November 2005 Archives

Turkey for everyone

By John Gray

*The following story is true. The names have been changed to protect the guilty.
It was a chilly November morning in Troy. The leaves had already performed that magic trick where they turn from green to gold and released their grip from the trees. Geese could be heard overhead flying south and the smell of turkey and stuffing filled the air. It was Thanksgiving morning, and all over America families were keeping themselves busy in the kitchen preparing the day’s feast.

The Smith family of Troy had a problem. It was their dog Spot. You see, Spot liked turkey almost as much as he liked chasing cats and squirrels and well, it was clear he was not going to behave himself when the guests arrived. It’s hard to enjoy dinner with a dog putting his head on your lap looking at you with those sad eyes so Mary and John Smith opened the back door and shooed him away.

Problem solved, or so they thought. The family gathered around the dinner table, candles lit, hands joined together to say Grace. It was then they heard scratching at the back door. It was Spot. It wasn’t like him to come back so soon. Normally when they put him out he stayed out for hours. But there he was scratching and whining. “Ah,” they thought, “It must be the turkey. He wants to come in and eat with us.” They were half right. It was the turkey—THE ONE IN SPOT’S MOUTH. Yes, ladies and gentleman, when Spot was pushed out the backdoor he put his nose to the air and caught an aroma oh-so-delightful. It was turkey. A beautiful, brown, juicy 15-pounder that someone else had cooked and put on their back deck to cool. Spot, being a hungry dog, marched his little drumsticks over to that yard and just snatched it up like he was at the drive-thru window at KFC.

Most dogs would have sat right there on the deck and chowed down, but not our hero. No, Spot thought it best to take his prize and bring it home to show Mom and Dad. So there he sat proudly on the back steps with a butterball in his mouth and his tail wagging. The Smith’s did the only thing you could do at a moment like this. They treated Spot like a child who just robbed a bank with the sounds of sirens approaching in the distance. They quickly pulled him in the house, drew the shades and locked the door. “This never happened,” they told their guests and the purloined poultry was promptly disposed of. Being fans of the Soprano’s they considered driving the dead bird out into the country for quiet burial with no witnesses, but a hefty bag did nicely instead.

As for the people who put the turkey on the back deck only to have it vanish? Well, much like the family in that movie “A Christmas Story”, I suspect they went out for Chinese food. It would have been funny if there were posters stapled to telephone poles the next day MISSING—ONE TASTY BIRD. If they are reading this now they should know the Smith’s feel terrible about what happened. Not a Thanksgiving goes by that they don’t think about it and laugh. Oh, and feel bad. Yes, they also feel bad. As for Spot, he’s with that big dogcatcher in the sky telling the other mutts about the day he went out for fresh air and landed a 15-pound bird. Just like you right now, the other dogs don’t believe the story is true... but it is.

Don’t you love Thanksgiving? It is our unofficial national holiday. Family and friends coming together to eat great food, watch bad football and share stories like that one. Whether you’re sitting at the kids’ table with the cousins or watching Grandpa fall asleep in the easy chair, Thanksgiving offers a snapshot into who we are and why we love each other. Growing up, I didn’t always see it this way.

Like most kids I called it “turkey day” and treated it as just an excuse to overeat. As you get older and start to lose people from your life you wish you appreciated those dinners more. You look at your Mom’s good china—the one used only on special occasions—and wish for just a moment you could go back to that time and be with those loved ones again. Hearing your Dad’s laugh, kicking your brother under the table, sneaking in the kitchen late at night and stealing the last slice of pumpkin pie. And the leftovers! Is there anything better than turkey and stuffing the next day? I don’t think so.

I don’t know you, my friend, but I hope when that special Thursday rolls around this month you find yourself sitting down with people who love you. Whether it’s two or twenty-two at the table this is the one day to be thankful for the bounty that is your life. I know life can be hard and disappointing, but push the tough stuff away for awhile and take someone’s hand. If you are young and still have your parents, take a moment to stand in the kitchen doorway and just watch them for a while. Trust me that’s a mental snapshot worth all the gold in California. One you’ll take out again and again.

Oh, and if by chance a scraggly looking dog shows up at the backdoor with a turkey in his teeth invite him in. Don’t ask me how it’s possible but I’ll bet you all the sweet potatoes in Scotia that he answers to the name Spot.

John Gray is a Fox23 News anchor and contributing writing at the Troy Record. He can be reached at johngray@fox23news.com

Welcome to November. This is the month when we really start to feel that fall has arrived. As much as I love summer, fall is a close second. The brilliant colors, the harvest decorations, the brisk air that leaves our cheeks rosy and the feel of pulling on a fleece for the first time all evoke a sense of comfort. And there’s that scent in the air that is unmistakable—you know, the burning leaves, the fireplaces, and of course, the turkey.

Which brings me to Thanksgiving. What a great holiday. You get to graze all morning on appetizers, sit down late afternoon to feast on over a dozen different dishes, digest while watching football or a holiday classic (growing up I remember when King Kong and Mighty Joe Young were popular during the holidays), then return to the table for an array of desserts. What a relaxing holiday (unless you’re the host, of course!)

Here’s a bit of trivia for you—did you know that Benjamin Franklin thought the turkey was so American it should have been chosen as our national symbol rather than the eagle? If that had proven true, I wonder what bird we’d all be eating on Thanksgiving. Just a thought to ponder. For more Thanksgiving fun facts, turn to page 53.

This month we bring you our first Arts & Theatre issue. Read about 18 theatres and dozens of art galleries and museums in Albany and the surrounding areas. With the temperatures rapidly dropping, seeing a show or visiting a museum is a great way to stay warm.

Another way to warm up is by working out. Judy Torel’s fitness column this month focuses on seniors. She offers some great tips on how to ease into an exercise routine with simple movements that, once mastered, will allow you to join a group class at a fitness center or other setting. Remember, no matter what your age, it’s never too late to start enhancing your quality of life.

As always, there are many more exciting articles on the following pages. Parents, if you have any questions for Dr. Cale, please email them to me at the address below. He’ll be addressing them in an upcoming issue.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Enjoy!

Mary Beth DeCecco
marybeth@capitalregionliving.com

Welcome to November. What a wild fall we’ve seen so far! We were pretty warm and dry for the month of September, and then the skies opened up in mid-October with record-breaking rains and barely-budging 50s for temperatures for days on end. Funny how nature always seems to balance itself out.

Now we’re into the heart of autumn. This is the time of year when climatological averages really start to fall off, and any day of the month can be cold. Once we get to the middle of the month, there are a lot of record low temperatures that are in the single digits and two are even left of zero. Record highs are modest at best, especially when compared to the balmy summer that we had in the Capital Region. Our average highs drop from 53 to 41, and the lows go from 35 to 26.

My favorite thing about November is the last Thursday in it...Thanksgiving Day. It truly is my favorite day of the year. And, on a personal note, this will be the first Thanksgiving since 1988 that I’ll be in my hometown. The last four Turkey Days I celebrated were in Texas, where central air conditioning was still a necessity in late November. Not quite the same feel as those chilly Thanksgiving’s I enjoyed growing up in Albany.

Just to give you a little background on the weather for Thanksgiving, it has seen its share of ups and downs. From a record high of 68 to a record low of 5, nature almost always provides a little supplemental refrigeration. Hopefully, it won’t go too far in that regard. It can, and has, snowed on Thanksgiving. The biggest storm dumped a whopping 21.8” back in 1971. Oddly enough, the second highest amount was a distant 8.8” (1898), followed by 8” (1886) and 6” (1985). So, if we use the past as any indication of what travel weather might be like on that day, chances are we’ll be okay.

As I mentioned in a few previous installments, we need to clarify this loosely used term—“Indian summer”. I’ve been guilty of misusing it, even during some newscasts. So, it’s time to set the record straight.

A true Indian Summer, according to many sources, is marked by a period of above average temperatures after a killing frost or freeze has occurred in the fall. The term is generally used in an area from the Mid-Atlantic States north to the Canadian border, and west to the Great Plains. In other words, places where it gets cold early, and a late warm spell brings a last glimpse of summer.

We’re now into the peak of Indian Summer possibilities, so maybe we’ll get a few warm days before the winter really digs in. In this part of the country, Indian Summers really aren’t all that uncommon.

There are many ideas as to the origin of the term, everything from the Indian harvest time, to Indians choosing to hunt in the fall just before the really cold weather sets in. There’s even a possibility that it has to do with the Indian Ocean, which is normally at its quietest this time of year. We’ll probably never know the true origin or origins, but after all that’s how a lot of expressions and imaginations grow.

One other nice thing about November, especially this one, is that it marks the end of hurricane season. This year was nothing short of brutal, with a host of destructive and unusual storms. As of this writing we’ve had 23 (with number 20, Vince, hitting Spain—the first tropical system to ever make landfall there) breaking the 1933’s record of 21 storms. Wilma is the last name on the 2005 list, and should another storm form it will be named Alpha, the first letter in the Greek alphabet, which serves as the supplemental list that we’ll use after all the names for the season have been used. This is unprecedented, and I’m sure that the folks at the World Meteorological Organization and the National Hurricane Center hoped we’d never have to use their storm-naming foresight. Let us hope 2006 is a bit more laid back.

Have a great November and enjoy the Thanksgiving Day leftovers. By the way, I have a great recipe for leftover turkey soup. If you’re interested, just shoot me an email.

Jason Gough is a meteorologist with NewsChannel 13. He can be reached at jgough@wnyt.com.

Until next time-
Your pal,
Jason

By Kimberlee Brandt

In honor of National Pet Peeve Week last month, It’s Just Lunch dating service conducted a survey of 1,363 singles. Here are the results:
•46% say their biggest pet peeve is when their date answers their cell phone during a meal and another 41% think being rude to the wait staff of a restaurant is a major no-no.
•26% of men and 37% of women say one of their pet peeves is when their date talks too much and only about themselves.
•Men and women also agree that it’s better not to talk about your “ex” on a first date—30% say it’s the quickest way to not get a second date. Singles also think that the best first date conversations consist of getting to know what the other person likes and dislikes and what their hobbies are.
•45% of single men dislike when their date talks about her weight or newest diet and 56% of women say they hate when their date is more interested in the waitress than them and shows it.
•When it comes to hygiene and appearance, 42% of men and 53% of women dislike when there date is un-groomed. 59% of singles agree that bad body odor is their biggest hygiene turn-off.
The survey also found that 71% of men would accept a second date with a woman even if she displayed one of his pet peeves. However, women are not as forgiving; only 42% would attempt a repeat date in the same situation. And, do you yourself have any bad habits on dates? 56% of men claim no bad habits, while 23% of women feel they interrupt in conversations. More dating statistics are available at www.itsjustlunch.com.n
Kimberlee Brandt is director of It’s Just Lunch located in Albany. She can be reached at 482.8400 or www.itsjustlunch.com.

By Judy Torel

Until recently, seniors and exercise were thought of as mutually exclusive terms. Recent evidence indicates that starting an exercise program can greatly benefit the health and quality of life for seniors of all ages and fitness levels. The benefits do not only enhance the physical body, but mental health as well.
What are the physical and mental health issues specific to seniors that exercise can help improve? What are the types of exercises from which seniors can most benefit? Where in the Capital District are there organized senior exercise programs? Read on!

Balance
Studies have shown that as we age and become less active we tend to develop issues with balance. Falling is a direct result of the loss of the ability to balance and right oneself from weight shifts such as stepping down off a street curb. Falls can lead to broken hips and other injuries that result in disability and significant loss of autonomy in the senior population. There are a significant number of premature deaths among seniors that are the result of complications from falling.
Exercises that target balance can function as a preventative remedy against increased risk of falling. Start by standing on the floor, and practice standing on one leg for 15 seconds before switching weight onto the opposite leg for 15 seconds.
Once a senior has mastered this skill on the floor the exercise can be performed on any of the newer pieces of equipment in the fitness industry designed to create unstable surfaces. For instance, the Reebok Core Board is similar to a step, except that it’s unstable and can rock side to side and forward and back. A senior can practice standing on one leg while on the Core Board. This adds another element of instability to the exercise and further increases the ability to balance oneself. Other unstable surfaces that can be used for balance work include half foam rollers, the BOSU, and wobble boards.

Flexibility
Have you ever seen a senior who can no longer take a stride when walking, but who must resort to a shuffle? This is a common gaiting issue in seniors. Most observers attribute this shuffling gait with a lack of strength when in reality it’s the result of a decrease in flexibility, which makes it difficult to take a complete stride when walking.
A decrease in flexibility is very common in seniors and results in anything from a slight limitation to complete lack of independence. Flexibility can easily be maintained and enhanced with very simple exercises. Simply moving the joints through their complete range of motion will help seniors prevent the limited movement patterns. This can be done by flexing and bending the wrists, lifting and lowering the arms both forward and back and out to the sides and back into the body, rounding and arching the spine, lifting and lowering the leg in the hip joint, bending and straightening the knee, and flexing and pointing the foot.
Once a senior has mastered these movement patterns the next step in flexibility would be participating in a Kripalu yoga class for beginners or using a beginner yoga video.

Strength
As we get older, we lose approximately 10 percent of our lean mass per decade. This means that unless a senior is actively performing some type of strengthening exercises they have lost significant muscle mass.
Loss of muscle mass has several negative results for seniors. It can lead to less physical autonomy and a decrease in metabolism. It can also create the internal environment for the development of Type 2 diabetes and can increase the risk for osteoporosis or low bone density.
Strength exercises involve adding weight to a joint movement. For instance, a bicep curl can be done by holding a 1-pound can of vegetables and bending and straightening the elbow. Or, perform a military press by holding the cans over your shoulders and pushing both arms up to the ceiling. Another strengthening exercise requires sitting on the edge of a chair and straightening and bending the knee with an ankle weight on.
Once a senior is able to add 1-2 pounds of additional resistance to the basic movement patterns of the body, it’s time to find a gym or weight training center. Formal fitness centers have machines that allow the senior to use heavier overloads and to perform overload exercises that are not possible with just the body at home.

Endurance
Diabetes, hypertension, colon cancer, stroke and obesity are all linked to the senior population. Endurance exercises that increase the respiratory rate and the heart rate over a sustained period of time have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of these diseases. These include brisk walking, cycling, walking the dog, recumbant bikes and dancing. These exercises also help reduce and alleviate depression, which can be high among seniors.
Start with small intervals of sustained movement. For instance, walk for a minute and then take a short rest and begin to walk again for another minute until you have built up to a sustained 20-minute endurance workout. Next, start to add higher levels of intensity. For instance, while riding the recumbant bike, take note of the resistance level and the RPMs while you are building up to 20 minutes sustained. Then increase the resistance by one level until you can sustain the higher resistance for 20 minutes.
The adage, “Better late than never” certainly holds true when it comes to your health. It’s never to late for seniors to take charge of their bodies and ease their way into a safe fitness routine.

Judy Torel is a therapist/personal trainer with a Master’s degree in psychology. She is certified through the American College of Sports Medicine as a fitness trainer and works out of Judy Torel’s Sweat Shop Exercise Studio and Planet Fitness. She can be reached at JTOREL2263@yahoo.com.

By Art Stein

“Al, can you make me...” is a common request repeated to Al Pollock, the owner and chef of Teagen’s Steak and Seafood located in Rensselaer. In a time of ever increasing restaurant chains and standardized fare, Teagan’s stands out as a local favorite where customers are assured of consistently good food—and lots of it.

The restaurant is situated on a nondescript stretch of Columbia Turnpike, in front of a former motel whose units have been converted into a series of small stores, including a used bookstore and clothing consignment shop. As you walk from the parking area behind the restaurant, you pass a small patio with approximately six tables. Entering the restaurant is the main dining area, comprised of about a dozen tables comfortably spread apart. A separate room has a bar at one end and a spattering of tables at the other end. The overall effect is comfortable, familiar and informal.

Though the restaurant name speaks for itself—serving dishes such as Cold Water King Salmon, Pan Seared Tuna, Filet Mignon and Sliced Steak Teriyaki—the menu is diverse and eclectic and sure to satisfy most appetites with numerous, veal, poultry and pasta dishes.
There is a dinner special featured each night, such as Sirloin Steak on Monday and Prime Rib on Thursday and an array of appetizers including Tortellini a la Pana, Escargot Angel Hair, Shrimp Cocktail and Baked Clams Casino.

But the lifeblood of Teagan’s Steak and Seafood is 43-year-old Al Pollock. A Troy native, he has been in the restaurant business for most of his life, working at his grandparent’s restaurant as a teenager. After graduating from Schenectady Community College, Pollack worked as a chef at Chaucer’s in Clifton Park where he won an award as the area’s top chef and went on to become the banquet chef at the Sagamore in Bolton Landing.

In the early 1990s, Pollack and his wife, Theresa, began looking around for a place to start their own restaurant. In 1994, they opened Teagan’s, named after their daughter. The couple has kept it a family affair since they opened their doors, with Pollack’s mother making many of the desserts including cheesecakes, pies and torts. They also enjoy a bustling take-out business.
“My philosophy is to serve good quality food at an affordable price,” said Pollack, as he surveyed the restaurant filling up on an early Thursday evening. “I have many customers who eat here a couple of times a week and usually I know most of them by name.”
While most come for the prime rib and steak, Pollack is just as comfortable preparing dishes from scratch that do not adorn Teagan’s extensive menu.

“If I have the ingredients, I will usually try and accommodate the customer,” he said, describing the seafood stuffed acorn squash he prepared a few weeks back as a special request.
In addition to the restaurant side of the business, Pollack and his wife run a catering business (including breakfast and brunch) for weddings, barbeques and other large parties. Customers may also reserve a room at Teagan’s for special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries and baby and bridal showers.

Though the long hours required in owning a restaurant is Pollack’s least favorite part of the business, he is quick to point out that this is more than offset by the pleasure he derives from rolling up his sleeves in the kitchen and creating one of his customer’s favorite dishes, as well as the camaraderie he shares with those around him.

“The best and most rewarding part of this business is the relationship I have with my customers and employees,” said Pollack.

In a time of increased anynonimity and impersonalization, Teagan’s is a reminder of the days of the neighborhood restaurant where people go as much to feel a part of something as knowing they can depend on good quality food. Al and Theresa Pollock have done this by adhering to the old axiom of catering to the customer.

Teagan’s Steak & Seafood is located on 360 Columbia Turnpike in Rensselaer. Lunch is served Monday-Friday, 11am-4pm and dinner is served Monday- Saturday 4pm-10pm and Sunday 4pm-9pm. For more information call 477.9909.

Dear Friends,
I can think of no better way to introduce Rensselaer County to you then to mention our extensive fields, woods and parks that surround our many lakes and mountains, rich with wonder, as their charm magnifies throughout the year to create spectacular views over our vast landscapes. This natural beauty serves as an exquisite backdrop for our fourteen towns, six villages and two cities, and blends with our refreshing rural and hi- tech influences to make our County a truly appealing place to live, raise a family, work, and start a business.
Thanks for taking the time to read about beautiful Rensselaer County, and special thanks to Capital Region Living for bringing us to your attention. We hope you enjoy this November edition, and for those of you who don’t currently live in our County, I am confident that this glimpse of our vast tourism attractions, activities, and just good old–fashioned opportunities to sit back and enjoy nature, will capture your fancy and appeal to you to come visit us....who knows, you might even decide to stay!
I look forward to seeing you—I hope that you make your visit a long one!
Sincerely,
Kathleen M. Jimino
Rensselaer County Executive

Rensselaer County is filled with wonderful contradictions and juxtapositions. It’s a special place where rural charm meets urban delights, where cultural opportunities and pastoral pastimes happily coexist, and where American heritage meets cutting-edge technology. Stretching 30-miles along the Hudson River, it offers thousands of acres of parks, miles of trails, and more than 500 lakes, ponds, and even championship golf courses. Year-round activity abounds, whether it be swimming, boating, hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or maybe even dog sledding. During the growing season, the county offers an array of locally produced fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, baked goods, arts, crafts, and even a buffalo hide or two!
A magnificently grand territory, Rensselaer County began playing a key role in American history back in 1630. It was then part of the Van Rensselaer patroon holdings, an important part of the great Dutch West Indies Company. Van Rensselaer’s stand as a patroon ended with the Anti-Rent wars of the 1840’s, when local farmers refused to pay rent to the sheriff’s deputies —then proceeded to tar and feather them for even trying to collect!

Before that happened however, in 1824 Stephen Van Rensselaer founded the oldest degree granting engineering school in the English-speaking world. At the same time, the county’s proximity to waterpower and markets forged the growth of the region’s iron industries, which quickly became legend for the production of such items as the iron plates for the Civil War battleship ‘Monitor’ and most of the horseshoes for the Union Army. And, in 1876, the 13,000-pound replacement for the cracked Liberty Bell was cast here.

Congress long ago designated Troy as the home of “Uncle Sam” —Samuel B. Wilson, a meat packer who stamped his barrels bound for U.S. Army troops with “U.S.” Local troops soon recognized their meat deliveries as coming from “Uncle Sam.” The label stuck—and the rest is history! Sam Wilson is buried in Troy’s beautiful Oakwood Cemetery, along with a host of Civil War generals, industry powerhouses, inventors, and community leaders. The nation’s first female labor union, the Collar Laundry Union, was founded in Troy in 1864 by Kate Mullaney and Ester Keegan. Another classic American icon—this one of a musical sort— was created at the old van Rensselaer manor house, Fort Crailo, where ‘Yankee Doodle’ is rumored to have been written.

The region also boasts many other impressive cultural contributions. It was here that Herman Melville found inspiration to write his first two novels, and Washington Irving penned “Father Knickerbocker” tales while residing at the Knickerbocker Mansion in Schaghticoke. The ‘Troy Sentinel’ was the first to publish “The Night Before Christmas” in 1823, and art collector Louis Caldor discovered Grandma Moses’ art on display in a Hoosick Falls drugstore. Living just over the county’s border, the beloved folk artist immortalized Rensselaer County’s lush hills and charming communities in her paintings.

As befits a county seat, the streets of Troy undeniably feature some of the finest 19th century architecture in the country. Blessed with what one expert calls the mother lode of Tiffany windows, Troy also houses such world-renowned treasures as the acoustically superb Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Norman Rockwell was so taken with the area that he painted scenes featuring the streets of Troy, and Hollywood directors have used numerous county locations when making both period films and contemporary blockbusters.

Established in 1954, the acclaimed Junior Museum was at the forefront of the nation’s children’s museum movement, and it is presently the only place in the Northeast where guests can visit a Digistar II planetarium. Another active cultural mecca, The Arts Center of the Capital Region annually welcomes over 70,000 artists, patrons, students, and performers at its new 36,000-square-foot facility. And Troy’s RiverSpark Visitor Center extends a warm welcome with exhibits, maps, tours, and other useful information designed to share with guests the many wonderful secrets of Troy and Rensselaer County.

Troy is considered the official gateway to the New York Canal System and boasts a picturesque waterfront park, a dock, and marina. The city itself is acclaimed for events like its Riverfront Arts Festival, the nation’s largest Flag Day parade, and the wintertime favorite, the Victorian Stroll.

The entire region practically pops at the seams for popular events like the Schaghticoke Fair, the Grafton Lakes Winter Fest and the annual Apple Festival and Crafts Show, which are enjoyed by thousands of residents and visitors annually. And for those moments you want to get far from the madding crowd, the county offers many solitary activities and pursuits.
Come...Take a closer look...And discover the many wonderful secrets of Rensselaer County.
Reprinted with permission from Rensselaer County; www.rensco.com.

Events
Through March
RPI Men’s Ice Hockey. Exciting NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey team competes against the top colleges in the country. For more info: www.rpi.edu/dept/athletics
November 6-March 26
Troy Winter Farmers’ Market—Free special events continue during the winter months with children’s activities, musicians, local chefs, community organizations and a variety of entertainers. Every Saturday 10am-2pm. Atrium, downtown Troy. For more info: www.troymarket.org.
November 1
Making Scrapbook Pages together—Supplies and tools available, but bring you can also bring your own. For all ages. Brunswick Community Library. 6pm. For more info: 279.4023; www.brunswicklibrary.org.
November 5
Roast Pork Dinner and Mini-Bazaar—Take-outs available. Dinner 4pm-6:30pm; Bazaar 3:30pm-7pm. The First Reformed Church of Wynantskill. For more info: 283.4420.
November 6
All-you-can-eat Pancake breakfast—Adults $5.50; children $3, under 5 free. Raffle and sale of DFD commemorative Christmas ornaments. 8am-noon. Defreestville Fire Department.
November 6
Harvest Brunch—Adults $6; children $2. Lansingburgh Boy’s & Girls’ Club. 10am-1pm. For more info: 235.4143.
November 19
Holiday Craft Fair—9am-4pm. 665 Brunswick Road, Troy.
November 24
Turkey Trot, City of Troy—For more info: www.troyny.gov/turkeytrot.html.
December 4
Troy Victorian Stroll—Enjoy the Victorian splendor of historic downtown Troy offering over 100 attractions throughout the day. Live music, dancing, storytelling, theatre, costumed performers and more set against a backdrop of unique shops, storefronts and restaurants, will bring the streets alive with Victorian holiday magic. Concludes with the lighting of the City of Troy Holiday Tree. 11am-5pm. For more info: 274.7020; www.troyvictorianstroll.com.
January
WinterFest at Grafton Lakes State Park—Featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits, the festival will feature environmental and recreational workshops and outings, including snow sculpture and snowball- throwing contests for the kids, an ice fishing tournament, horse-drawn sleigh rides and dog sled rides. For more info: www.nysparks.state.ny.us.
For more events visit www.rensco.com

Attractions
Rensselaer County Historical Society
59 Second Street, Troy , 732.7232; www.rchsonline.org
2005 Exhibitions:
Through December 23: Doodles, Drafts and Designs: Industrial Drawings from the Smithsonian

New York State Theater Institute
Schacht Fine Arts Center, Russell Sage College
Corner of Division & River Street, Troy
274.3256; www.nysti.org
NYSTI stands as an internationally acclaimed professional and educational regional theatre geared toward family productions.

The Arts Center of the Capital Region
265 River Street, Troy
273.0552; www.artscenteronline.org
The Arts Center of the Capital Region is a state-of-the-art multi-arts center located in downtown Troy, in New York’s Capital Region. Exhibits, classes and camps offered.

Hudson-Mohawk Industrial Gateway Burden Iron Works Museum
Polk Street, Troy
274.5267, www.rpi.edu/~carroll/gateway1.html
Tours, school programs at the primary, secondary and college levels, provides consulting on historic preservation issues and on regional history of technology in this area, and manages a regional technology museum.

Troy Savings Bank Music Hall
Second Street, Troy, 273.0038; www.troymusichall.org
World-renowned acoustical hall with an eclectic concert schedule featuring classical, jazz, world music and popular artists.

Knickerbocker Historical Society
Schaghticoke
A non-profit organization that is restoring the Knickerbocker Family Mansion which dates from about 1770. The Society also hosts the annual Knickerbocker Family Reunion, as well as other fund-raisers at the mansion during the year.

Crailo State Historic Site
9 1/2 Riverside Avenue, Rensselaer, 463.8738
Crailo State Historic Site is a museum of the Dutch in the upper Hudson Valley. Crailo today tells the story of the early Dutch inhabitants of the upper Hudson Valley through exhibits highlighting archeological finds from the Albany Fort Orange excavations, special programs, and guided tours of the museum.

Hoosick Township Historical Society
Louis Miller Museum,, 166 Main Street, Hoosick Falls
686.4682

Children’s Museum of Science & Technology
Rensselaer Tech Park, North Greenbush
235.2120; www.juniormuseum.org
The Museum is dedicated to introducing children of all ages to a wide spectrum of science and technology topics, integrated with history and the arts, in a fun and friendly environment.

Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area
East Poestenkill, 283.3652; www.pineridgexc.com
35km groomed trails, 15km ungroomed trails for snowshoeing & skiing, 4km lighted trails for night skiing, 20km skating trails, PSIA lessons offered daily, complete ski rentals, special group programs available.

Sand Lake Center for the Arts
2880 NY 43, Averill Park , 674.2007
Home of the Circle Theater Players, the Center provides theater, performing arts and visual arts.
November 4, 5, 6
Circle Theatre Players presents the comedy classic Harvey by Mary Chase. $14.
November 12
Holiday Art Fair—Featuring 19 local artists in photography, pottery, watercolors, unique jewelry, glass blowing, onyx and teak products, weaving, ceramics, letterpress, wood engraving, mixed media painting and etchings, designer scarves, and Chinese brush painting. 10am-3pm.
November 26
ARTWORKS!—Rick Salazar, in time period Iroquois clothing, will be sharing songs, tales and myths of the Iroquois Native Americans, with audience participation. 9am-10pm.

The beauty of Facial RejuvenationAcupuncture
A safe and balanced approach

By Rebecca Rice, L.Ac., MSAOM and Christopher Reilly, L.Ac., MSA, CCHM

Skin is not only an indispensable organ for warmth, protection and sensation, it is also a good indicator of how healthy we are on the inside. It’s important to take the time to examine our complexion and skin tone.
Before denying any value in the appearance of our skin, it helps to remember a few important details that help put our largest organ into perspective. It is made of very specialized cells and tissues that are our first defense against infectious diseases, secretes fluid in order to expel waste and keep us cool, helps keep us warm in the winter and contains the nerve receptors responsible for our sense of touch. Healthy skin isn’t just beautiful, it’s vital to our overall well-being.
The internal experiences we have throughout life are revealed on our face. Worry causes the brows to furrow and the face to be set in a state of concern. Poor diet causes the skin to produce too much or too little natural oils, resulting in acne or dry skin, puffiness and a blotchy complexion. Overwork and chronic stress cause the skin to appear lusterless and rough and give rise to bags under the eyes and sagging skin. Sun damage causes pigment changes and wrinkles.
In dealing with the skin of the face, the 2,000-plus year-old systems of Ayurvedic Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine both contain systems of “facial diagnosis.” This means that a traditional physician would examine the facial complexion of a patient in order to help determine which systems within the body were dysfunctional.
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture takes into account both the importance of treating the health of the whole body, as well as promoting beauty for beauty’s sake. Internal imbalances both physical and emotional are addressed with acupuncture and herbal formulas. An increase in our health and well–being naturally brings a brighter shine to our complexion and brightness to our eyes. Needles placed in the facial area work directly to reduce small wrinkles, increase blood circulation and clear or even out the complexion.
If you are considering any technique to shed years off of your appearance, consider the importance of balancing internal health and external appearance. Acupuncture is a safe and effective alternative to modern cosmetic beautification techniques such as surgery or Botox injections. Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is suitable for those individuals who are seeking to brighten their complexion, smooth wrinkles, reduce sagging, have an even skin tone, decrease pore size, reduce acne and dry skin and reduce puffiness.

Origin
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture has been popularized in the United States by pioneer Virginia Doran, L.Ac., LMT. Her specialized technique has been documented on CBS, FOX, and UPN networks and in magazines such as Shape, Latina and Health for Life.
The origins of acupuncture beautification can be traced back to its use by imperial concubines in China’s Song dynasty. This special style of acupuncture is administered with very fine, hair-thin needles placed around the face and throughout the body. Unlike hypodermic needles used for injections, these needles are so thin that they are rarely felt as painful. Ms. Doran reports that within 10 to 15 treatments the patient can appear 5-15 years younger. Cost is approximately $100 per treatment and one maintenance treatment is recommended seasonally. In comparison, Botox injects cost about $350 per injection site.

New trend
ication of timeless healing techniques, such as acupuncture, to the area of beauty enhancement is a trend that seems to be taking the country by storm. Instead of stretching our skin tight around our cheek bones, we’re beginning to look more at what we’re eating, if we’re getting enough rest, what our emotional life’s like and how our appearance can be affected by all these factors. It is in this vein that Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture has placed itself, and it’s growing popularity indicates that the quest for health and the quest for beauty are converging towards a unified quest for wholeness and well-being. n
Christopher Reilly, L.Ac, MSA, CCHM and Rebecca Rice, L.Ac, MSAOM practice Traditional Chinese Medicine including acupuncture and Chinese Herbal therapies at the Center for Integrative Health and Healing in Delmar. They have been trained and certified in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture by world-renowned pioneer, Virginia Doran, L.Ac, LMT. For more information call 689.2244 or visit www.cihh.net.

Albany Kripalu Yoga Center
6 Metro Park Road, Albany
454.9642; www.akyc.org
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.
Describe your business: We are the oldest and largest not-for-profit Kripalu affiliate in the world, having been in business for over 30 years. We offer over 50 classes per week in four locations--Albany, Schenectady, Delmar and Burnt Hills. Classes include Kripalu Yoga, Anusara Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, pilates, tai chi, KidsYoga, Pre-Natal Yoga, Mom & Baby, Tots ItsyBitsy and more. We offer a variety of workshops on yoga, health & wellness, stress reduction, chanting and community events. We also offer specialty classes for those with chronic medical problems, including people living with cancer, in conjunction with Gilda's Club.
Our teachers are all certified yoga and pilates teachers through accredited programs. Most of our yoga teachers are Kripalu certified yoga teachers.
How did AKYC get its start? AKYC was founded in 1973 as the Kripalu Yoga Fellowship. It began in the living room of a yoga teacher's home with five classes per week and has grown to a center with three yoga rooms and over 50 classes per week.
The wellness industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think this industry has become so popular? Yoga is part of a practice of health and wellness. Currently, we live in a culture of business and stress. The practice of yoga allows you to step outside of regular ways of being in the world and allow a space to rest and rejuvenate, spend time with your own body and take care of yourself.
What kind of classes will we be seeing in months to come? Since stress contributes to most disease, AKYC will continue to offer yoga and wellness programs that help reduce stress and promote healthy lifestyles. If you have never taken a yoga class or think you are not the "type" AKYC has a class for every body.

Capital Region Center for Dental Implants
100 Main Street, Cohoes
237.0019; www.marradmd.com
Owner: Dr. Frederick J. Marra, D.M.D., 51
How long have you been in business? Since 1981. This dental practice was founded by Dr. Harry Marra in 1941.
Describe your business: My dental practice focuses on all aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry with an emphasis on the utilization of dental implants. My staff and I have the background and knowledge to carefully coordinate and implement a sound, logistic approach to good oral health and oral cosmetic enhancement.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? In today's environment, cosmetic improvements in a patient's smile must fulfill in both the maintenance and restoration of their health. I have been actively pursuing new advances in dentistry since my graduation.
Where did you receive your training? I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 1980 and my graduate training from their Residency Program in 1981. I have reached the highest level of achievement in the Academy of General Dentistry, Mastership, and continue to pursue educational programs, allowing my office to take a full comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to the patient's care.
What types of treatments/procedures do you offer? Out of those, which do you perform the most of? We offer cosmetic bonding procedures, orthodontics for cosmetic enhancement, porcelain veneers, implant therapy, bleaching of the teeth, and some plastic surgical procedures of the gums for improved cosmetic appearance.
The health and beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think this industry has become so popular? I think cosmetics are important today because many of us are conscious of our health and appearance, and we are willing to utilize the advancements in the world to sustain our youthful appearance and bolster our self-esteem and general well-being.
What beauty treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? I think bleaching of the teeth and simple bonded composite restorations (fillings) are very reasonable in cost and can provide great results.
What kind of new treatments/procedures will we be seeing in months to come? I think the advances in dental implantology are occurring very rapidly and we will see many new advances and innovations in the months and years to come.

Catskill Dental Care
132 Jefferson Heights, Catskill
943.0920; catskilldentalcare.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
Owner: Dr. Joseph M. Pilatich III, 39 and two associates Dr. Jamie Stauss and Dr. Stacey Russell.
How long have you been in business? 12 years
Describe your business: It's a family dental practice with emphasis on cosmetics and implant technology.
How did you become involved in this industry? Practicing cosmetics and improving one's smile makes me happy and fulfilled in my work and I believe one should do what makes them the happiest.
Where did you receive your training? I received my B.S. in Biology in 1988 from Siena College, my D.D.S. from the University of Maryland in 1992, completed a General Dental Residency at the Albany V.A. in 1993, and completed a mini-residency in Prosthetic Dental Implants from the University of New Jersey Dental School in 1996. I studied at The Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Training, and am currently the only Las Vegas Institute graduate in the Capital District. This distinction is for those who have completed Advanced Functional Aesthetic, Comprehensive Reconstruction, Full Mouth Reconstruction as well as Occlusion 1-3. I, along with Dr. Gary Wadhwa and Dr. Paul Johar, are mentors for Nobel Biocare Implant Systems which entails giving instruction to other colleagues.
What types of treatments/procedures do you offer? Our office offers all types of dental procedures from general dentistry to full mouth rehabilitation.
The health & beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think it has become so popular? In an era of riding high on the accomplishments of body aesthetics, cosmetic dentistry is quietly delivering astonishing life altering effects. Just turn on the TV and one can find a variety of "make-over" reality television programs featuring smiles that show off dental veneers and other beautiful smile enhancements. A recent study published in the Journal of Dentistry, reported that smile-makeover patients feel more "at ease in social settings, having the confidence to express opinions, being more sociable and greeting people spontaneously."
What treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? Porcelain veneers on the upper teeth (usually 8-10). With a large population being partially or totally edentulous, implants will become much more widely used. They are highly successful when placed correctly and improving chewing capacity enormously especially for those with ill-fitting dentures.

A Sacred Space
542.8795 or 347.1183
Hours: By appointment
Owner: Cindy E. Barg, M.Ed.
How long have you been in business? For at least 18 years I have operated a private practice in NY, Cape Cod and Florida.
Describe your business: I do individual counseling and I design and facilitate workshops throughout the country and abroad. I offer, but am not limited to counseling in death and dying, catastrophic illness, divorce, self-empowerment, and getting beyond life's "stuff."
How did you become involved in the wellness industry? I was extremely fortunate to have participated in a multidisciplinary setting years back where I trained as a psychotherapist for chronic pain. It was an environment that spoke to treating the whole person, utilizing various techniques (counseling, acupuncture, massage, nutritional analysis, lifestyle) toward wellness.
Where did you receive your training? I have acquired a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from the University of Massachusetts.
What service do you think has the best results? It is more experiential. When I do workshops people realize they are not alone. It helps a client to participate so they feel part of the experience and that helps in the healing process. I can only do so much behind closed doors. I am a guide, but they must do the work to get the best results. All of their answers lie within and when that well becomes tapped, amazing results can take place.
What kind of new workshops will you be offering in the coming months? I will be doing a workshop (in February or March 2006) on how to be intimate without sex, for men only.

Dr. Christopher J. Lyons, DMD, PLLC
Dr. David M. Delaney, DMD
Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
476 Albany-Shaker Road
Loudonville, NY 12211
438.6800
How long have you been in business? Dr. Lyons 16 years; Dr. Delaney 31 years.
Describe your business: We offer cosmetic dentistry, including bleaching, veneers, bonding, implants, metal free dentures and all general dentistry. Our family dentistry includes cleanings, digital X-rays, intra oral cameras and sealants.
We've created a homelike atmosphere in the newly built office, staring in the waiting room, which is decorated with comfortable chairs and sofas. There are TV screens in every room for the patients to view during procedures, and a large playroom is available for small children and their parents. Coming soon, will be a spa feature where patients can receive paraffin hand treatments during their visit, free of charge.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? We both believe the link between health and beauty starts with your smile.
Where did you receive your training?
Dr. Lyons: Temple University School of Dentistry, 1989; VA Hospital Albany, General Residency 1990.
Dr. Delaney: St. Michael's College, 1967; University of Pennsylvania 1974.
Out of the treatments you offer what is the most popular? Bleaching --the results are fantastic.
The health & beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think it has become so popular? People are interested in their appearance now more than ever, especially people between the ages of 40 and 60. Their smile is very important to them.
What procedure do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? Bonding and bleaching can make someone's smile look better immediately. In some cases, it looks like the patient had years of orthodontics all in a one-hour appointment.
What kind of new treatments/procedures will we be seeing in months to come? The use of digital X-rays has revolutionized dentistry. They're more accurate and diagnostic, and use less radiation. Bleaching products that are guaranteed to work and last. Painless, short visits due to new high speed fiber optic drills. Lasers will soon be introduced to the office.

Gooding Skin Systems
296 Wolf Road, Latham
783.0163; www.skinsystems.com
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-7pm; Saturday 10pm-5pm
Owner: Thomas and Nancy Gooding. There are also three estheticians and a nail technician.
How long have you been in business? 25 years
Describe your business: Gooding Skin Systems is a full-service salon specializing in facials, anti-aging treatments such as glycolic treatments, micro-dermabrasion, opti-clear light therapy and more. We also offer manicures and pedicures, hair removal (waxing and IPL), and for the sun worshipers there is spray on tanning.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? Nancy has extensive training in all aspects of skin care--she has been in the business for 33 years. She also has a passion for perfection--not just in the service we provide, but also in making that person feel great about their experience with us. Because we are a small family-owned business, we are able to give our clients that personalized touch that they deserve. People are living longer--they are more active and as a result they want to look as good as they feel. The treatments are now available to help them do that.
What beauty treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? The secret to good skin is exfoliation. Micro-dermabrasion is the best treatment for that. It exfoliates the surface layers and helps promote celluar rejuvenation. As a result the skin looks younger and more vibrant. It is cost effective, non-invasive, has no down time and is effective with all types of skin.

Hair Loss Control Clinic
4 Avis Drive, Latham
220.1500; www.hlcconline.com
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9am-5pm; Tuesday, Thursday 9am-8pm; Saturday 10am-2pm.
Owners: William C. Blatter, 42; Brian R. Hempstead, 43. Michael S. Albert, M.D. is the medical director.
How long have you been in business? 18 years.
Describe your business: We are a medical hair loss clinic. We provide individualized treatment plans for your unique hair loss treatment concerns, offering a wide variety of hair loss products and service options. These include a revolutionary patented Laser for Laser hair therapy, which was named Time magazine Invention of the year. We also provide higher strength FDA proven products (Propecia & Rogaine), as well as unique products such as: HairScripts™ Complete, herbal alternative to Propecia and vitamins for hair loss. We can also recommend hair restoration surgery, laser treatment, cosmetic enhancement and hair replacement. Our products are so good that over 100 clinics buy their hair loss products from the Hair Loss Control Clinic.
How did you become involved in the industry? My good friend Brian Hempstead who has a 20-year medical back ground owned part of the company and gave me the products to help my hair loss because I was helping him with his website. I got back all the hair I had lost for the past five years and was so impressed I bought out his partner.

Center for Integrative Health and Healing
388 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar
(at the Four Corners)
689.2244; www.cihh.net
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Evening times are available by appointment
Owner: Dr. Ronald Stram, M.D. is the director and founder of the Center for Integrative Health and Healing. On staff is Rebecca Rice L.Ac. (Licensed Acupuncturist), M.S. and Christopher Reilly L.Ac. M.S.A., C.C.H.M. Other colleagues include Alison Finger, ND, Diana Gribben, LMT and Connie Barber, RN, QTTP, CHTP.
How long have you been in business? Almost three years.
Describe your business: We are an integrative center with a team of practitioners working closely and collaboratively to enhance the health and wellbeing of our clients. We have licensed professionals practicing integrative medicine, naturopathy, therapeutic massage, healing touch, western and Chinese herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutrition, acupuncture, physical medicine, Reiki, Tui Na, guided imagery and more. We are also trained in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, an approach that focuses on beauty from the inside out. We see patients for many reasons including pain, infertility, menstrual irregularities, digestive disorders, depression, anxiety and chemotherapy support. We practice alongside traditional doctors providing a truly progressive form of healthcare.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? Our involvement in healthcare was, and still is, pursued as a passion to understand and support the natural life processes of the human community.
Where did you receive your training? We (Rebecca and Christopher) earned our Master's degrees in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington, one of the most prestigious and largest schools of natural medicine in the country. We received our Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture training from its pioneer, world-known acupuncturist Virgina Doran, L.Ac., LMT.
Out of the treatments you offer, which is the most popular? We perform acupuncture more than any other procedure. We also use Chinese herbs, non-insertion acupuncture, meridian heat therapy and a system of acupressure called tui na.
The health & beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think it has become so popular? Part of it is due to the blessings of abundance that we enjoy here in the United States. A large percentage of the population is comfortable enough to have room in their lives for the consideration of things like beauty. Another reason is the youth obsession of our culture.
What beauty treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, of course! But, of course, there is no one treatment or magic bullet that can do it all. A healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and a luminous spirit in collaboration with beauty-specific techniques such as acupuncture are the keys to success.

Northeast Spine & Wellness
Main office: 2 Emma Lane Clifton Park, 371.4800
2nd office: 2038 Broadway Schenectady, 374.4540
Hours: (Clifton Park) Monday-Wednesday 7am-1pm and 3pm-7pm; Tuesday & Thursday 2pm-6pm; Friday 7am-1pm; Saturday 8am-11am.
(Schenectady) Tuesday and Thursday 8am-12noon and 2pm-5pm.
Owner: Dr. Joseph S. Gulyas, chiropractor, is the director of Northeast Spine & Wellness. Mary Ann Gulyas is the office manager.
How long have you been in business? Dr. Gulyas has been a chiropractor in Clifton Park since 1988. In 2004, we reformed the practice into Northeast Spine & Wellness moving into a new facility and bringing along other friends to help them to deliver holistic health to the community in a caring atmosphere.
Describe your business: We are a full-service facility offering a variety of health and wellness programs such as chiropractic, acupuncture, Reiki, massage, cranial sacral, holistic counseling, lifestyle coaching, therapeutic exercise and nutritional and diet analysis. Weekly yoga, fitness, meditation and anti-aging classes are also offered.
Where did you receive your training? Dr. Gulyas is a graduate of Skidmore College and New York Chiropractic College. He continues his training every six months to stay on top of the latest technology.
Out of the services you offer, which is the most popular? Chiropractic care is an answer to good health and longevity and that remains integral to our work. We perform a "wellness review" to determine a person's level of health and determine which procedures and treatments are needed. We will also give advice on nutritional information, exercise and proper breathing. Although we offer a variety of treatments, our mission is to get people to understand that health and beauty is simple.
The wellness industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think it has become so popular? The paradigm is beginning to shift on behalf of society's awakening that health is not a "quick fix" in a bottle. Rather, health is simple and basic. There really are no expensive shortcuts. It is a lifestyle and the understanding that we can live to 100 years old unless we get in the way.

V. Pilar Arthur-Snead--Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant
Albany, 330.4085
www.marykay.com/varthur
Hours: Monday-Saturday by appointment only.
Owner: V. Pilar Arthur-Snead, 33
How long have you been in business? I began my Mary Kay business in February of 2001. Mary Kay, Inc. has been in business for 42 years.
Describe your business: I teach proper skin care and color cosmetic application through private one-on-one consultations or get-togethers of two or more women. I offer my customers quality products, the opportunity to try-before-you-buy, as well as a personalized shop-at-home experience, all backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. I strive to offer many ways for women to look, feel and be their best.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? I was planning my wedding and did not wear a lot make-up. I was mortified at the idea of going to a make-up counter so I began searching the web for an alternative and discovered Mary Kay. I was so impressed with my sales director and everything she shared with me that I began my business the next day!
Where did you receive your training? I attend weekly training in Albany and both national and regional training sponsored by Mary Kay, Inc.
What services do you most recommend to your clients? Women are typically interested in a customized skin care regimen and in advanced color application techniques. I can suggest a skin care regimen, which will meet the essentials for healthy-looking skin and foundation shades and color cosmetics to meet every woman's lifestyle needs.
The health and beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think this industry has become so popular? There has been a great deal of scientific research dealing with the mechanisms of the skin, and creating products to aide those mechanisms during the aging process. I believe consumers are savvier about the products they buy and will invest in those products that have a direct impact on their everyday life.
What beauty treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? The TimeWise® Microdermabrasion Set offers instant gratification by fighting lines and wrinkles and offering smoother skin immediately!
What kind of new treatments/procedures will we be seeing in months to come? Mary Kay is above the curve with on-trend cosmetic colors and skin care.

Teresa Figueroa's Skin Care & Make-Up Studio
1229 Central Avenue, Albany
438.3280;
Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-8pm; Friday 10am-3pm and Saturday by appointment only.
Owner: Teresa Figueroa
How long have you been in business? Over 15 years.
Describe your business: My business consists of skin care procedures, make-up applications and retail of the products that I use on my cliental. I am a professional make-up artist and have the ability to work with all women to help them discover their true beauty and youthfulness inside.
How did you become involved in the health & beauty industry? I always had an interest in how our physical and spiritual well-being is expressed in how we look and feel. I was particularly interested in skin--our largest organ and an outer reflection of our inner selves. I studied cosmetology and worked for a while at the cosmetic counter of department stores. My interest in finding ways to integrate the best of Eastern philosophy, natural wellness practices and traditional Western medicine began when my son developed some serious chronic health issues. Following that path has lead me to explore how to blend the best of each of those traditions into effective and common sense care for the complexion as an integral part of the whole person.
Where did you receive your training? When I first became involved in the industry I apprenticed under a Swedish esthetician. I then began a more extensive training program at Alfred State University and became certified in all areas of esthetics. I have also trained with the top make-up artists from Miami, Hollywood and NYC. In recent years, I have studied pera-medical esthetics. I also continue to attend training classes on a regular basis.
What types of treatments/procedures do you offer? Out of those, which is the most popular? I offer microdermabrasion, facials, peels, facial waxing, eyebrow shaping, pre and post operative make up application, bridal make-up and every day make-up application. The most popular treatment is microdermabrasion with peels.
The health & beauty industry has exploded over the last few years. Why do you think it has become so popular? I think it's due to the fact that women are much more mentally young than in past years. They want the latest and greatest to help them look more youthful and feel better about themselves.
What beauty treatment do you think has the best results and is the most cost-effective? Microdermabrasion and peels show the best results on softening the texture of the skin, which results in a brighter, firmer looking skin.
What kind of new treatments/procedures will we be seeing in months to come? Soon, I will be offering light therapy treatments, anti-oxidant and anti-aging treatments.

By Henry Klein III

Think you know New York State wines? Think again. New York grape and wine products (and related industries) contributed more than $3.3 billion of economic value to New York State in 2004. New York churns out about 200 million bottles of wine each year and is the nation's third-largest wine producer behind California and Washington. In the past 30 years, New York has experienced a winemaking renaissance unlike any other region in the world with unparalleled growth from 19 wineries in 1975 to over 200 wineries today. Many people estimate that the number will grow to 300 wineries in the next two to three years, which will make it the second-largest wine producer in the country.
Surprisingly, New York's massive wine country spans the entire breadth of New York State. Its broad reach extends from the Finger Lakes and along the shores of Lake Erie, throughout the Hudson Valley and down to the Hamptons on the Eastern end of Long Island. The wines are bursting with great taste and in the past few years have impressed judges at national and international competitions, capturing high ratings and a collection of medals. These accolades are mostly due to the European grape classics that were planted in the 1950s and are now maturing with amazing flavor, unique depth and high quality. Additionally, vintners are discovering new varietals such as Seyval Blanc, Vignoles and Vidal, creating a whole different taste and experience.

NY State wine regions at a glance
Finger Lakes
This region has been the heart of the New York State wine industry since the Civil War. Winemaking in the Finger Lakes dates back to the 1820s, when a minister in Hammondsport began making sacramental wine for his parishioners. The region has proven fertile ground for winegrowers as a result of the unique microclimate generated by the series of long, deep lakes, which the tribes of the Iroquois Nation believed to be the handprint of the Great Spirit on the land. There are currently 10,414 acres of vineyards in this region and the specialties are Sparkling, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Ice Wine. Two of the most popular vineyards in this region are Atwater Estate Vineyards (Atwater 2004 Dry Riesling, $15) and Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars (Dr. Frank 2001 Limited Pinot Noir, $25).

Central NY or Lake Erie
New York's largest grape-growing region is along Lake Erie in the Chatauqua region boasting over 18,884 acres of vineyards, the majority of which are planted with Concord grapes, which are primarily used for juice, but also utilized for wine coolers and Kosher wines. Here, French-American hybrid grapes such as Seyval Blanc and Vignoles created by French viticulturalists during the 19th century, are the mainstay. Two standout vineyards to mention in this area are Casa Larga Vineyards (Casa Larga Fiori Delle Stelle 2004 Vidal Ice Wine, $35) and Johnson Estate Winery (Johnson Estate 2004 Liebestropfchen, $8).

Hudson River Valley
The Hudson River Valley is one of the most picturesque wine regions in America. The nation's first commercial winery was built on the banks of the Hudson River at Croton Point and Brotherhood Winery, which opened in 1839, is the state's oldest, continuously operating winery. The region is blessed with an abundance of grape varieties, ranging from the traditional NY grapes such as Seyval Blanc and Vignoles to European varietals like Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc. The Millbrook Vineyards and Winery (Millbrook 2003 Chardonnay Proprietor's Special Reserve, $18) and Brotherhood Winery (Brotherhood 2004 J. Riesling, $10) are among the notables in this area of approximately 500 acres of vineyards.

Long Island
Lastly, with a recent influx of money and interest, the Long Island region is the most rapidly growing wine region in New York with 1,602 acres of vineyards. Long Island may be New York's youngest wine region, but it has quickly overtaken the state's older wine regions both in terms of the quality and craftsmanship of its wines. The Hamptons has two wineries, while the North Fork has 21 wineries with over 2,000 acres planted with many of the classical grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Two award-winning vineyards in this region are Osprey's Dominion Vineyards (Osprey's Dominion 2001 Cabernet Franc, $22) and Lieb Family Cellars (Lieb 2003 Pinot Blanc, $17).
Now that your taste buds are primed, be sure to indulge in these recommended New York State wines --or better yet, visit the wineries for an enjoyable weekend getaway.
Henry Klein III is owner of Cabernet Café, 1814 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information call 452.5670.

Albany Institute of History & Art
125 Washington Avenue, Albany
463.4478; www.albanyinstitute.org
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm;
Sunday 12pm-5pm; Monday and major holidays closed; Tuesday--pre-registered groups only.
Admission: Adults $7; seniors and students $5; children ages 6-12 $3, five and younger free. Members receive free admission.
As one of the oldest museums in the country (older than the Smithsonian Institution, the Metropolitan Museum and the Louvre), the Albany Institute of History & Art possesses a rich and fascinating history chock-full of personalities who molded the institution into what it is today. Many famous political, library and artistic figures have been associated with the institution, and the strong interest and support of individuals in the Albany area and region through many generations have made the Institute what it is today. Many of the thoughts and ideas proposed in its past remain relevant. So it is with a similar spirit, the Albany Institute continues to refine its museum and look ahead to the future.
Exhibit:
Alice Morgan Wright: Sculptor and Activist--Examples from the recently acquired collection of Wright material donated to AIHA illustrate the work of an Albany native considered to be one of the first American sculptors to experiment with cubism and futurism.The collection contains sculptures, paintings, drawings, sketchbooks, scrapbook, photographs, letters, postcards, films, plays, books, suffragette material and material relating to animal rights.
Through December 31, 2005
RODIN: A Magnificent Obsession-Sculpture from the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation--Featuring more that 60 bronze sculptures by the late-19th century French sculptor, this exhibition showcases Auguste Rodin as the father of modern sculpture.
Through January 6, 2006
Dearly Departed--This small exhibition drawn from the collections of the Albany Institute's Library explores the business and culture of remembering those who have passed on.
Upcoming:
January 21-June 4, 2006
Excavating Egypt: Great Discoveries from the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology, University College London. This major traveling exhibition tells the story of archaeologist William Matthew Flinders Petrie (1853 - 1942) and his exploration of ancient Egyptian civilization. Petrie, named the "Father of Egyptian Archaeology" for his innovations and contributions to the field (and the inspiration for the film hero Indiana Jones") worked in Egypt for well over half a century. This exhibit features 221 of his most significant finds--many never before seen by the public.

Albany International Airport Gallery
737 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (third floor)
242.2241
Hours: daily 7am-11pm. (Closed from January 10-March 31, 2006 due to construction).
Free and open to the public
Since the opening of the new Albany International Airport terminal in 1998, an Art & Culture Program has been instituted that is committed to showcasing the artistic and cultural resources of the Capital Region. A comprehensive exhibition program that features the work of regional artists, area museum collections as well as national traveling exhibitions, has enhanced the environment of the airport, raised the visibility of the area's cultural institutions and identified the program as a national model for public art.
More than 100,000 travelers and non-traveling members of the community visit the Albany International Airport Gallery each year. The 2,500 square foot glass-lined space shares the third floor with the observation area located before the security checkpoint. The Albany International Airport has become a premier exhibition venue for the Capital Region, western Vermont and western Massachusetts.
Exhibit
Through January 8
Precious Little--Changes in scale lend a fictive quality to many of the objects in this exhibition; things that we know should accommodate us no longer do. A chair, a loom, a dresser, a hearse--all acquire new meaning when incongruously small. A custom made Tiffany Lamp illuminates the exhibition as well, with its 36 interchangeable glass slides of birds and other wildlife. Features works loaned by regional museums and private collectors as well as video, photography, sculpture, painting and drawing by six contemporary artists. Also features works loaned by regional museums and private collectors as well as video, photography, sculpture, painting and drawing by six contemporary artists. Other highlights of the exhibition include sculptural works by Henry Moore, Joe Fig, Yinka Shonibare, Jarvis Rockwell and a video installation by Kathleen Brandt.

Exposed: Gallery of Art Photography
Main Square, 2nd Floor
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar
475.1853;
Hours: Monday-Wednesday by appointment. Thursday & Friday 10am-5pm; Saturday 11am-4pm; Sunday 12pm-4pm.
The only art gallery dedicated solely to fine art photography has recently opened. Located in the heart of Delmar, Exposed is a venue and voice for photographers and those interested in photography.
"The photographic art community is excited about having a place to call home," said owner Mark Joseph Kelly, who also operates his marketing company, MJK Management, in Delmar. Exposed is truly a top-of-the-line art gallery, complete with moveable walls.
Each exhibit changes on a monthly basis, with an artists' reception for each. While the majority of displayed work is from local artists, there are many images from artists across the country. Proceeds from a limited line of merchandise--books, art cards, wearables, etc.--will be donated on a quarterly basis to charities that Kelly is passionate about, such as Alzheimer's Association of Upstate NY, breast cancer and AIDS research, and environmental causes.
"It's the most personally satisfying job I've done," said Kelly.
The gallery also serves as a place for interior designers to shop for artwork for residential or commercial clients.
Exhibits
Through November 23
"Nudes"--Images of Leif Zurmuhlen.
November 26-January 3
"Lens Gumbo Redux"--Featuring the images of: Leif Zurmuhlen, Gail Nadeau, Bill Murphy, Julia Bracaglia, Glenn Cormier, Mark McCarty, Bruce Meisterman, Ally Drodz, Laura Paresky, David Brickman, Nancy Noble Gardner, Tim Cahill, Joseph Schuyler, Laurin Trainer, Dino Petrocelli, Matthew Thorsen, Barry Batinkoff, Mary Spinelli, Joseph Putrock, Mark Joseph Kelly, James Pickett, Judy Sanders, Trish Hennessey, Steve Lobel, Greg Yankosky and Natan Bilo.
January 7-February 7
"Twelve Days In Paris"--Images of Glenn Cormier. Opening reception January 7 5pm-8pm.
February 11-March 14
"Love"--Images of Gail Nadeau. Opening reception February 11 5pm-8pm.
March 18-April 18
"Night Portfolio"--Images of Bruce Meisterman. Opening reception March 18 5pm-8pm.

Firlefanz Gallery
292 Lark Street, Albany
465.5035; www.firlefanzgallery.com
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 12pm-6pm and by appointment with extra opening hours during the last week before Christmas.
Firlefanz Gallery owners Cathy Frank and Ed Atkeson have been working to create a space in Albany where both artists and art lovers/buyers feel at home. For three years, the Gallery has been very successful, hosting memorable shows and garnering rave reviews. The opening receptions are great parties and the artist interviews with Timothy Cahill are well attended and thought provoking--considered by some to be landmark events for the local artistic community.
Firlefanz Gallery is dedicated to show excellent artists--painters, print makers, photographers and sculptors of the Capital Region with a schedule of nine shows a year. During the summer months the gallery's backyard garden is filled with sculptures. Just before the holidays the focus is on fine functional ceramics and more affordable artworks. And all through the year fine jewelry by a variety of local artists is on display.
Exhibit
November 9-December 24
Winter Show 2005--Large group show focusing strongly on function ceramics together with small visual art works and unusual jewelry by a variety of local artists. Opening reception November 11 4pm-8pm.

Gallery 100
445 Broadway, Suite A, Saratoga
580.0818; www.gallery100.net
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm
Gallery 100 is a unique retail and commercial fine arts gallery located in a historic building in downtown Saratoga Springs. A variety of artwork is displayed in an elegant, inviting space imbued with a tranquil ambiance. The diverse and constantly changing exhibitions feature original paintings, sculpture, and ceramics by established regional, national, and international artists. The proprietors of the gallery, Deborah Martin and James Lowe, who serve as art consultants and advisers, work with individuals in their homes or places of business, as well as with interior designers, builders, developers and corporations.
Exhibits
Through November 27
Bruno LaVerdiere: Drawings & Sculpture and David Brickman: Photography. Artists Reception: November 5, 6pm-8pm.
First Thursday Opening: November 3, 6pm-8pm.
December 1-February 12, 2006
SIGNIFICANTLY small--Great artwork of diminutive proportions! Artists Reception: December 3, 6pm-8pm.
First Thursday Opening: December 1, 6pm-8pm.
February 16- March 26
Jeri Eisenberg, J.M. Henry, Ann Knickerbocker--Paintings, photography and mixed media. Reception: March 4, 6pm-8pm.
March 30-May 14
Spring Equinox: Katie DeGroot, Anne Francey, Lisa Lindgren, Mia Muratori, Susan Smith-Hunter.
Reception April 8, 6pm-8pm.
May 18-June 25
John VanAlstine: Sculptures & Drawings. Reception: May 20, 6pm-8pm.
June29-July 30
Paul Kolnik: NYC Ballet photography Reception: to be announced.

The Hyde Collection
161 Warren Street, Glens Falls
792.1761; www.hydecollection.org
Hours: Open year-round Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday noon-5pm. Closed Mondays and national holidays.
The Hyde Collection, an historic house and modern art museum complex combines the heritage of the Adirondack Region with a world-class permanent collection consisting of works by European old, modern masters, and American artists, important decorative arts and antique furnishings. In addition, the Museum presents temporary exhibitions in four gallery spaces, lectures, concerts, family activities and school programming as well as a Museum Store. Admission is free with voluntary donations accepted.
Exhibit:
Through December 2005
Adolph Gottlieb: 1956--One of the leaders of the Abstract Expressionists, Adolph Gottlieb's career spans more than 50 years. He was one of the few Abstract Expressionists to reconsider and radically change his art, extending it as far as possible.
More than 20 paintings on canvas and on paper from 1956 in this exhibition will provide a rare look at an artist's progress as he moved from one major phase of his career to another.

Events
November 6
Lake George Chamber Orchestra--Baritone soloist, Richard Scarlata will sing Britten, Strauss, Schubert, and Copeland. Free and open to the public. 2pm. Helen Froehlich Auditorium.
November 19
Art for Everyone!--A full day of activities to celebrate the current Museum's exhibition,
Adolph Gottlieb: 1956. Explore this exciting exhibition with family or friends. Free and open to the public. 10am-noon. Self-guided tours of the special exhibition for families followed by hands-on activities for children in the Louis P. Brown Art Studio.
November 13
Part of the State-of-the-Arts Series: Legacy: The Importance & Role of the Bequest Museum in American Culture. This lecture will focus on the unique and enduring significance of the bequest museum, as well as its evolving role and impact upon the American cultural landscape. Members $5; not-yet members $7. 2pm. Helen Froehlich Auditorium.
November 27
Family Discovery Day: Signs and Symbols-- Get to know Mr. and Mrs. Hyde and their friends, Rembrandt, Picasso, Renoir and others! Families are invited to explore new aspects of the Museum's permanent collection and temporary exhibitions through a self-guided program. Free and open to the public. 12pm-5pm.

Coming Soon!!
The American Italian Heritage Association (AIHA) was established in 1979 by Professor/Cavalliere Philip J. DiNovo in Morrisville, NY. It's a non-profit organization with over 1,575 members in 47 states and in Italy. The Center and Museum stands in memory of the Italian immigrants who came to the United States.
The new 5,900 square foot museum will be housed in the former Church of Our Lady of Mercy. The first floor will honor and tell the Italian Immigrant story and their contributions. The second floor will contain the Cultural Center with a library, hall, Chapel and classrooms for various classes--cooking, language, cultural, genealogy, etc. Classes are for all age group and open to the public.
The American Italian Heritage Association Museum & Cultural Center is located at 1227 Central Avenue, Albany. For more information call 435.0591 or visit www.aiha-albany.org/

16 Main Street, Chatham
392.2250; www.joycegoldsteingallery.com
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 12pm-5pm.
The Joyce Goldstein Gallery opened in Chatham in August 2005. Prior to that, she ran an art gallery for eight years in Soho. Her Chatham gallery will feature local artists in various mediums including drawing, painting, photography, and possibly sculpture.
Through November 19
Kyung Jeon
November 19 - December 10
"Drawn from The Proposition"--Group show curated by Ronald Sosinski. Features the works of four contemporary artists: Allison Hawkins, Dane Patterson, Mike Park and Davor Vrankic. Opening reception: November 19, 3pm-5pm.
December 17 -January 14
Stephen Lack

1 Amherst Street, Lake George
668.2616; www.lakegeorgearts.org
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 12pm-5pm; Saturday 12pm-4pm (during exhibitions), and all other times by request.
The Lake George Arts Project's Courthouse Gallery presents five to seven exhibitions yearly of regional and national contemporary visual artists in all media. The gallery provides exhibition opportunities to emerging and professional artists, with preference given to work created within the last two years and to experimental or non-traditional work.
The Gallery Committee, which changes every one to two years, reviews the work submitted in response to an annual call for proposals. The deadline is always January 31.
The gallery is located in the back lower level of the historic Old County Courthouse in Lake George. The gallery is also the site for many literary, musical and visual art workshops, classes, presentations, readings, meetings and other events.
November 5-December 16
Solo exhibition of work by Gina Ochiogrosso. Opening reception November 5, 4pm-6pm.
January 21-February 24
Carrie Scanga and Eugenie Tung: "There's No Place Like Home"
March 18-April 21
Susan Heideman: "Nature's Insides"
May 13-June 16
Susan Abrams
July 8-August 11
Iona Park and Aimee Tarasek
September 16-October 20
Gammy Miller
November 4-December 8
Richard Garrison

Local Color Art Gallery
961 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham
786.6557
Hours: Wednesday-Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-4pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Local Art Gallery is sponsored by Colonie Art League, Inc., a not-for-profit organization of artists whose objective is to enrich the cultural life of the region by increasing public awareness of original art.
Inside the low, one-story building with a new eye-catching mural on the exterior, is original art in various mediums--watercolor, oil and pastel with styles ranging from representational to abstract-- from regional artists, all Colonie Art League members. There is also small sculpture on display. Some of the artists represented are professional, some are emerging, many are award-winning. As the Gallery is run as a cooperative, managed entirely by its exhibiting members, you will always find one of the artists available to greet and assist you.
The Gallery just celebrated its 5th anniversary in September with a series of events, including "Art on the Lawn" on the Gallery grounds, the Harvest Moon Artisans Gift Shop (to reopen this month for the holiday season) and the seasonal show, "Art of the Harvest Moon". It is an ideal setting in which to get ideas for enhancing home or office decor with original, unique art at affordable prices. Gift Certificates are available for that hard-to-buy-for person on your gift list. Monthly workshops are presented by League artists, and are open to non-members.
Through January
"Cool Light--Blue Hues". Reception December 4, 1pm-4pm. Open to the public.

Nicole Fiacco/Modo Gallery
506 Warren Street, Hudson
828.5090; www.modogallery.com
Hours: Monday/Thursday/Friday 11am-5:30pm; Saturday & Sunday 11am-6pm; Tuesday by appointment; Wednesday closed.
Established in 1999 as American Tribal Arts, Modo Gallery specializes in pottery by Pueblo, Hopi-Tewa and Navajo artists that is modern in design, content and form yet traditional in production. Their goals are quite simple--to continue to develop strong relationships with artists and support their personal and professional objectives.
The artwork is an interpretation of tradition based on a modern experience. From Nampeyo's Sikyatki revival to Jody Folwell's compelling elliptical forms, e have seen a magnificent artistic tradition remain both innovative and intact.
Through December 31
Ken Polinskie: THEN AND NOW--A solo exhibition of important paper pulp paintings. Thursday-Monday 12noon-5pm

New York State Museum
Madison Avenue, Albany (Empire State Plaza)
474.5877; www.nysm.nysed.gov
Hours: Open daily from 9:30am-5pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The NYS Museum is free. Donations are accepted at the door. Suggested donation of $2/person or $5/family.
The New York State Museum is the single largest cultural attraction in the region, welcoming almost 800,000 visitors a year. Founded in 1836, the museum has the longest continuously operating state natural history research and collection survey in the United States.
Located in the Museum's panoramic Terrace Gallery, Windows on New York features a historic working carousel. The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response exhibition, anchored by one of the first fire pumpers at the scene on September 11, 2001, continues to attract visitors from around the world. Other permanent exhibitions include the Adirondack Wilderness, Native Peoples of New York, with a full-size re-creation of an Iroquois longhouse and New York Metropolis, featuring everything from an actual subway car to part of the stage set of Sesame Street. Natural history displays exhibit 100-million-year-old fossils, the bones of a prehistoric mastodont, minerals and 170 species of native birds.
The Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions including the Bank of America Great Art Series showcasing great masterpieces from the state's leading art museums. Kids from 1 to 92 enjoy the excitement of hands-on-learning at the Museum's Discovery Place, open from 9:30am-4:30pm. A variety of exciting programs are held at the Museum throughout the year, including world-class concerts and other performances in the Clark Auditorium.
Through February 26
Ann Zane Shanks: Behind the Lens--Brooklyn-born photographer who brought her considerable artistic and entrepreneurial gifts to photojournalism, publishing, television and theater. This retrospective exhibition of 75 photographic prints covers several themes of Shanks work from the 1950s through the 1970s, life in America, changing times, travel and celebrity portraits. Exhibition Hall.
October 1-December 31
Beijing: Ancient City, Modern City--Photography is a means to record history, keeping fresh both the old and the new. Beijing is an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage of thousands of years. To describe this ancient city in a panoramic and detailed way, Beijing: Ancient City, Modern City aims to demonstrate from different viewpoints a profound understanding and portrayal of the history and vibrant life of the city. Fourth Floor.
October 15-January 8
Sports: Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers-- From the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, celebrates the pioneering men and women who dominated their sports; championed their country, race, or sex; and helped others to achieve. Both on and off the playing field, these undaunted individuals broke records for themselves and broke barriers for us all. Exhibition Hall.
October 15-March 26
Miracles: New York's Greatest Sports Moments --New Yorkers have witnessed historic events in every single major U.S. sports. Local columnist Mark McGuire lists his Top 10 moments in New York's sports history, and visitors will also have the chance to cast a ballot for their favorite picks. Exhibition Hall
November 19- February 26
Bank of America Great Art Series: The World in Brooklyn: Selections from the Brooklyn Museum-- For over 180 years, the Brooklyn Museum has been central to the cultural life of Brooklyn, as that small village evolved into the seventh largest city in the United States, then into a borough of New York City. Includes a rare mid-18th century painting by a Peruvian artist of the legendary Inca ruler Tupac Yupanqui, and the Museum's famous Emancipation Cane, a work of 19th-century folk art that chronicles the most important moment in African American History. Also included in the exhibition will be works from the Museum's renowned Egyptian, Islamic, African Art, Asian, Native American and Contemporary art collections. West Gallery.
Through December 31
Mammals Revealed: Discovery and Documentation of Secretive Creatures--Mammals Revealed shows how scientists study wild mammals and share their discoveries. Crossroads Gallery.
Through February 26
January 28-March 26
Driven to Abstraction: Contemporary Works by Ten Artists--Organized by Black Dimensions in Art, this exhibition is comprised of 10 artists of the African Diaspora, ranging from those emerging in the postwar years of the 1940s and the Civil Rights era of the 1950s and 60s to the postmodern 1980s and 90s. Represented are the works of Frank Wimberley, Jr., Ed Clark, Bill Hutson, Nanette Carter, Gregory Coates, Ralph Fleming, Howardena Pindell, George Simmons, Angelo Rombley and Stephen Tyson. Exhibition Hall.
Opens February 11
Preserving Family History: The Ten Eyck-Tompkins Collection--This exhibit explores how and why some families preserve their history by examining the Museum's Ten Eyck-Tompkins Collection, featuring over 200 years of one family's material culture and history. This Albany County family remained on a farm in Coeyman's Hollow from 1749 until 1977. Crossroads Gallery.
Great Art Series
March 25-July 9
Op Art from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery-- Op Art, an abbreviation of "optical art," is enjoying a resurgence of interest today from artists and the general public alike. Established in the 1960s, the Op Art movement uses parallel lines, concentric circles, electric colors, and interesting spatial relationships to create works of art that visually oscillate. The exhibition will feature approximately 40 paintings and sculptures from the collection of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo. West Gallery.
April 20-September 10
Focus on Nature IX--This is an internationally renowned, juried exhibition of natural and cultural history illustration. The subjects depict biological, geological, archeological and botanical content using a wide range of media from traditional watercolor to computer techniques. Exhibition Hall.

Green County Council on the Arts
The Greene County Council on the Arts (GCCA) is celebrating 30 years as a tax-exempt, not-for-profit, countywide arts service organization whose purpose is to broaden and enrich the quality of life in Greene County through the development and strengthening of all the arts. Since 1975, the GCCA has provided information and essential services to artists, arts organizations, cultural and educational institutions, civic groups, community agencies and the general public.
The main GCCA office at 398 Main Street in Catskill also houses two floors of galleries and a gift shop. A second gallery site is the GCCA Mountaintop Gallery on Main Street in Windham. While many of the GCCA member artists live in the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains, the GCCA Catskill and Mountaintop Galleries also exhibit the works of members from across the country who feel connected to this region through its influence on America
GCCA Mountaintop Gallery
Main Street, Windham
734.3104; www.greenearts.org.
Open daily 10am-5pm
November 12-January 8
"Holiday in the Mountains--Artisans fill the gallery with handmade crafts for holiday gifts, including pottery, quilts, toys, jewelry, ornaments and more.
January 14-February 26
"Landscape 2006" --Annual group exhibition featuring landscapes in all media. Opening reception January 14, 3pm-6pm, aprés ski. All are welcome.
March 4-April 16
"Dreamscapes"--Group exhibition of artworks inspired by the unconscious and artists' imaginations. Works include infrared photographs by Lucia Bucklin, mandala paintings by Sandra Hildreth and photoconstructions by Les Barta, and more. Opening reception March 4, 3pm-6pm, aprés ski. All are welcome.
April 29-June 11
Greene County Arts & Crafts Guild, Inc. Annual Spring Exhibition and Sale - Paintings, drawings and photographs by members of Greene County Arts & Crafts Guild. Awards reception May 6, 2pm-4pm. All are welcome.
June 17-July 30
"Journeys in Clay 2006"--Annual group exhibit of fine crafts and small artworks made from clay. Opening reception June 17, 2pm-4pm. All are welcome.
August 5-September 24
"Flora and Fauna" Group exhibit of artworks in all media inspired by plant and animal life throughout the world. Reception on August 12, 2pm-4pm during Windham ArtFest. All are welcome.
September 30-November 5
"Less is More"--Contemporary artists interpret the mantras of the 20th century: "Clean lines," "Corm follows function," "Keep it simple." Reception on September 30, 2pm-4pm, during Lark in the Park, a 10-day celebration of The Catskill Park. All are welcome.
November 11-January 7
"Holiday in the Mountains"--Artisans fill the gallery with handmade crafts for holiday gifts, including pottery, quilts, toys, jewelry, ornaments and more.
GCCA Catskill Gallery
398 Main Street, Catskill
943.3400; www.greenearts.org
Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm
Through November 12
"Fire!" Group exhibit of artworks that represent flames, smoke and firefighting. Also, works created with fire.
October 8-November 12
Stu Eichel "An Artist on Fire"--Solo exhibit of oil paintings of firehouses and fire engines, painted outdoors on location throughout the region. Reception October 15, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
November 19-January 14
"Salon 2005"--Group exhibition of big art in small sizes. Fine artworks in all media that measure 24 inches or less. All works for sale. Reception November 19, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
January 28-March 4
"Art and Soul"--Group exhibition in celebration of Black History Month. Artworks and fine crafts in all media inspired by African American heritage and contemporary life. Reception January 28, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
March 11-April 29
"Outside the Lines"--Group exhibition featuring outstanding student artworks from the imagination of children and youth, grades pre-K through 12, who live in Greene County. Reception March 11, 12pm-4pm. All are welcome.
May 6-June 17
"Mirror Mirror"--Group exhibition of self-portraits in all media; abstract, realistic, symbolic or surreal. Reception May 6, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
May 6-June 17
Betty Kratzenstein solo exhibition-- Monoprints and watercolors of group gatherings for celebrations and on city streets. Reception May 6, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
June 24-August 5
"SUPERartists"--Group exhibition of comic and sequential art in all media. Reception June 24, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
June 24-August 5
Rosalie Frankel solo exhibition. Humorous figurative drawings and collages. Reception June 24, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
August 12-September 30
"Big Country" Group exhibition of expansive landscapes. Reception August 12, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
August 12-September 30
Lynne Friedman, "Following the Light" Solo exhibition of oil paintings of the Hudson Valley, Andalucia and New Mexico. Reception August 12, 5pm-7pm. All are welcome.
October 7-November 11
"RSVP" Group exhibition of outstanding area artists, by invitation of the Greene County Council on the Arts Visual Arts Committee. Reception Saturday, October 14, 5-7pm. All are welcome.
October 7-November 11
Leslie Yolen solo exhibition. Enigmatic ceramic sculptures of open windows and open minds.
November 18-January 13
"Salon 2006" Annual group exhibition of small artworks in all media that measure 24 inches or less. All works for sale. Reception November 18, 5pm.-7pm. All are welcome.

The Open Studio
402 Main Street, Catskill
943.9531
Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 12pm-6pm or by appointment.
The Open Studio opened its doors in Catskill in April of this year and was named "Best New Art Gallery" of 2005 by the Times Union. It was conceptualized by artists Julie Chase and Dina Bursztyn, recent arrivals in the area. Bursztyn has shown extensively in NYC, including several public art commissions. Chase has been showing and curating in the Hudson Valley for several years.
The Open Studio serves a dual purpose, as a gallery in the front portion of the building with working studios for each of the artists in the back. Every two months a show is presented, typically encompassing a broad array of media, including life-size totemic figures, (surrounded by sand paintings), assemblage, prints, drawings, collage, artist's books, sculptures made with found objects and one of a kind utilitarian objects. Tribal art and contemporary influences mesh in many of the works; there is even humor, and a celebratory spirit of nature and humanity, sometimes with a wink.
The Open Studio features both the work of the resident artists as well as others from the region, such as Sarah Mecklem, Kate Temple, Maija Reed and Arthur Tieger.
Through November 30
Stories--A show of artist's books, drawings and sculpture; each in a different way, tells a story or has a narrative quality. These artists shape stories, in an effort to give meaning to the disparate realities we inhabit and to offer a personal version, different from established doctrines. They crack open a door in to a different realm of possibilities.
December 3
Earthy Delights--An eclectic collection of affordable hand-crafted objects such as one-of-a kind sculptural lamps, vessels, fountains, menorahs and unique prints, calendars and cards.

Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium
15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady
382.7890; www.schenectadymuseum.org
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-4:30pm; Saturday & Sunday 12pm-5pm; closed Mondays and major holidays.
Admission: Museum and Planetarium--Adult $6.50; child (4-12) $4.50; senior $5.50; family $25. Museum only: Adult $5 (ages 4-12) $3; senior $4; family $20.
The Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium was founded in 1934. An official NASA Space Place, the Suits-Bueche Planetarium is the region's only interactive planetarium--every show includes a look at the current night sky. In addition to the Suits-Bueche Planetarium, the Museum houses numerous significant collections such as: the Marjorie Bradt Foote Costume Collection with approximately 6,000 pieces from the year 1700 to the present, including some of the 20th century's most famous designers; a Photograph Collection with more than 1.5 million images; an archival collection with more than 3,500 cubic feet of historic materials; and more than 40,000 objects relating to the history of science and technology.
Exhibits
Through January 8
Visions of China--This new exhibit includes the earliest known color photographs of China. Dr. Clinton Millett, a U.S. Army medical officer during World War II was stationed in Kunming, China in 1944 and 1945. Before Dr. Millett's photographs were discovered, the earliest known color photograph of Kunming dated to 1979. The images depict everyday life in China during World War II and offer a fascinating glimpse at a part of Chinese history that was thought to be lost.
Throughout November
Metamorphosis: Then and Now--In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Black Dimensions in Art, Inc. (BDA) presents the works of noted painter and collagist Stanwyck Cromwell. A Guyanese native, the compositions and colors in his work reflect the vigor and vitality of the Caribbean and its people.
November 6
Edison Media Project: Groove Xchange--Explore Thomas Edisons impact on music, technology, and culture through demonstrations of recording and playing back wax cylinders on vintage equipment. Events include hands-on activities for families, a lecture about early phonographs, and performances by LEMURÂĄs GuitarBots and electronic musician Bob Gluck. 12:30pm-4:30pm.
November 11
A Trip Across the Burma Road, 1945--Slide lecture by Gregg Millett. This Veterans Day lecture is offered in conjunction with the Museums new photography exhibit, "Visions of China." 10am.
November 19
China: A Land of Contrasts--Slide lecture by Connie Frisbee Houde. This lecture is offered in conjunction with the Museums new photography exhibit, "Visions of China". 1pm.
December 3
Family Discovery Lab: Electromagnets-- Explore electromagnets and the increased power they offer with a brief introduction and a guided "lab" session where you experiment together.1pm-1:45pm.
December 4
Festival of Holidays: Celebration of Eids--Celebrate Eid, the feasts which mark the winter celebrations of al-Fitr and ul-Adha with a choir of children along with art and photos from Islamic culture. This event is offered in collaboration with the Islamic Center of the Capital Region. 12:30pm-3pm. Free with museum admission.
December 10 & 11; 17 & 18; 27-31
Model Trains--See the model trains run! Thanks to the generosity of the Upstate Train Associates for donating their model trains and their time for this holiday favorite. 12pm-4pm. Free with Museum admission.
Planetarium Shows
Weekends--1pm; 2pm; 3pm
Tuesday-Friday 2pm
Through November 20
1pm: The Friendly Stars--Provides an overview of the nine planets and the night sky. A talking "Mr. Sun" is the guide for this program. For grades pre-K through 2nd grade.
2pm: Light Years From Andromeda--A story about a journey between two galaxies that spans human history and explains cosmic distances and light speed. Narrated by Michael Dorn, Worf of Star Trek. Includes a live segment about the fall sky.
3pm: Fall Sky Tour--A live narration of the stars, constellations and planets visible in the fall sky. Also takes a look at current events happening in astronomy.

The Arts Center of the Capital Region
265 River Street, Troy
273.0552; www.artscenteronline.org
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-7pm; Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-4pm. Closed major holidays.
Winter 2005: Innocence: Three Exhibitions on a Theme
Opening Reception December 9, 5:30pm-8pm. Free admission.
December 9-February 26
Nothing to Fear--An exhibition exploring how fear, as a powerful and visceral emotion, can be provoked by the mere suggestion of something threatening. Curated by Nadine Wasserman. Main Gallery.
November 25-February 19
Peter Taylor, Paintings and Drawings by The Troy Artist--President's Gallery.
Small Traditions: Folklore of Children--A look at the two worlds of children: the one created for them by adults and the one they create themselves as they navigate through childhood as artists, writer, inventors and architects. KniselyˆAyers Gallery.
November 8-January 6
A holiday selection of unique works by area artists. Troy Savings Bank Gallery. The Shop.
January 20-March 26
Arts Center Faculty Exhibition
Spring 2006: Click (Three exhibitions exploring the medium of photography.)
Opening Reception March 17 5:30pm-8pm.
March 17-June 4
Slide Jam
Works by six artists work in the form of slide shows shown concurrently at The Arts Center and at The Spectrum Theater in Albany throughout the Spring season. Main Gallery..
March 3-May 28
Ken Ragsdale, Photographs--Staged photographs by Albany artist Ken Ragsdale. President‚s Gallery.
March 17 -July 7
Snapshots--Explores the vernacular in photography by presenting those images that capture the mundane in our lives, creating memories and the foundations of personal history. Curated by William Skerritt and Mary Zwolinski. Knisely ˆ Ayers Gallery,
April 7-May 26
Select Student Show--Works by students in Arts Center classes. Troy Savings Bank Gallery.
Summer 2006: The Mix
June 17--July 2
Fence 2006--Arts Center Members‚. Salon Main Gallery.
July14-Aug. 27
Fence Select 2006--Fence Show works selected by an independent juror.
June 17-Aug 28
Kids' Fence Show Salon (ages 16 and under). Troy Savings Bank Gallery.
June 9-August 20
Eve Halloran--Selected Fence Artist. President‚s Gallery.
July 15-September 2006
Folklore/Folk Art Family Reading Room--The folk arts gallery will be transformed into a folklore library for adults and children to relax, read and write. Knisely-Ayers Gallery.

Capital Repertory Theatre celebrates 25 years
The lights dim... a hush falls over the audience... anticipation mounts... suddenly, it begins - Capital Repertory Theatre's 2005-2006 Silver Anniversary Season.
The will include an exciting world premiere musical featuring the music of Neil Sedaka, three incredible regional premiéres, a heartwarming classic comedy for the entire family, and tales from Ovid will make a big splash - mythology with a new and modern twist will all be a part of Capital Rep's 25th Anniversary Season. To round out the year long celebration in June 2006, Always...Patsy Cline, the smash hit that made Capital Rep a year-round theatre will return for a special limited engagement. It's the Theatre's 'thank you gift' to the Capital Region.
For 24 years, Capital Rep has served as the preeminent performing arts organization for the Capital Region, with an award-winning production history, including world premieres by such imminent writers as Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison and Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist William Kennedy. The Theatre's production history includes countless regional premieres, innovative productions and diverse assortment of contemporary and classical plays, musicals and groundbreaking educational programs that have significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents of the Capital Region.
Experience the fun and excitement of Capital Repertory Theatre's 25th Anniversary celebration! Come on in - your seat is waiting.
November 18-December 18
You Can't Take It With You--Heart-warming, but non-stop zany entertainment from start to finish. When Alice Sycamore falls in love with her boss's son, she is reluctant to have him meet her eccentric family. Enjoy one of America's most endearing comedies, filled quirky and wildly wonderful characters, with your family during the holiday season. By George S. Kaufman & Moss Hart. Directed by Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill.
January 13-February 12
8 Track--Re-discover the heart and soul of the forgotten decade with The Bee Gees, The Carpenters, The Doobie Brothers and many more. Celebrate leisure suits, platform shoes, halter-tops, feminism, hedonism, "what's your sign" and disco in this joyous polyester romp through the music of the 1970s. More than 50 tunes are featured! Baby boomers will rock down memory lane in this singing and dancing jaunt through the different musical styles of the 70's as the songs weaves the story and flavor of decade.
March 3-March 26
Looking Over the President's Shoulder--"It was like being in the front row and watching the passing parade of history." Enter the rarefied world of the White House in this true story of Alonzo Fields, the first African-American White House Chief Butler in history, who served during the presidential administrations of Hoover, Franklin Roosevelt and Truman, retiring as Eisenhower came in to office. Born the grandson of a freed slave in an all-black town in southern Indiana, this elegant, well-educated and extremely cultured man wanted to be a classical singer but in1931 accepted, for "few months," a servant's job at the White House. During his nearly quarter century tenure, Fields witnesses many monumental moments, both public and private. He shares his unique perspective on famous people - Winston Churchill, Marian Anderson, Errol Flynn and the King and Queen of England - and world events with humor and warmth. By James Still.
April 28-May 21
Metamorphoses--A modern version of classic mythology with a "big splash!" This award-winning play weaves contemporary and humorous stories in the retelling of tales from Ovid's Greek myths of love and loss, triumph and transformation. The tales of Midas, Cupid and Psyche, Orpheus and Euridyce, Baucis and Philemon run the gamut from comedy to romance to tragedy, with stories within stories. Timeless and touching, these stories will stir the soul, capture the imagination and bewitch the senses of youth and adult alike, all performed in a real pool of water. Theatre magic never before seen at Capital Rep! By Mary Zimmerman. Directed by Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill.

Charles R. Wood Theater
207 Glen Street, Glens Falls
798.9663; www.woodtheatre.org
Once a vacant Woolworth store, the Charles R. Wood Theater is now a contemporary 300-seat auditorium perfect for banquets receptions as well as various theatrical performances and art exhibits.
One decade ago, a group of people in Glens Falls came together with a common goal - to strengthen and revamp the commercial district of downtown Glens Falls. The Woolworth location became the summer home to the Adirondack Theater Festival in 1995, but after just a few seasons it became apparent that the interest from the community was going to lead to a year-round theater and arts program. And so, the Charles R. Woods Theater was born!
Season schedule
November 3-6
"One 70th Sensation". Various times.
November 11
Come to the Cabaret--Benefit Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction for the Charles R. Wood Theater. 5:30pm.
November 12
Medal of Honor Rag. The Veteran Players. 2pm, 8pm.
November 19
Fall Dance Festival--Glens Falls Ballet. 7pm.
December 3
A Yuletide Gathering--Adirondack Repertory Dance Theatre. 2pm, 7pm.
December 9-11
The Nutcracker--Adirondack Ballet Theater. Various times.

Colonial Little Theatre, Inc.
One Colonial Court, Johnstown
762.4325; www.coloniallittletheatre.org
The Colonial Little Theatre was founded in 1938 when a small group of theater lovers met and decided to form an amateur stage group. Since then, the CLT has grown to become one of the oldest community theatres in the state of New York.
Over the past 65 years, over 1,000 performers have graced the stage of CLT, and many of them have gone on to pursue successful professional careers in the performing arts. Though it had humble beginnings as a tiny community theater, the Colonial Little Theatre has grown into a beloved and respected part of local theater.
Season schedule
December 9-11; 16-18
Greetings! Book by Tom Dudzick. Directed by John Birchler.
March 10-12; 17-19
Death of a Salesman. Book by Arthur Miller. Directed by John Birchler.
June 2-4; 9-11
Sylvia. Book by A.R. Gurney. Directed by Don Wheeler.

Curtain Call Theatre
210 Old Loudon Road
Latham, NY 12211
877.7529; www.curtaincalltheatre.com
The Curtain Call Theatre is a little known gem of Latham. A small theatre located just off the Northway, the Curtain Call Theatre offers not only great shows, but an art gallery and café as well.
Season schedule
Through November 26
Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling--Comedy about a group of women in a small Southern town. The basis of the very popular movie, the play was recently revived on Broadway.
December 9 - January 14
It Runs in the Family by Ray Cooney--A riotous farce set during Christmas at a hospital that becomes.
February 3 - March 4
Wait Until Dark by Frederick Knott--The world famous jump-out-of-your-seat thriller about a blind woman's struggle against the criminal underworld.
March 17 - April 3
The Drawer Boy by Michael Healey--A heartwarming story about two bachelor farmers and a young actor who comes to "research" their lives for a play. Regional premiere
April 21- May 27
Noises Off by Michael Frayn--In the funniest farce of all time, the misadventures of a theatrical troupe.
June 9 - July 1
Tuesdays with Morrie by Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom--Based on the international best seller, the play dramatizes the relationship between a retired teacher and his former student. Insightful and delightfully funny, it is a master's class in the meaning of life. Regional premiere.
July 14 - August 25
Greater Tuna by Ed Howard, Joe Sears & Jaston Williams--For those who love A Tuna Christmas, here's another visit to that small Texas town where the wild and crazy ride started. Two actors in a tour de force of quick-change artistry.

eba Theater
351 Hudson Avenue, Albany
465.9916; eba-arts.org
Celebrating 33 years of creating, performing and teaching the art of Dance Theatre
eba, Inc. is dedicated to cultivating, promoting, and developing an understanding of, and public interest in the performing, visual, and technological arts. eba's mission is achieved through creating, performing, training, touring and idea sharing. Of equal importance is to develop an understanding of the creative potential within each of us and to integrate these unique aims with daily life.
eba, Inc. began as an artist collective in 1973. From its simple beginnings, eba has grown into a multifaceted arts organization intrinsically woven into the artistic fabric of our Capital Region Community. To accomplish our mission, five distinct programs presently operate under the eba umbrella:
Season schedule
November 5, 6, 11, 12
Brave New Dances--A glimpse at the first draft of dance theatre works created by members of Maude Baum and Company Dance Theatre and invited guest artists. These are experimental and innovative works in progress, rather than polished repertory pieces. Brave New Dances is a forum for choreographers to take creative chances, stretch the boundaries of their craft and to push the limits of dance theatre. Each performance concludes with an informal discussion between audience members and choreographers and gives the audience a chance to ask the choreographers questions about their works! Nov. 5 8pm; Nov. 6 6pm; Nov. 11 8pm; Nov. 12 8pm. $8 for adults; $6 for students and seniors.
December 31
Albany First Night 2005: Maude Baum and Company Dance Theatre will perform selections from "Aesops Fables" including "The Tortoise and the Hare", "The Wolf and the Donkey", and "The Swan and Sparrow", performed in period costumes with fantastic masks. 7pm. Academy Building, Elk Street. (Part of the First Night Celebration).
Maude Baum and Company Dance Theatre Spring Salon Concert--Features daring, witty and emotional Dance Theatre from the City of Albany's "Premiere Dance Company"-Mayor Gerald D. Jennings. The concert includes works by Maude Baum and other acclaimed American Choreographers. Date/location TBA

The Egg
Empire State Plaza
473.1845; www.theegg.org
The uniquely designed convention center, The Egg got its beginnings in 1966. It now houses two theaters, the Lewis A. Swyer Theatre and the Kitty Carlisle Hart Theatre. Seating 450, the Swyer Theatre is used for chamber music concerts, cabaret, lectures, multimedia presentations, solo performers and a majority of educational programming. With a seating capacity of 982, the Hart Theatre is used for larger productions including musical theatre, dance and music concerts. Wrapping around fully half The Egg is a lounge area for the Hart theatre, which is often used for receptions and conventions.
Season schedule
November 4
Pascal Rioult Dance Company-- 8pm.
November 5
Shangri-La ChineseAcrobats--2pm.
November 6
Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company "Telling Tales"-- 3pm.
November 6
Brian Regan--7:30pm.
November 11
Brian Brooks Moving Company--"Pinata"-- 8pm.
November 11
The Robert Cray Band--8:15pm.
November 12
Jesse Winchester-- 8pm.
November 13
Trout Fishing in America--3pm.
November 13
Derek Trucks Band-- 7pm.
November 14
Jeff Tweedy, Glenn Kotche--7:30pm.
November 18
The Killers of Comedy--8:30pm.
November 19
Mary Black, Maura O'Connell, Sharon Shannon, Cara Dillon: A Woman's Heart-- 8pm.
November 20
Riders in the Sky --3pm.
December 4
The Zucchini Brothers--2pm.
December 4
Hot Tuna--7pm.
Visit www.theegg.org for a complete list of events

The Ghent Playhouse
392.6264; www.ghentplayhouse.org
Home to the acclaimed Columbia Civic Players, or CCP as they are commonly called, the Ghent Playhouse is a historic building that got its beginnings as Ghent Town Hall. In 1987, Town Hall moved, leaving the current building vacant. The Columbia Civic Players moved in and have been providing the local community with great theater ever since.
What makes the Ghent Playhouse truly unique is the fact that none of the members of the crew, both on and off stage, are full time, or even paid. The wonderful and entertaining productions are brought together by generous donations of time and talent.
Season schedule
November 25- December 11
"Panto"
January 27-February 12
"Outward Bound" by Sutton Vane. Directed by Daniel Region.
March 24-April 9
"A New Brain" by William Finn. Directed by Mike Mensching.
May 19-June 4
"Social Security" by Andrew Bergman. Directed by Paul Leyden.

Home Made Theater
Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs
587.4427; www.homemadetheater.org
For 20 years, the Home Made Theater has been creating fun and unique experiences for young and old alike. In residence at the Spa Little Theater at Saratoga Spa State Park, the Home Made Theater is a non-profit group that combines amateurs for the community with professional directors, set designers, costumers and the like. Home Made Theater produces four shows per season, which runs from October to May.
Season Schedule
December 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18
Barbara Robinson's The Best Christmas Pageant Ever--In this hilarious Christmas tale, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids - probably the most inventively disruptive kids in history.
December 10, 17, 18
David Sedaris' The Santaland Diaries--Centers around one man's experience as a struggling young actor/writer in New York City when he takes a job as an elf in Santaland at Macy's.
February 10-26
All in the Timing: Six One-Act Comedies--A zany combination of smart and quirky ideas, wit, and outright farce. This critically acclaimed, award winning evening of comedies about the possibilities of modern life is a mad hybrid of highbrow hi-jinks and lowbrow