Town: Ferndale
Artist: Kim Simons
About: The Maurice Gerry Dove, located in Ferndale, New York, is a tribute to the life and legacy of Maurice Gerry, a respected community leader and educator. Situated within the charming town of Ferndale, this dove is part of the Dove Trail, symbolizing the values of education, community service, and dedication that Maurice Gerry embodied throughout his life. This piece of public art honors his contributions and serves as a lasting reminder of the positive impact he had on the region.
Address: 9 Ferndale Road
Ferndale, NY 12734
Location: Marice Gerry – Ferndale
Ferndale, New York, is a small, close-knit community nestled in the scenic Catskills region, known for its rural charm and strong sense of community. Within this peaceful hamlet stands the Maurice Gerry Dove, a significant piece of public art that celebrates the life and achievements of Maurice Gerry, a beloved local figure. Maurice Gerry was a dedicated educator and community leader who left an indelible mark on the Liberty Central School District and the broader Ferndale community.
The dove is part of the Dove Trail, a public art initiative that highlights the cultural and historical significance of various locations throughout the area. This particular dove is named in honor of Maurice Gerry, whose commitment to education and community service has inspired generations. His legacy is not only preserved through this artistic tribute but also through his induction into the Liberty Central School District Wall of Fame, recognizing his lasting contributions to the community.
Visitors to Ferndale can appreciate the dove as both a beautiful piece of art and a meaningful symbol of the town’s values and history. The Maurice Gerry Dove stands as a beacon of the community’s respect for its leaders and a reminder of the importance of education and civic engagement.
For more information about Ferndale, you can learn more about the town here. To explore the life and legacy of Maurice Gerry, visit his Wall of Fame announcement here
About the Artist: Kim Simons
ARTIST: Kim Simons is an artist, a multi-award winning, master level, cake and food artist. Kim has recently been featured on the Food Network’s, “Cake Wars: Christmas”, “Cake Wars”, “Duff Till Dawn”, “Outrageous Wedding Cakes” and “Sugar Dome”. Kim also has appeared on Telemundo’s, “Buenos Dias Nueva York”, where she presented one of her fabulous cakes to a live television audience to celebrate their first show, also performing and demoing live, creating huge food art pieces in Busch Gardens VA, Seaworld TX, Ohio, Tennessee and NY City. Kim, has been recognized in “Dessert Professional” magazine as one of the Top Ten Cake Artists in North America for 2013. Her cakes have also been featured in the “ICES” magazine, “Cake Masters” magazine, the “American Cake Decorating” magazine, “Today’s Woman” magazine, and “Cake Design France” magazine. Kim is not a traditional cake artist. She enjoys creating sculpturally unique and beautiful cakes, mastery of painting with edible colors, and the ability to sculpt incredibly realistic nature scenes. Kim has a reputation for creating amazingly realistic looking animals out of sugar and has earned the respect of her peers. In addition to her work in cakes and food, Kim has an extensive following in the painting and sculpturing worlds. She has commissioned works for the private, public and government sectors over the years. The public can also see her work in the War Memorial located in Monticello, NY and her Centennial Monument created exclusively for the town of Liberty, NY. It can be seen outside the Liberty Public Library.
Places to Eat
- New Munson Diner – A classic American diner offering hearty breakfasts, burgers, and comfort food in a retro setting with a friendly atmosphere.
- Pickled Owl – A nearby farm-to-table gastropub in Hurleyville, known for its creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including vegetarian options and craft beers.
- Yiasou Cafe – A charming café in Liberty offering authentic Greek cuisine, including gyros, souvlaki, and fresh salads, in a cozy environment.
- Paesano’s Pizzeria – Located in nearby Liberty, this pizzeria is a local favorite for its traditional Italian pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.
Places to Stay
- Lazy Pond Bed & Breakfast – A peaceful B&B located nearby, offering beautiful views, personalized service, and comfortable accommodations in a scenic setting.
- The Sullivan Event Center & Hotel – A short drive away, this hotel offers modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and easy access to local attractions and event spaces.
- The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Located in Monticello, this family-friendly resort features modern accommodations and a large indoor waterpark, ideal for a fun getaway.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Liberty – A budget-friendly hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms, conveniently located near Ferndale and local attractions.
Places to Explore
- Sullivan County Farmers Market – A local market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats from the region, perfect for a leisurely morning outing.
- Walnut Mountain Park – Located in Liberty, this park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful scenic views, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.
- Sullivan County Historical Society Museum – A small museum in Hurleyville dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Sullivan County and the Catskills.
- Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum – Located a short drive away in Livingston Manor, this museum is dedicated to the history and art of fly fishing, offering exhibits and workshops for enthusiasts.
Photos by Paul Henshaw