Much ado at the Pine Plains library

PINE PLAINS — To continue supporting its programming for the local community, the Pine Plains Free Library has been brainstorming ideas for events that appeal to the community and will raise awareness of the library. Because the library currently has one of the smallest budgets in Dutchess County, Pine Plains Free Library Board President Diana Woolis said, “We really want people to understand how much they get for what the library is funded for.” 

The Evergreen Cemetery Lantern Tours have been hugely popular in the past and will be returning this weekend, with two dates set aside for tours on Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20. Bolstered by the success of last year’s event, the library’s second annual Silent Auction promises to be bigger and better and has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26.

A member of the Pine Plains Free Library Board of Trustees, Lanaea Bailey said the inspiration for the former cemetery tours and new Silent Auction came last year when the library celebrated its 220th anniversary. Woolis said these events help raise awareness for the library and provide people with community and connection. People tend to take more of an interest in experiences than material possessions, Woolis explained. The Silent Auction is a new way to offer experiences that might appeal to the community and raise money at the same time.

“It’s been really fun to go around and figure out what are the cool experiences that one could have here in Pine Plains,” said Gail Mellow, a volunteer at the library. 

Toward that end, this year’s auction will cover all kinds of experiences, from lessons with a local fashion illustrator, sessions with local choreographer Mark DeGarmo to local garden tours, coffee roasting tours, artwork and even a week in a villa in Mexico City, Mexico.

“The community has just really embraced this idea and is delighted to offer its services,” Mellow said.

Woolis said that until it can identify another viable strategy, the library depends on the money raised at these fundraisers for much of its programming.

For more information about upcoming events at the Pine Plains Free Library, including the cemetery tours, go to www.pineplainslibrary.org or contact Stork at 518-398-1927 or director@pineplainslibrary.org.

Latest News

GNH blanks St. Paul 34-0 in Turkey Bowl

Wes Allyn breaks away from the St. Paul defense for a reception touchdown Wednesday, Nov. 26.

Photo by Riley Klein

BRISTOL — The Gilbert/Northwestern/Housatonic co-op football team ended the season with a 34-0 shutout victory over St. Paul Catholic High School Wednesday, Nov. 26.

It was GNH’s fourth consecutive Turkey Bowl win against St. Paul and the final game for 19 GNH seniors.

Keep ReadingShow less
Students curate Katro Storm portraits at HVRHS

“Once Upon a Time in America” features ten portraits by artist Katro Storm.

Natalia Zukerman

The Kearcher-Monsell Gallery at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village is once again host to a wonderful student-curated exhibition. “Once Upon a Time in America,” ten portraits by New Haven artist Katro Storm, opened on Nov. 20 and will run through the end of the year.

“This is our first show of the year,” said senior student Alex Wilbur, the current head intern who oversees the student-run gallery. “I inherited the position last year from Elinor Wolgemuth. It’s been really amazing to take charge and see this through.”

Keep ReadingShow less
Mini horses, big impact: animal learning center opens in Sheffield

Le Petit Ranch offers animal-assisted therapy and learning programs for children and seniors in Sheffield.

Marjorie Borreda

Le Petit Ranch, a nonprofit offering animal-assisted therapy and learning programs, opened in April at 147 Bears Den Road in Sheffield. Founded by Marjorie Borreda, the center provides programs for children, families and seniors using miniature horses, rescued greyhounds, guinea pigs and chickens.

Borreda, who moved to Sheffield with her husband, Mitch Moulton, and their two children to be closer to his family, has transformed her longtime love of animals into her career. She completed certifications in animal-assisted therapy and coaching in 2023, along with coursework in psychiatry, psychology, literacy and veterinary skills.

Keep ReadingShow less