Hudson Valley Mercantile November 2013 by Rising Tide Communications

hudson valley

Mercantile live. work. play.

The Gratitude Issue

��

Mercantile November 2013

Page 2

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year The perfect gift for everyone on your list

845.876.WOOD www.williamslumber.com

GIFT CARD Nail it right. The first time.

845.876.WOOD williamslumber.com RHINEBECK • PLEASANT VALLEY • HUDSON • HOPEWELL JUNCTION • TANNERSVILLE • RED HOOK • HIGH FALLS • HYDE PARK

adams fairacre farms

ADAMS

for the

H O L I D AY S

POUGHKEEPSIE

KINGSTON

NEWBURGH

WA P P I N G E R

Route 44 845-454-4330

Route 9W 845-336-6300

Route 300 845-569-0303

Route 9 845-632-9955

w w w . a d a m s f a r m s . c o m

Mercantile November 2013

��

n � al

h C i d n a R��

25 years of experience teaching students who learn differently individual classes for children & teens

Art classes with compassion, focus and joy. ��

Page 4

Written by Barbara Robinson

Directed by Tom Lawrence ��

�� 2681 W. Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY

www.countyplayers.org

��

Page 5

Mercantile November 2013

contents Simple Gifts by Jim Gibbons

Gratitude: A Daily Meditation by Joanna Hess

Community Makes A Garden Grow by Frank J. Campagna

Holiday Happenings Calendar begins

Decked Out Halls Calendar

Long Days, Short Years by Brian PJ Cronin

Red Hook is a Great Place to Have Cancer by Juliet R. Harrison

Recipes for Remembering Gratitude by Meri Puccio

Handcrafted Holiday Calendar begins

Seasonal Palette Calendar begins

Half Moon Rising by Brian PJ Cronin

Tips for a Fit & Festive Holiday Season by Chelsea Streifeneder

hudson valley

Mercantile a publication of

P.O. Box 178 Red Hook, NY 12571 845-546-3051

Jim Gibbons: Publisher jgibbons@hvrising.com Heather Gibbons: Creative Director calendarhog@hvrising.com Contents ©2013 Rising Tide Communications, LLC No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher

Contributors: Frank Campagna Brian PJ Cronin Kristen Cronin Juliet R. Harrison Joanna Hess Jen Kiaba Meri Puccio Chelsea Streifeneder

On the Cover: “Circus Rider Empty Space,” oil on paper by Leslie Bender. Her solo exhibition of new paintings on paper and canvas, “Leslie Bender: Involutions - Invocations,” is at Albert Shahinian Fine Art Upstairs Galleries in Rhinebeck, NY through December 31. Learn more at http://www.ShahinianFineArt.com.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 6

hudson valley

Mercantile

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.â&#x20AC;? ~ Thornton Wilder

We are grateful to you: our contributors, advertisers, readers, family & friends. Thank you for your unfailing support. Thanks for keeping our lights on in so many ways. Heather and Jim

Page 7

Mercantile November 2013

simple gifts.

by Jim Gibbons A few years back our kids had a Spring day off from school and Heather and I decided to take a rare mid-week day off from working on Mercantile. We made a spur of the moment decision to take a road trip to the Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. As a family we enjoy visiting historic sites, especially those that preserve as closely as possible snap shots of the basic but fulfilling lifestyles of days gone by; a glimpse of the indomitable spirits that formed the legacies of past societies. Hancock Shaker Village is one such site within driving distance of us here in the Hudson Valley. We enjoyed the day together as a family, immersing ourselves in a rapidfire tour of the communal buildings of the village – each with its tales of yore; each conveying vividly a hand-to-mouth existence that was successfully achieved in no small part through collective effort and spirituality, personal accountability, and a shared commitment to the betterment of the group. While we have been generally loathe over our 6-year run publishing Mercantile to promote destinations outside of our modest sphere of influence here in the valley, that particular day trip several years ago has been on my mind for the past few weeks as we put together Mercantile’s annual “Gratitude” issue. This year, our annual attempt at pausing to give thanks, marks a turning point in the history of our magazine. We have entered into an agreement with Columbia-Greene Media – publishers of the Register-Star and the Daily Mail – to enhance the reach and content of Mercantile going forward. To this end I have joined CGM as the company’s director of new business development, a role through which we will enable the growth of Mercantile along with many other print and on-line publications already in the pipeline at CGM. Back to that trip to the Shaker village. At the time, we had a few years of publishing Mercantile under our belts. We had long passed the point of viability – that proving milestone for new businesses realized after a sufficient duration of positive cash-flow – but we had reached the ceiling for what we could produce without hiring more staff or partnering with another publisher

to increase Mercantile’s size and reach. In all candor we were paralyzed in a crossroad at which we were contemplating various scenarios for the future of our magazine. As it turns out we stayed in that crossroad for several years. Today I find myself extraordinarily blessed that we have sustained Mercantile since that chance visit to a historic village on that spectacular Spring day. I recall very clearly that on that day I equated our struggles building Mercantile to those of the settlers of Hancock Village. There was something gratifying and informative in the comparisons. While we had no idea what the future had in store for us, the journey to that crossroad on that day had already been extremely fulfilling. We had created Mercantile through our conviction and hard work and built it to a place where it could sustain us; enable us to ride out the storms – economic and otherwise – until such time as we would add greater numbers to our cause to ensure the magazine’s growth in reach and influence. I remember having an overwhelming sense of pride that day for what we had created of our own vision and toil, and the potential that it represented for us going forward. That pride swells as we finally move on from the crossroad. We have a postcard souvenir from that trip that captures my recollection of the serenity of purpose that I felt that day. The card included text from a Shaker work song that simply defines gratitude for me this year: Simple gifts ‘Tis the gift to be simple, ‘tis the gift to be free ‘Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be, And when we find ourselves in the place just right, ‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight. When true simplicity is gain’d, To bow and to bend we shan’t be asham’d, To turn, turn will be our delight, Till by turning, turning we come ‘round right.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 8

Holiday

Book Sale Shop for the Holidays with some ‘Friends’ Gift-quality Books at Low Prices Plus individually-priced “Special Books” Friends of Poughkeepsie Public Library District

68 Firehouse Lane Red Hook, NY 12571 845.876.1559 or 845.758.3601 Fax: 845.758.8002 Locust Grove

Nutrena • Blue Seal • Purina Feeds

Samuel Morse Historic Site Route 9, Poughkeepsie

Friday, November 22 10 am to 8 pm

Saturday, November 23 & Sunday, November 24 10 am to 5 pm

Fertilizers • Shavings • Feed • Fencing Pet Food & Supplies • Lime • Bedding Straw • Lawn & Garden Supplies

Holiday Happenings December 6 - January 3

November 17 Catharine Street Community Center

CHAC presents

HOLIDAY ART SHOW

presents

CHUCK MUCKLE as satirist, composer, and raconteur Oscar Levant in

At Wit’s End

Paintings, drawings, collages and photography To all Artists!

This special one-performance matinee is a fundraiser for the children and families of Catharine Street Community Center. In addition to the performance, a pre-show brunch at Shadows on the Hudson is being offered as part of a brunch/theater package.

We are inviting you to participate in the Cunneen-Hackett Art Center’s Holiday Art Show. You may submit a work for us to displaym in the CHAC galleries. Drop off is at 9 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm – Monday – Friday, no later than FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013

For information call 845 486-4571

www.cunneen-hackett.org

Tickets: Call Linda at Catharine Street Community Center at 845.473.2272 for more information.

www.catharinecenter.org

November 23 CHAC Presents

Holiday Artisan Craft Market & Victorian Tea

Local artisans * Jewelry * Ceramics * Dolls * Ornaments * Gifts * Wood turned pens & pepper mills * Felted scarves * much, much more....

For information call 845 486-4571

www.cunneen-hackett.org cunneen-hackett arts center is a funded member of DCAC

Mercantile November 2013

Page 10

GRATITUDE: A Daily Meditation by Joanna Hess

Grateful: having the desire or reason to thank somebody. This is the word transplant recipients speak most often. We are grateful to our living neighbor, friend, relative, or stranger who donated their organs to us. We are grateful to the families, who in their deepest moment of grief, understand that their loved one wanted to help save lives with organ and tissue donations. And, we are most grateful to have another chance to live a healthy and happy life. Few people think about organ donation at all until they become personally involved. It then takes over their life. This year two important people in my life were blessed by livingkidney transplants. My dear sister, Carol, who also inherited PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease), was oﬀered a kidney by her landlord. As a funeral director, he understands the importance of “giving back”, and felt strongly that he would be a good match. As it turned out, he was an ideal match, and the surgery took place six months ago. Her donors’ motivation? He wanted to see this wonderful 55-year old woman live a life ﬁlled with love, health, and adventures. His dream is coming true for Carol in ways we couldn’t imagine. The other story concerns my neighbor Jordan. This young man had experienced several serious health challenges during his 23-years, and a short time ago his kidney was failing. Many, many friends were tested to

be a direct donor or to be part of a “kidney exchange” (an innovative program giving people who are unable to receive a kidney from a loved one or friend the opportunity to still receive a kidney through an exchange between incompatible donor-recipient pairs.), but to no avail. Amazingly, a longtime friend of the family stepped forward and turned out to be a perfect match. They are now celebrating 9-months post-surgery, and Jordan is healthier and more energized than ever before. These people are but two of the many success stories I am grateful to share. Unfortunately, the need for donors exceeds the availability. People die daily waiting for an organ. Yet, one organ donor has the potential to save up to 8 lives, as a tissue donor that number rises to 50 lives. Find out more information about our local group, Donate Life of Dutchess County on Facebook or at: www.dlodc.com. Be full of grace, gratitude, and generosity during this holiday season and throughout your days. Joanna Hess, a 9-year kidney recipient, is a retired elementary teacher who now spends time educating others about the importance and miracle of organ and tissue donation. She and her husband operate Albert Shahinian Fine Art in Rhinebeck, NY.

COMMUNITY makes a garden grow

by Frank J. Campagna, Chairperson, Children’s Learning Garden Project, Friends of the Red Hook Public Library As Chairperson of the Friends of the Red Hook Public Library’s Children’s Learning Garden Committee, it has been my privilege to meet with and work with many of Red Hook’s businesses and individuals in the planning and implementation of our Children’s Learning Garden. On behalf of myself, and the Friends of the Red Hook Public Library, I would like to publicly thank everyone who supported our eﬀorts, your generosity has made our vision of a Children’s Learning Garden a reality. These are exciting times for the Red Hook Public Library. In a few short years the library has gone through a transition to improve its building and services thanks to the insight of the Red Hook Public Library Board and the support of an active Friends of the Red Hook Public Library group. Under the direction of the Library Director, Erica Freudenberger, library activities and programs have increased to encompass a wide range of learning experiences for adults and children of all ages, making the library a viable center for learning, and a center of competence in our community.

All of this activity has placed a high demand on the space available. To help meet this demand, the Friends of the Red Hook Public Library proposed creating a Children’s Learning Garden in the vacant outdoor area adjacent to the children’s library entrance. The garden would open the door to a whole new dimension of children’s outdoor learning experiences and help to alleviate space constraints during the children’s summer reading programs, which had more than 1,300 children this year. The cooperation and support we have received from the Red Hook community has been outstanding to say the least and very much appreciated. As you know, initiatives like this take countless volunteer hours, and ﬁnancial and in-kind support. Work on the Children’s Learning Garden was scheduled to begin next year, but because of the overwhelming ﬁnancial and in-kind support we have received we were able to do most of the work this summer; as a result, the garden is almost completed and will be opening in the spring of 2014. For a list of the Children’s Learning Garden sponsors and donors, visit: redhooklibrary.org.

Page 11

Mercantile November 2013

Holiday Happenings The Sinterklaas Starlight Parade is the culminating event of the day-long festival which takes place in the Village of Rhinebeck on Saturday, December 7. Photo submitted.

Chilly Willy Winter’s Eve Tours

Bronck Museum, Cty Hwy 42, Coxsackie, NY 12051 Saturday & Sunday, November 16 & 17, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.: The Bronck houses will be decorated for the celebrations of Martinmas, St. Nicholas Day and St. Lucia Day. Visitors will be led by a costumed guide and pass through rooms which approximate the temperatures and light levels present during winters in the 1700s. Warm attire is strongly suggested. Swedish and Dutch refreshments will be served. Tours leave from the Bronck Museum Visitor Center. Tickets: $7, GCHS members & children $3.50 Information: 518.731.6490; http://www.gchistory.org

Lecture: Healthy Festive Food Choices

Northern Dutchess Hospital, Cafeteria Conference Room, 6511 Springbrook Ave., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Monday, November 18, 6 p.m.: The average person gains ﬁve pounds between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Food is everywhere during the holiday season, making it tough to stick to your healthful eating and exercise habits. However, with a little change you can make it through the holidays without losing track of your health. The program will be presented by Rouﬁa Payman, Supervisor Community Nutrition, Northern Dutchess Hospital. Seating is limited. Information: 877.729.2444; http://health-quest.org

Concert: Simple Gifts

Edward J. Arthur Elementary School, 51 Third St., Athens, NY 12015 Monday, November 18, 6:30 p.m.: A dynamic duo playing a wide range of musical styles and instruments. Open to the public and free! Information: http://www.athensculturalcenter.org

Wreaths, Sweets, and Dutch Treats

Old Dutch Church, Kingston, NY 12401 Thursday, November 21, 6-9 p.m.: Dutch food and drinks, holiday silent auction of wreaths and table top trees decorated by local ﬂorists, and gift baskets donated by local businesses. A Sinterklaas fundraising event. Tickets: $20 Information: 845.339.4280

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

County Players Falls Theatre, 2681 W. Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Nov. 22-Dec. 7, Fri. & Sat., 8 p.m.; plus, Sun., Dec. 1, 2 p.m.: In this timeless Christmas tale, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids– probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem– and the fun– when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on! Tickets: $17; $14 seniors &kids under 12 Information: 845.298.1491; http://www.countyplayers.org

The Battle of the Butter Crunches

Verdigris Tea & Chocolate Bar, 135 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, November 23, 5 p.m.: Free chocolate tasting! Try four different butter crunches along with accompanying wines supplied by Fairview Wine & Spirits. Each toffee taste-matched to a special wine selection. Test your taste buds with Christopher Norman’s Broadway Butternut Crunch, Moderne’s Toffee Bar, Marich’s Chocolate Toffee Pistachios, and Bella’s Butter Toffee - the shop’s best seller. Information: 518.828.3139; http://verdigristea.com continued on page 12 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 11 i

The Nutcracker

Arts Center Theater, Columbia=Greene Community College, Route 23, Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, November 23, 6 p.m.: Holiday classic presented by Hudson Valley Academy of Performing Arts. Tickets: $10; $5 students & seniors Information: 518.828.4181 x 3342; http://sunycgcc.edu

Foodstock 6: Concert to Beneﬁt the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley & Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie

The Chance Theater, 6 Crannell St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, November 23, 7 p.m.: Concert to raise money for local charities features close to 30 bands. Tickets: admission by donation Information: http://www.communityfoundationdc.org/page30001.cfm

The Dreidel House

Starr Library, 68 W. Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, November 24, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Organized by the Rhinebeck Jewish Center, actvities include making your own doughnuts, Chanukah crafts, candle-making workshop, olive oil workshop and more. Plus, meet Judah Macabee and visit the Chanukah store. Small fees for crafts ($3-$5). Information: 845.876.7666; http://www.rhinebeckjewishcenter.com

Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread House Workshop

Cup and Saucer Restaurant & Tea Room, 165 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Sunday, November 24, 4-7 p.m.: Learn how to make a gingerbread house using a premade kit. A wide variety of candy decorations will be available from a candy buﬀet table. Fee: $39 Information: http://beaconarts.org/2013-beacon-ny-holiday-events

Lighting of the Beacon Hebrew Alliance + BeaconArts Menorah

Corner of Cross & Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Wednesdays, Nov. 27- Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m.: Lighting of the Bicycle Menorah each night of Hanukkah with community celebrations on the ﬁrst and last nights. Free. Information: http://www.beaconhebrewalliance.org

6th Annual Turkey Trot to Beneﬁt Ferncliﬀ Forest

Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Thursday, November 28, 7 a.m.-noon: Race day registration starts at 7 a.m., race begins at 8:15 a.m. Runners and walkers welcome. Prize to runner or walker with the best Thanksgiving Day costume. First through third place awards in 17 different categories. Registration fees: $20; $15 ages 11-17; $10, kids 10 and under. Information: http://www.active.com/rhinebeck-ny/running/distancerunning-races/turkey-trot-to-benefit-ferncliff-forest-2013

No Shopping Art Day

Art School of Columbia County, 1198 Route 21C, Ghent, NY 12075 Friday, November 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Make gifts rather than shop! Organized by Melissa Sarris, with other ASCC faculty. Information: 518.672.7140; http://artschoolofcolumbiacounty.org

Sinterklaas Arrival Day

Kingston Rondout, Rhinecliff Dock & The Rhinecliff Hotel, 4 Grinnell St., Rhinecliff, NY 12574 Saturday, November 30, 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.: A celebration on both sides of the river. Sinterklaas arrives in Kingston where there will be

Page 12

open houses, musical performances, workshops to create crowns and branches for Festival Day (Dec. 7), a march down Broadway, a parade of stars and puppets galore. Sinterklaas will depart from the Kingston Rondout Street Festival on the Tugboat Cornell at 3:30 p.m., and will arrive at the Rhinecliﬀ Dock at approximately 4 p.m. There will be celebrations with dance, music, theatre and puppet processions in both towns. Be there to meet Sinterklaas in person. Free and open to the public. Donations welcomed. Information: http://www.sinterklaasrhinebeck.com; http://www.facebook.com/sinterklaasrhinebeck

16th Annual Christmas in Durham

Next to the Milk Run and The Durham Ambulance Squad, Route 145 & Milk Run Rd., Durham, NY 12422 Saturday, November 30, 3-5 p.m.: Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, tree lighting, hay rides, ﬁreworks, hot air balloon launch, and more! Please bring a non-perishable donation for the food pantry, or a toy for Toys for Tots. Free! Information: 518.239.4332; http://www.durhamnychamberofcommerce.com

Boxwood Trees

Olana, Wagon House Education Ctr, 5720 Rte. 9G, Hudson, NY 12534 Sunday, December 1, 1 p.m.: Mary Hughes, Olana Flower Garden Caretaker, will guide participants to create their own unique table top tree constructed out of fresh boxwood cuttings. All materials are provided with the class, including ribbons, bulbs, decorative fruit and pinecones. Space is limited for this class. Participants must pre-register. Tickets: $30; $25 members Information: 518.828.1872 x 109; http://olana.org

Gingerbread House Workshop

Stony Kill Farm, Barn Classroom, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Sunday, December 1, 1-3 p.m.: The Verplanck family lived at Stony Kill Farm during the Victorian Era. During this time period, Gingerbread Houses where a very popular holiday family tradition. Children in Kindergarten and older and adults may attend. One adult and no more than 2 children per gingerbread house. Fee: $20/house; pre-registration & payment required Information: foundation@stonykill.org

Village of Rhinebeck Tree Lighting and Parade

Rhinebeck Bank Parking Lot, Village of Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, December 1, 3:30-6 p.m.: Annual tradition of lighting the Village of Rhinebeck tree. Several organizations and vendors will be on hand and there will be carriage rides, provided by the Gentle Giants 4H, throughout the Village. Children’s Parade of Lights at 5 p.m. with tree lighting immediately following. Live music by Little Creek Band at 4:30 p.m. Info: 845.876.5904; http://www.rhinebeckchamber.com

Holiday Concert

Roeliﬀ Jansen Community Library, 9091 Route 22, Hillsdale, NY 12529 Sunday, December 1, 4 p.m.: Mary Hack, mezzo-soprano and April Fisher, soprano, in a festive performance. Information: 518.325.4105; http://www.roejanlibrary.org

Holiday Hunt: The Twelve Days of Christmas

Locust Grove, 2683 South Rd. (Rt. 9), Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sundays, December 1, 8, 15 & 22, noon-4 p.m.: “Holiday Hunt: The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Search the mansion for three French hens, two turtle doves, and a partridge in a pear tree, then join us for cookies, cider and storytelling in the Visitor Center. Tickets: $10/adult; $8/child Information: 845.454.4500 x 17; www.lgny.org

Page 13

Mercantile November 2013

Holiday Whodunit 2012

Staatsburgh State Historic Site (Mills Mansion), Old Post Road, Route 9S, Staatsburg, NY 12580 Sundays, Dec. 1-29, 1-4 p.m.: “Holiday Whodunit,” a one-hour mystery adventure for families. Children ages 6-11 become detectives questioning Gilded Age servants and guests (costumed interpreters) to solve a mystery. All participating children will be entered into a drawing for prizes! Tickets: No extra charge, included with regular admission price (children must be accompanied by an adult). Information: 845.889.8851; www.staatsburgh.org

Wreath Making Class

Wagon House Education Ctr., Olana, 5720 Rte. 9G, Hudson, NY 12534 Wednesday, December 4, 6 p.m.: Mary Hughes, Olana Flower Garden Caretaker, will teach the art of creating wreaths in this hands-on workshop. Exquisite natural materials, will be provided to create your own wreath. Bring your own pair of pruning shears. Space is limited, please pre-register by preceding Thursday. Tickets: $20; $15 members Information: 518.828.1872 x 109; http://olana.org

DCC Choral Holiday Concert

James & Betty Hall Theatre, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Thursday, December 5, 12:30 p.m.: The DCC Chorus and Madrigal singers perform a free gala show ﬁlled with holiday and sacred music. Information: 845.831.8000; http://sunydutchess.edu

Celebration of Lights Parade

Main & Market Streets, City of Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, December 6, 6:30 p.m.: 20th Annual Celebration of Lights Parade and Fireworks presented by The City of Poughkeepsie, in conjunction with the Bardavon, First Niagara Bank Foundation, the Poughkeepsie River District Business Association, and the Walkway over the Hudson. Each year thousands of people attend this event, voted by Dutchess County Tourism as the “Best Event” of the holiday season. Information: 845.473.2072; http://bardavon.org

A Christmas Carol

Columbia-Greene Community College, Arts Center Theater, 4400 Route 23, Hudson, NY 12534 Friday, December 6, 7 p.m.: Holiday classic tale of redemption presented by Theater-on-the-Road. Tickets: $8; $6 seniors & students Information: 518.828.4181; http://www.sunycgcc.edu

Holiday Sunset Sensations

Locust Grove, 2683 South Rd. (Rt. 9), Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Thursdays, December 5 & 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m.: “Holiday Sunset Sensations.” Enjoy a tour of the decorated mansion at twilight then return to the Visitor Center for ﬁne wines paired with holiday savories and sweets prepared by special guest chefs. On 12/5, Chef Johm Lekic of Le Express Bistro in Wappingers Falls; 12/12, Chef Tomas Monosi of Tomas Tapas Bar in Wappingers Falls. Tickets: $30 advance; $35 day of Information: 845.454.4500 x 17; www.lgny.org

Sparkle: Nights of 10,000 Lights

Boscobel, Route 9D, Garrison, NY 10524 Fri. & Sat., Dec. 6 & 7, 13 & 14, 20 & 21, 5-9 p.m.: A series of brilliant evening events featuring thousands of lights, luminous displays and festive holiday happenings around the gardens and grounds of Boscobel. Take a Twilight Tour, walk the candlelit paths with a cup of hot cocoa and celebrate the season with family and friends. Some of the special guests include Snow Queen Stilt Walker, Horseback Winter Rider, Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, and special musical guests each night. Tickets: $15/person; $10, kids 3-11; free, kids 2 and under. Family 4-pack: $45 Information: 845.265.3638; http://www.boscobel.org

Film: A Christmas Carol

Bardavon, 35 Market St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, December 6, 8 p.m.: The definitive film version of Charles Dickens’ classic novel, this British adaptation stars Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge. Pre-show Wurlitzer Organ music provided by New York Theatre Organ Society beginning one-half hour prior to the film. Tickets: $6 all seats Information: 845.473.2072; http://bardavon.org

Ulster Ballet’s A Christmas Carol

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Fri. & Sat., Dec. 6 & 7, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 8, 2 p.m.: Artistic Directors Scarlett Fiero and Quiedo Carbone, together with Woodstock resident and former New York City Ballet dancer-turned choreographer Sara Miot, have produced an exciting, critically acclaimed ballet based on the classic Charles Dickens story. Now it’s 19th year, featuring a cast of 65 dancers, actors, and stage professionals, this show is just what you’ll need to put you in the mood for the holidays! Tickets: $20; $15 students & seniors; $12 member and groups Information: http://www.bardavon.org continued on page 14 g

jewmongous’ holiday comedy songfest Town Crier Cafe, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Thursday, December 5, 7:30 p.m.: Ex-Rockapella star Sean Altman’s super, semiticized comedy song concert is ‘tuneful and sharply witty’ (Los Angeles Times), ‘relentlessly clever’ (Chicago Tribune) and ‘bawdy with a wicked modern streak’ (Washington Post), combining ‘the tunefulness of the Beatles and the spot-on wit of Tom Lehrer’ (Boston Globe). Altman, who ‘writes hilarious and irreverent acoustic rock songs about his awakening Jewish awareness’ (Jerusalem Post), is ‘part of a new breed of Jewish hipster comedy that includes Jon Stewart, Sacha Baron Cohen, Sarah Silverman and Heeb Magazine’ (Philadelphia Daily News). Tickets: $25 advance; $30 door Information: 845.855.1300; http://www.townecrier.com

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 13 i

The Academy Concert/Sing with Seri Mayorga & Choir

Holiday Gift Making

Spencertown Academy, 790 Route 203, Spencertown, NY 12165 Saturday, December 7, 1-2:30 p.m.: Sheri Bauer-Mayorga, director of the Good Globe Singing School, directs her students and the community in a concert featuring Fall and Winter songs. Free! Information: http://spencertownausterlitz.org

Art School of Columbia County, 1198 Route 21C, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Bring the family, make wrapping papers, simple books, ornaments and more. Admission: $5/hour children; $10/hour adults, all materials included Information: 518.672.7140; http://artschoolofcolumbiacounty.org

Meet & Greet Santa!

Sinterklaas Festival Day in Rhinebeck

Rhinebeck Village, Montgomery & Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, December 7, all day, starting at 10 a.m.: A day-long, colorful celebration of dance, theatre and music all over the village. The spectacular Children’s Starlight Parade, featuring the two-story tall, animated puppets carried by hundreds of volunteers, closes the day at twilight. A non-denominational event, Sinterklaas joins residents and visitors alike, people of all ages and backgrounds, in a memorable celebration of children, art and the light of the winter season. FREE! Information: http://www.sinterklaasrhinebeck.com

Family Festival: Mr. Punch’s Christmas Carol

James & Betty Hall Theatre, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, December 7, 11 a.m.: Crabgrass Puppet Theatre presents a fastpaced and funny holiday show with all the trimmings, told with expertlymade colorful hand puppets, rod puppets and shadow puppets. Free! Information: 845.431.8000; http://www.sunydutchess.edu

Cold Spring by Candlelight Holiday Festival & House Tours

Village of Cold Spring, NY 10516 Saturday, December 7, noon-5 p.m.: 11th Annual tour of historic homes and sites to beneﬁt Partners with PARC. Historic homes and sites will be decked out in holiday ﬁnery and open to the public. Holiday caroling, discounts at local stores and restaurants, holiday music, visits with Santa and more. Tickets: advance: $25; $20 seniors; $15 kids under 12; day of, $35|$25|$15 Info: http://www.partnerswithparc.info

Family Day

Dongan Square, City of Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, December 7, 1-5 p.m.: A project of the Bardavon and the River District Restaurants, Family Day is aimed at families with small children and will include ice carvers, a scavenger hunt, Disney Radio bouncy house, prizes, storytellers, musicians and more - all for free! Information: 845.473.2072; http://bardavon.org

Page 14

Spencertown Firehouse, 1 Memorial Drive, Spencertown, NY 12165 Saturday, December 7, 3-5 p.m.: Bring the little ones to meet Santa so they can tell him their wish list ﬁrst hand. Information: http://spencertownausterlitz.org

Hillsdale’s Annual Tree Lighting

Hillsdale Fire House, Hillsdale, NY 12529 Saturday, December 7, 4:30 p.m.: Meet at the Hillsdale Fire House for a hay ride to the Town Tree. Santa will join in for Christmas Carols! Following a hay ride back to the ﬁre house, there will be refreshments and gifts from Santa. Information: http://hillsdaleny.com

Germantown Christmas Tree Lighting Event

Germantown Village Center, Germantown, NY 12526 Saturday, December 7, 5-9 p.m.: See Santa come to town by horse and cart, attend the Christmas tree lighting (on Gtel front lawn), have some free, fresh kettle corn, participate in the Cub Scouts scavenger hunt, listen to a story reading at Central House, purchase tickets for a Gift Basket raﬄe and more! Local businesses will be open late. Information: http://www.germantownny.org

Friends of Omi Candlelight Concert

Omi International Arts Center, Charles B. Benenson Visitors Center, 1405 County Route 22, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, December 7, 6:30 p.m.: Concert featuring jazz vocalist Fay Victor and Anders Nilsson. According to the New York Times, Fay Victor is “artistically complete” for her unique approach to the blues, jazz, free improvisation, and her own material. She will be teaming up with fellow Music Omi alum Anders Nilsson on guitar for an unforgettable evening of song and celebration. Reception follows. Tickets: $10; free for members Information: 518.392.4747; http://www.artomi.org

winter walk City of Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, December 7, 5-8 p.m.: Now in its 17th year, Winter Walk takes place the first Saturday in December and is considered a not-to-be-missed additional holiday, duly noted on personal calendars all over Columbia and surrounding counties and places as far away as Boston to the East, NYC to the South, and the appointment book of an important resident of the North Pole. Winter Walk transforms the City of Hudson’s main commercial street into a festive thoroughfare with twinkling lights, brightly decorated shops, horse-drawn wagons offering rides, stilt walkers and marionettes, bagpipers and live reindeer. Look for Frosty the Snowman on the street, as well as Marley’s Ghost and Scrooge, the walking Grandfather Clock, the Tin Soldier, and a host of angels, snowflakes and elves of all sizes. Information: http://hudsonoperahouse.org/winterwalk.html photo by Peter Blandori

Page 15

Mercantile November 2013

Howland’s Holiday Hoot

Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 7, 7 p.m.: Featuring the Grammy Award-winning Rivertown Kids. Information: http://www.howlandculturalcenter.org

A Child’s Christmas

Clermont State Historic Site, Clermont Ave., (oﬀ Route 9G) Germantown, NY 12526 Sat. & Sun., Dec. 7 & 8, 10 a.m.-noon: Drop in for stories read under the Christmas tree, and treats for children ages 3-10. Tickets: $4/person Information: http://friendsofclermont.org

Annual Gallery of Wreaths

Vanderpoel House of History, 16 Broad St., Kinderhook, NY 12106 Sat. & Sun., Dec. 7 & 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: Donated artificial and fresh wreaths decorated by individuals, organizations and businesses will be on display and auctioned off to benefit the Columbia County Historical Society. Information: http://cchsny.org

Christmas Open House at Vanderbilt Mansion

Vanderbilt Mansion, Route 9, Hyde Park, NY 12538 Sunday, December 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: The National Park Service oﬀers a day of free admission to the site with refreshments at the Visitor Center, discounts in the Museum Shop, and a visit to the mansion to learn about how the Vanderbilt’s spent their holidays. Dress in your ﬁnest holiday clothes, bring your camera and pose for your holiday photo in front of the Mansion’s Elliptical Hall Christmas tree. Information: http://www.nps.gov/vama

Winterfest in the Village of Chatham

Main Street & Hudson Ave., Chatham, NY 12037 Sunday, December 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: Annual holiday festival sponsored by the Chatham Business Alliance. A day of wintery events, holiday shopping, horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, visit from Santa. Information: http://chathambusinessalliance.org

Ye Olde Dutch Christmas Open House

Historic Elmendorph Inn, North Broadway & Cherry St., Red Hook, NY 12571 Sunday, December 8, 1-4 p.m.: Handbell ringing and holiday singing. Mulled cider and cookies, music, fresh-baked bread from the bee hive oven, 1812 Innkeeper Cornelius Elmendorph to greet you! Free. Information: 845.758.5887; http://elmendorph.org

Community Holiday Sing

Austerlitz Community Church, 11482 State Route 22, Austerlitz, NY 12017 Sunday, December 8, 2 p.m.: Annual Holiday sing with carols, stories and refreshments. Information: 518.392.0062; http://spencertownausterlitz.org

Holiday Open House

Roe Jan Historical Society Museum, Copake Falls, NY 12517 Sunday, December 8, 2-4 p.m.: The Roe Jan Historical Society hosts their annual Holiday Open House featuring Santa Claus, cookies, book sale, post card & gift sale, free refreshments and more. All are welcome. Information: http://hillsdaleny.com

Hansel and Gretel Free Family Concert

The Church of the Messiah, Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, December 8, 3 p.m.: An exciting journey into the forest as

Hansel and Gretel encounter the wicked witch in her house made of gingerbread and candy! Starring students from the Bard Conservancy of Music, Vocal Arts Department and sponsored by the Rhinebeck Chamber Music Society. Juice and cookies to follow performance! Information: http://www.rhinebeckmusic.org

A Hudson Valley Holiday Spectacular

Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, 156 South Cross Rd., Hyde Park, NY 12538 Sunday, December 8, 3 p.m.: Presented by the New York Theatre Organ Society and the New York Academy of Ballet.The family-friendly event features live holiday music by John Baratta and a host of local musicians; the “Nutcracker Suite,” presented by the New York Academy of Ballet, and a grand ﬁnale of chorus line dancers in holiday attire. Tickets: advance, $14; $10 seniors and kids under 12; door, $16/$12 Information: 845.802.3703; http://www.hpcsd.org

Winterfest Red Hook

Village of Red Hook, Municipal Lot and Key Bank Lawn, Red Hook, NY 12571 Sunday, December 8, 1-5 p.m.: Meet at the Village Municipal Lot, where there will be food, local vendor booths, hay wagon rides and crafts. Visit with Santa! Tree lighting at 4:30 p.m. Key Bank lawn. Information: http://www.redhooknyvillage.org

A Service of Lessons and Carols

Vassar College Chapel, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Sunday, December 8, 7 p.m.: Annual event featuring Vassar College Choir, Women’s Chorus, Madrigal Singers, and Cappella Festiva Chamber Choir. A service of seasonal readings, choral anthems, and congregational carols featuring the premiere of “The True Light” by Canadian composer Leonard Enns. Christine R. Howlett and Drew Minter, conductors. Seating is on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis. Free. Information: 845.437.7294; http://music.vassar.edu

Hawthorne Valley School Winter Concert

St. Mary’s Church, 429 E. Allen St., Hudson, NY 12534 Thurs., Dec. 12, 5 p.m.; Fri. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.: Excerpts from Handel’s Messiah will be presented by the Hawthorne Valley High School Chorus, joined by harpsichordist Mariken Palmboom, the Columbia Greene Community Orchesta and students in grades 4 through 8. Information: http://hillsdaleny.com

Candlelight Night: Nat Phipps Trio

Kinderhook Memorial Library, 18 Hudson St., Kinderhook, NY 12106 Friday, December 13, 6:30 p.m.: An evening of holiday jazz with the Nat Phipps Trio! Nat, an Albany legend, is a jazz pianist who hails from Newark, N.J. where he spent most of his early professional years playing in New York City and New Jersey. The trio will play selections of holiday music as they bring their swing and melodic styling to the Kinderhook Memorial Library. The ﬁreplace will be burning bright and refreshments will be served as we spread holiday cheer and celebrate the season! Information: 518.758. 6192; http://oklibrary.org

Concert and Food Drive for the Holidays

The Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Friday, December 13, 7:30 p.m.: Featuring The Judith Tulloch Band and Mighty Girl with special guests. Tickets: $8; please also bring a nonperishable food item Information: http://www.howlandculturalcenter.org continued on page 16 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 15 i

Page 16

Catskill Teachers’ Association 5K Run Walk for a Claus

Catskill Ballet: The Nutcracker

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Fri. & Sat., Dec. 13 & 14, 8 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 15, 2 p.m.: Join Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on a magical adventure to the Land of Sweets, where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and are invited to watch the festivities. Clara watches in awe as dancers display delicious treats. Tickets: $30; $25 students, seniors and kids 12 and under Information: http://www.bardavon.org

Starts and ends at Catskill High Schook, Catskill, NY 12414 Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m.: The Catskill Teachers Association is sponsoring a walk or run to beneﬁt Matthew 25 Food Pantry and Community Action of Greene County. The event will also collect toys to help make the holiday season a little brighter for people in our community who are feeling the ﬁnancial stress of these challenging times. Tickets: $20 Information: 518.943.0574 x 223; nrice@catskillcsd.org

The Nutcracker

Christmas at Clermont Open House

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 December 13-15, Fri. & Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.: Start your holiday season with award-winning director/choreographer Michele Ribble’s 5th annual presentation of this Tchaikovsky’s classic. Tickets: $20 Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Athens Annual Victorian Stroll

Sleep: An Original Holiday Play

Cocoon Theatre, 6384 Mill St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Fri. & Sat., Dec. 13 & 14, 7 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 15, 3 p.m.: An original play written by M. San Millan, and performed by Fall Production Program students. This light romp entangles “Alice in Wonderland,” “Rip Van Winkle,” and “Sleeping Beauty.” Suitable for all ages. Tickets: $15 Information: 845.876.6470; http://cocoontheatre.org

Holiday Open House, Children’s Reading Festival, Santa and Holiday Cards for Troops

Clermont State Historic Site, 1 Clermont Ave., Germantown, NY 12526 Saturday, December 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: Visit Clermont decorated for the holidays. Free admission. Information: 518.537.4240; http://www.friendsofclermont.org

Henry A. Wallace Center, FDR Historic Site, Hyde Park, NY 12538 Saturday, December 14, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: The FDR Presidential Library and Museum and the Home of FDR National Historic Site host a series of free holiday events throughout the day. The Roosevelt Library and the Home of FDR (Springwood) will be open free of charge. There will be holiday decorations, refreshments and special activities, including the annual Children’s Reading Festival, beginning at noon in the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center. The Festival features children’s book authors, who will read from and sign copies of their books. Featured books will be available for purchase. Free photos with Santa will take place from 1-3 p.m., and children can make holiday cards for sailors on the USS Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Refreshments served throughout the afternoon. Open House at Val-Kill will run from 4-7 p.m. with shuttles running from the Wallace Center. Information: 845.486.7745; http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu

Village of Athens, 24 Second St., Athens, NY 12015 Saturday, December 14, 1-5 p.m.: A free family event sponsored by the Athens Cultural Center at the Riverfront Park with ﬁre dancers, caroling and tree lighting. Festivities include: art & craft salon, ornament contest and sale, photos with Victorian Santa, vintage photography studio, Crossroads Brewery tours, Coxackie Athens Community Band concert, cookies and chocolate fountain, historic open houses, bell ringers performance, harpists, horse drawn trolleys, Steware House tours, ice sculpture demonstration and more. Information: 518.945.1257; http://www.athensculturalcenter.org

Yuletide Tea at Wilderstein

Wilderstein Historic Site, 330 Morton Rd., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, December 14, 1 p.m.: An afternoon affair featuring fine tea, finger sandwiches, homemade cakes and cookies. Reservations are necessary. Tickets: $30; $20/child Information: 845.876.7439; http://www.wilderstein.org

Annual Lighting of BeaconArts Bicycle Tree

Corner of Cross & Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 14, 3-6 p.m.: Performances by the Ukelele Holiday Hayride and People’s Choir, the First Presbyterian Church Choir and Yanarella School of Dance. Visit with Santa! Information: http://beaconarts.org/2013-beacon-ny-holiday-events

Miracle of the oil & My Chanukah 5 senses Rhinebeck Jewish Center, 102 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, December 1, 11 a.m.: “Miracle of the Oil: A Contemporary Jewish Women’s Event.” In honor of the miraculous oil of Chanukah, stir up your own exotic blend of oil and fresh herbs for a fragrant display, cosmetic use, or culinary delight. Top it oﬀ with a Luscious Latke Bar. Monday, December 2, 10:30 a.m.: “Chanukah 5 Senses.” Take part in this fun and new exciting program for young children. Explore the wonders of the holiday using all ﬁve senses. Reservations are required. Share this special time with your child. Moms, dads, and caretakers welcome. Tickets: $5 suggested donation per family Information: http://www.rhinebeckjewishcenter.com

Page 17

Mercantile November 2013

the nutcracker Bardavon, 35 Market St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sat., Dec. 14, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 15, 3 p.m.: The New Paltz Ballet Theatre returns for a 16th season to present this classic holiday event featuring principal dancers from the New York City Ballet. Peter and Lisa Naumann, co-directors of the NPBT, have brought many ﬁne regional artists together to create this beautiful production. Dancers, designers, and technicians have all contributed to make this Nutcracker a visual delight. Come along with Marie as she dreams of a ﬁerce battle between giant mice and toy soldiers followed by a magical journey through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets. Tickets: $29; $26 student; $24 member Information: http://www.bardavon.org Principal dancers from the NYC Ballet are featured in this annual performance. Photo submitted.

National Marionette Theatre: Sleeping Beauty

Orpheum Theater, Route 23A, Tannersville, NY 12485 Saturday, December 14, 3:30 p.m.: The princess Aurora has been asleep for almost 100 years when our hero, Prince Steﬀon learns of her story. He resolves to ﬁnd the sleeping princess and rescue her from the evil fairy Belladonna. Told from the prince’s point of view, National Marionette Theatre’s newest production combines beautifully crafted marionettes with the timeless music from Tchaikovsky’s ballet. Recommended for family audiences ages 4 and up. Tickets: $10; $7 children under 12 advance; $12/$7, door Information: 518.263.2000; http://www.catskillmtn.org

Tivoli Winterfest

1 Tivoli Commons, Tivoli, NY 12583 Saturday, December 14, 3-5 p.m.: Music and entertainment, crafts and activities. Tree lighting, followed by bonﬁre and ﬁreworks. Information: 845.757.2021; http://www.tivoliny.org

Skiing and Riding Santa Day

Windham Mountain Resort, 19 Resort Drive, Windham, NY 12496 Sunday, December 15, all day: Windham Mountain invites all skiing and riding Santas to spend a day at their resort. A free ski ticket and two additional midweek, non-holiday vouchers will be given to those dressed in head-to-toe Santa costumes for the day. All skiing and riding Santas will be required to pre-register. (Limited to 300. Registration opens on November 30) A minimum donation of $20 is requested and will be given to local charities. All Santas will meet in the morning for an initial group ski and ride. Tickets: $20 donation requested Information: 800.754.9463; http://www.windhammountain.com

Candlelight Tours of Clermont

Clermont State Historic Site, 1 Clermont Ave., Germantown, NY 12526 Sunday, December 15, 3-6 p.m.: Tableaux Vivant of Christmas traditions through the ages. Glittering decorations, wassail, and traditional holiday goodies served in the historic kitchen. Tickets: $8; free children under 12 Information: 518.537.4240; http://www.friendsofclermont.org

Holiday Candlelight Tours at Mount Gulian

Mount Gulian Historic Site, 145 Sterling St., Beacon, NY 12508 Sunday, December 15, 4-7 p.m.: Tour the Colonial homestead beautifully decorated for the holidays with fresh greens, lots of ribbons and bows, sparkle, and aglow in candlelight. Enjoy holiday carols

and songs performed by the Evergreen Chorus, the local, a cappella chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Holiday refreshments with our compliments. Reservations not necessary. Tickets: $8; $6 seniors; $4 children Information: 845.831.8172; http://www.mountgulian.org

Polar Express Night

Hyde Park Train Station Museum, 34 River Rd., Hyde Park, NY 12538 Monday, December 16, 5 p.m.: Storyteller Karin Armstrong reads “The Polar Express” at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Crafts and refreshments. Information: 845.229.2338; http://www.hydeparkstation.com

Film: Scrooged

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Friday, December 20, 7:30 p.m.: Rich in special eﬀects, this darkly comic modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol stars former SNL funnyman Bill Murray playing the role of Frank Cross, a cold-hearted TV exec who is planning a live production of A Christmas Carol for a special. Tickets: $6 all seats Information: http://www.bardavon.org

A Christmas Carol

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 December 20-22, Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat., 3 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.: Now in its tenth glorious year, this faithful rendering of Charles Dickens’ immortal ghost story features traditional holiday carols sung throughout and the most unusual ghosts you’ll ever encounter. Don’t miss this year’s presentation as next year we’re going to present something completely diﬀerent as our holiday gift to the community. Tickets: $20 Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

A Christmas Carol

Solaris, 360 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Fri.-Tues., December 20-24, 8 p.m.; Tues., 3 p.m.: Annual Walking the Dog Theater’s production of the Charles Dickens’ classic and beloved holiday story. Directed by Ted Pugh, performed by David Anderson. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.wtdtheater.org

continued on page 18 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 17 i

The Puppet People’s “A Christmas Carol”

Center for Performing Arts, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, December 21, 11 a.m.: Warm your hearts with Dickens’ classic. Watch Mean Ol’ Scrooge as he discovers Christmas is not HUMBUG! The Puppet People’s spectacular show features beautiful marionettes, holiday music and guaranteed smiles. Tickets: $7 children; $9 adults & seniors Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Kwanzaa Umoja Celebration

Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, December 21, 3-5 p.m.: Hudson Opera House and Operation Unite team up to present a Kwanzaa Festival - Umoja Community Celebration with crafts for children, a candle lighting ceremony and the sharing of the Nguzo Saba, the seven principles of Kwanzaa by community members. Performances include dancers from the HOH/OUNY Hip Hop workshops with Anthony Molina and Kuumba Dance & Drum programs. After the Celebration, participants are invited to stay for a light “Karamu” supper, by Hazel’s Kitchen, followed by the giving of Zawadi (gifts for children). Information: 518.822.1438; http://www.hudsonoperahouse.org

Page 18

10th Annual No Strings Marionettes Holiday Program The Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Sunday, December 22, 1-4 p.m.: Show includes performances of “The Three Little Pigs” and “Scrooge, A Christmas Carol.” Information: http://www.howlandculturalcenter.org

Children’s Holiday Tea at Mt. Gulian

Mount Gulian Historic Site, 145 Sterling St., Beacon, NY 12508 Friday, December 27, 2 p.m.: Held in the homestead’s two main rooms decorated for the holidays with tables set with ﬁne linens and china. Includes a children’s craft project. Prepaid reservations required. Tickets: $18; $15 child Information: 845.831.8172; http://www.mountgulian.org

Let’s Get Merry with George Conrad

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Friday, December 27, 8 p.m.: Accompanied by maestro Joel Flowers on The CENTER’s Steinway, the incomparable Mr. Conrad will sing the season’s most popular songs, with a few little-known surprises thrown in for good measure. Tickets: $20 Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Blue Christmas Service

First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 21, 7 p.m.: Holidays got you down? Bring your grief to a simple service on the eve of the Winter Solstice. No platitudes. Just silence, song and the mystery of God’s love. Information: http://www.beaconpresbychurch.com

Decked

Locust Grove

2683 South Rd. (Rt. 9), Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturdays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21: Step back in time and re-live the romance of Christmas past. Celebrate the holiday season as Locust Grove features the classic,The Twelve Days of Christmas. Tour the mansion with expert guides who will make the holidays come alive as you tour the mansion’s 25 decorated rooms. Tickets: $10/adult; $6/child under 12. Information: 845.454.4500 x 17; www.lgny.org

Springwood: Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site

4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538 November 29-December 31, Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.5 p.m.: Tours of Springwood decorated according to Roosevelt family holiday tradition. Tickets: $14 Information: 845.486.7745; http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu

Staatsburgh State Historic Site

Old Post Road, Route 9S, Staatsburg, NY 12580 Nov. 22-Dec. 29, Thurs.-Sun., noon-4 p.m.; also

ut Halls

open Dec. 23, 30 & 31; closed Thanksgiving and Dec. 24 & 25: “A Gilded Age Christmas.” Take a guided tour of the lavishly decorated 79-room Mills family mansion, highlighting its Gilded Age history and showcasing turn-of-the century decorations. Large Christmas trees, ﬂoral arrangements and spectacular dining room decorations were meant to impress! Each room is decorated with Gilded Age ﬂoral arrangements and tall decorated trees. Tickets: $8; $6, seniors/students; 12 & under free. Information: 845.889.8851; http://www.staatsburgh.org

Val-Kill

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, Route 9G, Hyde Park, NY 12538 November 29-December 30, Thurs.-Mon., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving day, Christmas day and New Years day: Eleanor loved Christmas and decorated her stone cottage with enthusiasm every year. Enjoy stories of Eleanor’s Christmases with family and friends during the years she called ValKill her home. Tickets: $8; 15 and under free Information: 845.229.9115; http://www.nps.gov/elro

Vanderbilt Mansion

Visitors Center, 4079 Albany Post Rd., (Route 9), Hyde Park, NY 12583 November 29-December 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving day, Christmas day and New Years day: Enjoy tours of the Gilded Age mansion lavishly decorated for the holiday season. Tickets: $8; 15 and under free Information: 845.229.7770; http://www.nps.gov/vama

Wilderstein

330 Morton Road, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 November 29-December 29, Sat. & Sun., and Fri., Nov. 29, 1-4 p.m.: Florists and designers transform the Wilderstein mansion into a magical holiday spectacular. Tour the mansion at your own pace, with guides in each room to share information and answer questions. Tickets: $10; $9 students/seniors; under 12, free Information: 845.876.4818; http://www.wilderstein.org

Page 19

Mercantile November 2013

Long days short years by Brian PJ Cronin, photograph by Kristen Cronin

There is an upside to the darkness.

Yes, the sun now begins dipping below the tree line before I’ve had a chance to start making dinner, which can induce panic attacks, carb loading and whiskey cravings. But say you have a two-year-old son who loves the moon and the stars. Now the moon alights in the dining room window during dinner, much to his delight. “MOMMY DADDY LET’S GO OUTSIDE,” Cooper will say, and we take a break from dinner to run outside and watch the moon rise. The chill digs into us as soon as we step outside. Nothing is as cold as that first cold week of the year. The view of the half apple moon shining down on the slopes of Mt. Beacon is worth all that shivering. Last Fall Kristen left her job. It was the right decision for a variety of reasons, but a difficult one. We knew that it would mean hard times ahead as we adjusted to the three of us living on one salary for an indeterminate amount of time. I remember worrying about all of this last September as we went for a walk after dinner into the autumn twilight. The setting sun made the trees on Mt. Beacon seem ablaze. We walked slowly towards the mountain, Cooper haphazardly leading the way. I crunched budget numbers in my head, thought about what things we could do without, how to stretch the funds from our last few weeks of being a two income family. I tried to push the worries out of my mind as we watched Cooper point out an airplane flying over the mountain. Hold onto these few weeks, I told myself, because you will probably soon be referring to them as the good old days. I often think of the apocryphal ancient Chinese curse that goes “May you live in interesting times.” It has been an interesting year. After years of both of us being steadily employed, we now cycle through periods where one of us is working and the other one is doing a bit of this and a bit of that...if we’re lucky. It is nerve wracking and stomach churning. And yet: Now there are no more late nights in the office and (in my case) 48-hour working weekends. Now our weekends are weekends. The three of us wake

There is no perfect balance, and trying to find one is the quickest way to psychological ruin. All I can do is be grateful: Grateful for work when it comes, grateful for a Friday afternoon running through the woods when it doesn’t... up on Saturday mornings (perhaps a bit too early for my taste, but I digress), look at each other, and realize that we have time together now. We hike as a family. We rake leaves and plant garlic in the garden as a family. When I begin to work on dinner, Cooper will run into the kitchen and say, “What are we making?” And so here I am tonight, on the front lawn, trying to navigate the great divide between being able to provide for my family and being able to spend time with my family. There is no perfect balance, and trying to ﬁnd one is the quickest way to psychological ruin. All I can do is be grateful: Grateful for work when it comes, grateful for a Friday afternoon running through the woods when it doesn’t. Grateful that there’s a little more time to watch Cooper grow and hit each developmental milestone. Grateful for this moment, when Cooper runs back inside the lighted house, turns to us, and says, “MOMMY DADDY COME INSIDE AND EAT DINNER WITH ME,” before disappearing. Hold onto this, says a voice in my head. These are the good old days.

 Brian PJ and Kristen Cronin live in Beacon with their three cats, and their son Cooper James Cronin. Check out their blog A Rotisserie Chicken and 12 Padded Envelopes at hvmercantile.com, and view more of their photos at www.ﬂickr.com/ teammoonshine and Instagram.com/kristencronin.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 20

845.876.WOOD

www.williamslumber.com

50/50 SALES EVENT!

50% OFF HARDWARE + 50% OFF CABINETS

Omega, Dynasty, Schrock, Entra & Kitchencraft! 50% OFF LIST PRICE, Now For a Limited Time. Expires 12/1/13

Visit our

SHOWROOMS

located in Rhinebeck,

Hudson & Pleasant Valley!

Mercantile November 2013

‘The Gift’ photograph by Juliet Harrison

Page 21

I did not hide out in the house with a wig on my head pretending that all was well. I went public with my struggle with cancer...And what I got in return for my honesty was a community of friends who visited us, comforted us, fed us, laughed with us, and of course, cried with us.

Red Hook is a great place to have cancer by Juliet R. Harrison

People harbor a lot of preconceived notions about small towns. Some think those who choose to live in them are backwards, insular, closed minded, and not at all worldly or sophisticated; that small towns are rife with gossip and a lack of privacy. I agree with some of that. Although I do believe that we are sophisticated and forward thinking, I will forever be thankful for that gossipy, intrusive, collective mind of my small town community. I have just lived through the hardest year of my life. In February my doctor found a large lump on one of my ovaries. One month later, after the removal of that ovary, its mate and all of the rest of my reproductive organs, I was told that I had ovarian cancer. I would need to undergo six treatments of chemotherapy, one every three weeks. Suddenly normal life for my husband and me was no longer possible. But when we opened ourselves up and were willing to share, the people of our small community rushed in and embraced us with as much care and support as we needed. I seriously doubt we would have found that if we had lived in a large urban setting; I suspect we would have felt isolated and alone in our months of struggle. I did not hide out in the house with a wig on my head pretending that all was well. I went public with my struggle with cancer. I went to the Saturday farmer’s market in my favorite Southwest-patterned scarf, devoid of eyebrows and lashes. And what I got in return for my honesty was a community of friends who visited us, comforted us, fed us, laughed with us, and of course, cried with us. I found out that I mattered to my community, and that my continued longevity mattered to them. These, as much as all the medical intervention, the poisonous infusions and side eﬀect remedies, were the tools I used to survive cancer. These oﬀerings by our community were the nutrients of my successful cancer treatment.

When I needed company in chemo, Helen came prepared to read to me, or Debi came with a pack of playing cards, entertained by the stuﬀed zebra and plastic Smurfs that I brought every time to sit on the infusion machine. When I needed something from the supermarket (usually ice cream), there was Rebekah at my door with sundaes from Holy Cow. When my husband was exhausted from his duties as Deputy Mayor and the burden of doing everything to care for both me and our home life, Kim would knock on the door with a full meal tailor-made for whatever point I was in my chemo cycle, exquisitely prepared to tempt my ravaged taste buds and usually enough for leftovers so we never had to think about cooking the next day. And we ate well, since most of our friends are better cooks then we are. But what I will never forget was the simple chicken broth with wide egg noodles and wilted greens that Helen made several times right after I got home from the hospital and was not really ready to eat much of anything. That soup really was medicine for my beat up body and soul. From the moment I started to regain enough energy to get out, I was greeted by overwhelming concern and happiness at J&J’s deli when I returned to my weekly lunches with my dear friend, Ronnie. I am so thankful that we live in a place where people know and care about each other. That is really what living in a small town means. When my son was a junior in high school, he lived in Milan, Italy for the year. When I asked him what he missed most while he was away, he said that he missed living in a place where people knew him and cared about him. That is not some silly platitude, some outdated 1950s, Ozzie and Harriet notion. It is the reality of small town life, even in 2013. Although it may sound strange, and I certainly wish that my recent life had been diﬀerent, I am feeling very lucky that Red Hook really was a great place to have cancer. Photographer Juliet Harrison has been taking pictures of horses for a large part of her successful career as an art photographer. Her work has been exhibited in juried shows, invitationals, and museums throughout the United States, and is represented in private collections throughout the world. In her latest book, Track Life: Images and Words, Harrison’s photographs are paired with intimate and, sometimes, humorous stories, thoughts, essays, poems and recollections from 22 contributors. There will be a book signing event on December 14 at 3 p.m. at The Golden Notebook in Woodstock.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 22

��

Red Hook Village

OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET Saturday, November 23

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

village municipal lot

Parade & tree lighting Sunday, december 1 3:30-6 pm Rhinebeck bank parking lot

Come to our final Market of the season for one-stop shopping for everything you will need to make a wonderful traditional Thanksgiving meal using LOCAL ingredients!

activities and treats starting @ 3:30 pm horse drawn carriage rides music by little creek band @ 4:30 pm

Thank you to all of our customers and Hudson Valley Mercantile for their support this year! Eo

f RE D

V IL L A G

sponsored by

illustration by Daniel Baxter 1 2 5 7 1

Children’s parade of lights @ 5 pm tree lighting @ 5:30 pm ��

Page 23

Mercantile November 2013

recipes for remembering

gratitude

photo by Heather Gibbons

by Meri Puccio

Giving thanks is much more than turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. Thankfulness is an exercise in awareness. It is an act in progress, like doing spiritual sit-ups towards achieving a six pack of enlightenment. It is being engaged with an open soul, an acknowledgement of generosity. Gratitude can be born from a dark place while sleeping on your parents’ couch at some in-between moment in your life, or celebrated when rescued on a cold dark night by a stranger who helps you change a flat tire. Thanksgiving in the Hudson Valley, to me, means being grateful to the farmers who grow and raise our food. They are on nature’s front line. An early thaw or an unexpected freeze, a dry summer or a wet summer, some blight or another, can change everything. Our farmers work the long days of summer that wind down to the hard work of harvest that feeds us all. The turkeys we feast on, the farm animals who are raised in our valley, live a good life yet give the ultimate sacrifice. It is important to be mindful of them - to treasure the golden yolks and the rich milk that they yield to us. We must respect it all. What we are grateful for changes like the landscape one views while traveling on a train. We can be grateful for lessons learned, or the right words murmured at the right moment, or a glance from an understanding friend. Apart from all of the obvious things we should be thankful for, what we are thankful for as individuals is as unique as our own set of fingerprints. Whether your glass if half empty or half full, true gratitude is being thankful for the glass itself. When I broke my leg a few winters ago, I was thankful that it wasn’t my arm because at least I could still cook. Thanksgiving at our house is a non-traditional mix of people - like a bunch of unmatched laundered socks. Alejandra’s friends from college whose families are very far away, friends, and friends of friends - all who enter our orbit and want to share a meal - are welcomed. Ray usually deep fries our local turkey, and there are always tons of local vegetables: roasted roots, winter squashes, cauliflower, broccoli-rabe, and yes, even local sweet potatoes. My 88-year-old mother makes a mean CranberryJalapeño relish that everyone looks forward to. But the favorite seems to be the scalloped potatoes. Local potatoes that still smack of the earth, heavy cream from the Hudson Valley Dairy Cooperative, finished with generous grating of local cheese - a golden crown on top of a creamy, comforting dish. Everyone goes back for seconds, and yes, sometimes thirds.

Scalloped Potatoes Butter a 9 x 12 baking dish. Preheat oven 375 degrees. 3 1/2 - 4 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled if desired (I scrub them very well) cut 1/8” thick (I use my food processor) 1 small white onion, cut in half and sliced thin (ditto on the food processor) 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic sliced thin or put through press 1 quart of heavy cream or less 2 tbs. butter, cut into small pieces freshly ground white pepper, kosher salt to taste 1 cup of shredded cheese, I use Sprout Creek Kinkead, but gruyere or cheddar will work Layer sliced potatoes, onion, garlic evenly into the buttered baking dish, sprinkling the layers with salt and pepper as you go. Pour cream over everything - it should come just below the potato line. Shake the pan a bit to make sure the cream has settled over the potatoes.* Dot with butter. Cover with parchment paper and then foil. Bake 45 minutes - 1 hour until potatoes are tender (I stick a knife right through the parchment/foil without removing it). Remove foil, scatter cheese on top and return to oven until cheese has melted and is a nice golden brown. * Poke your pinkie into the cream and give a taste to see if there’s enough salt after you’ve poured the cream over the potatoes before baking. Everything in this recipe can be obtained at your local farmers’ market. I am thankful to Heather and Jim for allowing me to share my thoughts and recipes with you. Meri Puccio is a resident of Clermont, New York, private cook & caterer since 1987, owner of Julia & Isabella Fine Fare and it’s many incarnations since 1994.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 24

��

Page 25

Mercantile November 2013

Poughkeepsie, NY 855.546.0076 (toll free) 845.501.3209 (fax)

Mercantile November 2013

Page 26

handcrafted

Basilica Farm & Flea takes place in Hudson Thanksgiving weekend, photo by Matt Charland; Lynne James’ pottery will be for sale at the Group Holiday Show & Sale Nov. 23 & 24 in Rhinebeck.

10th Annual Buone Feste: Holiday Group Show

RiverWinds Gallery, 172 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 31: “Buone Feste: Holiday Group Show,” a feast of holiday gifts, made by Hudson Valley artists: handmade paper ornaments and wreaths by Alexis Lynch; ornaments by Virginia Donovan, Jan Davis, and Emma Crawford; seasonal cards by many gallery artists; poinsettia pins by Kat Stoughtenborough; and mystical villages by the Woodcrest Clay Works. Paintings by such artists as Kevin Cook, Virginia Donovan, Richard Gedney, Jamie Grossman, Robert Ferrucci, Hiro Ichikawa, Ellen Lewis, Alexis Lynch, Myra Kooy, Kate McGloughlin, Victor Mirabelli, Rick Price, Linda Puiatti, and Ed Vermehren; photography by Lori Adams, Mary Ann Glass, Linda T. Hubbard, Jennifer Konig, Karl LaLonde and Robert Rodriguez, Jr. Hand-dyed yarn, scarves and shawls by Kelly Newkirk; colorful mugs, bowls, vases, berry bowls, earring holders and other pottery items by Jennie Chien, Gordon Czop, Marilyn Price, Mary St. John, and Woodcrest Clay Works; intricate silver jewelry by Caiming Cheung and Sara Pfau; unique, one-of-a-kind earrings and necklaces by Paola Bari, Carolyn Baum, Jennie Chien, Tom Cornish, Emma Crawford, Jan Davis, Virginia Donovan, Mary Ann Glass, Jinny Goggin, and Julie Siegmund and more!. 2014 calendars by Mary Ann Glass and Robert Rodriguez, Jr.; RiverWinds 2013 Cookbook, Bread Etc, featuring recipes and artwork; and artbooks by other artists; CDs by Jeﬀ Haynes, The Pete Seeger Stories; Bridge Music by Joe Bertolozzi; and Rick and Michele Gedney’s Open Book. Many of the book, calendar and CD artists will be at RiverWinds on Saturday November 23, from 3-5 p.m. to sign their work. Hours: Wed.-Mon., noon - 6 p.m.; Second Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Information: 845.838.2880; http://riverwindsgallery.com

Greene County Council on the Arts’ Salon 2013 Annual Members Fine Art & Craft Exhibit & Sale

398 Main St., Catskill, NY 12414 Through January 4: Affordable gift giving for all! First floor: small works - original drawings, paintings, prints, photographs and sculptures - most priced under $300; Second floor: Artful Hand’s Holiday Gift Gallery featuring fine crafts - ceramics, wearable art, jewelry, toys and holiday cards - priced under $100. This year’s selection includes delicate handcrocheted jewelry sets by Erika Klein, and signature bowls from master ceramic artists Susan Beecher and Ruth Sachs. Plus, Hudson Valley Seed Library seed packets designed by area artists; unique origami tree ornaments from Itoko Kobayashi; and handmade decorative books by Sharon Quinn. Handknit sweaters for adults and babies by Regine Petrosky; Dot Chast’s abstract monoprint cards and children’s books by national author/illustrator Hudson Talbott - and so much more! Information: 518.943.3400; http://www.greenearts.org

CherryBomb Holiday PopUp Shop

Zora Dora Paletaria, 201 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through February 14: Art and craft by local artists and artisans. Unique holiday gifts. CherryBomb is an informal association of artists in and around Beacon who work together to sell their art and crafts. Information: http://cherrybombpopup.weebly.com

Take Me Home for the Holidays

Bannerman Island Gallery, 150 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 31: The Bannerman Castle Trust, Inc., presents its annual holiday small paintings show featuring works by the Hudson Valley Artist Guild focusing on scenes from the Hudson Valley and Bannerman Island. Half of the proceeds from sales of the paintings will beneﬁt The Bannerman Castle Trust for the preservation of Bannerman Island. Hours: Sat. & Sun., nooon-5 p.m. Information: 845.234.3204; http://www.bannermancastle.org

Small Treasures: The Holiday Show

CCCA Gallery 209 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 November 16-January 10: Although not restricted to miniatures, all the work in “Small Treasures” is limited in size to 15” in any direction and in price - with all work priced at less than $250...perfect for holiday gift giving! Enjoy a wide range of styles, from abstract to expressionist to representational; a variety of media which will include oils, pastels, collages, photography; and works on paper, canvas, wood and board as well as some lovely small pieces of sculptural work. The show is ‘cash and carry’ meaning you may take your treasure home with you immediately (not waiting until the shows’ end as is the case with usual gallery shows). Opening Reception: Saturday, November 16, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.671.6213; http://artscolumbia.org

Christkindl Market

Germania Hall, 37 Old DeGarmo Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 Friday, Nov. 22, 4-8 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Germania of Poughkeepsie presents its annual traditional German market featuring: German baked goods - stollen, strudel and cookies, German wurst, herring salad, potato salad and more. Plus, vendors, crafts, ornaments and gifts. Information: 845.471.0609; http://www.germaniapok.com

Tivoli Artists Co-op Annual Holiday Show

60 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583 November 22-December 22: Co-op members and guests present aﬀordable ﬁne art and handicrafts for the holidays: paintings, prints,

Page 27

Mercantile November 2013

holiday

Adopt one of Melissa Heyman’s adorable stuﬀed animals at the Group Holiday Show & Sale at the Beekman Arms in Rhinebeck

photographs, ﬁber arts, paper crafts, handmade baskets, pottery, jewelry and other holiday gifts. Hours: Fri., 5-9 p.m.; Sat., 1-9 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.; and by appt. Information: 845.757.2667; http://www.tivoliartistsgallery.com

Holiday Artisan Craft Market & Victorian Tea

Westpoint Eagles’ by John Gould is available at RiverWinds ‘Buone Feste’ in Beacon.

and art plus live music. Local artisans, including: jewelry makers, weavers, knitters, painters, photographers, potters, basket weavers, woodworkers, holiday gift makers and more! Raﬄe door prizes. Illuminated stars for sale. Admission: Free Information: http://sinterklaashudsonvalley.com

Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, 9 & 12 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, November 23, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Unique holiday gifts by local artisans: jewelry, ceramics, dolls, ornaments, wood-turned pens & paper mills, felted scarves and much, much more! Oﬀ street, free parking lots available on Vassar Street. Admission: $5, market; $15 market & tea Information: 845.486.4571; http://cunneen-hackett.org

Bard College Art and Craft Fair

The Group Holiday Show & Sale

Ornamentation

Delamater Conference Center, Beekman Arms, 6387 Mill St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sat., Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 24, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: The 36th annual Group Holiday Show & Sale features a collection of work by area artisans set in a gallery-like setting. Each year the core group invites new participants. This year there are 22 exhibitors. The show is considered to be one of the “gems” of the Hudson Valley. Crafts at their ﬁnest. Information: 845.430.3130

Regina Coeli Parish’s 42nd Annual Santa’s Express Art and Craft Fair

Regina Coeli School, 4337 Albany Post Rd., Hyde Park, NY 12538 Saturday, November 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Craft fair featuring more than 40 regional artisans, raﬄe baskets, a White Elephant sale, discounted gift certiﬁcates to local businesses, a bake sale, and door prizes. Lunch available for purchase. Admission: $2; children free Information: 845.229.8589; rccraftfair@gmail.com

Home for the Holidays

Kaaterskill Fine Arts Gallery, Hunter Village Square, 7950 Main St., Village of Hunter, NY 12442 November 23-December 30: A panoply of artful gifts for you and your loved ones. Hours: Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.263.2060; gallery@catskillmtn.org; http://www.catskillmtn.org

5th Annual Craft Fair Beneﬁt for Sinterklaas

Rhinebeck Town Hall, 80 East Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, November 24, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Handmade local crafts

Bertlesmann Campus Center at Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 Friday, November 29, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.: Buy local, artisan-made gifts for the holidays! Everything is homemade by local or student crafters. About 60 vendors participate each year. Information: http://bardcraftfair.blogspot.com Red Hook CAN Gallery, 7516 North Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 November 29-January 5, Fri. & Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.: Original art, print reproductions, greeting cards, crafted items to wear, jewelry, holiday ornaments and more. Everything priced under $100. Reception: Sunday, December 1, 3-5 p.m. Information: http://www.rhcan.com; redhookcan@gmail.com

Basilica Farm & Flea

110 South Front St., Hudson, NY 12534 Fri., Nov. 29, 5-9 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., Nov. 30 & Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.: Marketplace consisting of a diverse group of regional makers, farmers, and vintage collectors. Visitors can shop, hear music, eat quality foods, attend an educational workshop or cultural lecture. The event is a partnership between Basilica Hudson, BUST Magazine’s Craftacular, and Modern Farmer Magazine, who will help present the local food & farmstand portion of the events. The weekend kicks oﬀ with a Black Friday Soiree opening evening celebration with cocktails and sales. Admission: $3; children under 16, free Information: 518.822.1050; http://basilicahudson.com/basilica-farm-ﬂea

Annual Monastery Christmas Craft Fair

Our Lady of the Resurrection Monastery, 246 Barmore Rd., LaGrangeville, NY 12540 Sat. & Sun., Nov. 30 & Dec. 1 and Dec. 7 & 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Vinegars, food baskets and monastic products from the farm and gardens including: dried herbs, soups, dips, jams, green and red salsa, tomato sauces, relishes, apple butter, olive tapenade, and the famous Artisan Monastic Vinegars. Plus: Nativity Sets from all over the world and other monasteries; Monastic crafts including gift items, icons,

continued on page 28 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 27 i

candles, decorations and more; Monastic cookbooks and other religious books autographed by the authors. Information: http://ourladyoftheresurrectionmonastery.webs.com

Page 28

Unison’s 23rd Annual Crafts Fair

Drumlin & Falcon Halls, 54 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sat. & Sun., Nov. 30 & Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: More than 100 artists participate in this annual juried craft fair. Fine art crafts and specialty foods. Tickets: $6; $4 seniors; free, kids under 12. Information: 845.431.8400; http://www.sunydutchess.edu/alumni/ foundationevents/annualcraftfair.html

New Paltz Middle School, Main St. & Route 299., New Paltz, NY 12561 Sat. & Sun., Dec. 7 & 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Premier winter craft event in New Paltz featuring some of the Hudson Valley’s finest artisans. More than 50 master craftspeople and fine artists will display and sell a wide range of handmade crafts in the areas of ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, leather, fiber, baskets, glass, clocks, furniture, paintings, cards, body products, wreaths, heirloom seeds and much more. A one-of-a-kind chance to get to know and observe the breadth of local talent. There will also be organic baked goods, coffee, teas, delicious snacks and Japanese food to satisfy your palate. Admission: $3 adults; kids 16 and under, free. Information: http:/www.unisonarts.org

Van Wyck Craft Boutique

St. Nicholas Day Craft Fair

Dutchess Community College 42nd Annual Holiday Crafts Fair

Van Wyck Homestead Museum, 504 Route 9, Fishkill, NY 12524 Sat., Nov. 30 & Sun., Dec. 1, all day: Craft boutique and artisans show and sale in the Colonial setting of a 1755 farmhouse at the historic Homestead Museum. Information: 845.896.9560; http://www.hudsonrivervalley.com

Columbia County Historical Society Annual Gallery of Wreaths

Columbia County Museum & James Vanderpoel House, 16 Broad St., Kinderhook, NY 12106 Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.: Annual Gallery of Wreaths features donated artiﬁcial and fresh wreaths decorated by individuals, groups, businesses and ﬂoral professionals. programs. Information: 518.758.9265; www.cchsny.org

St. Peter’s Christmas Bazaar

St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church, 5219 County Route 7, Spencertown, NY 12165 Saturday, December 7, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Enjoy an old fashioned Christmas Bazaar with lots of new twists. Shop for gifts and decorations, including wreaths, greens, beeswax candles, handmade silk scarves, aprons, jewelry and more. Stock your holiday pantry with a delicious assortment of homemade baked goods. Stop for a delicious lunch of a hot, hearty soup, bread, dessert and a drink and take a chance on a queen size quilt by Margy Quinn to be raﬄed oﬀ at 2:15 p.m. Information: http://spencertownausterlitz.org

Annual Yuletide Fair

Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School, 330 CR 21C, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: The school’s assembly hall is transformed into a gingerbread wonderland! Children and adults are invited to enter an original creation in this year’s Gingerbread Contest. Friends, families, and neighbors - come enjoy viewing these wonderful creations and bid on your favorite at the Gingerbread Auction! We’ll have puppet shows, activities for children, dozens of artisan vendors who will help you check oﬀ your holiday shopping list, and delicious lunches. Information: 518.672.7092; http://www.hawthornevalleyschool.org

EX-MAS Winter Market

704 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Sat., Dec. 7, 2-8 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., Dec. 14 & 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.: Hudson River Exchange presents a two-weekend long winter market featuring handmade and vintage items as well as food alongside live music. Opening night will coincide with Hudson’s 17th Annual Winter Walk. Information: http://www. hudsonriverexchange.com

Astor Home for Children, 6339 Mill St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, December 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.: The children, staff and volunteers at Astor Services For Children & Families work all year to create the unique hand-made crafts for the St. Nick’s Craft Fair. There will be a variety of childrens’ art, decorations, wreaths and arrangements, knitted items, ornaments, cards and much more!! A wide selection of raffle prizes and themed gift baskets will also be on display at this fun filled day for shoppers. All proceeds benefit the children’s recreational and family-strengthening programs. Snow date: Saturday, December 14. Information: 845.871.1171; http://astorservices.org

Friends’ Holiday Book Sale

Starr Library Lower Level, 68 W. Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Fri. & Sat., Dec. 13 & 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Friends of Starr Library host this holiday boutique and book sale featuring holiday treasures for the house, tree and table; plus, gift-worthy books. Information: 845.876.4030; http://starrlibrary.org

Holiday Craft Fair

Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Featuring the Hudson Valley Etsy Team’s diversiﬁed artists’ locally handmade ceramics, jewelry, knitwear, glass, baby clothes, toys, bath & body, handbags, kids’ wear, tees, notecards, ﬁne art and more. Information: http://www. hudsonvalleyetsy.com

7 x 5 for $75: Holiday Small Works Exhibition

Barrett Art Center, 55 Noxon St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 December 14-January 24: “Holiday Small Works Exhibition,” featuring paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, collage, assemblage, mixed media work all by local artists and artisans, all 7” x 5” and for sale for $75. Opening Reception: Saturday, December 14, 3-5 p.m. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. & by appt. Information: 845.797.7094; http://www.barrettartcenter.org

Pamela Dalton’s 24th Annual Holiday Open House

322 Route 21C, Harlemville, NY 12075 Sunday, December 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Scherenschnitte, tinware, historic Santas and sundries. All hosted by paper cutting artist Pamela Dalton, whose latest collaboration with Newbery Medal winner Katherine Patterson is “Giving Thanks.” Information: http://www.pameladaltonpapercutting.com

Mercantile November 2013

Page 30

Seasonal

PAL E T T E

Two of the images in “VETs: Portraits of Veterans of War,” a series of portraits by photographer (and veteran) William Wright on exhibit at Spencertown Academy through December 15. Many of the portraits are nearly life size and shot and hung in a way that allows the viewer to look into the eyes of the subject.

du tch ess Albert Shahinian Fine Art

Upstairs Galleries, 22 East Market St., Ste 301, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through December 31: “Leslie Bender: Involutions-Invocations,” a major solo exhibition of new paintings on paper and canvas. Bender’s abilities with materials are varied and expert: as draughtsman, printmaker, muralist, scenic designer and, above all, painter. Artist Talk: Saturday, December 21, 4-6 p.m. Hours: Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. and by appointment or chance. Open until 8 p.m. third Saturday of month Information: 845.876.7578; http://www.shahinianﬁneart.com

Atwater Gallery

56 East Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through December 1: Andres San Millan’s ﬁgurative sculptures made from Hudson River driftwood; and Doug Shippee’s abract ﬁgurative oil paintings. Information: 845.876.4922

Bard Hessel Museum of Art

Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 Through December 20: “Haim Steinback: Once Again the World is Flat,” an expansive exhibition of works by Haim Steinbach. Comprising a number of the artist’s grid-based paintings from the early 1970s, as well as a series of reconﬁgured historical installations and major new works created in relation to a selection of works drawn from the Marieluise Hessel Collection, the artworks in the exhibition span Steinbach’s 40-year career. Hours: Wed.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. Information: 845.758.7598; http://www.bard.edu/ccs

Barrett Art Center

55 Noxon St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Through November 30: “Skyfest,” an exhibition featuring artwork that incorporates, interprets and highlights astronomy and the arts. All mediums. Works will simultaneously be on display at Adriance Memorial Library in Poughkeepsie. The two shows include the work of more than 30 Hudson Valley artists and are part of “Skyfest,” the autumnal installment of the Bardavon’s “4 Seasons of the Hudson Valley” festival. December 14-January 24: “7 x 5 for $75: Holiday Small Works Exhibition.” See “Handcrafted Holiday” calendar for details. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & by appt. Information: 845.471.0407; http://www.barrettartcenter.org

beacon artist union (bau)

506 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 8: “bau 107: Stuﬀ and Nonsense: Grey Zeien and Gary Jacketti,” new work. In the Beacon Room, “Molly Rausch: The Appointed Drawings.” Hours: Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., noon-6 p.m. Information: 845.440.7584; http://baugallery.com

Beacon Institute Gallery

199 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through March 2014: “A Closer Look: The Hudson River,” images by noted photographer Joseph Squillante. Squillante’s iconic Hudson River photography has bred the respect of many organizations who work to preserve the integrity of the Hudson River. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.; open until 8 p.m. Second Saturdays. Information: 845.838.1600 x 19; http://bire.org

Page 31

Mercantile November 2013

bluecashew Kitchen Pharmacy

6423 Montgomery St., Suite 3, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through January: “Hudson Valley Artist Lora Shelley.” Shelley’s work has graced the covers of many regional magazines in the Hudson Valley and nationally. Reception: November 16, 3-6 p.m. Information: 845.876.1117; http://bluecashewkitchen.com

Catalyst Gallery

137 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 December 5-January 3: “Catalyst Small Works Show,” paintings, sculpture, photography and prints by more than 40 artists. Reception: Saturday, December 7, 6-9 p.m. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 1-6 p.m.; and by appt. Information: 845.204.3844; http://www.catalystgallery.com

Creative Crossings

Stanford Grange #606, 6043 Route 82, Stanfordville, NY 12581 December 14-22: Exhibition of paintings by Pine Plains reseident John Greene. Reception: Saturday, December 14, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Sat. & Sun., noon-5 p.m. Information: 917.579.4947; creativecrossings12581@gmail.com

Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center

9 & 12 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 December 6-January 3: “Holiday Art Show,” paintings, drawings, collage, and photography. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Information: 845.486.4571; http://cunneen-hackett.org

Dia:Beacon

Riggio Galleries, 3 Beekman Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Permanent Collection: In addition to the permanent collection, Dia Art Foundation is currently exhibiting: Ongoing: “24 Farben – fur Blinky (24 Colors – for Blinky), 1977,” Imi Knoebel’s cycle of 21 shaped paintings. Through February 17, 2014: “Alighiero e Boetti,” a new installation of embroidered works and large-scale works on paper by Alighiero e Boetti selected from Dia’s collection. Admission: $12; $10 seniors; $8 students; children under 12 free Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; chosled Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Information: 845.440.0100; http://diaart.org/sites/main/beacon

Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center

College Center, Main Building, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Through December 15: “Genji’s World in Japanese Woodblock Prints,” the ﬁrst exhibition outside Japan to explore prints inspired by the nation’s seminal 11th-century tale. December 4-February 2: “Decolonizing the Exhibition: Contemporary Inuit Prints and Drawings from the Edward J. Guarino Collection,” an exhibit of Inuit works on paper exploring alternative study and presentation of Indigenous art. Hours: Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. Information: 845.437.5632; http://ﬂlac.vassar.edu

Hammertown Rhinebeck, The Gallery

6420 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through December 31: “Artists at Hammertown: Paintings, Photographs & Pottery,” featuring the work of Saul Lambert, Karen Lesage, Dana Brandwein Oates, Suzanne C. Ouellette, and Valerie Shaﬀ. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 845.876.1450; http://www.hammertown.com

Hessel Museum of Art

Center for Curatorial Studies, Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 Through December 20: “Haim Steinbach: Once Again the World is Flat.” Comprising a number of the artist’s grid-based paintings from the early 1970s, as well as a series of reconﬁgured historical installations and major new works created in relation to a selection of works drawn from the Marieluise Hessel Collection. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Information: 845.758.7598; http://bard.edu/ccs

Howland Cultural Center

477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through November 24: “Landscapes,” paintings by Lower Hudson Valley Plein Air Painters. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. Information: 845.831.4988; http://howlandculturalcenter.org

The Lofts @ Beacon

18 Front St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December: “Nature’s Camouﬂage,” celebrates select works from the Greater New York chapter of the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators. Camouﬂage and mimicry subtly surround us in the natural world and these 21 artists capture the breadth of this challenging theme in both interesting and inspiring ways. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: 845.831.7867; http://www.loftsatbeacon.com

Matteawan Gallery

464 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 22: “The UV Portfolio,” an exhibition of one-of-akind experimental, color woodcuts by 13 artists. Hours: Fri. & Sat., noon-5 p.m.; Sun. by appt. Information: 845.440.7901; http://www.matteawan.com

Mildred I. Washington Gallery

Dutchess Community College, Allyn J. Washington Center for Science and Art, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Through December 6: “Stonescapes” and “Little Flowers with Big Attitude,” by Eric Somers and Lori Adams are a study in extreme constrasts. Using a similar concept - the close-up study of specimens - the photographers have come up with radically diﬀerent results. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 845.431.8617; http://sunydutchess.edu

Montgomery Row

6423 Montgomery St., 2nd Flr., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through November 30: “Night Music,” a solo exhibition of photographs taken at music clubs by Rhinebeck resident Todd Gay. Hours: Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Information: 845.876.0543; http://www.montgomeryrow.com

Morton Memorial Library

82 Kelly St., Rhinecliﬀ, NY 12574 Through November 30: “The Cicada Series: A Once in Their Lifetime Event Art Show,” featuring the community’s photos, sculptures, paintings, drawings, audio, and video work revolving around the cicada. Whether you loved or loathed these insects, there is no denying they played a role in the summer of 2013. Hours: visit website for hours Information: 845.876.2903; http://morton.rhinecliﬀ.lib.ny.us

continued on page 32 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 31 i

Palmer Gallery

Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 November 20-December 19: “Here, There and Everywhere,” work by artist Lily Prince featuring pieces inspired by the various places she has visited as well as her home in the Hudson Valley. Information: 845.437.5370; http://www.vassar.edu

Red Hook CAN/Artist’s Collective Gallery

7516 North Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 Through November 24: “Costume Design & Fashion,” Imagination Station’s student art show exploring costume design and fashion. Students have drawn, painted and used various mediums to create costume designs and fashions from formal to outlandish! Opening Reception: Saturday, November 16, 5-7 p.m. November 29-January 5: “Ornamentation,” original art, print reproductions, greeting cards and more. See “Handcrafted Holiday” calendar for complete details. Hours: Fri. & Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m. and by appt Information: redhookcan@gmail.com; http://rhcan.com

Rhinebeck Bank

1476 Rte. 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Through December: BeaconArts @ The Bank presents Aleta Wolfe, “Castle Keep: A Bee’s Eye View,” featuring Ms. Wolfe’s oversized color photographic prints of abandoned beehives found inside Castle Rock, a local historical landmark. The beauty of decay is revealed in artist Aleta Wolfe’s work that uniquely examines architecture, preservation, conservation and the permanence-impermanence of home. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Information: 845.845.831.0300; http://beaconarts.org

RiverWinds Gallery

172 Main St., Beacon 12508 Through December 31: “Buone Feste,” a feast of holiday gifts. See “Handcrafted Holiday” calendar for complete listing. Book signing November 23, 3-5 p.m. Hours: Wed.-Mon., noon-6 p.m.; Second Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Information: 845.838.2880; http://riverwindsgallery.com

Spire Studios

45 Beekman St., 2nd ﬂoor, Beacon, NY 12508 Through November 30: “Motion/Emotion: 3 Artists’ Interpretation,” features the work of three artists: Virginia Donovan, Mary Ann Glass

Page 32

and Galina Krasskova. Students of renowned painter Basha Maryanska, each of the three women has stepped out her comfort zone to explore a new experience of light, energy and emotion through her artwork. Hours: Sat. & Sun., 1-4 p.m., and by appt. Information: 845.891.3307; http://www.maryannglass.com

Starr Library

68 West Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 November 16-30: “Equine! Equine! Equine!,” featuring more than a dozen prominent artists whose work highlights the horse as subject matter. Works range from traditional to abstract and the artists range from those who specialize in equine art, to others who are attempting to capture the image and essence of the horse for the ﬁrst time. Reception: Saturday, November 16, 5-8 p.m., with food, wine and live music. Some of the artists will also be on hand to answer questions. Information: 845.677.5014; http://starrlibrary.org

Studio 54 East Gallery

54 East Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 November 15-January 4: “Uncontainable!” 3-dimensional, paper wall sculptures. In this work, San Millan explores and plays with the relationship between the artwork and its frame, as a metaphor for human individuality and social convention. The art evokes images of ritual and explores realms of the imagination, both whimsical and lush. Information: 845.876.7335; http://www.ﬁgureartscape.com

Tivoli Artists Co-op

60 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583 November 22-December 22: “Holiday Show,” Co-op members and guests present aﬀordable ﬁne art and handicrafts for the holidays. See full listing in “Handcrafted Holiday” calendar. Hours: Fri., 5-9 p.m.; Sat., 1-9 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.; and by appt. Information: 845.757.2667; http://www.tivoliartistsgallery.com

Theo Ganz Studio

149 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 8: “Brood,” Chantelle Norton’s latest painting series featuring realistic portraits of her pet chickens set against a backdrop of dreamy Irish landscapes. The artist states, “With the chicken as my muse, my poultry portraits have allowed me to revisit the landscape of Ireland, explore the nostalgic and comforting qualities of pattern, and examine issues relating to home, life and death and allegiance.” Hours: Fri.-Sun., noon-5 p.m. and by appt. Information: 917.318.2239; http://theoganzstudio.com

winter solstice 2013 holiday show Betsy Jacaruso Studio & Gallery

The Courtyard, 43-2 East Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 November 16-January 31: New watercolors by Betsy Jacaruso and the Cross River Artists. Show includes both large and small works of art, which aim to capture the heart and beauty of the Hudson River Valley. During the month of December, the Art for the HeART Tree will be up and decorated with small original watercolor paintings for only $10 each, the proceeds of which will be donated to the art programs at Astor Home for Children. Opening Reception: Saturday, November 30, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; and by appt. or chance. Third Saturday Arts Walk Open House 5-7 p.m. Information: 845.516.4435; http://www.betsyjacarusoartist.com Rhinecliﬀ Cove 2013, Watercolor by Betsy Jacaruso

Page 33

Mercantile November 2013

X On Main

159 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through December 22: “CatelloVision: Private Stock,” new work by artist and photographer Catello Somma, known throughout the NYC and Hudson Valley graﬃti scene for 30 years of blatant vandalism, starting at the age of 11 years old in Brooklyn. He went on to create controversial mural work in and around the Hudson Valley and now has been focusing on photography with a bold splash of graﬃti inspiration. Somma’s work has been featured in more than 10 books, and he has had more than 30 gallery shows. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., noon-6 p.m. or by appt. Information: http://xonmain.com

Co lum b ia BCB Art

116 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through December: Tribute exhibition of outsider art from the collection of the late Cynthia Coulter. Proceeds from the sale of these works will be donated to the Texas Women’s Shelter and the Humane Society of the United States. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., noon-6 p.m. and by appt. Information: 518.828.4539; http://bcbart.com

Carrie Haddad Gallery

622 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through December 8: “Storytellers and Conjurers,” work by Kahn & Selesnick, Louise Laplante, Adam Cohen, Claire Lofrese and Eileen Murphy. December 12-January 19: “Melange,” a cacophony of ﬁne art by David Paulson, Juan Garcia-Nunez, Scott Nelson Foster, Jane BloodgoodAbrams, Vince Pomilio, and Harry Orlyk. Reception: Saturday, December 14, 6-8 p.m. Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Information: 518.828.1915; http://www.carriehaddadgallery.com

Chatham Bookstore

27 Main St., Chatham, NY 12037 Through December 2: “Nonny Hogrogian Art & Illustrations.” Artist/illustrator Nonny Hogrogian shows oils, watercolors, prints and children’s book art and illustrations. She received the Caldecott Medal for “Always Room for One More” and “One Fine Day.” Current illustrations are in “Come Back, Moon,” by husband David Kherdian. Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Information: 518.392.3005; http://www.chatham-bookstore.com

Columbia County Chamber of Commerce

1 North Front St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through January 15: “Compass Points,” a photography exhibit of local and exotic beauty by Jeﬀrey Levin. Opening reception: Saturday, November 16, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.828.4417; http://artscolumbia.org

Columbia County Council on the Arts Gallery

209 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 November 16-January 10: “Members Annual Holiday Small Work Show,” featuring small works priced right for the holidays. See complete listing in “Handcrafted Holidays” calendar. Opening reception: Saturday, November 16, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.671.6213; http://artscolumbia.org

Columbia Greene Community College

4400 Route 23, Hudson, NY 12534 Foundation Gallery, through November 26: “Dot-dot-dash,” largescale digital prints by Kim McLean. Kaaterskill Gallery, through November 27: “Fiber Arts by Regine Petrosky.” Knitting is Petrosky’s ﬁrst passion and preferred medium. Her colorful sweaters are from traditional to modern, and created using methods she learned from her grandmother in Eastern Prussia. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., by appt. Information: 518.828.4181; http://sunycgcc.edu

Davis Orton Gallery

114 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through December 22: “Photobook 2013,” an international exhibition of photobooks and photographs. The gallery presents 20 photobooks selected through an international competition. All photobooks and prints will be available for sale during the exhibition. Reception: Saturday, November 16, 6-8 p.m. Hours: Mon.-Sun., noon-5 p.m. Information: 518.697.0266; http://davisortongallery.com

Hudson Opera House

327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through December 7: “Zohar Lazar,” renowned illustrator and frequent contributor to The New Yorker, The New York Times Sunday Magazine, Rolling Stone, Esquire, GQ, and numerous other publications, artist Zohar Lazar exhibits a series of select drawings in the Center Hall Gallery. Hours: Mon.-Sun., noon-5 p.m. Information: 518.822.1438; http://www.hudsonoperahouse.org

John Davis Gallery

362 ½ Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through December 1: Main Galleries: Paintings by Claude Carone.” The artist states, “My paintings use an unlimited vocabulary of space that tries to articulate a border area linking the unconscious and the dream state. My paintings enact a psychological dialogue between these two states of being.” Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.828.5907; http://johndavisgallery.com

Joyce Goldstein Gallery

16 Main St., Chatham, NY 12037 Through November 30: Paintings by Mertin Weinstein and drawings by Rebeca Calderon Pittman. Information: 518.392.2250; http://www.joycegoldsteingallery.com

Limner Gallery

123 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through November 24: “A Show of Heads,” annual exhibition. December 6-29: Paintings and sculpture by Dave Channon featuring the “most invasive destructive species on Earth.” Reception: Saturday, December 7, 5-7 p.m. Information: 518.828.2343; http://www.slowart.com

Neumann Fine Art

65 Cold Water St., Hillsdale, NY 12529 Through January 4: “Joel Griffith, Painter Laureate of Tivoli,” a solo exhibition featuring Griffith’s oil paintings. Reception and Gallery Talk: Saturday, November 30, 5 p.m. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; and by appt. Information: 413.246.5776; http://www.neumannfineart.com continued on page 34 g

Mercantile November 2013 continued from page 33 i

Omi International Arts Center

Charles B. Beneson Visitors Center Gallery & Fields Sculpture Park, 1405 County Route 22, Ghent, NY 12075 Charles B. Beneson Visitor Center & Gallery, through December 15: “Out of Here: Paintings 1999-2013,” by Jane Dickson. Dickson works with unusual surfaces such as Astroturf, sandpaper, vinyl and carpet. Her series of large-scale paintings are inspired by her weekend travels to upstate New York. Gallery Hours: Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Through May 2014: “Architecture Omi,” explores the intersection of architecture, art and landscape and features works by Janet Echelman, Brian Brush, Oliver Kruse, Alice Aycock and others. Fields Sculpture Park, year ‘round during daylight hours: Outdoor sculpture park on more than 60 acres of rolling farmland, wetlands and wooded areas. The Park presentes the work of internationally-recognized contemporary and modern artists, oﬀering the unique possibility to experience a wide range of large-scale works in a singular outdoor environment. Information: 518.392.4747; http://artomi.org

Spencertown Academy

790 Route 203, Spencertown, NY 12165 Through December 15: “VETs: Portraits of Veterans of War,” an achingly beautiful and personal series of Veterans of War. Primarily using portraits as his starting point, photographer William Wright evokes and unveils a truth in his subjects that transcend the light of everyday life. We see the familiar but it is rendered extraordinary. Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Information: 518.392.3693; http://spencertownacademy.org

Gr e e n e GCCA Catkill Gallery

398 Main St., Catskill, NY 12414 Through January 4: “Salon 2013: Handmade Holiday,” GCCA’s aﬀordable art sale featuring ﬁne art and crafts under $300. See “Handcrafted Holiday” calendar listing for complete details. January 18-February 15: “Playing with a Full Deck,” fundraising exhibit of pocket-sized art playing cards, a fundraising auction and poker party. A limited edition set of playing cards will be designed by a star-studded list of 54 artists, including Kiki Smith’s original design for the card backs. Poker and black jack party on Saturday, February 15, and closing auction to be held Saturday, March 1. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.943.3400; http://www.greenearts.org

Kaaterskill Fine Arts Gallery

Hunter Village Square, 7950 Main St., Village of Hunter, NY 12442 November 23-December 30: “Home for the Holidays,” a panoply of artful gifts for you and your loved ones. Hours: Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.263.2060; gallery@catskillmtn.org; http://www.catskillmtn.org

Say What? Contemporary Art Gallery

6042 Main St., Tannersville, NY 12485 Through November 25: Artists interpret this month’s quote, “God is a comedian playing to an audience afraid to laugh.” ~ Voltaire December 14-January 19: Quote of the month: “The art of making art is putting it together.” ~ Stephen Sondheim Hours: Wed.-Sun., 1-6 p.m. Information: 518.589.7500; http://www.say-what-ny.com

Page 34

Workshops & Special Events Blow Your Own Glass Ornament

Hudson Beach Glass, 162 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through January 5: “Blow Your Own Ornament.” Choose the colors and textures of your ornament and then add your breath to it permanently. Instructors are master glassblowers John Gilvey or Kathleen Andersen. Fee: $30 Hours: Wed.-Sun., sign up for 15 minute session Information: 845.440.0068; http://hudsonbeachglass.com

Veteran Arts Showcase

Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site, Henry A. Wallace Center, Route 9, Hyde Park, NY 12538 Sat. & Sun., November 23 & 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: A weekend-long art showcase featuring works by local artists, photographers, and authors with military backgrounds. The two full days of exhibits, presentations and performances is the result of a collaborative eﬀort between The Daniel Center, The Orange County Arts Council’s Creative Warriors program, and The Veteran Family Support Alliance (VETFAMSA), who together serve communities in Dutchess, Ulster and Orange Counties -- and throughout the Hudson Valley. For a full schedule of events, visit the website. Reception: Friday, November 22, 5:30 p.m. Information: 845.486.7745; http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu

Mile of Art

Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, December 7: Warren Street galleries open late the ﬁrst Saturday of every month in Fall/Winter. Information: http://ilovehudson.us

Gallery Talks at Dia:Beacon

3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 14, 2 p.m.: Anna Mecugni on Alighiero e Boetti. Anna Mecugni is a scholar of contemporary Italian art, visual culture, and gender studies. She is the Interim Andrew W. Mellon Coordinator of Academic Aﬀairs at the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar College, and has taught in the art and Italian departments at Vassar College. Free with admission to the museum. Information: http://diaart.org/sites/main/beacon

Second Saturday Beacon

Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, December 14, noon-9 p.m.: A city-wide celebration of the arts held on the second Saturday of every month when galleries and shops stay open until 9 p.m. Gallery openings, music are just some of the ongoing events. Information: http://beaconarts.org

Page 35

Mercantile November 2013

half moon rising by Brian PJ Cronin, photograph by Jen Kiaba There isn’t a whole lot that you can’t get done at the Oakwood Commons shopping plaza on Route 9 in Poughkeepsie. You can buy toilet paper, stock up on camping equipment, make a doctor’s appointment, grab a latte, have two different burgers at two different burger joints and, through November 17th, see a hilarious and thought-provoking new play about what happens when people’s expectations of love don’t match up with reality. But if you’re in the mood for some quality theater and you find yourself in the Oakwood Commons plaza after November 17th, not to worry. You could still attend a new play reading, or a 10-minute play festival, or enroll your child in one of several classes at the Half Moon Theatre’s School of the Arts. In fact, if you walk by Half Moon Theatre’s new space on the ground floor of the North Oakwood Common building and there isn’t something going on inside, just wait about five minutes. The folks at Half Moon Theater have been busy. For the past seven years, this 20 person company of professional actors, directors, playwrights and designers have been bringing quality theater to the Hudson Valley. While their ambitions have been limitless, the lack of small theater spaces in the Mid-Hudson Valley proved to be a continuous obstacle. But when the company was offered use of an unrented space in the North Oakwood Commons building, they jumped at the chance to create a true black box theater. “We had been doing most of our shows at the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center because it’s one of the only theatre spaces around, but it’s not really suitable for our work” explained Half Moon Theatre’s Managing Director Kristy Grimes. “It’s a historic 1860’s lecture hall, it’s horseshoe shaped, and you can’t configure the seats. But with this,” she says, gesturing to the freshly painted black walls and electricians hanging overhead installing a new electrical grid, “we can set things up however we want.” When we spoke, the new space had been set up with 70 audience seats on brand new risers that can be moved around the space depending on the needs of each individual production. For a group with as much going on as Half Moon, that versatility is important. The company is currently running their production of John Cariani’s new play “Love/Sick” through November 17th. It’s the third time they’ve produced one of Cariani’s plays; the company mounted a production of his wildly popular

play “Almost, Maine” a few years ago. “Almost, Maine” has received hundreds of different productions across the county, but word got back to Cariani that Half Moon Theatre had mounted a particularly stirring production. so he got in touch with them. When Cariani emailed the company to pass along the good things he’d heard, Grimes asked if the playwright was working on anything new. This led to Half Moon producing Cariani’s “Last Gas” a few years ago and the current production of “Love/Sick.” Cariani continued to tweak the play throughout the rehearsal process, which was all part of Half Moon’s plan. “We’re providing a space and an environment where he can try new things before they move on to bigger productions in New York or other regional theaters across the country,” said Grimes. Half Moon is no stranger to taking on new work. They continue to develop new plays by playwrights from New York City and the Hudson Valley with their frequent staged readings and 10-minute play festivals. Having their own space will not only allow them to produce more developmental work, but to bring more of their audience along for the ride as well. “This space will give us a chance to educate our audience about what we’re trying to do,” said Grimes. “Hopefully, they’ll come back and see some of the more informal, developmental stuff we do. And a lot of people enjoy that, they enjoy getting to talk to the playwright, hearing about the process. I enjoy it actually. It’s interesting to hear about how you really need to hear actors read the play to see what’s working, what people are responding to, and what needs re-writes.” Half Moon’s audience certainly will have plenty of opportunities to see new work. In the Spring they’ll mount a production of the recent offbroadway hit “Closer Than Ever,” and produce a festival of new 10-minute plays taking place in Dutchess County. Small theater spaces may still be in short supply in the Mid Hudson Valley, but Half Moon is making sure their new space will be put to good use all 12 months of the year. “We use it a lot already” smiles Grimes while the morning sun streams in through the space’s tall front windows and curious passersby peer inside with lattes and shopping bags in hand.

Mercantile November 2013

Page 36

tips for a Fit & Festive Holiday Season by Chelsea Streifeneder, Owner, Body be Well Pilates photo by Maureen Gates,http://sharpimagesphotographic.com

With the holidays upon us, the first thing that usually drops off the “to-do” list is exercise. And with all the food, candy and drinks that tempt us, starting with Halloween and continuing right through the New Year, exercise should be more important than ever. While Santa and a turkey are common symbols of the holiday season, the body shapes of these holiday “superstars” may not be quite the look you’re going for. However, with lots of challenges and disruptions in your normal routine – travel, houseguests, tempting and unhealthy food in large quantities, endless parties, less sleep, more stress, an overdose of special relatives – there are lots of excuses for winding up with a bowl full of jelly around our middles by January 1st. So in this article, you’re going to learn a few healthy tips on how to stay “Fit and Festive” during the holidays! Our knowledgeable and fit staff at Body Be Well Pilates has compiled some tips that will have you pumped to start 2014, while still savoring all that this time of year has to offer. Festive Fit Tip #1 – Use What You Know! Nothing can replace a great session at your Pilates and/or Yoga studio, a one-on-one session with your trainer, or your favorite spin class, but sometimes we just can’t make that happen, so we have to try to find alternatives! Put all of your hard work to use while you’re away. If you know that you’ll be traveling for the holidays, ask your instructor to show you some exercises that you can do out of the studio or gym so you can keep up with your workouts. Festive Fit Tip #2 – Plan, Commit, & Do! You plan every little detail of your holidays – from your shopping list, to decorations, and parties – so why not put your exercise time in your day planner too? Whether it’s a walk, run, Pilates class or trip to the gym, schedule this time as you would any other appointment (and don’t let yourself cancel!). Exercise when you can. It’s definitely important to be diligent with your exercise program, but remember to let yourself have a little fun too! If you can’t dedicate a whole hour, exercise for 20 or 30 minutes. Some movement is better than none. Make a plan that works with your holiday schedule, commit to it, and then stick to it! If you plan ahead, the excuse, “I don’t have time” will be null! Festive Fit Tip #3 – Family Accountability! While the turkey is still in the oven, or after it’s been sliced and eaten, family members can enjoy several fun activity games that will burn calories, increase metabolism and are great fun for everyone! Instead of just watching TV, or sitting around after your meal, play a group game, go on a walk, or play tag football. Playing fun, high-energy games that the whole family can enjoy during family gatherings will burn off some of those staggering calories, and fight the tendency to pack on those pounds.

The secret to staying fit isn’t always a new gadget or fitness routine, rather it is increasing your accountability to help you KEEP exercising. We are prone to slacking off when there is little accountability. Adding the power of an exercise buddy can help keep you motivated! Festive Fit Tip #4 – Me Time! Take time for you: It goes without saying that this season is all about stress! Between trying to shop, worrying about what your Aunt Tilly is going to say about your new choice of career, trying to schedule all your holiday parties along with your kids’ plays and concerts, and still dealing with day-to-day stressors, it is important that you take some time for yourself. Schedule a massage, buy a new book, treat yourself to a nap, learn to meditate and breathe, or whatever else works for you. Find something that will curb your stress that is not eating! This is the EASIEST time to turn to food for comfort. There is a ton of it around and it is all super-indulgent. Give yourself another method to deal with stress; you more than deserve it! Festive Fit Tip #5 – Water! Too many candy-cane-crusted chocolate martinis can give you a headache! It’s good to remember that most holiday alcoholic drinks are loaded with sugar, and eggnog practically causes weight gain from just looking at it. Water will keep you hydrated and help you burn fat more efficiently. Water naturally helps you avoid eating as much if you drink a large glass 20-30 minutes prior to having a large meal. If you just drink a glass of water, it will often take care of the food yearning. This is not skipping a meal, it’s just a way to work through temptation. In fact, the National Institutes of Health recommends drinking one-half to a full gallon of water a day for optimal hydration. Festive Fit Tip #6 – The Gift of Health! Give (or ask for) the gift of health: gym memberships, exercise equipment, athletic apparel or shoes, gift certificates to a spa or personal trainer, etc. There are many “health” related gifts that you can give or ask for that will help you, or someone you love, stay healthy all year long. It will give a great jump-start to those New Year’s Resolutions that we normally give up by February. Make a commitment to your body and teach others to do the same. Most importantly...ENJOY YOURSELF! These tips are intended to help make health and fitness a more streamlined part of your life, not an obstacle in it, so use the advice that best suits you and your lifestyle. Eat, drink, and be merry! It can’t be said enough. This is a season that is full of joy, love, and many good things if you let it be just that. Let your body and mind tell you what it needs, wants, and can do without. Have a healthy, happy, and joyful holiday season and don’t wait to make your Body Be Well!

Page 37

Mercantile November 2013

��

Mercantile November 2013

Page 38

Page 39

Mercantile November 2013 A Celebration of Birthday Creating

By John, Stephanie, Alli, Paul, Others for

John Fitzpatrick Join us as John reads his work, interspersed with song, dance, music by Stephanie, Alli and Paul, & Others, Ending in Meditation. Please Bring blanket, pillow, or mat to sit on!

Sunday, 3-5 PM, December 8th The Sacred Space at Metta, 17 Glen Pond Dr., Red Hook, 12571 Book Signing will follow! ALL WELCOMED and INVITED TO PARTICIPATE — Admission Free — Donations Accepted Books will be available for purchase after presentation. Cash only.

Host: John, Stephanie, Alli, Paul, & Others

��

FEED YOUR HEAD WITH HEALTHY IDEAS Follow Health Quest for great information and inspiration on how you and your family can live a happy and healthy life. Meet our healthcare providers, get wellness tips and share your thoughts. Plus, you could win $500 in our Facebook Fall Foliage contest. Join the conversation. Find My Health Quest on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and everywhere you are online. And download our event app, Health Quest U, on iTunes and Google Play.

www.health-quest.org

/MyHealthQuest