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Proud to call New Paltz home
I’ve been thinking a lot about why I want to continue to be our town supervisor. There are so many reasons, but nothing has strengthened my resolve more than learning that New Paltz is on Donald Trump’s hit list. On Friday afternoon I was informed that New Paltz is among the municipalities the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has “exposed” as defying federal immigration law. According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, “We are exposing these sanctuary politicians who harbor criminal illegal aliens and defy federal law.”
The Trump administration is dismantling one civil rights protection after another, defunding the EPA, education, women’s reproductive rights, health care, voting protections — the list goes on.
Now Homeland Security claims that Sanctuary Cities like New Paltz are “endangering Americans and our law enforcement in order to protect violent criminal illegal aliens.” That we are exposed as “lawless jurisdictions” who are “not respecting the rule of law.”
Well, that is not New Paltz. I am proud to represent a town that enacted a law in 2017 that assures no town employee can be compelled to assist, detain, or provide information for a civil warrant such as for immigration charges. In fact our town code takes it further in stating, “Neither the NPPD nor any town personnel may use town funds, facilities, property, equipment, or personnel to investigate, enforce, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal program requiring registration of individuals on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, or national origin.”
Of COURSE our local police will arrest anyone accused of committing “violent illegal acts” — with a lawfully issued judicial warrant. And those people will be arraigned. And they will have a trial. And they will go to prison if they are convicted. Because, Mr. Trump, it is the rule of law that makes America great. Your deliberate obstruction of due process is the real threat that endangers America.
I’m writing this just before heading to town to march in our 21st pride parade. On Friday, I marched in our Memorial Day parade with our local VFW, Knights of Columbus, Girl and Boy Scouts, Rotary Club, and the New Paltz High School band — all to honor those who died to protect and preserve our glorious melting pot of a nation.
So, Mr. Trump, welcome to New Paltz. We working folks, veterans, families, seniors, LGBTQs, students, hippies, and yes refugees from truly lawless countries — we are all proud to call it home.
Amanda Gotto
New Paltz Town Supervisor
A new path for Woodstock
It’s time for a change, with a fresh new approach for Woodstock. Time to let go of the status quo and the people connected to this present administration in any way, shape or form. Some of us need to get out of our comfort zone and make a bold move for a better, more ethical and proper process-driven governance. The supervisor position is a two-year stint. Two years! Let’s break the chains of what’s been happening for far too long, by voting for David Wallis and Marcel Nagele (town board seat is four years). These two people have the knowledge and concern for the betterment of our town. They have the temperament and respect that should be had for difference of opinion. Otherwise “the same old, same old” will continue. There is a lot at stake. We deserve so much better. Let’s make it happen!
Linda and Terry Lover
Woodstock
Wallis for town supervisor
I rarely write letters to the editor, but this is one time it’s imperative. For some time, our town has been mired in questionable governance, and so it is time for a clean sweep. David Wallis, who is running for supervisor, represents that clean sweep with policies that many townspeople have long and passionately demanded of the current administration, with no results. Wallis represents progressive governance. He represents what Woodstock wants and needs for our citizens, and our extraordinary environment. One, he will expand property tax exemption for our seniors and disabled. Two, he will cut building permit fees for low-income seniors. Three, he will cut summer camp fees for low-income residents. Four, he will improve or replace technology so that streamed board meetings can actually be seen and heard. Five, he will oppose the zoning proposals that purport to be affordable housing but will really lead to overdevelopment. And six, he will FINALLY clean up the Shady dump by enforcing the town law.
Wallis is the person for supervisor. Don’t be mislead by lies and schemes and fake news about him. I’ve spoken with him at length and he is the real deal. We need him, ASAP, so our beloved town doesn’t turn into a mini-Washington DC.
Sheila Isenberg
Bearsville
Woodstock voters have spoken. Will our leaders?
In 2024, Woodstock contributed nearly 40% of the Onteora School District’s (OCSD) tax levy — the largest of any town. With Hurley, the total rises to 55% (or $25.4M) from just these two communities. Meanwhile, over 50% of OCSD K-5 students district-wide live closer to Woodstock than Bennett. Yet the district’s so-called “centralization” plan calls for closing Woodstock Elementary. Let’s call it what it is: a heist — a redistribution of all taxpayer dollars west, away from the very communities footing the bill. And our youngest learners would be the ones to pay the greatest cost. An alternative — closing Bennett and expanding Woodstock — was never even discussed. I’m not advocating that route. But if closing one school is on the table, why wasn’t the reverse even considered? Personally, I believe that both schools should remain open. Voters made that clear in the Prop 2 results: Woodstock: 1,039 NO / 366 YES Bennett: 798 YES / 359 NO. That’s not unity. It’s one part of the district voting to fund upgrades to their nearest school by shuttering another community’s school.
So where are our local town board and supervisor candidates on this? Aside from Laurie Osmond, a consistent advocate for Woodstock Elementary, I’ve heard silence from others. And that silence is telling. And even worse is David Wallis. He was on the OCSD board and is a staunch supporter of closing Woodstock Elementary. I realize the decision rests with the OCSD brass, who is hell bent to close Woodstock. But Woodstock and nearby towns leadership should represent the community, residents, taxpayers. This isn’t just about schools. It’s about representation, equity and allocation of public funds. The people near Woodstock Elementary showed up and protected Woodstock Elementary. Now it’s time for candidates and elected officials to stand up and speak out.
Ed McGeady
Woodstock
Elect Ann Peters!
I am writing to urge Saugerties residents who live in Legislative District 2 (Village of Saugerties, Malden, West Camp and Barclay Heights) to vote in the June 24 primary for the Ulster County Democratic Committee endorsed candidate, Ann Peters. Of all the candidates, Ann consistently shows up in the community. But what is particularly impressive is that she not only shows up in Saugerties but also throughout the county. She regularly attends the Ulster County Legislature meetings as well as educational, cultural and civic events throughout the county.
While legislators represent specific districts, they need to know what’s happening throughout the county and how the district fits into the bigger picture. Ann will champion what’s best for Saugerties and its residents because she does the work and the research. Ann will be ready on day one to help move Saugerties and Ulster County forward. Let’s elect someone who is committed to fair, equitable and fiscally sound government that works for the people. Let’s elect Ann Peters!
Nejla Liias
Saugerties
Let your voices be heard
On May 13th Central Hudson filed a joint proposal to the Public Service Commission which, if approved, would raise the average customer’s electric and gas bills each year for three years. Including an increase that they received for 2024, there will be a total increase of 23.9 percent for electric and 35.69 percent for gas between 2024 and 2027.
Communities for Local Power (CLP) opposes the joint proposal (JP) that proposes a rate increase and higher return on equity (ROE) for Central Hudson shareholders. For the past four years, Central Hudson customers have experienced incorrect bills due to a faulty billing system which caused financial hardship to thousands of families. As ratepayers in the Central Hudson service territory are still distrustful of Central Hudson, this is not the time to increase their rates.
In addition, CLP does not support their inflated investments in gas infrastructure which allows them to earn an increased ROE to benefit their shareholders. The investment to fix gas infrastructure that is due to sunset as legislated by New York State, disproportionately inflates the delivery costs charged to ratepayers and will create unpayable stranded costs over time. We’ll continue to advocate for a reduction in gas infrastructure investments and the lowest utility rates possible for Central Hudson customers.
If we want the Public Service Commission to modify this JP to reduce the rates, then we must be vocal in this opposition. Therefore, CLP will be hosting a protest with For the Many on June 8 from 12 to 1 p.m. at Academy Green.
Anna Markowitz, Executive Director
Communities for Local Power
Saugerties
Sleepless in Kingston
In her letter last week, Charlotte Adamis relates how she is having trouble sleeping at night because of Trump’s decisions and policies. She says Americans are struggling now, possibly more than ever.
Are Charlotte and these struggling Americans losing sleep over an extremely safer border? Are they sleeping less, having to “put up” with safer, crime-free streets? Are they sleeping less because of significant improvements in their everyday costs and the prospects of a much better economy down the road? Are they losing sleep over a much stronger military and the actions of a non-comatose president who is actually trying to achieve peace around the world? And, I’m sure they’re also losing sleep over hiring practices that, a la Martin Luther King, Jr., will be colorblind while returning to being merit based.
Charlotte says MAGA is leveling attacks on our civil rights and legal system. Isn’t that exactly what her inept heroes were doing for the past four years … the weaponization of our DOJ, FBI, CIA, etc., while stripping conservatives of their voices through a cancel culture led by the previous administration with the help of social media and the fake news lame stream cadre?
I believe Charlotte and her liberal Americans need to refocus their energies from the “resistance movement” to identifying real leaders in their party while starting from scratch to rebuild their party. They need to reconnect with the people’s concerns and worries and give up on the SINGULAR strategy of continued Trump bashing which, as we can all see, is accomplishing nothing at all.
I don’t know where they are going to find these new REAL leaders but they definitely do not include AOC, Gavin Newsome, Jasmine Crockett, David Hogg, Hakeem Jeffries, as well as many others with similarly weak mantras which, of course, have ignored the people’s desires for quite some time.
So, Charlotte, please create your new and much needed “refocus” so that you can, once again, regain your much deserved peaceful night’s sleep.
John N. Butz
Modena
Tim Rogers for New Paltz town supervisor
Before I moved to New Paltz, I regret to admit, I had little interest in local politics. Growing up in Westchester, in a village I appreciate but never intended to return as an adult, I was not invested in the finer details of local governance and how they might affect the quality of life in a town I knew I would eventually move on from. Of course I wished the best for my hometown, but I had already written off any effect my efforts might have; I remember calling the local historian to try to get an untouched, pristine Stanford White-designed house landmarked before it was sold to a new owner. The historian eventually called me back a few weeks later and explained his futile efforts throughout the years to get even more historically significant properties landmarked, and lamented the miles of red tape that existed for seemingly no reason.
Fast forward a decade or so, and I was able to make my longtime dream come true by purchasing a home in my favorite Hudson Valley village of New Paltz. Being a homeowner/taxpayer and invested in New Paltz for the foreseeable future, I began to pay attention to local governance. The first big issue when I moved here was the local “good cause eviction” law. I started watching the public hearings surrounding the issue. While I know this is a complicated and emotionally charged subject, I was impressed with Tim’s measured and thoughtful approach. He was not swayed by outside pressure groups, he did not rush to approve a law without (I paraphrase) “making sure it was fair from all angles and in all situations.” He carefully studied how similar laws were performing in neighboring communities, and took his time to craft a law that would be both successful in its intent and fair to everyone in the community. Eventually the law was passed, but not without Tim erecting the guardrails to guide an emotionally charged discussion into a law that was written fairly.
I’ve also been extremely impressed with Tim’s savvy efforts when it comes to applying for state grants, low-interest loans, etc. to constantly improve local infrastructure. I actually look forward to reading Tim’s thoughtful explanations on planned municipal work and history of local municipal infrastructure. It’s not exactly the most exciting of topics but extremely important to our quality of life, and when reading Tim’s write-ups it’s clear that he has taken the time to research the necessary logistics, history and consult experts to make informed decisions. At the time of writing this endorsement, I switched to Facebook to procrastinate (as one does), and lo-and-behold Tim has just posted in the village group about his recent visit to Kingston’s wastewater treatment plant on the Rondout Creek, the ongoing efforts to improve our own treatment processes/equipment and keeping us up to date on his correspondence with NYS Department of Environmental Conservation regulators.
I was inspired to join the Village of New Paltz Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) after listening to a village board meeting where Tim explained the impact of local volunteers who invest their time in these boards, and how they maintain the quality of life in our lovely village. I immediately remembered the time when I tried to get that Stanford White house landmarked and how frustrating it was that there was seemingly no good reason why the infrastructure didn’t exist to at least have it considered. After a few years of sitting on the HPC, I feel more connected than ever to our village and try my best to pay attention to local issues. I am continually impressed with Tim’s leadership and thoughtful, practical approach to politics and his ability to continuously improve the quality of life in our village without substantial tax increases. For this reason, I endorse Tim Rogers for New Paltz town supervisor.
Shane Reidy
Village of New Paltz
Pamphlets over pages
No one in my book group has time to read a novel, so we just read pamphlets.
Sparrow
Phoenicia
Amazoned: The River We Poison
What is a callous, really?
It’s not just something that forms on the heel or palm. It’s the body’s quiet response to repetition — friction layered over time until sensation gives way to armor — a deadening, a defense. A decision was made below awareness.
I’ve got one, not on my hand, but somewhere along the inner border between grief and memory. And I’m not alone. This whole nation — no, this entire networked, algorithm-fed, distracted-from-the-bone-of-things civilization — has grown a digital callous.
We didn’t mean to.
But meaning was never required. Only repetition. Only tolerance for a little more daily distance between the wound and the witness. A few more packages are at the door. A few more headlines scrolled past. A few more moments when we knew someone was suffering and said — nothing.
I remember Vietnam — at least, the parts I let myself remember. My body remembers more than my mind does. It remembers the screams, yes, but also the long silences after. The numbness settled in like sediment, slowly, until I could watch horror and still eat dinner afterward. And that same numbness, that callous of spirit has metastasized across decades. Only now does it wear a smile and deliver next-day shipping.
Amazon. It doesn’t even try to hide the metaphor anymore. The name of a river. Vast, ancient, life-giving. And yet here we are — shitting in it with every click. Our need for convenience outweighs our memory of cost. The boxes pile up like graves. Trees fall while we shop for reusable straws.
During Covid, I thought the callous might crack. That raw, global, aching grief would awaken something tender in us. But no. We streamed funerals and bought sourdough kits. Nurses wept into Zoom calls while influencers danced for followers. We watched a million die and turned the page, sanitized our hands, and returned to “normal” — as if normal were not the infection to begin with.
Is there such a thing as a psychic callous? Yes. And it’s contagious.
I feel it in myself. My empathy isn’t as startled as it used to be. My reactions are buffered, like a screen delay. A part of me says: “You’ve lived too long, seen too much. This is what aging does.” But another part whispers: “No. This is what forgetting does.”
A callous forgets the reason for the original pain.
I forget that the boy on the screen is someone’s son. That the burnt-out nurse could’ve been my daughter. The deforested jungle was once the same color as the one I stumbled through, half-mad and half-alive. That every drone strike in a foreign land bruises the soul of the land I claim as mine.
We speak of climate collapse as if it were a natural disaster. But isn’t it the logical outcome of callousness? I will pave it if I cannot feel the forest’s grief. If I cannot hear the soil’s cry, I will poison it. If I cannot imagine the breath of my grandchildren, I will smother the air without regret.
The callous is not passive. It grows. And as it grows, it changes the shape of what it covers. A calloused nation is one that no longer dreams only scrolls. No longer listens, only reacts. No longer prays, only purchases.
I am trying to feel it again. That is the truth. I am trying to sand down the thickened skin with stories, with presence, with this strange act of writing to no one and everyone. I want to feel the wound again, not to bleed but to remember I’m alive.
Because when the final nerve dies — when we can no longer flinch, no longer gasp, no longer stop mid-sentence and say, “Wait — this matters” — then we become something less than human. We become systems. We become algorithms. We become what we never meant to become: efficient in our forgetting.
And I don’t want that.
I want to remember.
“To feel is to be vulnerable. But do not feel is to be lost.”
Larry Winters
New Paltz
P.S. If you read what I write, tell the paper please.
Pay attention to a big beautiful bill
Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” (aka “the Largest-Ever Tax Giveaway to the Super-Wealthy”) that the Republicans recently rammed through Congress has gotten a lot of attention and been widely condemned for the deprivations it will cause to the many, especially the very poorest, to benefit the few — i.e., the very richest. It puts us another step closer to the oligarchy Trump and his GOP enforcers are creating, day by dismaying day.
It has been the judiciary, even at times when the right-leaning Supreme Court has been slowing down this seemingly relentless race toward dictatorship. But nearly lost in the shuffle is an ugly provision in this “Big, Beautiful Bill” that would speed things along even faster by severely undermining the judiciary’s power. It reads: “No court of the United States may use appropriated funds to enforce a contempt citation for failure to comply with an injunction or temporary restraining order if no security was given when the injunction or order was issued.”
Federal courts rarely require “security” — a bond — to be posted by those who are restraining unconstitutional federal, state, or local government actions, since those seeking such orders do not have the resources to post a bond. Insisting on it would protect unconstitutional government conduct from judicial review. In addition, it would render unenforceable court orders issued before the law takes effect.
Once again, Trump is seeking presidential immunity, which the Supreme Court in its alarmingly finite wisdom went a long way toward granting him in 2024. Let’s hope the members of the Senate don’t pass his “Big, Beautiful Bill” when it slithers its oily way to them, and that if against all decency they do, this provision, at least, has been removed from it.
Tom Cherwin
Saugerties
Keep Duzine Elementary School open
I read about New Paltz Town Supervisor Amanda Gotto’s “DREAM” to dump every government office; BOCES meeting space; senior citizen, youth, after school service program into the Duzine Elementary School space as the answer to address longstanding issues never addressed. This confluence of every possible function to create the “Duzine Municipal Center Plaza” would not be a dream, it would be a NIGHTMARE.
Where was Supervisor Gotto on May 12th, at the school district meeting, when Educators, parents and community residents all spoke in favor of keeping Duzine open. Not one person spoke against this. To the contrary, numerous thoughtful and intelligent arguments, observations and comments were provided in support of keeping Duzine open including, how closure would seriously undermine and adversely affect the entire New Paltz educational system and student body.
Just look at all the major new housing construction projects A significant increase in population is in the future and right in Duzine’s neighborhood. The housing stock in New Paltz turning over is being purchased by families. Apartments under construction will house families with children due to high mortgage rates. Will the school district close the Duzine school and in the face of an increase population ask to build a new school?
The Duzine Elementary School is well managed and provides an excellent well-structured quality educational experience for the students lucky enough to attend. Its pristine location has been handled with the respect and care it requires.
Instead of surrounding the school like prey, the town/village should add its support for maintaining Duzine open to serve current and upcoming children of the New Paltz community, as it was intended to and has done for 62 years. Do not compromise the New Paltz educational system. Keep Duzine Elementary School open and give the children of New Paltz a fighting chance.
Maggie Ramirez
New Paltz
Tim Roger’s experience and leadership make him extremely qualified to be our next town supervisor
I have known Tim Roger for over 40 years and am proud to endorse his candidacy for town supervisor in the June 24th primary and November 4th general election. Tim is dedicated to our community. He served on the New Paltz School Board, town planning board and volunteers as coach of youth sports.
As a village resident, I am appreciative of his dedication and hard work on behalf of the community. His efforts have brought millions of dollars of grant monies to New Paltz, including annual funds for the fire department, police department and rescue squad. Tim actively engages with constituents and seeks input from the community. His weekly letter to the editor and social media posts are informative and timely. He advocates for New Paltz with county and state leaders and seizes on any opportunity to work collaboratively to address community concerns.
Tim’s desire to make government more efficient is evidenced in the campaign to consolidate village and town government. I attended a recent consolidation presentation where Tim provided an overview of the process. He detailed what was known and more importantly encouraged attendees to ask tough probing questions that will assist the community in vetting the efficacy of consolidation. As the former police chief, I saw the inefficiencies of two governments firsthand. I do not know if consolidation is the answer, but I believe we have a responsibility to explore the option and applaud Tim’s efforts.
Tim’s experience and leadership make him extremely qualified to be our next Town Supervisor; especially as our village and town governments explore consolidation. The town supervisor job is demanding and one Tim is uniquely qualified to handle.
Robert Lucchesi
Former New Paltz Police Chief
Village of New Paltz
A note of clarification
The recent presentation by New Paltz Women in Black raised many questions and comments. We offer the following to clarify.
This group requested use of the library’s Steinberg room for a presentation on Sunday, May 18th. This room is available to community groups when it is not being used for library programming. Their request was consistent with library policy. Accordingly, their room use request was granted.
Acting as a forum for free speech is a core part of Elting’s mission and the mission of all libraries. To quote the American Library Association (ALA), “Intellectual freedom is a basic right in a democratic society and a core value of the library profession. The ALA actively defends the right of library users to read, seek information and speak freely as guaranteed by the First Amendment.” At Elting, we stand firmly for civil, respectful discourse.
Ultimately, we were compelled to move the May 18th presentation to the former firehouse on Plattekill Avenue. This decision was made at the recommendation of Matthew Sutton, our chief of police, out of concern for safety and to ensure that patrons could peaceably enjoy the library during public hours. We appreciate the support and assistance of mayor Tim Rogers in facilitating this move, and we thank the police who were present during the presentation.
Richard Heyl de Ortiz
on behalf of the Board of Trustees
Elting Memorial Library
New Paltz
Affordable housing and annexation
Recently, people have asked me how the town’s Affordable Housing Law, currently being reviewed by the town board and the town Housing Smart Task Force, will be impacted through annexation.
The short answer is that it won’t be. Right now, the only project located in the town outside village that could be impacted by this law is The Apartments, the subject of a joint town/village public hearing on June 5th.
Whether or not this project remains in the town or is annexed to the village, petitioners have requested a zoning change and will have to undergo site plan review. That could take months or longer, regardless of where the project ends up.
Please, New Paltzers, attend the public hearing in person or via Zoom, or send your questions and comments about annexation to: Supervisor@townofnewpaltz.org, Mayor@Villageofnewpaltz.org.
See you Thursday, June 5 at the New Paltz Courthouse, at 7 p.m.
Kitty Brown, Deputy Supervisor
Town of New Paltz
I fully support Stana Weisburd for Ulster County Legislature, District 20
In every discussion and collaboration, it’s clear that her decision-making is rooted in a positive guiding question: “How do we positively serve and impact as many people as possible while also being mindful of anyone who has been historically disadvantaged?” That lens of inclusive and thoughtful leadership is one that we share as elected officials.
Stana’s commitment to public service has also been evident in her work on the recent Government Reorg Study’s Steering Committee, alongside supervisor Amanda Gotto and deputy supervisor Kitty Brown. Stana also contributed actively to all four of the study’s workgroups — fire service, administration and finance, land use and public works.
We need leaders who are solutions-oriented and equity-focused. I wholeheartedly support her candidacy and encourage others in District 20 to do the same.
Mayor Tim Rogers
New Paltz
Peace and tolerance are more important than being right
The richest country in the world is being destroyed. We should be crying out in despair, while seeking ways to halt our downward trajectory. The sense that nothing can stop our fall should not be the last word. We have two basic groups with different facts and views defining the same situations. Competing truths have been spread and seem irreconcilable. This is one of Putin’s tactics to sew confusion. There is something to do about it. We can stop hating the other side and recognize that by now both groups are convinced they possess the real truth. We need new leaders who will stop fighting and will listen to each other. This is a time when peace and tolerance are more important than being right.
Hal Chorny
Gardiner
Where is the fight to stop the new condos?
So my question to Beautiful Saugerties and the Catskill Mountainkeeper, where is the uproar or the fighting against the new condos that are going to level acres of trees and also a hillside and rock croppings on North Street in Saugerties?
There’s a ton of fight to keep Winston Farm from happening, but now you’ve got another whole area across the street from the ones that were built in the past year and a half that they’re about to level every single tree, bush, shrub and cut back the hillside into the backyard of people that are in the village, but I don’t see any fighting to stop this.
Is Beautiful Saugerties and the Catskill Mountainkeeper picking certain projects that they want to fight against? Should they not be looking at the entire Saugerties region to protect it?
Marty Martin
Saugerties
Gardiner town hall goes green
With grant funds totaling $175,000, the Gardiner Town Board recently completed the installation of a solar energy system which is powering the town hall building.
Thanks to the efforts of Climate Smart Gardiner, this clean energy system will serve to eliminate the electric bill at the town hall.
Glenn Gidaly
New Paltz
I will support Mike Boms, Mike Shultis, Diana Cline and Tim Kelly for Town of Hurley offices
As an elected representative for Hurley Election District 6, I’m endorsing Mike Boms, Mike Shultis, Diana Cline and Tim Kelly for the Town of Hurley offices in the upcoming Democratic primary. This team has experience, skills and a proven record.
Mike Boms, current town supervisor, has moved forward significant initiatives that stymied past supervisors — closed landfill leachate removal, new highway garage site, paid EMS ambulance service and Hurley Heritage Community Center. Mike restarted town recreation programs plus town park rehabilitation is underway.
Mike Shultis, current highway superintendent, has held this position for seven years during which he successfully managed the largest budget ($1.9M) in our town. By restructuring his team to fix town drainage issues, Mike has saved an estimated $1M by undertaking drainage projects in-house.
Diana Cline, running for town clerk, has been involved with all aspects of Hurley including the recreation department, planning board, ZBA, library trustee, Myer PTA president and a current town board member. She has the skills to engage on day one! Diana will extend town clerk hours to evenings and Saturdays while offering Notary services during extended hours.
Tim Kelly, vying for a town board seat, was previously a board member. He currently participates in highway garage and community center planning. Additionally, Tim is a technology expert who can bring these valuable skills to our town.
I urge you to consider experience, skills and results and vote for these highly qualified candidates in the Democratic primary on June 24.
Cynthia Glass
Hurley Democratic Committee
Time for a new beginning — vote for Lindsey
I am writing this letter to urge Democratic voters in Rosendale, Stone Ridge and High Falls to vote for Lindsey Grossman for Ulster County Legislature (District 19) in the June 24 Democratic primary. My reasons for this request have to do with countries that one might think are completely unrelated to our local politics.
I grew up in India and married into a Russian family. The politics of India and Russia, especially at the county level, are marred by a fundamental cynicism, one so corrosive and all-pervading that it prevents dynamic, young people from joining the political arena. I have begun to fear that the same cynicism might destroy the American democracy. The source of the cynicism has many facets, and it is beyond the scope of a letter to the editor to elaborate on them. But I can say with surety that if we want to save the democratic institutions of our nation, we must try our hardest to bring intelligent, energetic and passionate people from the younger generation — people like Lindsey Grossman — into positions of governance.
We must do at the local level what the major political parties at the federal level seem so woefully incapable of. We must vote in new energetic leaders like Lindsey who will work diligently and collaboratively at the interconnected malaises affecting all our lives, issues including climate change, income inequality, housing, lack of adequate healthcare and rights of minorities. We cannot wait another two years or four years to build the new generation of American leaders. The time is NOW!
Samrat Pathania
New Paltz
I am supporting Lindsey Grossman for the Ulster County Legislature
These are trying times, and with our democracy so threatened, it’s time to move off the sidelines and fight for an America based on the ideals of shared economic health and equality of opportunity. Previously, for me, this would have meant campaigning for my choice in federal elections, or maybe a state-wide candidate in a close race. But having watched the radical right successfully build a coalition of local office holders, resulting in a raft of attacks on our environment, schools and libraries (previously protected by federal mandates) it’s time to acknowledge that all politics are, now more than ever, local.
There is a competitive primary on June 24th for the Ulster County legislator representing Rosendale, High Falls and Stone Ridge, and I am supporting Lindsey Grossman, a candidate who has the energy and drive to fight back. I recently met with her, and her positions include increasing housing affordability, access to healthcare, protecting the environment, sustainable economic development and a woman’s right to choose. With the current administration signaling cuts to our healthcare and regulatory infrastructure (to give a tax break to the wealthiest among us) our county government will have to try and make up the difference, and will, to a great degree, be deciding the priorities. I find Lindsey to be a very compelling candidate: so much so that I have decided to volunteer to help her campaign. I encourage all of us in the district to do the same.
Michael Stiller
High Falls
Join us in supporting Tim Rogers for New Paltz town supervisor
I am writing to offer our strongest endorsement of Tim Rogers for the position of town supervisor of New Paltz. I have had the privilege of knowing Tim for over 30 years, and during that time, I have consistently been impressed by his character and unwavering dedication into whatever endeavor he puts his mind and passions. For the last many years, that endeavor has been our community.
Tim possesses a unique combination of qualities that make him an exceptional candidate for this role. He is undeniably intelligent and persistent, always tackling challenges with a thoughtful and determined approach. His genuine caring nature and his ability to navigate complex data puzzles demonstrate his commitment to finding the best solutions.
Moreover, Tim’s adeptness with finance and project management, and his expertise with the labyrinth of municipal law and local/state/federal government, assures us that he will manage the town’s resources responsibly and expertly as he has during his long tenure as village mayor. Above all, Tim is motivated by a deep and long-standing commitment to public service and to doing the right thing for New Paltz.
Before Tim was elected village mayor, he volunteered on the school board and town planning board. I watched him devote countless hours with the utmost care reviewing documents, conducting research and participating in meetings in service to our community. Tim has been on the sidelines coaching more community rec league sports teams and school district sports teams than we can tally. Again and again, Tim shows up.
When my wife Merritt and I first moved to New Paltz with our three school-age kids nearly a decade ago, Tim was one of the first people to encourage and welcome us. He truly acted as an ambassador for both the town and the village, helping us feel at home and providing valuable insights into our new community. He has continued to be a positive messenger and a positive influence for us as we have navigated life in New Paltz.
We believe Tim Rogers has the experience, skills, dedication and vision necessary to lead our New Paltz community effectively as we navigate the complexities that lay ahead. We urge you to join us in supporting his election as Town Supervisor.
Tom Flynn
Merritt Minnemeyer
Town of New Paltz
What kind of government do we have
What kind of federal government do we have when president-for-now Trump pardons the reality show couple convicted of evading taxes and defrauding banks of more than $30 million — and yet imprisons people whose only crime is legally protected speech that offends him?
What kind of federal government do we have when Trump pardons a convicted tax cheat after the cheat’s mother (yes, his mother) attended a $1 million per-person dinner at Mar-a-Lago? And what kind of federal government do we have when a president thinks nothing of accepting lavish gifts from foreign governments, like the $400 million luxury jet from Qatar, and yet pushes Congress to pass a budget that will crush ordinary citizens?
Is this what Trump meant by “draining the swamp?” If so, it’s not working. The swamp is now deeper and murkier than ever and it’s teaming with alligators.
Charlotte Adamis
Kingston
It easily adds up
What are five pencils?
What were two dolls?
What was one Qatar airplane?
The numbers don’t lie [he’s an effn clown] –
And I did the math,
everything is stupid … we EIGHT his guts!
Neil Jarmel
West Hurley
Don’t change the subject
Rather than offer an alternate explanation for Trump’s embrace of cryptocurrency to enrich himself and his family, at the expense of the prestige of the office and the strength of the US dollar, John Butz rails about Biden’s mental acuity? VIP tours of the White House literally for sale to the highest bidder for Trump’s literally worthless meme coin. Eric and Don Jr. accepting UAE’s offer to funnel $2 billion in transactions through another Trump-controlled cryptocurrency. Any of this helping the country’s struggling working class, while creating a conflict of interest big enough to fly a Qatari “flying palace” through?
US colleges and universities, US R & D — the envy of the world, right? Are foreign-born students and nationals a net benefit or harm to our country? A rational person would say for sure the former. Not Trump. Moody’s just downgraded US credit for the first time since WWII. Blame that on Biden losing his mental edge or the Republicans exploding the deficit with further tax cuts for billionaires while slashing services Americans of modest means depend on? Does Trump publicly fantasizing about appropriating Canada (the third largest country in the world — the US is fourth) increase or decrease Americans’ confidence in Trump’s grip on reality?
Trump promised to bring down prices, to end the war in Ukraine, to only deport criminal aliens. Failed to deliver all three. But he’s deporting good people and sick children and locking up students for calling Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people what it is. Truth will out, despite Mr. Butz efforts to change the subject.
Matt Frisch
Arkville
A financial surprise after election day
In the most recent edition of this publication, Mayor Rogers wrote about a vision for our aging wastewater treatment plant. The issue is timely given the village’s current development boom.
The mayor’s letter illustrates a vision to replace the large circular clarifiers and trickling filter concrete tanks with a rectangular concrete tank system known as an oxidation ditch.
The size of WWTPs are measured by flow rate — millions of gallons per day (MGD). New Paltz’ plant has a capacity of 1.5 MGD.
I googled a) cost of removing our existing equipment: 1.5MGD clarifiers and trickling filters and b) cost of constructing a 2MGD oxidation ditch (any upgrade should increase capacity from 1.5MGD to 2MGD to plan for the future). Google results were around $1M for each of six clarifier/trickling tanks and ~$8M for the oxidation ditch. That is $14M so far. Tack on another $1-2M for rising costs in the couple of years needed to plan and build such a project.
Of course, the only reliable estimates will emerge from professional analysis. The engineering study commissioned by the mayor — which will provide specific recommendations and cost estimates more accurate than any google inquiry — is scheduled for release at year’s end. That’s likely one month after our local election in which Tim Rogers is running for supervisor. Some elections have a pre-election day “October Surprise.” Unfortunately for New Paltz voters, our financial surprise is scheduled to be revealed only AFTER Election Day. Thanks Tim.
Donald Kerr
New Paltz
Bill Murray deserves your support for Ulster County Legislature, District 20
We wish to endorse William Murray of New Paltz for Ulster County Legislature, District 20. We have known Bill Murray very well during the past 17 years, as a friend, as a volunteer fireman, a member of the Democratic party board, the Ulster Activists and the village board. Throughout this time, Bill has been a vigorous and steadfast advocate for progressive political action and legislation. There is every reason to believe that Bill will continue this record of intelligent leadership in the county legislature. Please vote for Bill Murray; he deserves your support.
Tom and Ellen Rocco
New Paltz
Woodstock should take the SEQRA lead on proposed Zena Development
Dear members of the board: We all appreciate the hard job you’re doing at this challenging time in Woodstock. Please make sure a request to be lead agency in the SEQRA for the proposed Zena Development gets on the agenda at this meeting and please vote yes. The impact of this proposed development is heavily on Woodstock, and more so than Ulster, as Jim Quigley and other Ulster officials have repeatedly said. Please make sure Woodstock takes the lead on the environmental review. Thank you for all you do.
John Allen
Woodstock
Perplexed?
For town supervisor, who do you vote for when two of the candidates whom you know were in a position to bring Woodstock forward but did not and when one candidate, David Wallis, you do not know appears to not only believe in transparency, something that has been lacking in Woodstock, but also has a vision for Woodstock’s future?
On the other hand, when it comes to voting for a town board member, there is absolutely no confusion, Marcel Nagele has been a viable and involved member of Woodstock for years and has the desire to bring back civility to Woodstock
Howard Harris
Woodstock
Rails and trails in the U&D Corridor
It’s time to separate facts from opinions. On September 26, 2024, the Open Space Institute (OSI) vice president of parks and stewardship gave a presentation to Ulster County’s U&D Corridor Advisory Committee. He shared information from an OSI engineering study about the feasibility of rail with trail in the railroad corridor from Route 28A in Stony Hollow to Basin Road. I was at the OSI presentation. Near the end of the meeting, I asked the speaker directly if rail with trail is doable in this specific 1.7 mile segment of the corridor. His response was: “It’s not infeasible, meaning it can be done.” Stone Consulting and Design also did a feasibility study in October, 2024. Their report concluded that “rail with trail remains both viable and practical for the final undesignated portion of the U&D Corridor.”
The environmental concerns about rail with trail in this area can be solved. There already is a 525 ft. boardwalk over wetlands along the Ashokan Rail Trail that demonstrates a workable solution. Why do some trail supporters continue to insist that rail with trail is not realistic? Why doesn’t a trail beside the tracks meet the trail plan for future connectivity? Are some trail supporters simply unwilling to acknowledge that the Catskill Mountain Railroad is a vital, historic and valued asset of Ulster County? Are some trail supporters really working to prevent the Catskill Mountain Railroad from developing a sustainable future?
I call on Ulster County residents and their legislators to support facts. Rails and trails can peacefully coexist, be an example of successful conflict resolution and continue to provide fun, safe and constructive experiences. Let’s look forward to a fair and cooperative resolution of this long-standing, divisive Ulster County issue.
Meg Carey
Glenford
Attack on benefits, #4
This is a continuation from my last letter. This appears to be the one that has the most plausibility in addressing the problem under consideration. There are pros and cons for each side of the argument beyond the scope of this letter; but it does give the reader a background to the problem facing the politicians.
9. Privitalization — this takes the place of Social Security and the health programs. This is where FICA is eliminated. This takes the business owner, the employer, out of the arena of having to pay a percentage of each employee’s Social Security and Medicare tax, although the employee also contributes the same amount as well. This eliminates the employer from having to do this, although I believe the Medicare tax would still continue. But keep in mind that under the present system now, the social safety net that we pay into also provides for older persons to receive benefits in excess of their contributions.
The business owners with employees do not favor this procedure now and never did. What they would like is for the worker to privatize, to invest their own money. If placed into operation, how many persons actually would save that extra money, once it became a fund large enough to put a new roof on the house, grandchild in college, a horrific medical bill, etc. That’s one concern of mine.
Another one is that investing in the market is ‘iffy’, ‘iffy’ in the sense that a recession, depression can literally wipe out one’s savings quickly. According to my research, recessions are fairly common to the American system. They have been called recessions, downturns, panics, fluctuations, whatever. But in all cases, there is a burp, a tremo, a fart where investments take a dive, money is lost, until events stabilize. How many persons are knowledgeable enough to invest accordingly.
Even though my retirement is with the government, Social Security as well, I am more comfortable and secure with this arrangement, even though the retirement funds and Social Security are invested also!
This is a risky situation, the third rail of politics and why the politicians tread lightly around it. Right now, according to the AARP and NCPSSM, there is enough in the trust fund to fully fund the system until the year 2032/33, at which time benefits would be reduced.
In addition, the NCPSSM states that the present system would become sustainable if two aspects were addressed: one, raise the salary cap from $176,100 to a higher number, say $450,00, $675, $800, etc. Two, GOP POTUS once in office grant multi-million-dollar tax raises to the wealthy and corporations. According to the NCPSSM, these two items alone place a heavy strain upon our benefit state.
And to further inform the reader, there have been various authors who have criticized the GOP and consider them the biggest threat to our benefits today. The Deep State and The Party Is Over by Mike Lofgren; Anthony Sutton’s book America Secret Establishment’; and C. Wright Mill’s book, The Power Elite are four of the books, available to the public. Lofgren states, the GOP cares over and above every item on its political agenda about the rich contributors who keep them in office. And that is why tax increases have become an absolute taboo.
A constant complaint of the NCPSSM, that if the very rich and the corporations would pay their fair share of the taxes, there would be a sustainable reduction in the national debt.
In 2002, the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, also known as the McCain-Feingold Act, limited campaign financing of presidential elections. But soft money crept into the elections, soft money meaning clandestinely, quietly, behind-the scenes type donations. This creeping of money into the political process, by both parties, was the impetus for the passing of the 2010 Citizens United Election Commission. The Conservative Supreme Court of that year affirmed this commission, thereby eliminating the limit on corporate and billionaire money into politics. Once that happened, our representatives were bought and paid for.
Robert LaPolt
New Paltz
Marcel Nagele for Woodstock Town Board
People around Woodstock have known Marcel Nagele for many years as a man of principle, hard work, generosity, integrity, humility and compassion. Between his tightly-budgeted working-class upbringing and the wide and diverse range of friends, associates and clients, he has amassed over 35 years in this town, he has demonstrated that he understands the struggles ordinary Woodstockers go through, and that he is able to work cooperatively with anyone so willing. Marcel has worked tirelessly to clean up the Shady dump and to support the families who have suffered from both undrinkable water and virtual bankruptcy in their attempts to get Woodstock to simply enforce its own laws. He has also been involved in publicizing and working toward solutions for the PFAS contamination of Woodstock’s water supply, including helping to catch three reporting errors that, if left undiscovered, could have influenced the town’s response.
Marcel calls himself a problem solver, and, as such, he makes a habit of requesting, accumulating and organizing documentation, so that he doesn’t just talk in generalities about the issues facing us, he relies on and shares facts to facilitate transparency and accountability. Numerous people had asked him to run for office, and, though he knew it required personal sacrifice, he came to decide that he had an obligation to help change the direction and conduct of our town’s governance. He is running as an independent Democrat, outside of the orbit of the current administration and those who exert undue influence over decision-making. His candidacy is a gift to our town, the offer of a non-politician who can be trusted to whole-heartedly represent us, all of us. I urge you to vote for Marcel Nagele for Woodstock Town Board in the Democratic primary election on Tuesday, June 24.
Alan M. Weber
Woodstock
Join the contest
John N. Butz has dared Neil Jarmel, William Weinstein, Maurice Cunningham, William Wheeler, Tom Cherwin, Steve Romaine, Hal and Doris Chorny and all the liberals (Butz not me, boo hoo) to share our thoughts on the Biden mental health scandal.
However, I suggest to my fellow liberals that, instead, we engage in a contest for suggestions for the N in Butz’s name. We probably can’t put the results in a letter to this paper but if you supply your email address, I will send the results. Mine is meyerkeh@yahoo.com. Any other un-named liberal who would like to join this contest, feel free to let me know. I have my suggestion already; hint: a cranium that has no sensation.
Please, no Trumpians.
And, John, if you want the results, email me.
Meyer A Rothberg
Saugerties
We need Bill Murray on our side
Bill Murray is my family’s pick for the upcoming Ulster County Village of New Paltz 20th District Legislature. I hope you join us.
Besides being endorsed by our county’s Democratic Committee, Bill has decades of experience serving our beautiful village and community — he knows intimately what needs to get done and how to do it. And, maybe more importantly, he puts his own blood, sweat and tears on the line for his neighbors and our whole diverse community. For instance, he has been an award-winning volunteer firefighter where he has helped many families through some of their worst days. In addition, he took initiative during the pandemic and formed a local program, Neighbor to Neighbor, to help our local senior citizens! To top it all off, Bill is also a twice-elected village trustee and he has served nine years on the county planning board.
Bill Murray has not only worked hard for our community, he knows, from his long-term knowledge of New Paltz, that we need more affordable housing, more long-term care for our aging population and innovative ways to support our unhoused populations. And he will get it done.
Experience, compassion, expertise and a get-it-done attitude! This is who we need! As threats to our communities funding, safety, nature and healthcare mount, we need a strong, determined and expert Legislator like Bill Murray on our side!
Jennifer Wright Cook
Chris Oden
Village of New Paltz
Our president is against the people
Whoever heard of a US president in perpetual war with the citizens he has sworn to govern justly?
This president intends to downgrade our health by cutting $800B from Medicaid and $500B from Medicare. He wants to withhold new Covid vaccines from over half the population. These are the vaccines containing new viruses that we have no immunity to. We are already dying younger than most people living in prosperous countries and now, with Trump defunding science, our health will be further downgraded.
Whoever heard of a US president being so against the people?
Doris Chorny
Wallkill
Anula Courtis is the leader that Woodstock needs
I am writing to express my unwavering support for Anula Courtis as our next Woodstock town supervisor. In these contentious times, the qualities of leadership we seek are not merely about experience, but about a unique blend of intellect, compassion and the rare ability to unite a community. Anula embodies these qualities in abundance.
Anula’s intelligence is evident in every interaction. She possesses a remarkable capacity to grasp complex issues, analyze intricate details and formulate well-reasoned solutions. Her approach to problem-solving is always thoughtful and informed, demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our town. She doesn’t shy away from difficult questions but tackles them with a clear mind and a commitment to finding the most effective path forward for all Woodstock residents.
Beyond her sharp intellect, it is Anula’s heart that truly sets her apart. She genuinely cares about the well-being of everyone in our community. Her decisions are not driven by political expediency, but by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to serve the common good. She listens intently, not just to hear, but to understand the diverse perspectives and needs of our neighbors. This compassionate approach ensures that her leadership will always be grounded in the human element, fostering a more inclusive and supportive Woodstock.
Perhaps most critically, especially in the current political climate, Anula possesses an extraordinary ability to form consensus. While other campaigns may unfortunately resort to negativity and division, Anula consistently rises above, focusing on shared goals and collaborative solutions. She understands that true progress is achieved not by tearing down opponents, but by building bridges between differing viewpoints. Her calm demeanor, respectful dialogue, and unwavering commitment to finding common ground make her uniquely suited to lead our town into dealing with the environment, housing needs and the character that makes Woodstock the arts community that it has so long been.
Woodstock deserves a leader who can navigate challenges with wisdom, act with compassion, and foster a spirit of collaboration. Anula Courtis is that leader. Democrats, I urge you to join me in supporting her for Woodstock town supervisor on June 24th (early voting begins on June 14th) and together, let us build a bright future for our unique, beloved town.
Gordon Wemp
Woodstock
A new path forward after Prop 2
The people of the Onteora Central School District have spoken: they do not want Woodstock Elementary to close. Proposition 2 was defeated by a clear margin — 54.6% to 45.4%. That 9% difference is no small amount.
Many residents who voted against Prop 2 did so not because they oppose school improvements, but because they believe we can modernize our facilities and keep Woodstock Elementary open.
I share that belief and urge the board of education to bring forward a new, inclusive plan that does two things:
1. Keeps Woodstock Elementary open to serve K–5 children in the eastern part of the district in a beloved, high-performing, community-based school.
2. Proposes a lower-cost bond that upgrades the high school, middle school and Bennett — without the costly expansion needed to absorb Woodstock students.
This alternative could come at significantly less cost than the $70.5 million plan that was voted down, while still remaining tax-neutral — thanks to savings already realized from the closure of Phoenicia Elementary.
Prop 2 was divisive because it forced voters to choose between two priorities: preserving a cherished school and upgrading our buildings. But those goals are not mutually exclusive — and they never should have been treated that way.
A new plan that honors both values — preservation of community schools and progress for all our schools — can unite us and give all the voters of this district what they want. I urge the board to begin work now so a revised proposal can be brought to voters in a special election this fall, and so we may all rally behind it.
Let’s move forward together — with a plan that reflects everyone’s wishes for this school district.
Tansy Michaud
Woodstock
Primary endorsement of Ann Peters
For some years, the residents of Legislative District 2 in Saugerties have been represented and misrepresented by our legislator who thankfully is not standing for re-election. We now have an excellent opportunity to have a level-headed legislator who will represent us in the best Democratic tradition. Ann Peters is a Hudson Valley native who lives and works in the Village of Saugerties. Getting to know her over the past year has been a pleasure. She is hard working and reliable. She is anxious to meet her neighbors and hear our views. Since becoming a candidate she has spent enormous time attending legislative sessions and community events in Saugerties and other Ulster County towns.
On June 24th, Democrats in legislative District 2 will have the opportunity to support Ann in the primary election. I urge my neighbors to take an opportunity to meet Ann and discuss issues of importance with her. You will be impressed with her knowledge, her common sense and her communication skills. We can count on her to campaign vigorously to win this seat in the November election. Then vote for Ann Peters in the June primary.
Kathy Gordon
Saugerties
Stop climate polluter handouts
Oil and gas companies continue to rake in record profits while New Yorkers struggle to find ways to stay warm and keep food on their table during the cold winter months. Yet, New York lawmakers still allow for New York’s tax-expenditure to dish out nearly $2 billion to the fossil fuel industry, one of the wealthiest industries on the planet.
These subsidies began several decades ago when New York had money to spare and the fossil fuel industry needed assistance. This is no longer the case. New Yorkers could better use this money to help pay their bills. The state legislature and the executive branch have been presented with the Stop Climate Polluter Handouts Act (SCPHA), which begins to pierce the parasitic pipeline from politician to polluter and puts people over profits in a time of increasing poverty and economic despair. This bill generates over $330 million for the state’s budget in a much-needed time.
The SCPHA targets the most egregious polluters along with the subsidies that will have minimal to no impact on the average New York taxpayer. Repealing fossil fuel industry tax subsidies will help close the budget gap and keep New York a leader in the fight to Make Polluters Pay. New York lawmakers cannot continue prioritizing corporate welfare over the well being of the taxpayers.
The state legislature needs to pass the Stop Climate Polluter Handouts Act (S.3606/A.3675) this June. Passing this bill will both generate revenue for New York, help the people that live here and reduce the state’s reliance on polluting fossil fuels.
Eric Wood, NYPIRG Senior Environmental Program Coordinator
New Paltz
She Won’t Be Back
She rose above the din
and dun-colored day
and left. She went out
the room on tiptoe.
She went out to wend
her way, amend her ways,
use her Waze, and not
wig out. Has more tips
than the tops of her toes
which she wiggles when
something’s gonna stick.
She’s off with the Jinn.
Something’s gonna give.
She won’t be back.
Patrick Hammer, Jr.
Saugerties
Let’s make Ann Peters our legislator
I am voting for Ann Peters for Legislative District 2 (covering the Village of Saugerties, Malden, West Camp and Barclay Heights) in the Democratic Primary in June (early voting from June 14-22 and primary day June 24). I hope eligible Democratic voters in Legislative District 2 will join me in supporting Ann.
Though I support all individuals who seek to promote the Democratic ideals upon which this country was founded, Ann has proven herself particularly well-suited to be our representative in the legislature. I’ve observed her talents first hand: Ann is a smart, compassionate woman who will represent Saugerties with integrity and dedication. Unlike many political candidates, she is running not with an eye on future higher elected positions, but rather with a commitment to serve the people of Saugerties and the county beginning on day one. Ann is a devoted mother and wife who cares deeply about preserving what’s best about our town and county and resolving difficulties. She will work to prevent overdevelopment that threatens our pristine land and safe water and will push for sustainable affordable and workforce housing. Ann will advocate for improved access to healthcare including mental health and addiction services. She will support initiatives that create good paying jobs and bolster small businesses. Ann will be a fighter for social justice and equality for all. Ann has demonstrated a deep grasp of the issues facing our town and county and has worked tirelessly to reach out and listen to voters in Legislative District 2.
Democrats in Saugerties have a chance to put forth a candidate beyond reproach who will put in the time and energy to get the job done right. Let’s make Ann Peters our legislator — first in June with a primary victory and again in November in the general election. A win for Ann is a win for all of us!
Melanie Gardner
Saugerties
Stop banding birds during nesting season
Each spring, birds return home to nest — a delicate and vital time in their yearly cycle. They are building nests, protecting eggs, feeding young. It is a sacred rhythm of life. And yet, in the name of science, we’re interrupting it. Bird banding, where birds are trapped, handled and fitted with ID rings or transmitters, may sound harmless. But in truth, it often causes panic, nest abandonment and suffering, especially when done during nesting season. I’m not a scientist, but I am someone who pays attention. I watch the birds in my yard and along our local trails. I’ve seen how easily a nesting bird can be thrown off course. The disruption of being trapped and banded during this time can lead to lost eggs, starving chicks, or parents who don’t return. The cost is real. Scientists often argue that banding is necessary for research. But must we study birds in ways that harm them? Isn’t there a better way — especially now, with so many advances in non-invasive technology? Birds are already facing enough: habitat loss, pesticides, glass windows, climate stress. To add the trauma of capture and banding during their most fragile season seems not just unkind — it seems irresponsible.
If the goal is to protect birds, we must first stop disturbing them. We can learn without interfering. We can care without control. We can choose to respect the natural cycles we claim to admire. I urge researchers and institutions to pause and rethink this practice. Let the birds nest in peace. Let them raise their young without fear. Let science evolve into something more compassionate.
Jacque Susan
New Paltz
Graceful aging: Finding the “we”
One of the surprising by-products in being part of the Graceful Aging group is the permission it has given me to think, to speak and to write, as here, in the first person plural; as a “we.”
I have never felt a deep sense of social belonging. I found that those who used the pronoun “we” assumed too much; they seemed to be inflated by the power of generalization. If there was a “we,” then there had to be a “them.” I began to find my “we” only as I entered my 80’s and became part of a group that shared the struggle to make sense of the ending.
The “we” grew deeper as I spent more hours in places like doctors’ offices where I saw the canes and walkers and the fragile bodies that needed them. In the most visceral way, I saw that I am now part of a cohort who walk in the valley of the shadow of death. Naturally in this time, a “we” is born. When is it with others of my generation, singly or in a group, I realize we have much more in common than what differentiates us.
Aging can confuse us, isolate us, but the worst is that aging can shame us. Shame can keep us silent. To talk openly about the challenges, inconveniences, frustrations, anxieties — the pain — that haunt our aging takes courage. As our group meets over time, trust becomes the foundation for the accounts we offer of our struggle for understanding. We wish to retain our self-respect in the face of loss of function, clarity and support. We gain both understanding and dignity when we realize others are facing exactly the same things we are. The compassion we feel for them becomes available for ourselves.
Our common denominator is the certainty of dying and the uncertainty of each day between now and then. Each of us has his and her unique accounts of aging, but each of us finds in the sharing of them that our stories are not unique to us; others know just what we mean and just how we feel. The desire to bolster our appreciation for what remains to us is our shared quest.
I see now that in late age I have entered the finishing school. There are no teachers here; I teach and I learn with and from others. The only pre-requisite besides age is our willingness to exercise compassion for one another and for ourselves. This open-heartedness is the comfort to be found in the we.
Peter Pitzele
New Paltz
We need strong action
Plastic pollution and climate change are deeply connected. Most plastics are made from fossil fuels — the same dirty fuels that are a major cause of global climate change. When we use plastics, especially single-use items like plastic bottles and packaging, we are not only creating more waste, but we are also contributing to climate change.
The problems don’t stop when we throw plastic away. Discarded plastics pollute our land, rivers and oceans. The factories that produce and burn plastics — like cracker plants and incinerators — release harmful chemicals into the air, water and earth. These facilities are often built in neighborhoods where residents are underprivileged and they don’t have the political power or resources to fight back. These communities often bear the brunt and suffer serious health problems, including respiratory issues, cancer and neurological damage. For many, this pollution which keeps children locked up inside the home, is a daily reality, with little to no relief or support.
Plastic is cheap because fossil fuel companies receive government subsidies. In reality, the environmental and health costs are very high. It’s time we stop letting big polluting industries profit at the expense of people and the planet. We need to fight and stand up strong against hugely powerful fossil fuel lobbyists who roam the halls in Albany as we speak!
Right now, lawmakers in Albany have a chance to make a real difference. Two important bills — the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act (A-1749 and S-1466) and the Bigger Better Bottle Bill (A-6543 and S-5684)—could help solve these problems. PRRIA has just passed in the senate and now has to be brought to the floor in the Assembly.
The PRRIA Act would reduce the amount of plastic packaging and improve recycling systems. It would also remove the 12 most toxic chemicals from food packaging. (Yes, food packaging has toxic chemicals!) The Bigger Better Bottle Bill would encourage more people to recycle their bottles by offering a larger deposit refund, reducing waste and litter and produce revenue for local municipalities.
According to Consumer Reports, these bills will not raise prices on the shelf! They would produce significant revenue through fees and help local governments save money on waste management, create jobs, and improve public health.
We need strong action now. I urge our lawmakers to speak to their fellow Assembly members and urge each other to help pass these bills and make NY a proud trailblazer in the field of single-use plastic consumption. Show us you care about protecting our environment, our health, and the future of our children and don’t get persuaded and intimidated by industry lobbyists!
Edith Bolt
Saugerties
History’s Choir
This is how history’s choir
Will sing of the days we’re in:
“In the twenty-first century,
There lived a sickopath
Who, aided by his sickophants,
Established a sickocracy;
And it tore apart America.
But soon enough, enough people
Began to feel enough was enough,
Coalesced into a healthy majority
(Some might have said a ‘mandate’),
And sicced their simmering outrage
On these sick, sadistic tyrants,
Who fled like the bullies they were.”
Tom Cherwin
Saugerties
Irritants abound…
Apparently everyone west of the Wallkill must be on notice at their jobs for tardiness! Obviously, they can’t remember to leave 10-15 minutes earlier so as not to use extreme speed up Butterville, Gatehouse, Albany Post and High Pasture roads when 299 is flooded!?
Amazingly, it’s both inconsiderate and dangerous at the same time!
This could also be a gold mine for the town if the police stationed themselves strategically on these roads during a flood! But really …what kind of people are these?!
Speaking of inconsiderate people, all these free-spirit types on their excessively loud motorcycles. These “people” rudely interrupt peaceful days and nights with the sound vomit emitting from their bikes!
I commented on this before and somebody responded, saying that some of these bikers are first responders and good people.
Yes, in their general life they may be decent people, but when they are rolling through our towns and neighborhoods revving their engines and blasting our peaceful lives with their loud muffler vomit, it is rude!
It also shows, no matter what they do for a living, that they really don’t care about others!
Speaking of flooding. Last spring, I found out, after getting a ticket on Route 299, that no one in our town government knows or has a specific understanding with the county as to who and when to take down the barriers!?
The police officer told me they had issued 70 or so tickets on what was admittedly an easily drivable and passable 299!
Come on, get an understanding with the county so that even if the road is cleared at midnight, someone from the county can remove those barriers!
This would help those who may have to get to family members, emergency issues and more importantly for the ding dongs who are always late to work and can’t remember to set their alarms 20 minutes earlier when they know the roads are flooded!
Remember Alexie Navalny!
Okay, I feel better. Thanks
Ron Stonitsch
New Paltz
Thanks for participating in the 2025 Memorial Day Parade
The VFW Post 8645, New Paltz, would like to thank all of the participants who made the parade such a wonderful experience for everyone. We would especially to thank the New Paltz Police Department for their assistance in coordinating this event and the New Paltz Fire Department for their presence and support as well as state and county law enforcement. The New Paltz High School Marching Band under the direction of Mr. Sam Newsom was incredible with their patriotic music. We must also thank all the scouts and local sports groups, Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes, Clintondale Fire Department, New Paltz Rotary, Plattekill Veterans Association for their float and the Rotary, town, village and county officials, Father Salvatore Cordaro, OFM Cap from St. Joseph’s for his inspirational closing prayer and, of course, the incredibly patriotic Butch Dener.
Thanks to all who came to support those who gave their life for our freedom.
Kathy and Ron Mironchik
VFW Parade Committee
New Paltz
Join the family! 
