. For more information on all these events, visit cometomama. org or call 845-853-5154. The 2nd Annual Rosendale Theatre Mushroom Festival The Rosendale Theatre, at 408 Main St., Rosendale will present its second annual Mushroom Festival from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, June 17, with films, food, mushroom ID sessions, expert panel discussions, and an opportunity to network with mycologists and mycophiles. The program will start at 10 a.m., at Willow Kiln Park with a curated mushroom walk and ID session. The indoor festival begins at noon and continues with a day of mushroom-related art and science, finishing with a screening of the documentary, “Know Your Mushrooms.” Tickets at the door are $40. All tickets are for general seating. For tickets, more information, and the full schedule of events, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989. Conversational French with Claudine Brenner A native French speaker, born in Paris and raised in Europe, Claudine Brenner chose Stone Ridge as her place to retire following a 30-year government career abroad. The program she is offering is held, 1-2 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month, with the next conversation hour on Tuesday, June 20, in the activity room, at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary. org or call 845-687-7023. After work yoga with Laura Brown, at the Rondout Municipal Center Once again, the Stone Ridge Library is happy to offer an hour-long, after-work yoga class taught by Laura Brown, 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, June 21, at the Rondout Municipal Center (former Rosendale Elementary School), 1925 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill. Class will be in the cafeteria (formerly the Blackboard Bistro) or on the lawn above the playground, weather permitting. All are encouraged to move at their own pace in this hour-long class. Be sure to bring a yoga mat and any blocks or straps if needed. As with any exercise class, check with a doctor before starting. For more information and registration, visit stoneridgelibrary. org or call 845-7023. SUNY Ulster hosts Annual ‘Future Voices’ art exhibit showcasing works of local high school students The artwork of Ulster County high school students will be on display in the exhibit “Future Voices 2023: High School Art from Ulster County,” on exhibit through June 23, at the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery at SUNY Ulster, 491 Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. The Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday and by appointment. It is closed on college holidays and weekends. The show is free and open to the public. For more information please contact gallery@sunyulster.edu or call 845-6875113.

This event will be held 5-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, with a rain date of June 27, in the fire department parking lot, at 14 Taylor St., Bloomington, and will feature live music by Steel Band, Car Cruise In, beer and wine, and much more. For more information, call 845-338-2794. Murder Café of Rosendale’s “Mystery on the Hudson” cast

Rosendale’s Murder Café presents ‘Mystery on the Hudson,’ performed at Hudson House Distillery It's 1891 and local leaders of commerce and industry are meeting for a spring celebration. Guests will socialize with John Jacob Astor IV and his wife, Ava, future governor Levi Morton and his daughter Alice will be present along with Vassar College professor Percy Longfellow. Come join the party and be fussed over by loyal butler, Horace, and fortune-hunting maid, Charlene. Katherine Kerry, a writer for the Kingston Weekly Freeman, observes much more than merriment and gaiety when she

witnesses a murder. Whodunit and why? Written and directed by Anika Krempl for Murder Café, various versions of her historical whodunit have enjoyed sold-out performances throughout the Hudson Valley since 2015. Along with Krempl, the cast includes Murder Café owner-operator Frank Marquette, Erica Woolley, Nicole Prepeluk, Tom Roberts, Lauren Roberts, Ken Stallon and Jim Keenen. Live period music will be performed by Hannah Tufano. Celebrating its 25th year in business, Murder Café is owned and operated by Frank and Kirsten Marquette of Rosendale. For more information, visit murdercafe.net. “Mystery on the Hudson” is performed during dinner, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Hudson House Distillery, 3971 Route 28, North Creek. The event includes a threecourse dinner with entrée choice, cash bar, and prizes for those who guess whodunit. For tickets, visit thehudsonhouseny.com or call 845-834-6007.

Celebrating Juneteenth, ‘Songs of Slavery and Emancipation,’ a documentary film “Songs of Slavery and Emancipation,” a documentary film, will screen at 7 p.m. Sunday, June 18, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. The film presents recently discovered songs composed by enslaved people explicitly calling for resistance to slavery. Some songs originated as early as 1784 and others as late as the Civil War. The documentary explores long-lost songs of the abolition movement, some written by fugitive slaves and free Black people, challenging common misconceptions of abolitionism. “Songs of Slavery and Emancipation” features the lyrics of 15 slave songs and 15 abolitionist songs. There can be no doubt as to their purpose: the abolition of slavery, the emancipation of African American people, and a clear and undeniable demand for equality and justice for all humanity. The film will be followed by the documentary’s producer and author of the book, Matt Callahan, sharing a presentation about the songs and the making of the film. Callahan is a musician and author originally from San Francisco. Recent projects include the re-publication of “Songs of Freedom” by Irish revolutionary James Connolly, the recording and publication of “Working-Class Heroes” and the launch of “Songs of Slavery and Emancipation.” He is the author of five books including, “The Explosion of Deferred Dreams” (PM Press) and “A Critical Guide to Intellectual Property” (Zed Books). For more information visit http://www.matcallahan.com “Song of Slavery and Emancipation” is also a book and a CD, both of which will be available for sale. Admission to the film and discussion is $10/$6 members. For information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

Artist and printmaker Kate McGloughlin of Olivebridge

Kinship stories art workshop with Kate McGloughlin Kate McGloughlin is an artist and printmaker. Her work explores the emotional impact of her family's forced migration for construction of the Ashokan Reservoir and is featured in this year's exhibition. In this hands-on workshop, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, July 8, at the Ulster County Historical Museum, 2682 Route 209, Marbletown, McGloughlin will give a short tour of her work and the family stories embedded in the images and will lead participants to explore their own family stories through mixed media in hopes of arriving at a place of reconciliation with the past. The event is recommended for adults and older teens. Admission is $30/$15 members. Reservations are required, email uchsdirector@gmail.com. For more information, visit ulstercountyhs.org or call 845-377-1040.

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In-person Holistic Healthcare Day at Marbletown Community Center Holistic Health Community of Stone Ridge will offer its ongoing in-person Holistic Healthcare Day from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge, and a Virtual Community Holistic Healthcare Week, Monday-Friday, June 26-30, via Zoom and telephone sessions. Practitioners for the in-person Holistic Healthcare Day include Cornelia Wathen, Emotion Code; Dahlia Jarrett, art therapy; Donna Cohen, spiritual counseling; Donna Cohen, therapeutic yoga; Drew Minter, transpersonal healing bodywork sessions; Elizabeth Gross, Thai yoga bodywork; Greg Madden, Biophoton therapy; John Ellsworth, medical massage; Kate Anjahlia Loye, soul listening; Lauren Schaub Molino, Brennan Healing Science; Mark Jordan, chiropractic; Mary Zak, Reiki; Nandini Austin, Ayurveda wellness consultations; Nurit Nardi MA, LMT, RCST, focusing oriented therapy; Suzanne Bottigliero, Reflexology; and Virginia Doran, auricular acupuncture. For Virtual Holistic Healthcare Week, practitioners include Amer Adams, spiritual counseling and/or Yogic Embodiment Techniques; Cornelia Wathen, Emotion Code; Donna Cohen, spiritual counseling; Joanna Leffeld, “Healing Your Money Story”; Karin Reynolds, life coaching; Katie Todd, the flow of grace; Katy Bray, resonance; Kris Journey, astrology consultations; Rob Norris, reconnective healing; Sarah Carlson, health coaching; Sharon Lococo, consciousness shifting; Suzanne Bottigliero, chakra clearings; Vicki Kramer Nathan, resilience and wellness coaching; and Wendy Wolosoff-Hayes, spacious heart guidance. Other free holistic opportunities include Barbara Bash circle practice, strengthening the heart; Barbara Bash, Katherine Betts and Andy Dillon, nonviolent communication; Bobbi Esmark, free qigong classes; Circle of Friends of the Dying, free Death Cafes; Jadina Lilien, free family constellations; Shivaram in Hawaii, free Yoga Nidra; Shulamit Elson, free MediSounds® Sounding; and Therese Bimka, daily community meditations. Community Holistic Healthcare Day is held on the third Tuesday of each month. All sessions, in-person and via Zoom or phone, must be booked online. Patients should make an appointment for one session only so the maximum number of people may benefit. To make an appointment, go to http://hhcny.simplybook.me. Once the appointment is made, all information will be sent to the practitioner, and then they will contact each patient. The Holistic Health Community Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, charitable corporation. Though there is no charge for services, sacred reciprocity is encouraged by making a donation, offering volunteer service or by doing an act of loving kindness toward someone in need. To donate and for more information about the Holistic Health Community, its practitioners, and their modalities, visit holistichealthcommunity. org or call 845-867-7008.

FindFind what looking whatyou're you’re looking for for

June 16, 2023 Page 23 Services Offered

BELL EXCAVATION AND STONEWORK Experienced in all phases of excavation and installment of bluestone for patios, walks, and walls. Beautify your home with the experience and care of Charlie Bell. All work insured and guaranteed. 845-626-3542 or 845-389-3000 DEPENDABLE RIDES FOR SENIORS Retired social worker and overall mensch will transport you safely and respectfully to all daily errands and appointments ~and wait with you~ Affordable Rates Ira @914.466-9505

DOUG TYLER & SON Rolloff Containers Demolition 10 20 30 40 yds C&D and Metals 845-849-5909 DOWN TO EARTH LANDSCAPING Koi Ponds, Patios and Decks, Yard Maintenance, Tree Trimming Fence Installation and Repair and Snow Removal FULLY INSURED Ben Watson 845-389-3028 BluestoneExperts.com www.fb.com/downtoearthny MINI- EXCAVATOR AND OPERATOR Available for trenches, driveways, debris removal, horse fencing and treasure burying. 203-858-3634 MOWING Lawns/Fields Property care tree maintenance improving your outdoor living 845-721-4741

to place an ad: rates

Rates are $15 for 15 days with $.25 for each additional word after 30 words and $30 for 30 days with $.25 for each additional word after 30 words.

online

Please place your classified ad any time at bluestonepress.net

phone

Call the office Monday-Thursday 10-3 (845-687-4480)

email

Send your e-mail to bluestonepress845@gmail.com

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IN THE BLUESTONE CLASSIFIEDS Visit bluestonepress.net to place your own ad or call 845-687-4480 to place it over the phone.

Need to talk? THERAPY FOR INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES Take the 1st step towards making changes. Therapy for Depression/ Anxiety, PTSD & LGBTQI+. Also offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Schedule your free phone consultation today at www.vanessalopeztherapy.com or call 845-206-4916. ROSE HILL ANTIQUES 5066 Route 209 in Accord, ten miles south of Kingston or ten miles north of Ellenville. Open Saturday and Sunday, 11am-5pm. 1500 square feet of Art Deco, Vintage Art Pottery, country and formal furniture, selections of 19th and 20th century lighting, vintage photos, and decorative accessories. Something for everyone. rosehillantiques.com 845-594-5752. BUYING antiques and used furniture. SPRING IS HERE! Lawn Mowing Weed Whacking Spring Clean Ups Discount rates. 845-893-5644

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23 JunePage 16, 2023

SEEKING LIVE-IN AIDE/ COMPANION Live-in help for 88 year old woman with mild dementia. Light housekeeping/ meal prep/bathing assistance. Supervise self-administered medications /assist with eye drops. Room & Board Tues-Sat plus reasonable stipend. Please send resume to helpherstay athome@gmail.com THE ROOST IN STONE RIDGE is currently interviewing for f/t cooks and dishwashers at competitive wages. Please apply in person. at the restaurant 3542 Main St., Stone Ridge. For Rent

APT FOR RENT 1 bedroom extra large completely renovated apt. Walking distance to Kerhonkson. No Pets, No Kids. Must have references. AAA rating only. $1500/month includes utilities. Call 845-399-7402 for more information

WHITTAKER WELDING Steel & Cast Iron Repair Fabrication Modifications Reinforcement Hardfacing 407 Krumville Road Olivebridge, NY 12461 845-657-6719

HOUSE FOR SALE 37 Tow Path Early 1900’s Craftsman style home Completed 2-year renovation located in historic district Accord Call 845-399-7402 for more information

Help Wanted/Items Needed

Yard Sales

*WE ARE HIRING!* Looking for part time nursery/ retail shop help. Mostly mornings until early afternoon. Heavy lifting, loading and unloading plants from trucks and being outdoors is a big part of this job. Please feel free to stop in the shop at 1 Cottekill Rd to fill out an application and introduce yourself or you can email us at Victoriagardens.ny@gmail.com

ATWOOD YARD SALE June 23 24 9-5 123 Stillwater Rd., Stone Ridge Books-camping supplies & more.

Homes/Land for Sale

RICE PLUMBING AND HEATING is looking to hire an experienced HVAC Plumbing technician. 3 to 5 years experience. Clean drivers license. Full time. Salary based on experience. Send resume to riceplumbing andheating@gmail.com

BSP classified ads!!!! Place them on the NEW website

bluestonepress.net OR call BSP at 845-687-4480

Page 24, June 16, 2023 BlueStone Press

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