Town: Monticello
Artist: Laurie Kilgore
About: The Town of Thompson Dove, located in Monticello, New York, is a symbol of community pride and the town’s rich history. Part of the Dove Trail, this dove was created by a local artist to represent the spirit of unity and progress that defines the Town of Thompson. Positioned at a central location within the town, the dove celebrates Thompson’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community for all its residents and visitors.
Address: Thompson Town Hall
4052 State Route 42
Monticello, 12701
Location: Town Of Thompson
The Town of Thompson, located in Monticello, New York, is a thriving community within Sullivan County, known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and diverse population. As a hub of activity in the Catskills region, Thompson offers a mix of rural charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. The town is committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents, with a focus on community development, public services, and recreational opportunities.
The Town of Thompson Dove is an important addition to this dynamic community. As part of the Dove Trail, the dove was created by a local artist to capture the essence of Thompson’s identity—its resilience, community spirit, and forward-looking approach. The dove is strategically placed in a prominent location within the town, serving as a reminder of Thompson’s ongoing efforts to build a strong, cohesive community that values both its heritage and its future.
For the residents and visitors of Thompson, the dove symbolizes the town’s dedication to unity and progress. It stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the town’s leadership and citizens in creating a vibrant, welcoming environment for all. The dove enhances the town’s cultural landscape, highlighting Thompson’s role as a key part of the broader Sullivan County community.
For more information about the Town of Thompson and its services, you can visit their official website here.
Artist: Laurie Kilgore
ARTIST BIO: Painting is Laurie Kilgore’s passion and what drives and motivates her. Her love for art started at a young age, but didn’t fully pursue it until her early 20s. Laurie has been painting and creating works of Art for the past eighteen years. Born and raised in Monticello, NY, she has been an active artist, painter and art educator in Sullivan County. She graduated with her B.S. in Art Education and a Masters in Studio Art with a focus in Painting from SUNY New Paltz.
Over the years Laurie participated in several group and solo exhibitions, and public art projects. They include the Thesis Show Ten, in Poughkeepsie, Roark’s Tavern in Monticello, Art Among the Vines at Basha Kill Vineyard in Wurtsboro, NY. This past year, as in years prior, she has displayed her work at group shows through the Catskill Art Society in Livingston Manor and Tivolli Artists Gallery Co-Op in Tivolli, NY. She has two solo art shows: The Basha Kill Series Paintings at Rolling River Café in 2016, in Parksville, NY, and one at Aroma Thyme Bistro in Ellenville in 2018. Laurie has created Public Art Murals throughout parts of Sullivan County, in Hurleyville, Monticello, Town of Thompson and Rock Hill, NY. Several of these murals, signs and outdoor paintings were for Sullivan Renaissance Projects. Those projects include outdoor murals on the main street of Rock Hill, NY, paintings at Roark’s Tavern in Monticello, a series of signs and outdoor murals for the Town of Thompson Park and historical murals at the Sullivan County Historical Museum in Hurleyville. Laurie currently teaches Art for the Monticello Central School District and Nesin Cultural Arts, and creates various works of art in her studio, through her business Kilgore Artistry in Monticello, NY.
Places to Eat
- Ciao Bella – A cozy Italian restaurant offering classic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas.
- Yanni’s Gyro Express Cafe – A popular spot for Greek cuisine, known for its gyros and salads.
- Tilly’s Diner – A classic American diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a retro vibe.
- Miss Monticello Diner – A local favorite for hearty breakfasts and traditional diner fare.
Places to Stay
- Resorts World Catskills – A luxury casino resort offering upscale rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options.
- Inn at Lake Joseph – A tranquil bed and breakfast nestled in the woods, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
- Best Western Monticello – A comfortable and convenient hotel close to local attractions and entertainment.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Offering modern amenities and complimentary breakfast, ideal for a relaxing stay.
Places to Explore
- Monticello Raceway – A harness racing track and casino offering exciting entertainment and dining.
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – A cultural hub with concerts, exhibits, and the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival.
- Forestburgh Playhouse – A summer theater offering a range of live performances in a charming, rustic setting.
- Sullivan County Museum – A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Sullivan County.
Dove photos by Paul Henshaw