Monthly Archives: August 2011

At the Stove: Five Easy Pieces

Posted on August 31, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews Where farmers’ markets, farm stands and gardens bloom….our late summer go-to dishes are fresh, flavorful, healthful  and, most importantly, easy to cook.  Produce at peak flavor needs little manipulation.  For tips on choosing produce, see “Pick of … Continue reading →

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Happy Trails!

Posted on August 25, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews My husband Christopher and I love to hike. That’s why we were excited to explore The Hyde Park Trail in Dutchess County, New York. A 16-mile trail system, encompassing local parks and a nature preserve, wends through … Continue reading →

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Pick of the Late Summer Crop

Posted on August 19, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews Ahhh….the days of summer are passing ever so quickly. Why?  How?  I ask these same questions every year. At the start of summer, it seems we have all the time in the world.  Eight weeks later—we find … Continue reading →

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Awash in Local Suds: Terrapin’s NY Craft BeerFEST

Posted on August 12, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews Despite a rainy Saturday afternoon, spirits were high at the recent New York State Craft BeerFEST, hosted by Terrapin Restaurant in Staatsburg, NY (Dutchess County). It was a sold out crowd…

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Spa Therapy: Lavender Fields Forever

Posted on August 11, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews Complimentary beauty products tend to expire on my dresser—unopened.  This lack of curiosity, I attribute partly to my no-fuss, no-frills approach to grooming: other than sunblock and lipstick, my face is naked.  The other reason? I have … Continue reading →

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A Thirst-quenching Summer Tonic

Posted on August 7, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Christopher Matthews This summer’s relentless heat and humidity has stretched into August, a happy reason to sip some cooling “silly season” cocktails. The ideal summer drink should “invigorate, restore, refresh or stimulate”— Webster’s literal definition of “tonic” — but without a high alcohol content, … Continue reading →

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St. Andrew’s Café: Green Kitchen Back Story

Posted on August 4, 2011 by upstatedowntown

By Kathryn Matthews St. Andrew’s Café, one of five teaching restaurants at the Culinary Institute of America’s leafy campus in Hyde Park, New York, became Dutchess County’s first two star certified green restaurant in 2009.  My husband and I recently … Continue reading →

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