To the Editor:

Looking for some time in the crisp fall air, when you can relish the colors of autumn and the earthy smell of fallen leaves?  Well then, come join us at the third annual Harvest Festival at Switzkill Farm, located on Game Farm Road in Berne, Saturday, Oct. 7, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Hop on a hay wagon for a ride in the sun; build a life-size scarecrow for your Halloween pathway, make s’mores over the open bonfire, enjoy our succulent pig roast, or simply munch on a hot dog or hamburger grilled to perfection.  It’s all free (donations, of course, are always welcome)!

Take a bite of a crisp apple, or wash down a cider doughnut with fresh cider pressed in our own hand-cranked press. Listen to the sounds of Drishti, an indy band, new to the Hilltowns, as it plays some tunes sure to get your toes tappin’ or join the geocachers as they search the surrounding fields and forests for the next find.

What better way can there be for enjoying a Saturday afternoon, in the early autumn air of October, in the heart of the Helderbergs?

An orienteering meet will be ongoing all day.  Instruction for novices — kids and adults alike — will be offered between 10 and 10:30 a.m.; that’s all it takes to get started! Those interested can then go on and participate in the orienteering meet; a staggered beginning allows for the newly trained to try their skills between 10 and noon. The more experienced participants will continue their quest for better times all afternoon.

Join the fun — no preregistration is necessary, and there’s sure to be a cadre of old hands to help you out!

So, c’mon up the hill! Enjoy the fall foliage! Sample the taste of our harvest! We’ll be there, waiting to welcome you from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7.   We’ll keep the fire goin’ for ya!

Ted Kunker, chairman

Switzkill Farm Board