 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
View this Issue of the
CTW Paper
as an Adobe PDF
Previous Issues
Volume 4, Issue 9 - December 2011
Hudson Valley Skiing & Snowboarding
Woodstock Elementary Holiday Gift & Craft Fair
A Maverick Musician's Journey to Woodstock
An Interview with David Bromberg
New Year's Eve Parties & Events
Begin shredding this season and discover what the Hudson Valley has to offer for the winter sports, skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the fresh December snow. Close to Woodstock, the Sawkill Family Ski Center offers improved trails and family-friendly slopes. A bit further away, Hunter Mountain, one of the Hudson Valley’s most prolific skiing resorts, also begins its winter sports season, with three legendary mountains, ranging from easy beginner to the advanced black diamond trails. Whether you prefer to test out some new skiing equipment, warm up for the season, or wish to compete in upcoming races, the month begins with a choose-your-own-adventure selection of snow-driven venues and events.
The Villa Vosilla resort, an “intimate Italian Boutique Resort Hotel,” located on the Hunter Mountaintop off Route 23A, offers old world and contemporary style lodging, breathtaking scenic views of the Catskill Park Region, and Italian traditional fine dining that comes with a breath of fresh mountain air. The resort provides visitors with all the information and accommodations necessary for an unforgettable Catskill skiing adventure.
If you wish to polish up your skiing and snowboarding skills, Hunter Mountain’s Consumer Demo Weekend on December 10th and 11th will allow visitors the usage of high quality new equipment from some of the leading brands; representatives will be on hand with hundreds of pairs of skis and snowboards for you to try. Brands include Salmon Skis, Atomic, Dynastar, Nordica, Goode, Fischer, and many more. Hunter Mountain’s staff recommends that attendees of the Consumer Demo try three or four different types of equipment on the same terrain for the best results.
The Consumer Demo Weekend will allow you to test out your ski or snowboarding equipment for speed, agility, the ability to make various turns, and to get a general sense of the equipment’s strengths and weaknesses. It is also recommended that you do not try to mix the equipment, and to keep written notes about each brand. If you like what you’ve tested and wish to make a purchase after the Consumer Demo, ask the rep for a $50 coupon off, good for equipment featured in Hunter Mountain’s “binding” packages at Expeditions or the Sports Center, both located in the Base Lodge.
After testing out new skiing equipment all day, several options for dining and relaxing are available on the mountain top. For a high altitude, delicious café experience, stop over at Maggie’s Krooked Café and Juice Bar on Main Street in Tannersville for both comfort food and creative cuisine. A good vegetarian burger will win you over, and Maggie’s personal, inviting, and charming touch will have you returning for her home-style cooking over and over again.
The Mountain Dew Vertical Challenge Race Series, a free event open to all ages and abilities in a “dual slalom format,” begins on Saturday, December 17th. Bring friends and family and go extreme for this exciting race, in which all participants earn a free T-shirt at registration and free samples of Mountain Dew soda all day long. Hunter Mountain promises “tons of great prizes and giveaways” for race winners, including the chance to qualify for the National Mountain Dew Vertical Challenge Race. All guests with valid lift passes for the day are eligible to enter the race.
Whether you are just beginning to test your ability on learning trails, or are an advanced skier or snowboarder with your own equipment and a craving for steeps and bumps, Hudson Valley’s skiing areas offer light or hard trails, free demos, ski passes, and racing competitions this month for all ages and skill levels. Several cafes, snack shops, bars, and fine dining are easily accessible to guests, as well as quality lodging. This winter season, get out of the gate early and begin to visit the Catskill mountains, where the skiing, lodging, shops, and trails are considered some of the finest in the county.
Hudson Valley
Skiing and Snowboarding
Belleayre Mountain Ski Area:
Resort and ski lodge located just off Rte 28 in Highmount, NY featuring some of New York’s most difficult slopes. Belleayre offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels on a terrain with historical significance. It was the first skiing resort in New York with a chair lift in 1949, and its renowned advanced trails have been dug and perfected by ski enthusiasts since 1885. On December 18th, as part of the Toys for Tots program, free lift tickets will be given away to those who donate a toy valued at $25 or more. (845) 254-5600.
Sawkill Family Ski Center:
Designed specifically for snowboarders, beginner skiiers and snow tubers, the local Sawkill ski area offers affordable rates and family-friendly trails. Bring your own lunch, or they’ll make it for you. This year, Sawkill features a new carpet lifter, new snow machine, and a new snow tubing area, only a short distance from Woodstock or Kingston. (845) 336-6977.
Hunter Mountain:
One of the most popular skiing areas, with lodging, dining, zipline and canopy tours, snowtubing, and ski and snowboard shops. Whether a beginner or expert, three separate mountains offer a wide range of terrain. Looking for something extreme? Try the SkyRide or Zipline Adventure Tour on a zipline that is the “highest, longest, and fastest” in North America, and the 2nd largest in the world. (800) 486-8376
Potter Brothers
Ski and Snowboard Shop:
Skiing equipment and accessory swaps and sales galore through the holiday season in Kingston, NY. Keep tuning in to the website (potterbrothers.com) for upcoming special deals. Potter Brothers supports a jacket trade-in program. Bring in an old jacket and receive 15% off any of the top brand of ski or snowboarding jackets in stock. The jackets are donated to local charities in the Hudson Valley. (845) 338-5119.
Woodstock Elementary Holiday Gift & Craft Fair
By Jill Paperno
The second annual Holiday Gift & Craft Fair at the Woodstock Elementary School begins at 10 am on December 3rd. The proceeds of this holiday shopping event go toward the school’s pledge to “help students achieve their full potential intellectually, physically, socially, morally and culturally.” The Gift Fair has provided this excellent school a means to raise money that would otherwise not be available due to the present economic situation. Furthermore, the fair provides special hand crafted holiday gifts that are also long lasting, meaningful treasures from our local artists.
Among the vendors is Fiber Flame from Saugerties. You will have the opportunity to meet the innovative Christina Brady, along with her partner Shea, who will explain and even demonstrate how to make your own gifts. Brady states, “I have always loved the experience of bringing my craft to schools like the Woodstock Elementary School and look forward to [December 3rd].”
You can leave your kids with Brady while you check out the rest of the indoor fair. If you decide to give your children or grandchildren an ornament kit, and join together with them as they craft their artwork, it will be one of the more memorable gifts that they will have for years to come. Brady’s ornament kit goes for $8.00 and includes lace, beads, wire, and other art supplies.
Woodstock Picture Studio’s Fraco Vogt, a photographer who lives up to Woodstock’s legendary reputation as an Artist’s Colony, will be in attendance. Vogt opened his shop in Woodstock in 2005 and comes from a commercial background. Yet he maintains, “I find portrait sessions with kids one of my favorite assignments . . . family portraits would be my biggest passion.” Vogt’s children attend Woodstock Elementary School, and he signed up for the Gift Fair because the proceeds go to school trips and events that now only remain due to donations of time and talent from parents. Vogt and his wife donate their time to the PTA for events like this on a regular basis. Patrons can sign up at Vogt’s booth for a raffle to win a free family portrait, which can take place at your home or your favorite field.
You will also have an opportunity to meet Abbe Graber, designer and maker of Woodstock Wooden Kazoos, hand crafted and owned by legendary people, such as John Sebastian, Levon Helm, Maria Muldaur, Pete Seeger, Leon Russell, Jonathan Edwards, and Wavy Gravy.
Don’t miss the artistic wood carvings of John Helmeyer. His Christmas ornaments are not only beautifully handcrafted, but should bring a smile every time you look at them. "I learned carving from my Uncle, when he retired, and couldn't get around much,” said Helmeyer. “I later joined the group (hvcarving.org), which comes together regularly to share their crafts with others." Their most passionate project is hand carving canes with Eagle heads for veterans from WWII to Iraq/Afghanistan. John is happy to do this on his “down time” from his full time job.
And when you get tired and need a break, there will be sandwiches, treats, coffee and Jodi’s breads made by Woodstock’s local baker, hot out of the oven from her bake shop right around the corner from the school. The Gift Fair will be an enjoyable cultural experience, even if you are able to resist reaching into your wallet—which is doubtful.
Jill Paperno is a former producer turned environmentalist, and now adamantly working against fracking. She's a 20-year Hudson Valley resident.
A Maverick Musician’s Journey to Woodstock
By Nina Flanagan
He befriended Jerry Garcia in a teepee at Woodstock ‘69, produced an album for Dylan, recorded as a sideman on more than 80 albums, self-produced about a dozen albums, and co-wrote a song with George Harrison. David Bromberg’s discography reads like a road map of folk, blues, country, and rock n’ roll royalty. CTW caught up with David at his violin shop in Wilmington, Delaware, to discuss guitar playing, his new CD, and his upcoming show at the Bearsville Theater on December 3.
Picking up his first guitar around age 13, Bromberg didn’t learn his unique style of playing rhythm and lead simultaneously until he met the “Rev”—Reverend Gary Davis—while soaking in the Greenwich Village music scene of the mid-1960s. Besides being known for his guitar mastery, there were tales of the blind reverend waving his gun at non-paying club owners. “Oh, yes—the Rev—he really was a force of nature!” laughs Bromberg. “His technique was unusual in that he only used his thumb and forefinger, and said he was always trying to imitate a piano on the guitar.” He also taught him how to make the guitar “talk.”
As a nod to Davis, Bromberg included two of his songs on his 2007 Grammy-nominated CD “Try Me One More Time,” his first studio album since 1990. After a show, some fellow musicians wondered if he could play any of the Reverend’s songs. “I said ‘sure’ – although I hadn’t tried in quite a few years, my fingers remembered. I realized there weren’t many of us that learned directly from him that are still kickin’. So I thought maybe I’d record a tune or two of his.” Bromberg wasn’t keen on the idea of being stuck in a windowless studio for hours, so he decided just to record a little bit every week. “I thought it would take a year or two, but it actually only took a few months to finish. My wife produced it; she did all the editing. It’s the easiest record I ever made! Just me and a guitar, relaxed—and playing tunes the way I do. There was no trying to achieve anything.”
And when one reviews Bromberg’s work, it’s simply mind-blowing that one person did it all. Signed to Columbia Records in 1970, after a spontaneous solo set at the Isle of Wight Festival, he went on to self-produce four albums for the label. I asked Bromberg how he managed to convince a major label to produce his own material. “If they wanted a record from me, they had to let me do it,” he simply states. His eclectic style of blues, bluegrass, folk, jazz, country & western, and rock n’ roll really exploded with the David Bromberg Big Band in the mid-1970s. “I had a very versatile band at the time, which was unique. It included strings, horns, and bluegrass players. I still play with that band a few times a year.” Then recording for the Fantasy label, Bromberg released five albums and was touring non-stop.
But, in 1980 he hit the brakes and dissolved the band. “I got burnt out—not from the playing, but from the traveling. At one point I was on the road for two years without being home for more than two weeks. When I was home, I wasn’t practicing or writing—I felt I was no longer a musician. I didn’t want to be one of these guys who drags himself on stage and does a bitter imitation of what he used to love. I decided I had to find another way to live my life. And that’s what I did.”
He started to play a little country fiddle and realized he wanted to learn everything about violins. So he moved to Chicago and attended the Kenneth Warren School of Violin Making. Tired of the Chicago winters, he and his wife moved to Wilmington in 2002, where he became active in the local music scene.
After releasing 2007’s “Try Me One More Time,” Bromberg got an idea for his next album. He would ask artists he always wanted to record with to write a song for him, produce it, and play on it. “It was a little humbling to ask, but everyone was so great,” he says. The result is a dream team of musicians: Dr. John, Linda Rondstadt, John Hiatt, Keb’Mo’, Levon Helm, Los Lobos, Vince Gill, Widespread Panic, and Tim O’Brien. Despite taking almost three years to finish, due to logistics of recording schedules, Bromberg’s idea was right-on—the press is buzzing about “Use Me.”
Bromberg wouldn’t reveal his plans for the Bearsville show. He doesn’t spend hours creating set lists: “I’ve never planned a set in my life!” Nor does he try to read the audience: “No, not so much reading the audience, as reading myself.” Indeed. Bromberg seems to have a very good read on himself after more than 40 years of performing. It’s probably not a stretch to say he’s found his center—something many artists never achieve.
Nina Flanagan is a freelance writer and bass player. She enjoys meeting people and telling their stories. She has written for a wide range of publications, including Newsweek, Harvard Magazine, Genetic Engineering News, and Hudson Valley Magazine. ninaflanaganwriter@gmail.com.
New Year’s Eve Parties and Events
By Melissa Esposito
On New Year’s Eve, whether you prefer to settle in with family and watch the Time Square ball drop on TV, or you’d rather dance the night away—Champagne in hand—you’ll first want to check out the specials and events held by area restaurants. From prix fixe dinner courses to live music, start your night with a good meal out on the town before the evening festivities begin.
New World Home Cooking in Saugerties is well known for its wide-ranging menu, but they amp it up for New Year’s Eve: a la carte meals, international delicacies, sustainably harvested seafood and meats, and a selection of vegan and gluten-free options. “It’s like New World to the tenth power,” says chef/owner Ric Orlando.
In addition, guests can dance the night away with live music by local band Uncle Funk, featuring Joey Beesmer, Tony Levin, Jesse Gress, Pete Levin, and Jerry Marotta. The $20 show cover is waived for diners.
If you’re thinking French, Violette Restaurant and Wine Bar at the end of Mill Hill Road in Woodstock plans to have various dinner specials, without a set menu or high-priced buffet. The menu—prepared by Culinary Institute-trained chefs—offers a variety of meals to please any palate. “You want a burger and fries? We’ve got it. But we will also have a variation of filet mignon, roast stuffed Cornish game hens, and other delights,” says Chef Daniel Rabiner.
The Emerson Resort in Mount Tremper houses two eateries featuring separate specials; reservations are recommended for both.
Fill your plate with a $30 prix fixe buffet at the Catamount Restaurant. Dine among New Year’s decorations and libations, and sample hearty dishes such as prime rib, leg of lamb, and crab-stuffed sole. For those who want just a quiet dinner, early seating is available
between 4-7 p.m. The dining room and buffet reopen at 9:30 p.m. with live music, and the party lasts through midnight, when guests get to ring in the new year with favors and a complementary Champagne toast.
For a more elegant dining experience, The Phoenix offers an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere—ideal for couples or groups of friends saluting the year. There are two menu offerings: the Tavern menu is available between 4 and 10 pm., while the Chef’s Offerings—with a set price at $35—will be served between 5 and 10 pm. A large selection of wines from the eatery’s cellar are available to pair with each meal.
Also, be sure to check out prix frixe dinners at the Garden Café in Woodstock—ideal for those who want to start their vegetarian resolutions early—and Miss Lucy’s Kitchen in Saugerties, who’s serving a five-course dinner for $60.
Cheers!
Melissa Esposito is a writer, painter, musician, third-generation tarot reader and lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley. Her work has been in Hudson Valley Magazine and Examiner.com's Upstate NY Underground Music.
Aries (March 21 to April 19):
If you are looking to assign blame in the work place, you need not go any further than the nearest mirror. Your own actions and words have caused more unexplainable drama than an episode of Desperate Housewives. Chill out and remember you get what you give, so if your company secret Santa stocking is full of coal this Christmas, don't act so surprised.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20):
There's a power struggle going on and even with Jupiter in your corner there will be people waiting for you to expose your soft underbelly. What a pain! There may be times when you'll want to deck someone's halls with more than bells of holly, but hold out—eventually you'll have reason to don you now your gay apparel.
Gemini (May 21 to June 20):
Yes sir-ee bob, it's time to accentuate the positive for Gemini in December. Your energy levels may be off the map, which is crazy as the Sun is in opposition with Gemini. Go figure? Focus on your finer attributes and who knows? Maybe someone will take notice and invite you under the mistletoe. Helpful hint, keep a breathe mint on hand.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22):
Pluto works in conjunction to the Sun allowing introducing a peaceful introspective time for you Crab-sters. They say no man is an island but that's exactly what you are going to strive for in the days ahead. It's a regular cab fest in your own domain and extravagances are not necessary. You are all you need to get by.
Leo (July 23 to August 22):
It takes a big person to admit they are wrong and if you want any chance of happiness in your relationship it may be time to sprout on some size. Don't allow your stubbornness to infringe on what should be a very positive month. You don't want to find yourself dashing through the snow on a one man open sleigh, do ya? “I was wrong” is as powerful as “I love you” sometimes.
Virgo (August 23 to September 22):
Mars in Virgo allows for much improvement in the days ahead. Go big and bold and stick with your own agenda. Looks like you should be shining brighter than Rudolph's red nose. So keep aspiring to great things. You will have a lot to carol about this holiday season.
Libra (September 23 to October 22):
Creating a healthy living environment at home means allowing others their own space. Maybe you are not aware that you have infiltrated the space of those closest to you. Look for signs. When spousey-poo starts flaunting his/her “I'm with Stupid” T-shirt at holiday functions, chances are you've overstepped your boundaries.
Scorpio (October 23 to November 21):
In the words of Van Halen, Is It Love You’re Feeling? Or maybe it's just good old fashioned obsession. Insecurity rears its ugly head, generating a possessive streak that could make your loved one go over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house they go. Keep suffocating your partner and all you might want for Christmas is your two front teeth.
Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21):
Strike while the iron is hot, Sad-gies. Procrastination has little benefits and you could be left out in the cold if you are not careful. Mercury will make time speed by faster than Kim Kardashian’s recent marriage, so pass on the hasty pudding and get to business. Enjoy yourself; it's later than you think.
Capricorn (December 22 to January 19):
There will be inspiration from folks around you who have made positive changes recently. The holidays are a time to draw those near to you who have been scarce in the days gone by. Enjoy your time together and look for that something new you may have missed in old friends before.
Aquarius (January 20 to February 18):
Venus and Neptune have a calming serene influence over you as daring moves are to be made in the month ahead. You may find yourself with the confidence of Luke Skywalker about to demolish the death-star as the force is with you this holiday season. It won't be your chestnuts roasting on an open fire but heaven help anyone who stands in your way.
Pisces (February 19 to March 20):
Someone invited Debbie Downer for Christmas holiday and she's not just content to rain on everybody's parade, she's gonna hit like a typhoon. December involves a lot of wishful thinking. Thoughts like, “When is this funk going to end?” The good news is the light at the end of the tunnel isn't an oncoming train.
Johnny D is an aspiring comic author, from Santa Monica California, who dropped into Woodstock while dropping out of the Hollywood scene. Send rebuttal to vibeisgood@msn.com
Home - Calendar - Maps - CTW Paper - See & Do - Accommodations - About Woodstock - About Us
Come to Woodstock - PO Box 962, Woodstock, NY 12498 - (845) 679- 2451 - Lynda@CometoWoodstock.com
