Who, what, when, where—why not?

Much to my chagrin, I found the temperature a bit daunting this morning—31 degrees. Sheesh! As the snowbirds flee the Catskills, along with the geese, I am reminded that for many of us, this is a time for a different kind of beauty and serenity in the valley.

Between a bit of frost on the pumpkin and switching out the seasonal wardrobe, I still manage to get up off the couch and out into the world, for there is always something to see and do, regardless of the snowbirds’ flight down south.

Thankfully, arts and entertainment do not fade away with the leaves, and I found myself at the River Gallery (8 Main Street, Narrowsburg, NY, 845/252-3238) over the weekend. Always true to their motto “The Art of Living,” the gallery is featuring a new installation of cartoon art by Pennsylvania artist Dennis Corrigan. Whimsical, satirical, colorful and unique, these pieces are very cool and refreshing. Along with the constantly evolving mix of fine art and eclectic home furnishings, Corrigan’s work is on display through the 24th of October and well worth a look.

Across the street at the Alliance Gallery, a new exhibit of painter Jules Perlmutter’s work is an interesting look at the artist’s view on aging. Titled “Getting Old Is Not For Sissies,” the paintings are yet another reminder (along with the aforementioned leaves) that time does not stand still. Upstairs at the Loft Gallery, the award-winning poster-poems from the Green Heron Poetry Project are on display and worth perusal, along with a fabulous mural of over 30 artists and community members representing their involvement and dedication to the art world.

Way across the county, at the Old Stone House Gallery (282 Hasbrouck Road, Hasbrouck, NY,845/436-7720), the newest exhibition “Flights Of Fancy” is being presented through the 25th of October. The stunning house, reclaimed from possible extinction, is (in my humble opinion) always worth a visit and the organization is constantly adding classes and workshops to their ever-changing repertoire of events.

Not to be outdone, the schedule of upcoming events is (thankfully) never-ending. No time like the present to make reservations for the annual benefit/fundraiser for the Liberty Free Theatre. Once again, the folks at the Fat Lady Cafe (13 Horseshoe Lake Road, Kauneonga Lake, NY) will be hosting the festivities, which include the cafe’s highly acclaimed food and a premiere of Paul Austin’s new comedy “An Unexpected Dialogue.” For reservations and information of what promises to be a very special evening (Thursday, October 22, 6:30 p.m.), call 845/292-3788. (I’ll be there—but don’t let that stop you from attending!)

The new Forestburgh Theatre Arts Center will be presenting “Inherit The Wind” at Sullivan County Community College’s Seelig Theatre for three performances only, October 15 through 18 (see page 19). Currently touring three schools in Sullivan County, this highly acclaimed show is sure to be spellbinding and a fine opportunity to experience the playhouse’s foray into new year-round projects. For reservations call 845/794-1194.

It’s no wonder that several people I ran into over the weekend thought I appeared a bit exhausted, as I run, run, run, always determined to miss nothing in my unquenchable thirst for artistic stimulation. I would be remiss in not mentioning Liberty, NY, which will be hopping this coming weekend. On Saturday, October 17, the Catskill Artists Gallery will be unveiling its newest exhibit- “2-D, 3-D, Potpourri” which encompasses photography, pottery and sculpture (see page 16). The show will run through November 29, but the opening reception, and an opportunity to meet the artists themselves, is always a treat. For more information call 845/482-5142.

The day before—Friday, October 16—heralds the opening of the Liberty Arts Walk. Starting at the Liberty Museum and Arts Center (46 S. Main Street, Liberty), the walk will begin with refreshments and entertainment by guitarist New York George, and will encompass a stroll through Main Street, where shop windows will be adorned with the work of many artists. Combined with the magnificent fall foliage and the refreshing weather, this event promises to be an afternoon well spent. For more information call 845/482-5142.

All in all, regardless of the change in seasons, there is no lack of entertainment, art and plain old fashioned fun to be had. Can’t wait to see what’s next on the horizon, but rest assured, I will keep you informed as to who, what, when and where.