April 2006 Archives

By Randy Cale, PH.D

When I speak with parents in my practice, most report that today’s children are ruder, more disrespectful, and show less respect for authority, teachers and adults in general. While it’s certainly true that there are polite, kind, and thoughtful children, the number of disrespectful children is increasing (studies have confirmed this), and we find more and more middle schoolers and high schoolers who are rude, threatening, disrespectful, and at times, violent with their parents. So what’s the problem? In my opinion, there are a number of factors that are fundamentally at cause.
The media models disrespect authority. Children are exposed to more and more role models, where disrespect to adults, teachers, and family members is simply part of the entertainment. At first, many of these seem innocuous and humorous, but as kids get older, they are gradually exposed to an increasing number of books, movies and TV programs that promote and honor kids with an “attitude.”
Kids are inundated with music lyrics containing disrespectful and antisocial messages. As kids transition through those middle school and high school years, they have a fascination with anything that is “off limits,” and they are often interested in the profane, obscene and antisocial as they rebel against the limits placed upon them by schools, parents and society. This has always been happening, and it will continue to happen. However, what has emerged is that adolescents have access to music now, often via MP-3 players that contain profanity, disrespect, distain for authority and often highly prejudicial commentaries. This becomes like subtle programming, constantly bombarding their unconscious mind with messages that are negative, antisocial and derogatory.
Parents fail to intervene when children are disrespectful. I am a strong advocate for ignoring children’s disrespect, especially during their early attempts to “stretch their wings”. The more you react emotionally, the more your kids will get hooked on this language as a source of control over you in the home. But, I am also a strong advocate for intervention with consequences, rather than verbal warnings— especially regarding disrespect in public, or if you feel that you can’t walk away.
Other adults are not encouraged to set limits with children. If I got out of line when I was growing up, any adult in the community would be willing to step in and sit me down for a few minutes, or to set limits for me. This has changed. Too often now, if another parent or adult intervenes in a child’s inappropriate behavior, they will suffer from a verbal thrashing from the parent—which just reinforces the child’s behavior.
Parenting has become more about competing rather than nurturing. Since World War II, there has been a fundamental shift in the way we think of parenting. In today’s world, kids are taught to have a focus on competition. Walk by any soccer field in the spring, and you’ll note that the tone in the coach’s voice is not one of nurturing play and participation for the purpose of enjoying sports; it’s about competition and winning.
In the educational setting, we set up programs that have students competing against one another, classrooms competing against classrooms and schools competing against schools. What has occurred is a blindness toward a balanced set of values. Being able to compete is important, but there are many other values that are more important to your child’s happiness and success.
We teach kids to lose touch with the present and to work hard for the future. When kids are in the present, they laugh, smile, play, run, giggle, and perhaps most importantly, they create. For young kids, whatever they have is often enough; they don’t need more. The more that kids grow into a world where we focus their present efforts on competing for some future goal, the more they lose the present. They actually become unhappy. It’s no wonder then that they are rude and disrespectful—they haven’t found a way to enjoy their life.
Unfortunately, we’re only teaching our kids what we have often learned, and that is to surrender our awareness of the present gifts that bless our lives, and instead to focus on what’s “not enough” —therefore creating for us a sense of lack in a world where we experience plenty.
Dr. Randy Cale, a Clifton Park based parenting expert, author, speaker and licensed psychologist, offers practical guidance for a host of parenting concerns. Dr. Cale’s new website, www.TerrificParenting.com offers valuable free parenting information and an e-mail newsletter.

Accent Your Windows
2522 Fawn Ridge,Castleton • 479.2733

Owners: Deborah Meddaugh and Nina Meddaugh
Describe your business: Accent Your Windows offers custom window treatments and bedding primarily for residential customers in the Capital District. Fabric treatments such as draperies, valances, shades and cornices are among the selection. We also carry all leading brands of blinds, shutters, and other varieties of window coverings such as Hunter Douglas, Graber, Kirsch and more. All fabric treatments are fabricated in our own, local workroom where attention is given to every detail. From the initial design and selection of fabrics, trims, and hardware to the final installation in your home, this business can provide you with all of your window and bedding needs. Many area designers have chosen Accent Your Windows as their drapery workroom because they know they can count on excellent quality and workmanship.
How long have you been in business? Over 6 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? We both had a love for creating window treatments. It is a business that offers a great deal of satisfaction by providing our clients with a product that they love. The majority of the time our clients tell us the end result is even better than what they had anticipated!
Is there anyone who influenced you? Both family and friends encouraged us to start our business. Their confidence in our skills and talent gave us the backing to start our new venture. We are a mother-in-law/daughter-in-law co-owned business; we realize this is an unusual combination, but it works great for us! We believe our strengths compliment each other and have helped us grow our business to what it is today.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? In our business we get a great deal of satisfaction by providing our clients with something that gives them pleasure for years to come. And, we enjoy getting to know them.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Always keep your clients satisfied by offering the best service, products and knowledge to your clients. Regularly attend industry conferences and networking so you continue to stay excited and fresh with new ideas.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? We learned that our quality requirements are at a higher level than large, out-of-state commercial workrooms. Five years ago, during a very busy time we sent a few jobs out to be fabricated. We weren’t happy with the workmanship and were told that these workrooms have “tolerance levels” for size discrepancies in items they produce. Also, fabric patterns may not match up perfectly, but they also consider this “acceptable”. We don’t consider this acceptable for our clients and realize what we offer is superior.
Hours: By appointment for consultations, but our regular business hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Both in-home consultations and in-shop appointments are available off hours.

American Sun Control LLC
237.7375 •www.americansuncontrol3m.com

Owner: Robert J. Bouchey, president
Describe your business: American Sun Control LLC is an Authorized Window film dealer/installer representing the 3M Building Safety Solutions Department. We install 3M Window Films for commercial buildings as well as Residential Window Films which are used for security/privacy, UV protection and for solar heat control. All films may be installed on new and existing glass and using the 3M Scotchshield Window Film will add the security of accidental or an unwanted burglary, and protect anyone from the risk of flying glass in the event of a storm or explosion. All 3M Window Films eliminate the harmful UV Rays and are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as a UV protectant.
How long have you been in business? 8 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Several years ago I was looking for this product for my own home. I had experienced severe fading in my den and investigated into what I could use on our windows to help control any fading.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? When you have children, flexibility in your schedule is a big plus! I like the challenge and the decision making process that goes with running your own business.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Take the time to begin your business. Take each step as though you may change your mind until you are comfortable. Too many businesses do not succeed because of growing beyond their limits in the early stages.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Honesty, and above all, service is paramount. That goes from keeping appointments to finishing each job with a schedule. Today’s customers do not have free, flexible time.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Appointments for estimating/consultation required.
Additional information: I feel we are not selling a particular service, but that we are providing a product that serves a purpose, and above all is useful to all of our customers. Whether it is a homeowner trying to reduce fading and help reduce the solar heat load or the commercial client who may be looking to reducing their energy costs.

Bongiorno’s Restaurant
23 Dove Street, Albany •462.9176

Owners: Felix and Rosanna Bongiorno
Describe your business: Bongiorno’s is a small, cozy restaurant that offers residents and visitors alike a taste of Italy, and is one of the best buys in Italian dining in the area. Each meal is carefully and individually prepared by Rosanna and Felix. The comfortable and warm atmosphere, combined with a staff that really loves to make your dining experience really enjoyable, makes a perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a business lunch.
How long have you been in business? 28 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Felix worked in restaurants in Italy, Germany and Switzerland. He enjoyed it and wanted a restaurant of his own. After we were married, we decided to open one together.
Is there anyone who influenced you? No, my husband was very comfortable working in the restaurant business and he was a great chef, so it was naturally the next step.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? Everything! We meet new people all the time, and we are close to the people that have supported us for 28 years. We enjoy the quality of food we prepare and the service we provide.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Make sure you have a solid family life, enough money to be financially secure for the first year while you are getting the business off the ground, and be ready to work 10-15 hours/day, seven days a week.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Hard work and superb quality of food and service will assure the restaurant’s success. Be pleased when people praise you and never let your guard down.
Hours: Serving lunch Monday-Friday Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; dinner Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 5pm-9pm; Thursday, Friday, Saturday 5pm-10pm. Closed Sunday.
Additional information: We have been in business for a quarter of a century, serving great food at great prices, feeding neighbors, governors, senators and friends alike. We have kept our high standards and loved every minute of every year.

The Chocolate Gecko
540 Delaware Avenue, Albany • 436.0866 • www.chocolategecko.com

Owner/Chocolatier: Lissa D’Aquanni, 40
Describe your business: The Chocolate Gecko is a community-based business that makes chocolates in small batches by hand, using only the freshest and finest ingredients. We specialize in creating unique flavors and chocolate designs.
How long have you been in business? I created the Chocolate Gecko in December of 1998. In 2002, with the help of dozens of volunteers, we purchased and renovated 540 Delaware Avenue, an abandoned building, which is now home to three women-owned businesses: The Chocolate Gecko, The Yoga Loft and The Periwinkle Sheep.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? One of the best aspects of owning the Chocolate Gecko is seeing people’s faces when they taste our chocolates or receiving a card from someone whose favors we created or hearing back from someone that our chocolate made a difficult time a little easier. That’s what creating delicious chocolate is all about...to sweeten someone’s day. And when we’ve touched someone in that magical way, then we’ve accomplished our goal.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar business? To anyone starting a business, I would say do something that you are passionate about. As a small business owner, you don’t get paid an hourly wage that compensates you for all the hours you work. Compensation has to come in a form other than money. So if you are doing something you truly love—where the creation is part of the reward—then you’ll enjoy your business and others will too.
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday 10am-4pm. Closed Sundays

Clark Murals
288 South Allen Street, Albany • 489.4534 •www.clarkmurals.com

Owner: Kevin Clark
Describe your business: I do murals, faux and decorative paint finishes, painted logos and signs, fine art and portrait work, gold leaf and graining—basically anything that involves paint
How long have you been in business? Since 1992.
Why did you pick this particular industry? I always knew I wanted to be an artist. After college I was lost trying to figure out how to make a living as a painter or illustrator in upstate New York, when I stumbled across the owners of Browns’ Brewery in Troy. They had a lot of walls and were kind enough to hire me to paint them. It was my first painting job and I had to learn on the fly. That was the start of Clark Murals. Anytime you get paid to do what you enjoy, you should pursue it to see how far it can take you.
Is there anyone who influenced you? My influences change daily. I run the gamut from classic painters to cartoons to photographs I cut out of the newspaper. I can find something new everyday that will influence me.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? The benefits of being in business for yourself are the hours you keep. Other than that, it is all about being responsible. You have to schedule, prep, budget, promote, and most of all, perform. Rarely does it all come together smoothly, but that’s one of the challenges with running a business. You can succeed on your own or fail on your own. Some people say it’s good to be your own boss, but the clients who hire me are considered my boss. Another aspect of this line of work is that I get to change locations from job to job. I don’t think I could work in the same location in a cubicle for long.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Keep a side job to pay bills when you first start out, because there were times where I didn’t know where or when my next job was coming from. Be patient, learn from others and try to marry rich.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? I have learned that you can always find people who are as talented as you, so you should continually improve. If you insist on making a mistake, learn from it so you don’t repeat it.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, but also at the convenience of my clients.

Computer Visions, LLC
16 Corporate Woods Boulevard, Albany • 437.1600 • www.compvisions.com

Owner: Pamela C. Smith
Describe your business: Founded in 1996, Computer Visions provides quality computer training and network consulting. As a Microsoft Certified Learning Partner/Solution Provider, our goal is to attain complete customer satisfaction while building lasting relationships with clients. We teach professionals how to use popular business application software as well as technical network operating systems. The adult learning principles are applied through hands-on classroom training, effective training aids and free technical support. Computer Visions prepares today’s business people to use the latest technology efficiently to increase productivity. Training is offered for the novice as well as the “power user”. As a certified woman-owned/operated provider of computer training, we not only educate business professionals, but provide them with the additional support to support their network infrastructure.
How long have you been in business? 10 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? It is never dull. Technology changes at such a rapid pace that you can never stop learning. There isn’t a time when you can say, “I know it all,” because that is the second you become obsolete. The thrill of mastering a new technology is intoxicating.
Is there anyone who influenced you? My mother and grandmothers showed me that a person could be whatever he or she wants to be. You have to work hard, stay determined and be honest. There are no shortcuts to do a job correctly—Computer Visions is the perfect example of following that advice.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? Being able to guarantee that my family always comes first. I love my job, and thrive on the hard work, but family is my true joy in life. My children have reaped the benefits because I am a better parent as a result of having a satisfying professional life.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be a life long learner—that shouldn’t apply only to your professional life, but to all aspects of your life. I am lucky that my work provides so many opportunities to learn from my clients. I think of it as a continual learning partnership.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Quality makes the difference. My grandfather was right when he used to tell me, “You get what you pay for!”
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.

A.R. Wynnykiw, DDS, PLLC
351 Osborne Road, Loudonville • 432-3991

Owner: Dr. Askold Wynnykiw, 43
Describe your business: We are a general dental practice with an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry. We provide general dental services for your entire family, but I go above and beyond with cosmetic and neuromuscular treatment. Through my advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies, I am able to provide a level of cosmetic and neuromuscular treatment that few other dentists in the immediate Albany area can provide. Patients will love our office as it is elegant and homey and puts them at ease when they arrive. Our sunny treatment rooms that look out onto our pleasant lawn and flowerbeds (in the spring!) help put our patient’s at ease.
How long have you been in business? I have been practicing dentistry for 19 years, and have been in business at this location for seven years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? I enjoy interacting with people; the health care field provides a great avenue for that. I take great pride in being able to help people improve their lives. Cosmetic dentistry can really put a smile back into a person’s life and restore the confidence and self-esteem they desire. Also, training at LVI has given me the ability to treat many TMJ/TMD issues and provide the care that truly improves a person’s life.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I find that being in business for myself is tremendously rewarding. Being your own boss allows you to set the direction you want your business to take. Also, I love making improvements to the building and am always looking for ways to make it even more comfortable for our patients.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Stay focused on continuing education and advancing the technology in your practice. Through advanced education you can really find the path to enjoy your career more and provide the best care possible for your patients. With improvements in technology like digital X-ray and other high-tech devices, the job of diagnosing is made all the easier and the patient reaps the rewards of truly comprehensive treatment.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? I’ve learned to understand that everyone you encounter is a unique and distinct individual. Learning how to adapt to every variety of person has taught me many things and I believe has also made my practice more comfortable and inviting to our patients.
Hours: Monday and Friday 8am-5pm, Tuesday and Thursday 8am-6pm, and Wednesday 8am-3:30pm.

Mustafa Sabai, DDS, P.C.
165 Manning Blvd., Albany • 459.2444

Owner: Mustafa Sabai, 44
Describe your business: Practice of General Dentistry.
How long have you been in business: I’ve been practicing since 1987; I opened my practice in 2004.
Is there anyone who influenced you? Mr. Wahab Khalique, a friend.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? The option to control my schedule
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? This is the best, most rewarding profession for people who love a challenge.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? When you get there, there is no there there.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9am-5pm
Additional information: My practice is growing due to advertising in Capital Region Living Magazine.

David Weinstein DDS
4 Palisades Drive, Albany • 459.7510

Owner: David Weinstein, 50
Why did you pick this particular industry? The practice was established by my father Harold Weinstein in 1956. I joined him in 1981; he retired in 1986.
Describe your business: It’s a dental practice offering all aspects of general dentistry including cosmetics, implants, invisalign invisible orthodontics, and most importantly, oral conscious sedation for the extremely anxious patient.
Is there anyone who influenced you? I spent a lot of time with my father in his office when I was young and really gained an appreciation and love for what he was doing. Not only did I find the technical aspects of dentistry appealing, but also the relationship he had developed with his patients impressed me.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? The ability to discuss treatment options with patients and not having anyone standing over my shoulder trying to control what it is I am doing.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Make sure you are really in love with the profession before you enter it. It is difficult and very demanding, but if you truly enjoy what you are doing and care for the people you are helping, there is no better profession that I can think of.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Be true to yourself and treat each and every patient as though they were your family. That way you know you will always be giving 100 percent to your patients.
Hours: Monday & Tuesday 7am-5:30pm; Wednesday & Thursday 7am-3:30pm.

Emperor’s Hong Kong Restaurant
10 Wolf Road, Colonie • 591.0628

Owner: Vinny Luu
Describe your business: We serve authentic Chinese food, including fresh live lobsters, crabs, oysters and fish. We also have a lengthy vegetarian menu and over 40 different kinds of Dim Sun.
How long have you been in business? 4 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? I have been in the restaurant business for over 25 years and I love going to work every day. I enjoy serving people with good food.
Is there anyone in particular who influenced you? My family.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I enjoy meeting a lot of different kinds of people.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? You have to be willing to work hard and give up your life.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? The important lesson that I learned is family is very important—without having my wife’s support, I wouldn’t be here.
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-10:30pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30am-11:30pm.

FineLINE Contracting
1951 East Schodack Road, Castleton • 365.7522

Owner: Mark P. Brady
Describe your business: FineLINE Contracting specializes in a variety of home site development including clearing building lots, excavating for foundations and additions, installing septic systems and grading of existing lawns. We also offer decorative concrete walks and patios as well as retaining walls. I have worked as a sub-contractor and provided many of these services for many homebuilders in the Capital District while building my own client list through referrals.
How long have you been in business? I have been in business for over 20 years. I started in construction just out of high school and continued working in various construction fields from building houses and carpentry, to grading and excavating for roads and highways. I worked with numerous state engineers and local construction corporations before pursuing my own excavating company.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Since I was a young boy I have always been interested in construction. My fascination grew when I had the opportunity to operate heavy equipment during my early twenties.
Is there anyone who influenced you? There have been many people through the years in the construction business that have influenced me. I have learned from some of the best leaders in the industry.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? One of the best rewards for me is the sense of gratification I feel when a project is completed and exceeds the expectations of myself, and the client. The client is satisfied, compliments our work and usually refers our services to others.
What advice would you give others wanting to pursue a similar career? Work hard, strive for excellence and have patience. To pursue your own business takes a lot of drive, dedication and perseverance.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? When a roadblock comes my way, I don’t let it defeat the purpose. I persevere harder.
Hours: It really depends on the project. I always return phone calls for those interested in receiving a free estimate; so feel free to leave a message any time!

Girl Power Inc. (formerly Fitness For Her)
333 Delaware Avenue, Delmar • 478.0237

Owner: Amy Charlie Bare, 27
Describe your business: Girl Power Inc. is a gym just like Bally’s or Gold’s, but for women only offering top of the line equipment and cardio classes. It offers a clean, friendly atmosphere. There is personal training and diet and nutritional analysis offered.
How long have you been in business? Four months. Previously, I was owner of Total Image Health Club Inc. in Amsterdam and manager of Fit Happens in Gloversville and Amsterdam.
Why did you pick this particular industry? The fitness industry is something I’ve always been interested in and excelled at. I went to school for anatomy and physiology so I have a lot of knowledge about the muscles and how they work. I love helping people reach their goals and I’ve always enjoyed staying fit and working out. In high school I played a variety of sports and in college I started weight lifting, and have been doing it ever since.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I love coming home at the end of the day knowing that I’m doing something that helps others—that is personally gratifying for me. Being in business for yourself is challenging and rewarding. I’m in charge so everything I do has to be just right or my business won’t be successful. I like being the only one accountable because it puts pressure on me to always be a smart businessperson.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Never give up. It can be tough to come up with the startup costs, but hard work always pays off. Keep trying every little thing. Sometimes you have to take a huge risk and even take a loss to make any gains.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Advertising is key! Work as much as you can to build up the business. It’s your own blood, sweat and tears that will make it work. Also, be careful who you trust (even if they seem nice) and make sure you know the truth before you act on it.
Hours: Monday-Friday 4:30am-9pm; Saturday & Sunday 8:30pm-5pm.
Additional information: A lot of changes have been made since opening Girl Power Inc. Come in and try the new atmosphere before deciding to join.

Finally Free Electrolysis
2B Hayner Heights Drive, Clifton Park 12065 • 383.4488 •www.4electrolysis.com

Owner: Tracey Francis, 37
How long have you been in business? Almost 7 years.
Describe your business: We specialize strictly in electrolysis. Electrolysis is the only method of hair removal allowed by the FDA to say “Permanent Hair Removal”.
Why did you pick this particular industry? My undergraduate course work was in human services. My goal has always been to help others be more confident in themselves. This business definitely lets you have that one-on-one with people.
Is there anyone who influenced you? My electrologist at the time.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? Building the business with my husband Shawn has been a lot of fun. We definitely compliment each other well.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Go to a well-recognized school for electrolysis. Insertion is everything in this business, it is really easy to develop bad habits on your own so be sure to work with experienced electrologists to ensure you have proper insertion and proper posture.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Finding good, trustworthy and hard working employees is very difficult. We are truly grateful for the ones we have.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm; Saturday 9am-1pm.
Additional information: We have remained faithful to electrolysis, which has survived thousands of fads. Don’t be fooled by claims of hair reduction. When you’re ready to do it and be DONE, call Finally Free Electrolysis. Free of waxing, free of chemicals Finally Free of unwanted hair FOREVER!

Florida North, Inc.
Esperance, New York • 888.505.7946 •www.floridanorth.com

Owner: Dan Nelson
How long have you been in business? I’ve been in the swimming pool business for over 28 years. I purchased Florida North in 2001.
Describe your business: Florida North is a fiberglass swimming pool and swim spa company. We manufacture the strongest fiberglass pools and swim spas on the market. They’re built in the Northeast for the Northeast. They are kid proof, pet proof and bullet proof, and they cannot be damaged by frost, freezing temperatures, termites or mice.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Since being introduced to the swimming pool industry in Tampa, Florida some 25 years ago, I’ve been in love with it ever since. We basically sell enjoyment and smiles, and what can be more satisfying than that?
Is there anyone who influenced you? The list of influential people is too lengthy to mention, but my wife Donna has been the key component.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? Although it has its ups and downs, being in business for myself has been extremely rewarding and I would not have it any other way.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Research everything thoroughly before you take the plunge into the swimming pool business. On the surface it seems very cut and dry, but an awful lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes so you have to be prepared and aware of every little detail.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right. All installations are done by myself or one of our experienced crews—we do not hire anyone else to install our product. That is the lesson of experience.
Hours: Although the swimming season is during the summer months, we are open 12 months a year, especially with the emergence of the swim spas.
Additional information: Florida North offers 10 different pool models and 3 swim spa models to choose from. All of our pools are warranted for a full 25 years, not pro rated, while the swim spas have a lifetime warranty. If you’re serious about buying a pool, call us.

Greenspire
Clifton Park • 383.8373 • www.greenspirelandscaping.com

Owners: Jerome Edmunds and Brian Edwards
Describe your business: We are a design/build landscape company offering the following services: patio, walkway and driveway installation, ornamental ponds, plantings and retaining walls.
How long have you been in business? 11 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Jerome started working for a company in his hometown as a teenager about 22 years ago and fell in love with the business. As a young boy, Brian worked with his grandfather digging shade trees in his nursery and couldn’t get it out of his blood.
Is there anyone who influenced you? Jerome was influenced by his first employer, Jeff Schworm, as well as his parents and wife. Brian was influenced by his grandfather and parents
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? We like the ability to create and control our own destiny. Also, getting to meet new people and help them achieve their landscaping needs.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Get your feet wet first and make absolutely sure that you have the drive and determination to keep going. It is not unheard of to work 60-80 hours a week during the season.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? No matter how busy you get or how big your business grows, family has got to come first.
Additional information: We have been the recipient of several industry awards, are a member of the Better Business Bureau, and are ICPI certified.

Helderberg Mountain Log Homes
102 Willsey Road, E. Berne •872.2206 •www.hmloghomes.com.

Owners: Matt and Will Reagan
Describe your business: Helderberg Mountain Log Homes is a full-service design and construction company specializing in elegant log frame homes and buildings that reflect the spirit and individuality of its owners.
How long have you been in business? We have been building log homes since 1993.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Originally, we were in the logging business, but when things slowed down in the springtime, we started to build log homes to supplement what we were losing in the logging business. We loved it because we found that each home was unique and we could design specifically for a person’s needs. Far from being your traditional cookie cutter type home, there is a lot of creativity that goes into building a log home. While it was challenging, we found the work very satisfying and it gave us an opportunity to constantly explore new avenues and sometimes even exceed our own expectations!
Is there anyone who influenced you? No, we knew there was a need for log homes and we knew we could satisfy that need.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? We can control our own direction. We are free to explore any option we want. We have full control over our lives and when a customer says the job we did far exceeded their own expectations, that is the best part—knowing we created something very few are able to do.
What advice would you give others wanting to pursue a similar career? Get a good education, read as much information as you can and hands-on experience is invaluable.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? There is a market out there that appreciates the creativity and hand-craftsmanship that we bring to the table. Be honest and true to your vision, and as long as you do it right, quality still sells today.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm; Saturday 8am-noon.
Additional information: Our skilled artisans use only all natural materials, specifically selected for their beauty and strength. We will also work with you to design a breathtaking interior that you’ll love to spend time in. Whether it is a small weekend getaway cabin or an extraordinary log home or addition, we are committed to providing superior craftsmanship and unparalleled service through every stage of your home’s development. If you have been dreaming about owning your own beautiful and distinctive custom log home, call us for a consultation!

Horticulture Unlimited Landscaping LLC
963 Route 9W, Selkirk • 767.2004 • www.hortunlimited.com

Owner: Brian Herrington
Describe your business: Horticulture Unlimited is a landscape design and installation business with our own five-acre nursery, which we use exclusively for our landscape projects. Our projects range from traditional foundation plantings to the transformation of entire properties, including water gardens and the new zero maintenance pondless waterfalls. On the landscape construction end, we create patios, walks and walls, often including the innovative use of natural stone products.
How long have you been in business? I began working in greenhouses and for landscaping companies in high school. Both Ted Goldring and Jerry Jonas were inspiring mentors grooming my love of plants and growing things into the basis for a career. I launched my own business in 1977 after completing my degree in forestry at Paul Smith’s College.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? The best part of being in business for myself is the positive client feedback from a job well done, and knowing that I have inspired my employees to further develop their own landscape careers. If I surround myself with talented and creative employees and allow them to express themselves, then great work gets done. I retain top quality employees by having a profit sharing plan and offering a number of other benefits.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Consistently improve your knowledge and experiences and join various trade associations to hone your skills. I belong to the NYS Nursery/Landscape association, the NYS Turfgrass Association, and am a nationally certified water garden installer.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? The most important lesson I’ve learned is to focus on service and quality and to develop a niche to distinguish ourselves in this competitive atmosphere. Our mission statement is: “Horticulture Unlimited Landscaping provides our clients with the highest quality landscape design and installation services. We do this by having well-trained, empowered employees and by using only top quality materials.” If we continually put our clients’ needs and goals first then we will continue to enjoy our jobs. We really do love our work!
Hours: Nursery hours by appointment—usually Saturdays.

Kulak’s Nursery & Landscaping
1615 Route 146, Rexford • 399.2404 • www.kulaksnursery.com

Owners: John and Karen Kulak
Describe your business: Our business is both landscape services and a retail garden center/home accent store combination. Our specialties for the landscaping services include design and installation of plants and hardscape items such as stone retaining walls and brick walks and patios. Whether it is done by hydro-seeding or sodding, we install new lawn. Landscape renovation is also a large part of our business. Our store is different from most garden centers with a very unique selection of gift items, home accents and garden products that won’t be found in many other stores. We pride ourselves with having a neat and clean appearance in a friendly neighborhood location.
How long have you been in business? We have been doing landscaping for 24 years. The garden center has been open for four years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? We picked this industry because we are hard working people with talents and skills in the landscape industry. We continue to strive for improvement and know the meaning of quality, both in workmanship and product.
Is there anyone who influenced you? The influences we both had in our lives have to be our parents who taught us strong work ethics. We both come from large families and were taught many valuable lessons.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? We like the gratification we receive from every job we do and for providing the community with an upscale store.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be sure you are willing to sacrifice many aspects of your life to make it all work. Being in business takes dedication, perseverance and determination for success.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? One thing we have learned over the years is that having integrity is an asset. People seek out businesses they can trust and depend on. We continually work toward goals that will only improve our character.
Hours: Open every day from April-December. Hours change with the seasons. Check www.kulaksnursery.com for times.

Landscape Inc.
Loudonville • 489.2341

Owner: Pete Rossi
Describe your business: Along with doing property maintenance and snow removal, we specialize in retaining walls, patios, walks, plant/tree installation and design.
How long have you been in business? 17 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? I chose the landscaping profession because I found that I had a certain knack for creating and/or maintaining landscapes better than the average homeowner. Also, impressing it’s people with my work seemed gratifying.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I went into business for myself because I feel there is no limitations to what I can accomplish and I am my toughest critic.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? My advice for anyone looking to get into the business would be to pay attention to small details and always do at least one extra “something” to complete a job.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? The best lesson I have learned is that the small things that will eventually catch up with you. Keep your loose ends tied and don’t burn any bridges.
Hours: Summer hours: 7:30am-sundown
Winter hours: 24-hour storm response

Lavelle & Finn, LLP
29 British American Boulevard, Latham • 869.6227 • www.lavelleandfinn.com
Oneonta: 22-26 Watkins Avenue, Oneonta • 607.432.3333

Owners: John H. Lavelle, Esq., 49 and Martin S. Finn, Esq., 47
Describe your business: We are a boutique law firm concentrating on the legal needs of business owners and successful families.
How long have you been in business? Almost 15 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Being lawyers who are also CPAs and business owners, our skills and experience are a close match for the estate planning, business counseling and tax needs of the typical small business owner or wealthy family. Having started our practice from scratch, rather than becoming partners after years of simply being employees, we can identify with business owners and their struggles for success. We know what it takes to make payroll, market a service, and do all the things that make a business perform because we’ve had to do it ourselves.
Is there anyone who influenced you? We are greatly influenced by the success stories of our clients and friends in the Capital Region.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? Being in business is all about freedom. There really is no other reason. We help our clients realize that their businesses are great opportunities to achieve unprecedented levels of freedom in their lives. It is always disappointing to see the number of business owners and professionals who turn self-employment opportunities into long hours and drudgery. It does not have to be that way.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Always take the time to work on the business, not just in the business. If you do not have time to see your family, you are doing something wrong. Ask yourself, “If I die tonight, what would I regret?” Then take your answer and start eliminating that regret tomorrow. In a short time, you may find a path to the freedom your own business should mean.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Owning a business should never be an end in itself. Being a successful business owner should mean a well-rounded, balanced life with plenty of time for families, community, hobbies and friends. If your business model has you working late hours and weekends, no amount of money will compensate for the personal losses you accrue. Change the model. There are so many examples in our Capital Region of true success stories, that we all have the inspiration we need to achieve the freedom we deserve.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm by appointment.

Mark Anthony Salon
265 Osborne Road, Loudonville • 453.0687

Owner: Mark Anthony Giandomenico
Describe your business: We are a hair, color, and make-up salon, and we also offer mini salon services.
How long have you been in business? 25 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? It gives me the freedom to be independent and I love working with color.
Is there anyone who influenced you? Yes, my father.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I like the independence and being able to be so creative.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? One has to like people, like being very creative, and like making your mark on peoples lives.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? Being in such a personal and service industry, I have learned to be kind and to listen to others
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9am-7pm.
Additional information: I have added the Sea of Spa Skin Treatment (Face & Body) imported from Israel.

Miranda Real Estate Group, Inc.
1482 Route 9, Clifton Park • 348.2060

Owner: Willie Miranda, 38
Describe your business: Residential/Commercial real estate sales.
How long have you been in business: I’ve owned Miranda Real Estate since August 2002 and I’ve been involved in the real estate business since 1999.
Why did you pick this particular industry? I had an independent insurance agency and decided to expand my business and offer more services to my customers. Insurance and real estate went hand and hand and I felt that they were a really good fit.
Is there anyone who influenced you? Craig Proctor, one of the top realtors in the world. Craig is with Remax out of Toronto, Canada. By following his Real Estate Marketing Systems and Strategies, I have been able to develop a strong team of realtors with high values and a strong work ethic.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? Being able to make my own decisions, helping people grow their business and unlimited income potential.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? I would advise people to take this as a career change, not just a job. Being a realtor means being in business for yourself and running it like a business. Invest in yourself. Unfortunately, too many agents get into the business thinking it’s like a job, not understanding that it takes a few years to build their business.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? That hiring the right people can make the difference between a successful company and a great company. I feel that we have great people and that is why we have such a great company.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, on-call 24/7.
Additional information: Miranda Real Estate Group, Inc. was voted 2005 Greatest Places To Work by The Business Review and we truly foster a great team environment and work very hard to exceed our customers expectations everyday. We look forward to providing the highest quality service to all of the people we come in contact with.

Most Credit INC.
163 Delaware Avenue, Delmar • 475.1925 •www.mostcredit.com

Owners: Barry S. Moore and Ellis Judd Staley III
Describe your business: Most Credit INC is a full service mortgage broker representing over 50 lenders Purchases, Refinances, Home Equity Lines. We offer free pre-qualifications, credit analysis and great rates for all types of mortgage customers.
How long have you been in business? 10 years.
Why did you pick this particular industry? It’s a people business that can be very rewarding both personally and financially.
Is there anyone who influenced you? My grandfather (Barry’s). He owned a chain of supermarkets in upstate New York, mostly in small towns. As a kid I would travel around to the stores with him. Even when he had to take serious action with employees, he always showed respect for them as individuals. If you treat people well, they respond well.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? We like the challenge and the opportunity to build a company that benefits both the customer and the employees.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Take the long view; each deal is only a stepping stone on a long journey.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? A satisfied customer is your best referral source.
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm. Loan officers areavailable to meet with clients and schedule at their convenience.

MKC Kitchen & Bath Center
346 Congress Street, Troy • 274.8566; www.mkckitchens.com

Owners: Michael & Pam Vrsalovic
Describe your business: Our primary business is kitchen and bath renovation. In our showroom we sell cabinets and countertops for every budget. We install all of our products or sell them direct to contractors and consumers.
How long have you been in business? We started the business in June of 1997. Michael has been doing kitchens and baths for over 18 years.
Why did you choose this particular industry? We both enjoy designing and creating new spaces for the two most used places in a home.
Is there anyone who influenced you? Both of our parents helped to influence us, as they were self-employed. Pam’s grandmother also had an interior decorating business for over 50 years. Each of them taught us firsthand the importance of taking pride in our work, providing excellent customer service and striving to provide quality products at fair prices.
What do you like best about being in business for yourselves? We like being in business for ourselves for the gratification of helping people make their “dream” room come to fruition. In addition, we like the ability to be involved with every step of a project and the flexibility since have three young children.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? We have learned to be humble and appreciate everything that we have.
Hours: Showroom—Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm; Thursday 10am-7pm; Saturday 10am-4pm, or by appointment. Closed Sunday and Monday.
Additional information: Although we are a smaller company, we offer quality products that are competitive with the large chain stores. The difference is the personalized service. We offer free estimates, 3-D computerized design and a professional design and installation staff that works with customers throughout their projects. We take pride in our work and strive to make each of our customers happy.

Nicole’s Bistro at Quackenbush Square
25 Quackenbush Square, Albany •465.1111 •www.nicolesbistro.com

Owner: Nicole Plisson
Describe your business: It’s a French Bistro offering regional cuisine combined with local seasonal specialties.
How long have you been in business? I have been serving the finest cuisine since 1985.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Originally from the Loire Valley, I was born into a restaurant-owning family.
Is there anyone who influenced you? My family has always been part of my learning experience in this business.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I like making my own decisions, always self-improving and interacting with people.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? The restaurant business is very demanding, stressful and requires long hours. In addition you, you must be prepared to fulfill kitchen duties, bar, hosting waitressing, etc, and be a good leader to your staff.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? To do the best you can, to believe in yourself and be proud of your accomplishments.
Hours: Serving lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm; dinner Monday-Saturday 5pm-10pm or later when the Palace has events.
Additional information: I would to introduce my chef and thank him for the wonderful work he’s been doing for us at since 1997. Daniel E. Smith graduated and trained at the Ecole La Varenne Paris, and is a winner of international and national competitions. He is a Certified Executive Chef with the American Culinary Federation, and graduated from SUNY with a bachelor of professional studies.

Mohawk River Country Club and Chateau
847 Riverview Road, Rexford • 399.1920 •www.mohawkrivercc.com

Hiland Park Country Club
95 Haviland Road, Queensbury • 793.2000 • www.hilandparkcc.com

Owner: Rafael Flores, President, Debbie Scensny, manager
Describe your business: Two elegant banquet facilities on 18-hole championship golf courses surrounded by wooded grounds and rolling fairways. Hiland Park Country Club was the site for the 1992 NYS Open, and is currently rated 4 stars by Golf Digest. Mohawk River Country Club is a challenging and enjoyable 18-hole, par 73 golf course in the beautiful Mohawk River Valley. From weddings to bar/bat mitzvahs to golf outings and any other special occasion, we have the perfect setting to entertain guests for a truly enjoyable and memorable occasion.
How long have you been in business? 30 years. However, we acquired Mohawk River Country Club in 1994. After three years of complete renovations, we opened a new clubhouse for banquets and wedding receptions in 2005. In 2003, we added a separate sister location, Hiland Park Country Club.
Why did you pick this particular industry? Because I love the industry! When I was 15, I migrated from Mexico to the United States. I started off as a dishwasher, then a cook. After school, I became a manager of a country club and catering hall. I loved it so much that I am now proud to own two of the best laid out public courses in the Capital Region!
Is there anyone who influenced you? My brother. He worked for different country clubs throughout Westchester. While working together, we partnered with the owners and eventually became owners ourselves of country clubs throughout New Jersey.
What do you like best about being in business for yourself? I can set my own hours and make my own rules. I am very addicted to the work I do. I work with brides and grooms and they become like family to me. I enjoy doing a great job and my passion is for nothing else but creating truly memorable occasions.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? You have to want to put in the time, which requires 7 days/week, minimal 12-14 hours a day, and your family has to be involved in it and love it as much as you do.
What important lessons have you learned along the way? You have to be patient. Because you are dealing with different kinds of people, you have to be flexible and understanding. It is nice to put yourself in their position and treat each event as if it were your very own.
Hours: 7 days/week, 24 hours a day. Technically, our golf course opens 6:30am-9:30pm (in season). Our banquet hall is available anytime our clients decide to have a function. If they want to stay all night, we will stay with them.
Additional information: With over 25 years of experience, our manager, Debbie Scensny, has the expertise to guide you every step of the way, especially caring for those details that ensures a spectacular and hassle-free evening.

Northeast Mobility Center
115 Everett Road, Albany • 438.3646

Owners: Debbie and Bill Eckert
Describe your business: We cater to the needs of those with “special needs.” Our product line and services are geared for those with minor and major disabilities. We offer scooters, lift chairs, walkers, power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, hospital beds, portable ramps, vehicle lifts, grab bars, canes and disposable medical supplies such as incontinence, ostomy and urological items. We also offer extensive home access modifica

By Raymond F. Angelini, Ph.D.

Most of us struggle to find ways to live authentic and balanced lives in this crazy, fast–paced world. Poet E.E. Cummings once said, “To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best night and day to make you everybody else means to fight the hardest battle that any human being can fight; and never stop fighting!” The key question is not whether to fight the battle, but how to fight the battle. We all are faced with the many conflicting demands of family and career and struggle to find the right balance. However, achieving and maintaining that balance is often quite challenging given the ever-increasing demands of our daily lives.
What we really need to do is determine what really matters in our life. In my experience, it is not the career accomplishments that matter most, but the quality of our relationships with those we love. It is very easy to take our intimate relationships for granted, and as we get caught up in our busy lives, it is usually those closest to us who pay the biggest price. When work responsibilities become too demanding, it is common for us to take the path of least resistance and make excuses to those we love in the hope that they will understand. They usually do, for a while, but when this becomes the rule rather than the exception, trouble is likely to follow.
If we choose to make our relationships our highest priority, it will have to involve making different choices when it comes to our careers. It might mean saying no to working overtime, or it might mean passing up a promotion in order to avoid relocating the family. When we do this we usually realize that the rewards outweigh the sacrifices. Our careers are certainly important, but the satisfaction we derive from them is not likely to satisfy us in the same way as our connection with our loved ones.
Relationships help us to feel whole. They produce the context that helps us heal and be authentic. Most importantly, relationships teach us how to love both ourselves, and others. When relationships are at their best, they help us overcome our fears, see the truth about ourselves and others and provide the safe container necessary for us to grow and evolve as people. We all long for this, and having high-quality relationships is the best way I know to achieve this goal.

High-quality relationships
High-quality relationships don’t just happen. Like anything worthwhile in life, they require both attention and intention. Intention is our conscious, deliberate and sustained focus on something that eventually brings about a desired result. Intention involves our thoughts and feelings; attention involves our time and effort. Someone once said, “Intention + Attention = Miracles.” High quality relationships are truly miraculous, but they require our active involvement in order to be developed and maintained.
Of course, many choose to make their career a priority. This too is a valid choice, but as with any other choice it has consequences. I strongly recommend you make this choice with as much awareness as possible. As I have said before, I believe it is far wiser to have your career support your lifestyle rather than have your lifestyle support your career. In the end, it comes down to a matter of priorities. Each of us has to make our own choices as to what and who is most important to us.
I believe that success involves having our investment of time and energy congruent with our values. When it does not, unhappiness and frustration will follow. So, reconsider your priorities now and determine for yourself what success really means to you. Once you are clear on this, then live out your values each day, and watch what happens.n
Dr. Raymond Angelini of New Horizons Coaching has been in private practice as a clinical psychologist and business & personal coach for over 15 years specializing in helping people have more fulfilling careers and relationships. For more information visit www.newhorizonscoaching.com or email him at newhorizons@spa.net.

By Carolyn Iannone

We love our pets! Who doesn’t enjoy the greeting of a slobbering, tail wagging friend at the door? Or the comfort of kitty balled up in our lap every night? Pets are like people, all very different and all very much a part of the family. So when it comes to showing them just how much we appreciate their loyalty and love, we spare no expense.
From $5 chew toys to $1,400 Louie Vuitton doggie carriers, pedicures, psychics and acupuncture, we have mastered the craft of pampering our pets. In fact, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA), Americans spent an estimated $35.9 billion on their pets last year alone! Sure they deserve to feel just as loved as they make us, but have we gone too far to show our four legged friends our affection? You decide.
The most notable pet pampering people are celebrities. From pop stars to movie stars, it turns out even millions of adoring fans can’t compare to their own cuddly companions. VH1’s “All Access Celebrity Pets” and “The Fabulous Life of Celebrity Pets” featured just how some celebrities make sure their pets are more than happy. Paris Hilton, for example, spared no expense on her Chihuahua, Tinkerbell, buying her a $300 cashmere sweater complete with pearls. Model Rachel Hunter’s two dogs live in luxury, literally, with a $15,000 custom built doghouse. Let’s not leave out the most over-the-top trinket of all for Britney Spears’ pup. She bedazzled her own “Bit Bit” with a diamond-encrusted collar. The price for pampering her pooch? $100,000!
It’s not only celebrities who are spending oodles of cash on their furry family. The APPMA estimates that 63 percent of American households own a pet, and 45 percent own more than one. That’s equivalent to 69.1 million homes that have four legged, two legged, or no legged animals to spoil. And spoil they will! Out of the estimated $35.9 billion we spent on our pets in 2005, $2.4 billion went to pet grooming and boarding.
With so many pet owners, various industries have adjusted their accommodations accordingly. Hotels are among several places extending their business to Fido and Fluffy. According to the 2005 Pet Products trend report, “new pet-friendly policies include everything from oversized pet pillows, plush doggie robes, check-in gift packages that include a pet toy, dog treat, ID tag, bone and turn down treat. Some even have a licensed dog masseuse on staff.” Talk about the lap of luxury! Most of us are lucky if we get a massage on vacation. Other industries reaching out to the pet community include Old Navy, Paul Mitchell, Omaha Steaks and Harley Davidson.
It’s not all about pricey pampering. We have also gone to great lengths to keep our pets safe. The APPMA highlights some of the tactics we’ve taken to avoid lost or depressed pets, such as “High-tech products like computerized identification tags, digital aquarium kits, automatic doors and feeders, enhanced reptile terrarium lighting systems and touch-activated toys help pet-owners take care of companion animals with ease and precision.”
Some might say that it’s a small price to pay to show our pets the love they so rightfully deserve. With studies suggesting the numerous health benefits of owning a pet compared to not, such as lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and even heart disease prevention, it’s no wonder people go to such great lengths to show their appreciation. And to think a pat on the head and a murmuring “good dog” use to be enough!

Choosing a pet boarder

By Arcangela Mele

Your vacation is all planned—you booked your plane tickets and hotel, and even mapped out a list of the touristy sites you want to check out. The one thing you haven’t done is figure out where your pet will be staying while you’re away. Fortunately, this area provides several kennels, veterinary hospitals and private pet-sitters to choose from. How do you know which option is right for your pet? Below are some tips to help you make your decision.

Plan a visit
Visiting websites to learn more about kennels and veterinary hospitals is convenient, but before you make a decision it’s important to visit the facility in person. Cleanliness is one of the most important things to look for, advised Jody Diehl, certified dog trainer and behavior counselor and owner of Dog’s Best Friend, in Greenville, NY.
“You should always stay away from a place that doesn’t look clean or smells bad,” said Diehl, whose dog training philosophy is “good manners taught gently”.
Other things to look out for:
• Find a facility that has staff members who belong to a professional pet group.
• In case of emergencies the facility should be insured, and you should be asked to sign a contract. A facility should also be willing to take your pet to your own vet if you prefer.
• Choose a facility where you can bring your pets’ own food, because they are unlikely to eat a brand they are not used to.
• You should be required to fill out paperwork regarding your pets’ immunizations and recent examinations to ensure the health of your pet and others being boarded.
• A facility should accommodate your pet’s need for exercise, especially if you are boarding a dog. Physical activity is especially important to help relieve the stress your pet is most likely experiencing from being away from home. “Exercise relieves stress and gives your dog the physical and mental stimulation they need to become fatigued,” said Diehl.

Choosing between a kennel or a vet
If you are deciding between boarding at a kennel or a veterinary hospital, you should take your pet’s specific needs into consideration. The major difference between the two is that a kennel cannot provide immediate medical assistance if needed. But, there should be someone on staff that can administer medications, and in case of an emergency, be willing to take your pet to a vet.
At Pinebush Kennels in Albany, Curt Miller and staff check rabies records and give pills and shots if needed for an additional charge.
According to Miller, people shouldn’t skimp on price when it comes to boarding your pet.
“Prices are important and people should be willing to pay for a good facility,” he said.
The recently opened Pet Lodges of Clifton Park offers pet owners peace of mind with video cameras that are in the $45-a day luxury suites.
“The web cams are a big deal because they allow you to view your pet at any time,” said co-owner Matt Sames.
The 13,000 square foot daycare houses up to 75 dogs and 20 cats in standard and luxury suites, which both have access to the indoor courtyard and a nine-acre outdoor lot.
If your pet is sick, or has a medical condition, a vet is a good option, since immediate medical care is available. Some hospitals, however, such as Capitaland Animal Hospital in Latham, will not accept pets that were not previously examined by them, and require a “pre-boarding physical” for pets that are new to the facility.
“From a medical standpoint it is essential to conduct a full physical examination for temperament and health standards,” said owner Dr. Edward Dalland, Jr. “We need to know the pet’s attitude and how well it will fit in with the others, as well as how it should be handled.”
When leaving your sick or injured pet at an animal hospital, be sure he or she is boarded separately from healthy pets.
“We have separate boarding and medical areas, and we encourage guests to take a tour of the hospital,” he said.
Pet sitting—an alternative to boarding
At home, your pet is used to a routine. If you don’t want to upset this routine, many pet owners are enlisting the services of pet sitters. A qualified pet sitter will come into your home and provide food, exercise, cleanup and medication for your pet. Some sitters offer overnight stays, daily dog walking for people who work long hours, and a “pet taxi” if your pet needs to go to the vet or groomers.
For $20 a day, Pam Howard, owner of Albany-based At Your Service, a local personal concierge service, will visit your home twice daily to feed, walk and play with your pet(s).
“The benefit of having a pet sitter come to your home is less stress on the pet—they get to stay in their familiar surroundings,” said Howard.
But, she added, those pets with separation issues who need a great deal of attention, might not be good candidates for pet sitting. “Boarding may be a more appropriate option.”
To find a pet sitter in your area, contact the Capital Area Professional Pet Sitters, (www.localpetsitters.net) an agency that lists sitters in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties.

Wildlife rehabilitation

As human development replaces more and more wildlife habitat, the need for the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife continues to grow. State agencies will usually only get involved with an injured or orphaned animal if it is an endangered species or poses a threat to humans. The only chance for most wild animals in distress is the intervention of a licensed, volunteer wildlife rehabilitator. Every year in New York alone, thousands of orphaned and injured animals are cared for by volunteer rehabilitators. Release back to the wild is the ultimate goal of wildlife rehabilitation, but assisting wildlife in need is not an easy task. It requires specialized training, appropriate housing, funding from the public, veterinary support and a great deal of time.
In April 2001, a handful of local rehabilitators formed a not-for-profit organization, North Country Wild Care, dedicated to the support of wildlife rehabilitators in the care and rehabilitation of orphaned, injured and otherwise debilitated wildlife. Although there are several Wildlife Rehabilitation centers in New York State, there are none located in or even close to the Capital Region or the North Country. All our volunteers work out of their homes.
Our goals are also to foster the licensing and training of our volunteers and to provide public education about wildlife rehabilitation. Since 2001 our organization has grown from four members to 50 members. In 2005, we took in over 1,200 animals from Schenectady County to the Canadian border. We network with rehabilitators from Florida to California to provide quality care for our charges.
The busiest time for North County Wild Care is spring and summer when we receive dozens of calls about baby animals. This is the time that young animals are naturally at their most vulnerable. They will often be found seemingly helpless with no parents in sight. Generally, mother is nearby, but will not return to her young with humans in sight. The myth that mother animals will not return to babies that have been handled by humans often creates needless kidnappings. If your child, dog, or cat brings an uninjured wild baby into the house, the best advice is to do your best to put it back where mom can find it.
Winter can be a busy time as well. This is when we see many injured and emaciated hawks and owls. As juveniles begin to hunt on their own and some species begin their migration, the casualties mount. Starvation cases are common among first year birds who have not yet developed their hunting skills. Car collisions occur as raptors hunt near the mowed roadside where spotting prey is easier. If at all possible, please call a rehabilitator before approaching an injured raptor as they can present a danger to the rescuer. If you do pick the animal up, wear gloves and place it in a covered, secure box or pet carrier, with air holes. Keep it in a warm, quiet place, away from domestic animals and do not try to offer first aid, food, or water. When transporting a wild animal, please keep the radio off and conversation to a minimum.
We are grateful that there are so many people that will take the time to assist wildlife. We cannot do our jobs without the assistance of the public. The more you know about the wildlife around you, the better you can help us in our mission.
North Country Wild Care offers free monthly training sessions in the winter and holds monthly meetings year-round. If you are interested in learning more about rehabilitation or North Country Wild Care, or if you would like to make a donation, please visit www.northcountrywildcare.org. If you need assistance with an injured or orphaned wild animal please call our Wildlife Emergency hotline at 964.6740.

A quick bite in England on your way to Vermont

Overall rating on a scale of 1-10
Service 8 •Food 8 •Ambiance 8 •Price $

By Victoria Moran

If someone invited you to lunch at a place that had 14 varieties of draft beer, 100 varieties of bottled beer, your choice of the Wessex, the Essex and the Middlesex sandwiches, assorted British bric-a-brac and spectacular views ...where would you think you were going? London or Chelsea would be good guesses, but the answer is Hoosick Valley. Nestled a few miles from Troy, on the way to Bennington, VT, lies a well-kept secret—Man of Kent—a real life English pub where my friend and I enjoyed a lovely lunch.
Owner John Stoate is the perfect pub owner. Not because he has a British accent, but because he is friendly and gracious and provides a fun, warm environment. The building has seen many ownership changes since the 1920s, but Stoate has owned Man of Kent since 1985.
This is a place where the quality of food matches the views—both are excellent. The pub seats approximately 40 and offers wonderful views. We were seated at a prime table overlooking the Shingle Hollow Creek. There was also a marvelous bird feeder attached to the dining room window next to us. It was so relaxing to watch the chickadees at the window and the geese wandering around the grounds. There is even a guard goose named Millie! In the better weather months, you can opt to sit outside on a patio and enjoy the wildlife up close.
Menu items include traditional British pub fare with other options for the less adventurous. Tea is always served traditionally in a beautiful porcelain pot. Beer choices are plentiful both draft and bottled. Just a small sampling includes Pilsners, Lagers and Ales. They also have a nice wine selection and they make a mean Bloody Mary.
My friend started her lunch with the mean Mary minus the liquor. She loved it because she loves spicy hot stuff; if you do not, skip this horseradish-laden drink.
I never drink at lunch, but in the interest of doing a fair appraisal, I forced myself to try a nice cold beer—the Speckled Hen on draft. It transported me back to when I visited London two years ago.
My choice for lunch was vegetarian chili, which was served with homemade corn bread. It was spicy (but not unbearable) and very thick, full of a variety of beans, peppers and tomatoes. It was, bar none, the best vegetarian chili that I ever tasted.
My friend ordered a grilled BLT sandwich. It was served on Rockhill Bakery bread and in addition to the basic bacon, lettuce and tomato (and side of chips) it had pepper jack cheese for a tasty kick. Call us glutons, but after hearing from our waitress how wonderful the mac and cheese was, we asked for a small bowl to share. This, too, was delicious—it was traditionally made, except for the addition of chopped tomatoes, which added a nice flavor. If you need comfort food on a cold winter’s day (or any day) this is a great choice.
Other menu offerings included fish & chips, gourmet burgers and grilled and hot sandwiches. They also offer American traditional choices like pastrami, roast beef and ham & cheese. If you want a great English lunch, try the Ploughman’s Lunch. A nearby diner ordered it and it looked tempting, but very filling. It has sandwich fixings, but is not technically a sandwich—it is comprised of French bread, hunks of cheddar, pickled onions, tomatoes, pickles and chutney.
Before leaving, we each ordered a dessert (homemade by Stoate’s friend) to bring home. I brought the cheesecake home to my husband (he felt slighted that I brought another dining companion and it helped heal his bruised feelings). He said it was not overly sweet, but light and delicious. It was served with a strawberry sauce.
My friend chose the chocolate pecan pie. Her comment sums it up: “If I lived near this place I’d be quite large from eating this pie all the time.”
Total price including tip: $31.64.
Important note: credit cards are not accepted.
Man of Kent is located on RT 7 North in Hoosick Falls. Hours are Thursday-Monday 11am-9pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesday Sunday’s are often very busy with skiers in the winter. For more information call 686.9917.

The Sunset Café
Casual Southwest Fusion Cuisine

Overall rating on a scale of 1-10
Service 6 •Food 8.5 •Ambiance 8 •Price $$

By Judith Power

Have you been in the mood for some yummy feel good food? Head off to the Sunset Café in Ballston Spa where the atmosphere is cozy and casual with a decidedly rustic southwest flair. One of the first things that Grant and I noticed was the salt and pepper shakers on each table. Each set is different—our table happened to have a lobster salt shaker stuck in a lobster trap pepper shaker, which immediately put a smile on my face. I just love the funny and quirky little touches that make a restaurant comfortable and fun.
The Sunset Café also boasts some wonderful and interesting artwork on the walls. If one of the paintings happens to catch your eye, they are all for sale. The café is comprised of three rooms. The front room boasts a large window that overlooks Front Street. If you are an avid people watcher (as I am), this is the place to sit. A nice bar sits in the back, complete with a wooden bar top and ESPN on the television.
It is not often that I am overwhelmed (in a good way) by a menu. However, the menu at The Sunset Café is, in a word, amazing. I certainly was not expecting the variety of dishes offered. They serve anything from delicious sounding quesadillas, to sandwiches, to full course meals of steak, pork, chicken and fish. Most dishes have their own little flair...the best example I could find was the PEI mussels offered on the appetizer menu. You wouldn’t expect to find mussels on a southwestern menu, but if they were steamed in Corona beer and lime...
Grant and I finally decided to order our appetizers so that we would have more time to study our options for dinner. He ordered a cup of the smoked chicken corn chowder and the barbeque pork crepe. I decided to try the guacamole and chips because it had an interesting description that included olive oil and garlic–two things that are traditionally not included in a guacamole recipe. This is where the idea of southwest fusion kicks in, and it didn’t disappoint.
Grant’s chowder was very good–hearty, but not heavy. It had a delicious smoky flavor and was not too creamy. The barbeque pork crepe was wonderful. It was not the usual thin white flour crepe. Instead it was a corn crepe–a little like a corn tortilla, but not as thick, stuffed with tender pieces of pork. Drizzled over top was the barbeque sauce. It was an ingenious way to serve the crepe because it allowed you to taste each flavor of the dish without being overwhelmed by a single flavor. The guacamole was very good, as it was not typical restaurant guacamole that tends to be overly smooth and bland. It had decent bite-sized chunks and was full of flavor.
After much deliberation, we decided on our main courses. Instead of ordering one of the six varieties of quesadillas, I went with the St. Louis Style Ribs and Grant decided to try the southwestern cassoulet. Dinner comes with your choice of a salad or soup. We opted for the house salads since we already had a tasty bite of soup. I asked for the regular Italian dressing because the house roasted garlic, tomato basil vinaigrette sounded a little too garlicky for me. Grant ordered the salad with their Santa Fe blue cheese dressing–it added a slight kick to his salad, which he enjoyed, along with the corn muffin served on top.
The ribs were quite good—meaty yet tender with the perfect amount of barbeque sauce. They were saucy enough to where I needed extra napkins, but not so saucy that they were dripping with excess. It was served with slightly bland coleslaw that was balanced by delicious baked beans.
Grant enjoyed his cassoulet. His grilled beef tenderloin came out cooked to order (rare) on a bed of spinach with navy and kidney beans, spiced nicely with thin slices of sausage. Although the beans were good, they were a little too al dente for his taste.
Finally, we decided to have dessert. What else but a cup of fried ice cream to end a great southwestern dinner? It was very sweet, and perfect to share.
Total price including tip: $76.
The Sunset Café is located on 42 Front Street in Ballston Spa. Hours are Monday-Thursday 11:3am-9:30pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30am-10:30pm (bar until midnight) and Sunday Brunch 10:30am-2:30pm. For more information call 885.8550.

By John Gray

We begin this month’s column with a simple question—did you call in sick to work today? Note I did not ask if you were sick, merely if you called in sick. A recent survey by the fine folks at careerbuilders.com found 43 percent of us “pretended” we were sick at least once last year when we simply wanted or needed a day off. And that number is up sharply from the year before. What’s going on here? Is the American work ethic dead? Nah, I think we can blame the whole thing on the boss. Let me explain.
A good boss should know his or her people. That means actually leaving your office once every four years to know how the old troops are doing. By walking the halls and pressing the flesh you will be able to sense whether your employees are doing well or if they need what is commonly called a “mental health day”. Wouldn’t it be great to have the boss stop by and say, “Listen I heard about the vending machine taking your money and not dropping the Snickers bar so tomorrow is on me. You just sleep in bucko.” But it never happens.
Calling in sick is also often the boss’s fault because many people work in a job where if they play by the rules and do ask for a day off they won’t get it. Does this sound familiar? “Oh man, I’d love to give you the day Chuck, but we have that big project due and I just can’t get by without you. So tell your doctor you’ll have to wait on that kidney transplant until next month. Just don’t drink a lot of fluids and you’ll be fine.”
Calling in sick is almost an art form. Everyone has his or her own technique, but we all have what I like to call the “sick voice”. The idea is to talk as low and gravely as possible and prolong the pronunciation of common words to the point of moaning. Kind of like this: “Hellooooo. This is Tooooooooony. I feel awful doing this to you but I was up most of the night with this stomach thing, and....” At this point you take a ridiculously long pause and swallow hard into the receiver as if something very bad is about to happen right over the phone. This should be followed by a loud exhale and the phrase, “Mother of mercy.” The person on the other end, fearing they are going to catch what you have, will quickly cut to the chase and say. “God you sound awful. Don’t sweat it, I’ll tell them you won’t be in. Feel better.” Click. Works like a charm.
Now I would never call in sick if I wasn’t (wink, wink) but I have picked up a few tricks along the way. One of the best ways to pull it off successfully is with a pre-emptive strike. Meaning the day before you call in start leaving clues around the office. A box of tissues on the desk here, Tylenol cold medicine near the computer mouse there. And if you need several days off I suggest logging onto a website like The Plague Dot Com and leave it up on your screen for a couple of hours. That way when you do call in the next day people think, “Yeah he didn’t look right yesterday. He may be out a month.”
I mentioned earlier how important it is for the boss to get out of his or her office now and again to talk to the troops. This serves another purpose, it helps the boss and “said employee” avoid those awkward exchanges where both pretend they actually have a relationship. The following is a real conversation that I just made up in my head.
Boss: “Hey Suzie, how everything going?”
Employee: “It’s Sarah, sir.”
Boss: “Right. How’s the hubby?”
Employee: “Divorced and living with a 19-year old Albany Conquest cheerleader, but thanks for asking.”
Boss: “Oh. How are the kids holding up? These things are so tough on the little ones.”
Employee: “No kids, sir.”
Boss: “Are you sure? Who’s that little boy in the photo then? The one who needs the haircut?”
Employee: “That’s my dog sir.”
Boss: “That’s right, how is Spot?”
Employee: “It’s Spike, sir. He’s dead. Since you mention it, any chance I can have tomorrow off to bury him?”
Boss: “Tomorrow’s tough. Hey, does that cheerleader have a sister?”
Employee: “Thanks for stopping by sir, but I don’t think I can take any more bonding today.”
Boss: “Alrighty then I’ll talk to you again at the Christmas party in eight months. See ya Sasha.”
All kidding aside, I think the best way to get your employees to actually show up and care is to treat them like gold. Give raises on time, stop snooping through their desk and have a clue as to who they are outside of the office. Can’t give a bonus this year? How about throwing them a random day off just to be nice? Does the company have trade at a local restaurant that is reserved for the big clients? Tell that special secretary she and her husband are having dinner on you tonight. And above all else - offer praise. I know people are paid to be there, but trust me it’s not enough. Money is great, but nothing carries currency like an unexpected pat on the back. Show you appreciate them and they’ll show up. Unless of course it’s opening day at the track.
On that day all bets are off.
John Gray is a Fox23 News anchor and contributing writing at the Troy Record. He can be reached at johngray@fox23news.com

“April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks Go. ~ Christopher Morley,” John Mistletoe
And so spring has arrived. While we might not feel it just yet, soon enough all the signs will be there—the bulbs will be pushing through the dirt, the days will be warmer and we’ll throw open our windows to let in the fresh air. For many, this new renaissance brings the desire to make improvements around the house, specifically the yard.
This month’s Home & Garden issue is full of helpful ideas that will keep you busy this season. Ever wonder how you can spruce up your backyard patio? All it takes is a little creativity. Have you been thinking of installing a pond, but don’t think your yard is big enough? Think again. It doesn’t matter what size yard you have; you, too, can enjoy the tranquility of a pond. Here’s something different—learn to create your own wind chime garden.
To help you in your quest for beautiful flowers, our gardening columnist Kerry Mendez, owner of Perennially Yours, returns. From now until September Kerry will be addressing your gardening concerns. If you have a question, please email me at the address below.
Also in this issue is our ever-popular Locally Owned Business feature—this month the spotlight is on 36 business owners including a log home builder, a mural painter and a chocolatier. To tie in with the business theme, John Gray, in his usual witty way, offers advice to employers that will make you laugh out loud.
Last month, we introduced you to local television personalities. In this issue we feature radio DJ’s. Read about four popular morning teams—AJ & Trudy, 104.5 The Buzz; Jay & Ben, Magic 100.9: Randi & Tred, 99.5 The River; and Candy & Potter, Fly 92.3. I’m sure you’ll enjoy learning more about these radio personalities and how they got their start in the business. And of course, it’s always interesting to see the “face behind the voice”.
Finally, enjoy all that this beautiful season of spring has to offer!

Enjoy!

Mary Beth DeCecco
marybeth@capitalregionliving.com

I really enjoy writing monthly columns for Capital Region Living. This month, I’d like to thank CRL for allowing me to not only write, but to “take notes”. I’ll explain.
I’ve been fielding a lot of questions over the last month about snow (and in some cases, the lack thereof) and about daylight saving time. To address the latter, I wrote a big explanation of ‘spring forward’ in last April’s issue, but this year represents the last daylight saving time of its time, if you will.
Let’s talk snow first (and I promise not to type the word again until daylight saving time ends). I never knew there were so many stats to reference, but there are. I’ll be able to sleep better now because all of these numbers that have been rattling around in my hollow head for the last few months are finally on paper.
From 1931 to 1989, what is now the National Weather Service has kept track of the first 1/2”, 1”, 3” and 6” snowfalls of each season. Even earlier, back to 1885 in fact, records have been kept of the last of these snowfalls of each season. I’ve filled in the rest of the data, from 1990 through the present. The neat thing is that we can come up with an average date for each of these events, as well as give an average range of time over which we “get snow” in the Capital Region. I’ll put them in table form below:

First Snowfalls
1/2”: 24 November
1”: 26 November
3”: 14 December
6”: 2 January
Last Snowfalls
6”: 26 February
3”: 16 March
1”: 29 March
1/2”: 30 March
The average snow season runs from October 30th until April 20th. The earliest 1/2” of snow occurred on October 4th, 1987. Big deal, right? Well, it really was because the same event was also the earliest 1”, 3” and 6”. Albany had 6.5”, and it wreaked havoc on things in the area. The leaves on the trees were still quite attached, and the heavy wet snow stuck to them like glue. The weight of all of that snow brought down those trees, or at least big parts of them. Power outages were rampant across the area. I was out of school (Albany High) for a week.
The latest 1/2” of snow occurred on May 18th, 2002. Actually, the 2.2” also makes it the latest 1” snow as well. Oddly enough, just two days before, the high temperature was 77. And I feel this to be pertinent just because we’ve had half the snow this winter that we would normally get - the latest 6” snowfall we had was on April 19th, 1983 (8.8”). Remember that April has seen its share of snow, so we’re not out of the woods quite yet, even though this winter we were never really in them. The top 10 snowstorms in April range from 6.9” in both 1942 and 1950 to 17.7” in 1982. Just wanted to throw that out there...
Lastly, since 1885 there have been only four years where no 6” snowfall occurred in Albany, three of them have been since 1990. And at the rate we’re going, 2006 is a good candidate for year number five.
Daylight saving time this year will be the same as it has been since 1986. Spring forward is what you do at 2am on the first Sunday in April (the 2nd this year). We’ll go back to standard time on the last Sunday in October (the 29th). However, 2007 will bring some changes, thanks to a law passed by Congress last August. The second Sunday next March will bring in the new daylight saving time, and it won’t end until the first Sunday in November. This will add up to about one extra month off of standard time. Reasons for this range from energy consumption to safety, as we’ll have more late day sun.
That’s it for now, and again, I won’t utter the “s” word until summer is over. Unless of course, we happen to crack the top 10 storms for April. Stay tuned...
Jason Gough is a meteorologist with NewsChannel 13. He can be reached at jgough@wnyt.com.

Until next time-
Your pal,

Jason

By Henry Klein

Many people assume the longer you keep a wine, the better it will get. So, how long do you keep a wine before drinking it? Many factors impact how long a wine should be held before drinking, including the type of grape used, how the wine was produced, how the wine was stored, and of course, personal preference.
It is important to recognize that many of the wines sold today are ready for consumption within one to two years. In general, more expensive wines are usually designed to become better with age. Most inexpensive wines do not benefit from aging, and it is just as possible to age a wine for too long, as it is to age it for too little a time.
Wines improve with age because of the tannins found in the seeds and skins of the grapes. Tannins are the astringent and bitter group of compounds that give wine an agreeable astringency (that slight “pucker” feeling) and impart great aging potential to wine by slowing oxidation. Red wines are fermented with grape skins, while white wines are fermented without the skins. This is why it is generally red wines that may benefit from aging, while most white wines are intended for drinking within two to three years after the vintage date (although some tannins can be added to white wines through barrel aging).
The following suggestions are provided as a guide only, and assumes proper storage conditions of the aging wines. The number of years mentioned is years from the vintage date on the wine. As previously mentioned, there are many factors that can affect how a wine ages. Perhaps the best approach is to buy several bottles or a case of wine you wish to age. Store the wine properly, and when you reach the most likely age of being drinkable, try a bottle. Depending on the results, either drink the other bottles or try it again at a future date. It is a good idea to keep notes on how the wine is changing and developing, especially in aroma, flavors and astringency. Obviously, there is an inherent risk with aging, but then that’s part of the fun!
Henry Klein III is owner of Cabernet Café, 1814 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information call 452.5670 or visit www.cabernetcafe.com.

Red Wines
Beaujolais—Beaujolais, produced from the Gamay grape, usually produces easy drinking, low tannin, fruity wines.
up to $12 These fruity light wines are best when served quite young.
$12 to $25 These tend to be at their best 3-5 years old.

Bordeaux Red (Medoc)—These wines are typically made from Cabernet Sauvignon and have the same aging profile.
up to $12 Drink in the short term. Hold for a few months or even a year, they are usually ready to drink when you get them.
$12 to $25 Drinkable when purchased, but these wines may improve 5-6 years from the vintage date.
$25 and up These wines are likely to improve with age. Look for 7-15 years of improvement; a few will age for decades.

Cabernet Sauvignon
up to $12 Drink in the short term; they are usually ready to drink when you get them. Hold for a few months or even a year.
$12 to $25 Drinkable when purchased, but these wines may improve 5-6 years from the vintage date.
$25 and up These wines are likely to improve with age. Look for 7-15 years of improvement, a few will age much longer.

Merlot—Merlot is a close cousin of Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a similar aging profile, but matures more quickly.
up to $12 Drink in the short term. Hold for a few months or even a year; they are usually ready to drink when you get them.
$12 to $25 Drinkable when they are purchased, but these wines may improve 3-4 years from the vintage date.
$25 and up Likely to improve with age. Look for 5-12 years of improvement, a few will age longer.

Pinot Noir—Pinot Noir loses much of its fruitiness as it ages and gains complexity. Not everyone may appreciate this. It may also go through phases where
the aromas and flavors seem to disappear for months.
up to $15 Drink short term —a year or less.
$15 to $25 Drinkable at purchase, but will age and gain complexity within 2-4 years.
$25 and up Usually benefits from age, 5-8 years is reasonable. Some special wines (Grand Cru Burgundies) may age for many years.

Syrah/Shiraz—Most newer wine drinkers know Shiraz as an Australian product. It is usually made there in a soft fruity style, although exceptions do exist. More experienced drinkers know that the grape has long been used in Rhone Valley of France where it is usually made in a bigger style and blended with other grapes.
up to $12 Should be consumed within 1-2 years from purchase; no benefit from aging.
$12 to $25 Most should benefit from 3-5 years of age.
$25 and up Special wines like the Grange, from Australia can benefit from a decade or more of age

White Wines
Chardonnay—Most should be consumed when the wine is young. Special vineyards can produce special wines with aging potential.
up to $12 Drink upon purchase; no benefit from aging.
$12 to $25 Drink at 3-5 years from the vintage date.
$25 and up Some can age for 4-8 years depending on the wine. Chardonnays that have fully gone through malolactic fermentation have greatly reduced life spans. Malolactic Chardonnays have a smell of butter and an unusually golden color when young.

Chenin Blanc—Chenin Blanc has high acids and can produce wines that age well, but usually do not. Most are not designed to age over long periods.
up to $12 Drink within 3 years from the vintage date.
$12 to $25 Drink within 5 years from the vintage date.

Riesling—Most people discover Riesling in the lower to middle grade of German wines. It can be one of the best white wine grapes for aging, but only the best (and most expensive) Rieslings age well.
up to $12 Drink it within 3-4 years of vintage.
$12 to $25 Drink young or age 6-8 years.
$25 and up The best sweet German wines or dry Rieslings such as Trimbach Clos Ste. Hune can age and develop for decades if stored properly.

Vouvray—Most are best served young and fruity. There are special bottles that can age for several years, but they are not commonly found.

Wine of the month: Penfolds Bin 2 Shiraz Mourvedre Vintage 2003. Approximately $15.

By Carolyn Iannone

It’s that time to replace your snow boots with sandals and your mittens with gardening gloves! Below are five projects you can do to shape up your home this season.

Cleaning your deck
How to: Take a walk around your deck and pound down any loose nail heads with a hammer and clean off mold and debris. To clean your deck, dissolve deck cleaner and water in a mop bucket and fill up a pump up spray washer. Spray the entire deck and then hose it off. Just like that, the winter grime is gone!

Gutting the gutters
How to: Cut the bottom out of a half gallon plastic jug and use it as a scoop to remove debris from the gutter. Dump the debris into a regular bucket by cutting the handle in half and bending the metal to form hooks that you can hang right off the side. Don’t forget to clean out the down spouts, because if they are clogged, even the cleanest gutters won’t do much. Consider covering your gutters with screens to decrease the amount you have to clean them.

Window screen repair
How to: If your screens are letting in more flies and bugs then they’re keeping out, you can repair them by removing the old screen and replacing it, keeping the frame. Cut the new screen bigger than the frame and use a roller to push the screen inside the frame. Then roll some vinyl line in the frame to keep it in place. Cut the access screen off with a utility knife and you’re ready to open your house to fresh air, bug-free!

Metal furniture maintenance
How to: Check for damage including chipping paints, dirt, mildew and rust. Use a wide wire wheel on a cordless drill to remove any loose paint. Then, clean any mildew and dirt off with a mix of 1 part bleach and 4 parts water. Spray on some rust remover and follow the manufacturer’s directions. Remove any rust with a metal brush. Then, hose down the furniture and wipe with a rag. Let the first coat of primer dry before painting for an instant furniture facelift.

Cement repair
How to: First clean the area of cement and mix what’s called ‘concrete patch’ with water and brush on. Next, mix it to a pancake-like batter and pour on, smoothing over with a trowel. It will form a mechanical bond which becomes part of the existing cement. For cracks in walls, you can use hydraulic or fats setting cement. Mix for about 20-30 seconds into a putty like substance and push the cement into the crack, then remove the access with a trowel. It expands as it dries and sets in 10 minutes, so work fast!

Gardening Q&A

By Kerry A. Mendez

Q: Is there a trick to picking the healthiest, best-blooming perennials at garden centers?
A: The first thing I’d recommend is that you shop for plants at reputable nurseries that take good care of their inventory. Plants should be correctly tagged, watered consistently, and have disease and insect free foliage. When it comes to actually selecting specific perennials for purchase, look for those with good root growth. At this point, the size of what is beneath the surface matters more than what you can see. The plant’s roots should be spreading nicely through the potting medium and perhaps even starting to show through the bottom of the pot. You do not want rootbound plants, but this is usually a condition you’d find in the fall, not during spring shopping. The situation you need to be wary of is buying perennial ‘plugs’ that have just been potted into a larger pot and have not yet rooted out in the container. The foliage should be rich in color with no spots, distortions, or signs of residing insects or eggs. There should be no space between the potting medium and the pot; if so, this indicates that the plant has been watered inconsistently. If the perennial is already in flower, pick one that is not covered in blooms. Heavily flowering plants stress out more during transplanting than those that have few or no flowers. Finally, for a list of some of my top recommended garden centers, visit my website at www.pyours.com/business.html. Happy shopping!

Q: Last fall I planted dozens of tulips and this spring there are hardly any in bloom. What’s going on?
A: There could be a number of sabotaging agents at hand. First on my list of suspects are munching critters such as voles, chipmunks and squirrels (notice I did not say moles) that devour tulips like bonbons. What to do about these party wreckers? My method is quite simple. Before planting tulips in the fall, I first drench them in an organic taste repellant such as Tree Guard or Bobbex-R, which seems to solve the raiding of the ‘cookie jar’. Simply soak the tulips for 3-5 minutes in a pail that holds a couple of inches of this bitter-tasting liquid, then scoop them out and let the bulbs air dry before planting. Works like magic! Of course, this taste repellent will wear off in a few years but so be it; most tulips only bloom well for three of four seasons and then it’s time to plant new ones.
Another possible reason for lackluster bloom could be that the bulbs were old or of poor quality from the start. Bulbs should be large, firm and show no sign of mold or other fungal problems. Or perhaps the site you planted them in was poorly drained? Bulbs will rot in heavy, wet soil. If you have such conditions, at least hedge your bet by working in some organic matter into the planting holes and putting in bulbs that can tolerate some moisture such as fritillaria meleagris (checkered lily). Another early blooming choice for wet areas (although not a bulb) is caltha palustris (marsh marigold) that has cheerful yellow flowers and only gets 10” tall. Some folks swear by putting bulbs in little metal cages as they plant them, but to me this is a real drag. Why go through all that work for only a few years of bloom? And then you’re left with all of these little wire cages hiding under the soil for your spade to hit when digging in the bed. BA-HUMBUG! If you really want to cut your losses on spring blooming bulbs, plant daffodils—their bulbs are toxic!

Q: I’ve heard that April is a good time to prune my shrub roses. Is this true and, if so, how do I cut them?
A: April is a good time to prune roses in our area. There is an old saying among gardeners that when you see the forsythia blooming, it’s time to prune the roses. You can prune most roses now EXCEPT those that bloom only once in late spring or early summer. These roses are usually the old fashioned varieties, including many rambling roses. Leave these alone until after they flower and then prune. As far as how to prune shrub roses, first remove all dead wood or branches that cross and rub against each other. Then cut to control height and shape. I usually cut shrub roses back quite hard, reducing them to about half of their current height. When pruning a cane, make a 45-degree cut right above an outward facing bud. Make the cut so that the water flows away from the bud, towards the center of the rose. In addition to pruning for height, also thin out some of the canes from within the shrub, encouraging better air circulation and more light to enter, thereby reducing potential problems with black spot or mildew. Finally, if you really want easy, self-cleaning, disease-resistant roses, then plant any of the Knockout roses. They will make you look good, regardless of your expertise, or lack thereof.
Kerry Mendez is the owner of Perennially Yours, a local business that specializes in low-maintenance gardening classes, design and consulting services. To learn more about Perennially Yours please visit www.pyours.com.

Set yourself apart: Create your own wind chime garden

By Stephen Betzen

Wind chimes are an eclectic addition to any landscape. They add a dynamic element to yards that host flower gardens and water features and can accessorize walkways, herb gardens, and entryways. There is no limit to how you can use wind chimes to enhance your backyard environment.
If you are one who enjoys sound integrated into your outdoor view, you might want to consider creating a wind chime garden—it will set your view to music. A wind chime garden can cover the entire area of your back yard, or be limited to a small section of your backyard landscape—the choice is up to you. The beauty of a wind chime garden is that you can design it to be uniquely your own - you decide on wind chime placement, tone and style. Following are a few ideas to get you started thinking about how you might implement a wind chime garden into your outdoor scenery.
1) Select spots for your wind chimes throughout your yard, paying close attention to the direction and patterns of the wind. Through proper placement, you could create your own gentle, whimsical outdoor concert.
2) Choose wind chimes that are simple in appearance to void clashes in décor styles. This way, they will effortlessly blend in wherever they are placed. When it comes to wind chimes, it’s more about the sound than the look. In fact, many of the more decorative types of wind chimes are not made in such a way that allows for the same pristine sound quality as those of a simple aluminum design.
3) Create a wind chime garden by hanging your chimes at different heights. For example, place a set of wind chimes up on a deck, another in a smaller tree line and yet another among your flowers. The sound will dance with depth across your yard each time a breeze blows through.
4) If you like the look of wind chimes and want them in your sight, hang them where they will reflect the sun as it comes up in the morning and moves down at night. Aluminum wind chime gardens go well with stone décor, flowing water (like in a water fall or a bird bath), and near evergreens.
5) Sprinkle your wind chime garden with dream catchers, bird houses and sculptures. This will provide additional visual aesthetics while providing areas of mass for the wind chime sound to bounce off of—depending on the frequency and directions of your breezes, you could hear an entirely new sound when least expected.
6) If you have a street that runs near your house carrying a lot of traffic noise, consider concentrating your wind chime garden on the side of your yard that borders that particular street. You might want to mingle taller flowers and designer grasses with bold toned wind chimes to create a sound barrier. Then, place lighter toned wind chimes nearer the house, radiating from the outside edge of the wind chime border. This additional placement of wind chimes will further soften any traffic sounds that do happen to make it through.
7) Create a living wind chime garden by incorporating sight, sound, smell and touch into a selected area—preferably the one you will spend the most time in. This can act a stress-relieving vista—the place you go to unwind at the end of each day. Your wind chimes provide the sound and partner with the other elements in the area to form a pleasant sight. The scent sense can be aroused by floral elements and touch can be integrated into the wind chime garden in the form of comfortable seating. Light a large candle or burn a fire in a metal fire pit to create a romantic aura.
8) Incorporate wind chimes in your flower garden on sections of wrought iron trellis or hang them inside the upper areas of a gazebo. Place them near doorways and breezeways for a special effect as guests come and go—wind chimes are quite welcoming upon arrival and a pleasant good-bye upon departure.
9) Create an outdoor room, placing your wind chime garden in an area beyond the main seating area so that the chimes ring as gentle background music to engaging conversations or star gazing. What is an outdoor room? It is a concept that is growing in popularity — a fully-furnished space, complete with a fire place or fire pit, a wet bar and even rugs. The area is “walled in” by trellises, potted plants, stone half-walls, etc. A wind chime garden that sits just beyond the “room” adds an unparalleled ambiance to an evening “out.”
Regardless of your preferred decorating style—whether it is southwest décor, country home décor, fen shui home decorating or something else—a wind chime garden can be a unique and relaxing part of your outdoor spaces. The best part of creating a wind chime garden is that you can make it as unique as you are. Show off your personality using the scents, sights and sounds of nature and wind chimes as your personal creative tools.
Stephen Betzen is a loving husband/supporter/and friend to his wife Rachel Betzen. Rachel and Stephen are dedicated to socially and ethically responsible business practices. Lovers of gardening and simple living. They own and operate an online wind chimes store. For more information visit www.ecowindchimes.com.

Easy come...easy go

Whether it’s called the mudroom, back porch, entry hall, or garage, the primary entrance for the family is the first place things are dropped and the last place things are picked up. Everything from keys to groceries, sports equipment to umbrellas, mail, laundry, shoes, coats and pet supplies are found here. Creating a place that keeps all this under control is becoming a primary concern for homeowners throughout the country, no matter what the climate. Fortunately for homeowners, huge improvements can be made without the high cost of a substantial remodel project.
Minimal construction can make a maximum difference. A partial wall or divider can establish a compact anteroom while controlling the clutter with handy storage and seating space. Built-ins maximize space and can include kid-friendly cubbies and baskets to stow gloves, scarves, hats, and sports equipment; hooks for keys, book bags and outerwear; and specialized shelves for storing wet and muddy boots and sneakers. For those blessed with abundant space, the primary entry can become a multi-functional great room, serving as “home central” for clothing care needs, hobby and office space, pet shelter and mudroom.
A wide variety of surfaces are available that withstand abuse from kids, pets or frequent traffic, yet add beauty and style to the home. No matter how large or small your space is, the essentials are:
• Hardy wall coverings, such as wood bead board, vinyl wallpaper, or washable latex paint.
• Tile, vinyl or laminate flooring for easy cleanup (a woven rug adds a splash of color and catches soil).
• Can or track lighting, a pendant light or a glass-panel door to ensure a welcome and safe entry day or night.
• Melamine laminate shelving for easy to clean, water-resistant storage; it is available in attractive solid colors and wood-grain finishes.
• Practical, multipurpose furnishings—inexpensive freestanding bins and shelves can work, but built-ins look neater last longer, and are customized for maximum functionality.
• Consider how each family member will use the space, and assign areas accordingly: give young children the lower bins, and hanging areas; adolescents and adults can reach higher shelving, baskets and hanging areas. Don’t forget the pets —or the space above your head.
Submitted courtesy of Joy Rafferty of California Closets located at 12 Petra Lane, Albany. For more information call 218.7883 or visit www.calclosets.com.

Low-maintenance perennial gardening—reality or myth?

By Kerry Mendez

If you are like many people I talk with, you probably feel low-maintenance perennial gardening is a big-time myth. We throw up our arms in exasperation as our gardens mock us with their disheveled, lackluster appearances while screaming for attention. In many cases poor plant choices or maintenance practices are the culprits. Or, perhaps it is the misguided notion that low-maintenance means no maintenance. In any case, our gardens act like out-of-control, unruly children. Well, it is time to reclaim the driver’s seat, take the bull by the horns and bring order out of chaos. No more allowing our gardens to bully us around. I hope the following practical tips on how to choose well behaved ‘model children’ for your gardens will start tipping the scale in your favor.
Don’t zone out
Pick plants that are appropriate for your hardiness zone. Hardiness zones range from 1 to 11. The higher the number, the warmer the winters need to be for the plant to survive. Most gardens in the Capital District and southern Adirondack region are zones 4 or 5, although higher elevations and more northern points may fall into the zone 3 range. A zone 4 plant should winter over in temperatures as low as 20 to 30 degrees below zero; zone 5 plants should handle 10 to 20 degrees below zero. And a zone 3 plant should be able to endure winters as cold as 30 to 40 degrees below zero. Please note I said should make it through the winter. Let’s face it, all living things eventually die - it may be due to Old Man Winter, a weakened state caused by disease, or simply a dog using the plant as a fire hydrant.
Personally, I refuse to put down any winter mulches as a protective blanket on my gardens. If a perennial can’t make it through the winter without assistance, I’ll find one that can. That is why I have mostly zone 4 plants in my Ballston Spa gardens. Tough love...it works! And for goodness sake, a plant that is labeled as a ‘tender perennial’ has no business shacking-up in my low-maintenance perennial beds.

Watch out for thugs in disguise
Thugs. They usually go “under cover” as gifts from well-intentioned friends. Thugs can be nuisances in two ways—either they can’t keep their roots to themselves and are on a mission to take over the entire garden, or they sow their fertile little seeds with great zeal all over the place. Both infractions result in aggressive reining-in maneuvers on our part, or, if we are talking about any plants in the mint family—calling in a SWAT team!
How can we prevent this maintenance nightmare? Pretty simple. First, the next time a friend comes bearing gifts (perennials that is), take three steps back before accepting the plants and ask why they have such a surplus of, let’s say, obedient plant (physostegia). Many times their response will include red-flag words such as: “invasive”, “groundcover” (HINT!), “fast spreader” or “jubilant self-sower”. If this is the case, before planting a potential renegade in your garden, take precautionary measures. Place it in a plastic pot with the bottom cut off (be sure to leave 5”-6” of siding on the pot) and sink it into the garden or surround the plant with landscaping edging to make an interesting prison for the plant to roam within (again, be sure the edging reaches down into the soil at least 5”or more). Remember, you’re the boss; you’re in charge of defining its play area, not the other way around. If rampant reseeding is the plant’s bad habit, then be on top of deadheading spent blooms before they go to seed. This is one of those times when itchy fingers do come in handy! Finally, if you are buying perennials at garden centers, be on the lookout for plant tags that include the word ‘vigorous’. The grower is not referring to the plant’s ‘workout pace’; rather, vigorous is more ‘consumer-friendly’ than invasive. And if you read ‘groundcover’ then don’t blame it when it does cover the ground—you’ve been given fair warning! Some potential thugs to watch for are: bee balm (monarda), obedient plant (physostegia), plants in the lysimachia family (gooseneck, circle flower), yellow primrose (oenethera), some yarrows (achillea), chinese lantern (physalis) and, of course, mint.

The A Team
Move aside all of your delicate, frail, attention-demanding prima donnas. Low-maintenance flower gardens are the workout arenas for no-nonsense, long-blooming, disease-resistant perennials. I want workhorses that will make me look good without excessive preening or nursing. My mantra is: “Give me four plus weeks of flowers or attention-grabbing foliage, or move to the back of the line.” And my perennial A Team can’t require a lot of deadheading, staking, frequent divisions, or chasing after spreading roots and flying seeds. Aren’t I the demanding one? Yes - and you should be too! Top team players on my roster include repeat blooming daylilies, threadleaf coreopsis (i.e. Moonbeam), lady’s mantle, Helen’s Flower (Helenium), sedums, black-eyed susans, foam flowers (tiarellas), various hostas, coral bells, Bishops Hat (epimediums), Russian Sage (needs sharp drainage), toad lily (Tricyrtus). So go ahead and build your own ‘superbowl flower team’ by adding some of these stalwarts to your gardens and stand back for the applause.

Befuddling Biennials
Okay, let’s cut to the chase on this one. Biennials have a two-year life cycle. The first year—leaves; second year—flowers; third year—dead. Not a ‘happily ever after Cinderella story’ unless you’re careful to allow some flowers to go to seed and sow themselves in the garden to insure more flowers the following year. Most biennials produce ‘free-spirited’ seedlings that germinate wherever the breeze may carry them, which may require you to dig and replant the little gypsies to spots in the garden where you want them. All of this translates into planning ahead, plus time and effort on our part (like parenting). So, to ‘biennial’ or ‘not-to-biennial’—that’s your call. They are not the ‘no brainers’ like those on my A Team, but many of us still insist they deserve a spot in our low-maintenance gardens. Some commonly sold biennials in this area are foxglove, sweet William, Canterbury bells, forget-me-nots, many hollyhocks, Dames rocket and English daisy (bellis perennis).
The above plant-screening checklist helps me grow well-behaved perennial gardens and I hope it helps you master your garden as well. There is also maintenance-related practices including: healthy mulching, matching plants to their required light conditions, proper watering and maintaining good air circulation between plants to reduce insect and disease problems. The bottom line is that you should not feel in bondage to frazzled perennial gardens. Everyday life has enough ‘challenging weeds’ in it already—so roll up your sleeves, adopt a tough love approach and create that dream garden you’ve always wanted!
Kerry Mendez is the owner of Perennially Yours, a local business that specializes in low-maintenance gardening classes, design and consulting services. To learn more about Perennially Yours please visit www.pyours.com.

How to pick up the most necessary gardening tools?

By Robbie Darmona

Gardening tools are extremely important for everyone who wants to make his own garden. But some people often get stuck when choosing the most appropriate tools to fit their needs. Upon deciding to work on your garden, you need to take to your attention the list of basic gardening tools that are going to be presented below.
The hoe. A hoe is absolutely essential as a gardening tool. It is used when weeding and cultivating the soil. Digging with a hoe allows nutrients and water to penetrate easier in the soil.
The spading fork. Is another tool for digging the soil. It is perfect for improving hard soil and it is basically used for breaking up the ground. A spading fork is similar to pitchforks in appearance, the difference being its shorter handle and larger tines.
The rake. A rake is useful for leveling the soil after it has been turned. It also cleans the ground surface from any tough clods of earth or larger stones that can obstruct the planting. Make sure you buy a bow rake. The bow rake has short tines on one side attached to a metal frame—the so-called “bow”. The flat side of the bow rake can be used for smoothing the soil before plants are sown.
The shovel. If you buy a shovel, choose a round-ended. This gardening tool serves for digging the soil and for forming the beds before the plants are sown. Shrubs and trees can also be planted using a shovel.
The shears. A pair of garden shears is irreplaceable. Choose the pair that best fits to your hand and don’t rush to the most expensive one if you haven’t tried pruning before. Shears are also called clippers. This gardening tool is used for pruning the plants and trees, for shaping the hedge and for removing unnecessary foliage.
The watering can. It is a gardening tool for watering all kinds of smaller plants. For trees and larger shrubs you need to use a watering system. The length of the nozzle determines how far-reaching the water flow will be. The longer the nozzle, the more gentle and far-reaching the water flows. Another tip upon buying a watering can is to buy one with a detachable spray head—so that after removing it, you can water young seedlings.
This list can protect you from spending your money on something completely unnecessary, or on tools too specialized for your needs. Most of the gardening tools offered on stores are utterly useless for the new beginner, and some of them are too expensive. Most gardeners consider a shovel or spade, a trowel, a rake and a hoe the minimum equipment necessary for taking care of your garden. Of course, the specificity of the gardening tools which you may need depends on the effects you want to achieve, also on the size of your garden and on your abilities as a gardener. If you are a novice, you should follow the list and supply yourself with these basic gardening tools first. These gardening tools are sold in a large variety of shape and colors, suitable for any aesthetic preference.
If you have a flair for bargaining, you may buy the basic gardening tools at the overall price of less than $100. You’d better wait for the end of the gardening season when the prices are lower. Look in gardening stores, flea markets and yard sales as well, before spending your money on a given tool. Remember that your gardening tools are to last for many years and be careful what you choose.
Robbie Darmona is an article writer who writes on a wide variety of subjects. Visit www.robbiedarmona.com for more information.

Paradise on a patio...or anywhere you please for that matter

By Linda Sedlmayer

The glory of container gardening is that they can go anywhere. No need to worry about soil conditions, they are always good thanks to Miracle-Gro. Sun or shade, it’s your choice. This year promises to be the best for everyone. The old traditionals have gotten bigger and brighter, there is a plethora of brightly colored tropicals or temperennials as they are sometimes called, in literally hundreds of varieties coming in from around the globe.
This year, we are experiencing some definite trends in container gardening:
• One is creating monocultures—matching containers with patio furniture. Why? It’s easy and creates a harmonious garden setting for entertaining. There are sun impatiens out there to match every place setting.
• Planting trees and shrubs in pots. They create instant height and architectural structure to your planting. However, they will require special care if you want to winter them over in their pots.
• If you are willing to wait a little, grasses like miscanthis sinenesis’ ‘Graziella’ will also give you splendid height and that dreamy sway that blows away the tension of your day on a warm summer’s evening. Cannas (preferably started in early spring), banana plants and bamboos can all be jumped-started if you have access to a heated greenhouse.
• Do not overlook some of the old standards that are spectacular cultivators, such as coleus. The “new” varieties of sun coleus may surprise you. Be prepared for some big plants like ‘Texas Parking Lot,’ ‘Inky Fingers,’ (one of my favorites because it goes with everything) and ‘Religious Radish.’
• It’s okay to mix and match shrubs, perennials and annuals. You can create some spectacular mini-gardens by letting what you may feel are too many things have a free-for-all in the pot. Amaze your friends as they grow up, around and through each other. In the garden this can be a disaster, but in the pot, something strange and wonderful takes place.
• Brown grasses are coming on swiftly. We saw it when carex buchanii came on the scene some years ago. Nicknamed ‘dead sedge’ by its deriders, it has since been joined by such superstars as carex ‘Toffee Twist’. Other great neutrals include heuchera ‘Ginger Ale’ (which may be hard to find) and more widely available ‘Marmalade’ and ‘Peach Flambee.’

A word about containers themselves—anything goes.
With the exception of those plants that need no drainage, water or bog plants, you need to poke or drill some drain holes somehow in whatever item you select. If your container has too many holes or cracks in it already, you can keep soil from leaving by lining it with landscape or weed barrier cut in whatever size and inserted as a liner. Make sure you select a product that allows air and water to pass through.
Once you’ve selected your container, let your imagination run wild! If you have small children, create a wading pool for them and one for plants and wildlife. Select water lilies, like tropicals that don’t need great depth of water, some water reeds and water cannas. Add a few surface plants like water lettuce or water hyacinth and you have created a child-oriented water garden. And, as an extra bonus, if you build it, they will come—frogs, butterflies, birds and bugs. If you put in a small fountain to keep the water moving you probably will be all right otherwise I would put in a mosquito dunk that prevents mosquitoes from infesting the water.
Water does not always have to squirt out of something or be in a hole in the ground. A deep ceramic pot can hold a single waterlily, dwarf papyrus or float some water hyacinth (full sun only) to create an elegant pool.
Extending the season
Changing containers is a great way to extend your growing season. In March, I hang out my pansy balls (pansies in 12” hanging baskets with portholes into which small plants have been poked). When they fill out, they appear to form a ball of color. Late snow and ice storms will not affect them.
Bulbs in containers come next. But isn’t it too late for that? My solution is to forage everywhere from Price Chopper on down for bulbs that haven’t broken bud yet. I plant them in combination with ivy and pretend I am reaping the benefits of last fall’s labor.
Come early spring and summer, the selection of plants is far too numerous to recount, but when we hit the end of summer, early fall, those poor babies have had it. Despite your best efforts, they are leggy, not flowering prolifically if at all. Be brave, it is time to do the merciful thing and take them to the compost heap where they now belong. Besides, the sedums, ajugas and grasses, early mums, asters and rudbeckias are looking stellar.
The late season container can be punched up with the seemingly unlimited colors of dahloas. Boltonias, the ornamental goldenrods (from the tall to the little guys), and monk’s hoods are great for that time of year if you need size. There is a great new perennial sunflower out there that blooms magnificently in October. If you put sweet autumn clematis in a pot with a trellis, this is the time to cash in on the big reward.
Your local growers and nursery shops can provide you with endless choices. It’s April—time to start scouting around for potential pots. Let your creativity soar as you make your own Eden in containers.
After all is said and done, this is about having fun. Some industry gurus say that the average life span of a container planting is only 21 days. Why? Chronic under-watering. These big guys take daily soaking, twice on blazing hot days. The spectacular petunias and verbenas demand frequent fertilizing. Most professionals feed with every watering. Read those labels! If you want results, you have to treat them right.
Linda Sedlmayer owns Secret Gardens in Hannacroix. She can be reached at 756.8973 or email secretgardensny@yahoo.com.

Ekornes-Stressless

EKORNES of Norway, in the town of Sykkylen are the developers of the patented Stressless system. Known for support and comfort, a Stressless recliner, or reclining loveseat, couch or sectional, is the only seating endorsed by The American Chiropractor’s Association. Comfort, function and quality—that’s the signature of Ekornes-Stressless.
The patented system has an automatically adjusting lumbar support that keeps your back in a comfortable well-supported position during the entire reclining phase. The Stressless system also supports your head and neck properly by adjusting as you recline. You can recline almost all the way and the system keeps you properly supported and looking forward, not looking up at the ceiling. And then if you choose, pull lightly on the headrest and the head support releases to allow you to fully recline. It’s your choice to either recline while looking forward (thus allowing you to read, watch television, or carry on a conversation) or pull on the headrest to recline fully and take a nap.
Stressless recliners come in small, medium and large sizes. Smaller people who have never been able to find a comfortable recliner, now can. A Stressless recliner is truly a custom fit chair so no matter what your body size, you can find a chair that supports you properly and is comfortable. Some Stressless seating also come with a vertically adjustable headrest, a great feature for a tall person. The recliners come with foot stools, which can be placed so your heels are just off the edge of the ottoman. This foot position takes the tension off your knees and hips and allows your back to be properly aligned by the Stressless system. The recliners also swivel, and an elevator ring can be easily installed to the ottoman or chair to raise it up to make getting in and out of the recliner easier.
An Ekornes-Stressless chair comes with a 10-year warranty. Small wonder, they are made of Norwegian beech wood, cold rolled steel and high-density foam. Seating comes in top grain quality leather or microfiber. Quality, style, selection, comfort and support—that is what you can expect from Ekornes-Stressless.
Tempur-Pedic Swedish Mattress System or Norwegian Ekornes-Stressless Seating, innovative and health conscious products that feel good and are good for you.
Paul Balzer is owner Owner European Comfort Fine Furniture for Healthy Living located at The Crossing, Clifton Park. For more information call 371.2900 or visit www.europeancomfortfurniture.com.

Can water help?

By Rick Van Ness

It’s been long known that regular use of water for therapy has tremendous benefits on the body and mind. Looking back centuries ago you can easily find how common soaking in hot water was.
There are a variety of reasons people consider investing in a hot tub/spa. Some like the look of having a spa on their property; others enjoy a good reason to get outdoors in the middle of the winter. And of course there are those that understand what everyone will receive from a spa, regardless of the original reason for the purchase—hydrotherapy.
Hydrotherapy is an extremely effective means of removing many types of stress from the body and mind. The warm water alone causes blood vessels to dilate, dramatically increasing blood flow throughout the entire body. This brings much needed oxygen even to the far reaches of the body, helping to alleviate aches and pains, and speeding the recovery of tired or injured muscles and joints. Enter powerful jets, and you now have a combination of therapeutic methods that compound each other. Enjoying a deep tissue massage while soaking in warm water promotes peace in the mind, relieves stress and further allows the body to recharge itself and be ready for the next day. Turn on the air injection, and you now have a bubbling oasis promoting circulation even more. The entire hydrotherapy experience, when done near bedtime, also allows one to enjoy a very deep, undisturbed sleep.
Hot tub/spas at this time are much different than even a few years ago, where a simple tub full of water with a few jets and a heater was called a spa. We now enjoy spas that are specifically engineered to offer the highest level of hydrotherapy possible, placing the right number of jets in the right places, and supplying the proper amount of power for them. Foot massage and neck/shoulder massage stations and pinpoint massages are some examples of what to look for in a spa. If considering the purchase of a spa, be certain to take your time and truly understand what you are looking at. The hot tub industry as a whole is very complex, with endless options and functions difficult, if not impossible, to understand. As with most any product, if the manufacturer offers a very limited and exclusive warranty, be careful! Take the time to dig into the facts and you will find there are top quality spas available at reasonable prices.
Always consult with your doctor first before using a hot tub/spa.
Rick Van Ness is owner of WholesaleRecreation.com at 25 Walker Way in Colonie. He can be reached at 368.8324.

5 backyard patio ideas

By Scott Stadler

Thinking of creating a new patio in your backyard? Need a few ideas? Read on to learn about ideas that will be sure to please.
Combine patios and decks
A common, yet still exciting backyard idea is to combine a patio built of stone, brick, concrete or other typical patio materials with a traditional wooden or composite deck. Or, try building a patio with a wooden decked gazebo or observation area. This effect makes for a great private area to set up a dining or conversational enclave, really setting your patio apart from the rest!

The ultimate outdoor kitchen
While not one of the cheapest backyard patio ideas, creating a gourmet outdoor kitchen will be sure to impress everyone! Think about the perks and advantages of being able to entertain exclusively outdoors without even having to go inside. For the cook, there’s a huge variety of grills and ranges specifically designed for permanent patio installation. We’re not talking your ordinary everyday charcoal or gas grill here (although there’s certainly nothing wrong with that either).
How about an outdoor built–in refrigerator or wine cooler? Or design a built–in ice pit to chill your favorite beverages on a warm summer night. Oh, and for those cool nights, to get some extra life from your patio, don’t forget to add an outdoor patio fireplace. They can be had to burn wood or propane, or you can go all out and have a pro install a gas line for you.

Old fashioned style and charm
Bring back the Victorian age with a patio that is designed to fit the time period. Porch swings and old fashioned rocker chairs can help to evoke the feeling of a bygone era. Or perhaps you want something a little more modern, but still with a funky retro vibe. Find some old metal rocking chairs at an auction and build in an area for shuffleboard. Eclectic, yet fun backyard patio ideas!

Soothing water garden
The idea for a backyard patio water garden can be simple to accomplish or can be taken to any level of extremes you desire. Put in a simple patio fountain to create the atmosphere of nature that only trickling water can do. Or combine that with a full blown water garden including a fish pond with a water fall. You decide how far to take this idea...

Nothing wrong with turf
For another unique backyard patio idea, think about inverting the whole layout. If you have a small back yard or area for your patio, install edging for your patio made of common backyard patio materials like brick or stone. This will define the patio.
Then fill in the useable area of the patio with a thick and dense grass turf. This idea is sure to give you the feel of a traditional patio without giving away the luxury of still having grass in your backyard.
Does one these backyard patio ideas appeal to you? If not, don’t be discouraged. You can make your backyard patio fantastic in so many ways. Just be creative and the right idea will come to you! For more information visit www.patio-ideas-guide.com.

By Michelle Marks

Women today are stressed out, much more so than a generation ago. In the past, men typically experienced more stress than women, but with our increased roles and responsibilities, women now report more stress overall, less down-time and four times as many sources of stress than men. To make matters worse, research suggests that at the end of the workday men’s stress levels decrease, while women’s typically remain high well into the evening. Stress has become so common for women that most of the time they don’t even notice it anymore—until they burn out or get sick.
Until recently, almost all stress research was conducted on men because researchers thought that women’s characteristic hormonal fluctuations would make them poor research subjects. But new research over the past 10 years has shed light on women and stress and the findings are validating, comforting and hopeful.

What is stress?
Stress is what happens when we encounter a situation that we perceive as beyond our ability to control. Dealing with difficult people, balancing multiple demands on our time and energy, a sick child, bills to pay, concerns about security, health, weight and appearance are all sources of stress for many women.
Stress affects our minds and our bodies. During a stressful situation, we worry and experience bad moods and unclear thinking. When our bodies perceive stress, our nervous system triggers a stress response that includes rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, dry mouth and cold clammy hands. Over 70 years of research (on men) suggests that stress triggers the “fight or flight” response—a biological instinct toward aggression or withdrawal. Road rage or walking out in the middle of a heated argument are examples of how fight or flight manifests in contemporary life.
Our bodies were created to balance stress and relaxation, and the “fight or flight” response was designed to be balanced by time to “rest and digest”. Years ago, when stressors were fewer and further between, our bodies had plenty of time for recovery. But in today’s world we experience an almost constant flow of stressors, so our natural recovery systems become worn out or underused, and our nervous system has become imbalanced. This can lead to heart disease, diabetes, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, weight gain, infertility, autoimmune disorders, strained relationships, PMS, menopausal hot flashes, emotional conditions and a decreased life expectancy.

Gender differences
About 10 years ago, psychologist Shelley Taylor spearheaded a research effort to study stress in women. She and her colleagues learned that there are differences in the stress chemicals released in men and women. When stressed, men release more testosterone—the hormone associated with aggression. This hormone may be partially responsible for the fight or flight tendency. On the other hand, when women get stressed out, they release more of a hormone called oxytocin—the hormone associated with nurturing and bonding. Unlike men, when women are stressed, oxytocin is believed to lead women to “tend and befriend” by taking care of loved ones, soothing, nurturing and seeking out support—usually from other women. By doing this, it reduces the stress response in their bodies, which means that satisfying the instinct to connect can be a valuable and health enhancing stress management tool for women.
Stress management for women
Based on what we now know about the stress response, below is a three-step stress management solution for women:
1. Rebalance your nervous system. About 30 years ago, Harvard physician Herbert Benson described the relaxation response, a simple breathing technique that allows the body to counteract stress. Today, many methods such as progressive relaxation, meditation, yoga, breath work and biofeedback all help you restore the healthy balance your body needs to reduce the impact of a stressful life.
2. Manage your mind. Advances in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) over the last few decades have yielded a variety of simple and effective techniques that people can use to tame worry, anxiety and depression, thus reducing the mind’s role in perpetuating the stress cycle. You can learn about them from a mental health professional familiar with CBT.
3. Tend and befriend. Nurturing and connecting are instinctive stress management tendencies women use and they should honor them. For example, at the end of a hard workday, take some time to play or cuddle with the kids, your pet, or phone a friend for a quick chat. This can provide you with a stress-reducing breather before you zip back into action. Or schedule a regular “girl’s night out”. Women can also benefit from each other to help better understand and deal more effectively with their partners.
Michelle Marks is a psychologist and biofeedback therapist with a private practice in Bethlehem. She specializes in helping people manage stress, lead healthy lifestyles and thrive in their personal and professional lives. She can be reached at 478.0093 or www.michellemarks.com.

You might be after tuning into these four radio teams!

Who doesn’t love entertaining talk mixed with music to ease you into your daily morning routine? Whether you’re getting ready for work, or getting the kids off to school, it’s easy to take comfort in knowing your favorite DJ’s are there to make your day just a little better. Read on to learn about four morning teams in the Capital Region that take over the airwaves each day.

Jay & Ben—The Magic 100.9 FM

By Dick Buyer

It was the climax of a fun-filled two hours—my 10-second radio debut on the Jay and Ben “Magic in the Morning” show on WKLI 100.9 FM. The thought of beaming my voice to listeners in the Capital Region and beyond was as remote as flying to China to cycle the Great Wall.
“Move closer to the microphone,” said Jay Scott, program director and co-host. Surprised and both delighted with being “airborne,” at Scott’s suggestion I introduced myself as a reporter for Capital Region Living Magazine then declared, “These guys (Jay and co-host Ben Patten) are great!” It was obvious that they relish their jobs, enjoy each other and their frequent quips, and relate to callers with gusto and congeniality. They describe themselves as “the number one morning radio team,” and the listeners certainly agree.
The station, located on Johnson Road in Latham, is one of six owned by Albany Broadcasting whose musical fare ranges from easy listening to soft rock to active rock.
“We are a full-service station delivering music, news, weather, lottery numbers and sports,” said Scott.
They spice up their radio show, which runs from 5:30am-9am on weekdays, with a mix of information (from the news wire), unique questions geared to entice listener calls, posing as a comedy team, and of course, serving up a wonderful dish of tuneful selections. However, their top priority is playing relaxing and nostalgic music designed to thrust baby boomers and seniors back into the past.
“We’re predominantly a music station,” Scott explained, “but there’s more talking in the morning to give listeners something to wake up to. They get the feeling we’re at the breakfast table. We’re just like family here.”
After the morning show, the subsequent broadcasting is more “music intense” with less talk. Other Magic features scheduled at different times and days, including weekends, are recognizing listeners’ birthdays/anniversaries (based on calls), a class reunion hour (playing songs associated with graduations), play what you say Saturday, a jazz brunch, ballads & blues and Big Band jump.
Arriving at the small studio at 7am in the midst of “Magic in the Morning”, it was a joyful experience to observe Scott and Patten cope effortlessly with a variety of tasks assisted by an array of electronic equipment. Wearing headphones, Scott sits in front of a huge rectangular panel board navigating an infinite number of buttons and controls. Sitting to his right, Patten notes the flashing of red lights on a black box signaling listener calls. The gags between the two men tumble out constantly in between the music, news, calls and commercials.
A computer screen in the studio lists songs to be played, which Scott selects from an astounding list of 3,000 database tunes. He estimated that they play between eight to ten tunes an hour. That amounts to between 24-35 tunes for the three-and-a-half hour morning show. Imagine the total for a full day of broadcasting!
“We are one of the top five stations in the Capital District,” he said, adding that they have an audience of approximately 80,000.
Comparing Magic with other stations, he said that their format is exclusive in this area because of its musical potpourri dedicated to Baby Boomers. “I can deliver a show from both a grandfather and a dad’s perspective.”
As the program continues, one sponsor offered a prize to listeners who guessed what women generally prefer in blue and what men prefer in white. “Underwear is incorrect,” replied Scott to a caller. There were other incorrect answers such as toothpaste and bath towels. A favorite listener, Evelyn, eventually guessed the correct answer—bedroom walls.
“She’s been calling for so long,” Patten said, expressing relief that at last she won a prize. “Just like Susan Lucci,” added Scott, likening the caller to the soap opera actress who finally one a Daytime Emmy Award after 19 nominations.
Scott, 54, originally from Boston, lives in the area and has more than three decades of radio experience in the Capital Region.
Apparently, serendipity surfaced to forge a successful relationship between Scott and Patten. Both men met while working for WJJR radio in Rutland, VT, before coming together as a team on Magic in November 2001. The station previously was called “The Point” and had a rock format.
“This has been the best four-and-half-years of my life,” said Patten, 43, a native of Connecticut, now residing in Hoosick Falls. “I love working with Jay, meeting with listeners and talking with them at events.”
Both agreed that their “on-air traits” demand wit, a great knowledge of music and the ability to relate to listeners.
“We’re just a couple of regular guys having fun in the morning,” said Scott.

Randi and Tred—99.5 FM The River

By Arcangela Mele

Each weekday morning from 5:30am-10am, Randi Tyler and Tred Hulse of WRVE 99.5 FM The River ease Capital Region residents into their mornings with a little kick.
The team has been broadcasting live together for five years from the Clear Channel owned radio station in Latham, delivering “Real music varieties of the 80s, 90s and 70s”. Their show’s title, “The River Morning Crew”, is fitting of the duo’s simplistic, down-to-earth approach.
“We relate to parents,” said Tred, 39. “Soccer moms, working adults, those are the types of people that have always been our focus.”
On a typical day, Randi and Tred are in the studio at 4:30am brainstorming along with their producer, Kevin Rush. The songs for the show are already pre-programmed for the duo, so they worry less about what’s being played and more about the entertainment aspect.
While on air, the two like to be themselves, and agree that a less controversial approach is best.
“We’re really not about pushing the envelope or trying to be vulgar,” Randi said. “We don’t think you have to push somebody’s buttons to be entertaining.”
Tred agreed. “We’re very casual, very much who we are on air and off. We talk about pretty basic things.”
Tred, who has been in radio for 13 years, grew up in the Berkshires, and now resides in Saratoga Springs with his wife and two daughters. Originally planning to be a chef, he pursued a Hotel & Restaurant Management degree. He bartended and waited tables for 15 years and attended different schools in three different states until his love of music and DJ prior experience in high school led him to consider a different path.
“I’m a huge music fan, and being in radio was something I always had an interest in and wanted to get back into,” he said.
While attending Northeast College of Communications in Boston, an opportunity came his way, one that helped jumpstart his career. He came across a flyer from a local radio station looking for people to join their team. He interviewed, got the job and started his career at WBPS sports radio and WPLM Smooth Jazz. Though his career seemed to be taking off in Boston, Tred eventually moved back to the area.
“This is where I was born and most of my family still resides here, so it wasn’t hard for me to make the choice to come home,” he said.
Once in Albany, he worked at WXCR, a former classic rock station, before landing his current job at 99.5 The River, where he was eventually paired up with Randi, his better half in the morning.
Randi, 38, had a quicker start into the industry. Her first aspirations were to be a rock star. She spent most of her teenage years in the Schenectady County area singing in her boyfriend’s local garage band, which playing at high schools and juice bars. It was a memorable time for Randi, but eventually the late night bar gigs and traveling weren’t what she was looking for in a career.
“I didn’t want that constant away from home, in a bar until 4am every weekend lifestyle,” she said. “So radio seemed a great way to stay close to music and the people that make it.”
After attending The New School of Radio and Television in Albany, Randi, then 21, landed her first job at FLY 92.3. She remembers not being completely prepared for the gig and ended up leaving.
“It was the first real job out of school and it was bit intimidating,” she said. “I’ve always felt so bad about quitting because it’s the complete opposite of who I am. Since then I always make sure the move is onward and upward for me.”
That personal philosophy has helped Randi in her career. She worked at K-Lite 101, a former station in Pine Bush (downstate) where she started out doing part-time and fill-in shifts, then took a job at XL 104.5, a former station in Clifton Park where she eventually became a production manager.
“It was fabulous they played an eclectic mix of blues and it was a small station niche that I really enjoyed,” she said.
After a few years, Randi decided it was time to move on. Through her husband who was then director of engineering at The River, she found out about a co-hosting position opening and decided to give it a shot. After a few interviews she was offered the job and moved onto the morning spot with Tred. The two instantly clicked.
“We share many of the same likes and qualities and many that are completely different,” she said. “But that’s what gives us our comfort zone and the ability to really have a lot of fun together.”
Tred, who has worked solo in the past, likes working as a team more than anything. “It’s great to have a different perspective and someone to share ideas with,” he said.
Being involved in radio is something Randi and Tred seem to equally enjoy; yet they know it can be a challenging field to get into. When asked what the secret is, they agreed that being a decent person and being someone people want to work with is important.
“Attitude is everything,” said Tred. “Having a bad reputation can really kill you in this business.”
He also thinks you should never say no to favors. “Once you get your foot in the door, you have to be willing to do anything. Even if you have to get coffee, work overnight shifts and holidays.”
“There’s really no magic formula,” said Randi. “It can be as simple as having the right personality, getting to know people and making friends.”

Candy & Potter—Fly 92.3 FM

By Carolyn Iannone

They’re young, they’re energetic, they’re slightly wacky at times, and you hear them every weekday morning on Fly 92.3’s morning show “Candy & Potter.” Potter’s real name is Jerry, and Candy (short for Candice), is not only his partner in crime, staging hilarious “Phone Scams” and making fun out of just about anything from pop culture to reality TV shows to current events, but she’s also his wife of nearly four years.
The duo (Potter is 30, Candy 28) hosts their show every morning from 5am-10am, along with sidekick Boomer, an eager 23-year-old who is known to do just about anything for $10 bucks.
The husband and wife team became friends in 1997 while working at a radio station in their hometown of Seattle, Washington. Candy tried to play matchmaker for Potter and set him up on a blind date with her friend. Fortunately for them, she wasn’t very good at it. Candy and Potter started dating in 1998.
They married in Hawaii in 2002 and moved to the Capital Region three years ago to become the new Fly 92.3 morning team, after learning of the opening through a radio industry website. Albany Broadcasting owns the station, which is located in Latham.
Many married couples couldn’t imagine working with each other, but this couple has adjusted to the ups and downs.
“It definitely has its advantages,” said Potter. “We have the same schedule and vacation time.”
When they do bicker, it’s about the show. “We are both kind of anal and just want it to be the best it can be,” he said.
One disadvantage in having the same career is that it can make for slightly boring dinner table conversations.
“It’s like, ‘Hey, wanna hear something funny...never mind you were there,’” said Potter.
But, said Candy, being in business together enables them to understand the obligations and high demands of the job.
Getting started
Potter started his career in high school, where he took a few broadcasting classes. After graduation he enrolled at the University of Washington. Before completing his degree, he got a job broadcasting in very small town that, as he described, would make Albany look like Manhattan. After three years of learning the ropes, he moved back to Seattle and landed a job at a bigger radio station
Candy’s radio career started in a less purposeful way.
“I accidentally signed up for an intro to radio class while attending college in Seattle,” she said.
While in school, she answered an ad to be a producer for someone who was legally blind on a Seattle country station, and quickly worked her way up.
“I faked loving country music to keep the job,” she said.
Soon, Candy and Potter were working as a night team on a Seattle show before they accepted their current position.
Rise and shine
Like many people who work early morning shifts, you never get used to the hours; you just learn to adapt.
“I go to sleep when 80-year olds go to sleep and I wake up when crazy people wake up,” said Potter, laughing.
In order to be on their game every morning, the two call it a night anywhere between 4pm-8pm and start the day around 2am or 3am. By the time they arrive at the studio, it takes a conscious effort for them to remember that most listeners haven’t been up for hours like they have.
“I would love to sleep at least six hours later than I actually do. I am not a morning person,” said Potter.
However, when the weekends do finally roll around, Candy and Potter would rather be playing outside than catching up on sleep. The active couple can be found snowboarding, white water rafting, rock climbing and skydiving. Who needs conversation when you are free falling from the sky, anyway?
These two definitely manage to have fun in and out of work. Despite the hours, they love their jobs.
“The most fun is talking to and meeting people. I love the phone scams, and I love talking with celebrities and finding out that they are just real people,” said Potter.
A few A-listers they’ve interviewed include Jessica Simpson, Dave Matthews, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Lopez, Rob Thomas and Tim Robbins.
Their phone scams are not just Potter’s favorite part of the show, but also a good majority of their listeners. They originally started out periodically doing their scams but after receiving such a positive response, they made it a permanent addition to the show last August, pranking a new victim at 7:20 and 9:20 every morning.
“Most people are good sports about it,” said Potter, “and I love the scams that Candy does—she genuinely makes me laugh.”
Some of the pranks have included convincing a man who had a vasectomy that his wife was pregnant and telling a woman who was watching her boss’s show dog that the groomer shaved all its’ hair.
Being in the publics ears in the morning comes with some level of responsibility, and this team doesn’t purposely want to offend anyone.
“We aren’t out to shock people and we have a pretty good gage of where the line is,” said Potter. “Obviously, not everyone is going to like everything we do. If that’s what radio was about, I wouldn’t do it.”
When asked what they think of the ever-growing Internet age influence on radio today, neither of them skipped a beat.
“A radio personality is someone who people can relate to. It’s someone who can bring them a level of entertainment that they can’t get anywhere else. Radio personalities adapt with the technology and use it to further market their show,” said Candy.
Potter is also confident of the future of radio.
“Sure, you have to go to where the listeners go, and I think radio will continue to change, but it will always be there. It is content driven, so we try to do things that no one is doing, or can do. If people want to listen to constant music, then they can go to their iPods.”
Even with hours that can resemble the constant feeling of jet lag, keeping listeners of the Capital Region updated with news and entertainment and making their mornings just that much better is on the top of these DJ’s list.
“It’s a 24-hour business,” said Candy, “I love meeting new people, pop culture, and learning new things so this was the perfect fit for me!”
“We don’t want to just fit in and do just enough to get by,” said Potter. “We want to be the best we can. If your mornings are even just a little bit better, that’s great!”

AJ & Trudy—104.5 The Buzz

By Mary Beth DeCecco

“We get along very well. It’s the key to our success and it shows,” said AJ, referring to his co-host Trudy. Together they make up the “The Morning Show with AJ & Trudy” on WABT 104.5 The Buzz.
From 6am-10am every weekday morning the duo banter back and forth, report on news and the latest Hollywood gossip, play trivia, and interview guests, all around the latest songs. These two are certainly as friendly and jovial off-air, as they are on-air.
“If you like each other, it comes across,” said AJ.
They describe the music on 104.5 The Buzz, which is owned by Covington, KY-based Regent Communications Inc., as “hot adult contemporary”. Their demographic is women between the ages of 25-45.
Unlike a television reporter, being on the radio brings a level of anonymity, which is why they chose not to disclose their last names. Although, said AJ, he is often recognized by his distinctive voice in public.
The Colonie-based radio station is also home to Q103.5FM/103.9FM, ESPN Radio 1300 AM The Team and WGNA 107.7 FM.
Since 1998, AJ has been with the station in various forms as the program director, morning DJ and afternoon drive DJ for “The Beat” AM/FM, before it changed to The Buzz a few years ago.
Trudy joined AJ two-and-a-half years ago, leaving 104.5’s sister station, WLZW-Lite 98.7 in Utica, NY where she worked solo before relocating to the Capital Region after getting married.
Unsure at first how she would like working with someone else, Trudy said laughing, “I think it’s worked out.”
AJ, having worked solo for many years, loves it. “It’s great. We need music and conversation in the morning.”
Equally talented at what they do, they each had very different starts in their careers.
Growing up without a television in Utica didn’t stop Trudy from wanting to become an anchorwoman. After graduating from Emerson College in Boston with a communications/broadcasting degree, she set out to land her first job. Like many aspiring to be on camera, that job came in the form of radio. Only Trudy decided to stay, and has been in the business for the past 15 years.
“Radio has been great,” she said.
AJ, on the other hand, didn’t land in radio until his early-30s, even though he had the desire from the time he was a child. Just like his personality on the radio, as a child growing up in Kingston, NY, he was the “class clown” and loved to mimic singers. But, his father wanted AJ pursue a degree in marketing, insisting that radio wasn’t a “real job”. After graduating from college he worked in the field of health plans, until a “life altering” event made him realize that you only get one chance to do what makes you happy in life.
“You don’t have to have a degree in broadcasting/communications to get into the field,” said AJ.
Over the past 21 years, his radio jobs in the Capital Region have brought him to FLY 92.3, PYX 106.5, KZ 96.7, WTRY, and a few others in Massachusetts.
On weekends, he operates his own mobile DJ service, “Entertainingly Yours,” playing weddings, parties and other events. He also works with local band, “The Refrigerators,” helping to coordinate and emcee their events.
Prep work
To crank out an interesting show every morning and gain the attention of listeners requires constant prep work on the part of each DJ. Though they receive the latest news and sound bites from online entertainment sources, they also have a bit of work to do on their own, including staying up-to-date on current events and lining up guests. Recently, they had on an actor from “Phantom of the Opera,” the author of The Sonoma Diet and Sandra Lee of the Food Network.
“We run ideas off each other,” said Trudy, who is online at 4am each morning researching, while listening to the radio and television.
It’s a similar scene at AJ’s—from the time he arises at 5am he turns the television on.
Unlike the days when everything was on a “cart” and DJs would have to pull out each record or tape and cue up songs, technology has made their lives much easier.
“Everything is on the computer —music and commercials,” AJ said.
“When I first started I’d have to pull five hours worth of CDs, and put them all away. It was very time consuming,” said Trudy.
Though neither feels that Satellite radio will impact their jobs, they do feel slightly threatened by iPods, which allows users to download hundreds of songs onto an MP3 player, eliminating the need for the radio.
“Kids are growing up on iPods versus our generation growing up on radio,” said Trudy.
If you turn on 104.5 The Buzz in the morning you are unable to ignore the fact that these two obviously get along and love what they do.
“We joke that this is almost like a marriage,” said Trudy, who likes that each and every day is different. “You never know what’s going on.”
“It’s fun doing what you love,” said AJ, who after leaving a successful career in healthcare to pursue his passion, is all the more appreciative.

Q&A AJ & Trudy
Who is the most currently overplayed singer/band? Daniel Powter (“Bad day”), Lifehouse (“You and me”) James Brunt (“You’re Beautiful”), Kelly Clarkson, Fall Out Boy, Maroon 5, Goo Goo Dolls.

Who is your favorite band/singer?
Trudy: Sting, Phil Collins and Rush.
AJ: After all these years, I don’t have a favorite

What kind of music do you enjoy the most?
AJ: All styles of music. It depends on what I’m doing. I like older jazz, like Miles Davis, when I’m relaxing.
Trudy: Classic rock, pop, just about everything.

Who was the best “hair band” of the1980s? Bon Jovi, Poison and Whitesnake.

Do you think the American Idol winners will have a long career?
AJ: It brings fame too quick. What about people who have worked so hard, doing the club circuit for years? On this show, within six months you’re a hit.
Trudy: It’s the luck of the draw. Kelly been successful, but I don’t think that will happen for everyone.

By Judy Torel

It is common knowledge that regular exercise benefits the physical body. Improvement of every disease from arthritis to diabetes has been linked to exercise. In recent years, scientific study is finding that mental health conditions also benefit from a frequent and consistent exercise practice. And, not only does exercise help with certain diseases, it can also enhance the more desirable qualities of positive self-esteem and positive mood.

Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are associated with the emergence of negative thoughts typified by worry, self-doubt and apprehension. These thoughts usually emerge when conditions in life tax or exceed a person’s capabilities. Everyone feels anxiety from time to time due to life situations, but when anxiety becomes generalized and longer lasting without a reprieve, it becomes problematic.
To date, there have been six meta-analyses of studies involving exercise and anxiety. A meta-analyses is not just one study, but a compilation of many studies involving the same topics. The results of these studies (which ranged from 1960-1995) concluded that exercise reduces anxiety.
According to the studies, there are some specific conditions that strengthen the positive effects of the exercise on anxiety. For instance, there are larger reductions to anxiety when the exercise is aerobic such as running, swimming and cycling. Aerobic exercise is more powerful in helping anxiety then non-aerobic exercise such as tennis, strength training and pilates. In addition, the exercise needs to be established as a regular habit and must have been practiced for at least 10-15 weeks. The studies also indicated that people who had lower initial fitness levels or higher anxiety levels to start with experienced higher levels of anxiety relief from an exercise program. Symptoms were reduced regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.
The studies indicate that the reduction of anxiety symptoms last about 4-6 hours after an exercise session. The reduction of symptoms is similar in magnitude to other treatments, such as medications and therapy. This is noteworthy, because in addition to the reduction of symptoms, exercise has many other physical benefits that psychotherapy and drug therapy do not produce when used alone.

Depression
Depression is a prevalent and increasing problem in contemporary America. Clinical depression affects 2-5 percent of Americans annually. Depression is costly to our health care system because depressed individuals spend 1.5 times more on health care and 3 times more on out-patient pharmacy costs then non-depressed people.
Research on exercise and depression began in the early 1900s. To date, there are more than 100 studies of exercise and depression, and since 1990 there have been five meta-analyses of the data.
The research consistently shows that:
• Both acute (short/intense) and chronic (on-going) depression is significantly reduced by a consistent exercise practice. The effects can begin as early as the first exercise session and last beyond the end of the exercise session. The reduction of depression symptoms is even greater than the reduction found in anxiety symptoms mentioned earlier. As in the anxiety studies, the symptoms were reduced regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.
• Specific exercise conditions (the longer the duration of the exercise sessions, the higher the intensity, and the greater number of days per week for the exercise) were found to be more powerful in the reduction of depression symptoms. The exercise program needs to be followed for at least nine weeks to benefit from the largest anti-depressant effects.
• Exercise was found to be as powerful a therapy for depression as psychotherapy and more powerful then behavioral interventions such as relaxation and meditation.
• Exercise provides positive side effects of physical health benefits, is less costly than other therapies, and is effective in the treatment of depression.

Alzheimer’s and dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic form of dementia that produces progressive and severe memory loss, and eventually results in death. Many believe that Alzheimer’s is caused by a plaque build-up in the brain; damaging proteins called beta-amyloid peptides are responsible for the plaque.
The Journal of Neuroscience reported in April 2005 that studies on mice found that those subjected to regular exercise on running wheels had significantly fewer plaques and fewer beta-amyloid peptides than mice without running wheels in their cages. Studies on humans, like the one conducted in Honolulu-Asia on 2,257 Japanese-American men between 71-93 years old, conclude that a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise leads to improved cognitive functioning in later life.
According to www.alzheimers.about.com, it is best to establish a regular exercise habit early in life in order to guard against Alzheimer’s and dementia. But, if you’re older that doesn’t mean it’s too late! You are never too old to start exercising as long as you begin conservatively and progress in intensity and duration over time. A good personal trainer can help provide guidelines for a safe, progressive exercise program for seniors.

Positive self-esteem and improved mood
Exercise is not just correlated with improvement in pathological mental health; it has been linked to greater feelings of well-being, improved mood, positive self-esteem, positive body image and improved sleep!
As human beings, we want to do whatever is within our power to feel our best, both physically and mentally. But, I think even more importantly, we want to know how to experience the highest quality of life possible. Regular exercise practiced throughout a lifetime can help us achieve both of these goals.
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 Planet Fitness and Deb's Sweat Shop Extension. She can be reached at JTOREL2263@yahoo.com