BlueStone Press

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

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

Big day in Rosendale

Jen Metzger sworn in as Ulster County executive at the Rosendale Theatre Jeff Slater BSP Reporter On Monday, Jan. 2, Jen Metzger was sworn in to her new position as Ulster County executive by Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado. The swearing-in ceremony was held on a beautiful day with a packed house at the Rosendale Theatre, which was filled with positive energy. Many VIPs from the state and county were in attendance.

The Rosendale Brass Band ushered Metzger in to loud cheering from the assembly, followed by the presentation of colors by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Honor Guard.

Johanna Contreras, acting county executive for the past three months, served as emcee for the event. Tracey Bartels, chair of the Ulster County Legislature, said, “Jen Metzger is an Ulster County rock star. It takes a special kind of person to even want to do this job.”

Thomas DiNapoli, New York state comptroller, continued, “In the New York State Senate Jen worked hard on the issues of climate change, advocating for farmers, and expanding broadband.” Regarding her current public office, DiNapoli continued, “Put your own stamp on this position!”

Delgado performed the swearing in.

He noted that he and Metzger have a long history of working together. “I can feel the energy and the love in this room,” he said. “Jen is one who leads with compassion, one who leads with integrity and has an incredible work ethic. While in the State Senate she was able to get 37 bills passed and signed into law with bipartisan support. During the pandemic she was there every step of the way. She leads from a place of moral compass. She leads from the heart. Jen is a reflection of you.

She’s your best. You all decided to be your best and put forth a leader that genuinely reflects who you are and will fight for you … and give Jen the space she needs to be who you know she is, a real leader who will fight to improve every single life in this room and beyond.”

Jen Metzger then took the stage to raucous applause.

“You might be wondering why we are all here in a community theatre and not in the more august and statelier county courthouse where these events are typically held,” Metzger said. “I wanted to be sworn in here in part because Rosendale is where my amazing husband, Jon, and I have raised our three children, Gideon and Jasper and Silas. This is where I began

See Metzger, page 5

Plans take shape to repurpose granary PAGE 4

January 6, 2023 | $1.00

New fire districts Former Commissioners and Fire Chief speak out as town creates new fire districts Brooke Stelzer BSP Reporter

Jen Metzger embracing Michael Cacchio, whose family owned the Rosendale Theatre for 60 years. Photo by Kyra Sahasrabudhe

Antonio Delgado, Jen Metzger and Thomas DiNapoli smile during Jen Metzger’s swearing-in at the Rosendale Theatre. Photo by Kyra Sahasrabudhe

Looking back on 2022 in BSP land PAGE 6 & 7

The Marbletown Town Board meeting of Dec. 20 was held in-person at the Rondout Municipal Center on Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill, and streamed on Facebook Live. Board members present in person included Rich Parete, chairman and town supervisor, along with Tim Hunt, Don LaFera and Ken Davenport. Daisy Foote was not present. Eleven resolutions were presented and all were passed, 4-0.

The meeting opened with four public hearings, three of which involved new fire districts to be managed by the town, a result of the dissolution of the Vly-Atwood and Marbletown districts earlier this year.

Eric Fedde, a longtime member of the former Vly-Atwood Fire Department and a former commissioner, spoke first, presenting the board with a map he created of proposed boundaries and fire house distances.

“I have reviewed the proposed areas of the distances (in the new fire district),” Fedde said. “Upon dissolution of the Vly-Atwood fire district, I requested the town to take into consideration suggestions from the Vly-Atwood fire commissioners deciding areas of coverage. I do not believe this was done. I am concerned over home insurance costs relating to distances to the fire house as well as increases to property taxes at which time these are incorporated into a Stone Ridge or Kripplebush fire district. I believe it is in the best interest of the residents of the Vly for the town to reconsider the proposed maps.”

John Cirone, also a former commissioner in Vly-Atwood, followed Fedde’s comments. “I was under the impression that the commissioners were going to have some kind of say in how the districts were going to be broken up … and I feel I know the district well. We didn’t have any input at all, I don’t even know who decided, and I’m concerned about it. I thought we were going to have input. We were kind of led to believe at the dissolution that we were going to have input, and I think we made our

See Marbletown, page 10

A new generation can fix your old car PAGE 11

Page 2, January July 1, 2022, 6, 2023, BlueStone BlueStone Press Press

To Luxembourg and back ... to Kerhonkson What brought you to the area and how long have you lived here?

I actually moved into the area twice.

The first time was In 1979 when a friend bought a tract of land in West Park on the Hudson River and we decided to start a vineyard and winery, which became West Park Wine Cellars. I loved the area and spent what free time I had hiking and swimming at Minnewaska.

In 1987, my future husband, Nik, was living in Luxembourg, and I decided it was time to move on and move I did, all the way to LuxemVisit the folks bourg for the next 20 years. I became next door a “stay at home” mom raising our two daughters and taking an endless stream of language courses to try and stay one step ahead of the girls at school. In Luxembourg the kids speak Luxembourgish in pre-school, German in elementary and start French in second grade. Although I became fluent in German, they were way ahead of me in all languages before long (except for English!).

We always spent some of our summer vacation at the winery in West Park and in Kerhonkson, where my brother and his family live. The second move into the area was after Nik retired in 2007. We wanted to get back to the land and were very fortunate to find our home in Kerhonkson, where we have now been for 15 years.

Q&A

Tell us about your family, pets and home.

My husband, Nik, is German and grew up in South America. He returned to Germany as a teenager and then spent most of his banking profession in Luxembourg.

Our daughters, Caroline and Susanna went to Rondout after our move to the States. After the shock wore off (they thought we had lost our minds) they did great at Rondout, went on to university and have successful careers, so all has

LYONSVILLE SUGARHOUSE 591 County Route 2 • (845)687-2518

Nelda Gerner Age: 66 Profession: Farming Town: Kerhonkson

gone well!

We are short on pets at the moment!

Our dog passed away last year and we haven’t gotten the next one yet. Two barn cats are the only remaining true pets since cattle raised for beef should not be in this category!

What is your profession or was your profession?

I’m not sure I ever had a profession in the true sense of the word but I always worked in farming. I grew up on Long Island and after getting my BS in psychology at SUNY Purchase I nurtured my love of horses and took an internship on a horse breeding farm in Virginia, then on to a horse farm in Millbrook, and into the wine business, as mentioned.

Since farming was always my passion, and after retirement Nik also wanted to do the same, we weighed our options and ended up establishing Sophie’s Farm in Kerhonkson. We run a small herd of about 10 Red Devon cows on our land, practicing rotational grazing and produce 100% grass-finished beef, which we sell in eighths and quarters. It feels more like a hobby than a profession and we are grateful for the friends and neighbors we have met through the business.

All Grades of Maple Syrup & Maple Products

Syrup Available All Year

KEEP AGRICULTURE ALIVE IN ULSTER COUNTY!

Located 3 mi. off 209 on County Rt. 2

Are you involved in the community in other ways?

I have always been a supporter of education at Rondout. Some other parents and I started the High School Parent Asso-

BSP Corrections In the story “Rosendale Library wants to move to the Bell Tower church” printed in the Dec. 16, 2022, issue, it was stated in error that the building was vacant. The Bell Tower building is owned by Louis Sclafani and houses a glass business and studio for 37 years, is an approved event space, and has residential tenants. For

ciation back around 2010 to keep parents more informed about high school programs and opportunities. I also think we have so much local knowledge that should be tapped to connect community to school. I built up and ran an after-school course called The Leadership Institute for six years. We invited local business leaders to speak to the students about life skills. It was great to see how engaged the business professionals were in speaking to the students. After their slot to speak in class, most wanted to come back the following year and make their talk even better! Unfortunately, Covid put an end to this program.

I am now on the board of the Rondout Valley Education Foundation (RVEF). We give grants to educators in the Rondout Valley School District to support enhanced educational experiences pre-K through 12th. It could be anything from books, supplies and seating equipment to field trips. Bottom line is to help teachers open opportunities for children to experience an AHA moment that may carry them forward. Here we are always looking for people who want to join RVEF or funds to support our mission.

On another front, I started volunteering for the Town of Rochester Food Pantry years ago. This is a great group of dedicated people that I really enjoy working with.

We are 30+ volunteers strong and have an amazing hands-on board to run an ever-growing operation. Pantry volunteers all take pride in helping neighbors.

Through donations from our own community and the bounty of produce from our local farms we are able to provide healthy food to those in need.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Anything outside is what makes me happy. Gardening, hiking, riding, swimming, golf – that’s what is so great about where we live – it’s all possible! I also love to see the world and travel. I think it makes us aware of what we are so lucky to have and where our shortcomings lie.

What do you hope for in the future?

I would hope that the future of the Rondout community is a good one, that the quality of education can be equalized across the board regardless of background, that we can find the resources to build workforce affordable housing to boost our community and that our farmers will be appreciated and supported whether it be cattle, cabbage or cannabis!

-Compiled by Jeff Slater, BSP Reporter

clarity, the proposed renovations would take place after the building was acquired by the library. In addition, the library did not have a survey of public opinion at that time but is in process of getting feedback from the community. Information sessions scheduled for Feb. are listed on the library website. BlueStone Press apologizes for the errors.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLUESTONE PRESS

bluestonepress.net D I G I TA L P R I N T or B O T H

bluestonepress.net

Come visit our office on 4301 Route 209 in Stone Ridge. The office hours are Monday through Thur. 10:00 - 3:00 p.m.

P.O. Box 149 Stone Ridge, NY 12484 Phone: 845-687-4480 Email/website: bluestonepress845@gmail.com www.bluestonepress.net Office located at: 4301 Route 209 South, Stone Ridge.

Publisher: Lori Childers Editor: Gregory Childers Assistant Publisher Thomas Childers Copy Editor: Linda Fite Office Manager Martha Brittell Graphic Artist: Jan Melchoir Reporters: Ann Belmont Anne Craig Pyburn Emily Reina Dindial Amber Kelly Chelsea Miller Michelle Vitner Jeffrey Slater Brooke Stelzer Calendar of Events Editor: Donna Cohn Viertel Columnists: Wally Nichols, Susan Krawitz, Linda Tantillo, Joanne Ferdman, Jodi LaMarco and Kelly Wright

Subscriptions are $48.00 for 1 year (24 issues). You can now subscribe on our website.

Additionally, check out the "support tab" on our website for enhanced subscriptions with extra BSP swag!

BlueStone Press is published semi-monthly, 24 times a year

by BlueStone Press/Ulster County Press, 4301 Rt. 209, P.O. Box 149, Stone Ridge, NY 12484.

Periodicals Postage rates are paid at Stone Ridge, NY 12484 and additional mailing office.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BlueStone Press, P.O. Box 149, Stone Ridge, NY 12484-0149.

BlueStone Press is an independent and nonpartisan community newspaper.

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 3

ALL LEVELS OF

Rondout Valley Lions Club spreads warmth and care over the holidays Last month, and as they do each year, the Rondout Valley Lions Club presented a check donation to Marcene Johnson, director of educational services for Brookside School, in Cottekill. Lions Bill Brooks, Sue Curcio and Beth Anderson acted as Santa’s elves and passed out pillows made by RVLC members and books donated by the Rondout Valley Federated Teachers to the children at Brookside School.

Marbletown Democrats first meeting of the new year The Marbletown Democrats Committee will meet in virtual session for the first time of 2023 at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, via Zoom.

All interested voters are encouraged to attend and participate in the meeting (link below).

The meeting will include recognition of the contributions of our late chairperson, Carolyn Hansen, to civic and Democrat life in Marbletown and beyond. Other business will include a discussion from the Nominations Committee on nomina-

tions or endorsements for elective offices and committee vacancies. Other standing committees include the Communications Committee and the Bylaws Committee.

In recognition of Presidents Day, and also in anticipation of the Ulster County Board of Elections calendar, the second meeting of 2023 will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, rather than on the usual third Monday of the month. That meeting will consider any committee endorsements for candidates. In March the meeting time returns to the usual third Monday.

For information, contact John Harrington, vice chair, Marbletown Democrats, john.p.harrington15@gmail.com and 718825-9448.

Join Zoom meeting https://us06web.zoom. us/j/83295545062 Meeting ID: 832 9554 5062

AUTO REPAIR & TIRE SALES

WE FIX IT RIGHT THE 1ST TIME!

LARGE COMFORTABLE WAITING ROOM WITH MANY AMENITIES AND REFRESHMENTS Specializing in New Vehicles, diagnostics and tire care NYS Inspections 2yr/24,000 mile nation-wide warranty

1410 State Route 213 High Falls, NY 12440

845-687-AUTO

YOUR HOMETOWN REPAIR SHOP!

Page 4, January 6, 2023, BlueStone Press

Briefs Warming center in Stone Ridge The Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club partnered with the Town of Marbletown to make the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club building a warming center. The town paid for the approximately $8,000 generator in exchange for the town being able to use the club building at 95-105 Scarawan Road, Stone Ridge, as an emergency warming center.

“With the Vly Atwood Fire District closed recently, it is good to have a warming center for residents of the Vly in case of emergency,” said Rich Parete, Marbletown supervisor.

Lance Dubois, the president of the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club, said, “We are excited to partner with the town …

The town purchased the generator as part of a 10-year agreement. The building has a kitchen, showering and bathroom facilities. We are having an open house for the warming center on Jan. 22 from noon-3 p.m.”

Recent investments in KAFAS squad credited with saved life Right before the new year, the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad had its first CPR save using a LUCAS mechanical CPR device, which the squad recently acquired from grants made possible by the Town of Rochester.

The LUCAS mechanical CPR device improves the chance of survival for patients experiencing cardiac arrest. It provides high-quality chest compressions for CPR in a consistent and uninterrupted manner.

While the device takes over chest compressions, EMS personnel are freed to focus on other lifesaving interventions, such as administering oxygen or medications.

The acquisition of this lifesaving tool was made possible through federal ARPA funds provided to the squad by the Town of Rochester. Federal ARPA funding was also used to purchase power stretchers for the squad. These stretchers allow patients to be lifted safely, minimizing the risk of injury to both EMS personnel and patients during transport.

“We are grateful for the investments in our squad that have allowed us to acquire new equipment that makes a big difference in the level of lifesaving care we can provide to our community” said Captain Tara McCarthy, who was recently elected to lead the first aid squad. “I am so proud of the teamwork displayed by the six squad volunteers who responded to the cardiac call, as well as members of law enforcement, whose collective efforts made this successful CPR save possible.”

Charles Nerko, chairman of the squad’s advisory board, echoed McCarthy’s sentiments. "I commend the efforts of our dedicated EMS volunteers and partners in law enforcement who saved our neighbor’s life,” he said. “I also commend the town for its investments in our squad that led to a life being saved. And now that our squad is better equipped, we’ll undoubtedly continue to save more lives.”

The squad is actively recruiting volunteers. The squad will provide professional-level training, and no prior experience is necessary. Those interested in volunteering should contact Tara McCarthy at 845-645-7282.

Accord granary revitalization plans move closer to reality Ann Belmont BSP Reporter For several years now, plans have been evolving to renovate and repurpose the old granary building in Accord on Towpath Road just off Main Street. Accord LLC partners Renn Hawkey, Henry Rich and Vera Farmiga, who bought the building and its surrounding 5 acres, have applied for economic enterprise overlay (EEO) status, which, if granted, relaxes certain zoning restrictions. This is a way for the town to encourage the "adaptive reuse" of existing buildings (like the granary) that have been abandoned or neglected.

With the goal of creating "a sustainable community gathering place," according to the EEO application they submitted to the Town Board, the partners are developing a site plan that includes a restaurant on the first floor of the main building and a co-working space on the second floor.

Between the main building and the barn they plan an outdoor space that could accommodate local vendors, and for the barn, a bike shop on the first floor and a seven-room inn upstairs. They also plan to construct a new building on top of the original foundation of a house on the property that was torn down a few years ago, with an eye to creating a "wellness center" for acupuncture, massage and other healing modalities.

To turn this vision into reality requires balancing the undeniable benefit of new businesses in Accord's little downtown with the need to preserve Accord's character. The granary is an integral part of the historic district. The State Historic Preservation Office is therefore consulted in any renovation plans. In December, the Rochester Town Board hosted a presentation from the engineering firm that is handling architectural design for Accord LLC. Town supervisor Mike Baden asked if SHPO was satisfied with the proposed site plan; it's a step along the road to passing the State Environmental Quality Review. “That’s going to be our biggest holdup," admitted the engineering firm's rep.“I think it’s going to be such a transformational project for this area that we may be down the road with SHPO for a while.”

Granting EEO status to the granary project can only happen after that SEQR is done. Further steps along the road: a review by the Ulster County Planning Board and then a public hearing. "All must be completed prior to considering a zoning change," said Baden. And then, “If we approve the EEO designation then we forward it to the Rochester Planning Board for site plan review," and that board will hold its own public hearing on the site plan. “It’s a substantial process," said Baden. But if they approve EEO designation, “the Town Board can relax the

The Anderson Mill in Accord Photo by Henry Rich, BSP file photo

Wynkoop, Rich, Farmiga and Hawkey pose in the interior of the Anderson Mill on Main Street in Accord. They plan to repurpose it as a commercial hub for the hamlet.

Photo by Henry Rich, BSP file photo

zoning code in return for the benefit of what we’re getting” in terms of downtown revitalization.

Much of Accord LLC's presentation was devoted to details of parking, septic and possible traffic issues. With a total of 64 parking spaces required for the various future businesses, some of that parking will be off the site. Roads and parking lot will be gravel rather than asphalt. Lighting will be "dark sky" compliant. “We are having discussions within the board about creating a dark sky code for the town,” mentioned Baden.

Accord LLC's proposal also reveals their intention “to extend a long strip of the original O&W Rail Trail, which runs within our property, to connect with the path

Read Local Read the news about youR hometown —

Read the bLuestone pRess!

We TreaT: • Low Back Pain • Orthopedic & Sports Injuries • Neck Pain • Post Surgical Management • Dizziness

c appo all for an intm us on ent or Follo Fa w for up cebook Welln coming ess ev ents!! !

• Work/Auto Injuries • Headache • Neurological Conditions and much more…

Fitness memberships available!

PTEclipse

(845) 647-4171 • 6325 route 209, Kerhonkson • eclipsePT.com

from Accord to Kerhonkson."

The Open Space Institute, sponsor of coming improvements to that Accord-Kerhonkson pathway, had a presenter do a slide show at the same meeting, explaining specific places they plan to improve, such as a rock cut that doesn’t have good drainage and a fence in disrepair. With $500,000 in grant money earmarked for the purpose, OSI will be regrading, ditching, adding culverts to reduce creek sedimentation, and resurfacing the path with stone dust. “Typically, after a couple of rains, [stone dust] self-heals.” Two bridges will be replaced. To provide a staging area for the OSI’s construction vehicles and materials, the Berme Road parking area may have to close for some months.

Get the BlueStone Press at home.

PAPER, DIGITAL... or both!

BlueStonePress.net

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 5

•BLUESTONE PATIOS •WALLS & WALKWAYS •KOI PONDS •TREE TRIMMING •FENCE INSTALLATION •DRIVEWAY INSTALLATION & REPAIR BluestoneExperts.com Ben Watson (845) 389-3028 Fully Insured

Get the BlueStone Press at home.

PAPER, DIGITAL... or both!

From shoots to roots Arborculture at it’s finest

Gavin Kiersted Certified Arborist

845.901.9579 • gkiersted@yahoo.com

BlueStonePress.net

Visit bluestonepress.net and select Special Sections at the bottom.

Metzger from page 1 in public service 16 years ago on the Environmental Commission. I also wanted to have the ceremony here because of what the Rosendale Theatre represents to me and that the strength of community.

About 14 years ago the family that owned this theater, the Cacchio family, made the really difficult decision to sell the building after running it as a movie theater for 60 years. The Rosendale Theater had long been an anchor on Main Street both economically and socially. It was a beloved community institution, an entertainment

spot where you could still get popcorn for a dollar. Community members were determined not to let it go. I was in those early meetings right across the street that were open to anyone who wanted to save the theater. The Rosendale Theatre Collective was born out of those meeting, and some 60 potlucks, music benefits and other fundraisers later purchased the theater, and it has run mainly in volunteer power ever since, about 100 volunteers. It not only anchors the business district, it also anchors the community in important ways, supporting local causes and lifting all voices including those typically that are not given the stage.

“I tell this story because it demonstrates so well what a community can do

when it pulls together. I believe there’s no end to what we can accomplish. If we work together. Community enables us to weather challenges and storms no matter how great. We face daunting challenges, a climate crisis, housing affordability crisis, mental health and addiction crisis, and we have way too many households struggling to pays the bills each month. But every crisis creates an opportunity for positive change and creative solutions that otherwise would not have seen the light of day.

I believe we are in that moment. As I’ve said a lot during my campaign, we all have the building blocks right here in Ulster County to create a sustainable, thriving local economy that leaves no one behind. I believe deeply if we work together, we can

get there.”

Her speech was followed by a song performed by Lara Hope and Matt Goldpaugh.

When asked about what she has gleaned from her time on the town board in Rosendale, Metzger said, “I think historically there has been a lot of tension between county and local government. I’m coming in with a real understanding of the roles our local governments play and the challenges they face. I feel like the county government has a role to play in working with and supporting local government.”

The ceremony was followed by a reception at the Santa Fe Burger Bar in Rosendale.

Page 6, January 6, 2023, BlueStone Press

A year in pictures ...

Looking back on 2022, it was a year of returning to patterns and lives that were put on hold, a time that felt like a constant spring. It was a year of celebration and change, with people acting on what they had learned from their experiences. We had friends and neighbors engaging in their communities, contributing to and

taking essential posts in our local institutions. People brought their expertise and wisdom to their new and old roles to help bring the world closer to their ideals.

There were renovations and restorations of businesses that have been in the community for a long time, creating change that might seem strange now but, in time,

becomes a constant fixture of the community. Yet there was a conflict with coming out of the pandemic and new historical events unfolding with Russia’s brutal attempted takeover of Ukraine that raised local feelings and actions of solidarity that could be seen and felt throughout the year.

An aerial photograph showing the Kelder's Farm 2022 corn maze with the message, 'We stand with Ukraine."

Rosendale got more flowery this summer and residents surely noticed. Everyone had an opinion and probably still does. Rose-themed murals popped up all over town led by NYC artist Lady Pink and her army of volunteers who joined the effort. Lady Pink started the one-week project on June 23. Photo by Kelly Wright

Brand new outdoor pickleball courts opened at the Rondout Municipal Center this summer.

New executive director of the Rosendale Library, Katie Scott-Childress, levels things up with a potential move of the library to the Bell Tower building on Main Street.

The popular “I voted” sticker created by Marbletown student Hudson Rowan went super-viral in the 2nd annual Ulster Votes, I Voted Sticker Contest.

Ethan King at the Gander graduation in June

Will Leibee of Back Home Cannabis Co. grew 800 pounds of sun-grown cannabis to sell across NY and is currently selling in the only open dispensary in NY.

Bill Brooks, founder of pickle fest in front of participants of the pickle-eating contest. The event is such success, it announced it has to move to a larger venue.

Michael Schatzel, a Grade 3 student at Marbletown Elementary School, recites "Captain Hook” by Shel Silverstein on March 18.

A&M passes to a new generation, pictured in June, Anthony Mirto, cofounder of the business with his son, Jeremy Mirto, the new owner.

The Easter Bunny shares a special moment and a carrot with helpers at Marbletown Park.

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 7

looking back on '22

Trained Accord Fire Dept. fire fighters, all high school seniors, front, Landen Frey, AJ Alaimo; back, Alex Jente, Riley Novi, Danny Birch, Korey Roeber, Tanner Grajewski

Rondout educators, staff and students put their best foot forward for full-time in-person learning after twoplus years of Covid chaos, and other serious issues surrounding the nation's schools, in September. Pictured, Jacqueline Swisher, a second-grade teacher at Marbletown Elementary, setting up her classroom.

The new D&H Canal Museum opened in June in High Falls at the former Canal House restaurant.

So many people at the BOE meeting in the District Office on Oct. 11 that it was standing-room-only and spilling out into the hallways. Photo by Amber Kelly

Ganders host district-wide Special Olympics.

Ganders have no place for hate on Peace Day, and all SR Assistant Chief Firefighter Pat Davis on Oct. 10, putyear long, pictured at Kerhonkson Elementary School in ting out a fire in Stone Ridge. Several fire departments October. in Marbletown started consolidating last year.

Newly re-imagined Cherries opens, co-proprietor Lawrence O'Toole with his two kids outside the roadside ice cream shop. Photo by co-owner Jolene Delisle

Willa’s unbearable cone of shame: Kerhonkson residents Hervé Breuil and Lizz Truitt of Woodstock Farm with the DEC's help were successful in helping this bear Sanctuary in High Falls. Local animal sanctuaries jugremove the unfortunate chicken feeder. (video still) gled climate and budgets last year.

A.J Snyder Field in Rosendale flooded from storms (top) and a photo of the field just six days later (bottom), cleaned in preparation for opening day on April 23.

Page 8, January 6, 2023, BlueStone Press

Memoriam Richard Mullen

STONE RIDGE—Richard H. Mullen died peacefully with his family by his side on Dec. 26, 2022, at the age of 86 after a brief illness. He was born on Oct. 24, 1936, in Kingston to the late Harold and Fannie (Schoonmaker) Mullen. After graduating from Saugerties High School, he honorably served his country for four years in the United States Marine Corps, ranking as corporal. A longtime resident of the area, he also lived in Texas and Wisconsin before moving to Stone Ridge. He enjoyed playing golf, watching sports, traveling with Shirley by his side, and staying active with small construction and Mullen masonry projects after his retirement.

He was a hardworking man with a kind, giving spirit, often thinking of others’ needs before his own. A talented mason by trade, over the years he owned or worked for successful construction businesses in New York and Texas before retiring as head foreman with Rasch Construction in Wisconsin. He was past president of the Marbletown Seniors, a member of the Kingston #10 Masonic Lodge, a member of the Rondout Valley Lions Club, and an active member of the Rondout Valley United Methodist Church. Besides his loving companion, Shirley Gilliland, he is survived by his stepchildren, John Gunderud of Saugerties, Susan Whitaker (Tom) of Saugerties, and Staci Delmastro (Eric) of New Kensington, Pennsylvania; his grandsons Ryan, Sean, Thomas, Nicholas and James; his cousin Barbara MacMullen of Kingston; and many good friends and neighbors. Visiting hours and the funeral service were held Jan. 3 at Humiston Funeral Home, Kerhonkson, followed by burial in the Ulster County veterans section of New Paltz Rural Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th St. N. W., Washington, DC 20037 or the Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th St., Lincoln, NE 68508. Personal condolences may be left at humistonfuneralhome.com.

Timothy (Tim) Dousharm

STONE RIDGE—Timothy (Tim) Dousharm, a former Stone Ridge resident, passed peacefully with his family by his side, Dec. 11, 2022, in a hospice facility in Statesboro, Georgia. He was 71. Tim was born on April 15, 1951, in Utica. He was the son of the late Joseph and Fannie (Kranz) Dousharm. Tim and his family moved to Rosendale when he was 15. Tim graduated Rondout Valley High School in 1971. He then worked as a produce manager for many independently owned grocery stores, the last being the Dousharm Boiceville Market. He loved his job and he loved his co-workers. Tim retired in 2018 and moved to Metter, Georgia. He is survived by his wife, Laura Fowler, and his daughters, Joyce Cain (Abe) and Sara Troeger (Eddie Jasinski), both of Stone Ridge.

He is also survived by many sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. Tim had four grandchildren who he was so proud of and loved so much; granddaughter Calista Cain, and grandsons Isaac and Abram Cain, and Camden Troeger. Cremation took place in Georgia. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. That will be under the direction and assistance of the George J. Moylan Funeral Home in Rosendale. (www.

GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)

Linda Lee Nekola

NEW PALTZ—Linda Lee Nekola passed away Dec.14, 2022, in Utah. She was 75. She was born Dec.7, 1947, in Kingston. Linda was the daughter of Raymond Wright Jr. and Doris Wright of Tillson. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Napoli (Vinnie); her two sons, Donald Krom and Frank Nekola (Melanie); five grandchildren, Patrick Ferry, Megan Ferry, Amanda Krom, Lilli Nekola and Ava Nekola; and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her very loving siblings, Raymond L. Wright (Anna), Stanley Wright (Liz), Sharon Albright, Cindy Christensen (Art), and Brian Wright (Linda), and dear friends Dolores Lambertson and Carol Niles. She is predeceased by her parents and brother, Gary; brother-inlaw, Jay; and longtime love, Hobart (Hobie) Rosencranse.

Linda resided in New Paltz, Clintondale, and Ormond Beach, Florida. Linda loved spending time with her family, dining out, trucking with Hobie, playing cards, and taking care of her family. Linda spent her last year living in Utah with her son and daughter-in-law, Frank and Melanie, while receiving help from the Huntsman

Professional and kind, Carolyn Hansen will be missed by many Carolyn E. Hansen

STONE RIDGE—Carolyn E. Hansen, 75, a longtime attorney in Stone Ridge who was active in political and healing circles, passed away Dec. 14, 2022, after a valiant battle with cancer. Smart and playful, down-to-earth and a woman of the world, Carolyn was similarly at home in rural Wisconsin and in Taipei, Taiwan, where she lived and worked for nearly 12 years. She resided in Stone Ridge for 20 years.

Carolyn was born April 17, 1947, daughter of the late Gilbert and Arlyne Hansen of New Holstein, Wisconsin. She graduated from New Holstein High School in 1965 and from the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh in 1969, with a B.S. degree in political science and international studies. In 1972, Carolyn graduated from the University of Michigan with a J.D. in international and comparative law as one of few women in her law-school class. In 1973, she graduated from the University of Brussels, Belgium, with a master of laws, or LLM, in international and comparative law.

From 1974 to 1988 she served on the legal teams at S. C. Johnson & Son, Racine, Wisconsin; Schering-Plough Corp., Kenilworth, New Jersey, and Ralston Purina Company, St. Louis, Missouri. During eight of those years, Carolyn was a security-cleared adviser to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Dept. of Commerce on international trade negotiations.

From early 1988 to late 1999, Carolyn practiced law in Taiwan. As Hansen International Company Limited, she represented North American and European firms doing business in greater China and elsewhere in Asia. Also in Taiwan, Carolyn established both the Earthplace Foundation, which brought sustainable development information to that country, and the Taiwan Business Council for Sustainable Development. And from 1992 to 1996 she served on the Democratic National Committee as a representative of the Democrats Abroad in Asia.

Returning to the U.S. in late 1999, Carolyn settled in New York’s Hudson Valley, eventually residing in Stone Ridge where she practiced law and participat-

Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City. She was very grateful for all the people who helped and loved her along the way.

“We all love you very much and will see you on the other side. Rest easy, Mom.” Cremation and services will be held privately. Donations can be made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84112. To leave a personal condolence for the family, please visit www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com

Shirley Muller Bernard

NEW PALTZ—Shirley Muller Bernard passed away on Dec. 16, 2022, peacefully surrounded by her children at her home in Long Lake, after fighting the good fight against Parkinson’s disease for nearly 20 years. She was 83. She was predeceased by her former husband and father of her children, Franz Muller; her parents, Floyd and Myrtle Tubbs; a brother, Howard Tubbs; a son, George Muller; spouses Martin Ceroala and Casimir Bernard; and sister-in-law, Dolores Tubbs. Survivors include her Bernard sister, Linda Hacksteiner; daughters Jenny Muller, Sheryl Wheeler and husband, Dan, Elizabeth Fleming and husband, Ronald, and Carrie Cheney; a son, Erich Muller, and wife, Deana; daughter-in-law, Tracy Muller; four stepdaughters

George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc.

Traditional Funeral Services Cremations Pre-Arrangements 3663 Route 209 Stone Ridge, NY 12484 (845) 687-7970

Carolyn E. Hansen

ed on national and international panels of mediators and arbitrators involved in dispute resolution.

While in Taiwan, she developed an interest in energy healing, which led to several degrees from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing. Carolyn was a past president of the Rondout Valley Holistic Health Community, and she served on the boards of various nonprofit and professional organizations in the Mid-Hudson region, including the Stone Ridge Library Foundation. Carolyn was an astute student of national and local politics. She currently served as chair of the Marbletown Democratic Committee and ran for a seat in the Ulster County Legislature in 2019. Throughout her career, Carolyn published many articles and spoke often on Asian, U.S. and European laws governing trade, intellectual property and sustainable development. In her free time, Carolyn enjoyed her friends, family, pets, hiking, painting and piano.

She is survived by her brother Roger, of Deerfield, Wisconsin; nephew Duane (Laura) Winkelman; niece Carol (Daniel) Ellis, plus grand-nieces and nephews.

Arrangements for a memorial service are pending.

and two stepsons who remain part of the family; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and cousins; longtime friend Anna Mae Hess; as well as a number of other friends she was close with on her journey in life.

Shirley was known for her kindness and thoughtfulness to all. She was employed for many years at the Mid-Hudson Regional Computer Center in New Paltz, from which she retired in the mid 1990s, and upon retirement was more active with pursuits including genealogy, which became a steadfast project for her. She was a member of multiple civic, church and social groups including a local Quilting Guild, for which she achieved the notoriety of a Master Quilter, and was well known for her love of handicrafts, with many family members retaining beautiful handcrafted quilts or wall-hangings in their homes to commemorate important events. Once the challenges of Parkinson's disease made it too difficult to live in her own home, Shirley moved to the Culinarians’ Home in New Paltz, and she was fortunate to be able to reside there for seven years, where the staff and other residents surrounded her with love and togetherness as an extension of family. She intended for science to benefit from her struggles with Parkinson’s and made a final gift of her brain for study and advancement for those with movement disorders. Cremation arrangements were made with the

See Memoriam, page 9

Humiston

Funeral Home, Inc. Geoffrey and Heather Hazzard

2053 Route 32 Rosendale, NY 12472 (845) 658-3139

(845) 626-3331 • humistonfuneralhome.com 30 42nd Street • Kerhonkson

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 9

Memoriam from page 8 George Moylan Funeral Home in Rosendale. In place of traditional funeral or wake viewings, a Celebration of Life service will be planned by her family in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in her name can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation to assist with research and advancement to help combat movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease. A donation can be made to the local Parkinson's Disease Support group chapter: PDSGMHV/ Parkinson's Foundation, mailed to PDSGMHV P.O. Box 304, Lagrangeville, NY 12540, or online with the Parkinson's Foundation at www.Parkinson.org (www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com).

Otto Benjamin Frey

ACCORD—Otto B. Frey passed away on Jan. 7, 2022, at Westchester Medical Center surrounded by his family.

Born on March 17, 1948, in Margaretville, he was the son of the late Norman G. Frey and Marjorie L (Hosier) Monington. Otto served in the Army National Guard as an auto mechanic from 1970 to 1980.

He continued his government service at the Federal Correctional Institution in Otisville. During his 20 years of service, he played an integral role in maintaining the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Frey leader in the field of corrections. He began his career as a correctional officer and retired in October 2000 as Utilities Systems Repairer Operator Supervisor at FCI Otisville. Otto was a certified licensed water treatment operator and was owner of Sylvan Glade Water Co. Inc. Besides his own treatment plant, Otto maintained several plants from Gardiner to Palenville and everywhere in between. During his earlier years, Otto was very active with Indian Valley Little League, both as a coach and board member. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with his family and friends. Throughout the years, he donated to the various youth and schoolbased sports programs where he spent countless hours watching the teams play. He was a proud supporter of his community and loved watching the parades and a good chicken barbecue. Known for his infectious smile, laugh and sense of humor, Otto especially loved spending time

with his family and friends. He always looked forward to annual Easter gatherings, Super Bowl parties, and family get-togethers. Without question, he would give you the shirt off his back, always giving and never expecting anything in return. Need a Santa? Call Otto. Teen learning to drive? Call Otto. Weedwhacker, lawnmower, brakes need repair? Call Otto. He undoubtedly was a jack of all trades. His pride and joy was spending time with his grandsons. From teaching small engine repair, life lessons, to watching their games, going to get water samples, and then eventually becoming his chauffeurs, they truly were his right-hand helpers. Otto could talk for hours. In every conversation you were bound to hear his signature phrases, “you’re shittin’ me,” or “… and the whole 9 yards,” or “hey, geek.” Otto was a happy-go-lucky guy that found pleasure in his interactions with others. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him. Otto is survived by his son, Jeffrey Frey, and his son, Joseph, of Kerhonkson; son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Krista Frey of Accord; grandsons Caiden and Landen Frey of Accord; former wife and lifelong friend, Phyllis Ackerley of Napanoch; his sister and brother-in-law Priscilla and Raymond Barkman, of Schoharie; brother-in-law George Caswell (Shirley Sanford) of New Kingston; sister-inlaw Phyllis Frey of West Sand Lake; nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins, and many special friends who were extended family also survive. Otto was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, Donald Monington, sister Patricia Caswell, and brother Norman Frey. A memorial gathering for Otto Frey will be held 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Rochester Harold Lipton Community Center, 15 Tobacco Road, Accord, NY 12404. Otto was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and a loyal friend to many. We invite you to join our family in a celebration of life for Otto. Beverages and light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Otto never met a stranger. Please bring a short note highlighting your favorite memory of Otto or how you had the pleasure of knowing him for our memory jar.

Raymond Gary Kaiser

the military, Gary was proud to be an active member of the American Legion Olive Memorial Post 1627. Gary is survived by his children, Raymond Brett Kaiser and his wife, Laura, Nicole Sommer and her husband, Donald, and Barry Kaiser and his wife, Petra; his stepchildren, Danny Symeon and Sherril Symeon; and his grandchildren, Torre, Rachel, Alex, Drew, Barry Jr., and Jenni. Also surviving are his ex-wives, Kaiser Gertrude Kaiser and Ginger MacLeod, the mothers of his children. He was predeceased by his wife, Phyllis; his sister, Bonnie Mellin; and his brothers, Thomas and Sean Jansen. Visiting hours for friends and family were held on Jan. 2 at Humiston Funeral Home, Kerhonkson. Memorial contributions may be made in Gary’s name to the American Legion Olive Memorial Post 1627.

Craig S. Easton ACCORD—Craig S. Easton passed away at Albany Medical Center on Dec. 31, 2022, with his wife and daughters by his side. He was 62. Craig was born on June 14, 1960, in Elmira, the son of the late Stuart and Joan (Sullivan) Easton. Craig spent most of his childhood at Chapel Park playing sports. He was a natural born athlete.

He played basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, fished and was outstanding at bowling. Craig graduated from Notre Easton Dame High School in 1977. He was a devoted Washington Redskins fan.

Craig was an avid fisherman and he valued his friends that shared similar interests. Craig had worked as a night shift Manager for 18 years. He was a dedicated employee with a strong work ethic. Craig will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his loving wife, Suzanne Easton; their daughters, Amanda and Aimee; granddaughters, Marzanne and Mhavia; his sister, Caroline Easton, and his brother, Mark Easton. Visitation and an evening funeral service were held on Jan. 5 at Humiston Funeral Home, Kerhonkson. Contributions may be made in Craig's memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

What are you going to do when we enter What are you our winter going to do wonderland? when we enter our winter wonderland?

KINGSTON—Raymond Gary Kaiser died unexpectedly on Dec. 27, 2022, at the age of 81. Gary was born on June 9, 1941, in Bayonne, New Jersey, to the late Raymond Thomas and Daisy (Hallis) Kaiser. Gary honorably served his country in the United States Army and Army National Guard of New York as a federal technician and retiring with the rank of staff sergeant. Along with his career in

CURL UP AND READ THE

Thank you BSP subscribers for sending in your renewals, we are so grateful!

CURL UP AND READ THE

Subscribe www.bluestonepress.net

Page 10, January April 15, 2022, 6, 2023, BlueStone BlueStone Press Press

Marbletown from page 1 part of the deal go through quite easily.”

Bob Newell, the current fire chief in Kripplebush, followed Cirone’s comments, stating, “Response times – I got a copy from the county … looks like, according to them, we have the best response time in the county as it goes.

There was a little misinformation about me taking a truck with nobody … that is wrong; if anyone has any questions about how we respond, please by all means reach out to me, happy to speak with anybody in privately about that.

Again, thinking the four of us would have sat down and see how it [fire district boundaries] pans out.” Newell also made a recommendation that a fire truck be placed in the Vly. Resolution 131 was presented, which is the fire protection contract with the Stone Ridge fire department to create Marbletown Fire Protection District number one.

Parete began by saying, “This has been a kind of a crazy six months, starting with Vly and now Marbletown fire district. I know no matter what we do there’s going to be concern, legitimate concerns, and these contracts are for a year and then we’ll be able to reevaluate them. I don’t think any of us wanted to be in this position. It would have been better if the commissioners of the Vly and the commissioners of Stone Ridge had been able to sit down and do this yourselves. You guys are the professionals, when it gets to us it usually means there is a breakdown at the different levels, when it comes to the towns. For the year, I’m comfortable going with the current map. I want to address the note of placing a truck at the Vly – that may

not be a bad idea, but I think if Stone Ridge and Kripplebush merged it would make a lot more sense because I don’t know if any department has enough members to manage two different firehouses, but the two districts together probably could man a third fire house or could probably work it out with the commissioners but I think we would be spreading them too thin, I don’t think it would work.”

Councilman Hunt stated, “Thank you all for coming and thank you for all your service, we appreciate the safety you provide and I agree, Rich, we’re not in the business of fire protection as a town board or town, and we appreciate and value your expertise in doing that. The goal of the study was clear in consolidation, and efficiency is really a goal I think for all of us, making sure that we have coverage at the same time making sure we are efficient about how we do it.

I think it’s pretty clear that we are headed in that direction ...”

“We’re the experts to say what we can do,” said Newell. He continued that he had spoken with crew that live in the Vly area and was told that there was manpower to operate a truck in that area.

Councilman Davenport spoke up, reassuring the room. “This isn’t written in stone, in a year it can be reviewed. At then at the end of the day, who is covering wires and stuff like that, because if there is a fire, you’re all rolling. It comes down to that, I don’t think the response times are going to matter because everybody is going to have a truck rolling.

Trees down, wires down, car accidents, those are the questions."

Councilman LaFera added, “We want to get some protection on the books out there, and this is going to be a lot better than it was. It’s going to be guaranteed coverages, as much as you can guarantee it. If you guys have mutual aid,

if there is a fire, everybody’s trucks are going to be there. We are putting public safety first.”

Davenport continued, “There is no plan no matter what you do that is 100% perfect out of the box, you just have to start and then as you go through, on the fly, make the changes you need to make and make it better as you go. I think that you know the great thing about living in a small community is that we have a lot of volunteers to do the work. Small communities are changing so much, many people moving into the area are not volunteering at the level as what we’ve had in the past, and that’s difficult for everybody, not just Marbletown; it’s a general statement as to what’s going on upstate. And as the Town Board we reviewed this and had to go, ‘What’s in the best interest of the entire community from a safety standpoint and how do we do that?’ It’s always a moving target in today’s world and that’s kind of what we are faced with, and you know we know we are not the professionals on that side and we have to look at everyone in the community and go, how do we make this work for everyone?”

Fedde added that the town created the district lines without a public hearing or input from the commissioners, and he wished there would have been one.

Parete stated the law doesn’t require a public hearing when creating a plan.

He continued, “Now it’s thrown on us after everything fails, we get something that is basically not failed but that didn’t work, a group of elected commissioners could not do, and it falls on us. I would rather not be discussing this, we have a lot of stuff going on, but with that said, we just need to try it. We’re in a position where we are not going to make everyone happy, but I welcome sitting down with a group of people and looking at it.

I don’t want to get you guys mad, where

News from the Jan. 3 town board meeting The Marbletown Town Board also met for an organizational meeting on Jan. 3.

Daisy Foote is replacing Don LaFera in the position of deputy supervisor. This came as a surprise to Tim Hunt, who said, “Congratulations,” and Rich Parete, town supervisor, said “condolences” jokingly.

“Paris Perry, who served on the ZBA for 20-plus years and then three years ago came to the Planning Board when we moved special use permits …

Paris is moving out of the town and resigning. Obviously real tough shoes to fill,” said Parete.

Brendan Masterson will join the Marbletown Planning Board with a term ending on 12/31/2029. Max Stratton, the former vice-chairman of the board, is replacing Perry as Planning Board chairman with a single-year term.

Town justice, Mark H. Glick is retiring, and the town will be in the process of finding a replacement.

you say forget it.” The resolution passed, 4-0.

Resolution 132 enters into a fire protection contract with Kripplebush fire district and company for portions of Marbletown fire district number one, for a one-year period. The total contract price to the town is $15,000.

Resolution 133 is the Fire Protection Contract with Stone Ridge Fire Department for North Marbletown Fire Protection District number two. The total contract price to the town is $5,000 and the town will turn over ownership of Marbletown Fire District’s 2011 International Tanker Truck.

Resolution 134 adopts the NYCRR Part 1203 uniform code and energy code minimum standards for administration and enforcement.

Resolution 135 sets the organizational meeting for the adoption of the uniform code and energy code resolution. The meeting was set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Resolution 136 allows the town to retain Spectrum within its broadband infrastructure agreement. As previously reported, Spectrum will be adding service to previously unwired portions of Marbletown. Parete noted that there might be other roads added to the plan, using Covid relief funds to cover the costs. He estimated the timeframe at three to six months.

Resolution 137 is the lease contract with Rondout Valley Food Pantry for the old town hall building at 3775 Main St., Stone Ridge. The agreement is a oneyear lease with the Rondout Valley Food Pantry for $1,150 a month effective Jan. 1, 2023, till Dec. 31, 2023.

Resolution 138 is a contract to employ attorney Paul Kellar for services pertaining to the Community Preservation Fund and Open Space. Kellar will be paid $290 per hour and his salary will come out of the Community Preservation Fund.

Resolution 139 allows the town to sell a 2015 Kenworth Tanker Truck to the Lomontville Fire District. That district approached the town about buying the truck.

Resolution 140 enters into a contract with Peak Engineering Services to assess feasibility of a town highway parking garage at the Rondout Municipal Center.

The town established a capital reserve fund for the scope in 2019 in the amount of $100,000.

Resolution 141 appoints Harry Hansen to the Board of Ethics.

Local money, local ideas

January 6, 2023

Page 11

K & J Repair opens under new ownership in Kerhonkson Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter There’s a new kid on the block. The automotive repair block, to be exact. As of late May 2021, Wilfredo De Leon became the new owner of the enterprise formerly known as CJ’s, now K & J Automotive, and he’s bringing his experience in mechanical engineering, a desire to provide affordable auto repair, and commitment to family to the table to meet any and all car repair needs to Kerhonkson and beyond.

De Leon grew up in Kerhonkson and even as a kid loved the challenge of solving a good puzzle. The first incarnation took the form of Legos (a hobby he confesses to still enjoying today, albeit with significantly larger sets). As a middle schooler in the Rondout Valley School District he loved taking things apart and putting them back together, and by high school he was participating in a program where, as he says, “we got to mess around with rockets and 3-D printers,” going on to compete in a robotics competition. This competition was an early influence, deepening his love to design, create, and simply make things work. Concurrent with his experiences in the BOCES program, De Leon was also spending increasing amounts of time visiting his father, who worked as a mechanic at a local shop. “Something intrigued me about how all these parts come together and make this functioning thing,” explains De Leon. By the time he was in his mid-teens he had joined the team of mechanics on weekends. It was during this time that he first became friendly with the former owner of the auto repair shop he now owns; as part of his job he was responsible for driving cars over to CJ’s to be inspected.

However, at that time, purchasing the business was the furthest thought from his mind.

After graduating high school De Leon headed to SUNY Ulster, where he majored in engineering, after which he transferred to SUNY New Paltz to continue his studies.

“All of engineering – the whole goal is to solve a problem,” explains De Leon. “Most of the time this means to understand how things work so you can design, create or make things more efficient.” De Leon continued to work in the auto shop with his father throughout college, and after graduating in 2021, he made the jump to working at the Orange County BMW in Harriman, where he further deepened his understanding and honed his skills as a mechanic. He found what he had suspected all along, that there was significant overlap between the world of mechanical engineering and the auto repair world. “When it comes down to cars, they are designed a certain way,” explains De Leon. “Going through an education in engineering, you understand how to figure out why things are made the way that they are. You understand so many of the systems and processes and it supports the process of diagnosing

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

WANTED

It's official, formally CJ's, proprietor of K & J Auto, Wilfredo De Leon is the new owner.

Photo by Chelsea Miller

and repairing cars.”

De Leon says that initially the former owner mentioned the desire to sell the business to his father. “The old owner had been in it for a while and he knew he wanted to retire but didn’t want to sell out to a bigger corporation, he wanted to keep it locally owned,” says De Leon. “He trusted us – he didn’t want to just let the business go and see it run to the ground.”

K & J Automotive Repair is a full-service operation and offers everything from the basics such as fluid changes to brakes and transmission, gaskets, and most anything related to the engine. Additionally, the shop is equipped for all the usual maintenance items and

Subscribe to BSP at bluestonepress.net and find out what they're talking about at the corner store ...

performs diagnostic tests and addresses all those pesky lights that tend to pop up at the most inopportune times such as the check-engine light. De Leon says that they are committed to keeping their services accessible to the local community. “We always try to work with people,” says De Leon. “We understand trying to repair cars and keep them on the road isn’t the cheapest thing. We’re honest and upfront. If it’s not worth putting the money in, we’ll tell you. We don’t want to see people struggle, and it’s always tough with cars.

We don’t mark anything up that much because when it comes to mechanics people say it costs an arm and a leg, so we want to be fair, try to be fair, and keep markups low. It wouldn’t feel right any other way. We’re trying to make a living but have no interest in upselling anyone on something they don’t need.” Since opening, De Leon says that he’s been happy to see that old customers of CJ’s have chosen to stick with him, and he's even had customers return who no longer used the former shop.

At the heart of the business, says De Leon, is family.

And indeed, it is a family affair. When you call the shop – it is De Leon’s sister Tiffany who answers the phone adeptly collecting needed information and rattling off possible problems. And it is for his family that De Leon is committed to building K & J. “It comes down to family – I wanted something my family could call our own. To work for ourselves, to be our own bosses, not just moving the bottom line up for someone above us, that’s liberty. My dad always said to me, ‘Even if you aren’t sure what you want to do, there will always be something for you to fix. No one will ever turn you away because there’s always cars breaking.’ I just want to actually get ahead and make something of myself.

This a great starting place. The goal is to get it up and running, to always have the comfort and security of this shop … this shop gives us freedom.”

K & J Auto is at 5185 Route 209 between Accord and Kerhonkson. The shop is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday. Call 845-626-2000 or stop by to say hello.

Custom Wood draWers 845.853.3339 cedesign1019@aol.com

MILLWORK— Custom Kitchens Vanities Furniture

Have a passion for local history?

For the environment? For Youth?

THE TOWN OF ROCHESTER HAS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU

VOLUNTEER TO JOIN A BOARD OR COMMISSION For more information or to join the team email mbaden@townofrochester.ny.gov or call 845-626-3043

M Ambulance District Budget Advisory Committee M Environmental Conservation Commission M Historic Preservation Commission M Senior & Youth Recreation Commission M Board of Assessment Review M Planning Board M Zoning Board of Appeals M Board of Ethics

Page 12

Athletics, recreation & fitness

January 6, 2023

Top left, Rondout Valley varsity basketball team wins section 9 championship, top right, Sophia Schoonmaker scored the game winning goal in OT to help U Albany reach the Elite 8 of the NCAA tournament. Sophia graduated from Rondout in 2022. Bottom left, Cameron Sands, State Champion in the 100 meters and bottom right, Aaron Coston, making the basket here in last season’s game.

The year in sports: A look back at some of the highlights of 2022 Jeff Slater BSP Reporter A new year is always a time to look back and reflect. Rondout Valley had an exceptional year as far as sports go in 2022.

The year started with the RVHS indoor track teams having great success. The boys won the Mid-Hudson Athletic League competition, and the girls placed second.

Cameron Sands broke school records in both the 100 meters and 200 meters races.

At the New Balance Nationals held in New York City, Sands took home the gold in the 60-meter dash. Jacqueline Kennedy also competed in the 60, and the relay team competed in the 4X 200 race. The relay team consisted of Sophia Schoonmaker and Kennedy, along with Olivia Waruch and Kayla Oates.

In an incredible run, the boys basketball team won the Section 9 championship.

Starting out as eighth seed, they defeated rival Red Hook in the semis and went on to defeat John S. Burke in the final. The team was led by then-seniors Aaron Coston (now at SUNY Cortland), who scored his 1,000th point in the game against Red hook, and Jalen Marshall (SUNY Ulster).

“Aaron puts us on his back and scored his 1000th point and led us to a championship,” said athletic director and boys

varsity coach Jeff Panek.

The girls varsity softball team moved on to its new field and merged with the Onteora team for its 2022 season.

In Little League the Indian Valley and Rondout Valley leagues merged to create the All-Valley Saints with the boys 8- to 10-year-olds and the Little League teams winning the Sectionals, continuing their exceptional play.

The boys varsity lacrosse team at Rondout had a successful season highlighted by winning the Danny Barnes Memorial game against Kingston on a goal by star player Johnny Soi. “The win stands out as one of my top two in my 35 years of coaching” said varsity coach Tony Tocco.

The Rondout Valley unified basketball team, comprised of students from the Life Skills class and the special ed department, went undefeated, posting a 7-0 record.

The team was coached by Ira Bickoff and Stephanie Hawryluk.

The boys and girls were back at it in the spring track season with the girls track team winning the MHALs and the District 9 championship on its home field, hosting its first ever Section 9 championship, sending the most athletes ever to the States. Cameron Sands led the way at States, capturing first place in the 100-me-

ter championship and placing 4th in the 200, becoming only the fourth athlete from Rondout to ever win a state championship in track. Then she signed on to run track at SUNY Oneonta.

“To be state champ was my main goal, anything less would have been a failure,” said Sands.

In other sports news, pickleball – the most popular up and coming sport – saw its courts open officially on July 22 at the Rondout Municipal Center on Lucas Turnpike, providing a local place for residents to play.

A vintage baseball game was held on Sept. 10 at Marbletown Park as a fundraiser for the Ulster County Historical Society, reminding us of how the game was originally played. Several local residents participated.

Girls soccer got off to a good start with new coach Kayle Jensen at the helm. The boys soccer team joined in with an exciting overtime win against Marlboro.

The varsity football team was plagued by injuries but managed to do their best with what they had, maintaining a great attitude throughout the season.

The girls and boys cross-country team coached by Anne Gullickson had a great season, with several girls qualifying and competing in the state championships in

the fall.

The boys golf team finished with an 8-2 record and a second-place finish in the MHALs, with Dominic Giamei, Hokai Liu and Hudson Paley all scoring in the top 20 qualifying for the Section 9 championship in the spring and giving coach Jason Clinton great hope for the future of Rondout golf.

Nanette Simeone’s girls field hockey team had its usual stellar season, winning the MHALs by defeating rival Red Hook and capturing the Section 9 championship, earning a trip to the States competition. The team was led by Riley Schoonmaker and Mackenzie Heyl, who made the Section 9 all-star team.

“I am so proud of this team and our accomplishments this season. Each player is so dedicated to this team and our overall goal,” said senior captain Heyl.

Heyl along with Johnny Soi both signed letters of intent on the same day, with Soi earning a scholarship at UMass Lowell and Heyl going to Pace University.

Adding to the great year in sports, Sophia Schoonmaker, field hockey star from RV Class of 2022, scored the winning goal for UAlbany against Michigan in the NCAA Field Hockey Championships.

Quite the year in BlueStone land sports.

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 13

845-853-9113 • Accord, NY anthony@curbappeallandscapingny.com

H&M Fencing Accord, nY

All Types of Fences!

(Vinyl, Wood, Chain link, and much more!)

Puss

o ot L o dg F y

• In home companion pet care • Cat’s only resort with individual rooms • Extensive animal healthcare/ horticultural knowledge • Bonded and insured • Lower cost than caged boarding.

B&B

Anthony Hilmi

50 th AnniversAry 1971-2021

e

Snow Plowing Fall & Spring Cleanup Landscaping Property Management Mowing & Trimming Storm Cleanup Landscape Staging (Real Estate) And More

45 Years of service

845.687.0330 pussyfootlodge.com

(845) 626-0909 | 6212 route 209, Kerhonkson

Doug Nostrand Home Improvement Quality Craftsmanship

Tree Care & Removal, Lawn Maintenance

Hardwood Floor Sanding, Refinishing & Installations, Windows & Doors, Plumbing & Heating, Kitchen & Bath Renovations

Anthony Hilmi (845) 853-9113

845-417-1129 Always prompt service

45 Years of Auto Service & Repair Joe Blank, Owner Classic Cars Welcome!

A/C Service 4693 Rte. 209, Accord | 845-687-0286

New Paltz-woodstock

24 Hour Towing

“The Pioneer for Personal Pet Care” for The Hudson Valley

EST. 1971

Install New Fence • Remove Old Fence Clear Brush & Trees • Post Install Landscaping

Accord Service Center

BoB Gaydos auto Body

Hardwood floor sanding, refinishing & installations

Get noticed Windows with your ad & Doors

HERE 845-687-4480 Plumbing & Heating Kitchen & Bath renovations

845-417-1129

Always prompt service.

or

bspmartha@gmail.com

• Tree Pruning • Danger Tree Removal • Land Clearing

• Lawn Development • Top Soil, Stone, Mulch • Stump Grinding

Free Estimates & Fully Insured

(845) 702-9641 THRIFT STORE, FOOD PANTRY, WELLNESS EMPOWERMENT CENTER & COMMUNITY CAFE’ IN KINGSTON NY SERVING ULSTER COUNTY

OUR COMMUNITY CAFE SERVES BREAKFAST & LUNCH

845-338-4030

845-338-4030

peoplesplaceuc.org OPEN MON-FRI 10am-1pm

Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 1:00pm at 777 Broadway in Kingston WHERE EVERYONE HAS A PLACE AT THE TABLE!

17 St. James Street Kingston, NY 12401

Donations during normal business hours

CAMERON Business Solutions

Payroll | Bookkeeping | Tax Prep

LOCAL + WOMAN-OWNED Cabinets • Design • Renovation | wcwkitchens.com Showroom: (845) 255-2022 • Cabinet Shop: (845) 679-2002

Kerhonkson | 845-616-3898 cameronbusinesssolutions.com

Enlightened Landscaping Butterfly and Pollinator Gardens • Invasive Removal Tree Care • Woodland Restoration

HudsonValleyNative.com | 845-687-9528

ATWOOD GRAVEL WORKS

DRIVEWAYS / PARKING LOTS / LANDSCAPE

Excavation, DEmolition, SitE PrEP SEPtic SyStEmS, DrainagE SyStEmS PonDS, lanD clEarning & graDing

RESURFACING, POTHOLES, GRADING, DRAINAGE, REJUVENATION, SNOW PLOWING - CALL FOR SPRING ESTIMATES - STORM DAMAGE CLEAN UP

FULLY INSURED

Fully Insured with Over 20 Years of Excavating Experience

OUR METHODS SAVES YOU $$

Read Local

845-401-6637 | ParamountEarthworks.com

SUPPORT THE PAPER NOW ON

PATREON

(845)399-8914

atwoodgravelworks.com

Patreon is a monthly service that gives support to the BSP, and also provides perks to our subscribers!

Support us and community journalism now: patreon.com/bluestonepress

ALL SUPPORTERS RECIEVE A BLUESTONE PRESS HAT! Read the news about youR hometown —

Your letters, views & ideas

Page 14

Letters policy Please send letters to the editor to the BlueStone Press by email at bluepress@aol. com 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 err on the side of freedom of speech in our letters, and we hope that vigorous dialogue is more likely to produce an informed public than censorship, however well meaning. Call 6874480 with questions.

January 6, 2023

Happy New Year ! (more or less)

Local organizations reflect on the past and upcoming year ahead Newspapering can be like gardening. As Ken Greene describes below, it's good to embrace the imperfection because sometimes the peas don't come up. He also says imperfection makes things more "interesting, and vital, and real," and we'll go with that description too.

In the post-holiday quiet, we didn't receive any letters from the community, so instead we asked three area organizations about their thoughts for the coming year.

The Hudson Valley Seed Company, based in Accord, has been a remarkable success story for local enterprise. As the team, including Ken Greene, co-founder and creative director; Doug Muller, co-founder and managing director, knows as well as any experienced gardeners, it takes several years to become proficient in growing plants; many lessons are seasonal, and they can't be implemented until next year's go-round.

“For gardeners and farmers especially, each new year arrives with a sense of promise. Ahead of us lie 365 days to do it a bit better: to start those tomatoes in a brighter, warmer spot; to repair the deer fence before the lettuce gets mowed; to get the dahlias in early so that they churn out loads of blooms before frost.

But what if, instead, we acknowledged the inherent imperfection of our endeavor – and embraced it? What if we saw the drought and pest pressures (this year's challenges) and the leggy tomatoes (that somehow still produced fruit!) and the deer-devoured lettuce (that gave us a salad or two, anyways) and the frost-zapped dahlias (alas, an early demise to the season of beauty) as evidence of a spectacularly complex reality, one that defies our limited efforts to control and achieve?

Maybe, just maybe, this is what keeps gardening interesting, and vital, and real—and what more can we ask from our gardens than giving us a dose of this energy, so different from the dull, and tired, and virtual energies that surround us in our modern world? So, here's to a new year! Here's to the unfolding of new garden possibilities. And here's to the opportunity not to get things perfect, but to invite a complex, vital, juicy, surprising, teeming, biological and magical energy into our lives – on its own terms, in a spirit of gratitude and cooperation.

We hope you'll continue on this garden journey with us, and we wish you all the best for the new year. Stay

More Seedy.” For more information, visit hudsonvalleyseed. com or call 845-204-8769.

The Rosendale Theatre, on Main St., Rosendale, is a jewel in the entertainment crown of our region. According to Carrie Wykoff, executive director, Rosendale screened over 100 different movies, concert films, and filmed productions from all genres.

“For live theater, four full-scale theatrical productions were produced, two exciting works in progress had their world premiere on our stage, and we also had some exciting staged readings,” she said.

“Some of the best world, folk, rock and jazz musicians in the Hudson Valley played incredible tunes for our appreciative audiences. Six Hudson Valley artists had their original work featured in our Gallery. Our Youth Ensemble Theater program offered three different sessions of ongoing classes that culminated in an original play, an award-winning short film, and the performance of a selection of fantastic scenes.

We produced much-loved community gatherings and partnered with amazing Hudson Valley organizations to create incredible programs, festivals, life celebrations, and fundraisers. We even had a lovely wedding ceremony on our stage!

Uncle Tony's Tavern opened! We now offer the best New York State beer, cider, and wine for your enjoyment during our programs. None of this could happen without the support of our audiences, donors, advertisers, and sponsors. We also rely on and are so grateful to the volunteers who show up to help us run our programs, sit on a committee and help us do so many things . Our small but mighty staff never ceases to amaze me, and our Board of Directors is support-

Less ive and hard-working and helps to visualize and hold together the big picture.”

For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

Murder Café “Happy New Year! As our 25th year begins we want to take a moment to reflect on the past year, give you a taste of our upcoming shows and be thankful for the support of our acting troupe and loyal clients,” said Frank Marquette, owner and operator of Murder Café of Rosendale, theater while you dine, since 1988. “We wouldn't be here without you and them. We strive to provide our community with quality entertainment for both public and private shows and are excited to continue to serve you and our growing community in the New Year.”

In 2022 Murder Cafe delivered 45 murder mystery performances at 15 different venues for over 3,000 people. “After the scars of Covid this was our comeback year, and we rose to the occasion. 2023 looks even better.”

The shows in the year ahead include, “A Recipe to Die For,” a Valentine-themed mystery dinner in February; “Murder at the Speakeasy,” the new expanded version makes its debut in March. “Murder on Gilligan’s Island,” a new script for a new year in July. “Death on Opening Night,” a new play in May. And “The Night of the Witches Wedding” in October. For more information, visit murdercafe.net or call 845-475-7973.

What's happening in your world this year? Send a letter to the BSP and let everyone know about it.

Thank you, BSP staff

WE MISSED YOU THIS ISSUE. Your letter to the editor is one of our readers’ favorite sections!

Email: bluestonepress845@gmail.com Snailmail: BlueStone Press, PO Box 149, Stone Ridge

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 15

Woodstove strategy Dear Wally: We heat our house with a wood stove and we were wondering if you have any advice on how to keep it going overnight. It goes out in the middle of the night, and it’s such a pain restarting it in the morning.

– EB Dear EB: I have spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to optimize my relationship with the wood stove, which, like yours it sounds, has the overnight duration of generic ED medication, which is to say a handful of hours (or call your doctor!). Let’s start with some basics: The wood-burning stove is an insatiable, log-guzzling pig of an appliance. We will incinerate four huge truckloads of fire wood this season as we have every last season I can remember. And the “season” seems to now start in September and go till mid May, which is the aggregation of three seasons and excludes the three superhot summer months when it gets to rest invisibly in the corner. Propane costs and heating oil costs make firewood the least ugly date at the fossil fuel mixer.

We burn a lot of calories just getting firewood into the stove’s cherry red maw. From cutting, splitting, stacking, loading, bitching, and then disposing of the ashes (which sounds macabre even as I write it), it’s a ton of work. But so is shivering, so we keep it around. Grrrrr.

And you are right, lighting it each time is a drag. One (dismal) option is to sleep next to it and wake regularly to fill it. This is a disruptive pain, a circadian rhythm disruptor, and might create untoward problems if you have a partner who is not into sleeping near the wood stove (which is anyone born after the days when “Little House on the Prairie” was set).

On the other hand, if you have had a partner for some period of time greater than (fill-in-theblank), maybe this is a handy and face-saving excuse to each have your own space? (I used to mock my grandparents for having separate bedrooms. Now I see the joke was on me.)

Wally Nichols You could also demote the wood stove to “ambiance” mode and just use it for special occasions (like when Central Hudson delivers us frequent and dangerous power outages because they are too busy messing up bills to trim the power lines ?). If you do this, you’ll need to shift the home heating burden over to

Dear Wally

something that doesn’t need to be fueled all night (like your anger?). A mini-split system is a super-efficient and versatile option as it can also kick off AC in the summer and can be yours for a few thousand bucks, I think. It’s forced hot air, but then again, so is this column …

I’ve seen some people use unvented propane heaters (or BBQ grills) in their house. Oooof. Don’t be this person! Super dangerous and doesn’t often end well. (I need each and every one of you 10 people who read Dear Wally to stay alive!)

Of course, if you hold steady on the course and find yourself grousing about the hassles of a wood stove and the hassles of starting it every morning, this column (when you are done) makes excellent fire starter!

Good luck! And don’t worry, winter is almost over.* Got a question for our advice columnist? You can reach him shivering in front of his wood stove or at cwn4@aol. com. *JK. Buwahahahaha.

Bush serves flavorful chicken soup for the brain with ‘Torah Toons 2’ Accord author and artist Lawrence Bush, a self-proclaimed “reluctant atheist,” inhabits a space where secular and religious Judaism meet, respecting the wisdom and tradition he’s inherited whilst being unafraid to point out that the deity of the Torah, taken literally, bears a closer resemblance to a jealous psychopath than an all-wise guide to all things right and good. It’s a conundrum he addresses upfront in the intro to “American Torah Toons 2: Fifty-Four Illustrated Commentaries,” pointing out that religious Jews often find his approach “idiosyncratic at best” and his secular contemporaries find it provincial. “Nevertheless, hineni, Anne here I am, still creating Torah Pyburn Craig toons, artworks that grapple with the first five books of the Hebrew bible,” he writes.

Thanks be to the heavens, or to Whosoever one prefers to thank for cultural bounties, for that. Bush is insightful and hilarious, shedding light in all directions from his useful perspective. Given the vast array of gifts imparted to humans by the Jewish tradition and the insistence of some that the Old Testament is literal holy writ and that those of us who don’t agree will be eternally punished (not at all a Jewish thing), the Torah and its influence on the development of the human psyche is certainly worthy of study.

Book Review

Hard-core religionists of any persuasion would probably find Bush’s work blasphemous, given that he minces no words about his opinion of YHVH as an object of obsequious worship, opting for candor over reverence and creativity over tradition. One suspects that the writers of the Talmud and related commentaries might applaud his approach Bush as a means of opening the modern mind and taking their efforts to blend some compassion into the philosophical mix to the needed next level.

(Disclaimer: I’m not Jewish. I merely grew up in New York state in the 1960s and ‘70s with the clear understanding that the values I was raised to revere – justice and equality and intellectuCover al rigor and self-examination – were shared by lots of Jewish folks. Much local culture -- everything from venerable educational and charitable institutions to slang and food – had Jewish roots; as a kid, I just found it delicious and relatable. So thanks, y’all, for a cornucopia of riches beyond price, generously shared. I suppose some might say that as a non-Jew, I’ve no business even reacting to a book like this. To them I say, that’s silly, and I haven’t got time to argue about why. Too busy being grateful that I have the Yiddish word mishegoss to aid me in contemplating modern life.)

This book is fantastic fun for anyone who enjoys con-

templating the giant conundrums of human existence and their connections to the dominance of Abrahamic religions. Combining 54 Torah passages with commentary and collage, Bush shares an eclectic series of reflections on ancient and modern history and social change and on the ways in which the old tales shed light on the central concern – How, after all, should humans live together? – or don’t.

It’s all done with a lovely mix of wit and humility straight out of the finest Jewish proverbs. The images are striking; more than one collage struck this reader as so pithy and spot-on that I found myself wishing it existed in shareable meme form. Others are illustrated bits of onpoint autobiography. Old familiar tales – Abraham and Isaac, the plagues of Egypt, the fall of Sodom – are fresh again in the hands of an atheist whose allegiance lies with the natural world and the human spirit, as are concepts like “fear of God” and “manna from Heaven.”

“American Torah Toons 2” is a book that could only have been written by Accord resident Bush, longtime editor of Jewish Current magazine, author of many other volumes (there was an “American Torah Toons 1,” published 25 years ago) and a contributor to a long list of pubs ranging from The New York Times and Tikkun to MAD magazine. Intellectually nutritious and aesthetically delicious, it’s a feast that can be devoured in a sitting or in bite-sized snacks; either way, you’ll find enormous, nutritious food for thought.

Page 16

Your friends and community

January 6, 2023

Creator of ‘All-American Ruins’ High Falls’ Blake Pfeil explores and documents abandoned properties Michelle McAuliffe Vitner BSP Reporter Blake Pfeil is a self-proclaimed adventurer of America’s forgotten ruins. He journeys into abandoned, decaying buildings – houses, factories, hotels, industrial spaces.

It’s an exploration of inner and outer worlds, of imagination and history. In this project, he shares it in three ways with his audience: his online blog; a podcast titled “Abandoned: The All-American Ruins Podcast”; and a new documentary series, “All-American Ruins,” found on Hudsy TV. Pfeil describes the podcast as taking “listeners through immersive audio fantasies, recreating (his) experiences exploring abandoned spaces across the United States.

Along the way, ‘Abandoned’ asks critical questions about American history and culture, community, capitalism and economics, the environment, and mental health while encouraging folks to activate their imaginations as a tool for healing.” There is a mix of travelogue, meditation and poetic muckraking in these tales, with loads of literary license. After all, they stem mostly from Pfeil’s imagination. These stories started with the exploration of buildings in Marbletown, Rosendale, High Falls, Rochester, Hurley, Kingston and Wawarsing and have branched out beyond to include national locations too. Pfeil has extensive knowledge of abandoned places throughout Ulster County and towns adjacent to High Falls, where he lives.

During the 2020 Covid lockdown, Pfeil went through a divorce from his husband. In his home, alone, he says he had a lot of time on his hands to think about where things were going in his life. “This is a love letter to my pandemic experience. I woke up from a dream about these spaces that kept me safe, and gave me a sense of reprieve from the world when I was a kid, my sanctuary. In a time of great distress and tragedy, once again (during Covid) I found solace and sanctuary in spaces untapped by most of human existence and could create my own reality in there. It was like I was retracing every single step of the first time I crawled into the house and stepped up into a time capsule, a place that had been raptured … safety, security, solace.”

He explains how as a 6-year-old child he discovered an old farmhouse near his home in Colorado. He would crawl into a small side opening, and often stay for hours, spinning stories for himself about the previous owners.

It was abandoned and much of the clothing and objects were left untouched.

Pfeil was always a fan of old radio programs, and he started to see that storytelling and using his voice just made sense. Writing, speaking on the radio, podcasting and performing could overlap in a very creative way.

As an accomplished singer, composer, musical theater actor and writer, Pfeil could incorporate those skills into multimedia storytelling. “With ‘All American Ruins,’ it was an artistic pursuit, absolutely. But it has become, at this moment in my life, the most defining spiritual experience I’ve ever had.”

Since then, Pfeil has continued to apply his knack for deep imagining by going to these abandoned places.

There is a name for this pursuit: Urbex, or urban exploring. It is a community of people around the world who share the love for places that are off limits and includes photographers who find beauty in the decay. Urbexers are often thrill-seekers, artists, writers and lovers of history or of the strange. Sometimes this requires trespassing. He adds, “I bend rules constantly … The urbex community is very secretive. It’s a group of people who go to places that you are not supposed to go. Could be caves, an abandoned mental institution, the top of a building.”

He acknowledges that he enjoys the thrill of seeking new or dangerous places. Pfeil, now in long-term recovery, recalls his struggle with drugs and alcohol in earlier years. “I’m an addict. There’s a fine line between addiction and love. And I’m constantly straddling it. It is pure fascination. It is wanderlust of the highest degree. I find rules to be malleable and regulations to be moldable. I’m not interested in hiding what I’m doing.” Many of these buildings have an unspoken rule that people will enter these places with local knowledge. He advises that people try to ask for permission when possible, be

Multimedia artist Blake Pfeil in an abandoned building, Ulster County Photo by Blake Pfeil

safe, and don’t vandalize anything. But he adds, “I am going to be on this planet for a limited number of years, just like the rest of us, and I will be damned if I don’t spend that time trying to cover as much of the planet as possible. Why wouldn’t I? We get one shot. One! And I’m not going to stay inside and be told you can’t go here.”

Much of Pfeil’s work has at its center a concept called anemoia – a nostalgic sense of longing for a past you yourself have never lived (the word was coined in 2012

by John Koenig, the author of an online dictionary of made-up words called “The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows”). Pfeil embraces this concept wholeheartedly and his pilot documentary episode begins with the definition onscreen. Pfeil has noted the sense of “time travel”: “That is the genesis of it. There is something bigger than me, and you can feel it when you go into these places, because they’re wormholes into a time and place that isn’t mine that I have deep respect for – simply because it still exists in some visible sense.”

Pfeil often describes these buildings and locales as “places that look like they’ve been raptured.” This decay, where nature reclaims the built environment, occurs in many places: old barns, inner cities and the outskirts of suburban towns. He says, “We’ve got nothing on Mother Earth; she will always have the final say.”

One recent podcast, titled “The world is on fire” takes place in an abandoned house in Kingston. It focuses on a mural of the climate activist Greta Thunberg that someone painted on its walls. The audio mixes the haunting voice of Thunberg in one of her public speeches imploring leaders to take action, while Pfeil contemplates this space and the world. At one point in the story, he recalls an encounter with two birds in the house (one has just flown past him). The following is a brief excerpt: “I stop, I hold very still … flying circles around this dingy bedroom full of mangled clothing, blanketing the floor is another bird. Like a twister, over and over and over, round and round the perimeter of the room, full of song. Lifting its voice, and inviting me to pause and take stock of the message. Painted on the wall, it reads, ‘I love you more each day’ … The world. I take a step into the room. The bird panics and soars out above me, down the dark corridor into another part of the house. [sound of bird wings flutter]…”

The podcast is rich with soundscapes, creating a sense of place with the masterful use of music and incidental sounds, like the crunching of dirt underfoot or the echo of his own footsteps in an old hallway. He writes and speaks to an ephemeral world, to the ghosts of the past.

He has his own process: “I never research a place before. I want to go in with a blank pallet. I’m not interested in understanding it in the purely nonfictional sense because I think that you can go as fact-driven and historical as you want with any space, but the fact of the matter is you’re never going to get inside a person’s head who lived there in the first place, so for me, it’s far more interesting … if I can fabricate, or allow my imagination to channel some kind of story there.”

Even with imagination at the core of each story, Pfeil is so well-informed and insightful that he pulls related issues into the process as an important backdrop for his

literary observations. He laments the way in which lives are forgotten in the mix of big economic changes and greater societal pressures. He references the economic vacuum that comes about when companies up and leave a place where people had built their lives around it. He sees a transition from a period of thriving, to some kind of decline, whether personal or community-wide.

Pfeil takes note of economic decay, social upheaval and drug addiction. In particular, he calls Route 209 “America’s abandoned highway.” Some of the communities that had become forgotten industrial or commercial places, that fell into decline, include the Nevele Resort in the Town of Wawarsing, with its decayed interior like a cross of “’The Shining’ meets Borscht Belt” (it is featured in the pilot episode of the “All-American Ruins” documentary series).

“My point is, there is still this invisible, evil (economic) force that lurks among us,” Pfeil says. Regarding abandoned factories: “Who worked here? What happened to them? How did they feel when they lost their jobs? Why don’t we know about it? Why isn’t there one simple solitary piece of documentation that remotely talks about that? ... For me, this project has been a way for me to make space for empathy and compassion in a world that is wrought without it.”

Regarding the possibility of these towns and economic centers becoming revitalized, Pfeil says, “Any act of improving the human condition, I am all for. The reason I started doing this in the first place was I needed to improve my own human condition. But I am gravely aware of the fact that I do not own these places, they do not belong to me. I am a guest in the house of something unknown. And I am so grateful for that. If tomorrow, we were able to eradicate the rampant meth and heroin problem up and down that highway (209) and really all over the country, and save buildings and give unhoused people places to live, jobs for people to earn a living and feel like they matter – absolutely. Will I personally be sad? A little bit, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t. But I am responsible for my own happiness, and simultaneously, would love to see more joy brought into the world …

When I released that pilot with Hudsy, you wouldn’t believe the number of people who reached out to me to thank me for giving them a window into their own past.”

His stories are deeply personal, and subjective, and do not apologize for being so. They feel confessional and experiential. They are encounters with the sacred via the fragility of built things, of lives long gone, and consider timespans that emphasize our brief sojourn on the planet.

In the end, he asks, “All of this … how lucky are we?

How fortunate are we? That we’ve got the opportunity to exist. That’s crazy. I hope that when I die, and that if my house is abandoned, I hope that if my ghost comes back to my house I’ll find kids poking around and taking pictures and making up stories about me.”

In crafting the details of fictitious people’s lives and a doorway into the universality of the human condition, Pfeil is a thoughtful tour guide to the imagination and the soul. He doesn’t promise to change anyone but himself through his imagination, but in doing so, he artfully affects us – the reader, viewer or listener.

Pfeil’s body of work includes: “Abandoned: The All-American Ruins” podcast (produced in partnership with Radio Kingston/WKNY) found online on various podcast platforms.

“All-American Ruins” TV series, found on Hudsy TV (a local producer of Hudson Valley shows and documentaries), which in its pilot episode features the dilapidated Nevele Grande Resort property near Ellenville. The blog can be found at: https://www.blakepfeil.com/ Pfeil also hosts a late-night radio show on Radio Kingston, he is operations and programs manager as well as a workshop leader for the acclaimed TMI Project in Kingston, is a co-founder of NYC-based folk-fusion band Macabre Americana, and is a coach to other artists.

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2022, Page 17

Rosendale Cafe building hosting improv Anne Pyburn Craig BSP Reporter It’s an easy guess that the Rosendale Cafe saw more than one drama over the almost 30 years of its existence.

Every restaurant does. With the news of the cafe’s closing last fall, community members mourned not just the fab vegetarian food and memorable music but also the curtain dropping on that particular stage. And everyone was madly curious: What would happen next here? Owners Mark and Susan Morganstern weren’t saying.

It turns out that the answer, for now, is more drama – the consciously intended kind. Theater and film director Amy Poux, creator of the critically acclaimed Youth Ensemble Theater, will be filling the space with life, laughter and perhaps a few tears as her next Intergenerational Ensemble project takes form on these floorboards worn smooth by dancin’ shoes.

Like life’s organic dramas, this one will be unscripted. “Using YET’s long-form improvisational approach, Intergenerational Ensemble creates live improvised works that shine a light on the complexity of human interactions and invite spectators to play along,” explains Poux on the organization’s website. “Actors of all ages populate stores, theaters, restaurants, streets and create theater to forge change, awareness, and collective community voice.”

The group will gather there each Thursday evening through the second week of March, playing theater games and crafting their characters for a long-form drama that takes place – naturally enough – in a family restaurant.

“This is an idea I’ve had for a long time,” says Poux. “We actually did a piece at least 10 years ago about a family-owned restaurant, and it was a really strong piece of work. I’ve always wanted to do this in an actual restaurant, as a site-specific piece. And you couldn’t find a better venue – the way the space is laid out, how prominent the kitchen window is. There are a lot of things about it that I think will be so much fun to play in for everyone.”

The community clearly agrees. Poux was astonished at

Rosendale Theatre announces auditions for ‘The Cake’ by Bekah Brunstetter Auditions for “The Cake,” a delicious comedy, directed

by Ann Citron, will be held 10 a.m-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, and 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17, at the Rosendale Theatre,

On left, Nancy Graham, Rick Cousin "AfterLife”and on right, Eugene Kuchovny, Herb Rosenfeld, Nancy Graham "AfterLife." Photos courtesy of YET

the way her inbox filled up, then discovered that the Daily Freeman had run a story about her plan. “I usually try to cap it at 10 people, but we’ve got 16 now, and a waiting list,” she says. “I’m thinking this may need to become a perennial offering.” Among the current cast are a couple of people who’ve actually owned restaurants and a musician who’s played in many.

“I like to help people work with where they are and from where they are,” says Poux. “Not reach for something extreme, but start with themselves and where they are. I find that we have everything we need, you know? We've all lived life.”

The group will begin with games and exercises and then move on to create character-driven scenes. “I coach people on their acting through the whole process, but there’s not a lot I have to do with adults besides facilitate a safe space to let go,” Poux says, noting that although it’s very different from therapy, the improvisational process is rich in self-discovery and connection. “It’s all about

creating characters and having fun.”

The Morgansterns were immediately open to the idea of having an improvised restaurant take over their former restaurant for a couple of months. Rosendale, Poux says, has proven to be joyfully fertile ground for her endeavors all along. “If we were in a bigger city, this would be a much more difficult thing to try and do – this is a community where you have access to a varied group. And we live in a place where people consider personal growth important, and improv is a process where you’re working on yourself.”

The current ensemble will unveil their work to the public in two performances, on March 11 and 12. Audience members can expect a basket of premade snacks at each table – but the entertainment they enjoy will be a purely original, made-in-Rosendale recipe.

For more information about YET and the Intergenerational Ensemble, visit youthensembletheatre.com.

408 Main St., Rosendale. Performance dates will be March 23-26, at the theater.

Della’s North Carolina bakery is legendary! She is overjoyed when her best friend’s daughter returns from New York to get married and asks Della to make her wedding cake. Della, a sweet-natured Christian, is forced to re-examine her deeply held beliefs and her own marriage when she realizes there is not one bride, but two. Faith, family and frosting collide in this timely new play by Bekah Brunstetter, a surprising and sweet take on a modern-day controversy, steeped in humor and warmth.

Cast members include Della, who is in her 50s or 60s,

pleasant, white and Christian; her husband, Tim, also in his 50s or 60s, a white good ol’ boy; Jen, white, in her early 30s, with a wedding binder, has dreamt of her wedding day her whole life; Macy, early 30s, her reluctant fiancée, African American or Latina; and George, voice or live, the voice of a British baking show judge. Age requirements are not firm. Participants in the auditions can still come even if they are not within the stated ages. Applicants should arrive ready to read from the script and be prepared to list any rehearsal conflicts. For copy of the script and more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or email ann@rosendaletheatre.org.

RondoutValleyPetCare.com

Our Veterinarians:

Dr. Jennifer Cody Dr. Michael Halstead Dr. Jesse Page

DOG BOARDING DAYCARE WALKING PET SITTING FOR ALL OF YOUR PETS

News tip? Contact the BSP!

Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-5:30, Sat 8:30-1:00 1842 Ulster Ave, Lake Katrine

lakekatrineanimalhospital.com

Dawn Deevy 845.706.8447

Closing fo

r Winter B reak from 12/2 5 to 1/16 See you in 2023!

Page 18

Arts, culture & entertainment

January 6, 2023

Up and away I’m afraid of flying. I do it (if I must), but I’m often uncomfortable at best and terrified at worst. It was with some surprise that I found myself getting into a helicopter during a recent trip to New Zealand. I was on the west coast of the South Island, an area known for its spectacular glacier-topped mountains and Fjordlands. A helitour company offered a 45-minute ride around Mount Cook and Mount Tasman – the highest peaks in the country – followed by a stop on the Franz Joseph glacier. I am neither a mountaineer nor a pilot. This experience would be a chance to access the inaccessible. I vacillated, considering the possibility of a panic attack at 10,000 feet. In the end, my curiosity outmuscled my fear.

For my small act of courage, I was rewarded. I was simply too amazed to be afraid. Riding in a helicopter isn’t like flying in a plane. There is no long, thunderous dash down the runway before rocketing into the sky. The ascent is smooth, like a balloon rising into the air. We lifted up and over the mountain range from west to east, the view outside my window gliding by like the slow pan of a camera. On the opposite side of the range, a lake of cloud had pooled below the sharp black peaks. Tasman was a small, triangular prominence perched between two flat, symmetrical shoulders. Cook looked the way mountains always appear in movies. Singular. The stereotypical paramount logo pinnacle. We circled once, getting a long look at both before descending onto the glacier.

I was ushered out the door with the rest of the passen-

Jodi LaMarco

Mount Cook and Mount Tasman: the two tallest peaks in New Zealand. Photo by Jodi LaMarco

gers. We ducked low, clinging tight to hats and purses beneath the still-spinning rotor. It was a lovely spring morning. As I shuffled across the hard-packed snow, I saw that our pilot had worn shorts. The woman who had sat beside me was wearing tennis shoes. And I was standing on a glacier – which looked nothing like what I had expected. I had anticipated a scene of blue, glassy ice.

What I found instead was white, compacted snow – which is exactly what creates a glacier. Glaciers are not born of frozen rain, but from snow which has compressed over a number of years.

I listened to the chop of the helicopter blade and looked at the jagged horizon. I’m a hiker. I’ve met many a mountain, but none like the southern alps of New Zealand. Venturing into that icy, serrated landscape is to leave this world. It was an entity too large and too old for me to understand – as though it were a deer and I were a tick. In the lowlands, I had already learned to identify a number of birds. I knew that Tui like to drink the nectar of flax flowers. I knew that Kea, a rare alpine parrot, probably scream just for the fun of it. I could even ID a few different species of tree fern. A relationship was forming fast.

But not up there. There I was a visitor. I was thrilled and giddy, but a tourist all the same.

Like everywhere else, the glaciers on New Zealand’s west coast are receding. They cap the mountains and lay their fat, blue tongues down the valleys. Thousands of years ago, those tongues could taste the nearby Tasman Sea. By the turn of the last century, they had pulled back significantly but still lolled onto the lush valley floor. Once on the ground, I spotted what remained of Franz Joseph: a bluish, rectangular wedge at the top of the cleft.

Within my lifetime, the mountains will roll up their great tongues and pull them back into their unseen mouths. The peaks on the west coast are over 9,000 feet high. At that altitude, something of the glaciers will likely remain, but not much.

When we were back on the ground, a thought struck me. Air travel by plane creates a tremendous amount of greenhouse gases, but I was clueless about the quantity of emissions produced by a helicopter. The answer: a lot.

How ironic it is that an area dependent on tourism to the glaciers is contributing to its own demise. There are companies in Europe working on cleaner, more sustainable helicopter fuel, but it’s going to be a while. I think my next helicopter ride will be, too.

Januarys past in the Rondout Valley January 18, 1861 – New Paltz Times – The Ellenville Journal says that the village has become so flooded with counterfeit coin, as to justify the suspicion that there is a mint in operation among us. Look out for them.

– Those who wish, can now cross the river at 6 o’clock AM and as late at night as will suit their convenience – on the ice. The extreme cold weather of Saturday night and Sunday completely closed the Ferry track.

The thermometer indicated a temperature of 33 deg. below Zero in this village on Sunday morning last.

From the archives Linda Tantillo

January 19, 1871 – New-Paltz Independent The Mud. – Quite a number of citizens from this vicinity attended Court in Kingston last week, and many have gone again this week. The mud was deep and the traveling very tedious. We dare say that not one of all those who toiled along through the mud but thought what a grand thing a railroad to Kingston would be.

January 20, 1879 – New-Paltz Independent The Ulster Knife Co., recently founded in Ellenville with a cash capital of $20,000, have purchased the premises, machinery, tools, &c., occupied and owned by the late “Co-operative Cutlery Co.” and have just started manufacturing pocket knives with a considerable force of workmen and with most excellent prospects of success.

January 13, 1881 – New-Paltz Independent Considerable lime has lately been bro’t from Rosendale to our village by the Railroad. It is delivered here unslacked [sic; should be slaked], at 15 cents a bushel, and is purchased by farmers as a manure. It is found to be beneficial on almost all soils.

January 13, 1887 – The Kingston Weekly and Journal Large Pickerel in the Binnewater Kingston Fishermen Have Caught Fish Weighing Five Pounds, There, Lately.

Large pickerel are being caught through the ice on the Fourth Binnewater by Kingston fishermen. Some of the fish turned the scales at three and five pounds. A pickerel is a handsomely marked fish, and delicious eating, if properly cooked and served.

WELCOME

HOME

CLEANERS, Inc.

S er v i n g Fi n e Estates an d H ou s eh ol ds si n c e 2000

OPEN THE DOOR TO BETTER DAYS HOUSE CLEANING/ RENTAL CLEANING & MANAGEMENT/ CONCIERGE SERVICE

Consult with us at:

www.welcomehomecleaners.com

Covid Measures Implemented | NOW HIRING

January 16, 1889 – New Paltz Times There’s a fortune in waiting for the man with gumption and energy enough to inaugurate the canning of Shawangunk Mountain huckleberries. The fame of these berries is as wide as the continent. By common consent they are absolutely unrivaled. Summer guests never weary of them. If properly “done up” the demand for the fruit would be practically unlimited. We are assured by parties who have practical knowledge of this business that the canning of blueberries on a large scale is entirely feasible.

—Ellenville Journal January 2, 1890 – The Kingston Weekly Freeman and Journal Rosendale.

The Parochial School building of St. Peter’s Catholic Church will be torn down and a new and larger building erected.

The new bell on St. Peter’s Catholic Church was rung on Christmas morning.

A meeting to consider the question of incorporating the village was held on Saturday evening at the Sammons House.

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 19

Winter-ish When I'm feeling lazy about getting out of the house and taking a walk, I give myself a purpose. Some kind of task. Today I took an informal survey of the neighborhood trees: Do you really have more moss on your north sides?

And the answer, to my satisfaction, was yes. It's not a myth.

Most of the elderly sort of trees by the roadside that did have moss growing around the base of their trunks, or even extending upward, had a tendency to have thicker growths on the side that faced north. The reason is that the north sides get less light, overall, and moss flourishes, as we know, in the shade.

Lichens too seem to favor the Ann Belmont northern-facing sides of tree trunks. I used to think that, like fungi, moss and lichens were parasites that damage their hosts, but it's not true. Like mythical beings, they actually live on light and air. And you can use them as an indicator of how healthy the atmosphere is. Judging by the amount of them growing here, the air must be pretty clean – nice to know that.

It was a damp afternoon. I became aware of the sound of the creek across the street, still running high with snowmelt, although the little snow cover we had vanished after the big rain last week. After that brief blast from the Arctic in mid-December, the temperature's been consistently

Wild Things

Horoscopes As we usher in 2023, the new year finds only three planets in retrograde motion: Mercury, Mars and Uranus. Each of these planets will resume direct motion this month. Mercury turns to direct motion on the 18th, Mars on the 12th, and Uranus on the 21st. Based on this information, we are likely to find this coming year quite eventful in unexpected ways since the following several months finds all the planets in direct motion. The likely result promises to be the experience of many unique and unusual events. This month we find the full Moon on the 6th in the sign of Cancer – we may all be sniffling our way through an emotional binge as Cancer brings out the latent emotions that plague us all.

Your Zodiac Joanne Ferdman

ARIES: 3/21 to 4/19: Mars, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 3rd solar house of communication and education and is in good aspect to the combination of Saturn and Venus, leaving you with promises the new year will continue to bring a level of prosperity your way. Once your planet returns to direct motion on the 12th, your emotions will also turn positive, and you will really celebrate the good news you face as you enter the new year.

TAURUS: 4/20 to 5/20: Venus, your ruling planet, is conjunct Saturn in your 10th solar house of career. This position bodes well, showing you’re dedicated to success after many so-so times in the past year. In addition, Mars also turns to direct motion, making it likely that your income will also rise. Be sure to shake off those old negative emotions as you embrace the positive and enjoy the new year.

GEMINI: 5/21 to 6/20: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned in 8th solar house where change takes place and turns to direct motion on the 18th. It is also conjunct the Sun and Pluto. As you move forward into 2023, it’s important you become aware of your long-term goals.

They are apt to change on a whim and lead you astray.

Mars, direct, leads you to new ideas – but are they what you really want? It's important you remain true to yourself and your basic ideas.

CANCER: 6/21 to 7/20: The Moon child deals with the new Moon in Cancer on the 6th of this month and promises an emotional reaction to whatever comes your way, whether it’s a sad story or a happy one. However, your practical nature soon wins out and you're looking for new

above freezing, and today it's in the upper 50s. There is no snow in the forecast, only rain. Walking around in this false spring is pleasant, but it gives me an uneasy feeling.

There has to be a downside.

Is this bad for the maple syrup producers, for instance?

I asked Jay Broekema, who owns Sugar Brook Maple Syrup on Samsonville Road. He thought the long spell of warm weather "could lessen the sugar content later in the season ... you're depleting some of the stores of sugar," because yes, with the warmth, the sap starts to run.

"Through the years, we've always had January thaws. Now we're getting maybe more of them, and earlier."

I asked if he was tapping trees yet. He was not. For him, it would be awkward and time-consuming to start the whole syrup-making process and then put it on pause, knowing that the weather will turn icy again at some point.

The trees are used to this, of course. They can shut themselves down when another cold spell arrives, and start running sap again in late February or March. Jay was confident that sugar maples could handle these spells; but, like many other northern tree species, like beeches for instance, they are adapted to snow cover in the winter.

It insulates their roots from the cold. Will it kill them if there's no snow? Diane Greenberg of the Catskill Native Nursery told me this: "Sudden fluctuations between bitter and warmer temperatures do more damage to trees and other plants than steady cold. It’s as if you were trying to sleep but someone keeps waking you up; it eventually ruins your health, and if goes on long enough, it can kill you. The

most damaging conditions are when there is a quick weather shift and we get radical differences between a mild temperature during the day followed by plummeting cold at night. This temperature roller coaster can trigger what is called frost cracking, and it can literally split the bark on the trunk of a tree, leaving a gaping wound that the tree will have to spend energy to heal.

These fluctuations also cause evergreen foliage to turn brown and often result in lost branches or permanent dead spots ... While some plants like bulbs and perennials can usually return to a state of dormancy with only minor damage, woody stemmed plants are likely to suffer serious or deadly consequences from these sudden and extreme temperature shifts."

The Mohonk Preserve has been keeping weather records since 1896, tracking precipitation and temperature. I decided to see what the data said about the last 10 Januarys. Every single one was below average in snowfall, and except for 2018, above average in temperature. The average January snow total in the Mohonk Preserve is – or used to be? – about 15 inches. This year? We shall see about this winter. Hitting 15 inches doesn't appear too likely at the moment.

Walking down the road, I can't tell how the forest is doing, really. Trees seem so strong, so durable. I'm only a human, with a human lifespan and sense of time. What trees will grow here in a hundred years? Will there still be sugar maples … hemlocks … oaks … white pines … beeches … wild cherry … dogwood?

ways to increase income potential. Ideas are beginning to flow as the new year begins. Remember, these ideas are colored by your emotional bias – and will change as reality sets in.

at the new Moon on the 6th will dissipate quickly when your normally high ambition will pay off. In addition, your family will also appreciate the good feelings surrounding them.

LEO: 7/21 to 8/22: The Sun, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 6th solar house of daily work and is conjunct both Mercury and Pluto. This is the back-to-reality time of the year, where you can understand what was left undone during the holidays. New opportunities are being presented but must be sifted carefully. You will also be subject to the emotionality of the new Moon – use it to plan a winning strategy as the new year progresses.

AQUARIUS: 1/21 to 2/19: Uranus, your ruling planet, remains positioned in your 4th solar house and continues its emphasis on home and family. Mercury continues its retrograde motion until the 18th working behind the scenes while Venus and Saturn lead the way in your 1st solar house. While waiting for your potential to resume a positive course, you may want to study a new subject or test different career possibilities. Mars turns direct on the 12th in your 5th house of creativity – a good time to start.

VIRGO: 8/23 to 9/22: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 5th solar house of romance and children and is conjunct both the Sun and Pluto. Mercury is retrograde until the 18th of the month and is struggling to keep you balanced. Mars is also retrograde in your 10th solar house of career while the new Moon in Cancer has you in an emotional upheaval. This will pass successfully if you can manage to keep your balance and learn to cope with the problem as presented.

LIBRA: 9/23 to 10/22: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 5th solar house of romance and children and is conjunct Saturn. Mercury will be retrograde until the 18th and Mars until the 12th, placing you in position to determine the goal(s) that interest you the most. Then you will find the skill to fulfil your dreams. The new Moon on the 6th will be a guide. You will feel the angst caused by the negativity of events that didn't work. Use it as a guide to get it right this time.

SCORPIO: 10/23 to 11/22: Mars, one of your ruling planets, is positioned in your 8th solar house where change takes place. It is presently retrograde and will turn direct on the 12th. Pluto, your other ruler, is conjunct the Sun in your 3rd house of communication. The result: you're beginning to see the way clearly to your own reality. As you emerge from the fog of misinformation caused by so many retrograde planets, you'll be able to see the future more clearly and act accordingly.

SAGITTARIUS: 11/23 /21: Jupiter, your ruling planet, is positioned on the cusp of your 5th solar house of romance and children and is square the Sun. This results in much energy used to create and build for the future. As Mars turns to direct motion on the 12th you will find yourself generating new business and projecting positive results. Unfortunately, the new Moon will cause some emotional misgivings, but you can profit from it by analyzing the cause.

CAPRICORN: 12/22 to 1/20: Saturn, your ruling planet, is in your 2nd solar house of money accompanied by Venus, promising good news financially. Mars will return to direct motion on the 12th in your 6th house of daily work, confirming the positive beginning of the new year. The slight emotional problem you face

PISCES: 2/20 to 3/20: Neptune is your ruling planet and continues positioned in your 1st solar house – reminding you of your extremely creative nature. You have managed to find a small path to using your special talent to further your income. Fortunately, Jupiter, the greater benefic, has entered your 2nd solar house of money enabling you to promote your ability on a larger scale.

When Mars turns direct on the 12th, you'll find an even greater response to your artistic endeavors.

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.

PAW Plans

~ Pet Annual Wellness ~ Want to help a local pet in need?

When you enroll in a PAW Plan, a donation is made to a local pet up for adoption.

Ask us for more details!

We See Cats, Dogs and Small Breed Practice Book online or with our APP!

845-687-7800

3056 Route 213, Stone Ridge NY, 12484

Page 20, January 6, 2023, BlueStone Press

FOR THE FAMILY Second Sunday Supper at a new earlier time for the darker winter months The Rondout Valley United Methodist Church will host its Second Sunday Supper at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, at the church, 25 Schoonmaker Lane, off Route 209 in Stone Ridge. The community can enjoy having the dinner that the church was planning for December, until weather intervened, and plans were canceled.

The menu includes turkey breast with assorted festive fixings including stuffing, sweet potatoes, cranberry relish and more. Plus, there is always an element of surprise when people walk in with miscellaneous items. All are invited to meet and greet other members of the community, dine together and enjoy one another’s company. Second Sunday Suppers are free and held on the second Sunday of every month (except July and August). For more information, call 845687-9061. Sunday worship at RVUMC is in person at 10 a.m. or online anytime at rvumc.org. Need prayer? Call Pastor Caroline at 845-687-9090.

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. During this time, they have helped those in need, whether it is for sight, hearing, medical emergencies or any worthwhile cause. “We serve” is their motto, and this is what they do.

The Lions meet at 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday (Jan. 11) of every month at the Marbletown Inn, 2842 Route 209, Marbletown, and at noon on the fourth Thursday of every month (Jan. 26), at the Black Board Bistro Conference Room, 1915 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill.

For 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.

Rosendale Seniors monthly meetings 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 (Jan. 11), a social meeting, and fourth Wednesday (Jan. 25), a business meeting where members are kept informed of the resources available to them. The Rosendale Seniors, are proud to sponsor a tour to Branson, Missouri, courtesy of Diamond Tours, Sept. 16-24, nine days and eight nights. The tour consists of motorcoach transportation with eight nights lodging including four consecutive nights in the Branson area; 14 meals of eight breakfasts and six dinners; admission to six fabulous shows, with three morning shows and three evening shows. Cost is $1,029/pp double occupancy. Call Chickie Steritt at 845-6582414 or Hal Sampson at 845-658-9020 for more information. For videos and group pictures, visit grouptrips.com/ chicky.

Marbletown Seniors meetings The 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, Feb. 3 (bring a dish to share or drop $3 in the basket on the food table), and at 1 p.m. on the third Friday, Jan. 20 (bring a dessert to share or drop $2 in the basket on the dessert table), each month. All trips leave from, and return to, Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Main St./Route 209, Stone Ridge, across from the post office. Call Sharon Letus, trip chairperson, at 845687-9162 for information.

ARTS, MUSIC, BODY & MIND Draw Botanical of Accord’s upcoming Zoom Drawing Workshops In the darkest months of the year, bring the magic of light into artwork, 3-7 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 8, and 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, in this all-levels Zoom workshop, “Illusion of 3D Form,” the magic of light source, highlights and shadows. Create the illusion of 3-dimensional form on a 2-dimensional surface with realistic highlights and shadows that provide beauty and depth to drawings and study the way geometric shapes look when they are lit with proper lighting, and how to transfer that knowledge to forms found in nature.

And 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, and 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, get ready to learn

.

In his own words on how he would like to be remembered on the day he died, “I’d like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to give his life serving others. I’d like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King Jr. tried to love somebody.”

Annual MLK Day Celebration of Service honors local volunteers Volunteers from all Ulster County nonprofits are welcome at UlsterCorps’ 14th Annual MLK Day Celebration of Service, noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 (with snow date of Monday, Jan. 16), at the Rosendale Recreation Center, 1055 Route 32N, Rosendale.

The event celebrates those who serve their community with their hard work and dedication and honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The celebration is free and will include live music, refreshments and raffles. Attendees can choose to join others for a sit-down meal together, or simply stop by for a to-go box.

There will also be an event program listing the names of all volunteers who preregister by Jan. 10, and all businesses and agency partners contributing raffle items and supporting the event.

Help the community recognize

how to use value, contrast and saturation to describe the waxy bumpy surface and juicy translucent pulp of citrus fruits in this all levels Zoom workshop, “Peels & Pulp.” Bring the citrus fruit to learn and explore together. For more information, visit drawbotanical.com or call 845-377-0530.

Local chapter of Mid-Hudson Women’s Chorus free open rehearsals Join the community, 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 9, 16 and 23, for the Mid-Hudson Women’s Chorus free open rehearsals, at St. James United Methodist Church.

35 Pearl St., Kingston. No auditions required. For more information about rehearsals and membership visit midhudsonwomenschorus.org.

Peter’s Kill Two Views hike at Minnewaska Join Nick Martin, park educator, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 7, for a stimulating 2-mile snowshoe hike to two scenic overlooks in the Peter’s Kill Area, both of which feature stunning views in clear weather. While the distance is relatively short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the education department, located at the Peter’s Kill Area. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented for this program from the park preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and the destination may change. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring micro spikes or oth-

these volunteers who have remained the unsung heroes of the region through these challenging times.

UlsterCorps is a countywide resource dedicated to fostering a culture of volunteerism, collaborative work and community service. Their mission is to educate about volunteerism and best practices, facilitate successful and effective volunteer placements, and build collaborations among nonprofit organizations, local government agencies, and businesses engaged in community involvement throughout Ulster County. While UlsterCorps involves individuals of all ages in its activities, it has a deep commitment to engaging and educating youth in community service and leadership.

To register for the MLK Day Celebration of Service, email register@ulstercorps.org or call/text 845-481-0331.

er ice traction devices, if this program is offered as a hike. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

Scenic streamside snowshoe hike at Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, environmental educator, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 8, for a crisp snowshoe hike in the wintry woods. On this approximately 3.5-mile snowshoe outing on the Mossy Glen Footpath, participants will walk through the forest, following along the edge of the Peter’s Kill. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the Education Department. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented from the Park Preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Call Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752 for the required preregistration.

Slow Jam First Sundays at the Rosendale Library Join other musicians at the Rosendale Library’s monthly slow jam, 3:30-5 p.m. on the first Sunday (Jan. 8) of every month, to play old time, folk songs, bluegrass, Western and other homespun type songs. Participants play at a slower pace so everyone will have a chance to learn the songs. All musicians and acoustic stringed instruments are welcome. No audience, no pressure, just

lots of fun. To play in the Slow Jam, participants need to purchase the song book for $5.10. Copies are available for pickup and purchase at Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale. Bring a chair to sit on if needed, a capo, and a music stand.

Masks are required. Visit rosendlelibrary. org or call 845-658-9013 for registration and more information.

Writers’ group with Cathy Arra Two separate writers’ groups meet 4-6:30 p.m. on alternate Mondays at the Stone Ridge Library in the activity room, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, with a maximum of 10 participants in each group. The program is designed for those who are actively writing and publishing work and who want to participate in a structured, critical feedback process. Cathy Arra, a poet, writer and former teacher of English and writing in the Rondout Valley School District, facilitates the groups. The next meetings for Group 1 are on Jan. 9 and 30, and for Group 2 on Jan. 23. Email carra22@aol.com to join.

Old Powerhouse and Peter’s Kill Trails outing at Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, environmental educator, 2-4:45 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, for an adventurous outing along the edge of the Peter’s Kill.

The first destination is the site of the old hydro-electric powerhouse, which served the hotels once located at Lake Minnewaska. Some may find this offtrail walk challenging, as it includes a stream crossing, bushwhacking and a steep, rocky section. The total distance for this outing is approximately 2.75 miles. If conditions are icy, participants are strongly encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Parking Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-2550752.

Scrabble meet-up in Rosendale Join the group 1 p.m. Tuesday afternoons (Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31), for a game of Scrabble, at the Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale. Come and make new friends or play with old ones. The Library provides the game, just bring the love of wordplay. For more information, visit rosendalelibrary.org or call 845-6589013.

Teatime book group discusses ‘West with Giraffes’ by Lynda Rutledge Woodrow Wilson Nickel, age 105, feels his life ebbing away. But when he learns giraffes are going extinct, he finds himself recalling the unforgettable experience he cannot take to his grave. It’s 1938. The Great Depression lingers. Hitler is threatening Europe, and world-weary Americans long for wonder. They find it in two giraffes who miraculously survive a hurricane while crossing the Atlantic. What follows is a 12-day road trip in a custom truck to deliver Southern California’s first giraffes to the San Diego Zoo. Behind the wheel is the young Dust Bowl rowdy Woodrow. Inspired by true events, the tale weaves real-life figures with fictional ones, including the world’s first female zoo director, a crusty old man with a past, a young female photographer with a secret, and assorted reprobates as spotty as the giraffes. Join the group, 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, in the activity room , at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, for lively discussion and light refreshments. Email Sarah Robertson, programs manager, at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org to join the group.

D&H Historical Society lecture, ‘What rights do artists retain in their work after it has been sold?’ Wall Street lawyer Hume Steyer talks on the moral rights of artists after their work has been sold, 7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at D&H Historical Society, 1315 Main St., High Falls. Visit canalmuseum.org/events or call 845-687-2000 for more information.

Winter Mossy Glen hike at Minnewaska Join Nick Martin, park educator, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, for an invigorating hike in the wintry woods. On this approximately 3.5-mile snowshoe outing, participants will hike through a forest, along the edges of the Peter’s Kill, which is decorated with rhododendrons, and return to the starting point via the Lower Awosting Carriage Road. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the Education Department, located at the Peter’s Kill Area. Otherwise,

See More events, page 21

BlueStone Press, January 6, 2023, Page 21

Sunday Silents presents ‘The Ancient Law’ (1923)

Events continued from page 20 snowshoes may be rented from the Park Preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

Scenic snowshoe loop hike at the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, environmental educator, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, MLK Jr. Day, for a snowshoe hike in the woods of the Peter’s Kill Area. During this approximately 2-mile recreational program, the group will snowshoe the various footpaths in the Peter’s Kill Area to make one big loop. While the distance of this outing is relatively short, there are a few sustained hills and rocky terrain that some may find challenging. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the education department, located at the Peter’s Kill Area. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented from the park preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring along micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet in the Peter’s Kill Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

Two scenic views snowshoe outing at Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 17, for a stimulating and refreshing 2-mile snowshoe hike to two scenic overlooks in the Peter’s Kill Area, both of which feature stunning views in clear weather. While the distance is relatively short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for this program from the education department, located at the Peter’s Kill Area. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented from the park preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and the hiking destination may change. Ice traction devices, such as micro spikes, may be necessary if this program is offered as a hike. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet in the Peter’s Kill Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

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. Culture, medicine, travels and anything/everything culinary are favorite subjects that she would love to share and exchange with others, speaking in French. The program she is offering via Zoom is held 1-2 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month, with the next conversation hour on Tuesday, Jan. 17. Visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-687-7023 to sign up.

Death Café group discussion via Zoom; free & open to all Circle of Friends for the Dying’s Death Café is a group-directed conversation with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session; it is free and open to everyone.

Death Cafés are held on the 18th of each month, with the next discussion on Wednesday, Jan. 18, via Zoom, discussing different types of losses, death, relationship, empty nest, environmental, retirement, job loss, move, illness, loss of function – any of these that can bring a sense of loss of identity. For more information and registration, visit cfdhv.org.

Mystery book group talks about ‘Death at the Chateau Bremont’ by M.L. Longworth Set in charming and historic Aix-en-Provence, France, “Death at the Château Bremont” introduces readers to Antoine Verlaque, the handsome and seductive chief magistrate of Aix, and his on-again, off-again love interest, law professor Marine Bonnet. When local

See More events, page 22

Esthesis Quartet is Dawn Clement on piano, Elsa Nilsson, flute; Emma Dayhuff, bass; and Tina Raymond on drums.

Marbletown’s Jazzstock welcomes Esthesis Quartet Esthesis Quartet with Dawn Clement on piano, Elsa Nilsson, flute; Emma Dayhuff, bass; and Tina Raymond, drums, will perform at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at Senate Garage, 4 North Front St., Kingston. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Rhino Records, 6 North Front St., Kingston or online with Marbletown’s jazzstock.com.

The CaravanKids class is a fun and unique combination of dance games and exercises designed to expand students' understanding of modern dance and world cultures.

Vanaver Caravan WinterDance program at MaMA in Stone Ridge After-school and evening dance classes will be offered by Vanaver Caravan, Jan. 10-March 9, in the Kiva (Yurt), at Marbletown Multi-Arts, 3588 Main St., Stone Ridge. Beginner Creative Movement classes for ages 4-6 years old with teachers Juliet ten Broeke and guests will be held

4:15-5 p.m. Tuesdays, with simple choreography, circle songs, rhythm, shape and imaginative storytelling. Br oeke also teaches the CaravanKids class for ages 7-9, 5-6 p.m. Tuesdays. Students learn World Dance, Percussive Dance and Modern Dance. And 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays Livia Vanaver and guests will teach the CaravanKids Level 2 class for ages 10-12.

The class is designed to expand students’ understanding of modern dance and world cultures.

For registration and more information, visit vanavercaravan.org or call 845-2569300.

The Rosendale Theatre presents the comedy horror film ‘The Menu’ “The Menu,” directed by Mark Mylod, written by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy, based on an original story created by Tracy, and produced by Adam McKay, Betsy Koch and Will Ferrell, features an ensemble cast including Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, Hong Chau, Janet McTeer, Reed Birney, Judith Light and John Leguizamo. The film focuses on a group of diners at an exclusive restaurant who discover the celebrity chef owner intends to kill them all before the night is over.

The film will be shown at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6; at 4 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan 7; 7 p.m. Jan. 8; and 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan.

Baruch Mayr, son of an orthodox rabbi from a poor shtetl in Galizia (shown refreshingly as a traditional rural village, full of warmth and love, not an impoverished and foul-looking place of misery), decides to break with the family tradition and leave the shtetl to become an actor.

As a result, his father bans him from his family and Baruch leaves to join a small burlesque troupe. The troupe is awful, and Baruch is head and shoulders the best actor, but it gives him the opportunity to be discovered. An Austrian archduchess introduces him to the director of the most important theater in Vienna, the Burgtheater. Baruch receives a contract there and becomes more and more an assimilated Jew. He quickly climbs the ladder of stardom, cutting off his peyes and exchanging his shtetl clothes for the sophisticated fashions of a man-about-town. However, he finds that, there are still doors that will always be closed to him. Homesick, he returns to his father, hoping for a reconciliation.

“The Ancient Law” is an important piece of German-Jewish cinematic history, contrasting the closed world of an Eastern European shtetl with the liberal mores of 1860s Vienna. With its historically authentic set design and ensemble of prominent actors, all captured magnificently by cinematographer Theodor Sparkuhl, “The Ancient Law” is an outstanding example of the creativity of Jewish filmmakers in 1920s Germany.

The silent film will be shown with live accompaniment by Marta Waterman, 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. Admission is $6.

Sunday Silents is made possible by the generous support of Jim Demaio, State Farm Insurance agent, New Paltz, and a special grant from the Jewish Federation of Ulster County.

For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

In “The Ancient Law” (1923), the movie that “The Jazz Singer” was based on, a young man wants to be an actor in the big city, but his father the rabbi forbids it and bans him from the family.

What’s your opinion? Write your letter to the editor.

“The Menu” will be shown at the Rosendale Theatre Jan. 6-11.

11, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. Admission is $10/$6 members.

For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

BluestonePress845 @gmail.com

Page 22, January 6, 2023, BlueStone Press Events continued from page 29 nobleman Etienne de Bremont falls to his death from the family château, the town is abuzz with rumors. Verlaque suspects foul play and must turn to Marine for help when he discovers that she had been a close friend of the Bremonts. The group meets, 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan 18, in the activity room of the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, to discuss this lively whodunit steeped in the rich, enticing, and romantic atmosphere of southern France. Email Sarah Robertson, programs manager, at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org to join the group.

Funded by the Rosendale Pickle Festival, sign up for SongClub with Debbie Lan, at Park Heights Led by musician and songwriter Debbie Lan, this singing group is for Rosendale residents 65 years and older, and is held at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month (Jan. 18) in the community room of the Park Heights housing development, 1033 Route 32, Rosendale. The library recommends taking a rapid Covid test before attending. Free home rapid tests are available at the Rosendale Library, or arrive 15 minutes early to take a rapid test in the Park Heights parking lot. Register for SongClub at rosendalelibrary.org or call 845-658-9013.

Cooks and Books presents ‘Mastering the Art of French Cooking’ by Julia Child Join the group to discuss and sample recipes from Julia Child’s first book, “Mastering the Art of French Cooking,” 12:15 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, in the activity room, at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. Registration is required with Sarah Robertson, programs manager, at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org.

Peter’s Kill loop snowshoe outing at Minnewaska Join Nick Martin, park educator, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, for a snowshoe hike in the woods of the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska. During this approximately 2-mile recreational program, participants will snowshoe the various footpaths in the Peter’s Kill Area to make a loop. While the distance of this outing is relatively short, there a few sustained hills and rocky terrain that some may find challenging. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow from the education department, located at the Peter’s Kill Area. Otherwise, snowshoes may be rented from the park preserve for a fee of $5 per person. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. If there is insufficient snow cover, this program will be offered as a hike and participants are strongly encouraged to bring along micro spikes or other ice traction devices. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

Rubenfeld Synergy for Life workshop with Judy Swallow in Stone Ridge

‘The beauty of pressed botanical specimens,’ an art exhibition by David Schaengold “Collecting, identifying and mounting flowers and leaves has broadened my appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding me,” said Stone Ridge artist David Schaengold. “I am increasingly beholding the specimens' appeal and resilience to the elements; the delicacy of the blossom, richness of color, elegance of the stem, fineness of the roots and intricate pattern of the leaves.”

Schaengold’s exhibit will be on display Jan. 9-Feb. 25, with the artist reception 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, in the activity room, at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. All proceeds of sales from the exhibition will be donated to the Stone Ridge Library and the Rondout Valley Food Pantry, as per Schaengold.

For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-687-7023.

Pressed flowers, stems and roots by Stone Ridge artist David Schaengold

‘The Expressive Figure’ online course with Kerhonkson’s Keith Gunderson This Zoom workshop will be held 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 11, 18, 25, and Feb. 1. The one-hour Zoom session coaches the figure drawing enthusiast past the challenges of technique and finding one’s artistic voice, starting with 20 minutes of drawing from the model in a variety of poses and then through a series of illustrated lectures and demonstrations. Each class features a sketch of a figurative artist, work or trend that has impacted the artistic evolution of figure drawing. Deadline to sign up is

Explore the human figure as a theme in one’s own personal expression in “The Expressive Figure” online live course with Kerhonkson artist Keith Gunderson.

24 hours before the first class. For cost, supply list and more information, visit woodstockschoolofarts.org or call 845679-2388. For more on Gunderson, visit keithgunderson.com.

ONGOING LISTINGS Scrabble meet-up every Tuesday at the Rosendale Library Join the community, 1 p.m. every Tuesday, at the Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale. To register for the group, visit rosendalelibrary.org or call 845-658-9013.

In-person story times at Little Ones Learning Center in Accord Little Ones Learning Center, a free early-literacy program for ages 0-6 located in the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Route 209, Accord, continues its in-person story times, 10 a.m.-noon each Wednesday and Saturday. Enjoy stories, crafts and lots of fun. For more information, call Little Ones Learning Center at 845626-4112 or Mary Lee, LLC treasurer, at 845-626-7249.

Stone Ridge Library Knitting Group The Stone Ridge Library Knitters meet 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays in the activity room at Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. All ages and experience levels can join, and drop-in knitters are also welcome. Bring your own supplies, do as much as wanted, and ask for help or advice if needed. Donations of yarn to the library get made into items for sale at the Library Fair and during the winter holidays for the benefit of the library.

Some group members also knit things for local hospitals or for U.S. troops. For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary. org or call 845-687-7023.

Photo by Lauren Thomas from HV One

Hockey team to host Disco Skate Night to benefit local family Coached by John Giannetti., the Saugerties Nightmares, a recreational women’s hockey team, known to include gals from High Falls to Germantown, ages 18-69, will be working together with members of the Kiwanis Ice Arena to host a Disco Skate Night benefit, 7:45-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the arena, 6 Small World Ave., Saugerties. Admission is $10 at the door, and raffle baskets will also be sold. All proceeds from the event will go to help a

The Holistic Health Community of Stone Ridge in collaboration with the Morty and Gloria Wolosoff Foundation presents Rubenfeld Synergy for Life workshop with Judy Swallow, MA, CRS, LCAT, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge.

The Rubenfeld Synergy® method uses bodymind awareness, Swallow movement and “listening hands” as ways to connect self with others in a deep and nourishing way.

Judy Swallow has been practicing and teaching Rubenfeld Synergy for over 40 years and is also a psychotherapist who uses action methods and expressive arts, especially psychodrama, in her work and life.

Wear comfortable clothing for the threehour workshop. There is no charge for the class, however, sacred reciprocity – by making a donation, by offering volunteer service or by doing an act of loving kindness toward someone in need – is encouraged.

For more information, visit holistichealthcommunity.org or call 845-867-7008.

local family who lost everything in a house fire just before the holidays.

Each Saugerties Youth Hockey team has contributed a raffle basket for the event, containing many great prizes. The arena will be playing music from each decade while skaters dance on ice under the disco lights at this open skate event. The Nightmares and Kiwanis Ice Arena welcomes all to come and skate.

The Nightmares will also be hosting their annual May Melt Tournament, May 5-7. The event is a fundraiser for Miles of Hope, a local organization that gives back to area families who have been impacted by breast cancer.

For info, contact Nightmares D Team captain, Tina Dierna, at nightmareshockeysaugertiesny@gmail.com or 845-591-5545.

Hillary Thing, LAc., master herbalist

The Treatment of Lyme & Stealth Infections with Hillary Thing This online Zoom workshop with Hillary Thing, LAc. of Uprooting Lyme of Marbletown, will be held 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14.

Lyme and similar entrenched infections trigger many auto-immune and chronic inflammatory health conditions.

This talk will empower attendees to step into the central role that Chinese medicine practitioners can play in the proper diagnosis and effective treatment of Lyme and other chronic infection-based illness.

The principles to be discussed have broad application to long-haul Covid, chronic Epstein-Barr and herpes infection, chronic yeast and parasites.

In this workshop participants will learn how to make an accurate clinical diagnosis of Lyme-borreliosis and several coinfections; what labs can tell (and what they can’t); clinical protocol for acute Lyme infection; the nature of Gu disease and classical principles for treatment; a strategic map for the treatment of complex chronic inflammatory disease; case-based sample protocols including acu-moxibustion, herbal, functional medicine, and liposomal essential oil treatments; and the best practices for supporting chronically ill patients.

For information and registration, visit uprootinglyme.com or call 845-687-6211.

Find what you’re looking for

Page 31 23 Services Offered

Doug Tyler Jr. SNOW PLOWING Sanding & Salting Residential & Commercial Over 30 years experience 10% Discount for Seniors 845-849-5909 (cell) 687-0087 (home) Mini- Excavator and Operator Available for trenches, driveways, debris removal, horse fencing and treasure burying.

203-858-3634 Whittaker Welding Steel & Cast Iron Repair Fabrication Modifications Reinforcement Hardfacing 407 Krumville Road Olivebridge, NY 12461 845-657-6719 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

January 6, 2023

TOWN OF MARBLETOWN

Sell it now! $15.00 for the first 20 words. ($.25 for each additional word) All classified ads must be paid for by the end of Tuesday before our Friday issue date. The newspaper is printed on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month.

Billing privileges are extended to display advertising clients and accounts placed for six months or more.

Our mailing address is PO Box 149, Stone Ridge, NY 12484.

Please call 687-4480 for more information.

We take credit cards!

Planning Board January 9 @ 6:00pm CPAB Meeting January 10 @ 5:00pm Housing Committee January 10 @ 7:00pm

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 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 Winter’s coming!

Snow Plowing / Sanding.

Fall / Spring Clean Ups. Discount rates.

845-893-5644

Help Wanted/Items Needed

Historic Preservation January 12 @ 6:00pm

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 riceplumbingandheating@gmail.com

Town Board Meeting January 17 @ 6:00pm

Veronica’s Garden in Stone Ridge seeking Experienced Landscaper Good salary, flexible hours Must be a licensed driver Call 845-687-9026 or (845)399-1708 Instruction

Personal strength trainer, flexibility, balance.

Pre-op, post-op help.

My home gym or Zoom.

Gentle, effective.

Marta, 561-543-3792

CATSKILL ADC

BSP classified ads start at $15! email: bspmartha@gmail.com or call BSP at 845-687-4480

Rondout Municipal Center 1925 Lucas Avenue, Cottekill marbletown.net 845-687-7500

• Nuisance Wildlife Management • Resolving Human and Animal Conflicts • UCT, NYSTA, NWCOA, NTA Life Member

Humane Removal Bats • Squirrels Skunks • Raccoons And More

Housing Meeting January 24 @ 7:00pm

TOWN OF ROSENDALE Rondout Municipal Center 1915 Lucas Avenue, Cottekill townofrosendale.com 845-658-3159 Town Board Meeting January 11 @ 6:00pm Environmental Commission January 12 @ 6:30pm Planning Board January 12 @ 7:00pm Zoning Board of Appeals January 17 @ 7:00pm Economic Development January 18 @ 5:30pm Recreation Commission January 18 @ 7:00pm Police Commission January 24 @ 3:30pm

TOWN OF ROCHESTER Harold Lipton Community Center, 15 Tobacco Road, Accord townofrochester.ny.gov 845-626-7384 Planning Board January 9 @ 7:00pm Historic Preservation January 16 @ 2:00pm

Mark W. Charpentier Brandon Charpentier

Phone: (845)389-8841 email: CatskillADC@gmail.com

Recreation Commission January 18 @ 9:300am Zoning Board January 19 @ 7:00pm Environmental Conservation January 31 @ 6:00pm

BOARD OF EDUCATION

CATSKILL ADC

• Nuisance Wildlife Management • Resolving Human and Animal Conflicts • UCT, NYSTA, NWCOA, NTA Life Member

Visit bluestonepress.net and select Special Sections at the bottom.

Humane Removal Bats • Squirrels Skunks • Raccoons And More

Mark W. Charpentier Brandon Charpentier

Phone: (845)389-8841 email: CatskillADC@gmail.com

District Office, Kyserike Rd, Accord rondout.k12.ny.us/ board-of-education BOE MEETING January 10 @ 7-9pm BOE MEETING February 7 @ 7-9pm BOE MEETING February 21 @ 7-9pm Confirmation of meeting times through individual town offices is recommended.

Page 24, January 6, 2023BlueStone Press

Water Testing & Treatment for over 25 years

James Lyman Reynolds architect 3555 Main St, Stone Ridge Iron, Hardness, Sulphur, Bacteria - UV Treatment, pH - Green Staining

845.687.9161 4303 US Route 209 | Stone Ridge, New York 12484

jameslymanreynolds.com

(845) 687-0420 • aquacheckllc@gmail.com

Custom Showers • Ceramic & Stone Tile Stone Veneers • Full Bath Build-Outs • Insured

845-687-4745

Accessories -- Sales Accessories Sales--Installations Installations Cars --Trucks Trucks -- RVs Cars RVs -- Boats Boats OVER 45 www.davescarcare.com YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE VALLEY

THE MAD HATTER .

CHIMNEY SWEEP CO INC

Flynn O’Connor

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE DETAILING

Dave Hllml • By Appointment 687-2445 Dave Hllml By Appointment 687-2445 4693 Route 209, Accord, NY 12404 4693 Route 209, Accord, NY 12404 www.davescarcare.com

Call

SPRING CLEANING

Matthew Flamhaft 845-687-9735 www.visitvortex.com/Matthew_Flamhaft

Wayne W. St. Hill, DDS, MAGD

SPECIAL APRIL/MAY/JUNE

MEMBER NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

 Wood, Coal, Gas & Oil Flues Expertly Cleaned  Caps, Dampers Installed  Masonry Repairs & Water Sealing  Pre-Fab Chimney Specialist  Stainless Steel Relining Specialist

Medenbach & Eggers

Stone RiDGe DentiStRy

Civil EnginEEring and land SurvEying PC Stone Ridge Dentistry 3642 Main Street Stone Ridge, ny 12484 (845) 687-0600

212 Fair Street Kingston, NY 12401 P: (845) 331-3600 F: (845) 334-9465

4305 uS Highway 209 • Stone ridge, ny 12484 PHonE (845) 687-0047 • Fax (845) 687-4783

www.gagnoncpa.com

info@mecels.com • www.mecels.com

PC Perfection

Edgar P. Campbell Joanne C. Whalen

Helping Human Beings Cope with Computers since 1986

Counsellors At Law

Tutoring, Sales, Repair, Cleaning

Taking Care of Your Legal Needs!

Alan Silverman

• Wills • Real Estate • Elder Law • Estates

(845) 687-9458

Injured? Call us

(914) 948-7700 (845) 687-0353 3536 Rt. 209 Stone Ridge, NY 12484

All Types of Roofing Fully Insured

alan.silverman.computers@gmail.com http://alan-silverman-computers.com

Sanitall

Stone Ridge Insurance

HudSon Valley Green CleanerS

Serving All of Your Insurance Needs

Steam Vapor Sanitizing SerVice ChemiCal Free!!!

100% Green Cleaning testing and removal of

Emergency Well Pump Service Plumbing Repairs & Installation Water Filtration Systems Radiant Heat Flooring Oil & Gas Heating Systems-Installation & Service Septic & Drain Field Installation/Sump Pump Installation

Licensed Master Plumber #136 • Fully Insured riceplumbingandheating@gmail.com • riceplumbingandheating.com

Donald J. Giamei, Agent donaldgiamei@hotmail.com

mold. allergens. deep Cleaning.

Michele Aversano, Licensed Associate michelesri@outlook.com

Reconstruction/Remodeling Post Construction & Seasonal Clean Up

PO Box 341, 3669 Main Street, Stone Ridge Phone 845-687-2828 | Fax 845-687-2829 stoneridgeinsurance.net | Like us on

Cracked Pipe, Flood & Black Water Damage, Dry Out & Disinfecting nYs licensed mold assessor & mold remediation

Commercial & Residential. Insurance Claims Accepted.

845-657-7283 • greencleaning.net

All Motor CArs Creating thoughtful, livable spaces.

sales & service

ltD

845.658.8015

s

ru A b u

o e r p

s D e wn

www.allmotorcarsltd.net