Ione’s 16th Annual Dream Festival Gala Opening day

September 27th, 2011

 Deep Listening Institute (DLI) in collaboration with Stella May Productions presents the opening of Ione’s 16th Annual Dream Festival with events throughout the day on Kingston’s first Saturday, October 1st at Stella May Gallery Theatre at 101 Greenkill Avenue in midtown Kingston.

The Festival is an international celebration of dreams and dreamers featuring art, music, film, performance and dream telling! Deep Listening Institute’s Artistic Director Ione explains, “I am interested in fostering a Dream Community. Dreams are our deepest source of creativity and dreams are always truthful about our feelings. Since all humans and most animals dream, sharing dreams and dream creations can help dissolve the cultural and class demarcations that keep us separate from one another. Dream awareness can help us lead more authentic lives. ”

From 3 to 6 pm, the Dream Festival kicks off with the Marathon of Dreamers hosted by Ione. The marathon will feature performances, presentations and dream-tellings from the local dream community of artists and performers. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. Audience members are invited to share a dream and bring an offering to a potluck feast. Artists schedule to participate include performances by the band Mamalama, authors Rachel Koenig and Bethany Goldpaugh Brown, singer songwriter Jaclyn Heyen, musician C. Lavender, vocalist Lisa Barnard Kelley, musician David Arner and a screening of Jo Andres’ short film “Liquid Tara.” All performances will be broadcast online at Deep Listening’s website, www.deeplistening.org.

Starting at 6:30 pm, the doors of Stella May Gallery Theatre will reopen for the Dream Festival gala reception featuring La Leona Arts’ project 100 Artists/100 Dreams with an exhibit called “Dreamers” showcasing art from some of the project’s participants and the premiere of 100 Artists/ 100 Dreams The Film. The Film screens at 8pm. Tickets at the door are $10 general admission and $8 for students and seniors. Advance discounted tickets are available online at www.deeplistening.org. Each ticket includes a glass of special “Dream Cocktail” created by mixologist Kyle Kelley.The exhibit “Dreamers” is on view October 1 – 27 at the Stella May Gallery. Visit their website www.stellamayproductions.com or call 845-331-7955 for an appointment.

100 Artists/ 100 Dreams is a dream exploration project, curated by Sadee Brathwaite, that features local and international artists and explores the concept of artists as visionaries and keepers of the creative fires. The project consists of a film, an exhibition (scheduled to open 2012) and an installation. Local participating artists include Matthew Maley – New Paltz, Patti Gibbons – Kingston, Lindsey Graham – Pine Bush, Faheem Haider – Montgomery, Lisa Barnard Kelley – Kingston, Moya Marcelino – Kingston, Suzanne V. Paddock – Kingston, Shirley Parker-Benjamin – Poughkeepsie, Joe Pimental & Melissa Toth – Newburgh and more.

Afterparty will be held at MINT, 1 West Strand, Kingston with “Dream Specials” by chef Graziano. For directions to Stella May Gallery Theatre call 331-7955. For more information and calendar of Dream Festival events visit www.deeplistening.org or call 845-338-5984.

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FRESH ‘N’ EASY–The Name Says It All!

September 26th, 2011

The Fresh’n'Easy Bakery at 331 Hasbrouck Avenue in midtown Kingston has only been open since June, but it has already attracted scores of regulars from the nearby Kingston High School and Kingston and Benedictine Hospitals.

Fresh ‘n’ Easy is a lot more than a bakery–it is a family run bistro offering breakfast and lunch specials for less than the area fast-food restaurants–while using the freshest in local and natural products in the preparation!  It redefines “family run”–while daughters Heather and Crissy offer cheerful customer service back of the counter, owner Linda Bang and her mom, Virginia John, whisk together delectable fresh baked goods in the on-site kitchen.  Other family members pitch in as needed.

The ambiance is that of  beautifully preserved country store dining–with a modern flair!   The display cases are well-maintained retro, but there is wifi available so customers can catch up with their email while relishing big hot cups of Mountain Grown coffee in a selection of flavors, including decaf.    The $3 breakfast specials can include everything from cinnamon buns still warm from the oven to eggs and cheese.

The $5 lunch menu of soup and sandwiches attracts customers that want a lunch that is affordable and portable and has the best in locally grown and natural ingredients.  There are hot and cold sandwiches on the menu, and if you want to add a slice of tomato to that pulled pork sandwich on your choice of breads, it is available–with a smile and at no extra cost!  For one-stop shopping convenience, diners can also pick up a copy of the newspaper or a bag of snacks for later enjoyment.  Of course, we can also get a bag of still-warm baked goods ranging from sinfully delicious looking cookies though muffins, crumb cake, flakey little pastries and indulgent sweet rolls. The menu is always changing as the oven wafts forth  tempting scents into the cozy, immaculately clean little bistro with its 1950′s sundae shop decor and luxurious geraniums and petunias waving to outside traffic from the windows.

Customers can also order gluten-free and sugar-free baked goods, carefully prepared from scratch. One recent morning found Linda posting the special of the day–a roasted pork loin sandwich and a sausage and kale soup featuring kale that had been in a vegetable garden that morning!

Virginia, Linda and Heather

The real “special” at Fresh’n'Easy is the genuine “friendly family service”.   Special orders are taken with a genuine smile, the food arrives fresh, hot, and temptingly plated, and the relaxed atmosphere invites lingering luxuriously over a second big cup of Mountain Grown coffee while checking what is going on in the outside world on the laptop!

Fresh ‘n’ Easy Bakery & Cafe
331 Hasbrouck Ave.
Kingston, NY 12401
ph. 845-331-2579
fax 845-331-2578
Hours: M-F 6:00 A.M.-4 P.M.
Sat.   8:00 A.M.-2 P.M.
closed Sundays

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Posted in Restaurants, Shop Local | 1 Comment »

Mangia @ Mario’s!

September 26th, 2011

If a trip to Italy isn’t in this year’s budget, the next best thing is a dining excursion to the newly opened Mario’s Trattoria at the corner of  John and Wall Street in the historic former Stuyvesant Hotel building.  Only one short block from the Uptown Pike Plan, Rocco Panetta and his chef Mario Garcia are offering a dining tour of the best food and drink Italy has to offer, at a wide range of prices and calories!

Want to manga Italiana on a budget?  Tuesdays and Wednesday from 5pm to 10 pm offers delectable pasta special, served with a salad for only $10.95.  The Penne Giuseppe with its delicate pink cream sauce and mushrooms, peas, and chicken is an exquisite variation on the usual Italian fare.  There is a large selection of soups, salads, and panini for those looking for lighter dining.  Friday from 5 to 7 Mario’s hosts a happy hour that is becoming an uptown tradition with its generous selection of drink specials and $5 appetizers that are generous enough to serve as a meal, including Clams Oreganata or Mussels Marinara with Tuscan Grilled Bread!

For those who feel like splurging on a joyous celebration, there is a selection of upscale wines from California and Italy from the Trattoria’s extensive wine cellar.  For those who prefer beer, Mario’s offers everything from Michelob Ultra Draft through the ubiquitous Bud Lite.  And yes, of COURSE there is desert!  The Cannoli have sweet ricotta impastata with chocolate chips in a flakey shell — or there is the delicious Ricotta Cheesecake, or a half dozen other delicious choices.

Of course, Rocco’s restaurants (he owns one in New Paltz also) are online at  http://www.lastazioneny.com/, and you can visit on twitter and facebook also!   The best way to visit is to head for 33-37 John Street–and remember to bring you appetite!    Remember, you don’t have to put money in the meters after 5 pm or on weekends!

 

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Kingston Gets Playground For Pooches

September 20th, 2011

Only a few decades ago, the idea of a play park for dogs would have seemed bizarre.   Except in the most urban areas, the world was a huge pup playground.   Only in the large cities were leash laws enforced.  Times and liability laws changed, and now even small villages require canine citizens to be leashed when off the owners’ properties.  Dogs residing  in homes with a fenced-in yard are lucky to be able to play at liberty, but for most dogs, a leash-free romp has become an impossible dream.

The concept of leash-free dog parks probably began in New York City several decades ago, and spread rapidly.  In Kingston, for awhile there were several parks that  had “no dogs” rules, but where dogs  were allowed to romp as long as they did not disturb any other park users.  Unfortunately, there were the inevitable conflicts, and  dog owners are now being ticketed by the dog warden for allowing their dogs to romp off leash in human oriented parks.

About two years ago, several  concerned dog owners began  contacting the Kingston Parks and Recreation Department, wanting a leash-free dog park in Kingston.  Similar parks had been begun in Saugerties and Marbletown.  Marcuse Pfieffer and Evi Seidman attended a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting urging a creation of a Kingston dog park.   Their rescued pup needed an opportunity to do strenuous romping  in order to regulate her pent-up energies.  Kingston recreation Commissioner Kevin Gilfeather and commission member Joe Hoffman  found value in the suggestion, and a study was begun of the  operation of dog parks existing in other communities.  Dr. Marilyn Glasser presented the results of the study at a very well-attended meeting at Kingston Point Beach about a year ago.  The Recreation Commission studied the various options presented, as well as possible sites for the proposed park. Eventually a one acre site was chosen between the historic Kingston Point Park and the baseball field.  Then  a funding stream was established so that tax-deductable donations could be made, with a $100,000 goal  set to pay for the construction of the park and for upkeep  costs in the future.

Evi Seidman noted that some rural parks have been established with a small budget, but that those founding the Kingston Point Dog Park feel a strong obligation to continue the grand historic integrity of Kingston Point Park, which was designed in the 19th Century by Calvert Vaux who designed Central Park.   They want the park to be safe, beautiful, and aesthetically attractive for the humans….and the dogs!  A great deal of thought has gone into the planning of the park itself.

It will be enclosed by black vinyl coated chain link fence, that blends  attractively into the surroundings.  There will be two areas, one for large, vigorous dogs, and the other for small, elderly, or disabled dogs who prefer quieter play.   Serving both entrances will be “hardscape” area with a three-tier water fountain.   The lowest tier of the fountain will be for the dogs, a middle area will be for seated persons and children, and the top area for  people on foot.  The fountain will be set in the brick , to control  any possibility of mud tracking. Each brick in the hardscape will be lasar- engraved with messages chosen by contributors to the dog park.

A 4 x 8 inch brick with three lines of engraved copy, will be available for a $100 donation . An 8×8 inch brick will be available for $250 with room for a six line personalization , and the $5 pawprint option will also be available for the large bricks.  In addition, those wishing a lasting memorialization for a departed relative or pet can purchase a plaque on the drinking fountain or on one of the comfortable seating benches in the park.

Funding is through the Community Foundation of Ulster County, and donation checks should be made out to the Community Foundation of Ulster County, with “Kingston Point Dog Park” or “KPDP” in the memo line of the check.   All donations are tax deductable.

The play areas of the park will be paw-friendly grass.  The city will be responsible for the mowing, and the Kingston Point Dog Park will be responsible for the upkeep and repairs.  Owners will be responsible for the conduct of their pets.  After studying operation of many dog parks, Kingston decided not to require memberships or fees, but there will be rules, and the first 100 users of the park will have to attend a short 90-minute orientation in dog park ettiquette.  There will be no “doggy playground” equipment, and in the interest of safety, food and toys will not be allowed in the park.  Only dogs who play well with other dogs will be allowed, but there will be no breed discrimination.

During the frosty months corporate contributions will be solicited and local businesses will be given an opportunity to have their sponsorship acknowledged  on benches, fences, fountains, etc. It is planned that ground for the park will be broken as soon in spring as possible with a goal of having the park fully operational for  the frolicsome days of early summer!  Dogs will finally have the opportunity to let their humans off the end of the leash for a little untethered romping!

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A SHINING EXAMPLE

September 12th, 2011

695 Broadway, 1954 and Now

Drivers traveling through midtown Kingston have been noticing a pleasant change to the building at 695 Broadway, at the corner of Broadway and Liberty Street.   Not since the 1950′s when it was an Atlantic gas station has the little cement block building looked so spiffy.  On August 6, with crisp new signage announcing its services, J’s Detailing and Car Wash, Inc. opened its two bays for business.

Jamar Ashe, the owner/operator has been in the detailing business in the Kingston area since 1990.  He  had been scouting for an ideal location, when he noticed that the former car repair shop on the corner had closed.  He bought the building from Honda of Kingston in June and spent two months retrofitting it for the requirements of a high-efficiency detailing business.

As his sign proclaims, J’s Detailing will give the showroom shine to “anything with a motor,” including boats, RV’s, busses, motorcycles, and jet skis.  The varied services offered range from $14.99 to  $159.99.   Express service is a specialty.   Perfectionists in a hurry can relax in the  tidy waiting room while their vehicle is returned to showroom condition.  Vehicle drop-off service is available 24/7.  In another option, Mr. Ashe can pick up the vehicle locally, detail it, and return it.

 This is far more than a “sweep and a shine” operation.  Got a vintage  vehicle that was stored for years in a leaky barn?   Mr. Ashe’s services include mold and mildew abatement, convertible window restoration, and leather and cloth seat restoration. 

Jamar Ashe

For vehicles with a few dings and dinks, Mr. Ashe can touch up damaged paint, restore tail lights and headlights, and restore chrome and alloy wheels.  He is quick to point out that these services are as important for the family SUV as they are for a performance car on its way to the car show.  Damage to the exterior of a car, even when minor, will get worse with time, and will negatively impact the value at trade-in time.

In addition to quick cleaning, Mr. Ashe has specialized for years in fleet cleaning, with special discounts for government and law enforcement vehicles.  He also offers discounts for car dealerships, senior citizens, and emergency vehicles.   He’s detailed everything from tour busses for rock groups through 3-wheel off-the-road vehicles.  When he says “No job too large or too small” he means it quite literally.

While Mr. Ashe is slowly building his clientele he is also looking to the future. He has applied for a used car dealer’s license, and he hopes to be able to offer a few select (and very clean!) used cars by next year.  Right now, the lot surrounding the store is cleaner and tidier than it has been in many decades.

Mr. Ashe feels that having one’s vehicle detailed is not a luxury, it is an investment in preserving one’s equipment.   His undercar cleaning removes the mud, road salt, and other substances that are responsible for irreparable rust damage of cars in the northern climes.  A clean car reflects pride in ownership and  self respect.   A car or RV that is spotless inside and out reflects (so as to speak) well on the owner and the neighborhood.

J’s Detailing and Car Wash Inc. is already a great reflection on the neighborhood–and a shining example of what a great neighborhood business can do for the neighborhood!

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Posted in Corridor, Shop Local | 1 Comment »

Fall For Art

September 6th, 2011

The tradition of benefiting the arts in the Hudson Valley, giving to the community and supporting the Jewish Federation of Ulster County has for many years been Fall for Arts inspiration and mission. Starting in 1999 the recipients have been: Kingston City Hall, Ulster Arts Alliance, Local schools participating in creation of a Fall for Art logo, Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz, Center for Creative Education, Cancer Center at Benedictine Hospital, Friends of Historic Kingston, Arts Society of Kingston,

SUNY Ulster SUNY Ulster Community College, The Children’s Annex, Ulster County Executive Office, and  Shadowland Theatre.

This year’s recipient, Rosendale Theatre Collective will use their gift to categorize, archive and frame a selection of 30 years of original movie posters.  The posters will hang in their lobby and on the interior walls of the theatre.

Additionally, the funds from this years event will benefit Federation causes as well as Family of Woodstock, Angel Food East, Queens’ Galley, People’s Place and other social service agencies.  Sharing the commitment and responsibility to “repair the world” through Tikkun Olam is Federation’s mission.  

Carole Shiber

This year’s annual art show, sale and cocktail reception  will feature 28 Hudson Valley artists: Paolo Bari, Mixed Media; Harriet Forman Barrett /Jewelry; Sara & Michael Beames / Fused Glass; Deborah Blau / Oil; Barbara Bravo / Ceramics; Sherri Cohen / Mixed Media / Fine Art; Steve Fabrico / Ceramics; Stacie Flint / Oil; Lynne Friedman / Oil; Melanie Hall / Mixed Media / giclee; Oliver Kita / Chocolates; Barbara Klar / Jewelry; Stephanie La Rose / Photography; Julia Lefkovits / Mixed Media; Louise Lefkovits / Mixed Media; Joel Mandelbaum / Photography; Barbara Masterson / Oil; Rick Pantell / Graphic Art / Oil; Ellen Perantoni / Oil; Susan Phillips / Photography; Judy Polinsky / Jewelry; Sally Rothchild / Ceramics; Elisa Shaw / Photography; Kaete Brittin Shaw / Ceramics; Carole Shiber / Fiber; M’Lou Sorrin / Pastel / Acrylic/Oil; Karen Whitman / Graphic Art; Joel Zaretsky / Metal.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their particular medium and purchase if they like. In addition R & F Handmade Paints Inc. will award two $250 gift certificates to artists for overall excellence. Vindora Wixom, Executive Director of Arts Society of Kingston will select the awards.

 

There are 3 components of fall for Art’s success: Artists without whom there would be no show.  Some have been with fall for Art since its inception and some will be showing for the 1st time. Their work is varied and beautiful and their personal statements in the booklet reflect their passion for their work. The investment of the sponsors who the Jewish Federation encourages to support during the year, and the attendees whose support of the artwork purchased enables the artist to succeed and continue to create.  Go to http://www.fallforart.org/ for more information

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Sophia’s Kitchen

September 6th, 2011

Sophia’s Kitchen at 636 Broadway has been called the friendliest restaurant in town. Maybe it’s because owners James and Elizabeth Michael greet everyone who walks in and makes them feel at home. Or maybe it’s because they are a real family run business – their three kids grew up around the restaurant and began working there when old enough. All of them have since graduated college while one son still helps out running the restaurant on Sundays.

They say business has been a bit slow of late but they love their restaurant and their loyal customers. They wouldn’t think of doing anything else. Next time you’re driving down Broadway stop in.

 

I bet you didn’t know:

 

1-They’ve been in business for 21 years at the same location

2-The building has been a food establishment for over 70 years

3-They decorate the entire restaurant for every season and every holiday

4-They serve grits

5-Sophia’s is named after their daughter

6-Elizabeth was born and raised in Kingston. James was born in Cyprus

7-You can eat in or take out

8-They’re open 7 days a week

9-Breakfast is served all day long and they have great specials (You can get 3 French Toast or 2 Pancakes with 2 scrambled eggs and beef sausage for $5.95).

10-James is running for Kingston City school board

 

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