Ty Gould Jacinto

The Haverstraw Brick Museum is a hidden gem in the Hudson Valley, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town's rich history and the vital role of the brick industry in its development. Located in a beautifully restored former brick factory, the museum houses a wealth of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that bring the story of Haverstraw to life.
The museum is impeccably maintained, with pride and care evident everywhere. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed and engaging, using a variety of multimedia elements to tell the story of Haverstraw's brick industry in an informative and entertaining way. I was particularly impressed with the museum's use of oral histories, which brought the voices of Haverstraw's residents to life and helped me connect with the town's past personally.
The museum's exhibits span Haverstraw's entire history, from its early days as a Lenape settlement to its current status as a thriving community. I was particularly interested in the exhibits on the brick industry, which showed how the town's fortunes were tied to the production of bricks. The museum also has many exhibits on the town's culture and people, which gave me a better understanding of what makes Haverstraw unique.
I highly recommend the Haverstraw Brick Museum to anyone looking for an educational and enjoyable experience. The museum is perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone who wants to learn more about the Hudson Valley.
In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers many educational programs and events throughout the year and has a research library open to the public.
Overall, I had a wonderful experience at the Haverstraw Brick Museum. I learned a lot about the town's history and was impressed with the museum's commitment to education and preservation. I highly recommend this museum to anyone visiting the Hudson Valley.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts (RRCA) in Millville, New Jersey, to attend a book talk for my children's book, The Tale of the Turkey's Detailed Tail. The event was held in partnership with the Millville Public Library, and it was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and discuss the importance of preserving Indigenous culture and traditions.
The RRCA is a beautiful and inviting space that is dedicated to promoting the arts and culture in Southern New Jersey. The center houses two art galleries, a theater, a gift shop, and classrooms, and it offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
I was particularly impressed with the RRCA's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The center's mission statement states that it is "dedicated to providing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience and appreciate the arts," and this commitment is evident in the wide range of programming that is offered.
The book talk was held in the center's community room, which is a warm and inviting space that can accommodate up to 50 people. The room was filled with families and children, and everyone was eager to hear me read my book.
After the reading, I had a lively discussion with the audience about the importance of preserving Indigenous culture and traditions. I also talked about my own experiences as an Indigenous person, and I answered questions about the Nanticoke Lenape Nation, the tribe to which I belong.
The book talk was a great success, and I was very grateful to the RRCA for hosting the event. I would also like to thank the Millville Public Library for partnering with the RRCA to make this event possible.
If you are looking for a place to experience the arts and culture in Southern New Jersey, I highly recommend the Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts. The center is a welcoming and inclusive space that offers something for everyone.
Here are some of the things that I liked about the RRCA:

The center is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion.

The center offers a wide range of programs and events.

The center is a beautiful and inviting space.

The staff is friendly and helpful.

I would rate the RRCA 5 out of 5 stars.

Located in the center of Haverstraw, New York, lies a sanctuary of remembrance, a poignant tribute to the indelible contributions of the African American community – the Haverstraw African American Memorial Park. Stepping into this hallowed space, one is immediately enveloped by an aura of reverence, a palpable sense of gratitude for the countless individuals who have enriched the fabric of Haverstraw's history.
As I strolled through the park's serene pathways, I was drawn to the kiosk proudly showcasing the chronicles of the African-American experience in Haverstraw. Each panel whispers tales of resilience, of unwavering determination in the face of adversity. The stories of these pioneers, interwoven with the threads of Haverstraw's growth, serve as a testament to their steadfast spirit and profound impact on the town's evolution.
The park's tranquil atmosphere, with its soothing garden and gently cascading fountain, invites visitors to pause and reflect, to absorb the profound significance of the African American legacy in Haverstraw. The names etched upon the inlaid bricks, commemorating families and brickyard workers, stand as enduring testaments to the unwavering labor that shaped the town's infrastructure.
The cross-shaped pattern, adorned with historical accounts of African-American churches and cherished scriptures, serves as a beacon of faith, a reminder of the unwavering spiritual strength that has sustained the community through the ages. The park's essence exudes a profound respect and admiration, a heartfelt acknowledgment of the African-American community's pivotal role in shaping Haverstraw's identity.
As I departed from this sanctuary of remembrance, my heart brimmed with gratitude for the Haverstraw African American Connection, the visionary organization that brought this transformative park into existence. Their unwavering commitment to honoring the African-American legacy has instilled a profound sense of pride and belonging within the community.
The Haverstraw African American Memorial Park is a beacon of remembrance, a poignant tribute to the community's enduring legacy, and an inspiration for future generations. It is a place where history comes alive, where the echoes of the past resonate with the promise of a future steeped in inclusivity and respect.

What a beautiful church with historic stained glass art surrounded by exquisite woodwork and lights. The area we had lunch was large and inviting with all comfort.
This is a place to visit if you are in Haverstraw. I highly recommend you learning more about this beautiful place.

We visited to take photos on the lake. Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center is a beautiful place that host many events that are popular worldwide. There are many different opportunities to learn about art and art history of this area, especially the art of making glass. There are several gift shops as well.