Community Library to Host "The Last Day of Dorothy Lillian Phelps"

By Julie Zimmerman

COBLESKILL – Writer/actor/artist Patricia Van Tassel will bring her one-woman show celebrating 'the last day' of character Dorothy Lillian Phelps to the Community Library next week.  Billed as a bittersweet 'funny' play, audiences have been drawn to the universality of the subject matter, and Van Tassel's exploration of Dorothy's "many lives through space and time." Area audiences may be familiar with Patricia's work over some thirty years at The Open Eye Theater as well as at other theaters in the region. Directed by Sandra Boynton, the show is slated for Tuesday, June 24th and Wednesday, June 25th at 5:15PM. The location of the library is The Community Library located at 110 Union Street in Cobleskill. 

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A Conversation with Writer/Actor/Artist Patricia Van Tassel

A Conversation with Writer/Actor/Artist Patricia Van Tassel

An Interview with Julie Zimmermann

Q: How did you conceive of the show “The Last Day of Dorothy Lillian Phelps”?

PVT: This is a fictional character that came to me in 2014. I’ve been working on it for 11 years. I did some work at the Fenimore Museum in Cooperstown, NY where I was asked to initiate a 'character tour' of the Museum gardens, led by writer/naturalist/ Susan Fenimore Cooper. Then I was asked to become American documentary photographer and photojournalist Dorothy Lange in collaboration with a show of her photographs there. So I wrote the piece and would give tours through the show as Dorothy Lange. About this time I figured out I could write my own plays.

Q: Why ‘Dorothy Lillian Phelps?’ How did you name this character?

PVT: Really, it just came to me. Recently I was talking with my mom who enjoys research and genealogy and low and behold, there were several Dorothys and Lillians in our family tree. And although there were no Phelps, there were Felts…but isn’t that really cosmic, in a way? My maternal grandmother’s personality comes thru Dorothy’s character. Tom Waits says writing songs is like fishing—they come to you and that is how this play came to me. In the quiet, it just came. 

Q: Well, putting it out in the cosmos that you could write your own shows probably opened you up to it. Maybe having inhabited historical characters like Lange and Cooper loaned  some inspiration as well. 

Q: How long have you been performing in the area, Patricia?

PVT: I have been performing at The Open Eye Theater for almost 30 years. I’ve done a countless number of shows there from Shakespeare to “Sylvia” to “…Man-in-the-Moon-Made Marigolds,” and most recently the radio play “Anne of Green Gables.” I did the “Belle of Amherst” with The Harvard Players. “Shirley Valentine,” “Walking Towards America,” “Shame the Devil”—those were all historical. They are so informative and so fun to do; a great reason to do one-woman shows. I live in Fulton, NY, a little mountain town, so it takes a long time to meet up with others for rehearsal!

Q: You have an uncanny ability to become many other people.  Where did you train to be an actor?

PVT: I trained at Pratt Institute as an art major in drawing and took theatre arts and acting with Jordon Hott. Then I worked on other things and eventually came back to theatre. I met Amie Brockway, now on The Open Eye Theater Board when she used to be producing director. She  directed me in one-woman shows. And then Amie introduced me to Gene Lasko, an acting coach in NYC. Between the two of them, I learned a lot, and worked with other directors doing random other things, learning all the way.

Q: So with all of this solo work and the concept of giving birth to the character of Dorothy, how did you bring "The Last Day of Dorothy Lillian Phelps" to fruition?

PVT: I applied for an artist residency at  Ancram Center for the Arts last year and received it. I worked there on developing the play after all those years of adding stuff, trimming stuff out, making sure it was really tight. I had a reading last year and was invited to do a directed performance. Sandra Boynton, who usually works with the Will Kempe’s Players out of Troy, NY directed the performance we just did there last week. 

Q: Why do you think people will gravitate towards this play?

PVT: I don't always take roles, and Dorothy came to me. If the character doesn't speak to me, I don't take the role. Dorothy came through me. There are songs in this play, even typing about her last day. There are observations. There's a seriousness although much of it is funny. It's a celebration of Dorothy's last day. 

Q: What's your vision for this piece?

PVT: I am one of those artists who really enjoys the process. Of course, I'd love to tour the show, bring it to Off- Broadway, Broadway, but my real hope is to touch people and have them realize it as a piece of art that is meaningful to humanity. I hope that many people will come, give feedback and spend time with Dorothy Lillian Phelps.

Q: Thank you, Patricia! Break legs!

The Last Day of Dorothy Lillian Phelps, directed by Sandra Boynton can be seen Saturday, June 21 at 7PM & Sunday, June 25th at 3:00PM at The Open Eye Theater, 960 Main Street, Margaretsville, NY. 

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Music and Art Center of Greene County 2025 Summer Concert Season

 

The St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church Complex in Jewett, NY on Route 23A. Including the church, the belfry, the Grazhda (parish hall) and the pastor’s residence. Photo Courtesy Olexa Hewryk.

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    Music and Art Center of Green County Concert at Grazhda. Photo Courtesy Hanya Krill-Pyziur

 

JEWETT – The Catskill Region has a rich cultural history, ranging from annual festivals and live performances that have inspired scores of visitor and art lovers for generations. Vibrant centers have enriched the cultural life of the region. Numerous art, music, and theater groups have hosted groundbreaking performances and events. Among them is the Music and Art Center of Greene County in Jewett.

The Music and Art Center of Greene County (MACGC) was established in 1983 by Dr. Ihor Sonevytsky, a Ukrainian-born composer and musicologist. As the longest running classical music summer concert series in the Catskills, it offers an extraordinarily rich classical music program of works by international and Ukrainian composers, performed by award-winning and distinguished musicians, most of Ukrainian descent from both the United States and Europe.

The Center’s music series is presented on Saturday evenings every summer in July and August in the hall of the Grazhda, which is part of one of the most architecturally unique building complexes in the Catskills, situated on a hill along scenic Route 23A in Jewett. It includes the St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, its Belfry, the Grazhda (the parish hall), and the Pastor’s House. The Grazhda serves both as an auditorium for concerts and as a gallery where exhibitions of works by Ukrainian artists are on display during the summer months. It also houses a gift shop. 

The church and its complex was built by Ukrainian immigrants who came to the United States after the horrors of World War II and formed a community in the Hunter Mountain and Jewett area, purchasing permanent or summer homes in the Catskills because the area reminded them of the beautiful Carpathian Mountains in their homeland. The church was dedicated to those who had committed their lives to the struggle for freedom. The project came to fruition in 1961–1964. The tripartite church building was designed in the manner of XVII century Ukrainian wooden churches. The church and the complex of buildings were built of timber blockwork, constructed fully without nails. The church’s beautiful wooden iconostasis (alter screen) and chandelier were designed and carved by sculptor Mykhailo Czereszniowsky; the iconostasis includes stunning icons painted by the artist Petro Cholodny Jr.

The wood interior and high ceilings of the Grazhda are particularly conducive to creating a wonderful environment with great acoustics for concerts. 

"Music at Grazhda," is delighted to announce its 43rd season, a celebration of artistry, education, and cultural enrichment with a series of exceptional concerts, all set amidst the picturesque Catskills. 

The season opens on July 5 at 8pm with a dynamic recital by Ukrainian soprano Marta Zaliznyak and pianist Olena Haviuk-Sheremet. Zaliznyak is known for her radiant voice and commanding presence, while Haviuk-Sheremet brings technical brilliance and expressive depth to the stage. Their program includes works by Mozart, Puccini, Brahms, Liszt, Lysenko, and Kos-Anatolsky.

On July 19 at 8pm, the Grazhda Chamber Music Society presents a rich blend of classical and Ukrainian compositions by Schubert, Haydn, Dvorak, Skoryk, Silvestrov, and Havrylets. This wonderful ensemble features Nazar Pylatyuk, People’s Artist of Ukraine; Vasyl Zatsikha, Concertmaster of Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana; Richard Young, violist of the Vermeer String Quartet; Natalia Khoma, Tchaikovsky Competition laureate and cello professor at the College of Charleston; and Volodymyr Vynnytsky, widely celebrated pianist and Artistic Director of the festival.

On July 26 at 8pm the Grazhda Chamber Music Society will present another wonderful concert. The program includes masterpieces by Haydn, Dvorak, and Silvestrov. Each member of the ensemble is an international award-winning musician, bringing artistry and experience to every note.

Join us on August 16 at 8pm for a solo recital by internationally acclaimed pianist Pavlo Gintov. Gintov has performed at Carnegie Hall, Berlin Philharmonic, Teatro Verdi in Milan, and more. He is a top prizewinner of the Takamatsu, Bradshaw & Buono, and World Competitions. His performance promises emotional depth and technical brilliance.

The final concert of the Music at Grazhda Festival, on Saturday, August 23, at 8 p.m., will honor Ukraine’s Independence Day with a stirring concert, The Soul of Ukraine, featuring the renowned Gerdan Ensemble. Founded by Grammy-winning flutist Andrei Pidkivka and acclaimed violinist/vocalist Solomia Gorokhivska, Gerdan offers a vibrant celebration of Ukrainian folk music. They are joined by versatile guitarist Jan Knutson. This program has captivated audiences nationwide and will showcase Ukraine’s enduring spirit through music. Gerdan has captivated audiences at the Kennedy Center, Library of Congress, and festivals nationwide. This special program highlights Ukrainian folk songs and instrumentals, celebrating Ukraine’s rich culture and resilient spirit. 

Tickets for the concerts will be available at the door.

Please join us for a season of remarkable performances and inspiration at Music at Grazhda! 

For further information visit: www.GrazhdaMusicandArt.org 

 

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ASF Takes Veterans Into The Woods For WIM Hiking Event

WINDHAM – The Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF) hosted its Warriors in Motion® (WIM) hiking event this week, welcoming five wounded veterans to the northern Catskill Mountains. Over the course of three separate hikes, the group trekked a total of 10.7 miles and climbed more than 1,550 feet.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve participated in a program with the ASF, and this hiking program has not disappointed,” said WIM participant James Whitaker. “It was great—everyone was able to spread out, go at their own pace, get into nature and get a little exercise.”

The veterans arrived at ASF’s Gwen Allard Adaptive Sports Center on Tuesday afternoon, where they met staff and volunteers over lunch. After a briefing on the week’s itinerary and Leave No Trace hiking practices, the group headed to their first hike at the Mountain Top Arboretum in nearby Tannersville. They explored the Spruce Glen trail during a 4.2-mile hike that began with heavy rain but ended in bright sunshine, illuminating the colors of the surrounding forest.

Following the hike, the veterans checked into their hotels and later returned to ASF for a catered dinner.

On Wednesday morning, the ASF shuttle picked the group up at 9 a.m. and brought them to the Big Hollow Road Trailhead in Hensonville. From there, participants hiked to either the Batavia Kill Lean-To or Acra Point, navigating steep, rocky terrain. In total, the group covered 5.5 miles. Toward the end of the hike, some veterans cooled off in a nearby stream, embracing the tranquility of the Catskills.

That evening, the group enjoyed dinner at Zicatela’s Bar and Restaurant in Windham, followed by a game of mini golf at Windham Theatre.

The final hike took place Thursday morning at Pratt Rock in Prattsville. Though short, the steep trail led the group past historic rock carvings to a scenic overlook of the Schoharie Creek and surrounding mountains. The event concluded with a barbecue lunch back at the ASF lodge and a reflection on the week before the veterans departed.

“Us veterans have a tendency to stay at home and separate ourselves from the world, so when we have events like this, it’s nice,” Whitaker said. “It brings us together and gives us a sense of comfort where we can be ourselves and get some exercise in the outdoors.”

The hiking event was the second of eight Warriors in Motion programs ASF will host this summer. The next WIM event is scheduled for June 24–26 and will feature a backpacking excursion for participating veterans.

Through grants and private donations, ASF provides participants with all necessary equipment, meals, lodging, water bottles, sunscreen, bug spray, ponchos, and printed and digital maps—at no cost to the veterans.

 

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Ashland Speaks

By Lula Anderson

Another two weeks gone by since I last wrote, and I'm right now, squeezing in this article in my already busy schedule.  I thought that when I retired I would have so much time to do what I wanted, but that's not the case.  Sometimes I long for the tranquility of my working life.  At least then I had a fixed schedule and could plan on what I was doing.  Not so much any more.  As a widow, I find so much of my time is spent doing jobs that were relegated to my husband.  Simple things like keeping the lawn mowed, and trimmed.  I've been working on getting my tomatoes and cucumbers planted.  First rototilling.  I have a small EGO battery powered which is great but with limited power.  Yes, when the battery dies, I'm done, also, but it just extends the time .  I take out my EGO lawn mower  and get a small lawn done, then back to the tilling.  Dig holes, put in fertilizer, tomato and  cover.  No one to hand me what I need, so it's up and down, back and forth.  Drag over my fencing for the cucumbers, get the mallet, pound in stakes, dig holes, etc.  No one home to make meals, so fit in cooking.  The diners have been seeing me more often this year.  

Lula had cataract surgery last week,and that was two days of appointments.  Thanks, Lisa , for being there.  Recall on Wednesday, to check out how things are progressing.   craft classes start this Tuesday at the Senior Hall, and that will be another 10 weeks of activity for us.  

Summer is the time for barbecues, so keep checking WRIP website for them.  The Jewett Fire Dept. has sent their letters and have announced the date of their bbq:  August 16th serving starts at 4.  More info to follow as the day gets closer.

Prayers for Lisa and Jose Morrero for her  father who is in the hospital, and continued prayers for the Beckmann family.

AS I REMEMBER IT

Last Sunday was Father's Day, and with both my father and husband gone, it was just another day for me.  A friend was quite upset because as of Friday, her son never mentioned any plans for his dad.  Another received a card from his daughter on  Monday, and he didn't find it appropriate for him and their relationship.  My son sent a text with a drink and "Salute Papa and Pops" for all of us to think of our losses.  

Remembering Father's Day of the past , my mother always made my father a special lunch.  We had no money for presents, just a day for togetherness.  Some days it would be the family alone.  After church, the girls would gather in the kitchen and make fried chicken and potato salad.  If the "city friends" came up, we would start marinating chicken before church using the Cornell recipe which is now Brooks BBQ sauce.  The record player would be brought outside and polkas and waltz music would be playing.  The grill would be lit and while the chicken was cooking, the adults would sit in the driveway and talk.  

As we got older and started going out to work, the lunches would become evening dinners, and we would always try to have a gift for dad.  A new short sleeved shirt, shorts, summer pajamas,  all practical, nothing overpriced.  

When I had my own children, I made sure that my sons signed an age-appropriate card for both their dad and their PaPa.  We tried to celebrate one year with my dad and one year with my father in law so that no one would feel neglected, but the absent dad would get a phone call.  

I think of things that made my dad special.  How he would take me by the hand and teach me about plants, and gardens.  How he made me and my sister a playpen for our dolls because we wanted one.  He was busy working on projects for paying clients, but always took the time to make what we wanted in between.  I learned that he would wake my sons up at the crack of dawn to take them fishing in Conifer Lake then get them home before I woke up.  After supper he would take them out again.  They would be splashing in the lake and every time he threatened that since they were scaring the fish he would never take them again—--until the following day when back they would go.  

So as another Father's Day weekend comes to a close I just want to say to all Fathers:  Salute.  And may you share in the love and respect that my family gave to their Pops.

 

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Outdoors with Larry DiDonato - Crossbow Bill Passes in Legislature

The longstanding "Crossbow Bill" legisllation is headed to the governor's desk for her signature, after it passed both houses in the NY Legislature late in the session on Monday June 17th. The measure has long been touted by its advocates and supporters.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, June 17th, in the dwindling hours of the 2025 legislative session, the New York State Assembly, in a bipartisan vote unanimously passed the “Crossbow Bill,” (A8330A). That was the last hurdle for the long-awaited legislation as the Senate had already passed their companion bill. The legislation will now be sent to the governor’s desk where it’s expected to be signed into law. 

The passage of this bill in both houses of the legislature is a big deal and will be solidified as a momentous accomplishment if and when the governor signs it. It’s the result of a long-term effort personified by the late Rick McDermott, who founded the New York Crossbow Coalition back in 2012. Rick and his wife, Annemarie, were tragically killed in a car accident just one year ago on June 10th 2024. Then vice president, Roy Dust, immediately took the reins of the NY Crossbow Coalition upon Rick’s passing. He continued Rick’s efforts to get the bill passed and serves as the current president of the organization.

Highlights of the legislation include:

• The definition of “long bow” now includes crossbows as well as compound and other bows; this allows crossbows to be used in any deer season where long bows are legal, including early and late archery seasons.

• An archery privilege and stamp will be required when hunting with a crossbow

• Eliminates minimum width and length requirements for crossbows, and eliminates a minimum length for crossbow bolts. 

• Eliminates maximum peak draw weight requirements for crossbows.

• Crossbows, now that they are defined as “long bows” can be discharged within 150 feet of dwellings/structures throughout the state except in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties where they are prohibited from being discharged within 500 of dwellings. 

 The repeal of the requirements that crossbows be at least 17-inches wide and 24-inches in length is among the welcome provisions of this legislation. Crossbow technology advanced to the point that many, if not most of the crossbows sold in stores and used by hunters in NY, fell into the illegal category. That’s despite the fact being out of specification with regulations caused them to be more powerful, accurate, and efficient hunting implements. I’m happy to report the Environmental Conservation Law has finally caught up with the technology.  

 NY Crossbow Coalition President, Roy Dust gives all the credit for the impetus and ultimate passage of this significant legislation to his past president, Rick McDermott. In an interview, he stated, “Rick is smiling down from heaven on the success of the passage of this legislation.” Roy said he continued in Rick’s footsteps by empowering his leadership team, the board of directors, and the individual members of the Crossbow Coalition who he motivated and encouraged to meet one-on-one with their local legislators.  

 Roy, and others, met with Environmental Conservation Committee Assembly Chair, (D) Deborah J. Glick, and Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Chair, (D) Peter Harckham, who Roy says were critically essential in getting the bill through both houses. Roy Dust also thanks (R) Assemblyman Robert Smullen, of Herkimer County, for his efforts and advice, and credits NYS DEC for coordinating an event where the public and legislators like Chairman Glick were instructed in the use, operation, and safety of hunting with crossbows.  

 Other organizations including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, the NYS Sportsmen’s Advisory Coalition, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the NYS Conservation Council are among the many supporters contributing in the effort to get the legislation passed the finish line. Once signed into law by the governor, the new regulations should be in effect before the fall archery seasons.

Happy hunting, fishing, and trapping until next time!

News and Notes 

Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby in Catskill to be held on Saturday, June 21st The Greene County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs is sponsoring the annual Ray Brooks Memorial Youth Fishing Derby to be held on Saturday, June 21st at Catskill Point. Kids 5-15 years of age are eligible to register and compete. Registration is from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Fishing starts at 10:00 am and ends promptly at 1:00 pm. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and must bring their own fishing equipment. Bait and refreshments will be provided, and all registrants will get a prize. Bring the kids down for this fun, free, fishing event!   

Norton Hill Wildlife Club Trap and 3D Archery Program Schedules

The Norton Hill Wildlife Club’s Sunday Trap Program is ongoing. Remaining dates are: July 20th, August 10th, and September 7th. Trap begins at 10:00 am. Cost is $5.00 per round. Bring your own ammo and ear and eye protection which is required. Breakfast sandwiches will be available starting at 9:00 am for $5.00.  For further information call Chad at 518-291-3784. 

Their 3D Archery Program dates are: July 12th and 13th, August 23rd and 24th, and September 13th. A chicken BBQ will be available from 7:00 am until Noon. Cost for adults is $15.00, 12-17 at $7.00 and kids under 12 are free. For more information call Eric at 518-646-6338. 

*The gun range will be closed on the 3DArchery range dates listed above.

 

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