The Mountain Eagle

6/20/25

Music and Art Center of Greene County 2025 Summer Concert Season

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 6/20/25 | 6/20/25

The St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church Complex in Jewett, NY on Route 23A. Including the church, the belfry, the Grazhda (parish hall) and the pastor’s residence. Photo Courtesy Olexa Hewryk.

Music and Art Center of Green County Concert at Grazhda. Photo Courtesy Hanya Krill-Pyziur

JEWETT – The Catskill Region has a rich cultural history, ranging from annual festivals and live performances that have inspired scores of visitor and art lovers for generations. Vibrant centers have enriched the cultural life of the region. Numerous art, music, and theater groups have hosted groundbreaking performances and events. Among them is the Music and Art Center of Greene County in Jewett.

The Music and Art Center of Greene County (MACGC) was established in 1983 by Dr. Ihor Sonevytsky, a Ukrainian-born composer and musicologist. As the longest running classical music summer concert series in the Catskills, it offers an extraordinarily rich classical music program of works by international and Ukrainian composers, performed by award-winning and distinguished musicians, most of Ukrainian descent from both the United States and Europe.

The Center’s music series is presented on Saturday evenings every summer in July and August in the hall of the Grazhda, which is part of one of the most architecturally unique building complexes in the Catskills, situated on a hill along scenic Route 23A in Jewett. It includes the St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, its Belfry, the Grazhda (the parish hall), and the Pastor’s House. The Grazhda serves both as an auditorium for concerts and as a gallery where exhibitions of works by Ukrainian artists are on display during the summer months. It also houses a gift shop.

The church and its complex was built by Ukrainian immigrants who came to the United States after the horrors of World War II and formed a community in the Hunter Mountain and Jewett area, purchasing permanent or summer homes in the Catskills because the area reminded them of the beautiful Carpathian Mountains in their homeland. The church was dedicated to those who had committed their lives to the struggle for freedom. The project came to fruition in 1961–1964. The tripartite church building was designed in the manner of XVII century Ukrainian wooden churches. The church and the complex of buildings were built of timber blockwork, constructed fully without nails. The church’s beautiful wooden iconostasis (alter screen) and chandelier were designed and carved by sculptor Mykhailo Czereszniowsky; the iconostasis includes stunning icons painted by the artist Petro Cholodny Jr.

The wood interior and high ceilings of the Grazhda are particularly conducive to creating a wonderful environment with great acoustics for concerts.

"Music at Grazhda," is delighted to announce its 43rd season, a celebration of artistry, education, and cultural enrichment with a series of exceptional concerts, all set amidst the picturesque Catskills.

The season opens on July 5 at 8pm with a dynamic recital by Ukrainian soprano Marta Zaliznyak and pianist Olena Haviuk-Sheremet. Zaliznyak is known for her radiant voice and commanding presence, while Haviuk-Sheremet brings technical brilliance and expressive depth to the stage. Their program includes works by Mozart, Puccini, Brahms, Liszt, Lysenko, and Kos-Anatolsky.

On July 19 at 8pm, the Grazhda Chamber Music Society presents a rich blend of classical and Ukrainian compositions by Schubert, Haydn, Dvorak, Skoryk, Silvestrov, and Havrylets. This wonderful ensemble features Nazar Pylatyuk, People’s Artist of Ukraine; Vasyl Zatsikha, Concertmaster of Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana; Richard Young, violist of the Vermeer String Quartet; Natalia Khoma, Tchaikovsky Competition laureate and cello professor at the College of Charleston; and Volodymyr Vynnytsky, widely celebrated pianist and Artistic Director of the festival.

On July 26 at 8pm the Grazhda Chamber Music Society will present another wonderful concert. The program includes masterpieces by Haydn, Dvorak, and Silvestrov. Each member of the ensemble is an international award-winning musician, bringing artistry and experience to every note.

Join us on August 16 at 8pm for a solo recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Pavlo Gintov. Gintov has performed at Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonic, Teatro Verdi in Milan, and more. He is a top prizewinner of the Takamatsu, Bradshaw & Buono, and World Competitions. His performance promises emotional depth and technical brilliance.

The final concert of the Music at Grazhda Festival, on Saturday, August 23, at 8 p.m., will honor Ukraine’s Independence Day with a stirring concert, The Soul of Ukraine, featuring the renowned Gerdan Ensemble. Founded by Grammy-winning flutist Andrei Pidkivka and acclaimed violinist/vocalist Solomia Gorokhivska, Gerdan offers a vibrant celebration of Ukrainian folk music. They are joined by versatile guitarist Jan Knutson. This program has captivated audiences nationwide and will showcase Ukraine’s enduring spirit through music. Gerdan has captivated audiences at the Kennedy Center, Library of Congress, and festivals nationwide. This special program highlights Ukrainian folk songs and instrumentals, celebrating Ukraine’s rich culture and resilient spirit.

Tickets for the concerts will be available at the door.

Please join us for a season of remarkable performances and inspiration at Music at Grazhda!

For further information visit: www.GrazhdaMusicandArt.org

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ASF Takes Veterans Into The Woods For WIM Hiking Event

WINDHAM – The Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF) hosted its Warriors in Motion® (WIM) hiking event this week, welcoming five wounded veterans to the northern Catskill Mountains. Over the course of three separate hikes, the group trekked a total of 10.7 miles and climbed more than 1,550 feet.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve participated in a program with the ASF, and this hiking program has not disappointed,” said WIM participant James Whitaker. “It was great—everyone was able to spread out, go at their own pace, get into nature and get a little exercise.”

The veterans arrived at ASF’s Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center on Tuesday afternoon, where they met staff and volunteers over lunch. After a briefing on the week’s itinerary and Leave No Trace hiking practices, the group headed to their first hike at the Mountain Top Arboretum in nearby Tannersville. They explored the Spruce Glen trail during a 4.2-mile hike that began with heavy rain but ended in bright sunshine, illuminating the colors of the surrounding forest.

Following the hike, the veterans checked into their hotels and later returned to ASF for a catered dinner.

On Wednesday morning, the ASF shuttle picked the group up at 9 a.m. and brought them to the Big Hollow Road Trailhead in Hensonville. From there, participants hiked to either the Batavia Kill Lean-To or Acra Point, navigating steep, rocky terrain. In total, the group covered 5.5 miles. Toward the end of the hike, some veterans cooled off in a nearby stream, embracing the tranquility of the Catskills.

That evening, the group enjoyed dinner at Zicatela’s Bar and Restaurant in Windham, followed by a game of mini golf at Windham Theatre.

The final hike took place Thursday morning at Pratt Rock in Prattsville. Though short, the steep trail led the group past historic rock carvings to a scenic overlook of the Schoharie Creek and surrounding mountains. The event concluded with a barbecue lunch back at the ASF lodge and a reflection on the week before the veterans departed.

“Us veterans have a tendency to stay at home and separate ourselves from the world, so when we have events like this, it’s nice,” Whitaker said. “It brings us together and gives us a sense of comfort where we can be ourselves and get some exercise in the outdoors.”

The hiking event was the second of eight Warriors in Motion programs ASF will host this summer. The next WIM event is scheduled for June 24–26 and will feature a backpacking excursion for participating veterans.

Through grants and private donations, ASF provides participants with all necessary equipment, meals, lodging, water bottles, sunscreen, bug spray, ponchos, and printed and digital maps—at no cost to the veterans.

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Ashland Speaks

By Lula Anderson

Another two weeks gone by since I last wrote, and I'm right now, squeezing in this article in my already busy schedule. I thought that when I retired I would have so much time to do what I wanted, but that's not the case. Sometimes I long for the tranquility of my working life. At least then I had a fixed schedule and could plan on what I was doing. Not so much any more. As a widow, I find so much of my time is spent doing jobs that were relegated to my husband. Simple things like keeping the lawn mowed, and trimmed. I've been working on getting my tomatoes and cucumbers planted. First rototilling. I have a small EGO battery powered which is great but with limited power. Yes, when the battery dies, I'm done, also, but it just extends the time . I take out my EGO lawn mower and get a small lawn done, then back to the tilling. Dig holes, put in fertilizer, tomato and cover. No one to hand me what I need, so it's up and down, back and forth. Drag over my fencing for the cucumbers, get the mallet, pound in stakes, dig holes, etc. No one home to make meals, so fit in cooking. The diners have been seeing me more often this year.

Lula had cataract surgery last week,and that was two days of appointments. Thanks, Lisa , for being there. Recall on Wednesday, to check out how things are progressing. craft classes start this Tuesday at the Senior Hall, and that will be another 10 weeks of activity for us.

Summer is the time for barbecues, so keep checking WRIP website for them. The Jewett Fire Dept. has sent their letters and have announced the date of their bbq: August 16th serving starts at 4. More info to follow as the day gets closer.

Prayers for Lisa and Jose Morrero for her father who is in the hospital, and continued prayers for the Beckmann family.

AS I REMEMBER IT

Last Sunday was Father's Day, and with both my father and husband gone, it was just another day for me. A friend was quite upset because as of Friday, her son never mentioned any plans for his dad. Another received a card from his daughter on Monday, and he didn't find it appropriate for him and their relationship. My son sent a text with a drink and "Salute Papa and Pops" for all of us to think of our losses.

Remembering Father's Day of the past , my mother always made my father a special lunch. We had no money for presents, just a day for togetherness. Some days it would be the family alone. After church, the girls would gather in the kitchen and make fried chicken and potato salad. If the "city friends" came up, we would start marinating chicken before church using the Cornell recipe which is now Brooks BBQ sauce. The record player would be brought outside and polkas and waltz music would be playing. The grill would be lit and while the chicken was cooking, the adults would sit in the driveway and talk.

As we got older and started going out to work, the lunches would become evening dinners, and we would always try to have a gift for dad. A new short sleeved shirt, shorts, summer pajamas, all practical, nothing overpriced.

When I had my own children, I made sure that my sons signed an age-appropriate card for both their dad and their PaPa. We tried to celebrate one year with my dad and one year with my father in law so that no one would feel neglected, but the absent dad would get a phone call.

I think of things that made my dad special. How he would take me by the hand and teach me about plants, and gardens. How he made me and my sister a playpen for our dolls because we wanted one. He was busy working on projects for paying clients, but always took the time to make what we wanted in between. I learned that he would wake my sons up at the crack of dawn to take them fishing in Conifer Lake then get them home before I woke up. After supper he would take them out again. They would be splashing in the lake and every time he threatened that since they were scaring the fish he would never take them again—--until the following day when back they would go.

So as another Father's Day weekend comes to a close I just want to say to all Fathers: Salute. And may you share in the love and respect that my family gave to their Pops.

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Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - Crossbow Bill Passes in Legislature

The longstanding "Crossbow Bill" legisllation is headed to the governor's desk for her signature, after it passed both houses in the NY Legislature late in the session on Monday June 17th. The measure has long been touted by its advocates and supporters.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, June 17th, in the dwindling hours of the 2025 legislative session, the New York State Assembly, in a bipartisan vote unanimously passed the “Crossbow Bill,” (A8330A). That was the last hurdle for the long-awaited legislation as the Senate had already passed their companion bill. The legislation will now be sent to the governor’s desk where it’s expected to be signed into law.

The passage of this bill in both houses of the legislature is a big deal and will be solidified as a momentous accomplishment if and when the governor signs it. It’s the result of a long-term effort personified by the late Rick McDermott, who founded the New York Crossbow Coalition back in 2012. Rick and his wife, Annemarie, were tragically killed in a car accident just one year ago on June 10th 2024. Then vice president, Roy Dust, immediately took the reins of the NY Crossbow Coalition upon Rick’s passing. He continued Rick’s efforts to get the bill passed and serves as the current president of the organization.

Highlights of the legislation include:

The definition of “long bow” now includes crossbows as well as compound and other bows; this allows crossbows to be used in any deer season where long bows are legal, including early and late archery seasons.
An archery privilege and stamp will be required when hunting with a crossbow
Eliminates minimum width and length requirements for crossbows, and eliminates a minimum length for crossbow bolts.
Eliminates maximum peak draw weight requirements for crossbows.
Crossbows, now that they are defined as “long bows” can be discharged within 150 feet of dwellings/structures throughout the state except in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties where they are prohibited from being discharged within 500 of dwellings.

The repeal of the requirements that crossbows be at least 17-inches wide and 24-inches in length is among the welcome provisions of this legislation. Crossbow technology advanced to the point that many, if not most of the crossbows sold in stores and used by hunters in NY, fell into the illegal category. That’s despite the fact being out of specification with regulations caused them to be more powerful, accurate, and efficient hunting implements. I’m happy to report the Environmental Conservation Law has finally caught up with the technology.

NY Crossbow Coalition President, Roy Dust gives all the credit for the impetus and ultimate passage of this significant legislation to his past president, Rick McDermott. In an interview, he stated, “Rick is smiling down from heaven on the success of the passage of this legislation.” Roy said he continued in Rick’s footsteps by empowering his leadership team, the board of directors, and the individual members of the Crossbow Coalition who he motivated and encouraged to meet one-on-one with their local legislators.

Roy, and others, met with Environmental Conservation Committee Assembly Chair, (D) Deborah J. Glick, and Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Chair, (D) Peter Harckham, who Roy says were critically essential in getting the bill through both houses. Roy Dust also thanks (R) Assemblyman Robert Smullen, of Herkimer County, for his efforts and advice, and credits NYS DEC for coordinating an event where the public and legislators like Chairman Glick were instructed in the use, operation, and safety of hunting with crossbows.

Other organizations including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, the NYS Sportsmen’s Advisory Coalition, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the NYS Conservation Council are among the many supporters contributing in the effort to get the legislation passed the finish line. Once signed into law by the governor, the new regulations should be in effect before the fall archery seasons.

Happy hunting, fishing, and trapping until next time!

News and Notes

Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby in Catskill to be held on Saturday, June 21st The Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs is sponsoring the annual Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby to be held on Saturday, June 21st at Catskill Point. Kids 5-15 years of age are eligible to register and compete. Registration is from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Fishing starts at 10:00 am and ends promptly at 1:00 pm. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and must bring their own fishing equipment. Bait and refreshments will be provided, and all registrants will get a prize. Bring the kids down for this fun, free, fishing event!

Norton Hill Wildlife Club Trap and 3D Archery Program Schedules

The Norton Hill Wildlife Club’s Sunday Trap Program is ongoing. Remaining dates are: July 20th, August 10th, and September 7th. Trap begins at 10:00 am. Cost is $5.00 per round. Bring your own ammo and ear and eye protection which is required. Breakfast sandwiches will be available starting at 9:00 am for $5.00. For further information call Chad at 518-291-3784.

Their 3D Archery Program dates are: July 12th and 13th, August 23rd and 24th, and September 13th. A chicken BBQ will be available from 7:00 am until Noon. Cost for adults is $15.00, 12-17 at $7.00 and kids under 12 are free. For more information call Eric at 518-646-6338.

*The gun range will be closed on the 3DArchery range dates listed above.

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Forest Ranger News

Town of Hunter

Greene County

Wilderness Rescue: On June 14 at 4:10 p.m., Greene County 911 requested Forest Ranger assistance with a subject on the Escarpment trail who was suffering abdominal pain and unable to hike out. Forest Ranger Fox called the subject’s hiking partner to get an exact location. The couple was at the intersection for the Lower Kaaterskill Falls trail along the Escarpment trail. Two Assistant Forest Rangers performed a medical assessment while Rangers responded. Four Rangers packaged the 58-year-old from New Rochelle into a littler. Rangers and members of the Haines Falls and Tannersville Fire Departments carried the patient to a Hunter Ambulance at the Laurel House trailhead. Resources were clear at 5:30 p.m.

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Ashland Republican Party Holds Caucus

Town of Ashland held its Republican Party caucus, last week, selecting six candidates for the November election. On hand for the occasion were (seated) GOP chairman Howard Drum and candidates (standing, left to right) Chris Hamilton (town supervisor), Richard Tompkins (highway superintendent) and Christine Matista (town justice).

By Michael Ryan

ASHLAND - They got started 20 minutes late, last Thursday night, when the town of Ashland held its Republican Party caucus.

A sizable crowd showed up for what is usually a bing, bang, boom affair, with Democrats hard to find in this small, rural community.

“It’s like we’re giving away free strawberry shortcake,” GOP chairman Howie Drum quipped after all were finally signed-in and seated.

The big reason for the much-larger-than-usual gathering was the exodus of longtime town supervisor Richard Tompkins, a born-and-raised-here kid with nearly a half-century of public service.

Over the years, Tompkins has alternately held the positions of supervisor, town justice and volunteer fire chief, also playing a major role in the operation of and service with the Ashland ambulance corps.

He has decided to step aside but there was a twist to his supposed political departure. Tompkins was instead running for highway superintendent, a post currently held by his brother Larry Tompkins.

Actually there were two twists. Tompkins has historically run unopposed, being one of the more popular and dedicated officials in the mountains.

Republican candidates in fact are rarely if ever challenged, but in the days leading up to the caucus, Tompkins learned he would be opposed by Robert Drum, a son of the GOP boss.

First up on the slate was the supervisor’s race where Chris Hamilton and Mark Skula, both relative newcomers to town, were vying for the spot.

It was widely speculated that Hamilton, a political rookie, was the choice of the outgoing supervisor who, if all went according to plan, would be on hand as the roads chief to lend his experience.

As it turned out, that contest contained a dramatic element too. Shortly after the paper ballots were counted, a revote was called by Greene County Board of Elections Republican Party clerk Sara Bentley.

Bentley had been asked to oversee the proceedings, which everyone anticipated would be well attended, and discovered a fatal flaw.

There were four more paper ballots cast than listed on the sign-in sheet, resulting in the do-over, stretching out the suspense.

When the suspense finally ended, following a slow parade of voters to the front table for the recasting, the victor by a 59 to 39 count was Hamilton, announced by the caucus secretary as “our new town supervisor.”

It was somewhat premature, with the election five months away, but no one protested. What happens at the GOP caucus in Ashland is as guaranteed as anything in life to be a done deal.

This is Hamilton’s maiden plunge into political leadership. He and his wife moved to Ashland from Catskill three years ago.

He has a background in Finance, serves as a volunteer firefighter and was a candidate for the Greene County Legislature.

“We wanted to be somewhere where we had land around us. We found a great community,” Hamilton said.

“I know the town needs to move forward. At the same time, it is important to keep Ashland, Ashland. We love this town. I want to give back to the town we live in,” Hamilton said.

Up next was the highway superintendent determination. A second parade ensued and when it was over, Tompkins prevailed with 76 votes to 23 for Drum, a very successful and busy local plumber.

No procession was necessary for the remaining offices which were all unopposed and dominated by incumbents.

Dawn Thorp was renominated as town clerk, continuing a long career. Jeff Gonzalez and Scott Tuttle were picked to return to the town council.

One change did occur. Christine Matista was selected to replace town judge Kristen Leach who recently retired due to career commitments.

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BETTER THAN HEARSAY - Meals, Money and Melee

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - There was no lack of compassion expressed, earlier this week, when Greene County officials visited a meeting of the WAJPL Golden Agers, discussing the county’s Home Meals program.

There was no gentle answer, however, for what to do about the controversy swirling around dispersal of the meals, recently resulting in hundreds of clients being removed from the eligibility list.

County officials have acknowledged the removals could have been handled better, happening in many instances without notification or warning.

Having said that, officials also say it boils down to money and changes in eligibility rules beyond their control at the federal and state levels.

Those changes, officials say, are rooted in the requirements being waived and more dollars being made available during the pandemic, wanting to keep citizens safely separated.

Two years ago, the requirements - and the federal funding - returned to pre-pandemic norms. County officials further acknowledge the local Department of Aging did not update its records. Until now.

A new director, Amanda Lyons, was appointed and reportedly given a directive to fine-tooth-comb the books, discovering the agency was overspending, including within the Home Meals program.

Lyons found, “a lot of things costing a ton of money that maybe we didn’t need to be doing,” county legislature chairman Patrick Linger said.

County administrator Shaun Groden says Lyons merely did her job and did it well, cutting back on meals to folks no longer legally eligible.

“We had roughly 150 people in the program before the pandemic, increased to around 400 during Covid and today its back to that 150,” Groden says.

“Essentially, anybody who asked was getting home meals. When covid ended, that plan ended. The county never adjusted,” Groden says.

Federal reimbursement is provided, as much as $600,000 in a $1.9 million budget, covering only folks who meet the strict guidelines, which officials again acknowledge can seem out of touch with basic human realities involving the elderly.

Which is where the controversy has erupted. County legislature member Daryl Legg (District 7, Hunter, Lexington, Halcott), raised the issue at a legislative session, last month.

“We have six or eight people up here who really need this and we’re cutting them off,” Legg said. “I have constituents telling me this is a life-saving thing for them so yes, I’m fired up.”

“I”m hearing different stories from people about what’s going on here, and what people are being told,” Legg said. “I don’t want to bash the county.

“But I have a question. What is everyone so afraid the State will do to us if we take care of these people and eat the cost? I don’t think it’s the big gloom and doom everyone claims it will be,” Legg said.

Lyons made it clear that the county could provide meals to people who did not technically match the requirements, but there would be no federal reimbursement, putting the extra expense on local taxpayers.

Conversations on the issue have subsequently taken place at a legislative workshop where a vote was taken on the county picking up the tab for some folks who had extenuating circumstances.

There were some “yes” votes but not enough, which is how the controversy spread to the WAJPL senior citizens gathering, this past Monday.

County officials, including Lyons and Groden, were present, along with Legg and fellow lawmaker Sherry True, the chairwoman of the County Services committee which oversees the Department of Aging.

Lyons broke down the fiscal facts, then opened the floor to questions that swiftly focused on a 102-year-old mountaintop resident no longer strictly eligible for the program, as well as others.

“They feel neglected, angry,” town of Hunter resident Diann Terns-Thorpe said. “They have paid their taxes their whole lives. It is incomprehensible that Greene County cannot afford to give them food.”

Terns-Thorpe spoke forcefully, yet peaceably. That mood abruptly shifted when the son of the 102-year-old resident, and Hunter resident Andrea Legg, offered their thoughts on the matter.

Emotions rose as the son directed his displeasure toward Groden and Lyons for what he said was the inexcusable treatment of his mother.

“There is a lot of misinformation out there. You can’t expect us to come to a meeting and get yelled at,” Lyons said, noting the centurion is again being provided with meals.

Andrea Legg, echoing the son’s intensity said, “we should be talking about what we are going to do, not what we should be taking away.”

She then sent a jolt through the room, saying she had heard the county was shutting down the Department of Aging, abandoning the needy.

Groden, vociferously responding, said, “no, that is wrong, wrong,” later saying he was strongly defending the county against baseless rumors.

The discussions pretty much ended on that note with one gentleman in the crowd drolly stating, “thank you for the entertainment.”

Exact numbers on how many citizens are impacted and how much added money would have to come out of county coffers are not yet clear.

More talks could occur and meanwhile, “that has been part of our concerns, trying to figure out who they are and where they are,” Lyons said.

“If the legislature wants to set new policy and get these meals out, we would be happy to do so,” Lyons said.

“There is a lot of confusion out there about these programs,” Linger said. “Unfortunately, this particular program was meant to fight isolation with homebound residents and senior citizens.

“The meals were just a way to get in the door. We could maybe expand the criteria and make exceptions, but where do we stop? That’s the process we’re in. The county is not ignoring this,” Linger said.

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Music and Art Center of Greene County 2025 Summer Concert Season

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 6/20/25 | 6/20/25