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Calendar of Events: April 2014
Saturdays
John Jay Homestead Farm Market
This market will offer fruit, produce, including heirloom varieties, and flowers, grown by local farmers, using certified organic, organic, biodynamic and conventional methods.
Troy Farmer's Market
The Spring Season is in full swing at the Troy Farmer's Market. New hours are 9 am to 2pm each Saturday at the Uncle Sam Atrium until the end of April. Over 70 local vendors each week bring fresh and local products from local farmers, chefs, and artisans to offer the Capital Region's freshest and finest.
Sundays
V endors provide a diverse and unique selection of farm fresh products including fruits and vegetables, meats, jams, honey and local dairy. A full schedule of special events highlight the bounty of the seasons with chef demonstrations, tastings, recipes, children's activities, free live music and more.
The Hudson Highlands Nature Museum in Cornwall announces Summer Science and Nature Camp
for Kids Ages 4- 15. The Museum offers the Ramblers Program is for children ages 4-6, the Trekkers Programs is for children ages 7-12 year old, and The Eco-Rangers Program for children ages 12-15. Fore more information please call 845-534-5506.
April 5
Mark Wunderlich, award winning poet and area resident, will be reading from his new book The Earth Avails: Poems on Saturday, in the James D Livingston Library at Clermont State Historic Site. The event is co-sponsored by the Germantown Library and the Friends of Clermont. He will be signing copies of his book afterward. For more information call 518.537.6622
Join horticulturist and floral designer Mary K. Hughes, head gardener for Olana's perennial gardens, for an afternoon of flower arranging. All participants will be able to enjoy creating bouquets using locally grown cut flowers, as well as learn about historical flower design and regional history of cut flower production. Containers will be supplied. Please bring a pair of pruners. Space is limited, $15 for members/$20 for non-members. Please pre-register by Thursday, April 3 to 518-828-1872 x 109
Join Cary Institute scientist Peter Groffman for a family-friendly hike through the forest. From short-lived ephemeral plants such as blooming trillium to invasive earthworms, the forest floor teems with activity. Learn how this activity impacts the nutrients in the soil, and what it means for the health of our forests.
April 5-6
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: Trout Weekend
Come and celebrate Trout Weekend at the Museum's Wildlife Education Center. In celebration of this two day event, activities will include: Special "Meet the Animals" at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. with live fish presentations, Brookie feeding time at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Visitors will also enjoy crafts and activities on both days. Admission: $3, Members are free. For more information call 845-534-5506, ext. 204.
April 6
Join author William Ewen discuss his book, Steamboats on the Hudson River, at the Beacon Institute for River and Estuaries. Ewen traces the impact of the steamboat on Hudson River Valley life and commerce. For more information, call 845-838-1600
April 8
Become active and involved in our growing museum community and be a part of the presentation of the unique history of a unique place. Join Historic Huguenot Street for an informal meeting on how you can lead visitors through the history of the museum houses of Huguenot Street and the people who lived and worked here, educating visitors on the challenges and struggles of the past and how those struggles shape the present. For more information on this exciting and rewarding opportunity please call (845) 255-1660 ext.105
Hudson River Foundation: Modeling NY/NJ Harbor Storm Surge Flooding
The Hudson River Foundation is offering a seminar series on scientific issues related to the environmental quality and resource management of the New York/New Jersey Harbor Estuary, sponsored by the Hudson River Foundation in cooperation with the New York/New Jersey Harbor Estuary Program. Reservations are required, seating is limited, or if interested in joining by weniar please call 212-483-7667.
April 9-11
In the final stretch before the first transit of the season, a crew of volunteers will work on the final steps of removing and stowing tarps, de-winterizing ship systems, completing safety and harness training, and other final steps. Those able to assist with this intensive period of work will be given priority in selection of crew for the transit trip, but it is possible to assist just with this dockside work. If interested, please send an email to [email protected] with your name, phone number and location and the subject line "April 9 - 11"
April 11
Jeepers Peepers Spring MoonWalk is an exciting new event on the Hudson Valley Rail Trail that will feature a guided moonwalk, light snacks, beverages and a bonfire. Pre-registration at 7:30 PM with the event commencing at 8:00 PM at the Hudson Valley Rail Trail Depot at 101 New Paltz Road in Highland. Entrance fee of $5, with children 6 and under free. Please bring flashlights, but pets, bikes and scooters are not allowed on this walk.
April 11- 13
A Crew is needed for Verplanck NY to Athens NY Transit, volunteers of all experience levels are welcome to join us for this transit trip. Space is limited aboard the Half Moon and crew will be selected based on volunteer time through the winter and ability to arrive during the day on Friday or earlier in the week, if you are interested please send an email with your: full name, location, phone number and the information for an emergency contact (name, phone number and relationship to you) to: [email protected], or call 518.443.1609
April 12
Afternoon affair with fine tea, finger sandwiches, homemade cakes and cookies. Admission $30 per adult and $20 per child. Mansion tour included. Reservations are necessary, as seating is limited. Call 845.876.4818 for more information
Come to the Museum's Outdoor Discovery Center, to learn about Cavity Nesters. Join environmental educator Megan Hoffman to learn how to provide safe nesting sites for some our most common backyard birds. Admission: $7/Adults - $5/Children. Museum Members: $5/Adults - $3/Children. For more information call 845-534-5506, ext. 204
Songs & Stories of Old New York
Join visual artist, musician and children's performer Thomas Hooker Hanford in his presentation of 'Songs and Stories of Old New York', at Olana's Wagon House Education Center. The performance includes historical figures from the Hudson Valley Region, and is accompanied with 19th century parlor guitar, fiddle, harmonicas and other instruments. $5 per person, $15 per family. Please register by Friday, April 11 to 518-828-1872 x 109
Special Stewardship Forum: Caring for the Land
Join the Carey Institute of Ecosystem Studies in collaboration with the Dutchess Land Conservancy, as they offer a morning learning how science-based stewardship on private land can protect and promote healthy forests and open spaces. Registration required, for more information call 845- 677-5343
Spring mornings are the perfect time to be outdoors to watch wildlife. Join the Audubon's Eric Lind on Denning's Point to learn more about the species of birds found there. Hosted by the Beacon Institute for River and Estuaries, for more information, call 845-838-1600.
April 13
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: Toads!
Come join the Museum's staff at Hubbard Lodge in Fahnestock State Park for a family friendly afternoon. Toads are the stars of myths! Hear about their real life habits, habitats & life cycles. Take a short hike to seek these amphibians of the forest. Make a "toad abode" to take home. Admission: $7/Adults, $5/Children. Musem members: $5/Adults, $3/Children. For more information call 845-534-5506, ext. 204
Vernal Pool Hike
Join the Carey Institute of Ecosystem Studied for a vernal pool hike. Explore local vernal pools while searching for amphibians and insects that call them home. Learn about the extraordinary diversity of life that inhabits vernal pools, including egg masses, frogs, and salamanders, as well as their ecological importance and how their existence is threatened. For more information, call 845-677-5343
April 14
Salamander Investigation
Join the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site staff in discovering the magical world of salamanders as we visit their habitat in FDR's forest. Help us protect these environmentally-sensitive creatures by learning and studying about them. Reservations required, event is free, call 845-486-7966
April 15
Servants and Stewards: From one Mansion to Another
Join the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site for a day of exploring the lives of the Vanderbilt and Mills families through the eyes of their servants at the Vanderbilt and Staatsburgh Mansions. Reservations required, Cost for Staatsburgh $2 per child. Ages 8-12, parents welcome, call 845-486-7966.
April 16
Basic Map and Compass Workshop
This workshop teaches how to use the compass in interaction with a map. If you are hiking on marked trails or bushwhacking to areas not far from trails, a good topographic map may be the only tool you need to plan and maintain your route. COMPASS AND PENCIL REQUIRED. Hosted by NY/NJ Trail Conference, to register or for more information, call 212-227-1761
Become a Jr. Ranger and earn a Jr. Forester Certificate!
Come to the Roosevelt National Historic Site and investigate one of FDR's forestry plantations on a hike on the Roosevelt Farm Lane Trail. Learn about Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Tree Farmer, and how he planted thousands of trees on his own property and across the nation trying to find ways to care for the land in a responsible way. Reservations required, Ages 8 - 12, parents welcome, call 845-486-7966
Sheep & Wool Showcase
The Friends of Clermont present a sheep & wool showcase. Shearing, spinning, dyeing, knitting and weaving demos, exhibition of various breeds of sheep, wool artisans & shops, music & food. Rain Date - April 27. $8 per car event fee, Friends of Clermont $6. For more information, please call 518-537-6622
Mount Gulian's Spring Children's Tea
Spring Tea welcomes children and adults to an event that combines fun, good manners and education about a bygone era, in an authentic setting where social teas were once standard fare. Offered during spring break and intended to bring families together to share something very special, the Children's Tea will be held in Mount Gulian's two main museum rooms, with tables set with fine linens and china. $15 for children,$18 for adults. Adults must be accompanied by a child. This is a popular event; prepaid reservations are due by April 9. Call 845-831-8172.
April 17
Planning for the Future of Recycling & Materials: What's Going On With Our Garbage?
The Dutchess County Planning Federation will present this workshop at the Dutchess County Farm & Home Center in Millbrook NY. Find out how we are managing solid waste materials today, how we're doing with recycling, and how, through local land use planning, we can increase the amount we recycle. $5 admission, please call ahead for information or to make a reservation 845-486-3600
Servants and Stewards: From one Mansion to Another
Join the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site for a day of exploring the lives of the Vanderbilt and Mills families through the eyes of their servants at the Vanderbilt and Staatsburgh Mansions. Reservations required, Cost for Staatsburgh $2 per child. Ages 8-12, parents welcome, call 845-486-7966.
Understanding & Inspiration: The Symbolic Nature of Art, Science and the Environment
Join Amy Lipton, ecoartspace curator and ecological artists, Lillian Ball and Betsy Damn, discuss the spark of creating ideas, grasping concepts, and the marriage of art, science, and the environment. Hosted by the Beacon Institute for River and Estuaries, for more information, call 845-838-1600.
April 18
Jr. Gardeners: Plant your Seeds! Become a Jr. Ranger & earn a Gardener Certificate!
Spring is around the corner! Have you decided to plant a garden this year? Then join the Roosevelt National Historic Site staff at the Val-Kill Gardens and bring a picture with you of your own garden space. They will help you get started by planting heirloom seeds (similar to what Eleanor Roosevelt grew in her gardens) in cups to take home for you to nurture, and then plant in your garden. Ages 8-12, parents must accompany small children, Reservations required, Ages 8-12, parents must accompany small children, call 845-486-7966
April 19-20: Free Entrance Days for National Parks
In celebration of the opening weekend of National Park Week, National Parks throughout the country will be free! Come and explore our many National Park sites in the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area. Read more...
April 19
Spring Landscape Days at Wilderstein
Join Wilderstein's landscape volunteers in preparing the site's gardens and trails for summer. Refreshments will be served. For more information, please call 845.876.4818.
Stony Point Lighthouse Talk & Walk
Noted Hudson River lighthouse historian, Scott Craven, will present an evening lighthouse lecture in the museum. Weather permitting, visitors may follow a walk to the lighthouse and climb two ladders to the lantern room. Advance reservation required, 845-786-2521. Children must be 10 years or older; limited space of 40 people. Fee: $5.00 adult / $4.00 senior and child 10-18.
Join Environmental Educators Pam Golben, Lisa Mechaley and Megan Hoffman to learn answers to questions such as: why do cottontail rabbits have so many babies, how do they protect themselves, and where do they nest? Meet domestic rabbits Patches and Dusty, create a bunny craft to take home and weather permitting take a short guided hike in search of signs of our native rabbit the Eastern cottontail.
April 22
The Beatrix Ferrand Garden Association offers a dividing perenial workshop as part of their HANDS-in-the-DIRT series. Free, to reserve a space and for more information, call 845-229-9115.
Westchester Land Trust: Birds & Bees Series
Come out and celebrate Earth Day! The first event in the BIRDS & BEES series will provide an overview of the ecology of our local community. Learn about the forces that have shaped our area and how to enhance the benefits of these natural processes. Chris Nagy, Mianus River Gorge's Director of Research and Land Management, will discuss the role of both preserves and private lands in protecting the environment and our quality of life. All events are free, but space is limited. Please RSVP, 914-234-6992
April 23
If you have never heard of the New York-New Jersey Trail conference or just wanted to learn a little more about it this is a GREAT chance to learn more about it. To register or for more information, call 212-227-1761
April 26
Explore Denning's Point for wild edibles and healing herbs with Sarah Elisabeth, and herbalist in the Wise Woman Tradition. Hosted by the Beacon Institute for River and Estuaries, for more information, call 845-838-1600.
A Carriage House Revival with Poor Old Shine
Join the Jay Heritage Center for an informal and intimate evening of live folk rock, easy eats and spirited drinks in their beautiful Carriage House! Don't miss this unique opportunity to catch the sublime Alternative Americana Band, "Poor Old Shine!" Banjo ticket- $75, Washboard ticket- $125, Mandolin ticket- $200. Proceeds benefit programs and the ongoing restoration of the historic Jay Estate. For more information, call 914-698-9275
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site: Hike Through History
Join the Historical Society of Rockland County for a Fort Montgomery State Historic Site 'Hike through History'. Discover 1.3 billion years of history as we hike from Fort Montgomery State Historic Site to Trail side Museums and Zoo, talking history, geology, and botany along the ever popular twin forts hiking trail! Admission is free, reservations are required. For more information call, 845-634-9629
The Shad Run is a new 5K run and 1.5 mile walk along Lower Manhattan's scenic West Side waterfront in Hudson River Park, and is produced by NYCRUNS. It raises funds for The River Project's efforts on behalf of the Hudson River Estuary, and raises awareness of the American shad, legendary fish of the Hudson, now making their annual swim from the ocean to their freshwater spawning grounds upriver.
Wilderstein Preview Party: 2014 Exhibition of "Wilderstein & The White House"
Come celebrate and explore the fascinating connections between the estate and the Suckley family to U.S. Presidents through history at Wilderstein. Costumes, textiles, decorative arts, photographs, books and more will be featured - all from the Wilderstein collections. Tickets to this event are $25. For additional information about the exhibit and reservations for the preview party, call 845.876.4818.
April 26-27
Brigade of the American Revolution Encampment
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site will host a weekend of Revolutionary War military firing demonstrations and period activities presented by the Brigade of the American Revolution.
April 27
Westchester Land Trust: Field Walk #1
Biologist Jonathan Rosenthal in Pound Ridge NY as he leads this hands-on investigation into the relationships between insects and plants. Participants will hunt for, locate, identify and count insects foraging on plants and witness first hand how native and invasive plants differ as host plants for caterpillars. All events are free, but space is limited. Please RSVP 914-234-6992
April 29
DEC Webinar Series: Streamlined Process for Environmental Assessment Forms
A series of webinars to instruct government agencies and the public on how to use the streamlined and revised Environmental Assessment Forms (EAF) will be held this spring (4/19, 5/6, 5/13, 5/15, and 5/22). The revised model EAFs are used primarily by state and local agencies to assess the potential environmental impact from proposed actions such as development projects requiring a discretionary approval by a state or local agency. For additional information, contact DEC's Division of Environmental Permits & Pollution Prevention at 518-402-9167
April 30
Learn & Earn: Planning Board & ZBA Overviews
The Dutchess County Planning Federation will present this workshop at the Dutchess County Farm & Home Center in Millbrook NY. This two session workshop will allow up to 4 Credit Hours. The basic Planning Board Overview course addresses the powers and duties of town, village, and city planning boards and commissions. The second session will be an introductory course on the zoning board of appeals focuses on the statutory tests boards must follow to grant use and area variances and proper handling of zoning interpretations. $5 admission, please call ahead for information or to make a reservation 845-486-3600
May 1
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: Nature Strollers
Join a hiking group for families with babies, toddlers and young children. Come for a one-hour hike led by an educator at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum's Outdoor Discovery.
Admission: $5 per family, Museum Members are free. For information call 845-534-5506, x204.
May 2
Come join us for a twilight walk in the wetlands to learn how to recognize frogs by their call. Weather dependant. Please bring a flashlight. For adults with or without children and children ages 5 and up. Admission: $7/Adults, $5/Children.Museum Members: $5/Adults, $3/Children. Raindate: May 9. For information and possible cancellation call 845-534-5506, ext 204.
May 3
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: Hypertufa Planter Workshop!
Come to the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum's Outdoor Discovery Center and create 2 small planters. Pre-paid registration is required. Cost: $25pp Museum members: $20. Call 845-534-5506 x204.
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: Daisy Girl Scouts- Green Petal
Come to the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum's Outdoor Discovery Center for a museum badge workshop designed for scouts. Admission: $15 per scout and adults are free. Call 845-534-5506, ext 211.
I Love My Park Day at Jay Heritage Center!
olunteers needed for invasive plant removal, path maintenance and more from 9am to 1pm. Please bring your own gloves and we will provide tools, T -shirts and refreshments! Long pants encouraged. Great opportunity for Rye newcomers to get involved in civic projects. Ideal for gardeners or high school students looking to contribute community service hours. For more information, call 914-698-9275
May 4
Join author Scott Keller discuss his book, The Hudson River Water Trail Guide, at the Beacon Institute for River and Estuaries. Whether a casual sightseer or serious kayaker, canoer or sailor, enrich your Hudson River boating experience with Scott Keller. For more information, call 845-838-1600.
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum : Lovely Ladybugs
Come to discover fun facts about ladybugs. Make a fun craft to take home. For adults with or without children and children ages 5 and up. Admission: $7/Adults, $5/Children. Museum Members: $5/Adults, $3/Children. Call 845-534-5506 x204
Join Bedford Audubon's Naturalist-in-Residence, Tait Johansson, and Pound Ridge Land Conservancy Board Member, Matt Coulter, on an exploratory field walk to investigate the relationships between birds and plants in the varied habitats of the 70 acre Clark Preserve. All events are free, but space is limited. Please RSVP 914-234-6992
Ongoing Events:
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum: May 2014 Weekend Events
-10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Hiking Trails - Discovery Quests are open. Each hiking trail is an adventure and a search on trails that range from casual to challenging. Learn about nature in a fun interactive way!
-10 a.m. until 4 p.m. -Grasshopper Grove: Gateway to Nature Play. First nature play area in the Hudson Valley at the Outdoor Discovery Center.
-10 a.m. until 4 p.m. -Art in the Wild: Naturally Inspired Trailside Creations An outdoor Art Exhibit curated by Daniel Mack at the Outdoor Discovery Center
For more information call 845-534-5506, ext. 204.
Claude Mirror Project
A new installation by artist Alex McKay at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site lets you see Thomas Cole's favorite view at any time of day, any season of the year, in all kinds of weather, as reflected in a 19th-century optical device called a "Claude Mirror."
Exhibition: Lincoln & New York
The Historical Society of Rockland County presents "Lincoln and New York," a panel exhibition from the New-York Historical Society, probes the myths and controversies surrounding Abraham Lincoln at tje History Center Museum. Original research explores New York's influence on the Civil War, the impact of emancipation, and the promotion of Lincoln's persona as he evolved from an obscure Illinois politician to a national martyr.For more information, contact the Historical Society of Rockland County at 845-634-9629, from April 6- June 15, 2014
Exhibition: A Retrospective of New York Realist Eugene Speicher
Early 20th Century painter, Eugene Speicher is now best remembered for his portraits, association with Robert Henri, George Bellows, and Leon Kroll, and other New York realists, and for his involvement with the Woodstock art colony. On exhibition at the Dorsky Museum at SUNY New Paltz February 5- July 13.
Wilderstein & The White House
As part of their 2014 Exhibition program, Wilderstein & The House, explores fascinating connections between the estate and the Suckley family to U.S. Presidents through history. Costumes, textiles, decorative arts, photographs, books and more will be featured - all from the Wilderstein collections. PREVIEW PARTY on Saturday, April 26 from 4 to 6pm. Tickets to this event are $25. For additional information about the exhibit and reservations for the preview party, call 845-876-4818. May 1- October 31
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This year's Path Through History Weekends will be held June 7-8 and 14-15. On these dates, cultural and heritage sites throughout the state will host special programming, tours and events, or provide reduced or free admission, to celebrate the unique history of New York State. The 2013 Path Through History Weekends were incredibly successful, with more than 200 partner organizations hosting 271 events throughout the State. In 2012 Governor Cuomo unveiled New York's 
The 3rd annual I Love My Park Day is a state-wide initiative sponsored by I Love NY in partnership with Parks & Trails New York. Last year the I Love My Park Day had more than 4,000 volunteers- including Governor Cuomo, pitch in to give back to parks. This year more than 80 I Love My Park Day events will take place at parks and historic sites throughout New York State on May 3, 2014. 
Help Save the Tower of Victory
