We're at the end of summer, with kids readying to head back to school and their parents settling back into the sort of fuller-than-usual work schedules that lead to what some call "September panic," when we all begin to make up for the hot months' somewhat slower pace.

The political scene that's swamped so much of our attention seems to have quieted down ever-so-slightly, with campaign changes and a new focus on just how much efforts to do good should cost. Legislators are preparing to head back to Albany, as well as our nation's capital, for as much work as every-other-year election cycles can allow come the weeks leading to Election Day.

Locally, what does that mean? In Ulster County lawmakers have adopted a law that prohibits the sale or use of sky lanterns as a fire and safety hazard.

The sole objection to the measure came from Gardiner's independent voice Tracey Vartels, who thought that possible imprisonment for fifteen days for sky lantern lawbreakers might be a bit much.

Ever seen these things in action? They're beautiful... and often the coup de grace at upscale events near rivers or reservoirs. Oh well. Legislation on the march!

More important was our noting of the purchase of several hundred acres of semi-city lands in the Kingston area suburb town of Ulster by Northeast Farm Access... to create a new Esopus Agricultural Center. The property's being financed by a local investor group, working with former property owners at Herzog Supply Company... with support from Scenic Hudson Land Trust, which paid for conservation easement that will prevent the land from being sold for development.

Who's going into the new space? How about Stone Ridge Orchard, who are looking to use about 33.2 acres for vegetables and perennials such as asparagus, rhubarb, and berries to complement their current array of orchard products from their Rondout Valley properties; a salad company planning to use nearly 60 acres for greens to be sold to markets and supermarket chains, a 95 acre pick-your-own operation, and a Dutchess County entity looking to produce for the New York City farmers market business.

This had been a space some were looking at for possible high school construction... until public opposition from neighs got in the way. Now everyone seems to be coming on board for the idea of new agriculture, even in semi-urban areas, as well as the younger markets this business area supports.

Our thoughts on all this, in the scope of this editorial? That despite best efforts in some of our local towns, especially in the Rondout Valley, to push this area of economic development, more can be done... especially down in the Wawarsing/Ellenville, Wurtsboro/Mamakating, and Pine Bush/Walker Valley areas. Which means more than commissions and plans but active work finding investment groups to push the new economy... as well as outlets for new ag product sales.

Is this an area our governments should be involved in? Isn't the new effort the result of the good old free market working on its accord?

Yes and no. From what we've seen over the years, and in this new effort, what made the difference were people putting entities together as best they could, whether they were working from business, nonprofit or government positions. And not merely legislating against things that could be a danger, but in hopes of seeing, reaching, and stepping over new horizons.

Moving forward is a complex thing, as is true leadership. Sometimes it stems from ideas and unwavering commitments. Often times, however, it all comes down to enthusiasm, perseverance, the nurturing of endless connections, and patience.

Meanwhile, in this final week of August, let's not forget to enjoy what we have of this summer, dry and hot or not. And bless the coming opening of our schools, glorious autumn colors and weather, and sense of community we can still rely upon to buck bad campaigns, endless television, and strange legislation.

Have a grand time out there!