Around the blogshed: Higher ground

Above: If you like weather bulletins in ALL CAPS and maps WITH ALL THE COLORS, has the National Weather Service got a forecast for you. The immediate projected path of Hurricane Sandy is indicated in red.

Obviously, Catskillians (Catskillers? Catskillets?) are a hardy bunch and while you've all worked to clean up and move on, this week may prove to be a time when all the lessons learned in 2011 could be put to the test.  Of course, I'm talking about the rumors of mountain lions roaming our fair mountainscape.  Just kidding.  Now, a look at what's been going on around the blogshed ahead of the wild weather predicted for next week:

• The DEP has begun releases from the Neversink Reservoir, in advance of the storms, according to yesterday's Catskill Chronicle.  The governor's on it, too. Meanwhile Ulster County Emergency Services tries to avoid having to directly reference Irene.  Can't blame 'em.  The Denning Denizen subtly points out that, if you can tear yourself away from the brightly colored forecasting models, maybe you should also get some batteries, candles and some bottled water.
• Haven't seen any cute zombies lately?  Click to remedy that -- turns out they're in Saugerties!
• Plentiful pancakes and smiles abound at a fundraiser for the troubled Woodstock fire company that is still reeling from the arrest of its former treasurer earlier this month on embezzlement charges.  The community turned out to raised double the amount the pancake breakfast normally brings in.
• The Town of Shandaken planning board is seeking a new member.  Maybe it's you?
• Upstater is looking for suggestions for Town of the Week.  What do you think?  Sidney?  Bethel? Tannersville?  Olivebridge? Saugerties?
• Weather getting you anxious?  There's only one cure for it: soup.

The Watershed Post will be reporting 'round-the-clock should Mother Nature not feel like doing us any favors next week. Have a great weekend!