Congratulations to Dick Hermans, co-founder and co-owner of Oblong Books, Millerton and Rhinebeck, N.Y., who is being honored with the 2026 Estabrook Community Leadership Award for outstanding leadership in community service. Sponsored by the Lakeville Journal and the Millerton News, the award will be presented October 11 at the papers' annual Jubilee fundraising celebration.
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| Dick Hermans with Suzanna Hermans at Oblong Books | |
James Clark, publisher and CEO of the two newspapers, said, "Dick's community leadership is a model for us all. For decades, he has devoted his time, energy, and resources to causes that improve the quality of life in our region. He has done so with humility, generosity, and a deep belief in the value of community. We are delighted to honor Dick with the Estabrook Community Leadership Award and to celebrate his remarkable contributions."
The newspapers added, "A co-founder and longtime steward of Oblong Books, Dick has spent decades championing writers, readers, and independent bookselling. Equally important, he has generously--and often quietly--devoted his time, energy, and leadership to strengthening Millerton and the surrounding communities. His contributions have included leadership roles and active involvement with the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, the Millerton Business Alliance, the Irondale Schoolhouse, and his long-running New Harmony radio program on WKZE."
Hermans said, "I feel lucky to live in a region with so many remarkable nonprofit organizations and civic leaders working every day to strengthen our communities. Any contributions I have made have been possible because I have had the privilege of working alongside generous, committed people who care deeply about where we live."
Joan Osofsky and Dick Hermans's daughter Suzanna Hermans are serving as co-chairs of the award presentation's host committee, which has attracted more than 50 community members.