If you like the idea of hanging out in Galileo’s study, Dracula’s castle, a black-and-white Jean Harlow movie, or Cinderella’s ball gown, you might want to book a night or two at the Roxbury at Stratton Falls.
“It’s so satisfying to see her happy and successful and excited now about the future,” said Nancy Sweeney, who volunteers with Kingston-based Raising HOPE, designed to help women succeed despite challenges that have, in many cases, landed them in the social services system. The organization was founded in 2007 to give women who no longer needed such services the help that would keep them moving forward rather than falling back into the system. Today Raising HOPE serves a range of women from all over Ulster County seeking help with education and careers, and a recent grant from the Novo Foundation is expanding their services, increasing the need for new mentors.
“Activism is…better than Prozac. It lifts you out of despair.”
For decades, New York City poetry lovers have celebrated New Year’s Day at one (or both) of two marathon poetry readings held in (or near) the East Village. Now poet Bruce Weber has been joined by Teresa Costa of “Word of Mouth” to create a free six-hour Hudson Valley performance marathon of 100 poets and poetic musicians. “Brain Storms” kicks off on January 1, 2020, at 2 p.m. at the Beverly Lounge, 224 Foxhall Avenue, Kingston.
It’s taken a few years, but the building once occupied by the Phoenicia Pharmacy has developed into a cheerful, bustling market and community space, with two rental areas in back, an art gallery, and an abundance of unusual and esthetically intriguing items for sale.
The Woodstock Jewish Congregation (WJC) is one of 90 organizations, so far, to earn a Seal of Sustainability from Hazon: Jewish Lab for Sustainability, described as the largest faith-based environmental organization in the U.S. Based on an audit of the synagogue’s operations, covering facilities, food, and ecosystems, achievements were noted and inspiration was gained for future improvements.
Having heard enthusiastic reports from friends who’ve walked or biked the Ashokan Rail Trail since the October 18 opening of the West Hurley trailhead, I was curious to get a look at the western section, which opened on Thanksgiving Day. I live in Phoenicia, so the trailhead on Route 28A near Boiceville is only eight minutes away.
On the first two weekends of December, Phoenicia puts together the series of family-friendly holiday events that the hamlet has enjoyed annually for years, including parties, tree-lighting, theater, and caroling.
“I’m known for dresses and partywear,” says Tiny Stainker, fanning out the skirt of a velvet dress in her boutique, Lily’s, next to the Woodstock Village Green. She also sells streetwear, winter hats and scarves, nightgowns, kids’ clothing, cards, chocolate, and an eclectic mix of other items. Most of what she sells is designed by artists she has connected with in her 25 years of running a shop in Woodstock.
The proprietors of the Herwood Inn seem to have thought of everything. Bed platforms flush with the floor, so nothing can roll underneath, including dust. A curated vinyl collection and record player in each of the four bedrooms. Readily available yoga mats and blocks. The Herwood, which opened this September in Woodstock, has been designed and equipped with meticulous attention to detail.