A Column from the Desk of Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark)
The holiday season is in full swing across Orange and Rockland counties! It’s been a joy to attend tree lighting ceremonies in Port Jervis, Slate Hill, Greenville, Sloatsburg, Mount Hope, and Hillburn, among others. I’ll be visiting more events, so don’t hesitate to say hello if you see me or my team! There are plenty of festive activities to enjoy this season. For instance:
- The Nutcracker: Catch this timeless ballet on December 15 at the Paramount Theater in Middletown. Featuring performers from the Warwick Dance Collective, Warwick Center for the Performing Arts, Northern Academy of Arts, and guest artists, this production promises a magical evening.
- Holiday Craft Fair: On December 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Minisink Valley Lions Club is hosting a craft fair at the MV Intermediate School Gym in Slate Hill. Enjoy free admission, concessions, and a chance to meet Santa while exploring goods from 50 vendors. Proceeds benefit the Minisink Valley Community.
- Christmas on the Farm: Visit Apple Ridge Orchards for a walk-through light show featuring a Christmas wonderland, complete with hot cocoa, s’mores, Santa, and singing reindeer. Open nightly through December 29 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.—no reservations needed!
- Snowball Story Time: On December 18, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., children aged 3–8 can join Ms. Kara at Tuxedo Park Library for stories, crafts, snacks, and holiday fun. Register online at tuxedoparklibrary.org/calendar.
This season is a perfect time to connect with family, friends, and community. Whether attending one of these events or discovering your own holiday traditions, I hope you make wonderful memories. Enjoy the festivities, and if you see me around, feel free to say hi! Assemblyman Karl Brabenec represents the 98th District, including the city of Port Jervis and the towns of Deerpark, Greenville, Mount Hope, Wawayanda, Minisink, Warwick, Tuxedo, and parts of Goshen, Monroe, and Ramapo. For more information, visit www.yourfavoriteassemblyman.com.