Around the Neighborhood - Esperance - 24 April 2026

Photo provided by Esperance Elks Lodge Secretary, Matt Lacy, from their first new Elks initiation of this year (and there are eight more applications in progress.) Congratulations to Kyleigh Lindsey and William Borst, initiated into the Esperance Elks Lodge #2507 Farmers Lodge on April 21st.

Welcome to all your Esperance updates conveniently in one place!

Exciting announcement: “Over at Sweet Dahlia Farm & Florals, we are kicking off a brand new season with a new flower stand. The stand has received a much-needed upgrade this year, and we’re excited to introduce a beautiful new Amish-built shed that will serve as the farm’s flower stand for many seasons to come! Once it officially opens for the season, visitors will be encouraged to pull right in, park, and step inside to browse the fresh flower selection. We hope to have the new space ready in the next few weeks as we begin our transition. Be sure to stay tuned for updates and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for opening announcements. The stand has also been relocated to the entrance of the flower field driveway at 4625 State Highway 30 in Esperance. With the road being quite busy, the new setup allows customers to safely pull off the road and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience right next to where the flowers are grown. As the season progresses, daily updates about what’s available at the stand will continue to be shared on our social media platforms. The area will also remain monitored for security to keep things running smoothly and ensure a safe and more welcoming space for everyone stopping by. We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our small farm and love sharing fresh flowers with our community. It already feels like the start of something special, and we’re looking forward to the season ahead and all the blooms to come!”

Town Supervisor, Earl VanWormer III, and Albany Medical Center are trying to locate a next of kin for 82-year-old Central Bridge (Bray Road) resident, Hildegard Traphan, to help with medical decisions. If you have any information that could help, please reach out to Albany Medical Center and/or to VanWormer at 518-852-0270 or via email at supervisor@esperancetown-ny.gov.

And reach out to VanWormer if you are interested in joining the Comprehensive Plan Committee. While he awaits some new member confirmations, he’s still looking for residents from different parts of the Town to take part.

VanWormer is also owner of Van-Dale Farms. They are located at 1391 Grosvenors Corners Road in Central Bridge, “We are hard at work on the farm. The honey bees are hard at work. The lambs are growing well. We are seeing a great garlic crop in 3 varieties growing. Our pick your own peonies are really coming up. We will be opening up our farm stand on May first. We will have our New York State multiple awards winning products available. Come and see some of our awards and products. Created with over 8 generations of experience.” You can follow Van-Dale Farms on Facebook and they are excited to be vending at the 59th Annual Maple Festival April 25th, 9 AM - 4 PM at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds (113 Sunshine Dr., Cobleskill).  

The Village of Esperance has started spring cleaning! The Mayor and laborers are hard at work putting flower buckets in around the Village where girl scouts will plant flowers soon.

Please make sure to take advantage of the new Dog Waste Station on the Main Street Esperance-Sloansville United Methodist Church lawn while walking your pets.

A chinchilla was saved and rehomed after being abandoned in a cage on Burtonsville Road thanks to a concerned citizen of the Village who walks his dog everyday. He found the chinchilla and posted on Facebook. There are always options to rehome a pet safely if needed with options like the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, Facebook, sending your information to this Esperance column for other residents to respond to you after reading, and reach out or attend monthly meetings with concerns and if you need to ask about resources that Officials can share with you. 

“All property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalk in front of their property. If the Village finds out it needs to be repaired and replaced, the homeowner will be charged for or replacement of the sidewalk from vehicles destroying them.”

Esperance Village meetings are every second Monday of the month; on May 11th, their regular meeting will be at 7 PM in the Village Hall meeting room (115 Church Street).

Esperance Town Board meetings are held every third Thursday of the month; on May 21st, the meeting will begin at 7 PM in Town Hall (104 Charleston Street). 

Remember that Village Hall rental is available (donations are appreciated; call the Village Office at 518-875-9044 for more information), Esperance notifications are available at your fingertips by texting “Esperance” to the TextMyGov number 91896, and mark your calendars to celebrate our Country's 250th anniversary of the signing of the Decoration of Independence during the annual Esperance Memorial Day Parade. This cherished tradition is scheduled for a 1 PM line up and 1:30 PM parade start on May 25th.

The Esperance Fire Department is looking for Auxiliary, Firefighter, and EMT volunteers.Those interested can reach out to the Firehouse; leave a message at 518-875-6088, or you can message Esperance Fire and Rescue Squad through their Facebook page.

Esperance-Sloansville United Methodist Church offers confidential food pantry assistance; You can call or text 518-248-2185 to utilize that resource or reach out via phone or email (pastoralisyn@gmail.com) to schedule a food pantry donation drop-off at 175 Main Street. Esperance-Sloansville United Methodist Church upcoming events: “Worship – Sunday, April 26th at 11:00 AM; Join us as we celebrate Eastertide with our new sermon series, "Alive in the World."

Faith Adventure Club – Sunday, April 26th at 10:45 AM; FAC meets in the Education Building for age-appropriate faith formation and fun for kids in grades K–8.

Mosaic Youth Group – Sunday, April 26th from 4:00 PM–6:00 PM; Sunday, April 26th, we’ll gather at Cobleskill UMC for dinner, devotions, and games. All youth in grades 5-12 are welcome to join.”

S&H Bicycle Store wants you to know this safety tip: It’s always important to have ebike brakes checked because the weight of the bike wears them down faster. S&H Bicycle Store is located at 3595 Highway 20, Sloansville. They stock and service ebikes and offer new & used bikes and accessories for every budget and skill level; open Tuesdays and Thursdays 5 PM - 9 PM & Saturdays 10 AM - 3 PM. Their Spring Kick Off Sale and Swap Meet on May 9th will run from 9 AM - 3 PM; Witch’s Brew food truck and Michael Inserra the juggler will be on site and there will be bicycle and E bicycle demos and classes; bring your bikes and parts to sell or swap, swap meet space is free. 

Landis Arboretum says, “Thank you to everyone who showed up for the houseplant swap! Plants were not the only thing traded. We shared seeds, repotting advice and tips for keeping those botanical babes alive! Can’t wait for next time!” Don’t miss your chance in their Bluebird Lottery, it’s free to enter; submissions accepted until May 1st; the form to enter is linked in the event page of their website (landisarboretum.org). While visiting their site, register for their remaining April class, the 2026 Annual Spring Hawk Watch & Hawk Identification Workshop; Apr 25, 2026; 10:00 AM-4:00 PM; The Nicholas J. Juried Meeting House at Landis (174 Lape Road); Members: $5/person, $15/family; non-members: $15/person, $25/family.If you are interested in volunteering at Landis, email landisvolunteering@gmail.com for more information. Landis Arboretum is, “Open dawn to dusk 365 days a year to you (and your well-behaved leashed dog; please scoop and remove any poops). No motorized vehicles allowed on the property beyond parking lots.”

Biscuitwood Farm is updating their website (biscuitwoodfarm.square.site); new spring seedlings and baked goods updates coming soon! They are also looking for some one gallon nursery pots for free or for trade. If you have some lying around in good condition, reach out to Biscuitwoodfarm@gmail.com.

Irma Martinez Coyle will be sharing information about their farm stand in Sloansville in an upcoming column edition, and invites you to know about Princetown Group, “We are a 501c3 non profit organization that provides educational, enrichment and social opportunities for homeschooling students and support families in the Capital Region. We have two locations, one at Duanesburg Florida Baptist Church in Delanson and Liberty Church in Schenectady. We offer weekly classes in subjects like history, science, cooking, gym, art, writing, drama and more! We do field trips and organize social events for homeschoolers. If you’d like to chat my number is 518-817-0339 and our Facebook page is Princetown Homeschool Co Op.” You’re invited, “Princetown Group presents Rosalyn and the Beast; a new musical tale of Beauty and the Beast; all new original play including six original songs by Sharlene Grenier; Saturday April 25th at 1 PM; Fusion Church: 375 North Grand Street, Cobleskill; suggested donation $10; refreshments and drinks available for purchase.”

In light of Sloansville’s Locust-Spring Farm closing, Will-A-Way Farm Store would like any customers looking for an alternative to know that they offer, “Farm fresh chicken and duck eggs, beef, chicken, maple, honey, baked goods & more! Open daily 8 AM - 8 PM. 14653 Duanesburg Rd, Schoharie.” Will-A-Way Farm Store is run by Towns of Esperance and Schoharie Appointed Assessor, Erin Smith, who will also be vending at The Central Bridge Farmer’s Market every Wednesday July - October, 4 - 7 PM at The Ball Park (649 NYS Route 30A, Central Bridge) and The Festival Farmers Market at The Gathering Place (127 Kenyon Road, Cobleskill) every Saturday July 11- October 24; 10 AM - 2 PM. Those interested in also vending at these Farmers Markets can call Earl VanWormer III at 518-852-0270.

“Cute & Wicked Candles will be participating in the upcoming May Day Celebration at Helderberg Meadworks located 6144 State Highway 30 in Esperance on Saturday, May 2nd. We’ll be set up as a vendor from 12 PM to 5 PM, offering a selection of our handcrafted candles, body oils, and a strong lineup of men’s products, along with other favorites, as part of this festive community celebration. In addition, our storefront will remain open during regular business hours that day, where we will also be holding our Mother’s Day giveaway drawing at noon. The winner will be notified, and the drawing will also be shared live on our Facebook page. We’re currently finalizing details for our first candle class of the season, with the location and date expected to be announced next week as we begin rolling out our seasonal workshop offerings.” At Cute & Wicked Candles, it’s easy to find something unique without the stress of running from store to store with their curated selection of handcrafted candles, botanical body care, and gift-ready bundles. “Whether you’re looking for a small token of appreciation or a full gift set, we’re happy to help you put together something that feels personal, elegant, and ready to give.” Stop in, say hello, and let us help you create something special. Cute & Wicked Candles; 152 Main Street, suite 1, Esperance, NY; Open Thursday–Saturday, 11 AM – 5 PM.” Their highlighted candle for the month of April focuses on, “Empowerment, renewal, bringing new life to yourself.” May 9th from 12 PM - 3 PM, Cute and Wicked Candles will hold a, “Mother’s Day Sip & Shop; An afternoon of music, wine, & shopping; Featuring Acoustic Duo Becca Frame & Brian Shafer; Complimentary Wine, Light Appetizers, Luxury Shopping Experience.” Follow Cute & Wicked Candles and More on Facebook and through their website cutenwicked.com.

Carriage Barn Curator and communications specialist, Scott Lavigne, and Historical Society President, Ken Jones, “Attended the gathering of historians at Judd Hall in Jefferson where Sharon Historical Society President Ron Ketelsen presented a program on the use of AI. It was a timely and interesting program on how AI can be a time saver in several areas while acknowledging concerns mentioned by those present.”During May 16th Village-Wide Garage Sale Day, The Esperance Historical Museum’s Carriage Barn will be full of items for sale to raise money for the Museum. The Museum is seeking greeters, or docents, this summer; no experience required, “We’re open weekends from Memorial Day to the Sunday before Labor Day. And the shifts are short, just 3 hours, from 1 to 4 PM on a Saturday or Sunday (whatever works best for you).” Reach out to The Esperance Historical Society for more information, follow them on Facebook, and check out their eBooks.Esperance Historical Society Memberships are $9.00 per year and $5.00 per year for Sr. Citizens; small business patron $25. “Member Benefit: You can subscribe to the Mountain Eagle annually for fifteen bucks — just call (518-763-6854) and say you're a member!” Anyone looking to support this organization can send a check made out to the Esperance Historical Society to 123 Church St., Esperance, NY 12066. 

Congratulations to Kyleigh Lindsey and William Borst for their initiation into the Esperance Elks Lodge #2507 Farmers Lodge on April 21st, and to the two NYS finalists competing at the Chicago Elks Hoop Shoot (from Monticello & Clifton Park Elks Lodges). “The Elks Hoop Shoot is a free throw program for youth ages 8-13,” stay tuned for local 2026 Esperance Elks Hoop Shoot event details prior to their next December contest opportunity!

Another congratulations goes out to Lodge Secretary, Matt Lacy, who just got back from volunteering for the 4th consecutive year at the Boston Marathon and who will be installed as a Vice-President of the NY State Elks Association at their spring convention.

Esperance Elks Lodge members and non-members are welcome to attend Monday classes taught by Registered Yoga Teacher, Venus Louise; “5:30 PM Chair Yoga, 6:30 PM Intro to Power Yoga. Classes are free by donation. Contact Venus Louise 518-764-9460.” Additional classes include Monday & Friday 10:30 AM Mindful Walking Yoga at The Gathering Place (5 week session that’s open to non-members), Wednesdays at The Gathering Place 10:30 AM Chair Yoga ($5 for members, $7 for non-members), and Tuesdays & Thursdays Thai Bodywork at Esperance Health and Wellness ($75 per hour, by appointment only). 

“Chair Yoga is an incredibly accessible fitness form that can burn up to 150 calories in one hour while seated. It is not just for seniors; it offers a high-impact, low-stress workout for office workers, travelers, or anyone looking to reduce joint pain and improve flexibility without needing a mat. 

Mindful Walking Yoga is a one hour indoor exercise. Incorporating a warm up and then alternating 3-minutes of fast paced Walking followed by 3-minutes of slow walking. FUN music specifically picked for Walking in the lyrics, ie. Walking on the Sun. Walking on Sunshine. I Walk the Line. These boots are made for Walking. Then cool down seated in a chair.

Power Yoga aka Ashtanga is a dynamic, highly structured, and traditional system that synchronizes breath and movement (vinyasa) through set sequences to promote detoxification, strength, and mental clarity.”

During the May 16th Esperance Village-Wide Garage Sale Day, The Esperance Elks Lodge invites you to, “Sign up to participate in this event and sell your items or baked goods; 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Don’t live in the Village of Esperance - Here’s your opportunity to participate in the Village Wide Garage Sale - Rain or shine we’ll be there!” For information, call or text Julie at (518) 332-8024. Anyone interested in applying for space to sell on the Lodge grounds are welcome and applications are available at the Esperance Elks Lodge. For those interested in information on membership, new Elks Lodge #2507 members are typically invited by existing members, but if you don’t have a connection to someone at the Elks Lodge, there’s a membership inquiry form available through their website (elks2507.org). You can also call the Lodge at (518) 875-6200 or email join@elks2507.org. The Esperance Elks #2507 Facebook page is regularly updated and they’re located at 111 Main Street.

Dairy Carnival is located at 3673 US-20, Sloansville, and you can follow them on Facebook. They are open Wednesday through Monday from 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM; closed Tuesdays with online ordering, indoor and outdoor eating, and take-out options. 

I’d love to include your Esperance, Sloansville, & Central Bridge business & organization updates including events, classes, special offers, and seasonal hours, as well as resident birthday, anniversary, achievement, holiday, graduation announcements, and celebration messages. Email them to me at bookclubhbhs@yahoo.com.

Photo provided by Sweet Dahlia Farm & Florals, who is kicking off a brand new season with a new flower stand! 4625 State Highway 30, Esperance.