Anniversaries are opportunities for connection, reflection, and fun. There are so many this year: 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the Shandaken Eagle, the 50th for the Phoenicia Playhouse, the 80th anniversary of the American Legion post 950—not to mention the 250th anniversary of our Nation. One of our most venerated organizations, the American Legion, started in the wake of WWII devastation. For decades our Legion has provided safety nets for veterans, their families and other Shandaken residents.  It’s important to recognize these efforts, and of course those who have bravely served to protect our nation. Join me in Phoenicia the morning of May 26 for the Memorial Day parade down Main Street, ending at the Shandaken Eagle. Memorial Day kicks off a summer already filled with fun and memorable events. The Shandaken Eagle originally sat atop the old Grand Central Station. When that was torn down, at least 12 eagles were disbursed to private buyers. Photographer David McLane picked one up for $100, and later donated it to our Town in the mid-1980s—a time when the Bald Eagle species itself was endangered. A group of Shandaken citizens raised funds to move, refurbish, and erect the cast iron eagle, and it was bronzed by local artist Daikin Moorehouse. Make sure to put August 22, 2026 in your calendar for Shandaken Eagle Day, when we will celebrate everyone who made possible what has become the symbol of our Town. The Phoenicia Playhouse (founded as Shandaken Theatrical Society) represents another historically-important save by a group of residents. Volunteers and donors have stewarded the 1887 Order of Oddfellows hall since bell bottoms and the bicentennial. I just saw a really great production of Hamlet done by Catskill Shakespeare—part of an impressive anniversary season that includes Flying Cat Music events, a Phoenicia Festival of the Arts film festival and other movies throughout the summer, as well as several live theatrical events.