How to get your post on!

Let’s discuss and debate and continue preserving one of the most beautiful towns in America.  Thank you,   Maggie Salamone

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This site serves as a guide to events, news & thoughts in and around the Hudson Valley with focus on the Rhinebeck area. In using this site you are agreeing to hold harmless the Rhinebeck Community Forum, it’s agents, employees and representatives from any liability of any kind or nature whatsoever in connection of its use. The Rhinebeck Community Forum is not responsible for the accuracy of the content posted on this website. We do not formally recommend any of the events posted on this website.

This site may not  be reproduced in any form, by any media, without express written consent.  This includes rewriting, broadcasting and/or printing of material from Rhinebeck Community Forum by radio and television stations, newspapers or other media.

We prepared this site as a public service.

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144 responses to this post.

  1. Really nice posts. I will be checking back here regularly.

    Reply

  2. Posted by Liz Walkden Morfea on October 19, 2009 at 11:53 pm

    Please could you post this to the main page?
    Thanks!

    Hilarity brings clarity
    Join the Laughter Club!
    With Liz Walkden Morfea, Joyologist, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader

    Wednesday October 21, 28
    November 4, 11, 18…+ ongoing
    10:30am – 11:15am

    Community Room at the Starr Library
    68 W. Market Street, Rhinebeck
    For all ages and abilities
    Everyone welcome!

    The Laughter Club is a program that combines laughter exercises with deep yoga breathing to enhance mental and physical well-being.
    We don’t use jokes, comedy, yoga poses or tickling.
    You don’t need to be humorous to take part…you don’t even need to be happy!

    Laughter is nature’s stress buster.
    Laughter strengthens our immune system.
    Laughter makes us more creative and imaginative.
    Laughter is an aerobic exercise.
    Laughter releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killers.
    Laughter releases serotonin, the body’s natural ‘feel-good’ hormone.
    Laughter is anti-aging.

    Come and experience why laughter is the best medicine, and find out what we are all laughing about!!

    $5 / pay what you can
    More info: Liz 845-516-4330

    Reply

  3. Posted by Bdsmboy on October 21, 2009 at 4:16 pm

    This site is extremely informative.

    I find it totally useful. :)

    Reply

  4. Rhinebeck’s Heart Safe Club on CNN this weekend!

    What: CNN recently contacted Kaitlin Forbes requesting to feature her on the CNN series “Breakthrough Women”. At a Heart Safe Club CPR/AED training event last month, CNN filmed various aspects of the training and conducted interviews. Community members participating in the Heart Safe Club CPR/AED training that evening included several RHS & BMS students.

    When: The segment is scheduled to air this weekend: 12/04/09, Friday, 9am-9:30am, 2pm-2:30pm & 12/06/09, Sunday 11am-11:30am, 1pm-1:30pm

    *Although, they filmed quite a bit…we don’t know how much footage will actually be aired…we DO know that everytime the Heart Safe Club’s message is shared…someone will learn about the dangers of sudden cardiac arrest (particularily in youth), they will be encouraged to learn CPR and promote increased public access to Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s)….and hopefully they will be inspired to make a difference!

    http://www.cnn.com/CNN/Programs/morning.express/

    To register for CPR/AED training, please check our training schedule at http://www.maggieomalley.org/heartsafe.htm

    Reply

  5. How can I get an event and/or announcement posted on your site? It is great. It seems to be the ONLY SOURCE of current and pertinent information for our area. I read it everyday.
    Thanks.

    Reply

  6. Posted by Linda Murray on March 21, 2010 at 10:57 am

    Could you post the American Cancer Society’s upcoming Relay for Life. It is the largest worldwide fundraiser. Last year over $220,000 was raised at the Rhinebeck Fairgrounds in an effort to fight cancer!
    It will be held this year on June 5th at 11:00 A.M. – June 6th at 8:00 A.M. at the Rhinebeck Fairgrounds horsetrack.
    Raise money to fight cancer by walking a lap, joining a team, creating a team, or just donating money. Don’t miss the memorable luminaria ceremony held on Saturday evening where hundreds of candles light the entire racetrack and hundreds of people walk around the track in silence in memory of those who have lost the battle, in support of those who are fighting the battle, and prayer of those who both lost and continue to fight the battle against this insidious disease.
    The Website is: http://www.relayforlife.org/rhinebeckny

    Thanks you!!!
    Linda

    Reply

  7. Posted by Michelle Donner on March 27, 2010 at 3:40 pm

    Can you add Wilderstein to your index on left? Or am I just missing it? http://www.wilderstein.org/

    And Sinterklaas will be back again this year – will get you link for that when available!

    Thanks for great site!

    Reply

  8. Posted by George R. Fehling on April 13, 2010 at 5:35 pm

    Would you like to understand more about the origins of the current financial crisis, and what it means for our collective future?

    Nicole M. Foss, a respected financial analyst, energy consultant and blogger from Ontario Canada, will be speaking in Rhinecliff on Wednesday, April 21st at 7 p.m. Ms. Foss will deliver a slide presentation entitled “A Century of Challenges” discussing how credit is created and destroyed, how “ponzi dynamics” affect the global financial system, and how our economy is still very much at risk. There will be a question and answer session following the presentation.

    As an energy consultant who works in the renewable energy field for the Ontario grid system, Ms. Foss will also explain the concept of “Peak Oil” and how increasingly scarce oil supplies and imports may impact our daily lives in the coming years.

    The presentation is free and open to the public. For location information and to register, please contact George Fehling at (845) 868-7055 or e-mail gfcomms@gmail.com. All are welcome.

    Reply

    • Posted by George R. Fehling on April 19, 2010 at 1:40 pm

      Presentation on the Financial Crisis and “Peak Oil” to be held at the Rhinecliff Hotel, Wednesday, April 21st, at 7 p.m.

      Nicole M. Foss, who will be presenting “A Century of Challenges” at the Rhinecliff Hotel on Wednesday April 21st at 7 p.m., is co-editor of The Automatic Earth, where she writes under the name Stoneleigh. She and her writing partner have been chronicling and interpreting the ongoing credit crunch as the most pressing aspect of our current multifaceted predicament. The Automatic Earth website integrates finance, energy, environment, psychology, population and real politik in order to explain why we find ourselves in a state of crisis and what we can do about it. Prior to the establishment of TAE, she was editor of The Oil Drum Canada, where she wrote on peak oil and finance.

      Foss runs the Agri-Energy Producers’ Association of Ontario, where she has focused on farm-based biogas projects and grid connections for renewable energy. While living in the UK she was a Research Fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, where she specialized in nuclear safety in Eastern Europe and the Former Soviet Union, and conducted research into electricity policy at the EU level.

      Her academic qualifications include a BSc in biology from Carleton University in Canada (where she focused primarily on neuroscience and psychology), a post-graduate diploma in air and water pollution control, an LLM in international law in development from the University of Warwick in the UK. She was granted the University Medal for the top science graduate in 1988 and the law school prize for the top law school graduate in 1997.

      The event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to George Fehling at (845) 868-7055 or email gfcomms@gmail.com

      Reply

  9. Posted by Althea Triebel on April 14, 2010 at 12:36 pm

    Wonderful site certainly helps replace the local newspapers. Very informative.

    Reply

  10. I have an event that I’d like you to include on your blog if possible. What is the best way to get you the information? Thanks!

    Reply

  11. Would it be possible to list “Frost Memorial Fund, Inc.” on the “Organizations” list in the left navigation bar? The web address for FMF is http://www.FrostMemorialFund.org.

    Thank you,
    Vincent Teahan

    Reply

  12. You might be interested in my blog post, “Sea Monsters in the Hudson!” which has 19th century NY Times articles about sea serpent sightings in Kingston & Rhinecliff. See it here: http://readingunderthecovers.blogspot.com/2010/07/sea-monsters-in-hudson.html

    Reply

  13. Posted by Loagaccuh on July 19, 2010 at 7:03 pm

    Hello people,

    This is a joke that I find hilarious everytime I read:

    A man received a parrot for his birthday. This parrot was fully-grown with a bad attitude and worse vocabulary. Every other word was an expletive. Those that weren’t expletives were, to say the least, extremely rude.
    The man tried hard to change the bird’s attitude and was constantly saying polite words, playing soft music, anything that came to mind.
    Nothing worked. He yelled at the bird, the bird got worse.
    He shook the bird and the bird got more angry and exceedingly rude.
    Finally, in a moment of desperation, he put the parrot in the freezer.
    For a few moments he heard the bird squawking, kicking and screaming and then, suddenly, all was quiet.
    The man was frightened that he might have actually hurt the bird and quickly opened the freezer door. The parrot calmly stepped out onto the man’s extended arm and said: “I’m sorry that I offended you with my language and actions. I ask for your forgiveness. I will try to improve my behavior.”
    The man was astounded at the bird’s change in attitude and was about to ask what changed him when the parrot continued, “…May I ask what the chicken did?” :)

    Reply

  14. “It takes real passion to play music and if you’ve got it, we want you!”

    Hudson Valley Youth Wind Ensembles

    ENROLLING NOW!
    Fall/Spring Semester

    VIVACE & MAESTRO Ensembles available for student musicians
    Join the fun & take your playing to the next level

    SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ALL!

    http://www.HVYWE.com

    Reply

  15. Could you update the First Baptist Church of Rhinebeck website link to http://www.firstbcrhinebeck.org? Thanks!

    Reply

  16. SINTERKLAAS! FUNDRAISER

    You Are Invited to a uniquely creative Community Party to raise much needed funds so Sinterklaas can return to Rhinebeck this year.

    Saturday, September 25, 5:00-8:00pm

    Zen Dog Cafe, Rhinebeck

    Join friends. Listen to live music with The Ben Senterfit Trio. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres from Zen Dog’s kitchen. Cash bar. Plus a Live Auction!

    See the Sinterklaas Community STAR created right before your eyes under the leadership of Michael Lalicki and some of our community’s most talented artists you will .*

    Help Align the STARS: Sinterklaas is underfunded this year and we all need to help raise the STARS: $40 per person; $75 per couple.

    Space is limited.
    MAKE YOUR RESERVATION NOW:
    http://www.sinterklaasrhinebeck.com/news.php
    You can also call 845.876.6880

    Reply

  17. SINTERKLAAS! FUNDRAISER

    You Are Invited to a uniquely creative Community Party to raise much needed funds so Sinterklaas can return to Rhinebeck this year.

    Saturday, September 25, 5:00-8:00pm

    Zen Dog Cafe, Rhinebeck

    Join friends. Listen to live music with The Ben Senterfit Trio. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres from Zen Dog’s kitchen. Cash bar. Plus a Live Auction!

    See the Sinterklaas Community STAR created right before your eyes under the leadership of Michael Lalicki and some of our community’s most talented artists.

    Help Align the STARS: Sinterklaas is underfunded this year and we all need to help raise the STARS: $40 per person; $75 per couple.

    Space is limited.
    MAKE YOUR RESERVATION NOW:
    http://www.sinterklaasrhinebeck.com/news.php
    You can also call 845.876.6880

    Reply

  18. Mid Hudson Larreynaga Sister City Benefit Dance

    Saturday, Nov. 13 at 7:30 pm
    Church of the Messiah Parish Hall
    6436 Montgomery Street
    Rhinebeck, NY 12572

    Live Latino Dance Music provided by the wonderful sounds of “Cuboricua.” Refreshments will be provided. The cost is $20 per person.

    The proceeds from this dance are dedicated to the needy children and village of our sister city in Larreynaga, Nicaragua. Anyone who brings a nonperishable food item to donate to the church food pantry will get a free door prize ticket.

    Sponsored by:
    -Mid Hudson Larreynaga Sister City
    http://www.mhsistercity.org
    -Dutchess Peace
    http://www.dutchesspeace.org

    Contact: 845-876-3779

    Reply

  19. Hi!
    How great to have a local news source! Thank you!
    Could you please post this on the opening page if possible:

    Free Tree Pruning Workshop in Rhinebeck

    There will be a free tree pruning workshop on Sunday, Oct. 24 (raindate 10/31), starting at 1 PM, at the Lions’ Club Mini-Park in Rhinebeck. This event is sponsored by the Rhinebeck Village Tree Commission, and taught by one of its members, Nicholas Doyle, a certified arborist. Participants will learn about tree pruning and then have guided practice on Village trees. This is an easy way to learn important pruning skills to use on trees at home. Everyone is welcome to attend.

    Participants are asked to dress for the weather, and wear warm, flexible gloves. Bring sharp pruning shears, pruning saws and/or loppers if possible.

    Email tmac1337@gmail.com or call 876-8841 for more information.

    Reply

  20. Thanks for posting Pause Dog Boutique’s Howl’oween event!

    Laura

    Reply

  21. Posted by hana527 on November 19, 2010 at 2:59 pm

    Please share this event that is on Sunday:

    3rd Annual Craft Fair Benefit for Sinterklaas!

    Handmade Local Crafts and Art plus Live Music.
    Join us for holiday gift shopping. Or find something special for yourself! Local Artisans include Jewelry Makers, Weavers, Knitters, Painters, Photographers, Potters, Woodworkers, Holiday Gift Makers, AND MORE! Plus you can support Sinterklaas! when you buy: Raffle Shirts, Illuminated Stars, and Buttons

    WHERE: Rhinebeck Town Hall, 80 Market St. Across from the Municipal Parking Lot.

    Reply

  22. Posted by hana527 on November 19, 2010 at 10:37 pm

    ok. I think I may be having a little trouble navigating my way around here. Sorry.

    Reply

  23. Posted by hana527 on November 19, 2010 at 10:37 pm

    and thanks

    Reply

  24. Could you add the Rhinebeck-Rheinbach Exchange Program to your list of organizations? We are a music & cultural student exchange with the town of Rheinbach Germany that was started in 1978. We’d love to be included on your site.

    Thanks,
    Kelley

    Reply

  25. The Rhinebeck Choral Club, under the direction of Charles E. Kelley and accompanied by Geralyn Ely, will be performing their 2010 Holiday Concert, with a special portion highlighting the men of the Rhinebeck Choral Club, featuring tenor soloist Ryan Doughty. The Guest artists will be, the 6th to 8th grade, LaGrange Middle School Chimechoir.

    The performances will be:

    Saturday, December 11th, at 8 p.m., at the Rhinebeck High School Auditorium, 45 North Plank Road, Rhinebeck, NY 12572

    Sunday, December 12th , at 3 p.m., at the Arlington Reformed Church, 22 Raymond Avenue, Poughkeepsie NY 12603; located at the corner of Raymond Avenue and the East Bound Arterial (44/55 ).

    Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students

    For More information visit http://www.rhinebeckchoralclub.org or call 845-876-7838

    Reply

  26. Posted by Mark Fleischhauer on January 18, 2011 at 5:26 pm

    Please add the following to your postings:

    Boy Scout Troop 128
    Pancake Breakfast
    8AM – Noon
    February 6 and March 6
    American Legion Post 429
    Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck

    All you can eat breakfast!
    Adults $5/$6
    Children $2
    Under 6 free

    Reply

  27. “It takes real passion to play music and if you’ve got it, we want it!”

    Hudson Valley Youth Wind Ensembles

    ENROLLING NOW!
    Spring Semester starts Feb. 6 & 7

    VIVACE & MAESTRO Ensembles available for student musicians
    Join the fun & take your playing to the next level.

    SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ALL!

    http://www.HVYWE.com

    Reply

  28. Posted by Jenn Brown on February 9, 2011 at 6:33 pm

    Changing the Way We Eat: Live Webcast of TED event at Omega Institute

    This Saturday, February 12, there is a TED conference in Manhattan called Changing the Way We Eat. It’s being webcast live and Omega is hosting a viewing party in our Cafe. The talks go from 10:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., with breaks, but you can join us for any part of the day. Come listen with others who are interested in sustainable food & sustainable food systems.

    For more details, please check out the following links:

    http://tedxmanhattan.org/
    http://www.facebook.com/eOmega.org?v=app_2344061033

    Reply

  29. ANNUAL CLINTON COMMUNITY LIBRARY BOOK SALE FEBRUARY 25TH-27TH
    Clinton Community Library offers up an Early Bird Special on February 25th

    February 10, 2011- Rhinebeck, NY Although the Clinton Community Library’s mailing address bears the mailing address of Rhinebeck, NY make no mistake that it is the heart and soul of the Town of Clinton. The Town of Clinton residents have enjoyed this comfortable and cozy library for more than 40 years. The library offers a broad complement of community programming including a book discussion group (Monday Night Club), adult computer training, and a monthly movie night. It provides children’s programming throughout the year including weekly preschool story hour, a monthly program for home schoolers, and three weeks of summer day camp free to residents. But the highlight of the year is the Annual Book Sale. This years book sale will have a few added attractions. The newly formed “Friends of Clinton Community Library” will share in duties of organising the books, CD’s, DVD’s and offer assistance to book buyers throughout the weekend. A giant walk thru bird cage filled with children’s books will attract the young readers, as well as a quiet play and story time to keep the youngest occupied while Mom and Dad or Grandma and Grandpa shop. Baked goods will also be for sale throughout the weekend, the proceeds from the bake sale will support the library’s “Battle of the Books” team in conjunction with the Summer Reading Program.

    Friday, February 25th 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm, will feature an Early Bird Special: a $10 donation will get you first dibs on the sale plus complimentary light refreshments. There is no admission fee for the remainder of the sale. Saturday, February 26th hours are from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. Sunday , February 27th from 11:59am – 2:59pm is The Bountiful Book Sale, a brown bag may be purchased for $5 and be filled up with as many books as possible.

    The Clinton Community Library is located on the Clinton Town Hall Campus at 1215 Centre Road Rhinebeck, NY 12572.

    attached promotional flyer: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=31175270&l=1a1affdf9b&id=1309359464

    Reply

  30. Posted by Emily Collins on March 1, 2011 at 9:27 pm

    Music and Art Without Borders for Doctors Without Borders

    Date/Time: Sunday April 3rd, 2011 · 4pm – 9pm
    Location: Bull and Buddha, 319 Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY
    (845) 337-4848

    Bull and Buddha invites you to celebrate, fundraise and spread awareness on a special evening honoring Doctors Without Borders.

    Silent Art Auction, Appetizers, Raffles, Wine Tasting, and Short Documentaries

    Live Bands:
    The Big Takeover
    Adir LC and the Fairweather Friend
    One Step West
    MBMA

    $15 per ticket in advance. $20 at the door. Cash bar.

    To purchase tickets, go to http://maawb.chipin.com/music-and-art-without-borders or contact musicandartevent@gmail.com for more information.

    Reply

  31. Parents Invited to CISPE General Meeting Regarding Upcoming School Budget

    An Open Invitation to all Parents! Please join us for a General Meeting of CISPE – Community in Support of Public Education – a community-led group of parents building awareness of the needs of the Rhinebeck Central School District , its families, students, teachers and administrators. We are actively involved in supporting improvements to the schools, encouraging voting on school budgets, and in disseminating accurate information on the budget, referenda and other publicly funded educational items. CISPE has been working with the Rhinebeck community since 2001.

    This year’s budget talks are underway and community involvement is essential! Come to a meeting and learn more about how CISPE can help you be heard and how you can help work positively with our schools.

    Day and evening meetings for your convenience!

    Meeting Location: Rhinebeck Town Hall , 80 E. Market Street (corner of Center Street )

    Dates: Tuesday, March 8th at 10:00am – AND – Wednesday, March 9th at 7:00pm

    Any questions, please contact Pat Sexton at PLSexton@aol.com

    Reply

  32. Hi, thanks for creating this great resource for the Rhinebeck Community! Please consider adding my blog to the “Rhinebeck Business Bloggers” List. I own a business in Rhinebeck (Rhinebeck Pilates) and my blog is http://headsuponyourbody.blogspot.com/.
    Thank you! Elaine

    Reply

  33. Posted by Emily Collins on March 16, 2011 at 8:56 pm

    Stissing House Restaurant Kicks Off Literary Series With Michael Korda’s Best Selling Book Hero: Life And Legend Of Lawrence Of Arabia

    Stissing House Restaurant will debut a new literary series with Michael Korda discussing his critically-acclaimed definitive biography of T. E. Lawrence, Hero: The Life and Legend of Lawrence of Arabia. Korda will discuss T.E. Lawrence’s life, separating fact from legend, and examine the impact of Lawrence’s activities on modern politics in the Middle East and on world history. Korda will also examine Lawrence’s vision: plans that, had they been carried through, might have prevented the hatred and bloodshed that have become ubiquitous in the region.

    WHEN: Saturday April 9, 2011 5:30 – 7:00 PM

    WHERE Stissing House
    7801 South Main Street
    Pine Plains, NY 12567
    stissinghouse.com

    COST: Free

    RSVP: Call 518-398-8800 or email stissinghouse@gmail.com

    Reply

  34. I’ve tried to submit an announcement for the Frost Memorial Fund a few times, but am unsure if it’s getting through. Are there any restrictions on the syntax in the message? Can you let me know if you have received a message regarding the Frost Memorial Fund deadline for grant applications?

    Thank you.

    Reply

  35. Frost Memorial Fund Announcement
    Deadline for Grant Proposals – March 31st

    Frost Memorial Fund welcomes grant proposals for programs that benefit charities in the Village and Town of Rhinebeck. The deadline for submission of grant proposals is March 31, 2011. Please consult the Grants section of the FMF website to view and download the grant guidelines and application.

    Frost Memorial Fund, Inc., founded by the late Barbara V. Frost and Benson R. Frost, Jr., is a private foundation that awards grants to non-profit organizations, with particular attention to civic and charitable endeavors in the Village and Town of Rhinebeck, New York.

    Board of Directors

    Please direct all inquiries to:

    info@FrostMemorialFund.org
    Frost Memorial Fund, Inc.
    P.O. Box 241
    Salt Point, New York 12578

    http://www.frostmemorialfund.org

    Reply

  36. The Costs of War
    FREE Public Talk
    Saturday, April 30, 2011
    8:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
    Omega Institute
    Main Hall

    Omega Institute hosts FREE public talk and book signing with Claude AnShin Thomas, veteran and author of At Hell’s Gate: A Soldier’s Journey from War to Peace.

    A Vietnam veteran, Thomas witnessed horrifying cruelty, narrowly escaped death on multiple occasions, and was responsible for the deaths of many people. After the war he turned to meditation and mindfulness practice, studying in the monastery of Thich Nhat Hanh, to help him “make peace with the unpeacefulness” of war and its legacy. Join us for this public talk and hear about one soldier’s journey to end suffering for himself and others.

    “We who have fought in war know intimately about life and death.
    We who have been wounded by war—physically, psychologically, and
    spiritually—need to come together in order to support each other.”
    —Claude AnShin Thomas

    No registration is required.

    Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

    http://bit.ly/cyxMTN
    800.944.1001

    Reply

  37. Posted by Happy! on April 19, 2011 at 9:23 pm

    Happy Birthday Julia!

    (And maybe some others will know which Julia this is…)
    :)

    Reply

  38. Tivoli Free Library Plant Swap on Saturday, May 14th, 2011.
    86 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583

    Registration: 9:30am/Swap: 10:00am.

    Bring all your extra plants — perennials, annual seedlings, shrubs, vines, houseplants,vegetable/herb seedlings and extra seeds. Have plants divided in containers, labeled with name and basic planting instructions. We will also be swapping all garden related items — garden books, magazines, tools, hoses, garden art, containers and pots.

    We will also be offering arts & crafts for children, a raffle by 10% Challenge Red Hook, information on local “green” resources and a volunteer potluck lunch. Feel free to bring something to share.

    If you are available to help or need more information please contact us at tivoliprograms@gmail.com or 845-757-3771.

    Reply

  39. I’d like to announce the RCC’s Spring Concert dates:

    The Rhinebeck Choral Club is pleased to announce that their Spring concerts will be for the benefit of the SPCA of both Dutchess and Ulster Counties.

    They will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2001 8:00 PM at the Church of the Messiah Parish Hall, Montgomery Street (corner of US Route 9 and Chestnut Street), Rhinebeck, NY, and Sunday, May 15, 2011 3:00 PM at the New Beginnings Church of Poughkeepsie, 35 DeGarmo Road, Poughkeepsie, NY.

    Featured will be music of American composers, such as Foster, Porter, Ellington, Copland, and Gershwin, plus other great composers. Also featured will be solos by members of the Choral Club.

    Our Director is Charles Kelley of Poughkeepsie and our Accompanist is Geralyn Ely.

    Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students.

    For any other information, please visit http://www.rhinebeckchoralclub.org/ or call 845-453-4774 or 845-876-7838.

    Reply

  40. Health and Wellness for Life Expo coming up on Saturday, June 4th, 1:00 – 4:00 pm at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in conjunction with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Featured speaker is Joy Bauer, Today Show health and nutrition expert at 2:30 with book-signing to follow. Other speakers include Roufia Payman, Nutrition expert at Northern Dutchess Hospital at 1:00, Orthopedic Associates at 1:30, The Healthy Place at 2:00. There will be lots of other educational demonstrations and information from the leading health & wellness experts in our area. Admission is free!
    Gold sponsor: DC Fairgrounds, Northern Dutchess Hospital, Orthopedic Associates of DC, The Healthy Place.
    Silver sponsors: Healing Arts Center of Red Hook, Hudson Valley CrossFit, Hudson Valley Structural Integration, Immune Formulation 200 GPS, Innerlight Health Spa, IXL Health & Fitness Club, Palmiter Benefits Group, Rhinebeck Chiropractic, Rhinebeck Eye Care, WellCare Health Plan.

    Reply

  41. Local Talent Tuesday at Tivoli Free Library

    JUNE 14th at 7:00pm

    Local author Tommy Zurhellen reads excerpts from his newly released book Nazareth, North Dakota. Author reception to follow.

    Please join us!

    86 Broadway
    Tivoli, NY 12583
    845.757.3771

    Reply

  42. Northern Dutchess Day Care Center, a not-for-profit agency in Rhinebeck will be operating Summer Sensations Day Camp again this year. The camp will be held from June 27 through Sept. 2 at the Baptist Home on Rt 308 in Rhinebeck. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed on July 4th. The camp, established in 1997, was set up as an intergenerational program between the campers and the residents of the Baptist Home.

    Activities include arts and crafts, board games, field games and activities with the residents twice a week. Special events are planned for the summer; for example, “Halloween in July”, “Beach Party” in August, Rescue Dog Day, International Flag and Food Festival, Tie Dye T-Shirt day and more. Children return year after year for a fun filled summer! The staff have worked at the
    camp, as well as for the other programs that Northern Dutchess Day offers for many years and we have found that parents like the idea of continuity of care for their children. The staff are CPR and First Aid certified. Camp rates are $160 for a full week or part time slots are available at $45/day.

    For more information about Summer Sensations, the Executive Director can be reached at 845-876-2063 or nddcc@yahoo.com.

    Reply

  43. IMPROV NATION — Tonight Only — Friday, June 10th – 7:30pm at Rhinebeck HS Auditorium

    Saturday Night Live alumna Denny Dillon and IMPROV NATION, the Hudson Valley-based company of gibberish talkers, conceptual tightrope walkers, off-the-cuff scene-makers and ridiculous risk takers, will take over the Rhinebeck Auditorium on June 10 at 7:30pm
    Improvisation at its best! Audience suggestions make the show!

    Rhinebeck Auditorium
    45 North Park Road, Rhinebeck, NY (on the Rhinebeck High School Campus).
    Friday, June 10th at 7:30pm.
    General Admission $8; Students $5
    Tickets at the door ONLY. For more information call 845- 876-6880.

    Reply

  44. Posted by Laura Schulkind on June 13, 2011 at 8:35 pm

    Would you be willing to post this information about an event at the elementary school on Wed night? Thanks in advance.

    The Rhinebeck Eco-Initiative Open House is coming to Chacellor!

    Here’s a chance to learn about the school district’s ecosystem from student experts

    Wednesday, June 15th from 6-8pm, Chancellor Livingston Elementary School

    Free ice cream!

    •Build a rain barrel
    •Learn how to measure your electricity use
    •Find out what lives in the schoolyard
    •Make a compost bin
    •Try local food
    •View & make recycled art
    •View student projects
    •Talk to local experts
    •Take home free plants

    •Recycle your e-waste!

    Join Rhinebeck’s children to discover what they have been working on with their teachers and Cary Institute educators during Year Two of the Rhinebeck Eco-Initiative.

    Reply

  45. Hi! Would you mind posting for the Library? Thanks!!

    TIVOLI FREE LIBRARY SUMMER READING KICK OFF!

    Please save Wednesday, July 6th @6:00pm for a night of dinner and drumming!

    In keeping with our Summer Reading Program theme, One World, Many Stories, we invite each family to please bring a dish, snack, dessert or drink to share that best represents your family’s heritage.

    After dinner, we are honored to have Elena Mosley from Kuumba Dance & Drum (Hudson, NY)
    lead us in a family drumming workshop. Plan on learning a move or two!!

    Have a drum? Bring it! If not, we will have plenty to share.

    Please help us fill our third floor with beautiful music and delicious eatsfrom around the world…

    The Summer Reading Program not only promotes literacy but also enhances our local community by allowing us to host unique events. This event was funded in part by a
    2011 Mid Hudson Library System Summer Reading Program Mini-Grant.

    It is FREE & open to the public and suitable for all ages….everyone is invited ~ please spread the word!

    TIVOLI FREE LIBRARY
    86 Broadway, 3rd Fl
    Tivoli, NY 12583

    Reply

  46. Posted by vicki on July 4, 2011 at 8:17 pm

    FOUND DOG – small breed beige and white male – on East Market Street in Rhinebeck – dog warden notified – yet will keep dog at my house – please call 876 -6637. Name is on tag and discoonnected #.

    Reply

  47. Posted by vicki on July 4, 2011 at 9:40 pm

    Happy ending! Owner found ;)

    Reply

  48. Posted by Tivoli Free Library on July 16, 2011 at 4:19 pm

    Tivoli Free Libray ~ 86 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583

    Tuesday, July 19th @ 6:30pm ~ “Let’s Go to Mexico with The Butterfly Guy”

    Please join us with our guide, Jerry Schneider, a/k/a “The Butterfly Guy” as we take a look at the amazing Monarch migration to Mexico. We will see Monarch butterflies clustering by the thousands in Oyamel fir trees in the mountains of Michoacan, and learn why Monarchs come north every year only to return to Mexico in the fall. We invite you to create a t-shirt & have some ice cream after the presentation! (Children’s shirts, $4).

    Reply

  49. Posted by Tivoli Free Library on July 16, 2011 at 4:20 pm

    Tivoli Free Library ~ 86 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583

    Thursday, July 21@ 6:30pm – Japanese Flower Arranging & Tea Ceremony
    As part of our Beginner Meditation series, Bettina will be leading a Japanese Flower Arrangement Workshop. Join us for a talk on the Tea Ceremony and a hands on workshop on how to arrange the flowers for Chabana.
    Please bring flowers from your garden and a favorite vase.

    Bettina Mueller is the author of The World in a Bowl of Tea. She has been studying the Tea Ceremony since the early 1980’s and has built a tea house in her backyard in Tivoli. She also is leading the Beginner’s Mediation series at the library this summer. This is a FREE class but registration is required.
    You do not have to participate in the Meditation class to attend. All are welcome!

    Reply

  50. Posted by Tivoli Free Library on July 16, 2011 at 4:21 pm

    Tivoli Free Library ~ 86 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583

    Friday, July 22 @ 7:00pm – Family Movie Night

    Join us for an animated kids movie at the library! Kids are welcome to wear their PJs & bring teddy bears. Popcorn will be served!

    Reply

  51. Posted by Tivoli Free Library on July 16, 2011 at 4:21 pm

    Tivoli Free Library ~ 86 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583

    Saturday, July 23rd @ 10:30am Yoga ~ Just for Moms

    Please join us as we come together for a special morning of yoga just for Moms. Jamie will lead a yoga class suitable for all levels ~ expectant mothers welcome – please bring a mat – tea served after class ~ Mothers of small children are especially encouraged to attend! Class by donation.

    Reply

  52. The Village of Rhinebeck is asking all Village residents to be sure and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their neighbors from injury due to the effects of the impending storm. Items such as BBQ grills, garbage cans, signs, swingsets, bicycles, toys, picnic tables, lawn furniture, umbrellas, garden tools, flower pots, planters, hanging baskets etc. have the potential to become airborne and cause serious damage, injury or possibly death. Lets all police our property and join together to be sure everyone is safe. Thank you for your cooperation.

    Jim Reardon
    Mayor

    Reply

  53. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    CONTACT

    Jim Reardon

    Mayor

    845-876-7015

    The Village of Rhinebeck is asking for everyone’s help in conserving water. Mayor Jim Reardon states “The effects of hurricane Irene have led to some water main breaks. We were on the scene on Rhinecliff Rd last night Sunday the 28th until 11:00 pm repairing two leaks that lead into the hamlet of Rhinecliff. Water service to the hamlet was restored and people may notice some turbidity in their water which is common when there is a break. At this point we are still not seeing a significant recovery at the water storage tank so it appears we still have some unidentified leaks. We are making every effort to locate these leaks, but in the meantime we are asking the public to make every attempt to eliminate all unnecessary water usage”. Reardon goes on to state, “I want to assure everyone that the water is safe for consumption and if there is turbidity in the water simply let it run until it clears. Thank you to everyone for their cooperation”.

    Reply

  54. August 31, 2011 8:00 am EST

    The Village of Rhinebeck has declared a water emergency. Mayor Jim Reardon stated today “Due to the high level of turbidity in the Hudson River caused by runoff from Hurricane Irene we have been experiencing a great degree of difficulty in processing the water. The treatment plant has been shutdown temporarily. At this time we are trucking water in so that we can keep the system functioning. However it is necessary to take emergency steps to conserve water”. All unnecessary usage should be eliminated. Ways to conserve water include not washing vehicles, watering lawns or gardens or running dishwashers unless they are completely full. Also if you have any leaks at faucets those should be repaired immediately. Reardon states “please understand that we need to have the system functional and able to supply water in case of fire and by taking the necessary steps now to conserve water we will be able to respond if an emergency situation arises. Once we are able to assume normal operations we will remove the restrictions. We thank everyone for their cooperation”.

    Reply

  55. Posted by Tom Traudt on September 2, 2011 at 2:45 pm

    Please Post
    Aid to Private Homeowners

    Your local government is working to secure assistance to aid in relief for damages from Tropical Storm Irene.

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers assistance to private property owners who have been victim to the effects of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Irene.

    You can contact FEMA at phone 800 621-3362 http://www.disasterassistance.gov hearing impaired 800 462 7585

    Dutchess County http://www.rhinebeck-ny.gov/town-board/announcements/county-executive-press-release-dutchess-county-declared-disaster-area-apply

    All Town of Rhinebeck maintained roads are open. I want to praise the work of our Highway Department and Highway Superintendent Kathy Kinsella on there extraordinary commitment to our community and returning our roadways to the safe environment we need to live our lives.
    I also want to thank the commitment and dedication of the volunteers of our fire departments who have given so much to our community in our time of need.

    Thomas J Traudt
    Town Supervisor

    Reply

  56. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jim Reardon
    Mayor
    845-876-7015
    TO: The Rhinebeck community
    Re: Latest water update

    Please rest assured that we are working around the clock to address this issue. Our staff at the water department has been manning the plant 24 hrs a day all week long and we also have been in the field form sunup to sun down. We have identified problem areas and made repairs. At this point we are continuing to isolate areas of the system and use sound equipment to identify problems. As my previous press releases have stated we are asking people to continue to conserve water and the boil water order is in place until further notice. Once we have protected the integrity of the water distribution system then the County Health Department will begin sampling and testing the water and it will be their call as to when the boil water order is lifted. At this time we have no idea when that will be. When there is any further information available we will make it available to the public and encourage everyone to visit the Village website at http://www.rhinebecknyvillage.org for the latest up dates. While there please opt in to receive the latest Village information automatically. Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this difficult time.

    Reply

  57. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jim Reardon, Mayor
    845-876-7015

    September 3, 2011
    9:00 am

    Mayor Jim Reardon has announced “As of yesterday September 2, 2011 we were able to restore the integrity of the Rhinebeck Village water system. We were finally able to locate a major fracture in a water main in a creek crossing due to the effects of Hurricane Irene. Yesterday the water levels finally receded and the water had cleared enough for us to be able to locate this break. Once identified we were able to isolate this section of the main and after doing so we saw a marked increase in the level of our water storage tank and as of this morning the level had risen by 5.5 feet. The Dutchess County Department of Health along with the staff of our Water Department collected samples yesterday afternoon and evening and we are now awaiting the results of those tests. We are hopeful that by late this afternoon or early this evening we will have those results and that they prove the water is safe for consumption. If that is the case the Health Department will send a message once again through the rapid notification system which will call those within the system. Also there will be another media release such as this. The county has asked us to provide them with any feedback we can regarding the rapid notification system so we are asking that anyone that would like to share information please do so by going to our website at http://www.rhinebeckvillage.org and once there clicking on the contact us tab on the homepage. If you do not use a computer you may call us 876-7015 beginning Monday morning after 9:00 am. Also while on the website we urge you to opt in to our subscription service as this will allow us to keep you informed of all Village business. In light of the events surrounding Hurricane Irene it will be to everyone’s advantage to participate in this service and allow us to keep everyone informed in a quick concise manner. Thank you for you patience and cooperation.

    Reply

  58. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jim Reardon, Mayor
    September 3, 2011
    Time: 4:45 P.M.

    Mayor Jim Reardon has announced that the boil water order issued by the Dutchess County Department of Health has been lifted. Reardon states “due to the results of tested water samples there is no longer a need for the users of the Rhinebeck Village water system to boil their water before consumption. We have restored the integrity of the system and operations are now back to normal. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the community for their patience and cooperation during this most difficult time. Also I cannot say enough, how grateful I am to all the employees of the Rhinebeck Water Department, Highway Department and the Village Hall staff for their effort over the last week. Their hard work and dedication pulled us through these most trying events and I am proud to be associated with all of them. I once again would like to urge the people of our community to visit our website at http://www.rhinebeckvillage.org and to sign up and take advantage of our opt in feature that will allow us to keep them informed.

    Reply

  59. Posted by Steven Mann on September 5, 2011 at 1:22 pm

    Award Event to Honor Marilyn Hatch, Saturday, October 1, 2011, 2-4 PM
    A very special cocktail reception will be held at beautiful, historic Astor Courts at 189 River Road in Rhinebeck, to honor Marilyn Hatch for her achievements in historic preservation. The event is being sponsored by the Museum of Rhinebeck History. Funds raised will be used to pay for painting the exterior of the Quitman House, and for additional needed preservation-related improvements to that important historic site.
    Marilyn’s achievements in preservation are many, and go back to the 1960s when she and her husband restored an historic home on the south end of Rhinebeck. In 1970, she joined the Rhinebeck Historical Society, eventually serving as its President. She was a founding member of the Museum, and she remains one of its most important advisors. She has hung exhibits on Rhinebeck history and worked with the Museum in various fundraising capacities over the years.
    From the late Dorothy Greenough of Rhinebeck, Marilyn assumed the role of Chair of the House and Exhibits Committee of the Chancellor Livingston Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution at 77 Livingston Street. She organized the effort to list 388 structures in the Village of Rhinebeck on the New York and National Registers of Historic Places and did the same for 44 sites in the Town of Rhinebeck. She led the very successful effort to preserve two of the oldest remaining structures in Rhinebeck, namely Quitman House (Stone Church Parsonage) and the Palatine Farmstead. She also laid the groundwork that led to the adoption by both the Town and Village of Rhinebeck of ordinances to protect historic structures.
    “Marilyn Hatch has exemplified the highest values and integrity in historic preservation in all the projects she has taken part in, be it as a chair, member, or interested community member”, said Steven Mann of Rhinebeck, former president of the Museum of Rhinebeck History and of the Dutchess County Historical Society. “Her knowledge and willingness to share it and her skills with the public make her a very unique and valued member of the Rhinebeck community. Much of our history would have been lost in the past decades without her. She is a treasure.”
    Tickets are available at $50 each, checks payable to the Museum of Rhinebeck History, to be mailed no later than September 26th to MRH, PO Box 816, Rhinebeck 12572. $35 of every ticket is tax deductible. Sponsors are still being accepted as well with a $100 minimum donation to be listed in the event program and may be mailed to the same address.
    Those with questions may call 876-6892 or email smann320@yahoo.com as soon as possible.

    Reply

  60. Posted by Steven Mann on September 5, 2011 at 2:11 pm

    Wurtemburg Book Unveiling, Saturday, September 10, 2011, 2:30 PM
    The Rev. Dr. Mark D. Isaacs, Pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Wurtemburg will speak about his new book on the 250 year history of the church. The presentation and book signing ($25.00/book to be put towards the cost of publishing) will take place at the Quitman House, 7015 Route 9 in Rhinebeck, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, at 2:30 PM. The book includes a series of profiles of some of the influential ministers and families of the parish, including the Rev. Dr. Frederick Quitman. Also mentioned are the history of the Wurtemburg School, the Shed Association, the turkey suppers and other important traditions of this historic church. Following the talk, feel free to view the Wurtemburg exhibit inside the Museum.

    Reply

  61. Posted by Steven Mann on September 5, 2011 at 2:13 pm

    Progressive Dinner Sunday, September 18, 2011, 4-7 PM
    cosponsored by the Museum of Rhinebeck History and the Quitman Resource Center — The dinner will be held at 21 Chestnut Street in the Village of Rhinebeck and at a 65 Willowbrook Lane in the Town of Red Hook (which was part of Rhinebeck until 1812). Both sites will be open for tours for those attending. The appetizer and entrée will be served at a Colonial Revival style home at 21 Chestnut Street in Rhinebeck Village. This circa 1900 home served as the residence of the Frost family, first Benson, a well-known local attorney who was a friend of FDR and his local campaign organizer, and most recently his late daughter, Miss Barbara V. Frost, who had worked many years as a librarian and in her later years helped numerous local organizations in their efforts to document local history. Dessert will require a trip to Red Hook. The Martin family is associated with two homes in Red Hook, one of which is better known partly because of its highly visible location on Route 9, at the north end of the Village of Red Hook. Do not go there. The lesser known Martin House will be the site you want to find. After passing through the light at the intersection of Route 199 and Route 9 in the Village of Red Hook, continue north on 9 about 3/10th of a mile, pass by the first Martin House, then turn left on to Willowbrook Lane, and drive on a partially paved road for about 3/10 of a mile. The gem at the end was the home of Hendrick Marte. Built in the early 18th century, this stone house was likely built in three stages. The third floor dormer windows are a much later addition. The interior of the house includes a very special large ground-floor country kitchen that has been modernized yet retains its original open beams and a large open fireplace. Across the way there is a smaller room with an original beehive oven for baking. And adjacent to both rooms is a lovely Dutch door leading out to the old-fashioned “dooryard” and former stone well which is now incorporated into a patio setting. The landscaping to the rear of the house was designed by the same woman who designed a lot of the “landscaping” along the Taconic Parkway’s original blueprint. (We repeat: This Martin house is not to be confused with the other Martin House visible from Route 9 slightly north of the former IGA.)
    Tickets for the Progressive Dinner are $40, or $35 if payment is received by September 10. Make checks payable to QRC and mail them to Brenda Klaproth, 132 East Market St, Rhinebeck 12572. ($15 of every ticket is tax-deductible.) Ticket sales are limited to 100. For further information, call 845-876-2436, or email bklaproth@ymail.com.

    Reply

  62. Posted by Tom Traudt on September 9, 2011 at 12:47 am

    From Supervisor Tom Traudt & Mayor Jim Reardon: To memorialize the nearly 3,000 lives lost 10 years ago, please gather in front of Rhinebeck Town Hall at 8:30 a.m. this Sunday, September 11, 2011. The Rhinebeck Fire Department will serve refreshments after the ceremony. Please spread the word to all Rhinebeck residents…

    Reply

  63. Could you please post for Tivoli Free Library? Thank you!!!

    SPECIAL EVENT AT THE TIVOLI FREE LIBRARY ~

    September 14th @ 7:00pm – Local Poetry Reading w/Lea Graham

    Please join us as Lea Graham reads from her new book of poetry. Book signing to follow.

    Lea Graham is the author of the chapbook, Calendar Girls (above/ground Press). Her poems, translations, collaborations, reviews and articles have been published in or are forthcoming in journals such as Notre Dame Review, American Poetry Journal, American Letters & Commentary, The Capilano Review, and Shadow Train. Her work was included in two recent anthologies, The City Visible: Chicago Poetry in the 21st Century and The Bedside Guide to the No Tell Motel – 2nd Floor. She is currently an Assistant Professor of English at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York.

    Reply

  64. Inside Job: Free film Screening

    Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 6:30 pm
    Rhinebeck Town Hall
    80 East Market Street

    “Inside Job” provides a comprehensive analysis of the global financial crisis of 2008, which at a cost over $20 trillion, caused millions of people to lose their jobs and homes in the worst recession since the Great Depression, and nearly resulted in a global financial collapse. Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

    Presented by the Real Majority Project and Dutchess Peace
    .
    Contact: joeltyner@earthlink.net

    Thanks, Fred Nagel

    Reply

  65. Please post:

    Launch Party for UNITED STATES LIGHTHOUSES: Illustrated Map & Guide
    Celebrate with Rhinebeck publisher Bella Terra Publishing!

    Lecture on U.S. lighthouse history & mapmaking at 2:30, followed by reception. Maps & watercolor prints of Hudson River lighthouses will be available for sale.

    Sunday, Sept. 25, 2:00-4:00pm
    Beacon Institute Gallery
    199 Main St., Beacon NY 12508

    ALL WELCOME – FREE
    http://www.bellaterramaps.com
    Contact: sales@bellaterramaps.com

    Reply

  66. HUDSON RIVER HERITAGE PLANS 23rd ANNUAL COUNTRY SEATS TOUR
    “HISTORIC HUDSON VALLEY FARMS AND HOMES” IS THEME FOR OCTOBER 15th EVENT

    Hudson River Heritage will stage its 23rd annual Country Seats Tour on Oct. 15, 2011 and will feature six historic Hudson Valley farms. The self-driving tour will also feature an option for a box lunch at Clermont.

    The following properties will be included on this year’s tour:
    Kross Creek Farm, Clinton
    The Locusts, Staatsburg
    Cedar Heights Orchard, Rhinebeck
    Willow Brook Farm (The Hendrik Martin House), Red Hook
    The Ridge, Upper Red Hook
    Clermont, Clermont

    Hudson River Heritage is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the unique character of the mid-Hudson Valley’s historic architecture, rural landscapes, and scenic views through education, advocacy and community involvement.

    For tickets and more information please visit the HRH website at hudsonriverheritage.org or call 845-876-2474.

    Reply

  67. Mid Hudson Larreynaga Sister City Benefit Dance

    Saturday, Nov. 5 at 7:30 pm
    Church of the Messiah Parish Hall
    6436 Montgomery Street
    Rhinebeck, NY 12572

    Live Latino Dance Music provided by the wonderful sounds of “Cuboricua.” Live dance demonstrations, door prizes, and light refreshments will be provided. The cost is $20 per person.

    The proceeds from this dance are dedicated to the needy children of our sister city, Larreynaga, Nicaragua. Anyone who brings a nonperishable food item to donate to the church food pantry will get a free door prize ticket. Reservations are suggested.

    Sponsored by:
    -Mid Hudson Larreynaga Sister City
    http://www.mhsistercity.org
    -Dutchess Peace
    http://www.dutchesspeace.org
    -The Church of the Messiah
    http://www.rhinebeck-episcopal.org

    Reply

  68. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jim Reardon
    845-876-7015

    September 30, 2011

    The Village of Rhinebeck recently completed a sidewalk installation project on Knollwood Road that leads to the Chancellor Livingston School. The project included the installation of over 400 linear feet of new concrete sidewalk. Mayor Jim Reardon announced today “ the Village Board members are extremely pleased to have completed this project which provides for a safe pedestrian zone for the children traveling to and from the elementary school”. This area is a twisting, winding, heavily traveled section of roadway that had no sidewalk which necessitated the children walking on the shoulder of the roadway. Now they walk on an elevated sidewalk that has a buffer median between them and the vehicle traffic. Funding was provided for when the Knollwood Properties development went through review at the Planning Board level. Reardon states “ as a Board our primary concern is the health and safety of our community and by completing this sidewalk we have taken a big step to provide for public safety”.

    Reply

  69. On Sunday, October 9 (11-1pm) a local group of musicians known as the Pamelech Klezmer Orkester will be performing at the Rhinebeck Farmer’s Market. The orkester is a lively and inventive, modern-day gathering of klemorim, hailing from villages as near and far as Eastern Rhinebekistan and Northern Red Hookistan. Check them out online (pamelechklezmer.wordpress.com) and live at the market! (Wear your dancing shoes.)

    Reply

  70. Could you please post this information about our upcoming meeting? It is our 1st meeting in preparation for the Rhinebeck-Rheinbach Exchange Program’s trip to Germany next summer. Thanks very much!

    The next Rhinebeck-Rheinbach Exchange trip to Germany will take place in July of 2012!

    The Exchange is an opportunity for high school students in our area to spend two weeks with a host family in Germany and see how people in another part of the world live. Two weeks in Germany can’t be measured in days alone. Living in another country and performing music in historic venues where masters like Beethoven lived is an experience only dreamed of by most people. You will only be gone a short while, but the memories will last a lifetime. In addition to performing while on the Exchange, you’ll spend your days sightseeing, exploring the region of Rheinbach, with day trips to Bonn and Cologne, visits to medieval castles and walled cities, and a cruise down the scenic Rhine River. You’ll gain firsthand experience of another culture, learn more about yourself and your country, and make lifelong friends. The following summer, a German student will live with you for two weeks and participate in daily activities in our region planned by the Exchange.

    If you sing or play a musical instrument, you may be eligible to participate. The Exchange is open to all high school students (including 2012 graduates), as well as middle school students who have completed the eighth grade by June 2012. All Exchange students and adult chaperones participate in our chorus and/or band.

    Since its founding in 1977, over 2,000 students and 800 families have participated in the Exchange, sharing their music, culture and friendship.

    Come and find out about the Exchange and see if it’s right for you! Our annual meeting and 2012-2013 Exchange kickoff will be held on:

    Sunday, October 16, 2011

    Rhinebeck High School Auditorium

    45 North Park Road

    Rhinebeck, New York

    7:00 PM

    We hope to see you there!


    Rhinebeck-Rheinbach Exchange Program

    Reply

  71. Posted by Ed Gibbons-Brown on October 19, 2011 at 2:56 am

    To whom it may concern,

    Please consider including in your forum an event I am involved with at the Rhinecliff Morton Memorial Library. The event is a one-man play called ‘Underneath the Lintel’, which we will be performing this Saturday, October 22nd, at 8pm at the library.

    More information can be found here:

    http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/546110/48963cd78c/1507503555/59df7e9af2/

    Thank you!

    Reply

  72. Posted by Chris Chestney on October 25, 2011 at 1:01 pm

    Please post on the calander, Chris Chestney, Rhinebeck Lions Club, 453-5400 -cell

    Rhinebeck Lions Club Annual (Free) Thanksgiving Feast
    The Rhinebeck Lions Club will be delivery complete Thanksgiving Dinners to anyone in Rhinebeck, Red Hook, Tivoli, Milan or Clinton Corners.
    Last year the volunteers delivered 112 meals throughout the region. The home cooked meal will be prepared by members of the Lions Club and volunteers from the community. The only “need” for this meal is the desire to enjoy turkey and all the fixings. Volunteers will deliver the meals Thanksgiving day around 11 AM.
    For further information or to make a reservation email Chris Chestney, chris@dapsonchestney.com, or call 876-3620. Please leave your name and phone number.

    Reply

  73. Thx you’re on~

    Reply

  74. Hello,

    Could you please post about The Rhinebeck Science Foundation’s 4th Annual Discovery Festival this week? Details below.

    Thanks,

    Andrew Schulkind

    RSF’s 4th Annual Discovery Festival
    October 29, 2011
    10am to 2pm
    Rhinebeck High School

    This year’s theme is S.M.Art: Science Makes Art, and we have a full slate of fun activities exploring the science behind the arts.

    There will be activities geared to K-2 kids as well as older kids straight up through high school. (Grown-ups will have a great time, too. Guaranteed.)

    Don’t forget to bring your web-enabled smartphones and handhelds (iPod Touch, iPad, etc.) to participate in S.M.Art TV – make your own TV pilot.

    • Make a movie and explore the magic of green screen technology and computer animation
    • Watch Solas an Lae dancers tap out the rhythm of the dance
    • Create Jackson Pollock-style artwork with a paint ball gun
    • Get a team together and run the arts obstacle course
    • Learn color theory
    • And much more!

    Be there Saturday October 29, 2011 from 10am to 2pm at Rhinebeck High School to experience all the fun.

    Reply

  75. Tending to Your Ending

    Come share in this taboo-breaking exploration of the end of life’s journey. Cut through the confusion and overwhelm so you can plan in a way that deeply honors your truth. Topics include:
    -issues and opitons in end-of-life planning
    -beliefs, values and personal preferences
    -advance healthcare planning
    -emotional challenges
    -protecting personal interests
    -communicating effectively
    -preparing an ethical will
    what to do when death comes

    Facilitated by Judith Johnson, PhD and Laurie Schwartz, MA who have decades of combined expertise in dealing with end-of-life issues.

    Cost: $80/person including a half hour followup support call.

    Dates & Locations:
    Rhinebeck The Starr Library Sunday, November 6, 2011
    Saugerties Miriam’s Well Saturday, November 12, 2011
    Woodstock Enchanted Manor Sunday, November 20, 2011

    Time: Registration: 12:45 pm. Sessions from 1:00-5:00 pm.

    Please RSVP by email or phone ASAP since space is limited.
    laurie@havingityourway.com 914 466 5763
    or judith@havingityourway.com 845 516 5044

    Visit us on Facebook: Tending to Your Ending

    Reply

  76. On Sunday, November 20th, the third annual Artisan Faire will be held at the Rhinebeck Town Hall, 80 E. Market Street from 10 to 4. This amazing combination of craft fair and art exhibit will feature unique items for sale (perfect gift shopping well ahead of the holidays), and funds raised make the Rhinebeck SINTERKLAAS celebration possible. Live music and tasty treats are also part of the festivities. Free to attend. Artists interested in having a table contact sinterjoanne@gmail.com

    Reply

  77. Tangent Arts of Tivoli, in association with ABOUTFACE Ireland, presents NEWvember, a festival of new plays. November 10-13, Carpenter Shop Theater, 60 Broadway, Tivoli. info@tangent-arts.org (845) 230-7020

    Reply

  78. Posted by Celeste Oxendine on November 11, 2011 at 6:42 pm

    To Whom It May Concern:

    I’m interested in adding a event post to the Rhinebeck Community Forum calendar. How do I go about doing that. It is for a Food Drive next week.

    Please email me or give me a call at 876-1157
    Celeste

    Reply

    • Hi there, we emailed you last week…? You need to leave your info on the comments page, or email us back with the info so we can post Thanks! RCF

      Reply

  79. Posted by Gretchen Lytle on November 14, 2011 at 11:46 pm

    We would like to post the following art event taking place this coming Friday and Saturday in Rhinebeck to which one and all are invited.

    FRIDAY, NOV. 18 (4–9)
    SATURDAY, NOV. 19 (10–6)

    THE GROUP HOLIDAY SALE

    DELAMATER CONFERENCE CENTER of the BEEKMAN ARMS
    RHINEBECK, NEW YORK

    ethel berger – paper
    frank dobai- wood
    beverly eichenlaub – fused glass jewelry
    stephen fabrico – ceramic designs
    amy r. farrell – block print cards
    grace gunning – metal work
    lynne james- clay
    brad kato – stoneware
    sally lyon – pearls
    gretchen lytle – weaving & knitting
    annette mackrel – felted & beaded jewelry
    melissa martin – repurposed wool
    martin-matthewson – jewelry
    cynthia nelson – decorative tiles
    hannah niswonger – ceramics
    tom stoenner – blown glass
    laura wilensky – ceramics
    mary ann williams – basketry

    Reply

  80. The ARTISAN FAIRE on Sunday, November 20th helps make the Annual Sinterklaas festival in Rhinebeck possible. Come to Rhinebeck Town Hall, 80 East Market Street between 10 and 4 to enjoy a combination art exhibit and craft fair with live music, tasty treats, door prizes, raffles… and all your holiday shopping done locally and BEFORE Thanksgiving. FREE Admission. Contact sinterjoanne@gmail.com

    Reply

  81. We would like to announce upcoming concerts for Cappella Festiva this Friday and Sunday. Thank you.

    Cappella Festiva Chamber Choir Concerts

    Things Sacred, or Things Profane

    Friday, November 18,2011, 8:00 PM
    Lyall Memorial Federated Church
    West Maple Ave., Millbrook, NY

    Sunday, November 20,2011, 7:30 PM
    Christ Episcopal Church
    Academy & Barclay Streets, Poughkeepsie, NY

    Tickets $15 gen. Admission; $12 Sr. Citizens; $5 Students
    call 845-853-7765 or visit http://www.cappellafestiva.org

    Reply

  82. Please share the following (and thanks so much for this blog –I love finding it each morning!)

    Sinterklaas 2011 Festivities are about to begin. Get the complete schedule and plan you time! Online [http://www.sinterklaasrhinebeck.com/calendar.php] and now the PROGRAM BOOKLET is available at Winter Sun & Summer Moon and The Rhinebeck Department Store.

    Saturday November 26!!!!
    Sinterklaas will arrive by tugboat in Rhinecliff. Arrive early (3:30pm) so you don’t miss a thing (The Grumpus Gauntlet and Dancing, the brass band, and, of course, the Arrival). Join the procession that culminates at the Rhinecliff Hotel for more music, dance and a performance of St. George and the Dragon.

    This year we have extra parking plus a shuttle from the lot!

    Reply

  83. How do I post our monthly events?

    Reply

  84. The Corporation: Free film Screening
    Thursday, February 2 at 7:00 pm
    Crafted Kup
    44 Raymond Ave
    Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

    Provoking, witty, stylish and sweepingly informative, “The Corporation” explores the nature and spectacular rise of the dominant institution of our time. Part film and part movement, “The Corporation” is transforming audiences and dazzling critics with its insightful and compelling analysis. Winner at Sundance Film Festival. -145 min-
    Due to the length of the film, there will be no audience discussion at the end. This is part of the “Give Peace a Film” series and there is no admission charge, although a collection will be taken for Occupy Poughkeepsie.

    Sponsored by: Dutchess Peace
    Contact: 845 876-7906

    Reply

  85. Do you have a twitter account? You really are a great resource. Clinton Community Library is having a Valentine’s day concert to support the Library on February 12th. Here is the facebook event:
    https://www.facebook.com/events/355267721151606/
    Can I email you the flyer? Thanks!
    Real Dutchess Mom

    Reply

  86. Hi there,

    We’ve got a flyer about an e-waste recycling (computers, fax machines, TVs, etc.) this Saturday 3/3 at RHS. How can I forward you the PDF (it’s small) for posting on the Forum?

    Thanks,

    Andrew

    Reply

  87. Posted by Terry Gipson on March 2, 2012 at 12:08 am

    Dear Rhinebeck Community Forum,

    We are local business owners and understand the importance of a flourishing business community. That’s why we and the entire Rhinebeck Village Board of Trustees have worked so hard over these past two years making improvements to benefit Rhinebeck merchants and business owners. These improvements have also enhanced the quality of life for our residential community. Here are some of our accomplishments:

    • Improved safety and attractiveness of municipal parking lot by repaving, installing modern lighting system, and adding solar-powered trash compactors to decrease litter;

    • Established the Rhinebeck Pedestrian Task Force which has developed plans for sidewalk improvement and safe routes to schools.

    • Acquired $15,000 grant for two new business district crosswalks, scheduled for installation this spring;

    • Improved traffic flow by working with NY DOT on improvements to Mill and Market Street intersection. Renovations to be installed this spring will include new signage and traffic signals;

    • Developed plans for new Village police station to improve public safety for our residents and visitors, and to better serve our business district;

    • Worked with our Tree Commission to make Rhinebeck an official Tree City USA;

    • Established capital improvement plans for water and waste water, ensuring the implementation of important operational upgrades;

    • Negotiated more than $1M savings for waste water ratepayers;

    • Established a Finance and Controls Committee to manage spending and save taxpayers money;

    • Implemented new Rhinebeck Village website with email notification component to
    improve communication and access to public documents (www.RhinebeckVillage.org).

    There is still much more to do. Improving road drainage and making West Market Street more attractive for business is a top priority. With your support, we can continue to address critical infrastructure improvements with responsible fiscal strategies. We look forward to working closely with the entire business and residential community in our continued effort to make Rhinebeck a great place to shop, dine, work, and live.
    Please feel free to contact us anytime. Your ideas and suggestions are always welcome. And, we have an informative video airing on Panda Channel 23 beginning March 3 http://www.pandatv23.org/schedule. We are excited about continuing to serve you!

    Sincerely,

    Brant Neuneker Terry Gipson
    Rhinebeck Village Trustee Rhinebeck Village Trustee
    BNeuneker@frontiernet.net Terry@GipsonDesignGroup.com
    845-224-9058 917-834-5432

    Reply

  88. Posted by Mike Collins on March 8, 2012 at 12:33 am

    March 7, 2012

    While reading about the candidates running for the Village of Rhinebeck Board on March 20th, I noticed Brant Neuneker wants to re-negotiate the cable franchise with Time Warner. This is a very serious matter that All the people in the Villages and Towns of Rhinebeck, Red Hook and Tivoli need to be aware of.

    Around 1998 the Northern Dutchess Cable Franchise Board was asked to review the franchise agreements between the Towns & Villages of Rhinebeck, Red Hook, Tivoli and TCI Cable. TCI was negotiating with AT&T and Time Warner to swap franchises in America. Many municipalities including Rhinebeck refused to agree.

    The Village of Rhinebeck had the strongest contract, guaranteeing it remain in the top percent of technology, receive maximum franchise fees and TCI could not merge, sell or swap the franchise, without permission. Out of hundreds of municipalities, the Village of Rhinebeck was able to stand up to these three giants. Rhinebeck, with the help of a well known DC law firm, successfully negotiated high speed internet ten years before TCI planned to introduce it.

    The Village of Rhinebeck has one of the strongest franchise agreements in the United States. Time Warner has been trying to re-negotiate the contract for years. I urge the Village Board not to be temped to negotiate with one of the world’s largest companies. The New York Public Service Commission automatically renews cable franchise agreements every 6 months and does revenue audits free.

    Sincerely,

    Mike Collins

    Reply

  89. FACTS FOR THE RESIDENTS OF THE VILLAGE OF RHINEBECK

    On March 20, 2012 the voters of the Village of Rhinebeck will be charged with selecting two individuals to represent them for the next two years by voting in the Village elections. This is our Democratic process at work.

    For the record I am a registered Republican. Over the last several years I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Wayne Rifenburgh (Republican), Howard Traudt (Independent), Terry Gibson (Democrat) and Brant Neuneker (Democrat). This board has been a very cohesive, practical, thoughtful, hardworking group of individuals that has only one desire and that is to do the job we were asked to do, work for our community. We do not have the time nor the energy to let political affiliation enter into our decision making process. We are here to get the job done, period.

    In January the Rhinebeck Republican party invited me to a committee meeting, asked my opinion about the upcoming election and I clearly stated that I was in full support of Terry Gibson and Brant Neuneker for all of the aforementioned reasons. The Republican Party has exercised their right and has mounted a campaign in opposition. I fully recognize their right to do so and I applaud Knick Staley and Brenda Klaproth for their willingness to seek public office and work for their community.

    However I do take issue with the way they have elected to mount their campaign. They have chosen to mount a campaign that has been critical of the job that the Village Board has done and has been based on a distortion of the truth and misinformation. The reason for this post is to provide the voters in the Village of Rhinebeck with facts and to point out inconsistencies that will allow them to make a decision based on reality.

    In a letter to the editor that appears on the back of a campaign palm card dated February 25, 2012 Mr. Staley states “the purchase of the home (14 Center Street) adjacent to the Village municipal building and fire house was a wise thing to do to allow for future expansion. However, the construction of an additional building, behind Village Hall, for the sole use of the Village Police, is not a prudent decision and should be deferred. This decision should be given further study and allow for citizen input”.

    “The original idea was to put an addition on the Village Building to house our police. This would save money in construction cost and no additional water and sewer hookups would be necessary. Also maintaining a second building would be more expensive than maintaining one. While housing cost has gone down, new construction has gone up. Building anything in these economic times is not a good idea. Albany is encouraging consolidation of services in our local governments and this should be considered in the Village and Town of Rhinebeck”.

    “Village Hall is not a good place for our Fire Department. Getting emergency vehicles out of the Village is neither easy nor safe. Moving the fire station outside of the Village should be considered. This building might also house our police and maybe even the NYS Police who are looking for a new home in Rhinebeck. In this way the Village could share the economic expense of this project. Village Hall would be available for other municipal use, perhaps including bathrooms with access from the outside for the public”.
    All the above are exact quotes of Mr. Staley and are in writing. They are his opinions and he certainly is entitled to them.

    In an article that appeared in the February 29, 2012 Hudson Valley News Mr. Staley then says he “would like to see the village fire department currently located on the first floor of Village Hall moved into a new emergency center which would be shared with the New York State Police. According to Staley the State Police are looking to move out of their current location on Rt 9 and sharing a building would be more cost effective because the cost to build a new emergency center could be recouped through the village’s lease agreement with the state. This move Staley says would free up the lower level of Village Hall which could be used by the village police force. He says it would also enhance safety because emergency vehicles would no longer have to pull out onto Market Street which is often heavily trafficked”. Again all exact quotes of Mr. Staley and again he is entitled to his opinion.

    Sorry but I just can’t get my hands around this. I will counter with the following which are factual.

    None of the current village board members held office when 14 Center Street was purchased.
    The village board at that time purchased it with the intent of converting it to a police station (the original idea).
    Mr. Staley’s running mate Brenda Klaproth was a member of the village board when it was purchased so if he asks her she can confirm that.
    Mr. Staley contradicts himself by saying building anything in these times is not a good idea yet he proposes to do exactly that, build a public safety building.
    He also contradicts himself by saying we should not maintain a second building. Again he proposes to do exactly that.
    Contradiction number three no water and sewer hookups, I do not care what you build you need water and you need sewage disposal.
    Village Hall in not a good place for our Fire Department? The Rhinebeck Fire Department has been housed in the current municipal building since it was constructed and dedicated in 1971. Apparently it was a good idea then. I have been on the board since 2007 and not once has anyone ever expressed to me that there is a safety issue regarding the location of the Fire Department. The fire department primarily serves the Village and is basically centrally located and that alone allows for more efficient operations from a response time perspective and a cost of operation due to mileage, fuel expense etc.
    Are police cars not emergency vehicles and they are okay but fire trucks are not?
    The current Village Municipal building is 11,600 square feet. The Village offices occupy approximately 3,000 square feet. If we follow Mr. Staley’s proposal and were to build a new public safety building the taxpayers would foot the bill. We would need to purchase yet another piece of property, construct the new facility, incur the expense to retro fit the downstairs of the Village Hall to a police department if after paying for a feasibility study that would show we could do so, and still have a dilapidated building at 14 Center Street to deal with.
    This new facility would be much larger and significantly more expensive to construct and maintain. Mr. Staley suggests that a lease between the Village and the state could recoup the funds. We would be a landlord and the state would pay us rent. They would not absorb the cost of the land or the part of the building we would inhabit, our taxpayers would.
    The village board has been working for nearly two years now on how best to provide for the needs of our community as it applies to police services.
    We have been taking a very slow methodical approach and have looked at several options which include:
    a. building a two story annex alongside Village Hall
    b. looked at purchasing three other properties and constructing a new police station there
    c. converting the existing building at 14 Center Street to a police facility
    d. removing the existing building at 14 Center Street and constructing a new modest stand alone police facility of approximately 2000 square feet.

    After looking at all these options we have determined that the most cost effective solution that
    suits the need of our community while minimizing the impact to our taxpayers is option d.
    We have taken a slow methodical approach and consulted with architects, engineers, the planning board and the village attorney to reach this conclusion.
    We have discussed this at Village Board meetings, conducted workshops and it has been aired on
    Panda TV and is a matter of public record.
    We are still in a discovery phase and have no formal proposal as to what construction costs will be.
    Before we request an RFP for construction we need to deal with the legal requirements for demolition of the existing structure.
    We have passed a resolution that gives us the ability to reimburse up to $900,000.00 once we bond the construction. This does not mean we are spending $900,000.00
    We are confident that the costs will be much less, but at the advice of counsel used a higher amount.

    In the same February 29, 2012 Hudson Valley News article Brenda Klaproth states if elected one of her goals is to increase communication with village residents. She says “the village website does not contain links to recent village board meetings”. “I think the bond for the police station is another good example of people not being aware”. Klaproth states that “the building set to be demolished is on the National Register of Historic Places”. “Klaproth believes the current administration has not done a good job of engaging the community in its decision making process and hasn’t taken advantage of residents institutional memory (what is that?). She said things related to the police department proposal and newly revamped sidewalk law are things that have been studied in the past, yet the current administration is not engaging those community members who previously studied it.

    I will counter with the following:
    The village formerly shared a website with the town.
    It was operated and maintained by a group of volunteers formed by the Town.
    In 2010 due to the fact that we were unable to control our content on the shared website the Village
    made the decision the launch a new website http://www.rhinebeckvillage.org
    It is a very up to date user friendly website.
    There is a link on the home page for minutes and agendas.
    Once agendas are finalized they are posted.
    Board meeting minutes are posted to the website after they are voted on and approved. They are not
    posted to the website until after the following months board meeting when they are approved.
    There is an archive of all minutes since the site was launched.
    There is an opt in subscription feature so that those that desire to stay informed may receive
    information.
    The village board has not bonded money for a police station only passed a resolution that allows us
    to reimburse up to $900,000.00 if we do bond.
    The building at 14 Center Street is not a significant structure on the National Register of Historic Places.
    If it was none of the Village Board would be in favor of taking it down.
    It is a contributing building to the Historic District but not protected.
    The current Village Board passed a Historic Preservation law in 2010 for the express purpose of
    protecting the historic character of our village.
    As a governmental agency we had no obligation to abide by this law we enacted. None the less we
    made a conscious decision to follow the law and requested a demolition permit from the planning board, which was granted for the demolition of 14 Center Street.
    Even if 14 Center Street was preserved it would not meet the code required by law for the police.
    The Village Board has engaged the people.
    We formed a Pedestrian Task Force comprised of a group of local individuals with diverse
    backgrounds and expertise to study sidewalks.

    The village board approached the Town Board with the idea of forming a joint Town/Village
    task force to study solid waste. That remains ongoing and we are hopeful will provide ideas for how
    we can work together to provide better service and increase efficiencies.
    Things may have been studied in the past but nothing was done.
    The Village Board formed a Finance and Controls committee.
    The Village Board formed an Ethics Board.
    We formed a group to look at the possible consolidation of the Rhinebeck, Hillside and Rhinecliff
    Fire Departments and that process is ongoing.
    We formed all of these groups by publicly advertising through print media and the up to date village website http://www.rhinebeckvillage.org. The response has been phenomenal and neither Mr. Staley nor Ms. Klaproth volunteered for any of these worthwhile projects.
    This village board is pro active and gets things done. Doing nothing is not an option.

    The Staley/Klaproth campaign literature makes reference to “strive to improve the relationship between the fairgrounds and the village so as to accommodate the needs of both. That is exactly what the Village Board has been trying to do over the last several years. The fairgrounds are and have been a non conforming use in the residential zone ever since our first zoning law was written. Due to that fact, the Fairgrounds is not allowed to increase the intensity of their use. That means no growth, no building, and no more events. The law was never enforced. Why I do not know. I am not the one to ask. However I will state that the current village board does enforce the laws of this community and does so equally and fairly across the board. Everyone is on a level playing field. To do less is irresponsible. It is obvious that the Fairgrounds are zoned improperly. It is not realistic to expect them to be successful and support the families that derive a living
    from the fairgrounds, bring tourists to our Village which creates revenue for our business community while at the same time we handcuff them with an outdated zoning law. We have been trying to facilitate this and I am confident we are now moving in the right direction. This is a process that requires a willingness to keep an open mind, careful thought, a willingness to make concessions and strike a balance for the entire community. We are all partners in this and the decisions we make will impact all of us and will do so for years to come. We need to do this for our children and grandchildren and our grand children’s children. It is a negotiation that must and will take place, and I state without reservation that we will be successful as long as we abide by these principles.

    The Staley/Klaproth campaign literature also makes reference to “seek a more equitable means (hidden meaning – tax all) to finance sidewalk repairs instead of burdening only the few who own the walks”. The village code is clear in that it places responsibility for upkeep and maintenance on the adjoining property owner. When you buy a piece of property you assume that responsibility. If you do not want the responsibility of maintenance of the sidewalk than you have the option of renting. The village board formed the Pedestrian Task Force to look at the issues surrounding sidewalks. Along with assistance from the Dutchess County Department of Planning they created a document called “Worth Walking” (available on the up to date village website http://www.rhinebeckvillage.org ) which has been adopted as part of our master plan. Believe me when I say, this a very complex issue and may have been studied in the past but never in such a comprehensive and thoughtful manner. The bottom line is the village board is serious about fixing sidewalks. If we do not it is only a matter of time before there is lawsuit. Grant funding has basically dried up and we need to do something. Again doing nothing is not an option.

    The Staley/Klaproth campaign literature makes reference to doing a better job of notifying people and encouraging community involvement by holding work shops and notifying the public via the village email list. The Village Board holds meetings and workshops on a continuing basis. We follow all public meeting law requirements. This includes posting at Village Hall, newspaper notifications and on the website calendar feature. As needed I do press releases to all the media outlets which are also posted on the website. All our meetings are open door and quite frankly Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth do not attend. This is not uncommon as most of the time there are only two individuals that attend our meetings on a regular basis, they being Heinz Sauer and Jack Varricchio. Gentleman we all thank you for your support.

    The most recent Staley/Klaproth campaign literature makes reference to the current Village Board, Village Clerk and Village Attorney not having the experience of their predecessors and lacking in institutional memory (there is that phrase again). I think it is campaign double speak for consult with them. I will counter with:
    I am highly offended and take umbrage with the fact that Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth have chosen to now include our Village Clerk Gail Haskins in their campaign nonsense. I have had the pleasure of working with Gail for 5 years and over that time she has been the most conscientious, dedicated and hardworking Clerk that we could ask for. For them to include Gail in their political spin is inexcusable. Ditto for Richard Olson the Village Attorney, a man that I have the utmost respect for and who has served admirably with the highest of degree of professionalism one could expect. Neither of these individuals is in an elected position and to include them and attack them is quite frankly way out of line. Who are you running against?

    As far as this institutional memory thing I am only guessing that this means consult with our predecessors. The fact is on a continuing basis the Village Board has used the expertise, memory and knowledge of former Mayor Peter Sipperly. He has wealth of information regarding the Village of Rhinebeck based on the fact that he is a life long resident, former small business owner and served the community for over 30 years. Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth only need to ask him and I am sure he will confirm this. Former Mayor Sipperly currently is serving on the Solid Waste Task Force as a volunteer. Also if Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth bothered to consult with his Mr. Staley’s sister Valerie Kilmer, our former Village Clerk she will confirm that our current Village Clerk Gail Haskins has used her as a resource as needed. Also Mr. Staley can confirm that when Valerie retired I presented her with a letter which thanked her for all her years of service and also for the help she had given me.

    They suggest we should more diligently consult former officials and volunteers regarding structure demolition. We did not have a law as a Village, who were we to consult?

    We should do the same for historic zoning. Same answer.

    Sidewalks. As previously stated, it may have been looked at but nothing was done. We are taking action.

    Center Street Parcel. Who are we to consult and for what purpose. It is unfit for Village purposes. We have had to face the issue and have done so.

    Fairgrounds problems. Already addressed.

    They go on to state “ We took a closer look at current and past issues confronting the Village Board and discovered that, perhaps, the Village Board worked to well together by “ rubber stamping” each other’s proposals instead of independently examining each board action with a thoughtful eye”. Are you kidding me? Work too well together? There is no such thing as working too well together. This board is made up of five individuals and we all are independent thinkers. We go through a process where by everyone gets to share their ideas, discuss options and only after thoughtful and careful consideration do we reach a conclusion. We do not always agree and if we do not, we always respectfully agree to disagree. Not once have we had a heated exchange, which is good because that would only serve increase tension and divide us. Rubber stamp each others proposals? No how, no way, no time. Not what we are made of.

    Their last reference is to the proposed events law where they state “allowing it to go to public hearing without prior public input epitomizes our concern”. My answer to that once again is that this was discussed at multiple Village Board meetings. We held work shop meetings. It was advertised in the newspapers, posted at Village Hall and on the website. No one came. We did a press release to the newspaper and held a public hearing which is exactly what we are required by law to do.

    Finally people showed up and voiced their opinions. We held another public hearing in order to give people more time to comment. We have now formed a steering committee to look further at the issue. We have followed process, complied with the legal requirements, most importantly listened to the people and will move forward. Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth do not think we need one. Again I respect their opinion. However there are many who think we do.

    The current Village Board has a proven track record. We have taken on and faced all the challenges, no matter the difficulty. You name it, police station, fairgrounds, sidewalks, drainage, planning and zoning, historic preservation, fire service, solid waste we have been willing to look at and do something when it needs to be done. There is only one thing that drives us and that is to protect and improve the quality of life for our current residents, businesses and visitors and for the generations to come.

    I hope that this information is helpful to people in their decision making process for the upcoming election.
    I am not opposed to anyone seeking public office. If you do so you should run on your own merit. Base your campaign on what you will do for your community and back it up with facts. Everyone is entitled to an opinion and free to voice it. That is what makes this such a great country. The people of the Village of Rhinebeck deserve to know the facts, not to be misled. I am supporting Terry Gibson and Brant Neuneker, I hope you will too!

    Jim Reardon
    Mayor

    Reply

  90. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jim Reardon
    845-876-7015

    VILLAGE OF RHINEBCK TO UNDERTAKE REPAIRS OF ASHER DAM

    Mayor Jim Reardon announced today that the Village of Rhinebeck will be undertaking repairs of Asher Dam at Crystal Lake. Reardon states “There was significant damage to Asher Dam as a result of tropical storms Irene and Lee”. There at two valves located at the base of the dam that are used to control the water levels at the lake. Debris that washed over the spillway during the storms damaged one of the valves and it is non functional and the other while still operational did incur damage. Reardon states “In order to operate these valves we are required us to enter the water. This of course is a very dangerous situation and cannot be accomplished during high water flows. We have designed a new system that will re-route the valves to the side of the stream and away from the spillway. Once this is done there will be no further risk of damage and we will not have to enter the Landsman Kill in order to actuate the valves. The end result will be much safer, more manageable and allow us to effectively manage the water levels at the Lake”. A test has been conducted whereby the water level in Crystal Lake was dropped 36” over a 26 hour period. Reardon says “We are now allowing the Lake to recover and I am continually monitoring the rate of recovery. This will allow us to determine how much we need to lower the water level in order to allow the contractors enough time to affect the repair before the water once again falls over the spillway”. In closing Reardon states, “In another week to ten days this project will be completed and we will be able to manage the water level at the Lake and as a result we should see a marked improvement in the drainage issues upstream from Crystal Lake. We would like to thank everyone for their cooperation while this work is under way”.

    Reply

  91. March 19, 2012

    MAYOR REARDON RESPONDS ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

    The latest round of campaign literature distributed by the Staley/Klaproth campaign makes the claim that I am “An Angry Mayor‘. They obviously do not know me very well and I would state that the word that best describes me is passionate. Passionate about the Village of Rhinebeck and serving the people is who I am.

    They also refer to my “handpicked” team. Admittedly I recruited Wayne, Howie, Terry and Brant and I support all of them as they are good men that work exceptionally hard. I would remind Mr. Staley and Ms. Klaproth that I only get one vote and it is the voters in this Village that picked them, not I.

    They go on to state that I “want a compliant board so badly that I have been authoring vitrolic screeds attacking them”. One only needs to read the papers and blogs to get a clear understanding that all I have done is present facts that have countered their claims.

    It is they who are angry and it is because I will not tow the party line. I told them this at the Republican caucus upfront and face to face. They now are saying that I am openly campaigning for Terry and Brant throughout the Village. Excuse me for being honest. The last time I checked, this was the United States of America and we have a constitution that guarantees me the right to campaign and support the candidate of my choosing. For them to even make that statement is a clear indication of their belief system and political stance.

    Tomorrow the voters will have their say. They have a choice, select candidates that will work hard, openly and honestly for everyone in the village or vote for people who want to deny you your rights if you do not agree with them and bring political dysfunction to our Village. The choice is yours, choose wisely.

    Yours truly,
    Mayor Jim Reardon

    Reply

  92. Hello.

    Next Tuesday evening is the last School Board Meeting before next year’s budget is passed. There is a serious issue regarding class sizes that we are trying to bring to the attention of all Rhinebeck residents, since teacher-to-student ratios are one of the few *quantifiable* ways to gauge the quality of a school district and a town’s dedication to its children. (Note that we recognize there are many ways to evaluate a school district, but class size is a number that speaks volumes). Can I send you a concise notice about this issue, encouraging people to come to the Board Meeting and speak out, for you to put up as a blog post?

    Many thanks,
    Jennifer Lavenhar
    jennifer@lavenhar.com

    Reply

  93. ANNUAL SENIOR CITIZEN PROM – 50′s Sock Hope Theme!

    The Rhinebeck High School is sponsoring the Annual Senior Citizen Prom on Saturday April 28th. This event is an opportunity for interaction between our high school students and the area senior citizens. We would greatly appreciate your assistance in promoting this event by including the following information in your calendar of local events.

    Senior Citizen Prom
    Theme: Sock Hop
    April 28, 2012
    12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
    Dinner, Dancing, Door Prizes
    Rhinebeck High School
    50’s Themed Soda Shop Meal
    Catered by Sue & Ray Germann & Staff
    Entertainment by Russ Allen
    Tickets — $16.00 * No Refunds*
    Reservations call Rhinebeck HS – 871-5500 x 5501
    Deadline for reservations is Monday, April 23, 2012
    **Singles, Couples and Groups Welcome**

    Reply

  94. The Rhinebeck Community Garden has a few openings for members of the Rhinebeck community who would like to join the Rhinebeck Community Garden. For $25 for the growing season you receive your own plot (15′ x 20′). Half plots are available, as well. Water, compost and mulch are provided. By joining you are committing to grow with organic substances and natural pesticides. In addition to keeping your plot planted, weeded and looking good, members commit to 12-15 hours over the course of the growing season for “group work”, usually a few hours monthly. Monthly pot lucks are held at or near the garden. Join us this Saturday at our group work session (9 a.m.-12 noon or 1 p.m.-4 p.m. and our pot luck 12-1 p.m. to meet the gardeners and visit the Garden. The Garden is located in back of the Starr Library in Rhinebeck, across the parking lot from the swimming pool. For more information, contact our Membership Chair: Jill Welch, rhinebeckcommunitygarden@gmail.com, telephone: 845.594.1394.

    Reply

  95. Dear fellow Rhinebeckians and all!

    Please join us at Bard this Wednesday, April 18, 2012, for a fun, stimulating, mind-expanding series of events on Cuba which I helped organize. ALL EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, and in the Campus Center.

    First events are in the Multipurpose Room (MPR) — adults/kids would enjoy the 2-3 music program:

    1-1:20 Cuban Bard students talk/show pictures
    1:20-1:40 Bard students/study-abroad office/Burlington/Marist talk of chances to study in Cuba
    2-3 Live music ensemble! Learn about the history of salsa, and hear some amazing music with a singer! Possible dancing!

    In Weis Cinema in the Campus Center:

    3:30 film clips and discussion with S.L Price, senior editor Sports Illustrated, Edie Meidav, and filmmaker Brin Butler about Butler’s film SPLIT DECISION about Afro-Cuban boxer Rigondeaux, best in sport’s history, now living American purgatory in Miami after defecting from Cuba.

    5:15 Free reception, book sale
    5:30 Keynote address by National Book Award-winning memoirist Carlos Eire, author of WAITING FOR SNOW IN HAVANA and landbreaking feminist anthropologist Ruth Behar, author of AN ISLAND CALLED HOME: Jewish Cuba, A WOMAN TRANSLATED and other work
    6:30 Panel discussion with Behar, Butler, Eire, Mestre and Price, moderated by Edie Meidav
    7:30 Book-signing and reception

    Hope to see you there!

    Reply

  96. Posted by Elissa Cascio on April 23, 2012 at 11:29 pm

    Community Coalition for Rhinebeck Youth to host local Drop-Off Location for
    DEA Nationwide Drug Take-Back Day April 28 at
    Northern Dutchess Hospital in Rhinebeck, NY

    April 23 (Rhinebeck, NY) – This Saturday, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its national and community partners will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription and other drugs.
    On Saturday, April 28th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., DEA and its partners will hold their fourth National Drug Take-Back Day at sites nationwide. The Community Coalition for Rhinebeck Youth, a volunteer organization of parents, school and community leaders, and residents, has once again partnered with Rhinebeck Village Police and Northern Dutchess Hospital on Springbrook Avenue in Rhinebeck, to host a drop-off location. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

    Americans participating in DEA’s three previous Take-Back Days turned in nearly a million pounds—almost 500 tons—of drugs at over 5,300 sites operated by more than 4,000 of the DEA’s state and local law enforcement partners. The Rhinebeck site collected more than 220 pounds of medication between the two Medication Take-Back Days in 2011. Says Elissa Cascio, Community Coalition for Rhinebeck Youth, or CC4RY, Steering Committee Member and organizer of the Rhinebeck Drug Take-Back Location, “We were shocked to have collected so much medication at these events last year considering how small of a town we are. However, it really drove home for us that there is a strong need for public focus on the issue of unused drugs lingering in homes in our community.”

    This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high–more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined, according to the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

    “Prescription drug abuse is a major epidemic across the country and DEA is committed to reducing the potential for misuse by providing a safe and secure method for Americans to clean out their medicine cabinets and properly dispose of unwanted, unneeded, or expired medications,” said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart. “Americans responded overwhelmingly to DEA’s first three Take-Back Day events, disposing of nearly 500 tons of medication in the past two years. This nationwide community effort prevents home medicine cabinets from becoming sources of dangerous – and even deadly – drugs.”

    If the Rhinebeck location is inconvenient, the public can find a nearby collection site by visiting http://www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and following the links to a database, where they enter their zip code.

    CC4RY encourages everyone to collect their expired, unused, and no-longer-needed medications from around their home and bring them for safe disposal to Northern Dutchess Hospital on Saturday, April 28th between 10am and 2pm. It does not matter what container they are in. Says Cascio, “We ask the public to spread the word to friends and neighbors. If you were prescribed more pills than you needed, get rid of them at our Take-Back Event in a way that is safe, easy, and responsible. Everyone has old prescription and over-the-counter medicine at home that is expired or no-longer-needed, and now is the perfect opportunity to do what you can to make sure it stays out of the wrong hands.”

    Reply

  97. Posted by Emily Collins on May 8, 2012 at 5:54 pm

    Support Africa Hospice Initiative @ The Rhinecliff Hotel

    SPRING BREAK – 80’S NIGHT IN SUPPORT OF AFRICA HOSPICE INITIATIVE (AHI)
    Sponsored by Lighten Up!

    Lighten Up! — a company that educates and advocates about end of life care — invites you to Spring Break – 80’s Night at The Rhinecliff Hotel, Rhinecliff, NY on Friday, May 18th from 7 – 10 pm for food and drinks, mingling and dancing. Tickets are limited.

    Anyone wanting to learn more about hospice and palliative care both here and around the world is encouraged to attend – including doctors, hospice workers and families. Perched on the banks of the Hudson River, the historic Rhinecliff Hotel will host this springtime cocktail and dance party to unite those with the same goal: caring for loved ones who are terminally ill and at the same time, showing compassion for others who lack the means to help care for their own family members.

    Proceeds will benefit Africa Hospice Initiative (AHI), providing Holistic Palliative Care in many Zimbabwean communities for over 30 years, serving some 1.6 million orphans alone.

    WHAT: Spring Break – 80’s Night In Support Of Africa Hospice Initiative (AHI)
    Sponsored by Lighten Up!
    Food, Cash Bar, 80’s music DJ

    WHEN: Friday, May 18th
    7 – 10 pm

    WHERE: The Rhinecliff Hotel, 4 Grinnell Street, Rhinecliff, NY 12574
    845-876-0590

    COST: $25 per person. Cash bar.
    Please send checks and donations payable to CFGCR-AHI to:
    Suzanne O’Brien/Lighten Up!, PO Box 959, Pine Plains, NY 12567

    INFO: Suzanne O’Brien/Lighten Up!
    845-337-0389 or lightenupsuzanne@yahoo.com
    For each ticket purchased, an amount in excess of $15 is tax deductable to the extent provided by law. For more information visit http://www.lightenup444.com/ and http://www.africahospiceinitiative.org/

    Reply

  98. Would you consider adding the Tivoli Free Library to your “attractions” portion of the site? Our website is http://www.tivolilibrary.org.
    Also, if we want our events posted and sent out on your email list, do we simply put a reply on this forum, and you send out the information, or is there another way to submit?

    Christine Houlihan-D’Aleo
    Tivoli Free Library

    Reply

  99. Rhinebeck Montessori School is having an open house for parents and children wishing to enroll for the 2012-2013 school year on June 5th from 9:30-11:30. Please call us at 845-876-6406 or email us at rhinebeckmontessori@yahoo.com for more info. You can also check out our facebook page!

    Reply

  100. Come join the Rhinebeck-Red Hook Knitting Group. We will be meeting throughout the year at Taste Budd’s Cafe in Red Hook from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays for snacks and comaraderie. Knitting/crocheting beginners & enthusiasts – all are welcome. For more information contact Lee Goodspeed, 845.876.6100 or leegspeed@optimum.net

    Reply

  101. Posted by Jill Lundquist on May 10, 2012 at 3:41 pm

    Please join many community members of the Bard College Symphonic Chorus and Chamber Singers for our spring concert on Wednesday, May 16th at 8:00 PM at the Fisher Center at Bard College. $5 per ticket, open seating; call the Fisher Center Box Office to reserve (758-7900)

    Under the direction of conductor James Bagwell, assisted by four talented graduate student conductors from the Bard College Music Conservatory, the program includes a wide range of selections from 16th and 18th Century composers Palestrina, Bach, Haydn, and Händel, as well as 20th Century compositions, including work by Kyle Gann, James Fitzwilliam and the world premiere of Zachary A. Malavolti’s – “A Light Exists in Spring.”

    Reply

  102. If you have been wanting to learn to knit or crochet or want to meet others who do, join us Tuesday evenings at Taste Budd’s in Red Hook for the Rhinebeck/Red Hook Knitting Group, from 6 – 9 p.m. Free needles, patterns and yarn will be available to get you started. Join us! Questions? call 845/876-6100, ask for Lee.

    Reply

  103. Please post to your calendar:

    This Friday, May 18th, Upstate Films launches UpDocs: a week-long celebration of documentary film.

    At 4:30, the series opens with THE ISLAND PRESIDENT. “The Maldives’ charismatic president Mohamed Nasheed came to power in 2008 during the country’s first democratic election in 30 years. Risen from the street, the former social activist gives a large voice to a small population and is not afraid to say that larger countries are murdering smaller ones like his.”

    At 7:00, Upstate’s own Ben Fundis presents his documentary BORDER STORIES, followed by a q&a. “The U.S.-Mexico border is the most frequented international crossing in the world. The longest land boundary between the developed and the developing world, the border extends for 1,969 miles. Over a period of months, a documentary crew traveled along the border from Brownsville/Matamoros to San Diego/Tijuana. As they traveled, they edited short videos to show the human face of the politically charged region.”

    At 9:15, the evening concludes with the beautiful and evocative GENERAL ORDERS NO. 9. “The outward expansion of American cities made irreversible changes to the original map they were placed upon. Robert Persons, in his first film, spent 11 years filming areas around Atlanta and exploring how, in the words of the film’s narrator, ‘deer trail becomes indian trail becomes county road.’”

    Films and special events change daily all week. Come check them out!
    For the full schedule, visit: http://upstatefilms.org/film-series/updocs

    Reply

  104. Hi! My name is Sarah Hanaburgh, I am the Events Director for the Town of Rhinebeck Recreation Department. I would love to have the opportunity to post our community events on your site. Thank you.

    Reply

  105. Hi – I have an event for this Saturday, May 26th. We are having the grand opening for our olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting emporium. People can come have a great experience and try some new and exciting products. We have over 30 varieties of olive oil and balsamic vinegar and you can taste everything for free. Right in the heart of Rhinebeck – 23 East Market St. Hope to see everyone there! Come learn, taste and enjoy yourself! Thanks, Charlie

    Reply

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