Signs of Sustainability: Perry Cobb
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| Photo by Ilene Cutler. |
The Signs of Sustainability Project is a citizen-led initiative created
to show gratitude to our friends and neighbors in the Rondout Valley who demonstrate
sustainable practices. Sustainability is defined by this project as stewardship
and care of the present and future vitality of our wild, agricultural and human
resources. Since it began in October 2012, the Signs of Sustainability Project
has recognized 24 local individuals and organizations by documenting what they
have done. Each year the past recipients of the award are invited to join in
the selection process for the next year.
Perri Cobb
In 1978 a group of people came together to form the Stone Ridge
Beautification Committee. Their goal was simply to plant trees and make
gardens. Perri Cobb, an arborist and a carver, was one of the members. At 87
years old, Perri Cobb is the last working member carrying on with the project
and planting trees. He has planted over 100 trees in Marbletown.
He has a few favorites—the giant oak and the maple tree on Route 213
near Asia Restaurant, and the Shade Master Locusts planted all along Main
Street in Stone Ridge. My favorite is the Espaliered Pear Tree that grows up
against the North River Architecture building at the intersection of Routes 213
and 209. Perri planted this to share with us the beauty of a perfectly ripe
pear hanging so close to your car that you could reach out your window and
pluck one as you wait at the light.
Perri keeps a record of all the trees and he visits them often to check
on them and care for them. He most recently planted new trees at Marbletown
Elementary School for a ceremony that honored him! He often visits classes of
elementary school kids, teaching them about carving and about maple syrup
harvesting. His ready smile and gentle nature make him a favorite with school
children and teachers.
In the beloved classic movie It’s
a Wonderful Life, we are invited on a journey that shows us what would have
become of Bedford Falls if a single good and generous community member were
erased from its history. In our town, Main Street would have no majestic Shade
Master Locust trees stretching out their limbs to offer us beauty and shade, no
giant Oak and Maple or fecund Pear tree gracing the intersection. In October of
2012 Perri Cobb was given a Signs of Sustainability Award for beautifying our
town. I share his story to inspire you to share your unique gifts with us—let’s
see what takes root!
Posted by Chris Hewitt
on 7:21 PM.
Filed under
People in Your Neighborhood
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