Just like that, summer winds down. Bright yellow school buses are filling the roads and school supplies and candy corns are filling the store shelves. I have been very busy these past few weeks with major projects and wonderful traditions, such as Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Montgomery Tractor Parade.
As we begin to transition to autumn, I’m proud to share some exciting updates about the work we’re doing together in Orange County. One of the highlights is the launch of “Blueprint Orange,” a new video series that gives you an inside look at the projects, places, and people shaping our community.
In our first episode, I walk you through our vision of Sugar Loaf Mountain. This incredible property will soon be a community treasure where residents can enjoy nature, recreation, and open space. I also sit down with Parks Commissioner Travis Ewald and Jim Delaune of the Orange County Land Trust to discuss the future of this landmark. And most importantly, I give you the scoop on its opening and what you can look forward to!
I’m also excited to share a major step forward in the area of culture and the arts. Last week, the Town Board of Chester voted unanimously to sell the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center to Orange County. Thanks to strong support from the Legislature, we'll now be able to preserve this gem of a theater for generations to come.
Our immediate plans include deep cleaning the building, exploring water and sewer connections, and keeping performances on the calendar. We'll also offer free movies for seniors and partner with local restaurants to help boost the economy. This is a true win for our residents, our arts community, and the region.
It was a pleasure to participate in one of the celebrated traditions that help make Orange County such a special place. The Tractor Parade and Farm Day in the Village of Montgomery was a wonderful reminder of our agricultural roots and community spirit. From Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta and Assemblyman Brian Maher testing their beekeeping skills to visiting with local vendors such as my friend Chris Pennings from Christopher Jacobs Winery, it was a day full of fun, connection, and community pride. Thank you to Skip Chambers and everyone who works hard to make this event a success year after year.
Pride and patriotism were on full display at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point last week when the Army football season officially kicked off. My son and I had a terrific time at the season opener and were impressed by the support of the cadets for their classmates on the field and the sportsmanship of the players. We even had the chance to meet with senior Army leadership, including the Army secretary. We are fortunate to have the U.S. Military Academy right here in Orange County. Go Black Knights!
Support and community spirit were also to be found at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer kickoff breakfast. Survivors, families, and supporters filled the room with hope and determination. The sea of pink was a powerful reminder of why we walk each October: to support those who are affected by breast cancer and to continue the fight for a cure.
The American Cancer Society is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the walk at Woodbury Common this year. I encourage you to sign up to walk and join us in making a difference.
Finally, I always have a wonderful time at the annual Senior Community Barbecue in Warwick, and this year’s event was no exception. Our seniors are the backbone of this county, and it’s truly an honor to spend time with them, listen to their stories, and make sure that they know how valued they are. Thank you to the Town of Warwick, the Warwick Valley Rotary Club, and our Office for the Aging for organizing such a great event.
To our teachers and students heading to the classroom, all my best for a terrific school year!
I look forward to seeing you out and about this fall as we keep moving our county forward together.
