Among the many Good Neighbor Organizations in the Village of Walden is the Walden Sunshine Society. This organization was founded by Mary Knapp Hill, a Walden woman in 1910. Her daughter, Margaret Hill Millspaugh, was a charter member.The organization has helped many people over the years.

However, I am always dismayed to learn there are still many people who have never heard of Walden Sunshine. In addition to helping the sick and needy, perhaps our most valued contribution to the community is our inventory of medical equipment, walkers, rollators, crutches, canes , commodes, wheel chairs, etc. are loaned, free of charge to those in need, for a three-month period. The territory we cover is Walden, Maybrook, Montgomery, Wallkill and Pine Bush.

The Society depends on membership dues and private donations to keep its equipment in good repair or to buy new when necessary. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month, September - June. New members are encouraged to attend - no special invitation necessary.
For information, call 778-7772.

Be reminded to stop at the Josephine-Louise Public Library to purchase tickets on a Quilt designed and made by Marlin Vickers to benefit Will Spay Pets.

This beautiful 60” x 70” Quilt will be auctioned at the annual fundraiser for Will Spay Pets on October 17. The quilt is currently on display at the library. Tickets are ( 1 for $5; 3 for $10; 10 for $20). For information call Diane at (845) 857-7657.

Not too late to send special birthday wishes! A little belated but most sincere Happy Birthday wishes are sent to Walden P.D.’s faithful Dispatcher Kathleen Terwilliger McClintock who celebrated her birthday on August 8.

On Thursday, August 19, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. be sure to visit the Walden Humane Society, 2489 Albany Post Road, Walden for their next indoor yard sale. Stop in and check out the many treasurers they have for sale. Be reminded, all purchases benefit the care of the animals at the shelter. For information call the shelter at 778-5115.

The First Reformed Church of Walden will hold their Farmer’s Market 2 - 6 p.m. on August 13 and every Friday on Church grounds, 70 Scofield Street. Gail Yeaple, representing the Walden Historical Society will be at the market to sell a variety of items from the Jacob T. Walden House including postcards, wax ornaments, a variety of paper memorabilia and more. You will also find many items fresh from the garden as well as several types of fresh mushrooms, honey and maple syrup.

New vendors are welcome. For information call Rev. James O’Connell at 201-574-6407.

Mark your calendar to attend the Historical Society of Walden and the Wallkill Valley Open House at the Jacob T. Walden House, 34 No. Montgomery Street, Walden on Sunday, August 15, 1 - 3 p.m. Several special collections will be displayed relative to the knife industry in Walden.

Learn more about Thomas W. Bradley - the Immigrant; the Businessman; the Soldier; the Politician and the Benefactor. Check out Walden band instruments from the past. This exhibit is not to be missed.

The Walden Recreation & Parks Department, Josephine-Louise Public Library and the Walden Community Council continue to sponsor Music in the Grove , Free Summer Concert Series on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., Wooster Grove Memorial Park, 89 East Main Street. The Feds will perform on August 11. The Hillbilly Parade is looking forward to performing on August 18.

This band is a dance pop country band. With their witty humor, ridiculous props and costumes, they will have you laughing and singing along to all of the most popular country hits, both old and new.

For transportation, call the Town of Montgomery/Crawford Dial-a-bus to schedule a free pick up.
Questions call the library at 778-7621.

On Saturday, August 28 be sure to visit the Jacob T. Walden House at 2 p.m. Charles LaRocca, author of “The Red Badge to Gettysburg” will be guest speaker. His book is an outstanding sequel to ”The Red Badge of Courage” written by Stephen Crane in 1895. “It is an easy reading, beautifully written, thought provoking book about the U. S. Civil War that plunges the reader directly into the life of a Union soldier. Like the soldiers themselves, I could taste the hardtack and salt pork…” 5 Star Review on amazon.

After reading Crane’s novel several times and seeing the 1950’s black and white film, Mr. Larocca wondered what might have happened to the main character of the novel, Private Henry Fleming, after his baptism by fire. His wife suggested that he write a novel telling his story. He turned to numerous letters, diaries and remembrances written by the men of the 124th N. Y. State volunteers, the famed “Orange Blossoms” and there found the inspiration for his novel.

The program will be held in the front yard of the Walden House. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy this outstanding program.

The Josephine-Louise Public Library sends the following news:
The Walden Chess Club will meet on Saturday, August 14, 10 a.m. - noon. All skill levels are welcome.
The American Sign Language Club will also meet August 14, 11 a.m. All ages are welcome, but please register ahead of time as space may be limited.
The Mahjong Club is still going strong. They meet every Monday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., second floor Community Room. The Club welcomes new members!
“Novel Reads” Book Discussion group will be debuting in September/ They will meet on the third Thursday of the month, 6:30 p.m. The title of the book for discussion will be announced soon. Stay connected through our Facebook page, or our website at.waldenpubliclibrary.org.