Gardiner historian releases book on FDR’s love of trees
Local historian and author A.J. Schenkman is set to release his latest book, “Franklin’s Trees,” in July 2024. The book, illustrated by Lauren Reese, offers a juvenile non-fiction look into President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s passion for nature and tree farming.
“Franklin’s Trees” (Muddy Boots; 978-1-4930-7737-3; $19.95 hardback; 978-1-4930-8581-1; $19 electronic) explores FDR’s dedication to tree planting on his Hyde Park estate, where he oversaw the planting of over a million trees. The 40-page book, featuring 42 illustrations, details his childhood love for hiking, his adaptation of trails for car use after being afflicted with polio, and his creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, nicknamed “Roosevelt’s Tree Army.”
The narrative also highlights FDR’s gesture of sending a Norway spruce to Winston Churchill during World War II to uplift the English people’s spirits. Today, Roosevelt’s legacy of tree farming is preserved at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site in Hyde Park, where many of his planted trees continue to thrive.
A.J. Schenkman, a teacher and historian from Ulster County, has authored several regional history books and contributed to numerous publications. Schenkman resides in New Paltz, with his family. For media inquiries, contact Alyssa Griffin at agriffin@rowman.com.
Illustrator Lauren Reese, an artist based in Nashville, Tenn., brings the story to life with her watercolor and gouache illustrations. Reese holds a BA in Art Education and has experience teaching in diverse environments.
“Franklin’s Trees” will be available through Rowman & Littlefield. For more information, visit Rowman.com or contact the distribution center at (800) 462-6420.
Gardiner Parks & Recreation presents a free concert
Gardiner Parks & Recreation will host a free concert featuring The Broken Heartstrings at Majestic Park on Thursday, July 11, at 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and wear their dancing shoes for an evening of live music. The event will take place at Majestic Park on Murphy Lane in Gardiner.
Wallkill Volunteer Ambulance Corps Hosts Blood Drive
The Wallkill Volunteer Ambulance Corps will host a blood drive on Saturday, July 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their headquarters, located at 231 First Street, Wallkill.
All donors will receive a free Fandango movie ticket for the upcoming film “Twisters,” which hits theaters on July 19. Donors will also receive a Twisters and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last.
The event is in collaboration with the Red Cross to encourage blood donations and support the community.
Upcoming library programs in Walden
The Teens will test their skills for the library’s first “Escape Room: Escape the Tomb!” on Thursday, July 11, 5:30 p.m. Participants will work together to solve puzzles in order to escape the Egyptian tomb! Ages 10 & up. Make sure to call ahead and register.
We will have our Musical Movie Matinee on Friday, July 12, 2 p.m. Light Refreshments served. Join us for a fun and groovy afternoon, featuring this summer film where two surfers are swept back in time to a beach movie musical. A ‘60’s surfer, or biker attire optional.
Camping Night at the Library? You bet! Our camping adventure will be on Monday, July 15, 6:30 p.m. Join us for an evening of crafts, stories, s’mores & more!
Miss Jada will offer another class working with Polymer Clay. Create your own Bookworm on Tuesday, July 16, 5:30 p.m. Space may be limited. Please register ahead of time.
Attention Teens! Join our Henna Party on Wednesday, July 17, 6 p.m. We are proud to welcome back Margie Nugent for our Summer Reading Program as she creates beautiful henna tattos. Learn about this centuries old tradition of art and walk away with your own henna work.
Pretty Parfaits for young adults is scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 5 p.m. Miss Eileen will guide participants in preparing ingredients and the tricks of layering this sweet treat! All supplies included.
We have added an extra session this summer for Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts on Friday, July 19, 4 -6 p.m.
All of our regularly scheduled Summer Reading Programs for all ages are in full swing! There always room and it’s not too late to sign up!
The next Music in the Grove for Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 p.m. will feature music from Home At Last.
For information or questions please contact the library at (845)778-7621.
Reformed Church of Shawangunk to host Vacation Bible School
The Reformed Church of Shawangunk is set to host its annual Vacation Bible School (VBS) from August 12 to 16, inviting children to join Camp Firelight, an engaging week-long program based on Psalm 56:3: “Whenever I’m afraid, I put my trust in you.”
The event, held at 1166 Hoagerburgh Rd, Wallkill, will run daily from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. A free breakfast will be available for campers from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., with VBS programming from 9 a.m. to noon. The program is open to all children ages 4 to 11.
Camp Firelight aims to provide a fun and educational experience, teaching children to trust in God when facing life’s challenges. The activities will include Bible lessons, crafts, games, and music, all centered around the theme of trust and faith.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to register their children online at the provided link to ensure a spot for their child.
For more information call (845) 895-2952 or email: info@rcshawangunk.org.
The Reformed Church of Shawangunk, founded in 1750, is a community-oriented church offering various programs and services to support the spiritual growth and well-being of its members and the wider community.
Walden hosting Free Summer Concert Series
The Village of Walden is hosting its annual Music in the Grove summer concert series at Wooster Memorial Grove Park, located at 89 East Main Street. The free concerts will take place every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. from July 10 through August 28.