Sculptures of Ivan Velilla

WCA member Ivan Velilla has published a beautiful new book of his sculptures. You can check out his book (and purchase it if you like it) on the website below. The website gives you a full preview of the book so you can browse through all the pages, which is great.

Ivan Veilla Sculpture Book

Ivan runs Velsani Antiques with his partner Gustavo Sanin (another WCA member) in the Emerson Hotel and Spa. Check out their antique store if you are looking for a gift or just something special for yourself.

"America's Coolest Small Town" Contest

Dave Pillard made me aware that Phoenicia is up for the title of "America's Coolest Small Town" in Budget Travel Magazine. Let's all pull together and get Phoenicia the honor it deserves!! Here is what Dave had to say about it.

"Now is the time for all good people to come to the aid of Phoenicia!!
Budget Travel Magazine is holding a contest to find the coolest small town in America, and Phoenicia is in the running. Go to the link below and vote! And you can vote every five hours. Set your alarm to wake up in the middle of the night so you can vote!!!!!! Vote early!!! Vote often!!!!! This would be great if we could win!
Happy Holidays!"

Dave

Here is the link: http://www.budgettravel.com/bt-dyn/content/article/2010/11/10/AR2010111005252.html

Happy Holidays!

Final Total

The snow has stopped here and the sun has come out at last. We only got maybe another 1/2 inch since my last post. So, I would say the total for this storm in Woodland Valley is somewhere between 7 to 8 inches. Not too bad, considering the pounding NYC has gotten.

I am also happy to report that the snow is the light and fluffy kind making shoveling fairly easy. The temperature is in the low teens, so it is brisk out but the sun is warming things up. I didn't hear of any power outages in our area but I haven't been to town yet today. We never lost power in WV as far as I know. And WV road itself looks plowed and OK to drive. I have heard that 28 is fine too. So that's about it for this storm. I hope wherever you are you are safe and warm!

Storm News

I am sure those of you who are not in the valley have been anxiously awaiting this post. Thankfully, I have pretty good news to report. The weather situation up here is not too bad. After predictions of 1 to 2 feet of snow, we have actually only gotten about 7 inches so far, which really isn't that much for these parts. (Am I jaded that I think 7 inches is not that much snow??) The bulk of the storm seems to be passing to the east. Of course it is still snowing and expected to continue through about noon time.

Although I haven't been out, Woodland Valley road looks pretty good from my window. The plow trucks have been up and down several times during the night clearing and sanding. So I don't think the road situation is bad. Hopefully, you can all just tuck in and don't have to drive. I will update you later on in the day on the final totals from this storm. Drive safely if you must travel today!!

Merry Christmas from the Morehouses

Here are some good wishes from Dakin & Doris Morehouse.

"On this very auspicious day, we just wanted to wish you a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS with GOOD HEALTH and HAPPINESS in 2011. We would like to especially dedicate those good wishes to Elisabeth, and Ken Nakamoto of Bethkins and to Charlotte Jacobsen."

With love from
Dakin and Doris Morehouse

Christmas CD by Eugene Ruffolo

I recently received this message from WCA member Eugene Ruffolo. Here is what he had to say:

"Seasons Greetings!!
Just a note to let you know that My Christmas Cd "Even Santa Gets the Blues" is featured in the week's Performing Songwriter Magazine as CD of the week..

Have a look/listen...you can listen here instead of buying--but why in the world would you want to do that???
Merry Christmas !!"
Eugene

http://performingsongwriter.com/

Weather in the Valley

Light snow fell in the valley today but it didn't amount to much. I would say in the end we had less than an inch. It was just enough to give the valley that frosted cookie look. The temps have been cold but so far the heavy snows have held off. There is some accumulation at the tops of the mountains but that is about all. I sure that sooner or later the snow will come but for right now all is clear in the valley.

Community Events - All Welcome

There are a couple of great events happening in the next few days that everyone is invited to attend.

First, there is a Caroling Celebration in Phoenicia at 4:30 on December 23rd (Thursday). The flier for the event says "Join the community choir at 4:30 at the Catholic Church on Main Street, or join us on Main St". I am not sure exactly what that means but I think if you go to town and listen for the singing you will figure it out. The flier also says to bring musical instruments, warm clothes and candles. The caroling will be followed by a bon fire and free refreshments at Mama's boy.

After the caroling at 6:30 there will be Christmas Motets and Cantatas featuring the Ensemble of 8 voices "Syntagma Musicum" accompanied by Barbara Pickard at the Organ. The music is from the 16th and 17th centuries (Charentier, Schutz, Bach, Palestina). The Phoenicia Choir will also participate. I think this performance is in one of the churches but the flier isn't specific. Again, I think if you just go to Phoenicia you can figure it out from there.

The other great thing that is happening is the 2nd annual community dinner at the Sportsman's Alamo Cantina. It is from 1-4pm Christmas Day. It is a free event but donations will be accepted to benefit Helping Hands food pantry. Transportation is available. Please call 845-688-5259 for more information or to schedule transportation to the event. This is a great way to share the holiday with your community!

Holiday Card

Dakota Lane made a "Hudson Valley Holiday Card" that features Woodland Valley's own Julia Rose (from Phoenicia Healing Arts), Jay Braman (in a pink tutu no less) and Tyronne the cat. Check out the video for some local holiday fun.

Hudson Valley Holiday Card

More Music From Rick Altman

I recently got a message from Lauren Silver Altman regarding more great music video's from her husband Rick. Here is the message and links she sent to me.

I put 3 of the Rick's Trio songs on youtube - finally! Here they are:

"Invitation" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQ_cCMldu6A

"Softly As In A Morning Sunrise" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NanxvDLyqxA&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

"Oleo" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhXU3Jectvw&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

Enjoy the music!!!!

Library Open House

The Phoenicia Library will have a Holiday Open House this Saturday, December 18th, beginning at 11 am. There will be a live performance by Uncle Rock plus crafts, treats and music. The Facebook announcement I received also said "maybe some stories and maybe a special guest!". Wow, I wonder what that means? I guess we will just have to go and find out!!

Shop Locally for the Holidays

Just a reminder that when you are shopping for the holidays this season think local! We have a lot of great shops on Main St, Phoenicia. You can get gifts at Tenderland Home, 60 Main, The Nest Egg, Morne Imports, The Mystery Spot and The Nest Egg. Or you can give a gift certificate to one of the local eateries such as Sweet Sue's, Brios, Momma's Boy or Ricadella's. Especially in these challenging economic times, it is important to keep your dollars in the neighborhood. So shop local for all your holiday needs!!

Santa Rides The Rails

The Empire State Railway Museum and the Catskill Mountain Railroad had their combined Christmas celebration this past Sunday. Despite the terrible weather many folks came out to celebrate the holidays and ride the train. I saw several WCA members working at the gathering. Santa (who looks strangely familiar) was on hand to meet the youngsters and spread cheer throughout the day. Everyone had a great time!!

No Problem This Time

The rain has come and gone this time with no problems. Yesterday started out with a wintery mix that left a slushy mess covering the ground. It changed to all rain pretty quickly and by the end of the day all the slush was melted. Although Woodland Valley road was slippery in the morning, the highway department got right on it and spread sand and salt on the road making driving safer by mid-morning. Rt. 28 was clear all day. The creeks never rose that high so nothing that I know of flooded this time. So all is well weather-wise in Woodland Valley.

Rick Altman on the "Whatever" Show

The "Whatever" show on local access cable recently featured Rick Altman on vibraphone with his partner David Oliver on Marimba. For those of you who missed the original broadcast of the performance here is a link so you can check it out: The Whatever show featuring Rick Altman and David Oliver.

Here is what the "Whatever" website had to say about the performers:
"Rick Altman and David Oliver perform an eclectic blend of original compositions for marimbas and vibraphone. The music is inspired by many sources including improvised new music, jazz, folk, and ethnic world musics. David's compositions are heavily influenced by ska, reggae, Indian, Turkish, Latin, and classical music. Rick's compositions borrow more from the traditional jazz and new age modal jazz as well as samba and salsa.

Along with their compositional skills these artists are extremely gifted performers. Both musicians have decades of experience performing many styles of music. David calls the result "a wonderful percussive musical experience and an acoustical adventure to be enjoyed by all. Most of this music has only rarely been performed on these instruments, and that adds to the excitement".

If you don't have good speakers on your computer I suggest using headphones. It will be worth the listen :)"

Enjoy!!!

Ski Program for Residents

Every year the Town of Shandaken has a winter recreation program at Belleayre Mountain. This program allows Shandaken residents to ski for $25.00 on Sundays. You must sign up between Dec 4th - 11th. If you are a skier be sure to take advantage of this fabulous opportunity! Here is a link to the page on the town website with the form you will need to join the program: Shandaken Ski Program. I copied the details below from that page. See you on the slopes!!

Open to All Onteora Residents
The Town Recreation Program for the 2010-2011 riding & skiing season will work as follows:

Lift ticket & Lesson: $25.00 per person. (The town will not be responsible for picking up the $5.00 portion of the ticket).

Kick-off for this season will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2010 in the Lower, Discovery Lodge. Sign up will be from 8am to 3pm. Participants will have from December 4 to December 11, 2010 to sign up for the program. If you are not signed up by then you will not be eligible for the program until next season. (If you mail in your application, then it must be post dated for December 11, 2010 – NO exceptions. The $5.00 charge per swipe card must be included. You must provide us with a document with proof of residency and a valid picture ID i.e. Driver’s license.

Each resident that signs up for the program will receive a swipe card, loaded with 13 Sundays @ $25.00 per ticket. Also included will be 13 Sunday swipes at $25.00 for your guests to ski with you (1 per each Sunday). Previously, Wild Wednesdays were offered to all residents. This season each Wednesday, Non Holiday or Holiday period is a $20.00 ticket day therefore Wild Wednesdays will not be offered. There will no longer be 3 bonus days during Christmas week. Christmas day is a $25.00 day.

Swipe cards will be good at any ticket location! There is a mandatory $5.00 fee for swipe cards. Please bring payment when you sign up for the program in the form of check (made out to the NYSDEC), cash or credit card.
Equip Yourself

You are encouraged to provide your own ski equipment, but If you need to rent, we will offer you some great deals (Just mention that you are with the Onteora Recreation Ski Program) at the Belleayre Mountain Ski Shop or Jimmy’s Belleayre Ski Shop.

(Prices are not confirmed for Belleayre & Jimmy’s ski shop as of yet). (Seasonal rentals may be available, call for more info).

*If patrons do not sign up between December 4 and December 11, 2010 they will not be eligible for the ski program until the following season. There will no longer be any ticket purchases on Sunday mornings. $5.00 in the form of credit, check or cash must be turned in with your application for the swipe card fee. (Checks must be made out to NYSDEC). Please bring valid picture ID and a bill from home (or mail in a copy with your application) to prove you are a resident in the Onteora District.

Participants must return forms & payment directly to Belleayre Mountain and not to the Town Hall or Rec Departments.

If mailing applications please mail to:

Belleayre Mountain
PO Box 313
Highmount, NY 12441
Attn: Alexandra Sines
or drop applications off to the
Sales Department – 3rd Floor of the Lower Discovery Lodge

Cold!

Well, I guess it's the time of year where I need to start blogging about the weather in the valley, so here goes. It has been cold lately (20's during the day, teens at night) and it is going to get colder tonight. Presently the temperatures are around 16 degrees at this end of the valley. We have had snow flurries for several days in a row but fortunately nothing has accumulated yet. I think they are talking about some snow coming our way in a few days but so far so good. Those of us who stay here and brave the winter months have stacked our wood piles, gotten out our long johns and are bracing for whatever the next few months will bring. But right about now I wish I was in Florida or Mexico!!

WV Resident Camilla French in the Nutcraker

I got the following message from Rebecca French. Her fabulous younger daughter Camilla will be in this production. Here is what Rebecca had to say:

I'm writing to let you know that the Catskill Ballet Theatre is performing The Nutcracker in Kingston's UPAC Theater (601 Broadway) on December 10, 11, and 12.

The Friday and Saturday performances are at 8pm and the Sunday performance is at 2pm.

Tickets may be purchased at ticketmaster.com or from the UPAC box office 845.339.6088 (no service charge).

Tickets are $27 for adults and $20 for students.

Camilla will be performing as a soldier and a candy cane. (Anna will be at the Saturday evening performance.) It’s a really fun family event. We hope you are able to come and appreciate your support. Hope you have a wonderful holiday season.

All the best,
Rebecca

Getting Back to Normal

Everything around here is getting back to normal. Phoenicia continues to dry out and clean up. Woodland Valley Road needs some repairs but the worst spot (where WV road meets Grandview) is easily avoidable, so driving is fine up this way. I haven't heard of anything more serious in the valley besides folks getting water in their basements and/or garage and some leaky roofs.

I will keep you informed on the continuing road repair plans. It looks like the contractors are set up to put in the vegetative layer at the curve by Fawn Hill bridge. When that is finished the highway department will reinstall the guide rail. I don't know what the plans are for repairing the other spots on the road but, as usual, I will keep you posted.

More News About The Flooding

Sorry I am posting so late tonight when I know all of you are waiting to hear about the aftermath of the flood. The truth is that I had to leave the valley early yesterday morning and I did not return until about an hour ago. I didn't post that for obvious reasons (I thought it would be akin to hanging a "Rob Me" sign on my house), but I digress. I stopped in Phoenicia on my way home and crews were in the midst of cleaning everything up.

Here in the valley, the road took a beating. The water came up and over it in several places. But the good news is that it didn't stay that way for very long. I talked to Eric Hofmeister (the town highway supervisor) and he told me that the recent repairs done in the vicinity of Romer Mt Park (the old ski slope) and Roxmor were both damaged. And the stone wall that ran along Woodland Valley road where it meets Grandview was wiped out. Eric also said that one more hour of rain and we would have lost big chunks of WV road. But thank goodness the water receded in time and that didn't happen. The good news is that the rebuild of the curve by Fawn Hill seems to have held up. We are all very lucky that they fixed that this summer. In my opinion it was just in the nick of time!! I really believe that we would have lost the road in that spot had they not done the work!!

Since I got home so late I didn't get any photos to post but there is an excellent video of town for you to view. Here is the link: Flood Video. The person who did it really did a great job in capturing the height of the water and the seriousness of the situation.

As I said yesterday, if you have a home on the stream I would advise checking in with friends or neighbors to make sure everything is OK.

Phoenicia Floods.......AGAIN!!!

We got some torrential rain last night into early this evening. And, for the second time in 2 months, Phoenicia was underwater for a few hours. I didn't have a chance to go to town myself, so we are all lucky that Dennis Havel went to investigate and sent some photos for the blog. The water on Main St was caused by the same set of circumstances as the last time. The Stony Clove Creek jumps it's banks up on Rt 214 and then runs down the road into Phoenicia. The water has receded at this point but, just like last time, it has left a big mess for everyone to clean up. I haven't had the opportunity to check out Woodland Valley yet so I can't give you a report. But if you are out of the valley and live near the stream (or have other factors that would cause flood conditions on your property) try and have a neighbor or friend check it out. I will give everyone a better update tomorrow. Thanks for sending us these photos Dennis.

ESMR - CMRR Christmas Party with Santa

The Empire State Railway Museum and Catskill Mountain Railroad would like to cordially invite the entire community to their annual Christmas party on December 12th. The festivities start right after the Shandaken Theatrical Society's Christmas presentation in the STS theatre on Church St (about 1pm). There will be train rides, model railroads, a doll house display, cookies, popcorn, cider and of course SANTA! The party will go from 1:00 pm until dusk and it is FREE for all (donations are appreciated at the museum if you feel so inclined). So come out join Santa and your neighbors for what promises to be a fun-filled day!! See you there!!!

Belleayre Cuts Jobs

In some recent local news, Bellearyre Ski Resort is rumored to have plans to cut 48 of the 55 local jobs this winter. The Woodstock Times did a interesting article recently. Here is a link to that article: The Axman Cometh. Since Belleayre is a big part of the local economy this issue will greatly effect our town and this valley (several Woodland Valley people work at the resort). People are very concerned about the fate of the ski center itself. Supporters of the center and it's employees are holding a rally in support of Belleayre tomorrow, Monday, Nov. 29th at 11AM. The gathering will be on Route 28 in Margretville at Brookside Hardware, near the Hospital.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

For the holiday this year I thought I would ask Dennis Havel to provide some photos of our favorite Thanksgiving meal running live around the neighborhood. So here are some excellent photos of a gorgeous, wild Tom turkey strutting his stuff in Woodland Valley. Thanks for the photos Dennis!! Happy Thanksgiving to all!!

WV Weather Station Up and Running Again

The Woodland Valley weather station was out of service for a while after the power outage. The backup battery on the station wasn't enough to sustain it for the 5 hours that our phone and electric were out. The system was reset last night and now seems to be fully functional. The photo below is the view from the webcam. This is what you should see when you click on the webcam icon on the right side of this blog. One WCA member emailed me that he was getting a completely different photo (which was not in WV) when he clicked through the link. I want to see if this is happening to other people. So if you aren't seeing this view, email me at wvview@gmail.com and I will investigate further. Thanks!

Power and Phone Outage

All of Woodland Valley lost power, phone and internet last night from about 4:00pm until about 9:00pm. The valley was dark for everyone except those lucky enough to have generators. The cause of the problem was between Hank Bernstein's property at the end of High St and Romer Mountain Park (the old ski slope), where Woodland Valley Road begins. Harry Jameson said he heard a series of loud pops right before the power and phone went out. I drove into town to get some supplies and saw the wires lying on the side of the road. Several people told me a transformer blew but I don't have any confirmation of that report. NYSE&G, Verizon and Time Warner got right on the problem though and power was restored relatively quickly. So all is well in the valley again.

Concert in the ESRM this Sunday

Dakin Morehouse, WCA member and President of the ESRM sent me this info about the concert coming up this weekend in the museum. Here are the details:

Sunday, November 21 - 7:30pm
Flying Cat Music Presents
The Bowmans
At the Empire State RR Museum

$12 at the door or
$10 with RSVP to flyingcatmusic@gmail.com

For info call 845-688-9453

Artist Website: http://www.thebowmansmusic.com/


They came from Iowa and conquered New York, and some say it couldn’t happen to two nicer girls. Twin sisters Sarah and Claire are The Bowmans, and together they will stake their claim on Phoenicia on Sunday, November 21, when they perform in concert at the Empire State Railway Museum. Wielding cello and/or fiddle and/or just a plain guitar, the sisters play “folky Americana” with classical influences that can stray toward jazz or rock, noted Jenny Alder for AmericanaUK in 2007. She wrote “Throughout the songs are lifted and shaped by the twins’ impeccable harmonies, which are always delicate. The strength of the material and those amazing voices, which blend so seamlessly it’s hard to tell where one starts and the other begins, has ensured The Bowmans have a growing following on the New York folk scene.”

Since then their following has further grown, including inside Europe from whence that review was written. This review comes from Nashville, where the Bowmans performed at the Basement in 2008: “The Bowman twins are Claire Bowman on vocals, vocal harmonies and various percussion and Sarah Bowman on guitar, vocals and vocal harmonies. Between the two of them with only one guitar they still manage to sound like an orchestra from time to time. Sarah, being a classically trained orchestral musician and the main songwriter of the duo, successfully exploits the twin sisters' harmonies by combining their near telepathic soulfulness with universally understood, down to earth folk-style lyric storytelling and can suddenly turn the ship around in a very sophisticated manner by blending in almost madrigal sounding choruses of intimate vocal complexity. To say this was an intense performance is an understatement… They have dozens of shows booked in the USA and Europe so anyone with an eye for true and rare gems should check their tour schedule at www.myspace.com/thebowmans and drive as far as you must to see The Bowmans live.” Robin Merritt.

That sums it up well, we have nothing further to add. Case closed; make your RSVP now to see The Bowmans.

Light Flurries Today

This morning there was light flurries in the valley. It changed over to rain about 10:00 and then cleared up after that. The snow didn't stay very long but it was enough to remind us all that winter is on the way.

Thank you Stream Steward Volunteers!

Here is a message from Cornell Cooperative to all those who volunteered to plant trees last Saturday.

Thanks to the Ashokan Stream Stewards who helped plant 425 trees and 624 plants last Saturday to restore this streamside area with native trees on the Esopus Creek in Big Indian! Past flooding removed a buffer zone of trees leaving only bare lawn. The trees and plants were installed to reconnect a continuous forested buffer through the property. The planting was sponsored the Catskill Streams Buffer Initiative. For more information about the program, see http://catskillstreams.org/CSBI/


To see more photos of the event or join them on Facebook click here.

More Dive Photos from Tommy Healy

Here are a couple more dive photos from Tommy Healy's Cozumel vacation. It makes me want to dust off my diving gear and hop a flight to Mexico! Here is what Tommy had to say:

"Cozumel is known for it's drift diving. most of the reefs parallel the shore line. The dive boat takes you out and drops you in the water, you drop down between 60 and 100 feet to the reefs and drift for up to a mile before coming up and having the boat pick you up. The closest description would be is if you ever seen the Apollo moon landings as the lunar module drifts over the surface of the moon before landing. Today it was - hang out relax watch the marine life and let the current take you. Lots of reefs with nice overhangs and lots of fish."














"When diving and your dive master starts banging on the back of his tank with a metal rod, you pay attention. It usually means it's something good that he has spotted. In this case, we had just jumped in off the back of the boat and dropped down to about 60 feet or so just reaching the top of the reef. Looking to my... left was a large eagle ray with 5 foot wing span and a tail a lot longer, gracefully gliding along the top of the reef into the current. Black and white photography has it's merits with this shot. I'll try and put a you tube thing together and post it when I can. Take care."

- Tommy

Thanks for sending up these photos! Can't wait for the video!

Streamside Planting Tomorrow

Michael Courtney sent this to me last week and, unfortunately, it got lost in my email box until now. I am sure that if you wanted to participate you could just give them a call in the morning.

Volunteers Sought for Streamside Planting
Along Esopus Creek

Get some fresh air and exercise by the gorgeous Esopus Creek! Catskill Streams Buffer Initative (CSBI) is looking for volunteers to complete a tree planting project along the Esopus Creek in Oliverea to restore a streamside forest area on Saturday, November 13 from 9:00 am to 2:00pm.Lunch will be provided.

Volunteers will meet at the site, which is at 338 Oliverea Rd. at 9:00am. Please dress appropriately and bring gloves. Holes will be pre-dug for easy planting. Go online to www.ashokanstreams.org for a map to the site. Volunteers should RSVP with Colleen Griffith at 845-688-3047.

Volunteers for this project will restore a section of trees that were torn away by the April, 2005 flood. The restoration is designed to reduce the chances of future damage. Streamside vegetation is essential to the health of streams as they filter runoff, maintain the stability of streams, slow flood flows and provide essential habitat.

The landowner for this site, John Michelotti, has worked with CSBI to create a riparian corridor management plan that provides prescriptive measures. Landowners who complete a riparian corridor management plan can then apply for plant materials to restore their riparian buffer. The landowners provide in kind support of the project and learn skills needed to keep their riparian buffer in an optimally functioning condition. For projects like this one with over 500 trees to plant, volunteers are essential to completing the projects which in turn, provide a public benefit by protecting the creek.

Catskill Streams Buffer Initative is sponsored locally by Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District, Cornell Cooperative Extension and New York City Department of Environmental Protection.

Dive Photos From Tommy Healy

While all of us are here in the Northeast are braving the onset of winter, WV resident Tommy Healy is down in Mexico (Cozumel, to be exact) having a great time. He is on a diving vacation and just to taunt me, he is sending underwater photos from his deep sea adventures. Here are a few photos that he sent in the past couple of days. I thought you all might like to see them too. Even though it is making me very jealous, thanks for sending them Tommy!

Wet Snow and Sleet

Well, I thought I was going to have a brief rest before I had to start blogging obsessively about the weather but it looks like I was wrong. Here in the valley we have been getting light snow and sleet (mostly sleet) for a couple of hours now. You can see it on the Woodland Valley webcam (look at the roof of the barn). It is not really sticking at this point but it is certainly making a mess. Please take care if you have to venture out. These are the kind of conditions that make for very slippery roads. Drive carefully!!

Great Tip For Discouraging Bears

After my last post Linda McDonald wrote me this note with a suggestion for discouraging bears from raiding your garbage. Here is what she had to say:

"I wanted to offer a suggestion that I have had GOOD luck with regarding the bears & trash cans. Ruth (Lindsay) told me years ago to spray the cans inside & out with Ammonia & Pine-sol (a generic pine cleaner is fine). I keep 2 spray bottles by the trash cans and, as I add trash, spray it and then give the outside a final dousing after taking them to the road. Really seems to keep them away."

- Linda

Thanks for the tip Linda!!

Lions and Tigers and Bears OH MY!!

OK, so maybe Woodland Valley doesn't have lions and tigers but we do have plenty of bears and more than a few coyotes. This post is just to let people know that they need to take extra care putting out their garbage and should try to put it out the morning of the pickup if possible. There has been a very persistent animal knocking over garbage cans all through the upper half of the valley in the last couple of months. They have strewn the refuse all over the road and front yards and have generally made a huge mess. So if you can take extra precautions with your trash it would be wise.

Besides the bears there has also been a very large and very bold coyote at the end of the valley. He/she doesn't seem to be very afraid of humans and stops and stares at me when I have seen him/her and stopped my car. I have never seen a coyote do that before. So keep an eye on your small dogs and cats if you let them out of the house!

And another reason to keep an eye on your small animals is the fishers that live in this area. For those of you who don't know what a fisher looks like I have linked the name to the Wikipedia definition. One of our neighbors up on Patherkill road has reported a family living in their yard. They are very mean and will kill and eat cats if given the chance.

Bottom line is that we can co-exist very well with these amazing creatures but we need to be careful. So take extra care with your garbage and animals.

Weather Cam in Woodland Valley

Our friendly neighbor who installed a weather station here in the valley has added a new feature to his page on Weather Underground, a WEATHER CAM!! This is very exciting to those of us who are weather obsessed (like me). Now, through the miracle of technology, we don't have to just look out the window to see the weather we can view it over the internet at our neighbor's house. LOL! I am just kidding. This is really a GREAT tool for people who are traveling to get some visual information from back home. I have put a direct link to the weather cam on the right side of the blog, which is the permanent section of this site. You can view it small or you can click on the cam photo and it will bring you to weather underground Woodland Valley weather cam page and you can view it larger. This is an excellent tool for all of us. Thanks so much to our gracious neighbor for installing this helpful device and sharing it with your community!!!

VOTE!!!!!!

OK, so you are hearing it everywhere else you might as well hear it from me too. It is critical that everyone gets out and votes today. There is a lot at stake in this election!! You can go to the Ulster County Board of Elections site to view a demo of the new voting machines, look up the ballot for our area or see where your polling place is located. As usual, Woodland Valley votes in the M.F. Whitney firehouse on Rt 214. PLEASE take the time to make your voices heard!!!

Phoenicia Times Ceases Publication

In the past day or so I realized that, since the closing of the Phoenicia Times was such a hot topic around town, I forgot to post it on the blog for those of you who have not been in the area recently. The October 7th issue of the paper was the last (although you can still view the archives at http://www.phoeniciatimes.com/).

Shandaken is now without a local newspaper, a sad state of affairs indeed. The Woodstock Times is giving a special discount to Shandaken residents in an effort to pick up the local customer base. They are offering a 6 month subscription for $10.00. Also the Wathershed Post will be posting some news of our area online if you want to check them out. And for those of us here in the valley, I will still be keeping you up to date on this blog.

Last Friday night was the closing party for The Phoenicia Times at the Emerson Spa & Resort and from all accounts it was well attended and great fun! I was trying to go myself but I didn't get back from my assignment in time (yes kids, your blogmistress has to work once in a while). I am very sad to see the paper go and wish the entire staff best of luck in the future!

Happy Halloween!!!

WCA member Dennis Havel sent this photo to me with the following message:

Happy Halloween!!!! This is my favorite religious holiday!

Eugene Ruffolo in The Netherlands

I got this email recently from Eugene Ruffolo. If any of you are planning a trip to the Netherlands try and catch one of his shows.....hey, you never know.

"I am soon to heading to the Netherlands to do a varied selection of shows.
Most will be with the fabulous American Singwriter Lori Lieberman. She is doing a theater tour (co-bill with Dutch Icon Matilde Santing) and I will be playing and singing with her-in some really amazing locations! Joining us is a fabulous band featuring the AMAZING Matangi String Quartet.. You have the hear these guys ! (we're not bad either) Lori and I will be doing a few other shows together in smaller venues...where we will trade off songs and join each other on both of our material. And then there are a few solo ER shows (with possible musical guests!)..So there's something for all of your musical needs and desires...I sure hope to see you..."
- Eugene

ITINERARY AS OF OCTOBER 20,2010

November 5th, (8:15PM) Groningen Stadsschoburg, (with Lori Lieberman)

November 8th, (8PM) Amsterdam The Royal Carre' Theater (with Lori Lieberman)

November 10th, (8pm) Stadsschouburg Enschede (with Lori Lieberman)

November 11th, (8:30PM) "De Speelplaats" , Jochum Hof,- Steyl (solo concert)

November 14th (3PM ) De Oude Remise,Bad Nieuweschans (solo show)

November 16th (8:30PM) Crossroads Live Radio Show BRTO, Bergen op Zoom (with Lori Lieberman)

November 18th, (8:45 PM)- Live Stage Marnix in Ede (with Lori Lieberman)

For updates and additional dates---keep an eye on my Facebook page....or visit my website at your own risk.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=661341637

Road Repair News

I am sure that everyone has noticed the damage to Woodland Valley road caused by the October 1st flood. The Shandaken Highway Department has been busy recently trying to correct those problems. I caught up with Highway Supervisor Eric Hofmeister to get an update and I wanted to pass that information along to the community.

The road down by Romer Mt Park, (the old ski slope, see photo above), has been fully repaired at this point and the guide rail is back in place.

Eric told me that they hope to finish the turn in front of Roxmor (see photo below) by the end of this week. That project had been originally scheduled for repair next year but because the flood made the problems at this site a lot worse, they had to deal with it sooner rather than later. In both of these cases the DEC does not allow work in the stream after September 30th except in the case of extreme flooding damage. Since that was what happened here, the agency allowed the repairs but the highway department is still operating in a limited time frame.

The curve in front of Ed Twerdak's house just before Fawn Hill is almost finished. All the rock is in place and now the VRSS (Vegetated Reinforced Slope Stabilization) has to be added. This basically means that the DEC will be doing a stabilization planting on top of the rock layer. After that the guide rail will be put in place. Eric told me that the guide rail will definitely be installed before winter. I was very happy to hear that!

So, that is all I know for now, I will keep you posted if anything else develops.

Phoenicia Halloween Parade 2010

I attended the Phoenicia Halloween Parade today. It was a great time as usual. Here are some photos of the festivities so you could all enjoy the event too. Happy Halloween to all!!

Hemlock Bark Bite Review

Bill Horne wrote to me about the new cookies. Here is what he had to say:

I read your posting about Paul Misko's Hemlock Bark Bites. I have tried them and they are delicious. You might say this is a case where "the bark as as good as the bite."
- Bill Horne

Very clever and funny Bill! Thanks for your input!

Hemlock Bark Bites

One of the great things about living in a rural place where you know everyone is that people share the various things they have grown and baked. Recently, WV resident Paul Misko dropped off a batch of his fabulous new cookies. They are called "Hemlock Bark Bites". Paul is marketing these delicious treats and you too can buy them locally, which is great. Here is what Paul had to say.

"James Simpson had a huge impact on this region, and was a quite a character as well. I therefore felt he deserved to have a cookie in his honor. His life was saved by hemlock bark, but fear not; there is no bark in these cookies, only wholesome ingredients. These treats are baked at "Amy's Take-Away, which is located on 214 in Lanesville, 5 miles north of Phoenicia. Call Amy at 845-688-9759 and order a fine meal for pick-up, or to discuss catering your event.
"Hemlock Bark Bites" are are sold in a bow topped package, suitable for gifting to friend and host. They can be purchased at "Tenderland Home", which is on Main St. in Phoenicia. Don't forget to check out the Simpson Website at: phoenixtannery.com. History never tasted so good!!"
- Paul Misko

Flurries - Ugh!

I am sorry to have to report that there have been light flurries on and off all morning up at this end of the valley. Looks like the winter of 2010 - 2011 is starting early!! Yipes!!!

Vote in the Upcoming MIdterm Elections!!

I think with all the attention these current elections have gotten in the media I don't have to tell that it is very important to get out and make your voice heard on election day.

Perhaps you may not be able to vote in person at this year's all important general election on Nov. 2nd, but you still have plenty of time to send in your application for an absentee ballot. Your application can be printed using the following link from the Board of Elections website: http://www.co.ulster.ny.us/elections/absenteeapp.pdf

The following deadlines for absentee ballot applications and ballots are provided by the Board of Elections:

Oct. 26 - Last day to postmark application or letter of application for ballot.

Nov. 1 - Last day to apply in for person for ballot.

Nov. 1 - Last day to postmark ballot. Must be received by the board of elections no later than Nov. 9th. Military Voter Ballots must be received no later than Nov. 15th.

Nov. 2 - Last day to deliver ballot in person to the board of elections.

Our local Board of Elections office is located at 284 Wall Street, Kingston NY 12401. Phone: 845-334-5470, Fax: 845-334-5434

Our Election Commissioners are:
Kathleen Carey Mihm (D)
Thomas F. Turco (R)

Thank you for exercising your right to vote!!

Levon Helm in Concert at Onteora HS

Levon Helm and his band are playing a benefit concert this coming Friday, October 22nd at 7:00pm in Onteora High School to raise money for the arts in all of our schools. Tickets are $20.00 for students, $45.00 Back O'The House, $65.00 General Admission and $100.00 for VIP seating. You can purchase tickets at www.levonhelm.com. The event is being organized by the parents, students and community of the Onteora School District. It is a great way to see some excellent music and raise money for art education. So get your tickets now!!

Synder Tannery

I got this message from Jay Simpson recently. Read on:

"Paul Misko sent me a photo of a painting of the Synder Tannery that operated in Woodland. This got me thinking that I had seen some information (copy below) that was published in the Windham Journal on one of the genealogy sites I monitor.

Not only does the article describe the tannery, but other activities taking place in Woodland in 1859. I though you might be interested. I'm sure Paul can furnish a copy of the photo and the detail surrounding the painting. Woodland was a much different place in 1859."

- Jay

Paul Mikso sent me a copy of the painting and had this interesting history to share. The article Jay is talking about is below Paul's message.

"Brownie Gillespie from Woodland Valley, let me take a photo of a print he had of the Colonel H. Snyder Tannery. This industrial complex was located on Woodland road, above the Pantherkill confluence, across from Grand View acres. I read that there was no smoking allowed near the tannery, not only because of the buildings made of dry hemlock, but the air was often filled with hemlock bark dust, which could explode if the air got saturated with it. Strips of hemlock bark were brought down from the mountainsides, was pulverized, then steeped in water to make the tanning solution. Even wheat flour can be explosive; and more than one flour mill has blown up because the air became saturated with airborne flour. Real flour power."

- Paul

July 21, 1859

“Through the Notch”

Perhaps all who have ever had the pleasure of a visit, however brief, through this section of country, will admit that its residents have one of the most sublime and pleasant places that can fall to the allotment of man. Within a short drive of the noblest of rivers, surrounded by the grandest mountains – and looking upon the most magnificent scenery, with the healthiest mountain air to breathe, the purest crystal springs to drink from, and a generous and hospitable people to live amongst, surely we must be a happy and grateful people. Let those croakers who grumble and doubt, and think they have been placed in unpleasant spheres think of their situations, and sympathize with those who hunger nad thirst, who have not the wherewith to supply the commonest necessities of life, and thank heaven that they have been permitted to “drop their lines” among these beautiful hills.

With this little prelude of thoughts rapidly suggested, we will state that on Thursday last, we left Windham for a visit among old friends in and about Westkill. Accompanied by our friend Dr. E. Colburn, we passed through Jewett and Lexington to Westkill, making several calls by the way, and drinking in through the eyelids the waving fields of grain – just yellowing to ripeness – on either side as far as sight could reach. In the town of Lexington, near the Flats, we noticed two of the largest and finest fields of oats we remember ever to have seen. The first belonged to Lucas VanValkenburg, Esq., and the other to George Wheeler, Esq. And here, en passant, let us remind George that Mr. Lorenzo Burrows is not now a candidate for Governor and advise him to scrape off the huge “poster” that graces the upper door of his grist mill.

Arriving at Westkill, we learned that the popular host of the Westkill House, D. C. Deyoe, Esq., had gone to Canada to purchase horses. Whether he took the “underground railroad” to get there, we are not advised, but as Dan always makes capital selections, we are satisfied that an improvement in the stock of his neighborhood will be the result of his visit. During his absence, a substitute had been left who “knows how to keep a hotel” about as well as the proprietor; and, the visitors who had taken up their quarters there, were, of course, well taken care of. A wedding took place in the evening; and, as a matter of course, the parties were saluted with music from all the tin horns, circular saws, cannons and fire-crackers that could be procured.

The next morning, the Doctor, having to make a visit of business and pleasure combined into the town of Halcott, we knew no better way of “killing time” than to visit the tannery of Col. H. D. H. Snyder, fourteen miles distant from Westkill. Procuring a conveyance, therefore, we took an early start on Friday morning, and had a pleasant ride through that magnificent natural road “the Notch.”

Here the mountains tower up almost perpendicularly to a great height on either side, and the road, through sadly in need of repairs, leads by gentle grade to the Kingston turnpike, seven miles from Westkill. Five miles over the planks, with here and there a short patch of solid old “mother earth” to relieve the traveler from too much “sure cure for dyspepsia,” we turned to the right and were on the road to Woodland. A very good road winds through the mountains to the little village, and the residence of Col. Snyder.

The Woodland tannery is situated on the Bushkill stream, and is one of the largest in the State. Col. Snyder purchased a tract of 7,000 acres of land in the fall of 1849, removed his family from Prattsville in the spring of 1850, and built the tannery during the same summer. Since that time, he has made additional purchases of about 3,000 acres. This land is nearly all thickly covered with hemlock timber, from which a sufficient quantity of bark may be taken to last the Colonel for the next fifteen or twenty years. In 1849, there was no road within a mile of the present location of the tannery, and the first tree was cut down, on the ground where the tannery now stands, by the Colonel himself. He now employs, during bark peeling time, over 200 men, and has tanned 44,000 sides of hemlock sole-leather yearly, and will this year turn out over 50,000 sides. He was called hasty and unwise in purchasing so largely, but his judgment has proved “not so unsound after all.”

Colonel Snyder has also a tannery in Delaware County, and his two sons, Henry and Augustus, now own tanneries in Fulton and Lewis counties, respectively, in which they are doing nearly as large a business as the Colonel himself. The Snyder family, including the firm of Snyder & Dimmick, are now doing as extensive a business as any sole-leather tanner in this state.

Colonel Snyder is a practical man, in every sense of the word. He rises early, breakfasts at six precisely, and visits the tannery soon after. He has a pleasant smile and a kind word for all who meet with him, and thus he has endeared himself to every heart in the neighborhood. His residence is situated on the hill in view of the tannery, and externally presents as neat and cozy an appearance as any one could wish for. Internally, the arrangements are perfect. It is furnished in the most elegant and comfortable style, and with plenty of good society about him, he enjoys himself better than any gentleman we know of. Having reared this little paradise among the mountains and surrounded himself by hosts of friends, he loves it dearly, and nowhere feels half so contented and happy as “at home.”

A neat and thriving little village embracing a population of nearly 500 inhabitants, surrounds the tannery and the school district is the largest in the town of Shandaken. Just above the village is the school house, which is used every Sabbath as a place of worship. It is the only place in the town where services are regularly held, a state of things which would not exist but for the Colonel’s liberality in contributing to its support.

On the same stream, still farther up, are located several extensive mills and factories, prominent among which is the wire sieve factory of Ezekiel Edwards, Esq., formerly of Hunter in this county. Also, two large mills belonging to Messrs. Beach & Woodworth. The names of the proprietors of other mills we cannot now call to mind.

Soon after our arrival, a rain storm commenced; which, but for pleasant society, would have dampened the pleasures of the whole excursion. We remained there until Saturday morning, and returned to Windham, bringing a fine little box of trout packed in ice, which were taken from the brook the evening before by the Colonel.

Thanks to Jay for providing the information and to Paul Misko for providing additional history and a photo of the painting.

Rain Gone, All is Well

The rain we had in the past couple of days moved out this morning. We didn't get the pounding that was forecast. It appears that the worst part of the storm moved to our north. The streams rose but stayed within the normal height range. This was great news for us here in the valley and in downtown Phoenicia where people are still recovering from the Oct 1st flood. So all is well.

Not So Bad

So far we haven't gotten that much rain here in the valley. It looks like the National Weather Service has canceled the flood watch for our area. The bulk of the storm seems to be passing to our north. Hopefully, it will keep moving past us. I will keep you posted.

Just Started to Rain Here

It has just started to rain here in Woodland Valley. The National Weather Service flood watch is in effect through Saturday morning. There is also a wind advisory in effect. Those of you who are planning to come up from the city for the weekend should know that the heaviest rain is supposed to occur Friday evening. Please be careful if you are planning to drive.

Flood Watch Issued For Western Ulster County

Here is the weather alert that was just sent out by the National Weather Service. Looks like we might be in for another bad storm! I will keep you all posted.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN ALBANY HAS ISSUED A FLOOD WATCH FOR A PORTION OF EAST CENTRAL NEW YORK...INCLUDING WESTERN ULSTER COUNTY.

* FROM THURSDAY EVENING THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING

* A COMPLEX STORM IS EXPECTED TO DEVELOP OVER THE MID ATLANTIC REGION THURSDAY... MOVE OFF THE EAST COAST... AND INTENSIFY AS IT MOVES NORTHEAST TO THE EASTERN NEW ENGLAND COAST FRIDAY MORNING. THIS STORM HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BRING HEAVY RAIN AND STRONG WINDS TO THE REGION AS WELL AS SOME SNOW TO ELEVATIONS ABOVE 2000 FEET.

* A WIDESPREAD RAINFALL OF 1 TO 3 INCHES IS EXPECTED IN THE FLOOD WATCH AREA WITH LOCALIZED AMOUNTS UP TO 6 INCHES. RAINFALL AMOUNTS OF 2.5 TO 3.5 INCHES IN A 12 HOUR PERIOD WOULD BE ENOUGH TO CAUSE FLOODING. IN ADDITION... MANY AREAS HAVE ONLY RECENTLY HAD WATER LEVELS RECEDE SIGNIFICANTLY FROM THE HEAVY RAINFALL AT THE BEGINNING OF THE MONTH... AND MANY RESERVOIRS REMAIN HIGH WITH LITTLE STORAGE CAPACITY.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A FLOOD WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR FLOODING BASED ON CURRENT FORECASTS.

YOU SHOULD MONITOR LATER FORECASTS AND BE ALERT FOR POSSIBLE FLOOD WARNINGS. THOSE LIVING IN AREAS PRONE TO FLOODING SHOULD BE PREPARED TO TAKE ACTION SHOULD FLOODING DEVELOP.

Crummy Culvert Contest

The Ashokan Watershed Stream Management is having a "Crummy Culvert Contest" to help them locate all the culverts within the watershed that wash out in the reoccurring floods. Here are the details.

Culvert Washed Out?
Enter the Crummy Creekside Culvert Contest

If your driveway culvert is washed out, you know that floods are no fun.
Help us find the culverts that need consistent replacement in the Ashokan Watershed. (The culvert has to be in the Ashokan Watershed).
You could also win a chance for an extreme culvert makeover or a pocket video camera or at least a "Crummy" T-Shirt.

Click here to get details on how to enter.

The goal of the 2010 Crummy Creekside Culvert Contest is to identify the streamside culverts in the Ashokan Watershed that are:

Causing significant erosion above or below the culvert - particularly if the eroded soil is being carried directly into a stream.

A barrier to fish or other aquatic animals trying to travel along a stream or from one stream into another.

Enter your crummy culvert now!

Lord's Lumberyard Photo

After posting the WV history from Linda McDonald recently, a couple of other folks sent me some more interesting information. Here is a message from Dakin Morehouse.

"This pic is from Lonnie Gale's collection and is marked on the back "Lord's lumberyard - 'Brookside'" which was right here in our Woodland Valley (just before the Tonisgah bridge on the right side of WV road).

Once he had a couple shots of rum under his own belt, Paul Miller, Roxmor caretaker before me, son of the founder and long time Woodland Valley Post Master used to enjoy relating recollections of his life in the Valley to anyone who would listen.  And his stories fascinated me.

One can easily imagine how this one about one of Lord family named Loami (I am not sure of the spelling) might well have made an impression on his youthful mind. 

Seems Loami used to walk back up the valley after an evening's binging in the village quite boisterously breaking the silence in the wee hours of the morning declaring repeatedly - "Lo am I .. the Lord?   I am Loami - Lord!   Lo am I not, the Lord?"

- Dakin

Thanks for sharing this photo and funny story with us Dakin!

More About Flood Insurance

Yesterday I posted the message I had been sent from Cornell Cooperative about filing a flood damage report. In the text of the message they directed anyone who needed flood insurance to a website. WV resident Jeff Schwartz emailed me with some concerns about the link. Here is what he had to say.


"Just to let you know that the link that you have to Floodsmart is a web site for an independent insurance agent.

If you have had experience with them and are recommending them, that is OK.

However be advised that any insurance Agent/Broker can sell flood insurance if they are so certified. FEMA's Agent Directory http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/choose_your_policy/agent_locator.jsp

What I see as a marketing ploy by this agency is that they

1. State on the top of their that they are "The National Flood Agency" and display an American flag to give the impression that they are somehow related to the Govt program, they are only an agent.

2. They took the name and locked in the web site address of Floodsmart.COM to mimic FEMA's Flood insurance's AGENTS web site Floodsmart.GOV https://agents.floodsmart.gov/manageagent/pages/agent/index.jsp


As a side note you can get the FEMA Flood map of your area by street address on the web. http://msc.fema.gov/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/FemaWelcomeView?storeId=10001&catalogId=10001&langId=-1

Stay Dry in the Valley"

Jeff

I think Jeff is totally right and the website that CC meant to direct folks to is http://www.floodsmart.gov. So you can go to the official FEMA website and find an agent there. Sorry for the confusion, I just posted the information that was sent to me. I have corrected the original post.

Carol

Flood Damage and Assessement Form

I got this message from the Cornell Cooperative Extension and wanted to pass it along to everyone in the Woodland Community Association.

Did you have flood damage to your property on Oct. 1st?
Please fill out a Damage Assessment Form

Landowners and business owners:

If you own a business or a primary residency in Ulster or County that had any kind of structural damage in the flood on Oct. 1, 2010, it is urgent that you print and fill out a FEMA Residential and Business Damage Assessment Form and send it to your Town Code Enforcement Officer. Click Here for the form. Please share this form with other people who may have incurred damages from the flood. The town and county need to document the amount of property damage that has occurred in order to establish the need for FEMA public assistance funds. Public assistance is triggered if $600,000 or more in damages is documented for Ulster County in addition to $25 million in damages statewide.

Filling in the form is no guarantee of public assistance, but it may help to get a disaster declaration for our area so that funding can be released.
Can't open the form? Click here to download Adobe Reader.

Do you need flood insurance? If you noticed flood waters came close to your home and you don't have flood insurance, you should consider obtaining flood insurance.
Go to floodsmart.gov for more information.

For more information, see the attached letter or contact your local code enforcement officer.

Contact information for Code Enforcement Officers in Shandaken is below:

Town of Shandaken: Gina Reilly
Town of Shandaken
P.O. Box 134
Allaben, NY 12480
Phone: (845) 688-5008
Fax: (845) 688-2041
zeoshandaken@yahoo.com

Guys & Dolls At STS This Weekend

This Friday and Saturday night STS will be giving a performance of Guys and Dolls to benefit it's 'Raise the Roof' fund. The show stars “Uncle Rock” - Robert Warren, Phoenicia Festival of the Voice' performer, Woodland Valley's own Jay Brammen Jr. and Chuck Sokolowski, Former Broadway and regional theatre star Ann Davies, fresh from her critical success in Closer Than Ever – Amy Wallace, mother and daughter Katie and Lucia Legnini and husband and wife theatre veterans Jessica and Brian Sherman. The evening’s narrator and color commentator is Phoenicia’s own Dave Pillard owner of The Tender Land Home store on Main Street Phoenicia. Musical Director is Maria Todoro. Here are the details.

Guys and Dolls
STS Playhouse
Friday October 8 and Saturday October 9
7:00 pm
Tickets are $25.00 and include snacks and desserts
There will be a cash bar and raffle tickets will be sold for the 30 gift certificates available each night.

The STS Playhouse in Phoenicia needs a new roof.  The stage floor has holes in it, the windows need to be replaced, they need new curtains and there are many other repairs needed at the 123 year old space.  But how will they raise the money during a difficult economic time? This theatre has a twist on an old idea.
 
During intermission the theatre will be raffling gift certificates but this raffle is different.  “We know that area merchants are always asked to donate free things to many good causes.  What we wanted to do was stimulate business and help the merchants by asking for vouchers for a percentage off or money towards a larger purchase.  So far we have had a great response,”   says producer of the benefit, Michael Mills.  “We are calling it the Economic Stimulus Raffle and so far 30 local businesses including Woodstock Meats, The Emerson, Sweet Sue’s. The Phoenicia Belle and Oriel 9 have donated vouchers for each evening’s performance.”
 
“I’m in favor of helping a local non-profit organization keep a roof over its head.   The STS Playhouse and the other cultural things help make the town more vital.  This idea could be good for Phoenicia ” adds Tom Fraser who has donated 2 vouchers good for a free night stay with a paid night at the Phoenicia Belle B&B on Main Street Phoenicia.
 
In a show of bi-partisan support area politicians will act as raffle “officials” each night. On Friday evening Republican Shandaken Town Supervisor Rob Stanley will pull the winning numbers and on Saturday Ulster County Comptroller Elliott Auerbach, will do the honors.
 
“I like to support local causes and because we are a new business this idea may introduce us to new customers,” says Erica Makulich, chef and co-owner Yum-Yum Noodleshop a new restaurant and take-out in Woodstock.  They have donated two, 2 for 1 vouchers for dinner. 
 
You can reach the playhouse on the Web at STSPlayhouse.com or on Facebook at STS Playhouse Phoenicia.  On those sites you can find out about the theatre, donate to the “Raise The Roof” fund, buy tickets to the benefit or volunteer your time. They can also be reached at 845-688-2279
 

More Rain But No Flooding

For everyone who is down in the city and hearing that it has been raining for the last several days let me put your mind at ease. Although we have indeed been seeing additional bad weather, the amount of rain has been nothing like what we saw last week when town flooded. So all is wet but well here in Woodland Valley.

Workshop with Alexander Mallon

Woodland Community Association member Alexander Mallon will be giving a workshop this coming Saturday at Mirabai in Woodstock. Here are the details for anyone who is interested.

Alexander Mallon
at Mirabai Books of Woodstock
October 9th, 2010
2-4 pm
$15 pre-registered by Oct.7th, $20 after

The Rising Sign & Personal Identity a workshop with Professional Astrologer/Intuitive Alexander Mallon

The Ascendant or Rising sign of one's birthchart is represented by the sign of the zodiac on the horizon at birth. This Ascendant sign serves as a symbol of your identity. It reveals how you present yourself to the world, how others see and experience you - your personality.

In this workshop you will learn the meaning of your Ascendant sign, and you will also discover what and how that sign's ruling planet acts as a cornerstone for your life unfoldment. This ruling planet shows you both what you must process on a Karmic level, and what you desire to liberate about yourself in this lifetime!

Alexander will provide a computer drawn astrological chart to those who pre-register and provide birth date/time/place of birth at least 48 hrs in advance.

To registar, please phone Mirabai Books of Woodstock at 845-679-2100 AND email Alexander at astroskywatcher@yahoo.com

Missing Adirondack Chair

An Adirondack chair that belonged to Tammy and Richard Feuer washed down the stream in the flood last week. While it probably is in pieces along the bank somewhere, I thought it might be worth a try to see if it had washed up in anyone's backyard. So if you have an Adirondack chair that mysteriously appeared on your property email me at wvview@gmail.com. I will pass the message on to the Feuer's and I am sure they will come and retrieve it asap.