SUNDAYS AT TWO

Native American Talking Sticks:
A Hands-On Workshop in Storytelling, Respect & Earth Connection with Tony Valderrama.
Sunday, June 7, 2:00 pm
Long Pond Greenbelt Nature Center
1061 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton

Step into the rich traditions of Native American culture through the art of the talking stick—a powerful symbol of respectful communication and shared wisdom. In this engaging workshop, participants will create their own unique talking sticks using North Fork driftwood, colorful beads, natural pigments, and feathers. Inspired by an authentic display of Native American art and musical instruments, students will learn the cultural significance of the talking stick and how it was used in circles to ensure that every voice was heard with honor. As a meaningful conclusion to the class, students will be invited to raise their talking sticks and share words of gratitude and ideas for caring for our Mother Earth.

A creative and reflective experience for all ages and abilities.

About Tony Valderrama
Tonito Valderrama is an internationally recognized environmental artist and educator, focusing on issues such as deforestation and endangered species. His work in various mediums – wood, clay, paint, and recycled materials – celebrates the human-nature connection and is influenced by his indigenous Taino heritage. Through sculptures, murals, and nature installations, Valderrama advocates for the preservation of Mother Earth. He studied art education at CW Post L.I.U. and has held prominent roles, including Director of Museum Education at Hillwood Art Museum and Lead Environmental Educator and Artist at the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, where he worked for over 14 years. His works have been exhibited globally and at renowned venues such as the Southampton Arts Center and the Heckscher Art Museum. Founder of The Artist’s Nest, Valderrama continues to share his art and education worldwide. His nature installations have won awards, and he is now the Director of the Wilderness Traveling Museum, promoting indigenous arts and culture across Long Island.

Meet at the Long Pond Greenbelt Nature Center, 1061 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike. For more information, contact Dai Dayton, 631-745-0689.

SUNDAYS AT TWO

Saturday, June 13, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
At Vineyard Field (behind the SOFO Museum)
377 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton

ACTION ALERT!

The Long Pond Greenbelt needs your help!

Illegal dirt bikes and quads (ATVs) are destroying the nature preserve, its trails, the fragile pond shores and the rare plants found there. They are churning up and trampling the coastal plain pond shorelines, now exposed and vulnerable due to low water levels. As these pictures indicate, the damage has reached
an alarming level.

As a friend of the Greenbelt, we ask that you call the Southampton Town Police at (631-728-3400) if you see ATVs approaching a Greenbelt access point or while walking on the trails.

These are the Key Suffolk County and New York

State Regulations about ATV Use

It is illegal to operate ATVs on public lands, highways, or parks except for a 90-degree road crossing to reach another accessible area.
Riding is permitted on private property only with the owner’s written permission, which must be carried, alongside registration and insurance.
ATVs must be registered with the DMV, even if used only on private property.
Liability insurance is required if the ATV is operated off your own property.
Operators must wear helmets
Special regulations apply to operators under 16, who should carry an ATV Safety Course Certificate.
Fines are steep, ranging from $500 to $7,500 for illegal use, with increased penalties for repeat offenses, along with potential seizure and forfeiture of the vehicle

Additionally, no person shall flee from a Police or Peace Officer while operating an ATV in Suffolk County. The operator of an ATV is required to stop or pull over when directed to do so by a Police or Peace Officer, or by their marked vehicle, by the activation of either its lights or siren. Additionally, no person operating an ATV shall flee from a Police or Peace Officer at an unsafe speed, recklessly, or in any manner that would constitute a danger to other motor vehicles, pedestrians, or property.

Help preserve the sensitive lands of the Long Pond Greenbelt. If you see ATVs on trails or approaching a trail entrance, notify the
Southampton Town Police. Call 631-728-3400