FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE: Normally

There is a chill in the air, a hint of color on our trees. The late sun casts long shadows and the September skies have been strikingly blue. Fall approaches and the Warwick Valley plays host to visitors who get to experience the change of season, the harvest and our beautiful Villages and Town. What we see is the summation of effort over a century – it’s our protected places, whether buildings or farms or a downtown that continues the tradition of small business. These are things that in many places have been lost and when someone discovers this Valley, they become a bit transfixed.

Normally this time of year, the first weekend in October is the prelude to Applefest. I remember the very first Applefest which was an antique’s fair on Main Street. That day was the very moment Hurricane Hugo devastated Charleston, SC and created enough havoc here that the initial Applefest was done by noon. So, from humble beginnings to a premier event that we’ve seen grow in size and scope and has continued to be an economic catalyst and brand for this region. Due to the pandemic, Applefest which draws thousands of folks has been cancelled – last year as we were in the midst of the pandemic and this year with the continued uncertainty of variant strains of the virus it was best to be cautious. It is certainly missed by many but most importantly it has had an effect on our not-for-profits who historically have been able to use the event as a significant fundraiser. What I’ve seen in the face of the challenge are creative ways to keep our favorite organizations, clubs and civic groups intact. Nonetheless this would be a perfect time to donate time or money to any of the groups that make us strong.

The weekend of October 9th will be a busy one in our Village. It’s often these smaller local events that we look forward to – they are fun! On Sat Oct. 9th the Children’s Book Festival will be at Stanley Deming Park with over 50 authors and illustrators on hand. This is such a great event for young readers and truly gives them a sense of how a book is born! There isa free children’s concert at noon and children’s art activities throughout the day. This event is generously sponsored by Glenn and Susan Dickes, the Albert Wisner Public Library and the Village of Warwick. This is a fundraiser for the library.

On Oct. 9th and 10th, the Love Local Makers Market will be at Lewis Park from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Over 40 artists and artisans offering locally made artwork and fine crafts including natural body care products, housewares, jewelry, pottery and decorative art. There is a $3 admission which supports Wickham Works Community Programs and the Warwick Historical Society.

The next Village Board meeting will take place on Monday, October 4, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. and will be held through Zoom videoconference and may be viewed live by the public on the Village of Warwick, NY YouTube Channel.