Sometimes, living in a small town has its perks, and this is one of them! A specialty rye bread has been making waves in New York City, with people paying as much as $60 for a single loaf. But right here in our own backyard, AJ at Terra in Jeffersonville is baking his own version for just $15! Already known for his delicious bread, AJ happens to know the recipe behind this trendy loaf and is bringing a taste of the big city to our small-town community at a fraction of the price. It’s just another reminder that you don’t have to travel far or spend a fortune to enjoy something special. Sometimes, the best finds are right here at home!

Take a look at what’s happening around town:

Wingmom Catskills is once again spreading holiday cheer through its annual Holiday Food Support program for families in the Sullivan West School District. Each year, the organization provides one week’s worth of shelf-stable food to every family identified by the district as needing assistance, helping bridge the gap when school meals are unavailable during holiday break. This year, the initiative has an exciting local twist! In addition to pantry staples, families will receive gift certificates to local farms, providing access to fresh food while supporting area farmers. Community members can help by purchasing items from the Amazon Wishlist- www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/26QNAWG4JTBOB or donating at community drop-off locations, or contributing to the fund for fresh, locally grown food. A donation box will soon be available in the lobby of the JURNI building at 420 Bernas Road. Local farms interested in participating, as well as anyone wishing to make a monetary contribution, can contact info@wingmomcatskills.com. Every donation, big or small, helps ensure that Sullivan West families have food on the table this holiday season.

The Cochecton Men’s Club will be hosting its annual Kids’ Christmas Party on Saturday, December 19, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Mark your calendars for an afternoon of holiday cheer!

On Saturday, November 14, Davey O. takes the stage at the Delaware Valley Opera from 7–9 p.m. The Buffalo-born singer-songwriter has been described as a songwriter with a journalist’s eye for detail and a poet’s ear for language. His Americana-inspired music explores the beauty and challenges of everyday life through carefully crafted songs and stories. With a warm voice and engaging performance style, Davey O. brings an intimate, thoughtful approach to the stage.

The weekend continues Sunday, November 15, when Jesse Ruben performs from 2–4 p.m. Ruben is a singer-songwriter who recently moved to Atlanta after spending the last 15 years in Brooklyn. His music has been featured on more than 75 million streams, and his song “This Is Why I Need You” has reached the top 10 in 12 different countries. His songs have also been featured on television programs including One Tree Hill, Pretty Little Liars and Teen Mom.

Tickets for each performance are $20 in advance or $26 at the door. Delaware Valley Opera is located at 6692 State Route 52 in Lake Huntington. For tickets and additional information, visit myrivertickets.com or call 845-887-3083. With three different artists taking the stage over two weekends, November offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music close to home.

Hector’s Inn in Bethel will host a November Birthday Party on Sunday, November 15, at 3 p.m. Everyone celebrating a birthday in November is invited to join the festivities, along with friends and neighbors looking for an afternoon of good food and great company. Guests are encouraged to bring their favorite dish to share for a potluck-style celebration. The party will take place at Hector’s Inn, located at 14 Dr. Duggan Road in Bethel. Come celebrate November birthdays and enjoy a fun afternoon with the community!

If you have a local business that would like to be spotlighted in an upcoming column, please get in touch! Please email jenn@jennpowelldesigns.com with any news, events, and happenings. You can also find me online at https://rustic-road.com/.