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High ValleyIn a world of commercialized arts and entertainment, The Center at High Valley is a place where homegrown arts and celebrations flourish. We offer informal circles for poetry, storytelling, singing and crafts, where everyone is welcome and can participate. We also host house concerts, jook joints, dramatic performances and earth-centered celebrations. (See page on Celebrations). Organically, over time, and somewhat to our surprise, we have evolved into a joyful, always-changing unintentional community very much in the open, eclectic spirit of High Valley School (1945-1992) founded by Douglas’s parents, Olga and Julian Smyth. (See History). A wide variety of local groups—church, pagan, not-for profit—also hold retreats and events of their own here, enjoying the indoor spaces and the grounds, a particularly pleasing confluence of hills and lake, a labyrinth in a sunken meadow, and acres of wooded trails. (See Rentals.) Located on a back road in the lush countryside of the Mid-Hudson Valley, the grounds are rich in extensive flower gardens that Olga created and tended for over sixty years. We are currently in the process of establishing organic vegetable gardens where we will apply the principles of permaculture where possible. We are dedicated to preserving open, green space. Full-time residents include: Douglas Smyth, a passionate gardener who manages the forestland. A retired academic, Douglas holds a Ph.D. in social sciences. Douglas’s wife, Elizabeth Cunningham, is an award-winning novelist (See Elizabeth Cunningham), as well as an interfaith minister and counselor in private practice (See Elizabeth's Counseling). Debbie Stone is a lifelong educator, who co-directed the School with Olga Smyth. Wahaba has just joined the community: a poetry group regular, academic and bookstore part-timer, we look forward to whatever contributions to High Valley she can offer. We have no paid staff. All donations go to preserving this unique beloved place. The Center at High Valley is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization with a broad mandate. All donations are tax deductible and received with gratitude and joy. (See Membership) Enjoy your visit to our site.
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