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November 3, 2025

Community Spirit Shines Bright in Greenwood Lake

I’d like to start this week by extending a heartfelt thank you to the Greenwood Lake Lions Club for running another successful Winter Clothing Giveaway this past weekend. Your continued commitment to helping our residents through the colder months truly makes a difference and reflects the spirit of service that defines Greenwood Lake.

Throughout the month of November, the Greenwood Lake Public Library is holding a Supply Drive to collect toiletries and hygiene products for the Greenwood Lake Food Pantry. For every item donated, library patrons can have an overdue fine waived — a great opportunity to give back while catching up on your reading! Please remember that all items must be new, and no food items will be accepted as part of this drive.

Speaking of the Greenwood Lake Food Pantry, as we enter November, their Amazon list has been updated at https://bit.ly/GWLFP_Nov25. They’re currently focused on Thanksgiving staples — stuffing, potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and canned vegetables — along with everyday essentials like cereal, soups, pasta, peanut butter, toothpaste, and diapers (sizes 5–6). Donations can be dropped off at the pantry on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., or in the police office donation box during the week. Monetary donations can also be made online at https://linktr.ee/greenwoodlakefoodpantry.

Looking ahead, we’re getting ready for one of Greenwood Lake’s most beloved annual traditions — the Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting! This year’s event will take place on Saturday, November 29, from 12–6 p.m. right in the heart of the Village.

The festival will feature delicious food vendors, crafts and activities for children, local artisans and businesses offering holiday shopping, and of course, a special visit from Santa Claus before we gather together for the tree lighting ceremony at dusk. It’s always a wonderful day filled with community pride, festive music, and the warm glow of neighbors coming together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.

We’re still looking for vendors and donations to help make this year’s celebration our best yet. If you’re interested in participating or supporting the event, please visit the Village website or our Facebook page for details on how to get involved.

Finally, some exciting news for outdoor enthusiasts: County Executive Steve Neuhaus has announced the opening of 57.5 acres of public land at 245 Laroe Road in the Town of Chester, part of the Sugar Loaf Mountain property acquisition. This new public space offers hiking and walking trails, picnic areas, fishing ponds (catch and release only), and stunning views — all open daily from dawn to dusk. Dogs are welcome on leashes, and it’s a perfect new destination for families to enjoy the beauty of Orange County.

As always, thank you for your continued support and community spirit. Greenwood Lake truly shines because of all of you.

See you around town,
– Mayor Tom Howley