Explore Hudson Valley JANUARY 2015 • ULSTER PUBLISHING • WWW.EXPLOREHUDSONVALLEY.COM A Wintry Mix Seasonal activities plus The State of Our Valley

Skiing the Berkshires & Catskills, the Culinary Institute's long reach, what's up with the real estate market, long drives for battling cabin fever, creative economies and the threat of gentrifi cation, and what to do with the kids this time of year. Winter 2015 2 | Explore Hudson Valley

The healthcare industry is evolving, thanks to policy changes, socioeconomic shifts and technological advances. Amid these changes, HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley is ensuring we consistently provide the best possible care to every patient today, while becoming the hospital of tomorrow. HealthAlliance is among the state’s leaders in mounting a new strategy for healthcare delivery. The new strategy is based on maximizing value for patients and families — that is, achieving the best outcomes, at a lower cost, with the highest patient satisfaction.

$WWKHVDPHWLPHZH·UHZRUNLQJZLWKORFDOGRFWRUVWRUHSODFHWKHLQGXVWU\·VIUDJPHQWHGVWUXFWXUHZLWKDXQLÀHGV\VWHP organized around patients and their needs. This is known as clinical integration.

Clinical integration is a strategy, led by area physicians with We’re working on plans to convert the other campus HealthAlliance support, to create a dedicated, multidisciplinary, into a “medical village.” The medical village will be similar mutually reinforcing network of local doctors working together WRDKHDOWKFDUHPDOO³DRQHVWRSGHVWLQDWLRQZKHUH to provide patient care. consumers will have easy access to outpatient, preventive and other health and wellness services. Under the new network, the doctors and other clinicians will treat not simply a disease but rather the “whole person” along Key to the medical village will be enhanced access to the continuum of care. SULPDU\FDUHSK\VLFLDQVDOVRNQRZQDVJHQHUDOSUDFWLWLRQHUV We imagine they will be the “anchor,” while smaller “boutique” This means that while they treat a disease, they will also healthcare providers in the building could offer child and adult consider related conditions, complications and circumstances day care, various types of rehabilitation, prescription drugs, that commonly occur along with it — such as kidney and eye behavioral health, diabetes care and health education. disorders for patients with diabetes. Compatible retailers such as a beauty shop and coffee bar might also be there. They’ll also engage patients and their families in care — such as by providing education and counseling, encouraging adherence HealthAlliance has signed a letter of intent with to treatment and prevention protocols, and supporting Westchester Medical Center, which means we’re now in behavioral changes such as smoking cessation or weight loss. active discussions with the academic medical center about DIÀOLDWLQJ Network members will work as a team, whether they’re in the same building or in different locations. HealthAlliance and Westchester Medical Center both determined that joining forces would improve our hospital Which brings us to three other proposed changes: systems’ ability to provide healthcare services in our ‡ Consolidating HealthAlliance Hospital to a single communities. We at HealthAlliance also found the vision campus in Kingston. and goals of Westchester Medical Center to resonate greatly with those of our hospital system. ‡$GDSWLQJWKHRWKHUFDPSXVWRHQULFKSDWLHQWKHDOWK ‡$IÀOLDWLQJZLWKDODUJHUKHDOWKV\VWHPSDUWQHU HealthAlliance and Westchester Medical Center believe a strategic alliance would strengthen both hospitals — but, more We plan to bring all HealthAlliance Hospital LPSRUWDQWZHDOVREHOLHYHWKHDIÀOLDWLRQZLOOOHWXVHQKDQFH services to one campus. The move, involving our ability to provide a full complement of services so vital to substantial facility upgrades, will improve patient care meeting the greater Kingston area’s healthcare needs. DQGSURYLGHPRUHHIIHFWLYHDQGHIÀFLHQWRSHUDWLRQV At HealthAlliance, we are looking to pioneer a model of The innovative physical space on the single campus will innovative, connected care in the region. We believe this will be designed to improve the overall patient experience. be an exciting year and we look forward to sharing news of Needless to say, everything will be located in one spot, our developments. which will be convenient for patients, staff and doctors alike. Indeed, we’re very optimistic as we build the hospital of Assuming we receive regulatory approvals, we expect to begin WRPRUURZ³DKRVSLWDOWKDWGHOLYHUVVWDQGDUGVHWWLQJPHGLFDO the transition this year. care, while reducing healthcare costs, improving patient out As part of the transition, we also have exciting plans comes, and ultimately improving and sustaining the health and for the remaining hospital campus. ZHOOEHLQJRIWKHGLYHUVHFRPPXQLWLHVZHVHUYH

Exceptional Healthcare Close to Home hahv.org Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 3 A wintry mix

inter’s here, sing goddamn. Who, looking out as the dark- ness punctuated by various forms of precipitation and chill, doesn’t echo Ezra Pound’s revi- sion of the great Chaucer at this Wtime of year? Some of us struggle to see this time of year in different terms. The new year’s just ar- rived. While some look back, others look forward to deeper analysis of the trends affecting our lives. And maybe even prognostication! And then there are those who thrill at the vari- ous opportunities this time of year offers, from skiing local mountains to ice skating and long drives. Talk about a wintry mix! Paul Smart

Among our contributors in this issue:

Susan Barnett is a licensed real-estate sales- person affiliated with Gary DiMauro Real Estate. She lives in West Hurley and has been an anchor, producer and reporter for WRGB-TV and was Hudson Valley bureau chief for WAMC Northeast Public Radio. She’s the author of the short-story collection, “The View From Outside,” published by Hen House Press. Jennifer Schwartz Berky is principal of Hone Strategic, LLC, an urban planning and revitalization consulting firm in Kingston. She currently serves on the boards of the Hudson River Valley Greenway, DION OGUST Re>Think Local, Kingston Historic Landmarks This month’s Explore Hudson Valley — A the world making snow, but also build up a large Preservation Commission, KingstonCitizens.org Wintry Mix cover is by David Slutzky, whose portfolio of striking winter images. David is a and Kingston Land Trust’s rail-trail committee. family owns and operates Hunter Mountain in graduate of The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Jennifer Brizzi has lived in the Hudson Valley Greene County, where his prowess as a master Arts, and president of the Greene County Coun- since 1996, writing about food since 1997, current- snowmaker has not only allowed him to travel cil for the Arts. ly from Rhinebeck. Describing herself a writer- teacher-cook, she writes for newspapers, maga- zines and books, does recipe development, and KIWANIS ICE ARENA cooking demonstrations and teaching. She also writes a weekly health column for Ulster Publish- Open 7 days a week with various times for public skating ing. See her website atwww.jenniferbrizzi.com and Public Open Skating Admissions her blog at www.tripesoup.com. $6 for Adults, $4 for Children 6-18, Children 5 & Under are Free. Carol Clement is owner with her husband John Public Drop In Hockey/Sticks & Pucks $8 for Adults, $6 for Children Harrison of the Bees Knees Café and Heather Ridge Farm in Preston Hollow. They raise, sell Skate Rentals - $3 a pair. Hockey and Figure Skates available and serve animal-welfare-approved grass-fed and Skate Sharpening - $5 a pair pastured livestock and poultry. The café and farm store are open every weekend year-round. www. Visit our website for the skate times heather-ridge-farm.com for every public session Erica Chase-Salerno, an energy healer and BIRTHDAY PARTIES • PRO SHOP founder of HudsonValleyParents.com, writes about area activities for families in the Hudson 845-247-2590 | kiwanisicearena.com | 6 Small World Ave, Saugerties Valley in her weekly Kids’ Almanac column in Ul- ster Publishing’s Alm@nac. Paul Smart is a writer and editor for Ulster Publishing of two decades’ standing. He has ed- ited a number of other regional weekly and bi- weekly newspapers and served as a radio host on WGXC-FM in Hudson, Catskill and Acra. He lives in Greene County. Lynn Woods, long-time Kingston resident and Ulster Publishing writer, is co-author of “Adiron- dack Style: Great Camps and Rustic Lodges” and co-director of the film “Lost Rondout: A Story of Urban Removal.”

— 38 YEARS GOING STRONG —

Shingles • Wood Shakes Rubber Roofi ng Systems Custom Cooper Bay Windows Metal Standing Seam No Subcontractors Ever! KINGSTON POUGHKEEPSIE (845) 331-9291 (845) 332-4252 Winter 2015 4 | Explore Hudson Valley

DAVID SLUTZKY Second time around

Yes, you can get like a bad winter. We’re boomers. As much as we I even have an ID that I’m supposed to present deny it, body parts are starting to wear out. when I go to an airport. back to skiing here My left knee. Years of skiing and hiking these I want to ski again. I’m nervous about it, mountains I love, and in the past ten years farm- though, and want to proceed cautiously as I test ing have taken a toll. Three years ago I had ar- the ability of my new knee. Starting over. So in- By Carol Clement throscopic surgery to clean up a ragged meniscus, stead of thinking about which mountain will have and remove floating fragments that were causing the best conditions on those blue diamonds, I’m used to be all about skiing. Downhill constant swelling and pain. The surgery should considering what the beginning and intermediate skiing. I skied every week that the Catskill ski have helped but instead it seemed to provoke ar- areas have to offer. My fantasy is to take a couple areas were open, for fun or for work. I didn’t thritis to take over. The next two years my knee runs on easy gliding beginner trails, pat myself on need to carry trail maps to any of the Catskill became less and less flexible, stiffening up when- the back, and graduate to an intermediate level if ski areas. They were all in my head. I knew ever I sat for barely five minutes, and soon I was I haven’t lost my nerve. I’ll skip the bunny hill, the relative merits of all the brands of skis unable to straighten it at all. I couldn’t ski like because I’m sure, like riding a bicycle, it will all Iand boots, updated my equipment regularly, had this. I couldn’t even get off a lift. come back to me. subscriptions to two ski magazines, and scoffed at Last winter I had knee replacement surgery. My first skiing experience was as the kid grow- the latest fashions in ski clothing. Vacations were That’s a big deal. It’s major surgery, and it has tak- ing up in Saugerties. I was ten, and Belleayre was a chance to ski and party someplace new. en months of physical therapy to regain strength nine. My family didn’t ski, but my best friend’s Then, as a non-skiing friend put it, age sets in and mobility. I’m a card-carrying bionic woman. family were avid skiers and invited me to join them. I don’t think I was very good. I was not a talented athlete, but I immediately loved it. Bel- leayre then, as now, was known for its terrain for beginners and great ski school, then headed by Olympian Dot Nebel. I didn’t have the privilege of meeting and skiing with her then (though we became friends much later), but the atmosphere was supportive of learning. Shall I go back to my roots and go back to Bel- “In our home, you are on your own but never alone.” leayre? It has greatly expanded since those early NYS Dept. of Health Licensed Adult Care Home days, and now has a “lower mountain” of mostly ———————— beginner level trails and a beginner trail that me- anders from the very top of the mountain, con- Full Medical Coordination necting to the lower area. Ideal for the nervous Unmatched Recreational Activities beginner because hard riding experts are not on the same trails, startling you as they speed by. It always feels like Looking at the statistics, 80% of the terrain at Belleayre is either beginner or intermediate, the a vacation here at highest percentage in the Catskills. And amazing- Voted Best Assisted Living & ly Belleayre has not lost its charm and “forever- MVM! Retirement Community wild” feeling of the early days, while upgrading all in the Hudson Valley its lifts and facilities. Owned & operated locally by the DePoala & McNaughton Families After going to Belleayre a few times, I begged 845.331.1254 • mountainvalleymanor.com Nestled on nine acres in a country setting at my parents for my own skis and boots so I could 397 Wilbur Avenue, Kingston, NY All-Inclusive Living PET practice at home, trudging up and down the hills. No Fees, No Deposits, No Worries FRIENDLY Schedule a Tour and Stay for Lunch My second ski-area experience later that same winter was to Catamount, where I enjoyed the Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 5

have everything: gentle slopes, steep drops, great vistas and every possible snow condition over the course of the season. It is said that if you learn to ski out West, you have a hard time adjusting to eastern conditions. If you learn to ski in the Catskills, you can ski anywhere in the world. I hope it’s true the second time around.

DION OGUST luxury of using the rope tow on my very own skis. I from the top, as well as a separate beginner area. was hooked on skiing, as long as my friend’s family I know today’s Windham, Hunter and Belleayre would take me! Catamount today is transformed, well, except for the improvements they have made with modern lifts and slopeside condos, and 74% in the most recent couple of years when I was not beginner and intermediate terrain. I hardly rec- on the slopes. I’m dying to see them. ognize it. I rarely skied at Plattekill Mountain, 60% begin- Before recent my injuries, I skied mostly at ner and intermediate, probably because it was the Windham and Hunter. Windham has 73% and farthest from home and frankly was known best Hunter 52% beginner and intermediate trails. for its rugged terrain. It has beginner and inter- 52% at Hunter may sound low, but Hunter and mediate areas, of course. Hmm, maybe I should Sectional Overhead Door Windham are larger overall, having more acreage test myself at the area I am least familiar with to than the other ski areas, so the beginner area is break out of my old routines. KINGSTON OVERHEAD DOOR comparable in size, with a separate lifts serving We might not have the biggest mountains or the 87 Boices Lane • (845) 336-6363 just beginners. Windham has a long beginner trail deepest powder, but the ski areas of the Catskills GLED TAN IN A Holiday CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT Financial WITH A Signature Loan ER? UP TO $10,000! HANGOV 5.99%APR*APR* RATESRATES AS LOWLOW ASAS FORFOR 36 MMONTHSONTHS 6.99%APR*APR* FORFOR 6600 MMONTHSONTHS

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*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Offer valid for new Maximum loan amount of $10,000. Advertised rate based on credit qualifications and rate reflects .25% loans, refinances from another institution, or MHV discount for automatic payments from your MHV savings or checking account. As an example, a 36-month refinances advancing a minimum of $2,500 in new term with a fixed rate of 5.99% APR would result in an estimated payment of $30.42 for each $1,000 monies applied for from January 1 until March 31, 2015 financed. A 60-month term with a fixed rate of 6.99%APR would result in an estimated payment of $19.80 subject to change or terminate at the discretion of MHV. for each $1,000 financed. Winter 2015 6 | Explore Hudson Valley Location, location, location

A new generation brings the Hudson Valley to new life

By Susan Barnett

earing my real-estate hat enables me to see how tourism is translating to sales. Visitors want a piece of what we’ve got. Unlike when I was a kid and everyone seemed to be buying Wsecond homes here, many of today’s buyers are Brooklyn expats who are here to stay, full time. For the small towns of the Hudson Valley, there are enough of these Brooklyn folks to go around. Brooklyn has a larger population than the entire lower and middle Hudson Valley. And despite highly visible efforts to provide affordable hous- ing there, it’s continuing to gentrify. In real estate, declaring a specific time period as a watershed mark opens the door to dispute. But I want to choose one. I believe a tipping point was reached in our area in 2014. And I’m prepared to defend my argument. Before I got into the real-estate profession, I was a journalist. When I returned to the Hudson LAUREN THOMAS Valley and Catskills after many disgruntled years itors, particularly visitors from downstate, loved represent, specifically targets that downstate and in northwest Connecticut, it was as regional bu- the Catskills and Hudson Valley. international demographic. Since 90 percent of reau chief for a public radio affiliate. I got to see, A very nice man had a crazy idea to turn a de- my buyer clients are from out of the area, my view first hand and in-depth, what had happened to crepit railroad bridge across the Hudson into a may be skewed. But my clients tell me this area, our area in my absence. It was a bleak time. In walkway. It seemed an unlikely proposition. In and Kingston in particular, is calling to young 2006 every economic story was a different shade 2014, the Walkway Over the Hudson has become Brooklyn dwellers who are sick to death of high of discouraging. an undisputed home run. Ulster County rail-trails prices, high anxiety and high crime. They want The stories I reported were about the black hole are making a concerted effort to offer visitors even community. They want to be near other artist where IBM had once flourished. Layoffs at the more access to the glories of our natural setting. types. And they want to be able to buy a house and Dutchess County IBM facility made headlines. Even the rotting trestle bridge my cousins and I still be able to afford groceries. Were they next? once teetered across in Rosendale is now sturdy, A young Brooklyn couple told me they could not Entrepreneurs proposed making the region the solid and accessible. believe they could afford a seven-bedroom Up- New York State -- nay, the global -- capital of the town Victorian in Kingston. They could. Another solar energy industry. y generation grew up and moved on. young woman bought an uptown retail building Tourism was the one consistent bright spot. Vis- This generation is moving in. and has visions of her own business one day. A M Gary DiMauro Real Estate, the agency I young man is in the process of buying a Midtown Atelier Renée Like Brooklyn but “weirder” fine framing hrissy and Nick The Chocolate Factory Sakes bought 54 Elizabeth Street, Red Hook, New York their uptown Tuesday through Saturday C Kingston historic 10 ~ 6 or by appointment home a year ago. They’ve e-mail ~ fallen so deeply in love [email protected] with the area that they’re 845.758.1004 luring their former Brook- lyn neighbors upstate, too. Chrissy says she’s a one- woman marketing cam- Looking for paign for the wonders of Homeowners to Qualify her new home town. “Beacon’s fine,” Chrissy for a FREE Home Solar said, “but when we were looking, Kingston was just Installation a lot weirder and cooler- looking. It’s a magical little Own Your Own Home town.” Have a Southerly-Facing Roof She’s discovered what Little to No Shading she calls the “incredible” Pay an Electric Bill park at Kingston Point and the melancholy beauty The U.S. Government and your State have of Montrepose Cemetery. fi nancial incentives that may provide home- They got a puppy (be sure owners the opportunity to supplement your to check out Chongo the electric provider with solar power. Corgi’s page on Facebook) who helps them explore. NRG Home Solar is now qualifying homes for a Air BnB has helped pay FREE home solar installation. Call or go online for the bills in a stately XADDAX PHOTO COURTESY OF BAND today to see if your home qualifi es. old home once owned by a 1-518-628-4104 lumber baron. NRGHomeSolar.com “After nine years in Bushwick I was done,” Chrissy said. “My husband got mugged, our landlord was rais- NRG Home Solar offers you the option to go solar for ing the rent on our rent-controlled apartment. We found this amazing old house and it had plenty of space as little as $0 down or you can lower your monthly lease payment with a down payment. Consult your solar for a business someday.” specialist to determine your eligibility. Financing terms, They volunteered at the O+Festival and played it, too. Their band is called Xaddax. Chrissy said it seemed pricing and savings vary based on customer credit, system size, utility rates and available rebates and incentives. System performance to take them no time to become part of the community. subject to several factor including location, roof and shading. Savings on total electricity costs not guaranteed. NRG Home Solar is a service mark of NRG Energy, Nick commutes to Albany for work, but his job allows him to work at home on occasion. Inc. © 2014 NRG Home Solar. All rights reserved. “One draw for me was that the city was just a couple of hours away,” Chrissy said. “But the funny thing is I HIC NYC 1427914, HIC Yonkers NY 5972, HIC Nassau County NY H2409720000, HIC Suffolk County NY 50906h, HIC Weschester County NY Wc24767h12, HIC Rockland- only went twice in the entire past year. I just don’t care. Everything I need is here.” County NY H11586400000 Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 7 grande dame that has fallen on hard times. stock are from the UK. They’re young, they’re older former weekender rented a neighboring Most importantly, they’re all meeting each oth- successful, and they’re spreading the word that unit, leaving her farm in the country in favor of er. They are creating the community they longed Woodstock is a wonderful place to raise children. an urban center where, as Huston put it, “you can for. And they’re sharing what they’ve found on Phoenicia, too, is changing rapidly. Word about walk to get your coffee, your groceries, and go out their online social networks. spots like the Phoenicia Diner, The Graham and at night and still find people.” This infusion of new blood that can be seen at Company motel and Mama’s Boy coffee shop Huston predicts Catskill and Kingston won’t be the street festivals, from O+ to the recent Uptown spread like lightning on the Internet. One good far behind Hudson. “I think anywhere along the New Year’s Eve bash. Look at the pictures posted Instagram post can translate to thousands of peo- Hudson from Westchester to Troy is a no-brain- online. Kingston is young again. ple who now want to see what the buzz is about. er,” he said. “Everyone’s getting priced out of New How do these folks make a living? Some are en- It’s not idle curiosity. They come. And they stay. York City. This is where they’re coming.” trepreneurs. Some work remotely. Some commute What do they complain about? Taxes. Taxes. Catskill is being eyed as the last affordable char- to Albany or Manhattan. They rent out rooms in Taxes. Kingston, in particular, gets raspberries for acter town ($150K can get you a stunning Queen their houses. that one. Saugerties and Stone Ridge, too. Anne within a walk to Main Street), with all eyes My observation is that they’re somehow mak- What do they wish for? Better local mass tran- fixed on the riverfront mill being transformed into ing it work. They are passionate about their new sit. A more affordable way to get the city, where a restaurant and arts space. A snarky new ad cam- town. They love the cafes and restaurants in up- many of them still work. They wish there was a paign focused on the Hudson market doesn’t hurt, town Kingston They love the industrial charm of Metro North line on the west side of the river. either. “It’s a bridge,” reads the billboard. “Get over the Rondout riverfront. They’re looking in mid- This isn’t just an Ulster County phenomenon. it.” town to pioneer Kingston’s next great resurgence. Hudson may seem to be one amazing street of New real-estate companies are opening up now shops surrounded by a lot of fixer-uppers, but that there’s business to spare. Existing companies t’s not just Kingston. HITS has brought the real-estate market there is too hot to touch. are expanding (my agency opened a Rhinebeck of- new blood, and new money, to Saugerties. High They’ve got the train. They’ve got style. And fice in 2014). MLS memberships are rebounding IFalls is beloved by those who can afford it. Stone they’ve got the arts. from shocking lows just a few years ago. Ridge’s beauty is undeniable, though the high cost It’s not a seller’s market, not yet. Part of the of living there leads most of my buyers to look in alkability is now drawing older res- draw of the area, particularly of Kingston, is that Olive or Kerhonkson. idents who want an urban experience prices are low. I sold a gorgeous home on one of Even Woodstock is getting younger. A party at a Win the country. Rudy Huston, an agent Kingston’s most beautiful streets for more than clients’ home this past fall showed me my fear that with Hudson Town and Country Real Estate, $100K below the assessed value. But the couple the former arts colony was becoming a retirement cited Manhattan retirees in Hudson who rented that bought it is young. They’re thrilled with their village for old hippies was unfounded. Everyone at two new luxury units downtown, one for their new home, and they love their town. the party was a local, and they were all under 40. residence and a second for their offices. Another Get ready. The new blood is here. “Why do I never see you in town?” I asked. “We’re home with our kids,” they said. “We’re busy!” The Paul Green Rock Academy has created a real estate tight new clique in town, and the promise of a mu- sic school means the hope of lots of young people at a rate not seen since the Sixties. My generation’s “ARTS & CRAFTS” GEM - leather and head shops have been replaced by in- Storybook style 1930’s Cape with abundant “Arts & Crafts” terior decor and upscale cafes. detailing, lovely wood fl oors, Most of the housing inventory available in unpainted woodwork, original light fixtures, stonework Woodstock is not affordable for the young Brook- pillars on gracious veranda, lyn expats. The new Woodstockers are coming living & dining rooms, eat- from overseas. My clients looking to buy in Wood- in kitchen, 3 bedrooms plus 3156 Rte. 9W expandable second level, full basement, new exterior Saugerties, NY 12477 paint, new deck, detached 845.247.4444 Offi ce garage PLUS TWO legal 845.247.4447 Fax rental cottages for income or extended family ....$165,000 www.benjamincustommodulars.com [email protected] Mary Ellen Flemming, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker • 845-399-5762 3927 Main Street, Stone Ridge, NY 12484

COLONIAL GEM - Quality con- COLUCCI SHAND REALTY, INC. structed modern Colonial per- We Bring You Home fectly sited on 3+ New Paltz acres on a quiet dead end road. Linda Majetich Hansen Gracious fl oor plan features 31ft. Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker living room with cozy fi replace, CRS, ABR, ASP, SFR formal dining room, expansive EI UCBR, 2011 REALTOR® ASSOC. kitchen o’looking large deck, 4 generous bedrooms includ- ing en-suite MBR, 3.5 baths, home offi ce and bonus room 845-255-3455 PLUS walk out fully fi nished lower Ext. 102 level with exercise room, rec c. 845-706-0625 room & add’l BR. HANDSOME! f. 845-255-3221 ...... $429,000 Mary Ellen Flemming, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker • 845-399-5762 www.ColucciShandRealty.com 2356 Rt. 44/55, PO Box 400 3927 Main Street, Stone Ridge, NY 12484 [email protected] Gardiner, NY 12525

223 Boices Lane PURE ENCHANTMENT - His- torically signifi cant church Kingston, NY 12401 c.1898 in Cragsmoor art Are You Caring colony has been repurposed 845-336-2633 offi ce into a fabulous residence. Stun- For an Aging Parent 845-336-6711 fax ning interior features soaring beamed ceilings, polished con- or Loved One? weichertspiesman.com crete fl oors, fabulous country gourmet kitchen, en-suite MBR “Home Healthcare with Dignity” plus add’l BR with cozy nook, Your locally owned Real Estate Company with 45 ft living room, 26 ft family/ media room, bluestone patio & 30th Year Serving the Hudson Valley a National presence serving Ulster, Greene and terraced gardens. Abutting con- servancy lands insure integrity. Specializing in Certifi ed Live-Ins/Home Health Aides, Northern Dutchess counties. Whether buying ONE-OF-A-KIND! .... $299,000 High-Tech RNs & LPNs or selling, or for information give us a call. Mary Ellen Flemming, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker • 845-399-5762 Pediatrics Through Geriatrics • Free Pre-Nursing Assessment 3927 Main Street, Stone Ridge, NY 12484 Always a Nurse On-Call 24/7 • 31st Year Serving in Rockland VACATION AT HOME WHERE CAN YOU FIND – Tucked away on a quiet • Hospital & Nursing Home Sitting road just outside the village of Woodstock surrounded • Accredited by Joint Commission & NYS Licensed by similarly fi ne homes, this ALMANAC WEEKLY? spacious contemporary is sited Medicaid, Most Insurances & Long Term Care, CDPAP privately on over 4 acres. Light Mastercard, Visa & Amex and bright, the open living/ dining/kitchen space with cathedral ceilings was designed 845-331-7868 • 845-638-4342 Everywhere. for gathering & entertaining, and opens to the patio and heated in- 845-561-7900 • 914-244-0544 ground pool. Rich walnut fl oors throughout the fi rst fl oor extend 212-683-2250 • 201-541-7100 into the master suite, offi ce and two more bedrooms, all of which have doors to FROM BEACON TO HUDSON. the outside & access to the hot tub. Second fl oor loft & two-bedroom suite offer additional space for family, guests & indoor recreation. A house for all seasons, www.at-healthcare.com there’s a wood burning fi replace in the living room and a gas fi replace in the master, while alongside the pool, the pool cabana offers a full bathroom and a FROM ELLENVILLE TO PINE HILL. shady place to get out of the sun. Dry basement has plenty of space for storage as Affiliate Agency A & T Certified Home Care well as a secure concrete vault. Additional storage space is located above second fl oor loft and two car garage. All systems are of the highest quality and have been Covering Medicare / Medicaid patients over impeccably maintained. (TEXT M440479 to 85377) ...AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN. Jeff Serouya, CRS • Associate RE Broker • 65 or disabled persons (845) 626-5000 mobile • http://jeffserouya.com 845-708-8182 • www.homecarerockland.com HUDSONVALLEYALMANACWEEKLY.COM | 845-334-8200 3927 Main Street, Stone Ridge, NY 12484 Winter 2015 8 | Explore Hudson Valley Still the crème de la crop

COURTESY OF CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA Jeff Levine. “The college spends close to a million ing with each of the farmers to determine what The CIA goes locavore dollars a year on fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, the college’s needs will be for the coming growing in the Hudson Valley dairy, eggs, honey, syrup, and meat from about season. two dozen farmers and producers, most within The CIA is not new to the locavore game. about 35 miles of campus. Those products are “Purchasing from regional growers not only by Jennifer Brizzi used throughout the college’s curriculum and in makes perfect gastronomic sense, it also sup- the on-campus restaurants. So not only do farm- ports the local economy and helps protect our he Culinary Institute of Ameri- ers benefit from having a market for what they environment,” reads a 2009 press release from ca is internationally recognized, sure. grow and produce, and CIA students benefit from previous CIA farm liaison and produce buyer But is it universally admired? How working with high-quality local ingredients, but Paul Wigsten. can such a sprawling entity — with the dining public also has an opportunity to ben- “We embrace the locavore movement,” ex- locations in Singapore, San Antonio, efit by enjoying the results of future chefs using plains chef Cynthia Keller, an associate dean in Napa Valley and here in Hyde Park those local ingredients in the dishes served at our culinary fundamentals at the Hyde Park campus. T— maintain a commitment to locavore ideals? restaurants.” “Being able to source locally as the population “We strongly support Hudson Valley farmers,” Beginning next month, he continues, the CIA’s increases is important. Knowing our sources, says the school’s local communications manager, farm liaison, Anthony DiBenedetto, will be meet- considering our effects on land and communi- ty and looking at ways to be sustainable: it’s a movement we’re very active in. It’s this elaborate woven thing that everything we do focuses on.” 100+ TV channels, free Keller describes an evolving curriculum that wireless internet, fi tness begins with teaching students how to identify the best ingredients and using what tastes good and area, pool table and guest what looks good, and moves on to creating more plant-based menus, with meats having more of a laundry. Free Continental garnish role on the plate. Breakfast. Handicap “Because of this we’re very active working with forward-thinking training of students as future accessible rooms available. experts,” she adds. “And we cross-collaborate with other research institutes, like Harvard and the 1/4 mile to NYS Thruway. Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Media Closest hotel to the village. Lab, examining the future of food.” A pop-up restaurant called Pangea is being created by chef Waldy Malouf, senior director of 7 Terwilliger Lane, New Paltz • 845-255-8865 special projects, in a campus dining hall. Open www.abviofnewpaltz.com from January to May, it will feature multi-cultural meals with bold flavors. “It will be ‘plant forward’,” Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 9

COURTESY OF CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA reveals Keller, “with vegetables and grains more sation are also important.” recruit on campus every year and the school has the stars of the show.” plenty of high-profile alumni. The general con- Where the school ranks sensus by posters online seemed to be that the The trickle-down effect The word on the street (and online) is that the CIA still rules, followed fairly closely by Johnson The CIA is working hard to provide its students CIA ranks at or near the top of the most highly & Wales. a more holistic education, maintains Keller. She acclaimed culinary schools. Students and grads The culinary education playing field is becom- believes this approach has had a big impact on on college ranking sites review the school as being ing more crowded. The 2014 review touted both the way all of us look at food. “What the chef does the right school for creative, determined, dedicat- the Institute of Culinary Education (formerly trickles down,” she says. ed, hard-working team players who embrace the Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School) and What about growing the food? “We don’t do our challenge of a fast-paced comprehensive culinary the International Culinary Center (formerly the own farming,” replies Keller, “because we want to education in a professional environment. French Culinary Institute) in New York City for support local farms.” That doesn’t preclude a bit of Not all the feedback is positive, however. graduating successful, award-winning chefs. It location-appropriate gardening. Plots of edibles Some critics contend that professional success also offered positive reviews of the L’Academie de have sprung up around the campus, she says, “to depends on not only attending a highly regarded Cuisine in Washington, DC, the New England Cu- grow some things not so easily acquired.” One is a culinary school like the CIA but also on the indi- linary Institute’s two Vermont campuses, Johnson beverage garden, with ingredients appropriate for vidual’s work ethic and desire to continue learn- & Wales University in North Miami, Denver, Prov- things like infusions for specialty cocktails, and a ing on the job. Advancement in the field after idence, R.I. and Charlotte, N.C., and the Auguste linden tree for tea. It’s just for fun, not serious, she school may seem slow, requiring luck and per- Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colo. adds, “but the students are very involved.” severance. Future potential students are warned and Austin, Tex., plus Le Cordon Bleu, which has The CIA says it sees local sourcing and locavore that with a degree the chances of getting a job multiple campuses worldwide, including 16 in leanings as far more than just a passing fad. It’s are good. But one shouldn’t expect to start out theU.S. more of a fundamental change in the food world. as a well-paid executive chef. You have to work It would appear that the CIA remains the crème Is the CIA a leader? Do culinarians and poten- your way up. de la crop as far as culinary schools go, and well tial culinarians around the world agree with the A 2014 review of the best culinary schools in worth the considerable investment required to at- CIA’s self-assessment, as proclaimed on its web- America remained upbeat about the CIA, ranking tend. And lucky are we that many of its grads stick site: “Today, the Culinary Institute of America is it as “one of the best culinary schools in Ameri- around to cook for us, putting plenty of our local widely recognized as the world’s premier culinary ca.” It pointed out that at the CIA 300 companies bounty on the table. college, with an industry-wide reputation for ex- cellence and more than 47,000 alumni serving their professions as living testament to the quality of a CIA education.” In the spring of 2013 The New York Times called the CIA “the West Point of culinary schools” in a report about a 90-student walkout on campus over what they considered the school’s lowering of admission standards and too-fast expansion. They complained that the previous restaurant experi- ence required for admission had been dropped to 10-Lb. accept out-of-the kitchen experience like waiting Black Oil tables or working in a retail food shop. Sunfl ower Protestors wore nametags with the dollar figure Bird Seed 20-Lb. Wild of the amount they owed in student loans. One L 106 118 1 Bird Food protestor who had graduated in 2005 called the L 501 272 1 school a “chef factory full of chef-bots … with a few skills and no work ethic.” Earlier, in 2008, a previous protest cited “slip- ping academic requirements, shoddy equipment and a too-cozy relationship with the corporate food world.” The provost countered that admis- sion standards had actually risen. The profession and the school, the provost explained, were in transition from “an autocratic master-apprentice www.hhoust.com 679.2115 model” to one where now “creativity and improvi- Winter 2015 10 | Explore Hudson Valley The eye-opening joys of winter road trips

There’s no better way to cure Cabin Fever... for some

By Paul Smart

ack when the economy really tanked big-time during the 1930s, one of the great saving graces dreamed up as a way to keep creative types working, and everyday people up in their eve- ryday spirits, was the creation of a Bseries of guides to each state. These included fine essays with multiple photographs that described and analyzed each state’s history, economy and major urban areas. Best of all were a series of driv- ing tours that gave mini-accounts of small towns and regions, complete with pocket histories, an- chored to the nation’s new highway system, still young at the time. Although nothing so visionary was activated af- ter our own generation’s economy tanked six years ago, we still find the idea of listing field trips key to surviving challenging times in these parts. The old WPA guides still provide a great map basis for winter field trips. There’s always uncertainty to long winter drives. DION OGUST Fortunately, our local road crews know this, as do local radio stations and their weatherpersons. And if worst comes to worst, there are still the remnants of a vital tourism industry along most of our highways. Herewith is a handful of suggested local voy- ages. Don’t worry if you get lost. You’re never that far from home... 1. The Mohonk-Shawangunk Roundelay. The great thing about the Gunks this time of year stems from the dramatic ridgeline’s mixture of white, snow-like rock formations and soul-bright- ening evergreens. No matter whether the sky’s a bright blue or European slate, there’s a grandness to the jaunt. Leaving New Paltz head west on 299 towards cliffs, wide fields on either side, until you get to Route 44/55. Take a righ and head up and over the ridgeline and its many trails at the Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park, as well as a host of new viewshed turnoffs. Come down the other side into the Rondout Valley (crossing the fabled creek and its old canal), go all the way to Route 209. Take a right and head north back through Kerhonkson up north towards Stone Ridge. Take a right onto Route 213 at the light just before Stone Ridge, then another right just past the Depuy Canal House in High Falls, onto DAVID SLUTZKY County Route 6A, the Mohonk Road, through hill the sleepy-appearing but highly creative commu- Brauhaus and Mountain Deli where 299 meets and dale (where the great painter Marc Chagall nity of Gardiner (down 44/55 the other direction 44/55, to a variety of spots along 209 (including once lived a spell in a borrowed farmhouse), then from up), over in once-busy Ellenville (south on Kelder’s Farm, Lydia’s, Lekkers, and several spots up and over the ridge line past the turnoff for the 209), in old Stone Ridge or Kyserike/Alligerville, in Stone Ridge itself), all that is High Falls, and majestic Mohonk Mountain House and down to- or a few miles further down Route 213 to Rosen- the expensive but amazing Mountain House itself. wards New Paltz again. dale. Even cooler along this route are the many Two hours. There are many fine side trips along the way -- to stops for noshing or shopping, from the Mountain 2. Woodstock and its Offspring. From the vil- lage green, with a good cup of something warm by your side, head up Rock City Road and straight ENDE through the stop sign and over Mead’s Mountain, E A N V Climbing passing the magnificent and one-of-a-kind KTD I O Monastery (Tibetan) before eventually coming P R

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S Snowshoeing to another stop sign where you make a left and

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• then a quick right onto Church Road (passing the • G old Shady Church), again making a right onto u ce Hiking ide Servi Route 212 which you take up to the next stop sign in Mount Tremper, where another right will be taken past the Zen Mountain Monastery on the former plank road into Phoenicia. Coming back, head out to Route 28 and make a left, following Provided • Operating daily the road through Boiceville. Bear right on Route • All Ability Levels 28A and wind toward Olivebridge. A mile before • All Equipment • Private & Group Lessons Olivebridge stay on 28A, bearing left past the New • Half & Full Day Options York City reservoir campus and aerator fountains, then left again and up to the dividing weir and The Inner Wall out to Winchell’s Corner. Take another left there, Birthday Parties | Scouting Events and head up Route 28 through Boiceville again. Summer Camps Make a right soon after the high school onto Piney Point Road, which eventually passes into Wood- 877-486-5769 (845) 255-7625 | New Paltz, NY 12561 stock as Coldbrook Road. At its end, make a right [email protected] www.TheInnerWall.com onto Wittenberg Road, following it left in about a Open Tuesday – Sunday hundred yards straight back into Woodstock via www.AlpineEndeavors.com Bearsville. Great side trips en route include Phoe- Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 11 nicia, Woodland Valley (just beyond Phoenicia), still a non-talking napper. Several times we ran after Burger Hill Park. Follow this road as it winds West Shokan and the Ashokan campus (near that across actual red-coated fox hunts while travers- across Dutchess County. It becomes Bull’s Head reservoir campus). Good eats can be had at Oriole ing this bucolic territory. Cross the bridge over the Road and crosses the Taconic Parkway before 9, Shindig, Sunfrost and Cub Market in the Wood- Hudson at Kingston to Dutchess County and head eventually reaching Route 82, where one should stock area, Brio’s, Sweet Sue’s and Mama’s Boy in out east until you can take a right onto Route 9G make a left and head north, taking a side trip into Phoenicia, the Phoenicia Diner, Bread Alone and South; take a short while until CR 19, Slate Quar- the quaint community of Bangall, once home to Goods’ Luncheonette along 28, plus Snyder’s Tav- ry Road, heads out to the left, eastward, not far Jimmy Cagney during his long retirement. Con- ern in West Shokan (if you can spot it). Hour and a half. 3. Cradle of American Art. Start in Catskill and wander a bit through the old town, making sure to check out Main Street, the river down at its eastern end, and the cemetery where Hudson River school painter Thomas Cole is buried. Then head down Route 9W to Saugerties, past the now- closed cement factories by the rail lines to Sau- SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 11AM – 3PM gerties, itself home to another great downtown (Partition and Main streets). Hit the lighthouse, wander Seamon Park, and then come back by heading out 32 north until you see a turnoff to the right for Old King’s Highway (with signs identify- Winterfest 2015 is ing Lazy Swan Golf and Katsbaan Tennis). Take a Sponsored and Organized left onto Schoolhouse Road (just past fields and by the Wurtsboro Board of a stone house, and a left on West Camp Road); Trade make first right onto Charles Smith Road and fol- low through stop sign over creek (waterfall to the left). This becomes High Falls Road and you keep following, bearing to the left at High Falls Ex- tension, until you again hit Route 32, where you make a right. Go through light, past the defunct Friar Tuck Inn, and then right on to Cauterskill Road (across from Heart’s Content Road), which WURTSBORO, NEW YORK you will follow for several miles as it winds to- In Historic Sullivan County wards Catskill (make a left after it goes under the www.wurtsboro.org Thruway and across a creek). When you come to a Y above the creek, take the lower road to the left, which becomes West Main, ending up in Catskill. Great side trips along this hour drive include the hamlets of Glasco and Palenville, the Saugerties Lighthouse, and many creekside stops. Great eats in Catskill include Wasana’s and Maybelle on Main Street, Tango and Miss Lucy’s in Saugerties, Circle W in Palenville, or at the Lazy Swan. 4. Fox Country, reviving. This became a fa- www.scva.net vorite long drive back for me when my kid was

Abundant. Faith. Painting. Acceptance. Family. Peaceful. Accessible. Fishing. Pool. Accommodating. Fitness. Practical. Active. Flowers. Premier. The 100 reasons why Adventure. Freedom. Protection. Affordable. Friends. Recreation. Woodland Pond is the best choice, but Appealing. Fulfilling. Refreshments. Art Studio. Fun. Reliability. has only a few apartment homes left. Come join us. Assisted Living. Games. Respect. Beautiful. Gardens. Rewarding. Beneficial. Growth. Safety. Billiards. Happiness. Satisfying. Blissful. Harmonious. Scenic. Calm. Healthcare. Security. Camaraderie. Healthy. Sensible. Cards. Helpful. Serenity. Carefree. Hiking. Sharing. Caring. Hope. Singing. Classes. Independence. Snacks. Cleanliness. Inexpensive. Spirited. Comfortable. Inspirational. Spiritual. Comforting. Intelligent. Stimulating. Community. Joy. Stretching. Companionship. Kindness. Successful. Compassion. Laughter. Suites. Computers. Library. Supportive. Convenience. Life Care. Sweets. Conversation. Lifestyle. Sympathetic. Cooking. Lively. Theater. Creativity. Local. Therapy. Culture. Longevity. Trust. Dancing. Love. Understanding. Dessert. Memory Care. Unique. Dining. Mid-Hudson. Value. Woodland Pond is a continuing care retirement community that offers everything you look for now, and a full Economical. Music. Variety. continuum of care, should it ever become needed. Call 845-256-5520, or visit www.wpatnp.org to find out more. Educational. Nature. Wholesome. Encouragement. Nourishing. Wise. Enjoyment. Nursing. Wonderful. Enrichment. Nutritious. Woodshop. 845-256-5520 Excitement. Original. Woodland Pond. 100 Woodland Pond Circle Exercise. Outstanding. New Paltz, NY 12561 | wpatnp.org Winter 2015 12 | Explore Hudson Valley

DAVID SLUTZKY tinue back up 82 to Pine Plains, where you’ll reach up with 308, where a right will lead you towards SR 22 and Millerton (after a left onto 22 N). Take time to check out this cute hamlet, full of old- style shops from Saperstein’s department store to clothes and book emporiums and an old style mov- ie theater. Eventually continue back up Route 22 until a road bears off to the left, Winchell Moun- tain Road (CR 60 at Irondale), which rises up a hill to a cemetery where one takes the first right onto Pulver Road, which if you stay with to the left at the next Y becomes CR 8, and eventually feeds into 82 again. Follow Route 82 north through An- cram and Ancramdale until it flows into Route 23, which should be followed to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, where one then then take a left back onto SR 9G south through Germantown and Clermont towards that same Kingston bridge. Great side trips along the way include the Omega Institute at journey’s start, various back roads anywhere along the route, east on Route 308 from Pine Plains into the Stissing Mountain/Carvel estate wild lands LAUREN THOMAS (memorialized in a special exhibit at the Ameri- can Museum of Natural History in NYC), and especially into the hamlets of Germantown and Winter Clearance! Tivoli. Come back down 9G at the end (being sure to see the Bard College campus if you never have). Great eats along this two-and-a-half-hour trip are Mattressesattresseses StartingStarting at $99$ available at the Red Devon in Bangall, Stissing *We Have House in Pine Plains, Taro’s Pizza or Irving House Sofass for only $299 Coffee in Millerton, the Farmer’s Wife in Ancram, MOVED! Otto’s Market in Germantown, or various spots in the center of Tivoli. 5. Hudson River History, Highlands & Hu- bris. This tour de force is a great mix of urban and rural, with some key historic views, plenty of 20th- century detritus, and an overall sense of grand ex- panse that’s perfect for curing cabin fever blues. Start out at Kingston. Cross the Hudson and then heading south at the first right, on to 103, River LIVE LOCAL. READ LOCAL. NEWS THAT’S RELEVANT TO YOUR LIFE.

*Route 9 in Poughkeepsie Next to Friendly Ford and across from Red Lobster

Poughkeepsie 845-204-9090 NEW PALTZ TIMES • WOODSTOCK TIMES ULSTER KINGSTON TIMES • SAUGERTIES TIMES Giving Their Customers More and Charging Them Less For Over 90 Years. davisfurnitureonline.com PUBLISHING ALMANAC WEEKLY 845-334-8200 Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 13

ANITA BARBOUR DION OGUST borhoods, down towards the Cold Spring and Garrison riverfronts and their grand views of the military academy across the river, off to the USMA campus and great free military museum at High- land Mills, around Cornwall, and in the various riverside small communities of southern Ulster County. Great eats? That’s a long list with high- lights including China Rose overlooking the river in Rhinecliff, the Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park, Machu Picchu Peruvian restaurant on Broadway in Newburgh, and a whole host of great cafes in most towns. Of course, this is only a start. We’ve left out the Greene County Mountaintop, reached from Route 28 via scenic Routes 214 or 42 in Phoeni- cia and Shandaken, or up either 23A or 23 from the Catskill/Saugerties area. We also love the long roundelay west on Route 28 out into the Marga- retville-Andes-Roxbury farmlands, or up County Route 42 from Big Indian past Frost Valley to Grahamsville and Claryville, coming back through Peekamoose into Olive and the Ashokan Reservoir area. Or heading up into the Chatham-Kinder- hook area of Columbia County, out to Millbrook, or just getting lost anywhere this time of year. So much cheap gasoline, so little time. Just take a road map, a good app, or the confidence that you can never really get that lost. LAUREN THOMAS Road. Follow it until it ends at the Rhinecliff Road, where you’ll hang a right and head towards the train station and river. This becomes Charles Street and Morton Road (CR85), which you’ll fol- low as it eventually becomes Mill Road and leads you to Route 9. There you’ll want to make a right, head south through mansion-rich Hyde Park, and then past Poughkeepsie into the South Dutchess mall lands. Warmth. Reliability. At Route 9D, just past the South Hills Mall, take a right and head in towards Wappinger’s Falls (where this publication gets printed!). Fol- low this route south through Beacon and beyond, Integrity. eventually heading through the Putnam County riverside communities of Cold Spring and Garri- son. When you get to the Bear Mountain Bridge make a right and cross the river, heading north on the west side along Route 9W through Fort Mont- OFFERING gomery, the outskirts of West Point, and Cornwall PROPANE & (where the Hudson Highlands Museum makes for a great visit). Take a right at the signs for the HEATING OIL George Washington Headquarters Historic Site in Newburgh, on to S. William Street heading east through an as-yet-ungentrified neighborhood to Liberty Street, where you’ll make a left and pass by the historic GW site. Keep heading north, over Get peace of mind with a Broadway and through some historic districts, as dependable supply of fuel the street eventually becomes Balmville Road and that's there when you need it. leads past the 325-year-old Balmville Tree, situ- ated on the state’s small park and forest. Ask about our new At Route 9W make a right and head north customer specials! through Marlboro, Milton and Highland and eventually, before returning into Kingston, you’ll pass some of the grand old monasteries that still line the river across from the east shore’s fabled 1-800-PROPANE mansions. This three-hour-plus route includes great side trips into the grand mansions, up Bea- www.suburbanpropane.com con’s Main Street, or Poughkeepsie’s old neigh- Winter 2015 14 | Explore Hudson Valley

COURTESY CITY OF KINGSTON Gentrifying the Hudson Valley

Two cities, two stories: Kingston takes on Hudson

By Lynn Woods

owhere is a recent economic and cul- tural revival more evident than in Hudson and Kingston, two burgeon- ing “micropolitan” areas rising out of the ashes of a collapsed Hudson Valley manufacturing base. The for- Ntuitous change of fortunes has been boosted by a combination of young urbanites priced out of the Big Apple and older second-home owners trading in weekends in the country for full-time residency in a small, friendly city. For at least two decades, waves of migrating artists and New York professionals have been at- tracted by the two cities’ cheap housing prices, abundant space and sympathetic natural environ- ment. The two Hudson Valley small cities have long lingered on the cusp of renewal. It now appears that the sea change that has been long predicted has finally happened. Formerly ubiquitous empty storefronts are increasingly oc- cupied by cafes, restaurants, antique emporiums and specialty stores. The newcomers are attracted COURTESY CITY OF HUDSON by what they are familiar with. The quirkiness, so- walkable communties. Decrepit industrial water- be arrivals to other Hudson Valley cities. “The di- phistication, and in some cases the prices of Wil- fronts are being reborn as recreational magnets. vide has always been here, but it’s wealthier now liamsburg and Greenwich Village are being trans- Planning efforts to create walkable communities than when we came,” said Linda Mussmann, who planted to the hinterlands. are being fed by concerns about climate change founded the alternative film center, Time Space The shift, it now seems, is more than just a and the finiteness of fossil fuels. The dream of Limited, with partner Claudia Bruce in a former revival of retail. Both cities are redefining their a renewed sense of community has replaced the bakery in 1991. When Mussman and Bruce ar- economies and quality of life through creative re- nightmare of suburban isolation. rived, Hudson was a very poor city: the cement purposing. But gentrification doesn’t stop with just push- industry was on the wane, the middle class had The few abandoned factories left are becoming ing out the poor. Gentrification can threaten the left, and the arrival of a Wal-Mart north of the city workshops for high-end artisans and cultural cen- very diversity, affordability, and creative expres- had seemed to kill off what retail was left on War- ters. Empty lots are being transformed into com- sion that the newcomers claim attracted them in ren Street. munity playgrounds, gardens and even small-scale the first place. How will the factors that are turn- Clumps of antique dealers from New York City, farms. Abandoned rail corridors are being gussied ing New York City into two cities, one for the rich attracted by the city’s cheap space and nineteenth- up as a system of pedestrian and bike trails within and the other for the poor, play out here? century architecture, arrived just in time. Today the retail mix has become more varied again, Too hip for its own good? noted Mussmann, with “wine stores, book stores, In Hudson, gentrification has already reached houseware stores, and restaurants, a lot of which the point where it definitely has pushed out the are high end, with big-ticket menus.” Mussman poor people. It’s now threatening the first wave acknowledged the cumulative impact of the of artist immigrants as well. A two-million-dollar changes: “It’s an economic engine that’s gained pricetag on a building for sale on Warren Street momentum.” has set a new price high. Commercial rents may Spurred by the opportunities available via the increase to the point of pricing out the quirky, in- Internet, self-employed artisans and creative te- dividualistic retail stores that make Warren Street chies joined Hudson’s newcomers. According to so appealing. While 15 years ago one could buy a The Albany Business Review, in 2010 Hudson had property for $50,000, today all that’s available “is the highest self-employment rate in the state, INFORMATION OVERLOAD? either over $500,000 or needs $100,000 worth with ten percent of the working population self- of work,” said Sarah Sterling, a broker at Halstead employed, much higher than the national average Get news that’s relevant to your life. Properties. Numerous articles in The New York of 6.5 percent. Times have added fuel to the fire. After a slump Mussmann, who has run for the school board four years ago, “all of a sudden we were discovered and for mayor, said she and Bruce have been com- ALMANAC WEEKLY ULSTER KINGSTON TIMES • NEW PALTZ TIMES as the new hip town,” Sterling said. mitted to serving the community. TSL has offered SAUGERTIES TIMES • WOODSTOCK TIMES Gentrification is now at work in other parts of kids’ programs and educational workshops, bailed PUBLISHING 845-334-8200 the small city, pushing some of the newest would- kids out of jail, and helped teens get into college. Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 15

COURTESY CITY OF KINGSTON “Our community needs a good deal of help and “The community is constantly in a state of flux, Kingston sprawls. It takes a while to know your attention,” Mussmann said. “It’s not just about and one wonders what the word ‘community’ is way around. making money, but looking out for my neighbors. all about,” explained Mussmann. Increasingly, she Kingston’s Broadway is a traffic corridor that Humanity is part of the deal.” said, the divide is not just between the newcomers connects the Stockade to the Rondout. It will The local school system has a low graduation and the natives, but also between the original art- soon be getting a serious upgrade, with new bike rate. Most of the newcomers send their school-age ists and the new arrivals. lanes, redesigned intersections, pocket parks, kids to Hawthorne Valley, Emma Willard, or Berk- For Hudson, the purchase of a building by art new benches and other amenities. A north-south shire Country Day School. However, a number of star Marina Abramovic proved a pivotal moment. freight rail line cuts the city in two. A significant programs designed to help boost education levels Abramovic stood up at a city Common Council chunk of the Rondout downtown was torn down of local children are creating new opportunities, meeting and said she hoped Hudson would turn in a 1960s urban-renewal project. said Ellen Thurston, a three-term alderperson into Park City, Utah. She also wanted a parking As well as a much deeper, more layered history who now serves as county supervisor representing lot for 700 cars. than most places, Kingston also boasts a great the Third Ward. Though the unemployment rate Mussmann’s reaction was that this was the diversity of historic architecture. The buildings is low, many of the locals lack the skills needed to worst thing that could happen. “It turns the tables range from the seventeenth-and eighteenth-cen- work in the new restaurants. against any kind of balance,” she said. Such unex- tury stone buildings in the uptown Stockade dis- amined assertions, she continued, “would have a trict whose streets were laid out by the Dutch, to The new newcomers huge impact on the community. Right now there’s the Rondout’s Italianate brick storefronts and the The Amtrak train station provides direct access a lot of Marina telling everybody what her plans midtown tenements. Also along the route between to non-driving New Yorkers. Ridership on the are and not a lot of dialogue.” the two districts are Victorian painted ladies and Hudson-New York rail line has increased dramat- Though Mussmann said she’s happy TSL is old brick former factories. ically. Thurston says it’s now one of the busiest in thriving and its audience continues to grow, she Kingston hit bottom in the early 1990s after the the state. Hudson’s abundance of large buildings remains protective of the kind of community closing of the massive IBM plant in the neighbor- remains an attractive resource, providing storage “where we worked hard to make a difference. I ing Town of Ulster. The city has been attracting space for the antique dealers, offices (most notably don’t want to be dismissed because she knows artists for decades, but recently the influx may for Etsy, which now employs 75 at its sales center), Lady Gaga.” have achieved critical mass. The Stockade district, and performance and event spaces. The Basilica, “We could be ruined by the all the publicity,” which used to be spookily quiet at five o’clock in located on the waterfront, draws thousands for its agreed Thurston. “I came to Hudson because it had the afternoon, is again becoming a bustling center annual Farm & Flea event. Club Helsinki, reflect- an edge. I don’t want Hudson to get too trendy.” of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Fleisher’s Organ- ing the city’s vibrant music community, is another ic and Grassfed Meats and its butcher apprentice arrival that gave Hudson a big lift. “There’s great Kingston gains momentum program has attracted national media coverage, as opportunities,” said Mussmann. “The arts and The population numbers is one main difference has the stately Stockade Tavern. “Lumbersexuals” cultural scene is pretty amazing for such a small between Hudson and Kingston. Kingston is much congregate in the antiques-filled Outdated Café place.” bigger, with a population of 24,000 compared and BSP, a former theater which showcases musi- Thurston, who arrived in Hudson from Manhat- to 6600 for Hudson. While Hudson is compact, cal groups. (The younger generation also consists tan in 1995, said that creative people other than high-profile artists are flocking to the city and its environs, too. She cites among the arrivals promi- ENROLLING NOW nent people from the publishing and film worlds. 40 Park Lane It’s not just Hudson, but the whole region that’s Highland, NY 12528 gentrifying, she said. “The whole-food movement P: 845.883.5151 is really big in Hudson. Nancy Fuller, who has a F: 845.883.6452 program on the Food Network called “Farmhouse Jo-Ann Frisina, Rules,” buys her kitchen implements in Hudson ~ Since 1996 M.S., CCC-SLP and patronizes the wine store. The demand for good food — which is available in abundance, Certifi ed School How about a Belgian Hot Chocolate? though expensive — has helped the local farm Administrator economy blossom. Program Director 845-658-3355 • www.lemoncakes.com With half the property owners not paying taxes, the old Hudson desperately needed to broaden its tax base, said Thurston. It did. Where once she Freedom was surrounded by working-class homeowners, to now “I’m surrounded by B&Bs,” joked Thurston. RELAX Low-income renters were displaced when dilapi- dated multi-family homes were converted back into single-family residences. Driven out by high- er taxes, some locals who owned property cashed in and moved a few miles north to Greenport.

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hire 30 to 40 people as one of the best ways to increase the city’s prosperity and build on the suc- cess of the city’s small fabricators. “Building a bet- ter Broadway would add to everything else that’s going on,” said Godbey. “Just putting in bike lanes will make Kingston look like a progressive city.” While the prices in Kingston’s rental market is similar to Hudson’s, with few apartments avail- able for less than $800, its real estate is still af- fordable (although the property taxes are ex- tremely high). You can still purchase a house for about $100,000 — less if it’s in midtown — and the prices, along with the city’s walkability and the quality of its schools (one of the elementary schools offers a popular Montessori program and Kingston High School has outstanding music and art programs), are attracting hipsters, along with empty nesters, to the city. ”We’re on the cusp of better things,” said Andi Turco-Levin, a broker at Coldwell Banker Village Green and former alder- person. “We’re finding the partnerships to make better connections. We’re on the right path.” Kingston hasn’t yet attempted the kind of dra- matic leap into gentrification one witnesses in Hudson, but that could change with the advent COURTESY CITY OF HUDSON of a new arts district in the area. “The thing I’ve of kids raised in Kingston who left and chose to sion of an abandoned rail line into a rail-trail, noticed about midtown is how little it’s changed,” return, a promising development that suggests which will enhance the sprawling midtown area of said Richard Frumess, who moved to Kingston opportunities do exist for local youth.) homes and industrial buildings where most of the in 1995 and is the president of R&F Handmade The downtown Rondout district, whose docks city’s poorer residents live. Citizen-led initiatives, Paints, a manufacturer of encaustic paints and oil on the Rondout Creek attract numerous boats, such as the Kingston Land Trust, which proposed sticks that employs artists. including some very fancy yachts, in the warm the rail-trail, and the O+ Festival, which brings What has changed is the dialog among neigh- months, is now home to a wine shop, artisan café musicians, performers, and artists to the city over boring businesses, residents, and the city gov- and lunch bistro called Grounded, an art supplies Columbus Day weekend in exchange for reduced ernment. R&F Paints is part of a cluster of small store, upscale antiques emporia, a clothing bou- or free medical and dental services — the event manufacturers in Midtown that after getting to tique and several restaurants. has been so successful it’s being exported to San know each other collectively came up with the The Hudson River Maritime Museum, which Francisco and other cities — have been highly ef- idea of the arts district, which has been embraced shares a large maintenance barn built for the fective in improving the quality of life and attract- by the current mayor, Shayne Gallo. overwintering sloop Clearwater. ing more newcomers. “We’re trying to raise all Several factories in the area have been con- The Stockade District and the Rondout “are boats,” said Godbey. Nonprofit groups, including verted to affordable work and live lofts, while a small and very walkable,”said Kevin Godbey, a the Center for Creative Education, which offers former lace mill plant is in the process of being Kingston native, former IBMer and editor of the hip hop and drumming workshops, and the Ev- renovated with affordable housing units for art- Kingston Happenings online newsletter. “There’s erette Hodge Center, which has a free after-school ists by RUPCO, a nonprofit advocating affordable appealing housing close by, so that you can walk program and garden, are serving inner city youth. housing and community development. The orga- to the night life, restaurants and shops.” Godbey said he doesn’t think Kingston is sus- nization also offers a program that helps first-time ceptible to the kind of intense gentrification that’s homebuyers by subsidizing their down payment, Raising all boats occurred in New York City. He advocates attrac- closing costs, and maintenance fees. The city government is spearheading conver- tion of small but not tiny companies which would The proposed arts district, which would at-

ment, and the knowledge-based professions. The terminology recognizes the economic role of creativity in a range of pursuits, arts-related or Shifting focus not. It is often used more narrowly to include cultural industries such as music and perform- ing arts organizations, museums and galleries, broadcasters, advertisers, printers, design ser- vices, eating and drinking establishments, edu- How a creative class is growing Ulster County added 950 jobs, or an increase from cational institutions, arts equipment makers and 2709 to 3659. The percentage of jobs in this sec- repairers, and publishing. in Kingston and other places tor for the region is nearly double the national av- Clusters, which are geographic concentrations erage. of companies and their surrounding support Small businesses have also been shown to be the systems, nurture ecosystems for businesses. The By Jennifer Schwartz Berky impetus for a majority of these new jobs, and for cluster environment supplies specific services. much of the region’s sense of innovation. Between Educational institutions offer a prepared work- ack in 2007, Ulster County 2000 and 2012, small businesses in Ulster County force. Government offices that provide technical adopted a plan for sustainable eco- grew from by 317. Most of these were micro-busi- assistance. Not-for-profit community organiza- nomic development. Ulster Tomor- nesses of one to four employees. The Small Busi- tions offer social networks for these businesses. row. As one of four strategic areas ness Administration reports that very small busi- The urban or small-town atmosphere contributes it included creative and knowledge nesses create more jobs than any other firm size quality of life. clusters. “… the clusters of skilled tal- does. Clusters serve an economic function as well. Bent that may be the most beneficial factor in gen- Etsy, the Brooklyn-based e-commerce website They can raise productivity and reduce the cost of erating economic wealth in a region.” launched in 2005,opened its office in Hudson doing business. Kingston has since seen a flurry of community three years ago, and the office has grown from and cultural activity, Many longstanding residents eleven to more than 80 employees. “The office is hen Scott Tillitt opened the Beahive “co- and transplants have started launching new busi- continuing to grow, and we prioritize hiring from working” space in the heart of Beacon’s nesses and revitalization initiatives. the Hudson Valley,” says Heather Jassy, vice presi- WMain Street in an artisan-renovated An ambitious Greenline rail-trail network has dent of member operations. 1907 Bell Telephone building, that city’s renais- been planned to converge in Midtown. A YMCA “The local creative, entrepreneurial spirit is a sance was being attributed to the 2003 opening farm is joining the burgeoning urban agriculture perfect fit for us, and many Hudson Valley art- of the Dia Art Foundation’s 240,000-square-foot movement in the Hudson Valley. Unique events ists and makers are among the more than one contemporary art museum in a former Nabisco such as the O+ Festival is celebrating the grow- million sellers on Etsy,” Jassy explained. “Our plant on the Hudson River. He attributed the re- ing arts community. A “Made in Kingston” event goal is to share what we know about entrepre- vival largely to the artists and creatively inclined recently highlighted the activity of what’s been neurship, and to use our platform to empower residents who started moving to Beacon in the dubbed the “creative sector.” local artisans. The Hudson Valley has such a rich decade that followed. Similar movements are underway throughout cultural history around making, and we’re glad “Those residents have brought new energy and the region, from Hudson and Catskill south to to help enable that in any way we can. Buyers businesses, but they also bring new thinking that Beacon and Newburgh. Pundits point out how the want goods with individuality and meaning, and can impact larger societal issues,” he explained. creative sector can be a driver of economic devel- there are huge opportunities for creative busi- “They have the kind of broad perspective we opment. nesses to grow.” need to address the intertwined challenges we From 2001 to 2010, the occupational cluster of face, connecting the dots between seemingly dis- the arts, entertainment, publishing, and broad- n 2002, Richard Florida popularized the con- parate ideas.” casting for four Mid-Hudson counties – Putnam, cept of the “Creative Class” as a sector of the Since then, Tillitt and a group of social entre- Orange, Dutchess and Ulster – grew by 3244 jobs, Ieconomy consisting of science, technology, in- preneurs funded by the Local Economies Proj- a 32% increase from 10,235. In that same period, novation, art, culture, music, design, entertain- ect of the New World Foundation have launched Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 17 tempt to “brand” existing amenities, including an old movie house converted to a performing arts center, Kingston High School, several galleries, Comparing counties and the aforementioned arts-related manufactur- ers, will inevitably raise property values, noted Godbey. But he applauded current efforts to help When it comes to jobs, ter, Putnam and Rockland counties) and more spread the benefits to people of low or modest in- than 4000 in the mid-Hudson area (Dutchess, comes. Brooklyn and Ulster head in Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Greene and Columbia counties). Reasons for optimism opposite directions With the healthy Brooklyn job market, the Frumess, who sits on the city’s arts advisory number of people commuting there for work committee, finds reasons for optimism. “Re- By Geddy Sveikauskas from the other New York City boroughs has been designing streets is not enough,” he said. “It’s increasing, too. Between 2002 and 2011, about what’s going to be there. Gentrification is an 18,000 more Manhattan residents, 17,000 more amorphous word. You can’t shake the class eographic mobility is a complex Bronx residents, and 7000 more Queens resi- structure, but you can fight it. There is wiggle phenomenon. It involves constant dents went to work in Brooklyn. room, where you can reach out, and that solidar- tradeoffs. Some people move Though the amount of commuting from lower ity is very important.” to new places because of better Hudson Valley residents to Manhattan barely Gregg Swanzey, Kingston’s director of econom- job opportunities. Others move budged in the same decade, Hudson Valley travel to ic development and strategic partnerships — he because of higher costs. Still others work in Brooklyn increased. Lower Hudson Valley moved to Kingston in 1986 and formerly was cap- Gseek an improved quality of life, and yet others residents working in Brooklyn increased by7000. tain and later executive director of Clearwater pine for better educational opportunities. In the mid-Hudson Valley, 8500 more resi- — said the city is sensitive about “doing the right Many people head to big cities in pursuit of op- dents worked in Manhattan and 4500 more in thing.” He seeks a mitigating balance. portunity. They find all kinds of neighborhoods Brooklyn by 2011. Clearly, not all the job migra- “There’s a tension between bringing businesses there and all kinds of living situations. Some stay. tion is from the Big Apple outward. and more capital into the city and the impact of Others flee. Brooklyn’s hot. Many parts of it are gentrify- that on property values and market rates for the There’s a middle course, too. It’s not unreason- ing. People having trouble paying the ever-rising first-time homebuyer,” Swanzey explained. He’s able to want to partake of the wealth of the big rents or tired of living in crowded apartments are wary of the kind of dramatic increase that’s oc- city without living there. Why not straddle both restless. People seeking to start families or retire curred in Hudson, fearing a bubble. If and when town and country? to the country are looking for alternatives. Those the bubble bursts, it ends up leaving people un- About a million residents of Brooklyn have are the folks one sees at Hudson Valley real- derwater and unable to invest. jobs. The jobs number has grown by a remark- estate places every weekend. Godbey noted that the Kingston businesses able 170,000 from 2002 to 2011, the last year for Here’s a census statistic Ulster County politi- “seem a lot more stable” than the stores in the which census data is readily available. cians are unlikely to be boasting about. While the past. “Positive indicators” that the city is finally According to a 2011 census count, 41 percent of number of Brooklyn residents working in their turning the corner include a lot more events and all Brooklyn jobholders work in Manhattan, 37 home borough increased by 76,000 between music venues, he added. “The new people aren’t percent in their home borough, and eight per- 2002 and 2011, the number of Ulster County just opening up businesses and buying houses but cent travel to Queens. That leaves 14 percent of residents working in their own home county are getting involved,” he said, citing the recent Brooklynites, or about 140,000, working else- decreased by more than 10,000 (from 41,954 in New Year’s Eve celebration in the Stockade Dis- where. About 15,000 of these Brooklyn residents 2002 to 31,446 in 2011), a result of both fewer trict, hosted by local businesses, which attracted have jobs in the lower Hudson Valley (Westches- jobs and longer commutes, in the same period. more than a thousand people to the Spiegeltent set up at BSP and the midnight ball drop. Kingston’s gentrification “has taken a long time,” foot and bike, while also improving resiliency.” speed internet services are two initiatives that added Swanzey. “But mayor Gallo is really open Flooding is a definite concern in the waterfront could further boost the city’s attractiveness to to the changes, and the funding is available for district, and the city has established a climate- newcomers, Swanzey said. “What I’d love to see connectivity and infrastructure. It’s about smart change planning office. Developing Kingston as is more people investing. We’re changing people’s growth, connecting people not just by car but on a recreational port and possibly installing high- sense of what’s possible.”

Re>Think Local, a nonprofit collaborative of lo- least a decade. of community is very important to create the cally owned independent businesses that is part of In Kingston, established businesses such as Bai- Kingston that is, not just a lot of outside wealth a national “localism” movement led by the Busi- ley Pottery and R&F Handmade Paints have been coming in to give it a makeover.” ness Alliance of Living Local Economies (or BAL- joined by a new crop of “makers” of crafts, furni- LE). Its mission: “to co-create a better Hudson ture, apparel, and food. Industrial spaces such as n her essay “Ulster County Ghosts” for The IBM Valley: vibrant, sustainable, locally rooted and hu- the Shirt Factory and about-to-be-revived Lace Years, published last year, Gail Godwin hark- man scale, with equal concern for people, planet, Mills building as subsidized artist housing are Iens back to the days when times were good at and prosperity.” providing relatively inexpensive, flexible spaces in the global computer giant’s Kingston plant. Be- Clustering facilitates productivity and inno- which these creative cottage industries can grow fore the layoffs began in 1993, many in this area vation, wrote Jeremy Nowak, one of America’s and prosper. thought the economic security brought by this leading thought leaders in urban development Creative-district initiatives need to encourage major employer would last forever. Asked God- and civil society. Nowak’s strategic advice to busi- synergies that will foster innovation, according win, “What happens to such a place and its people nesses, social sector institutions, and innovative to Nowak. They need to include education, tal- when the giant creature gets up, shakes itself off, governments is to pursue a coordinated approach: ent networks, leadership principles, business and and goes away?” “From non-profit performance space to galleries, marketing needs, and “civic collaboration.” Cre- When the closures began hitting hard in 1994, to businesses that offer classes, to specialty supply ative placemaking allows for stronger connections governor Mario Cuomo famously advised long- shops, to the individual artist entrepreneur and and community transformation via heightened time Ulster County Chamber of Commerce lead- contractor, neighborhood arts activity is an iden- public involvement and interaction. ers: “Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and tifiable business sector. As economists who study Richard Frumess, founder and co-owner move on.” business clusters recognize, geographical proxim- of R&F Paints and a leader of the creation of As the authors of the Innovation Index con- ity and the interactions that emerge from related Kingston’s new district, credits strong local col- clude, “Far too many places in rural America still activities within a local area are important even in laboration, especially from the city’s current have their eye on a 20th-century prize: recruiting the age of electronic connectivity.” administration. “When we didn’t have it, there businesses by giving away excessive financial in- were scattered attempts to revive the area, but centives.” he US Economic Development Administra- there wasn’t really any focus. The involvement This was not a recipe for success, they noted. tion created an Innovation Index eight Tyears ago which uses industry and occupa- tional data to help decision-makers understand competitive advantages and to support new and emerging industries. It recommends support for Hudson Valley Estate Sale regional knowledge economy components from H UDSONV ALLEYE STATES ALE. COM within communities. Following what economists have been saying for decades, the EDA advised: “Rather than emphasizing incentives, subsidies Vintage Furniture & Furnishings for Every Room! and low-cost, low-skill labor, the new race is won by regions with the capacity to innovate and with New Location: 853 Flashbush Rd. (Rt. 32), Kingston NY. the brainpower – education and skills – needed to Just South of Rhinecliff/Kingston Bridge create and sustain a competitive advantage over the long run. Successful regions build on their New items own unique qualities and advantages.” We arriving daily! Creative districts have become fashionable. deliver Open: Tue-Fri 11-6:30, Sat. 11-5:30, Sun 11-4 Nearly 100 such districts have already been des- Ask for ignated or planned in the United States. Several details CLOSED MONDAYS are in the making in the Hudson Valley. Plans for a formal creative district have been brewing for at 845-339-7800 Winter 2015 18 | Explore Hudson Valley Winter’s great for family fun

Try these family activities around the region

By Erica Chase-Salerno

“Not knowing when the Dawn will come, I open every Door.” — Emily Dickinson JANUARY

This winter, I invite your family on some new adventures. Try some new activities and visit some off-the-beaten-path places in the spirit of Janus, who represents transitions and new beginnings, and for whom January is named. The Challenger Learning Center in Airmont of- fers public planetarium programs on the second Sunday of every month, and public simulated space missions on the third Sunday. This month a Return to the Moon mission is scheduled for Sunday, January 18. My kids had a blast doing this activity, each getting time in both mission control and in the “spacecraft.” Sessions begin at 2 p.m., and the cost is $10 per person, $5 for seniors. Ages 8 and below must be accompanied by a parent. Reservations are recommended. 225 Route 59, Airmont. 357-3416. http://www.lhvcc.com. Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers guided snowshoe outings all winter long, such as the Sun- LAUREN THOMAS day, January 18 2.5-mile trek to Awosting Falls or Commons at 1 Commons Drive in Lake Katrine. born in Esopus as Isabella Baumfree near the his- the Monday, January 19 2-mile hike, plus an all- http://www.tenbroeckcommons.com. Or donate toric plaque along Route 213. You can travel her ages family outing on Monday, February 16. 5281 items not covered by food assistance programs, famed trail from slavery to freedom, following Route 44/55, Kerhonkson. Pre-registration is re- such as toiletries and disposable diapers, to area this map: http://www.esopus.com/brochures/so- quired at 255-0752. http://nysparks.com. After- charities. journer_trail.pdf. wards, indulge in the Alternative Baker’s Belgian Bring Common Core history themes to life and Live the life of “Frozen” movie good guys Krist- hot chocolate, 407 Main Street, Rosendale. 658- take advantage of free entrance days at U.S. Na- off and reindeer Sven by cutting ice out of the 3355. http://www.lemoncakes.com. tional Parks on Monday, January 19 and again pond and transporting the blocks by sled to the On Monday, January 19, celebrate Martin Lu- from Saturday, February 14 through Monday, Feb- ice house at the Hanford Mills Museum’s Ice Har- ther King, Jr. Day with acts of service where chil- ruary 16, including the Franklin D. Roosevelt site, vest Festival on Saturday, February 7 from 10 a.m. dren of all ages can help! Honor that declutter- 4097 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, 229-9115, to 4 p.m. See ice fishing, blacksmithing, storytell- ing resolution by collecting spare mugs and cups ext. 2010. http://www.nps.gov/hofr/index.htm. ing, horse-drawn sleigh riding, ice sculpting, the for The Lunchbox soup kitchen, or buy a few Also the Vanderbilt Mansion, 119 Vanderbilt Park snowman village, and more. Kids 12 and under canned items to give to the Dutchess Outreach Road, Hyde Park. 229-9115, ext. 2010. http:// are free. 51 County Highway 12, East Meredith. food pantry. Both are located at 29 North Hamil- www.nps.gov/vama/index.htm. Learn more at 607-278-5744. http://www.hanfordmills.org. ton Street in Poughkeepsie. http://www.dutches- http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm. You don’t have to go far or break the bank for soutreach.org. Write and deliver greeting cards to The Ashokan Center’s Hoot features quintes- a getaway that feels like you really got away, if seniors at area nursing homes, such as Ten Broeck sential Catskills music, nature, and dance from you go to Frost Valley! Frost Valley is open year- Friday, January 30 through Sunday, February 1. round, but family weekend from Friday, February The family day is Saturday, January 31, with per- 13 through Monday, February 16 is a great way formances including Elizabeth Mitchell & You to recharge during the winter. Every day is filled Are My Flower, all-ages crafts with FiberFlame, with activities for all ages. You can take all of your Mountain Laurel Waldorf School and a variety of parent-child activities, plus on- meals in the dining hall so no cooking required, Parent/Child through 8th grade site trails, blacksmithing, and more. Suggested and you just choose your lodging, from dorm style donation of $30 to $60 per adult, additional fees to swanky inn-like accommodations. 2000 Frost for food and lodging. 477 Beaverkill Road, Olive- Valley Road, Claryville. 985-2291. http://frostval- Open House bridge. 657-8333. http://www.homeofthehoot. ley.org. com. Chinese New Year on Thursday, February 19 for Kingston’s WinterFest is “snow or no,” so if brings in the year of the goat, so how about stop- there’s ground cover this free family-friendly ping by the Forsyth Nature Center in Kingston to prospective families event is on for Saturday, January 31, from 10 a.m. visit some real goats like my favorite, Mario, and to 2 p.m.! Enjoy snowshoeing lessons and hikes, the other resident animals? 157 Lucas Avenue, Sat. Jan. 24, 2015 animal tracking, winter survival, and arts and Kingston. 339-3053. http://forsythnaturecenter. crafts, and more at Hasbrouck Park. 379 Dela- org. For animal fun in Dutchess County including 10am - Noon ware Avenue, Kingston. 331-1682. https://apm. the adorable red pandas, check out Trevor Zoo, activecommunities.com/kingstonparksandrec/ 113 Millbrook School Road, Millbrook. 677-3704. Activity_Search/winterfest-january-31/649. www.trevorzoo.org. FEBRUARY Snow sports Winter can and should be a time of introspec- Honor local history this month by exploring tion, hibernation, and taking it easy. In case your some of the inspiring life of orator, self-freed kids didn’t get that memo, channel those energy slave, and powerful abolitionist Sojourner Truth, levels into snow sports! Look what Windham UNPLUGGING DOES NOT MEAN DISCONNECTING. Where students discover their CONNECT TO YOUR COMMUNITY. strengths, recognize their responsiblity to others and envision the full possibility of their lives.

16 S. Chestnut St. New Paltz NEW PALTZ TIMES • WOODSTOCK TIMES ULSTER KINGSTON TIMES • SAUGERTIES TIMES (845) 255-0033 - www.mountainlaurel.org PUBLISHING ALMANAC WEEKLY 845-334-8200 Winter 2015 Explore Hudson Valley | 19

COURTESY JUST JUMP, HUDSON Mountain offers for all ages of kids this year: ber that due to renovations, only the smaller sled- ing the winter months. 5-minute jaunts of independent snowmobiling for ding hill at Mills Mansion is open this season. Bounce! for the therapeutic powers of playing ages 6 and up, and under 120 pounds. Open week- Check out Almanac Weekly’s Paul Smart’s sledding trampoline dodgeball against your own kin or just ends at $12 per ride; tubing, ice skating, and zip guide: http://www.hudsonvalleyalmanacweekly. soaring solo. For all ages. Save time by completing lining, open weekends at varying price levels. For com/2013/01/03/a-sledders-guide-to-the-mid- the waivers online. 2 Neptune Road, Poughkeep- skiers and snowboarders, check out the big air bag hudson-valley. Afterwards, warm up with a hot sie. 206-4555. http://bounceonit.com/pough- for practicing big jumps. All ages, open weekends decadent treat at The Hudson Chocolate Bar, like keepsie. at $10 per day; and every level of terrain park. 19 The Angelina for serious chocolate lovers, or a Hudson Valley Raceway for thrilling slot car Resort Drive in Windham. 518-734-4300. http:// Vanilla Steamer. 135 Warren Street, Hudson. 518- racing on three tracks, best for ages 5 and up. www.windhammountain.com. 828-3139. http://www.hudsonchocolatebar.com. Haviland Shopping Center, 870 Violet Avenue, Choose your own ice skating fun! For tra- Have you discovered cross-country skiing? Hyde Park. 838-5333. http://hvraceway.net. ditional Catskills style, it’s Mohonk Mountain Mountain Trails Cross-Country Ski Center is a Inner Wall for all levels of indoor rock climbing. House, complete with fireplace and hot cocoa. great option for quiet nature trails, lessons, and 234 Main Street, New Paltz. 255-7625. http://the- 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz. 255-1000, equipment rentals, including pull sleds so even innerwall.com. http://www.mohonk.com. Or go big at McCann the youngest children can come along for a ride. Just Jump for indoor bounce fun from ages 1 to Ice Arena for lessons, hockey, and DJ skate night. 6198 Route 23 A, Tannersville. 518-589-5361. 12, Columbia Plaza, 350 Fairview Avenue, Hud- 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie. 454-5800. http://www.mtntrails.com. Later on, Last Chance son. 518-828-1982. http://justjumpny.com. http://www.midhudsonciviccenter.org. Try com- Antiques & Cheese Cafe offers a variety of fare and YMCA in Kingston gives a $10 day pass for in- fortable Kiwanis Ice Rink in Saugerties for skate has a children’s menu. 6009 Main Street, Tan- door swim and more, $3 for 12 and under. 507 helpers, drop-in hockey, warm lobby areas, and a nersville. 518-589-6424. http://www.lastchan- Broadway, Kingston. 338-3810. http://www. great outdoor wooden playground. 6 Small World ceonline.com. ymcaulster.org. Avenue, Saugerties. 247-2590. http://kiwanis- Hudson Valley Seed Library is for when you’re icearena.com. Snow-free fun ready to think spring! http://www.seedlibrary.org. If you’ve got enough snow for sledding, remem- Here are some more ideas for indoor action dur-

COURTESY MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE Winter 2015 20 | Explore Hudson Valley Next power outage, make sure your home is the one with the lights on.

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