tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21388259724699261262012-01-27T08:52:55.664-05:00Celebrate life in the Hudson Valley. Talk with Leslie Coons about upcoming entertainment, fine food & drink, and shopping locally!Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.comBlogger2851100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-50882294974065710822009-07-09T06:41:00.000-04:002009-07-09T06:41:00.497-04:00

Save the date! AIDS-Related Community Services (ARCS) will serve up its "fundraiser for the recession" -- a no-admission-charged cocktail fundraiser on Thursday, August 13 from 6-10 p.m. at Chill Wine Bar, 173 Main Street in Beacon. Chill will be offering free appetizers during the event and a cash bar. RSVPs are encouraged and can be made by calling 914-785-8283. Event information and RSVPs can

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-856518427547396352009-07-08T15:27:00.001-04:002009-07-08T16:01:36.713-04:00

Intrigued by the vintage aircraft from the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome?The Aerodrome will celebrate its 50th anniversary this weekend with music, special re-enactments on the ground and demonstrations of pioneer aircraft, including the Aerodrome’s 1909 Bleriot XI which has been flying for 100 years and is the oldest original airplane still flying in the United States. There will also be a

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-19995085208573180012009-07-06T06:43:00.000-04:002009-07-06T10:42:32.723-04:00

Here is an exhibit at the Artist's Palate, 307 Main St. in Poughkeepsie, by one of my favorite artists at one of my favorite restaurants, well worth checking out ... runs through July 31.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-62722843944155796592009-06-29T12:31:00.002-04:002009-06-29T12:32:40.100-04:00

View beautiful images of the region (like this one!) by Poughkeepsie Journal photographer Lee Ferris through July 30 at the Hyde Park Library Annex. For more information, please call 845-229-7791.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-51709172876937222542009-06-19T13:52:00.000-04:002009-06-19T13:58:07.538-04:00

Wow -- this sounds like fun: Powerhouse Theater’s 25th anniversary gala benefit at Vassar College on June 27. It will feature performances by many award-winning artists, including Oscar winner Mary McDonnell, David Strathairn, Rob Morrow, Mark Linn-Baker, Tony and Grammy Award-winner Duncan Sheik, Deborah Hedwell, Carol Kane, Wendy Makkena, Randle Mell, Jenny Powers, Jon Tenney, Jennifer

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-61773876024116124272009-06-19T11:44:00.000-04:002009-06-19T11:45:31.578-04:00

Grammy Award-winning violinist and composer Mark O'Connor returns to Riverspace in Nyack tomorrow for the local debut of a string quartet commissioned to celebrate the Hudson River Quadricentennial.String Quartet No. 3 is called "Old Time." Like "Appalachia Waltz" - his best-known solo violin work, which he performed at Riverspace in 2007 - and the six-movement "American Symphony," the new piece

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-81872515233425269402009-06-16T12:54:00.002-04:002009-06-16T13:01:51.318-04:00

The Fishkill Historical Society will sponsor a bike tour of "Olde Fishkill" on Sunday, June 21 with three different bicycle tours for three different skill levels. Each tour incorporates historic sites along the way. The family tour covers 0.6 miles of even terrain and visits 8 historic sites within the Village of Fishkill. This tour can also be easily walked. The medium tour covers 4 miles, with

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-44994785329741061782009-06-15T13:39:00.003-04:002009-06-15T14:13:58.488-04:00

Historic Huguenot Street is offering a series of lectures designed for owners of early 20th century to colonial-era homes, starting Saturday, June 20. This sounds like a great activity for homeowners who are curious about how to stay true to the origins of their houses.The four workshops are:  Intro to Preservation, Saturday, June 20Researching Your Home's "Genealogy" with Archives Specialist

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-20578420600804939862009-06-11T09:15:00.000-04:002009-06-11T09:16:30.390-04:00

Following all the River Days flotilla excitement ... the Beacon Sloop Club’s annual Strawberry Festival takes place, rain or shine, from 12-5pm Sunday June 14 at Riverfront Park in Beacon (very close to the Metro North Beacon Train Station).Here is the club's message: Our guests will hear live music and enjoy the best shortcake you have ever imagined --- locally grown strawberries made with

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-4322133800128165162009-06-08T14:03:00.003-04:002009-06-08T14:09:09.169-04:00

Labor Day may seem like a long way off but if you're interested in rare cars, you might want to mark this on your calender ...One of the world’s great racing cars, a 1939 Mercedes-Benz W 154 Silver Arrow, will be specially featured at Lime Rock Park’s Vintage Festival September 4-7, 2009.A stellar attraction of the legendary period from 1934 to 1939, the W 154 represents the apogee of the

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-85648263637637705162009-06-01T18:01:00.000-04:002009-06-01T18:02:10.485-04:00

A reminder that the reservation deadline is coming up for the June 9 River Day dinner-dance celebration at the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum Pavilion, to benefit Walkway Over the Hudson. The event should offer a great view of the the Halfmoon, the Clearwater, and the rest of the Quadricentennial Flotilla as they arrive in Poughkeepsie.Walkway Over the Hudson is the nonprofit leading the effort to

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-3527720491179841612009-05-27T14:16:00.002-04:002009-05-27T14:19:20.449-04:00

A benefit to support the efforts of the Calvert Vaux Preservation Alliance, a non-profit corporation dedicated to the stabilization, restoration and adaptive reuse of the Hoyt House at Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park in Staatsburg and other endangered architectural sites throughout the United States, will take place from 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday. It will include music by David Temple, refreshments,

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-20865200111141130772009-05-18T12:32:00.003-04:002009-05-18T12:43:29.625-04:00

The HITS Saugerties Spring Horse Show Series begins on Wednesday, May 20. The first week runs through Sunday, May 24, and is followed by Week II from May 27-31 and Week III from June 3-7. The shows take place at the scenic HITS-on-the-Hudson facility in Saugerties and will feature more than 1,000 horses in a variety of divisions.You can see more than just horses at HITS -- on Saturday, the

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-15408037701627531012009-05-15T16:56:00.002-04:002009-05-15T16:59:17.688-04:00

The Hudson River Maritime Museum's "Springtide Festival" takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday along the Rondout waterfront in Kingston. The event used to be called the Shad Festival, but was changed in 2008 when conservation groups noticed a decline in the numbers of shad and asked organizations not to serve shad or shad roe at their events. The Museum's spring festival instead focuses on the

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-32280445483929439552009-05-15T12:28:00.000-04:002009-05-15T13:19:32.898-04:00

The Hudson Valley Wine and Grape Association and Hudson Valley Vintners will honor Clinton Vineyards owner and winemaker Ben Feder on June 12 at the Hudson Valley Wine & Culinary Food Pairing Dinner.Ben will receive the "Hudson Valley Veritas Award" for lifetime achievement for visionary leadership in Hudson Valley winemaking. Here is more about Ben from the release:Ben Feder, former graphic

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-55434011862372052732009-05-13T13:31:00.002-04:002009-05-13T13:38:46.264-04:00

The Bird & Bottle Inn in Garrison has named Douglas Gardner of Cortlandt Manor as executive chef of its restaurant. The historic building first opened as an inn and tavern in 1761. A graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York City, Gardner attended classes and lectures given by his role model, famed Chef Jacques Pepin. Gardner first joined Bird & Bottle in 2006 as a sous chef, and then

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-25100317145037565032009-05-04T22:03:00.006-04:002009-05-05T13:29:07.501-04:00

The Hudson Valley made a great showing in tonight's James Beard Foundation awards -- the "Oscars" of the culinary world.WineWise -- written by a trio of professors at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park -- won best beverage book. Authors included Michael Weiss, who has been wines columnist for Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine for the past three years, Steven Kolpan, wines columnist

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-75513188201278749012009-05-01T12:19:00.003-04:002009-05-01T15:24:38.412-04:00

Here's a suggestion for an early Mother's Day gift -- the Scenterprise "Perfume Studio Seminar" taking place this Sunday (May 3) in the Cucina Room at Gigi Trattoria in Rhinebeck. Each participant will create his or her own custom fragrance, and each leave with a personalized Bespoke Perfume. Cost is $85 per person. Gigi Skizza (their delicious signature flatbread pizzas) and soft beverages are

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-16718518458727338772009-04-22T15:05:00.003-04:002009-04-24T12:15:38.436-04:00

UPDATE ON FRIDAY APRIL 24Northern Dutchess Hospital Foundation has announced the winners of the "People's Choice Awards" from Taste of Rhinebeck: Best Beverage Old Mill Wine & Spirits - for their selection of fine South American Wines Best Appetizer Le Petit Bistro - for their Fish Tacos Best Main Course Rhinebeck Bagels - Southern Fried Chicken BLT Slider with Sea Salted Beer Fries Best Dessert

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-71975210402794976862009-04-22T13:43:00.002-04:002009-04-22T13:45:19.864-04:00

Drive south on Route 9G, just before its intersection with Slate Quarry Road in Rhinebeck, and look up on a small hill on the left side of the road to see a forsythia bush that has been carved to resemble a deer with antlers. This time of year it turns into a bushy yellow deer due to the seasonal blooms. In summer, it’s a green deer and in winter, a brown deer. I’ve noticed it for several years

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-19632495392836729632009-04-21T15:27:00.002-04:002009-04-21T15:30:31.827-04:00

Got dogs? Like dogs? Then you might want to head to Beacon on Saturday for the annual Beacon Barks. Support the Dutchess SPCA. Michael Woyton has more details and video on his blog.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-5172680976835698642009-04-21T11:30:00.003-04:002009-04-21T12:10:58.474-04:00

Learn about the merits and benefits of grass-fed beef during Chef Jeff Loshinsky's cooking demo on Tuesday, April 28, from 6-8 p.m. at Vince Mulford Gallery in Hudson. Georgia Ranney of Kinderhook Farm, a Columbia County producer of grass-fed Angus beef, will visit the class. The demo will show two methods of preparing beef sirloin -- a Korean-style marinade for stove top or outdoor grilling and

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-77209604248817870802009-04-20T12:37:00.000-04:002009-04-20T12:38:27.020-04:00

What beautiful images in the March edition of the Poughkeepsie Journal's Hudson River photo contest!The two winning photos are stunning. Robert Rightmyer of Poughkeepsie won first-place for his "highly colorful, well-framed image" of the Rondout area in Kingston. Dan Seifort of Poughkeepsie won honorable mention for his "moody, highly technical" black and white image of the Mid-Hudson Bridge

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-28982804860022386082009-04-19T10:34:00.004-04:002009-04-19T10:47:13.202-04:00

I want a garden gnome. I'm usually not one for cutesy garden decor. Maybe it's the subtle influence of one of my favorite movies, Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain, or that I admired them in the community garden plots when I lived in Germany in the 1970s. (A gnome statue has a minor, though important, role in the Amélie film, and I sometimes saw gnomes decorating those gardens in Germany.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-50425454089925657602009-04-16T15:15:00.003-04:002009-04-16T15:21:56.526-04:00

Advance ticket sales for the Shawangunk Wine Trail's Pasta Primo Vino end today at 6 p.m.The event takes place Saturday and Sunday, (April 18 & 19) and tickets cost $20 per person in advance (until 6 p.m.) and $25 at the door if available. The event includes a self-guided tour of the Hudson Valley wineries that make up the Shawangunk Wine Trail as they pair their wines -- including new releases -

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-77882729734192292722009-04-15T08:11:00.000-04:002009-04-15T10:29:30.890-04:00

Support the Unison Arts Center in New Paltz (one of my fave entertainment venues) with a three-course dinner and wine pairing fundraiser at 36 Main in New Paltz, from 6-9:30 p.m. Thursday May 14. You'll need to call Unison at 845-255-1559 to RSVP by Friday, May 8. $60/person ($41 tax deductible donation). The event is sponsored by Kathy Coombs at 36 Main Restaurant and Tom Edwards & Nick Ciallelo

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-92225052206627400852009-04-14T18:15:00.004-04:002009-04-14T18:33:20.259-04:00

Attention, food producers and restaurateurs:Dutchess County Bounty will host its first ever Speed Networking for farmers and chefs at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 4. I think this is a great idea -- Slow Food Hudson Valley (disclosure: I formerly served on the board of directors of this non-profit group) used to hold a networking dinner with the same purpose: connecting local farmers and food producers

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-29802046097433687632009-04-14T08:26:00.000-04:002009-04-14T08:26:01.108-04:00

Award-winning poets Will Nixon of Woodstock and Matthew J. Spireng of Lomontville present Poetry: It's Natural! -- workshops and readings that explore the connection between the natural world and the art of poetry on Saturday, April 18 at the Tivoli Free Library. Matt is a wonderful poet and a longtime friend (and I've blogged about him before).Here is the schedule for the day:11:30 a.m.-12:30

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-36965707410914505222009-04-13T06:08:00.004-04:002009-04-14T16:26:11.318-04:00

Spicy fruity Riesling is one of my favorite grapes (perhaps because my education in wine appreciation began when I lived in Germany during my 20s. Riesling has been cultivated in Germany for hundreds of years and the country's white wines are phenomenal). It's also a grape that does well in New York. Now we can celebrate this grape with a local festival! Applewood Winery will host the first New

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-49841216820346424372009-04-10T14:22:00.000-04:002009-04-13T15:18:26.449-04:00

The Northern Dutchess Hospital Auxiliary's "Royal Tea Party and Thrifty Fashion Show" raised over $2,500 recently to help fund renovations in the hospital's Medical/Surgical Unit.More than 75 women enjoyed the sold-out April 1 event at The Rhinecliff Hotel. The show featured clothing and accessories from the NDH Auxiliary Thrift Shop, worn by volunteer models who strolled the aisles as guests

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-91402473303051879482009-04-06T17:42:00.002-04:002009-04-08T17:09:51.442-04:00

Ready for a delicious evening? You can nosh on great food while walking through one of my favorite communities. The fifth annual "Taste of Rhinebeck" will take place on Tuesday, April 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Northern Dutchess Hospital Foundation. Wristbands are available for $75. Please contact the NDH Foundation Office, at 845-871-3505.Here is a description of the event

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-73179129158305576422009-03-26T13:14:00.003-04:002009-03-26T14:30:42.383-04:00

Wow! We have two Hudson Valley nominees for the James Beard Foundation Book Award/beverage -- and one is by Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine's wines writer, Michael Arthur Weiss! Congratulations to Michael, who writes an entertaining and educational column about world wine in every issue of HVC!The second nominee with local ties is Michael Harney of Millerton's Harney & Sons Fine Tea.What a

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-7869304622543875462009-03-26T08:39:00.004-04:002009-03-26T09:08:02.769-04:00

Chef Ferrán Adrià came to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park yesterday, for a rare cooking demo for the culinary college's students. I'd seen the famed Spanish chef at Slow Food's international conference, Terre Madre, in Turin, Italy a few years ago. There, in a hall filled with chefs, food producers and foodies from all over the world, he really did get the "rock star" reception. (I

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-37766565406256428112009-03-12T17:56:00.001-04:002009-03-12T18:18:33.768-04:00

This sounds yummy!The exhibit, Art Inspired by Food, a juried regional art show focused on art work inspired by the theme of food, opens Friday (March 13) at the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery, Vanderlyn Hall, on SUNY Ulster's Stone Ridge campus. The exhibit was judged by Mary Anne Erickson, collagist, painter and co-owner of Woodstock’s Blue Mountain Bistro and Bistro on the Go.It runs

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-48173376468725425622009-03-05T15:05:00.003-05:002009-03-05T15:18:35.783-05:00

Michael Weiss, Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine wines columnist, has received the 2009 Distinguished Service Award from the Italian Trade Commission. He shares the honor with fellow Culinary Institute of America Wine Studies Professor Steven Kolpan and Karen MacNeil, chair of the CIA's Professional Wine Studies Program at its California campus. (Weiss, at left in photo, and Kolpan, at right,

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-51565014667086525952009-03-02T09:11:00.000-05:002009-03-02T09:12:20.159-05:00

For a modern take on the Hudson River as artistic inspiration, there is "A Journey Along the Hudson River Line” -- Frédéric Lére's oil paintings of the 31 train stations along the MTA and Amtrak Hudson River lines. The exhibit will be on display at RiverWinds Gallery at 172 Main Street in Beacon from March 14 though April 6. The artist’s reception will be held during Beacon’s Second Saturday,

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-8891946787020769092009-02-27T11:05:00.000-05:002009-02-27T14:37:51.735-05:00

These days, especially, everyone likes a bargain. Twenty restaurants in the Warwick Valley are participating in WinterDining, a promotion that offers special menus at 25 percent off regular prices, now through March 8 (daily except on Saturdays). The program is organized by the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce and its newly formed Warwick Restaurant Coalition, and includes restaurants in

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-39657104905411785592009-02-26T13:06:00.004-05:002009-02-26T15:51:12.725-05:00

One of CNN's Travel+Leisure segments will be filmed during lunch time tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 27) at Terrapin Red Bistro in Rhinebeck. Chef-owner Josh Kroner will talk about "how he came to make Hudson Valley's premier burgers" and will be pairing them with some local craft brews. The bistro will be open during the filming, (serving those fab burgers -- 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and seating is on a

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-5764521721031864482009-02-26T10:15:00.003-05:002009-02-27T14:39:35.616-05:00

Megan Kulpa-Fells, the executive chef and co-owner of The Artist’s Palate wine bar-bistro on Main Street in the City of Poughkeepsie, has been selected to compete on a new show on the Food Network. You can read about it here.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-66162947171880547612009-02-20T15:09:00.004-05:002009-02-20T15:26:01.404-05:00

All it takes is a mid-February snowfall (and a hailstorm, yesterday afternoon) to make my thoughts turn to my summer garden. Or actually, the work I need to do to make sure I have a summer veggie garden once again. (And if ever there is a year when it might be a good idea to have a modern "Victory Garden" - this could be it. Or as Michael Pollan said ...)That's one reason why a recent e-mail from

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-32733419590442127382009-02-16T16:49:00.006-05:002009-02-16T17:08:17.870-05:00

Our Valentine's Day dinner included items picked up that day at the Winter Farmers Market at the Elmendorph Inn in Red Hook: Game hens from Northwind Farm in Tivoli (which we covered in a garlic-coriander-salt-pepper-olive oil paste and oven roasted with carrots) and baguette from Tivoli Bread & Baking. I believe the olive oil we used came from Leonardo's Italian Market in Rhinebeck and the

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-22405533854409810602009-02-08T10:59:00.004-05:002009-02-26T15:49:42.149-05:00

Maybe you heard the virtual groan from my friends and I recently when we learned that Domino magazine was shutting down. It was a favorite among national shelter publications – clever and accessible and just plain fun – and I am going to miss reading it.I struggled with whether I should mention its passing here, on the Good Life blog, which has to do with all the great things about living in the

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-37664727562653860692009-02-02T14:14:00.012-05:002009-02-02T15:10:14.498-05:00

Here’s a romantic idea – celebrate Valentine's Day with a dinner at one of our region’s fabulous private houses along the Hudson River and benefit the historic Gardeners Cottage restoration project at Clermont State Historic Site. (Two of the houses are shown at right.)The cost is $75 per person and includes a “red-and-white cocktail reception” at 5:30 p.m. in the Livingston mansion at Clermont (

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-46854313093666156442009-01-27T13:58:00.009-05:002009-02-02T17:53:55.053-05:00

Be sure to save the date for an upcoming French wine dinner at Terrapin -- it sounds très fabuleux! The Rhinebeck restaurant will be posting the menu for Feb. 5 (a Thursday) event at its Web site soon... UPDATE: The event will now be starting at 6:30 p.m. (probably so you can savor the wine ...)The presenter will be boutique wine distributor Serge Dore, who will be pouring four French wines

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-47377060470634103692008-12-29T17:49:00.004-05:002008-12-29T18:22:08.679-05:00

The Hudson River Ice Yacht Club will display up to 12 ice boats dating from the late 1800s outdoors in front of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidential Library in Hyde Park this week. Included in the exhibit will be world-championship winning ice yachts owned by John A. Roosevelt and his Hyde Park neighbor, Col. Archibald Rogers. The exhibit runs through January 3 but will be closed on New

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-54018540860819392302008-12-08T13:19:00.004-05:002008-12-08T13:40:26.139-05:00

The December issue of Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine features 72 ideas for wonderful (and local!) gifts. We've listed items for booklovers, fashionistas and foodies, among others. We included big gifts that will impress, small gifts that say "thank you" and many items that are unique to the region. One suggestion that didn't make it into the article (only due to its timing) was this one: Blow

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-36687759283681217082008-12-07T05:38:00.000-05:002008-12-07T05:38:00.229-05:00

More special deals for folks who are watching their wallets but still want a treat ...The manager of Shadows on the Hudson tells me they are still offering their fall special of a 20-ounce bone-in ribeye steak special, with garlic mashed potatoes and a mixed vegetable medley, and served with choice of house or Caesar salad, for $15 all day on Sundays through Thursdays. (Tax and gratuity not

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-62511695791261580182008-12-05T06:32:00.000-05:002008-12-05T06:32:00.202-05:00

Another great Sunday event, with an old friend, no less. Oh, I'm torn between this and the free concert at Bard's Fisher Center ...I highly recommend seeing this performance if you like to laugh and to think.On Sunday, December 7, Inquiring Minds presents "Readings from theImpermanent Collection," a reading/performance by MikhailHorowitz and Steve Clorfeine, at the Muddy Cup, 58Main Street, New

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-91706808525087393382008-12-04T15:54:00.003-05:002008-12-04T16:11:53.336-05:00

They've lowered the price (compared to last year's event) in recognition that many folks are evaluating their spending. That said, the 2008 version of the annual New World Champagne Dinner still offers a chance to spoil yourself (and your favorite friends). Hint, hint.Feast on five courses of Chef Ric Orlando's "party peasant cuisine" and enjoy five bubbly wines selected by Michael Arthur Weiss (

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-66987097398153324312008-12-04T13:03:00.002-05:002008-12-04T13:05:52.956-05:00

And another opportunity for exceptional (and free!) entertainment this weekend:The 22-piece Vassar College Jazz Ensemble performs at 8 p.m. Friday (Dec. 5) in Skinner Hall of Music, Vassar College, Raymond Avenue, Poughkeepsie. Free. 845-437-7294 or music.vassar.edu/concerts

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-50907105995434645522008-12-04T05:03:00.004-05:002008-12-04T13:05:31.097-05:00

There are so many wonderful holiday-themed festivals going on this coming weekend. It's hard to pick just one to attend, and I know we're going to be spending a lot of time walking around outside. ... I have a feeling that by the time Sunday afternoon rolls around, my family is going to need some down time.Here's one option, featuring fantastic music in a world-class setting on Sunday (Dec. 7) -

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-86646400268292520122008-12-03T10:50:00.005-05:002008-12-03T11:03:38.412-05:00

Jaymark Jewelers sells some gorgeous natural-colored diamonds that I saw in their recent ad in Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine and have been wanting to check out in person. Here's a chance to do so -- while sipping Champagne and munching on treats!Jaymark is hosting a fun, fabulous and free "Bubbles & Baubles" party for women on Thursday (Dec. 4) from 5-8 p.m. at its 3612 Route 9, Cold Spring

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-47927225711699729492008-11-24T13:34:00.002-05:002008-11-24T13:38:18.038-05:00

Oliver Kita (whose AMAZING artisanal chocolates are included in the upcoming HVC magazine Gift Guide) is making something special for Thanksgiving. Chocolate turkeys! $3.95 each -- and Oliver says that if you buy four, you get two extra just because you stopped into the store (at Astor Square on Route 9 just north of the Dutchess Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck.) Now this would be a hostess gift in good

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-83244332278904746872008-11-21T13:51:00.003-05:002008-11-21T13:58:33.801-05:00

Who does it for you? Sean Connery? Roger Moore? Or Daniel Craig? Tonight you have a chance to tell others just who your fave James Bond actor is, while enjoying a 3-course dinner and charity casino games -- and benefiting a good cause: the Dyson Center for Cancer Care.James Bond Dinner and Charity Casino Night at Terrapin Catering in Staatsburg, tonight (Nov. 21). Evening schedule includes:

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-70246754569014870732008-11-21T12:04:00.000-05:002008-11-21T13:45:30.154-05:00

The not-to-be-missed Holiday Train Show at The New York Botanical Garden opens on Sunday (Nov. 23) and runs though Jan. 11 in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. In the north Bronx, the garden is easily accessible from our area by car or train.Here is the NYBG's description:Wrapped in the glow of twinkling lights, model trains and trolleys zip along over bridges and on winding tracks past scaled

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-84521188266134059162008-11-19T11:57:00.002-05:002008-11-19T12:00:17.010-05:00

Learn how to make classic Hungarian goulash in this video featuring Certified Master Chef Tom Griffiths, HVC magazine's food columnist!

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-73564521235293167522008-11-18T10:45:00.000-05:002008-11-18T11:19:43.457-05:00

I just received news about two local tasting events that sound like fine opportunities to discover some new favorite wines just in time for Thanksgiving ...-- Madden's Fine Wine and Spirits, 65 Broadway, Kingston, will offer a champagne and wine tasting from 5-7 p.m. on Friday (Nov. 21). The new(ish) shop in the city's Rondout waterfront area will serve food and offer a 10 percent discount on all

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-6218308686218146302008-11-17T15:05:00.011-05:002008-11-17T15:25:55.352-05:00

The Northern Dutchess Hospital Mothers' Club annual fashion show, "Cocktails and Couture" raised more than $7,000 to benefit women's and children's services at the hospital. The event took place at The Rhinecliff Hotel and featured fashions and accessories from Rhinebeck-area businesses, including Changes, Pique, Winter Sun, Rhinebeck Department Store, Scruples, Haldora, Darryl's, Hudson Valley

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-4608125235198790562008-11-12T05:20:00.000-05:002008-11-12T05:20:00.740-05:00

Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine's wines columnist Michael Weiss will be talking about and signing his new book, Winewise, from 7:30-9 p.m. Friday (Nov. 14) at Oblong Books, 6420 Montgomery Street, Rhinebeck. Winewise was published by Wiley, and was written for folks who "have an interest in wine but do not have confidence in their ability to select the 'proper' bottle. It will give them a

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-65977786675400812182008-11-11T11:11:00.001-05:002008-11-11T11:15:00.172-05:00

Brian Connor of East Fishkill is the first winner of the Poughkeepsie Journal's monthly Hudson River photo contest. His photo, "Guardians of the Hudson," shows a seagull resting on a Battery Park City dock with the Statue of Liberty in the distance.Elisa Shaw of Red Hook won honorable mention for her photo, "As the fog lifts at Bard Rock," depicting an early morning scene along the eastern bank

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-8867012183439455192008-11-07T16:19:00.003-05:002008-11-07T16:25:43.924-05:00

How about great live music in a beautiful venue? The best part -- it's free!Bard College's Conservatory Orchestra, conducted by Melvin Chen, will perform Verdi's Overture to Nabucco, Debussy's Premiere rhapsody for clarinet and orchestra, selections for clarinet and orchestra drawn from the Klezmer musical tradition, and Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2, at 3 p.m. Sunday in the Sosnoff Theater at

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-403157844036253552008-11-04T09:01:00.001-05:002008-11-04T09:03:08.457-05:00

I'll be on the road today in Dutchess County, blogging about the election for the Poughkeepsie Journal newspaper. This is a nice return, of sorts, as I spent almost 15 years working as a journalist at another newspaper (the first 7+ years as a reporter covering government) before moving into lifestyle magazine publishing. As much as I love my current job, there's nothing like spending Election

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-90174009038876005302008-10-31T12:09:00.001-04:002008-10-31T12:11:49.033-04:00

Today is the deadline for the first contest in the Poughkeepsie Journal's year-long Hudson River photo competition, held in conjunction with the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial celebrations and the planned opening of the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge pedestrian walkway project.The contest began on October 5 and ends on Sept. 30, 2009. A winner and runner up will be selected monthly, with

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-47704416175277234512008-10-30T18:44:00.003-04:002008-10-31T12:41:45.896-04:00

UPDATE: Save the Date! The Fine Art Auction at Locust Grove has been rescheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2009.Four studies that had been made for the historic Poughkeepsie Post Office mural are among the works that will be sold during Locust Grove’s first-ever Invitational Fine Art Auction. Originally cheduled for early next month (see update), the auction will also include work by contemporary

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-14682785049277027952008-10-29T05:03:00.001-04:002008-10-29T05:03:01.034-04:00

A nice cup of tea, preferably in good company, is one of those things that just makes life better. We in the Hudson Valley are lucky in that we have a wonderful tea purveyor, Harney & Sons, in northeast Dutchess County. You can buy their teas at lots of shops across the country, including Barnes & Noble, but nothing beats going to their tea shop and tasting room in Millerton and sampling their

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-90726777382820140562008-10-28T11:42:00.004-04:002008-10-28T12:11:54.613-04:00

Patrick Decker, who is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and now lives in Ulster County, is one of Rachel Ray's on-air chefs. (Patrick was featured earlier this year in a Hudson Valley Connoisseur magazine article about local folks who knit as a hobby.)Here's a great new video clip with Rachel preparing a recipe for "Fancy French Cheese Puff Fake-Outs" created by Patrick. Look for

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-66310676536485415802008-10-27T11:29:00.010-04:002009-03-13T23:54:03.287-04:00

The Associated Press reports that Disney's "High School Musical 3: Senior Year" topped the box office and brought in $42 million for its opening last weekend, a record for a song-and-dance film.My daughter and her 8 BFFs were in line Friday evening to see HSM3 as part of her 10th birthday party. She'd been wanting to combine birthday celebration & this movie premier ever since she learned last

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-20107375258106048972008-10-24T11:16:00.000-04:002008-10-24T16:07:54.395-04:00

Poets Will Nixon of Woodstock and Matthew J. Spireng of Lomontville (an old friend and former co-worker of mine) will read from their work inspired by the region at 4 p.m., Saturday at the Olive Free Library on 4033 Route 28A in West Shokan. Their books will be available at the reading to buy (and have signed), with a portion of the proceeds to be donated to the Olive Free Library.Here is more

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-63674052752752661882008-10-23T16:38:00.012-04:002008-10-23T17:10:05.345-04:00

Several opportunities for foodies and especially, locavores, to enjoy themselves in the mid-Hudson Valley ... Tonight, from 6-11 p.m., is Specialty Craft Beer night at Terrapin in Rhinebeck. You can try Capt. Lawrence Smoked Porter, a New York artisanal beer poured from a wooden pin keg by Terrapin beverage director Chris Carbone. How cool is that? And then tomorrow night, New World Home

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-48799934056136292922008-10-17T10:09:00.004-04:002008-10-17T11:33:18.781-04:00

Sooooo many choices ...Here are some suggestions for fun things to do this weekend. (I'm not sure I am going to be able to get to all of these events, but I'll do my best!)Art Studio Tours in the Rhinebeck-Red Hook area on Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 18-19) -- meet well-known and up-and-coming artists, view works-in-progress and purchase or commission art during this self-guided tour of more than

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-73656479165168525582008-10-16T06:10:00.000-04:002008-10-16T06:10:00.886-04:00

This sounds like an amazing idea for a holiday card, gift or decor.Artist Deborah O’Connor is dedicated to preserving the 19th century art form of silhouettes, and she will be at Boscobel House & Gardens in Garrison on Saturday, October 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of cutting shadow portraits of all family members, including pets!“The silhouettes are perfect for those who like to make

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-41980505631539641312008-10-15T06:20:00.000-04:002008-10-15T06:20:01.836-04:00

Want to help raise money for a good cause? Love fashion? Or just curious about what our local Realtors look like when they are all gussied up and strutting on a runway?The Ulster County Board of Realtors fashion show takes place from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16 at Hillside Manor in Kingston and will benefit the Rosemary D. Gruner Memorial Cancer Fund at Benedictine Hospital. The Fund helps

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-54984482899968567002008-10-14T12:44:00.004-04:002008-10-14T12:51:28.885-04:00

We give 3 wagging tails to this one :-)My daughter and I (and our dogs) had a chance to check out the Dog Park at Thomas Bull Memorial Park in Montgomery (near Stewart Airport in Orange County) yesterday. What a great place! We met a friend who lives in the area and our dogs had a lot of fun running around off-leash and making doggie friends.Here is a description of the place from this Web site.

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-38969732014886621382008-10-08T15:21:00.004-04:002008-10-08T15:44:29.512-04:00

I enjoyed some great food & music, caught up with a lot of old friends (and made a few new ones) this past Sunday at the Community Foundation of Dutchess County Garden Party. The elegant event honored longtime local lawmaker Kip Bleakley O'Neill and attorney Arthur L. Gellert and took place under a large white tent on the grounds of Obercreek, the absolutely beautiful home of Alex Reese and

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-87923571785426950922008-10-08T14:16:00.001-04:002008-10-08T14:18:45.518-04:00

Have a passion for photography and the Hudson River? The Poughkeepsie Journal has launched a year-long photo contest to coincide with the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial celebrations and the planned opening of the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge pedestrian walkway project.The contest is open to residents of Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, Putnam, Columbia and Greene counties. It began earlier

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-83666900005479346782008-10-03T17:25:00.002-04:002008-10-03T17:49:32.541-04:00

I was able to attend the opening of Beyond the Woods yesterday at Vassar College. I wish I could have stayed longer to really study the images. I'll try to get back.Beyond the Woods is Spencer Ainsley’s collection of 31 black and white documentary photographs depicts the striking independence and self-reliance of inhabitants of the secluded Blue Ridge Mountain region of North Carolina in the late

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-64835948432511454972008-09-24T18:16:00.002-04:002008-09-24T18:22:55.272-04:00

An e-mail from the Katonah Museum of Art reminds me that this weekend is Smithsonian Free Museum Day, when participating museums welcome Smithsonian magazine readers and Smithsonian.com visitors for free. (The actual day of the event is Saturday, September 27 but those museums that are not open on Saturday will participate on Sunday.)A number of cultural institutions in the Hudson Valley are

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-60141754148911224502008-09-23T14:43:00.000-04:002008-09-23T15:28:37.734-04:00

Summer may be over but it's not to late to think about gardens. In fact, now is the time to put in some fall blooming plants (such as mums) and plant others that will flower next year (such as rose bushes and tulip bulbs.)There is a fall flower sale going on in the main lobby of Northern Dutchess Hospital on Thursday and Friday (September 25 and 26) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sale is run by the

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-44101830240787599402008-09-12T09:47:00.004-04:002008-09-12T09:52:52.868-04:00

Rain or shine, on Saturday my daughter and I will be walking in the Paws in the Park fundraiser for the Dutchess County SPCA. Our two rescue dogs are coming along. (One of them came from the Dutchess SPCA and so he'll get to wear a big yellow bow to mark that fact.) It looks like the day's forecast calls for it to be cooler than last year's event (which was a lot of fun -- but hot!)Michael

Leslie Coons:http://www.blogger.com/profile/03992976490923019455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-84634561828198954092008-09-10T05:21:00.005-04:002008-09-10T08:25:03.577-04:00

Noting two opportunities to celebrate local food this weekend:Acclaimed chef Melissa Kelly (who has local ties) will be guest chef at this Sunday's (Sept. 14) Outstanding in the Field dinner at Gigi Market at Greig Farm in Red Hook.Outstanding in the Field says its mission is to "re-connect diners to the land and the origins of their food, and to honor the local farmers and food artisans who

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-29166944846500533322008-09-04T04:41:00.000-04:002008-09-04T04:41:00.267-04:00

It's never too soon to start thinking about holiday gift giving ... and here is an opportunity to find some unique items.The Jewish Federation of Ulster County holds its 12th annual Fall for Art Juried Art Show, Sale and Cocktail Reception fundraiser tonight (Thursday Sept. 4) at Wiltwyck Golf Club in Kingston, from 6-9 p.m.Admission is $35 advance/$40 at the door. Call 845-338-8131 or visit

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-32217802039175776732008-09-03T15:25:00.002-04:002008-09-03T17:42:59.294-04:00

Today I appreciateBeing here. At the risk of sounding like a cheerleader for the Hudson Valley, I really appreciate that I live here. I spent last week vacationing in the Midwest (meeting wonderful people, eating way too much good food and in general, having a great time in a really nice part of the country.) But I’m still so happy to be home in the Hudson Valley. Not only is it my home, it’s

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-12994326003130147622008-08-29T05:58:00.002-04:002008-08-29T05:58:00.862-04:00

Mark your calendars for the Hudson Valley Wine and Food Fest at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Route 9, Rhinebeck.Saturday, September 6, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, September 7, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Food concessions. Music. Chef demos. Art and crafts vendors. Kids activities. And of course, wine from all over New York state to sample and purchase.www.HudsonValleyWineFest.com for ticket prices and

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-73448321891888247582008-08-28T05:50:00.000-04:002008-08-28T05:50:01.057-04:00

One of the articles in the August issue of Hudson Valley Connoisseur looks at clubs for owners of FAST cars, where they can try out their machines legally and safely. If you're interested in watching fast cars, then you should head to the historic Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut this weekend.This weekend (from August 29 to September 1), you can discover the glamour, glory and style of

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-75699675064361945792008-08-27T05:44:00.000-04:002008-08-27T05:44:00.301-04:00

Local residents and legendary musicians Jack DeJohnette and Pat Metheny team with acclaimed bassist Larry Grenadier for two nights of music Thursday and Friday (August 28 and 29) in a benefit concert for the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Karma Triyana Dharmachakra (KTD), and Family of Woodstock, a service agency providing food, shelter, advocacy and counseling in Ulster County. Both shows start at

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-21690765490371844422008-08-26T05:40:00.000-04:002008-08-26T05:40:00.395-04:00

The 2008 New York Wine & Food Classic competition took place this month at the Mohonk Mountain House. I caught up with the group on Wednesday August 20 during a special event to unveil a new Web site promoting Hudson Valley wines, and had a chance to finally meet (in person) Hudson Valley Wine Goddess (and Poughkeepsie Journal wine blogger) Debbie Lessner-Gioquindo. Now, the Internet is great (

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-74951679528856109482008-08-25T06:19:00.000-04:002008-08-25T06:19:00.168-04:00

Catching up with August -- it's been a busy month.I was at the August 8 ribbon cutting ceremony/grand opening of the Santo Stefano Winemaking Club in Wappingers Falls ... My understanding is that it's a club where you can buy a membership and then oversee the blending of your own barrel of wine. It's based at a beautiful event facility. This looks like an interesting and fun activity to share

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-38119115499173142022008-08-24T13:07:00.003-04:002008-08-24T13:21:47.284-04:00

Milkshakes from the 4H booth at the Dutchess County Fair in Rhinebeck. Yes, I know EVERYONE writes about these, but they really are *that* good. And today is the last day to get them (this year). Have fun at the fair if you go.Fresh tomatoes from my garden, finally! Tomato sandwich for breakfast was heavenly!The sunflowers lining the fields along Route 299 leaving New Paltz. I saw them last week

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-38229977609783061292008-08-22T14:18:00.005-04:002008-08-22T21:41:12.516-04:00

Whitecliff Vineyard in Gardiner won an award for its 2007 Traminette during the 2008 New York Wine & Food Classic competition, which took place this week at the Mohonk Mountain House. I caught up with the group on Wednesday during a special event to unveil a new Web site promoting Hudson Valley wines. But more about that later ...I toured Whitecliff with Slow Food Hudson Valley last year and was

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-78174162658558302372008-08-20T00:01:00.002-04:002008-08-20T13:33:10.886-04:00

Our area is going to be marking a major anniversary next year, the upcoming Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial as well as the planned opening of the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge walkway project. During 2009, communities along the Hudson River and Lake Champlain will mark the 400th anniversary (or quadricentennial) of Henry Hudson and Samuel de Champlain's voyages along the river and lake

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-40258389476028020232008-08-19T15:04:00.004-04:002008-08-19T15:09:58.443-04:00

When I am done with work today, I'll be heading out to the Dutchess County Fair, one of my favorite events each year! I'll be there with kids, so we'll be doing kid things (rides, rides, carnival games, rides, and fried fair food, of course.) 4-H milkshakes. Fried dough. Fried 'shrooms. Tomorrow we may regret it, but today we eat!One exhibit I always try to see is the horticultural building,

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-85211127786484760652008-08-07T14:42:00.001-04:002008-08-07T14:45:29.188-04:00

Great article at poughkeepsiejournal.com by my colleague Barbara Gallo Farrell about Amy Goldman, who is a longtime garden writer acquaintance of mine and who creates lovely books ... and coincidentally, I just got this note from Laura & the crew at Gigi's Trattoria in Rhinebeck: Celebrate the release of The Heirloom Tomato (Bloomsbury USA, 2009) by Rhinebeck's own Amy Goldman -- at Gigi

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-82263631371169359072008-08-06T10:39:00.003-04:002008-08-06T10:50:38.228-04:00

Fresh local corn and peaches from Migliorelli farmstand, on the east side of the Kingston-Rhinecliff bridge Lifehacker.com (neat blog about time management tools and just fun things on the Web)Fresh basil and tomatoes from my gardenYo-Yo Ma -- Schumann Cello Concerto on my iPod. I don't think I will be able to visit Tanglewood this summer so it's the next best thing.Nalgene drinking water bottles

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-58909795386355401942008-08-05T12:17:00.004-04:002008-08-05T12:20:22.079-04:00

Had a late-night dinner at Terrapin Bistro in Rhinebeck last night ... the grilled Coleman natural beef hangar steak, bistro steak fries and horseradish steak sauce (their own -- tomato-based, I believe) were all delicious!

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-2602170448764439752008-08-04T11:15:00.005-04:002008-08-04T11:40:59.563-04:00

Cecelia Madden, the owner of Madden's Fine Wines & Spirits at 65 Broadway in Kingston, has invited everyone age 21 and over to a tasting of Whitecliff Vineyard's wines on Friday, August 15, from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. I toured Whitecliff during a Slow Food Hudson Valley event and I think its products are great. I especially like the Sky Island Red, which Whitecliff describes as "an elegant Bordeaux

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-69796862872198619692008-07-25T14:09:00.005-04:002008-07-25T14:57:18.033-04:00

I found good food, good company and interesting art at last evening's Equine Art Gala & Exhibitor Mixer sponsored by Horse Shows in the Sun Saugerties (HITS) and New World Home Cooking Co. The elite riders are back in our area. Show jumping at HITS Saugerties resumed this past Wednesday after a mid-summer break and there will be three consecutive weeks of competition, with two Grand Prix classes

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-87009916276114109272008-07-24T11:19:00.005-04:002008-07-24T11:32:33.932-04:00

reminder -- two great food & wine festivals coming up this weekend in our area:Two days celebrating Hudson Valley wines at the Shawangunk Wine Trail’s Bounty of the Hudson Food and Wine Festival July 26 & 27. The host is Benmarl Winery in Marlboro, which is up on a hill with lovely views overlooking the Hudson River and is known as “home to America’s oldest vineyard.” Read more ...andMeet the

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-32614420136423958122008-07-21T15:37:00.006-04:002008-07-21T17:11:17.755-04:00

Had a fantastic visit to the Rhinebeck Farmers Market on Sunday, which had some nice music and its always-fab vendors. It was THE place to be on Sunday – I even ran into one of my colleagues, Barb (the Dish 'n' That blogger).Best of all, I picked up the ingredients to make a quick, easy, delicious and LOCAL meal back home. Our supper that day consisted of bison burgers from Highland Farms in

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-74543682389146185472008-07-18T05:49:00.001-04:002008-07-22T14:01:16.232-04:00

Here's incentive to take that New England vacation this summer -- Tanglewood, Gulf Oil, and the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority have teamed up for a promotion at Gulf gas stations along the Massachusetts Turnpike between Boston and Tanglewood. For every $50 of gas purchased at participating Gulf gas stations, travelers can earn a free lawn pass to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2138825972469926126.post-41182541394853826252008-07-17T06:00:00.000-04:002008-07-17T06:00:06.239-04:00

The food festivals are popping up all over. Here is a great way to explore our region by dining on the bounty of Columbia County all in one place -- from 20+ local restaurants, caterers and chefs, 30+ local farms, plus local beer and wines. Meet the chefs and farmers! Columbia County Bounty’s first “Taste of Columbia County Bounty” takes place on Monday, July 28, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the

Leslie Coonsnoreply@blogger.com0