By Kayla Zoppie
I hope everyone is enjoying the summer! As temperatures continue to climb, remember to stay hydrated if you’re spending time outdoors. If you have to work outside, be sure to bring plenty of water, take frequent breaks and, whenever possible, avoid the hottest part of the day.
The Wallkill Fire Company is gearing up for an exciting new event as it hosts its first-ever Soap Box Race on Saturday, Aug. 15. The race will be open to spectators, so come out to cheer on the participants and support the fire company. Additional information is available at wallkillfire.org or on the fire company’s Facebook page.
The Wallkill Firehouse Auxiliary will host an afternoon of wine and spirits featuring psychic medium Lisa Morrison on Sunday, Sept. 20. Tickets are $50. For tickets or more information, call Kayla at 845-857-7693.
The Visions of Wallkill Free Summer Concert Series is underway and continues every Thursday through Aug. 13. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. Upcoming performances include Dog Party on July 16, Blue Big Band on July 23, Oxford Station on July 30, Sass & Brass on Aug. 6, and Macy’s Parade on Aug. 13. If you’ve never attended one of these concerts, it’s a wonderful way to spend a summer evening. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy free live music with family and friends.
The Shawangunk Republican Committee will hold its annual Chicken Barbecue on Saturday, July 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Verkeerderkill Park, 3232 Route 52, Pine Bush. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and veterans. For tickets, call 845-978-1619.
The Reformed Church of Shawangunk will also host its annual Chicken Barbecue on Saturday, July 25, at the church, 1166 Hoagerburgh Road, Wallkill. Dinner will be served from 5 to 6 p.m. and includes a half chicken, baked potato, baked beans, coleslaw, a roll and watermelon. Tickets are $20 and must be purchased by July 20. Payment by cash or check may be dropped off at the church office. For more information, call 845-895-2952.
Children ages 4 to 11 are invited to attend the Reformed Church of Shawangunk’s “Snowball Mountain Challenge” Vacation Bible School, Aug. 10-14. Breakfast and drop-off are from 8 to 9 a.m., with pickup at noon each day. Visit refgunkchurch.org to register.
Nature lovers will be happy to hear that Wings Over Wallkill birdwatching tours have returned. Guided walks are held monthly at the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge, 902 Hoagerburgh Road, from 9 to about 10 a.m. Upcoming dates are Aug. 8, Sept. 12 and Oct. 10. Birdwatchers of all experience levels are welcome. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, long pants, and bring binoculars or a camera. Registration is required through the Wallkill Public Library at wallkillpubliclibrary.org.
The Wallkill Senior Citizens meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Community Room at Wallkill Town Hall. Residents age 55 and older are welcome to join. The group enjoys trips, luncheons, guest speakers and fellowship throughout the year. For more information, contact President Carmel Bellas at 914-588-8892.
Looking for a midweek outing? Wallkill Firehouse Bingo is every Wednesday evening. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and everyone is welcome.
And don’t forget that the Wallkill Fire Company’s popular Pancake Breakfast is served on the first Sunday of every month. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious breakfast while supporting your local volunteers.