Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - Kid’s Fishing Derby at Catskill Point Honors Former Legislator

 The Greene County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs (center) who sponsor the Annual Ray Brooks Memorial Kid's Fishing Derby, are joined by members of the County Legislature to honor a former colleague as they got kids out fishing at Catskill Point. Pictured here left to right are, Greene County Legislators Jay Lucas, James O'Connell, Mike Bulich, Federation Treasurer, Bill Burger, President, Hank Coons, and Greene County Legislators Mike Lanuto, Matt Luvera, and Sherry True.

 

Maggie Geiger, 13, of Athens, won a fishing pole and earned a trophy for catching the most fish in the Senior Division at the Ray Brooks Memorial Kid's Fishing Derby put on by the Greene County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs at Catskill Historic Point on Saturday. 

The Ray Brooks Memorial Kids Fishing Derby was held at Catskill Historic Point on Saturday, June 21st. Hank Coons, President of the Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, said 32 kids took part on a beautiful, sunny Saturday. While the weather got a bit warm, kids and adults enjoyed drinks and a hot dog lunch as a good time was had by all. 

Members of the Greene County Legislature were on hand to support the event, and honor the memory of former legislator, Ray Brooks. Ray was elected to the Greene County Legislature, representing the Town of Athens in 2003 and 2006. He was a big supporter of veterans, area sportsmen and women, and fostered sponsorship of youth fishing and hunting events. Before Ray passed away in 2023, he had formed a luncheon for veterans, which was held annually at the Catskill Historic Point. The luncheon is still supported by the Greene County Legislature and on Friday, the day prior to the kid’s derby, the Third Annual Ray Brooks Veterans Memorial Luncheon and Fishing Event took place at the same location at Catskill Point. 

NYS Environmental Conservation Officers, ECO Darren Milliron of Greene County, and ECO Frank Keegan, who’s assigned to Columbia County, were on hand to help out. They represented both the Division and the NY Conservation Officer’s Association who supports the annual event. 

Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs members, Bill Burger, Tom Holleufer, Dana Hanusik, Gene Salvino, and Jeremiah Vermilyea, joined club president, Hank Coons and his wife in the planning and ‘game day’ execution of the annual youth event. 

While none of the kids went home empty handed as each got a prize, a few got a trophy to go with it for achievement in their respective categories. 

Here are the winners:

In the Senior Division, Maggie Geiger, 13, of Athens caught the most fish, while 14-year-old Desmond Connolly of Yonkers caught the largest fish. Emily Roberg, 15, of Coxsackie took the prize for catching the smallest fish. 

 For the Junior Division, Luca Gobertson, 7, of Valatie caught the most fish, while Kelly O’Connor, 6 took the honors for catching the lunker. Gavin McSorley, 8, of Leeds caught the smallest fish in the Junior Division. 

Congratulations to all the winners and all those present supporting this worthwhile outdoor event. 

Happy hunting, fishing, and trapping until next time!

News and Notes 

Crossbow Bill Awaiting Governor’s Signature

The Crossbow Bill passed during the waning hours of the close of the 2025 NY legislative has yet to be signed by Governor Kathy Hochul. Among other things, the measure expands legal use of crossbows to take deer and bear during all archery seasons and repeals many obsolete specification requirements.

Norton Hill Trap Shooting Program is Underway/ 3D Archery Starting Soon

The Norton Hill Wildlife Club’s Sunday Trap Program is underway. Remaining dates are: July 20th, August 10th, and September 7th. Trap begins at 10:00 am and the 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. 

The Norton Hill 3D Archery Program began on June 7th, with subsequent dates on 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, youth 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 dates listed above.

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New Greene County Tourism Visitor Welcome Center Official Opening July 3rd

CATSKILL — The Greene County Legislature is proud to announce the official opening of its new visitor center taking place on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 11AM.

“This major development project began well before I came to work for Greene County” notes James Hannahs, Director of Economic Development, Tourism & Planning. “In 2016, then Deputy County Administrator Warren Hart and then Executive Director of the Greene County IDA, Rene VanSchaack worked closely with the Greene County Legislature to acquire long underutilized properties with great potential on both the east and west sides of the NYS Thruway at Exit 21 in Catskill.”

“Warren and Rene had a vision” recalls April Ernst, current Executive Director of the Greene County IDA. “The goal was to create attractive, shovel-ready sites to entice dynamic businesses to arguably one of the most prominent areas for those entering and leaving the county.”

In  2017, work began with the demolition of the derelict Quality Inn on the north side of Route 23B. Infrastructure improvements in electrical, water and sewer systems, and natural gas supply began thereafter. An agreement was reached between the county and the owners of Stewart’s Shops to effectively swap sites and create new facilities for both Stewart’s and the Greene County Tourism Visitor Welcome Center.

“Increasing the number of available hotel rooms for both business and leisure travelers was a major priority for this project,” says Chair of the Greene County Legislature Patrick Linger. “The Exit 21 East site plan definitely helps achieve that, providing easy access to amenities, hospitality, and information.”

“It’s no secret that tourism drives a significant portion of the Greene County Economy,” notes Legislature Majority Leader Matthew Luvera. “Revitalization projects like this are key to attracting both the visitors and businesses that drive that economy.”

“I have been a supporter of this visitor center project,” recalls Minority Leader Harry Lennon.  “This is the gateway to Greene County and showcases the amazing tourism destinations in the Great Northern Catskills.  It also enhances the route 23B corridor into Leeds. I am very proud to say I continue to focus on the types of projects that improve our communities, and every ribbon-cutting and grand-opening affirms that commitment.”

“First impressions are extremely important,” notes Catskill Town Supervisor Patrick McCulloch. “When drivers get off the Thruway in Catskill, we want them to feel that our communities have a lot to offer, and are places where businesses thrive.”

“We’re proud to open a state-of-the-art visitor center that not only showcases the best of our region but ensures every traveler, regardless of ability, feels welcome,” responded Tourism Director Patty Austin when asked about the new home for her team. “Conveniently located right off the NY State Thruway Exit 21, this gateway is designed to inspire exploration, support local businesses, and make every visit an experience to remember. We encourage all of our Tourism business partners to stop in, say hello, and check out our new facility for themselves.”

 

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Summer Events at the Windham Public Library

WINDHAM — The Windham Public Library has several events planned this summer, starting off with the annual Summer Reading Program "Color our World".  For children in grades K-4 this will kick off on June 30th. During the week of June 30th children in grades K-4 are welcome to come and register and pick up their reading packets and get a free book. Reading packets will remain available for the duration of the program also. Reading packets will include reading logs, free ice cream coupons, and other little incentives to kick off your summer reading.  The program runs for 6 weeks, during this time children are encouraged to read books and log them in their reading logs. Bring those reading logs back to us weely during those six weeks and earn prizes. As long as you show us you have read, you will win a prize. Summer Reading Programs for grades 5-12 and adults will also be available. These programs will kick off after the 4th of July. 

The library will also hand out weekly take and make kits to anyone who is interested in taking home a craft. The following list is this years take and make schedule (kits are available on a first come first serve basis, while supplies last):

June 30th - July 5th - Patriotic Wreaths

July 7th - July 12th - Color your own Bug Hotel

July 14th - July 19th - Glow in the Dark Whale Fortune Tellers

July 21st - July 26th - Bird Suncathers

July 28th- August 2nd - Bouncy Ball Kits

August 4th - August 9th - Horse Craft Kits 

Other events that will be happening at the library are:

Abstract Acrylic Painting with Alice Tunison - July 8th, 1-3pm, ages 9 to adult

Crazy Balloon Workshop with Crazy Christine - July 11th, 1-2pm, ages 5 to adult

Outdoor Fun with Ms. Jen - July 16th, 11:00am, ages 5 and up

Fool the Eye (Ice Cream) Sundaes with Sharon Quinn - July 24th, 1:00pm, Ages 5 to adult

Book Folding with Christine Doolan - July 29th, 1-3pm, Ages 10 to adult

Drawing Horses with Alice Tunison - August 7th, 1-3pm, Ages 9 to adult

"The Horse who Lost his Color" - Author Event with Sam Clark - August 8th, 11am, Ages 3-7

Egg Carton Animal Portraits with Sharon Quinn - August 14th, 1:00pm, Ages 5 to adult

Storytime Adventures with Ms. Carol - August 19th, 11:00am, Ages PreK to 5 years

All events are free and materials will be provided. Events require pre registration as space is limited. To register for any of these events, or if you have any questions,  please call the library at 518-734-4405

Library hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm, Tuesday and Thursday  10:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 1:00pm. Closed Sundays

 

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OMNY Taiko Drummers Perform in Tannersville and Windham 

HUNTER – The Catskill Mountain Foundation and the Windham Foundation present performances by OMNY Taiko Drummers on Sunday, June 29 at 3:00 PM at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville, and on Friday, July 4 at 2:00 PM at the Windham Civic Center in Windham. OMNY Taiko has performed on the Mountain Top for many years, teaching workshops and growing their supportive community.

OMNY Taiko, led by Eyal Bar-David, JJ Delserra and Crystal Lau, is a vibrant, tight-knit community drumming group striving to share the art of taiko drumming with people and communities across the New York City area through inclusive, accessible performances, classes, and workshops.

As a form of rhythmic and artistic expression, taiko allows individuals to convey emotion and energy, and to connect with others through music. 

OMNY Taiko emphasizes the communal aspect of ensemble drumming:  bringing people together to create music as a group, fostering a sense of community and belonging, and providing opportunities for collaboration and teamwork.

Beginner workshops are available to adults and children ages 9 and above at the Mountain Top Library in Tannersville on Monday, June 30 and Tuesday, July 1 from 2 – 3:30 PM on both days. OMNY Taiko will teach a traditional art form in a modern way, providing an afternoon of movement, rhythmic expression and camaraderie.

OMNY Taiko will perform on Sunday, June 29 at 3:00 PM at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville, and on Friday, July 4 at 2:00 PM at the Windham Civic Center. The performance in Windham on July 4 is free. For tickets to the performance in Tannersville on June 29, visit https://our.show/omny-taiko, visit www.catskillmtn.org, call 518 263 2063 or email boxoffice@catskillmtn.org. 

About Catskill Mountain Foundation
The Catskill Mountain Foundation’s (CMF) aim is to provide educational opportunities in the arts for youth and lifelong learners, to bring the experience of the arts to the Catskill community, and to support artists and art organizations in the development of their work through residencies. Since its founding in 1998, CMF has presented hundreds of music, dance, and theater performances; screened over 1,000 films to tens of thousands of audience members; provided studio arts classes to thousands of students of all ages; and served thousands of art-loving patrons in the Catskill Mountain Foundation Gift Shop. The Catskill Mountain Foundation operates the Doctorow Center for the Arts in Hunter, the Orpheum Performing Arts Center in Tannersville, and the Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts in Maplecrest, NY.

Since 1998, CMF has raised, generated, and invested close to $16 million in facility development and an excess of $42 million in programming operations, for a total investment in the Catskill community of over $58 million. Catskill Mountain Foundation is supported in part by New York State Council on the Arts, the Greene County Cultural Fund administered by the Greene County Legislature, The Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation, The Royce Family Foundation, The Samuel and Esther Doctorow Fund, The Orville and Ethel Slutzky Family Foundation, Platte Clove Bruderhof Community, Bank of Greene County Charitable Foundation, The Greene County Youth Bureau, Marshall & Sterling Insurance, All Souls’ Church, Stewarts Shops, Windham Foundation, and by private donations. CMF believes that the arts can transform the lives of those touched by it and can transform the community. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

 

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The Maude Adams Theater Hub Little Mermaid

The Maude Adams Theater Hub (MATH) returns to the Orpheum Performing Arts Center this 4th of July weekend for its annual summer musical theater performance. This year, the MATH crew will present Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Now in its fourth year, MATH’s summer shows have only grown. They have always been ambitious undertakings— the first, 2022’s Into the Woods, included a talented cast tackling tricky songs and the large hand of a felled giant as a prop, but this year sees the talented crew at MATH pushing even further. According to Creative Director Amy Scheibe, there will be 48 actors on stage, ranging in age from 3 to over 70 years old. “We had so many talented people audition that we double-cast the lead parts and added a Sunday matinee,” says Scheibe. (The casts are split up as “Thingamabob Cast” and “Dinglehopper Cast”). The cast and crew hail from all around the surrounding locales, including Windham, Lexington, Tannersville, Palenville, Hunter, Haines Falls, Elka Park, Phoenicia, Woodstock, East Durham, New Paltz, Hudson, Athens, Jewett, Shokan, and beyond. “In the tradition of true Community Theater, we draw from a multitude of professions,” says Scheibe. That includes “shopkeepers, lawyers, doctors, students, a Catholic Deacon,” and other professionals. “Everyone has a day job, and one of our Ariels is a pre-med major with a concentration in Organic Chemistry, the other a professional singer.” In addition to holding down regular jobs, some cast members contribute to other aspects of the production. Glenda Lauten, for example, curated the show’s 50 wigs, is playing one of the Ursulas, and works at Van Dusen’s in Lexington by day. “You honestly could do an entire story on Glenda, she’s that interesting,” says Scheibe. “Likewise, our set designer, Pete Preston, is a recently retired middle school science teacher who also paints stunning pieces of art. Literally everyone in this production has a great story.” 

Part of MATH’s growth has stemmed from a pure love for theater, a passion that has proven infectious and drawn more performers into the fold. That passion, paired with unmistakable talent, has also drawn larger audiences; a fourth show, a Sunday matinee, has been added for the first time this year, as the performances frequently sell out to enthusiastic crowds on the mountaintop. Bigger crowds have led to the availability of more resources for productions, expanding the possibilities on stage with better props, costumes, and what Amy Scheibe calls “other wonderful embellishments.” A 2024 grant from New York State facilitated upgrades to the Orpheum itself, providing MATH’s frequent home with some much-needed technical improvements. 

MATH’s Disney’s The Little Mermaid run of four shows starts next week, starting July 3rd, and closing on July 6th (there is no show on July 4th). For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.maudeadamstheaterhub.org. 

 

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The Prattsville Scoop

By Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE - Happy July 4th. Celebrate the USA and our Independence and all our freedoms.

Another week of rain gone by but at least it was not a wash out. We did have a few hours of sunshine on some days and with that we get humidity. Hope most of you got to see the very wide rainbow on Thursday night, The main part disappeared in the clouds but what was visible was gorgeous, very intense colors and it lasted for a long time. Thanks Mother Nature.

Mentioning Mother Nature, RSK Farms, Sandy and Bob Kiley, will be opening for the 2025 season on July 3, Thursday, 10 A.M. to 5 PM. This will be their hours every day for the season, except Wednesdays, when they will be closed. No need to travel for fresh and the best vegetables. Sandy is making progress in her recovery from the fall she took on March 24. She is in therapy after many surgeries for the repair of broken bones, etc. She gives hubby Bob very high marks for his aide and assistance during her recovery. She is now able to resume some of her day-to-day activities but they are limited. We wish Sandy continued recovery and wish RSK Farms a success season. Thanks neighbors for some fresh broccolini and the instructions on how to cook it and what to eat it with. Bob is always willing to share his cooking hints, and mighty good ones they are. Shop local.

Had an unexpected visit from Barbara Drum Dodge of Ashland and she did come bearing gifts, well a gift, totally unexpected. She had been shopping at Jim’s Great American and after that she bought some BBQ Spareribs offered by the Huntersfield Christian Training Center and decided to stop by her cousin’s for a chit chat. We are second cousins thanks to our Deyo grandmothers, sisters Martha Howard and Emma Drum. Much mutual interests were discussed, as well as catching up on family happenings, and before leaving she shared some of the spareribs. Delicious. Thanks again. She set the tone for the day – nephew Benny Benjamin of Leeds called for a 90 minute chat. Think that is classified as a conversation, too long for just a chat. Thanks Barbara and Benny. Families are the best.

Mindy Sokoll – well Mindy is Mindy and she had a slight fender bender with her vintage Thunderbird. She is sure her dad Lyle Sokoll is scowling down on her escapade from “up yonder”. Mindy does get her love of her Thunderbird from Lyle. Nothing can keep her down too long and she was out and about with Shea, her mini dog of mixed breeds. She has most business owners and/or staff trained. They keep Shea’s favorite treats on hand in preparation for his visits. He is cute.

There will not be a Prattville Scoop for July 4. Enjoying some family time, as in Gurley Family Reunion. Please take some uninterrupted time with your family and put aside all outside interests. They are worth every minute of your time.

The Gilboa Conesville CS Class of 1975 had their 50th Class Reunion on Saturday, June 22, at the Cidery. And a good time was had by all. Their status in life varied from soloist in a local band in Minnesota, to farmer/rancher in Virginia, early retirees, some enjoying a second career (now that they have the time) that before was just a hobby, and on and on. The main take away from the reunion was they enjoyed each others company with plans for another class reunion. Some were not waiting and made plans for a Christmas toast and others were offering help if others were in physical or medical need. Class of 1975, you get an A+.

On June 28 it is Happy Birthday to Scarlett Baker and Ginny Gurley. Anita Creazzo is wished a Happy birthday on July 2. And along with her birthday wishes, we wish her good health. On July 3 we wish John Lane a Happy Birthday. July 5, it is Happy Birthday to Jim Huggins. Happy Birthday to Don Lane on July 6. Hapy Birthday Nick Cross on July 9. On July 10 it is Happy Birthday to Josie Hull and Blayke Monroe Lindley. Becky Sutton Hoyt is wished Happy Birthday on July 11 Chrissie and Jim Thorington are wished a very Happy Anniversary on July 9.

See you for The Scoop on July 11, no Scoop for the 4th of July – celebrating.

 

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Traditionally Speaking…by Pat Larsen - Summer, finally

Well, it took its sweet time getting here but alas it is officially SUMMER and although it’s a bit chilly at the moment, it appears as though, we might still enjoy a glorious one at that.

So what does this beautiful, blessed season mean to you?

For me, there’s a simplicity that seems to unfold and allows for a full envelopment of each day. The birds are the season's alarm clock and they beckon for me to get up early to listen to the day's news as they sing their beautiful messages for all to hear.

My absolute new favorite, the deck planter, calls for my attention next at day break as I peruse the new growth from just a day before. 

It’s such a joy to see the peas beginning to ripen on the hand made trellis that was made just for this occasion and the herbs and the flowers call out for a morning beverage of fresh cool water to continue their growth.

A mini sized frog that I’ve named “Charley” has set up his home in the corner of the deck out of sight and in the warmth of the logs. He never fails to entertain me. 

Sometimes, Charly even makes his way up under the retracted deck umbrella if it's especially chilly one evening.

I told this little guy, “mi casa, es su casa”...and I am telling you, I saw that sweet little guy smirk with delight.

Just a night ago, I woke up with the intention of checking out the night sky to hopefully see even one star  given the many rainy days and nights that made up two previous months of spring…and there he was…!  No, not Charlie… I call them “glow bugs” but I guess they have many different names.  

Regardless, there he was ( maybe it was a she) glowing brightly on the patio glass door and directing me to look up just in time to see a beautiful array of stars AND a satellite passing by way up in that overhead arena. Finally, the night sky was visible again.

There's a wonderful shift in what we eat and how we cook in the summer, isn’t there?…lending itself to a whole new array of smells and mouth watering foods.

I love a good barbecue…but it has to include enough left over charcoal to toast a marshmallow or two or four.

I need them to get fully toasty brown but not charred.

How do you like yours?

There’s a joy that emulates this season in just about all things. In honesty, I think Summer couldn’t have come at a better time…in a few months we’ll be singing the phrase, Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Men…Hey, maybe we need to start a little early this year and still embrace the glory that is summer. What do you think?

Pat Larsen, lives, works and plays in Greene County with her husband Chris and pup, Lily. 

Feel free to call Pat to chat if you have a story to share.

518-275-8686 any time…that’s reasonable.

 

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National Bank of Coxsackie Donates $1,500 to support Village of Ravena Parks and Recreation Initiative

COXSACKIE – National Bank of Coxsackie (NBC) is proud to announce its recent $1,500 donation to the Village of Ravena, supporting the community’s ongoing efforts to enhance recreational amenities at Mosher Park. Pictured at the donation presentation are Village of Ravena Mayor William Misuraca and NBC’s Ravena Branch Manager Glenda Cukierski.

The donation will assist in the purchase of much-needed equipment for the park’s pool and pickleball area, including a regulation pickleball net and three heavy-duty umbrellas to provide vital shade for patrons. These improvements align with the village’s mission to offer inclusive and engaging recreational opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages.

Mosher Park is a beloved community hub, offering ADA-compliant playgrounds, athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, and a swimming pool. Thousands of families from Ravena and surrounding communities such as Coxsackie, New Baltimore, Selkirk, and the Town of Coeymans enjoy the park’s facilities annually. Programs includes swimming lessons, adult fitness classes, and youth sports leagues, supported by organizations like the Albany County Department of Recreation and the RCS Community Library.

“NBC is honored to support the Village of Ravena’s investment in safe and inclusive outdoor spaces,” said George Cooper, Chief Retail Banking Officer. “As a community bank, we are committed to helping local municipalities like Ravena continue to provide valuable services and gathering spaces for their residents.”

This donation is part of National Bank of Coxsackie’s broader commitment to community development and support across the Capital Region and Hudson Valley.

About the National Bank of Coxsackie.
Founded in 1852, National Bank of Coxsackie is a full-service community bank serving individuals, businesses, and municipalities throughout the region. With a long-standing commitment to local reinvestment and customer service, NBC supports initiatives that enhance the well-being and vitality of the communities it serves. The Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC Bancorp, Inc. (OTCPK: NCXS).

 

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Warriors Will Trek Over Mountains and Sleep Under Stars in the ASF's Next WIM Event

Veteran Greg Rinckey and fellow warriors hike with a loaded backpack at the ASF's WIM backpacking event two years ago

WINDHAM — The Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF) will continue its Warriors in Motion® (WIM) summer programming next week with its WIM Backpacking event, taking place June 24–26.

U.S. Army veteran Greg Rinckey, who participated in the event two years ago, is eager to return for the challenge.

“I really like getting into nature and also the friendships I’ve made with other veterans over the years participating in this program,” Rinckey said. “I’m looking forward to connecting with them again. We always have a fun time. It’s great to get out, forget about things and spend some time without a cell phone.”

Rinckey and three other U.S. military veterans are scheduled to meet Tuesday afternoon at the ASF’s Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center for lunch and a backpacking tutorial. Participants will learn how to pack a backpack properly and effectively for a long camping trip.

After packing up, the group will be dropped off at the Batavia Kill Trailhead near Maplecrest’s CD Lane Park. From there, they’ll begin a 1.75-mile hike to the Batavia Kill lean-to, where they will spend the night.

On Wednesday, the group will hike 6.5 miles over Blackhead and Arizona mountains, taking in panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. They will then continue on to the Colgate Lake Primitive Campsites via Dutcher Notch.

On the final day, participants will relax and swim at Colgate Lake in the summer heat  before cleaning up their campsite and being picked up by the ASF shuttle bus. Upon returning to the ASF lodge, they will enjoy a hot shower, lunch and goodbyes.

“The ASF’s Warriors in Motion program, and others like it, are important because they’re not the traditional type of talk therapy,” Rinckey said. “In my opinion, the best kind of therapy for veterans is getting outside and doing an activity with other veterans. That leads to conversations, which really helps in the healing process.”

Through grants and private donations, ASF provides 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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