I just loaded the car with my purchases from the first half of the market (see my previous entry), and need to see what I can find in the second half to complete the menu for this weekend’s guests. Yes, having a country home means receiving calls from family and friends asking, “Do you have any plans this weekend?” Most times they are extending the invite to their home; now it’s our turn to reciprocate..

Returning to the market with empty bags (we have been using canvas bags for some time) I first visit Dykeman’s Farm Market’s booth (highlighted in my July 20th blog), I do see the same wonderful corn, tomatoes, squash and seasonal fruit offered up at their farm. Yes, we are spoiled living in the country so close to this great source of produce that can be obtained fresh daily.

At the next booth is Margery Schiffman from Conant Valley Jam Company with a variety of unusual jam made without sugar. “Please try some” she exclaims. “You will not be disappointed.”

At Ashnan Farms booth, owners Micah & Renannah Weinstein and Joe Vail offer an assortment of organically grown produce as well as free-range chickens.

The last booth is combination of wine from Millbrook Vineyards and dairy products from Ronneybrook Farms. Two ingredients necessary for any gathering. Visitors from the city really appreciate local ingredients and products as an exotic alternative to supermarket items. It’s the way we live in the country. You can, too.

I hope my little tour has peaked your appetite to stop by the market some weekend soon. This area of the Hudson Valley has lots to see and do, as well as many great homes available for either weekend or year round country living. I would love to make that dream house come true for you. Please call me at 917-208-0630.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler

One of the joys of owning a country home in the Hudson Valley is getting out to partake in the various local activities. These experiences add value and joy to home owning here. Over the next few weeks I will highlight several of these. The first that comes to mind are the various Farmers’ Markets that have developed over the past few years. Some are open twice a week, but almost all are open Saturday mornings.

Here in Pawling, the program is only a few years old, but it provides a good selection of both organic and non-organic produce, baked goods, preserves, dairy, flowers, plants and even wine. Let us start a tour and give you a brief description of what is there. Starting at the north end of the market you will find Brine Garden and Horticultural Consultants, Inc. Owners Duncan and Julia Brine have been written up in several magazines. Their website, gardenlarge.com contains an excellent description as well as a listing of upcoming tours.

The next booth is manned by Laetitia Ganam of 3 Petites Madeleines. Laetitia is a home baker who brings her creations to this market, as well as the Arlington Farmers’ Market.

At the next booth Mountain Produce Smokehouse features locally hardwood smoked cheeses and meats. After trying a sample I doubt you will go home empty-handed! Once you discover this provider you do not have to wait until the next market day. Visit their website: mountainproductssmokehouse.com or stop by their in-house store.

Prospect Hill Orchards from Milton, NY is next. They feature freshly picked fruits and homemade jams. You may even decide to take a ride to the orchard and pick the fruit yourself – this weekend peaches and nectarines are available.

Wild Hive Farm is the next booth on our tour. There you will find locally grown grains that they have just milled, as well as baked goods using these products. Wild Hive Farm was recently featured in the Wednesday Dining In/Dining Out section of the New York Times, as well as having their baked goods selected for the “goodie bags” distributed at Chelsea Clinton’s wedding.

This is only half of the market, and my shopping bag is full. Stay tuned for the second half of this great food experience.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler

As a Girl Scout troop leader, you try to give the girls tools to help navigate the curvy road that will be their life and try to help them understand that life is so much more satisfying when you are passionate about something.  Few of us know what it is we are passionate about before the age of (let’s say) 40.  

One of the goals of Girl scouting is to instill a lifetime commitment to community service. The current economy has affected us all and many people find themselves relying on food pantries for additional support.  The girls in my troop, Fishkill GS Troop 10348, provided invaluable community service efforts while working on the fourth step of their Junior Bronze Award, which is the highest award you can earn as a Junior Girl Scout.  The girls were amazing! Thanks to the generosity of The Smoke Haus Deli on Rt 82 in Hopewell Junction, and Pet Supplies Plus,  located in the Shop Rite shopping plaza on Rt 9 in Fishkill, we held two pet food drives, collecting dog and cat food and cash donations. With the permission of both the East Fishkill Community Library and Blodgett Memorial Library of Fishkill, we placed collection containers in both libraries for pet food. They made homemade dog treats, chew toys and catnip socks out of old t-shirts and socks. We made signs and posters and wrote thank you letters. What a fulfilling experience for our girls to be able to be creative and learn leadership skills while making an immediate impact in our community. 

Our troop supports Beacon ARF, a no-kill animal rescue shelter and The Fishkill Food Pantry. It’s been a very good summer and my absolute pleasure to have worked alongside these future leaders to achieve the award.  I am so proud of them. We need more Girl Scouts like the girls in my troop and we definitely need more Girl Scout leaders.

For more information about troop openings and becoming a GS leader in the Fishkill Girl Scout community, contact me, Kim Simms, Fishkill GS Community Organizer, at .

Posted by:  Kim Simms

Before all the statistics about housing are reported on the news, the actual sales have to happen first. What real estate agents are experiencing right now will help impact how the world economy behaves in a few months. So every once in a while, I will post a “sneak peek.” Here’s what is actually happening in my business during the last few weeks. There is something about buyers in today’s real estate market that is giving me hope.

To put it in perspective, a little history first. Approximately between the years 2004-2006, buyers were demanding homes that had all bells and whistles - “McMansions” with granite counters, stainless appliances, wood floors and so on. That urgent desire for all the amenities drove buyers into purchasing homes they could not afford. Buyers did not consider what might happen when their adjustable mortgage rates came due. (The reason for the decline of the real estate market is a much longer story. I am focusing on buyer choices at the moment.) 

Recently, I have been hearing my clients sing a slightly different tune. While it is nice to have those extras, more buyers are poised to make purchase decisions based on what they can afford, and are willing to postpone upgrades to a time when they are more certain about their finances. Location, location, location first, Viking appliances later! Yes, buyers want a bargain, it’s their market and they know it. But common sense is back at the helm and it’s refreshing to hear!

The National Association of Realtors released a report on August 24, 2010 that explains the decline in housing sales in July 2010. Home sales (closed sales) declined as anticipated because many people took advantage of the home buyer credit which ended April 30 (buyers had to be in contract by 4/30/10 to qualify). In other words, people who might have otherwise purchased a home later in the year, closed on their homes in June in order to gain the tax credit. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors, explains the findings in this televised interview.

Again, here is what I am experiencing today. Almost like the “good old days” when you bought a starter home, fixed it up over time, and had a solid, common sense plan for paying it off, buyers are indeed buying, but using more caution and care. The difference is that in those “good old days,” 30-year fixed interest rates were much higher (I remember 10% in 1990), and today’s rates are closer to 4.625%. There are still many financial options available to first time home buyers such as low interest SONYMA loans in New York State. If you want to stop paying a landlord and own your home, talk to a real estate and/or mortgage professional. Get all the facts, then decide what is best for you.

Tammy Benkwitt is a real estate agent and instructor who lives in Fishkill, New York. She can be reached at 914-714-2127.

Posted by:  Tammy Benkwitt

As the summer months wind down, we try to pack in all our favorite summer activities. It is also time to start planning for things that we might want to do over the next month or two. One thing I always planned on with my family was an apple picking trip. Dutchess County has a large number of apple orchards that offer a bounty of various apples including red delicious, empires, golden delicious, Macintosh and many more. 

Apparently the unusually warm temperatures have ripened the fruit earlier this year, by about 2 weeks, and some orchards are open for picking now like Fishkill Farms located in Wiccopee. You might ask, “Where in the heck is Wiccopee?”, but don’t worry it’s real easy to find… just off Interstate 84.

Of course there are numerous orchards to choose from throughout the county. NYAppleCountry.com is a great resource which has tons of helpful information. According to their fast facts – New York State is number 2 in the country for largest apple production.

Most orchards offer other goodies like homemade donuts and pies, cider, other fruits (peaches, blueberries, etc.) and vegetables. Once you worked up an appetite from picking your bushels of apples, you can fill up on all the yummy other foods.

So make sure that you look at your upcoming schedule and don’t miss out on the delicious fun!

Oh, and by the way, if you want to learn how to make a yummy apple pie, check out the video below!

Posted by:  Debbie Allan

Whether you’re opening a computer a newspaper or the mail this time of year, the words “Back to School” are everywhere and remind me of the inevitable question I am always asked about. As a Realtor in the Hudson Valley, I am often asked about the quality of schools in the various towns my buyer clients are moving to. Or, if my buyers are unsure of where they want to live, they also ask “Which school is best?” While I am not allowed to recommend one school over the next, I can offer resources for buyers to access to make an informed decision. Every child is an individual and their learning styles, needs and abilities are different so I always suggest visiting the various schools also.

As a parent of a college senior who went through the Brewster Schools, I often wondered did I send her to the right place? I asked myself “Should I have sent her to a private school or different public school?” I decided to ask Erika’s opinion of how she perceived her high school education. Below you will read her thoughts….I think I made the right choice.

“I’ve been out of high school for 3 years now. It seems like so long ago that I walked through the halls of Brewster High School, books in hand, yearning to learn, but also to have fun. Looking back, I realize that it wasn’t just the things I learned through curriculum that were most important; it was those teachers who brought them to life for me. There were teachers who I found I didn’t get along with, and teachers whom I adored. There were teachers who called me my mother’s name, and those who knew I was a Tremblay by the curl in my hair and the size of my eyes. But all of them brought to me a sense of motivation, inspiration, and a thirst to know more. I don’t remember the things I learned as single entities, I remember them as part of the person who taught them. Mr. Viglucci, was the only person able to teach my mother math, and helped me master derivatives, though I soon forgot them soon after; Ms. McTigue, who showed me how to write from my heart, not only my mind. Mrs. Fine, who helped me see my calling as a history major and introduced me to my favorite books and a love of Jane Austen. Mr. Scanlon, who always taught outside the box, never allowing us to take the straight and narrow path; Mr. Gallacher, Mr. Yurus and the entire history department, for not needing to say anything at all and still making me love everything about history. The relationships with these teachers were what taught me the most important lessons I could ever learn. So maybe in the end, it really isn’t what you know, it’s who taught it to you.”

For information regarding any New York schools you can visit www.nysed.gov. Other valuable resources are www.education.com, or visit my website at www.Lisatremblay.houlihanlawrence.com to see various individual school websites and my listings for sale in four different districts.

Posted by:  Lisa Tremblay

Last Saturday night, the Village of Fishkill closed several blocks of Main Street to host a block party. It is a nice opportunity for the public to stroll through the street and have a taste of the various restaurant offerings from numerous local eateries. The choices ranged from raw clams, pizza, Indian and Mexican cuisine to the more common fried dough, hamburgers, and so on. But it wasn’t all about food. The kids had a blast as they bounced in the Dalmatian house, or flew down the slides. A local band playing music from the 1970’s, balloons customized into animal shapes, face painting, and the dunk tank (some brave soul was sent into the water on several occasions while we were there) provided entertainment for all! Local businesses and clubs were also on hand to share their services. Just for Kicks - a local martial arts school, Big Blue Swimming - a private swim club, and several others participated in the event.

The village will hold a block party a few times a year, so stay posted here for the next event! In case you missed it, you can find a few highlights in the video below.

Splash Down Beach in Fishkill, NY  touts itself as “America’s Biggest Little Waterpark” for good reason. It is small enough where you don’t have to walk forever to get to a ride, yet big enough to offer the kind of water attractions most people enjoy. The Lazy River is probably the most popular, based on the number of people we saw there last week. (Who doesn’t want to jump into cool water on a hot summer day and float along aimlessly?) The kids water-park was age-appropriate and clearly fun for little ones, but adult supervision is a must. Even the very tall water slides like “Cowabunga” can be fun for small kids - as long as a grown-up holds them all the way down! One of the nicest features about living in Dutchess County  is being able to live close to major attractions like Splash Down Beach. (Psst…the locals know to wait until after 3:00 PM to visit the park when the day camps have all left and it is less crowded. Don’t tell anyone!) If you aren’t quite brave enough to try the waterside, here it is!

Tammy Benkwitt is a real estate agent and instructor who lives in Fishkill, NY. She can be reached at 914-714-2127.

Posted by:  Tammy Benkwitt

Why own a vacation home you ask? Well for me, it is my asylum from life’s hustle and bustle. Its where I go for that essential downtime – the sought after peace and quiet. When I am home, like most people, I am constantly on the go. So as I drive north on the Taconic Parkway to my upstate getaway - my home away from home - I can feel all the tension leave me. Once I arrive, the tranquility surrounds me and I immediately feel relaxed. I just love pulling up the driveway and seeing everything just how I left it the last time I was there…because its my place!

Another wonderful aspect of owning a second home is that it is a place where family can come to stay with us and we are able to spend real quality time together. We hang out talking, going for long walks, playing games, doing crossword puzzles together and enjoying evenings of storytelling and campfires. Its just nice spending that time together.

Of course there are other positive benefits of owning a second home. There is a feeling of pride in owning an additional piece of real estate and having a good, solid investment as it appreciates overtime – remember real estate is a long term investment! Another great reason is certainly the tax benefits that your accountant keeps telling you about – writing off the mortgage interest and property taxes. 

And one more great incentive is you can go there whenever you want because its yours and no reservations necessary!

Dutchess County is filled with homes owned by weekenders. Just about 90 minutes from NYC – bordered by Connecticut on the east and the majestic Hudson river on the west, Dutchess County is filled with quintessential bucolic settings, an abundance of historical sites, charming villages and towns, an assortment of wineries, festivals, markets and shopping, fabulous restaurants, numerous golf courses and parks, a multitude of breathtaking vistas and much more. Click here to see map of Dutchess County.

For more information on homes for sale in Dutchess County, please call me at 845-705-5441 or visit www.DebbieAllan.com to search for a second home.

Posted by:  Debbie Allan

One of the places I visit frequently in Dutchess County is the Village of Fishkill. In an age where sidewalks are few and far between, being able to park your car and peruse the many shops and eateries is a pleasure. The village is a small community that offers an array of residential choices ranging from condominiums to charming old Victorian colonials. It’s one of my favorite places to visit.

The restaurants in the village are numerous and offer so many choices of cuisine varying from Italian to Thai food. We recently ate dinner and lunch at the newest hot spot, Eleven 11. It offers everything from burgers to lobster macaroni and cheese (delicious)! A must-try appetizer from the Eleven 11 menu is “11 Clams,” a combination of steamed clams with sausage and chicken in a tasty broth. I wasn’t sure about this dish at first, but the mixture of the sausage, chicken and tomatoes on top of the clams make it a special treat. (Be sure to ask for a spoon and extra bread for dipping!) If you have room for dessert, try the crème brule or brownie a la mode!

Don’t miss: the Village of Fishkill block party on August 14 from 6:00-11:00 PM. The village closes Main Street from Route 9 to Jackson Avenue and fills it with music, food vendors, children’s activities, and more.

Tammy Benkwitt is a real estate agent and instructor who lives in Fishkill, NY. She can be reached at 914-714-2127.

Posted by:  Tammy Benkwitt

If you’re like me, you love strolling along old-fashioned Main Streets and checking out the unique shops. Beacon’s Main Street is perfect for that….lots of little owner-occupied shops offering personalized service like it used to be! (No Abercrombie & Fitch here!)

If you’re into outdoor gear and apparel, you’ll want to check out this one. It’s small, but chock full of goodies. Beware: For those who enjoy the outdoors, this store holds lots of temptations.

The selection here is great, but the best thing is that the owners are always there and are extremely knowledgeable about their products. You can tell they are outdoorsey people who are into the sports their store represents. My favorite is the shoe department.

On a recent visit I treated myself to a pair of Fivefingers….they are funky and also very comfortable. They are the next best thing to being barefooted, and I can see why they are getting very popular. (Oh, did I mention I also picked up a pair of Keen hiking sandals? Couldn’t resist - 30% off!) After our visit to the store we trekked up Mt. Beacon and wouldn’t you know it, I received compliments from fellow lady hikers on my shoes. As my partner Rob commented, “Even on the mountain, it’s all about the shoes!”

When you visit, you’ll be greeted by friendly labs Chico & Fame. It’s amazing how they add to the cool vibe of the store. Please close the door behind you so they don’t sneak out onto Main Street! Enjoy!  Stay tuned for my upcoming review of Beacon Bagels!

Posted by:  Dianne Minogue

Gleaming fire trucks rolling through the Village of Pawling with sirens so loud you hold your ears. It’s not a brush fire or a family in trouble. It’s the Pawling Fire Department Carnival & Community Day.

To raise needed funds for vital community services, local merchants and civic groups have organized a two-day carnival at Lakeside Park, to be held on Friday, August 6th and Saturday August 7th. Featuring rides, food, music, health services, blood mobile and the obligatory fire safety demonstration, the events showcase Pawling businesses and nonprofits. Far from the sleepy railroad stop of yore, today’s Pawling is a great place to shop and live.

While you visit the Carnival, why not think of planting some roots in such a vibrant town, so close to New York City on Metro North, yet full of American charm at its best. Ideal for the second home buyer or those looking for a primary residence. Let me show you the best housing of Pawling and the lush surroundings of the Hudson Valley. Please contact me at 917-208-0630. Your family and friends will thank you. And don’t forget, first Prize in the Carnival Raffle is $2000.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler

It’s reported that Chelsea Clinton is getting married at Astor Courts in Rhinebeck, NY on July 31. Known for its bustling tourist activity along the inviting tree-lined streets, Rhinebeck boasts charming old homes and gracious estates, lots of unique shops and fine dining choices, home to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds…and according to the Rhinebeck Chamber of Commerce, Rhinebeck has bragging rights to one of the country’s largest number of historical sites on record! Here is a great video that I found on the chambers website:



I decided that I would go take a look at this place while I was shopping in the area. I did a little homework beforehand and found that Astor Courts was purchased by its current owner in 2005 for a mere $3.2 million. Just this past fall, Astor Courts was on the market for $12 million after an extensive restoration. Built in 1902, this 13,000 square foot estate sits magnificently on 50 acres overlooking the Hudson River. Luckily, I was able to find the old listing which still had a nice slideshow. This place looks perfect for a secluded, storybook wedding. After looking at the pictures and reading through the AstorCourts.com website, I was pretty excited to take a quick trip to Rhinebeck. The drive over from the Taconic Parkway was quite pleasant and relaxing as I enjoyed the countryside scenery. As I drove closer to Astor Court, I thought maybe I would see some flurry of activity, but there was nothing going on. And I couldn’t see a darn thing! I really didn’t expect to see anything judging from the arial photo which shows a really, really long driveway.

It appears from everything that I could find out that Astor Courts is a wonderful place to have a spectacular wedding and certainly can accommodate a very large, distinquished guest list. I can only imagine that the owner was thrilled to learn that the Clintons chose Astor Courts as the venue for Chelsea’s big day. Best wishes Chelsea!

And if you need to buy a house, please call me! To find out about homes for sale in Dutchess County, please contact me at 845-705-5441.

Posted by:  Debbie Allan

Located in southern Dutchess County in the town of East Fishkill, you’ll find an enchanting hamlet tucked amongst the surrounding woodlands and mountains. Wiccopee’s name comes from a Native American tribe that lived there in the early 1700s. Amidst the area homes you’ll find hiking trails, small lakes and streams, a few farms including Fishkill Farms and even some historical sites. But don’t let the natural setting fool you! Wiccopee is situated in close proximity to major highways, shopping, schools, the train station, the Hudson River and only a 60 mile drive to the city. What more could you ask for?

View Wiccopee, NY in a larger map

There are a variety of homes available to purchase in this country atmosphere, like this well maintained, classic five bedroom, Colonial home tucked in Wiccopee – 515 Van Wyck Lake Road.

For more information on this home or others in the Wiccopee area, please call me at 845-705-5441.

Posted By: Debbie Allan

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For those of you that are looking for things to do during the month of August, make sure you put the Dutchess County Fair on your to-do list. The Dutchess County Fair – August 24-29 – has something for everyone! Whether you are looking for the thrill of carnival games and rides, sampling a wide variety of great foods, browsing for souvenirs and unusual crafts, enjoying the entertainment including both big name acts and local talent contests, or just strolling through the exhibits ranging from spectacular floras to adorable yearling calves – you’ll enjoy this fun-filled event. The very first event took place in 1842 in Washington Hollow (between Pleasant Valley and Millbrook) and by 1919 found its permanent home in beautiful Rhinebeck, NY. The fairground is just over 162 acres and is an active venue for hosting numerous events throughout the year including wine festivals, craft fairs, classic car shows and antique shows. But the Dutchess County Fair is the biggest event held on the grounds (it’s the 2nd largest fair in the state of NY) and attracts nearly a half million visitors.

Thank goodness the Clintons did not schedule Chelsea’s upcoming wedding (July 31) for the week of the fair…it would have been a hot mess! So check out the fair this year, mark your calendars for August 24-29 and make sure you don’t forget to bring your walking shoes! To find out about homes for sale in Dutchess County, please contact me at 845-705-5441.

Posted by:  Debbie Allan

Last weekend, I was showing properties to everyone’s perfect buyer: pre-approved for a mortgage (1), renting a home (2), and can move anytime (3)! The “triple crown” of buyers! I spent about 30 minutes placing calls to the various agencies setting up appointments, only to find one required 48 hour notice. The company that sets up the showings refused to call the seller to ask if it was alright to show the house. I persisted and called the listing agent directly who was able to get us in the door. I had almost given up. What was that seller thinking demanding 48 hour notice?

In 2002, a sellers’ market, I moved my family from Peekskill to Fishkill, both small towns located in New York. I sold my condo in about three weeks. Even during that short time, always cleaning the unit, and then having to leave with our 100-pound Labrador retriever for showings was stressful to say the least. So I am indeed empathetic when sellers ask for some notice when buyers want to view their house.

Sellers are in rough seas in 2010. Most agents truly understand what is involved in placing your property on the market and having total strangers walking through your bedrooms when you are not there. We all know there are times when you or the kids may be sick and the house cannot be shown. When it takes months to sell a house, being flexible and having the patience of a saint is essential. You will be rewarded with a faster sale and, possibly, a better price.

Posted by:  Tammy Benkwitt

Reed Memorial Library is the oldest library in Putnam County; it has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1914 by Arietta Crane Reed as an expression of gratitude to her late husband. He was a strong supporter of the Literary Union of Carmel.

The library is located between Rte. 6 and Rte. 52; it is trapezoid shaped with a slate roof. The architectural style of the library is known as Tudorbethan, it is constructed of native stone from Lake Gilead. Inside there are some original furnishings along with two fireplaces. The fireplace in the main room has a mantel carved in the shape of monks’ heads; the second fireplace is located in the children’s section.

Reed Memorial Library remains a prominent structure overlooking Lake Gleneida.

The library offers many classes for children and adults; it offers a huge selection of books, CDs, magazines, DVDs and public computers.

If you would like more information you can view their calendar from their homepage: www.reed.carmel.lib.ny.us. If you would like more information on Tudorbethan, there is a Community Facebook page dedicated to this type of architecture.

Looking forward to seeing you at the library!

Contact me for information on homes in this area! or (845) 661-0664

Posted by:  Toni Addonizio

Many people love to have a lakefront or lake view home. I had the opportunity to show several homes this past week to prospective buyers looking for a weekend getaway. They were interested in the town of Kent located off of Rte 301 or Farmers Mills Road because of its proximity to the Taconic.

The town of Kent is located 60 miles north of New York City. There are thousands of protected acres by the NYC DEP. Two city reservoirs are located here along with Lake Tibet, China Lake, Seven Hills Lake, White Pond, and Lake Sagamore.

Many of the homes we viewed were lakefront, many had private beach rights, while others had fantastic views without beach access. For those without private beaches, it’s a short drive to Fahnestock Park, which is located off of Rte. 301. Comprised of approximately 10,000 acres, it has three ponds and two lakes. It offers fishing, hiking, biking and horseback trails, camping, cross-country skiing and hunting. There is also a Nature Center with varied programs throughout the summer.

Canopus Beach is also located at this park and is very popular to those who are looking to swim. It offers a picnic area with grills. Fishing is allowed and row boats are available for rent at Canopus Lake.

Would you like a bucolic view from your living room? and I would be happy to help you find your room with a view…

For more information on the park you may call 845-225-7207.

The photos included were taken from the deck of one of the houses we viewed.

Posted by:  Toni Addonizio

As a Realtor, I have often envied car salespeople who can send clients on their way to test drive a gorgeous new car and say, “Try it out….enjoy it….bring it back tomorrow!” This was done for me (or TO me?) when I bought my Mercedes convertible….and believe me, there was no way that baby was going back to the showroom after living with it overnight…it was going home to my garage! (No regrets, I might add!)

I was thinking about this again when I was invited to spend an evening on the deck overlooking the river at the home of Michael Hennessey and David Sutton. (Yes, that’s famous Michael of the former Hennessey & Co. Hair Salon some of you may remember from years ago.) Although I had listed the home and touted its beautiful view and other attributes, it wasn’t until I spent some real time there that I was able to fully appreciate the essence of that property. Wow! As we enjoyed our wine and cheese, barges and sailboats silently floated by. This home sits up high, so it has the most wonderful feel ~ and it is totally private. The woods surrounding the residence are home to deer, birds and other wildlife. It is strikingly serene and beautiful. I didn’t venture into the heated pool that night, but could only imagine how great it would be to float in that pool overlooking the Hudson River in such a private location that, well, let’s just say the wildlife are the only ones who would see those few extra pounds you may be carrying! (I am told that it’s effective to use the word NUDE while blogging….so there you go…you can swim NUDE!)

So…..my challenge is….how can I get potential buyers to appreciate this property when they typically spend only a few minutes viewing it? Maybe when showing it we Realtors need to allot an extra half hour or so for “deck & wine” time….I’ll even provide the wine! I am willing to bet if buyers spend time there the way I did, they will not want to leave! (BTW, my car looked awfully nice in that driveway…..hmmm….)

For complete information and photos of this property, click here: www.houlihanlawrence.com/285387 or e-mail me at

For all of my listings, please go to www.dianneminogue.com. Or you can even call me! 914-204-7120

Posted by:  Dianne Minogue

Opening my back door and testing the air, I realize I have no need for the light jacket I had been planning on wearing. The sunny day and warm temperature has been the norm here this summer in the Hudson Valley. For me, summer means barbeques, beaches, fresh produce, time with my family, and parades! As the daughter of a Brewster Volunteer Fireman, I can remember as a child looking forward to the annual fireman’s parade in our home town. It was an opportunity to see my father march in his freshly pressed uniform or drive one of the newly shined fire engines. I remember a feeling of great admiration for him and the other men and woman who served our community. Then, they were simply heroes. Today, they are the elders, the wisdom and the humor, that smile down on the younger generations of our town and try to teach us not to be so serious all the time. They are our memories, and our history. So we celebrate them and our younger firemen and women with the annual Brewster Fire Department Parade to be held on July 28 in the town of Brewster at 7:00 p.m. The parade begins at East Main Street and Oak and ends just past the Brewster Fire Department on North Main.

I had the opportunity to meet with Edward Schneider, who has been a member of the Brewster Fire Department since 1950, a former chief and who is considered the department’s Historian. I was impressed and enlightened when he showed me the room he created to display the fire department’s history. It was filled with antiquated photos, trophies and memorabilia. After speaking with him, I realized this fire department is filled with history all its own.

The Brewster Fire Department was organized in 1870 by a group of people who saw the need for fire protection. There were 40 original members. The first parade was hosted on July 8, 1871 to celebrate the Fourth of July. Today there are over 100 members in Brewster’s Fire Department who will be joined by members from 34 fire companies who serve around the Hudson Valley. These 34 companies will be judged in approximately 31 categories including Best Tanker, Best Ladies Auxiliary and Best Overall Unit.

So this July 28 start a tradition with your family and pull up a seat on the curb or bring yourself a folding chair and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Brewster Fire Department Parade. Learn more about the Brewster Fire Department and its history on their website.

If you would like information regarding real estate in Brewster or the surrounding Hudson Valley, please feel free to contact me at or at 845-553-4989.

Posted by:  Lisa Tremblay

Rare Opportunity to Own a Multi Building Complex with North Salem Schools

Would you like to open a daycare/nursery school?

Maybe you are looking for something for professional use or an art studio…

Building also suited for a small church…

This is it!

This property boasts a brick 4 bedroom, 3 bath main house with an additional 4,000 sq. ft. building with 2 baths. Additional barn with electric and water. Located on 3.6 acres with park-like property and large parking lot. Great Income Potential.

For more information on this property, go to www.houlihanlawrence/3012707 or contact me at (845) 661-0664 or

Posted by:  Toni Addonizio

No home will ever meet everyone’s expectations. Every home has its pluses and detractions – it is up to each potential buyer to weigh the pros against the cons. But when it’s right, it changes your life!

Twenty years ago, long before I started a second career in real estate, my partner and I decided that it would be great to escape from our co-op in the Big Apple and find a place in the country to spend weekends.

We each had a car that we used for business, so we set a time limit on how far we were willing to drive to get to this future home. We also knew that finding a location near a train would be a big advantage to ourselves, our family and friends without cars.

Originally the thought of an old farmhouse was what we had in mind. But most farmhouses we saw were built too close to the road, had small rooms with low ceilings, and needed extensive and costly renovations.

Eventually after many months of searching rural NY and NJ we stopped at the then Houlihan Lawrence agency in Pawling. The rest is history – we made an offer and purchased the fifth home the agent showed us. A renovated ranch in a lake community, with vacant land on either side of the property (that we have subsequently purchased). Swimming, boating, cross-country skiing, hiking the Appalachian Trail, golfing , gardening - and the bugs – are all near by and a part of our life.

Twenty years later we have just semi-retired, doubled the size of our home, and recently sold that city co-op. The majority of my real estate career has been listing and selling homes in this area to other city dwellers looking for that great second home escape.

It’s the way we live. Let me help you enrich your life the way we have enriched ours. Please can contact me at: 917-208-0630.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler

The “corn” road signs for Dykeman’s Farm are finally up on Route 22 and other roads around Pawling. Traveling north or south on Route 22, travelers have been taking a short detour to stop at this third generation family-run farm, started in 1946, for the pleasure of picking up some of the daily picked corn or tomatoes, or other locally grown produce. Not only is this produce fresher and sweeter than from the big supermarkets, but it also helps support the local economy. Beth Dykeman (see photo with Bruce) would of course agree.

Over the years my family has tried many ways to cook corn on the barbeque. We have found it tastes best to shuck the corn just before grilling. Then depending on how many ears you are making, place the shucked corn in a brine (for 4 – add a quarter cup each of sugar and salt to a quart of water ) and soak for 15 –20 minutes. Then without rinsing place the corn on the hot grill cooking over indirect heat. Rotate the corn for approximately 15 minutes, then place over high heat for the last few minutes so the kernels become evenly toasted.

Dykeman’s Farm has become a “must visit” spot whether you are viewing local properties or as a stop on a weekend drive in the Hudson Valley before heading home.

Mention that you saw this blog, and Beth will surely add something to your grocery bag when you make your purchase at Dykeman’s.

Posted by:  Bruce L. Radler

The sculpture of Sybil Ludington you see as you pass through the town of Carmel is the works of Anna Hyatt Huntington. It was erected in 1961 and commemorates Sybil’s famous ride. Sybil was the daughter of Colonel Henry Ludington, the commander of the 7th regiment of the Dutchess County Militia.

She was born in 1761 in the town of Kent. She is famous for her ride through Putnam/Dutchess warning the militia during the American Revolutionary War that British troops were burning Danbury, CT. She left her home on April 26, 1777 and traveled 40 miles on a treacherous trip. The paths she rode were filled with horse thieves, cowboys and skinners. She rode through Carmel, Mahopac, Kent Cliffs, Farmers Mills and back home on a rainy night. Approximately 400 troops were unable to save the town of Danbury, but they managed to stop the advances of the British  in the Battle of Ridgefield. She was congratulated by General George Washington. In fact, there is a statue of Sybil in Washington, DC.

Her hometown was renamed Ludingtonville honoring  her heroic ride. The present day intersection of  84 and Ludingtonville Road was the home of Col. Henry Ludington.

For more information on Sybil or the homes of Carmel, please contact me: (845) 661-0664 or  

Posted by:  Toni Addonizio

Here’s a great event not to be missed. For the past two years I have personally missed this event as I heard about it too late. On Saturday, July 31 come to Beacon for Electric Windows 2010. 30 artists will gather in Beacon to create live artwork and their work will be installed on the exterior of a 19th century factory building. There will be street vendors and live music contributing to the fun, so be sure to bring the kids ~ they will love it! And here’s something you won’t find on the website….don’t forget to bring an extra T-shirt….last year there was (free) screen printing which produced ultra cool T’s…and you can even bring one that already has a design on it which can make it even more fun. The event runs from Noon to 7 pm, rain or shine (event will be moved indoors nearby in the event of rain). And for you night owls there’s an after party at the Piggy Bank Restaurant nearby which starts at 10:00 (21+), $5.00.

Beacon is an easy trip from NYC on Metro North, and if you don’t mind a bit of a walk (some slightly uphill) you won’t even need a cab (the event is at the east end of Main Street, furthest from the Hudson River). And Beacon’s Main Street has lots of fun little shops to browse in along the way.

For additional info, visit the web site at www.electricwindowsbeacon.com or contact me at or 914-204-7120. See you there!

Posted by:  Dianne Minogue

Congratulations to Nicole and Doug Hocutt on recently closing on their new home in LaGrange, NY. Searching since March 2009, they happily found a great value in a foreclosed home that was in fairly good condition. Doug finally had found the raised ranch-style home that he was searching for in his budget; and Nicole just loved the layout, the large updated kitchen, the neighborhood setting, Wappingers schools and overall location. They have big plans for renovations and updates to make it truly their own. Doug is excited to finally have his very own man-cave where he can now display his extensive Star Wars collection. Nicole is thrilled to begin decorating the rest of the house including the nursery for their newborn daughter. Luckily Doug and Nicole are able to take advantage of the Federal First-Time Buyer Tax Credit and will be receiving a nice check from the government for $8000 to help with some of their big plans. Best of luck to the Hocutts in their new home!

Posted by:  Debbie Allan

Has gum or wax ever gotten stuck in your dog’s fur? Well, my client did…I was doing an Open House this weekend and we were discussing the fact that her 6 month old Yorkie named Rosie managed to get the wax from mini Babybel cheese stuck in the fur on her face.My client thought that she would have to cut her fur in order to remove the wax until I told her to take out the “Skippy.”

We proceeded to apply the peanut butter to the fur and massaged it in until…voila! No more waxy mustache. So the next time you’re faced with this type of situation please don’t be a cutter, just use Peanut Butter.

By the way, this is where Rosie lives…

Fore more information on this property (or other handy dog tips), please contact me at or (845) 661-0664.

Posted by:  Toni Addonizio

Every time I have company from out of town I take them to the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, NY. Not only is it great exercise (the bridge spans 1.28 miles) but the views are incredible!

The walkway opened last fall and has been a popular Dutchess County destination ever since. It is easy to get to and there is plenty of parking. On a visit last fall we watched boat races up the Hudson River. I often recommend it to families and individuals relocating to the area. What a great way to take in the local sights. This can be a fun outing for the whole family!

Have you visited the Walkway Over the Hudson yet? What did you think?

Posted by:  Elizabeth Nunan

The Hudson Valley is the region of towns and communities bordering on the Hudson River stretching from Yonkers, NY in northern Westchester County up to Albany, the state capital, and Troy, NY. The area is as rich in American history as it is in natural beauty. Dating back to the earliest days of colonization in the early 1600’s, the Hudson River has been vital in moving people and goods throughout the region. During the French and Indian War and later, the Revolutionary War, the British saw the Hudson as a strategic stronghold to prevent invasion from the north and to cut off the flow of supplies to enemy forces.

The Hudson Valley is also a literary and artistic center of early American culture. In 1826, James Fennimore Cooper penned his novel, The Last of the Mohicans, a fictional history of Native Americans’ struggles to survive and adapt in their newly colonized land as the French & Indian War raged on in 1757. Washington Irving’s classic tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, has haunted generations of Americans with the story of a Headless Horseman terrorizing residents of the Hudson Valley, particularly the main character, Ichabod Crane.

Today, the Hudson Valley is a charming and picturesque region that is home to state government employees, retirees and New York City commuters. Tourists travel to the Valley from around the world to shop in the quaint antique shops, sample dozens of fine dining options or take in a round of golf. Other popular destinations in the Hudson Valley include the United States Military Academy at West Point, the estates of Franklin D. Roosevelt and John D. Rockefeller, and dozens of local wineries that offer tours and tastings regularly.