The Sharon Springs Chatter
“Sharon Springs chatters like a chipmunk in a freezer” ~ jkp
July 2011 Vol. 1, Ed. , Page 1
A RECAP OF HAPPENINGS
The Garden Party was a big success! During the weekend of May 28-29, an estimated 2000+ people came by car, bus, foot and - llama . . . really? One visitor was overheard saying, “The show brought me here, the village has kept me.” Stay tuned for details on the Harvest Festival which will be held September 23-24th.
The non-book signing at Village Hall Gallery was a big success, too. Although the books decided to tour the country and not be in Sharon Springs during the Garden Party weekend, the signing went on. Michael Whaling was on hand to talk stone and take orders for his book, The Garden Wall at Beekman Farm. The book is now in stock at the gallery and on the Beekman 1802 website. UPDATE: After their grand tour, the initial shipment of books arrived, and sold out within a few weeks. The next shipment of books will be here in July.
SHARON CELEB SPOTS
tab (Hunter, do you know another Tab? Ed. note) and his partner allen glaser. tab was "spotted" having lunch at the black cat and dinner at the american, as well as dropping by several of the shops. while here he visited howes cavern, cooperstown, and the arkell museum. and he helped pick and hull 14 quarts of strawberries. he also left a sock in the dryer at our house...we'll auction it off to the highest bidder. :)
Not just pretty faces, but hard workers, too! Thank you for the scoop, JKP!
SHARON STYLE
Mitchell, who is brimming with decorative expertise, is also an astute member of the fashion intelligentsia. We can all learn from his latest observation, “Ladies and Gents, the vent on the back of jackets and skirts should always be open, not stitched closed from the factory.” Snip it, please!
MS POLLYANNA'S CORNER
We can all agree it is good to learn something new everyday. Or, sometimes it isn’t really learning something new but, well, perhaps something we have forgotten. Today I’d like to take the opportunity to remind everyone that we should all leave a little bit of sunshine with everyone we meet. A kind word, a smile, or at the least not an unkind word, is a good investment for all of us.
MORSELS
Philip D. asserts the best breakfast is Heidelberg multigrain bread, toasted, and spread generously with chunky peanut butter. The crowning touch is a sprinkling of blueberries on top, cut in half. Particularly a good idea when one is running very late. Do take the time to fastidiously slice a dozen berries in half.
YUMMY BITES
Luna, Cakes by Design, "Where art meets cake..." located in the heart of Sharon Springs. Specialty cakes, cake pops, and desserts for all occasions. Make your next special occasion a real event! All of their cakes are locally grown. Visit: www.lunacakesbydesign.com, or call 518-284-2616
DELECTABLE DELIGHTS ala AMERICAN HOTEL
A poll of appetizers on the AH menu indicates that crab cakes win! Runner up was the poutine. A number of responders couldn’t decide because they “love ‘em all.” The good news is you can indeed try them all. Appetizers can be ordered at the bar after 5:00 for those wanting a light nosh or, of course, as an appetizer that will compliment your dinner.
CONGRATULATIONS to Doug, Garth, Heidi, Lee and staff on their 10th year of entertaining and delighting our palates!
BRAIN FOOD: LEARN SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY— OR, IN THIS CASE, ONCE A MONTH
The wonderful Italianate building that now houses the Village Hall Gallery was built in the1850’s. It was originally located at the North end of Main St. In the late 1800’s it was moved to its current location. The structure was home to the Sharon Springs Fire Department for many years as well as housing the village jail in the basement. In 1910 the first free public library in Schoharie County opened in the backspace. For awhile the library shared the space with one fire truck. If you consider it, you will see that the main gallery is the perfect size for a truck. In 1964 the fire department moved to its current location on Beechwood Road. In 2007, the library moved a bit further up the hill, in what was the bowling alley. The old Village Hall & Library building was purchased in 2008, and the gallery opened in 2009. The second floor, once used for village meetings, dinners and various organizations is now The Loft; a 1,200 sq. foot open space fully equipped for overnight accommodations.
TRULY SUSTENANCE: SOMETHING WORTH LEARNING MORE ABOUT
Shumei is a Japanese spiritual organization that is based on Natural Agriculture and the importance of beauty in everyday life. The founder, Mokichi Okada, taught that healing could be achieved, on many levels, “through an appreciation of art, a reverence for nature.” As stated in their brochure, “Art touches that part of us that exists above the struggle for survival and beyond human reason. . . When touched by Art and beauty, we place a higher value on life and all creation.” To find out more go to: www.shumei.org
TOWN HISTORIAN CORNER
Sharon Springs, a place of healing for thousands of years! Well before the European settlers came to this village, native peoples used the various springs to help prevent or soothe many ailments. In fact, artifacts found in the area indicate a presence of native peoples dating back thousands of years.
The tribe we are familiar with today are known as “Mohawk”, which means “man-eaters” in the language of their enemies, the Narragansetts; somewhat unfortunately, the Europeans adopted the name. The Mohawk call themselves “People of the Flint,” or in their language “Kanien’gehaga.”
The area around the springs was considered a sacred place where shamans would gather to purify themselves in the healing waters. Native peoples continued to visit Sharon Springs for many years after the Europeans moved in and “owned” the land.
In the 1850’s, Harpers Magazine featured an article and woodcut showing the “Indian Encampment” by the Springs— these Indians would partake of the waters during the summer months while they made and sold baskets to the tourists. Native basket makers came to Sharon Springs annually well into the 20th Century.
Today when we all mourn the dereliction of the once beautiful Sulphur Springs’ Park, we might wish it could once again be a “sacred place” where all are welcome.
Thank you, Nancy Pfau for this informative and timely article!
SPEAKING OF THE WATERS . . .
Concerned residents have begun a Facebook page to inform and connect with others who are seeking input about the proposed hydrofracking in the town of Sharon Springs. Visit their page, or go to Facebook and type “Sharon Springs Against Hydrofracking” in the search.
WISE WORDS
I think having land and not ruining it is the most beautiful art that anybody could ever want to own.
~Andy Warhol
The Answer Is !
How much wood can a woodchuck chuck? Answer: a lot of wood and garden.
As I looked adoringly at the very large chuck tending to her children I thought this has to stop. I have to get a grip on the reality of how destructive they have been. Within seconds this charmed scene was taken over by David Sedaris-“ian” sensibilities. The loving mother was actually saying, “The man hates us, but he has left for work. She is very impressionable so, “O.K., kid make this look good, she is watching us. As soon as she’s gone you are going to take your fat rump over to that garden and bring your addict mother more green beans and a pack of smokes.” A tough reality, but even chain smoking woodchucks deserve to live. Right?
No Answer
This rabid reporter has failed to sleuth out the facts behind the defunct, deteriorating, soon to be dust, Imperial Bath House. The answer will be pursued more in preparation for the August Chatter. If you have any scoop on the future of this important piece of village history, do report back to us.
An Idea
Speaking of Sharon Springs infrastructure. Wouldn’t a simple pavilion be wonderful in Chalybeate Park? Imagine a simple concrete slab with a permanent wooden roof that could be used year round. The need for such a structure seems particularly evident during this rainy season. If anyone has any interest and ideas about how to pursue this, let us know!
LATE BREAKING NEWS
The refrains of, “Yes, yes, yes!” are being heard throughout New York State. At last, the same sex marriage bill was passed. Now partners will be legally married, allowing them rights too long denied. This is, also, an affirmative statement negating intolerance and discrimination.
Congratulations to all of the soon-to-be newlyweds!
Ding dong, the bells are going to chime, I'm . . .
In the next edition of, The Chatter, we will add an “announcements” page to report who said yes to whom, the details of upcoming weddings and, of course, engagement party news.. So, if you haven't, it's time to get on your knees, ladies and gents, propose to your loved one. Really, you can – it's a law!!
Business Beat
STUDIO NORTH
Studio North presented their 16th Annual Dance Performance at Sharon Springs School on Memorial Day Weekend to a full house. The dancers presented the “90’s” and danced to music from Men In Black, Riverdance and the Brian Setzer Orchestra.
The history of the “90’s” was presented in choreography depicting the Bosnian War, Apartheid and the Rodney King incident. Younger dancers demonstrated their skills the following day at a full house matinee.
Studio North’s Summer Session begins June 27th; it is not too late to join a five week session with classes in Irish Step, Hip Hop, Ballet, Belly Dance, Dance for Heart, Jazz, Tap, Cardio Kickboxing, Acrobatics & Yoga.
Summer Camps for Kids begin July 11th. There is a masseuse on premises. For more information: go to www.studionorthny.com; or email at studionorthny@hotmail.com; or call at 518-284-3340.
BLACK CAT CAFE
The Black Cat Café is open7 days a week starting Tuesday June 14th through Labor Day, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Tony's next Sharon Springs Book, new, improved version of his 2010 Guide will be ready for the Harvest Festival— much more book and celebration and even some dirt— the 2010 Guide is available for sale at Amazon.com or at the Black Cat and is an even better value at $7.99.
Check out their gorgeous upstairs with an internet bar (free WiFi) and Cookbook store. Glimmerglass Festival picnics are not just for festival goers, for details call the café.
Also they are adding Clausen Ridge Blend as their medium-strength brew, and also selling their coffee beans.
SHARON SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWS
Annually, the chamber awards $300.00 to a graduating student who is continuing their education in a business oriented degree program. Four students were nominated and interviewed by the chamber committee. They were all impressive but Katrina VanArsdale exemplified the characteristics of poise, vision, and integrity. Congratulations to Katrina and all of the graduates of 2011.
The Chamber has begun a “Welcome Project” to greet newcomers to town. Several businesses have joined together to offer a bag full of coupons, gifts and information. If you or your business would like to participate, contact Leila at 518-284-2402.
The Chamber website is currently undergoing a major remake. It should be up by mid July. In the meantime, information is still available at www.sharonspringschamber.com
And the Beat Goes On . . . Welcome:
~Bruce and Kelly Button opened The New York House B&B at 110 Center Street this year. The interior has been completely redone. They offer 6 rooms with private baths. (I hear Bruce has a new, really big shed that can be used in a pinch, for a more rustic, country experience.)
~ Sharon Springs Classics opened last fall at 204 Main Street. Owner, Angela, states they are expanding their line to include not only classic toys but gifts for men.
~Spring House Spa, at 200 Main Street will officially open on July 1st. Cheryl and Craig have done a wonderful job of renovating the “Monticello House.” The opening of the Spring House Spa marks the return of spa services to the historic Village of Sharon Springs.
Spring House Spa is offering Hot Stone Massage, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy massage,
Foot Reflexology and facials using our exclusive organic skincare line. Their
therapists will consult with you and suggest a treatment that best suits your
preferences and needs.
The spa’s carefully selected retails lines feature botanical products that naturally beautify
your face, body and home. Come and enjoy the Historic Spa Gallery, have a massage or facial,
shop a little or just say hi!
Their spa menu will expand and evolve each month. Body exfoliations and mineral
body wraps coming soon! Stay tuned… 518-284-2400. Hours: Thurs-Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
COMING SOON . . .
~ Owners, Jim and Norm will open 204 Main Bar & Bistro in the Fall. Jim states they will be serving, “freshly made, affordable food in a clean, modern space.” Beer and wine will be available.
~ Clausen Ridge, formerly known as Clausen Farms, is undergoing an extensive, extensive renovation under the loving guidance of Susan Dost and Yvonne Gardner. The Casino will be open for tours during this year’s Harvest Festival. Susan and Yvonne will be introducing their new, therapeutic elixirs as well.
The Cupola—their signature nightcap, is guaranteed to give you warm sweet dreams.
Henrys Hopper promises a little hip in your skip.
Einstein- Gingko will have others yelling “brilliant!” Can’t wait !
We have “The Beekman Boys” and now we have “The Clausen Girls.” Hurrah, it’s a good trend – let’s keep it going. We need the “Imperial Baths People” next – (where are you?) Yoo hoo!
July, not-to-be-missed, EVENTS
July 4th—Celebrate the holiday with The Fabulous Beekman Boys as they welcome bystanders to model walk with them at the Cobleskill Parade. Get your pretty on and go with the boys. It is billed as, “the world’s largest model walk.”
The Sharon Springs Citizen’s Council for the Arts Concerts are celebrating their 17th year of summer concerts. Concerts are held every Wednesday in Chalybeate Park, Main St., Sharon Springs AND the concerts are always free. Meet your friends, tap your toes and sing-along (mmmm, maybe not . . . )
July 6th – Slick Fitty July 13th – Holly & Evan
July 20th – Emerald Dawn July 26th – The GTO’s
The Sharon Historical Society’s Museum is open & free! July & August 1:00 -4:00 p.m., or by appt.
July 23rd - The village-wide yard sale day ~ more treasures than you ever knew you needed.
Sat. Mornings – Farmer's Market, across from The Roseboro Hotel, Main St., Route 10
A SHORT DRIVE FROM SHARON SPRINGS: MORE CULTURE, CULTURE, CULTURE.
The Cooperstown Summer Music Festival begins in July. Enjoy professional, topnotch, world-class performances in a casual setting at affordable prices. What’s not to like?
July 3rd The National Jazz Museum in Harlem All Stars at The Farmer’s Museum
July 14th Music from Copland House at the Otesaga Resort Hotel
July 29th Kurt Elling at the Otesaga Resort Hotel
~ 2002-2011 posters, designed by Milton Glaser, are available at the Village Hall Gallery.
We have posters 2002 through 2011 ! They are wonderful ! www.cooperstownmusicfest.org
Glimmerglass Festival opens on July 2nd with a classic, Carmen. Interspersed throughout the month are, Medea, Annie Get Your Gun and a double bill of two new operas, A Blizzard in Marblehead Neck and Later The Same Evening. If you think you don’t like opera, think again. www.glimmerglass.org
The Arkell Museum in Canajoharie is only 15 minutes north on route 10. Currently, the well curated, exhibition of drawings by Franz Vogt & Rufus Grider are installed in the two main galleries. Be sure to look at the powder horn drawings, they are exquisite. www.arkellmuseum.org
Hyde Hall is an architectural and historical gem on the North end of Otsego Lake. It’s an easy, 20 minute, drive from Sharon Springs. Well worth the trip! www.hydehall.org
Your feedback & news is always appreciated (and needed.) Please send your chatter to villagehallgallery@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you. As my mother-in-law would say, “No detail too small.”
* Thank you, Mr. David DeVito for a fine editing job! You are not only handsome, you are so smart, ! *
