Catskill Mountain Region December 2011

GUIDEwww.catskillregionguide.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

www.catskillregionguide.com VOLUME 26, NUMBER 12 December 2011

PUBLISHERS Peter Finn, Chairman, Catskill Mountain Foundation Sarah Finn, President, Catskill Mountain Foundation

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION Sarah Taft

ADVERTISING SALES Rita Adami Steve Friedman Sharon Reich

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carol White and David White

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Candy McKee Toni Perretti Laureen Priputen

PRINTING Catskill Mountain Printing

DISTRIBUTION Catskill Mountain Foundation

On the cover: “Looking South,” photo by Al Alexsa. EDITORIAL DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: December 6

The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is published 12 times a year by the Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc., Main Street, PO Box 2 THE ARTS 924, Hunter, NY 12442. If you have events or programs that you would like to have covered, please send them by e-mail to tafts@ catskillmtn.org. Please be sure to furnish a contact name and in- clude your address, telephone, fax, and e-mail information on all correspondence. For editorial and photo submission guidelines 8 NEW RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE: send a request via e-mail to [email protected]. The liability of the publisher for any error for which it may be An Evening of Classic Rock at the New held legally responsible will not exceed the cost of space ordered or occupied by the error. The publisher assumes no liability for Orpheum Performing Arts Center errors in key numbers. The publisher will not, in any event, be liable for loss of income or profits or any consequent damages. The Catskill Mountain Region Guide office is located in Hunter Village Square in the Village of Hunter on Route 23A. The magazine can be found on-line at www.catskillmtn.org 10 HANAH MOUNTAIN RESORT by clicking on the “Publications” button, or by going directly to www.catskillregionguide.com AND COUNTRY CLUB 7,000 copies of the Catskill Mountain Region Guide are distributed each month. It is distributed free of charge at the Plattekill, Sloatsburg and New Baltimore rest stops on the New York State Thruway, and at the tourist information offices, restaurants, lodgings, retailers and other businesses throughout 12 FRUITFUL FURNISHINGS: Greene, Delaware, Ulster, Schoharie and Otsego counties. Home delivery of the Guide magazine is available, at an The Spirit of the Catskill Mountains in Wood additional fee, to annual members of the Catskill Mountain Foundation at the $100 membership level or higher. ”2000 Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Catskill Mountain Region 14 MARGARETVILLE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Guide is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All photo- graphic rights reside with the photographer. Discount Coupons Available through January 3, 2012

THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 17 WINDHAM HIGH PEAK By Carol & David White 7970 MAIN STREET P.O. BOX 924 HUNTER, NY 12442 PHONE: 518 263 2000 DECEMBER AT THE FAX: 518 263 2025 20 WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

December 2011 • guide 1 The Arts

Left: HVP String Competition winner Yoshihiko Nakano. Right: HVP Music Director Randall Craig Fleischer

Hudson Valley Philharmonic’s 52nd Season Continues at the Bardavon with Winter Suite Featuring HVP String Competition Winner Yoshihiko Nakano The Bardavon is pleased to continue the 52nd Anniversary Season of the Hudson Valley Philharmonic on Sunday, December 18, at 3 pm at the Bardavon in Poughkeepsie. Winter Suite will feature the dynamic HVP String Competition winner Yoshihiko Nakano performing one of the greatest works for viola and orchestra: Bartok’s Viola Concerto, posth. op. BB128. HVP Music Director Randall Craig Fleischer conducts. The 52nd Anniversary Season is sponsored by Rhinebeck Savings with additional support from the Dr. Jeffrey Perchick Memorial Fund through the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley and WMHT/WRHV FM. The concert also features Rossini’s La Cenerentola (Cinderella) Overture, Sibelius’ The Swan of Tuonela (Tuonelean Journey) and Tchaikovsky’s’ Suite no. 4, op.61, C major (Morzartiana). Ticket-holders are invited to a pre-concert talk with Maestro Fleischer, Mr. Nakano, and members of the orchestra at 2 pm. Yoshihiko Nakano studies at the Juilliard School, where he is pursuing a Master of Music degree in viola under the tutelage of Michael Tree. He has been a principal violist of the Juilliard Orchestra and a frequent performer with contemporary music group AXIOM. Nakano has received awards and prizes in numerous competitions, including the Juilliard Concerto Competition, Union League Civic & Art Awards, Northwestern University Concerto Competition, Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition, WAMSO Young Artist Competition, Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition, and Kingsville International Competition. He has appeared as a soloist with the Juilliard Orchestra, Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra, Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra, Northwest Symphony Orchestra, and Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. Though now pursuing his career as a violist, Nakano began his musical studies at the age of five on the violin. During high school he studied with Almita and Roland Vamos at the Music Institute of Chicago as a Merit Scholarship recipient. He continued to study with Vamos at Northwestern University where he served as concertmaster and principal violist of the symphony orchestra and earned a Bachelor of Music degree in violin performance with Departmental Honors. Nakano plays on a viola made by Giulio Cesare Gigli (1762) on loan from the Juilliard School. Tickets are available at various prices ranging from $26 to $48. Student Rush tickets will be available one hour prior to the concert for $20. Tickets can be purchased at: the Bardavon Box Office, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie (845 473 2072), at the UPAC Box Office, 602 Broadway, Kingston (845 339 6088), or through TicketMaster at 800 745 3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

2 • www.catskillregionguide.com December 2011 • guide 3 “The Visit,” by Rita Bernstein Gallery Selections: Group Show of Featured Artists at Galerie BMG in Woodstock Galerie BMG is delighted to present Gallery Selections, a group exhibition of work by photographers featured at the gallery over the last several years. The exhibition highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of these artists, while celebrating their diverse approach to in- novative imagery and process. Among the selections on rotating display throughout the two months will be ethereal dream-like images by Angela Bacon-Kidwell, pinhole self portraits by Alyson Belcher, beautifully crafted images on hand-made paper by Rita Bernstein, gold leaf transparencies by Lynn Bianchi, hand-painted still lifes and nudes by Brigitte Carnochan, bromoil prints by Joy Goldkind, haunting polaroid film prints by Jessica M. Kaufman, photo-collage botanicals by Kim Kauffman, encaustic and mixed media narratives by Leah Mac- donald, and unique mixed media collages by Kamil Vojnar. Gallery Selections will open on De- cember 2, 2011, coinciding with Wood- stock’s Open House and will continue through February 6, 2012. Winter gallery hours are Friday 12-5, Saturday 11-6, Sunday 11-5 and Monday 12-5 or other times by appointment. Galerie BMG is located at 12 Tannery Brook Road in Woodstock. For further in- formation, please contact the gallery at 845 679 0027.

4 • www.catskillregionguide.com Planning a Weekend or Family Gathering in the Catskills? Stay with us! We offer affordable residential and meeting facilities in a beautiful setting only two hours from New York City

The Catskill Mountain Foundation has extensive and affordable facilities for artistic residencies, corporate retreats, and private events in a spectacular natural setting only two hours from metropolitan New York.

for more information visit our Web site: www.catskillmtn.org/ facilities/index.html call: 518.263.2073 or email: [email protected]

December 2011 • guide 5 Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company at Kaatsbaan The Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company will perform at Kaatsbaan Inter- national Dance Center in Tivoli, New York on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 7:30 pm. Since 1992, the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company (ESDC) has been the resident company of The Egg in Albany, NY. Pre- senting the uniquely American art form of contemporary modern dance as interpreted through the richly imagined choreography of Artistic Director Ellen Sinopoli, ESDC strives to engage both dance aficionados and the uninitiated into the exhilarating world of modern dance. The evening’s program includes three of the company’s exciting repertory pieces along with a preview performance of a new work to be presented at The Egg on January 20, 2012. A Gathering in Red, Photo by Gary Gold Departing, with music by Cornelius Dufallo, a virtuosic and versatile acoustic and electric violinist, captures the sweep and breath of his compelling score. “The dancers, dressed in red, seem blown like leaves or birds by soft breezes and high winds.” (Times Union) Brink is a dance which ingeniously dives into the disparate and compelling music of Dave Douglas, American trumpeter and two-time Gram- my nominated jazz musician. “This is a cool, ultra-hip work that devoured space while expending gobs of energy….” (Daily Gazette) Vooz-é-la is set to four songs by Zap Mama, whose eclectic mixture of styles hovers around soul, gospel, pygmy song, and Afro-Cuban rhythms. ESDC’s dancers are propelled and inspired by the acrobatic female voices of these extraordinary singers. The Albany Times Union said that this is “…a gorgeous, juicy dance, one of Sinopoli’s best…crisp, sensual and pure fun all at once….” To Sing, Laugh, Play, a preview of a new ESDC work, is athletic, serendipitous and filled with joy. This new dance soars to the music of contemporary classical composer John Adams with selections from his “John’s Book of Alleged Dances” Tickets are $25 adults; $10 children and student rush at the door. The Kaatsbaan International Dance Center is located at 120 Broad- way, Tivoli, NY. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 845 757 5106 or visit www.kaatsbaan.org.

6 • www.catskillregionguide.com The Bardavon and New Paltz Ballet Theatre Present The Nutcracker at the Bardavon Giant fighting mice, sugar plum fairies, and huge toy soldiers will soon be danc- ing on the Bardavon stage. It’s time once again to take the magical journey of The Nutcracker. The Bardavon and New Paltz Ballet Theatre will present this classic ballet about a little girl and her special Christmas gift on Saturday, December 10 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm, and on Sunday, December 11 at 3 pm. The Nutcracker is a ballet in two acts based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s tale The Nut- cracker and the Mouse King, with music by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky. The dreamlike journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets is created in part by the colorful costumes and scenery by designer Ray Delle Robbins of Houston Ballet and Houston’s Theatre Under the Stars. Staging and choreography are by New Paltz Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Direc- tors Peter Naumann and Lisa Naumann. The Naumanns both danced with the New York City Ballet for many years and have performed in major works by internationally acclaimed choreographers George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins and Peter Martins. The Bardavon is located at 35 Market Street in Poughkeepsie. Tickets are $28 (adult), $25 (student/senior) and $23 (Bar- davon member) and are available at the Bardavon Box Office, (845 473 2072), the UPAC Box Office, 602 Broadway, Kingston (845 339 6088), or through TicketMaster (800 745 3000 or www.ticketmaster.com).

December 2011 • guide 7 New Riders of the Purple Sage An Evening of Classic Rock at the New Orpheum Performing Arts Center

Photo by Lisa Law

n Friday, December 30, the brand new Orpheum Perform- CMF is arts-based economic revitalization through entertainment, O ing Arts Center in Tannersville, NY will proudly celebrate an educational outreach and disaster relief efforts for the mountain top evening of classic rock featuring the legendary New Riders of the community, Greene County, and the Catskill region. It will offer Purple Sage. For the past six years the New Riders have performed quality performances in a wide variety of genres, from classic rock, this annual pre-New Years concert in the Woodstock area with folk, jazz, blues vocal arts, and drama to comedy, chamber music, their good friends Grammy-nominated Professor Louie and the dance, and musical theater as well as residencies and master classes. Cromatix. This year they have chosen the Orpheum for the show on a night not to missed. Band History The “new” New Riders are on the road with a revived and The New Riders of the Purple Sage, signed to Columbia Records inspired lineup of musicians, bringing new original songs as well by the great Clive Davis, released its eponymous first album in as their great repertoire back to the ears of adoring crowds nation- September 1971 to widespread acclaim. In the next 11 years the wide. Led by original members David Nelson and Buddy Cage, band toured and released over 12 albums, selling over four mil- the current touring lineup includes Michael Falzarano (Hot Tuna) lion records. NRPS began as a part-time spin-off from the Grate- on guitar and vocals, Ronnie Penque on bass and vocals and John- ful Dead when Jerry Garcia (pedal steel guitar), Phil Lesh (bass) ny Markowski on drums and vocals. In 2010 the band teamed up and Mickey Hart (drums) teamed up with John Dawson (guitar, with Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter and released its first vocals) and David Nelson (guitar). Garcia remained in both The CD in twenty years, Where I Come From (Woodstock Records) to Dead and The New Riders until he found himself overcommitted, rave reviews. The new group vows to keep the NRPS spirit and at which time Buddy Cage replaced him and the classic NRPS tunes alive by taking them to fans everywhere. lineup was born. Original NRPS bass player Dave Torbert and This event represents the first in a series of exciting new drummer Spencer Dryden have passed away, as did co-founder programs presented by the Catskill Mountain Foundation with the John Dawson in 2009 due to ongoing health problems. His support of Friends of the Orpheum (FOTO). Under the artistic considerable talents will be missed but his songs and musical direction of Greg Dayton, FOTO’s collaborative mission with legacy will live on. Before he passed he had given his blessing for

8 • www.catskillregionguide.com the band to continue, and was excited to know his music is being When not working with NRPS or his band Ronnie Penque heard live again by a whole new generation of fans. Band, which includes his brother Chris Penque on guitar, bassist David Nelson has managed to remain true to his musical Ronnie Penque is busy as a session player. Ronnie started out as vision and integrity without becoming outdated or archaic in the the original bass player in the popular Grateful Dead cover band process. Nelson, an important figure in the influential Haight- Ripple. Through the years Ron has also played with many other Ashbury music scene, spawned the Grateful Dead. His ties to bands and great musicians including Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter extend beyond that with The Vassar Clements, Peter Rowan, Melvin Seals, Robert Hunter, Wildwood Boys, a bluegrass band they formed together in 1962 John Popper, and Pete Sears. After Ripple retired in 2003, Ron in Palo Alto, CA. After the Dead got together, Nelson played was asked by keyboardist Melvin Seals of The Jerry Garcia Band guitar on three pivotal albums, Aoxomoxoa, Workingman’s Dead to join his band, Melvin Seals and JGB. and American Beauty. Around the same time, Garcia bought a When not on the road with the NRPS, drummer Johnny pedal steel guitar, which he enjoyed playing with John Dawson, Markowski works with his band, Stir Fried. The group has record- a friend from the Palo Alto days. They formed the New Riders of ed and performed with the likes of Dr. John, Vassar Clements (Old the Purple Sage with Nelson and the Dead’s Mickey Hart and Phil & In The Way), Commander Cody, Jo Jo Herman (Widespread Lesh. Nelson, who sang one of New Rider’s biggest hits, a cover Panic), Bernie Worrell (P Funk, Talking Heads), Derek Trucks (All- of bluegrass great Peter Rowan’s “Panama Red,” stayed with the man Bros. Band), and Tony Trischka. He recently won a competi- group for 13 years, but left in 1982 and starting writing songs with tion for most impressive drummer percussionist on Jambands.com. longtime pal Robert Hunter, among others. Along the way, he was Opening for the New Riders is the Woodstock based quintet a member of the Good Ol’ Boys, featuring bluegrass legends Don Professor Louie & The Crowmatix, a group which originally Reno, Chubby Wise and Frank Wakefield. He also played in the formed to serve as the studio backing band for CD’s by The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and is featured on their 1988 album, Band and solo CD’s recorded by The Band’s original members Almost Acoustic. Then in 1994, Nelson formed the David Nelson Rick Danko, Garth Hudson & Levon Helm. They offer the most Band and over six years, released four solo CDs. Things have come impressive credentials, the deepest hearts, and a genuine love full circle with Nelson at the helm of The New Riders. of performing live. Their latest CD, Whispering Pines, received Pedal steel guitarist Buddy Cage has performed on many no fewer than five Grammy nominations in 2010. Enjoy their gold and platinum albums during his distinguished career includ- rompin stompin’ roots rock, sweet ballads and roadhouse blues ing Bob Dylan’s Blood On The Tracks, Biograph, and The Official led by Professor Louie on keyboards and accordion, joined by Bootleg Tapes. Cage has also recorded with Grateful Dead Mem- Miss Marie on vocals, percussion & Piano, Gary Burke (Bob bers Garcia, Weir and Hart as well as with Dead lyricist Robert Dylan, Joe Jackson) on drums, Frank Campbell (Levon Helm, Hunter (on Tales of the Rum Runners); Ian and Sylvia (Great Asleep at The Wheel) on bass, and Josh Colow (Jesse Winchester, Speckled Bird, the seminal folk band of which Cage was a mem- Livingston Taylor) on guitar. ber); Rick Danko and Garth Hudson (The Band); David Rea The Catskill Mountain Foundation is presenting the concert (Fairport Convention and Mountain); Rick James; The Shondells; as part of the emerging performing arts season at the Orpheum David Bromberg (with Bonnie Raitt); Pappa John Creach (Hot Center for the Arts. The Orpheum is a sumptuous new theatre Tuna); Sly Stone; and Vassar Clements, to name a few. designed by Hugh Hardy, famous for his faithful restorations of the Guitarist/singer/songwriter Michael Falzarano, a member New Victory and New Amsterdam theatres that were so pivotal in of NRPS since 2005, has previously been a member of Hot Tuna, the rebirth of New York’s 42nd Street. We are thrilled to be hosting the famed offspring of The Jefferson Airplane, and was founder of this annual concert this year at the Orpheum and thank the Friends The Memphis Pilgrims. Falzarano’s current release is a solo project of the Orpheum for providing funding for this performance. entitled We Are All One on Woodstock Records and features Vas- FOTO is a 501C3 not-for-profit fundraising organization designed sar Clements, Melvin Seals, Jorma Kaukonen, Garth Hudson, specifically to develop and support programming at the Orpheum. Buddy Cage and many others. He has toured extensively through- We look forward to partnering with Friends of the Orpheum as out the world on shared billings with The Allman Brothers, The we work together to bring exciting new performances and artist Black Crowes, The Other Ones, Rusted Root, Bruce Hornsby, residencies to the region’s newest and most distinctive arts center. and Los Lobos, among others. Falzarano has also appeared live or The New Riders of the Purple Sage with Professor Louie and recorded with such musical greats as Bob Weir (Grateful Dead), the Crowmatix will perform on Friday, December 30 at 8 pm. The Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Garth Hudson (The Band), Paul Orpheum Performing Arts Center is located on Main Street in the Simon, John Lee Hooker, Johnny Copeland, Dr. John, Graham Village of Tannersville. Tickets for the concert are $30 in advance Parker, Merl Saunders, Warren Haynes, Warren Zevon, Greg All- and $35 at the door. To purchase tickets, log onto www.catskillmtn. man, David Crosby, Arlo Guthrie, John Sebastian, Bruce Horns- org or call 518 821 3440. by, Pete Sears, Derek Trucks, Paul Kanter (The Jefferson Starship), For more information on the groups visit www.thenewriders.com Trey Anastasio (Phish), and John Popper (Blues Traveler). and www.professorlouie.com.

December 2011 • guide 9 Hanah Mountain Resort & Country Club

anah Mountain Resort & Country Club is a four season family resort located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. Hanah Hprovides lodging including both standard and superior accommodations along with an Executive Suite and three Junior Suites. Directly next to the hotel is a beautiful pool house which has our heated indoor pool, workout room, sauna and outdoor jacuzzi. The Main Clubhouse contains the front desk and offices as well as the Mountain View fine dining restaurant, bar, fireplace lounge, game room and banquet facilities that can accommodate up to 200. This year Hanah introduced their new 4,000 square foot wedding deck providing an excellent space for any ceremony or reception, complete with spectacular views of the pristine Catskill Mountains. When it comes to food, Hanah offers many choices to please any palate. The Mountain View restaurant serves seasonal American fare in an elegant atmosphere with excellent service. There is also a pub and sushi menu available with Happy Hour specials daily. A full breakfast is also offered daily, and a Champagne Brunch Buffet on Sundays. Hanah is especially known for their 18-hole championship golf course and is the premier golf resort in the Catskills. Golf Digest gave Hanah Golf Course a 3 ½ Star rating. From the back tees at Hanah, the Par 72 course measures 7,195 yards and is ranked among the top 17 of over 700 golf courses in the Northeast. There are plenty of fun things to do at Hanah besides golf. Last year they built an outdoor playground for children and families to enjoy. Hanah also offers bike rentals, ski lift tickets, and access to snow tubing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, scenic train rides and horse- back riding. Hanah Mountain Resort is the perfect place for any occasion. Come book your holiday party or special occasion today! Hanah Mountain Resort and Country Club is located at 576 West Hubbell Hill Road in Margaretville, NY. For more information or to make reservations, phone 1 800 752 6494 or 845 586 4849, e-mail [email protected] or visit their Web site at www.hanahcountryresort. com.

10 • www.catskillregionguide.com December 2011 • guide 11 Fruitful Furnishings The Spirit of the Catskill Mountains in Wood

Photos by Franz Edlinger, eOneMedia.com

rees talk to Gary Mead. All kinds of trees. Even, and maybe and the devotion of a folk artist, from the floorboards to the ceil- Tespecially, the ones that might be overlooked by other wood- ing. His sawmill, dry kiln, and the Gary Mead Gallery are nestled workers. These are old trees, huge trees—one can imagine their in a serene hollow of Pakatakan Mountain, in Margaretville, New roots going back to the beginning of time. As he walks under- York. In this sanctuary, he cuts and kiln-dries the boards, then neath towering canopies, or beside fallen trunks on the forest lovingly begins to create his visions—uniquely beautiful pieces floor, touching the cool dry bark and breathing in the soothing like his Mother & Child Pantry, a 7-foot-tall and 3 1/2-foot-wide scents of wood, Mead hears a voice, gets a vision, just knows from hollow hemlock trunk (the mother) within which he has inserted deep within his soul what he can do to resurrect them for life- another 7-foot by 5-inch solid hemlock log (the child) and seven times to come. Perhaps because he was born and raised on a dairy lazy susans; or The Xylophone Table that he carved with a hand- farm in New Kingston, NY, the spirit of the Catskill Mountains made jig, his first inspiration for following the natural curve of a runs deep within him. After a childhood spent dairy farming, tree; and the stunning Cider Mill Press Base Table, made from the Mead taught himself the artistry of woodworking. 20-ton white pine planks of a local cider press upon which, over Now, the spirit is made manifest in his furniture and sculp- the last 69 years, hundreds of thousands of gallons of apple cider tures—works of art, really—crafted from the local butternut, soft have flowed, naturally staining the wide, worn boards the warm maple, red beechnut, pine, birch, and hemlocks that he loves. honeyed color of apple juice. Mead loves all wood, even that bound for the scrap heap. There’s “Nature’s incredible,” Mead says. One can say the same for no such thing as imperfection. Notches, knots, wrinkles—all are Mead’s work, crafted with love, care, and a deeply-rooted respect appreciated. He remembers exactly where every tree comes from, for nature. The Gary Mead Gallery is a haven in which trees speak labelling every board: Mill Brook, Hubbell Hill, Shokan, Keany to all who visit. Come see for yourself. Visit the Gary Mead Gal- Hollow. He keeps a diary for each piece, too, recording the time, lery online at www.gary-mead.com, or better yet, in person. The date, and the process that went into the composition. Sometimes spirit is contagious. he’s inspired to write a poem about the work. Framed copies hang The Gary Mead Gallery is located at 1289 South Side Road in on the walls of his gallery alongside the finished products. Margaretville, NY. If you’d like to visit the gallery, please call 845 Fruitful Furnishings—Mead’s business since 1979—is hand- 586 3638 to confirm hours. Visit the Gary Mead Gallery online at made, infused with the unflagging spirit of the American dream www.gary-mead.com or www.fruitfulfurnishings.com.

12 • www.catskillregionguide.com December 2011 • guide 13 Margaretville is Open for Business Discount Coupons Available through January 3, 2012

Left: Catskill Mountain Artisans Guild; Right: 768 Main. Photos by Jill Ribich, Catskill Images

argaretville is open for business and all of its businesses World-class artist and floral designer, Richard Simms and his Mthank everyone for their support and all of the contributions shop Wildflowers has been featured inBrides magazine twice! His and volunteers who have helped them recover from the recent shop is decorated for the holiday season. All orders are arranged for flooding. Discount coupons, available at local merchants, are their your special needs and created onsite including holiday greenery. heartfelt thanks to all of you. Foothills in the Bussy Building at the corner of Main and Wal- Looking for that special item for the young boy or girl on nut offers casual shoes, work boots and winter weather footwear. your list? Then Sweet Peas is the fantasy land of choice for prin- The Commons building, across Main Street, is the home to cess dresses and pirate toys sparking the imagination of children eight shops: The Catskill Mountain Artisans Guild, an exhibition to create their own make-believe. space featuring over 75 regional artists; Country Weekend, packed Just steps away you will find the Margaretville Liquor Store with items to make your country home warm and cozy; Longyear with a large assortment of wines and liquors, and of course many Gallery, exhibiting regional fine artists in monthly shows; the choices of champagne and sparkling wines. 768 Main specializes award-winning M.Gerard Country Home, furnishings and interior in handmade chocolate treats by Oliver Kita from the Hudson design services; the Margaretville Jewelry Shop, newly reopened, Valley and hand-blended artisanal teas created by tea connoisseur selling fine jewelry and clocks (repairs made and will buy gold and Nini Ordoubadi of Tay Tea in Andes. Newly added coffee and silver); and Home Goods of Margaretville, the toy store for cooks. baked goods can be enjoyed on the spot at one of the convenient Come for the day and have lunch at The Cheese Barrel, fea- tables while you contemplate what other treasures you might buy turing gourmet coffees, specialty food items, fine cheeses and gift like an antique cabinet or vintage jewelry. baskets; the Bun n’ Cone, where you can get three squares daily; Just a few steps down Main Street is Li’l Sprouts, a charming and the Flour Patch, where fresh baked breads and bagels become clothing shop for youngsters where colorful rain boots, umbrellas the foundation for tasty breakfast and lunch. The Binnekill and rain coats can be purchased. This shop is located in the Bin- Square restaurant continues to offer superb Swiss American fare, nekill Square shopping plaza, where you can also find the Bed and the Inn Between Steak and Seafood Restaurant menu includes Bathe Shoppe offering a wide-range of quality sheet sets, towels, surf and turf, or enjoy Jean Paul’s outstanding menu at Sum- bathrobes and spa slippers and many choices of scented aroma- merfields Restaurant. Or you can stop by at Oakley’s Place just therapy items. Next door is the Margaretville Sleep Shop where outside of the village on Route 28 for great pizza and cold beer. you can buy an entire bed set! Along Rte 28 visit Mountain Flame for unique fireside ac- Mountain Yarns is the destination for all knitters, spinners, cessories, the Village Homemaker with country décor, or stop by hookers, and weavers. Tina offers her hand-painted yarns with a Brookside Hardware for all your project needs for the holidays. special holiday 15% off. This shop offers classes and lots of happy For more information about Margaretville, visit www.margaret- chatter as fiber enthusiasts gather any season of the year. ville.net.

14 • www.catskillregionguide.com This Holiday Season…

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December 2011 • guide 15 Mark Your Calendars! Hurricane Irene

Sunday, February 19th, 2012, 7 pm BenefitOrpheum Performing Concert Arts Center Main Street, Tannersville, NY

Featuring Grammy- nominated Professor Louie and the Crowmatix

with the Rock of Ages Horns and The Ronstadt Generations and Special guests TBA “Americana at it’s best” —The Village Voice

Grammy-nominated Professor Louie & The Crowmatix came into existence preparing songs for Aaron “Professor Louie” Hurwitz’s studio productions for the Rock’n’Roll Hall of Fame group The Band. They are also the backing group for solo CDs by Rick Danko, Levon Helm and Garth Hudson. Professor Louie & The Crowmatix started touring and recording their own music in 2001. They have seven studio CDs and two live recordings on The Woodstock Records label. In 2010, their CD Whispering Pines was nominated in the first round of voting for five Grammys. In the spring of 2011, Professor Louie was inducted into the South Canadian Blues Society Museum with a special concert. In 2006 and 2010, they were special guests on the CBS Television Special Melodies Of Christmas, performing their International Award Winning song “Melody Of Peace” collaborating with The Empire State Orchestra and Choir. www.thecrowmatix.com

Visit www.catskillmtn.org for updates as they become available.

16 • www.catskillregionguide.com WINDHAM HIGH PEAK By Carol and David White

The Blackhead Range, including 3,940-foot Blackhead, 3,980-foot Black Dome, and 3,940-foot Thomas Cole, from left to right. Photo by David White

ne of the most popular mountains to climb, in any season, Master Plan became law. Parts of the Windham and Blackhead Ois Windham High Peak in the northern Catskill Forest Wild Forests were merged and upgraded to the Windham Black- Preserve. It is one of the easiest peaks to access, because its trail- head Range Wilderness. Other parts were renamed Elm Ridge head is on Route 23, just three miles east¹ of Windham village. and Colgate Lake Wild Forests with less restrictive protections. A Windham High Peak offers the hiker a terrific variety of experi- concerted effort has been made to protect wilderness trails while ences. Forest plantations on Elm Ridge are magnificent; emerging at the same time expanding access to biking by creating biking from the last large spruce forest, you have a definite experience of trails outside this newly-designated Wilderness Area. “who turned on the lights?” on a bright sunny day. With leaves off In the first mile of the Escarpment Trail, some nice re-rout- you can see the nearby Blackhead Range, which makes December ing of the original trail has been accomplished, such as routing a perfect time to climb this 3,524-foot mountain. The summit the trail through an old stone wall. Where the trail switchbacks offers several rock ledges with vistas to the south and north. here, notice the marker on a small tree—this tree is the American Big game hunting season continues through December 11, Hornbeam, also called ironwood or musclewood from the trunk’s so wear bright orange. The trailhead is across Route 23 from the muscular appearance and the hardness of the wood. There are parking area, dropping down to a brook with a new bridge; the quite a few of these trees around here. The trail gradually ascends previous one was washed away by Hurricane Irene. The route and there are significant wet or icy sections, but it’s easy to bush- from here to the trail register used to be under water a lot, because whack around them. You can acquire microspikes, footgear that of a beaver dam in the meadow on the left. But Irene also washed has small spikes, is very lightweight, is easy to put on and take off, away the beaver dam and suddenly, this problem wet area is dry! and excellent for hiking during in-between and winter seasons. A boardwalk was recently constructed to deal with the perennial Consider acquiring snowshoes with crampons, also. wet conditions and now it is unneeded, although in snow-melt or The footing greatly improves when new switchbacks begin spring conditions it will probably come in handy. 0.8 miles up. The trail climbs through very attractive open woods Across from the trail register is a new network of mountain with large trees; keep an eye out for impressive older growth bike trails, constructed after the 2008 Catskill Park State Land hemlocks. We brought our surveying wheel² and learned that

December 2011 • guide 17 these switchbacks add 0.2 miles to this section of trail, but they improve the steep, rocky ascent that previously existed. The route joins an old woods road that climbs to the junction with the Elm Ridge Trail.³ The path beyond at 1.4 miles goes up to the Elm Ridge Lean-to, built on a cliff top—no sleep-walking when you stay in this lean-to! Walk briefly down the Elm Ridge Trail to view the cliffs. There’s a new privy; the ubiquitous porcupine necessitates its periodic refurbishment. These omnivores chomp on all things manmade, including privies, crashed airplanes, brake lines, and trail markers. We often tease people with the question: “Why are some trail markers metal and some plastic?” Our answer: “To give the porcupines a balanced diet!” There is room for a tent if the lean-to is full; we explored the attractive landscape south of the lean-to which descends past the cliffs and we bushwhacked over Blimp viewed from the summit of Windham High Peak. Photo by Tim Panto to the trail. There’s a spring two-tenths of a mile down the Elm Massachusetts, and Mount Equinox in Vermont. North are the Ridge Trail. southern Adirondacks and the Helderberg escarpment at John A treat is in store above the lean-to. Much of the trail for the Boyd Thacher State Park. Recently a glider flew over us several next 0.7 miles climbs through scenic spruce and red pine forests, times, often closely enough to hear its swooshing noise. Here, interspersed with deciduous woods where a very large tree off turn around and retrace. to the right required three adults to reach around it for a hug. To do a wonderful seven-mile traverse over Windham down Footing in the spruce forests is occasionally challenging amidst to the Peck Road parking area, a second vehicle can be spotted at myriad tree roots. Wood planks vary in stability, so take care, the Acra Point-Burnt Knob parking area east of Maplecrest (the and if they’re wet, they are slippery! A brief climb up a rock pitch parking area before the last one at the end of Big Hollow Road). leads to a nearly-level pleasant walk where the Blackhead Range Start the traverse here and not from Windham’s summit, because becomes increasingly visible through leafless trees; this range is the bridge over the Batavia Kill washed out in the hurricane; you part of the great horseshoe of mountains and ridges surrounding can check that bridge and also whether you can safely rock-hop a the Black Dome Valley and includes 3,940-foot Thomas Cole side stream beyond the register. You’ll climb one mile to the Es- Mountain, 3,980-foot Black Dome Mountain, and 3,940-foot carpment Trail, turn left to Burnt Knob, enjoy lovely landscapes Blackhead Mountain (west to east). Windham High Peak and the and vistas for 2.6 miles to Windham’s summit ledge, and descend Burnt Knob-Acra Point ridge at about 3,100 feet on the Escarp- the Elm Ridge Trail. ment Trail make up the north and east part of the horseshoe. But don’t get lost! Catskill Peak Experiences describes how a The trail crosses a stream and the trail becomes a different woman turned back along this route, alone, and became disori- footing challenge amidst rocks of all shapes and sizes, tilting every ented. She spent two cold nights in the woods, much of the time which way. From here to the summit the trail is south-facing and in rain without the wool shirt and poncho she usually carried—a is less snowy and icy than north-facing trails, but in this season perfect hypothermia scenario. She did have matches, made fires, you can expect anything. Once, the terrain was coated in ice and and found an old tarp. Hint: dryer lint is good fire-starting mate- we turned back at the stream crossing; only with crampons would rial. the climb have been possible. If rocks are wet, they are very slip- As you are climbing from Route 23 or doing this traverse, pery. Steeper climbing begins at about three miles, then moder- imagine running this route! On the last Sunday every July, there’s ates to more gradual climbing with occasional wet spots, and an Escarpment Trail Run from Route 23 to the North Lake Pub- finally levels out on the summit. Look for the short path to a fine lic Campground. This annual event began in 1977 and involves viewing ledge to have a well-earned lunch. We spotted the nose a total elevation change of nearly 10,000 feet over eighteen-and- wheel of a glider here, which crashed on the summit four years a-half sometimes treacherous miles, open only to qualifiers. Top ago (no deaths) and we found its canopy in the woods. contenders run this incredibly challenging trail in less than three Continue across this flat summit to a geodetic marker on a hours. rock; beyond is a limited view north. On our first windy winter climb, a sandwich wrapper whipped away and Dave dived for ¹ Windham High Peak is not Windham Mountain for skiing in it, ending up head-first in deep snow below the summit rock. the village. But visit Windham’s great restaurants before or after Be sure to descend just yards more to a fine open ledge with your hikes. Windham was hard-hit by Hurricane Irene when the sweeping vistas east and north. On a clear day you can see the Batavia Kill Creek rose four feet and flooded the area during ten Empire Plaza towers in Albany, Mounts Greylock and Everett in inches of rain in two hours. Roads washed away and stores were

18 • www.catskillregionguide.com lost, but within weeks most everything was repaired and rebuilt. ² We measured all 345 miles of trail in the Catskill Forest Preserve with a survey- ing wheel from 2001 to 2003 to write the Third Edition of Catskill Trails, the comprehensive guidebook to the Forest Preserve published by the Adirondack Mountain Club, www.adk.org. ³ The Elm Ridge Trail runs for 0.9 miles to the end of Peck Road, off Big Hollow Road (County Route 56) in Maplecrest. We often spot a vehicle here on group hikes, to climb one route and descend an- other. Check local road and bridge repairs before planning approaches to Maplec- rest; a bridge was out after the hurricane.

To Reach Trailheads and Parking Areas: A DEC sign marks the Route 23 parking area, three miles east of Windham at a junction with Cross Road. The blue-marked Escarpment Trail begins across Route 23. The trail register is 0.1 miles in. Parking for Windham High Peak traverse: One vehicle is parked at the end of Peck Road, 1.8 miles east of Maplecrest off Big Hollow Road (County Route 56) at the yellow-marked Elm Ridge Trail; a second vehicle is parked 0.1 miles short of the final Big Hollow Road parking area. The red-marked Burnt Knob-Acra Point Trail heads north, crossing a bridge over the Batavia Kill to a trail register.

Carol and David White are authors of Catskill Day Hikes for All Seasons (Adirondack Mountain Club, 2002) and editors of Catskill Trails, 3rd edition: Vol- ume 8 (Forest Preserve Series, Adirondack Mountain Club, 2005). Carol is editor of Catskill Peak Experiences: Mountaineer- ing Tales of Endurance, Survival, Explora- tion & Adventure from the Catskill 3500 Club (Black Dome Press, 2008). Signed copies of all of these books are available at the Village Square Bookstore and Literary Arts Center in Hunter, NY.

December 2011 • guide 19 DECEMBER AT THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

The Nutcracker, December 18 Pinocchio, December 3

where the performing arts, fine arts, crafts, movies, books, great food and good friends meet Mountain Cinema At the Doctorow Center for the Arts, Main Street, Hunter December Schedule for Screen Two, the only place on the Mountain Top to see the best Foreign and Independent Films Ticket Prices: $8 / $6 seniors & children under 11 Film schedule subject to change, please call ahead to confirm:518 263 4702 (recorded messages) or visit www.catskillmtn.org.

BEING ELMO: A PUPPETEERS JOURNEY MELANCHOLIA (RATED R, 135 minutes) (unrated, 80 minutes) Directed by LARS VON TRIER Directed by CONSTANCE MARKS In this beautiful movie about the end of the world, Jus- Every day, millions tune in to Sesame Street to see one tine (Kirsten Dunst) and Michael (Alexander Skarsgård) of the world’s most adored and recognizable charac- are celebrating their marriage at a sumptuous party ters—a furry red monster named Elmo. As a teenager in the home of her sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg), growing up in Baltimore in the 1970s, the man behind and brother-in-law John (Kiefer Sutherland). Despite the icon—Kevin Clash—had very different aspirations Claire’s best efforts, the wedding is a fiasco, with family from his classmates. He wanted to be a puppeteer, tensions mounting and relationships fraying. Mean- part of Jim Henson’s team, the creative force behind while, a planet called Melancholia is heading directly the magic of Sesame Street. Combining archival foot- towards Earth. Melancholia is a psychological disaster age with material from the present day, Being Elmo film from director Lars von Trier. 12/9-12/11. Friday 7:15; explores Kevin’s story and offers up a rare, behind-the- Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 7:15 scenes look at the Jim Henson Workshop. 12/2-12/4. Fri- day 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 2:15, 4:15 & 7:15 “Stunning. A movie that leaves the viewer in a state of ecstasy. A moving masterpiece, marked by an astonishing “Inspiring and joyous. You’d have to be a true Grouch profundity of vision.” not to be moved.” —Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly —New York Post

20 • www.catskillregionguide.com THE WAY moral catapult the lives of all involved to the brink of (RATED PG-13, 115 minutes) disaster. Writer/director J.C. Chandor’s enthralling first Directed by feature is a stark and bravely authentic portrayal of the financial industry and its denizens as they confront EMILIO ESTEVEZ the decisions that shape our global future. 12/23-12/29. The Way is a powerful and Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 7:15; inspirational story about Monday-Thursday 7:15 family, friends, and the challenges we face while navigating this ever-changing and complicated world. “One of the strongest American films of the year and eas- Martin Sheen plays Tom, an American doctor who comes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to collect the re- ily the best Wall Street movie ever made.” mains of his adult son (played by Emilio Estevez), killed —David Denby, The New Yorker in the Pyrenees in a storm while walking the Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of Saint James. TAKE SHELTER Rather than return home, Tom decides to embark 0n the (RATED R, 120 minutes) historical pilgrimage to honor his son’s desire to finish Directed by the journey. What Tom doesn’t plan on is the profound jeff nichols impact the journey will have on him. Filmed entirely in Curtis LaForche lives in a small Ohio town with his Spain and France along the actual Camino de Santiago. wife Samantha and six-year-old daughter Hannah, who 12/16-12/18. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; is deaf. When Curtis begins having terrifying dreams Sunday 4:15 & 7:15 about an encroaching, apocalyptic storm, he chooses to keep the disturbance to himself, channeling his “A sweet and sincere family pilgrimage…. anxiety into the obsessive building of a storm shelter Audiences seeking uplift will find it here” in their backyard. The resulting strain on his marriage —Roger Ebert and tension within the community doesn’t compare to Curtis’ private fear of what his dreams may truly signify. MARGIN CALL Faced with the proposition that his disturbing visions (RATED R, 109 minutes) signal disaster of one kind or another, Curtis confides in Directed by j.c. chandor Samantha, testing the power of their bond against the Set in the high-stakes world highest possible stakes. 12/30-1/1. Friday 7:15; of the financial industry, Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 7:15; Monday 7:15 Margin Call is an entangling thriller involving the key players at an investment firm “A riveting genre blend of thriller, domestic drama and during the first 24-hours of the 2008 financial crisis. supernatural horror propelled by a brilliant lead perfor- When an entry-level analyst unlocks information that mance.” could prove to be the downfall of the firm, a roller- —Hollywood Reporter coaster ride ensues as decisions both financial and OPERA in cinema & ballet in cinema At the Doctorow center for the arts, Main Street, Hunter

DON GIOVANNI, BY MOZART the NUTCRACKER, from LA SCALA, MILAN by tchaikovsky Sunday, DECEMBER 11 at 2:15 pm FROM THE ROYAL BALLET, LONDON Tickets: $20 Sunday, DECEMBER 18 at 2:15 pm 3 hours, 15 minutes with one intermission Tickets: $20 In Italian with English subtitles 1 hour, 49 minutes

December 2011 • guide 21 In the Doctorow Center for the Arts Main Street, Village of Hunter Screens One and Three, showing the best of first-run Hollywood films. We show the very best Hollywood films available each week. The following are some films that we will show during the month of December.

For the most up-to-date schedule, call 518 263 4702 or check www.catskillmtn.org. While there, sign up for our e-mail updates so you can get the newest schedule delivered to your e-mail box each week!

arthur christmas the muppets On Christmas night at the North Pole, Santa’s youngest With the help of three fans, The Muppets must reunite son looks to use his father’s high-tech operation for an to save their old theater from a greedy oil tycoon. urgent mission. NEW YEAR’S EVE footloose The lives of several couples and singles in New York City kid Ren MacCormack moves to a small town where intertwine over the course of New Year’s Eve. rock ‘n’ roll and dancing have been banned, and his rebellious spirit shakes up the populace. puss in boots A story about the events leading up to the sword fight- happy feet two ing cat’s meeting with Shrek and his friends. Mumble and his family and friends discover a new threat their home—one that will take everyone work- the thing ing together to save them. The discovery of an alien craft leads to a confrontation between a graduate student and a scientist. j. edgar As the face of law enforcement in America for almost 50 the three musketeers years, J. Edgar Hoover was feared and admired, reviled D’Artagnan, along with three former legendary Muske- and revered. Behind closed doors, he held secrets that teers, must unite to defeat a beautiful double agent and would have destroyed his image, his career and his life. her villainous employer from seizing the French throne and engulfing Europe in war. jack and jill Family guy Jack Sadelstein prepares for the annual tower heist event he dreads: the Thanksgiving visit of his twin When a group of hard working guys find out they’ve sister, the needy and passive-aggressive Jill, who then fallen victim to a wealthy business man’s Ponzi scheme, refuses to leave. they conspire to rob his high-rise residence.

MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE the tWILIGHT saga: BREAKING DAWN, PART I Haunted by painful memories and increasing paranoia, The Quileute and the Volturi close in on expecting a damaged woman struggles to re-assimilate with her parents Edward and Bella, whose unborn child poses family after fleeing an abusive cult. different threats to the wolf pack and vampire coven.

22 • www.catskillregionguide.com CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION PIANO PERFORMANCE MUSEUM Featuring the Steven E. Greenstein Collection Welcoming the new Artistic Director, Kenneth Hamrick

Rediscover this extraordinary collection and its new positioning as a major venue for performance, music education and historical insights. New Online Video! Scan me to view a YouTube video about the Piano Performance Museum!

Or find the video at www.catskillmtn.org /about-us/projects/pianoperformancemuseum.html Route 23A, Main Street, Village of Hunter 518 821 3440 • www.catskillmtn.org Hours: Friday and Saturday, noon-4 pm and by appointment The CMF Piano Museum is funded in part by the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation

Now at Kaaterskill Fine Arts… Be It Ever So Humble… The Paintings of Robert Cepale

“Be It Ever So Humble...” this warm and welcoming phrase evoking the nostalgic yearning for yesteryear will be even more poignantly felt this holiday season in the aftermath of ‘Irene’ when selected works of Mountaintop artist Robert Cepale takes center stage at the Kaaterskill Fine Arts Gallery’s 2011 Holiday Show.

at the Kaaterskill Fine Arts Gallery Main Street, Rte. 23A, Hunter, NY 518 263 2060 • www.catskillmtn.org Gallery Hours: Thu., Fri., Sun. 10am-5pm, Sat. 10am-7pm (Closed Mon.-Wed.)

December 2011 • guide 23 24 • www.catskillregionguide.com Saturday, December 3 Debbie Brindis John Franklin Glass blowing/lampworking Wood carver/jewelry Debbie will also give a demonstration of her art. John will be our guest speaker for an Art Talk from 2 to 3 pm in the lobby of Hunter Village Square, where he will Paul Misko demonstrate how to carve a bowl from actual log to fin- Local berry jams & jellies/unique holiday cookies/wood ished piece. This promises to be a very unusual craft dem- crafts onstration from a master wood craftsman.

Betty Verhoeven Knitted holiday items/charming hand-made quilts

Saturday, December 10 Tina Accardi Lilya Kochergina Unusual jewelry for the holidays Elegant, beautiful hand-crafted jewelry

Debbie Brindis Judy Meyers Glass blowing/lampworking Hand-made soaps, candles and more Debbie will also give a demonstration of her art Cindy Smith Fran Driscoll Puppy dog coatwear/handmade-by-Cindy holiday cards Regional photographs gift items

Ineke Fredriksen Michael Lavery Leaf bowls/birdbaths/dishes all made from the Wood sculpture folk art in the Tramp Art style unusual medium of cement

Saturday, December 17 Larry Gambon Cindy Smith Framed photographs/bookmarks/keychains/magnets Puppy dog coatwear/handmade-by-Cindy holiday cards gift items Judy Meyers Handmade soaps, candles and more Jeanine Maturi One-of-a-kind contemporary jewelry/beading Paul Misko handstamping/metals/leather/customized jewelry Local berry jams & jellies/unique holiday cookies/wood crafts

All purchases made during Super Shopping Saturdays help to support the activities of the Catskill Mountain Foundation.

December 2011 • guide 25 Village Square Bookstore & Literary Arts Center Buy a Book, Save a Building Meet Author John Ham Saturday, December 3, 11 am-3 pm

For two years, a group of local citizens and the Hunter Village Board have been working hard to save historic 175-year-old Saint Mary’s of the Mountain Catholic Church, a structure that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. After intense negotiations, the Albany Catholic diocese (who had intended to demolish the church) has finally transferred title to the Village of Hunter. Now it is up to the people to help restore this beautiful old building to its former elegance as the “welcoming structure” for Hunter Village. After its preservation, it will no longer be used for religious purposes, but as a treasured village landmark used for community functions. It is estimated that the funds needed to complete this project will approach $200,000, all of which is to be raised without placing any burden on local taxpayers. To kick off this huge endeavor, local author John Ham has produced five hundred copies of a wonderful new book about the Town of Hunter and its storied past. The book contains more than two hundred photographs, many dating back to the early 19th century, of the communities of Hunter, Tannersville, Haines Falls and the smaller settlements within the township. Proceeds from all books sold will go to help save the church. To augment this project, the Village Square Bookstore is hosting “Meet the Author” day on on Saturday, December 3. Author John Ham will be in attendance to discuss his new book, and will happily sign and dedicate any copies purchased that day, as well as sign any of his other books on local railroads that the bookstore has to offer from its inventory. There has never been a local history work as heavily illustrated or of the quality of this 132-page hardcover book. It is generating very strong local interest and is most certain to become a collection’s item. A signed and numbered book will be offered for a minimum tax-deductible donation of $75. Additional gift copies may be ob- tained that day for $50 each. 100% of the total sales of this new book will go toward this most deserving community project as part of the Catskill Mountain Foundation’s on-going support of the beautification of Main Street.

We have over 10,000 titles in stock, including books on the visual arts, crafts, film, poetry, drama, illustrated children’s Find Great Gifts storybooks, cooking, gardening, fiction and non-fiction, for the Holidays at bestsellers, publishers’ overstocks and one of the largest the Village Square selections of books on the Catskill Region in the area. We Bookstore! also carry an assortment of games, gifts and cards. Hunter Village Square • Main Street, Route 23A, Village of Hunter 518 263 2050 • www.catskillmtn.org Hours: Thursday, Friday & Sunday 10am-5 pm; Saturday 10 am-7 pm

26 • www.catskillregionguide.com Opening on Friday, December 16… Amy’s Eatery & Take-Away Uncommonly Delicious, Seasonal Food

I have four menus, one for each season with weekly specials to please both omnivore and vegetarian.

I cook everything from scratch and try to use the best seasonal ingredients available. Depending on market availability, I may need to make vegetable substitutions. I also preserve summer fruits and vegetables to serve throughout fall and winter.

When people ask me to describe my food, I briefly reply: “simple food with an international flair.” (Some call this “New American Cuisine.”) I’m passionately committed to supporting local growers and food processors and to buying seasonal and regionally-produced ingredients whenever possible. However, I’m not a “purist,” so you’ll also see ingredients (e.g. avocado, citrus fruit, etc.) that are obviously not local on my menu. The mission of Amy’s Eatery and Take-Away is to serve healthy, authentic, uncommonly delicious food that connects us to the soul and flavors of cuisine from all over the world. Menu will change weekly: check Bon Appétit! www.catskillmtn.org/retail/farm-market-cafe/index.html Amy for updates.

Eatery Hours: Friday Dinner: 4 pm-9 pm; Saturday Lunch: 11 am- 2 pm; Saturday Dinner: 4 pm-9 pm: Sunday Brunch/Lunch: 10 am-2 pm Market Hours: Friday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm Special Holiday Hours: Friday, December 23: Dinner 4 pm-9 pm Saturday, December 24: Market closes at 3 pm. No lunch or dinner Sunday, December 25: Closed Monday, December 26-Friday, December 30: Lunch 11 am-3 pm Friday, December 30: Dinner 4 pm-9 pm Saturday, December 31: Market closes at 3 pm. No lunch or dinner Sunday, January 1, 2012: Closed Holiday Party Fare available by advance order. Call 518 263 2071 Hunter Village Square • Main Street, Route 23A, Village of Hunter

December 2011 • guide 27 National Marionette Theater presents Pinocchio Saturday, December 3, 3:30 pm

Doctorow Center for the Arts Main Street, Village of Hunter Tickets: $8 adults, $6 children/students Purchase online at www.catskillmtn.org or call 518 821 3440

When a small group of compassionate citizens came together some years ago, their purpose was quite simple: to enrich life on the mountaintop. This progressive group of second homeowners, soon to become the Windham Chapter, has taken many small steps to make great strides in our community. As a division of the Catskill Mountain Foundation, the Windham Chapter is committed to supporting projects in the arts, education, and recreation.

Their impact has been felt on many levels; from the very public to the intensely personal: radio and emergency equipment for local firefighters, medical care for families, band uniforms for WAJ students and college scholarships for deserving graduates. This group saw a need and made a commitment to help fill it. Since 2003, the Windham Chapter has awarded nearly 2 million dollars to local non-profit organizations.

Some people want things to happen, some people wish things to happen...

The Windham Chapter makes things happen. The Windham Chapter is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, governed by an all-volunteer board. Windham Chapter• P.O. Box 600• Windham, NY 12496 www.windhamchapter.com

28 • www.catskillregionguide.com The Catskill Mountain Foundation Presents

with Professor Louie and the Crowmatix Friday, December 30, 2011, 8 pm Orpheum Theater, Tannersville, NY Tickets: $30 in advance; $35 at the door For tickets, call 518 821 3440 or visit www.catskillmtn.org

December 2011 • guide 29