VISITvortex Autumn 2023 Magazine

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Rhinebeck | Hudson | Hopewell Junction | Tannersville | Red Hook | Pleasant Valley | High Falls

EXPERIENCE THE HUDSON VALLEY’S

MOST ICONIC RESORT

Explore 85 miles of hiking trails with unparalleled views at Mohonk Mountain House. Enjoy boating, archery, fitness classes, complimentary golf greens fees, and farm-to-table cuisine—all included in your overnight rate. Indulge yourself with a nature-inspired treatment at the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House.

Enjoy dining, golf, a day spa visit, or an unforgettable overnight getaway.

877.475.6365 | mohonk.com | New Paltz, NY

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VISITvortex is a celebration of each season and a portal to the great people and places of the Hudson Valley. Sharing the very best of local.

Jesse Marcus

Melissa Hewitt

Jane Anderson

Melissa Hewitt, Melissa Orozco

Jesse Marcus, Alisha Dingee

Melissa Orozco

Rachel Collet

Alfred Schrock

Anne Pyburn Craig

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insider ’ s guide to the hv and catskills Explore

by anne pyburn craig

There are so many reasons that the Hudson Valley and Catskills have been having a “moment” for decades. The beauty. The people with their wildly eclectic skill sets. The deep, broad history. This is true all over the place; it’s hard to go wrong with a visit up here, especially in leaf peeping/harvest/holiday season. That said, we are also a collection of very different worlds. Each business, each hiking trail, each downtown, each riverfront, has a unique flavor. So does each county. And nobody knows more about what’s good than those county tourism directors. Here, to inform your explorations, are some of the highlights of what they had to say:

Photo by Christopher Luther

LISA WISELY, DELAWARE COUNTY, HEAD OF

MARKETING AND PROMOTION FOR GREAT WESTERN CATSKILLS, HOME OF 169 NAMED MOUNTAINS:

THE LAY OF THE LAND: It’s very untouched up here because of the watershed; we’re a little protected that way. Fall is a great time to take advantage of that. There’s nothing prettier anywhere than Utsayantha Mountain in Stamford in fall; there’s a fire tower you can just drive to with fantastic views. Then if you want a flat hike, there’s the Catskill Scenic Trail, 26 miles of it, and the Andes Rail Trail, lovely, with little benches along the way. You can do anything on those except ride motorized vehicles, although the Catskill Scenic Trail does intersect with our snowmobile trails. There are lots of medium-strenuous hikes: Bramley is great, four miles, and a gorgeous view at the top.

PICK YOUR SCENIC SCENE: There are towns up here you can get to by Trailways bus that have plenty going on to fill a weekend. Fleischmanns is building an exciting restaurant and gallery scene, and there’s a gorgeous venue in a restored estate. They also have vintage baseball—it’s super fun, the games are free, and they wear period garb and play by vintage rules. Margaretville has great food and shopping. Andes and Delhi each have really solid food, drink, gallery, and entertainment scenes that can keep you busy all weekend, right in the middle of the truly great outdoors. Then there’s a whole bunch going on out in Hancock, East Branch, and Deposit that’s fabulous— food, exploring, festivities.

THE EATS: There are so many good new restaurants out here it’s unbelievable. Brilliant chefs who’ve come here to cook because they can find affordable properties amid all these amazing local ingredients. We don’t have a

big-box supermarket handy, but what we do have is loads of fresh and artisanal food for chefs to play with.

Our Farmers’ Markets are epic. Our Taste of the Catskills festival is happening in Delhi October 12-13; you can find loads of good food and there’s live music and a lot to do—there are festivals all over the place in harvest season. You can go tour East Branch Farms, where they do kimchi, and eat fermented food at their Korean restaurant; you can go to Dirty Girl Farm and meet the dairy goats.

STAYING HERE: We have plenty of gorgeous, comfy inns restored and run by artful people, from quirky little Victorian B&Bs to cozy boutique hotels, pretty much any vibe you want. The Hanah Mountain Resort has an 18-hole golf course and a heated indoor pool, the Roxbury Motel has unbelievable themed rooms and suites; they just opened a whole new property at Stratton Falls, and they are just bananas creative. So are the people doing the off-grid stays and glamping out at Bellfire Farms.

VIBES: I think part of what’s helping us thrive is that economic development folks are open to the idea of helping new businesses with grants and loans and freedom. They don’t start from no, they start from yes, and only intervene if problems arise—positive development is very welcomed.

Strangers say hi here, people are helpful. I think that it’s a really kind place and I think that even though there are a lot of diverse political views and cultures, I think that everyone has this “Just do you and don’t bother anybody” mutually respectful kind of thing. As long as we all look out for each other as human beings and are willing to share space, we’ll be fine. There’s a shared understanding that we appreciate our visitors and treat them well.

The Roxbury Motel

Photo by Kip Shaw

“We carry on the Borscht Belt legacy of truly exceptional, inclusive hospitality here in whole new ways, as a premier destination for entertainment, health, wellness, and cuisine.” -

Roberta Byron-Lockwood, President/CEO, Sullivan Catskills

ROBERTA BYRON-LOCKWOOD, PRESIDENT/CEO, SULLIVAN CATSKILLS , BIRTHPLACE OF NORTH AMERICAN FLYFISHING:

PEACE AND LOVE: Bethel Woods is the number-one outdoor amphitheater in New York and, believe it or not, 13th in the world. Regardless if you're coming for a concert or event, to visit the museum, or just to tour the grounds, it’s a beautiful experience and we feel incredibly lucky to be able to showcase it to the traveling public, from local to global.

A LEGACY OF LODGING: We carry on the Borscht Belt legacy of truly exceptional, inclusive hospitality here in whole new ways, as a premier destination for entertainment, health, wellness, and cuisine, which was true many years ago. Obviously, with an entirely new look that’s thoughtful, smart, and sustainable. It takes all the forms, everything from luxury to family to moderately priced to whole new adventures in glamping, and it's just an incredible experience across the board. We have some of the finest properties: Investors from the city and surrounding tri-state areas have rediscovered our Sullivan Catskills, creating an emerging, energetic scene that's thoughtfully designed and increasingly progressive.

Bethel Woods

Photo by Jeffery Blum

Sullivan County Fall Views

We have the amazing campus in Monticello where you find Resorts World Catskills—everything from the gaming floor to the rooms is beautiful—and the Kartrite Resort, which is New York’s biggest indoor waterpark. We still have the classic Catskills resort vibe at Villa Roma. We’ve been working with the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project to highlight the locations where that history happened, so you can imagine the spot in 1965, full of happy families.

EAT HERE NOW: We have restaurants that forage and locally source everything, creating distinctive culinary scenes for our visitors. We get visitors who expect only the best, and we think we truly do provide that. Foster Supply Hospitality, one of our own local investors that has several properties, has been recognized as a James Beard Award winner for Best Restaurateur; they’ve also been recognized in places like Fodor’s and Conde Nast for their extraordinary inns. Our food scene has exploded in the Sullivan Catskills. We worked with Bethel Woods on a Catskills Cuisine festival with 10 celebrity chefs, local chefs, demonstrations, local marketplaces; it was such a wild success that next year we'll be back, bigger and better.

This fall, Bethel Woods has the Harvest Festival farmers’ market going for several weekends, and the first weekend in October, the Big Sip celebrates

The DeBruce Lodge

Photo courtesy of seeswim.com

“I think that everyone has this ‘Just do you and don’t bother anybody’ mutually respectful kind of thing. As long as we all look out for each other as human beings and are willing to share space, we’ll be fine.”

- Lisa Wisely, Head of Marketing and Promotion for Great Western Catskills

Photo by @ rachmarie.s

50 wine and spirits vendors. Lots of great food there, too—there’s always great food.

HAPPY TRAILS: You really have to see the Upper Delaware from the Hawk’s Nest on Route 97 and then drive down into Narrowsburg and do the Scenic Byway. I’m not sure how many places have a riverfront that’s a national park, but our Upper Delaware is—it’s stunning. And the hamlets along it—I mean, Narrowsburg never disappoints, always something new, but I could say that about each of them. We have a county bigger than the state of Rhode Island without a single city, but our hamlets and towns, each with a story and a beauty all its own, are incredible.

Now we have the Dove Trail to explore; that’s gotten really fun. It started before COVID, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Woodstock; we thought we’d put doves and plaques in 15 places, asking businesses to sponsor them and local artists to uphold the theme—you know, Peter Max colors, kinda psychedelic. Well, 15 turned into 25; everybody started hearing about it, and by the anniversary, we were unveiling 50 of these 7-foot-by-5.5-foot doves.

Then COVID hit and people were so in need of socially distanced fun, it took off like wildfire. This year we’re in the high 70s, and it’s become something bigger, a legacy trail, one of the longest free public art trails in the US. Our international visitors make it part of their itineraries.

Dove Trail Creation

LISA BERGER, ULSTER COUNTY TOURISM DIRECTOR, HOME OF NEW YORK’S FIRST CAPITAL AND THE SHAWANGUNK RIDGE:

Photo by @smileforthebirdie

TO

YOUR HEALTH:

We are seeing a lot of our beloved places reinvest in themselves, and we’re seeing continued interest in this being a place for people to connect with nature, with themselves, and their spirit, and with how they define wellness. Some people define wellness as hiking or extreme adventure. We’ve got that. Other people find wellness at a spa, with treatments and mindfulness classes. I’m seeing our resort owners revitalizing and re-energizing their spa facilities. Buttermilk Falls in Milton is in the midst of a huge renovation, redoing not just their spa but their big signature restaurant, Henry’s, and it should be ready by fall. Emerson Hotel and Resort just did a major spa refresh, and it’s beautiful. Mohonk Mountain House added a big outdoor pavilion to theirs last year, and they’re using it for yoga classes and all kinds of wellness things. They’re going to be doing cold-water plunges at Mohonk all through winter.

Inness, the people who redid the Rondout Valley Golf Club, they’re adding a spa to their superb resort out there. And East Wind just opened a brand-new outpost in Oliverea, with everything set way, way up in the forest. There’s a lot of investment in making superb health and wellness experiences, where people come up here to detach and relax and be restored.

OUTDOOR RECREATION, INDOOR DESTINATIONS:

It’s a great year for flyfishing on the Upper Esopus; the snowpack melted late, and the rainy cool spring was great for the fish. Then of course you have the Shawangunks to play in; all those miles of carriage roads and views for days, in the middle of an ecosystem unlike any other on the planet.

We also see a lot of people looking for new hiking and biking experiences, especially when they can connect them to our downtowns. We have an incredibly varied trail network. You can take the Empire State Trail and the Green Line and travel Kingston from the Stockade to the Rondout waterfront—I suggest stopping at the breweries. You can ride the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and stop in

Views from the Shawangunk Mountains

“I always encourage people to check out the hidden history. It’s vivid and relatable, and we’re preserving and protecting it, just as we’re preserving our gorgeous forests and farmlands.” -

Lisa Berger, Tourism Director, Ulster County

at Coppersea Distillery, then ride to the spectacular Rosendale trestle and go down into the hamlet; there’s lots to eat and quirky little shops, and you can stay to see a movie or head out to the Century House and the Widow Jane Mine—they’re doing a lot of really cool things out there.

HIDDEN HISTORY: Another thing that just keeps coming beautifully into focus is the history of the marginalized, which I think can be more exciting than any millionaire’s mansion. I mean, of course, we’ve got Colonial history in the Kingston Stockade, but we now also have the Pine Street African Burial Ground. The Ulster County Historical Society is focusing on the history of the 12 towns that were submerged when the Ashokan Reservoir was built. The D&H Canal Museum tells the stories of the people who worked the canal. Historic Huguenot Street has transformed into an incredible 10-acre open-air museum with an emphasis on the lesser-told stories—the slaves and women and displaced Indigenous folks. The Hurley

Heritage Society has been getting more into the stories of the people of color who lived at Eagle’s Nest.

Down by the Rondout in Kingston, you have the Reher Center for Immigrant Culture and History. The museum and cultural center, according to its website, “preserves and honors the legacy of Reher’s Bakery and amplifies immigrant stories of the Hudson Valley, past and present.” They’re awe-inspiring—very dedicated to helping people find their connections. And their bakery tours end with a free brine roll.

Then of course there’s the Maritime Museum. There’s always a lot going on down by the waterfront, too.

I always encourage people to check out the hidden history. It’s vivid and relatable, and we’re preserving and protecting it, just as we’re preserving our gorgeous forests and farmlands.

Historic Huguenot Street

Hudson River Maritime Museum

Autumn is Amazing at Mohonk Preserve

Experience great hiking, biking, birding, running, rock climbing, and more. Discover plants and animals in our forests, fields, and streams. Our Visitor Center is open free of charge daily 9am-5pm. Trailheads open from sunrise to sunset. Memberships and day passes are available at all trailheads.

Photo by Marianne Markle

Stay

the vortex family goes to mohonk mountain house

by melissa hewitt

edited by anne pyburn craig & jane anderson

photos by rachel collet

magine being Alfred Smiley, the retired Quaker school principal who came upon Stokes Tavern in 1869 and fell in love with the dazzling sky lake and deep forest and views. Learning that the inn and 300 acres could be bought, he wrote to his brother and said they had to have it. Initially skeptical, brother Albert gave in after his first quick visit, and by 1870 the place now known as the Mohonk Mountain House had 40 guest rooms to accommo -

date visitors in need of fresh air and woodsy vibes.

That in itself was a remarkable achievement, but the Smileys were nowhere near done, and the sight that greets visitors today at the end of the smooth, paved driveway that curves gracefully up the mountainside is astonishing every time—even for someone like me who lives a few minutes away and has been up here dozens of times, hiking on a day

pass, enjoying teatime and dinner, spending a special night with woman-friends. It never gets old, seeing our very own local Victorian castle come into view and marveling at what the Mountain House folks casually call the “grand but gradual” conversion into a sprawling, imposing structure that’s hosted five US presidents. The drive from the main road takes us ten minutes; how much longer would it have been by horse-drawn carriage?

It was especially exciting arriving there late last summer for a first-ever family “staycation” at Mohonk Mountain House. We love our family getaways; Milo’s 11 and a great traveling companion at a well-chosen destination, and we knew he’d find plenty to do at Mohonk—and that our expert hosts could provide the perfect balance of excitement, relaxation, and refreshment.

Mohonk’s a wonderful experience with thoughtful kids in tow. Something about the vibe, unpretentious and deeply charming, inspires good behavior and kindness. And with so many family activities—horseback riding on the trails, archery, hiking the Labyrinth, and nighttime s’mores were highlights for us—it’s easy to keep them engaged.

Our room featured a clawfoot tub, working fireplace, and private balcony with rockers; once we got settled, it was time to hit the lake, for what would not be the last time. Choices include beautiful wooden rowboats, kayaks, pedal boats, and paddle boards, and we tried them all in the course of the weekend; by the end of it, we were on a firstname basis with the entire dock staff. Being out on Lake Mohonk, imagining properly dressed ladies and gentlemen rowing about on a break from the deep philosophical conversations Alfred so loved to host, is a lovely mix of refreshment and sheer delight.

Meals and most activities are included in the price of your stay,

and each meal was a revelation.

Mohonk has upped its kitchen game in recent years, with a focus on fresh, local, and beautifully prepared, and each and every dish we tried was delicious.

Exploring the labyrinthine hallways on an after-dinner walk, we marveled at the history everywhere around us, represented in unique works of art and historic photos. It feels like exploring a museum, albeit an exceptionally cozy museum that’s also been a family home through five generations of creative stewardship. The eclectic mix of styles blend without a hiccup, as the family grew through the 20th century making room for its members’ passions: Rachel’s charming musical salons,

Mohonk’s a wonderful experience with thoughtful kids in tow. Something about the vibe, unpretentious and deeply charming, inspires good behavior and kindness.

Daniel’s gift for natural sciences and Ruth’s knack for interpreting them, Keith’s passion for hosting conferences, the entrepreneurial and organizational gifts of Bert and Francis and Mabel. The house whispers, all at once and somehow harmoniously, of great diversity brought together in one place in sensible ways. It is, at once, an incredibly relaxed and exquisitely elegant establishment.

they do that even a raw novice will have a relaxing ride. Back on the ground, we were drawn to the nearby archery range. You can also play some tennis or some for-real Catskills shuffleboard, or take part in guided canoe tours, nature hikes, rock scrambles, and a wide variety of themed walks and workshops; offerings change to suit the season.

We slept like babies with the lake breeze coming in. There are ghost stories, mind you, but any spirits emitting diffuse vibes feel like kindred spirits. Who wouldn’t want to spend eternity here?

Morning started with hot breakfast in the salon, then a trail ride through stunning lake and mountain views. You have to reserve a trail ride spot in advance, well worth the effort—both horses and staff are so good at what

Lunch is a gourmet buffet in the dining room or a BBQ picnic at The Granary, which features woodfired grills searing piles of chicken thighs, pork loin, ribs, burgers, and hot dogs accompanied by every imaginable side and salad and finished off with an all-you-can-eat ice cream bar, all of it overlooking that luscious lake. We strolled the gorgeous gardens and then connected with my brother and his kids for a go at the Labyrinth and the Lemon Squeeze; those hikes have been legendary for decades, winding through tiny gaps

and scaling boulders to take you 150 vertical feet to intense, spectacular views of the Gunks and the valley below. Nearby is Sky Top, the Smileys’ first stone tower; one climb, one look and one taste of the breeze, and you’ll know why there had to be a tower here.

Cocktails at the Spirits on the Sunset Porch bar were the perfect follow-up, with kids tired and contented enough to relax nearby. Dinner in the dining room was stunning. Mohonk’s worldclass culinary and service staff take great pride in their work, and from appetizer to dessert the food was impeccable. (In our video, you’ll see our foodie son closing his eyes in sheer bliss.)

We kept the bliss going with an after-dinner walk around the lake, stopping at the hand-crafted gazebos, each with a history of its own. As the sun set, we found the perfect pavilion for the symphonic sky, then marveled at the magical sight of the gazebos, now illuminated, ringing the lakeshore. We opted for the s’mores and campfire singalong (alright, I’m the only one who sings along, but Jesse and Milo indulge me) but could have chosen live music in the lounge— offerings range from chamber to world music and beyond.

On our last morning we took an early dip in the heated pool and breakfasted in the Lake Lounge, with expansive Catskills views

Mohonk has upped its kitchen game in recent years, with a focus on fresh, local, and beautifully prepared.

on one side and the lake on the other. There’s every imaginable breakfast dish—we favored the eggs Benedict (poached in front of you with sauce to taste), the smoothies (offerings changed daily), the fresh granolas and pots of tea. We didn’t want to hurry away, and we didn’t have to—Mohonk valet service will hold your luggage so you can enjoy the rest of the day on the property. We spent our last hours there floating and paddling on the lake, which inspired silence even in our son.

It’s been a while now, but I can still feel the grace and peace of our Mountain House visit in my bones, and I have a feeling Milo will ask to go back one day soon— and won’t have too much trouble convincing his parents. We knew Mohonk was a special place; we knew families come here from all over the world, and it’s fair to say we’ve got a better-than-average knowledge of Hudson Valley tourist destinations and hospitality, but nothing could have fully prepared us for the magnificently warm welcome and magic of Mohonk Mountain House. Long live the Smiley spirit!

mohonk mountain house

1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz

855-883-3798

mohonk.com

the perch cottages Stay

by anne pyburn craig

There’s nothing more Catskills than a cottage by a stream; add a meadow, and you’ve got a really nifty getaway. Combine all that with comfy, lively interior design and a swimming hole, and we’re describing paradise on earth, straight out of a hazy childhood dreamland. Yet here it is, just half an hour out of Kingston, awaiting your pleasure .

Photo by Oleg Nagel

The Perch Cottages are stewarded by Rachel Atherley and Hugh Cummings, who’ve been crafting dwelling-spaces around the area for years now, finding little houses in need of TLC, making them cozy, and turning them over at real-people prices. When they came upon the property that’s now The Perch, it was love at first sight—and a ton of hard work.

“It was definitely a diamond in the rough: A lot of the homes were in disrepair, a lot of garbage every-

where,” says Cummings. “But it was on this magical parcel with the Esopus Creek in the back and the other border the Beaverkill Creek; it was just so special to see this awesome piece that could be reinvented and made into something special, with the landscape that’s there and the view of the mountain out back. To bring that back to life—to see the cool little beach on the river, to turn the overgrown back meadow into this sunny, grassy spot where you can hang out in hammocks—it’s just really been a cool project over the last two years.”

Cummings grew up romping the Shawangunks; soon after graduating Rondout Valley High School, he started making a name for himself as a sought-after contractor doing high-end remodeling. Atherley grew up in Montana, came to SUNY New Paltz for her MFA in metalsmithing and never left; she’s a master goldsmith and jewelry designer by profession. The two first crossed paths on the dance floor at the Oasis in New Paltz, and before long they were inseparable. Besides roaming the great outdoors, they were having a lot of fun with

“Once we saw this was for sale, we immediately went to take a look and it was love at first sight.”

– Rachel Atherley

Photos by Erin Lindsey of Escape Brooklyn

houses. “I had these grand plans, and Rachel and I had just met when six months later, I was like, ‘Hey, you can move in with me for free and help fix up the house. What do you think?’ and she took me up on it,” Cummings remembers.

He said, ‘I hope you guys know what you’ve gotten yourselves into here.’ He could not believe the finished product was the same house he had seen with his own eyes. After that, he had no doubts about what we were capable of creating.”

It turned out to be the start of something wonderful. “Hugh and I love to find derelict properties and bring them back to life,” says Atherley. “We have rehabbed many homes together; Hugh does the construction side and I am in charge of the design side. Working together on these side projects gives us a new challenge, and so much pride when we compare the finished product with what we started with. I remember showing my father a house we were rehabbing, our first major flip; it was a wreck. He got so overwhelmed he had to leave the building and catch his breath!

“The Hudson Valley has so many of these cool older homes and they have all these unique characteristics that you can’t recreate from a new build,” says Cummings, “and places that have fallen into disrepair; I’m sure nobody intends on that happening, but it does. We get to go in and find the cool little niches and things and pull them out and really polish it up and put a modern flair on it and retain those things that you can’t recreate.”

Refreshing The Perch’s eight cottages took two years. “Once we saw this was

“We absolutely love being able to provide a place that locals can proudly recommend to their friends and family.”

– Rachel Atherley

Photo by Upland Creative Co.

for sale, we immediately went to take a look and it was love at first sight,” says Atherley. The buildings were in rough shape, but that was nothing new; the eight-acre property responded beautifully to tender loving care.

The results are both Catskills classic and utterly unique. Seven cottages have two bedrooms apiece. For more room, there’s a three-bedroom house available, too. All of them have kitchens. “We have created a hybrid between a hotel and AirBnB experience,” says Atherley. “We provide everything a guest will need to feel right at home, and support their stay with a kind and courteous management company that is there to help with any issues that might arise. The property is magnificent: We have magical creek frontage right on the Esopus river, a perfect spot to fish, access to a swimming hole. There is plenty to do on these eight acres to keep you entertained all day.”

sourced so many cool pieces from antique shops, flea markets, even Facebook Marketplace,” says Atherley. “Each cottage is decorated differently, highend and totally comfortable all at the same time, named after a different New York bird, with interior design inspired by that bird. We want guests to want to stay again and choose a different cottage each time. We’re even mulling the idea of a frequent renter punch card— stay in seven different cottages, you get a free night at the eighth cottage.”

The design is a delight all its own. “We

The Perch opened to a full house on Presidents’ Day weekend of 2023. “We all waited with bated breath for any issues that might arise and were pleasantly surprised to have a very smooth launch,” says Atherley. “We both have worked in hospitality before and realized very quickly that we needed to bring in a professional management team to take care of the ins and outs of a hybrid hotel/cottage rental. We couldn’t be more pleased than to be working with Erika Sampio of Manage

Photos by Upland Creative Co.

“Hearing from our guests and learning about the highlights of their stay brings us immense joy; it’s like sharing in their excitement and creating lasting memories together.”

This Home. Her background in the hospitality industry is unmatched in this area.” Atherley credits Sampio with the polished hospitality chops that have produced rave reviews and repeat customers, many of whom inquire about taking over the whole place for a milestone or a retreat.

In their first few months, visitors have been wildly varied. “We’re delighted to have such a diverse clientele of families and couples from around the world,” says Atherley. “To make family getaways easier, we offer complimentary amenities like highchairs and playpens. Our direct access to Esopus Creek attracts fly-fishing enthusiasts; our proximity to Belleayre and Hunter mountains appeals to ski

lovers. We understand the importance of furry travel companions; we’ve planned entire weeks around our dog, from places to stay to restaurants that were dog-friendly. We totally get it! We also provide access to concierge services like vetted fly-fishing guides, yoga instructors, personal chefs, and grocery delivery. We’re a full-service accommodation with a laid-back vibe.”

Still more amenities have been inspired by guests’ suggestions. “One guest suggested we provide picnic baskets and blankets so guests can enjoy the riverside,” says Atherley. “We thought that was a great idea! Another suggested a basket of lawn games, so we put together

– Rachel Atherley

Photo by Upland Creative Co.

a nice array of fun games to play. We’ve added solar lighting to the meadow and back fence, as well as communal gas fire pits so you can enjoy the cool evenings.”

This winter, you can book a ski cottage at The Perch for a reduced three-month rate and have easy access to Belleayre, Plattekill, Hunter and Windham mountains. “We’re envisioning a family or group of friends using the cottages as a base so they can come up and ski without all the hassle of packing their car and belongings up every single time they want to come up,” says Atherley.

Staying at The Perch Cottages also puts you in the epicenter of the best autumn leaf-peeping. But no matter the weather, one can hard-

ly go wrong booking a cottage at this exuberant and sweet-souled outpost of fun. “We absolutely love being able to provide a place that locals can proudly recommend to their friends and family,” says Atherley. “Hearing from our guests and learning about the highlights of their stay brings us immense joy; it’s like sharing in their excitement and creating lasting memories together. When groups rent multiple cottages, it’s a blast for us to hear which cottage stole their hearts. Being a part of someone else’s getaway is not only fun, but it also fills us with a sense of fulfillment and happiness. We genuinely cherish these moments! We are constantly brainstorming ways to make the experience the best we possibly can, and we’re really loving this new adventure we are on.”

the perch cottages

Beechview Gardens Circle, Boiceville

646-389-6677 perchcottages.com

Photo by Oleg Nagel

Public Welcome. Open daily for lunch all day. Dinner Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Brunch on Sunday. Also available for private events.

66 NORTH FRONT STREET 8 45 - 48 1- 5759

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Shop Locally

herzog ’ s home and paint center

Hudson Valley gift shopping pro tip: Don’t overlook Herzog’s Home and Paint Center, even if no one you’re buying for is working on a project or is longing for a circular saw. Their gift department, like all of their departments, is smart, sweet, and amazingly comprehensive.

Yes, Herzog’s flagship store in

Kingston Plaza is encyclopedic when it comes to project stuff. If you need a power drill, a gallon of paint, some 2x4s or a shower head, you’ll be quickly guided to a selection of possibilities to choose from. Same goes for garden supplies, tile, window shades, or kitchen cabinets. They’ve got it all, and the expert staff to help you decide which

by anne pyburn craig photos by rachel collet

of it you need, from interior design and decorating consultants to people who know how to fix lawn mowers. The vast array of best-in-class goods and services is what happens when a talented family devotes 114 years to the fine art of serving the community’s nesting needs. “Who we are isn’t a simple question for Herzog’s,” the store admits on their About Us page. “Since we sell more than 50,000 products, it’s tough to narrow it down to just one word.”

That’s been true for decades, but the gift department at

the front of the store makes it nearly impossible. Herzog’s gift department concentrates on 10 categories: home décor; bath and body; clothing and accessories; jewelry; baby gear; games, puzzles, and stationery; tableware; garden; candles; and food. Within each category, you’ll find wonderful things that you didn’t know existed. The philosophy is pure Herzog’s: Give the people what they want. “During COVID, when the Hudson Valley real estate market exploded, buying habits really changed,” says marketing and advertising manager Julie Jordan. “Consumers

Herzog’s vast array of best-in-class goods and services is what happens when a talented family devotes 114 years to the fine art of serving the community’s nesting needs.

wanted sustainable products that were locally sourced. Our gift department buyer, Michelle Harris, pivoted towards more ‘green’ products.” The result: a glorious maker’s mart that’s at your disposal seven days a week, with ample parking and free admission.

“I started here five years ago, and this looked very different,” says Harris. “The owner tasked me with reinventing the department: ‘Let’s switch it up. Let’s figure out how we can meet the community’s needs.’ So we kind of looked at the different niches that we could fill for our very diverse community.”

With that as a starting point, and with so many expert local makers seeking exposure, the possibilities blossomed. You’ll find Tree Juice maple syrup and ‘Upstate and Chill’ gear from Hamilton and Adams, Oliver Kita chocolates, and Woodstock Chimes. There are original greeting cards from artist Cynia of Newburgh, Bjorn Qorn popcorn from Kerhonkson, and Sallye Ander soaps from Beacon. Local honey? Hot sauce? Handmade jewelry? Local trail guides and non-GMO seeds? It’s all right here.

“We have a unique mix of merchandise,” says Harris. “I have

“We have a unique mix of merchandise. We didn’t want to look like another gift store; we wanted to carry our own message.” - Gift department buyer, Michelle Harris

jewelry that’s locally sourced, now, a lot of handcrafted items which you don’t always find everywhere. We didn’t want to look like another gift store; we wanted to carry our own message.”

That message is sleek, deep, green— upcycled materials, like eco-friendly food wraps and reusable face wipes. “Sustainability is something our customers are deeply invested in,” says Harris. “They’re serious about it, and so are we.”

good and new and local. “We include local representation in every possible category. It’s a priority. We’re locals too,” Harris points out. “When you shop here, you’re helping keep dozens of people—me included—in jobs that we love, helping support all kinds of local organizations and events. It’s a big, beautiful circle. And within the business, the gifts fit beautifully with, say, the garden department—they send people to me, I send people to them.”

It’s also all about showing the local economy lots of love. Harris finds makers in all kinds of ways: at craft fairs, farmers’ markets, by word of mouth, by searching the website Faire for what’s

In 2009, a century after Matthew Herzog first opened his paint, wallpaper and framing shop, Herzog’s had 100 employees. People work here for decades, socialize together; more than a few couples have met here and married, and their children in turn can

“Every day, from here to the lumberyard and back, we try to be better at doing it for you than we were the day before.”

- Gift department buyer, Michelle Harris

come in for a first job or a lifelong career.

“We try to stay on trend and do our homework,” says Harris. “There are so many brilliant people around here making beautiful things, and that’s what drives this, what we’re diving into here, and people are enjoying it, finding things they never knew existed that fit their lifestyles perfectly…If you

look at the history of Herzog’s, they really are part of the backbone of the Kingston community, and it’s really all of us who make that happen: the owners, the people who’ve made careers here, and all of you who walk through the door and put your trust in us. Every day, from here to the lumberyard and back, we try to be better at doing it for you than we were the day before. ”

“We didn’t want to look like another gift store; we wanted to carry our own message.”

Corn Maze • HoMegrown Fall MuMs • Perennials

PuMPkins • winter squasH • DeCorative kale & Cabbage

aPPle CiDer Donuts • FresH breweD CoFFee • bakery

CiDer • souPs • salaDs • sanDwiCHes • groCeries • giFts

loCal Honey & MaPle syruP • koMbuCHa on taP

TUESDAY - SUNDAY 8am - 5pm • Closed Mondays 845-626-CORN (2676) • www.saunderskill.com 5100 Rte. 209 • Accord, NY 12404

HIGH FALLS FOOD CO-OP

Hudson Valley Farmhouse Cider Farm Bar. Cider Tastings! Wood-Fired Pizza. Check our site for fun upcoming events!

3012 Route 213, Stone Ridge 845-687-2587

instagram: @StoneRidgeOrchard

stoneridgeorchard.com

OCTOBER WEEKEND ACTIVITIES: Free Hay Rides • Hot Mulled Apple Cider • Corn Maze • Pumpkin Jump • Spooky Tunnel

Wallkill View Farm Market & Garden Center

GARDEN CENTER:

Mums • Fall Bulbs • Bulk Mulch & Topsoil

FARM FRESH:

Home Grown Vegetables • Local Apples & Cider • Pick your own Pumpkins

BAKERY:

Jane’s Homemade Ice Cream • Apple Cider Donuts • Fresh Baked Pies, Breads, Muffins & more!

Open 7 days a week 9am-6:30pm

845-255-8050

15 Route 299 West, New Paltz

WallkillViewFarmMarket.com

Like us on Facebook!

Follow us on instagram @wallkillviewfarm

Follow us on Pinterest @wallkillview

petal creek farm Our Farms

by

Life often calls for flowers—it’s hard to imagine the place or time that isn’t better with some fragrant, colorful floral beauties in the picture. And when life calls for flow-

ers, you can call Petal Creek, where a couple of onetime restaurateurs are now collaborating with the Earth Herself to bring rampant beauty to every possible moment.

anne pyburn craig photos provided by petal creek farm

“I like to say we do everything from seed to centerpiece,” says co-owner Jesse Taylor Feldmus. “From selecting the perfect blooms on through designing and arranging and setting up, we do it all hands-on. In winter, I can source your wedding flowers from a trusted network; during the growing season, I like to work pretty much exclusively with what we grow right here.”

Feldmus and Jake Stortini met and fell in love at Bard College, then dropped out and opened the much-loved Murray’s in Tivoli in 2011. When the pandemic hit and Murray’s had to close, the couple wasn’t quite sure what their next move might be. Like so many of us, they found that spending more time at home sparked a desire to fix things up.

former fruit farm in Milan, near Red Hook, with a history stretching back into the 19th century. They’d just purchased it in 2019, and to say it needed a little work is an understatement.

“The house needed a ton of work and the property needed a ton of work,” says Feldmus. “We just kind of dug in and did it. And I developed a green thumb. So once we knew we had to close Murray’s permanently, we decided to give this a go. After running a restaurant for around 10 years, it just felt right to try something totally new and different.”

In their case, that was a tall order. Home, for Feldmus and Stortini, was a 13-acre

Feldmus says that just about the only common thread between running a restaurant and farming is that both require a whole lot of work—but in both cases, it’s work they can love. And in both cases, they’ve hit a sweet spot—providing joy.

“I like to say we do everything from seed to centerpiece.”

- Co-owner Jesse Taylor Feldmus

“Our business is twofold; we sell wholesale flowers/bouquets and we do floral design for events.”

“This is only my third full year doing this,” says Feldmus. “So I’ve learned what grows well and what doesn’t, what I like to work with and what I don’t. Our business is twofold; we sell wholesale flowers/bouquets and we do floral design for events. We partner with some local vendors and supply flowers to them, and I do a lot of special events. I do weddings, I do a lot of corporate work—anything from intimate dinners for 10 to weddings for 150.”

ning Murray’s only strengthened the bond. “It was true before the pandemic and it’s just increased—people want to be here,” says Feldmus. “Whether it’s to celebrate a wedding, get a vacation home, or move the whole family up from Brooklyn, this area draws people in. And the kind of people who move here, become rooted here. They want to have a reason to be here, to find a creative way to make a meaningful contribution.”

Feldmus, who grew up in New Jersey, and Stortini, originally from Tacoma, Washington, had fallen in love with the Hudson Valley’s magic at college; run-

That describes the Petal Creek team and also the extended Feldmus family; his parents moved up in 2018 from New Jersey to a farm of their own in Cler-

– Jesse Taylor Feldmus

Photos by Yannis Malevitis Photography

mont, which now hosts a large greenhouse where Petal Creek starts its seedlings. “Having my parents move up here and now jump in and work with us is a huge blessing,” says Feldmus.

“We start everything indoors, beginning in February, and then, come early spring, we plant. In May, we plant the dahlia tubers—they start blooming in July and carry us through the later part of the season, right up to the frost. Then, before the ground freezes, we need to dig all the tubers out of the ground, wash them, and store them by varieties. We have about 200 varieties of dahlias right now. For every tuber you plant, you get about five back.”

thousands of dahlia tubers, which are sold online in spring to dahlia fans from everywhere. “Dahlias are a very hot flower, for good reason,” says Feldmus. “They’re very versatile; there are so many varieties of colors and sizes out there, and people are breeding new ones all the time. The tuber sale was crazy—we sold out of half of the varieties within an hour of putting them online, and got to meet people from all over the country.”

Their basement is stocked with

Besides dahlias, Petal Creek offers somewhere around 100 flower varieties, meaning they have access to anything a designer or event coordinator could want. “I’ve gotten to know a lot of really wonderful, creative people in the event industry,” says Feldmus. “I got my feet wet with

“I’m so glad we’ve settled here and found a way to contribute and now make the farm productive; this part of the world is just a magnet for all things good.”

– Jesse Taylor Feldmus

Photo by Yannis Malevitis Photography.

that at Murray’s. We did a lot of events then; although we never really did flowers, I’ve always found them interesting.”

pick them up,” says Feldmus. “You’re supporting the farm directly, and you get to stop by and see how it’s all growing.”

Besides putting the flower power into any occasion and supplying local retailers with bouquets, Petal Creek sells flower shares—a CSA-style arrangement in which members can pick up an artful bouquet of what’s blooming most beautifully every week for the 10-week season or purchase a dahlia share, which runs for six weeks. “We make it super easy to have fresh flowers— just come by on Friday and

Sometime in the next couple of years, Feldmus and Stortini may begin hosting events right on the farm amidst all that blossoming glory. Right now, though, if you’re hosting or organizing something, Feldmus would love to be your floral designer: “I’m so glad we’ve settled here and found a way to contribute and now make the farm productive; this part of the world is just a magnet for all things good.”

petal creek farm

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petalcreek.com

montano ’ s shoe store Shop Locally

Nomatter what you’re doing— working, playing, or anything else—you’ll do it better in the right shoe. (Unless, of course, it can be done barefoot.) Having comfy, happy feet is absolutely essential. And here in the Hudson Valley, we’re enormously fortunate to have Montano’s, the Saugerties shop that’s been in the business of making sure your feet are contented since 1906.

as a cobbler in Hudson right away. It didn’t take him long to realize that there was a great need for shoes and shoe repair in the region, and he crossed the river to Saugerties and opened his own place, L. Montano Shoes, the following year.

When Louis Montano arrived in the United States from Campobasso, Italy in 1905, he found work

“He had a family connection with the cobbler in Hudson from back in Italy,” says Ed Montano Jr., who currently owns the store with his cousin, Anthony Montano. “When he opened in Saugerties, he offered shoe repair and shoes for

by anne pyburn craig photos by rachel collet

sale for men, women, & children. By the time of his death in 1959, according to the Catskill Mountain Star, he was recognized as one of Saugerties’ largest businesses. Since then, our business has grown significantly, and the customers we reach come from over a 75-mile radius.”

It’s easy to understand why: Montano’s understands what feet need and what people like. The store stocks over 100 brands of footwear, along with a large selection of socks, orthotics, insoles, and other foot health products. They’ve got extended sizes and widths too. (Ever try finding decent 15D men’s boots? It’s rough.) And everyone who walks through the door will have their feet measured for the perfect fit.

Ed Jr. started working in the store when he was

“Our philosophy is simple: to offer the best quality of footwear available and provide the best service possible for our customers while still giving people fair prices.”

- Montano’s Owner Ed Montano Jr.

Louis Montano arrived in the United States from Campobasso, Italy in 1905, and opened L. Montano Shoes the following year.

just 15. “I liked what I was doing, so I ended up staying in the business,” he says. “Everything I know about the shoe business I learned from my father, Edward Senior, and my cousin, Anthony Montano. I also went to Pedorthic School at Oklahoma State University to become a board-certified pedorthist in 1994.”

Defined by Pedorthics.org as “the management

and treatment of conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities requiring fitting, fabricating, and adjusting of pedorthic devices,” pedorthics takes footwear to the next level, helping you achieve, maintain, and regain maximum mobility. A long list of concerns can be addressed by pedorthics, from arthritis and tendonitis to plantar fasciitis, high or low arches, and more. Montano’s expertise will help you find solutions—both

standardized and custom—that will relieve your discomfort and fit any style of shoe.

Whether your feet are actually hurting, or you just need something fresh and super-comfy, Montano’s old-school approach leaves customers satisfied and amazed. “The absolute best experience I’ve had buying shoes,” writes a happy customer on Google. “They know everything when it

comes to what you need. They have shoes that I didn’t know were sold in stores, and they were cheaper than if I had bought them from the website directly. I’m definitely going to Montano’s for all my shoes from now on.”

place and make careers there; Montano’s has several who’ve been there for 20 years or so.

“All I can say is WOW,” writes someone else. “Was my first time ever going into a true shoe store and my first time in Montano’s. Super helpful staff, tons of selection. The staff make the whole experience feel special. This is now my go-to spot. Thank you Montano’s. You are a role model for all businesses.”

“Our clientele is literally everybody,” says Montano. “We provide footwear for people of all ages, from first walking shoes to orthopedic and diabetic shoes, as well as running shoes, hiking boots, work boots, dress shoes, casual wear, slippers, socks, and accessories…Our philosophy is simple: to offer the best quality of footwear available and provide the best service possible for our customers while still giving people fair prices.”

Besides Edward Jr. and Anthony, two of the next generation—Edward’s nephew Jeffrey and Anthony’s daughter-in-law

Anica—help customers find the perfect shoe. And as often happens with a great business, other staff come to love the

Those prices, mentioned frequently in five-star reviews, are part of the proud family tradition. “We sell everything at a discounted price, something that started a long time ago—being able to give a great item at a lower cost—and it’s a tradi-

Whether your feet are actually hurting, or you just need something fresh and super-comfy, Montano’s old-school approach leaves customers satisfied and amazed.

tion we continue to this day,” says Montano.

So don’t think your budget prevents you from owning shoes that feel as fabulous as they look. “We regularly have customers who feel that they have tried everything in regards to their footwear and/or foot pain and thought there were no other options, and we are usually able to help them find comfort,” says Montano. “Our goal is to continue to be the best provider of footwear possible and to pass along a successful business to the next generation. There are other footwear stores in the Hudson Valley; I believe we stand out among them because of the quality service we provide to every customer and our vast selection. And the best part about this business is the people you meet and are able to help.”

So whether you’re after running shoes, hiking boots, or the perfect style statement, check out what Montano’s has to offer. Your feet will love you for it.

montano ’ s shoe store

77 Partition St, Saugerties, 845-246-4381

montanosshoestore.com

shop locally for your community Doing Good

by anne pyburn craig

You’ve probably seen the memes: Buying from a small independent business means that you’re not helping a billionaire buy another yacht, you’re helping your neighbor pay for the kid’s school clothes and keeping milk in the fridge, or something

to that effect. That’s absolutely true. You may also have heard that shopping indie and local means that each dollar recirculates in the local economy two to four times more than a dollar spent at a corporate chain—it’s called the Local Multiplier Effect.

But there’s so much more than just money at stake here. When IBM cut thousands of jobs in the 1990s, the Hudson Valley learned some hard lessons about counting on corporate beneficence to always be there. Many small businesses suffered as the IBMers they’d been serving had to tighten their belts; it was the final coup de grace in the process of deindustrialization that had been in progress for a couple of decades already, and things got scary for a minute. Yet some local businesses managed to ride out the storm and are still thriving after decades. You can read some of their stories in this very issue: Herzog’s and Montano’s are two great examples of places that have kept doing well and doing good for generations, surviv-

ing IBM’s diminishment, the recession of 2009, and COVID. There are many others, and newer businesses with that same core philosophy.

Understanding the connection between doing well and doing good is smart business; beyond that, it’s simply who these people are. When COVID struck, Hudson Valley restaurants, nonprofits, and local governments came together to keep everyone fed and as many as possible in business. When finding help became a problem, it was a much smaller problem for places that had taken mindful care of their folks.

The results of this collaborative effort are all around you: thriving downtowns, fruitful fields, and plenty to do on the

Shopping indie and local means that each dollar recirculates in the local economy two to four times more than a dollar spent at a corporate chain—it’s called the Local Multiplier Effect.

Photo by Andre Carrotflower

Understanding the connection between doing well and doing good is smart business; beyond that, it’s simply who these people are.

weekends, thanks to our makers and entrepreneurs and the people who love them. In these pages, we strive to capture a glimpse of how hard and smart they work, of the care they take of customers and teammates alike. Every small business with its doors open is a victory, every day, and the vast majority of those are winning because they know that collaboration and caring— supporting the nonprofit side, working with their neighbors on events and promotions, valuing the humanity of neighbors, employees, and customers—is the only way that works. Shopping local makes it all possible.

er effect of a dollar spent locally, wonderful as it is, is left far behind by the multiplier effect that happens when an employee has health care and a parent can make it to the big event, when a customer leaves an establishment not just with a cool item or a deliciously full belly but with an awareness of being casually cherished.

Nothing’s ever flawless. But there’s a thick bright line from these behaviors to the fact that, around here, lots of us still smile at strangers and hold the door and laugh together. The multipli-

Want community mental health to flourish? Love the views? Fond of economic and social justice? Like having fun? Shop local. Eat local. Give local. Play local, and play nice. It works out well, on countless levels, for everyone. Your dollars will multiply two to four times over, true. But it’s the experiences you’ll have and the community you help build that will have an infinite multiplier effect on your reasons to smile.

Photo by Daniel Case

autumn advertiser spotlight

BEST WESTERN PLUS

“We are finding bicyclists, many that use the Empire State Rail Trail, are staying with us. Some heading toward Buffalo and others heading south toward the city. The area seems perfect for both rail trail and road cyclists. Also our location next to the historic district appeals to many.”

503 Washington Ave, Kingston 845-338-0400

bestwestern.com

CITIOT, CATSKILL

“What do our customers love? Our fresh buys & vintage finds. Us being both local and European. Our co-working & coffee-sipping. Our shop can’t make up its mind and we dig that!”

404 Main St, Catskill

nycitiot.com

CAMP CATSKILL

“The first thing that draws customers is our brightly painted exterior! We’re located in the middle of Tannersville, which is known as the Painted Village in the Sky’ for it’s ornately painted historic buildings. The other thing that draws customers to us is our love of the outdoors. At Camp Catskill, you’ll find a wide variety of items designed to help you spend more time outside.”

6006 Main St, Tannersville 518-303-6050 • campcatskill.co

HUDSON RIVER MARITIME MUSEUM

“Our solar-powered boat cruises continue through October, and Solaris tours provide a spectacularly unique view of Hudson Valley’s picturesque landscape and fall foliage from the river. Plus, steel your nerves for a spooky and suspenseful river adventure in October as we uncover the area’s haunted history in a brand-new seasonal event.”

50 Rondout Landing, Kingston 845-338-0071 • hrmm.org

We asked a few of our newer advertisers what drew customers to their business, and here’s what they had to say:

NEXT BOUTIQUE

“Next Boutique has been styling women from the Hudson Valley and beyond since 1988.  Friendly and professional one-on-one customer service is our goal for every customer.”

17 West Strand Street, Kingston 845-331-4537 • nextboutique.com

HUMMINGBIRD JEWELERS

“People come to us for our unique collection of fine designer jewelry curated by owners Peggy and Jamie Lubman from artisans around the world. In addition, people come to us seeking a wide range of on-premises services including custom design, repair, restoration and repurposing of family heirlooms, restringing, watch repair, and appraisals by GIA certified gemologist and NAJA certified appraiser.”

23A E Market St, Rhinebeck 845-876-4585 • hummingbirdjewelers.com

RICK’S ATTIC

“Rick’s Attic has high-end antics with all sorts of treasures to be found. And we are constantly evolving, now featuring imported cheese & meats from Spain.” 850 Main Street, Margaretville 347-581-6982 • @ricksattic

MICHAEL BORIS CLOTHING

“A half-century-old tale of the construction of the finest fabric by gifted artists under the direction of the designer Michael Boris. We offer clothing that transcends time with classic lines.”

117 Warren Street, Hudson 917-403-0478 michaelboris.com

“Friendly and professional one-on-one customer service is our goal for every customer.”

TRADITIONAL OKINAWAN KARATE

“Traditional Okinawan Karate is offering 2 weeks of FREE karate classes. TOK is a regional organization with schools in New Paltz, Pleasant Valley, East Fishkill, Brooklyn, and Kinnelon, NJ.  Our expert instructors are trained to teach all ages and skill levels. Go to our ad to scan the QR code for a FREE two-week trial.”

New Paltz, Pleasant Valley, East Fishkill tokarate.com

SHADOWLAND STAGES

“In this age of technology, exposure to live theatre is increasingly unique.  Live theatre is such an important part of the human experience.  It is a communal acknowledgement of the human condition. The opportunity to witness stories well-told in an intimate setting is what makes SHADOWLAND so special.”

157 Canal Street, Ellenville 845-647-5511 • shadowlandstages.org

UNION GROVE DISTILLERY

“Nestled in the Catskill Mountains, Union Grove Distillery draws customers with its award-winning craft spirits, inviting tasting room, and amazing cocktails made with fresh ingredients. A true haven for connoisseurs and adventure-seekers alike.

Look for us on Facebook and Instagram for details regarding hours and events.”

43311 Route 28, Arkville 607-287-0208

uniongrovedistillery.com

THE PERCH COTTAGES

“Guests are drawn in to us due to our: Modern cottages, spectacular mountain views, and magical creek frontage on the Esopus Creek (with its own beach and swimming hole!)”

Boiceville

646-389-6677

perchcottages.com

“Union Grove Distillery draws customers with its award-winning craft spirits, inviting tasting room, and amazing cocktails.”

We are located in the heart of The Catskill Mountains. We carry Minnetonka Moccasins, chimes, puzzles, local books & maps, gemstones, homemade fudge, jewelry, candy, t-shirts, games, crafts and so much more. We are packed to the rafters with fun, practical, and hard-to-find merchandise. Come visit us for a unique shopping experience.

OUR HOMEMADE FUDGE IS WORTH THE TRIP!

Eat

find the good stuff what to eat where

by anne pyburn craig

The culinary scene here is vast and delicious. To break it down for you a little, or for those times when you’re hungry but not sure what for, here’s our current list of some favorite flavors and house specialties at the region’s finest eateries.

The culinary scene here is vast and delicious. Here, for a little inspiration, is our own list of faves.

A SLICE OF ITALY: Is some of the best Italian around. Go old school with a classic cheese pizza, then decorate with your favorites from a list of 22 tasty topping options—or dine on something from their extensive menu of gourmet Italian entrees. Kingston, asliceofitaly7115.com

ABA’S FALAFEL: Centers its award-winning signature dish on the goodness of organic chick peas. Try the Sabich, offered in or beside pita bread—it combines oven-roasted eggplant, potato, falafel balls, salad, tahini, and amba (mango curry sauce). Rhinebeck, abasfalafel.com

ALAMO CANTINA: Is a great place to fuel up for a hike or feast afterward. Order the Enchiladas Suizas—soft corn tortillas filled w/ brisket, tinga chicken, or carnitas cheddar & tomatillo sauce. Phoenicia, alamocantina.com

ANGELA’S PIZZA: Is an essential stop on your Great Pizzas tour. Try their Chicken Parm Pizza, loaded with tender chunks of white meat and Romano cheese—one of many choices on a much longer list of gourmet pizzas. Lake Katrine, angelaspizzarestaurant.com

ASIA: Serves stunning, mouth-watering sushi and sashimi. And if you’re in the mood for Chinese, their General Tso’s Chicken is the freshest and most delicious take on this classic dish that we’ve ever tasted. Stone Ridge, asiastoneridge.com

BACCHUS: Is an icon for good reason. Try their Mango Habanero Wings; wash down with the best and latest craft quaffs and a good game of 8-ball. New Paltz, bacchusnewpaltz.com

BISTRO TO GO: Has mastered the art of healthy takeout comfort food. Try the Veggie Lasagna with broccoli rabe, one of their meatless Monday specials, or dig into the salmon Dijonnaise.

Kingston, bluemountainbistro.com

BRICKMAN KITCHEN + BAR: Puts a global spin on local Hudson Valley flavors. Try their Brickman Roll, a delectable spin on sushi that includes tempura fried steak, shrimp, cream cheese, eel sauce, yuzu aoli, and crispy garlic.

Kingston, brickmankingston.com

BRIO’S: Makes brick-oven pizza that is to die for, but their Chicken Parm is just as incredible. Their latest innovation is a scratch bakery—try the Pecan Praline Cheesecake. Phoenicia, brios.net

CAFE MARGUERITE: Is a splendid and comfy place for breakfast—try their Eggs Benedict, or just build yourself a creative egg sandwich on a croissant or on a housebaked English muffin or bagel. Margaretville, cafemarguerite.com

CAFE MIO: Gets very creative with the fresh and local goodies. Try the Roasted Beet Hash with potatoes, onions and goat cheese. Gardiner, miogardiner.com

Looking to throw a dinner party you’ll all remember for the rest of your lives? Book

CHEF ZACH BERGER ; he’ll bring the magic and show you how it happens in real time. Try his steak frites with 10-mushroom chimichurri. Hudson Valley, @ food_master_flex

COHEN’S BAKERY: Yes, the baked goods are out of this world, but don’t miss out on their everyday, ever-ready soups like chicken tortellini, french onion, chicken vegetable, and more. Ellenville, cohensbakery.cafe

COLONY WOODSTOCK: Is home to a classic beer garden and restored 1929 theater. Try their classic Reuben Sandwich— along with the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss, mustard and pickles on rye, it’s the Colony secret sauce that pops so perfectly on the tongue. Woodstock, colonywoodstock.com

COUNTRY INN & PETALY’S: Try the Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Fresh Ricotta and Mozzarella Pizza—it’s a classic white cheese pie topped with sweet caramelized Brussels sprouts and drizzled with reduced balsamic. Olivebridge, krumville.com

CREEKSIDE BAR & BISTRO: Does gorgeous comfort food. You can’t go wrong with their Fish & Chips, and your vegan dining companion will love the West Indian Vegan Tofu Bowl. Rosendale, creeksidebistro.com

EMERSON WOODNOTES GRILL: Try the memorable Herb Seared Sea Scallops served with Napa cabbage slaw, sesame citrus vinaigrette, and tuxedo sesame seeds. Mount Tremper, emersonresort.com

FIRST CAPITAL POKE BAR: Try the Hokkaido Miso with tonkotsu broth, miso paste, thin noodles, chashu pork, corn, naruto fish cake, seasoned bamboo shoots, ramen egg, wood ear, topped with butter, scallions, seven spice powder, and nori. Kingston, firstcapitalpokebar.com

GARVAN’S GASTROPUB: Serves up superb Rainbow Snapper, kimchi spiced snapper served with baby bok choy, and Szechuan glazed potatoes, topped with sesame garlic butter sauce. New Paltz, garvans.com

GRAZERY: Is a cheese lover’s paradise. Wash down their Cheese Board—a twocheese tasting experience with fresh seasonal fixings—with great local craft beer or wine, and plan to grab a platter for your next shindig. New Paltz, grazerynewpaltz.com

HICKORY BBQ: Serves up delectable takes on this classic cuisine that will please even a Southerner. Try the Pulled Pork Shoulder Platter. Kingston, hickoryrestaurant.com

HIGH FALLS CAFE: Has a fan base that will follow them anywhere. Grab a classic burger or treat yourself to their Salmon In Creamy Dill Sauce and you’ll understand. North Marbletown, highfallscafe.com

HOFFMAN HOUSE: Serves fine Continental fare. Try the Roast Duckling, a crisp roasted half-duck served with chef’s sauce du jour. Kingston, hoffmanhousetavern.com

JAR’D WINE PUB: Is the perfect spot for a nibble and a sip; try the Boquorones, Rustic Chips & Housemade Tzatziki or a Cheese Toastie. New Paltz, jardwinepub.com

JESSIE’S HARVEST HOUSE: Is the perfect place for great share plates: try the Pei mussels with house-smoked andouille sausage, made with garlic, sherry wine, and butter broth. Tannersville, jessiesharvesthouse.com

MAIN COURSE: Is one of the OG originators of our globally-inflected locavore cuisine scene. Choose from an inspired list of salads, build your own from a list of over 25 ingredients, or enjoy specials like Pan Seared Faroe Island Salmon. New Paltz, maincoursecatering.com

MILL & MAIN: Go beyond your usual flavor experience and find a new fave with Mill & Main’s Caribbean wild mushroom patties. Kerhonkson, millandmainstreet.com

MORNING SUNSHINE: Will put the sunshine in your morning with their Green Eggs: two scrambled eggs, wilted spinach, and aji verde on ciabatta. Ellenville, morningsunshine.market

OLE SAVANNAH: Offers Southern fare down on the waterfront; order yourself a rack of Baby Back Ribs and savor the flavors. Kingston, olesavannah.com

OLSEN & CO: Knocks it out of the park with The Meat & Cheese: your choice of either creamy burrata with prosciutto, Mark’s kitchen pesto and EVOO served on ciabatta or salami and gruyere with pickled red onions, EVOO, and organic greens. Saugerties, olsenandcompany.com

PARISH RESTAURANT: Is a delicious taste of Louisiana right here at Water Street Market in New Paltz. Try the Shrimp and Grits as an entree or appetizer, jambalaya, or specials like the Pan Roasted Shrimp served with sauce Pascal over grits. New Paltz, theparishrestaurant.com

PEEKAMOOSE: Has a stellar housemade charcuterie featuring grass-fed beef pastrami/pork & garlic terrine/chicken liver pate/pickled red onions/grain mustard, but everything here is really amazing. Big Indian, peekamooserestaurant.com

RUNA BISTRO: So much yum here. Try the Merguez Meatballs with roast pepper, tomato sauce, and garlic labne on pita that is beyond spectacular. New Paltz, runanewpaltz.com

SECONDS: Offers amazing Mediterranean food; try the Falafel Plate or the Moroccan Shrimp Tagine. Athens, secondsrestaurant.com

STONE DOCK CAFE: After working up your appetite with a round of golf, head to the cafe and try the Birdie on the Greens: whole local, organic chicken breast, panseared and served with their garden-grown green goddess sauce over polenta with sauteed and roasted seasonal vegetables. High Falls, stonedockgolfcourse.com/cafe

THE PHOENICIAN: Is a top-notch classic steakhouse and the place to go for a fresh Maine lobster. Pick your potato, steamed or baked, with yummy crab stuffing and your choice of side. Phoenicia, thephoeniciansteakhouse.com

TERRAPIN: Offers barbecued duck quesadillas with mango-avocado salsa, made with tangy braised duck, red onions, and fontina cheese, that have been astonishing hungry guests for over two decades.

Rhinebeck, terrapinrestaurant.com

TETTAS: Makes terrific pizzas and classic sammies, but the absolute must-try here is their oh-so-good garlic knots slathered in pesto sauce. Samsonville, tettasmarket.com

TWIN STAR ORCHARDS: The brick-oven pizza here is always a win, but if you’re in another mood, their juicy burger is a hearty autumn favorite. Both pair perfectly with their splendid, crisp cider. New Paltz, twinstarorchards.com

YUM YUM NOODLE BAR: Is justly famous for their mind-blowing choose-your-own-noodle bowls, but don’t miss their award-winning handmade dumplings or surprisingly yummy burger. Kingston, Red Hook, Woodstock, yumyumnoodlebar.com

Meet the Owners

grazery , new paltz

by anne pyburn craig photos by rachel collet

Stepping in the door, you’re immersed in vital, thriving plants, and the fresh air they’re generating carries the enticing aroma of fine cheese and spices. What paradise is this? Welcome to the Grazery, where Greg and Melissa Gagne are having the time of their lives sharing their passions.

Both are born and raised Hudson Valley folks—Greg grew up in Wappingers and Melissa in Gardiner, where they now live. Their shared gift for food and hospitality led them to build the Red Rooster Cafe into a Gardiner favorite; they ran it for seven years before turning the location over to new ownership to concentrate on home life, their four kids, and their flower farm.

“We both always loved food and hospitality,” says Greg Gagne. “Melissa attended the Culinary Institute [in Hyde Park]. We both worked in many different restaurants before opening Red Rooster, which we sold to Cafe Mio when we started having children. After that, we continued working in restaurants and boutique hotels in management roles. Then we started our farm project, selling wholesale and at weekend farmers markets.”

When they sought to open a plant and flower shop and cafe in 2019, a spot was opening up in Water Street Market in New Paltz. It had been a beloved market called The Cheese Plate.

Welcome to the Grazery, where Greg and Melissa Gagne are having the time of their lives sharing their passions.

“We loved Water Street, and the current business was ready to move on,” says Gagne. “We knew we had to have the space. It was perfect for us.”

According to local news coverage at the time, people made it clear that they would miss the cheese, so the Gagnes shifted course ever so slightly and kept the cheese component. As proclaimed on their website, it’s The Cheesiest Plant Shop Around.

It’s a unique experience, curated by people who thrive on flavor and beauty and creating an experience for all who enter their realm. “We try to make the whole space speak to you and have a certain feeling of happiness and warmth,” says Gagne. “We try to find the best products and use the best products and local organic produce in our food. We treat everyone like a human and appreciate that they choose us, and we’ll go out of our way to help.”

Whether you’re an expert plant-nurturer with a green thumb looking for new adventures or just want to try bringing a little nature into your home, the Grazery has plants for all skill levels and wise counsel to go with them. Want more relaxing, rejuvenating eucalyptus in your life? Grab a bunch, or get a subscription (a bundle either shipped or picked up on the first of each month for six months). There are also beer and cider subscriptions available, relaxing and rejuvenating in their own right.

“We try to provide what the customers are wanting or looking for…It’s great that we can be creative. It allows us to add or change services and offerings as we feel fit.”

– Grazery Co-owner Greg Gagne

“We keep expanding our product line and have been offering more food,” Gagne says. “We try to provide what the customers are wanting or looking for…It’s great that we can be creative. It allows us to add or change services and offerings as we feel fit.”

What fits is as much beauty, flavor, and fun as they can find and generate, and locals and visitors alike are loving it. “Not only is the aesthetic on point, the wine was delicious. Staff was super friendly and overall amazing service. It passes the vibe check completely, and it was such a relaxing experience,” writes a reviewer on Google. “Stopped here with my boyfriend and English bulldog on our way home to NYC,” writes another. “Had the most delicious and unique sandwiches! The store itself also has some really nice products to take home. Highly recommend!” People rave over perfection in grilled cheese, liquid bliss in lavender lemonade, glorious gourmet oils and spices, and the simple delight of a beer on the porch.

The goal was to create a family space where the Gagnes could share what they love with the wider world, and it gets met every day. “We wanted to create an everyday farmers market, stop working in the traditional restaurant setting and have more time for our family and each other,” Gagne says. “We can help people have new experiences: local ciders, great beer, trying new local cheeses. You can dine with us or take platters home to have dinner or entertain guests. Meanwhile, we can

bring our kids there and they can work and play alongside us. And we get to do everything we love— plants, food, flowers. Every day is a busy day. Every day is a great day. What’s better than playing with food and flowers?”

As great establishments with fivestar vibes will do, the Grazery has become a community gathering-space within the Water Street love-fest. The Gagnes have been responding by adding more events, turning Last Fridays into a banquet of tastings and live entertainment. “We have a huge mix: kids buying the best cookies and ice cream, locals stocking up on supplies, college kids getting grilled cheese and cider, a great flow of tourists and day trippers,” says Gagne. “We

just want to keep bringing the happiness by being the best we can be: expanding our business and connecting with our community by doing special events, music, popups, and working with our neighbors; staying open later on Friday nights and being more available to people that can’t make it in during our current hours. We strive to go above and beyond and curate a custom experience for our friends and clients.”

Stop in at the Grazery and inhale a deep, relaxing breath of all that goodness. Have a cookie. Ask about that crazy-looking plant you never saw before, and step out on the deck with a glass of wine for some Gunks gazing. We think you’ll find it makes the whole day better.

Closed Mon & Tues

845-255-4949

Water

Photo: Forged in the North

Local Eatery

brickmen kitchen + bar

by anne pyburn craig photos by rachel collet

Anew Uptown Kingston restaurant—opened last s pring by Dave Amato, the force of nature behind the Rondout neighborhood’s wildly popular Ole Savannah Southern Table—combines creative world fusion cuisine with a laid-back welcome and a vibe inspired by

iconic history and his own grandfather’s place within it. Welcome, friends, to Brickmen Kitchen + Bar and to quintessential Kingston.

Born in 1909, Joe “Skookie” Amato went to work in the Hutton Brickyards on the waterfront at the age of nine, part of the thriv -

Brickmen Kitchen + Bar was opened last spring by Dave Amato, the force of nature behind the Rondout neighborhood’s wildly popular Ole Savannah Southern Table.

ing industry that put Kingston on the map in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and employed thousands at its peak. He would go on to help found the Brick Handler’s Union and serve as its president in the ’50s and ’60s.

Dave was his youngest grandchild; to him, Joe was just Grandpa. “He always had jobs going on, but he was semi-retired, so I got to pal

around with him, go to the diner, the luncheonette, wherever. And everyone we ran into said hello to him, made a big fuss over him. Gradually, I realized he was a Kingston legend of sorts, which fascinated me. It was his personality; he made us all feel like we were his favorite, he had a way of making everybody feel special.”

Beyond Joe’s personal influence, Amato want -

ed to memorialize Kingston’s impact on the wider world. “The bricks and cement created right here in Ulster County—a lot of the visitors and newcomers from downstate probably don’t realize how much of their familiar landscape came from up here to build icons like the Empire State Building and the Cloisters.”

When Amato found his location on North Front Street, combining two buildings to create a spacious bar and dining room, he wanted to keep that history front and center while crafting a culinary experience informed by his own world travels. The result is a culinary tour of influences from around the world, ranging from a Tuscan Roasted Cauliflower appetizer to a Korean BBQ Ribs entrée, to Maine Lobster Pot Pie, to a full sushi bar. “There’s Thai and French and Indian cuisine here, Jamaican chicken, all my favorites. That’s what I do in my free time: I travel to restaurant towns, down to the city, Miami, Nashville, and go check out what’s good.”

Kingston, Amato enlisted the help of Certified Master Chef Dale Miller, one of only 68 in the US to hold that title and a member of the Culinary Institute’s Alumni Board. (Besides working with Amato to craft the menu for Brickmen, Miller was named last spring to the U.S. State Department’s “Kitchen Cabinet,” a panel of 10 top-ranked experts tasked with promoting diplomacy through food.)

“I would call it my dream menu,” says Amato. “It’s the best things I’ve found everywhere, and the feedback I get from guests is ‘I want to try everything,’ which is exactly what I was aiming for.”

To bring the best of the best to

For interior design, Amato turned to the Jackson Creative Group to

The eatery combines creative world fusion cuisine with a laid-back welcome and a vibe inspired by iconic history and Amato’s own grandfather’s place within it.

craft a warm, vintage vibe, cozy yet clean and open with lots of natural light, to appeal to locals and out-of-towners alike. And since its opening, Brickmen has been living up to that hope. “One of the top five meals I have had in a restaurant,” writes a Yelp reviewer, a native Kingstonian back in town visiting family. “We were blown away and intend to dine there again on our next visit. The menu was fantastic and everything we ate was phenomenal. Our service was also exceptional, delightful, and attentive without being overbearing.”

That combination of being beautifully served and able to thoroughly relax is exactly what Amato had in mind. “It’s for everybody, you know, whether you’re coming back from your hike in the Catskills or finishing up a day’s work, whether you need to just destress after a long week or you’re looking to celebrate something special. Come as you are, whatever that may be, and we’ll take good care of you.”

Amato’s own favorite spot might be the four-season deck. “Even in the winter, you can sit outside and still feel like

“There’s Thai and French and Indian cuisine here, Jamaican chicken, all my favorites. That’s what I do in my free time: I travel to restaurant towns, and check out what’s good.”

– Owner Dave Amato.

you’re outdoors. And you really do, I mean, it’s the whole mountain range laid out before you—you’d never know you were in a city, and the sunsets are just spectacular.”

Sounds like the perfect place to grab a drink—and you’ve got plenty of delicious choices. Try a NY Brickmen Sour made with freshpressed lemon juice, a Cloudy Peach, or a Blood Orange Mule. There are plenty of local draught beers, a globally inflected wine selection, and enticing-sounding alcohol-free choices, plus champagne to go with your seafood tower on those special occasions.

The whole package would no doubt make Grandpa Joe wildly proud.

And Amato, who won a 2022 Humanitarian Award from The Arc Mid Hudson for shepherding Ole Savannah’s bounty to the places it could do the most good, sees it as a vital connection between his own family and the larger Kingston family that makes this town a special place.

“It’s not just paying homage to my grandfather,” he says, “it’s paying homage to all of the hard-working men from back then. Every day I get guests that come in, ‘oh, my grandfather, my father, my uncle’… Kingston is full of the stories and the descendants of the brick men, and I wanted to tell the story of that connection.”

brickman kitchen + bar

47 North Front Street, Kingston 845-882-7425

brickmenkingston.com

mill & main restaurant

Already beloved for provisions and coffee-shop treats, Mill & Main’s restaurant, open since early May, has brought a whole new level of rejoicing to Main Street in Kerhonkson. “One of our loyal, wonderful cafe customers came in with his partner on a Saturday and we had no seats left inside; I heard him in the backyard, on the phone to a friend, saying, ‘Oh my God, this place is so

hot I can’t even get a table!’ And he was so happy to be there with us in that moment of being the happening place in town,” says Culinary & Marketing Director Claudia Sidoti. The menu is seasonally inspired and interpreted by mother-andson chef duo Sidoti and Chris Weathered—the son of Sidoti and her husband, General Manager Paul Weathered. Their multicultural heritage drives the eclectic

images by rachel collet

Local Eatery

Mill & Main’s restaurant, open since early May, has brought a whole new level of rejoicing to Main Street in Kerhonkson.

menu. “I’m half Italian and half Colombian, and Paul is from Antigua, and Christopher got the whole mix: the foods that we grew up with, that were important to each of us and passed along by parents and grandparents,” Claudia says. “So our menu is a really nice mix of dishes from our Colombian, Italian, and West Indian backgrounds.”

the menu,” says Sidoti, “in spring, because it felt very springy, and Chris made it trout Limoncello, with Italian liqueur. Spaghetti with clam sauce is another hugely popular dish. We started doing oysters on the half-shell last weekend—the response to high-quality fish and seafood has been really good. Our menu isn’t huge, but it’s carefully curated.”

That can mean a crispy Caribbean codfish fritter—something that Paul’s mom served on special occasions, enhanced with pickapeppa Mayo—or a vegetarian spin on Jamaican-style patties stuffed with wild mushrooms instead of beef. “So we put trout on

The community’s loving it. “Turning over the dining room three times in a night was surprising, but not shocking—we’ve been here long enough to know the people are here and want to come out,” says Chef Chris. “It’s been really special to see all these people

The menu is seasonally inspired and interpreted by mother-and-son chef duo Sidoti and Chris Weathered—the son of Sidoti and her husband, General Manager Paul Weathered. Their multicultural heritage drives the eclectic menu.

that have built their loyalties to the cafe come in and shop in the morning and then come in at night for dinner. We love when people who are passionate about food try something they’ve never eaten before and discover a new favorite.”

If you’re in the mood to try something exotic, Mill & Main will oblige; if you’re after a burger, theirs is topped with a crisped blend of parmesan and cheddar and balsamic caramelized onion, and Chris’s mango barbecue sauce has a passionate fan base all its own. “The vibe is come-as-you-are friendly,” says Lily Feldman, Christopher’s partner, who can often be found chatting folks up in the dining room with baby son Marlow and handles Mill & Main’s social media and marketing. “But it’s kid-friendly inside and the backyard is kid paradise.” There’s a small but thoughtfully crafted

Flowers by Whimsy Flowers Farm

kids’ menu featuring Italian chicken cutlet fingers and bagel pizzas. Open mic nights, live performances, and more have arisen spontaneously. “It’s so much fun to discover all the people in your community that are really good at something,” says Feldman. “We were blown away by our first open mic. So many people came out and shared so much talent! On our social media, I always ask people to tell me what they want to do, what would be fun, and it’s such an honor to be able to do that stuff with them. Chris, Claudia, and Paul have really created a hub for the community in such an organic way that it didn’t feel forced, and people are so happy to come be part of it.”

Some of the happiest, no doubt, are the 29 locals on the Mill & Main team—like the line cook who started as a dishwasher, and the barista who can bring her mom over for late-evening drinks and walk home. “Finding qualified staff isn’t always easy, but we did it,” says Sidoti, a veteran of decades in high-end hospitality. “And it’s great to hire someone with the right spark who barely knew what a cappuccino was, and watch their knowledge and skill grow. It’s a skill set they can take anywhere with solid experience at a quality place; but so far, people have stayed, and we love that.”

Sidoti says the whole thing’s about enlightened self-interest; the family wanted a great place to have dinner,

“Our menu is a really nice mix of dishes from our Colombian, Italian, and West Indian backgrounds.”

- Culinary & Marketing Director Claudia Sidoti

and had the resources needed to make it happen. And from the contractors such as Charles Roth from Upper Restoration, to close friend Lijah Friedman—the photographer whose work hangs on the walls—and the farmers who grow the fine ingredients, they found ample material and inspiration close at hand. This fall, the back patio will stay open with space heaters and a firepit as guests dine on the harvest bounty (expect some spectacular apple-themed flavors) and as the weather grows colder, hearty Sunday suppers and indoor demos

with culinary experts are in the forecast. And great drinks, of course, from fine local wines and beers to a cocktail program informed by the Mill & Main team’s unique heritage and sensibilities: an Aguardiente sour, a basil berry bramble, a shaken colada, a Caribbean sorrel spritzer mocktail. Mill & Main has been tapped to host a few milestone events, and the team looks forward to doing more: If you haven’t nailed down a spot for your holiday party yet, talk to these folks for an unforgettable evening. “We had a vision, we had an idea, and we had a plan

to some degree,” says Sidoti, “but it really has come together almost better than we envisioned it could.

We feel very fortunate and very, very lucky.”

mill & main restaurant

317 Main Street, Kerhonkson

845-626-1255

eatmillandmain.com

by anne pyburn craig

Check out the Shawangunk Wine Trail, a collection of 13 splendid wineries that welcome visitors to taste their very best.

Want to see some luscious fall scenery while getting the inside scoop on the roots of the Hudson Valley beverage scene? Check out the Shawangunk Wine Trail, a collection of 13 splendid wineries that welcome visitors to taste their very best. And with COVID restrictions in the rearview mirror, their goblets are running over with delight at the idea of seeing your face.

WINE TRAIL WISDOM

The Shawangunk Wine Trail isn’t linear, like the Thruway or a railroad track. It’s structured more like a grapevine, with tasty clusters springing from the main stem of unique Hudson Valley

terroir in highly individual directions. To cover the entire trail in a day is an 80-mile journey with a lot of gorgeous secondary roads involved, and many of the wineries are open for just six or seven hours.

So, while it would be hypothetically possible to hire a car (please!) and hit the entire trail in a day, you’d be in a mad rush, and rushing is not the Way of Wine. Savoring is, and these wineries have so much to savor, from their highly original varietals to their glorious views and settings, that you’ll want to do exactly that. With a Hudson Valley Wine Passport, you have a full year to enjoy your free tasting flight at each place.

The Shawangunk Wine Trail is structured more like a grapevine, with tasty clusters springing from the main stem of unique Hudson Valley terroir in highly individual directions.

This holiday season, for their annual Wreath Fineries at the Wineries celebration, you’re invited to pluck a delectable cluster at a time. “We decided to section the tour concept into three, four-winery clusters that are all close to each other,” says Wine Trail Operations Manager Jude DeFalco. (Of the 13

members, 12 are participating.) “So the Marlboro wineries, for instance, are a cluster of four for one ticket. It lowers the ticket price and sets a pace that’s more conducive to really enjoying what each winery has to offer. Our wineries want you to take the time to truly taste, to take in the ambiance,

to learn about the way it’s done.”

So choose an itinerary and join in the good times happening November 18-19, December 2-3, and December 9-10. You’ll get a tasting glass, a homemade grapevine wreath, and five holiday orna-

The Trail has evolved over the years; cider, craft beer, and cocktails are easier to find in the mix, lots of places offer delicious food, and a long list of transportation partners offer options that free you up to enjoy.

ments, one from each winery and one from the Wine Trail as a whole, and enjoy a leisurely day of tastings, celebration, and education. The Trail has evolved over the years; cider, craft beer, and cocktails are easier to find in the mix, lots of places offer delicious food, and a long list of transportation partners offer options that free you up to enjoy. You can learn a lot more at each winery’s website.

THE WINERIES

In Marlboro you’ll find breath-

taking Benmarl, the oldest vineyard in America, with river views and festive sangrias, and quirky Quartz Rock Vineyard, where autumn offerings include Caribbean/Soul Food feasts and speed dating (they’re hosting a fire-spinning performance on September 23). Then there’s Stoutridge Distillery & Winery, where they make natural wine and smallbatch spirits on a historic farm.

Not far away in Gardiner, you’ll find Whitecliff, a serene and fabulous haven tucked beneath the cliffs with a long list of inter-

Benmarl Winery Quartz Rock Vineyard

Stoutridge Distillery

Whitecliff Vineyard

national awards. Bring your dog there on October 28 for a Pawstume Party and have a blast whilst supporting the Hudson Valley SPCA. And in Wallkill, you’ll discover Magnanini Farm Winery , where you can reserve a spot for an Italian six-course family dinner with live accordion music.

Valley Winery & Distillery , home of New York’s oldest cidery (they created Doc’s back in 1994) and makers of delectable fruit liqueurs.

Up in New Paltz is Robibero, where you can dive into the squishy fun of a Grape Stomping Festival the weekends of September 23-24 and September 30-October 1.

On the southwestern branch of the vine are Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, America’s oldest, where they survived Prohibition by selling medicinal port. Warwick is home to two wineries: Clearview Vineyard, named one of America’s Best by Travel + Leisure magazine, and Warwick

Over in Pine Bush is Baldwin Vineyards, rustic and homey, where they make a strawberry wine that must be tasted to be believed and are hosting a Murder Mystery Dinner, Homestyle Homicide, on September 15. And last, but not least (no leasts on this list!) is City Winery Hudson Valley in Montgomery, nestled on the banks of the Wallkill River and hosting a wide range of music, chef-led wine-pairing dinners, and cocktail-making classes that will educate and refresh.

shawangunk wine trail 845-256-8456

shawangunkwinetrail.com

Magnanini Farm Winery

Robibero Winery

Brotherhood Winery

Warwick Valley Winery Baldwin Vineyards

City Winery HV

MarbletownAnimalHospital.com 3056 Route 213 East Stone Ridge, NY, 12484

845-687-7800

Now offering daytime urgent care. Call for more info.

MarbletownAnimalHospital.com

by anne pyburn craig photos by rachel collet

Halter Associates Realty is independent, woman-owned, and fiercely devoted to treating people right, from her team of associates to each and every client.

If you’ve been around the Hudson Valley some, you’ve probably seen the Halter Associates Realty signs that pop up, often in front of some absolutely drool-inducing houses.

Ulster County’s top independent brokerage, with the highest average sales price at $660,000, Halter Associates is a woman-owned company that’s risen like cream to the top of the region’s hot and spicy real estate scramble.

ed to London to work in graphic design for three years.

“London had such an impact on me,” Halter says. “The Brits surprised me; they’re stereotyped as really uptight, but they have such a sense of humor. They approach things looking for humor, for the light side of situations, and that was my takeaway. I still really appreciate that.”

Real estate is actually a second career for Principal, Owner and Founder Lisa Halter. After growing up in Rochester, NY (“the one up by Canada,” she says) and graduating from the Rochester Institute of Technology with her BFA in communications and design, she head-

A sense of humor is essential life equipment on any path; it undoubtedly helped her adjust to Manhattan, where she would spend the next two decades working as a designer and creative director, eventually forming her own company with husband Paul.

It was on a more-or-less random wander that they found Woodstock. “We had a friend we’d visit who had a rental up here, but we’d never really explored the area to the north. One day we were driving the country roads and happened to pop out on the Ashokan Reservoir—that glorious water ringed by mountains. We drove across the spillway just marveling at the beauty of the area. Then, for dinner, we found the Bear Cafe and had just the best meal. Before we even paid the check, we were telling each other that this was where we wanted to be.”

and worked for one of the big-box brokerages for a few years before I realized I was really more interested in being an entrepreneur and owning my own business.”

They soon found an 1870s fixer-upper farmhouse on 36 acres. It was a weekend place for a while; post-9/11, the pair decided to move up to Ulster County full time.

In 2014, she founded Halter Associates Realty, independent, woman-owned, and fiercely devoted to treating people right, from her team of associates to each and every client. “Working for the big franchises, you see the things that you don’t want to do and you see better ways of treating agents as people rather than as numbers to generate sales. You have to rely on internal motivation in this business, and that can be super hard to do when you just feel unappreciated and rundown. I try to create an environment where the agents are supported and motivated and treated like important, special people.”

That meant a career change for Halter. “There just weren’t a lot of companies up here hiring graphic designers back then,” she says. “I had real estate in my genes to some extent—my dad was a real estate investor. I got my license

It’s been an effective business model—Halter now employs upwards of 50 associates who closed hundreds of transactions over the past year, and the lack of bureaucratic top-down rigidity

Halter now employs upwards of 50 associates who closed hundreds of transactions over the past year. is a marketing advantage. “Instead of budgetary constraints that, say, mean you can only advertise a home twice in a listing period or whatever, we can be more creative, more flexible. We can customize the marketing outreach and apply the right method to each property, from social media to print to special broker events, to reach the right clientele. Our agents are all local; they really know the area and the inventory, and stay on top of the market trends.” The brokerage belongs to six multiple listing services and to Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LeadingRE), a listing network that covers 70 countries. The initial phase of COVID, when word came down that realtors could no longer meet clients face-

to-face, was a scary moment. “Initially, we all thought this was it, that we were going to have to close. We didn’t see a way forward. Of course, the reality turned out to be the precise opposite of that.”

The crisis and the real estate boom that accompanied it became another opportunity for the creative real estate firm to shine. “The rules made sense at the time—for a little while we couldn’t show houses at all, then they changed it so that you could let a client in but not go in with them. But people just started flooding up here from the city, buying houses by remote showings, basically doing anything they could to get a house here.”

Along with keeping her sense of humor and treating people right,

Halter has come to realize that you just never know what a buyer might be thinking. “Early on, I’d occasionally catch myself questioning a home’s style, but I quickly learned to stop imposing my ideas and to let it work the other way around. I’ll point out any construction or mechanical issues, of course, but people have their own ideas about what they’re looking for, and I’ve learned to let them see what it is they see, let them be themselves. I’ve sold some really unusual homes and been surprised to find a buyer who liked them, but there’s a lid for every pot.”

character. But after you’ve lived a couple of winters up here, you develop a whole new appreciation for a well-insulated, sturdy place with a good new heating system. It’s your call, but we try to make sure that everyone knows what they’re getting into.”

That said, she’s seen some buyers revise their priorities. “Many people coming up here want an old farmhouse, or a Victorian with loads of

It’s a philosophy that has led to a lot of happy homeowners; Halter says the upriver migrants who’ve purchased through Halter tend to stick around. “I find that people do tend to buy the right home,” she says. “You look at enough properties, and when you see the right one for you, you know. You recognize it. We have really satisfied buyers. We’ve done really well, and I’m proud of everything my agents have accomplished.”

halter associates realty

3257 Route 212, Bearsville • 845-679-2010

89 N Front St, Kingston • 845-331-3110

halterassociatesrealty.com

Pools, Spas & Patio Furniture

1606 Ulster Avenue, Lake Katrine (Next to Adams) • 845-336-8080

SHADOWLAND STAGES

One Light...Changes Everything.

One Light...Changes Everything. E hi

One Light...Changes Everything. E hi

Custom Inground Pool Installations

Custom Inground Pool Installations

Large Selection of Patio Furniture Salt Water Pools

Free Pool and Spa Water Analysis

AGES 5-19

One Light...Changes Everything. Sign

Large Selection of Patio Furniture Salt Water Pools www.aquajetpools.com

Schedule your pool closing today

Free Pool and Spa Water Analysis

www.aquajetpools.com

Family owned and operated for over 30 years

Family owned and operated for over 40 years

Outdoor Furniture

by anne pyburn craig

Furniture choices exist that offer pure comfort and practical advantages while they invite you and your crew to partake of the outdoor breezes.

Gone are the days when outdoor furniture options consisted of wooden picnic tables with attached benches, folding lawn chairs, and basic hammocks. Not that there’s necessarily anything wrong with those; many of us have fond memories of childhood hours spent around, on top of, or even hiding underneath a classic wooden picnic table.

But modern creativity, technology, and design have greatly widened the available options. Admit it, you also remember how that picnic table bench made your butt ache. Nowadays, whether you’re dealing with a porch, a deck, a patio, or just a really cool spot under a tree you love, choices exist that offer pure comfort and practical advantages while they invite you and your crew to partake

of the soft summer breezes or the crisp feel of fall.

Speaking of fall, this is a great time to find great deals on outdoor furnishings, and you may still get a few weeks of enjoying your purchases before the weather turns, especially if part of your outdoor setup is a firepit and your location is sheltered from the wind. Wind blockers, outdoor curtains or panels can help you here; it’s possible to spend blissful evenings by the fire in January if you dress for it a bit and minimize the wind chill factor.

Making the right choices while you’re shopping can lead to trouble-free good times with furniture that lasts for years. So here are some tips to

Making the right choices while you’re shopping can lead to trouble-free good times with furniture that lasts for years.

keep in mind as you focus on furnishing your favorite bit of the great outdoors. After all, the great outdoors deserves great seating.

side and lose yourself in a good book? Look for a lounger, couch, or hammock that will invite you to stretch out.

• What will you be doing there? If you plan to grill a lot and eat outside, a sturdy, easy-to-clean dining table and a smaller cook’s table near the grill are essentials. If you’re picturing cocktail-focused evenings around the firepit, seating and nifty decor may be more of a priority. Just want to lie out-

• Think easy cleaning. Metal, cedar, teak, and all-weather wicker are sturdy choices that should look good for years with minimal care; the same cannot be said of the ubiquitous white resin. Cushions and pillows with zippered covers that can be thrown in the wash are easy to freshen.

• Where will it spend the winter? Remember that you’ll get a lot more years of beauty and enjoyment out of your outdoor pieces if you can either cover them securely or tuck them away in a garage, basement, or shed during the harsher months, and think about where they might fit. Stackable pieces are a help.

• Invest in quality. Solid materials and well-made joints are the difference between something

Metal, cedar, teak, and all-weather wicker are sturdy choices that should look good for years with minimal care.

you’ll need to replace after a couple of years and a piece that will provide many seasons of pleasure and comfort. Do your homework, check the reviews, and plan to spend the bulk of your

funds on the major pieces—you can accessorize with inexpensive accent pieces, and no one (including you) will care as long as the seats are solidly comfy and the table is level.

outdoor furniture resources

A&M HARDWARE

5000 Rt. 209, Accord 845-626-2788

amhardware.doitbest.com

BARE FURNITURE

4737 Rt. 209, Accord 845-626-0061, barefurnitureny.com

HOUST HARDWARE

4 Mill Hill Rd, Woodstock

845- 679-2115, housthardware.com

POTTER BROTHERS

57 City View Terrace, Kingston 845-338-5119, potterbrothers.com

1083 Route 9, Fishkill 845-297-2941, potterbrothers.com

WILLIAMS LUMBER & HOME CENTERS

6760 Route 9, Rhinebeck 845-876-WOOD, williamslumber.com

GREATWESTERNCATSKILLS COM

Fitches Covered Bridge, Delhi, NY

Goexplore!

25th Anniversary of the Harvest Festival at Bethel Woods

Fall in New York’s legendary Sullivan Catskills is like no other season.

Sip and savor your way through The Good Taste

Craft Beverage Trail in a countryside bursting with color and full of farmers and harvest markets and cool, hip, low-key vibes. Then dine on inventive, Catskill-icious cuisine with our imaginative chefs.

SEPT 23: THE HONEY BEE FESTIVAL

Narrowsburg

OCT WEEKENDS: THE ROCKY HORROR

PICTURE SHOW LIVE!

Forestburgh Playhouse

OCT 7 & 8: THE BIG SIP WINE & SPIRITS FESTIVAL

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

OCT 13-29: PEACE, LOVE & PUMPKINS

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts