OurHudson.org » • Working Together

VOTE for healthy streams in the Hudson River Watershed!

Katy Dunlap — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 16:35:29 +0000

If you haven’t already heard, the Hudson Basin River Watch, in partnership with the Hudson River Estuary Program’s “Trees for Tribs” inititaive, has been selected as one of 10 nationwide finalists for Redwood Creek Wine’s 2010 Greater Outdoors Project. The goals of the “Trees for Tribs” intitiative are to enhance stream buffers and recreational experiences by planting native trees & shrubs, and to monitor water quality at project sites to demonstrate improvements.

Through an online voting system, the general public will decide who wins the $50,000 grant. As citizens of the Hudson River Watershed, we all benefit from this program and the improvements made to the health of our streams and rivers. This is a simple way to show your support for healthy streams in teh Hudson River watershed, and for Hudson Basin River Watch and the Hudson River Estuary Program! Learn more about the project and CAST YOUR VOTE for HBRW and “Trees for Tribs” project, by clicking here.

Online voting began April 1 and will run through August 31. Individuals are limited to one vote per day.

Here is how you can help:

1. Simply click on the link, register (one time only) and vote every day until August 31st!

2. Invite your groups’ members to show their support by casting votes in favor of this project.

3. Let all of your friends on facebook, twitter, myspace, etc., know how they can support your efforts to protect the Hudson River watershed, by voting for the HBRW/Trees for Tribs project.

4. Spread the word to anyone interested in watershed and natural resource protection!

Thanks for doing your part to protect the Hudson River watershed.

Mississippi National River & Recreation Area: Comprehensive Management Plan Content and Management Goals

Kate Ito — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 22:39:07 +0000

PART IV: In a series on the MNRRA

The Ford Parkway Bridge spans the Mississippi River in Minneapolis.

This is the fourth and final installment in a series of articles on the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA), a National Park designation that has been referenced as a potential model for Congressman Maurice Hinchey’s Hudson River Valley Special Resource Study Act (H.R. 4003). This post focuses on the essential content and management goals of MNRRA’s Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP).

The CMP provides a framework to balance natural, cultural, and economic resource protection, visitor use, and sustainable development activities. Land management is a focal point of the plan. The plan “will minimize adverse effects on the river corridor and conflicts between users while providing for a broad spectrum of land and water uses and managed growth. It will protect fish and wildlife resources and emphasize the importance of biological diversity in the corridor.”

Corridor management policies protect and restore the most significant visual resources, including historic structures and landscapes, and “the river corridor will have continuous public or private open space along the shoreline to the maximum extent practical, and it will be connected to the downtowns and neighborhoods by open space and trails.”

Additional public and private open space is a critically important resource in the corridor that will be stressed in plan implementation. “Such space will be provided through a continued local land and easement acquisition program. The goal will be to provide a continuous linear open space and trail along the riverfront in most of the corridor while protecting natural, cultural, and economic resources.”

While open space is encouraged in the CMP, the plan also recognizes the importance of economic activities and provides for the commercial use of the corridor consistent with the MNRRA legislation. “Economic activity has the ability to preserve nationally significant historic and economic resources, and this is encouraged by the plan. However, this document is not an economic development plan for the corridor.”

Therefore, except in existing commercial and industrial developments, downtown areas, and historic districts, and the riverfront and bluff area, it is a vision of the CMP for the corridor to appear mostly natural from the river and its shoreline areas. “In downtown areas and historic districts, development will be more visible, but still complement the aesthetics of the river corridor, appealing to area residents and serving as an attraction to visitors to the metropolitan area. Where the natural appearance has been altered in other areas, design guidelines and programs will be established to encourage shoreline restoration to a more natural appearance.”

The following is a summary table of the main issues the CMP addresses, based on the guidance provided by legislative direction and NPS policy.

Fran Dunwell, Voices of the Valley

Staff — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 16:00:54 +0000

Talk to your state legislator about the Hudson

Staff — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:53:47 +0000

In one of several meetings being held up and down the Hudson by members of the state legislature in the coming weeks to foster a regional dialogue about the future of the river and its valley, Senator Steve Saland, Assemblyman Marc Molinaro and Assemblyman Joel Miller will host a Community Forum September 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Marist College Historic Cornell Boathouse in Poughkeepsie. Featuring NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Coordinator, Fran Dunwell, the forum will explore ways to make progress on the goals of the state’s recently-released “Estuary Action Agenda” in these challenging economic times. The public will be invited to provide opinions on priority setting, on opportunities to achieve greater efficiencies through partnerships, and on what is working well that should be sustained. Click HERE for full announcement with directions.

Ken Sergeant, Voices of the Valley

Staff — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 20:12:50 +0000

Manna’s Picks: A bimonthly sustainability calendar for the Hudson Valley

Staff — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:45:23 +0000

Tues., Sept. 14, 7:15 p.m. FLOW: FOR THE LOVE OF WATER film-showing at Rosendale Theatre, sponsored by Rosendale and Marbletown Environmental Commissions in honor of Ulster County Creek week. Superb film, free. 845-687-7116. www.flowthefilm.com

Fri.-Sun., Sept. 10 – 12, WILD ROOTS, WISE WEEDS, A STUDY OF PLANT MEDICINES, An exploration of wild plants and how they enhance our well-being. Learn the medicinal value of herbs and spices and how to make tinctures and salves. Plant walks and hands-on study. At Genesis Farm, NW NJ, 908 362-6735, www.genesisfarm.org

Fri., Sept 10, 7:00 - 11:00 p.m. ENDANGERED PEOPLE – SAVE RAPANUI (Easter Island) Minimum donation $25.00 at The Hudson House 134 Main St., Nyack, NY.

Sat., Sept. 11, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CANNING & PICKLING WORKSHOP (2 of 2) Learn how to preserve the harvest and enjoy the delights of summer throughout the year. Taught by two local canning expert–Susan Loxely-Friedle and Barbara Nelson. This workshop is free. Phillies Bridge Farm Project, 45 Phillies Bridge Rd, New Paltz. www.philliesbridge.org 845-256-9108.

Sat., Sept 11 and Sat. Sept 25, 1030 am ESOPUS MEADOWS WALK AND WADE. Join Clearwater educators for a 2-hour hiking and seining program. We will catch and identify HR fish and examine the flora and fauna of the Esopus Meadows trail system. Moderate hike, open to all ages. No registration. Hudson Valley Ramble 845 265 8080 ex 7106

Sat., Sept. 11, 12:30-2:30 p.m. SOUP-A-BOWL, Enjoy local soup, pottery and live music by the banks of the Hudson River at our 3rd annual luncheon. All proceeds support local families who are provided with tons fresh food each year. Poughkeepsie Farm Project, hosted at the Children’s Musuem Pavillion, Poughkeepsie, NY (845) 473-1415, http://farmproject.org/content/soup-bowl-2010, tickets $26 for individual, $62 for “Let’s Do Lunch” family ticket.

Sat., Sept. 11, 4:00 p.m. OWLS AT THE ARBORETUM: Join Larry Federman, Audubon Society Educator for an introduction to these fascinating birds. We will be going outside to listen for and perhaps even see owls as they get ready for their night shift. www.mtarboretum.org 518-589-3903

Sat. Sept 11, 5-7 pm ANNUAL PULLED PORK & CHICKEN BBQ, Christ The King Episcopal Church, Rt 213, Stone Ridge. $12 Adults, $10 Sr Cit, $8 Children under 12. Take-Outs available. Delicious dinner w/ homemade desserts. Contact CTK Church–845.687.9414.

Sat. - Sun., Sept. 11-12. 2 PM. DUTCH HERITAGE WEEKEND. Power point lecture about the Dutch heritage of the Hudson valley by Firth Fabend describing the river and all aspects of the Dutch settlement. Museum and grounds will be open from 10 AM – 4 PM each day as well. Van Wyck Homestead Museum, 504 Route 9, Fishkill (by I 84). Info: Steve Lynch 845-896-8755, museum 845-896-9560. vanwyckhomestead@aol.com , www.fishkillhistoricalsociety.org . Free

Sun., Sept. 12 SKETCHBOOK + CAMERA HIKE: Lake Awosting Moderatehike. Introduction to sketching and photo composition during 8 mile, moderately paced hike from Lake Minnewaska to Lake Awosting . Group stops at scenic points to learn and practice basic techniques. Bring camera or sketchpad with colored pencils or crayons. Leaders: Kathy & Barry Skura 914-779-0936 Bskura@optonline. Pre-register and get meeting place by e-mailing Barry. www.MidHudsonADK.org

Sun., Sept. 12, 1:30 p.m., LEGACY FARM CO-HOUSING INFORMATIONAL MEETING, ROSENDALE REC CENTER, RTE 32 1:00pm for newcomer orientation. www.legacyfarmcohousing.org or call Gai Galitzine 845 339 2526 or gai.galitzine@gmail.com.

Sun., Sept 12, 2 PM, DANCE FILM SUNDAYS FEATURING SWING DANCE; The documentary Frankie Manning: Never Stop Swinging will be shown, along with other swing dance and lindy hop film clips. This will be followed by a swing dance performance and a talk and Q & A with a swing dance expert. Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. Contact Ed Schoelwer, eschoelwer@gmail.com or 658-8989

Sun., Sept. 12, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., EVALUATING YOUR STREAM BANKS; Explore problems frequently faced by streamside landowners, their causes and potential strategies for solving them. Led Joel Dubois and Mark Vian, Catskill Creek Watershed Advisory Committee members. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Greene County, contact Liz LoGiudice, (518) 622-9820 x 33; eml37@cornell.edu; www.agroforestrycenter.org

Sun., Sept.12, 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. – “SUNSET READING AT POETS’ WALK PARK,” Poets’ Walk Park, Red Hook. Stroll in spirit with Washington Irving, who found inspiration ambling the paths that wind through the sunlit meadows and quiet woodlands at Poets’ Walk. Afterwards, gather at the pavilion and enjoy refreshments while listening to poets read their works and watching the sun set behind the Catskills. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Mon – Sun, Sept. 13 – 19, TIMBER FRAME WORKSHOP with Sarah Highland in Bath NY .This week-long class will teach all the basic skills needed to construct a simple timber framed building. Participants will be introduced to the square rule system of layout, mortise-and-tenon joinery, and scarfing together shorter timbers to make longer ones. Nightly slide shows, design discussions, etc. For cost & more info contact PeaceWeavers at 607-776-4060 or pw@peacweavers.com .  Tues., Sept. 14, 7:15 p.m. FLOW: FOR THE LOVE OF WATER film-showing at Rosendale Theatre, sponsored by Rosendale and Marbletown Environmental Commissions in honor of Ulster County Creek week. Superb film, free. 845-687-7116. www.flowthefilm.com

Wed., Sept. 15, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m,. WATER AND WASTEWATER: MAINTAINING QUALITY AND SUPPLY at Omega Institute, Clinton. Northern Dutchess Alliance (NDA) presents 2010 series on the most pressing challenges facing towns in northern Dutchess County featuring expert panels bridging varied perspectives, and allow time for questions and open public dialogue about creative solutions. Following each forum, NDA will publish a white paper to disseminate the ideas and strategies that come out of the discussions. http://northerndutchess.org/events.html

Weds., Sept.15, 7:00 p.m. FOLLOW THE RIVER lecture series at Hudson River Maritime Museum at 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston. (845) 338-0071 Presents Clearwater Nation, a short documentary about Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival with Q&A by NYC filmmaker Pamela Timmins.

Wed., Sept. 15 – 16, ANNUAL CLEAN WATER THROUGH PROTECTION AND PARTNERSHIP 2010 WATERSHED SCIENCE & TECHNICAL CONFERENCE, Thayer Hotel, West Point. Showcases the most current trends, technologies, and scientific developments regarding the NYC Watershed and other water supplies across the country. Includes stormwater control, stream health, recreational use, forestry, emerging contaminants, and more. Offered by the NY Water Environment Association (NYWEA), NYSDEC, the Watershed Protection and Partnership Council, and NY Dept. of State. http://nywea.org/meetings/Docs56/2010WatershedConf.pdf for details and registration.

Thurs., Sept. 16, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. THE ARTS COMMUNITY SOCIAL Music, Wine,Tasty Treats, Raffles for Broadway shows, information on classes , New Paltz Community Center, Rt. 32 N, behind the Town Hall info@theartscommunity.com

Thurs., Sept. 16 , 5:30 p.m. RAINGARDEN DEMO; 7 p.m: Two talks on water-conserving plants & simple irrigation techniques at Threefold Auditorium, Hungry Hollow Rd., Chestnut Ridge. WATERSHED-FRIENDLY LANDCARE II. Cosponsored by Bergen SWAN, Threefold Education Center, other Rockland County. FREE. Pre-register: 201-666-1877 or 845-624-4601; bergenswan@sprynet.com; www.bergenswan.org.

Thurs-Sun, Sept. 16 – 19, INTRODUCTION TO TRANSITION, a comprehensive overview of the Transition model for decreasing oil dependency and building local community resilience – the “head, heart, and hands” practical, principled response to living in a time of peak oil, climate change and economic instability. With certified Transition trainers at Genesis Farm, 908 362-6735 www.genesisfarm.org.

Thurs., Sept. 16, 7:00 p.m., THIRD THURSDAYS AT CEIE | DIALOGUE: GET SMART ABOUT WATER. Alexandra Dunn, Asst. Dean at Pace University Law School, and Sharon Nunes, Ph.D., VP of Big Green Innovations for IBM, discuss water management, science, policy and why building partnerships is vital for saving our rivers. John Cronin, BIRE Director and CEO will facilitate. Contact: mheintzman@bire.org, www.bire.org.

Fri., Sept. 17, 7:00 p.m., FOUR FISH AT THE CARY INSTITUTE, award-winning writer and author of “Four Fish” Paul Greenberg will discuss how large-scale commercial fishing, extensive fish farming, and questionable environmental standards have distressed aquatic ecosystems, pushing many wild fish populations to the brink of extinction. Cary Institute auditorium, 2801 Sharon Turnpike (Route 44), Millbrook, N.Y. (845) 677-7600 x 121 or e-mail freemanp@caryinstitute.org. www.caryinstitute.org

Fri., September 17, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., WATER FLOWING BY, a workshop for land use officials and professionals on the true nature of water. Will guide hands-on scientific and art experimentation and highlight Orange County’s water resources. OC Municipal Planning Federation. Sterling Forest Visitor’s Center Tuxedo, NY. Atticus Lanigan 845-615-3853 alanigan@orangecountygov.com

Sat., Sept. 18, 5:30-7:00 p.m., COTA Lecture Series Nicole Carroll: Artists Marketing: an Evening of Tips and Resources for Professional Artists. Richard Heyl DeOrtiz: Having Your Head in Both Worlds-Business and Art. Free to the Public wine food and music provided, at Water Street Market , 10 Main St. New Paltz. 845 255 2611. www.CelebrationoftheArts.net

Sun., Sept. 19, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. RAMSHORN-LIVINGSTON SANCTUARY PADDLE, Dutchman’s Landing Park, Catskill. Join Audubon New York and Scenic Hudson on a trip by kayak or canoe through the primeval landscape in this largest tidal swamp in the Hudson River estuary. Discover creatures great and small, from bald eagles and great blue herons to beaver, otter and muskrat. Bring your own boat (12-foot or longer), PFD, extra paddle, spray skirt (kayaks), snack and water. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473-4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Tues., Sept. 21, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., BASIC HERBAL MEDICINE MAKING Ashley Sapir Lathrop will teach participants how easy it can be to make herbal preparations from plants and “weeds” from our own gardens. Everyone will create their own 2 oz. tincture to bring home. Pre-registration required, Contact Sandra at Sandra@philliesbridge.org or 845-256-9108, Workshop Fee: $20/$25

Wed., Sept 22, 7:00 p.m., SCIENCE CAFE: “Hurricanes and Climate” Timothy Hall, Senior Scientist, NASA Goddard Institute Space Studies, NYC. www.cafescientifique.org/hudsonvalley.htm Open to the public, meets on the 4th Wednesday of the month, except where note at Diana’s, 1015 Little Britain Road (Route 207), New Windsor (just east of Stewart Newburgh Airport entrance). See www.DIANASNY.com for menus and map. $3.00 admission incl. coffee or tea. Arrive at 6 pm and order from the Early bird Menu. No orders are taken during the Presentation (7:00 – 7:30 p.m.)

Sat. Sept 25, 10:30 a.m. ESOPUS MEADOWS WALK AND WADE. Join Clearwater educators for a 2-hour hiking and seining program. We will catch and identify HR fish and examine the flora and fauna of the Esopus Meadows trail system. Moderate hike, open to all ages. No registration. Hudson Valley Ramble 845 265 8080 ex 7106

Sat., Sept. 25, 12:00 p.m. Join APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB at the Fire Island cabin in a conservation effort. Collect and record marine debris along the Great South Bay. Help preserve the coastal environment and provide data for an international research project. No day guest fee. Contact Marie Tanner @ 718-379-7508 for more info.

Sat. Sept 25, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., Annual UNITY DAY PICNIC, Marbletown Park, Tongore Road, Stone Ridge NY. Old Fashioned Family Picnic, Antique & Classic Car Display, Games & Acitvities for the kids. Do a Good Deed While You Have Fun–50% of the Net Proceeds donated to the Rondout Valley Food Pantry. Sponsored by the Marbletown Landowners Association. $10 Individual, $25 Family. Contacts: 845.658.8929 or 845.687.7258

Sat., Sept. 25, 8:00 p.m., WALKABOUT CLEARWATER CHORUS AND SHARON KATZ AND PEACE TRAIN sharing the bill at the People’s Voice Cafe, Community Church of New York Unitarian Universalist, 40 E. 35th Street, NYC – $15.

Sat., Sept. 25, ride begins at 9:00 a.m. – “FARMLAND CYCLING TOUR,” Poets’ Walk Park, Red Hook, Dutchess County – Pedal from Poets’ Walk Park through the beautiful, rolling countryside of Dutchess and Columbia counties. Besides occasional glimpses of the Hudson River, pass farm stands offering fresh produce. After returning to the park, enjoy a fabulous lunch while listening to live music. Choose the length of your ride—7, 15, 30 or 50 miles—and pick up a map at the start. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Sat., Sept. 25 (raindate 9/26), 9am-3pm, MID-HUDSON SIERRA CLUB BIG ANNUAL TAG SALE, Mulligan’s Irish Pub’s lot, Rt 376 between Po’k & Wappingers, dollar bags at closing, bibis@juno.com, 338-0300. (Call about donations/raindate).

Sat., Sept. 25 and Sun.,26, 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, SPIRITUAL ASPIRATION AND LESSONS IN SPIRITUAL LIFE, at Vivekananda Retreat, Ridgely, 101 Leggett Road, Stone Ridge. Swami Ishtananda. Lunch included. ridgely.org, (845) 687-4574. Free

Sat, Sept. 25, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL & ART AUCTION.Come enjoy tours and activities as well as an art auction to support Phillies Bridge Farm Project. Event is free, food & beverages for purchase. Phillies Bridge Farm Project, 45 Phillies Bridge Rd, New Paltz. www.philliesbridge.org 845-256-9108.

Sat., Sept. 25, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., FALL FESTIVAL & YARD SALE, Woodstock Reformed Church, 16 Tinker St., Woodstock, www.woodstockreformedchurch.org

Sun., Sept. 26, 11 am to 4 pm. NEW PALTZ LOCAL FOOD FESTIVAL. Hosted by Brook Farm Project and the Robibero Family Vineyards, combining fun and festival with educational activities and programs related to food and beverages grown or produced right here in the Hudson Valley. Robibero Family Vineyards, 714 Albany Post Rd. in New Paltz. Local vendors encouraged to participate. Contact Kate McCoy at (845) 430-0229 or brookfarm.education@gmail.com.

Mon., Sept. 27, 7:00 p.m. Water Activist Maude Barlow speaks about her new book: BLUE COVENANT – THE GLOBAL WATER CRISIS AND THE COMING BATTLE FOR THE RIGHT TO WATER. Marist College. Nelly Goletti Theatre. Paula Willoquet-Maricondi, paula.willoquet@marist.edu. Free.

Wed., Sept. 29, 6:30-9:00 p.m. FUTURE OF THE HUDSON RIVER WATERSHED. Hosted by Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski and Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee in cooperation with the Hudson River Watershed Alliance. Featuring Fran Dunwell NYSDEC Hudson River Estuary Coordinator, Estuary Action Agenda www.dec.ny.gov/lands/4920.html Limited space, walk-in. Free.

SAVE THE DATE

Sun., Oct. 3, 12:00 – 6:00 p.m., 2010 Annual Kingston Bluestone Festival, free, at grounds of Kingston Maritime Museum, Rondout, Kingston, NY; register: bluestonefestival@yahoo.com

Fri., Oct. 8, 5 p.m. thru Sun., Oct. 10, 10.p.m. O+ MUSIC, ART AND WELLNESS FESTIVAL: The first annual celebration of art and music in Uptown Kingston that creates a bridge to health care access for artists. O+ exemplifies complete physical, mental and social well-being by uniting artists with a coalition of health care providers and community resources, in a shared vision to nurture the individual and the community. 3-day passes to festival events available for suggested donation of $25. Visit www.opositivefestival.org to learn more!  Sat, Oct. 9, 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon FERMENTATION WORKSHOP Learn how to make sauerkraut with expert, Amie Barracks. Pre-registration required, Contact Sandra at Sandra@philliesbridge.org or 845-256-9108, Workshop Fee: $10/$15   Sat., Oct. 9, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., COTA -CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS, over 100 artists, installations, music, performances, author and poetry readings, marketing consultation, dance classes, kids activities, all FREE to the public at Historic Huguenot St., New Paltz, www.celebrationoftheArts.com Wed., Oct. 27, 7:00 p.m., SCIENCE CAFE: “How Evolution Happens: Lessons from Molecular Biology” Toby Rossman, Ph.D., Professor of Environmental Medicine, NYU Langone School of Medicine. At Diana’s, 1015 Little Britain Road (Route 207), New Windsor. See www.DIANASNY.com for menus and map. $3.00 admission incl. coffee or tea. Arrive at 6pm and order from the Early bird Menu. No orders are taken during the Presentation (7:00 – 7:30 p.m.)

Sat., Oct. 30, 1:00 -2:00 p.m. WILD LIFE PROGRAM WITH ANDREW SIMMONS at Unison, 68 Mt. Rest Rd., New Paltz. Wild life specialist and only person licensed to own animals on endangered species list handles and educates on their importance in the wild. $7 members / $10 non-members. Tickets: 845-255-1559. info@unisonarts.org, www.unisonarts.org

Oct 2010 – Jun 2011, one weekend/month. NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ADVISOR PROGRAM: How sustainable concepts are applied to design, development, construction, and management of buildings. AIA: 100 learning units. Approved as USGBC Ed. Provider; LEED maintenance credits. June 5, info session in Kingston. Instructor: Cliff Cooper, LEED AP, CSBA. SUNY Ulster, Kingston. 518-687-5012, songayla@sunyulster.edu.

Mon., Dec. 13, Conference on Water Resources and the Regional Economy, Sponsored by The NYS DEC Hudson River Estuary Program, at SUNY New Paltz Student Union Building Multi-purpose Room, Contact Frances Dunwell 845-256-3016, For more information and updates visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/4920.html

ONGOING:

Book a sail on the SLOOP CLEARWATER with your school or group! Clearwater offers three-hour sail programs on the Hudson River from April-October, sailing out of docks between Albany and NYC. We provide an award-winning education program to schools, scouts, and other youth groups. Clearwater can also be booked by non-profit groups, private parties and companies. It’s a great interactive experience on a traditional Hudson River sailboat. Contact Catherine at 845.454.7673 ext. 107 or catherine@clearwater.org

Saturdays, BIRD WALK WITH THE RALPH T. WATERMAN BIRD CLUB Learn more about birds in the Hudson Valley that frequent this area. Bird walk location changes each week. For more info, visit: www.dutchesswam.com/events/ , or http://www.watermanbirdclub.org

Every Saturday, 12:30-1:30 PM, VIGIL FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE. All are welcome to join us! We have signs available calling for peace, and for a progressive agenda at home that includes healthcare for all, green jobs and the restoration of our Constitution. Sponsored by New Paltz Women in Black. In front of Elting Library, corner of Main and N Front Streets, New Paltz. womeninblacknp@aol.com or call 845 626-4488.

Every Saturday, 9 am -2 pm till mid Oct.- Heart of the Hudson Valley Farmers Market 1801-1805 Rt. 9W, Cluett Schantz Park, Milton, NY 12547, 845 616-7824, www.hhvfarmersmarket.com. The H.H.V. farmers market provides the fundamentals for everyone to have a Healthly Living Style, by bringing fresh food, good exercise and the arts all to one place. We are always looking to add new vendors for our customers to enjoy.

2nd Saturdays in Beacon at 4:00 p.m. at the east end of Main Street. COMMUNITY STREET SINGERS – Join Pete Seeger and friends for a family sing-along. Bring a song to share. Inclement weather, meet in the Howland Center. For more info, contact Chris Ruhe at 845 831-7567

Saturdays, Sept 4, 8:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. FREESTYLE FROLIC. An alcohol and drug free environment, offers dancers a wide range of music including R&B, World, Funk, Hip Hop and Electronica in an expressive environment featuring eclectic DJ’s spinning funky and ecstatic dance music. At the Center for Symbolic Studies, 310 River Road Ext. New Paltz. $7 adults, $3 Teens & Seniors, Children & Volunteers free. Rain or shine; the tent space will be heated if it’s cold out. www.freestylefrolic.org or call (845) 658-8319.

Sundays, ADIRONDACK MOUNTAIN CLUB HIKE. Contact Lalita Malik, 845-592-0204 or LalitaMalik@aol.com . Locations vary. For more info, visit: www.dutchesswam.com/events

Sundays, (starting June 7) 10:30 am – 12:00 p.m. SUSTAINABLE LIVING WORKSHOPS, Regeneration CSA in High Falls. www.regenerationcsa.org (845) 687-0535

Sundays, 7 PM. NICOTINE ANONYMOUS (12-step support group for getting off nicotine/tobacco products), Woodstock Library. 687-7892. www.nicotine_anonymous.org

Sundays, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. , June 7th through November 1st. ROSENDALE FARMERS MARKET outside at the Rosendale Community Center., 1055 Rt. 32, Rosendale. 15+ vendors of traditional & organic veggies, fruits, baked goods, eggs, meats, plants, wine, cheese, plus excellent cooking tools & gardening info. Looking for vendors of ready-to-eat home-made food & specialty foods. 845-339-0819 or amardiney@hvc.rr.com

Every 2nd & 4th Sun., Spring 2010, 6-8 pm, SWING SUNDAYS, swing dance and instruction, $15, all levels welcome – hosted by the Vanaver Caravan at MaMA, Main St., Stone Ridge, NY. Contact The Vanaver Caravan, 845-256-9300, vcoffice@vanavercaravan.org for more information and to confirm dates.

Every 3rd Sunday: WORLD MEDITATION HOUR, 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. – Discussion on a Spiritual Topic, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. World Meditation with music, silence, guided commentary, bus for a replenishing hour of meditation for the self and for our planet. Peace Village Learning & Retreat Center, Haines Falls (Hunter) NY, (518) 589-5000, peace-village@bkwsu.org

Every Mon., 5 to 6 p.m. PLANET BLUE WITH CHRIS RUHE and Tonia Shou on radio station WVKR 91.3 FM.

Monday evenings: COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION/NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION series to learn the practice of staying self connected, coming from the energy we choose to come from, using self empathy . Pre-registration required for this series offered at Vita’s Gallerie on the Woodstock Green next to the Garden Cafe. 845 246 5935 or www.steps2peace.com

Every 4th Tuesday of the month. Walks and hikes that are short & leisurely in pace. www.midhusonadk.org

Tuesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE with Dr. Sam Schikowitz. Acupuncture does not have to be expensive to be effective! $20-$40 sliding scale, w/$20 first-time fee for new patients. No appointment necessary. Last person accepted at 5:00 p.m. Wear comfortable clothing. The Living Seed Health Center, 521 B Main St., New Paltz. 845-691-6822. http://www.wholefamilymedicine.com/

Wednesdays, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29, 7:00 PM, CHRIS MARTENSON’S CRASH COURSE, The Crash Course clearly explains how our economy, energy systems and environment face increasing challenges, and explores likely implications for the future. Presented in four parts during September. Transition Westchester, Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Avenue Ossining, NY 10562, John Bell, contact@transitionwestchester.org, www.transitionwestchester.org, Free.

1st Wednesday, 7:30 PM Taize Prayer at Mount St. Alphonsus in Esopus. All are welcomed to come and listen to the spiritual and meditative prayer sung by The Mount Choir.

2nd Wednesday of each month, 6:30-9:00 p.m. HUDSON VALLEY GREEN DRINKS Networking Sessions. For people in the environmental fields, sustain ably-minded and eco-curious. $5 at the door. Bring business cards. For full calendar and venues, visit www.hvgreendrinks.org

Wednesdays, BIRD WALK WITH THE RALPH T. WATERMAN BIRD CLUB Learn more about birds in the Hudson Valley that frequent this area. Bird walk location changes each week. For more info, visit: www.dutchesswam.com/events/ , or http://www.watermanbirdclub.org

Wednesdays, 7 PM. NICOTINE ANONYMOUS (12-step support group for getting off nicotine/tobacco products), Room 2, Education Building of Dutch Reform Church in New Paltz (Broadhead Ave & Huguenot St.). 687-7892. www.nicotine-anonymous.org

Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m.. WELLBEING LAUGHTER CLUB Hilarious and fun recreation, a unique combination of laughter, simple movement, and play. Open to all ages. At Peace Through Play Nursery School, 8 Amber Ridge Road, Chestnut Ridge, $10 donation requested, should not be an obstacle to participation. Contact Jodi Peister, MD (aka Dr. Wellbeing), dr@drwellbeing.com or www.drwellbeing.com

3rd Wednesdays: Dutchess County Soil & Water Conservation District Monthly Board Meeting – held at the Farm & Home Center 2715 Route 44, Millbrook. Meeting starts at 7 p.m. November – March and at 7:30 p.m. April – October. All are welcome to attend.

First and third Thursday of the month the leaders offer 3-6 hour hikes to different areas of the Mid Hudson Valley. Hikes are followed by a stop for refreshment. Contact Leaders: Ginni Fauci, 845-399-2170, vfauci1@hvc.rr.com Lalita Malik, LalitaMalik@aol.com , (845) 592-0204

www.midhudsonADK.org

Second & fourth Thursday of the each month, paddles vary in length, difficulty, and location. Most are on quieter water; some are on the Hudson River. Leisurely–we stop for looks at birds and waterfalls and for lunch. Contact leader at shnaber@yahoo.com or 845-255-6005 www.midhudsonadk.org

Thursdays at 7 PM, World Peace Diet Book discussion group led by Shanti Urreta. Interested patrons may sign up at this event, or online at www.mahopaclibrary.org or by calling 845-628-2009, ext 100.

Thurs. 4:30 – 6 p.m. ONGOING DANCE CLASSES. Modern dance classes at Mt.View Studio in Woodstock led by Andrea Pastorella, Director, Movita Dance Theatre. 845 282-6723

Fridays, 2 PM, NICOTINE ANONYMOUS (12-step support group for getting off nicotine/tobacco products), People, Inc., Poughkeepsie. linm645@aol.com

Fridays 4-5:30 p.m. COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE with Dr. Sam Schikowitz ND, LAc. Acupuncture does not have to be expensive to be effective! $20-$40 sliding scale, w/$20 first-time fee for new patients. No appointment necessary. Last person accepted at 5:00 p.m. Wear comfortable clothing. The Living Seed Health Center, 521 B Main St., New Paltz. 845-691-6822. http://www.wholefamilymedicine.com/

3rd Friday of every month. 6:30 PM. ASSOCIATION OF NATIVE AMERICANS POT-LUCK FEAST with drumming, singing and lots of good fellowship. In the basement of United Reform Church in Bloomington (turn east off Rte 32 bet. Kingston and Rosendale onto Taylor Ave by Bloomington Firehouse, then left at T onto Church St. Church on right; parking across street on left). 845-331-7099

3rd Fridays, 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. DRUM AND DANCE at The Living Seed in New Paltz. $5 Bring drums and dancing feet.npdrumanddance@yahoo.com or www.thelivingseed.com

Weekdays, after school SPRINGDANCE classes offered through the Vanaver Caravan Dance Institute at New Paltz and Stone Ridge locations, for youth ages 4-teens. Ongoing registration. (845) 256-9300, vcoffice@vanavercaravan.org for more information and to register. Visit: www.vanavercaravan.org

Hudson Valley Community Dances www.hudsonvalleydance.org ; If traveling any distance, confirm late changes by calling the specific information numbers on website.

- First Saturday English Country Dance, Hurley

- First Sunday Swing Jam, Arlington

- Third Saturday Contra Dance, Arlington

- Third Sunday West Coast Swing/California Mix, Kingston

- Fourth Friday Swing Dance, Poughkeepsie

- Fourth Saturday Contra Dance, New Paltz

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Art/Craft Co-op open to Hudson Valley Artisans. Indoor&outdoor. Display retail, work space on busy Rte 207. Intent is to be true co-op run by participants. 1770 House New Windsor. 239 year old building 3/4 acre. 845-664-2140

BED & BISCUIT: Where Dogs Run Free! ~Cozy cottage w. larged fenced yard. Limited clientele. Round the Clock love & attention~ 25 yrs experience. Transportation available. www.bednbiscuit.com

Call to artists to donate a piece of artwork to Kingston Library to begin a program of loan of original artwork to patrons. This program will be limited to 12 paintings. The patron will borrow the artwork as they would a book. The artwork should be framed and ready to hang. Contact Ed Pell, Ph.D. pellphd@yahoo.com

City of Albany is soliciting qualified individuals or firms to provide consulting services in connection with developing, implementing and managing a City-wide Energy and Sustainability Plan and Program for the City of Albany, New York. This is a new program designed to lead the Citys energy and sustainability efforts. Contact melnickd@ci.albany.ny.us for information.

Community Character Consulting, West Hurley. Providing experiential workshops in interpersonal communication and character education to individuals, parents, teachers, couples and businesses. www.communitycharacter.com

HANDMADE CRAFTS: Handmade hats, scarves, bags, & custom items for children and adults; I make all items with conservation and sustainability in mind. My work often includes both new and reused materials. Visit: www.earthypeace.etsy.com ; or email: earthypeace@yahoo.com

Hudson River Valley Fine Arts, 22 Spruce St., Kingston, open by appointment. February Paintings of Light Houses of The Hudson River and other paintings. pellphd@yahoo.com

Kingston Library is original artwork to patrons. Are there painters who will give a piece of framed, original, ready to hang artwork to Kingston Library? These paintings will be loaned to patrons, just as they loan books. Contact: pellphd@yahoo.com

Looking for work! I’m multi-talented and reliable. Know anyone who needs help with a special project or who is hiring help for their business? Available immediately. Thanks! Lisa 845-657-2211 lahtuyu@aol.com

Large studio apt. available mid-Sept. in Saugerties-, country setting, for one person. Bright & sunny. No pets/smokers. Inc.. heat & hot water. $595. 845-246-7174

MISHA’S ARK PETSITTING, Safety & Care for all your domestic and exotic pets; farm animals, too. Overnights available in your home. .

www.mishasarkpetsitting.com home (845)-255-4072 mishasarkpetsitting@yahoo.com cell 845-453-8741

NuRide is a free, internet based program that assists with finding rideshare possibilities and can be found at www.nuride.com

Raw milk, cheese, yogurt, turkey offered for sale at Old Ford Farm in New Paltz. For info contact Becky and Joe Fullam at 845-784-0138 or

oldfordfarm@live.com

SHAMANIC HEALING /CONSULTATION: Restores Joy, Trust, Vitality & Quality of Life. Enhances medical treatment. READINGS determine desired outcomes & anchor the energies that support you. Powerful Spirit Allies. Step into Harmony with life. Bonnie Fireheart. 845-417-5217. www.thebountifulspirit.com

SHAMANISM MEET-UP GROUP: Learn shamanism by experiencing it. FUN, Safe, Supportive environment. Dedicated to Earthkeeping & Spiritual Vision. Form REAL Community. Opportunity to Share, Grow, Unfurl. Nurture your soul. When spirit calls … Listen.http://www.meetup.com/Hudson-Valley-Shamanism-Group/

Solar-powered clam nursery – An innovative project in Long Island is using renewable energy to nurture juvenile shellfish. The FLUPSY (Floating Upweller System) is a floating solar and wind powered clam nursery with an entirely self-sustaining design that is accelerating the restoration of shellfish populations. Watch the video at www.newenergychoices.org/index.php?page=videos&sd=no&rd=pages

Taste the Region specialty food gift boxes have just debuted at the NY Wine and Culinary Center and are a project of the NY Small Scale Food Processors’ Assoc. The first boxes are from the Hudson Valley, Long Island, Adirondack and Finger Lakes Regions and all sell for $45 plus shipping for this great holiday gift item supporting small regional businesses. For further details: www.nyssfpa.com .

TUTORING Services: Jamie Levato is certified teacher, with a BS and a MS in Education. She’s been tutoring in the Hudson Valley for more than five years. All ages; references available; sliding scale; please call (1-888-776-5496) or email JamieLevato@yahoo.com

VIRTUAL HUDSON RIVER ISLAND FOR SALE! Any day. By appt. Once in lifetime chance to own waterfront treasure near Albany, across from Bethlehem park/boat launch. Scenic views, underwater rights, sandy coves/beaches, high plateau, deep woods. Buildable. Perfect for family compound, retreat, hideaway. Contact owner jcrenss@aol.com 518.477.6618, www.hudsonriverland.com for aerials.

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Beacon Sloop Club: www.beaconsloopclub.org

Beyond Oil Protest: written in non-radical no non-sense terms by 4 Mom’s disgusted by our country’s oil policies. Address it to President O’Bama state and Fed reps! Use it as a petition! Printed material is given more credence than electronic so Please print it and mail it! http://vrmill.com/beyondoil/

Blessed Unrest: www.paullussiercompany.com/add_htmls/blessed_unrest.html

Center for Symbolic Studies, River Road Extension, Rosendale. www.symbolicstudies.org for detailed schedule of workshops & performances.

CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT EVERYTHING www.worldwildlife.org/ted/latteflash.html

http://charterforcompassion.org/

Compare anything www.diffen.com

www.chrismartenson.com/crashcourse The CRASH COURSE provides a baseline understanding of the economy so that you can better appreciate the risks that we all face. Should be required viewing — and I say this not caring much for economics, but it’s a reality that is impacting all of us, so best have some in depth insight. Martenson makes it crystal clear; fewer surprises if you are prepared and understand what is going on. Well worth the time invested to watch these selections.

The Daily Green: www.thedailygreen.com

Eco-Tube: www.eco-tube.com Find hundreds of eco-videos and upload your own….Be inspired!

European Pressurized Reactors: The same money spent installing renewable energy systems will produce more power, more jobs, put that power on line now (not ten years from now), and not endanger our future with storage or security issues. EPR is a spending boondoggle designed to prop up failing technology promoted by multinational engineering and supply companies. http://action.citizen.org/t/6693/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=28110

Generation We: www.gen-we.com and www.youtube.com/generationwe

Humanitarian Crisis in Sri Lanka. Aid needed for 300,000 displaced people from recent fighting in the north. People suffering from anemia, poor sanitation, etc. $1 provides 3 healthy meals in a day. Sarvodaya Foundation is feeding 30,000 and providing another 20,000 with clean water, etc. Please contact www.sarvodayaUSA.org to donate on line or through PayPal. $30 feeds one refugee for a month.

HUDSON-VALLEY-ENVIRONMENT: GRASSROOTS ENVIRONMENTAL LIST SERVE..established to educate and to protect the region’s resources, culture and history. Started last year as ‘Dutchess-Environment’ but decided that more voices would mean more learning. To subscribe, cut and paste Hudson-Valley-Environment-Subscribe@npogroups.org . Info: prostenberg@fishkillridge.org or 860-354-6947 eves.

Hudsonia. www.hudsonia.org

Information is beautiful: www.informationisbeautiful.net/leftvright_world.html?c

Landmark Forum: www.landmarkeducation.com

Kingston History www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnrFjNKo4tk

Marcellus Shale: http://solar1.org/video/drill_baby_drill/player.html

Media Strategies for Sustainability: Here is an opportunity for you to share and learn successful strategies for media engagement; to increase local and national coverage of sustainability efforts at your institution; and to learn more about innovations and learning from other institutions. http://sites.google.com/site/campussustainmedia/Intro

Michael Moore on Norway and Bastoy Prison: www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4L6-0WRfSA

Multi-chemical Sensitivity http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWodZ4nq05M

NYSDEC website gives the public expanded access to information on breeding birds, herps, rare organisms, and natural communities. As a gateway to biodiversity information, NY Nature Explorer is intended for landowners, land managers, citizens, municipal officials, planners, consultants, project developers, researchers, students, and anyone interested in the natural world with information from the 2nd NYS Breeding Bird Atlas (2000-2005), the NYS Herp Atlas (1990-1999), and the NY Natural Heritage Program Databases. www.dec.ny.gov/animals/57844.html

NYSDECs Environmental Resource Mapper is an on-line, interactive mapping application that can be used to identify some of NYS’s natural resources and environmental features that are state protected, or of conservation concern. www.dec.ny.gov/animals/38801.html

NYS Oceans and Great Lakes Internet-Based Atlas to Monitor Health of States Resources — created to help advance ecosystem-based management statewide, this online mapping program that makes it possible to download data into Google Earth GIS software. www.nyogatlas.org . Ecosystem-based management takes into account environmental and human interrelationships. Its goal is to manage human activities to create healthy, productive, resilient ecosystems that can deliver the resources people want and need.

Palindrome video: Lost Generation www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=42E2fAWM6rA

Patrick Henry Hughes: If you have not seen this video, but its worth viewing. It demonstrates both the indomitable human spirit and the power of music in our lives. www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=9xwCG0Ey2Mg

Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/framlst/infocenter.html

Project BudBurst, a nationwide initiative in the United States of America, started on February 15, 2008 to enable volunteers, students, gardeners and other “citizen scientists”, to track climate change by observing the timing of flowers and foliage. The project,operated by the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research and a team of partners, give researchers a detailed picture of our warming climate. www.usanpn.org, www.windows.ucar.edu/citizen_science/budburst

Property tax reform: www.taxreformagenda.org

Random Acts of Consciousness: www.huffingtonpost.com/arthur-rosenfeld/pay-it-backwards-an-act-o_b_151793.html

REACH is a new European Community Regulation on chemicals and their safe use (EC 1907/2006). It deals with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical substances. The new law entered into force on 1 June 2007. It WILL impact US chemical companies. http://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/reach/reach_intro.htm

Recycling cell phones and accessories helps save energy and reduces input to landfills and incinerators. Please see www.epa.gov/cellphones and www.epa.gov/cellphone/cell-recycling-locations.htm to learn more about the benefits of E-waste recycling and how and where cell phones can be recycled

RENEWABLE ENERGY VIDEO BLOG, Renewable Energy in the Forest: The educational and research facilities at Black Rock Forest , a nature preserve in the Hudson Highlands, are now powered by multiple sets of solar panels and served by a geothermal heating and cooling system. The success of these renewable energy systems has been so great that the Forest is now considering installing wind and water energy. View at www.newenergychoices.org/index.php?page=videos&sd=no&rd=pages

Revoking Corporate Charters, when they are no longer serve the public good: alternativeradio.org, search for: Richard Grossman: www.poclad.org; also Tom Linzey’s Democracy School: www.celdf.org

Stanford University ranks nuclear worst, tied with coal: http://news-service.stanford.edu/news/2009/january7/power-010709.html

Story of Stuff: www.storyofstuff.com: Please do yourself and your planet a favor and watch this 20-minute animated video/film, which explains in simple, powerful terms why our present system of ever-accelerating production and consumption is unsustainable, unjust and unfulfilling, and why it doesn’t have to be this way.

Sustainable Living permaculture@sivananda.org

Transition Town Training www.transitiontowns.org

www.treehuggingfamily.com/november-2008-green-challenge-buy-nothing-day

www.VeggieTrader.com Online portal where backyard gardeners can buy, sell or swap homegrown produce. Listings organized by food type and zip code. Membership free.

World Health Org says we’re number 37! www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVgOl3cETb4

Wind energy: www.tangarie-energy.com

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“The environment is not a competing interest to be balanced with other interests; rather, it is the playing field, the very foundation, upon which all our interests compete.” ~ Dr. Michael Klemens, Founder, Metropolitan Conservation Alliance

“We must rapidly begin the shift from a thing-oriented society to a person-oriented society. When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, militarism and economic exploitation are incapable of being conquered. A nation can flounder as readily in the face of moral and spiritual bankruptcy as it can through financial bankruptcy.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, 4 April, 1967 – A Time to Break Silence

“Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed.” Dwight D. Eisenhower, 4/16/53

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.” ~ Dalai Lama

“Humans have got to learn to have jobs without growth.” ~ Pete Seeger

“In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man [person], brave, hated, and scorned. When his cause succeeds however, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.” ~ Mark Twain

“Behind the ostensible government sits enthroned an invisible government owing no allegiance and acknowledging no responsibility to the people. To destroy this invisible government, to befoul the unholy alliance between corrupt business and corrupt politics is the first task of the statesmanship of the day” ~ Theodore Roosevelt, April 19, 1906

“Wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrows.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

“This hour in history needs a dedicated circle of transformed nonconformists. The saving of our world from pending doom will come not from the actions of a conforming majority but from the creative maladjustment of a transformed minority.” — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior is finally and permanently discredited and abandoned, everywhere is war and until there are no longer first-class and second-class citizens of any nation, until the color of a man’s skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes. And until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all without regard to race, there is war. And until that day, the dream of lasting peace,

world citizenship, rule of international morality, will remain but a fleeting illusion to be pursued, but never attained… now everywhere is war. ~ Haile Selassie quoted by Bob Marley in his song – War!

Alice Walker in her book, We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For: “It is the worst of times because it feels as though the very Earth is being stolen from us, by us: the land and air poisoned, the water polluted, the animals disappeared, humans degraded and misguided. War is everywhere. It is the best of times because we have entered a period, if we can bring ourselves to pay attention, of great clarity as to cause and effect….We have only to open our eyes, and awaken to our predicament. We see that we are, alas, a huge part of our problem. However: we live in a time of global enlightenment. This alone should make us shout for joy.”

“We may now care for each Earthian individual at a sustainable billionaire’s level of affluence while living exclusively on less than 1 percent of our planet’s daily energy income from our cosmically designed nuclear reactor, the Sun, optimally located 92 million safe miles away from us.” ~ Buckminster Fuller

“This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.” ~ The Dalai Lama

“The real task of leadership is to confront people with their freedom…freedom being the choice to be a creator of our own experience and accept the unbearable responsibility that goes with that.” — Peter Block, Community: The Structure of Belonging

“You destroy your enemies by making them your friends.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

“This is not a private planet. It is a community initiative.” — Malidoma Some

May Peace with Justice Prevail on a Healed and Harmonious Earth ~

Please send all listings in calendar format (10 pt. Arial font, black ink — NO color or other formatting) to mannajo@aol.com: Day of the week (abbrev.), Date (abbrev.), Time, Name of Event (IN ALL CAPS), BRIEF description. Sponsoring group, Location, Contact person, Phone (specify area code), Email, URL, Cost. No more than 3 lines, or 50 words TOTAL. Please be concise; include email contact or website for more information. Listings not in calendar format in the body of the email will be returned for you to edit. Calendar policy: This calendar reaches 3,000+ of the best and brightest in Hudson Valley and beyond, but we cannot edit your listings. We publish twice a month usually just before the 1st and 15th, so please send by the week before to be sure. No more than 2 or 3 listings per organization or individual per month. If you have multiple events, please pick the best (most related to creating a sustainable future) and include a website or email for further information. (Reminder: Please let us know if your classifieds/rentals, etc. have expired.) Many thanks, Manna & Melinda.

Jeff Rumpf, Voices of the Valley

Staff — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:35:20 +0000

Panel Urges Hudson Cleanup Be Improved and Extended

Staff — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:18:22 +0000

From the New York Times:

A cleanup of toxic chemicals in the Hudson River has failed to consistently meet performance standards and needs to undergo “substantive changes” in its next phase, a panel of independent scientists said in a draft report released on Monday.

The panel, convened by the Environmental Protection Agency, also recommended that the second phase, scheduled to start in May 2011 and to last five years, be allowed to be extended to provide more flexibility. Officials with the E.P.A., which is overseeing the dredging by the General Electric Company under the Superfund program, estimate that the project may take 7 to 10 years, rather than the 6 years originally anticipated.

Read the full article here

Manna’s Pick

Manna Jo Greene — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:28:36 +0000

Fri., Aug. 20, 7 – 10 pm, INTRODUCTION TO THE LANDMARK FORUM: Free presentation about the Landmark Forum, with an explanation of what to expect and an opportunity to participate in sample exercises. Participants may register if they are interested; see www.landmarkeducation.com . At the Sustainable Living Resource Center, 150 Cottekill Rd., Cottekill. All are welcome. Annamarie is a fabulous introduction leader! Refreshments served. Contact Annamarie Lewis: 914-474-0930 or amma@frontiernet.net.

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Thurs. Aug. 12, 6-8 PM, USGBC Event: . EXISTING RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERFORMANCE AUDITS. Helping Homeowners keep more money at home, Thrall Library, Middletown, NY. Cost: $20, $15 for members, $10 in advance for members and students. Light refreshments provided. RSVP: HVBranchCoordinator@gmail.com For more information: http://www.greenupstateny.org/index.php?page=upcoming-events-2

Fri, Aug. 13, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., CATSKILL CREEK WATERSHED – THE MOUTH! Explore creek’s confluence with the Hudson River at the Historic Catskill Point in the Village of Catskill. Take part in a tour to learn about land use history of the site and participate in water quality testing of the tidal portion of the creek. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Greene County, contact Liz LoGiudice, (518) 622-9820 x 33; eml37@cornell.edu; www.agroforestrycenter.org

Sat., Aug. 14, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., FAMILY OUTDOOR AWARENESS PROGRAM: Our environmental educator will lead everyone out into the Arboretum to learn about and enjoy the trees, flowers, water, and wildlife. Register: info@mtarboretum.org www.mtarboretum.org 518-589-3903

Sat., Aug. 14, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., “FOLKSONGS OF THE CATSKILLS: THE SPIRIT OF CAMP WOODLAND.” Former campers will present the history and music of the camp. Woodstock Historical Society, Eames House, 20 Comeau 20 Comeau Drive, Woodstock. 845-452-4013; www.campwoodland.org. Free.

Sun., Aug. 15, 12-5pm, BEACON SLOOP CLUB ANNUAL CORN FESTIVAL, Fresh, ready to eat local-grown Hudson Valley sweet corn on the cob for just a “Buck-an-Ear”. Live music featuring Spook Handy, Pete Seeger, Sarah Underhill, Gretchen Witt, Melissa Ortquist & Karen Brooks & others. The sloop Woody Guthrie will be taking guests for free sails. Beacon Sloop Club. At the Beacon Waterfront. Info: (845) 255-6436, 845) 463-4660 www.beaconsloopclub.org Free Admission.

Sun., Aug. 15, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. JOE HICKERSON IN CONCERT. Joe calls himself a “vintage pre-plugged paleo-acoustic folksinger.” For 35 years he was Director of the Archive of Folk Song/Culture at the Library of Congress. Sponsored by Heritage Folk Music. Kiersted House, Main St Saugerties. $8.00 admission http://heritageconcerts.blogspot.com;
heritagefolkmusic@gmail.com.

Tues., Aug. 17, NATIONAL SUSTAINABLE BUILDING ADVISOR PROGRAM. Info session. Apply sustainable concepts to design, development, construction, and management of buildings. AIA: 100 learning units. Approved as USGBC Ed. Provider; LEED maintenance credits. Oct 2010 – Jun 2011, one wknd/month. Instructors: Cliff Cooper, LEED AP BD+C, CSBA; Rick Alfandre, AIA, LEED AP BD+C. SUNY Ulster, Kingston. 518-687-5012, songayla@sunyulster.edu.

Tues., Aug. 17. ASK OPEN STUDIO TOUR – OPEN CALL. Featuring local and regional visual artists, musicians & performers. Studio space provided for artists without studios. To participate email studiotour@askforarts.org. www.askforarts.org

Thurs-Tues, Aug. 19 – 24. ENGAGING THE NEW COSMOLOGY WITH THE WORK OFTRANSITION with Miriam MacGillis. For activists and change agents who have studied the implications of the work of Thomas Berry and Brian Swimme. Facing the urgency of peak oil, global climate change and economic instability, bring the insights of the New Universe Story to your community through the model of the Transition Movement. At Genesis Farm, NW NJ, 908 362-6735 www.genesisfarm.org.

Thurs., Aug. 19, 5:45 – 8:30 p.m., ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY IMPACTS, Monticello High School, 237 Route 42 in Monticello, NY, and are free and open to the public. For information call 845-807-0527 or email: Planning@co.sullivan.ny.us

Fri., Aug. 20, 7 – 10 p.m. INTRODUCTION TO THE LANDMARK FORUM: Free presentation about the Landmark Forum, with an explanation of what to expect and an opportunity to participate in sample exercises. Participants may register if they are interested; see www.landmarkeducation.com . At the Sustainable Living Resource Center, 150 Cottekill Rd., Cottekill. Contact Annamarie Lewis: 914-474-0930 or amma@frontiernet.net.

Sat., Aug. 21, 10:00 a.m. —12:00 p.m. FAMILY OUTDOOR AWARENESS PROGRAM: Our environmental educator will lead everyone out into the Arboretum to learn about and enjoy the trees, flowers, water, and wildlife. .Register: info@mtarboretum.org www.mtarboretum.org 518-589-3903

Sat., Aug. 21, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. SEEDS AND SALSA WORKSHOP. Come learn how to save seeds and make salsa from our local expert, Ken Greene of the Hudson Valley Seed Library. Workshop Fee: $15 member/ $20 non-member. Pre-registration required Contact Sandra at Sandra@philliesbridge.org *Please bring your own pint sized jar for bringing home your salsa.* Phillies Bridge Farm Project, 45 Phillies Bridge Rd, New Paltz, www.philliesbridge.org or 845-256-9108.

Sun., Aug. 22, 11 am – 1:30 pm. INTRO LECTURE ON HONEYBEES AND ORGANIC BEEKEEPING, with Bee Doctor Chris Harp. For novices, gardeners and wannabeekeepers. Sustainable Living Resource Center, Cottekill. Advance registration required, $25 per person. Visit www.HoneybeeLives.org, email HoneybeeLives@Yahoo.com, or call 845-255-6113.

Mon., Aug 23 to Fri. Aug. 27, 9:30 to 3:30 daily; EXPLORING AMPHIBIANS, a week-long, watershed study for youth ages 8 to 13. Nature exploration at the Siuslaw Model Forest each morning and creation of a play based on the book Frog Girl each afternoon with Soup 2 Nuts Theater Company. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Greene County, contact Liz LoGiudice, (518) 622-9820 x 33; eml37@cornell.edu; www.agroforestrycenter.org

Tues., Aug. 24, 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. MOONLIGHT HIKE” Mount Beacon. Trek to Mount Beacon’s fire tower to enjoy a glorious sunset and views of Manhattan’s skyline, then amble under a full moon. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Fri.-Sun., Aug. 27-29 8:00 p.m. FEEL YOUR FEAR, FIND YOUR POWER: WORKSHOP & FIREWALK Omega Institute, FearlessFlame Empowerment Workshops will offer participants the opportunity to discover a world where old patterns, fears and negative beliefs are challenged and transformed to see that anything is possible. To register visit: http://bit.ly/9V8PHL 800-944-1001

Sat., Aug. 28, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. SIMPLE STRATEGIES TO TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP. Discover how language shapes character and other internationally proven and powerful techniques that are sure to change your life. FREE. To register visit: http://www.communitycharacter.com or call 914-388-2532

Sun. Aug. 29, 3 PM CRAGSMOOR POETRY SOCIETY REVIVAL PARTY. End of summer social and poetry event. Bring a poem to share or just come to listen. Hosted by poet, Tom Gale, at Hillcrest, 274 Henry Road, Cragsmoor, NY 12420. Next to the historic Stone Church. Sponsored by the Cragsmoor Historical Society. Donations accepted for the CHS Building Restoration Fund. Info at 845-647-6487. maureenrad@aol.com.

Sat., Sept. 4, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Dinner 5 – 7 pm, Concert 7 pm. 3rd annual CATSKILL MOUNTAIN ECO-HERITAGE FESTIVAL at Ashokan Center. Geology, bird, forest ecology and poetry walks, fly fishing demos, nature photography, bluestone wall building. Evening concert with singer/songwriters Magpie and Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, concluding with a square dance. Admission: $5 adults, free for kids under 5, $15 special day carpool rate, $10 evening concert; dinner extra. (845) 657-8333. www.ashokancenter.org

Fri-Sun, Sept. 10 – 12, WILD ROOTS, WISE WEEDS, A STUDY OF PLANT MEDICINES, An exploration of wild plants and how they enhance our well-being. Learn the medicinal value of herbs and spices and how to make tinctures and salves. Plant walks and hands-on study. At Genesis Farm, NW NJ, 908 362-6735, www.genesisfarm.org

Sun. Sept. 12, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., EVALUATING YOUR STREAM BANKS; Explore problems frequently faced by streamside landowners, their causes and potential strategies for solving them. Led Joel Dubois and Mark Vian, Catskill Creek Watershed Advisory Committee members. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Greene County, contact Liz LoGiudice, (518) 622-9820 x 33; eml37@cornell.edu; www.agroforestrycenter.org

Sun., Sept.12, 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. SUNSET READING at Poets’ Walk Park, Red Hook. Stroll in spirit with Washington Irving, who found inspiration ambling the paths that wind through the sunlit meadows and quiet woodlands at Poets’ Walk, now a 120-acre park owned by Scenic Hudson. Afterwards, gather at the pavilion and enjoy refreshments while listening to poets read their works and watching the sun set behind the Catskill Mountains, turning the Hudson River to gold. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Sun., Sept. 19, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. RAMSHORN-LIVINGSTON SANCTUARY PADDLE at Dutchman’s Landing Park, Catskill. Join Audubon New York and Scenic Hudson on a trip by kayak or canoe through the primeval landscape in this largest tidal swamp in the Hudson River estuary. While paddling along RamsHorn Creek, you’ll discover creatures great and small, from bald eagles and great blue herons to beaver, otter and muskrat. Bring your own boat (12-foot or longer), PFD, extra paddle, spray skirt (kayaks), snack and water. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Wed., Sept 22: Science Cafe: HURRICANES AND CLIMATE at Timothy Hall, Senior Scientist, NASA Goddard Institute Space Studies, NYC. www.cafescientifique.org/hudsonvalley.htm Open to the public, meets on the 4th Wednesday of the month, except where note at Diana’s, 1015 Little Britain Road (Route 207), New Windsor (just east of Stewart Newburgh Airport entrance). See www.DIANASNY.com for menus and map. $3.00 admission incl. coffee or tea. Arrive at 6pm and order from the Early bird Menu. No orders are taken during the Presentation (7:00 – 7:30 p.m.)

Sat., Sept. 25, ride begins at 9:00 a.m. FARMLAND CYCLING TOUR at Poets’ Walk Park, Red Hook. Pedal from Poets’ Walk Park through the beautiful, rolling countryside of Dutchess and Columbia counties. Besides catching occasional glimpses of the Hudson River, you’ll pass farm stands offering fresh produce. After returning to the park, enjoy a fabulous lunch while listening to live music. Choose the length of your ride—7, 15, 30 or 50 miles—and pick up a map at the start. Contact Anthony Coneski, 845 473 4440 Ext. 273, www.scenichudson.org.

Sat., Sept. 25, Annual Fall Festival & Art Auction. Come enjoy tours and activities as well as an art auction to support Phillies Bridge Farm Project.Event is free, food & beverages for purchase. Phillies Bridge Farm Project, 45 Phillies Bridge Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, www.philliesbridge.org 845-256-9108.

Oct. 27, “How Evolution Happens: Lessons from Molecular Biology” Toby Rossman, Ph.D., Professor of Environmental Medicine, NYU Langone School of Medicine. At Diana’s, 1015 Little Britain Road (Route 207), New Windsor. See www.DIANASNY.com for menus and map. $3.00 admission incl. coffee or tea. Arrive at 6pm and order from the Early bird Menu. No orders are taken during the Presentation (7:00 – 7:30 p.m.)

ONGOING:

Saturdays, June 5 & 19, July 3 & 17, Aug 7, Sept 4, 8:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. FREESTYLE FROLIC. An alcohol and drug free environment, offers dancers a wide range of music including R&B, World, Funk, Hip Hop and Electronica in an expressive environment featuring eclectic DJ’s spinning funky and ecstatic dance music. At the Center for Symbolic Studies, 310 River Road Ext. New Paltz. $7 adults, $3 Teens & Seniors, Children & Volunteers free. Rain or shine; the tent space will be heated if it’s cold out. www.freestylefrolic.org or call (845) 658-8319.