11/5-11/8 Week in Review
Hello Friends,
Word of the week: Community
With the recent elections and the announcement of our new president, the word of the week—community—couldn’t be more fitting. This week, we embraced the power of connection and togetherness, finding community in every activity, meal, and gathering.
We began the week with our usual meal prep session led by Lissy, where cooking and sharing food became acts of bonding. Drawing on her experience as a restaurant chef, Lissy emphasized the importance of kitchen safety, with reminders to call out “Behind!” or “Sharp!” Our menu featured a flavorful chicken adobo, rice, and a refreshing cabbage and green apple slaw with Asian pears. This communal cooking experience brought us together in the best way, allowing us to create, share, and enjoy something nourishing.
Our commitment to community extended beyond the kitchen as we volunteered at People’s Place, a longstanding organization in Kingston dedicated to uplifting local residents. Together, the fellows assembled gift bags that will be distributed to families over Thanksgiving. Being a part of this shared effort deepened our understanding of the local community and the value of giving back.
In our arts session with Aurora, we carved larger rubber stamps for block printing. This creative time gave us a chance to slow down, connect, and support each other’s creative efforts. Over at Hudson River Maritime Museum, we were fortunate to take advantage of the unusually warm weather and return to the water on Hercules. We also had the chance to tour Apollonia, a cargo schooner that sails from Albany, further deepening our appreciation for the river community. This peaceful time on the water, the day after the election, felt grounding and restorative—a moment to pause, recharge, and share space as a community.
At CPW, we explored different approaches photographers use to create a visual story. Examining the structure of photo essays, we saw how key shots—establishing, portrait, detail, action—can tell almost any story.
To close out the week, we visited Storm King Art Center for our first excursion there. Spending the day outside, exploring the sculptures and connecting with the land, was both refreshing and inspiring. It was a reminder of the beauty of gathering in community spaces and sharing experiences that connect us all.
This week was filled with moments that highlighted the power of community—whether in a shared meal, a volunteer project, or a creative activity. In these times, gathering with others and supporting one another feels more essential than ever. We hope you also find ways to connect with your own community this week and share in the joy and strength it brings.
Have a good weekend,
Place Corps Team
:)