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Previous Issues
Volume 4, Issue 8 - November 2011
Come to Phoenicia
Back To Business As Usual for the Creekside Hamlet
Thanksgiving Dining and Events
Come to Phoenicia
Back To Business As Usual for the Creekside Hamlet
By Melissa Esposito
Phoenicia, the scenic hamlet settled along the Esopus Creek, was among the many Catskill Mountain areas damaged by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee at the end of August. But the community banded together to clean up the muddy wreckage, and less than a week later—after the power turned back on—business trickled back into Phoenicia’s Main Street. While downed trees and warped properties are still visible along the trek into town, business owners along this welcoming strip of shops, eateries, galleries and other treasures want you to know they’re still here, and they’re ready to meet you.
Start your day with a hearty meal at Sweet Sue’s, a breakfast/brunch spot whose renowned pancakes receive continuous praise; owner Sue Taylor recommends the carrot cake or pumpkin pancakes this season.
The high-demand eatery was one of the last in town to reopen, due to excessive water and mud damage. “The water just flowed down Route 214 and surrounded the building,” Taylor says. “There was three-to-five inches of mud everywhere, our propane tank lifted and floated away, and since we lost power for five or six days, all the food went bad.” With a little help, some new equipment, and a lot of cleaning, Sue’s was back to normal in two weeks. “Some people thought the town was wiped off the map, but that’s not the case at all,” Taylor says. “We’re seeing more regulars each weekend and we’re glad to have them return.”
Across the street, weekenders can visit Cabane Studios, a fine-art gallery featuring works by noteworthy beginners and respected veterans of the Hudson Valley and Catskills’ regional art scene. For those seeking country gifts, handmade soaps, and enough old-fashioned candy to keep the kids wired for a week, stop by the Nest Egg. This two-story, old-fashioned general store offers everything from camping necessities, to locally made honey and syrup from Russell Farms in Rhinebeck, to chai tea soaps by ADK Aromatherapy.
The chic boutique Tenderland Home offers an array of handmade jewelry but sells mostly artisan housewares—from adorable (and seasonally appropriate) ceramic turkey salt and pepper shakers to charming mirrors framed with white birch bark. The shop doesn’t even appear to have been touched by the storms. “The biggest problem was having the power out for days,” says owner Dave Pillard. “We were lucky to not have much damage, but the town was pretty torn up. It’s great to see business getting back to normal.”
For evening entertainment, the STS Playhouse—home of the Shandaken Theatrical Society—features films, plays and other special events live on stage. This month, “Songs from the Silver Screen,” a musical benefit for the theater starring jazz cabaret duo Ann Osmond with Dennis Yerry and Robert Burke Warren, takes place on Saturday, November 5 at 8 pm.
So grab a hot beverage and stroll about town. Phoenicia was a little shaken up, but the community’s heart still beats strong. As Pillard puts it, “We had a lot of rain, and a lot of moisture, but our spirits never dampened.”
Publisher’s Note: Currently, High / Bridge Street is closed for repairs. But there are 2 other roads to follow into town. From Route 28, follow Route 212 east and make a left onto Plank Road. Also from Route 28, take the northern Main Street exit.
Melissa Esposito is a writer, painter, musician, and lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley. Her work has been in Hudson Valley Magazine and Examiner.com's Upstate NY Underground Music.
Dark Star Orchestra LIVE!
By Chloe Valentine
If you are a Grateful Dead Fan and you haven’t heard of Dark Star Orchestra by now, you certainly should see a performance for yourself. According to Rolling Stone Magazine, “Quite possibly the most talented and accomplished tribute band out there . . . they’ve definitely mastered their inspiration’s vagabond nature.” Dark Star Orchestra, or DSO as they are commonly referred to, is a band like no other. Dark Star Orchestra recreates historical Grateful Dead concerts with high energy and reverence, rejoicing in their improvisations of musical tones and rhythms.
Dark Star Orchestra was co-founded in 1997 when guitarist John Kadlecik and keyboardist Scott Larned were introduced by a mutual friend, Andrew “Tiny” Dofner, and discovered they both had a concept of performing Grateful Dead shows with an interest in history. Since forming, the band has performed over 1,900 shows (up to 200 shows per year). Their music has captured young and old alike, creating an atmosphere of the older teaching the younger. “The vibe in the community is still there, keeping the spirit alive,” says Rob Eaton, rhythm guitarist and vocalist for DSO.
Rob Eaton and I spoke over the phone before sound check while he was down in Texas touring with DSO. Eaton has been with Dark Star Orchestra since 1999. Since age 12, he was particularly inspired by Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, who he would have the chance to play with later in his career. “Playing with DSO is something that feels just exactly like it felt when I was playing with the Grateful Dead,” said Weir, Grateful Dead co-founder, vocalist, guitarist, and frequent DSO guest.
Other musicians that Dark Star Orchestra have collaborated with are Grateful Dead alumni Bill Kreutzmann, Donna Jean Godchaux, Vince Welnick and Tom Constanten. Mike Gordon and Jon Fishman of the band Phish joined DSO at Martyrs after one show in November of 1998. When word got out that DSO was playing with Phish band members, it caused national interest in the band. The Washington Post proclaimed Dark Star Orchestra “the hottest Grateful Dead tribute act going.” Concerts soon began to sell out during their Colorado Tour.
Eaton says the concept of Dark Star Orchestra is that “nothing is played twice, allowing the music to breathe.” Although the original set lists provide the “frame” for each of their shows, their improvisational playing is what goes on the “canvas.” Every night is a different Grateful Dead historical reenactment, with arrangements and tones being changed over the years. “It’s not note for note, it’s just like jazz music,” says Eaton. Down to earth and relaxed, Eaton refers to all his band members as being “Dead Heads” themselves. Although they’ve performed in such places as Alaska, London, Amsterdam, and Germany, one of Eaton’s many favorite places to perform is San Francisco.
Other members of the band include Jeff Mattson, lead guitar, vocals; Lisa Mackey, vocals; Dino English, drums, percussion; Rob Koritz, drums, percussion; Kevin Rosen, bass, vocals; and Rob Barraco, multiple keyboards, vocals. With this kind of heavy duty music ammunition combined with the vibrant and alive set lists from the Grateful Dead, this band is a hit among audiences of all ages. The love for what they do is apparent in each and every unique and genuine performance. Said the Chicago Times, Dark Star Orchestra “recreates the Grateful Dead concert experience with uncanny verisimilitude . . . in fact, DSO often sounds more like the Dead than the Dead sometimes did.”
“Dark Star Orchestra isn’t a cover band. Its shows are not even meant as a tribute. What DSO tirelessly strives for and achieves is a continuation of the spirit of what has now become over forty years of the Grateful Dead’s timeless music.”—David Weissman, DSO Publicist.
November 27th, Dark Star Orchestra plays its first Woodstock performance at the Bearsville Theatre. Doors will open at 7 pm, the band will play at 8 pm. General admission tickets are $40.00 (standing) and there is limited seating in the balcony and lounge. To contact the Bearsville Theatre, please go to www.bearsvilletheater.com or call 845-679-4406.
More information on Dark Star Orchestra, www.darkstarorchestra.net
Chloe' Valentine is a self-taught visual artist and freelance writer. View her exhibit of collages at Cafe Mezzaluna in Saugerties.
A Harvest of Thanks
By Nina Flanagan
Most of us are familiar with the story of the first Thanksgiving. Winter 1620—almost half of the Pilgrim settlers starved. Enter the Wampanoag Indians, who taught them how to hunt, fish and plant. Fortunately, by the fall of 1621, they had a surplus of food to feed the entire community through the winter, and celebrated with a three-day feast. Flash forward almost 400 years, and today, food, floats, and football fill-up most of Thanksgiving Day. But, if you’d like the chance to add a little gratitude to your turkey’s attitude, you’re in luck. You can volunteer for (or donate to) one of the Hudson Valley’s largest community Thanksgivings right here in Woodstock.
It’s a tradition that’s been going strong for at least 35 years, says Tamara Cooper, Program Director at Family of Woodstock. What started as a way to provide Thanksgiving dinner for the destitute at the Lutheran Church has now grown into a tremendous affair, organized into departments and directed for the past seven years by Chester Pertchik. Yet he humbly insists it’s the community that conducts this event, which “happens on its own.”
A big operation, no doubt, but highly organized, and which “runs like clockwork,” states Pertchik. Decorations are created by students from the Woodstock School under the direction of Lisa Childers. The “Tart Rangler”–Rene Engler–handles desserts, the “Kitchen Queen”–Maria Ferguson—commands the kitchen, Lisa Darling is the “Logistics Manager” and Susan Goldman is the “Minister of Propoganda.”
Donations cover: tables and chairs (Overlook Methodist Church), paper plates, cutlery, cups (Markertek), electric generator (Houst Hardware), food (from all major supermarkets, restaurants, and bakeries), as well as the space at the Community Center (donated by the town). The volunteer coordinator is Ruth Beyl. All the sanitary and waste issues are handled by the Woodstock Maintenance Department.
“Chefs arrive from major restaurants in white coats, presenting their best dishes to applause and appreciation,” describes Pertchik. And if turkey’s not your thing, there are all types of food, such as vegetarian, Kosher, and Halal. Last year set a new attendance record of 500 people, and Cooper expects even more people this year. “The economy has caused drastic changes, and a new demographic of people are needing extra help, especially after Hurricane Irene.”
Calls come in from people all over—Connecticut, Long Island, NYC, New Jersey—who want to volunteer. Anyone is welcome to do so–people are needed to cook turkeys, hams, serve food, deliver food to those who cannot leave their homes, set up, break down and clean up. Food is also provided to the town’s Fire, Police, and EMT departments, as well as employees at Cumberland Farms. Last year 30 to 40 dinners were delivered to house-bound residents. Cooper suggests potential volunteers call Family early in November (845-679-2485), as slots fill up quickly.
“The philosophy behind the event and what it communicates is very important,” Pertchik explains. “This is a way for Family to say thank you for all the support they receive from the community.” He adds, “Sharing food unites us in a way that is extremely important–it connects people. The idea is to make everyone welcome, a chance for people to meet their friends and neighbors and have a good time.”
Cooper emphasizes that what makes this such a “magical event” is the generosity of Woodstock. “It’s the shared sense of community and the mix of people, from the homeless to doctors, that’s so amazing.”
Each year brings new people and different food. “You never know who or what you’re going to get!” Pertchik laughs. Some memorable dishes from last year included poached fish, smoked turkey, goose, all types of ethnic foods, and fancy desserts. If you plan to bake a few extra pies or some potatoes au gratin, deliver these to the community center on Thanksgiving Day. Uncooked/canned foods can be brought to Family in Woodstock. Food is served all day until 5 pm, and take-out is only offered during the last hour. “This is a traditional event that brings back the original purpose of Thanksgiving–people enjoying each other’s company,” Pertchik summarizes. There are even a few surprises planned for this year. Guess I’ll just have to find out for myself – save me a seat!
Links: www.familyofwoodstockinc.org
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.
Thanksgiving Dining and Events
La Duchesse Anne
Open for Thanksgiving and still taking reservations. A lush Victorian atmosphere, described in Zagat's as one of the most “romantic” restaurants on the East Coast, offers live music and seasonal French cuisine on Thanksgiving night. (845) 688-5260
www.laduchesseanne.com
The Garden Café
Fine organic vegetarian cuisine in a cozy bistro atmosphere on the Woodstock Green. Local produce and seasonal selections. Open for Thanksgiving with the chef's yet to be revealed special menu. Reservations are a must. (845) 679-3600
www.woodstockgardencafe.com
Maggie's Krooked Café
Breakfast, lunch, and juice bar open on Thanksgiving. A great place to get gourmet American-Mediterranean fare in a friendly atmosphere with Maggie's personal touch. Catering for Thanksgiving is still available.
(518) 588-6101
www.krookedcafe.com
New World Home Cooking
The New World Clean Food Thanksgiving Buffet offers a fine dining experience with a traditional Thanksgiving menu designed by famed chef Ric Orlando. Local, sustainable cuisine. Full menu available at ricorlando.com. Seating for the Thanksgiving buffet from 1:30-6 pm.
(845) 246-0900
www.ricorlando.com
Lucky Chocolates
Offering Thanksgiving themed desserts and truffle assortments that are described as “a perfect addition to a family meal.” Pumpkin pie truffles, cranberry pecan bark, and of course, chocolate turkeys.(845) 246-7337
www.luckychocolates.com
Jivamukti Yoga
20th Annual “Giving Thanks” Retreat
Nov 24-27th. Daily Jivamukti Asana, sanscrit classes, meditation, and musical performances. “Vegan Feast”
Nov 24. Limited availability.
(212) 353-0214
Aries (March 21st - April 19th)
Mars will enter your house of work and it doesn’t go any place anytime soon. This planetary position can bring you an abundance of productivity but also brings challenges with stress, rivalry or other conflicts. All work and no play can make most dull, dull, dull, but it looks like you might find a long distance interest ahead to shift focus. Have at it chick ah dees.
Taurus (April 20th - May 20th)
The position of the Sun indicates that partnership and love relations will be a central focus for all you do. This month Mars enters into your house of love, and lovey, it looks like you put the bop in the bop de bop. Now isn’t that special? Love is in the air. Find that special someone a little something special at the Vargas Gallery. It’s art, it costs, but she’s worth it.
Gemini (May 21st - June 20th)
Success has found you, Rock Hunter. Life inside the cubicle will be short lived when qualities such as organizational skills put you ahead the pack. Look for those opportunities that will put you in a good light. It could involve your natural born talents (artistic, literary, etc.) or the boss’s infatuation with your backside. Ah what the hell? Go for it!
Cancer (June 21st - July 22nd)
The sun is in the house of love and an intersting twist is that there will be connections between love and work. An office romance could be in the cards or it could be a shared duty with your partner that heightens intimacy. When work becomes an aphrodisiac for pleasure, it’s either time to join the Amish or give lectures on career planning to others.
Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)
Break out the party hats and condoms, kitty kats! November is a mystical time of year, though not lending itelf to true love, there will be happy, enjoyable and relaxing exchanges that will have you singing, “What’s love got to do with it?” A renewed sense of sexuality and curiosity could lead to you to new carnal delights that would make any lion roar with pleasure.
Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Looks like time is on your side, dear Virgos! Mars will enter Virgo, helping you achieve many of your dreams. Set clear goals and act wisely. Be patient and calm, as your perseverance will pay off as this planetary connection is with you for several months. An afternoon at River Rock Health Spa will help you bide your time.
Libra (September 23rd - October 22nd)
Looks like somebody might be looking for love in all the wrong places. Mars, the ruler of your house of couples, will enter your twelfth house, where secret love happens, but also disappointments, disillusionment, confusion and loneliness. Gee, sounds like Liza Minnelli’s last marriage. Stay close to home, and should the gardener start looking tasty to you, start emotionally fasting!
Scorpio (October 23rd - November 21st)
Yes, you too can have it all, but first it’s important to play well with others. As a collaborator you will emerge a star and financial rewards will be alotted to you. The key is to remain low key, as a team effort will stimulate your creative mind, thus shining the light of prosperity your way. On the backs of others, somone will be surfing high tide in the workplace. Is the Hawaii Five O theme song playing inside your head yet?
Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)
You are one hot little ticket this month. Charming, witty, all enticing, but with one disarming quality: you’re unobtainable. Though perfectly conetent to tend the needs of a casual laison, once someone gets too close, it’s by bye bye birdy (or in your case bye bye sadgie). Careful now, you don’t want true love to slip away. Would you know the difference?
Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)
Jupiter's transition through your house of love, which will last until next summer, will be like velcro for love, flirtation and adventures. Fulfilling your love will not be a challenge. Your usually discreet nature will get tossed to the wind as your passions will be on high. You may be surprised with your own ability to express your needs in the coming months.
Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)
It’s not very nice, but someone should tell your partner that the angel in his/her arms this morning is going to be the devil in someone else’s arms tonight. You are feeling unusually connected to someone very close to work. Before things can escalate, Google Betty Broderick and act wisely. Release excess energy at the drum circle.
Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)
The foundation for the coming months will be built on all new information obtained through books or lectures. When you present yourself as a well informed individual, your charm and poise will carry you the rest of the way. Time spent at Woodstocks Library will serve you well.
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