Photo “New Year’s Love” by Katheryn Laible
Happy New Year! Thank You, Friends for these End of Year Resources!
A Local Independent Bookstore Closes, Three New Ones Open!
“At the End of a Chapter, Turning the Page: Thank you for 44 Years” by Katheryn Laible
As I look at the list of favorite shops that you dear readers have suggested, there is one entry I still can’t quite bring myself to remove: The once deep and starstruck haven that was Book Revue. My heart still aches at how quickly it emptied. It hurt even more to be right out front as someone began to pull the “Thank You for 44 Years of Business” sign from the window.
There is good news, tho! While Huntington’s incredible, beloved, local independent bookstore is now but a memory, former staff member Mallory Braun is determined to write “The Next Chapter.”
With passionate fanfare, she and so many lovers of this amazing, some would say sacred, place have rallied to make it happen. Even Kurt Vonnegut and Henry Miller – knowingly or not! – have been involved!
The Next Chapter
I have never met Mallory but hear VERY good things. That she managed to raise the $250,000 needed to follow in the Klein Brothers’ footsteps is a Christmas present from and for the whole Town. Passing the $200,000 mark on Richard Klein’s birthday was another poetic gift. They had wonderful raffle prizes and a kickin’ band at the very cool Industry Makers the night I got to contribute my little bit. While I deeply appreciated the loud, live music, I sure wish I could have heard what the band’s name was!!!
Proverbial sugar plums dance through my head as I dream of Mallory boldly carrying that glorious banner forward. It’s hard to wait, tho! It doesn’t feel quite like Christmas without Book Revue and I’m eager to see how this manifests. Fortunately, my grieving impatience eases a bit as I smile to see another haven for bibliophiles, this one a used bookstore, pop up in East Northport!
The Dog-Eared Bard’s Book Shop
The Dog-Eared Bard’s Book Shop was created by folks who have been running literary events throughout the Island for over a decade. Among activities, they publish a “Bard’s Annual” poetry collection for which they’ve fittingly hosted events at the Walt Whitman Birthplace. I look forward to sharing the next time they seek submissions. They are now hosting “First Friday Poetry Readings.” On January 7th they will feature Robert Savino. I believe they also offer literary alternatives to the Superbowl.
If your own shelves are running over, please know they gladly welcome donations of used books!
This is NOT Book Revue. It does seem to be something wonderful in its own right, tho, and also elicits faded memories of the earliest stacks of that legendary store… It would have sufficed for now….
But then..Lo! What did my wondering eyes behold, but a third new independent bookstore!!!
Theodore’s Bookshop
The kids and I recently popped into the barely-a-month-old “Theodore’s Bookshop“ on Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay. Founded by former US Congressman and Huntington Town Councilman Steve Israel, the shop pays deep homage to the former President and local resident Theodore Roosevelt, as well as to Steve’s love for history and current affairs. Here, he can bring all sides together with pop culture, classic literature, children’s books and other standard bookshop fare. There’s also a healthy dose of folks we’ve dearly missed since Book Revue closed. It seems to work!
Said Steve, “I served 16 years in Congress and it was a place where people would draw battle lines. I got tired of that. I wanted to create a place that would be of value to the community. We have books that are conservative. We have books that are progressive. We have books in the middle. I just wanted to create a platform for respectful discourse and the pursuit of curiosity, and a place that is just serving the community in which I live.”
You can see the rest of my mini-interview with Steve Israel and a few images from his shop below.
There Will Only Ever Be One, But Still…
It’s still not Book Revue, but it’s a unique and lovely assortment Steve and his new “family of book lovers” are crafting that does pay deep homage to that bit of history, too. I look forward to seeing how the Dog-Eared Bard grows in it’s own way. I still can’t wait for Mallory to get rolling, and know that I’m still coming to terms with the fact that her endeavor — no matter how wonderful — will never be Book Revue, either.
Still, the idea has been planted that maybe…just maybe…some great spirits never really die, but live on in all so inspired.
At least that seems to be the case for three new unique and personal local independent bookstores on Long Island.
More or less just in time for the holidays.
I am grateful. Thanks!
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Firefly Lights! TOMORROW! Trunk Show with The Original Firefly!!!
So many perfect gifts at our Main St., Northport Gallery! Come hang with the Original Firefly Kate Sydney and Firefly Rachel Kalina. Submit YOUR work to our upcoming show. Celebrate what happens when artists unite!!!
Continue readingPal-O-Mine Equestrian: Celebrating a Season of Miracles in a Place They Happen Every Day
I was so happy to be invited along with my family to Pal-O-Mine Equestrian’s “Winter Wonderland” on the last day of the J-STEP Holiday Market (they’ve since added a few more days…see below!) The childlike delight on my teenagers’ faces made it even better.
This is a deep, yet quiet celebration. It is not a day for the horses to strut their stuff. In fact, they seem to be on holiday themselves, enjoying the beautiful weather and occasionally approaching visitors to say “Hello.”
It is the smaller animals — fancy chickens, sheep and ponies — that have center stage. Children of all ages pet and walk the gentle creatures as they learn about the farm and its residents.
“If you really need some TLC, though,” says an instructor named Danielle, indicating an enormous Belgian Draft Horse standing by one of the fences, “Go see Boomer. He’s the best. He’ll fix you right up.”
“This is the day we give back to our volunteers and funders,” she continues, “Today, they get to come and enjoy, and we get to work.”
The way she phrases this is intriguing, “Ummm….Aren’t you usually working when you’re here?”
“Yeah,” she smiles, “But our volunteers donate so much of their time, and our donors make it all possible. Usually, I’m working with clients. Today, I get to give back to our supporters, hang out with my coworkers, relax and enjoy.”
“Isn’t that right, Lovie?” She nods to the sheep whose line she has just handed off to an older girl. That girl is now guiding other children in petting him and feeling for the lanolin deep in his wool. Danielle offers Co-Worker Lovie a snack and strokes his head.
I have yet to meet a staff member here who does not exude love and deep appreciation for their job.
“I met my best friend here,” says another instructor named Eve. She’s talking about Deb who is standing next to her. With them are two miniature horses whom we’ve been strolling with. They go on about funny coincidences and sweet simple fun. We marvel at the healthy 40-year old little horse named Honey and her dear friend, Darla. We breathe in the whole atmosphere and smile.
“We’re not snorting fairy dust here,” says Deb. Quite the opposite, actually. We laugh, thinking about the stuff inevitably in the air of a farm, even one as remarkably clean and well-kept as Pal-O-Mine. There is hard work being done here every day with a broad range of clients who are generally dealing with serious issues. The energy is overwhelmingly positive, though. Those involved speak of earthly miracles.
Miracles and peace. “Among so many blessings, this place offers the beautiful gift of being present,” Deb reflects, “Whether you work here, or are served here, or are just visiting there is nothing you can do but slow down. The animals require it. The clients with the deepest connection to them need it, too.
“We’re all about the ‘Power of the Pause’ here,” she says. “It’s magical.”
Peace, positivity, and appreciation of what’s possible. “There are so many good people and great stories here…and everywhere, really,” Deb says. “I see it every day. I think more people need to be shown.
“Yeah,” she continues, “we have to face and deal with the tough things, but people need to see the good stuff that is happening, too. Then, they know what can be done.”
I know I’m sure grateful for everyone showing me.
Thank you!!!
Pal-O-Mine’s added more days to their 2021 J-Step Holiday Shop! Stop in at the front office if you would like to go to the shop December 16-18 Thursday and Friday from 10am-4pm and Saturday from 10am-2pm at The Classroom at Pal-O-Mine 829 Old Nichols Road, Islandia, NY 11749 Cash, Card and Check Accepted!
Face Masks Are Required While Shopping Indoors Last chance for the J-Step Holiday Shop! |
She Who Served: Rosemarie Highlights Female Veterans
Thanks, Rosemarie!
I am grateful for my friend Rosemarie Kluepfel, who is endlessly endeavoring to serve those who served. She does much of this work through the foundation run by her employer, The Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. She has also found her voice as a musician, performing with the Chuck Evans Band throughout Long Island (They’ll be at Honu Kitchen & Cocktails in Huntington on 12/30 from 6-9pm if you want to catch her there!).
Here’s a song she wrote that fits both her passion and the season, “A Soldier’s Christmas”
Raising Awareness
Rosemarie recently saw her daughter enter the service. Being the mother of US Army Lieutenant Alexa Kluepfel only adds to her care for those who sacrifice so much for our Nation. It also draws more of her attention to the experiences and issues of women in the military.
Please check out this profound video that Rosemarie helped coordinate and run with the Melville Chamber of Commerce: “Women Who Served: A Veteran’s Day Tribute!” It features three female veterans, one who served during WWII, another in Vietnam and the third in Afghanistan.
Serving Human Beings
Rosemarie also wants you to know that the Fairway Foundation is currently focused on providing financial and practical assistance to one particular veteran. This individual has experienced significant trauma and is currently homeless while struggling to balance work, school and raising a 1 1/2 year old daughter alone. To protect her privacy, they are keeping her name confidential. They also want folks to know they are endeavoring to make sure their donation is a “leg up” rather than a “hand out.”
You Can Help!
The Fairway Foundation welcomes cash donations to assist this cause. All funds raised will be earmarked specifically for this veteran and her daughter. There are NO Admin fees. Checks may be made payable to “The Fairway Foundation” and mailed to the Fairway Independent Mortgage branch c/o Rosemarie Kluepfel at 1200 Veterans Highway Suite 102, Hauppauge NY 11788.
The Foundation is a 501c(3) charitable organization. The donation may be tax deductible. While it must be understood that the veteran has no place to store things until she has a home, in-kind donations may be welcomed, especially clothes sized 2t-3t. Please contact Rosemarie on her cell at 631-662-4576 to discuss this option.
Thanks!
Call to Artists: The Snowball Effect
CALL TO ARTISTS! Deadline to Apply is 12/20 for this January show at The Firefly Artists. The theme is winter-inspired works. The term “Snowball Effect” also speaks to the momentum of creative manifestation….so let us know about your inspiration and/or process by sharing a brief paragraph or early sketch as well!
Continue readingJ-Step Holiday Shop at Pal-O-Mine Equestrian
You can read all about Pal-O-Mine Equestrian in this article we wrote. Basically, it’s a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, the abused or neglected, the impoverished and the military.
Its J-STEP (Job Security Through Equine Partnership) program, is a paid internship vocational program that runs 5 days per week for people with disabilities who are 18 years or older.
They are currently hosting a Holiday Shop of items hand crafted by these interns.
Where: The Classroom at Pal-O-Mine, 829 Old Nichols Road in Islandia
When: Thursday December 9th, 10am-2pm, Friday December 10th, 12pm-6pm, Saturday, December 11th, 9am-4pm, Sunday, December 12th, 10am-4pm
Please Note: Face masks are required while shopping indoors.
You can find items crafted by these folks at other locations, too, including The Firefly Artists in Northport, where we have beautiful key chains that help raise awareness and show support for folks living with a variety of different conditions.
Pal-O-Mine has also put together a Herd Wish List for those who would like to support the horses!
For More Information: Visit www.pal-o-mine.org or call 631-348-1389
Help Jayette Send Care Packages to “The Forgotten People”
Photos of Jayette Lansbury and a Rose Katheryn Laible
The very first feature article Synchronicity published was about Jayette Lansbury: Tireless Champion for People who are Impacted by Mental Illness and for Compassionate Criminal Justice Reform. In that piece you can read about how Jayette responded to a most unfortunate circumstance by determining to mix the education she had started with a driving passion to be a part of the solution for all families.
“Is it hard to talk about these things? Sure it is,” says Jayette, “but I don’t care about stigma anymore. Things are hard enough without worrying about what people think. People have to remember that mental illness knows no cultural or socioeconomic boundaries. Any one of these people could be your child, your spouse, your friend. We’re all God’s children and we’ve got to help everyone.”
Right now — you can help her send love and practical care to “The Forgotten People.” She’s collecting:
1. Brand New Socks
2. Puzzle Books
3. Signed Cards — A simple hand-written “Happy Holidays” will do to make it personal.
4. Candy Canes
She needs them all by December 20th.
Arrange drop off by emailing lansburyhunt@aol.com or calling her at 631-988-7619.
Thanks!
You can hear the love in Jayette’s voice when she talks about the 200 pairs of socks and crisp holiday cards she annually sends to the Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center. You can also hear the pain when she explains why it’s so important:
“There are roughly 2,000 people in forensic psychiatric facilities in NYS. They are called ‘The Forgotten People.’ So many of those people have been abandoned and really do feel forgotten. One of them happens to be my son, but I’m not going to let him be forgotten. I’m not going to let ANY of them be forgotten. This helps them know there are people outside who care.”
Also! If you will, please set aside magazines and books that might be shared with people held in that facility. She’ll be collecting those in the New Year. Thanks.