By Shawn Dell Joyce
It’s hard to believe that we are descended from settler’s children who rejoiced at receiving a penny and a stick of candy as their main holiday gifts. In the 1800’s, our kin earned $1,500 per year, and would have had one nice set of clothes for church, and one shabby set for daily life. They worked twice as hard for a simple diet because they had to grow most of what they ate. Over the course of 200-plus years, we have grown an average of 4 inches taller and 20 pounds heavier, our houses have more than doubled in square footage, and we no longer delight in a penny and a stick of candy.

By Michael Kaufman
“The Opus of Everything in Nothing Flat” by Mikhail Horowitz is the perfect holiday gift for your favorite hipster…that is, if you can find a copy.

By Jeffrey Page
State senators get paid on average 48 percent more than the people they represent. What do they know about the people’s problems?

By Shawn Dell Joyce
We have all heard the old saying that it is better to give than to receive, but recently, a new study proved scientifically that the real key to happiness is generous giving. In times of economic stress, it is even more important because giving actually builds your wealth, and the wealth of the local community.

By Carrie Jacobson
A dusting of snow, a dash of chill, a sprinkling of holiday happiness and voila – the season is upon us!

View down Clinton Street looking at the Downtown Bakery and Iron Cafe. Pastel painting by Shawn Dell Joyce. See more of my work at www.ShawnDellJoyce.com take a class with me at www.WallkillRiverSchool.com

COMING OF WINTER – Snow flakes are like people, it take many to make a beautiful scene.

By Bob Gaydos
Young, handsome and accomplished, they were linked as the perfect sports icons — Derek Jeter and Tiger Woods. Turns out, we were half-right.

By Michael Kaufman
Reflections on covering the likes of Muhammad Ali, Gordie Howe, Joe Namath, Howard Cosell and the annual meeting of the American Epilepsy Society.

By Beth Quinn
For the backward, self-righteous prigs in the New York Senate who voted against gay marriage, this column’s for you.