Zoe Liptak lives in Ellenville and works at Tops Friendly Market.

How did you come to live in Ellenville?

That’s a crazy question because I’m actually from New Jersey. My mother gave up custody of me and then I came to live in Highland when I was 16. And when I turned 18, I moved to Ellenville. I have been working here and living as an adult, learning what responsibility is all about. Working real hard at Tops and they really put me to work there. I really do like the Ulster County area, it’s so beautiful.

What do you like about Ellenville?

I like the sense of community. That might sound a little bit cliché but I haven’t ventured off anywhere because I have made such great connections. I’ve made really good friends, really true friends. Living in New Jersey, you know a bunch of people in one area and you’re kind of secluded and reserved. Here I feel like everybody is looking out for you.

Also, I’ve learned manners here, in New Jersey we don’t have manners. My friends in New Jersey would shrivel and cry hearing that but they know it’s true.

What would you change about Ellenville if you could?

Well, I know it used to be a real tourism spot, but now I feel we could have a lot more attractions. For my age demographic there is not a lot to do. Having more “third places” would be very useful.

Now, this is a walking town, there are a lot of sidewalks and if we embraced more of the rural nature and more walking, I feel it would bring more peace and presence.

How do you think the area will change over the next ten years?

I see it gentrifying. The rents are already very high, like $2,000 a month. It’s really hard to get housing in this area. But if you want to keep people here, to make it affordable there has to be more. And then add more jobs. Now Tops opened up and there is going to be a Wendy’s.

But I think it’s hard, there’s only so much a company can give. We need more tourism, like I was saying, and third places and things that will get more attention.