In appreciation: Sterling J. Sterling

Sterling and Jasper

Photo provided

In appreciation: Sterling J. Sterling

The dog park feels a little quieter this week as we mourn the passing of our dear friend Sterling. Known for his wit, warmth, dark humor and unforgettable stories, Sterling was a cherished member of our community. His loyal dog Jasper, the most noble of canines, continues to grace the picnic table, where he often posed like a regal model—a fitting tribute to his remarkable owner.

The dog park on Long Pond Road in Lakeville is a vibrant hub of diversity, both in its dogs and their owners. Among its most memorable regulars was Sterling, an artist and storyteller with a personality as colorful as his life. He spent many years in Belize, Central America, where he brought joy to his village—including the unforgettable tale, always shared with a mischievous grin, of how he introduced the first toilet to town, sparking a spirited community celebration.

Sterling’s presence at the park was unmistakable. He would arrive draped in a flowing black cape and crowned with a black Stetson hat, his look completed by a silver belt buckle. Last summer, he proudly added a touch of whimsy to his signature style with a pair of bright orange sneakers he had rediscovered in the back of a closet.

To know Sterling was to share in his laughter, his creativity, and his deep love for life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his stories, his art, and the sight of Jasper watching over the dog park will keep his memory alive in our hearts.

As Jasper adjusts to life without Sterling, we are looking for a new home for this noble companion. If you or someone you know would like to provide Jasper with a loving home, please reach out. Let us honor Sterling by ensuring Jasper finds the care and companionship he so richly deserves.

Cristóbal López-Henríquez A.
on behalf of the Friends of the Salisbury Dog Park

Latest News

Home field advantage holds true for Webutuck softball and baseball

Olivia Wickwire, no. 2, tags out a runner at first base. The Webutuck Warriors varsity softball team beat the Germantown Clippers 14-7 at home Friday, April 25.

Photo by Nathan Miller

AMENIA — Webutuck girls varsity softball beat visiting Germantown 14-7 Friday, April 25.


Keep ReadingShow less
Kent Hollow Mine case resolved after years of litigation
Amenia Town Hall
Photo by John Coston

AMENIA — The Town Baord signed a resolution bringing an end to a history of litigation between Amenia’s Zoning Board of Appeals and principals of Kent Hollow Mine at a special meeting on Thursday, April 24.

It was a brief meeting with no public discussion before the vote except to make a clarifying change in the resolution’s wording, suggested by the Special Counsel to the town, George Lithco.

Keep ReadingShow less
Historians and neighbors celebrate Revolutionary War veterans at old Amenia Burying Ground

Tim Middlebrook, President of the Columbia Mid-Hudson Valley chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, left, Amenia Town Supervisor Leo Blackman, center, and Amenia Historical Society President Betsy Strauss unveiled a new historical marker at the Old Amenia Burying Ground on Saturday, April 26. The marker commemorates revolutionary war veterans buried at the cemetery where the Red Meeting House once stood on Mygatt Road.

Photo By Nathan Miller

AMENIA — Tim Middlebrook of the Sons of the American Revolution and Amenia Historical Society President Betsy Strauss unveiled a new historical marker honoring Revolutionary War vets in the Amenia Burying Ground.

Rain all morning had threatened the event, but historical society members, lovers of history and sons of the revolution persisted and the rain let up just in time.

Keep ReadingShow less
New priest takes the altar in Amenia

Father Andrew O'Connor

Photo by Christine Bates

AMENIA — Father Andrew O’Connor celebrated his first Easter at the Church of the Immaculate Conception after arriving in February to serve the parishioners of Amenia, Pine Plains and Millerton.

In an interview with The Millerton News, he commented that Easter was a time to see whole families together and meet young people home from college or prep school. His busy schedule includes masses on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and another on Sunday night at Choate Rosemary Hall prep school when he visits his family in Connecticut.

Keep ReadingShow less