Dutchess Holiday Issue

In

Happy Holidays!

AS WINTER SETTLES over Dutchess County, the holiday season reminds us how deeply rooted we are in community. This issue is filled with the stories, traditions, and people who make this time of year especially meaningful.

We begin with the remarkable Puppies Behind Bars program, where service dogs in training form life-changing partnerships that embody the generosity of the season. Community traditions also shine: our town holiday parades return with their familiar joy, and Mills Mansion transforms into a picture of historic elegance. We visit Battenfeld’s, where the third generation continues the family’s beloved Christmas tree-growing legacy. This issue also highlights those who give back. Angels of Light continues its tireless work supporting families with seriously ill children, bringing comfort when it’s needed most. You’ll find a list of more-than-deserving nonprofits across the region that could use extra help this time of year.

For a festive dose of style, the co-founder of Stylest invites us into her Millbrook home to share her family’s joyful decorating traditions. We also step into the historical holiday splendor of the Wilderstein estate, and sit down for a memorable dinner at Il Figlio.

Wishing you a warm, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season.

Mary Beth Lawlor Editor-in-Chief / Publisher

DUTCHESS

Contents / Holiday / 2025

Home for the Holidays

Although they claim to like “a little bit of kitsch”Joyann and Jeremy Michael (and daughters Sienna and Whit) manage to create settings and traditions at their home in Millbrook that would be the envy of anyone who’s dreaming of a good old-fashioned family celebration. Join them for a tour of traditional design—leavened with a dose of fun.

17

PUPPIES BEHIND BARS

An innovative program at Green Haven Correctional Facility brings puppies to incarcerated individuals, who live with the dogs and train them to do essential aid and guide work. The program offers hope, purpose, and cuddles. By

tara kelly

42

HELPING HANDS

Assistance can come in many forms and at any time of year, but winter is when many organizations are most in need of volunteers and donations. We’ve compiled a list of area nonprofits that could use a helping hand. By alexandra mazza

46 WILDERSTEIN

The holiday season can be one of the best times of year to visit the estates of the Hudson River Valley. At Wilderstein, floral designers and decorators are invited each year to evoke holiday spirit all through the house. By Tara kelly

Who WE ARE

ML BALL / writer

Writer ML Ball chronicles her delightful visit with Amandine Noca, owner of La Caviste in Poughkeepsie, the only one featuring women winemakers. In a bit of his-and-hers, Noca’s husband, Antoine Lefort, runs Le Caviste in Stanfordville. Share a glass with those you love; it’s the holidays!

SABRINA EBERHARD / photographer

Hudson Valley photographer Sabrina Eberhard specializes in hospitality, architecture, and lifestyle photography. For this issue, she photographed Il Figlio Enoteca and Battenfeld’s Christmas Tree Farm. Her work highlights the region’s most distinctive people, spaces, and businesses.

RANA FAURE / photographer

Rana Faure, once a Getty Images director of photography and photo editor at Seventeen magazine, now turns her lens on the people and places of Dutchess County. For this issue, she photographed the historic Wilderstein estate, and captured the holiday beauty of Joyann Michael’s elegant Millbrook home.

TARA KELLY / writer

In this issue Tara Kelly shares a behind-thescenes look at the remarkable work of the Puppies Behind Bars program, and then takes a step back in time when she tours the historic Wilderstein estate in Rhinebeck, decked out for the holidays. Kelly is an author and freelance writer.

JAMIE MARSHALL / writer

Jamie Marshall is a freelance writer, enthusiastic equestrian, and skier who covers travel, interior design, and personalities. In this issue Marshall profiles the festive holiday decor of Millbrook residents Joyann and Jeremy Michael.

DUTCHESS

Holiday 2025

MARY BETH LAWLOR

Publisher / Editor

DEBORAH HAYN

Creative Director

VANESSA HAMMOND

Operations Manager

CYNTHIA HOCHSWENDER

Copy Editor

ZANDRIA OLIVER

Production Assistant

ALEXANDRA MAZZA

Production Assistant

GEORGIA LOPRESTI

Event Manager

Contributing Writers

ML Ball, Lambeth Hochwald, Tara Kelly, Jamie Marshall, Alexandra Mazza, AJ Schenkman, Christopher Stella, Clinton Kelly

Contributing Photographers

Sabrina Eberhard, Rana Faure, John Verner

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feedback

“Such an interesting story on a gorgeous site. I could scroll through pictures of this estate for hours!” [“Welcome to Wethersfield: A Hidden Eden in the Hudson Valley” September/October/ November 2025] —@amazza_

COVER

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WETHERSFIELD

“Love Wethersfield—especially my girl Alaina, who makes all the beautiful designs for the flowers happen!!!” [“Welcome to Wethersfield: A Hidden Eden in the Hudson Valley” September/October/November 2025] —@paulinieman

ELLEN’S GARDEN

“Love this so much!” [“Natural by Design: A Landscape Both Wild and Intentional” September/October/November 2025] —@covaley_

“Such an amazing property, wish I could tour it myself!” [“Natural by Design: A Landscape Both Wild and Intentional” September/ October/November 2025]

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LITTLE GOAT

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—@covaley_

“Looks wonderful!” [“Little Goat Delivers Big Flavor in Rhinebeck” September/October/ November 2025]

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FROG POND FARM

“Best house and people!” [“Synchronicity in Stanfordville: A Perfect Melding of Styles” September/October/November 2025]

—@glyniscarpenter

“Gorgeous! Such a beautiful blend of unique interior styles.” [“Synchronicity in Stanfordville: A Perfect Melding of Styles” September/ October/November 2025]

—@zannioliver

TEN MILE TABLE

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—@emilymcelwreath_art

“Best taste, best curation.” [“Wine in Wassaic” September/October/November 2025]

—@rosemaryrosefinery

“Best new shop of 2025!! The Hudson Valley is lucky to have Ten Mile Table!” [“Wine in Wassaic” September/October/November 2025]

—@erin_e_miller

SEEING OVER THE HORIZON

“It’s really hard to believe how fast the time has gone… We are extremely thankful for the foresight of the DLC.” [“Supporting the Land that Supports the Community” September/ October/November 2025]

—@millbrookshultz

Q&A

FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT came to his estate, Springwood in Hyde Park, to recharge his physical and mental spirits. This was especially true during his favorite holiday, Christmas, when he spent time there with family and friends.

Each year, the tree in his study was cut from the Christmas tree farm on the estate. Roosevelt loved to decorate with real candles, and with glass balls his mother had collected in Europe. After he became paralyzed from polio, he directed his family members on where to place each ornament.

One fondly remembered holiday family tradition was Roosevelt reading Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, to his children and later his grandchildren. Stockings for all the family were hung in Roosevelt’s bedroom on Christmas Eve, and opened on his bed in the morning. Downstairs in the

study, chairs were piled high with larger, wrapped presents.

Every year, the National Park Service decorates the mansion as Roosevelt would have remembered it. One difference:

The holiday evergreen is no longer cut down from the property, as a precaution against introducing insects into the house that could destroy the historic items displayed there.

The candles now are also battery operated, to prevent the risk of fire. Even with an artificial tree and lights, visitors can still feel what it was like to be at home for the holidays with FDR and his family. —

AJ SchenkmAn

Where History Gathers?

ESTABLISHED IN 1766 , the Beekman Arms Inn is one of the oldest continuously running inns in the United States. Its cozy hearth provided refuge from the winter chill—and drew people together in a way that was essential for survival.

Rhinebeck has a history rooted in agriculture, and winter chores were brutal: woodcutting, ice harvesting, roadway snow management, and chimney maintenance were just a few of the labors locals faced each season. Farmers, merchants, and townspeople gathered after long hours to share stories, meals, and companionship. The inn became a center for social and political life, famously hosting Franklin Delano Roosevelt at the start of each of his presidential campaigns.

Throughout the 20th century, the Beekman Arms continued as a pillar of Rhinebeck’s community, hosting town meetings, service club gatherings, and weddings. Today, it remains a cherished gathering place while drawing visitors from near and far with its small-town charm and reputation for high-end hospitality. —AlexAndrA mAzzA

CUTTING EDGE

BY TARA KELLY

On Our RADAR

The Perfect Christmas Tree? Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder

Picking a Christmas tree is a very personal thing. If your perfect tree is sparkly white, never needs watering, and can be stored in a box until next year, this story might not be for you; then again, if you’re still reading, it might change your mind.

For those who want a truly old-fashioned holiday experience, a visit to Battenfeld’s Christmas Tree Farm on Route 199 in Red Hook is the ultimate way to enter into the spirit of the Christmas season.

The opportunity to walk out into a field, choose your very own tree, cut it down, and haul it home just adds to the experience. Families have made it a tradition to get their tree here, returning generation after generation.

Fred Battenfeld says he’s been selling Christmas trees for most of his life.

“My dad sold his first tree here in 1956 for a dollar. If we went and cut it, it was two dollars.” Fred took over from his father, and now Fred’s children, Lance and Morgan, work here as well. Their mother, Suzanne, oversees the wreath and holiday decorations business.

Of course, deciding which tree to cut is perhaps the most important decision.

Start with the type of evergreen: fir, pine, or spruce. Then, consider the size and shape. “It might look tiny in the field, but trees grow by the time you get them home,” Battenfeld jokes.

“I like to tell people it’s not so much about the product, but the experience: Come spend the day with your family, be outside, create a memory.

“We have families who’ve been

coming for three or four generations.”

It’s wise to plan your visit early— these trees are so popular that waiting too long means risking the chance they’ll sell out.

“People used to wait until the middle of December to get their tree,” Battenfeld says. “But these days, the flood gates open the weekend after Thanksgiving.”

While it might look like there are plenty of trees, they have to save some for future years. These trees grow about a foot a year; on average the smallest tree they sell is seven years old.

Santa always makes an appearance. Horse-drawn wagon rides are available. There is a refreshment stand— and there is all the twine you need to tie that perfect tree to the roof of your car for the trip home.

But Battenfeld’s doesn’t just sell Christmas trees, they also sell wreaths, roping, tabletop decorations, and ornaments.

By early November, the place is buzzing like Santa’s workshop, with workers decorating hundreds of tabletop boxwood trees, and making wreaths.

“I used to drive around on the ATV with my dad and help people with their trees. Then, when my mom started decorating peoples’ homes and businesses, I helped with that,” says Morgan Battenfeld. Now she does it on a much bigger scale, with help from staff.

And what kind of tree does the Battenfeld family get? “We usually pick the Charlie Brown tree—you know, the less-than-perfect one, the one that was overlooked,” Morgan says with a delighted grin.

—facebook.com/Battenfelds

A Toast to Women Winemakers

Poughkeepsie’s Eastdale Village has added the retail outlet that it was missing: a wine shop. Opened in June by Amandine Noca, La Caviste is the sister shop of Le Caviste in Stanfordville run by Noca’s husband, Antoine Lefort. Though similar, La Caviste focuses on wines from women winemakers, from a wider range of countries, and at an affordable price point.

“I thought it was important to make people aware that there are many women producing great wines,” says Noca. “We also offer natural wines because women winemakers make a lot of natural, organic wine.” In addition, there is a room dedicated to dessert and sparkling wines, cocktails in cans, and spirits.

Like Le Caviste, every bottle is personally curated by the owner from producers she knows. Above each section of wines are animal cutouts of which foods pair best with those selections. “For example, I would suggest pairing whites and lighter reds with white meat, heavier reds with beef, and Shiraz or Malbec with lamb,” Noca explains.

La Caviste is open every day; wine tastings are every Friday, 4 to 6 pm.

—@lacaviste.eastdale

— By ML Ball

PUPS BEHIND BARS

Winning Hearts and Changing Minds

BY TARA KELLY

›At Green Haven Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in southern Dutchess County, men serving long prison sentences with little to no chance of parole are transforming their lives and those around them with the help of Labrador retriever puppies.

Puppies Behind Bars (PBB) is the inspired idea—and life’s work—of Gloria Gilbert Stoga, who founded the organization in 1997. The concept is simple: Teach incarcerated individuals to train puppies to be service dogs. PBB offers a way for the incarcerated to find and give hope.

A puppyraiser at Green Haven, bonding with his new student.

One of the biggest champions of PBB is Green Haven Superintendent Mark Miller. “Puppies Behind Bars is the only true program where the department and the incarcerated individuals can pay it back to society, our service men and women, and our partners in law enforcement. I was told that Green Haven staff would not accept it, but I was determined to change that narrative,” says Miller.

An incarcerated individual must meet stringent criteria to be accepted into the program as a puppy raiser. Then they spend a year learning the ropes before they are given their own puppy to raise and train.

The men live in a dedicated gallery at the correctional facility, sharing their cell with their puppy and a very large dog crate. It is a two-year, 24/7 commitment. They have easy access to outdoor space (accompanied by a prison guard) but the only time off for good behavior goes to the dogs, who, with the help of a cadre of volunteers, spend time being socialized in the outside world. Just as important as the people who train and raise the puppies are

On Our RADAR

the people who receive them into their lives, and the jobs the dogs will go on to do. Initially, Stoga was focused on training guide dogs for the seeing impaired, but over time the program has evolved to meet the needs of the moment.

“After 9/11 we added explosive detection canines. In 2006, with the ongoing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, we started training dogs for wounded vets, with both physical handicaps and PTSD,” Stoga says.

“We’re still serving veterans; but then the Sandy Hook shootings became the catalyst for helping first responders here at home.”

The focus now is training service dogs specifically for police officers and EMTs who’ve suffered trauma, and facility dogs to help bridge the divide between the police and the communities they serve. Two weeks before the dogs are released to their new homes, the recipients come to Green Haven to work with the dogs and their puppy raisers.

At a graduation ceremony held in May in the Green Haven visiting room, Superintendent Miller, Stoga,

PBB staff, and all the volunteers came together to celebrate the handoff from puppy raisers to the new handlers. They each spoke about their experience.

Mike, one of the incarcerated puppy raisers, talked about partnership, describing a life in which his constant partner was drug addiction. “This is the first and only partnership in my life that has had a positive effect. PBB makes me feel good about myself.”

Jamel, a police officer whose dog, Patti, will become part of the Community Resource Unit in Wilmington, Delaware, said, “Inside Green Haven I saw hope and compassion.” He told the puppy raisers, “Your work is meaningful and powerful.”

Brandi, a retired first responder, and federal disaster medic, spoke about a life shaped by pain and trauma. She gave credit to her dog’s puppy raiser. “Bailey is not just a service dog. She’s a healer. Surviving isn’t the same as healing. What I didn’t expect was hope—offering peace where there used to be chaos.”

—puppiesbehindbars.com

HOLIDAY GRANDEUR

An Intimate View of Gilded Age Elegance

BY CHRISTOPHER STELLA

›Set against a bend in the Hudson, the Mills Mansion’s facade, lawns, and sweeping views were built to make a lasting impression. It’s a physical marker of a turning point in 19th-century American culture, where old and new wealth converged— and one woman aimed to become the next “queen” of Gilded Age society. That woman, Ruth Livingston Mills, was the fourth generation of

her family at the estate, a manor built in 1832 as a 25-room Greek Revival home (an earlier 1790s house was destroyed by fire). Her 1882 marriage to Ogden Mills, a wealthy financier whose father made a fortune in California, united pedigree with new money. Ruth set her sights on succeeding Caroline Astor as society doyenne, with her mansion in Sta-

atsburgh as the route to the throne. In 1895, the Millses hired famed architect Stanford White to expand the home to 79 rooms, and to do them in the Beaux Arts style—preserving family history while creating new capacity to entertain society’s most prominent figures in exceptional grandeur.

The building is a unique combination of architectural

eras. The Neoclassical portico remains on the east side of the edifice, while the wings and raised roofline extend the building’s footprint and represent the Beaux Arts style. The grounds occupy approximately 200 acres, which are now owned by New York State and open to the public, offering visitors access to river paths, a carriage barn, superintendent’s house and more, that showcase how the estate functioned. Inside the mansion, the design skews toward European, with a dining room and library in the Louis XIV style—with opulent fixtures and gilded details. “The dining room was meant to be the showpiece,” notes Maria Reynolds, curator at what is now called the Staatsburgh Historic Site.

While the estate is accessible to visitors year-round, the opulence of the Gilded Age is most fully on display during the holiday season. This year, the mansion’s A Gilded Age Christmas follows the theme of “The Grand Tour,” a rite of passage for the era’s elite. “Wealthy individuals of the time would take six months to tour the world, which influenced the way they collected art and objects,” says Reynolds. “Each room will be decorated based on a country.”

On select Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons in December, visitors can also experience music performed by local artists, spanning classical, jazz, holiday music, showtunes, and original pieces. There is programming for the

whole family, with holiday-themed scavenger hunts and, on select Sundays, a Holiday Whodunit that lets children solve a historic mystery based on clues provided by costumed interpreters. It’s no wonder that in 2024, Staatsburgh was ranked sixth in USA Today’s “Ten Best Holiday Historic Home Tours” list.

Ruth Mills never achieved her coveted society crown. Her children, lacking similar ambitions, donated the property to New York State in 1938— along with 200 acres of waterfront land, and all the original furnishings.

The Mills Mansion is a gift to historians and to anyone fascinated by one of our nation’s most extravagant eras. —millsfriends.org

PARADES OF LIGHTS

Communities Come Together for the Holidays

BY CYNTHIA HOCHSWENDER

›The holiday season “parades of lights” might seem hokey—to the uninitiated. A bunch of fire trucks and farm vehicles wrapped in holiday bulbs, driving through the village center on an ice-cold evening, honking their horns like a fleet of mad geese?

But there’s a reason why they’re an unerasable entry on the annual calendar of most small towns in Dutchess County (and nearby Litchfield County, Connecticut). First of all, they’re

fun, not just for small children but for everyone. Most parades are paired with other seasonal activities, such as the lighting and decoration of the town’s holiday tree. Carols are sung, cookies and cocoa are enjoyed. Sometimes Santa makes an appearance.

Underlying all the festive joy, however, is an important clue to how these small towns maintain such a high quality of life

with very limited resources: Everyone helps out. The stars of all the parades of lights are the fire and ambulance volunteers (yes, volunteers) who leap out of bed in the middle of the night to help their neighbors in situations as mild as a beeping fire alarm and as traumatic as structure fires and motor vehicle crashes.

“The holiday parades are a chance for the firefighters to be together in a non-emergency situ-

ation and to have some fun,” explains Joseph Perusse, who is both a New York State Police trooper and a Millerton fire volunteer.

Emergency responders from New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts take part in each others’ parades—just as they take part in the 911 calls of their neighboring towns. It’s a system known as “mutual aid,” and it’s what happens when there are multiple emergencies in multiple locations, such as car crashes on an icy night, or a tragic massive fire that requires more trucks and volunteers than any single town can muster.

Last year, Perusse says, there were trucks from 20 towns and three states participating in the Millerton parade.

To find the holiday parade of lights in your area, visit the town website and look at the calendar of events.

Some towns don’t bother to post this information online because “everyone knows when the parade is!” If you’re

not sure, call town hall and ask for the town clerk.

The first parades of the season are held after Thanksgiving; they’re usually staggered so that the fire and ambulance companies can take part in each others’ events.

The best-known regional parades are in Red Hook, Pine Plains, and Millerton (which hosts a weekend full of activities including hayrides, sidewalk sales, craft activities, and the screening of a holiday film at The MovieHouse).

For those who’d like to drive in their own parade of lights, the Dutchess County Fairground in Rhinebeck hosts an event in which civilian cars are invited to drive through hundreds of lit displays in the guise of holiday trees, snowflakes, and more. The beneficiary of this year’s Wonderland of Lights is Make-a-Wish Hudson Valley.

For dates and ticket prices, go online to thewonderlandoflights.com/ dutchess-county-fairgrounds

THE LEGACY OF LIGHT

Bringing Hope and Comfort to Families in Crisis

BY MARY BETH LAWLOR

›For families facing the unimaginable—a child’s critical illness or tragic injury—the smallest act of kindness can make an immeasurable difference. For nearly two decades, Angels of Light has been a beacon, offering comfort, financial relief, and moments of joy to families across the Hudson Valley. Now, through its ambitious Legacy of Light program, the organization is creating lasting change that will con-

tinue to serve generations to come. The program focuses on largescale, enduring projects designed to provide long-term impact and stability for families in crisis. This year, Angels of Light announced a remarkable new initiative: the construction of a parent home at Blythedale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla. This residence will offer parents a place

Angels of Light brings much-needed joy and support to families with hospitalized children.

to stay—completely free of charge— while their children undergo treatment for severe illnesses and traumatic injuries. For many families, lodging expenses have been one of the most overwhelming burdens. The new parent home will eliminate that stress, allowing parents to remain close to their child’s bedside during the most difficult moments of their lives.

The idea for the project was born out of direct conversations with hospital executives, who shared the urgent needs within their pediatric departments. The alignment between those needs and Angels of Light’s mission sparked the creation of the Legacy of Light program. The organization’s long-term vision is to expand this initiative to hospitals across all 11 counties it serves, continuing to build spaces that offer comfort, dignity, and hope to families in need.

While the program focuses on building long-term solutions, Angels of Light continues its essential, hands-on community programs throughout the year. Its financial assistance program supports approximately 150 families annually,

helping them cover rent, mortgage payments, gas, and the cost of medical devices. By alleviating financial pressures, the organization allows parents to focus on what truly matters: caring for their children.

During the holiday season, the holiday giving program brings warmth and joy to more than 120 families each year. Volunteers shop, wrap, and deliver personalized gifts so parents can spend precious time with their children—moments that, for many, are among their last together. Local businesses play an important role by hosting giving trees or adopting families, ensuring that every wish list item carries deep meaning.

Through their Kids Helping Kids program, young members of the

community learn the power of compassion by organizing fundraisers, writing cards, and creating art for children in hospitals. These simple gestures foster empathy and connection, showing how even the smallest hands can make a big difference.

Rounding out their outreach, the pediatric gift giving program delivers cheerful gift bags filled with books, art supplies, toys, and clothing to hospitalized children—small comforts that bring joy in uncertain times.

Together, these programs embody the mission of Angels of Light: to bring light, hope, and love to families when they need it most—a legacy that continues to shine ever brighter. Find out how you can help at angelsoflighthv.org

SPONSORED / Clinton Kelly Chats with Williams Lumber

Tinsel and Tools

...

BY CINTON KELLY

LOOK, I APPRECIATE wood as much as the next guy, but I’m not exactly the type to hang around lumber yards. So when I pull into Williams Lumber in Rhinebeck, I’m not sure what to expect. But I can tell you “major North Pole vibes” was not even on the bingo card.

Right in the center of the store, amidst the aisles of caulk, tools, and screws, sits a sparkly winter wonderland. Toy trains chug around ornately decorated faux evergreens, while onlookers belly up to the white picket fence that keeps overeager hands from causing a mini-derailment. The other customers and I, we’re all sort of mesmerized, like we’re accessing some deep childhood memory from arm’s length. I spend about ten minutes just staring. Ten min-

utes! Do you know how much doom scrolling I could get done in that amount of time? What’s going on here?

“This is my way of telling people to slow down, to enjoy what they have,” says Kimberly Williams. Seems to be working.

Parents bring their kids in after school to watch the trains circle.

Men linger a little longer than their wives might have anticipated. Even seasoned contractors pause for a gander, undoubtedly subtracting that time from their billable hours.

All this holiday spirit is the passion project of Kim, senior VP of Retail Operations and Marketing, who runs the store and its six other locations with her father, Sandy, and sister, Kelly. Their grandfather founded the company in 1946, making it

a nearly 80-year business. Kim is endlessly entertained by the transplants who’ve moved upstate in recent years. “All these New Yorkers came in during the pandemic,” she says, “and desperately needed matching Carhartt jackets to bring firewood inside. It was hysterical.” She can also tell a country newbie by their approach to choosing the right snow shovel.

“They’ll sort of scoop up imaginary snow, seeing if it feels right. The locals just grab one and say, ‘Yeah, this’ll do.’”

Though she may chuckle at the occasional city fish out of water, they are, after all, why she’s here. A second-generation Rhinebeck native, Kim loves retail and knows the business from the ground up. She started at the age of 14, taking inventory

in the lumberyard and learning grading (whatever that is—I didn’t ask). “I had to earn a lot of respect, being the boss’s daughter,” she says. “People would think, who’s this snot-nosed brat coming in? Especially being a female. It took some time, but I did it.”

She did indeed. And as I stand here, watching these trains locked in their never-ending loops, I can’t help but reminisce about a time when retailers prioritized joy the way Kim does. And I also ask myself, do I really need another Christmas ornament that looks like a tekka maki roll? And the answer is yes. Yes, I do.

Williams Lumber and Home Centers, 6760 Route 9, Rhinebeck —williamslumber.com

Out &About

›› Highlands Horse Show

Held in New York’s Hudson Valley, the 2025 Highlands Horse Show delivered two weeks of top-level equestrian sport, family fun, and entertainment. Spectators enjoyed exclusive dining, hillside seating, shopping, concerts, and the Bridlemont Concours car show—an unforgettable community celebration that marked the perfect start to autumn in Dutchess County.

SPONSORED / Clinton Kelly Chats with Adel Chefridi

Old World, New Rules

Rhinebeck’s

Adel Chefridi

IT’S ONE OF THOSE perfectly crisp days in Rhinebeck when the town looks like it was designed for a Hallmark movie. Or is it Lifetime? I don’t know. I stopped watching cable television when it stopped paying my mortgage. Anyway, you get the idea: lots of cute sweaters on cute people, red bows galore, twinkling lights, and the faint smell of burning wood in the air. The kind of vibe that can soften the scowl of an old curmudgeon like yours truly.

The jewel-box storefront of Adel Chefridi beckons me to come inside and bask in its golden glow. The jewelry cases twinkle with pieces inspired by the designer’s Tunisian upbringing, some delicate, some bold, all intricately detailed. The staff smile and greet me warmly,

Redefines Jewelry for Modern Life

...

BY CLINTON KELLY

and I strike up a conversation with Annie Dye, gemologist and manager of the gallery.

Chefridi founded his brand in 1999, and opened his Rhinebeck studio five years ago. Every Adel Chefridi piece is handcrafted either on-site or in their sister studio in Tunis, blending Old World artistry with modern design. The pieces feel both organic and refined, not the easiest balance to strike. They don’t scream Look at meeee! They whisper, I see you looking at me, with my quiet confidence and impeccable taste. How could you not?

As Annie and I talk about how much the concept of personal style has changed over the past decade (or even the past year), we immediately agree that the

best way to look modern is to delete the old rules from your jewelry playbook. For example:

Save the Good Stuff for Special Occasions

No. Just no. “Jewelry is not supposed to be sitting in a box,” Annie says. “It’s meant to be worn and loved, and to see the light of day. These aren’t just rocks and metal, they’re feelings.” If your most beautiful piece of jewelry makes you feel amazing, don’t pass up the opportunity to feel amazing—even if you’re just running errands. But also, don’t be stupid. “Insure it,” she says, “and wear it.”

“I’m a Gold Person” Life’s too short to limit yourself to one metal, especially in the

Layering Era we’re currently inhabiting. “Layering is the easiest, most interesting way to mix metals,” says Annie, especially if you incorporate some mixed-metal pieces. “We do so many here, warm and cool tones together, and it always works.” If the thought of layering stresses you out, keep it to three necklaces: one long, one medium-length, and one short. Let the middle one be the outlier, metallurgically speaking.

Classics Should Be

Minimalistic

Sure, diamond stud solitaires might be classics, but not all classics are diamond stud solitaires. “They can have interesting shapes, multiple stones, hand engraving,” Annie says, “something you don’t see on everyone.” She shows me her favorite example of this: Chefridi’s Lotus Studs, the settings of which look like tiny flowers. She and I agree that classic needs to be redefined as anything you can see yourself happily wearing ten years from now.

Jewelry Should Be

Proportionate to Your Frame Sure, shows like “What Not To Wear” might have stressed the importance of proportions— and I’d argue there’s still some validity to it—but I love Annie’s approach: “Your attitude should determine the size of your jewelry.” Brilliant. If you’re feeling main-character energy today, go big with a tourmaline cabochon. Hopefully romantic tomorrow? Reach for that subtle heart pendant. In other words, be your own casting agent.

—chefridi.com

Holiday Gift Guide

If your holiday season starts off at a steady, spirited pace, but turns into a dash for the finish, you’re not alone. There’s a lot to do, not the least of which is finding ideal gifts for everyone on your list. Take heart. Artisans, retailers, and professionals across the region are ready to lighten your load with unique, top-quality wares and services…keeping your Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa celebrations magical fro now until the new year!

BY BRANDEE COLEMAN GILMORE

‹ BEAUTY OF THE SEASON

A trip to Byrde + the b is always a treat, but this season it’s all the more special because of their Environ Triawave Facial. This state-of-the-art offering combines three technologies to lift and tone facial muscles, while deeply infusing vital nutrients into the skin, improving fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone and sagging skin without downtime. For the skincare lover in your life, what could make a more happy holiday than that?

BYRDE + THE B, 43 West Street, Litchfield, CT 860-619-0422, byrdeandtheb.com

› THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Year after year, Litchfield Distillery makes it so easy to give the spirit lover in your life something to look forward to. For 2025, their Founders’ Reserve release showcases an exquisite 8-year bourbon whiskey crafted from 100% Connecticutgrown grains and bottled at 100 proof. Aged to perfection, this rich, full-bodied bourbon reveals layers of caramel, butterscotch, and a hint of cinnamon on the finish — could those flavors be more apropos? It’s even ready for gifting in a striking, foil-stamped holiday gift box. $74.95

LITCHFIELD DISTILLERY, 569 Bantam Road, Litchfield, CT 860-361-6503 LitchfieldDistillery.com

‹ WHAT A GEM

Add some sparkle for the holidays and all days! These lustrous French, multi-gem earrings are hand-wrought in 18-karat yellow gold with rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Dating to 1960, these mid-20th century stunners are something she can carry off at a cocktail party, or with jeans and a black turtleneck. Price upon request. If it’s not quite the pair you had in mind, peruse their extensive collection of one-of-a-kind pieces from every period at their New Preston shop. Holiday hours Wednesday - Sunday, 11 - 5.

HAYS WORTHINGTON, 13 East Shore Road, New Preston, CT 860-619-0714, haysworthington.com

‹ SPARKLING BRIGHT

Move over gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Lumeniri in New Milford offers cultivated luxury for the modern jewelry gift-giver. The first of three stunners this holiday season is a striking blue east-west set marquise labgrown diamond — perfect for a pinky, cocktail or modern engagement ring ($2,195). The second is a soulful, symbolic evil eye medallion featuring a blue lab-grown diamond ($2,695). Finally, the graduated Riviera diamond necklace is a refined and fluid, non-tennis take on timeless luxury ($3,195). All three are set in 14K gold, and custom designs are always welcome.

LUMENIRI, 7 Kent Road, New Milford, CT 312-320-3797, lumeniri.com

SPONSORED / Clinton Kelly Chats

with Dobson Pools

Accurate Reflections

I didn’t expect to have much in common with Julie Dobson, professionally speaking. She’s lovely and all, but she builds pools for a living, and I build wardrobes. One requires digging a giant hole in the ground; the other, countless hours spent in a fluorescent-lit dressing room with clients in their underwear.

But as it turns out, Julie and her business partner and brother are in the same line of work: We help people realize a vision they can’t necessarily articulate. And sometimes we have to talk good people out of really bad ideas.

“The choices people make for their pool and surrounds are such an expression of personality,” Julie told me. “Not just style, but generation, cultural background, and values.” In other words, your pool is a lot like your

wardrobe, only larger and much, much wetter.

Julie and Brian spend their days steering people around obstacles, Brian literally (like actual boulders) and Julie emotionally (like money). Like me, Julie tries to get inside her clients’ heads— what they love, what they need, what they can actually afford.

“After I get to know someone,” she explains, “I start connecting the dots of what’s important to them. Then I show them how to value-optimize their wants if certain things need to be prioritized for budget.”

The same way I might suggest a client buy a Prada dress and accessorize (temporarily) with J.Crew shoes, Julie might suggest prioritizing the pool itself, and landscaping now and

saving the outdoor kitchen for phase two.

And we both know the landmines called trends. Because here’s the thing: A pool isn’t a one-summer fling. It’s a decades-long relationship. It’s one thing to regret buying striped cushions instead of solids, or planting peonies instead of hydrangeas. It’s another to regret tearing up your backyard to install a 50-foot-long, neon-lit kidney bean. The pool equivalent of a cold-shoulder top: cute for five minutes, 2016 in photos forever. Stick with a classic design, clean lines, and durable finishes, Julie recommends, and then have fun accessorizing with the chaises, umbrellas, and plantings.

Julie and Brian are particular about details—and I respect that. “We won’t showcase or

photograph a poolscape that doesn’t meet very specific criteria,” Julie shared. I feel the same way about fashion. There are looks I simply will not endorse on national television. Jeggings. Crocs. I can go on.

What struck me most is how personal it all is. These two understand the emotional impact of having a vision realized. “I’m amazed looking at personal projects I’ve completed and realizing it’s a complete reflection and expression of who I am across many levels,” she says. “You get to a point in life when you know what works for you.”

And that’s the real parallel. If you can look in the mirror—or into the water—and think, Yeah, that’s me, you’ve nailed it. @dobsonpools

A Country Christmas

One Millbrook Family Pulls Out all the Stops

Decorating the tree has become a family tradition, and everyone lends a hand. The couple collects ornaments throughout the year.

“My kids are at the perfect age to make Christmas perfectly magical and totally over the top,” says Joyann. The front stairs are adorned with a festive mix of greenery, white lights, and red satin bows. The living room has a glamorous vibe and is where the Michaels entertain friends during the holidays.

Joyann

and Jeremy Michael share a love for country life, entertaining friends and family at their home in Millbrook, hanging out with their kids, Sienna, age 7, and Whit, age 2, and—at this time of year—decorating for the holidays.

“We call him the Clark Griswold of Millbrook,” says Joyann about her husband of nine years. “He wants as many lights as electricity will allow on the house.”

And not just the house. The day after Thanksgiving marks the stringing of lights on all the outbuildings and the trees lining the long driveway. The festive display has become a holiday landmark for friends and neighbors. “If they don’t see the lights they start calling us,” she says.

The magic continues inside the couple’s gracious white Colonial (dubbed Whiskey Ridge), where each of the downstairs rooms is adorned with holiday finery.

As a former fashion editor in New York City and co-founder of the shapewear swimwear brand Stylest, Joyann has a great eye. She says her mother is a “fabulous entertainer,” who

Joyann and her daughter Sienna put the finishing touches on the dining room, with its blue-themed table—including silver candlesticks dressed with velvet bows, and Lela Rose’s 12 Days of Christmas china. On the property, all the outbuildings and shrubbery are strung with white lights.

“She showed me how to enjoy the process. I don’t overthink it.”

taught her how to set a beautiful table and make everything feel special. “She showed me how to enjoy the process,” says Joyann, a concept she takes to heart as she unpacks boxes and boxes of ornaments and trimmings. “I don’t overthink it.”

Last year’s blue theme in the dining room was inspired by Bunny Williams’ Blue Forest wall covering. The beautiful tablescape featured a set of 12 Christmas plates designed by the couple’s good friend, fashion designer Lela Rose. Each plate depicts a line from the song The 12 Days of Christmas. Rose originally hand painted a set of plates for her brother, and then decided to reproduce them to sell. “They are very special,” says Joyann. “They are beautiful and chic—but also magical and kid friendly.”

The tree takes center stage in the family room (the heart of the house), and trimming it is a day-long affair. The living room is a more focused project, and has a more sophisticated vibe. Here Joyann combines a mix of textures—metallics, glitter, glass. “This is the place for glamorous cocktails and a holiday playlist,” she says.

When it comes to the overall feel, the couple strives for balance. “I love a beautifully decorated home for Christmas,” says Joyann. “But we do want a little bit of kitsch.”

Consider the front entry hall, which last year featured a life-size reindeer and baby deer, a gift from Joyann’s mother. When they arrived, the Michaels were somewhat flummoxed. “We laughed and said what are we going to do with this? So, we put jingle bells on them.” They were joined by a jolly Santa dressed in plaid and a neon red Merry sign. “That sign is the ultimate kitsch,” says Joyann. “Jeremy found it, and I was like I don’t know about the Merry sign; and he said, ‘I believe in the Merry sign.’ Honestly, he would put The Christmas Story leg lamp in the windows if he could.” n

A sense of playfulness marks the front entry hall with its “Merry” sign, a pair of reindeer sporting jingle bell necklaces, and a jolly Santa resting on the bench. The tree-lined driveway welcomes visitors with a dazzling display of green and red.

Pools That Inspire Summer

Bespoke Backyard Escapes for Modern Living

SINCE 1987, Litchfield County Pools has been shaping the landscapes and lifestyles of homeowners across the region. The second-generation family business has remained a sought-after firm for pool installation and service, known for its craftsmanship, attention to detail, and lasting client relationships.

At Litchfield County Pools, every project begins with the client. Devon Dobson, the company’s president, is hands-on throughout the design process, from determining the pool’s shape and size to planning spa jet layouts and interior lighting. “The pool should feel as if it has always belonged to the property,” he says. “It’s about creating a space that reflects the client’s

lifestyle and vision.”

Serving residential properties, Litchfield County Pools creates custom solutions for both full-time homes and weekend retreats. The company’s family-oriented approach ensures attention to detail at every stage. “We treat each project with care, no matter the scale,” Devon explains. “Building a pool isn’t just construction—it’s craftsmanship.”

The company emphasizes quality and innovation. Saltbased sanitation systems and automatic built-in pool covers are increasingly standard, offering low-maintenance care, safety, and longer swim seasons. Materials are selected for durability and timeless appeal, from natural stone to interior finishes.

“Innovation comes from doing things right, not cutting corners,” Devon says.

Beyond design and construction, Devon values the relationships built along the way. “Each property is unique, and working closely with clients to realize their vision is the most rewarding part of our work,” he shares. “We’re at an exciting point in our growth—large enough to take on exceptional projects, yet small enough to remain deeply handson and personal. Our focus now is on refining our processes and elevating every aspect of the client experience, from design through completion”

Current trends show a preference for pools that combine functionality with sleek, modern aesthetics. Litchfield County

Pools continues to evolve, exploring new materials, technologies, and techniques that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and long-term performance. The company’s approach balances growth with hands-on involvement, ensuring that each pool remains a personalized retreat. From planning to final installation, Litchfield County Pools brings expertise, artistry, and integrity to every backyard. Every pool is custom-designed to harmonize with its surroundings, reflecting the homeowner’s vision while providing a serene, elegant outdoor space. Devon’s commitment to client-centered design ensures that each project is both a functional oasis and a lasting work of craftsmanship. —lcpools.com

HELPING HANDS

Support our Local Nonprofits, Especially During the Holiday Season

In Dutchess County it truly does take a village… and in each village, there are organizations that do a wonderful job helping people and animals in the community. These nonprofits need our support in a range of ways—and of course, there are food pantries, land trusts, schools, arts organizations, pet shelters, libraries, and more that need donations and volunteers. Reach out to your favorites to find out what they need.

Abilities First NY

Our mission is to make a difference by providing people with disabilities and their families support to attain independence, self-determination, integration, and acceptance by others through education, exploration, and experience. abilitiesfirstny.org

Anderson Center for Autism

Anderson Center for Autism optimizes the quality of life for children and adults on the spectrum. andersoncenterforautism.org

Angels of Light

For over 20 years, Angels of Light has had a simple mission: assist families and children in need, whose lives have been affected by a life-threatening illness. angelsoflighthv.org

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

For over 40 years, the Cary Institute has been a nonprofit that supports environmental research with the potential for informative impact through collaborative efforts to protect the environment. caryinstitute.org

Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie

For more than 178 years, the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie has provided

a full range of services that give hope and healing to at-risk children. Their team of case workers, nurses, and administrators provide therapeutic services to children and their families. childrenshome.us

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley

Empowering individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. communityfoundationshv.org

Dutchess Land Conservancy

Founded in 1985, DLC works tirelessly to preserve scenic, agricultural, and environmental resources in Dutchess County. dutchessland.org

Food of Life

Comida de Vida Food Pantry at St. Thomas Episcopal Church St. Thomas Episcopal Church strives to bring high-quality and healthy food to the community through meal and toiletry drives every week in Amenia and Dover. stthomasamenia.com

Habitat for Humanity of Dutchess County

The Habitat for Humanity team works to build vibrant and

prosperous communities by making sure everyone in Dutchess County has a safe, affordable home to live in. They don’t just repair and construct homes; those who volunteer are helping build a stronger community and brighter futures for families in the Hudson Valley. habitatdutchess.org

Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue

At Lucky Orphans, “People Helping Horses Heal People” is the heart of the mission. They believe the healing bond between horses and humans is essential to building a more compassionate future. luckyorphans.org

Mental Health America of Dutchess County

Nonprofit organization dedicated to making sure nobody gets left behind in our community due to lack of mental health services. mhadutchess.org

Mid-Hudson

Works

Since 1948, Mid-Hudson Works has aimed to establish a place of employment for those who are physically handicapped. They have created countless opportunities for veterans and disabled individuals in the Mid-Hudson Valley. midhudsonworks.org

Millbrook Arts Group

The Millbrook Arts Group was formed to support and present cultural, educational, arts, and social activities for the community. millbrookartsgroup.org

Millbrook Horse Trials

The Millbrook Horse Trials has become one of the premier equestrian events on the East Coast, attracting world-class competitors from all over the U.S. The Horse Trials is an important event for the community, with a significant impact on our local economy.

millbrookhorsetrails.com

NorthEast Community Center

Established in 1988, NECC has remained committed to prioritizing community, and working collaboratively to provide essential programs and services.

neccmillerton.org

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies

The Omega Institute is a donorsupported organization that offers a wide variety of workshops, retreats, and conferences to the community that teach holistic wellness and human connection. eomega.org

Powerhouse Theater

For six weeks every summer, the Powerhouse Theater Program comes to life on the Vassar College campus, to provide a nurturing environment in which passionate theater lovers—from students to professional practitioners and audience members—learn from one another.

vassar.edu/powerhouse

Stonewood Farm

Stonewood Farm strives to provide quality organic vegetables and improve local food access. Their mission is to educate farmers on regenerative farming to reduce food waste and insecurity, through fostering local partnerships that cultivate a network of care for those in need. stonewoodny.org

The Southlands Foundation

Equine education, land conservation, and community engagement. Established in 1983, Southlands Foundation aims to preserve natural habitats through equestrian programs, outdoor conservation efforts, and a commitment to history. southlands.org

The Stissing Center

The Stissing Center partners with artists and organizations to create programs, events, and opportunities for Pine Plains and the Hudson Valley region. thestissingcenter.org

The Wassaic Project

The Wassaic Project works with members of the community to create art programs and exhibitions for artists in Wassaic and surrounding towns. With their creative staff and partners, they aim to be an engaging nonprofit for the community. wassaicproject.org

Tri Corner FEED

Tri Corner FEED aims to develop a food system that supports the health and well-being of the planet and its inhabitants through education, advocacy, and collaboration with the community. tricornerfeed.org

United Way of Dutchess— Orange Region

Dedicated to ensuring all children have access to quality education and are prepared for success. We strive to create pathways for families to achieve health, financial stability, and independence. uwdor.org

Willow Roots

Willow Roots of Pine Plains is dedicated to providing outreach to, and eliminating hunger for, residents within the Pine Plains School District. They are committed to cultivating a safe and productive environment for those within their community. willowroots.org

ON NOSTALGIA THE HUDSON

Wilderstein Celebrates an Old-Fashioned Christmas

The red and green exterior of Wilderstein makes it look perpetually ready for Christmas. The furnishings are all original to the house. Gregory Sokaris, executive director, top left, oversees the historic site. Every room is decorated for the holiday. Local florists and designers are each assigned a room to work their holiday magic.

IN AN OVERLY COMMERCIALIZED HOLIDAY SEASON,

sometimes it’s nice to take a step back in time and appreciate what now seem like simple pleasures from back in the day.

A visit to Wilderstein, the Suckley estate on the Hudson River in Rhinebeck, will transport you into a world where families gathered around the fireplace instead of the TV, where the Christmas tree was harvested from the property on a snowy day, where the entertainment was ice skating on the pond, or ice boating on the river, where toys were made of wood, and a special treat was plum pudding.

With its red brick exterior and green trim, the Queen Anne-style Victorian always looks ready for Christmas. It’s the perfect place to indulge in a little nostalgia. The house, which was last lived in by Daisy Suckley and her widowed sister, Elizabeth, first cousins to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, is now maintained as an historic site and museum.

Events are held throughout the year, including the occasional tribute to Fala, FDR’s Scottish terrier, a gift from Daisy to the president. But for the past 30 years, the Holiday House at Wilderstein has been a consistent tradition, drawing visitors from the area and from farther afield.

While the attic at Wilderstein is jammed with objects (Daisy and her sister were famous for holding onto things—not

“For many people, the Holiday

House is their first visit to Wilderstein.”

The library, previous page, is one of the coziest rooms in the house and feels steeped in history. (Note the Scottie pillow on the chair by the fireplace, a nod to FDR’s dog Fala, a gift from Daisy Suckley.) Tradition, nature, and whimsy are popular design themes.

of course to be confused with hoarding, because that is what attics are for), the ornaments and Christmas decorations are not historic. Claudia Gukeisen, Wilderstein’s office and programs manager, says the Suckleys did celebrate Christmas, but they were often in Europe.

The Holiday House is put together just like a designer showcase house. Local florists and enthusiasts are invited to decorate a room, donating their time, materials, and services.

Martha Belardo of Hudson Valley Fiber Arts, who creates felt figures that she sells at the farmers market in Rhinebeck, is a regular participant. “Last year she put her felt figures in the butler’s pantry. She did a really wonderful tableau with a large fox, in the big sink, like he was taking a bubble bath. It was really whimsical and fun,” Gukeisen says. “And for the past few years, Lynn Lobotsky of Wonderland Florist & Nursery, has done a lovely traditional room, which we really appreciate.”

In the spirit of the holiday, many people give of their time and knowledge to make the tours happen. Joe Rinaldi, one of the guides, says, “Every tour is different. It’s not canned.” He says he gears his tours to the interests and questions of the visitors.

Wilderstein also offers a family story time for the younger set in the gatehouse lodge. It’s geared toward four- to-eight-yearolds and their parents, who enjoy storybooks, hot chocolate, and cookies. Afterward, they get a private tour of the house.

For many people, the Holiday House is their first visit to Wilderstein. Gukeisen says, “I often hear that people come for the holidays, and then come back in the other seasons. It’s such a hidden gem in this area.” —wilderstein.org

Out &About

›› Tables in the Stables

Set in Millbrook’s rolling hills, J.McLaughlin celebrated the launch of its October campaign— photographed at Judy and David Sloan’s picturesque Roseview Farms—with an evening among local tastemakers, creatives, and friends of the brand. With Anthony Bellomo’s florals, Christopher Spitzmiller’s tableware, Elizabeth Mayhew’s cake, and a Little Egg dinner, the night embodied community, creativity, and Hudson Valley charm.

Out &About

›› The Millbrook Hunt Ball

The Millbrook Hunt Ball, held at Mashomack Preserve Club on November 1, was co-chaired by Julie Thibault, Willy Anderson, and Michael Poulin. The theme, For the Love of the Land, celebrated the landowners and the countryside.

Vicki Salnikoff, a Joint Master of the Hunt, talked about the long history the Millbrook Hunt has with conservation.

Out &About

›› DLC’s 40th Anniversary

On Sunday, October 12, friends gathered to celebrate Dutchess Land Conservancy’s 40th anniversary and to raise funds for land conservation. Hosts John and Terry Regan welcomed guests to picturesque Half Moon House in Millbrook. Co-chairs Georgiana Bland, Lara Glaister Ferrarone, Jodie Fink, Elizabeth Mayhew, and Connie Newberry ensured that the luncheon was a magnificent affair and befitting a milestone anniversary.

ATS

A HOLIDAY GLOW UP AT IL FIGLIO ENOTECA

BY LAMBETH HOCHWALD

› You can’t help but feel festive during the holiday season when you dine at Il Figlio Enoteca, a sophisticated Italian eatery in Fishkill. You can feel the magic the moment you enter the stylish space. There, a massive floor-to-high-ceiling Christmas tree bedecked in strung cranberries and bright red ornaments is perched by the host stand, and oversized

mirrors glimmer, surrounded by sparkly garlands.

“It’s classic Christmas here,” said owner Scott Rosenberg of the fiveyear-old restaurant, which is located in the former Grand Union Plaza— and now looks like a strip of shops you’d find in a ski resort town. “The space feels simple, elegant and fun.”

Cocktails are a big draw here, with

such creative concoctions as the Ornament, made of pomegranate juice, pomegranate liqueur, ginger, and vodka, served in—of course!—a glass ornament accented by pomegranate seeds and a rosemary sprig. It’s all placed atop a brandy snifter before it’s presented tableside.Wine lovers can also order special sips.

“We always feature a special wine,

such as an Amarone or Brunello di Montalcino, that you can’t usually have by the glass,” Rosenberg said. “The idea is that you come in, you treat others, and you treat yourself; that’s what the holidays are all about.”

An extra treat: The menu features flavorful white truffles served two ways.

“We traditionally do handmade egg tagliolini pasta tossed with butter and Parmigiano Reggiano and topped tableside with shavings of fresh white truffle,” he said. “We also do a fried egg on toasted peasant bread with shaved white truffle, roasted mushrooms, and caviar.”

For Christmas and New Year’s Eve, a modern take on the Feast of the Seven Fishes is a huge draw. This translates to a selection of seafood specials including crispy baccala fritters with lemon aioli, steamed clams, and spicy lobster pasta, dishes Rosenberg was known for at Il Barilotto, his first Fishkill restaurant, located a quarter mile down the road.

“This has become a tradition,” says Rosenberg, who dreams up all the specials and works with his team of line cooks. “We have families that reserve tables as soon as we open up our reservations.”

Large parties can also book a table at La Sorella, the casual cafe next door to Il Figlio that Rosenberg opened a year ago. “That space has a really romantic feel, coupled with the food of Il Figlio,” he said, adding that the space can accommodate up to 80 guests for a sit-down dinner and 110 for a cocktail party. “The holidays are the perfect time to gather friends and family together, and this space is the perfect place.” Il Figlio Enoteca, 992 Main St., Fishkill —figlioenoteca.com

I= Inexpensive M= Moderate E= Expensive

Amenia

AMENIA STEAK HOUSE

A great spot for steak, charcoal burgers, and cheesecake. 4905 US-44, 845-789-1520 I

FOUR BROTHERS DRIVE-IN

Popular spot in Amenia. Pizza “with a Grecian touch” and famous salads. 4957 NY-22 / 845-373-8178 fourbrothersrestaurants.com I

FUEGO LATINO DELI

Tamales, sandwiches and other Latin specialties, as well as a small convenience store. 3294 NY-343 /845-789-1038 @fuegolatinodeli I

PANACEA

Everything from fresh pastas to smash burgers and oysters in a farmhouse setting. 6 Autumn Ln. / 845-373-9800 panaceany.com M

SANTO PIZZERIA & RISTORANTE

A traditional pizza spot serving New York and Sicilian-style pizza. Try their Italian stuffed pizza or pasta fagioli soup. 5094 NY-22 / 845-373-8290 santopizzeriarestaurant.com I

TROUTBECK

A scenic hotel and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Exquisite food and fantastic cocktails. 515 Leedsville Rd. 845-789-1555 troutbeck.com E

Beacon

BROTHER’S TRATTORIA

Authentic Italian restaurant serving lunch, dinner, and pizza. Try their chicken sorrentino or eggplant parmigiano.

465 Main St. / 845-838-3300 brotherstrattoria.com M

ISAMU JAPANESE & CHINESE RESTAURANT

Try their Isamu duck wrap and Ocean Chic roll. 240 Main St. / 845-440-0002 isamubeaconny.com I

LYONSHARE PUBLIC HOUSE

Elevated American bistro food at award-winning eatery in a tavern-like space. 246 Main St. / 845-275-4932 lyonsharebeacom.com M

LA BARBIRRIA MEXICAN CANTINA

A great spot for birria tacos and chorizo con huevos. 389 Main St. / 845-440-7508 labarbirria.com M

MAX’S ON MAIN

Serving a wide range of delicious foods, from pierogies to a BBQ chicken Caesar wrap. 246 Main St. / 845-838-6297 maxsonmain.com M

THE ROUNDHOUSE

Modern American cuisine inspired by Hudson Valley agriculture. A great spot for pan-roasted duck and a cocktail. 2 E. Main St. / 845-765-8369 roundhousebeacon.com E

ZIATUN

A Middle Eastern restaurant serving authentic Palestinian cuisine. Try their chicken shawarma wrap and falafel burger. 244 Main St. / 845-765-8268 ziatun.com M

Dover Plains

OLD DROVERS INN

A classic early-American bedand-breakfast fully restored and serving a variety of food. 196 E Duncan Hill Rd. 845-832-9311 M

E ATS

LA CAZUELA

A traditional Mexican restaurant using fresh and homemade ingredients.

3081 US-22 845-442-9341 I

Fishkill

DANNY’S TABLE

Large menu of traditional favorites, with a lighter touch and modern panache. 1113 Main St. 845-440-3918 M

GYMKHANA

Modern Indian restaurant serving flavorful curries and kebabs.

992 Main St, Fishkill 845-896-1033 gymkhanafishkill.com M

SOTANO

Gorgeous upscale Mediterranean meals, in a gorgeous upscale setting. 1036 Main St. 845-897-1036 sotanofishkill.com M

Hyde Park

CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA

The student-run restaurants at Hyde Park’s Culinary Institute of America offer creative menus at affordable prices. 1946 Campus Dr. 845-452-9600 ciafoodies.com M

LaGrange

HANGARS CAFE

Watch the planes depart and land at this relaxing cafe serving breakfast and lunch. Outdoor dining.

32 Airway Dr. / 845-605-1991 hangarscafe.com I

Millbrook

ALL THAT JAVA

Coffee shop serving excellent coffee and light breakfast. 149 Church St./ 845-233-1976 allthatjava.net I

BABETTE’S

Popular coffee and lunch spot

in town. Homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches.

3293 Franklin Ave. 845-677-8602 babetteskitchen.com M

BARBARO

Italian dining with a fabulous cocktail bar. Enjoy their handmade pizza al fresco on their porch. 3279 Franklin Ave. 845-677-4440 barbaromillbrook.com M

CAFE LES BAUX

Cozy French restaurant in downtown Millbrook. Enjoy their escargot, steak frites, and French wine list. 152 Church St. 845-677-8166 cafelesbaux.com M

CANOE HILL

Serving delicious drinks, tapas, great place for oysters. 3264 Franklin Ave. 845-605-1570 canoehillny.com M

CHARLOTTE’S

A scenic country-style restaurant featuring locally sourced food with a European flare. 4258 US-44 / 845-677-5888 charlottesny.com M

HOUSE OF STEFAS

Ultra-hip Greek restaurant serving ceviche, zuchini fritters, salt-crusted fish, grilled lamb, and other delights. 3299 Franklin Ave. 845-677-4888 houseofstefas.com M

JULIEN’S

A quirky takeout eatery that serves sushi and pizza. Vegan and gluten-free options. 5 Washington Ave. 845-677-2222 juliensmillbrook.com M

LA PUERTA AZUL

Traditional Mexican restaurant serving brunch, lunch, and dinner. Live music on weekends. 2510 US-44 / 845-677-2985 lapuertaazul.com M

MILLBROOK CAFE

Cozy restaurant that uses a

woodfired brick oven to cook their dishes. Great spot for a steak. 3288 Franklin Ave. 845-677-6956 themillbrookcafe.com M

MILLBROOK CONTINENTAL

A Hispanic-Amerian menu with everything from tamales to French toast, in a small, cozy setting . 18 Alden Place 845-345-0744 millbrookcontinental.com I

MILLBROOK DINER

Classic diner food and a Millbrook institution; enjoy classics such as BLT, Caesar salad, or the club sandwich. 3266 Franklin Ave. 845-677-5319 millbrookdiner.com I

THE VINTAGE AT THE MILLBROOK INN

American restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. Open for brunch and dinner. 3 Gifford Rd. / 845-605-1120 millbrookinn.com M

THE BIRD DOG CAFE

Cafe at Orvis Sandanona featuring local game. 3047 US-44 / 845-677-9701 orvis.com/sandanona-dining I

Millerton

AVOCADO CAFE

Small cafe serving traditional and authentic Mexican food. 208 US-44 518-592-1181 avocadocafe.net I

FOUR BROTHERS PIZZA INN

Popular lunch and dinner spot in Millerton. Enjoy their pizza and Greek salads. 5952 N Elm Ave. 518-789-9434 fourbrothersrestaurants.com I

HARNEY & SONS TEA

A cozy tea room with an extensive choice of worldclass blends, plus sandwiches, soups, and a terrace. 13 Main St. / 518-789-2121 harney.com M

IRVING FARM NEW YORK

Popular coffee house serving light eats, and drinks made from house-roasted beans. 44 Main St. / 212-206-0707 irvingfarm.com I

OAKHURST DINER

Imaginative fare in a retro-style setting with counter stools and booths. 19 Main St. 518-592-1313 oakhurst-diner.com I

PASTURE KITCHEN

Redefining fast food with clean, nutrient-dense meals made from regeneratively farmed ingredients. 130 Route 44 / 518-689-4090 tallow.menu I

TARO’S

A casual NYC-style pizza spot with delicious Italian options. 18 Main St. / 518-789-6630 I

THE MILLERTON INN

A quaint restaurant with a Mediterranean touch serving brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy their baked moussaka or saffron orange chicken. 53 Main St. / 518-592-1900 themillertoninn.com M

WILLA

Farm-to-table restaurant serving fresh local ingredients. Try their smash burger made with Kinderhook Farm beef. 52 Main St. / 518-789-0252 willabar.com M

Pine Plains

CHAMPETRE

Cozy French restaurant in Pine Plains Enjoy their escargot, steak, or fish dishes. Seasonal specialties. 2938 Church St. 518-771-3350 M

EL GUACAMOLE

A family-style Mexican restaurant with classic tacos, fajitas, fried plantains. 7795 S Main St. 518-771-3330 I

SPUD SHACK

Casual lunch spot for burgers, fries, dogs, wings.

2953 Church St. 518-771-3205 I

STISSING HOUSE

Colonial tavern with a wood-burning oven featuring award-winning seasonal French-Italian meals in cozy rooms.

7801 S Main St. 518-771-3064 stissinghouse.com M

THE MOOSE ON THE LOOSE

An old-fashioned sandwich shop with great options for breakfast or lunch.

7711 S Main St. 518-398-5040 I

chicken parmigiana. 2947 Church St. 518-398-7800 I

Poughkeepsie

ALEX’S RESTAURANT

A fourth-generation owned restaurant with delicious options for breakfast and lunch. 1 Market St. / 845-452-1125 alexsrestaurant.org I

BRASSERIE 292

A timeless spot with an impressive menu, from a raw bar to the plat du jour. 292 Main St. 845-473-0292 brasserie292.com E

ESSIE’S RESTAURANT

Cozy but elegant Ameri-

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MAHONEY’S IRISH PUB & STEAKHOUSE

Lively Irish pub serving authentic cuisine and offering nightly events.

35 Main St. / 845-471-7026 mahoneysirishpub.com M

SAVONA’S TRATTORIA AND BAR

Serving trattoria-style Italian favorites for breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner.

1 Collegeview Ave. 845-876-4505 savonas.com M

SHADOWS ON THE HUDSON

Waterfront restaurant with a raw bar and an extensive beverage list. 176 Rinaldi Blvd. shadowsonthehudson.com E

SUSHI VILLAGE

Offers sushi, hibachi, createyour-own poke bowls.

8 Raymond Ave. 845-471-5245 sushivillagenyc.com M

TAMARIND

Upscale Indian restaurant offering classic curries and tandoori.

85 Main St, Poughkeepsie 845-454-6410 tamarindrestaurantny.com M

TAVERN 23

Combines modern-creative and traditional cooking styles to create remarkable dishes. 23 Verrazano Blvd. 845-473-2323 tavern23.com M

THE ACADEMY

The Bar, Keepsake, and Cornerstone Cafe. 33 Academy St. 845-444-5269 theacademyhvny.com M Red Hook

BRIGITTE BISTRO

Quaint bistro serving classic French cuisine in a charming setting, for brunch and dinner.

A local gem turning heads worldwide—led by award-winning chefs trained in Michelin-star kitchens. Each dish blends tradition with modern fl air, offering exquisite refi nement and creativity. From soulful comfort food to elegant fusion, and a cozy bar serving craft cocktails, fi ne wines, and top-shelf spirits—this is Indian dining like you’ve never experienced. With every visit, you’ll discover something new and unforgettable. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out!

61 E Market St. 845-835-6230 brigitte-bistro.com M

BUBBY’S TAKE-AWAY KITCHEN

Slow-cooked meats, vegan, and vegetarian options in downtown Red Hook. 19 W Market St. 845-758-8226 I

CHARLIE O’S BAR AND GRILL

Family friendly restaurant with a full bar and extensive menu. 23 E Market St. 845-758-2123 I

RUSTIC TABLES

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner: waffles, duck wontons, Fiesta Bowls. 1215 Route 199 845-758-2437 rustictablesrestaurantbar.com I

7488 S Broadway 845-758-8260 flatironsteakhouse.com E

THE GROVE

Elegant versions of beloved comfort foods.

650 NY-199 / 845-758-3006 thegroveatredhook.com M

THE HISTORIC VILLAGE DINER

Open at 6 am, this streamlined metal railroad dining car is the focal point of local nostalgia. 7550 N Broadway 845-758-6232 historicvillagediner.com I

LUCOLI

Popular pizzeria with fresh ingredients, wood-fired pies. 7476 S Broadway 845-758-5600

food and catering service. 7466 S Broadway 845-835-8044 misto-eats.com M

SAVONA’S TRATTORIA & BAR

Traditional Italian meals made from family recipes and local ingredients. 7249 S Broadway 845-758-6400 savonas.com M

TASTE BUDD’S CAFE

Chocolates, coffee, sandwiches, pastries, salads. Vegan options. Live music. 40 W Market St. 845-758-6500 tastebudds.com I

YUM YUM NOODLE BAR

Dishes inspired by Japanese and other Asian cuisines with vegan and vegetarian options. 7496 S Broadway 845-835-6383 yumyumnoodlebar.com M

ABAS FALAFEL

Traditional Middle Eastern falafel, salads, Turkish coffee. 54 E Market St. 845-876-2324 abasfalafel.com I AROI THAI

Casual restaurant; traditional Thai dishes. 55 E Market St. 845-876-1114 aroirestaurant.com M

BIA

A Hudson Valley interpretation of modern Irish cuisine. 22 Garden St. / 845-516-4044 bia-rbk.com M

BUNS BURGERS

A new take on fresh, local family dining: burgers, fries. 20 Garden St. 845-516-5197 bunsburgersny.com I

BREAD ALONE

Beautiful cafe serving breakfast and lunch daily. Amazing breads, crackers, and treats. 45 E Market St. 845-876-3108 breadalone.com I

CAFE CON LECHE

A cafe offering authentic Puerto Rican cuisine using only fresh ingredients. 6384 Mill St. 845-516-4315 nycafeconleche.com I

CHEESE LOUISE

Curated selection of cheeses from around the world. 6384 Mill St. 845-853-8207 cheeselouiseny.com M

CINNAMON INDIAN

Traditional dishes from various regions in India and Sri Lanka. Lunch and dinner daily. 51 E Market St. 845-876-7510 cinnamoncuisine.com M

FOSTER’S COACH HOUSE TAVERN

A tavern offering a wide variety of food choices, from nachos to seafood dishes to the Thanksgiving sandwich. 6411 Montgomery St. 845-876-8052 M

GABY’S CAFE

An authentic Mexican restaurant known for its enchiladas, paella, and mariscada. 141 Canal St. / 845-210-1040 gabysrhinebeck.com M

GIGI TRATTORIA

Modern farm-to-table Italian fare in airy, stylish quarters with a patio. 6422 Montgomery St. 845-876-1007 gigihudsonvalley.com M

LE PETIT BISTRO

Bistro delivering classic French fare, with a smart wine list.

2 E Market St. 845-876-7400 lepetitbistro.com E

LITTLE GOAT

Seasonal vegetables, house

pastas, local meats, bold Mediterranean flavors. 6380 Mill St. 845-516-7273 littlegoatny.com M

MARKET ST.

Italian restaurant serving Neapolitan-style pizza and specialty cocktails. 19 W Market St. 845-876-7200 marketstrhinebeck.com M

OSAKA SUSHI

A family-run Japanese restaurant known for fresh sushi and friendly staff. 22 Garden St. 845-876-7338 osakasushi.net M

PIZZERIA POSTO

Acclaimed pizzeria serving artisanal wood-fired pizza. 43 E Market St. 845-876-3500 postopizzeria.com I

{PRETTY TO THINK SO}

Farm-to-table fine dining and craft cocktails in a chic space. 6417 Montgomery St. 845-516-4556 prettytothink.so E

RHINEBECK BAGELS AND CAFE

Serving the area’s most artistic breakfast and lunch. 31 W Market St. 845-876-8025 rhinebeckbagels.com I

THE TAVERN AT THE BEEKMAN ARMS

Colonial tap room with a hearth and full bar, and a garden greenhouse. 6387 Mill St. 845-876-7077 beekmandelamaterinn.com M

TERRAPIN RESTAURANT

Contemporary-American restaurant serving diverse flavors from local farms. 6426 Montgomery St. 845-876-3330 terrapinrestaurant.com I

Rhinecliff

KIPS TAVERN

Riverfront near the train station. Crabcakes and chicken paillard are faves.

1 Shatzell Ave. 845-516- 4737 kipstavern.com M

Staatsburg

RIVER AND POST

Eclectic local fare and cocktails, celebrating its sleepy village in a cozy setting. 57 Old Post Rd. 845-773-9373 riverandpost.co M

Tivoli

THE CORNER

A Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring fresh ingredients.

53 Broadway / 845-757-2100 hoteltivoli.org/the-corner M

GIOBATTA ALIMENTARI

Chef Francesco Buitoni’s authentic Italian cuisine; restaurant and market. 69 Broadway / 845-757-2567 giobatta.com M

JAEGER HAUS TIVOLI

A modern German restaurant: potato pancakes, rahm schnitzel. 5084 NY-9G / 845-757-1011 jaegerhaustivoli.com M

OSAKA TIVOLI

An original menu with unique sushi creations along with standard Japanese dishes. 74 Broadway 845-757-5055 osakativolisushi.com M

SANTA FE HUDSON VALLEY

Lobster quesadillas, short rib tacos, and grilled salmon Veracruz.

52 Broadway / 845-757-4100 santafehudsonvalley.com M

TIVOLI GENERAL

A cozy coffee shop offering breakfast, sandwiches, groceries, wine, and beer. 54a Broadway tivoli-general.com I

Stanfordville

3 BROTHERS PIZZA

Pizza shop offering a variety of delicious pizza and food. 6270 NY-82 / 845-723-4139 3brotherspizzadeli.com I

COYOTE FLACO

Casual family-run Mexican restaurant that has authentic Mexican cuisine. 6063 NY-82 / 845-868-3360 coyoteflacostanfordville.com I

PEYOTE’S CAFE

Mexican restaurant serving paninis, wraps, and quesadillas. 5979 NY-82

845-868-3335 I

UNCLE SONNY’S CAFE AND PIZZERIA

Cafe and pizzeria. Burgers, meatballs, and more. 6270 Route 82 845-868-7121 I

Wassaic

BLACK BIRD BISTRO

Casual family-owned bistro serving flat bread with sausage and ricotta, chicken with mac-and-cheese, and more. 3997 NY-22 845-789-1515 M

THE LANTERN INN

Woodfired pizza and organic small-production wines, craft breweries, and cocktails. Outdoor fire pit; popular spot for families. 10 Main St. 845-373-8389 wassaiclanterninn.com I

TENMILE DISTILLERY

Traditional spirits produced in a lovely distillery. Sophisticated and elegant tasting room. 78 Sinpatch Rd. 845-877-6399 tenmiledistillery.com M

THAI BAAN

Upscale versions of Thai favorites, in the high-ceilinged Tenmile Distillery. 78 Sinpatch Rd. 845-877-6399 tenmiledistillery.com M

VITSKY BAKERY

Small-batch bakery using seasonal, hearty ingredients and nutrition-dense flours, sourced locally when possible. 3 Main St. vitskybakery.com I n

ART news

INSPIRE, CONNECT, AND ENRICH

› ON DECEMBER 13 FROM NOON TO 6 PM MAD ROSE GALLERY in Millerton will host a Winter Arts Festival, celebrating a new exhibition, Holiday Salon, including original paintings, ceramics, and one-of-a-kind handmade gifts from local artists. This holiday season there are multiple exhibitions in the Main Gallery and the Mercantile Building: The Female Gaze, Women in Photography, showcasing eight female photographers who blend technical mastery with expressive insights to bring powerful, fresh perspectives; Ebb & Flow, which features mesmerizing glass sculpture by renowned glass artists; and Through the Lens, a Painting, with alluring artworks by Lorenzo Minoli, conveying movements and colors found up-close in nature. They will be on exhibition through December 31.

The gallery was founded by photographer Kerry Madigan and Neal Rosenthal, both longtime residents of Dutchess County. Madigan’s photography tells stories while capturing ephemeral moments in time. Rosenthal, a renowned wine importer, has many passions including Mad Rose Journeys: carefully curated trips to France, Italy, and Switzerland; Mad Rose Specialty Foods; and Access Africa, a study abroad opportunity in conjunction with Rutgers University.

Mad Rose Gallery, 5916 N. Elm St. and 3 Main St., Millerton—madrosegallery.com

HOLIDAY GIFTS TO HELP YOU NAIL IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME