Letters to the Editor - The Millerton News - 12-10-20

A little relief during a stressful year, thanks to the Millerton library

We all need a little extra happiness and a little less stress. And we have just the thing to help. As of Tuesday, Dec. 15, the NorthEast-Millerton Library is going fine free! What does that mean, you say? Well, if you check out an item at our library, you won’t be charged a fine if you return it late. 

This will only apply to items borrowed at the NorthEast-Millerton Library. (The only exception being our laptops and hotspots.) You will still be charged a fee if you lose, damage or just don’t return an item. That’s not all. Any overdue fine currently on a patron’s card, from an item checked out at our library, will be forgiven.

This has been an incredibly hard year, and we hope that this will make it a little bit easier. We are so happy to be able to offer this to the community to help ensure financial and logistical difficulties do not prevent someone from using the library. You shouldn’t have to worry about returning your library book when facing family illness, remote schooling or whatever else this pandemic may bring. 

While this will mean a loss of funds for the library, we are hoping that those who can donate, will. Since the Library is 501(C)3, your donation would be tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law. 

To learn more about how to make a donation, go to www.nemillertonlibrary.org, call 518-789-3340, stop by the library at 75 Main St., Millerton, or mail a check to P.O. Box 786, Millerton, NY 12546.

Every donation is greatly appreciated and put to excellent use.

Rhiannon Leo-Jameson

Library Director, NorthEast-Millerton Library

Copake

Children can get crafty thanks to kits at Pine Plains library

‘Tis the season and the FRIENDS of the Pine Plains Free Library are feeling a bit merry and bright as we’ve worked with the library staff to bring FREE “grab & go” craft kits to children ages 3 and up.  

There are eight new winter themed kits on display in the library for you to choose one — while supplies last. Stop in to see Alexis, Mary or Sophia to pick yours up. 

Library hours are Tuesday through Friday, from 2 to 6 p.m., and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

To keep us all safe, face masks are required in the library. 

Have a healthy and happy holiday.  

Janet Fitzgerald

President, FRIENDS of the Pine Plains Free Library

Pine Plains

Amenia Memory Tree — It’s that time of year!

This year the Amenia Lions Club Memory Tree is dedicated to first responders, front line and essential workers. You can show your support and remember a loved one with a $5 donation to the Amenia Lions Club.

The Memory Tree benefits the Dutchess County Hearing Conservation Committee and purchases hearing aids for those that can’t afford one. In addition, the Lions Club just completed its annual 300 Club Dinner with curbside service due to COVID-19 and recently donated over $3,000 to organizations that specialize in feeding and providing necessities for the holidays. Every dollar we raise goes back into the community! 

Forms may be picked up at Jack’s Auto in Wassaic, Havens Real Estate in Amenia, Bank of Millbrook in Amenia or from any Amenia Lions Club member. You can also go to the Amenia Lions Facebook page to download your own copy.

Names must be submitted before Dec. 18 to be included in the listing in the Dec. 24 issue of The Millerton News.

For more information, call 845-453-0408 to leave a message or email bjdhale@gmail.com.

Lori S. Hale

President, Amenia Lions Club 

Amenia

Best Instagram feeds for green activism?

Dear EarthTalk: What are the best Instagram feeds to follow lately if I’m into environmental activism and fighting climate change?

— Bill S., New Orleans, La.

It’s amazing how dominant Instagram has become in the world of social media. Eco-advocates would be remiss to not make use of it to raise awareness and spur action on behalf of the planet. Given Instagram’s limited functionality, activists and groups have to be creative to make the most of the photo-dominant platform to stand out from the crowd.

Indigenous Climate Action uses its @indigenousclimateaction account to motivate and empower both youth and adults on climate activism by reminding them of the human connections to land, water, community, culture and the sense of responsibility toward future generations exemplified in Indigenous communities.

Another timely account to follow is @sunrisemvmt, the Instagram outlet for the Sunrise Movement. Organizers have used Instagram to spread their message to millions of young people who have in turn showed up at rallies, marches, sit-ins, Congressional visits and other direct-action events designed to lever those in power to make smart decisions.

Finally, @climemechange uses humor to lighten the mood within the climate movement. After all, laughter has been proven to boost antibody-producing cells, reduce stress and increase blood flow, all important to make sure we keep ourselves healthy while fighting the good fight. Following this account is a good way to fight the eco-depression and climate anxiety we all suffer from, even if just a little.

One way to be an eco-activist on Instagram is to share these accounts’ posts on your own stories, an easy way to spread awareness.

EarthTalk is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at www.emagazine.com. Send questions to question@earthtalk.org.