Business Notebook: Pennings Market expands and flavors of fall

Warwick - On Oct. 27, the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted an after-hours business mixer at Pennings Farm Market and Garden Center, 161 Route 94, Warwick. Those who attended agreed that the open bar, selection of hors d’oeuvres, soups, fruits and desserts all made for one of the chamber’s most memorable mixers. And, at the same time, the members and guests had an opportunity to view the new fall market offerings at Pennings. The popular market, owned by Steve and Jil Pennings, has long been a favorite stop for families on weekend outings. Children and parents could always enjoy the petting zoo and other family attractions and then everyone could shop at the market for fresh produce, honey, fruits and other country store items. Recently, however, Steve and Jil Pennings added a fresh seafood and meat counter and a kitchen where Chef Oscar Elias prepares daily lunch specials, take-out and catering orders. A popular take-out item for busy people, for example, is the family portion of fresh fish or shrimp. Both the take-out and the catering menus offer freshly made soups and salads, raw bar munchies, sandwiches, entrees and desserts. And, weather permitting, you can enjoy your soup and sandwich seated at outdoor picnic tables. “We can also take care of all your holiday needs,” said Steve Pennings, “Don’t forget to order your organic fresh turkeys, fresh baked pies, holiday soups and more.” For additional information call 986-1059. Flavors of fall On Saturday, Nov. 5, Frazzleberries gift shop, 24 Main St., Warwick, offered visitors a special free treat. Owner Mary Beth Schlichting had decided to celebrate autumn with a “Frazzleberries Flavors of Fall Event.” It was designed to introduce the flavors of Warwick and the colors of the fall season to everyone visiting the downtown area. “It was really my son Jerry’s idea,” said Schlichting. “We wanted to feature some of the best examples of Warwick’s fall flavors and let everyone taste delicious creations from the Iron Forge Inn and Lisa’s Cookie Shop. We also offered a selection of local wines provided by Peck’s Wines and Spirits. It was a chance to work together with some of Warwick’s best businesses.” Besides the Iron Forge Inn and Lisa’s Cookie Shop, Frazzleberries also opened its retail space for tasting stations that highlighted many of the autumn inspired gourmet baked goods and mixes available at the gift shop. “Fall is so rich in color and flavor, that we felt it was only natural to celebrate the season,” said Schlichting. “We were happy to host this ‘Flavors of Fall’ event and we hope everyone enjoyed it.” Best of the Hudson Valley Warwick’s Keene Publishing recently announced that Hudson Valley Magazine selected local author and illustrator Barbara Lanza and her new book “Time to Fly” for their “Best of the Hudson Valley” award in the children’s book category. Time to Fly is published by Moo Press, the children’s imprint of Keene Publishing. Lanza, a successful artist and illustrator and a long-time resident of Pine Island, was delighted to find a publisher right in Warwick. She met with Diane Tinney, president and publisher of Keene Publishing, almost two yeas ago. The local publisher was pleased with Lanza’s illustrations and asked if she had a story to go with them. The collaboration resulted in the first book Lanza had both written and illustrated. Time to Fly introduces young readers to Fairy Lane, a place Lanza has been imagining since she was a young girl. “Fairy Lane brings together my love for portraying real and fantasy creatures in a natural setting,” she said. “I hope that Time to Fly encourages children to follow their dreams.” Reminder The Warwick Valley Merchants’ Guild wants everyone to mark their calendars for the opening day of the annual “Home for the Holidays” shopping season. The opening festivities are on Sunday, Nov. 20. Visitors can get into the Christmas spirit as they stroll along Railroad Ave., Main St. and the surrounding area, visiting stores decorated with seasonal displays and serving refreshments including local wines, hot cider, cookies and hors d’oeuvres. Members of the Warwick Chorale will also be strolling about, stopping in shops and entertaining shoppers with traditional Christmas music. The Warwick Independent Business Alliance (IBA) encourages everyone to save gas, support your community and spend your Christmas shopping money in your own hometown. Warwick merchants go out of their way to make shopping in the downtown area a fun experience. During the recent Halloween weekend, for example, many of the merchants dressed in costume and offered special treats for visitors. And when they’re asked to support local charities and community events they always say, “Yes.” Now, during the Christmas shopping season, it’s time to say “Thank you.”