August 2025
SHE'S ROCKING IT in the HUDSON VALLEY REGION OF NEW YORK!
Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier
Executive Director of Fearless! Photo Courtesy: Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier FEARLESS! REACHES OUT TO YOUTH
What is the goal of the Summer Youth Leadership Academy? Now in its 14th year, this free, week-long program aims to inspire and empower students in grades 9 through 12 to learn and speak up about racism, bullying, gender oppression, the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships, and building solutions for change. |
What attracted you to this organization?
I was fortunate enough to be supported in Dutchess County, to be able to explore ways in which we could address systemic gaps that victims/survivors face within the criminal and civil justice system. When the opportunity to lead this organization arose, I was excited to contribute on a deeper level and work with advocates to expand programs and services to meet victims/survivors where they are. As my work started expanding, I realized this opportunity was in alignment with both my personal and professional values. Over your last 15+ years as director, what do you view as your biggest accomplishment? What are some of the greatest challenges? Everything I have been able to do is connected to having a wonderful team, board, and support system. My biggest accomplishment is the expansion of programs and services across two counties, including the building of a new 20-bed crisis shelter. Challenges: While there have been significant strides, it is not enough. The misconceptions concerning survivors continue to deeply impact outcomes. We are still functioning within societal ‘norms’ riddled with misogyny and the refusal to believe victims as well as systems that are not, by design, made for victims. There are challenges with the funding structure and the inability to ever fully stabilize. The federal, state, and local funding can be volatile, and the constant need to compete for limited funds, resources, and support pulls away from the day-to-day needs of survivors. Besides providing shelter for those in crisis, what other programs/resources do you offer? Fearless! provides extensive non-residential and residential services to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking, and other forms of crime victimization. Core services consist of 24-hotline services, advocacy, accompaniment, information, referrals, crisis counseling, therapeutic counseling, support group, and emergency basic needs. Our largest programming is nonresidential services. We are working with victims and survivors navigating complex criminal and civil justice systems. Victims/survivors are attempting to access safety and have varied needs. We are there as a support system, providing information and resources so they can make the most informed decisions on what their next steps may be. Do you know someone who is rocking it in your local area? Email us!
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About Kellyann
Since 2010, Kellyann has served as the executive director of Fearless! Hudson Valley, Inc., formerly known as Safe Homes of Orange County. Prior to her tenure at Fearless!, Kellyann held the position of Project Coordinator for the Universal Response to Domestic Violence in Dutchess County. In addition to her advocacy work, Kellyann serves as a general topics instructor at the Orange County Police Academy and acts as an expert witness on domestic violence across New York State. Her contributions have been acknowledged by the Dutchess County Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and she has received many accolades, including the 2016 Director’s Community Leadership Award from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Kellyann resides in Poughkeepsie, New York, with her husband and their three children.
About Fearless! Hudson Valley
The mission of Fearless! Hudson Valley is to build an informed, just, and accountable society so all people can experience supportive and safe relationships free from abuse, exploitation, and oppression. The organization accomplishes this by providing comprehensive services, including shelter, to victims and survivors of interpersonal violence, human trafficking, sexual violence, and other types of crime victimization.
Kellyann Speaking at the Clothesline Project
during Domestic Violence Awareness Month Photo Courtesy: Fearless! Hudson Valley |
WHERE IS SHE NOW?
New Album Release Receives High Praise
New Album Release Receives High Praise
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APSB Album Release Celebration (The Falcon, July 11, 2025)
Photo Credits: Myrna & Kirk Haskell "On July 11th, I had the opportunity to attend the Alexis P. Suter Band's Album Release Celebration. And what a celebration it was! The crowd was on their feet through most of the final song, and Alexis and her band were treated to an extended and thunderous applause. Based on early reviews, those in attendance on the 11th are not the only ones who think this new album is a smash hit! I highly recommend."
~ Myrna Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports "Just Stay High is nothing less than a tour de force, one in which attitude and aptitude play equally essential roles in shaping this powerful brew." ~ Living Blues magazine |
Alexis P. Suter
Three-Time Blues Music Awards Nominee A few days before the performance, Myrna Haskell, executive editor, spoke with Alexis by phone to learn more about APSB's latest album.
What was the inspiration behind the album? It took us three years to finish the album. We were trying to deal with what was happening [The band started working on the album during the COVID pandemic.]. I was dealing with my mother who had dementia. It was a time in everyone's life when things were really dark. The isolation and lack of human contact presented challenges for everyone. We were just trying to reach people where they were at. Your mom passed while the album was being recorded. Do you feel her spirit is a part of this release? Oh yes! I was in Brooklyn listening to the CD in my living room. “Ride All Night” came on, and usually “Isolation” is the next song, but it skipped that song and went to “Song For You.” And I looked up and said, ‘Mom. Thank you.’ I know my mother has a lot to do with what’s going on. And, of course, God. And my mother is in God’s hands. I dedicate this song to my mother. Last year you signed with Nola Blue Records. This is big news. In this industry, it's great to have the backing of people you trust. It’s like a breath of fresh air. Sallie Bengtson [founder of Nola Blue Records] is an amazing person. She is truly for the artist, and she’s 100% on top of everything. Anything you'd like to say about the title? Sallie suggested it. She said, ‘That song is powerful!’ ["Just Stay High" is the 9th track on the album.] And it speaks to what the album is all about — lifting people’s spirits. Yes it does. Favorite song? Wow. That's a good one. I really love “God Gave Me the Blues." Final thoughts? It's like when you make cake. You want it to be moist and delicious. You don't want a dry cake. You don’t want it to crumble. You want people to salivate for it. This is one of the most powerful albums we've ever done! It’s been mind-blowing. I’m humbled by the love that’s being shown for it. I hope this album will help people get into being human again. |
ABOUT ALEXIS & APSB
This three-time Blues Music Awards nominee was a regular performer at Levon Helm’s legendary “Midnight Rambles” held in Woodstock, New York. Levon was captured by what he called Alexis’ wonderful spirit, and she and the band opened for him nearly 100 times. She opened for the late, legendary B.B. King at B.B. King Blues Club in New York City. Shaking his head in wonder, he remarked, “It’s a rare thing to share the stage with great talent like that young lady.”
The Alexis P. Suter Band:
Alexis P. Suter: Vocals Vicki Bell: Vocals Jimmy Bennett: Guitar Peter Bennett: Bass, Vocals Ray Grappone: Drums Daniel Weiss: Keyboards Additional Musicians on Album: Byron Isaacs: Bass Will Bryant: Keyboards, Melodica Lee Falco: Drums, Percussion |
GALLERY VISIT
Unique Gallery is Creating a Buzz in Newburgh, New York
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Gallery Hours:
Fridays ~ 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays ~ 12:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays ~ 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Monday through Thursday. Video Credit: Myrna Haskell
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"Numerous posts about Bank Art Gallery from our followers in social media made me curious, so I decided to pop by during Upstate Art Weekend on July 19. I had contact with Shirley Giler-Noto, gallery director, the week before and found out that they would be holding impromptu artist talks throughout the day.
This is an incredible space! Visitors are immediately enveloped in the building's history with its dramatic entry, soaring and ornate, main floor ceiling, gorgeous moldings, and lower vault area. I was captivated the moment I stepped through the door. Shirley greeted me with a smile and infectious enthusiasm. I couldn't wait to see the art and the space, but I soon realized Meryl Meisler was there, so I took the time to snap a photo of this award-winning street photographer and Shirley together. Readers might remember that Meryl was a guest on our HOT TOPIC podcast to talk about her latest monograph "Street Walker." To my surprise, she was exhibiting here: "On the Money" is a bold series that explores society's complicated relationship with money. Her exhibit was displayed in a cozy section of the gallery where she was able to have intimate conversations with visitors. Shirley gave me a full tour. I was enthralled by one beautiful exhibit space after the next. The artwork in the show, "A Collector's Vision," was top-notch. I spoke with Alex Kveton, whose sculptural works are part of the permanent collections of notable venues throughout the world. The Collector's Vault, located beneath the main floor and housing the original vault door, is an area including several separate exhibit spaces, an exclusive area where works are selected for their rarity and outstanding merit. These works are not a part of the rotating exhibitions held on the main floor. There, I took the time to speak with resident artist, Rhea Marmentini, a European sculptor whose work draws from the ancient power of stone. She is well-known for her monumental creation "The Dragon House", a unique building located in Spain. There's so much more to say, but I'll end with, 'See you soon!'" ~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
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About Bank Art Gallery
The building: Established in 1924, the historic building is now revitalized as the Bank Art Gallery, which spans three levels, totaling 13,000 square feet. Designed by the renowned Chicago firm Weary & Alford, the interior showcases significant moments in mid-Hudson history.
Established in 2024, Bank Art Gallery was founded to be a beacon for the arts and serve as a cultural hub where creativity finds its home. This art space brings the community together through inspiring exhibitions and events. Its mission is to enrich the cultural fabric of Newburgh, New York, by providing a space that highlights creative expression across various mediums. The gallery supports both emerging and established artists, offering them a venue to showcase their work while fostering connections with the local community. In partnership with the Gerald A. Doering Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the arts and other causes, the gallery is committed to making art accessible to all and creating an inclusive environment where creativity can thrive. Upcoming Exhibition:
"Empire of the Gods" Opening Reception: August 14 ~ 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Exhibition Opening: August 15 Anchoring the show is a striking site-specific installation by Jesse Farrenkopf titled "Bhairava," an imposing, large-scale sculptural head inspired by the Buddhist and Hindu god Shiva. Other participating artists: Anuki Bujiashvili, Jessica Damsky, Kiera Stuart, Michael Levchenko, Francis Nguyen, and more.
"Bhairava" by Jesse Farrenkopf
Photo Courtesy: Bank Art Gallery |
OUT & ABOUT
KYKUIT (Lookout Point): Home to the Rockefeller Family in the Hudson Valley’s Pocantico Hills
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Slideshow Credits: Sandra Bertrand
Kykuit Visitors Center
381 North Broadway Sleepy Hollow, New York Note: Tour Season is May through November |
"Stepping off the tourist bus at Kykuit, I am reminded of Rachel Carson’s quote: 'In nature, nothing exists alone.'" ~ S.B.
"A visit to the Kykuit estate, home to four generations of the Rockefeller family, is a magical step back into the nation’s history and has remained an extraordinary landmark for over a hundred years. Situated only twenty miles outside New York City, the natural beauty of the home and its gardens is a breathtaking experience. Philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, founder of Standard Oil and then the 'richest man in America' purchased the property after his retirement in 1873. But it was J.D. Rockefeller Jr. who convinced his father to transform its modest beginnings into the opulent neo-classical estate we enjoy today. And, maybe more importantly, it was his wife Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, cofounder of the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), who made it a home for world-class art. A special treat of the tour is discovering works by Calder, Picasso, Nevelson, Warhol and others in the basement gallery. Former U.S. Vice President and New York Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller, inspired by his mother’s passion for art, continued the collection, with over 120 sculptures for awestruck viewers dotting the property’s gardens. And everywhere one turns, the awesome beauty of the Hudson River is enough excuse to make this a memorable outing." ~ Sandra Bertrand, Travel & Culture Editor, Reports
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About Pocantico Hills
Pocantico Hills is a hamlet in the Westchester County town of Mount Pleasant, New York. The Rockefeller family estate, anchored by Kykuit, is located in Pocantico Hills, as is the adjacent Rockefeller State Park Preserve.
The area was originally settled by Native Americans of the Wecquaesgeek tribes. "Pocantico" means "stream between two hills" a reference to the meandering Pocantico River. In 1880, The "Old Put" Railroad ran from New York to Brewster. The section between East View and Pocantico Hills, travelled over an 80-foot-high trestle over a marsh-filled valley. Because of the dangers of crossing the bridge, which often required that trains slow down to a crawl, the line was rerouted west around that valley in 1881. The bridge was torn down in 1883, and the valley became the Tarrytown Reservoir. The railroad ran through the Rockefeller property. In 1928, John D. Rockefeller Jr. negotiated with the New York Central Railroad to relocate the line along the Saw Mill River, costing $200,000, which Rockefeller Jr. paid. The Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, another place to explore in the area, was established in 2003 to demonstrate multi-cultural, self-sustaining farming techniques. |
A Day at Dia
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Since we live in the Hudson Valley Region of New York, we took advantage of the free admission to Dia Beacon offered on the last Sunday of each month. The Hudson Valley encompasses the following counties: Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Sullivan, Ulster, Washington, and Westchester. Additionally, City of Beacon and Newburgh residents receive free admission to Dia Beacon every day.
To get tickets in advance for Hudson Valley Free Day, you can fill out their Free Admission Request. Hudson Valley Free Days at Dia Beacon are made possible by Kiki McMillan, Charlie Pohlad, and the Pohlad family. |
"I heard that Dia Beacon had just recently installed a new collection by Kishio Suga, so with out-of-town friends visiting, we decided to spend the afternoon there. The temperatures were hot and humid, so an indoor, air-conditioned adventure seemed appropriate.
Born in Morioka, Japan, in 1944, Kishio has always been interested in the longtime practice of setting materials in relation to each other or deploying the same one over and over again. In this installation, he presents 'sculptures that probe the slippages between seeing and knowing.' My favorite exhibit, though, was in an upstairs area, the sculptures by Louise Bourgeois (1911-2010), which had an ominous quality, and one that evokes conversation and contemplation. 'Crouching Spider' is said to be interpretative of her work as a child helping family with tapestry repair (weaving of fabric) as well as the threat most perceive when encountering large spiders (this one is otherworldly!). Her works, in general, were known to be expressions of both desire and trauma, autobiographical. 'You have to abandon your past or accept it, and then, if you cannot accept it, you become a sculptor.' An interesting quote from her, indeed. Also worth seeing: Andy Warhol's incredibly large, wraparound 'Shadows' piece. Michael Heizer's 'North, East, South, West' a recreation of excavation works in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. This new permanent version coincided with Dia Beacon's opening in 2003." ~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
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About Dia & the Dia Beacon Location
Dia Art Foundation is committed to advancing, realizing, and preserving the vision of artists. Dia fulfills its mission by commissioning single artist projects, organizing exhibitions, realizing site-specific installations, and collecting work of a focused group of artists of the 1960s and 1970s. HistoryDia was founded in New York in 1974 by Philippa de Menil, Heiner Friedrich, and Helen Winkler to help artists achieve visionary projects that might not otherwise be realized because of scale or scope. To suggest the institution’s role in enabling such ambitions, they selected the name “Dia,” taken from the Greek word meaning “through.” Today it consists of nine permanent sites across the United States and Germany, as well as three changing exhibition spaces in New York State: Dia Chelsea in Manhattan, Dia Beacon in the Hudson Valley, and Dia Bridgehampton on Long Island.
Dia Beacon In May 2003, Dia Art Foundation opened Dia Beacon on the banks of the Hudson River in Beacon, New York, in a former Nabisco box printing factory. The museum presents Dia’s collection of art from the 1960s to the present as well as special exhibitions and public programs. Since its opening, Dia Beacon has helped transform the city of Beacon into a vibrant arts destination for visitors from the region, New York, and beyond. |
The Naumburg Bandshell: A Little Night Music Under the Stars
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Video Credit: Sandra Bertrand
Note: The final performance at the Naumburg Bandshell was held on August 5th. Those excited to attend for the first time will need to wait for next year's schedule.
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"New York City’s famed Central Park Bandshell, also known as the Naumburg Bandshell, is a historic neoclassical structure on the Mall. On a recent July evening, after picnicking on a nearby lawn, we grabbed seats for the Nosky Baroque Band. Acclaimed violinist Aisslinn Nosky has captivated audiences worldwide with her innovative and flawless technique in works by Handel and Haydn — finished off that night by the glorious refrains of a Vivaldi concerto.
The recently renovated Naumburg Bandshell is one of the city’s most cherished cultural landmarks. Built in 1923 and funded by philanthropist Elkan Naumburg, it has brought joy to countless visitors with jazz, rock, dance performances, and special ceremonies throughout the year. And luckily for us, it’s all free!" ~ Sandra Bertrand, Travel & Culture Editor, Reports
Photo Credit: Wired New York
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Naumburg Bandshell's History: A Family Legacy
Since 1905, the Naumburg Orchestral Concerts has continuously presented free, outdoor classical music concerts to New Yorkers of all walks of life. Named after founder and philanthropist Elkan Naumburg, who donated the Naumburg Bandshell to New York City in 1923, and inspired by his own ardent love of music, the series seeks to stimulate and encourage new and expanded audiences for classical music in the informal and beautiful setting of Central Park.
In 1873, Naumburg helped found the Oratorio Society of New York in the family parlor where Leopold Damrosch, Theodore Thomas, and Marcella Sembrich, among others, played weekly in the 1870s, '80s & '90s. Mr. Naumburg’s wife, Bertha, gave that group its name. Elkan’s son, Walter, further reinforced the family tradition of supporting classical music when he established the Walter W. Naumburg Prize in 1926, as did his grand-niece, Eleanor Naumburg Sanger, who cofounded WQXR, New York’s classical music radio station. Subsequently, Elkan’s grandson Philip H. Naumburg (1920-95), was instrumental in founding the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival in New Mexico. In 1912, the Concert Ground’s earlier Central Park Bandstand was deemed inadequate. Elkan’s replacement greatly improved the conditions for musical performance over the earlier facility. A nephew, William G. Tachau, designed the building in 1916. After Elkan Naumburg’s death in 1924, his sons, Walter W. Naumburg and George W. Naumburg continued the park concerts. When Walter W. Naumburg died in 1959, his will provided for the perpetuation of these concerts. |
EVENT HOP
Celebrating and Educating the Public About the Missions of the U.S. Coast Guard
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Slideshow Photos: Myrna Haskell
COGAP ART ON VIEW: Where will the works travel?
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Coast Guard Art Program
2025 Reception and Acceptance Ceremony July 10, 2025 Salmagundi Club 47 Fifth Avenue @ 12th Street ~ New York, New York "I've been to this beautiful ceremony and exhibition several times now, and it never disappoints. As the first woman chair of the Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP), Karen Loew has led the committee since 2001. She has also been the recipient of the program's top honor, the George Gray Award for Artistic Excellence for her painting 'Harbor Rendezvous.'
Karen has spent countless hours working to be sure this program continues to educate the public about the U.S. Coast Guard's 11 missions. And what better way to do that than through stunning works of art! Karen is always at the door greeting guests and making sure everything runs smoothly. She introduced me to Rear Admiral Michael E. Platt this year, whose friendly demeanor and warm smile puts everyone at ease. It was an honor to meet him. And I also had the opportunity to briefly say hello to Mary Ann Bader, COGAP coordinator at the headquarters in Washington D.C. She and Karen have been an incredible duo, making sure that the program launches each year without a hitch. Kudos to these dedicated women, the participating artists who donate their work, and everyone who volunteers for this special program." ~ Myrna Beth Haskell, Executive Editor, Reports
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Myrna Haskell asked Karen a few questions to provide readers with an update since she was last interviewed about the program in 2022.
Anything special you'd like to share since readers last heard from you?
The pride COGAP artists show in their social media posts of their accepted work has really increased in the past three years. I am friends with many in these social spaces. My heart is full when I read their public announcements about the art they create and donate, as volunteers, to the Coast Guard. These postings do not boast about a new commission, recently sold painting, or an upcoming solo show. They are posting and boasting about their best work they are giving for inclusion into the Coast Guard Art Program. Truly fabulous. Throughout the years, what has been the biggest challenge you've faced? The topic or theme of COGAP art is always the Coast Guard – their 11 missions, training and humanitarian work. I have had deployments twice in past years, providing a rich photo collection of my own research. When artists, me included, cannot be where all the action is, we are encouraged to use photos by the Coast Guard. Searching their immense online platform for that compelling image to paint that will engage the public and honor the amazing work of our USCG is my biggest challenge. |
SNEAK PEEK RECOMMENDATIONS
URBAN STOMP: Dreams and Defiance on the Dance Floor
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"This exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York explores 200 years of the dance history of New York City from ballrooms to the street. The meticulous research involved even allows the viewer to stand before a screen and dance along with the performer. This is both fun and an interesting example of the subtle influence of class and race, where swing music and dance bridged the differences. The exhibit is on through February."
~ Dawn Lille, Contributor, Reports
Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Ave at 103rd Street New York, New York HOURS: Mon-Fri 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat-Sun ~ 10 a.m to 6 p.m. |
More About Urban Stomp
Urban Stomp guides visitors through a rich history of dance, featuring styles like the lindy hop, salsa, hip-hop, hustle, bhangra, vogue, and more — each one born, shaped, or popularized in New York. Through a captivating mix of film, fashion, ephemera, art installations, dance interactives, music, photography, and instruments, the exhibition immerses visitors in the vibrant dances that have shaped the city’s ever-changing cultural landscape.
Whether partnered, group, or dancing alone, dancers find spaces of connection that mirror the city’s boundless energy. Step into 200 years of NYC dance cultures, from lindy hop to salsa, hustle to hip-hop. See how movement has built communities, sparked creativity, and shaped the city’s cultural heartbeat. Exhibition Now through February 22, 2026
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Jewelry is My Drug of Choice
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Slideshow Photos: Carol Lippert Gray
Address:
Jerome and Simona Chazen Building 2 Columbus Circle New York, New York |
David Webb Jewelry Collection
"Through the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, I recently had the opportunity to visit the showrooms and workshops of the renowned jeweler David Webb. Webb himself died in 1970, but his jaw-dropping jewels — owned by icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Estée Lauder; featured in lavish magazine spreads over the years; and worn on the Oscars red carpet by actors like Renee Zellweger — lives on. As I said to one of the other women on the tour, jewelry is my drug of choice. So, here are a few photos for a contact high."
~ Carol Lippert Gray, Associate Editor, Reports
Museum Hours:
Monday Closed Tuesday 10 am–6 pm Wednesday 10 am–6 pm Thursday 12–8 pm Friday 10 am–6 pm Saturday 10 am–6 pm Sunday 10 am–6 pm |
About Museum of Arts & Design
MAD champions contemporary makers across creative fields, presenting artists, designers, and artisans who apply the highest level of ingenuity and skill to their work. Since the Museum’s founding in 1956 by philanthropist and visionary Aileen Osborn Webb, MAD has celebrated all facets of making and the creative processes by which materials are transformed, from traditional techniques to cutting-edge technologies. Note: David Webb's Jewelry is part of the museum's permanent collection.
About Jeweler David Webb
Born in 1925 in North Carolina, David Webb developed his creative talents surrounded by the lush landscapes of the American South. His first foray into working with his hands was through his uncle, a fellow metalworker, who helped Webb craft souvenir copper ashtrays stamped with a small spider’s web, a nod to his surname. Webb’s ascent was swift. He rapidly gained recognition in Manhattan. The 1950s saw his jewelry featured on the cover of Vogue magazine. His client list grew to include the Duchess of Windsor, Lady Bird Johnson, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Nancy Reagan, establishing his presence at the highest levels of society. By the 1970s, Webb had secured his place among the most influential jewelry designers of the century. Tragically, at the height of his success, David Webb passed away suddenly from pancreatic cancer in 1975.
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