Hudson Valley Mercantile by Rising Tide Communications

Mercantile ��

live. work. play.

The

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January 2012

Mercantile January 2012

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Mercantile January 2012

Contents content s

A Currant AďŹ&#x20AC;air by Jen Kiaba

Seasonal Palette Calendar begins

Photo Editing: How to Make Your Photographs Look Professional by Joel Weisbrod

Town of Red Hook Bicentennial: Part I, Red Hook 1812 by Robin Cherry

Sounds of the Season Calendar begins

Live! On Stage Calendar begins

Take the Kids Calendar begins

Spots for Your Sleds & Skates

Readings, Signings & Screenings Calendar begins

Miscellaneous Calendar

Bright Green Valley Calendar begins

Long Days, Short Years by Brian PJ Cronin

Rebooting Your Romance at Culinary Boot Camp by Edna Welthorpe

hudson valley

Mercantile a publication of

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

Contributors:

Special Thanks:

Robin Cherry

Town of Red Hook

Brian PJ Cronin

Bicentennial Committee

Kristen Cronin

Tousey Winery

Jen Kiaba Joel Weisbrod

Jim Gibbons: Publisher jgibbons@hvrising.com Heather Gibbons: Creative Director calendarhog@hvrising.com Contents ÂŠ2012 Rising Tide Communications, LLC No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher

Edna Welthorpe

On the Cover: Photograph by Jen Kiaba taken at Tousey Winery Tasting Room in Germantown, NY. See accompanying story and more photographs on pages 4 and 5. Jen Kiaba is a photographer based in Rhinebeck, NY. Her photography has been published in both regional and national magazines, and has recently been used for several international book covers. This month several of her works will be on display at the Cornell Street Gallery in Kingston. To see more of her work, visit http://photos.jenkiaba.com/

Mercantile January 2012

A story & photographs by Jen Kiaba

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aﬀair

above: Patrons enjoy tastings of Tousey’s wines at theTasting Room in Germantown; below: the entrance to the Tasting Room.

tousey Winery, in Germantown, began

in 2006 with a dream. Founder and beekeeper Ray Tousey longed to make his own cassis, a liqueur that has a long and complicated history in the Hudson Valley. Intrinsic to his dream, was Tousey’s desire to create a crème de cassis with all local ingredients, including his own honey. Cassis is a sweet, dark-red liqueur made from black currants. Up until 2003, to ﬁnd a local cassis was impossible. Beginning in 1911, black currants became a sort of “forbidden fruit” because a disease the berries shared with white pines. White pine blister rust was a fungus that was thought to easily pass from the currents to the pines. With a burgeoning lumber industry in the region, the logging industry put pressure on lawmakers to eliminate the currants; eventually both the federal and several state governments passed bans on growing black currants. New, diseaseresistant, varieties of currants were later developed and in 1966 the government left it up to the states to lift the ban. The campaign to repeal the ban in New York State was spearheaded by Hudson Valley fruit grower Greg Quinn, who was able to persuade the state to lift the ban in 2003.

“Ray wanted to make a cassis with his own berries and his own honey,” said son-in-law and winemaker Ben Peacock. “In order to do this, he had to open his own winery...”

Previous to the ban, New York State was a leader in the production of currants, but today few Americans are familiar with the berries. Now wineries across the state, especially in the Hudson Valley, are moving to change that. The ﬁrst local winery to begin producing cassis after the ban was lifted was

Clinton Vineyards, in Clinton Corners. Since then the Hudson Valley has become increasingly known for the quality cassis that is produced by local wineries and vineyards. And for Tousey Winery, it was the cassis that started it all. “Ray wanted to make a cassis with his own berries and his own honey,” said son-inlaw and winemaker Ben Peacock. “In order to do this, he had to open his own winery. And with 200 hives he realized that a winery was a business in and of itself.” At that time Peacock and his wife Kimberly, Tousey’s daughter, were living in Europe and decided to come to the Hudson Valley to help Tousey reﬁne and run his winery. 2010 saw the opening of Tousey’s Tasting Room, and this fall the Winery celebrated the opening of a new tank and barrel room. Since coming over from Europe, Peacock’s

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Mercantile January 2012

top left, Tousey’s Creme de Cassis is made with all local ingredients, including Tousey-produced honey (lower left); middle & right, shots from Tousey’s Tasting Room in Germantown.

focus has been on positioning the winery as an integral part of both the local movement and as a draw for local tourism. “Now, we have a 15-acre vineyard,” he said, which puts the winery in the fortunate position of being able to produce estate products, entirely from their own fruits. (Currently about 50 percent of Tousey’s fruits are grown in their own vineyards, with much of the remaining grapes coming from the Finger Lakes region, speciﬁcally from Miles Wine Cellars on the western shores of Seneca Lake.) Peacock acknowledges Clinton Vineyard’s pioneering of local cassis as an inspiration for their own production, however by using estate-grown currants and their own honey in the process, Tousey takes a diﬀerent angle. Tousey Winery has also begun making a name for itself across the state, earning positive reviews for their Pinot Noir in both Wine Enthusiast and the New York Cork Report. One of their more popular wines – the pinot noir – is described by the New York Cork Report as having “aromas of red raspberries, strawberries and cranberries mingle with slightly earthy, woodsy notes on a classic pinot noir nose,” Peacock suggests the Pinot Noir as a very food-friendly wine. “It pairs very well with most foods,” he said. “It will compliment ham, turkey and most pasta dishes. It’s a good all-arounder.” Another of their wines that received a very positive review by the New York Cork Report is their oak-barrel aged Cabernet Franc. Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor of the popular blog, wrote that after tasting

Tousey’s Cabernet Franc, it is “hard not to consider Tousey Winery a major player in the resurgence of quality wine in Hudson Valley.” The wine is described by Thompson as plummy, medium-bodied with hints of chocolate and spice. Peacock describes it as having a blueberry nose, with a softness to the palate, making it perfect for wintry, February-style foods to get locals through an increasingly frigid winter. “It pairs well with heavier meats,” he said. “It lends itself to something like pork or lamb.” For the white wine enthusiast, Tousey’s Queen of Clermont blend is also popular. It is citrusy, with a hint of sweetness, making it a refreshing pairing for fare on the spicier side. Peacock recommends the Queen of Clermont as a compliment to Asian Cuisine that has heat to it, but also suggests it for salad and pastas. “It is crisp and refreshing,” he said. “It cleanses the palate with just a hint of sweetness. We generally recommend it to people who like their wines on the sweeter side. It’s a nice blend that’s not too dry.” Looking forward to warmer months, or perhaps another string of days in the mid50’s, Peacock recommends Tousey’s Riesling (which has already sold out this season!), their Pinot Noir, as well as their Rosé. “Rosé is generally misunderstood,” said Peacock. “Many people turn their nose up at it, but it is actually one of the trickiest wines to make.” Cheekily called “Rebellion Rose,” Tousey’s rosé is a food-friendly wine with a ﬂoral freshness, making it perfect for lighter fare as the temperature rises.

As the weather warms, Tousey and Hudson Valley residents both can look forward to their ﬁrst estate Reisling. An addition to the house red is also expected to be forthcoming, with a King of Clermont being bottled as a compliment to their already popular Queen of Clermont. With about 3000 gallons of their own fruit, Tousey is looking to bottle their whites in the spring, and their reds and rosé in the summertime. In the meantime, all of their wines can be sampled in their Germantown tasting room, along with other products grown and made right on the estate. Located in the Blue Roof building, on the northbound side of Route 9, the Tousey Winery Tasting Room is open Friday, noon to 7-p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5p.m. Tousey also has a table at the Rhinebeck Farmer’s Market on Sundays, where tastings are available. And, on Valentine’s weekend, the Tasting Room will host a special “Art, Love & Wine” event pairing the work of Rhinebeck artist Tom Cale with Tousey’s wines and festive nibbles. The event is free and open to the public. For more information visit their website, http://touseywinery.com, visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/TouseyWinery, or call 515.567.5462.

 Jen Kiaba is a photographer and writer based in Rhinebeck, NY. Her photography has been published in both regional and national magazines, and has recently been used for several international book covers.To see more of her work, visit http://photos.jenkiaba.com/

Mercantile January 2012

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Mercantile January 2012

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library Germantown

Join us in January for

Terra Tuesdays with Mud Creek Environmental Educator Chelsea Benson

Tuesday, January 17, 3:30 pm:

tracks and traces Search for signs of animal life and learn about local animals and their habitats. Make your own animal tracks to take home.

Tuesday, January 24, 3:30 pm:

Coping with the Cold Learn how plants and animals adapt to the cold . Experiment with snow as a natural insulator.

Tuesday, January 31, 3:30 pm:

Snowshoe hike Explore the winter landscape on snowshoes! Hike around Palatine Park searching for animal tracks and traces. Snowshoes will be available.

31 Palatine Park Road, Germantown, NY 12526 518.537.5800 â&#x20AC;˘ germantownlibrary.org

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Mercantile January 2012

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Mercantile January 2012

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Mercantile January 2012

PALETTE s e a s o n a l

Dutchess

‘Glacial Edge’ black-and-white photograph from Juliet Harrison’s ‘Equiscapes’ series is featured in the exhibition ‘FOUR’ at the Art POP! Gallery in Red Hook through January 29.

Art POP! Gallery

7505 North Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 Through January 29: “FOUR” works by Red Hook Community Arts Network’s steering committee: Juliet Harrison, Kari Feuer, Lisa Pinto and Marcy Currier will be displayed in the four rooms of the gallery. Hours: Saturday & Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; and by appt. Information: redhookcan@gmail.com; rhcan.blogspot.com

Barrett Art Center

485 Main St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 January 21-March 9: “New Directions 2011,” 27th annual national juried contemporary art exhibition. Juror: Susan Cross, Curator, Mass MoCA. Hours: Call for hours Information: 845.471.0407; http://www.barrettartcenter.org

bau Gallery

161 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508 January 14-February 5: “bau 85: Go West,” featuring the work of three exceptional Beacon artists, Karlos Carcamo, Greg Slick and Eleanor White. Hours: Call for hours Information: http://baugallery.com

Beacon Institute Gallery

199 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through March 4: “Ted Spiegel: The Hudson’s Seasons & Spans.” An accomplished photojournalist, Ted Spiegel has covered assignments across the globe, but like the 19th-century artists of the famed Hudson River School, he’s made the Hudson River Valley the focus of much of

his life’s work. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon5 p.m.; open until 8 p.m. Second Saturdays. Information: bire.org

CCS Bard Hessel Museum of Art

Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 February 1-26: “Retroactive,” an exhibition of site-speciﬁc works by Greek artist Antonis Pittas. This installation adds to the ongoing dialogue explored in his 2010 and 2011 exhibits “Untitled” at the Van Abbemuseum in Eindhoven, and shame on you, at the Annet Gelink Gallery in Amsterdam, where Pittas lives and works. Hours: Wed.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. Information: 845.758.7598; ccs@bard.edu; http://www.bard.edu/ccs

Dia:Beacon

Riggio Galleries, 3 Beekman Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Permanent Collection: In addition to the permanent collection, Dia Art Foundation is currently exhibiting: Through February 13, 2012: “Franz Erhard Walther: Work as Action.” Through September 4, 2012: “Circa 1971: Early Video & Film from the EAI Archive.” Circa 1971 presents a selection of video and film works by key figures in early video art from the collection of Electronic Arts Intermix (EAI), a nonprofit organization that fosters the creation, exhibition, distribution, and preservation of moving-image art. Through December 31, 2012: Jean-Luc Moulène, “Opus + One,” the first comprehensive exhibition in North America devoted to the work of this Paris-based artist. The installation will comprise objects and images created over the past two decades and will be accompanied by a new project at the Dan Flavin Art Institute in Bridgehampton, NY, as well as a major publication. continued on page 13 g

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Ongoing: “24 Farben – fur Blinky (24 Colors – for Blinky), 1977,” Imi Knoebel’s cycle of 21 shaped paintings. Ongoing: “Beacon Point,” George Trakas’ project for Beacon Point. Tickets: $10; $7 seniors and students; children under 12 free Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: 845.440.0100; www.diaart.org

fovea

143 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through February 11: “Gays in the Military: How America Thanked Me,” visual and audio testimonials collected by photographer Vince Cianni of more than 100 US servicemembers and veterans whose lives were aﬀected by the ban on homosexuality over the last six decades. Hours: Fri.-Sun., noon-6 p.m. Information: http://www.foveaexhibitions.org

Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center

College Center, Main Building, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 January 20-April 1: “Marco Maggi: Lentissimo,” a solo exhibition of 14 colorful new works by Marco Maggi made expressly for the occasion of this exhibition. Named for the Italian word for very slow as well as the musical tempo that denotes only 40 beats per minute, Lentissimo explores the artist’s relationship to time while inviting viewers in for quiet, careful observation. The works on view represent not only the slow pace required for viewing the work, but also reﬂect the intense concentration, introspection, and attention to detail involved in the artistic process. Opening Reception and Lecture: Friday, January 20, 5:30 p.m., “His Humble Majesty: The Artistry of Marco Maggi,” a lecture by Linda Weintraub, educator, author, artist and curator. Taylor Hall, Room 203 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

Gallery @ the Howland Cultural Center

477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through January 29: “Cowgirls: Contemporary Portraits of the American West,” work by photographer Ronnie Farley. Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 1-5 p.m.; closed 1/29 Information: 845.831.4988; http://www.howlandculturalcenter.org

James W. Palmer Gallery

College Center, Main Building, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 January 19-February 9: “Teen Visions ‘12,” an annual exhibition featuring more than 100 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs by high school students who participate in the Art Institute of Mill Street Loft. Reception: Held in conjunction with Modfest, Thursday, January 19, 5-7 p.m. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m. Information: http://palmergallery.vassar.edu

Marion Royael Gallery

460 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Through January: Modern works from the mid 20th century. Hours: noon-7 p.m., Thurs.-Sun. & by appt. Information: 541.301.0032; http://www.marionroyaelgallery.com

Mid-Hudson Heritage Center

Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Through January 31: “Beyond the Fringe,” work in various media by a number of textile artists from the region, including quilts, woven

‘Priscilla’- acrylic on canvas, by William Stoehr of Boulder, CO, is one of the selected works at Barrett Art Center’s annual ‘New Directions’ juried art exhibition.

tapestry, embroidery, weaving adn temari, an exquisite traditional Japanese embroidery form. Tuesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. throughout January: Free “Talk Textiles over Tea” discussions about the traditions and techniques of the ﬁber arts. On the 17th, Lucy Johnson, professor of Anthropology at Vassar will present “Textiles and Culture”; on the 24th, historian and archivist Kathy Moyer will present “Dutchess County Samplers of the 19th Century”; A closing reception will take place on January 31st. Hours: noon-8 p.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Information: 845.485.6911; http://midhudsonheritage.org

Mill Street Loft ARTS at the River Center

Long Dock Park, Red Flynn Road, Beacon, NY 12508 Through January 28: “The Big Draw,” an open submission art show featuring a wide variety of 6” x 8” artworks that will be for sale at the prix ﬁxe price of $50 each. These small artworks include photographs, collage, painting, mixed media and other art on paper. Hours: Mon. & Wed., 9:30-11:30 a.m.; Tues. & Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: 845.471.7477; lclark@millstreetloft.org; millstreetloft.org

Montgomery Row Second Level

6423 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through January 27: “A Pictorial Conversation,” a solo exhibit of paintings by Eileen Webb. Featuring more than 50 works produced during the past three years. Curated by Albert Shahinian in recognition of the artist’s lifelong dedication to her art. Webb’s vibrant colors and bold brush strokes reﬂect her vitality. The subjects/contents of her work incorporate a wealth of ideas and personalities – from portraits

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Mercantile January 2012

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Betsy Jacaruso Studio & Gallery weekly classes in watercolor, drawing and gouche now located in the Rhinebeck Courtyard (next to the back entrance of Bread Alone)

www.betsyjacarusostudio.com

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Mercantile January 2012 Jasmin Santana - Black & White photo painting with light, on display at Riverwinds’ ‘Teen Reﬂections’ show through February 6.

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friends to the exploration of deep existential questions – many times resonating with humor and insight. Her paintings are stylistically akin to the outsider artist tradition and remind us that an artist is an artist throughout her or his life. Meet-the-Artist Reception: Saturday, January 21, 5-7 p.m. February 4-March 31: “In the Field,” an exhibition of paintings and photographs by local artists Sally Lyon and Rosemary Hanson. Information: 845.876.0543; suehartshorn@frontiernet.net

Rhinebeck Savings Bank

1476 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Through January: BACA at the Bank presents watercolors by Beacon artist Timothy Delaney. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Information: http://beaconarts.org

RiverWinds Gallery

172 Main St., Beacon 12508 Through February 6: Eighth annual “Teen Reﬂections: Beacon High School Art Students Show.” This year the young art students have created paintings, photographs, ceramics, digital art and more. The works demonstrate an amazing use of color, composition, imagination, and skill with the various media. Hours: Wed. - Mon., noon - 6 p.m.; Second Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Information: 845.838.2880; http://riverwindsgallery.com

RiverWinds Gallery @ Wells Fargo Advisors

6423 Montgomery St., Suite 10, 2nd Floor, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through January 24: “Reﬂections: A Group Art Show.”

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; and by appt. Information: 845.838.2880; http://riverwindsgallery.com

Thompson Library @ Vassar College

124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 January 18-March 9: Exhibition of Artists’ Books from the Women’s Studio Workshop. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

Tivoli Artists Co-op

60 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583 February 3-26: “Erotica Show: Let Me Entertain You,” annual fundraising show featuring sensual and playfully suggestive works by member and nonmember artists working in photography, painting, drawing, collage, mixed media, and sculpture. Opening Reception and Fundraiser: Saturday, February 4, 7-9 p.m. featuring live entertainment and a variety of food and drink. 18 and over only. Tickets: $10 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.tivoliartistsco-op.com

Ulster Savings Bank

7296 South Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 Through January: Photographs by current and former students of the Center for Spectrum Services (formerly The Children’s Annex), a private, not-for-proﬁt program designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Photographer Deborah DeGraﬀenreid mentored the students. Information: 845.758.4020; http://centerforspectrumservices.org

Columbia.

American Glory Upstairs Gallery

342 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through February: Columbia County Council on the Arts Solo Show featuring the work of M. Scott Schaﬀernoth. Information: 518-671-6213; http://artscolumbia.org

Basilica Hudson

110 S. Front St., Hudson, NY 12534 February 11-25: Laetitia Hussain solo show featuring 10 paintings and 1,000 sculptures. Opening Reception: Saturday, February 11, 5-8 p.m. Information: http://basilicahudson.com

Carrie Haddad Gallery

622 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through January 22: “Winter Exhibit,” brings together the narrative paintings of Ashley Cooper, portraits by Tracy Helgeson, contemporary landscapes by Tony Thomson, abstract paintings by Jenny Nelson, and outsider-art-inspired work by Judith Hoyt. January 26-March 4: “Tell Me a Story: Narrative Works” featuring a pictorial history of being black in America by Anima Katz; Tona Wilson’s social injustice series about laborers, prisoners and politics; and the covertly sinister paintings of David Austin. Reception: Saturday, January 28, 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 continued on page 16 g

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The Big Draw exhibition & rally (1/28) will take place at Mill Street Loft’s ARTS at the River Center Gallery at Long Dock Park in Beacon.

Columbia County Council on the Arts

CCCA Gallery 209 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 January 21-March 10: “Animal Art,” a special show beneﬁtting the Columbia-Greene Humane Society. 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 Blue Hill Gallery, through January 25: Meryl Learnihan, Chris Margolias, Ellen Mahnken. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Kaaterskill Gallery, through January 29: Work by Jerry Cooley. Hours: Wed.-Sat., 5-7 p.m., and by appt. Information: 518.828.4181; http://www.sunycgcc.edu

Hudson Opera House

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327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through February 12: “Split Inﬁnitive: The work of Joel Carreiro and Brian Wood -- two artists whose works share a visual exploration into that shadowy territory teetering between ﬁguration and abstraction, reality and dream. Hours: Daily, noon-5 p.m. Information: 518.822.1438; http://hudsonoperahouse.org

John Davis Gallery

362 ½ Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Through January 29: Work by Dionisio Cortes. “This current show is composed of two distinctive bodies of work: ‘the sky series’ which revisits a series of sky paintings that was executed after the 9/11 events, and ‘the pattern series’, that further develops my ongoing conversation between pattern, form and space. February 2-26: “Paintings: Lucy & Robert Reitzfeld.” Artists’ Reception: Saturday, February 4, 6-8 p.m. Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: 518.828.5907; http://johndavisgallery.com

Omi International Arts Center

Charles B. Beneson Visitors Center Gallery & Fields Sculpture Park, 1405 County Route 22, Ghent, NY 12075 Year ‘round, The Fields Sculpture Park, during daylight hours: More than 60 acres of rolling farmland, wetlands and wooded areas, The Fields Sculpture Park presents the works 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. Founded in 1998, The Fields oﬀer nearly 80 works of art on view–with several pieces added or exchanged every year. Information: 518.392.4747; http://artomi.org

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Mercantile January 2012

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Winter Happenings 2012 January 20 - 21

January 29 - 30

From Stage to Screen proudly presents

The Cunneen Hackett Arts Center announces

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a Musical Review with Choreography

This play was written to showcase the talents of many students. There’s a cheerleader, a romantic, a karate kid, a comic, a pretty but vain girl, an acrobat, a couple of characters that are quiet and shy, a leader, a drama queen, and even dumb Dora. Everyone gets the opportunity to sing and dance to old favorites such as Actor/singers ages 10 through 70 are encouraged to Another Op’nin Another Show, Amore, Do Re Me and audition for the 15 available roles. The Secret Garden, set in 1906, was written by author Frances Hodgson the Tarantella. Burnett. The musical version of the novel was penned by Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon and enjoyed a For information call 845-486-4571 or visit long Broadway run in the 1990s and again in revival. www.fromstagetoscreen.net The Secret Garden will open on stage in the historic Victorian Theater at the Cunneen Hackett Arts Center on April 13, 2012.

January 21 - 22 From Stage to Screen proudly presents

For information call 845-486-4571

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A grown-up story about growing up! When his parents get divorced and he’s forced to move from New York to a small town in Indiana, Evan Goldman just wants to make friends and survive the school year. Easier said than done. For information call 845-486-4571 or visit

www.fromstagetoscreen.net

Ongoing classes in Ballet, Tai Chi, Jazz, Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Journaling And More!!

��

cunneen-hackett arts center is a funded member of DCAC

9 & 12 Vassar Street • Poughkeepsie, NY • 845-486-4571

cunneen-hackett.org

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Mercantile January 2012

68 Firehouse Lane Red Hook, NY 12571 845.876.1559 or 845.758.3601 Fax: 845.758.8002 Nutrena • Blue Seal • Purina Feeds

Fertilizers • Shavings • Feed • Fencing Pet Food & Supplies • Lime • Bedding Straw • Lawn & Garden Supplies advertising@hvrising.com • 845.546.3051

Mercantile January 2012

Workshops & Special Event s

continued from page 16 i

The Red Hook Emporium Third Saturday

7392 South Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 Saturday, January 21, 4-6 p.m.: This month, Red Hook Emporium showcases member and entrepreneur, Henry Christopher. Henry has a Perfumery at the Red Hook Emporium and will be there to help you design your very own scent! Don’t miss this fun filled evening to have a special fragrance created just for you and raise a glass of delicious wine from Tousey Winery. The Red Hook Emporium is centrally located in the village of Red Hook with plenty of off-street parking. It is an enticing place with an assortment of items, from wonderful antiques, beautiful original artwork, handmade furniture and jewelry to candles, incense and aroma therapy we have more to offer every week! Information: 845.758.0202

Gallery Talks at Dia:Beacon

Dia:Beacon, Riggio Galleries, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, January 28, 2 p.m.: Nico Israel on Robert Smithson. Focused on the work of the artists in Dia’s collection, the one-hour presentations are given by curators, art historians, and writers, and take place in museum’s galleries. Tickets: Free with museum admission Information: 845.440.0100; http://www.diaart.org

The Big Draw Gala Party & Live Drawing Rally

Mill Street Loft ARTS at the River Center, Long Dock Park, Red Flynn Road, Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, January 28, 7-10 p.m.: A night of live drawing, prix ﬁxe art, music, food & drink, an open bar and many more festivities. The Drawing Rally will feature a pre-arranged select group of artists creating 11” x 14” drawings while the party goes on around them. As these drawings are completed, they will immediately be put up for sale on the wall for $75 each. Tickets: Available at the door for $15 each, or 2 for $20. Proceeds from the evening’s event will beneﬁt Beacon Open Studios, Mill Street Loft Arts and the participating artists. Information: 845.471.7477; lclark@millstreetloft.org; millstreetloft.org

Gallery Talks at Dia:Beacon

Dia:Beacon, Riggio Galleries, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, February 4, 2 p.m.: Christian Rattemeyer on Franz Erhard Walther. Tickets: Free with museum admission Information: 845.440.0100; http://www.diaart.org

Erotica Show Opening Party & Fundraiser

Tivoli Artists Co-op, 60 Broadway, Tivoli, NY 12583 Saturday, February 4, 7-9 p.m.: The annual “Erotica” show kicks oﬀ with an opening party themed “Let Me Entertain You.” Performances by actor and singer Nan Eliot; co-op member artist and vocalist Karl Volk; and many other surprises. Later in the evening, enjoy sensual bellydancing by consummate dancer Elizabeth Muise. The “Erotica” show runs through February 26. Tickets: $10, 18 and over only. Information: 845.757.2667; http://www.tivoliartistsco-op.com

Fashion Design 101

RHCAN ArtPop Gallery, Red Hook, NY 12571 Saturday, February 11, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Learn the basics of fashion design with artist Lisa Pinto, former fashion designer and graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology. Learn to draw your designs on the fashion ﬁgure, make professional looking ﬂat sketches, and how a design

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goes from your original idea to a completed garment. Bring markers, paints, colored pencils or anything else you’d like to use to create your designs. Tickets: $25 per person Information: 845.505.9024; lpinto2007@gmail.com

Contemporary Crafters of Color

Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, February 11, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.: An exhibition of ﬁber arts by local artisans of color, curated by Irene Wiley. Information: 518.822.1438; http://hudsonoperahouse.org

The Beauty of Ice (Sculpting Competition)

Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, Long Dock Rd., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, February 11, noon-4 p.m.: Kick oﬀ 2012’s second “Second Saturday” in Beacon by watching top-notch artists test their creativity. Scenic Hudson and Mill Street Loft have partnered to bring some of the region’s best sculptors to Long Dock Park. Watch as they turn river ice, driftwood and other objects found along the shoreline into intriguing works of art. They’ll begin sculpting at noon; their works will remain on display until they melt. Swing by between 3 - 4 p.m. to vote on your favorite sculpture. Information: 845.473.4440 x 273; http://scenichudson.org

Abstract Expressionism and the African American Artist Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, February 11, 2 p.m.: A presentation exploring the role of the African American artist in the historic and contemporary world of abstract painting. Tickets: Free Information: 518.822.1438; http://hudsonoperahouse.org

Second Saturday Beacon

Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, February 11, 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

Gallery Talks at Dia:Beacon

Dia:Beacon, Riggio Galleries, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, February 11, 2 p.m.: Lori Zippay on Circa 1971: Early Video & Film from the EAI Archives. Tickets: Free with museum admission Information: 845.440.0100; http://www.diaart.org

100 for a Hundred

Locust Grove, 2683 South Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, February 11, 4-7 p.m.: 100 donated works of art by some of the area’s most popular artists are raﬄed oﬀ to help raise funds for the Barrett Art Center. Only 100 all-inclusive tickets at $100 each sold for admittance. Price includes admission for two, cocktails & hors d’oeuvres, and one work of art. Information: 845.454.4500 x 217; http://www.barrettartcenter.org

Interactive Valentine’s Day Art Event: “Love/Hate”

Blackbird Attic, 442 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Saturday, February 11, 5-9 p.m.: Through February 9, Blackbird Attic is accepting anonymous love or hate letters and artwork to be displayed gallery-style. The ﬁnale event on Feb. 11, will showcase all the submitted works. A dance party follows at 159 Fishkill Ave. in Beacon Refreshments served at both locations. Information: 845.418.4840; info@blackbirdattic.com

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Mercantile January 2012 PHOTOGRAPHY MADE EASY

photo editing how to make your photographs look professional

by Joel Weisbrod

with the days of the darkroom rapidly disappearing, photographers have turned to a new tool to replace the many special developing techniques professional photo labs have provided for more than 100 years – computer software. These software tools come in all sizes and shapes but the all-time leader in photographic editing and manipulation is Adobe® Photoshop®. This powerhouse of photo editing techniques offers photographers a complete editing service right on your personal computer (PC or MAC). In its “lite” form, Adobe® uses the name “Photoshop Elements®” which has most of the basic features of the full version at a much more reasonable price. Another popular Adobe® product of interest to photographers is LightRoom®. In this column, we will explore the differences in these two products. In future columns, we will outline some basic techniques useful for editing your photos and making ordinary photos look extraordinary! Adobe® Photoshop® and Photoshop® Elements® This software is perfect for serious editing of any photograph. It is designed to allow editing of one image at a time but allows you to combine multiple images or parts of images into one another or into a completely new image. Want to add a picture of your dog to the family photo? This software can do this efficiently and effectively. Need to remove that electric wire from the sky in your beautiful landscape photo? No problem! Adobe® has included so many features that most of us will never use them all. Photoshop® uses a destructive editing methodology that requires saving your changed image as a separate image file (different name or folder) so you do not lose your original image. This can be accomplished in many different ways that protect your original files from being changed. Photoshop® is the industry standard for photographic editing for good reason. If you plan to make significant changes to your images or want to combine multiple images into one, you will never be limited when using this software. Adobe® LightRoom® This software combines many features desired by serious photographers. In addition to being a superb editing tool (somewhat limited compared to Photoshop®), it is a total photography management system, automating some of the most arduous tasks facing digital photographers. From capturing the

Photoshop® is the industry standard for photographic editing for good reason. If you plan to make significant changes to your images or want to combine multiple images into one, you will never be limited when using this software. photos from your camera’s memory card through the process of printing, publishing on the web, or creating a slideshow, LightRoom® does it all. Create catalogs, group similar photos, compare photos to choose, edit and crop photos, create copies, and much more. Unlike Photoshop®, LightRoom® is designed to organize, manage, view, compare, and edit or manipulate tens, hundreds or even thousands of images in a simplified workflow tool. If you take lots of photographs and need to organize them as well as edit or manipulate them, consider LightRoom® as a solution. Summary Both Adobe® products are comprehensive tools for photographs. As a professional photographer, I use LightRoom® for most production work and rely on Photoshop® for the more difficult or serious editing jobs. I use Photoshop® for all photo restoration work, combining two or more images into one (e.g. panoramas), serious defect removal (glare in eyeglasses), and whenever I need to work on one single photo. When I return from a photo shoot with hundreds of photos, I use LightRoom® to copy the photos to my computer, view and rate the photos to select the “keepers”, compare similar shots to determine which is a better photograph, edit and crop as necessary, and then export selected and fully corrected images as proofs for my customers. Whichever software you choose, you will not be disappointed.

 Joel Weisbrod is a published author of a book on digital photography and the owner of jwArtWorks Photography in Rhinebeck. In addition to portrait, commercial, event, and other photography, Joel teaches Photography for Red Hook Central Schools AdultEducation as well as private one-on-one photography classes. He can be reached by email at mercantile@jwArtWorks.com.

Mercantile January 2012

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rural traditions, community connections

rural traditions, community connections Part I: red hook, by Robin Cherry

1812

...in the early 1800s, “people lived as they had in Europe, producing the wool they wore, the flax for their household linen, and preparing their winter supply of meat.” And dueling was still considered the gentlemanly way to settle a dispute.

Left: Portrait of United States patriot and diplomat John Armstrong Jr.; Right: ‘Alida Livinston Armstrong and Daughter’, both portraits by Rembrandt Peale. Oil on canvas. Courtesy of the Independence National Historical Park, National Park Service.

Two hundred years ago Red Hook split from Rhinebeck, becoming an independent, self-governing township. It was by all accounts, a peaceful separation, authorized by the New York State Legislature to make it more convenient for residents to attend town meetings as horse and carriage were the primary means of transport. But although things between Rhinebeck and Red Hook were cordial, 1812 was not a peaceful time in the newly minted United States. The country was at war. The war between France and Britain disrupted trade between the two countries and the United States. President James Madison’s request that they respect his nation’s neutrality and commercial interests was ignored. And although both countries targeted American trade, Madison declared war on Britain because of its additionally annoying habit of seizing American ships and forcing her sailors into the service of the Royal Navy. Red Hook resident General John Armstrong, who married Alida Livingston (sister of Chancellor Robert R. Livingston)

started work on his estate La Bergerie (later christened Rokeby) in 1811 but the war delayed the completion of the mansion and Mrs. Armstrong received many letters concerning beams, flooring, cellars, and farm buildings from her absent husband. According to later Rokeby resident, Margaret Chanler Aldrich, in the early 1800s, “people lived as they had in Europe, producing the wool they wore, the flax for their household linen, and preparing their winter supply of meat.” And dueling was still considered the gentlemanly way to settle a dispute. Armstrong was appointed Brigadier General in 1812 and Secretary of War in 1813. His oldest sons, Horatio Gates Armstrong and Henry Beekman Armstrong were sent into service on the Canadian “frontier” where Horatio led the 23rd Infantry and Henry helmed the 13th. As soldiers, their daily rations were 20 ounces of beef, 18 ounces of flour, .64 ounces of both salt and soap, .24 ounce of candle, and one gill (4 ounces) of both rum and vinegar. Henry was wounded in

the war’s first significant contest, The Battle of Queenston Heights but recovered sufficiently to return to battle in 1813. Back at home, John Hermance married Elizabeth Hapeman on January 19, at St. John’s Low Dutch Reformed Church in Upper Red Hook. Their first daughter, Catherine Marie was born on September 17, 1812. They would go on to have 19 more children. As couples married earlier, large families were not exceptional. Four of John and Elizabeth’s children would not survive until their first birthday; one would die shortly after her 18th birthday; the rest would live exceptionally long lives with six of their children living past 70 and three living past 90. The average white couple in 1812 could expect to have 7-8 children. On average, one would die before their first birthday and another would die before the age of 21. (African-Americans, some still slaves, had higher rates of infant and childhood mortality.) Pneumonia, typhoid, and dysentery were the primary causes of death in babies. For children, the risks were chicken pox, measles, mumps, scarlet fever, and whooping cough. Adults were usually done in by tuberculosis euphemistically called “consumption.” The average life span was roughly 39 years old. And unlike today, a woman’s life span was shorter than a man’s because of the inherent dangers of child birth.

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Mercantile January 2012 in 1807, robert fulton invented the steam boat... Fulton, livingston and their heirs held a monopoly on hudson river travel between new york city and albany until 1824.

Clermont illustration - Robert Fulton from Project Gutenberg; source: wikipedia.org

On July 9, 1812 Red Hook lost one of its more colorful citizens when Colonel Andrew De Veaux died after a fall. The South Carolina native and British loyalist had settled in Red Hook (after capturing the Bahamas from Spain and returning them to Britain). He married the wealthy socialite Anna Maria Verplanck but lived beyond both of their means and four days before his death, offered their estate for sale “on accommodating terms.” De Veaux was interred in the Cemetery at the Reformed (Dutch) Church in Upper Red Hook. One can assume that, in the tradition of the day, he was buried in a casket made by the local cabinet maker/undertaker as both tasks were frequently performed by the same person. De Veaux’s estate boasted “a garden of four acres with all kinds of the most valuable fruit, as well as a considerable stock of horses, cattle, sheep, farming utensils, wagons, carts, and oxen.” The estate reflected the area as during this time, although trade was difficult, agriculture thrived.

The aforementioned Armstrong estate was called La Bergerie, the sheep pen, after the ﬂock of Merino sheep that Napoleon had given to Armstrong at the end of his diplomatic

...in 1812, french immigrant claudius massonneau opened his general store at red hook’s four corners on land purchased from john armstrong.

service to France. Sheep continued to thrive in Red Hook; in 1824, there were 6,406 sheep recorded. James Williams’ advertisement in an 1812 edition of the Poughkeepsie Journal highlights the diverse selection of fruit trees that thrived in the area. His apple trees were Spitzenburgs (Thomas Jeﬀerson’s favorite), Swaars, Gloria Mundi (a variety which some say originated at Crooke’s Farm in Red Hook in the early 1800s), Ox, Pie, and Paradise. His peach trees were Pine Apple, President, Lemon, and Congress. There were Moorpark apricots and Swan’s egg pears; Queen Claude plumbs (sic) and Brentford Rhaspberries (sic). The Massonneau family, best known for the Tobacco Factory, got its mercantile start in 1790 and in 1812, French immigrant Claudius Massonneau opened his general store at Red Hook’s four corners on land purchased from John Armstrong. Massonneau was well-connected, having married Robert G. Livingston’s daughter Catherine. In 1807, Robert Fulton invented the steam boat (with the ﬁnancial support of Clermont’s Robert Livingston). Fulton, Livingston and their heirs held a monopoly on Hudson River travel between New York City and Albany until 1824. In 1812, the price of passage from Albany to Red Hook was $2.75; from New York City to Red Hook, $4.50. The NYC-Red Hook trip took about 30 hours. An

advertisement of the time advises that: Young person 2 to 10 years of age are 1/2 price. Children under 2 are 1/4 price. Servants who use a berth are 2/3 price, without a berth 1/2 price. Slavery, alas, was still prevalent in both the grand estates and humbler homes of New York although it had been abolished in the neighboring states of New England and Pennsylvania in 1784. Although New York passed an act in 1799 calling for slavery’s gradual abolition, a gazette claims that as late as 1824, there were still 182 slaves in Red Hook. Fortunately, 200 years later, slavery, dueling, and high infant mortality are relegated to history’s dump heap. Instead as we celebrate Red Hook’s bicentennial, we honor the river, estates, politicians, farmers, entrepreneurs, ancestors, and immigrants that made Red Hook the vibrant town it is today - 200 years of rural traditions and community connections.



2012 Red Hook Bicentennial Celebration activities are scheduled to begin on Apple Blossom Day, May 12, 2012, and conclude on Hardscrabble Day, September 22, 2012. Among the “must attend” events will be: giant puppet-making workshops; a Community Day of old-time games; food and fun at Montgomery Place on July 14; a ticketed tour of 10 historically important homes, buildings and grounds in Red Hook, Tivoli, Annandale, Barrytown and Upper Red Hook; a musical performance by acclaimed Broadway artists at the Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College; an oldfashioned barn dance; and, on August 11, a sunset concert on the banks of the Hudson by the West Point Band of the U.S. Military Academy. So mark your calendars and get ready for a year of fun-ﬁlled celebration! And keep an eye out for regular updates on Red Hook Bicentennial events in Hudson Valley Mercantile, our media partner.

 Robin Cherry is the treasurer of the Egbert Benson Historical Society and author of Catalog: The Illustrated History of Mail Order Shopping. She’s working on a book on the history of garlic and blogs on garlic and travel at www.garlicescapes.com.

Mercantile January 2012

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sounds season of

Legendary vocalist Mavis Staples performs at the Bardavon January 20. Photo submitted.

An Evening with Mavis Staples

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, January 20, 8 p.m.: With her bold new album produced by Wilco’s Jeﬀ Tweedy, You Are Not Alone, the legendary vocalist adds a remarkable new chapter to an historic career. Staples is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award-winner, and a National Heritage Fellowship Award recipient. VH1 named her one of the 100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll, and Rolling Stone listed her as one of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. Tickets: $45 Information: 845.473.2072; http://www.bardavon.org

Hudson Valley Folk Guild: Scott Berwick

Unitarian Fellowship, South Randolph Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, January 21, 7:30 p.m.: The Poughkeepsie Chapter of the Hudson Valley Folk Guild kicks off its 2012 coffeehouse series with an open mic format followed by the featured performer, Scott Berwick. Berwick presents unique musical programs, often combining traditional songs with contemporary songs dealing with the environmnet and other issues of social significance. A mix of folk and bluegrass. Tickets: $6; $5 seniors and folk guild members Information: 845.229.0170; hvfolks@aol.com

Rigoletto: Opera Ritaglia

Roosevelt High School Auditorium, Hyde Park, NY 12538 Saturday, January 21, 7:30 p.m.: Presented by Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra in partnership with the Delaware Valley Opera and Carol Castel. Featuring tenor Blake Friedman, soprano Maryann Mootos, and baritone Martin Fisher. Tickets: $20; $15 seniors; $5 students Information: 845.635.0877; http://www.ndsorchestra.org

Anthony de Mare Liaisons: Re-Imagining Sondheim from the Piano

Hudson Opera House, Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, January 21, 8 p.m.: Anthony de Mare is internationally recognized as one of the world’s foremost champions of contemporary music. His latest project, Liaisons: Re-Imagining Sondheim from the Piano, is a landmark commissioning and concert project that expresses his vision to expand both the repertoire and the audience for contemporary music. With Liaisons, de Mare and producer Rachel Colbert have brought together 36 of today’s most highly regarded emerging and established composers to create a solo piano piece based on a Sondheim song of their own choosing. Exclusive new works from Steve Reich, William Bolcom, Adam Guettel, Tania Leon, Ricky Ian Gordon, Paul Moravec, and Kenji Bunch, among others, will bring the work of musical theater maestro Stephen Sondheim while spanning the classical contemporary, jazz, ﬁlm, theater and pop worlds. Currently on the roster of Yamaha Artists, he has been praised for his “muscularly virtuosic, remarkably uninhibited performance [and] impressive talents” (Anthony Tommasini, The New York Times). Tickets: $20 Information: 518.822.1640; http://www.hudsonoperahouse.org

JACK String Quartet

Vassar College, Skinner Hall of Music, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Saturday, January 21, 8 p.m.: One of the most vibrant young groups on the New York new music scene performs hard-core modernism by Xenakis, Scelsi, and Ligeti. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free and open to the public. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

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Mercantile January 2012 Music of the Americas

Camphill Copake’s Fountain Hall, 84 Camphill Rd., Copake, NY Friday, February 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m.: Pianist Pei-Yeh Tsai and cellist Rebecca Hartka perform colorful “Music from the Americas.” The program will feature a wide range of styles, from the late Romanticism of Amy Beach and Edward MacDowell, the searing contemporary beauty of Barber to the Spanish inﬂuenced Cuban composer Joaquin Nin, and a beloved tango by Argentinian/NewYorker Astor Piazzolla. The duo will also present the world premiere of a cello and piano work entitled: “...on top of frosted hill...” by up and coming young American composer Anthony Green. Tickets: $10; $5 children and seniors; $20 families Information: 518.329.4851; http://www.camphillvillage.org

Love is in the Air In The Mood

The JACK String Quartet performs at Vassar’s Modfest on Jan. 21.

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, January 27, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.: Art Beat presents In the Mood the 1940s Big Band, Song and Swing Dance Revue that celebrates America’s Greatest Generation through the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and more with music arrangements, costumes and choreography that are as authentic as it gets! It’s a sentimental, romantic, nostalgic, jazzy and patriotic tribute to America’s Swing Era. Tickets: $32.50-$49.50 Information: 845.473.2072; http://www.bardavon.org

Cabaret Night

Vassar College, Aula, Ely Hall, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Friday, January 27, 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.: A sampling of the Great American Songbook--Gershwin, Kern, Porter, Berlin, Rodgers, Sondheim, and others. Featuring singers from the Vassar College choirs as well as the music department. At the piano is David Alpher, Vassar music department staﬀ accompanist. A fundraiser in support of the Vassar College Choral Ensembles’ spring 2012 tour to England and France. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Tickets: Students: $5 advance; $7 door; Adults: $10/$15 Information: vassarcollegechoir@gmail.com; http://arts.vassar.edu

Mahagonny Ensemble

Vassar College, Skinner Hall of Music, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Saturday, January 28, 8 p.m.: Orchestral and Chamber Ensembles. The Vassar College Orchestra and Mahagonny Ensembles perform works by Arvo Part, Gerald Fini, and Almeida Navega. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

Soyeon Lee, Piano

Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Sunday, January 29, 4 p.m.: Recent winner of the prestigious Naumburg Piano Competition, Korean pianist Soyeon Lee has been hailed by the New York Times as a pianist with “a huge, richly varied sound, a lively imagination and a ﬁrm sense of style.” She has performed as soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra and London Symphony, and has given recitals at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center and other prestigious venues. Tickets: $30; $10 students Information: 845.297.9243; http://howlandmusic.org

FDR Library and Museum, Wallace Center, 4079 Albany Post Rd., Hyde Park, NY 12538 Wednesday, February 8, 7 p.m.: Concert to beneﬁt F.W. Vanderbilt Garden Association. Tickets: $12 advance Information: 845.229.6432; http://www.vanderbiltgarden.org

The Fab Faux

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Saturday, February 11, 8 p.m.: With a commitment to the accurate reproduction of The Beatles’ repertoire, The Fab Faux treat the seminal music with unwavering respect, and are known for their painstaking recreations of the songs with emphasis on the later works never performed live by the Fab Four. Tickets: $51 & $66 Information: 845.473.2072; http://www.bardavon.org

Jeremy Denk

Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Sunday, February 12, 4 p.m.: Pianist Jeremy Denk has steadily built a reputation as one of today’s most compelling and persuasive artists, with an unusually broad repertoire. When asked to return to the Howland Center, he oﬀered to play two concerts focused on the Mozart Sonatas. Tickets: $30; $10 students Information: 845.297.9243; http://howlandmusic.org

Mendelssohn’s Elijah

Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 Fri. & Sat., Feb. 17 & 18, 8 p.m.: American Symphony Orchestra, Bard College Conservatory of Music and the Fisher Center present Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” performed by members of the Bard Conservatory Orchestra, members of the American Symphony Orchestra with singers of the Graduate Vocal Arts Program, The Bard College Chamber Singers, Cappella Festiva, James Bagwell, chorusmaster, and Leon Botstein, music director and conductor. Tickets: $20 suggested donation for orchestra seating; $15 parterre/ﬁrst balcony; minimum donation $5. Free to Bard community with I.D. Information: 845.758.7900; http://ﬁshercenter.bard.edu

The Arabesque Trio

Elmendorph Inn, 7562 Route 9, Red Hook, NY 12571 Sunday, February 19, 3-5 p.m.: The 2012 Gala Beneﬁt for The Rhinebeck Chamber Music Society will celebrate Spain with a concert featuring Spanish music, followed by tapas and other delicacies. Silent auction featuring a vacation week in Italy and Spain. Tickets: $35 Information: http://www.rhinebeckmusic.org

Mercantile January 2012

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live!

on stage

Yasmina Reza’s play, ‘ART’ will be staged by 4th Wall Productions at The Beacon at the end of January.

Annie

The Center for Performing Arts, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Through January 29, Fri. & Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.: Tony Awardwinning family favorite Annie comes to the stage under the direction of AnnChris Warren. Based on the Harold Gray comic strip “Little Orphan Annie” the play features a bright score that has become part of the American musical heritage. Tickets: $26; $22 seniors Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

FUNding Follies: A Musical Revue

Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, 12 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Fri., Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Jan. 21, 11:30 a.m.: This play was written to showcase the talents of many students. There’s a cheerleader, a romantic, a karate kid, a comic, a pretty but vain girl, an acrobat, a couple of characters that are quiet and shy, a leader, a drama queen, and even dumb Dora. Everyone gets the opportunity to sing and dance to old favorites such as Another Op’nin Another Show, Amore, Do Re Me and the Tarantella. Tickets: $8 Information: 914.474.9888; http://fromstagetoscreen.net

Urinetown, The Musical

The Ghent Playhouse, 6 Town Hall Place, Ghent, NY 12075 January 20-February 5, Fri. & Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.: A musical about pee. It’s true. Set in the future where water is scarce and urine has value. The show made its splash in 1999 and then trickled its way to Broadway. You’re in for a great night of music and laughter. Pun intended. Tickets: $18 Information: 518.392.6264; http://ghentplayhouse.org

Abigail/1702

Martel Theater, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Saturday, January 21, 5:30 p.m.: Powerhouse Theater presents a free reading of Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s “Abigail/1702,” the story of a woman’s quest for forgiveness for past sins, both real and imagined. The play explores what happened to “The Crucible’s” Abigail Williams once the Salem witch hunts were over. Award-winning playwright AguirreSacasa is a writer on the hit television series Glee, an author of Marvel Comic Books, and his plays include Good Boys and True and The Mystery Plays. Information: http://vassar.tix.com

Winter Wonderlaughs

Mount Washington House, 2627 Main St., Hillsdale, NY 12529 Saturday, January 21, 8 p.m.: Columbia Arts Team presents a night of uproarious comedy featuring Greg Aidala (Albany’s #1 comic), Drew Jacobs (comedic songwriter) and Andrew Joﬀe (Craryville’s own master of mirth). Appropriate for those 16 and older. Tickets: $10 Information: http://www.columbiaartsteam.org

Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center, 12 Vassar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sat., Jan. 21, 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Jan. 22, 1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.: A grown-up story about growing up! When his parents get divorced and he’s forced to move from New York to a small town in Indiana, Evan Goldman just wants to make friends and survive the school year. Easier said than done. Tickets: $12; $10 children 12 and under; $8 if you can prove you are 13 Information: 914.474.9888; http://fromstagetoscreen.net

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Mercantile January 2012 All My Sons

County Players Falls Theatre, 2681 W. Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY Feb. 3-18, Fri. & Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 12, 2 p.m.: All My Sons, Arthur Miller’s ﬁrst commercial success, tells the story of an American family caught up in the struggle between personal responsibility and duty to their country. Joe Keller, a successful and selfmade man, has done a terrible thing--during World War II, hurriedly trying to meet an order from the Army, he knowingly sold them defective airplane parts which later caused the planes to crash and killed 21 men. He engineered his own exoneration and falsely turned in his business partner. His son is about to marry the partner’s daughter, and when the issue is revisited, Joe’s lie of a life is revealed. While spending his whole life in the pursuit of wealth for the sake of his family, Joe represents the American Dream gone wrong. Tickets: $15 Information: 845.298.1491; http://www.countyplayers.org

Magic Palooza: Friday

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Friday, February 10, 8 p.m.: Local magicians Derrin Berger and Frank Monaco will share the stage to kick-oﬀ Magic Palooza. Derrin’s unique blend of comedy and magic leaves audiences gasping in amazement while drying their eyes from tears of laughter. Frank’s style of magic involves live animals and much audience participation to make you feel like you are part of the show. Tickets: $18 Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Bindlestiﬀ Family Cirkus Bindlestiﬀ Family Cirkus will be at Club Helsinki in Hudson on Feburary 10. Photo submitted.

ART

The Beacon, 445 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Fri. & Sat., Jan. 27 & 28 and Feb. 3 & 4, 8 p.m.; Sun., Jan. 29 & Feb. 5, 2 p.m.: How would you feel about your best friend if he suddenly did something so colossally stupid in your eyes it made you question your very friendship? It happens in Yasmina Reza’s monster international hit, ART, winner of the 1998 Tony Award for Best Comedy and New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play of the same year. When an art lover buys what is in essence a pure white painting for a horse-choking sum of money, his best friend goes ballistic and a third friend gets squeezed in the middle. Questions about strange modern art – and strange modern friendships – ﬂy thick. This is the perfect play for the “Art and Culture Capital of the Hudson Valley.” Tickets: $15 Information: 845.226.8099; http://thebeacontheatre.org

Laugh, Cry, Kiss

Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, January 28, 7 p.m.: Scenes from 20th Century American Plays by http: Hudson teen theatre project’s advanced scene work students. Free. Information: 518.822.1438; http://hudsonoperahouse.org

Dance Performance: Vassar Repertory Dance Theatre

Vassar College, Frances Daly Fergusson Dance Theater, Kenyon Hall, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Friday, February 3, 8 p.m.: Vassar Repertory Dance Theatre performs works selected from their current repertoire. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free and open to the public. Reservations: 845.437.7470; dancetix@vassar.edu Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

Club Helsinki, 405 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Friday, February 10, 9 p.m.: Musical Maestro the Mystic Shadow will accompany jugglers, contortionists, acrobats, aerial artists, sideshow marvels, novelty artists, and daredevils with original circus tunes. As The New York Times said of the Bindlestiﬀ Family Cirkus Cabaret: “It’s old-fashioned variety entertainment of the sort Ed Sullivan so astutely scooped up, but with twists.” Tickets: $15 advance; $20 door Information: 518.828.4800; http://helsinkihudson.com; http://bindlestiﬀ.org

Magic Palooza: Saturday

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 11, 8 p.m.: Women of magic, Belinda Sinclair and Margaret Steele, will focus their magic on female magicians of the past. Belinda artfully fuses sleight of hand, mentalism, and altered perception, combing them with tales of historical “magiciennes” and their eﬀects. Margaret pays homage to Adelaide Herman, one of the most famous magiciennes of magic’s “Golden Age,” recreating her routines with music and dance. Tickets: $18 Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Brian Regan

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Sunday, February 12, 7 p.m.: Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. Brian’s non-stop theater tour has visited more than 80 cities each year since 2005 and continues through 2011. It is the quality of his material, relatable to a wide audience and revered by his peers, which continues to grow Brian’s fan base. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian Regan consistently ﬁlls theaters nationwide with fervent fans that span generations. Tickets: $38.50 Information: 845.339.6088; http://www.bardavon.org

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take the kids Take the kids to ‘Pirate School’ with David Engel at The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck on February 4. Photo submitted.

RiverTown Street Fair

Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Monday, January 16, 10 a.m.: Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a lively community event. The RiverTown exhibit will come to life with arts and crafts from all over the world, construction demonstrations, food tastings and much more! Meet some of the people who live and work in our diverse and beautiful Hudson River Valley. Free with Museum admission. Information: 845.471.0589; http://www.mhcm.org

School’s Out Winter Fun Day

Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, Beacon, NY 12508 Monday, January 16, noon-4 p.m.: Free, fun educational event featuring six magniﬁcent birds of prey courtesy of Bill Streeter, director of the Delaware Valley Raptor Center. Plus, snowshoe demo, guided park tour and a chance to learn how to start a ﬁre and build a shelter the Native American way with Shane “Whitefeather” Hobel of Mountain Scout Survival School. Information: 845.473.4440 x 273; http://www.scenichudson.org

Terra Tuesdays

Germantown Library, 31 Palatine Park Rd., Germantown, NY 12526 Tuesday, Jan. 17, 24 & 31, 3:30 p.m.: Mud Creek Environmental Educator Chelsea Benson leads a series of fun and educational workshops for kids on three Tuesday afternoons: 1/17, “Tracks and Traces,” search for signs of animal life and learn about the natural history of local animals and their habitats. Make your own animal tracks to take home; 1/24, “Coping with the Cold,” learn how plants and animals adapt to the cold. Experiment with snow a a natural

insulator; 1/31, “Snowshoe Hike,” hike around Palatine Park searching for animal tracks and traces. Free and open to the public. Information: 518.537.5800; http://www.germantownlibrary.org

Youth Program: Instruments and Improv II

Time & Space, 434 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Thursdays Jan. 19-May 17, 3:30 -5 p.m.: Designed for 6 - 11 year olds, this program builds on skills from the previous semester, students play xylophones, glockenspiels, as well as small percussion to accompany fun songs, while using creative movement to express the words and music. Proper singing technique, music literacy, and creative freedom are emphasized. Students will perform for the community 2-3 times during the series. Free! Donations encouraged. Information: 518.822.8448; http://timeandspace.org

Jack and the Beanstalk

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, January 21, 11 a.m.: Sent to the market to sell his old cow, Jack returns home with a measly handful of beans. Jack is in disgrace until. . . the beans become a beanstalk, the beanstalk leads to adventure, and Jack has a chance at fame and fortune. All he has to do is outwit a very hungry giant! Crabgrass Puppet Theatre’s hilarious retelling of the tallest of tales is full of fun and loaded with laughs. Colorful scenery, exciting puppetry and a delightful musical score combine to create a giant-sized entertainment for all ages. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/famfest.html

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Mercantile January 2012

Germantown Library, 31 Palatine Park Rd., Germantown, NY 12526 Saturday, January 21, 1 p.m.: A special story time featuring Farmer Minor, his famous potbellied pig Daisy, and sweet pug Lily. Farmer Minor will tell stories about Daisy and read one of her favorite pig books. Children will have the opportunity to read to Daisy and Lily and visit with them. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras for a fun photo opportunity. Free! Information: 518.537.5800; http://www.germantownlibrary.org

Starlab Planetarium Show & Family Free Time

Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, January 21, 5-8 p.m.: Enter the inﬂatable planetarium to explore seasonal constellations and learn fun facts like, why Polaris, the North Star, never seems to move. Reservations required. Free museum admission from 5-8 p.m. Fee for planetarium show (6 and 7 p.m.) is $4 per person. Information: 845.471.0589; http://www.mhcm.org

Youth Program: Musical Masterpieces

Time & Space, 434 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Fridays, Jan. 27-March 23, 10 a.m.-noon: For curious kids age 6 and up. Students study great musical pieces and connect them to great works of visual art in books and from history, using creative movement and crafts. Free! Donations encouraged. Information: 518.822.8448; http://timeandspace.org

Movie: Puss in Boots

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, January 27, 8 p.m.: Way before he ever met Shrek, the legendary Puss in Boots goes on a heroic journey, teaming up with mastermind Humpty Dumpty and the street-savvy Kitty Softpaws to steal the famed Goose that lays the Golden Eggs. It’s the adventure of nine lifetimes! Rated PG. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/movies.html

Bonus Family Free Time!

See Polaris and its companion stars at the Mid Hudson Children’s Museum’s Starlab planetarium. Source http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/newsdesk/archive/releases/2006

Pig Out on Reading! Storytime with Farmer Minor, Daisy the Famous Potbellied Pig and Lily the Pug

Pirate School: A Pirate’s Life for Me!

The Center for Performing Arts, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 4, 11 a.m.: Featured in New York Magazine’s “BEST OF NY: KIDS!” Experience slapstick comedy, eccentric props, zany theatrical swordplay, adept magic, a mischievous water squirting cannon, and a furry puppet sidekick. Loads of hilarious audience participation adds to the piratical fun. Kids encouraged to dress like pirates! Ages 4 and up. Part of The Center’s Saturday Morning Family Series. Tickets: $7 children; $9 adults & seniors. Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Super Sunday Flush

Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, January 28, 1-5 p.m.: Sponsored by the Mother’s Club of Vassar Brother’s Hospital. Information: 845.471.0589; http://www.mhcm.org

Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sunday, February 5, 2 p.m.: Half-time at the big game means millions of ﬂushes! Learn what happens to wastewater treatment systems when big ﬂushes like this occur! Free with Museum admission. Information: 845.471.0589; http://www.mhcm.org

Clermont Sledding Party

Dance Together

Clermont State Historic Site, 1 Clermont Ave. (off Rte. 9G), Germantown, NY 12526 Sunday, January 29, noon-3 p.m.: Free family sledding party. There will be a toasty fire roaring, hot cocoa and other treats available fo purchase. Bring your own flat-bottomed sleds only (no metal runners). Call ahead to confirm adequate snow. The “no snow” date is Sunday, February 19. Information: 518.537.4240; http://friendsofclermont.org

Sesame Street Live

Mid-Hudson Civic Ctr, 14 Civic Ctr Plaza, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Fri., Feb. 3, 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 2, 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 5, 1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.: “1-2-3...Imagine! with Elmo & Friends.” Tickets: call for information. Information: 845.454.5800; http://www.midhudsonciviccenter.org

Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534 Mondays, Feb. 6-Mar. 19, 10-11 a.m.: A six-week workshop in movement for pre-schoolers taught by Abby Lappen, exploring the elements of motor skills, balance with rhythm and music as tools. Each week a speciﬁc theme will direct exploration, including animals, nature, colors, shapes, numbers and language. A fun and engaging hour for parents and children ages 2 and up. Fee: $5/child Information: 518.822.1438; http://wwwhudsonoperahouse.org

Magic & Beyond with David Garrity

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 4, 11 a.m.: A one-man illusion show featuring continued on page 30 g

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unique theatrical and visual magic, audience participation and lots of laughs! Sunglasses appear in a flash of fire, a table mysteriously floats around the stage and into the audience, and ordinary Hula Hoops perform extraordinary magic! Part of The Center’s Saturday Morning Family Series. Tickets: $7 children; $9 adults & seniors. Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

(paper cutting) artist, and her work has delighted collectors worldwide for almost 25 years. She will share “Brother Sun, Sister Moon,” a reimagining of the Canticle of the Creatures of Saint Francis by Katherine Paterson, and lead participants in a special Valentine’s Day paper cutting project. Information: 518.537.5800; http://www.germantownlibrary.org; http://pameladaltonpapercutting.com

Movie: The Muppets

Winter Snowshoe Walk

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, February 10, 8 p.m.: On vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan, and his friends Gary and Mary from Smalltown, USA, discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman to raze the Muppet Theater and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets’ former stomping grounds. To stage The Greatest Muppet Telethon Ever and raise the $10-million needed to save the theater, Walter, Mary and Gary help Kermit the Frog reunite the Muppets, who have all gone their separate ways. Rated PG. Free! Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/movies.html

Fire on the Mountain

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, February 11, 11 a.m.: Journey with Alemayu, a young shepherd boy, through the vast mountains as he searches for his sister and learns life’s lessons of character, honesty, courage and love. Award winning children’s author Jane Kurtz ﬁrst brought this venerable tale to American readers after hearing it while growing up in Ethiopia. Presented by Flying Ship Productions. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/famfest.html

Mud Creek Environmental Learning Center, 1024 Route 66, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, February 11, 2 p.m.: Experience Mud Creek on snowshoes! Beginners and advanced snowshoe hikers are welcome. A brief snowshoe lesson will be provided before we hit the trail to admire the beauty of nature in winter and search for signs of wildlife. A limited number of snowshoes are available. Registration is recommended in order to reserve snowshoes. The hike is a snow or no snow event. Free Information: 518.828.4386 x 3; chelsea.benson@ccswcd.org

The Underground Railroad Song, Poetry and Word

Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturday, February 11, 4 p.m.: A program in tribute to the Underground Railroad. Quilter Irene Wiley joins with other local artists to explain the secret codes used in songs, quilts, crafts, poetry and how they helped slaves and those assisting them in the Underground Railroad. This family-oriented event is designed to educate all ages. Free. Information: 518.822.1438; http://hudsonoperahouse.org

Ice Your Sweet Cookies

Mid Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Sunday, February 12, 1 p.m. & Tuesday, February 14, 10 a.m.: Decorate cookies with icing and candy, then take them home to your Valentine! Fee: $4 per plate, includes 3 cookies and decorations. Paid reservations required. Information: 845.471.0589; http://www.mhcm.org

Sleeping Beauty

The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Route 308, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 18, 11 a.m.: A classic tale for children of all ages, “Sleeping Beauty” tells the story of the wicked witch who curses Princess Aurora. Will the curse come true? Will someone with a “true heart” appear? You will know when you see Tanglewood Marionettes’ presentation of this beloved tale. Part of The Center’s Saturday Morning Family Series. Tickets: $7 children; $9 adults & seniors. Information: 845.876.3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org

Winter Sledding Party

Paper Cutting Artist & Children’s Book Illustrator Pamela Dalton

Germantown Library, 31 Palatine Park Rd., Germantown, NY 12526 Saturday, February 11, 1 p.m.: Pamela Dalton was recently honored when the children’s book she illustrated, “Brother Sun, Sister Moon,” was named one of the 10 Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2011 by the New York Times Book Review. Pamela is a master scherenschnitte

Siegel Kline Kill Public Conservation Area, 1452 County Route 21, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, February 18, 1p.m.: The party includes sledding, snowshoeing, igloo and fort making, and animal tracking. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided. Wear your warmest outdoor clothing and bring your sleds. Party may need to be rescheduled, depending on weather. Information: 518.392.5252 x 214; lauren@clctrust.org

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spots for your sleds & skates

SLEDDING : Burger Hill

Route 9G, Rhinebeck Popular sledding spot rises to a 550-foot hilltop with panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley including the Shawangunk Ridge, Catskill and Taconic mountains, Stissing Mountain and the Berkshires. Several sledding areas with varying degrees of steepness. Open 9 a.m.-dusk.

Clarence Fahnestock State Park

1498 Route 301, Carmel In the winter, you can enjoy the Fahnestock Winter Park that includes 15 kilometers of groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and an area for sledding. Skating at Canopus and Stillwater Lakes conditions permitting. Information: 845.225.7207; http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/133/details.aspx

Clermont State Historic Site

One Clermont Ave. oﬀ Route 9G, Germantown Annual sledding party with bonﬁre and snowman contest held on Sunday, January 29, from noon-3 p.m. Information: http://www.friendsofclermont.org

Seigel Kline Kill Conservation Area

Route 21, Ghent Newly cleared public sledding hill on land protected by the Columbia Land Conservancy. A winter sledding party hosted by the Columbia Land Conservancy is scheduled for Saturday, February 18 at 1 p.m. Information: http://www.clctrust.org

Staatsburgh State Historic Site/Mills Mansion

Kiwanis Ice Arena

Cantine Memorial Complex, Washington Avenue, Saugerties Public skate sessions of 1.5 hours each, Monday-Sunday, check website for speciﬁc times. Learn to skate instructional Sundays, 8-9 a.m.; hockey skills instructional: Sundays, 7-8 a.m.; ﬁgure skating lessons, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. The rink is enclosed, but not heated. Admission: $6 adults; $4 students; 5 and under, free; skate rentals, $3. Info: http://kiwanisicearena.com; 845.247.2590

McCann Ice Arena

Mid-Hudson Civic Center, 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie McCann oﬀers skating lessons, a hockey skill development clinic, and even speed skating lessons. There are Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey programs. Winter Schedule: Mon. & Tues., noon-2 p.m.; Fri., noon-2 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 2-4 p.m.; DJ Skate Nights, Fri., 7:15-9 p.m.; plus, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Jan. 20 & 27. Admission: $7, $4 (children under 10); Skate Rental: $3; DJ Skate Nights, $10, includes admission & skate rental. Information: 845-454-5800; http://www.midhudsonciviccenter.com

Outdoors: Hudson Park Outdoor Ice Skating Area

3521 Route 9, south of Hudson Stop by Restaurant to sign waiver before heading to ice rink. Bring your own skates and equipment. Thursday night Pond Hockey. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & 6-9 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Mon. & Tues., 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Wed.-Fri., 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Free, donations accepted.

Old Post Road, Staatsburg A favorite and prime sledding area with unobstructed views of the Hudson River and Catskills beyond. Grounds are open daily January-March, dawn-dusk. Sleds with metal runners not allowed. Information: http://www.staatsburgh.org

Lake Taghkanic State Park

ICE SKATING: Indoors:

Palatine Park

Bontecou Rink

Millbrook School Mills Athletic Center, School Rd. (Rte 44), Millbrook Public skating Sundays January 8-February 19 (2-4 p.m.); Monday, January 16, and Monday, February 20, noon-2 p.m. Must bring your own skates. Skate sharpening servies available for $5. Cost: $2/person Info: 845.677.8261 x 118; http://www.millbrook.org

Exit oﬀ Taconic State Pkwy in Ancram; or, 1528 Route 82, Ancram Skating permitted when conditions are appropriate. Call to check ice thickness. Information: 518.851.3631; http://www.nysparks.com/parks/38/details.aspx Palatine Park Road, Germantown Ice skating conditions permitting. Information: 518.537.4600; 518.537.6687

Rhinebeck Recreation Park

Rink located behind Starr Library, 68 West Market Street, Rhinebeck Information: 845.876.3409

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Richard Garriott as seen in ‘Man on a Mission,” screening at Time and Space in Hudson Jan. 26-29.

Mercantile January 2012

readings, signings & screenings Tasty Tunes Weekly Open Mic

Taste Budds Cafe, 40 West Market St., Red Hook, NY 12571 Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.: Free weekly music and spoken word open mic. Sign-up at 6 p.m. Information: 860.823.8605

MLK Family Day Celebration Film Premiere of “Dark Girls”

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Monday, January 16, 7 p.m.: Film screening running time is 75 minutes followed by a 45-minute talk back with Directors Bill Duke and D. Channsin Berry. This ﬁlm takes a look into everyday America in search of pointed, unﬁltered and penetrating interviews with Black women of the darkest hues for this emotional expose. Dark Girls pulls back our country’s curtain to reveal that the deep seated biases and hatreds of racism – within and outside of the Black American culture – remain bitterly entrenched. Tickets: $25 adult; $15 student with I.D.; $10 children 12 and under. Information: 845.473.2072; http://www.bardavon.org

The MET: Live in HD The Enchanted Island

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, January 21, 1 p.m.: World premiere production of “The Enchanted Island,” an extraordinary new work featuring the world’s best singers, glorius music of the Baroque masters, and a story drawn from Shakespeare. Inspired by the musical pastiches and masques of the 18th century, the work showcases arias and ensembles by Handel, Vivaldi, Rameau, and others, and a new libretto by Jeremy Sams. Eminent conductor William Christie leads an all-star cast with David Daniels (Prospero) and Joyce DiDonato (Sycorax) as the formidable foes, Plácido Domingo as Neptune, Danielle de Niese as Ariel, and Luca Pisaroni as Caliban. Tickets: $23; $16 children 12 and under Information: 800.745.3000; http://www.bardavon.org

Memoir Writing with Marion Roach Smith

Dutch Reformed Church, 21 Broad St., Kinderhook, NY 12106 Saturday, January 21, 2 p.m.: The Columbia County Historical Society’s “Distinguished Authors Series” presents a special afternoon on memoir writing with Marion Roach Smith whose latest book, “The Memoir Project, A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text on Writing & Life” came out in June of 2011. The event will begin with an author talk at 2 p.m., followed by a reception. A Memoir Writing Workshop at the McNary Center in Kinderhook (reservations required) will be held at 4:30 p.m. Information: 518.758.9265; http://www.cchsny.org; http://marionroach.com

Reading with Carol Goodman

Oblong Books, 6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, January 22, 4 p.m.: A reading with Carol Goodman, an awardwinning and critically acclaimed literary suspense writer. Her newest book, written under the pseudonym Juliet Dark, is “The Demon Lover.” Information: 845.876.0500; http://www.oblongbooks.com

Movie: Man on a Mission

Time and Space Limited, 434 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Thurs., Jan. 26 - Sun., Jan. 29, 5:30 p.m.: In 2008 Richard Garriott became the first son of an astronaut to go to space. But this is no millionaire’s joy ride: he pioneered private space travel to make his dream come true. From his training in Russia to his launch in Kazakhstan to the dramatic, never before seen footage inside the capsule during fiery reentry, this is a historic moment in human space travel. Not just for space fans, this is a film that will inspire anyone who works tirelessly to make their dream come true. Tickets: $7; $5 students Information: 518.822.8100; http://www.timeandspace.org

Reading with Bradford Morrow, “The Uninnocent”

Oblong Books, 6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, January 29, 4 p.m.: Recipient of the O. Henry and Pushcart prizes for his short stories, Bradford Morrow’s “The Uninnocent” gathers

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A scene from “The Enchanted Island” with Placido Domingo as Neptune. Photo: Ken Howard/Metropolitan Opera

Film Screening: Igla/The Needle

for the ﬁrst time, a collection of his most gothic, darkly comic tales. Information: 845.876.0500; http://www.oblongbooks.com

Dramatic Reading: The Baltimore Waltz

Vassar College, Streep Acting Studio, Room 110. Vogelstein Center for Drama and Film, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Monday, January 30, 7 p.m.: This play by Paula Vogel, is “a crazy-quilt patchwork of hyperventilating language, erotic jokes, movie kitsch and medical nightmare...that spins before the audience in Viennese waltz time, replete with a dizzying fall.” (New York Times) Presented by the Vassar Drama Department’s Experimental Theater, Shona Tucker, assistant professor of drama and adviser to the Experimental Theater. Seating is very limited and reservations are required in advance. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free and open to the public. Information: 845.437.5599; boxoﬃce@vassar.edu; http://arts.vassar.edu

Vassar Bookstore Author Series: Frank Bergon

Vassar College Bookstore, Main Building, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Tuesday, January 31, 5 p.m.: Professor Emeritus of English Frank Bergon discusses his recent novel, Jesse’s Ghost, and how he turned a true story into a novel. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free and open to the public. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

Vassar College, Rockefeller Hall, Room 200, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Wednesday, February 1, 8 p.m.: Russian film Igla/The Needle (1988), Rashid Nugmanov, director. The founding text of the Kazakh New Wave movement, The Needle is an experimental visual kaleidoscope of genres, joining together elements of a stylized mob drama, a seaside love story, and an anti-drug film set to the soundtrack of late Soviet post-punk. The Needle was one of the highest grossing Soviet blockbusters, winning a special jury prize at the 1988 Golden Duke Film Festival in Odessa as well as first prize at the 1990 Nuremberg Film Festival. Presented with commentary by Rita Safariants, visiting instructor in the Russian Studies Department. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

Divas on Screen: Black Women in American Film

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Thursday, February 2, 12:30 p.m.: In her insightful book “Divas on Screen: Black Women in American Film”, Dr. Mia Mask places African American Women’s stardom in historical and industrial contexts by examining the star personae of ﬁve African American women: Dorothy Dandridge, Pam Grier, Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Halle Berry. Interpreting each woman’s celebrity as predicated on a brand of charismatic authority, Mia Mask shows how these female stars have ultimately complicated the conventional discursive practices through which blackness and womanhood have been represented in commercial cinema, independent ﬁlm and network television. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/lyceumseries.html

Performance: Poetry and Dance

Vassar College, Aula, Ely Hall, 124 Raymond Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Thursday, February 2, 7:30 p.m.: “Grandmother Talks, Grandmother Dances.” A collaborative piece weaving dance and poetry, this performance narrates Indigenous continuance through bloodlines, resistance, and creativity. Molly S. McGlennen, assistant professor of English and Native American Studies, and Kathy Wildberger, senior lecturer in the departments of Dance and Drama. Part of the 10th annual festival of the contemporary arts: Modfest 2012. Free and open to the public. Information: http://arts.vassar.edu

To Kill A Mockingbird

UPAC, 601 Broadway, Kingston, NY 12401 Friday, February 3, 7:30 p.m.: Based on the Harper Lee novel, Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his kids against prejudice. Directed by Robert Mulligan. With Gregory Peck, Frank Overton, Brock Peters, Rosemary Murphy and Robert Duvall as Boo Radley. Tickets: $5 Information: 845.339.6088; http://www.bardavon.org

Repo Man

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, February 3, 7:30 p.m.: A cult ﬁlm directed by Alex Cox, Repo Man stars Emilio Estevez, Harry Dean Stanton and Vonetta McGee. Young punk Otto becomes a repo man after helping to steal a car, and stumbles into a world of wackiness as a result. Tickets: $5 Information: 845.339.6088; http://www.bardavon.org continued on page 34 g

Mercantile January 2012 continued from page 33 i

Starr Lovers’ Book Sale

Starr Library, 68 West Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Fri., Feb. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Celebrate Library Lovers Month with a special sale featuring romance novels and books on relationships and happiness, but offering much more. Adult fiction and non-fiction books start at 50¢ and a trade paperbacks are on sale at $1.00 each. This sale also includes many books for children, starting from 10¢, plus collections of books on gardening, history, biography, art, drama, health, travel, animals, cooking and other topics. Information: 845.876.4030; http://www.starrlibrary.org

Rose Levy Beranbaum Booksigning & Tasting

bluecashew Kitchen Pharmacy, 6423 Montgomery St., Suite 3, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 4, 2-5 p.m.: Rose Levy Beranbaum, author of “Rose’s Heavenly Cakes”, “The Cake Bible”, “The Pie and Pastry Bible” and “The Bread Bible” to name a few signs copies of her books. Plus, tastings of Rose’s heavenly cakes and Nicolas Feuillate Champagne! Information: 845.876.1117; http://www.bluecashewkitchen.com

Farm Film Fest IV

Crandall Theatre, 48 Main St., Chatham, NY 12037 Sunday, February 5, 1-4 p.m.: Annual event sponsored by the Chatham Agricultural Partnership, the Columbia Land Conservancy, and the Chatham Film Club. The festival shows ﬁlms that focus on farms, farming, and farming issues. Both professional and amateur ﬁlmmakers are featured. Information: http://chathamkeepfarming.org

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The Met: Live in HD: Gotterdammerung

Time and Space Limited, 434 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Sat., Feb. 11, noon, Sat. & Sun., Feb. 18 & 19, noon: See description above. Tickets: $25; $15, students Information: 518.822.8100; http://www.timeandspace.org

Discussion with Jeanne Kelly, “The 90 Day Credit Challenge”

Oblong Books, 6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, February 12, 4 p.m.: Jeanne Kelly, author of “The 90 Day Credit Challenge,” is a nationally recognized voice in credit consulting. In addition to serving her clients in their eﬀorts to improve their credit scores, Jeanne has been sought out by real estate professionals, mortgage analysts and journalists for her thoughts and advice on how to best manage your credit portfolio in an ever-changing ﬁnancial landscape. Information: 845.876.0500; http://www.oblongbooks.com

Dr. Strangelove

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Friday, February 17, 7:30 p.m.: In his hilarious yet deadly serious satire Stanley Kubrick dares to ask what would happen if someone pushes the wrong button. Starring Peter Sellers in multiple roles and George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden and Keenan Wynn. Tickets: $5 Information: 845.339.6088; http://www.bardavon.org

Reading: Roxanne Bok, “Horsekeeping”

Oblong Books, 6422 Montgomery St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sunday, February 5, 4 p.m.: Roxanne Bok, native New Yorker and gentlewomen farmer is publishing a memoir about horse farming and country life. “Horsekeeping” tells a cautionary and celebratory tale of what happens when tidy urbanites take to rescuing and restoring a horse farm in Salisbury, Connecticut. Information: 845.876.0500; http://www.oblongbooks.com

National Theatre of London Live Simulcast: Travelling Light

Time and Space Limited, 434 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Thurs., Feb. 9, 7 p.m.; Sun., Feb 12, 2 p.m.: In a remote village in Eastern Europe, around 1900, the young Motl Mendl is entranced by the flickering silent images on his father’s cinematograph. Bankrolled by Jacob, the ebullient local timber merchant, and inspired by Anna, the girl sent to help him make moving pictures of their village, he stumbles on a revolutionary way of story-telling. Forty years on, Motl - now a famed American film director - looks back on his early life and confronts the cost of fulfilling his dreams. Tickets: $22; $15, students Information: 518.822.8100; http://www.timeandspace.org

The Met: Live in HD Wagner’s Gotterdammerung

Bardavon, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Saturday, February 11, noon: With its cataclysmic climax, the Met’s new Ring cycle, directed by Robert Lepage, comes to its resolution. Deborah Voigt stars as Brünnhilde and Gary Lehman is Siegfried—the star-crossed lovers doomed by fate. James Levine conducts. Tickets: $23; $16 kids 12 and under Information: 845.339.6088; http://www.bardavon.org

Margaret Roach. Photo submitted.

Margaret Roach Nonstop Plants: A Garden for 365 Days

Germantown Library, 31 Palatine Park Rd., Germantown, NY 12526 Saturday, February 25, 1 p.m.: Join author and gardener extraordinaire Margaret Roach for a lecture and book signing. After 15 years at Martha Stewart Living and a decade each at Newsday and The New York Times, Margaret Roach now writes the nationally acclaimed blog A Way to Garden (dot com) and is author of the corporate-dropout memoir, “And I Shall Have Some Peace There,” about walking away from “success” for a quieter life lived closer to nature. She will present a talk on “Nonstop Plants: A Garden for 365 Days.” Roach has worked for more than 20 years to make her garden in the Hudson Valley–Berkshires area a visual treat every day of the year. Meet the plants and the philosophy that make it happen, delivered with a dose of “horticultural how-to and woo-woo.” Reservations recommended. Information: 518.537.5800; germantownlibraryevents@yahoo.com; http://www.germantownlibrary.org; http://awaytogarden.com

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Mercantile January 2012

miscellaneous Tivoli Bays Talks: Sailing on the Ice

Tivoli Bays Visitor Center, 1 Tivoli Commons, Tivoli, NY 12583 Thursday, February 2, 7:30 p.m.: Join the Hudson River ice Yacht Club to learn about this historic winter sport that still takes place on the Hudson to this day. Part of a monthly series cosponsored by the Hudson River Research Reserve and the Village of Tivoli. Free. Information: 845.889.4745 x 109; http://www.dec.ny.gov

Freedom Now and Then

James & Betty Hall Theater, Dutchess Community College, 53 Pendell Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Thursday, February 9, 12:30 p.m.: This father and son team will present, through lecture and spoken word on the topic of “Freedom Now and Then”. Rev. LeRoy Glen Wright was a Freedom Rider in the summer of 1961 when he rode a greyhound bus from Montgomery, Alabama to Jackson, Mississippi and was arrested for breach of peace. At the time, Wright was a 19 year old student at Fisk University in Nashville. Clarence E. Wright is a church planter, missionary, musician and spoken word artist with a pastor’s heart. His nearly 15 years of ministry have included international missions and evangelism, homeless advocacy, and pastoral leadership in the local church. Tickets: Free Information: http://www.sunydutchess.edu/studentlife/ studentactivities/lyceumseries.html

Snowshoe Historic Carriage Roads

Olana State Historic Site, Wagon House Education Center, Route 9G, Hudson, NY 12534 Sunday, February 12, 2 p.m.: Snowshoe along the carriage drives to see the transition from farm to forest, skirt along the edge of North Meadow and see beautiful views of the Catskills from Ridge Road. An educator from the Olana Partnership will discuss the history of the carriage roads and land use at Olana. Organized by Columbia Land Conservancy (CLC). CLC has a limited number of snowshoes to lend to participants. If you are new to the sport or borrowing snowshoes from CLC, please arrive at 1:30 pm. Expect a moderately strenuous, 2 mile hike. Registration required. Information: 518.392.5252 x 210; jenny@clctrust.org

Post Valentine’s Beer & Chocolate Pairing

Grand Cru Beer & Cheese Mkt, 6384 Mill St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Saturday, February 18, 4-8 p.m.: Pairing of five unique chocolates prepared by Grand Cru’s own chocolatier, Mary, with five different beers. Tickets: $30 per person. Reservations required. Information: 845.876.6992; http://grandcrurhinebeck.com

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green valley Hudson Valley Bounty member Ronnybrook farm is featured in the ﬁrst episode of the six-part documentary series ‘The Big Table’ which will screen at Bard on February 11.

Acres Co-op Market

702 Columbia St., Hudson, NY 12534 Saturdays through March, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Winter indoor food market. The roster of producers participating in the indoor market, still in formation, includes: North Wind Farms (organic meat); Block Factory Tamales; Breezy Hill Orchards and Migliorelli Farm (vegetables, apples, cider); Berkshire Mountain Bakery; Tierra Farm (nuts, nut butters, coﬀee); and Amazing Real Life Food Company (cheese). Additional vendors will be announced. Information: acrescoop@gmail.com; http:/facebook.com/pages/Acres-Co-op-Market

Beacon Farmers Market

Red Barn Art Center, 8 Long Dock Road, Beacon, NY 12508 Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.: The Beacon Farmers Market has moved to its winter location. Local produce, foods and crafts all surrounded by art, and the Hudson waterfront. Information: 845.597.5028; www.thebeaconfarmersmarket.com

Millerton Winter Market

Gilmor Glass, 2 Main Street, Millerton, NY 12546 Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through the end of December, then monthly Jan.-April: Local producers oﬀer everything from artisanal breads, locally-grown fruits and veggies, gourmet baked goods, wool & sheep skins, maple syrup, pickles, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and eggs, and so much more. Sponsored by the North East Community Center. Information: http://www.neccmillerton.org

Red Hook Winter Market

Elmendorph Inn, North Broadway, Red Hook, NY 12571 Saturdays, Jan. 28, Feb. 11 & 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Featuring many local farms and foods, fruits, veggies, meats, milk, speciality foods, gifts and more. Information: 845.399.4582; mckeonandny@yahoo.com

Ricotta Cheese, Yogurt and Yogurt Cheese Making Class

Wild Hive Farm, 2411 Salt Point Tpke., Clinton Corners, NY 12514 Wednesday, January 18, 6-9 p.m.: Master cook & pastry chef Elena Mocodeanu teaches participants the basics of ricotta cheese, yogurt and yogurt cheese making. Plus, enjoy a Wild Hive pasta meal and take home a freshly made 1/2 pint of ricotta and a pint of yogurt. Fee: $40 Information: 845.266.5863; cindi@wildhivefarm.com

Community Meeting & Potluck with Common Ground Farm

Beacon Institute for Rivers & Estuaries, 199 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508 Wednesday, January 18, 7:30-9 p.m.: Annual open board meeting where the community can learn about how CSA farms work, ask questions, share ideas and learn what Common Ground Farm is doing to recover from 2011, and improve 2012. Potluck supper prepared by and courtesy of the Common Ground Farm Board of Directors. RSVP via email. Information: melanie.sherony@gmail.com; http://www.commongroundfarm.org

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Global Climate Change: A Primer

Carey Institute for Ecosystem Studies, Auditorium, 2801 Sharon Tpke. (Route 44), Millbrook, NY 12545 Friday, January 20, 7 p.m.: Orrin H. Pilkey, professor emeritus at Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, will discuss his new book, Global Climate Change: A Primer. “Global change is upon us,” begins the book’s preface. “Of this there can be no doubt among those who observe the Earth.” Written with his son Keith Pilkey, the book strives to turn the tide that has turned climate science into partisan politics. Each of the book’s chapters concludes with rebuttals to common arguments by climate change deniers. The book is beautifully illustrated with batiks of important climate sites by South Carolina artist Mary Edna Fraser. Information: http://www.ecostudies.org

Winter Market

Rhinebeck Town Hall, E. Market St., Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Sundays, Jan. 22, Feb. 4 & 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: Many of the Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market vendors participate in this indoor winter market oﬀering an opportunity to buy locally produced food year-round. Information: http://www.rhinebeckfarmersmarket.com

Wednesday Wandering at Round Ball Mountain

503 Carson Road, Ancram, NY 12502 Wednesday, January 25, 10-11:30 a.m.: Learn about the history of the site, look for wildlife, and have a chance to familiarize yourself with the trails. Snowshoes provided if needed. Information: 518.392.5252 x 202; http://clctrust.org

our local surroundings. Part II will be held on Saturday, February 18 at the Greenport Public Conservation Area. The workshops focus on learning about and identifying the most common woody plant species of Columbia County in winter. Free. Information: 518.672.7994; fep@hawthornevalleyfarm.org

Farm Film Fest IV

Cooperative Extension Biodiversity Photo Contest

Columbia-Greene Community College, 4400 Route 23, Hudson, NY 12534 February 6-29: Amateur photography contest calling on contestants to capture the natural beauty of Columbia and Greene counties. The photos tell a vivid story of biodiversity of local plants and animals that abound in the area. Information: 518.828.3346; columbia@cornell.edu

Journey of the Universe: An Epic Story of Transformation

Carey Institute for Ecosystem Studies, Auditorium, 2801 Sharon Tpke. (Route 44), Millbrook, NY 12545 Friday, February 10, 7 p.m.: From the Big Bang to the epic impact humans have on the planet today, this documentary ﬁlm is designed to inspire a new and closer relationship with Earth in a period of growing environmental and social crisis. Information: http://www.ecostudies.org/events.html

Free Documentary Screening: The Big Table

Olin Theatre at Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, NY 12504 Saturday, February 11, 6:30 p.m.: The Big Table is a six-part documentary series about food, family and preserving a way of life. The pilot episode features Hudson Valley Bounty member, RonnyBrook Farm. A panel discussion and Q&A session follows the screening. Information: http://hudsonvalleybounty.com

National Climate Seminar Maldives President Mohamed ‘Anni’ Nasheed. Photo by Chiara Gola.

National Climate Seminar

Teleconference sponsored by Bard CEP Wednesday, February 1, noon: Listen in real time to climate and clean energy specialists talk about the latest science, policy, law and economics of climate change. This week’s presenter is Jon Shenk, documentary ﬁlmmaker, cinematographer and founder of Actual Films. He will discuss his ﬁlm “The Island President: Climate Story-Telling,” the story of Mohamed Nasheed, a complex and charismatic young leader of the Maldives, who rose from the trenches of democratic activism to become head of state of the nation most urgently threatened by climate change. Call in number: 1-712-432-3100, conference code: 253385 Information: http://www.bard.edu/cep/ncs/

Winter Botany Workshop

Hawthorne Valley Farm (Creekhouse), 327 County Route 21C, Ghent, NY 12075 Saturday, February 4, 1 p.m.: Conrad and Claudia Vispo of the Farmscape Ecology Program lead a two-part series exploring nature in

Teleconference sponsored by Bard CEP Wednesday, February 15, noon: Listen in real time to climate and clean energy specialists talk about the latest science, policy, law and economics of climate change. This week’s special guest is Anthony Leiserowitz, Yale Project on Climte Change Communication, an expert on American and international public opinion on global warming, including public perception of climate change risks, support and opposition for climate policies, and willingness to make individual behavioral change. Call in number: 1-712-432-3100, conference code: 253385 Information: http://www.bard.edu/cep/ncs/

2011 Impacts to the Waters of the Hudson River Valley: What We Can Do To Improve It

Sloop Clubhouse at the Beacon Train Station, Beacon, NY 12508 Friday, February 17, 7 p.m.: This talk will address some of the eﬀects of several large weather events that occured in the Hudson Valley this year: Irene and Lee. It will cover some ways of managing polluted runoﬀ from developed areas using green infrastructure. Information: http://www.dec.ny.gov

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Mercantile January 2012

Long days short years

by Brian PJ Cronin, photo by Kristen Cronin

when i was wooing Kristen, i cooked for her all the time because i was not good at the things that most men do to impress the ladies, like dancing or playing in a band or lifting heavy things or showering.

we are more carrot than human, now. There are pureed carrots in our hair, on our ﬁngers, carrots smeared behind our ears and slowly solidifying into something with the terrifying consistency of fresh concrete. The table is turning orange, the walls are turning orange, the cats are turning orange as ﬂying bits of carrots become embedded in their fur. We have started Cooper on solid food. How’s that going, you ask? Oh, you know. Not so bad. No, really. Cooper is at the age when his primary method of discovering the world is through his mouth, so anything that comes within arm’s reach (carrots, squash, cats) is quickly snatched up and taken to the hole. His aim is more than a bit lacking, which is why 90% of what we put out for him ends up somewhere other than his mouth. Since Kristen is still nursing him as well, there’s no pressure to make sure that he eats every last bit or even any bit at all. The only pressure is on the one whose job it is to make sure that dinner is ready on time, which would be me. Cooper comes home from daycare exhausted, so if we want him to sit at the table and eat dinner with us then I’ve got about half an hour to put food on the table before all hell breaks loose. I am not used to cooking under pressure. Before Cooper, my nights played out like this: Come home, open a beer, put on a Clientele album, stare out the window at Mt. Beacon. Wander out to the garden and pick whatever herbs look good. Chop slowly. Breathe deeply. Put the chicken in the oven. Crack open another beer. Decide to whip up some biscuits from scratch while the chicken cooks, because why not? Put on Sonic Youth’s A Thousand Leaves, roll out some dough, cut, put them in the oven next to the chicken, watch them

rise and turn golden. Absentmindedly nibble on a piece of leftover dough and think about what an underrated album A Thousand Leaves is. These days the only thing I think may be underrated are those cookbooks whose titles contain the words “30 minutes or less.” Just like mini-vans never made sense to me until I found out how much room those child car seats take up, cookbooks that promise to help you get dinner on the table in to time at all never made sense until I had no time at all. I don’t want to succumb to the lures of processed microwave dinners, and I don’t want to order pizza so much that our local pizza place ends up building an extra dining room and naming it after us. I want to cook. I like to cook. When I was wooing Kristen, I cooked for her all the time because I was not good at the things that most men do to impress ladies, like dancing or playing in a band or lifting heavy things or showering. Cooking was the only skill I had and I used it every chance I got. But I soon learned that cooking for a pair was much different than cooking just for myself, since when Kristen and I first started dating she did not eat meat. I had to change up my game. Now we have changed from a pair to a trio and once again I find myself starting from scratch. Gone are the slow-stirred risottos, the pasta rolled out by hand, the pies made on a whim. Instead I’m figuring out how far in advance I can start the slow cooker, calculating how much pasta sauce I can make and freeze at once, looking at those packages of pre-cut vegetables at the store with something other than derision. It is frustrating at times, but I remind myself of that day a year and a half ago when the dining room chair next to Kristen suddenly seemed impossibly empty and I realized that someone was missing. That chair’s not empty any more, and if I have to forgo some pie to make the person in that chair happy, then that is a trade off I will gladly make. But if you run into me on the street and notice a giant crusty wad of dried carrots stuck to my cheek, will you please point it out to me? I honestly don’t even notice anymore.

 Brian PJ and Kristen Cronin live in Beacon with their four 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.

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CENTERStage Productions presents CENTERStage Productions presents

Directed &Choreographed by AnnChris Warren Music Direction by Matthew Woolever

January 13-February 5, 2012 January 13-29, 2012 Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 pm Sunday matinees 3:00 pm

Tickets $26 adults, $22 seniors/children Opening Night Fundraiser January 13 beneﬁts the Dutchess County SPCA Fundraiser Tickets are $40 per person and include a post-show reception with cast members!

The CENTER For Performing Arts at Rhinebeck Box Ofﬁce: 845-876-3080 or order online: www.centerforperformingarts.org

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Mercantile January 2012

romance

Rebooting your

at Culinary Boot Camp

CIA’s Culinary Boot Camp classes attract couples of all ages. It makes sense: Communication is the most important skill to keep a couple together. In Boot Camp, a couple collaborates on a complete meal and must instruct each other to broil the meat, dice the onions, sauté the vegetables and whip the eggs. Communication is key.

by Edna Welthorpe

Jill and Rob showed up bright and early on Monday morning at Culinary Boot Camp: Basic Training at the Culinary Institute of America. “We were just married,” Jill explained to fellow foodies in class, to a hearty chorus of congratulations. “Just married” was not an exaggeration. In fact, 36 hours earlier, Jill and Rob were walking down the aisle in an elaborate wedding in Charlottesville, Virginia. After the reception and a good night’s sleep, they hopped in the car and drove north to Hyde Park, New York. Culinary Boot Camp, Rob explained, was their honeymoon. Currently, the institution of marriage is quite fragile as the divorce rate holds at 50%. There are numerous ways in which incompatibility separates America’s couples. But for Jill and Rob, their love of food was a shared joy. They decided, if they hone their cooking skills at the CIA, it can only improve their relationship, as they cheerfully share meal duties in the kitchen. If you’re looking to feel the love in a special way, Culinary Boot Camp is the ideal shared experience. The CIA oﬀers gift certiﬁcates for Culinary Boot Camp that are a unique and inventive Valentine’s Day gift for your special sweetheart. CIA’s Culinary Boot Camp classes attract couples of all ages. It makes sense: Communication is the most important skill to keep a couple together. In Boot Camp, a couple collaborates on a complete meal and must instruct each other to broil the meat, dice the onions, sauté the vegetables and whip the eggs. Communication is key. One couple from Texas, married for more than two decades, came to Boot Camp last year to correct a dilemma. Lyle and Tippy

Hendrickson were successful businesspeople, she in marketing and he in oil ventures. But their opposing schedules prevented downtime together, and the romance was seeping out of their union. They needed a second honeymoon, so they came to Italian Cuisine Boot Camp. Joining forces in the kitchen and dining at the CIA’s on-campus restaurants at night was the double-boost needed to jump-start their relationship again. They went home as newlyweds. Choose from Culinary Boot Camp classes such as Dessert, American Regional Cuisine, Bistro, The Art and Science of Cooking, French Cuisine, Grilling, Comfort Foods, BBQ and Mexican Cuisine. Classes run two, three, four or five days long. Or consider a Saturday class, like Italian Cooking at Home, An Indian Feast, Gourmet Meals in Minutes, One Dish Meals, Sharpening Your Knife Skills and GlutenFree Cooking. There are so many classes offered, foodies are guaranteed to find their favorite. Culinary Boot Camp classes are ideal for all skill levels. Enrollees will participate in hands-on cooking, watch chef demonstrations, create their own lunch and savor it with fellow foodies. All that and lectures that teach you the history of world cuisines and a little culinary science thrown in. Best of all, people will receive an official CIA toque and apron to take home. Evening meals at the on-campus restaurants will simply deepen that feeling of romance. Before you walk down the aisle, consider CIA Culinary Boot Camp the ideal romantic therapy. Tuition fees range from $895 to $2,195. A list of the wide array of wonderful 2012 classes can be found at www. ciachef.edu/enthusiasts/ To order your gift certificate in time for Valentine’s Day, call 800888-7850.

Edna Welthorpe is a Dutchess County-based veteran freelance journalist who writes passionately about antiques, nature and food.

Scan this QR code with your phone for more information. To get a QR code reader, check your app store or try www.scanlife.com

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Mercantile January 2012

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