So what exactly is a baby boomer?

Boomers are defined as anyone born between 1946 and 1964.
Today, the oldest boomer is 61; the youngest 43. There are about 75 million boomers in the country, representing about 29 percent of the US population.

Retirement careers
When enough still isn’t enough

By Amy E. Tucker

We’ve all had the same thought at some point in our careers: I only have x-number-of-years left until retirement.
Maybe the thought was prompted from a rough day on the job. Or, perhaps you’re approaching retirement age and your body doesn’t respond to the 12-hour shifts and demands of the job the way it used to. Whatever the impetus, we’ve all experienced that wistful reverie about life after retirement.

You might be surprised, however, to learn that a large group of baby boomer retirees are working as much now as they did pre-retirement. The majority of these holdovers are teachers and administrators who have stayed on to help combat the growing shortages in the field. These baby boomers can maximize their Tier I state benefit structure by retiring at age 55 (after completing 30 years of service) and collecting their pension and health benefits while earning an income on the side.

Such was the case for 60-year-old John Irving who retired March 30, after 31 years as a school administrator, to become the executive director of Community Health Services (CHS) in Burnt Hills.
“I knew I was going to retire,” said Irving, “but, how many times can you clean your garage?”

Shifting from the public sector to a not-for-profit position cut his hours and salary in half; and, by not impacting his pension, he’s actually taking home more money than before.
Irving was familiar with the services CHS provided because Burnt Hills contracted with the organization for social work services when he was the director of special education for the district. But, it was the challenges the position provided that enticed him the most.

“In education, money comes through public taxes,” he continued. “Now, I’m fundraising, grant writing and asking for donations. It’s a whole new system and terminology that’s been very reading and learning-intensive.”


Sixty-nine year old Ray Colucciello had a career in education that spanned 10 area districts over 47 years. He retired the first time at age 55, but stayed on filling in for various administrators despite the 12-hour days.

“When you hit ‘double nickels, you know that you don’t have to keep doing it,” Colucciello explained. “It’s a different attitude and psyche, so you don’t mind doing the long days.”
Though he admitted that the money was good, he stressed that he’s not “double dipping.”

“I worked 30 years for my pension,” Colucciello noted, “and now I work every day for my salary. I have to work for the second dip, and it’s a full-time job.”
With nearly half of the state’s administrators slated to retire over the next five years, Colucciello described the applicant pool of good administrators as having “dwindled to a puddle.” As a result, he’s already extended his one-year commitment to serve as superintendent at Ballston Spa, to three.

“It’s great to have leadership jobs at this stage in your career,” said Colucciello. “The board has an agenda, and you ‘set the table’ for the next guy, without the pressure of being fired or having your career ruined as a result.”

Middle school math and science teacher Larry Reith, 60, stayed on as a substitute teacher following his 2001 retirement for many of the same reasons. Though his post-retirement salary, after 33 years in the Guilderland school district, dropped from $80K a year to $6K, he stayed in it for the kids.

“I could make more working at Hannaford, than I can subbing,” Reith conceded. “But, I didn’t want to work at Hannaford. I liked the kids.”
And, he added, as a substitute he doesn’t have to do lesson plans, attend meetings or deal with staff and parents. “I just go in, have fun with the kids and go home.”
“When you retire, you miss the people and socialization the most,” agreed Colucciello. “I have 4,438 kids around every day that I can talk to.”
No one can argue that being around students will keep you young and in-the-know.

“When you’re around young people you have to stay sharp and vibrant and be a constant learner,” said Colucciello who has both a Bluetooth cell phone and a BlackBerry.
“When I got my BlackBerry five months ago, my staff said I’d never figure it out,” he laughed. “Now, they wish I hadn’t because I email them all the time!”
With no firm retirement plans on the horizon, Colucciello said he’ll stick around as long as he enjoys what he’s doing and feels he can still make a difference.
“I’m not a golfer and a vacation lasts about five days for me,” he said. “The best job anyone can have is the one they don’t need . . . the only problem is you have to get old to get that kind of job.
“I was lucky,” he continued, “because I found out through retirement that I wanted to continue doing what I had done for my entire career.”

The Fifties House

The next time you stop for a bite to eat at PJ’s Bar-B-Q on Route 9 in Saratoga Springs, be sure to check out The Fifties House just across the street. And get ready to take dozens of steps back in time.

Remember eating dinner crammed in a booth in your kitchen? Or washing your clothes in a round Maytag wringer washer? How about playing checkers or The Price is Right? Did you ever roll your hair with Spoolies?

You’ll find these and thousands of other memorabilia from the 50s and 60s in this living museum, which is possibly the largest private collection of its kind in the United States, housed under one roof.

Owned by enthusiastic boomers PJ and Carolyn Davis, who also own and operate the seasonal barbecue joint, the two bought the 1948 ranch home in 1994 with the idea to turn it into a museum of sorts for fellow boomers.

“We worked with a local decorator from the fifties,” said PJ, explaining that she based the interior colors on a piece of vintage curtain fabric.
The house opened for its first public tour in 1996 when a whopping 400 people came through on a tour sponsored by the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. The tour typically focuses on the stately Victorian homes in town, but PJ approached the group and suggested adding The Fifties House to the circuit.

When he realized a local reporter was on the tour he became a little nervous. “I was a little worried about the write-up,” he said. But those nerves quickly subsided the next day when the paper’s headline read, “The 50s Alive at in Saratoga Springs House”, proving to PJ that others were just as excited about that time period as he was.


Guests have to take their shoes off before walking through the home, which is packed from top to bottom with everything you can imagine, including 10 working televisions, Life, Better Homes and Gardens and even Playboy magazines.

“The more things I have in there, the more memories I can evoke,” said PJ, who started his collection by perusing antique stores, but now primarily finds things on Ebay.
“I’m on it [eBay] everyday,” he said, admitting to purchasing things on a weekly basis.

What he seems to have the most of are kitchen items, including a working 1935 GE Monitor Top refrigerator. His favorite piece in the house is the jukebox, which holds 45’s of Buddy Holly, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis and Little Richard, just to name a few. But, he’s excited for the arrival of his latest acquisition, another jukebox, this one with bubble lights.
Is there any item that he doesn’t have? “An original Barbie doll.” He’s also looking for a JewelT tablecloth.


The house is open for tours on Tuesday nights, the same night as the “Bar-B-Cruis-In” car show, but he plans to open weekends. “It’s just a matter of getting people rounded up,” he said.
There is a suggested donation that goes toward a scholarship fund benefiting four local high schools. Future plans include a traveling exhibit.

“What’s so appealing about the house is that in our generation there are 76 million boomers. We can go into an antique store and see one or two items and say, ‘Boy, I remember that from my childhood.’ Where can you go and see one whole house full of all this?”


The Fifties House is located on Route 9 in Saratoga Springs. For more information call 583.7427.
—MBD

Taking the plunge

Boomers embrace entrepreneurial spirit

By Amy E. Tucker

Many people weary of the 9 to 5 routine, the long commutes and the corporate politics long for the autonomy of running our own business. Yet, fear of failure and the unwillingness to take the risk or adjust to a different style of living prevent the majority of us from taking the leap.
The baby boomer generation is different. They embrace the challenges of self employment and revel in their ability to break free from Corporate America. Though they opt to leave for different reasons, and pursue widely diverse occupations, a common thread of “entrepreneurial spirit” binds them all.
Fifty-year old Ken Johnson had had enough when he left Manhattan to run his in-law’s farm in Schodack, after 10 years of working in the pharmaceutical business. The commute to the city and 12-hour days played a part, but a lack of job satisfaction was the final straw.
“I didn’t feel I was contributing, or doing anything meaningful,” said Johnson. “You work crunching numbers and doing research surveys and sometimes the information is used; sometimes it’s pushed aside and not used for much.”
So the market research analyst packed up his family and moved to upstate NY to run Kristy’s Barn in Schodack, a 331-acre fruit and vegetable farm.
Growing up, Johnson had done some cash grain farming [corn, soybeans and wheat], so the transition wasn’t totally foreign to him. He took over the farm, comprising 90 acres of production land and the farm market [retail division] and diversified to include a full line of baked goods, jams, jellies and crock pickles.
“We sell a little bit of everything from pre-made salads and farm fresh eggs to chickens on a once-a-month pre-order basis.”
The family expanded the farm market and entered the “agritainment business” including school tours of the farm, seasonal hayrides and apple and pumpkin picking. They even built a new farm market. But, success has come with a price.
“Anytime you’re in agriculture, the weather is the most important factor,” Johnson explained. “This spring has been very cold and wet and we’re about two weeks behind. You have to learn to roll with the punches.”
One of those punches included the $60-$70,000 pay cut Johnson took when he left the city to go into farming.
“The work is much more rewarding, but the money isn’t,” Johnson conceded. “I was traveling a lot then. I no longer get to jet set around and you lose all of the big corporate perks.”
The Johnsons continue to grow their business including expanding into investments.
“I feel like I’m accomplishing something now,” said Johnson. “You’re your own boss. You make your own decisions and you live or die by them.”

Turning 40 was the “aha moment” for Roberta Bastow, 47, owner of a Perfect Blend espresso bar and café in Delmar. A career banker, Bastow had achieved everything she set out to do upon graduating college and as a successful senior vice president, she realized she didn’t need to be a banker forever.
“I had five bosses in three years,” said Bastow. “I loved my team and my customers, but you reach a certain level in Corporate America where it’s not fun anymore.”
Bastow spent long hours on the road traveling throughout New York and New England and enjoyed the comfort of the coffee shops she frequented along the way.
“I would plot out all of the Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts along my route,” Bastow laughed.
Bucking the natural path of staying in financial services, she instead researched Internet career assessments to determine her skills and interest.
“They kept leading me to retail and customer service, but I have to sell what I believe in,” she said. “I couldn’t sell auto parts because that isn’t me. When you create a business you need to put your signature on it.”
The signature for Bastow was providing a warm setting where people could relax and enjoy the arts. The child of two artists, she attended art shows all the time. The idea for a Perfect Blend evolved from that parent-inspired appreciation.
A self-confessed workaholic, she clocks about 50 hours of “face time” with another 20-30 hours at home handling marketing, planning menus, listening to music to book musicians and coordinating room reservations and catering.
Though she admits to missing her vacation time and the money she made to spend on the vacations, she truly enjoys running her own business and accepting whatever accolades and complaints there are. Like many entrepreneurs, Bastow enjoys the ability to constantly change and work the business without having to seek approval.
She feels people leave corporate America because they realize they can run things better.
“I think corporate America does a great job of teaching you basic skills,” she explained. “A lot of skills are transferable and as a manager, you look for generic skills in employees that you can build on.”
Bastow advises anyone seeking a career change to get an apprenticeship before doing a 180-degree turn in industry. She still frequents coffee shops wherever she travels—even on the occasionally elusive vacation.

Tom Lomma loved animals and wanted to work in forestry growing up. But, his grades in college didn’t support that curriculum, and psychology courses led him in a different direction. He earned his master’s in rehabilitation counseling and spent 25 years working in human services as a program director at a not-for-profit agency for individuals with disabilities.
When one of his aging dogs began suffering with incontinence, he turned to a pet sitter to assist while he and his wife worked. When the pet sitter decided to pursue other work, Lomma purchased her business, Longpaw Petsitting Service, and followed his passion.
“The inequities in the system had begun to bother me,” said Lomma, 54. “There’s not a lot of money coming in from federal and state programs and I got frustrated with seeing people not be able to get services they needed.”
He also grew tired of corporate downsizing and handling his four job responsibilities involving counseling, programming, vocational assessment and the IT services for the agency.
The transition to pet sitting was smooth. Lomma purchased her client list and she gave him a reference to her customers. He also had the support of the local pet sitters association, Capital Area Professional Pet sitters (CAPS), who have worked to establish pet sitting as a profession.
Even with an established business and an idea of what his income would be, there were still challenges Lomma faced.
“It wasn’t a drastic adjustment, but I’ve never run a business before so there was a lot of learning to do in the beginning. It’s a totally new venture for me and it’s kind of neat to take on something like this at this point in my life.”
Demand in his business is seasonal, which means income isn’t regular, said Lomma, who works 16-18 hour days around holidays and no longer has weekends to himself.
He believes people leave Corporate America because they don’t see the values they grew up with being applied.
“When I grew up, we were oriented to the belief that there’s more to life than success and money,” he said. “We had that peace and love orientation in the 60s and 70s where it’s important to be happy, to be good and kind and treat people decently. I don’t see those [values] being prevalent in society throughout Corporate America and I think that’s why a lot of people burned out in the businesses they were in.”
Lomma said his business is not quite where he’d like it to be financially, but expects that he’ll earn about two-thirds of his previous salary when it reaches its peak.
“This is the first job I’ve had in my entire life that I look forward to getting up for in the morning.” I’m my own boss; I’m no longer at someone’s beck and call. From a mental health and physical standpoint I’ve never felt better or happier. I’ve never been sick in a year!”

It was Lisa Walker’s friend who led her from a 13-year career as a systems analyst for the insurance industry to become a chef.
“I was sitting in my cubicle waiting for the next project to come along,” said Walker who, at 46 is a young boomer. “I was bored and thought, ‘Do I want to do this for the rest of my life?’ My girlfriend pointed out that every time we talked it involved food. And, I realized I had a passion for cooking.”
Walker took a Votec program and learned the basics from the American Culinary Federation. She worked in restaurants and for Sysco Corporation, a food distributor, where she learned about pricing food, the cost of labor, what products are available and market segments. Then, eight years ago, she started her own catering business “Chef Lisa” based in East Chatham.
She creates healthy, meals for parties and for familes that are busy and don’t have time to cook or who don’t like to cook.
Walker, who’s been in the food service for nearly 11 years, began by selling cheesecakes to restaurants. Then parties started booking, and through word-of-mouth, she began to make a living.
“It takes a long time to really become a chef,” said Walker, who went back and worked in computers for awhile to make some money. “You get so much more out of being in business for yourself; I’m so much more stimulated.”
In the beginning, Walker logged 80 hours a week including research, cooking and menu design. Now, she averages a 50-hour week, but with events, it could easily reach 80 hours. She was making $25/hour in the corporate world and began as a chef making about $6/hour. Rising gas prices and the seasonal nature of her business have also proved challenging.
“You have to be creative in the non-wedding time to sell your products,” said Walker, who has worked for movie producers and catered photo shoots on the off-season to make ends meet and often misses the weekly paycheck and benefits.
“This was quite a transition to have to go out and make money, learn the business and learn to take rejection. You have to love people and what you’re doing. It’s truly a labor of love.”

Frank DeJohn, 61, wanted to do something that produced a lot of positive feedback. So, at age 55, after 26 years in high tech banking, he purchased a candy store and went into business for himself and launched Cravings on North Pearl Street in Albany.
“I’m just old enough to remember the transition from pension plans to 401Ks and when the personnel department became the human resources department. Those were pretty dramatic changes in Corporate America and it never got any better.”
Burnt out on the system and ready for a complete change, DeJohn jumped head first into the candy business. He gathered insight and advice from the Internet and a few vendors and now makes about 20 percent of his own candy.
“I’m not producing hundreds of thousands of pounds of product a year,” said DeJohn. “I try something and put it in the showcase. If it sells, great. If not, I try something else.”
DeJohn specializes in premium products for hotels and businesses downtown and has developed creative marketing to differentiate and grow his business.
“I’m marketing to corporate clients because there’s not much more I can do to drive traffic through my door,” he said. “I’ve been successful with private labeling and corporate gifts, such as a confectionary package with the hotel’s label on it.”
Though he still puts in 60 hours a week including his administrative duties, DeJohn says he’s a totally different person now.
“To be able to break out and do this you have to be financially prepared to do it. I took an $80K salary cut to go into business for myself. I used to pay more federal income tax then I take home now!”
He credits his happiness and success to having chosen something he enjoyed.
“If you can [change careers] for the love of it, and not for the money, it’s a wonderful thing,” said DeJohn. “I knew from day one I could make my expenses without changing anything and that was a huge plus.
“It’s the perfect niche. I don’t have to work nights, weekends or holidays because no one is around in this area. If I didn’t have this location and the dynamics of this area I don’t know if I’d be doing this now.”

How sweet it is…
Johnson feels an occasional pang when a plane flies overhead, but knows his quality of life has improved ten-fold.
“There are times that I look back on it and I think it would be nice to be on the jet plane flying overhead heading someplace,” said Johnson. “But, I was leaving at six am and not returning until six pm. If I was traveling, I wouldn’t see my family for a week at a time. This is time I want to be able to spend with my kids and my wife.”
Bastow enjoys being a part of the local community and providing a venue for music and arts.
“Perfect Blend is a nice, non-threatening setting for people to connect in,” she said. “The world is hectic and there’s nothing that makes me feel better than seeing our customers relaxing and enjoying what I’ve created.”
Longpaw Petsitting Service just celebrated their one year anniversary in April and for Lomma, it’s paws up.
“The great thing about my job is the pets are always so receptive to seeing me,” he said. “It’s great to be met by happy, tail-wagging clients every day.”
Like Bastow, Walker feels it’s important to take time to smell the roses. “Many people start their own business and feel they have to work 24/7. They don’t allow themselves any free time. Planning is important. You have to know how much money you want to make, but be sure to budget time off. It’s hard work, but you have to balance it for your sanity.”
“I’m a lot happier personally,” said DeJohn. “Dealing with retail on a day to day basis has been a tremendous growing experience.”

Companies seek “boomer talent” and boomers seek jobs

By Dan Moran

I am a boomer. I have reached that time of my life that years back everyone feared. That time of life when people think they have passed their useful purpose. When boomer was another work for “old”.
How wrong. Corporate America agrees as well. Being a boomer is just one more opportunity in life and boomers are discovering this. Today’s workforce consists of over 40% boomers and a vast majority are already planning to change their involvement in the workplace in some fashion. A Rutgers University Workforce Development study found that 28% of boomers are planning to work part-time or engage in other activities because they either need the money or want the mental stimulation. Another study stated, “Employment among older workers is booming. The number of workers 55 and older nationwide hit a record 24.6 million recently, with workers 65 and older jumping 44 percent over the last decade to 5.2 million.” We are not washed up – we are in demand!

Boomers are in demand and companies are courting us
The workplace will continue to need us. As we grower older as a nation, and as fewer skilled people come out of our universities, boomers will form a core of experience, knowledge and skill that will be invaluable to sustaining many organizations. This is even more critical as the nation faces yet another shortage of skilled and experience workers like we experienced in the 90s.
As a group, employers have found boomers to be excellent employees. Most older workers are known to have a better work ethic, are more dependable, tend to be more loyal and are more appreciative of having a job and care about doing a “good” job. A recently conducted study by AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) listed boomer’s assets from the employer’s perspective:
• Boomers have lower absenteeism rates and are always on time for work.
• We are more committed and less likely to job hop creating turnover which is—expensive to companies.
• Boomers exhibit better customer service and people skills and a willingness to learn new skills.
• We deliver experience—experience gained over our years that is valuable to a company who may have lost talent due to turnover or retirements.
• We are just more positive in our attitude.
Of course, the stereotype of “old” workers does continue in some companies who just don’t get it and are living in the past. Unfortunately many companies that fall into this category are the ones that need our experience, talent and commitment. As one looks through the list of companies that actively recruit boomer talent, it is easy to notice who isn’t – fast-charging technology companies who still believe in the “old” stereotype, old-school manufacturers and government, to mention a few.

Finding opportunities as a boomer
On the flip side, companies that have discovered this needed and untapped resource of talent actively recruit boomers, targeting their job messages to sources on the web, print, radio and through direct mail. There are firms that just specialize in this area – helping companies recruit boomer talent.
These companies are looking for the experience you bring, the skill and talents you can contribute and the “fit” to the job and company. How you present yourself and prepare must address each of these needs.

Before you start looking for the next opportunity, think about how you should market yourself through your resume, interview preparation and references.
Your resume – The cookie-cutter chronological resume with just the facts (company, title, dates and duties) won’t cut it. Rather, a carefully written resume that highlights your transferable skills (skills that you bring from one employer to another), your unique talents and personality is required (visit my blog www.humanresourcematters.typepad.com/mattersofyourcareer for an example). Consider investing in a professional to help write this. It is that valuable first impression before you even get to the interview.
Preparing for the interview – Before your interview, document your skills, strengths, qualifications, and of course, that one weakness you don’t mind admitting. Focus on those attributes that you can contribute to the company; attributes they may not find in a younger, inexperienced applicant.
References – Your references should be able to speak to your ability to learn new things, change when needed and validate your reliability and dependability. Prep those you plan to use as references in advance so they are prepared.
With your skill-driven resume, interview preparation and references lined up, start looking. The websites below are highly recommended:
• www.retiredbrains.com – I searched this site and found over 750 jobs listed in the Greater Capital District Region, jobs that encompassed technical, retail, hospitality, sales, customer service, etc. It’s a great source.
• www.aarp.org/working_options/home.html –On this site, you will find very good career resources and a listing of employers who employ boomers.
• www.fortypus.com–Lists jobs, resources and networking groups so you are not alone in this search
• www.matureservices.org –Lists job fairs and employment resources.
• www.careersat50.monster.com–The specialty website for boomers, from Monster.com.
• www.notyetretired.com–Includes information on starting a business, freelancing, finding a post-retirement job and more.
• www.retirementjobs.com–Free job board whose goal is to “identify companies most-suited to older workers and match them with active, productive, conscientious, mature adults seeking a job or project that matches their lifestyle”.
• www.XtremeRecruiting.com–News and articles for Baby Boomer job seekers.
• www.workplacefairness.org –A good site and blog on career issues and fairness to older workers.
• 2young2retire.com–Source of job leads, information and strategies as boomers enter their next career. Also good information on starting a business – an option many pursue (like me for the second time).
An excellent article to read is posted on www.careerjournal.com/myc/fifty/20050919-coombes.html - it lists the the 50 best companies for workers 50 and older.
And of course, my blog: Mattersofyourcareer.typepad.com
My last piece of advice is to get your head on straight. Don’t fall into the mindset that no employer would want you or that they all age discriminate. It’s not true. A friend of mine pointed out all the top CEO’s of Fortune 500 companies – by age. Almost all were well into their 50s. Good luck job searching and please share your experiences on my blog.

Dan Moran is a career & human resources consulting professional and author of two books on hiring and job hunting. He is currently Vice President of Human Resources for nfrastructure, Clifton Park, NY. Visit Dan’s blog at: www.humanresourcematters.typepad.com/mattersofyourcareer.

Online social networking grows up: move over kids, the boomers are coming

At age 59, Dell Housewright is the future of online social networking.
Social networking — connecting with people and forming communities using Web sites and online tools — used to be only for the young who meet new friends at sites like MySpace and Facebook. But the massive adoption of the Internet by boomers is changing this scene. Today, a number of social networking sites targeted toward this more mature crowd are cropping up, including Gather, which fosters thoughtful conversations and debate, and sites like 55-Alive and Eons, both of which were created specifically for 50-plus social networking. These sites are arming their users with traditional social networking tools such as profiles, which let users express their personal interests and connect with others of like minds; blogs, where “conversations” happen through posting comments and photos; and groups, which bring just a few, or thousands of people, together around a passion or interest.

“Eons is a supporting place where people can come together,” says Housewright, an author and seminar consultant who created his own blog and joined several groups at eons.com. “If you find you like the people in a group, you stay and you talk. If you don’t find a group that’s talking about what you want to talk about, you start your own group.”
More than 300,000 boomers are participating in nearly 2,000 discussion communities hosted at Eons. Topics range from “50+ Singles” — one of the most popular on the site and one where Housewright regularly converses with friends — to the playful and irreverent “Hippies for Life,” which is dedicated to “music, friends and peace,” according to its organizers. And new groups are being created by users each day.

Eons’ popularity reflects how boomers’ quest to continue exploring life and making new connections that enrich their life is fueling the social networking world. With more than 44 million Americans age 50 to 64 online, social networking among this group is poised for growth.
And the lines separating the real and virtual worlds are rapidly blurring. Housewright is an example of those who are transforming social networking from a strictly online conversation to relationships that extend into the real world — even romance for some single boomers.
After a casual suggestion in a discussion group with some of his online friends that the group should try to set up a meeting, Housewright and others began to exchange ideas. Travel was an interest they shared, so the concept took shape of organizing a singles cruise where some of them could get to know each other better.
“I thought that if we had five or six people who wanted to go, that would be good,” says Housewright, whose book, “A Boomer’s Tour of the Dating World,” will be published later this year. “As it turned out, dozens of people from all over the country signed up.” And the number will most likely grow by the time the ship pushes off from its Florida port for a five-day Caribbean cruise this summer.

Eons CEO Jeff Taylor, the Internet maverick who founded career site Monster.com in the mid-1990s, says he founded his new company last year with the goal of creating a social networking site that is the center of gravity for everything 50-plus.
“Boomers want in,” Taylor says. “They’re ready to play, and they want to be with like-minded people where they can bring all their life experiences and knowledge to bear. Eons is squarely in the middle of that conversation, creating tools that make connecting with new friends easier. When we see Dell and his group taking that leap from the online world into reality, it helps assure us that we are providing a fertile ground for those loving life on the flipside of 50.”

Traveling with grandchildren—An adventure of a lifetime

There are more than 70 million grandparents in the United States and many of them have a passion for travel, providing an incredible opportunity to share this love with the grandchildren. Traveling with grandkids offers a unique bonding activity that can’t be experienced during a family get-together or a short visit.
Travel and lifestyle expert Nan Zimmerman has partnered with BoomerTowne.com, an informational Web site for baby boomers. As a member of the BoomerTowne Council, Zimmerman has advice for any adult traveling with younger children, including grandparents who might not do it frequently.

Test the waters

While hitting the road with the grandchildren might seem like fun, younger children might not be ready to travel without a parent. Test out the waters first by visiting a nearby museum or zoo together. This can help determine whether a grandparent can handle a situation without Mom or Dad around.
Or, consider traveling with only one grandchild at a time, which allows for one-on-one bonding and saves grandparents from being sibling referees.

Planning the trip

One of the first obstacles when traveling with a grandchild is picking a location. The destination should be kid-friendly but also provide entertainment for the grandparents. All-inclusive resorts are great, as they provide activities to do together, as well as some entertaining kid-only activities.
Planning the trip can be a lot of fun, so make sure to involve the grandchildren. Once a location is selected, share pictures of the destination, brochures and maps with them. Go online to learn more about the trip together.

Getting ready

While grandchildren may have traveled with parents before, be sure to go over rules for the trip before embarking on the journey. Outline the consequences if the children’s behavior doesn’t measure up to expectations.
If flying, explain airport security so that a grandchild doesn’t get scared. It might also be a good idea to go over what it feels like to fly and how people behave on an airplane.
Learn about all medications a grandchild takes, both prescription and over-the-counter, and be sure to take them along. A notarized permission letter signed by parents will authorize a grandparent to have limited power of attorney over a grandchild in case of an emergency. This is especially important when traveling outside the United States.

Traveling to another country

Children of all ages are required to have a passport when traveling outside of the United States. Plan ahead and apply for a passport well in advance, as there is a long processing time. Children under the age of 14 must apply for a passport in person.
Also, be sure to check with the U.S. Embassy of the country you’re visiting and make sure you have everything you need to travel with your grandchild. Some countries may require a notarized letter authorizing grandparents to accompany grandchildren in place of a legal guardian.

Arrival

In case of an emergency, such as a lost child, be sure to have a plan in place. Share it with the grandchildren upon arrival. At the hotel, show him or her how to get to the front desk and have it be a meeting place. Tell grandchildren to go to the nearest uniformed employee if they should get lost. Give them a slip of paper with important cell phone numbers, hotel name, location and phone number so authorities can contact the appropriate person as soon as the grandchild is found.
For additional security and peace of mind, if grandchildren are over the age of 12, have them carry a cell phone or walky-talky. This will allow them to contact someone immediately if something is wrong.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Personal fitness for busy baby boomers

For 68 percent of baby boomers, exercise is an important consideration in their lives. However, many of them face the challenge of not having enough time to exercise, according to the results of a survey from BoomerTowne.com.
Denise Austin, physical fitness expert and member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, understands the struggle Americans face in finding time to stay physically fit. Austin has partnered with BoomerTowne.com, an informational website for baby boomers, to help them learn how they can fit physical fitness into their daily lives.
“Many people are under the assumption that in order to achieve a physically fit body they must dedicate hours a week at a gym or constantly watch what they eat,” said Austin. “While that’s not a bad way to stay physically fit, there are simple things anyone can do to improve their diet and maintain good fitness.”
Following are some of Austin’s suggestions for fitting fitness into an active lifestyle.

Watch what you drink

Many people don’t think about it, but every time they drink a soft drink, gourmet coffee, fruit punch or an alcoholic beverage, they are adding on substantial calories. A recent study by the American Institute for Cancer Research found that about 20 percent of the average adult’s daily caloric intake comes in liquid form. An easy way to reduce these calories is by switching to low calorie drinks, such as diet sodas, unsweetened teas or water.
Water is one of the healthiest things you can put into your body. Increasing water intake helps the body set fat cells free and clears out other impurities. If it is difficult to drink eight glasses of water a day, try eating things with a high water content. Fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, strawberries, squash and cucumbers are excellent starters.

Increase your metabolism

Some people have naturally high metabolisms. But by altering eating habits, anyone can naturally increase their body’s calorie burn-rate. Eat small meals throughout the day to help keep your body running at a steady pace, instead of being slowed down by digesting big meals at fewer intervals. Avoid skipping meals and small snacks. Skipping meals or eating too little throughout the day activates the body’s starvation response and actually slows the metabolic rate.

Multi-tasking fitness

With work hours getting longer, many Americans can find it hard to fit fitness in their schedules. But there are simple exercises people can do in their everyday lives that won’t take up as much time.
For example, while talking on the phone to a friend after a day at work, instead of sitting on the couch, try “pretend sitting.” Simply find a wall and lower your back against the wall until you are in a sitting position. Hold it for as long as you can, or for up to 60 seconds and you will firm your thigh muscles, all while catching up with your friend.
Elevators are a great invention, but they don’t help burn calories. Whenever possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator. At work, instead of sending an e-mail across the office, take a break and walk over to update your co-worker. Choosing to walk instead of taking the easy way out will help boost your physical and mental health.
To learn more fitness tips from Denise Austin, visit www.BoomerTowne.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Athletic boomers

By Amy E. Tucker

Schuylerville resident Christine McKnight, 59, lived a sedentary lifestyle until she was 36. At 50, she learned to swim and started training for triathlons. Today, she’s entering her ninth competitive season and has twice earned a berth on the World Championship Tri-athlete team for women age 55-59.
As childhood, teenage and adult obesity reaches epidemic proportions baby boomers are countering the sedentary trend staying active and fit well into their senior years.
“Baby boomers are better educated and know how to take care of their bodies,” said Saratoga-based personal trainer Bryan Briddell, who at 54, is also a boomer. “They want a better quality of life, and are making better choices about how to take care of themselves.”

McKnight started her athletic career walking a quarter mile one day and running a quarter mile the next.
“It was a very non-threatening thing even though I’d been sedentary my whole life,” she recalled. “They were doable goals; and it’s so true that the first step is the most important.”
“Triathlons are a good sport for older athletes because the cross training helps keep them in better shape and prevent injuries,” said McKnight, who ran for nearly a decade without incorporating any other fitness or weight training into her program. Now she understands the necessity of keeping her core [torso] strong through cross training, stretching, flexibility and strength conditioning.
Briddell sees such results daily as owner of Total Fitness Solution, a personal training company, and director of Saratoga Peak Performance & Athletic Training Center in Malta that provides sports conditioning and athletic training for people aged 8 to 74.

“The boomer population realizes that joint mobility and flexibility are just as important as strength training,” he said. “The more progressive gyms are cognizant of the boomer fitness trends and are adding more mind-body classes like yoga and Pilates to their programming.”

Half of Briddell’s personal clients come to him because their lifestyle has become somewhat sedentary; the other half are frustrated with their fitness programs and come to him because they aren’t seeing results.

“The diverse interests of my clients range from seniors taking up a lifetime activity sport like golf or skiing to someone who wants to get into shape to hike the 46 high peaks in the Adirondacks,” Briddell said.

According to John C. Richards, orthopedic surgeon at Schenectady Regional Orthopedic Associates since 1974, the biggest challenge for seniors is sustaining the “mental preparedness” to stay active as their bodies’ age.

“You can always find something you can do,” said Richards, 62. “If you can’t run, you can walk. If you can’t walk, you can swim. It’s the people who are depressed, because they’re losing family or some of their independence, who go down quickly.”

No pain, no gain

At 62, Sally Kolesar of Ballston Spa adjusts her activities as gracefully as she ages.
“I started to run in my 30s and took up rowing at age 59,” she explained. “Running no longer feels good; and I can’t compete physically with the 40-year-old women on my rowing team. But, the goal is to keep moving.”

Rowing is a sport that once you learn it, you can do into your 90s. It’s low impact and a good all over exercise that you can theoretically do forever. The similarities between golf and rowing intrigued Kolesar who enjoys the challenge of mastering the sports’ intricate techniques.

“You have to stay focused, with your hands and body in the right places,” she explained. “The same rhythm is repeated over and over and it’s a great challenge for your mind and body.”
According to Richards, he has been more sports-related injuries, but with people who are generally in better health.

“I tell my clients that ‘motion is lotion’ and it’s important to stay active. Our challenge as doctors is to not discourage older athletes from doing things, even though a lot of people are doing too much,” he said.
“A lot of young trainers are enthusiastic, but think if they don’t get their client sore, they haven’t done a good job,” said Briddell. “The first month is not about results, it’s about education: understanding and learning the exercises so you won’t get hurt.”

Lifestyle changes

When Kolesar and McKnight were growing up, being a female athlete wasn’t considered attractive and cheerleading was the only sport available for women. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 opened doors for women athletes by prohibiting sexually-based discrimination in any activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
A staunch supporter, McKnight feels the legislation not only created opportunities for women that didn’t exist before, but it “set women up for life professionally and socially.” Having always believed she could compete in sports like her brother, McKnight’s training as a marathon runner and tri-athlete not only fueled her competitive nature, but taught her a lot about herself and life in general.
She laughed recalling the fear she felt before her first triathlon.

“I was pretty sure I could finish the race if I didn’t drown,” she joked. “Nobody drowns in a triathlon, but there’s a big difference between swimming laps in the pool versus swimming in open water. You have to face your personal demons and believe you can do it.”

McKnight lives her life every day as a tri-athlete from the way she organizes her time to the choices she makes in nutrition and friendships.

“It’s all about discipline, having an organized plan, managing your time well and believing in yourself,” she said. “The effect spills over into the workplace and everything you do once you realize that there’s nothing you can’t accomplish if you put your mind to it and prepare properly.”

In Our Life: We Loved You More

BY Louis Emory

Boomers still look to The Beatles to conjure up images of happier times when love was all you needed and peace was worth giving a chance. Their music has been a force of optimism during the turbulent times of both yesterday and today. On the heels of the latest blockbuster CD “Love” by The Beatles, Paul McCartney will release his “Memory Almost Full” album on June 4.
While the bands of today are forgotten tomorrow, The Beatles have managed to shine on with a fan base of Beatlemaniacs that keeps growing. It’s been 37 years since the band broke up and fans are still as hungry as ever to listen to the music of the boys from Liverpool.
Today’s substance-starved youth culture are digging out their parents old albums and discovering that those bands are where it’s at. Signs of this resurgence are evident on local college campuses, at music retailers and on local radio stations. Even today, The Beatles are studied in respected music programs like in the Rock History course taught at The College of Saint Rose.
“The business – it’s fast food; The Beatles didn’t write fast food. The Beatles wrote classic music,” said music professor Cliff Brucker, of Schenectady. “Their music is timeless. If you think about most pop music, it’s only meant to last a month or two and meant to be forgotten.”
The idealism, spirituality and change which The Beatles first sung about is becoming more relevant today connecting boomers with their kids. The media defined Bob Dylan as “The Voice” of the 60’s, but some will argue that, in fact, the Beatles were.
“The Beatles were the pied piper of their generation; everyone took notice when they did something. They are the visual symbol of the 60’s,” said Professor Candis Murray, a history professor from Cohoes.
“The Ed Sullivan Show” appearance was part of a promotional blitzkrieg that made girls scream, cry and buy. The Beatles were in the public eye of a hurricane from which the media never truly let them go.
“America had a void - it was the beginning of the 60’s, JFK was just assassinated, the Civil Rights era, everything was going to change,” said Brucker. “The Beatles were a perfect storm; they came right at a time when the atmosphere allowed them to happen.”
Their entire career has been highly publicized and written about hundreds of times in books. Other singers have recorded and performed their songs including Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Cash, and most recently Panic at the Disco. Their catalog has been reissued from vinyl records, to tapes, to CDs, and within a couple months, rumor has it The Beatles catalog will be reissued again in mp3 format available by download from Apple iTunes.
On any day tuning into local stations like 98.3 FM, listeners can hear a Beatles song. Monday through Friday DJ Tom Robinson hosts The Fab Four at four. Fans are treated to four songs back to back. On Sunday mornings a “Beatles Brunch” hosted by Joe Johnson is broadcast nationwide and here in The Capital Region on WTRY 98.3 FM.
Love has been the most common theme throughout all of their songs. From the mop top days of “She Loves You” until the very end of their career when they sang “The Love You Take Is Equal To The Love You Make,” The Beatles have stayed true to that tradition of always inviting their listeners to love. While there have been many bands since their break up, none have been as influential or had a stronger hold on the hearts of millions as they have. Fans have laughed, cried and screamed for the past four decades and the mania continues to grow stronger each year as the legend of The Beatles passes into myth.
“Not everybody loved (Jimmy) Hendrix, the (Grateful) Dead, (Bob) Dylan, and (Led) Zeppelin. Everybody loved the Beatles,” Murray said.

Getting back to basics
at Eastover Resort

By Amy E. Tucker

The Eastover Resort in Lenox, Mass., celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2007, proudly boasts that little has changed since the resort first opened on Memorial Day in 1947.
“We’ve adapted to the needs of our guests, but our premise hasn’t changed,” said Co-owner and General Manager Betsy Kelly. “You drive through the gate and you feel like you’re home.”
The brick Georgian mansion was built on 1,500 acres in 1910 as a summer “cottage” for New York City stock broker Harris Fahnestock and his family. Later sold by his heirs, the property became the Duncan School for Boys which went bankrupt in 1944. Kelly’s grandfather, Italian-born George Bisacca, purchased the now 500-acre property in 1946 for a mere $41,500.
Bisacca, whose family emigrated to the U.S. in 1906 and settled in Connecticut, embodied an entrepreneurial spirit and drive and left school in the ninth grade to “learn by experience.” Joining Ringling Brothers as a roustabout, he traveled the country working varied odd jobs eventually returning to Stamford where he opened a tire repair shop. By the start of World War II, Bisacca had grown his thriving business to include 22 gas stations and a Chrysler dealership.

Together with his wife, Ruth, Bisacca purchased the Eastover mansion embarking on his newest passion to develop a recreational resort for singles. It took a few years for the idea of a resort vacation to catch on.

“A middle class evolved after WWII with lots of disposable income. Credit cards didn’t exist yet and couples and families couldn’t afford to take vacations, so singles were the target market,” said Ticki Winsor, president/CEO of Eastover and Bisacca’s daughter.

But that changed by the early 60s as their clientele married and wanted to return with their families.
Today, Eastover caters to everyone – singles, couples, families and organizations. How they do it is through themed weekends and a-la-carte activities to delight all ages and lifestyles.
Annual events include a biker weekend, nudist weekend, sober weekends and women-only weekends to name a few. There are holiday-centered events like the St. Patty’s Day bash and July 4th extravaganza; seasonal offerings such as Oktoberfest and Hunting Week; specialty themes like the murder mystery and circus weekends; and ongoing kids campus, singles and family-weekend events.

“I couldn’t tell a Harley Davidson from a motor scooter when we started the Berkshire Rally nine years ago,” said Winsor. “Now, I ride on the back of them and compete in the biker games.”
Couples weekends provide a romantic retreat for young newlyweds or a temporary escape from the rigors of parenting. Singles weekends for both the “Over 21” and “Over 35” age groups offer safe, fun engaging ways to network and meet others while on vacation.

If you’re inspired by Annie Oakley, the “Becoming an Outdoors Woman” program in mid-June, sponsored by the Division of Fishers and Wildlife, offers workshops in archery, fly-fishing, bird watching, riflery and more. Or, if a girls-night-out is more your thing, escape to one of their “Girls-only Weekends” for a man-free, kid-free, stress-free weekend of pampering.

The women-only weekends have become so popular that they’re now offered four times a year. Everyone from sorority friends and divorced and widowed women to mothers, daughters and granddaughters enjoy the multi-generational retreats.

From girl-scouts to girls’ weekends, the women-owned resort knows how to cater to the ladies. Even the chief positions – from the chef to the front desk – are held by women. “It just sort of happened this way,” said Winsor.

Following Bisacca’s death in 1983, his daughters Ticki and Susan (McNinch) continued running Eastover with their families. McNinch retired in 1999 and in 2004 Ticki and her daughters Betsy and Susie Sudnikovich, a silent partner based in New Jersey, purchased the resort.

Life at Eastover is still pretty much the way George Bisacca envisioned it right down to the preservation of his Civil War museum in the American Heritage Room. The museum, which grew from Bisacca’s passion for history and the Civil War, is thought to be one of the largest, privately-held Civil War collections in the country. Buffalo, brought to the resort by Bisacca in 1963, roam in nearby pastures. Even the name Eastover, a name held over from its years as an estate, is still engraved in the marble main gates.

Both mother and daughter described growing up at Eastover as an adventure.

“You can’t separate growing up here from working here,” Winsor said. “It’s our life. In the hospitality business you do everything, but it’s a labor of love. I call this the ‘University of Eastover’ because you learn everything here.”

Kelly agreed.
“We’ll do anything we would ask our staff to do from changing beds and mopping floors to working as a bar back. The diversity here is constant. There’s always something going on and you’re never bored.”

That realization led Kelly to return to Eastover after college, where she now raises her children. Though she deems it a challenge to run a resort and raise a family, she is quick to recognize the balancing act everyone working and raising a family experiences. The only difference is that her kids have responsibilities and know they have to set examples for other kids.
Nestled in the hills of the Berkshire Mountains, the area’s rich history includes the nearby Norman Rockwell Museum, Mass MoCA, Tanglewood and the Prime Outlets in Lee. There’s local skiing in the winter and horseback riding and mountain biking in the spring, summer and fall.

Eastover offers no arcades, televisions or air-conditioning and they don’t sell alcohol, to avoid being governed by town ordinances. Guests can bring their own alcohol or order it locally from the front desk and have it delivered. They also have the option to order one-day licenses for weddings and holiday parties. Drop in mid-week to take in the arts, relax by the two Olympic swimming pools or enjoy a challenging game of shuffleboard, tennis or sand volleyball.

“People come here to escape the fast-paced world we live in,” Winsor stated. “It’s back to basics with no phone and computer, although thmain building is now wireless. Just not the twenty-first yet.
“The odds of a family-owned business succeeding aren’t great. If you can make it through the third generation, then you’re golden.”

For a complete list of theme weekends visit: www.eastover.com.

MezzaNotte Ristorante
Creative classic Italian

Overall rating on a scale of 1-10
Service 9 • Food - 8 • Ambiance - 7 • Price - $$$

By LP Clark

The evening was getting off to a rough start for Darling Dinner Date (D3) and me. An unexpected favor for a friend had us running 20 minutes late for our 7pm reservation at the new MezzaNotte Ristorante in Albany. Not having their phone number, all I could do was hope they weren’t one of those places that makes you feel worse than you already do when you arrive late for a Saturday night reservation. We pulled up to the restaurant to be greeted by valet parking, a nice touch since the parking lot was full and it was raining, and other parking options were not readily apparent. We were pleasantly greeted by the hostess, offered coat check service, and our table was still waiting for us. We walked past the open kitchen and were seated immediately inside the dining room, leaving us a great view for the evening’s cooking show. The restaurant was extremely busy and that included our server, David. It took him a little extra time to greet us, for which he was apologetic, and from the looks of it he was doing a great job working at least four other tables who had arrived all at the same time —not an easy feat. After the delayed start, David was everything we look for when it comes to great service; friendly, able to offer suggestions and able to anticipate our needs, such as extra plates for sharing. We never once had to ask for anything we needed. The wine list is extensive if ordering by the bottle, but somewhat limited for ordering by the glass, nevertheless we each found something to suit our tastes. Warm Italian bread arrived at the table accompanied by a plate of olive oil, vinegar and olive tapenade that had hints of lemon zest, a nice twist on what has become an Italian restaurant standard.

D3 started with the Pizzetta Di Portobello: Portobello mushroom caps topped with roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella and sundried tomatoes. The mushrooms were grilled and had a great steak-like texture and were topped with the peppers and sundried tomatoes. Fresh mozzarella is laid over top and melted ever so slightly. The dish is finished with a drizzle of pesto and balsamic vinaigrette. Each bite highlighted a different combination of the fantastic flavors. I opted to start with a salad, the Vedure Di Stagione: seasonal baby greens with warm goat cheese, toasted filberts, dried figs and white balsamic vinaigrette. The many different flavors blended well together – the sweetness of the figs, the toasted hearty filberts with the creaminess of the goat cheese, all atop fresh baby greens, made for a fresh start to the meal. This salad could easily be an entrée for someone trying to dine on the lighter side.

Our table was cleared and reset with new silverware in anticipation of our entrée’s arrival. I believe this is something of note, or perhaps just a personal pet peeve, but there is nothing I hate more than having to “save” my silverware for the following course, especially when all the other points of service and presentation have been tended to. I’m glad that MezzaNotte did not overlook this detail. The Penne Alla Siciliana; eggplant and hot Italian sausage in a spicy pomodoro sauce arrived for D3, and for me, the Tortelloni Ripieni, the chef’s special tortelloni, with brown butter, sage, walnuts and parsley. D3 is a connoisseur of sausages and this one met his standards. It was hot, yet flavorful and blended well with the eggplant and tomato flavors of the dish. He said while the pasta was not al dente, it was certainly not overdone, which is probably the texture most patrons are looking for. I sampled the dish and the spiciness was excellent. Be warned: this is not a dish for people who can’t take the heat! Before even tasting the tortelloni, I noticed they appeared to be homemade, which David confirmed. The chef’s stuffing for the pasta that night was fresh spinach and peppers with ricotta cheese. The butter walnut sage sauce was rich, but not overpowering, or outrageously heavy.

Like we always do, D3 and I glanced ahead to the dessert offerings and agreed to save room, so we ate only half our meals. We enjoyed the leftovers the next evening, which seems to be standard protocol for those dining at Mezza Notte, as we did not witness a single person leave without a doggie bag.

Tiramisu is at the top of the dessert menu and always grabs my attention. However, they also offer a gelato of the day. It was pistachio and chocolate, neither of which were powerful enough to pull me away from ordering the Venetian Tiramisu. D3 was eyeing the ricotta cheesecake, but David convinced him that the Torta Di Ciocolate was a must have, a dense chocolate tort accented with almond flavor. The Tiramisu did not disappoint, and for those who order it often and are familiar with the many variations, this was a cake-like layered style as opposed to the zabaglione atop scant lady fingers style. While D3 was happy with his choice, it was quite an intense endeavor; the ricotta cheesecake would have been a lighter finish to the meal. We both decided a dessert doggie bag was also in order.

Mezza Notte is an upscale dining experience, the perfect place for a festive occasion or celebration, but it is not a romantic setting as the dining room is loud and the bustle of the restaurant is front and center with the open kitchen. Reservations are recommended. The total cost of the meal was $100.93, not including the tip or the tip for the valet. The offered tip for the coat check was kindly refused. This was a great value considering we ordered off the entire menu and had dinner for two nights.

MezzeNotte is located at 2026 Western Avenue, Albany. They open Monday-Saturday at 5pm. For more information call 689.4433 or visit www.mezzanottealbany.com.

Serious fiction, fun fiction, and a memoir this month—dive right in!

Most of my historical fiction reading is set in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. I know the framework—the history, the royalty, the social trends—so the stories tend to be reassuringly familiar. This month I ventured out of my comfort zone and read The Blood of Flowers by Anita Amirrezvani. Set in 17th century Iran, this is an enlightening story of one young woman’s attempts to choose her life’s path in a time and place in which female autonomy was virtually unknown. When the 14-year-old narrator’s father dies, she and her mother must throw themselves on the mercy of her father’s half-brother, a wealthy carpet designer for the court of the Shah. They are treated as servants in his house, but our heroine’s talents as a rug maker and designer are encouraged to develop. Still, her marriage prospects are bleak; without a dowry, her chances for a respectable match are slim. Instead, she is contracted out for a temporary “marriage” of three months to a wealthy man who may, at his whim, choose to continue the relationship or not as it pleases him. While this arrangement is financially beneficent to her uncle, our narrator is ashamed of her position and yearns only to make her own choices for her future. How she manages to do so with pluck, daring and fortitude make this novel a treat to read. The Blood of Flowers reminds me of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Caroline See; in both cases I learned more about a foreign culture and my education was cleverly disguised as entertainment. This would be an excellent discussion choice for a book group with a multicultural bent.


By now, you may have figured out that I am an ardent Jane Austen fan. Luckily for me, June brings another offering to the Jane Austen altar: Austenland by Shannon Hale. Hale, better known as an author of young adult novels, turns her talents to chick lit and the result is well worth reading! Jane Hayes, like Bridget Jones before her, is a young woman with an unhealthy obsession with Mr. Darcy as played by Colin Firth. Somehow, her real-life relationships never measure up to the BBC production of “Pride and Prejudice” that rules her fantasy life. When Jane’s great aunt dies and leaves her a three-week trip to Pembrook Park, a Jane Austen fantasy camp for adults, she vows to take the trip, then swear off her fantasy forever. Thus begins the story (and if there isn’t already a Regency-era England theme park, someone should create one, because this book will make you want to go there). As Jane learns the social conventions of the era before heading to the manor house (no first names with members of the opposite sex unless you are engaged to that person; no electronic gadgets; the rules of whist; the servant class is invisible), she worries about living a make-believe life for three weeks, especially while dressed in low-cut gowns and corsets. Her arrival at Pembrook Park eases her fear (there is modern plumbing!) and we are plunged into a story that is one-third Jane Austen and two-thirds modern day chick lit. Could there be a real Mr. Darcy at Pembrook Park? Will fantasy trump reality? Can a modern woman find love the old-fashioned way? You’ll find all this and more in Austenland, and have a rollicking good time doing it.


It is almost time for summer camp, and Mindy Schnieder’s new memoir, Not A Happy Camper, is just in time to remind us of those carefree days of youth, frolicking in the arms of Mother Nature. Or not. In the summer of 1974, 13-year old Mindy spent eight weeks at Camp Kin-A-Hurra in Maine. Her goal? To have her first boyfriend so she would have someone to kiss goodbye on the last night of camp. Camp Kin-A-Hurra turns out to be the antithesis of her previous camp. Instead of wearing a uniform, she can wear her own shorts and t-shirts. Instead of regimented activities being mandated over a PA system, the campers do what they want to do when they want to do it. And instead of snobby rich girls, Camp Kin-A-Hurra is populated by friendly girls who are willing to welcome the new girl into their midst. The owner of the camp may have slightly misrepresented Kin-A-Hurra when he was extolling its virtues to Mindy’s parents—the cabins aren’t heated, there is no photography lab and kosher is more a state of mind, rather than an actual practice. Still, she manages to have the classic camp experiences—raiding the boys’ camp, starring in the softball game against the rival camp on the other side of town, hiking the Maine mountains on an overnight away trip and participating in the camp color war. This is a delightful memoir. You needn’t have attended a sleepaway camp to appreciate Mindy Schneider’s book. If you’ve ever left home, wondering who you really were and searching for a place to belong, this will resonate with you. Plus, there’s a heavy dose of 1970s nostalgia—what’s not to like?

Susan Taylor has been in the book business, in one aspect or another, since 1982. She recently returned to the Capital District after 14 years in the Boston area (which included stints at the Harvard Bookstore and the Wellesley Booksmith), and is happily re-employed at the Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza. Stop by the store if you are looking for a good book—she’s read a lot more than she can talk about here!

The end of WWII marked a prosperous time for the country. With the return of the soldiers came many happy reunions resulting in a huge population explosion, otherwise known as the baby boom.
In light of this popular era, we bring you our first boomer issue. It’s a big era, spanning 1946 to 1964. And although I’m not a boomer, I can appreciate those who are. Some might say the Eisenhower years were the best of times. Things seemed simpler, people were more respectful and there was a deeper sense of community. Gas was cheap, houses were affordable and one income was enough to support a family. But it’s so much more! It’s T-Birds and Mustangs, Mickey Mouse and Moon landings; Elvis and the Beatles, Rock & Roll and Motown.The Cold War, Civil Rights, Vietnam, television: the list goes on and on. As you can imagine, it’s impossible to encapsulate this era in a few pages, but, in true boomer spirit, we gave it our best shot!
In addition to celebrating boomers, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that this month marks CRL’s four year anniversary, a milestone in the magazine world. As many of you probably know, CRL has been under new ownership since Doug Hahn purchased the magazine five months ago. As the publisher, he is working hard to nurture the magazine. We recently added a few more glossy pages and in the coming months we will be announcing other exciting changes. All good, I promise. In order to provide you with fresh, interesting information, I ask that you visit www.crlmag.com on June 8th to fill out a reader’s survey. There, you will be asked such questions as: Which column is your favorite? Which one don’t you read? Are there any feature articles that you would like to see? Please share your thoughts and ideas and, in the coming months, you’ll be sure to see the changes.
At last summer is just about here—enjoy it and be safe!

Baby Boomers

By John Gray

This month’s issue focuses on that large, healthy group of grown-ups known as the “Baby Boomers”. Just like the kids who hated being lumped into something called Generation X, I don’t like people putting me into a category just because I was born in 1962. In case you’re wondering, that puts me on the outer fringe of these so called boomers. But, whether you toss me in that basket or not, I can’t deny the gray in my hair, the waistline that has betrayed me, or the fact that the show “Happy Days” isn’tsomething I discovered on Nick at Night, but a favorite I watched every Tuesday night with my family right before Laverne and Shirley came “Schlameil, Schlamazeil, hasenpfeffer incorporated”. I can still see the little bottle of beer with Laverne’s glove on top going along the conveyor belt.When I see a pretty woman throw her hat in the air I think of Mary Tyler Moore. If I hear someone say, “Oh, my nose,” I, of course, laugh and remember Marcia Brady getting her just desserts for dumping a nice guy to go out with the “BMOC” (big man on campus). And if someone my age says, “I missed it by that much,” my thoughts turn to a secret agent not quite as cool as James Bond, but a fellow named Maxwell Smart.
I’ve wondered why the people trapped on Gilligan’s Island packed so many clothes if it was only supposed to be a three hour cruise. I’ve lost patience with the people of Gotham City because all Bruce Wayne did was put on a tiny mask and still they couldn’t figure out he was Batman. I remember crying the first time I saw a western where a little boy called out to a cowboy who was riding off into the sunset, “Shane, Shane”. And before yelling at his daughter over the cell phone and starring in dozens of major motion pictures, I remember Alec Baldwin playing a creepy TVpreacher on “Knots Landing”. A show only to be outdone by Bobby Ewing’s famous shower scene on “Dallas” or the cat fight that landed Joan Collins in the swimming pool on “Dynasty.”
Anyone under 40 is probably wondering what I’m talking about with these memories, but they are special to us Baby Boomers. And for me there are so many others. While Little League certainly existed “sand lot baseball” was more the national pastime when I was a boy. We didn’t have bottle water - you either drank from a garden hose or, God forbid, just stuck your face in a nearby stream to quench your thirst. We didn’t have anger management courses either so if there was a bully in the neighborhood you had to work that one out by yourself.
I love the convenience of my local Stewart’s shop, but I do miss all the mom and pop grocery stores that dotted the corners of those great old neighborhoods 30 years ago. They didn’t call it the Italian section of Troy or Schenectady because there was a store or two selling good sauce (or gravy as they say), but because the people there actually spoke Italian, some first generation to our fine country.
Towns and cities had more personality back then and everything wasn’t so homogenized. The big box stores and “strip malling” of America hadn’t happened yet. Penny candy really was a penny and you could sit at the counter of a local diner and a “soda jerk” would actually make you a rootbeer float for just a quarter.
I don’t know if more of us went to church back then, but I don’t recall a single house of worship being forced to close. I do think we were a friendlier, more trusting people. Mom’s and Dad’s just opened the back door and said to the kids, “Go play, just have your butt home before the street lights come on.” And play we did. Not with video games and Ipods, but with an empty soup can in the middle of the street, a simple game called kick the can.
Most baby boomers came from families that had what I like to call “just enough”. Just enough food on the table. Just enough gas in the car. Just enough space in a small home or flat to fit the growing family. I drive through neighborhoods now and look at these monstrosities that people live in. What, are there 25 rooms in some of these? First I wonder how they can afford it and second I ask myself why? Why so big. I say lucky is the child who is forced to share a bedroom with his brother or sister. They may complain all day long, but when the lights go out at night and you are laying there with the sound of crickets in the air and big thoughts bouncing around your head it’s nice to have someone you love an arm’s length away. Some of the nicest conversations happen between brothers and sisters in the pitch dark, in hushed tones. And if someone is upset and trying to hide the fact that they are crying, it isn’t long before a whisper comes from the other bed. “Are you okay? What’s wrong? Please tell me!” No one ever tells their sibling they love them at that age, but that’s what those conversations secretly say.
I don’t know why, but kids growing up in the 50’s and 60’s all had nicknames. No one was ever Joseph; they were Joey Sox because of the time he stole a pair of sox off of Mrs. Hopewell’s clothes line in broad daylight. Based on this theory you probably didn’t want to sit next to a kid named “Farts” at the movie theater. Speaking of movies, kids today may have their 18 screen Cineplex and $10 movies, but we had big old theaters like Proctor’s in Troy. I see Proctor’s in Schenectady and the Palace in Albany have brought back “movie night” on the big screen and that’s a great thing. Families were also bigger back then so you had to be sure who you were about to beat up or throw a snowball at. “That’s Tommy Defazio. As in the little brother of Rocco DeFazio the toughest kid this side of Chicago?” Yep. You had to know your place.
Every house had a TV set with a pair of pliers sitting on top. Can you guess why? Baby Boomers know. It was to change the channel on the television because the knob broke off. Just three channels to choose from back when we were kids. Can you imagine your children today with no cable or DVR, no computer or Mp3 player? They might have to actually read a book.
If you see someone over 40 making a painful face in the check-out line at the supermarket you have to understand what they remember paying for things. In 1960 a brand new house ran you $12,000. Some people spend that on landscaping today. A gallon of gas was $.25 cents and you didn’t have to get out of the car to pump it. Someone waited on you, checking the oil and cleaning the windshield while you sat. To really put it in perspective just consider that $100 dollars in 1960 would be equivalent to about $700 today. In 1960 that hundred bucks would go along way toward buying you a new TV to watch a funny cartoon show that just came on - The Flintstones. That’s the same year the President said he needed to send a few troops to help squash Communism in some country we never heard of, Vietnam. Yabba Dabba Do.
Getting old isn’t fun or easy and I truly do appreciate the modern conveniences my kids take for granted. But, if I got to choose a time and place to grow up I don’t think I would have traded all the points cards I collected from my Mallow Cups to be anything but a Baby Boomer.
Every year on Christmas Eve the clever folks at TNT play the movie “A Christmas Story” non-stop for 24 hours and every year many of us can’t resist watching. Know why? Because it is dead on accurate to the way things used to be when life was simple and all dreams were possible. It tells our story. So yes, my friend, you are little Ralphy hoping to find the BB gun under the tree, encouraging your classmate to stick his tongue on the flagpole and watching your favorite TV show with a secret decoder ring in hand. Corny? Absolutely. But also priceless. And a nice memory to have the next time you climb in your SUV, pump it full of $3 dollar a gallon gas and drive off to the mega mall where you can’t find a parking spot. Hmm, I wonder if they still sell Stretch Armstrong? Probably not.

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

Sun Sign Forecast
For June 2007

By Arlene DeAngelus

Best Days for June: 10, 11, 24 and 29

Aries: (March 21 to April 20) New studies and all forms of communication are your focus for June. Your energy level is high on the 4th and 11th, however think before acting on the 13th. On the 21st, you have an interest in the law, foreign cultures and religion. Changes involving career areas, or the equivalent, are possible after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Finances and how you earn those finances are your focus for June. Decisions on shared resources can be made on the 4th and 11th. After the 15th, review all communications and reconfirm travel plans and reservations. You rethink your goals and directions toward the end of the month. Your interest turns to philosophies and religion after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Gemini : (May 21 to June 20) Self-expression and new projects are your focus for June. You work to accomplish a desired goal on the 4th and 11th. After the 15th, carefully review any financial dealings or contracts. Unexpected changes occur in career areas, or the equivalent, after the 23rd. Your attention turns to matters involving shared resources after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Self-analysis and renewed spirituality are your focus for June. Your efficiency is geared toward your career and the services that you provide to others on the 11th and 21st. Physical efficiency is important, too. Later in the month, you explore more abstract areas. One-to-one relationships become more important after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Working toward your goals and directions are your focus for June. Maintaining peace with loved ones takes patience on the 4th, 11th and 21st. You learn new ways to handle these important relationships. After the 23rd, sharing resources takes an unexpected turn. You work to improve the services that you provide for others after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) Attention to your career area, or the equivalent, is your focus for June. Your energy also goes into helping others to succeed on the 11th and 13th. After the 15th, choose your words with friends carefully. Partners can be unpredictable toward the end of the month. You become emotionally involved with loved ones after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Intellectual and religious studies are your focus for June. You gain a new perspective on life. One-to-one relationships bring happiness on the 4th and 13th. Review all business communications before submitting or mailing after the 15th. Late in the month, a co-worker needs your support. Personal areas require your attention after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) Shared resources and values are your focus for June Career areas are favored on the 4th and 11th. After the 15th, reconfirm all travel reservations. Recognition is possible on the 21st. Later in the month, loved ones are somewhat unpredictable. You examine your everyday environment and habits after the Full Moon on the 30th. Make any needed changes.

Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) One-to-one relationships, both personal and business are your focus for June. Loved ones and children bring you pleasure on the 4th, 11th and 13th. After the 15th, rethink all financial dealings. Your life becomes a little unpredictable late in the month. Finances can be somewhat changeable after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Capricorn: (December 22 through January 19) Work and health matters are your focus for June. Domestic and personal areas are favored on the 4th, 11th and 21st. You take an interest in your family roots. After the 15th, communications become strained in one-to-one relationships. Plan a short trip. You seek new ways to express yourself after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Aquarius: (January 20 to February 18) Children and loved ones are your focus for June. This is a time for inspiration and creative arts, especially writing. Sell an idea on the 4th or 21st. After the 15th, you find co-workers need your support. Unexpected expenses may arise later in the month. You seek spiritual understanding in your life after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Domestic and personal areas are your focus for June. Financial matters are favored on the 4th and 11th. Recognition or a promotion is also possible at these times. Use care in communications with loved ones after the 15th. Later in the month, you look to break away and spread your wings. You set new goals after the Full Moon on the 30th.

Cape Cod

A world of contrasts and chowder

By William M. Dowd

PROVINCETOWN, MA -- The man in the bow held one oar out of the water, feathering the other to act as a rudder. His partner in the stern gamely kept pulling with both oars. Slowly, the chunky rowboat turned, its prow now aimed directly at the Provincetown II, the largest Cape Cod Bay scenic cruiser, which was moored to the foot of MacMillan Wharf.

With a little more maneuvering, its crew managed to bring it alongside the cruiser, but it was a precarious spot. The usually calm waters of Provincetown Harbor were churned up by a steady stream of boats making their way to the processional lineup at the other side of the wharf.

“Hey, Father!” called a woman who had been hanging on the rail of the larger vessel, peering down at the rowboat bobbing 20 feet below. “Maybe you better bless ‘em early. I don’t think they can make it around again.”

The priest obligingly shook the aspergillum, and a spray of holy water droplets from the wand went over the side and onto the rowboat and its occupants.

The scene was several years ago at the annual Blessing of the Fleet, a local tradition for more than a half-century. On this particular Sunday, it had begun 15 minutes early because that small interloper jumped the starting line. Each year some such oddity happens, which makes the culminating event of the three-day Portuguese festival so interesting.

This year the festival celebrating P-town’s Portuguese fishing village past is scheduled for June 21-23. For some it is the start of high season on Cape Cod, although some who mark the Fourth of July as the real tourist season regard it as merely an early bird special.

Whatever draws people to the Cape, and there is a stunning scope of activities on this storied 75-mile stretch of sandy soil jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, it has long been a primary domestic vacation spot for Capital Region inhabitants, even in times of high gasoline prices such as the ones we’re now enduring.

From Sandwich, the Cape’s oldest town, on the west just across the Cape Cod Canal from the mainland to Provincetown on the eastern end, it is a jumble of villages, art galleries, boat landings, iconic New England architecture and tourist kitsch. And, of course, the beaches, primary among them the protected Cape Cod National Seashore, a 43,600-acre legacy of the Kennedy Administration.

The Cape is a place that continually reinvents itself without throwing out its history. But the reinvention takes on different personae, from raucous P-town to reserved Sandwich.

P-town, for example, once was known primarily as a fishing port. Then it became better known for its art community. Now it’s known as a gay friendly vacation destination with lots of art galleries and a fishing community heritage that helps maintain its maritime atmosphere. Its boisterous night life and a bustling waterfront are legendary.

Many of its once-neglected alleys have been transformed into pedestrian pathways between neighborhoods. Buildings have been converted into charming little homes and B&B’s with postage-stamp gardens. Some spots have become home to clusters of tiny stores that put less strain for rent and utilities on small-business owners.

The seasonal shops along narrow, bustling Commercial Street that runs the length of town are vying with the year-round businesses for tourist dollars. In a leisurely stroll, you come across everything from a Hallmark store to a drag nightclub, from fine dining to a saltwater taffy shop, from modern home decor offerings to antique finds.

Mid-Cape, Hyannis continues to trade on its history as a home to the Kennedy family, with a Kennedy museum on the main street in town and the famous Kennedy residential compound in adjacent Hyannisport still the target of gawkers and picture-takers. It is the most “typical American” spot on the Cape, with a hospital, radio station, the main office of the daily newspaper, a few shopping centers, a thriving main street, a small airport, loads of condos and hotels.

One of its biggest tourist draws is the annual Father’s Day classic car show that takes up several blocks of downtown and offers a visual feast for those into old Mercs, Fords, Chevys, Packards and more. I’ve visited it for several years and each June the lineup seems to get longer and more fascinating.

The aforementioned Sandwich, on the west end of the Cape, is the quietest of these three benchmark communities. It is home to the Dexter Grist Mill, a working mill built in 1654 on Shawme Pond in the town center, the Sandwich Glass Museum and the Heritage Museums & Gardens, a sprawling year-round complex housing the J.K. Lilly III Antique Automobile Museum -- another spot for car buffs -- plus the Art Museum and 1912 carousel, the Cape Cod Baseball League Hall of Fame and various horticultural attractions.

The Cape can be a tough place to negotiate in high season -- late June through the Labor Day Weekend -- for the uninitiated. Travel is relegated mostly to a trio of main roads, which get backed up during peak hours headed to or from the beaches or to and from the nightlife.

Some people avoid that by scaling back to two wheels, taking advantage of the Cape’s many bike trails. The crown jewel of these is the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 22-mile long paved path that follows a onetime railroad right-of-way through Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet on the Outer Cape, offering safe passage away from road traffic.

The Cape proper extends from the Cape Cod Canal in the west to Herring Cove Beach in the northeast, shaped like the upraised arm of someone “making a muscle.” It is traversed largely on routes 6, 6A and 28. Once you’re off them, you’d better know the local layout intimately to avoid being caught hungry in the many cul-de-sacs and roads that dead-end at salt marshes or ponds.

I say “caught hungry” because this is a crowded place at feeding time despite the huge range of dining spots.

Logistically, since Route 6 (the Mid-Cape Highway) is a limited-access thoroughfare until you get past Orleans at the Cape’s elbow and head north, the principal dining clusters are mostly on routes 28 and 6A.

A four-mile stretch of Route 28 from the edge of Hyannis east to West Dennis on the Bass River is a prime example of how packed with dining variety the Cape’s main roads can be.

At least 40 food-related spots are jammed into that span, from the fairly-new Oinky & Moo’s southern barbecue in West Dennis to the self-explanatory old Riverway Lobster House in Yarmouth.

This is a good base of operations for families who like casual, inexpensive food plus proximity to inexpensive motels and elaborate miniature golf layouts, or for couples who need the nightlife. You never have to leave the locale to experience an astounding variety of foods: Irish pub, seafood, Thai, hot dogs and ice cream, soups and salads, Chinese, brunches, Mexican, Polynesian, pizza and the inevitable Dairy Queen, McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts spots and more.

Breakfast is a big deal on the Cape, what with most people wanting to just grab lunch on the run or pack a picnic to take along to the beaches or a trek on the Cape Cod Rail Trail bike pathway.

In West Yarmouth, for example, Molly’s offers a traditional Irish breakfast (thick Irish bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, tomatoes, beans and home fries) for a paltry $8.50. I still think of the tiny slip of a girl I saw easily polish one off while her boyfriend toyed with a regular-sized ham and eggs.

And, Persey’s Place, several blocks east of the Kennedy Museum, serves what it boasts is “New England’s Largest Breakfast Menu” from 7am to 3pm. Recommended: such delightful oddities as hash Benedict, or chocolate chip/banana/walnut pancakes.

We can’t leave the topic of food without a mention of the ubiquitous clam chowder. The creamy original, not that Manhattan style abomination that is a tomato/vegetable soup masquerading as royalty. I have often had the “best” bowl of New England clam chowder ever. The problem is, it’s always somewhere different. There are so many contests to name the Cape’s best such concoction, everyone seems to hold a title. A delightful problem for chowder lovers.

For those whose idea of a dream vacation is doing nothing but watch other people doing things, the Cape is a wonderland.

Watching the fishing boats unload a day’s catch at the Chatham pier on the southern tip of the Cape is an eye opener, and can be a nose-closer if you get too close.

Grabbing one of the many whale watching excursion boats heading into the bay or the ocean can be a relaxing experience in fair weather.

If you long for the simpler summer evenings of old, or for those who have seen it in movies but never experienced it, the Cape is a great place for strolling a sidewalk with an ice cream cone in hand. Or taking in a baseball game at any of the 10 fields that are home to teams of college-aged minor leagues in the 114-year-old Cape Cod Baseball League – Bourne, Brewster, Cotuit, Wareham, Chatham, Falmouth, Hyannis, Harwich, Orleans, and Yarmouth-Dennis.

Factoid: One in seven major league baseball players get started in the CCBL.

In the final analysis, the words of the 1950s Patti Page hit song “Old Cape Cod” say it simply and precisely:

“If you’re fond of sand dunes and salty air,
“Quaint little villages here and there,
“You’re sure to fall in love with
“Old Cape Cod.”

William M. Dowd is a Capital Region journalist who specializes in food, drink and destinations. You can access his numerous blogs at Dowd's Guides.

Hosting a wine tasting

By Henry Klein

Hosting a wine tasting party is a fun and excellent way to get together with friends, learn about wine and experiment with new or unusual varieties of wine. A few key steps will help ensure a wine tasting that is sure to be a hit.

The guest list

Typically 8-12 guests are ideal. A regular (750 ml) bottle of wine can accommodate up to 12 people if a typical 2-ounce tasting sample is used.

Choosing the wine & theme

It’s best to limit the wine selection to no more than six wines to go along with your chosen theme. There are many options when choosing a theme for your tasting. Choices can be extremely broad or specific; it is entirely up to you! A few examples:
• Several wines from different varietals (grape type) i.e. Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon. Always serve wine from whites to reds. Work from sweet to dry with white wines and progress from light to full-bodied with red wines.
• A horizontal tasting includes wines from different wineries that are the same type and vintage (year) i.e. six different bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon each with a vintage date of 2004.
• A vertical tasting offers the same brand of wine from different vintages i.e. Winery X Cabernet Sauvignons from 2000-2005. Always start with the youngest and end with the most mature.
• Italian Reds
• California Chardonnays
• German Rieslings

Conducting the tasting

• Wines should be served at their proper temperatures. Whites slightly chilled, but not cold, and reds at a cool room temperature of about 65 degrees. Young reds should be opened about 15-20 minutes before the tasting and more mature reds should be opened half an hour before they are to be poured.
• Wines should be arranged on the table in the order in which they are to be tasted. Whether your tasting is informal or more formal, consider having a blind tasting, where the tasters do not know which wine is in each glass. This reduces the chances of personal preference or prejudice influencing the ratings. To do this, simply cover the wine bottle with a bag and number or letter the bottles. Corresponding numbers or letters should also be placed on the base of each glass, or a wine placemat may be used (wine placemats contain a pattern for placement of wine glasses). Of course, if a blind tasting is performed, some introduction should be given, such as letting guests know the wines are Cabernet Sauvignon’s from 2004.
• A set of wine glasses for each taster is needed. The glasses should be of the same style for each taster. Keep in mind that white wines are commonly served in smaller, slightly curved glasses that helps hold the wine’s chill and accentuates its delicate flavor and aroma, while reds are better served in large bowl-shaped glasses to help heighten their flavor and aroma.
• Receptacles should be available in the event that someone wishes to “spit”.
• Have a sufficient amount of sliced plain baguettes and pitchers of water to act as palate cleansers. It is better to hold off on eating until after the tasting. A tasting without food provides for a clearer point of view, as food changes the taste of the wine.
• It is helpful to keep the tasting area free of strong scented items such as flowers, perfumes or cooked foods, as this can interfere when evaluating the aroma of the wine. It is also best to have a plain white tablecloth to make color and clarity evaluations easier.
• Typically, a 2-ounce sample is poured per tasting.
• Each guest should be given a tasting form or a scoring sheet. These sheets can be easily downloaded off the Internet from a number of websites (try www.winecountrygetaways.com and www.winereviewer.com). Wines are ranked from 1-5 (1 being poor and 5 being outstanding) in the following categories—Appearance, Aroma, Body, Taste and Finish.

Discussion

After the tasting and tabulations are completed, the wines should be un-bagged if a blind tasting was conducted so that participants can see which wines they most enjoyed. Your guests can compare their likes and dislikes. For added interest, un-bag the wines from last place to first place if scores were submitted. To make the party a bit more interesting and educational, consider doing a little research on the wines, wineries and winemaking regions used in your tasting. l
Wine of the Month: Mount Eden Chardonnay Edna Valley Wolff Vineyard 2004 $17

Henry Klein III is owner of Cabernet Café, 1814 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information call 452.5670 or visit www.cabernetcafe.com.

Forgiveness

By Diane E. Lykes, LCSW

Would it surprise you to hear that people who practice forgiveness on a daily basis live fuller, happier and healthier lives? And that people who forgive others are emotionally strong, have full hearts and live life with meaning and purpose. Reading these time-honored quotes may shed some light on this:
“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover the prisoner was you.” (unknown)
If we practice an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, soon the whole world will be blind and toothless.” (Mahatma Gandhi)
“To err is human; to forgive, divine.” (Alexander Pope)
Forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. The impact of holding on to hurt, anger and even vengeful thoughts can impact as little as two people and as many as an entire world.
Read on to learn what it means to forgive and how you can take the necessary steps to build this practice into your daily life.

What is forgiveness?

There is a great deal of confusion about what it means to forgive others. To forgive another person does not mean you will forget what happened or that the person is now free from accepting responsibility for his or her actions. It doesn’t mean that you will allow them back into your life. Forgiveness is the act of letting go of your pain, anger and resentment so that you can emotionally heal and move forward.
When you choose not to forgive, you are agreeing to hold onto your resentment and ultimately that person will continue to have a hold over you. It takes more energy to carry a grudge and this negative energy will have a direct impact on your relationships and your happiness.
At the same time, when someone violates your trust, you cannot just forget what happened. In fact, unless we remember history, we will have a greater chance of repeating the same mistakes. In one of his speeches, John F. Kennedy stated: “Forgive your enemies, but never forget their names.” Your relationship and trust for the person who hurt you can only be repaired through a gradual process of healing and re-building. Reconciliation is possible if we keep several things in mind. Consider the following list of suggestions as you work on building forgiveness into your life.

How do we forgive?

How do you forgive a hit and run driver, an unfaithful spouse or a boss who makes your job unbearable? A growing number of researchers are suggesting that we can teach ourselves how to forgive and that the result will be improved mental and physical health.
When something tragic happens, it is important to take your time and allow yourself to grieve. Rushing to forgive someone does not give you the time to heal from the pain. Talk with the people you trust and ask them for support with your healing. We can learn a great deal about ourselves if we learn how to deal with our deepest hurt. The other person may choose to apologize, make amends, attempt reconciliation, but forgiveness is always your choice and yours alone.
Once you have given yourself permission to grieve, it is important to begin looking for the “hidden gifts”. Ask yourself: what is the lesson in this for me? Is there some way that this experience will serve me?
Another important tool for moving toward forgiveness is learning not to dwell on pain inflicted by others. Dr. Frederic Luskin, author of the book, Forgive for Good, suggests that you stop renting out space in your mind to the things that hurt you. Think of all the energy you expend ruminating about someone who has hurt you. Being consumed by another person is exhausting. Forgiveness gives you the energy to focus on the things in your life that you want to achieve.
Learning to understand the reasons why people make certain choices is also a helpful tool in working toward forgiveness. For example, people are more likely to have an affair when their emotional needs are not being met. When couples attend counseling for infidelity, both partners often state that they are feeling “emotionally empty” in the relationship. Understanding your partner’s behavior does not mean you accept or condone it, but it does offer an awareness that may be necessary to heal yourself.
Finally, begin accepting that you cannot make someone behave the way you would like him/her to. It’s futile and only leads to greater frustration. Getting angry and stressed out is not going to make your boss fair or kind, but it will make you exhausted and worn down. Your own healing should not depend on whether the other person apologizes or changes their behavior.
The practice of forgiveness has been shown to increase hope, peace and compassion in our daily lives. It leads to improved emotional and physical health and long-lasting relationships. Although it can be immensely challenging, it deserves our full attention.

Diane Lykes is a Principal of Synergy Counseling Associates in Albany where she specializes in individual and couples counseling, educational training and clinical consultation. Synergy is a unique counseling practice providing compassionate, solution-oriented treatment for adults, children, adolescents and families. She can be reached at 466-3100 or at lykes-synergy@nycap.rr.com

“…And don’t let the bedbugs bite”

By Bob McNamara

If you were to ask a bunch of people what it means to be a baby boomer, you’d probably hear variations on the theme of “it was an increase in the population after veterans came home from the war.” But to actually BE a baby boomer is to be part of a movement, a way of life. Lives that once consisted of running the streets ‘til dinner time with whatever other kids happened to be outside, of seeing who could swing the highest, of pedal cars and trucks you had to push and make the engine noise for, of dolls with pulls strings, of a bunch of kids rolling around the back of wood sided station wagons without seat belts, and getting spanked, not just by your mother, but by your friend’s mother if you acted up at her house (and without litigation).
Our lives are much more complicated now. As we raise our own kids with time-outs rather than spankings, pay for braces for them and laser eye surgery for us, and make appointments for our kids to play at friend’s houses, we remember fondly the way things used to be. And we look ahead at the way we want things to be – sending our kids to college, retiring comfortably without a pension and maybe even buying that second home some day. And, as we lay wide awake at night thinking about how we are going to pay for it all, pharmacists dedicate an entire industry to our sleepless nights (not to mention our arthritic knees, gastric reflux, restless legs and more delicate issues advertised on TV every five minutes during the baseball game).
Financial planners strive to deliver peace of mind. We talk. About them. About their goals, dreams, hopes, fears, where they are now, where they want to be and how we might get there. We talk about appropriate asset allocation, setting up potential income streams for life, risk management, income tax reduction strategies and estate planning. The products and services are simply a means to an end.
In the dot.com era, many thought they could manage their own portfolios. Perhaps a few could. However, we see a major shift among boomers back toward seeking advice – because as we grow closer to our retirement years, we recognize that we can’t afford to take the same risks we could when we acted on a “double dog dare”. Our future comfort is at stake.
I double dog dare you to ask yourself these questions:
• Am I able to go to sleep at night knowing I have complete peace of mind about my financial future?
• Are my assets properly allocated based on recent or upcoming changes to my life and lifestyle?
• Am I absolutely sure the beneficiaries on all of my accounts reflect my current wishes?
• Can I really afford to pay for college for my children without sacrificing my other goals?
• Am I happy with the amount of income tax I am paying Uncle Sam?
• Have I made provisions for my family in case something happens to me? Are they enough?
• Can I live for 30+ years on my retirement savings?
• Is there a charitable organization I would like to help now as well as after I am gone?
• Have I introduced my financial, legal and other advisors to my spouse so that he/she might feel comfortable seeking their advice should something happen to me?
If the above questions didn’t cause you a little discomfort, I didn’t do my job properly. I’d rather you have one more sleepless night considering these questions than live an actual real life nightmare by not planning sufficiently for your financial future. The answers to these questions and many others might be found in a complimentary consultation with a qualified financial professional. Unlike your doctor, we still make housecalls.
Sleep tight.

Robert J. McNamara - Financial Consultants (Financial Planning for Families) is located at 132. S. Swan Street, Albany. For more information call 434.4383. 

Travel tours

How many days? How many ways?

By Linda McClain, CTA

Escorted motor coach tour vacations are not all created equal. From budget to luxury, you can expect to find a tour and destination to fit your lifestyle. Depending on the itinerary, there are normally 40-45 people per tour. Most tour companies assign both a driver and professional guide to each of their confirmed departures. Be sure to verify, from the beginning, that the tour you are booking will be a guaranteed departure. Some tour operators have been known to cancel a tour if they don’t have enough participants. If the trip you select is one of them, you may find out too late to book a replacement vacation. Even a full reimbursement can’t replace the anticipation of vacation.
Have you heard or said, “I don’t want to travel with a group.”

Let’s compare:
Escorted Tour Companies Independent Travel
Safety in numbers Am I in a safe area?
Meet and greet at the airport How much is the cab fare?
Professional Guide Find a tour. Hope it’s good.
Uses hotels on a repeat basis First time here...only time.
English spoken, entire tour Possible language barriers
Curbside drop off Where can I park the car?
Inclusions paid before you travel More than I can afford...
Sit back and relax. Enjoy the view Losing time...lost again!
Luggage delivered to hotel door Keep watching the suitcase
Advice on dining and shopping Let a guide book tell you
See everything you paid for Run out of time, money or both!
Do you still think this type of travel is not for you?

Remember that the more destinations you visit on the same trip, the less time you will have to enjoy their individual culture, history and attractions. One way to ensure a complete destination experience is to choose a regional discovery. Before you even read the details of the tour, you can tell if it fits your time frame, 8 days, 12 days, 16 days or more. An example of a regional tour: Grand Tour of Italy & Sicily. While a company may advertise their Italy tour as a 12 day trip, another may use the same destinations within Italy, but sell it for a longer or shorter stay.

Finding the better value

Tour companies may offer lower rates for a similar itinerary, but there is normally more than one reason why. Compare the inclusions before you commit to the lower priced tour.
• Is breakfast and dinner included each day?
• What tours come with the vacation you are paying for?
• Are the hotels 1st class, deluxe, luxury?
• Are the hotels city center?
• How many people will be traveling as part of your group?
The more exclusive, the more you can expect to pay. Example: Tanzania: A Grand Safari - 11 days, luxury tour. Group size is limited to 24 people. View the Big Five in open air safari vehicle (www.tauck.com).
A few examples of group travel companies

College age groups

Contiki Tours is a successful tour operator that specializes in age restricted travel itineraries to Europe, Latin America, South Pacific and featured US itineraries. You must be between the ages of 18-35 to participate. Whether you are looking for a budget or camping tour, in depth tour experience or special event tour, like Oktoberfest, you can make lasting memories and friendships at the same time (www.contiki.com).

Family group travel

Within the last couple of years, a new niche market has developed into a hot travel trend. Disney, Tauck Tours and Globus Tours have designed extraordinary itineraries and experiences to educate children, while simultaneously enhancing the expectations of adults traveling with them. This includes destinations like Costa Rica, Italy, The Grand Canyon and Hawaii. Example: Adventures by Disney Costa Rica family tour includes a zip line tour through the Costa Rican rainforests, as well as private wildlife viewing of exotic animals throughout a family’s itinerary (www.AdventuesByDisney.com).

Faith based religious tours

Choose an in depth visit to one of the world’s most famous faith-based destinations. Select the tour of your choice and create a custom group with your local church. Share fellowship and a lifetime experience as you watch history and culture come alive. Escorted tours are also available for you to join independently. Example: Footsteps of Pope John Paul II and Poland Heritage (www.globusfaith.com).

Exclusive tours for women

Would you love to explore the Greek Islands? Looking for personal enrichment and spirituality with a tour to Peru? How about a seasonal shopping adventure at the Christmas Markets while cruising the Danube River? These specialty tours are just a few examples you can choose from. Gutsy Women Travel (www.gutsywomentravel.com) offers cultural and historical itineraries, antique specialty tours, shopping tours and spa retreats, to name a few.

Nature expedition tours

If you have a passion for nature or prefer an itinerary that is off the beaten track, then a personal and unique wildlife experience with a small group of people might be what you’re looking for. Consider a company that has a strong commitment to conservation. Example: Visit the Polar Bear Capital of the world for an up close and personal encounter for a one week immersion in wildlife adventure! Check out Natural Habitat Adventures (www.nathab.com), a specialty wildlife company.
Hot air balloon touring in Europe
Drift through quaint country villages of France, Italy, Austria and more. Imagine floating along the Alps or over medieval castles and vineyards of France while sipping champagne. This type of luxury travel can become your reality (www.buddybombard.com)!
Additional tips:
• Book your flights directly with the tour company or call a travel professional. Depending on your arrival destination, time change is a most important detail for your arrival.
• Check on the tipping policy for the driver and guide.
• Some companies require insurance to be purchased at the time of tour deposit.
• What does the insurance cover? (pre-existing conditions, cancel for any reason, comprehensive, etc.)
• Be sure to follow up on passport and visa information as well as vaccine requirements.
• Date of issue on your passport must exceed 6 months from the date of your return to the USA.
• Can the seat assignments be booked directly with the airline?
• Are you eligible for frequent flyer miles with the tour?
• Verify carry on and baggage limitations
• Are there additional tour options for purchase with your itinerary?
• What hotels are being used for the tour you have chosen? (You can google the hotel website to get information about amenities, location, etc.)

Linda McClain, CTA, is owner of Capital Region based Linda McClain Travel Services “From The Islands To The Highlands, No Dream Is Too Far From Here!” For more information call 372.7657 or visit www.lindamcclaintravel.com.

Have consistent fun this summer

The power of the three strike rule

By Randy Cale, PH.D

I often work with parents who are struggling with their child’s behavior. Many get frustrated with how hard they work to create summertime fun, while their kids whine, complain and even throw tantrums.
Here’s a good test to find out how enjoyable your summer will be. Just ask yourself this:
“How often does it feel like I am working harder at my children’s enjoyment than they are?”
If your answer is “often”, then you may want to seek a change.
“How often do child behaviors (e.g., whining, crying, tantrums, complaints, upsets, etc.) get in the way of enjoying a family outing?”
Again, if this is true for you, then perhaps a change is needed. I suggest you consider my Three Strike Rule.

The Three Strike Rule

The Three Strike Rule gives you an amazing formula that honors your role as a parent, honors your child’s inherent capacity to learn and ultimately honors everyone’s right to enjoy fun outings and family vacations.
Explain to your children that you have established a general rule for all family outings and that there are specific positive behaviors you expect in public. If they bring those positive behaviors with them, everything will go fine.
Explain the types of behaviors that will get them in trouble—fighting between siblings, screaming, yelling, incessant whining and complaining, any form of disrespect, property destruction or not listening to mom or dad.

This is how the Three Strike Rule works:

Strike One: The first time the children get out of control, you simply let them know it’s Strike One. “We are going to take a break.”
Regardless of what you are doing or what you are engaged in, take your children by the hand and walk to a bench, your car or an area out of the way, where you can sit quietly. It has a very powerful effect because of the boredom factor. Let them know that once they are perfectly quiet, it will be five minutes before anyone leaves or moves. If they want to talk, let them know the five minutes starts over again.
Once the five minutes is up, you can return to your swimming, playing, shopping or dinning experience.
Strike Two: After you return to whatever recreation you were doing, continue on as if nothing had happened. However, if the children’s behavior is over the line that you have established, you now announce, “Strike Two. We are going to take another break.”
Again, drop what you are doing and take a timeout with the kids. Only after there is quiet for five minutes do you return.
Strike Three: While it will be unusual for you to get to Strike Three, it sometimes happens. When you reach Strike Three, you let the children know that you are done for the day. Wherever you are or whatever you are doing, pack it up and you head home. As you get to the car, make sure that you take another five minute timeout before the car moves. This may take awhile, as there may be a lot of whining, complaining or outbursts. Just let them have these moments and wait for the five minutes of silence.
You then return home. If you are at Disney World you go back to your hotel room. If you are at a restaurant take the food to go or simply leave it on the table and pay on the way out.
It is essential not to get too concerned about the drama that you will see when you follow through with the Three Strike Rule. Make sure you do not get pulled into the drama. Allow them to have it and just stick to your guns on the consequences. The magic is not in the threat of the third strike. It is in the experience of feeling the effects of the third strike!
Stick to the simplicity of this plan and don’t be afraid to follow through. By the time your real summer fun begins, the kids will be on track.

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.

Eating out

is that salad really healthy?

By Judy Torel

“Which is more important to weight loss….exercise or eating?”
If I hear that question once, I hear it hundreds of times. My response is always the same. Exercise and eating are equally important for successful weight loss and maintenance, however, it takes an hour of running on a treadmill to burn around 800 calories and it takes less then 10 minutes to eat that back and then some! This makes the eating side of the equation the side that will most easily tip the scale in the wrong direction!
Eating out is where many of us are consuming more calories then we burn in a day, let alone a single exercise session. Most of my clients will argue that they are not eating a lot of calories when they eat out. It then becomes my job to find what I call the “blind spots” in their out-to dinner choices.
Read on to see if you have fallen victim to any of my “food porn” out–to–dinner entrees.

Chili’s
One of the menu items that many of my clients choose when trying to make a low calorie, healthy choice is the infamous Chicken Caesar Salad. How can you go wrong with a salad that comes with strips of white meat chicken, right?
Wrong! Chili’s Chicken Caesar Salad with the dressing comes in at a whopping 1,010 calories per serving (this is without the cracker or garlic toast)! I have clients who think that a salad is a “free food”, going back to the earlier days of Weight Watchers when vegetables were unlimited.
One way you can doctor this choice so that it doesn’t wipe out the last two days of cardio workouts is to order the salad with the dressing on the side. This will help to knock off a portion of the 684 calories that comes from fat.
Even better, choose the Classic Sirloin at 560 calories and have it with steamed broccoli at 80 calories or Kettle Black Beans with Pico de Gallo sauce at 115 calories.
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Well, it’s Italian but if you order a chicken or fish dish and avoid the pasta then you probably can keep the calories within a reasonable amount, right?
Wrong! Seared Sea Scallops on a salad registers 1,320 calories! Even without the dressing this entrée is 1,060 calories.
Then maybe the Chicken Marsala is the wiser choice. Well, coming in at 1,090 for the dinner entrée, you would need to head to the gym for a 90-minute cardio workout to negate the calories.
Think the Eggplant Parmigiano may be better? After all, it is a vegetable dish, right?
Wrong again! At 1,240 calories for the dinner serving, you better set your alarm extra early to work off the calories in this meal.
The menu lists Pollo Magro or “Skinny Chicken” entrée at 330 calories including the side dishes. This is one of the few entrees that come close to a reasonable calorie intake.

Ruby Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday just introduced a new burger called the Colossal Burger. Nutrition Action Newletter dubbed this entrée as “Extreme Eating”. At 1,943 calories and 1,269 fat calories, you would have to spend two hours and 30 minutes doing intense cardio to even begin to balance the damage of this burger!
Think the Bison Burger is a better choice? After all, Bison is wild and lean. Well, it is better then the Colossal, but at 1,072 calories and 639 calories from fat, it is far from a good choice.
Maybe the Portobello Swill Turkey Burger then? Guess again! This entrée comes in at 1,038 calories and 558 from fat!
A wiser choice at Ruby Tuesday would be a bowl of White Bean Chicken Chili (218 calories) with Creamy Mashed Cauliflower (166 calories).
Another good choice would also be the Top Sirloin. At 256 calories with a side of steamed broccoli (129 calories) and a baked potato (160 calories) with 1/2 tablespoon of butter (50 calories), it is a comprehensive meal containing protein, carbs and fat all at under 600 calories, which is reasonable for dinner.

Panera Bread
You can’t go wrong with a Sierra Turkey Sandwich or the Tuscan Chicken Sandwich as a low calorie lunch, right?
Wrong! The Sierra Turkey Sandwich hits the scales at 950 calories 486 from fat! The Tuscan Chicken Sandwich is a little better at 720 calories and 243 from fat. A McDonald’s Big Mac is 560 calories and 270 from fat. All of these sandwiches require a minimum of 60 minutes of hardcore cardio work on the Stairmaster in order to break even in the calorie in/calorie out equation.
A healthy option is one of the low fat cups of soup, such as the Low Fat Vegetarian Black Bean at 160 calories for 8 ounces. Combine it with half the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad at 450 calories and save the second half for tomorrow’s lunch!

Dunkin Donuts
Breakfast on the run is as American as apple pie in our fast paced culture. So if you are trying to lose weight what would be better with your favorite coffee than a reduced fat blueberry muffin with nothing on it, right?
Guess again. Granted, the reduced fat muffin at 400 calories and 45 calories from fat is a better choice then the regular blueberry muffin at 470 calories and 150 calories from fat. And, it is definitely a better choice then the corn muffin at 510 calories and 160 calories from fat (this does not include added butter!).
But did you know that you can order the egg and cheese English muffin sandwich at 280 total calories and pick up 14 grams of satisfying protein with only 80 calories from fat?
The egg sandwich will get you through to lunch. The dry low fat muffin? I will bet money you will consume a few handfuls of the M&M’s on your co-worker’s desk before mid-morning because there is not enough protein or fat for any lasting satiation. Both cancel out the 50-minute elliptical workout you did the night before at the gym.
I’m not saying you can’t eat out or that you should constantly be striving to work off every calorie you consume through exercise. Both calorie consciousness and exercise go hand-in-hand when trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. The point of this article is to illustrate how easy it is to ingest high calorie meals, especially when dining out. So if you want your workouts to lead to weight loss, you must work on increasing your knowledge and awareness of the calorie component of what you are eating, especially when you are not cooking it!
You can google the name of any restaurant and click on “nutritional information” to find out the calorie amounts of their menu items.

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

Barbecue, plus do's and dont's

Story & Photo by William M. Dowd

On the first day of spring back in March, I gazed at the snow piled deep on my backyard deck and thought, “Better get ready for barbecue season.”

It wasn’t a matter of denial. It was the sight of the charcoal grill peeping out from the snowdrift, that shiny, green dome-topped apparatus I never did get around to dismantling and putting away for the winter. Again.

Unlike some of my neighbors who swear by the use of gas grills and use them year-round, I favor the old-fashioned charcoal version to be used “in season.” The kind that provides leaping flames that help whet the appetite and add flavor to the meats, fish and vegetables grilled on it that I can never fully discern from foods cooked over propane jets.

True, this preference can occasionally lead to experiences that evolve into legend among people in my circle. Such as at the wine tasting/barbecue gathering I hosted and forgot I already had put starter fluid on the charcoal. A second dose and a flick of the butane lighter resulted in a roar of flames so high we feared planes overhead might mistake them for a landing beacon.

But, I assure you that was an aberration. What normally happens is a smooth-running event, be it for the immediate family or an extended circle of friends and acquaintances. The key is planning.

So here we are approaching Memorial Day, the traditional time for prepping the swimming pool, checking the tire pressure on the bikes, cleaning up the garden and handling a hundred and one other chores, pleasurable and otherwise. And, most of all, time to begin barbecuing.

It’s a task, or a pastime, that has intrigued me since childhood. My first Boy Scout merit badge was earned by cooking a four-course meal unassisted over an open campfire, no mean feat at age 11.

In many American backyards grilling remains stereotypically a man’s domain. You know the old saying: “Give a man barbecue and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to barbecue and you’ve kept him out of your hair all summer.” However, the inexorable blending of gender roles in our society is changing that job. Bobby Flay, high-tech grills and accessories that mimic indoor stoves and ovens, and a return to group dining that had faded for a generation or so are encouraging that change.

Which seems only right. Cooking over an open flame and eating together have been a human communal event ever since Ooog the Hairy accidentally dropped a hyena steak on the fire and everyone in the cave crowded around to discuss what happened.

Barbecue – or barbeque, BBQ, bar-b-q, barbie or however one cares to spell it – has become a word that also refers to an event or a style of cooking. The more you travel, the more variations you find on the zen of barbecue or the local equivalent of the term. And, the more you know about them the more fuel you have for barbecue party conversation.

For example, during a recent trip through rural parts of Kentucky and Tennessee I availed myself of one heaping platter after another of “barbecue,” but there the term referred to pulled pork with a barbecue sauce ladled over it, rather than being restricted to meats grilled after being soaked in the tantalizingly stereotypical vinegar-based Southern marinades.

In most of Spanish-speaking South America, the term churrasco refers to a cut of grilled beef; in Portuguese-speaking Brazil it refers to the actual process as well. In Hong Kong, outdoor barbecue grills fired by coal are popular. Even in old civilizations such as the United Kingdom where outdoor cooking was anything but commonplace, the influences of American, Australian and Caribbean barbecue cultures have resulted in a boom in backyard barbecuing since the late 1980s.

Most commercial barbecue operations try to differentiate themselves from the others by emphasizing one style of cuisine over another – St. Louis, Memphis, Southwest, Texas, Cuban, Cajun, whatever. In the Capital Region most of the numerous barbecue operations are seasonal, but such spots as the independent Otis & Oliver’s in Latham and the chain Smokey Bones in Colonie pack ‘em in year-round. Special events that highlight barbecue also are big drawing cards. The annual Hudson Valley Rib Festival held in August at the Ulster County Fairgrounds and the Saratoga Race Course’s annual season-closing All-American Labor Day Barbecue come easily to mind as Big Events.

However, barbecue remains primarily a backyard event and those who take it seriously go far beyond the standard burgers, hot dogs, chicken and steaks no matter how much we love them.

The rise in fish consumption, for example, has impacted grilling. Tender fishes cooked in foil packets with onions, peppers, herbs and a dot or two of butter is an easy dish. Swordfish, ideal for grilling because it takes to marinades well and is dense enough to keep from falling apart when cooked directly on the grill, is popular. It also is ideal for cutting into chunks and being threaded on skewers with vegetables and fruits.

Speaking of skewers, the increasing ethnic diversity of the Capital Region’s population also is affecting what we eat.
An influx of people from cultures that have clung for centuries to cooking over open flames rather than “rediscovering” it as a seasonal backyard thing has broadened our menus. Ethnic food stores are allowing local residents to obtain the ingredients to mimic what they’re experiencing in ethnic restaurants. We’re seeing such toothsome items as doner kebabs from Turkey, usually lamb or tightly-packed ground chicken loaf slowly roasted on a vertical rotating spit then sliced very thinly as it cooks and served on pita bread with a salad and fries. Or seekh kebabs from the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East, marinated in spiced olive oil, grilled on skewers and served with sweet-and-sour fruit salsas or chutneys.

Beyond what you’re cooking, drawing up several checklists, mental or otherwise, can save a lot of trouble in how you’re cooking it.
The most important of these actually is good practice for any type of cooking, indoors or out. It is mise en place (MEEZ awn plahs), a French term referring to having all your ingredients selected, measured, cleaned, sliced, chopped or whatever you need to do to them up to the point of combining them into your dishes. Just as your favorite TV cooks have many of their ingredients laid out for them by their crew before taping a show, this is one way to have family or guests have fun helping do the prep work, making it a true communal experience without losing control of the process to well-meaning hands that can otherwise get in the way.

• Having a written menu plan, including specific amounts of food to properly feed the size of the group you’ve invited, is a must. It helps you in shopping and in preparation. The latter is particularly important if you’re the lone chef because in some instances you may be simultaneously cooking indoors and out – grilling your kebabs on the deck but cooking the rice to go with them in the kitchen, for example. Your menu should take such things into account.

• Mise en place also can cover making as many things in advance as possible – the marinades, the cooked-ingredient salads, the cleaned and cut-to-size fruits and vegetables you’ll be cooking on skewers or in a metal grilling basket.

• Have all your seasonings on a tray at your fingertips – the salt, pepper, paprika, lemon or lime wedges, etc.

• Have all your cooking implements – long-handled fork and knife, tongs with insulated handles, spatula, etc., handy. Better still, if your grill did not come equipped with an implement holder, pick one up at a home supply store. It keeps utensils from “walking away” at crucial times.

• Particularly if you use a kettle-shaped barbecue, be sure to get cooking baskets with angled handles that allow you to place the entire basket evenly over the flame. Straight-handled baskets tend to keep food tilted over the fire at varying distances, making for uneven cooking.

As with so many things, your menu comes down to a matter of taste. Even budget doesn’t have to factor into it because marinating, slow cooking over low or indirect heat, and plenty of patience can make even less-costly cuts of meat tender and appealing.

Pairing up the main dish with traditional make-ahead items such as baked beans, potato or macaroni salad, crusty artisan breads with herbed butters and some sliced tomatoes and onions drizzled with olive oil and fresh-cracked black pepper can result in a “wow” factor meal that looks complicated but isn’t. Which will leave you time to enjoy your guests and the results of your own labors.

One final observation. While I enjoy a bowl of greens as much as anyone else, when it comes to a backyard barbecue it’s all about the meat and sides. As some movie macho guy once said, you don’t win friends with salad.

BARBECUE DO'S & DONT'S

DO be sure to clean up your grill if you procrastinated on that chore at the end of last grilling season. Soap and water, steel wool, scrapers … a lot of things can be used to clean the non-cooking surfaces. To cleanse the parts that come in contact with food, try one of several things. (1.) Use an indoor oven cleaner spray, letting the sprayed grill sit in the sun for a half-hour, then thoroughly wash off the cleanser with soap and water. (2.) Cover the grills with aluminum foil, turn the propane up, and let it work until any leftover particles turn to white residue, which can be brushed away.

DO discourage chipmunks, squirrels and other rodents from gnawing on your gas hose to get at the barbecue drippings by at least occasionally wiping down the hose with ammonia water when the grill is cool.

DO look into the newer types of ready to-light charcoal even if you’ve been dissatisfied with the older versions that imparted an unpleasant taste to some foods. I’ve found the current versions, particularly Kingsford Match Light, quite satisfactory and a definite timesaver for after-work grilling when you don’t want to wait forever for the fire to be ready.

DO keep a spray bottle of water handy to quickly put out any flare-ups that might char the food or be a danger to anyone.

DO use apple juice or flat beer as a spritzer liquid on chicken, ribs or any slow-cooking meats to keep them moist. Both liquids are thicker than water so they last longer without turning instantly to steam, and they don’t negatively affect the taste.

DO soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before putting ingredients on them for cooking. That will prevent the skewers from burning through and breaking during the grilling process.

DON’T ignore your grill owner’s manual. You might be surprised the things you’ve forgotten, or neglected, when it comes to upkeep and operating maintenance. Like replacing a gas grill’s lava rock more than annually if it becomes saturated with drippings. That keeps the heat even and avoids flare-ups.

DON’Tforget to use the proper ventilation setting on your charcoal grill to maintain proper airflow for even burning. Top and bottom vents should be fully open while cooking, and closed only when you are ready to extinguish the flames or want to lower the temperature for slower cooking.

DON’T slather your meats, fish and poultry with sauces too early. Unlike marinades that have permeated the food, most of the sauces tend to merely cook away or get excessively caramelized. It’s best to brush on the sauces late in the process.

DON’Tbe reluctant to use wood chips to add smoky flavoring both in charcoal or gas grills. Soak the mesquite, applewood or hickory chips in water for at least 20 minutes before using. For charcoal grills, shake excess water off the chips, then sprinkle them evenly atop the cook-ready coals. For gas grills, wrap the moist chips in aluminum foil, poke several holes in the foil, and place the packet directly on the lava rock or ceramic briquettes.

DON’T cook everything right over the heat source. Some foods need direct cooking, but others should be cooked indirectly, meaning food is placed to the side of the heat source. A good rule of thumb: If foods take less than 25 minutes to cook (steaks, burgers, boneless chicken, etc.) use the direct method. Others (roasts, whole fowl, etc.) should be cooked indirectly.

DON’T put cooked foods back on plates that have held raw foods or you may pick up dangerous bacteria.

William M. Dowd is a Capital Region journalist who specializes in food, drink and destinations. You can access his numerous blogs at Dowd's Guides.

“House Rules” that rule!

By Randy Cale, PH.D

I receive many questions from parents about how to establish rules that really stick. Many parents struggle with daily life where they repeatedly fine tune the rules and struggle with their children who don’t appear to honor the rules in place.
This occurs because they make several critical errors. Below are the mistakes and simple corrections that will keep you (and your kids) on the right track.

Critical Mistake One: Too many rules.
The more rules you have in your home, the more violations there will be. This leads to constant intervention and decision-making about consequences. If you have a difficult or strong willed child, this will mean you are frequently adding consequence upon consequence, and the environment begins to feel very punitive and negative.
Solution: Have just a few essential rules.
Rather than dozens of rules, focus on the critical rules that will maintain structure and routine. If you understand how to manage behavior using the leverage you possess in your home, this is not too difficult to do. In fact, it is easier to manage your home, and to maintain order and sanity with just a few decisive rules, than it is when you have a lot of rules that you can’t keep up with.

Critical Mistake Two: Setting rules that we don’t follow.
This is one of the biggest mistakes that we make. We establish guidelines for our children and then we violate them repeatedly.
For example, no disrespectful talk in the home might be a rule. Yet, we compromise that rule and yell in an ugly voice to our children. We may not think of this as disrespect, but if we had a video camera sitting on our child’s forehead and we played it back for the world to see, I suspect that it would appear quite disrespectful.
Another common rule would be not eating in front of the TV. Yet, our children repeatedly finding us chomping down a late night snack in front of the Letterman show, and we pretend that this won’t matter.
We tell the children they are getting pudgy, so we limit their snacks. But, they watch us eating chips and ice cream during ball games, in turn gaining weight and not exercising. We can pretend these little things don’t matter, but they do.
Solution: We walk our talk.
If we set a rule, then we have got to be willing to follow it ourselves. Now, there are certainly rules that apply to children that don’t apply to adults. Many of these are built into every fabric and structure of our lives, and thus children see it repeated over and over. These are not problematic, because, like it or not, they reflect reality.
The problem occurs in more of the ongoing, day to day routines where we expect our children to do one thing and then we do another. It’s hard to keep a household going in a peaceful, loving way when we set up our lives in this manner.

Critical Mistake Three: Setting rules that do not reflect reality.
I find that every parent has a positive intention behind their rules. However, many of these rules don’t reflect the reality we live in, and oftentimes both parent and child waste energy.
For example, we can waste extraordinary amounts of energy by focusing on rules that are arbitrary and have no real life parallel. Examples could be, “At our home, you don’t eat with your elbows on the table.” Or, “You must put away your shoes first and then you can hang up your coat.”
Solution: Have reality based rules.
“You can’t eat unless you wash your hands.” Learning to wash our hands before eating tends to be supportive of health. Good rule.
“You lose it if you throw it inside.” Good rule. It preserves what we care about.
“You will repair it, or replace it, if you have a tantrum and break it.” Good rule. Again, it parallels what happens in the real world.
The more we can stick with reality, the more we establish rules that really make sense, and more importantly, reality based rules prepare our children for the future.
Remember: Keep it simple. Minimize the number of rules. Walk your talk and keep focused on rules that reflect reality.

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.

Best of 2007

By John Gray

I love the annual Best Of issue because it signifies that spring has sprung and summer is just a stone’s throw away. It’s also my chance to spout off about all the stuff I have noticed growing up in our great Capital Region that gives me reason to shout for joy… or just plain shout. I offer these up with no rhyme or reason.

Best place to sit in traffic and curse to yourself - The Northway any day there is a single flake of snow or raindrop on the pavement.
Best place to go 85 miles per hour and weave in an out of traffic like you’re Jeff Gordon while singing AC/DC at the top of your lungs - The Northway on a sunny day.
Best place to spend $6 on a small box of Junior Mints - The snack bar at the movie theater at Crossgates Mall.
Best place to spend $1 on the same exact box of mints - The CVS 100 feet down from the movie theater. Just wear a baggy shirt so you can smuggle them into the theater like you are bringing illegal contraband across the border.
Best gift to give a woman - Anything in that baby blue Tiffany box. I don’t care if it’s a key chain, she’ll love it.
Best gift to give a guy - Anything that tastes good dipped in blue cheese dressing.
Best pick up line for a girl - “Can you watch my drink for a second? I have to call the editor of Maxim magazine back. Something about my photo shoot.”
Best pick up line for a guy - “Why can’t I find a nice girl I can spoil, marry and make babies with. Why?” Then pound the table and look away into space. If she’s not watching splash some water on your face to give the illusion of crying.
Best thing to say to your wife or girlfriend if she can’t cook - “Honey, I know when you were a little girl you wanted to grow up and cook in the worst way. I’m here to tell you - mission accomplished.”
Best thing to tell your man when he’s gained a hundred pounds and his old suit won’t fit - “I saw something on the news about those chemicals from the dry cleaner’s shrinking stuff. You look great sweetie.”
Best place for a woman to run into her old flame when she looks her absolute worst - Price Chopper on Saturday morning. The hotter the guy the less make-up she’s wearing and the more likely she has a baseball cap on her head or two chop sticks holding her hair up in a bun.
Best place for a guy to run into his old flame when she looks absolutely amazing - At the clubhouse at the track on Travers day. You’re standing there with mustard stains on your shirt while she’s sitting in a box with Saratoga’s version of Donald Trump.
Best insult the same woman can give the guy when they run into each other 10 minutes later by the pretzel stand: “Gosh Tom you look… the same.”
Best way to get a girl to dump you on the first date - While looking at your menu start singing to yourself the lyrics to the song “Fergilicious” while bouncing back and forth in your seat. Trust me, she’s not ordering dessert.
Best way to get a guy to dump you on the first date - While looking at your menu start singing the lyrics to, “She’s having my baby”. Trust me, when he excuses himself to use the restroom he’s not coming back.
Best place to lose your mind when you are really in a hurry - In the drive-thru line at any fast food restaurant when, after taking five minutes to reach the window they ask you to “pull ahead” and wait for your fries.
Best way to lose weight - Stop eating at fast food restaurants. Anything that costs 99 cents can’t be good for you. Unless you count an apple.
Best place to grab a drink after the track - Wine Bar.
Best place to grab a drink strictly for the ambiance – Chianti.
Best place to have a drink and run into a celebrity - Brindisi’s. I’ve seen Anthony Michael Hall, a cast member from the Soprano’s and several actors from the Young & Restless there in August.
Best way to insult a cast member from the Young & the Restless - Ask him. “So how are things going in Port Charles?” It’s Genoa City you moron!
Best place to walk a dog, play with a child or fall off a swing- The Crossings in Colonie. The entire play area is made of a material softer than marshmallows. No kidding.
Best place to see parents and kids who are not from Colonie - The Crossings. It’s that nice, people drive there.
Best place to take a girl on a first date - Justin’s in Albany. That back room is quaint and private and the food is delish. If someone’s performing jazz, bonus!
Best place to take a girl if you think you may want to marry her - 677 Prime. She’ll know you’re not kidding around.
Best place to take a girl if you are definitely going to marry her - 43 Phila
Best place for a girl to take a guy if you want him to think you’re cool - Graney’s Sports Bar in Albany any Sunday during the NFL season. Wear a Giants Jersey with Shockey on the back, smear black grease marks under your eyes and he’ll be shopping for an engagement ring by Wednesday.
Best place to take anyone if you like standing in line and waiting for a table - The Cheesecake Factory.
Best place to kill an hour while you wait for that table - Colonie Center. If you haven’t been there in awhile you need to stop by. It’s gorgeous.
Best place to get your watch fixed - Time and Time Again in Colonie Center. The owner Mike Laiacona is a great guy and a genius when it comes to timepieces.
Best romantic movie you’ve never seen – “Somewhere In Time” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. Warning - you’ll need tissues for the end.
Best song by Cyndi Lauper - Time after Time.
Best magazine to have on your coffee table to impress your guests - Time of course. Come on, you had to see that one coming.
Best place to take your parents or grandparents on a special day - Jack’s Oyster House in Albany. It has history and style you can’t find in the cookie cutter restaurants of today and the wait staff knows how to make everyone feel special. Anyone who greets you at the door with a “Good afternoon Mr. Gray, can I take your coat?” is A-ok in my book.
Best line from a movie if you want a girl in a bar to throw a drink in your face - “I don’t normally do this, but I feel compelled to tell you that you have an absolutely breath-taking heiney. I mean that thing’s good. I want to make friends with it”. If she’s seen the movie “Anchorman” she may laugh. If not, duck! Here comes the vodka tonic with a twist of lime.
Best line to steal from a movie if you are in love and don’t know how to say it - “You are everything I never knew I needed”. It’s from “Fools Rush In.”
Best line from a movie if you are divorced and never want to marry again, yet someone asks you anyway - “I’d rather stick needles in my eyes”- Jack Nicholson, “Terms of Endearment.”
Best thing about Albany - Summertime. From Tulipfest to Larkfest to Alive at 5, it is a great place to pop a top and hear a favorite band.
Best thing about Troy - The people. I’m from Troy so I can tell you it is a city full of colorful characters. Anyone who puts a kitchen chair out in front of the house to save a parking space is, if nothing else, interesting. The architecture in Troy is also amazing.
Best thing about Schenectady - Proctor’s Theater and all those neat little restaurants only the locals know about. If you can’t find a good Italian meal in Schenectady you’re not trying hard enough.
Best thing about Saratoga – No, I’m not going to say the track or the bar scene late at night. For me it’s Broadway at 7am when the city is just waking up. Workers watering flowers, the smell of fresh scones drifting from Uncommon Grounds. Give me a table for two on the patio, the Sunday paper and a large java. Heaven.
Best way to start your day - Tell someone you love that you love them.
Best way to get into heaven - Tell someone you hate that you forgive them.
Best way to get into hell - Care more about money than people.
Best way to get into a restaurant that’s booked - Tell them you are my brother/sister and that I’ll write something great about them in Capital Region Living Magazine.
Best thing to do with this magazine once you are finished with it - Give it to a friend and tell them they have a breathtaking heiney.
Best thing about the Capital Region - You. Thanks for sharing a smile with me today.

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

Sun sign forecast
For May 2007

By Arlene DeAngelus

Aries: (March 21 to April 20) Seek recognition for work well done or discuss a promotion on the 3rd. You are able to express yourself clearly at this time. Social events and good times with friends keep you busy through the 7th. You have extra energy and can finish any uncompleted tasks after the 16th. You may have to compromise with a loved one on the 27th.
Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Friends bring you pleasant and unexpected news on the 5th You find it easy to express yourself and you can make any needed points through the 10th. Mid-month is a good time for attending an art exhibit or concert with a loved one. Your partners are helpful when parents and domestic areas need attention on the 30th.
Gemini : (May 21 to June 20) Spend spare time studying a new subject or reading a bestseller through the 7th. Support comes from others who help you to make career decisions on the 10th. Enjoy good times with your friends after mid-month. This is also a favorable time to take a long weekend away. Avoid joint financial decisions on the 29th and 30th.
Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Self-confidence returns and emotions are stronger after the 4th. You will bring harmony into your life and that of others this month. However, this may not be so easy to do on the 7th. On the 14th, you benefit from your hard work. You speak with feelings and from your heart after the 29th. This is the time when you can persuade others.
Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Family support becomes a focus on the 5th and 6th. You realize how important this support is to you and others. Rethink money matters on the 14th. Begin a new budget, if needed. Communicate your business and career ideas to your superiors between the 21st through 23rd. After the 25th, you re-evaluate your one-to-one relationships.
Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) A new exercise program or keeping busy will relieve any stress on the 3rd. Loved ones may act unexpectedly on the 12th, but enjoy the spontaneity of the day. Avoid impulsive spending on the 19th. Take the time to rethink any decisions that you are currently making on the 24th and 25th. See all of the details clearly before making your final choices after the 29th.
Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Explore a new topic of interest or attend a workshop on the 5th. Remember the ‘I / We’ concept and compromise with a loved on the 12th and 14th. Any negotiations will turn out successfully on the 21st. All communications also run more smoothly after that date. You enjoy happy times with your loved ones between the 26th through 28th.
Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) Expect emotions to rule in business and personal relationships from the 1st through the 3rd. Maintain a positive outlook. Favorable financial decisions can be made on the 8th. There are pleasant times shared with loved ones after the 9th. However, avoid disagreements with the same loved ones on the 18th. Studies, writing and lectures are favored late in the month.
Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) Recognition is received for an accomplishment on the 5th. This is also the time to re-evaluate and expand your ambitions. After the 11th, recheck all communications and make the necessary revisions. Begin a new budget on the 21st. You look to put more fun into your life toward the end of the month. Plan an enjoyable day outdoors on the 28th.
Capricorn: (December 22 through January 19) Set new goals and plan to move forward between the 5th to the 8th. Your attention then turns to loved ones who need your love and support after the 9th. Finances and shared resources are favored on the 14th. This is also a favorable time for negotiations. Spend quality time with your family on the 19th and 20th. The 28th can be a day of inspiration and productivity.
Aquarius:  (January 20 to February 18) Your desire to gain independence prevails through the 12th. However, do not make impulsive decisions on the 5th. The 9th is a day when even simple matters can become confused. You review your finances and reset goals on the 14th. Beware of get rich schemes at this time as well. You look for new inspiration and ways to express yourself to others after the 26th.
Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Mental pursuits and all forms of communications are favored through the 11th. You can express yourself and receive recognition in your career area or the equivalent on the 6th and the 14th. You closely analyze your one-to-one relationships on the 24th and 25th. Avoid being overly critical in these relationships at this time. Puzzles are solved on the 29th.
Best Days for May: 8, 14, 21 and 28

The Rosés are blooming in May

By Barry Sears

The old saying “April showers bring May flowers” couldn’t be truer this year. May brings to mind renewal of life, so why not renew your love of rosé wines? Rosés are the perfect complement for spring. These wines are not the sticky, sweet wines that your grandmother drinks. Modern rosés have the aromatic fruit of the finest red wines, coupled with the crisp acidic backbone of today’s Sauvignon Blancs. Ripe red fruits come to mind when I think of rosé.
There are two very different ways of making rosé. The first is to blend a small amount of red wine into a white wine to make the pink color. This is how most of the California blush wines are made and the way that rosé Champagne is made in France. The second way is to crush red grapes as you would to make red wine, and as the color from the grape skins start to turn the juice from clear to red, they remove the skins. This makes the wine with less intensity in color and flavor than a normal red wine.
Rosés are great for this time of year because of their versatility. Zesty acidity and mild body allow rosés to pair with a wide variety of flavors. One of my favorite flavors, and perhaps yours too, is garlic and it pairs perfectly with rosé. It may surprise you to know that garlic and rosé go together like chocolate and peanut butter. I have always tried to pair garlic-rich dishes with either light red wines or full bodied whites with little success. Rosés bridge the gap. My favorite rosé dish is a grilled chicken breast basted with garlic and olive oil, served on fresh baby spinach and sliced strawberries. It is a match made in heaven.

Here are three of my favorite rosés:
• Hamacher Pinot Noir Rosé. This is an outstanding example of a lighter style rosé from the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Ripe red fruit on the nose with a hint of vanilla. It finishes with nice acidity. This salmon colored wine is the perfect wine for white wine drinkers looking to stretch their wings and try something new.
• La Vieille Ferme Rosé. This is my everyday drinking rosé, which comes from France’s Rhone Valley. It is made from a blend of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah. This is heavier in style due to the more robust grapes. It has a wonderful aroma of cherry and cranberries. It finishes dry and crisp, leaving your mouth watering.
• Dr. Konstantin Frank Dry Rosé. This is grown right in New York State and is a Bordeaux blend of grapes with a brilliant red color and robust body. It finishes clean with nice bright acidity and a bit of minerality. This is a perfect choice for salmon. It is a nice showing from one of the Finger Lakes leading producers.

Barry Sears is with Täste Bistro and is Bar Supervisor at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Lake Placid. For more information call 523.7834 ext. 687 or visit www.mirrorlakeinn.com .

I have two interesting non-fiction books and two heartwarming novels for the month of May. Any one of them would be a perfect Mother’s Day gift, should you be on the hunt for one. Happy reading!

Now that the warm weather is almost here, nearly every magazine on the stands has a cover article detailing how you can have a bikini ready body by the time swimsuit season arrives if only you follow their excusive diet and exercise plan. Instead of investing your time and money in another fad weight-loss program, read Gina Kolata’s new book, Rethinking Thin: The New Science of Weight Loss—and the Myths and Realities of Dieting. The author follows the progress of four dieters who participate in a two-year long weight loss study sponsored by several universities. Half of the dieters are following a medically recommended low calorie plan while the other half is on the perennially popular Atkins diet. Which diet helps participants lose more weight and which diet is healthier in the long run? Interspersed with her periodic check-ins on the dieters’ progress are investigations into the history of dieting, overviews of popular weight loss programs past and present, and lucid explanations of obesity research, studies and results. At the end of two years, Kolata does a final check-in with her group of dieters to see how they fared. Their results? They all had lost weight, but gained much of it back. They were all more aware of making healthier food choices and all were more active. As far as their health indicators went, they were all in better shape than they were when they started the study. And Kolata’s conclusions about dieting? “The effort, the lifelong effort, can be rewarding—people say they feel much better for it. But true thinness is likely to elude them.” If you’ve tried the grapefruit diet, the Atkins diet, Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, or any other program, you should read this book. Kolata proposes looking at the issue of obesity and health in a whole new way. With obesity as the major health risk in the United States, we can only hope that her book gets half the attention of recent diet books on the market. Read it and eat! (Sensibly, of course….)
In the spirit of being a more active participant in life, I suggest reading The Big Turnoff: Confessions of a TV-Addicted Mother Trying to Raise a TV-Free Kid by Ellen Currey-Wilson. She was brought up watching television to the exclusion of everything else, but when she discovers she is pregnant, she vows to raise her child without television and to drastically cut back on her own viewing. After her son, Casey,
is born, she struggles to survive the mind-numbing boredom of spending all of her time with someone with whom she can’t have a conversation without the comfort of her usual television fix. As she struggles with her own addiction and her feelings of guilt for depriving her child of something the rest of America thinks is perfectly normal, she manages to raise a child who is intelligent, creative, self-sufficient, independent and not particularly interested in watching television, even when the opportunity presents itself. Despite being somewhat neurotic, Currey-Wilson has an engaging narrative style. She is making slow progress on her path toward enlightenment; the way she entwines stories of her own spiritual growth with tales of her son’s physical and intellectual progress is reminiscent of Anne Lamott’s Operating Instructions.
Because of the title, I almost skipped these next two books, but I am glad I overcame my prejudice! The Monk Downstairs and its sequel, The Monk Upstairs, both by Tim Farrington, are wonderful novels with a former monk as one of the main characters, but without the preachy overtone I feared. The first novel is a wonderful love story with a heart of gold. When Rebecca, a divorced mother of one, rents out her first floor apartment, romance is the furthest thing from her mind. It is all she can do to support herself and her six-year old daughter (Mary Martha) with sporadic assistance from her unreliable, irresponsible ex-husband. Mike, her new tenant, had been a monk for 20 years until he left the monastery and landed downstairs from Rebecca. He is a man whose faith in God is being tested; Rebecca is a woman who puts her faith in herself and her own hard work, whose cynicism about religion masks a deep need for belief. Slowly, they get to know each other, as Mike’s friendship with Mary Martha expands to include her mother. As Rebecca and Mike’s relationship becomes romantic, Farrington does a masterful job of illustrating its progress despite the pitfalls and roadblocks of everyday life. When Phoebe, Rebecca’s mother, suffers a stroke, Mike’s strength and faith keep Rebecca going, and their bond becomes even deeper. Since there is a sequel, you know Rebecca, Mary Martha and Mike end up as a family in The Monk Upstairs. While the first book is a book of love and romance, the second book is all about marriage, family, and the commitment it takes to make it all work. Both books are wonderful, full of more quirky characters than I can’t possibly include in a short review, but I can’t recommend them highly enough. Any book that can make you laugh, cry and really care about the characters is worth reading.
Susan Taylor has been in the book business, in one aspect or another, since 1982. She recently returned to the Capital District after 14 years in the Boston area (which included stints at the Harvard Bookstore and the Wellesley Booksmith), and is happily re-employed at the Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza. Stop by the store if you are looking for a good book—she’s read a lot more than she can talk about here!

Striking a Balance:
Achieving happiness & success as a dual-career couple

By Ray Angelini

In the past two decades, we have experienced dramatic changes in the way we view careers and relationships. I believe that the greatest challenge for most couples has been how to balance the demands of career and relationships in order to achieve a fulfilling and economically viable life. During the 1950’s, the typical family consisted of a father who worked full time and was the sole wage earner, a stay-at-home mom and 2.3 children. Today, less than 3% of American households fit this profile. Fully 80% of U.S. households consist of dual-earner couples. As most of us are aware, balancing the demands of two hectic careers, children, and trying to stay connected can be very challenging for even the best and strongest relationships.
However, dual-career relationships can survive, and even thrive, if they are willing to learn and implement techniques for balancing the demands of work and family life. Dual-career couples are more likely to be successful if they develop and practice effective strategies for dealing with the inevitable stress and challenges they will encounter. The following are some strategies I have found to be effective in working with dual-career couples.

Communicate early and often
Good communication in relationships has become almost cliché, but it is still nonetheless an essential ingredient and critical skill for successful dual-career couples. Good communication is comprised of several components. First, it is essential to confront the potential pitfalls inherent in being a dual-career couple in an honest and open manner and to have realistic expectations of what the lifestyle will involve. Secondly, it is critical to reserve time together and talk to each other frequently in order to plan and coordinate family responsibilities and schedules. Finally, it is critical to be able to express thoughts and feelings and to work through the invariable misunderstandings and miscommunications that will occur.

Support each other’s career and personal goals
Honoring your partner’s career and personal goals means taking them as seriously as your own. This often means making sacrifices in terms of your own career goals as well as learning as much as you can about your partner’s career field so that you can be in a better position to help them advance.

Be flexible in your roles
Dual-career couples cannot afford to be rigid in their gender roles. In dual-career couples, there is often a lack of an official support person to provide the necessary nurturing and emotional support. Many of the dual-career couples that I work with lament, “I need a wife!” Dual-career couples need to be flexible and willing to switch roles back and forth in order to accommodate both careers. Paying bills, preparing meals or maintaining vehicles are just a few examples of activities that can, and often must shift for the family to function effectively.

Nurture yourself and your partner
The old adage, “If you work hard, you have to play hard” is especially true for dual-career couples. Taking time to unwind and relax, making time for friends and family, health and fitness, and individual interests are all critical in this area. All of these things can provided needed relief from the daily grind and ideally should be enjoyed in equal balance both alone and together.
Have a strong support system
In your career and social activities, it is best to seek out those people who understand and support your lifestyle. You may find that some people may be jealous or resentful of your lifestyle. You would be wise to avoid spending too much time with people in this category, as they are likely to drain your energy and become more part of the problem, rather than the solution.

Get professional help when you need it
Communication, compromise and flexibility are not skills that come naturally to many. If you and your partner are struggling to make your dual-career relationship flourish, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Enlisting the help of a skilled therapist or relationship coach can prove to be invaluable, especially if their services are sought early on before problematic patterns become too deeply ingrained.

Focus on the positive
It’s easy to bemoan the difficulties inherent in balancing the demands of careers and relationships, however, as in anything in life, it is critical to accentuate the positive. Dual-career couples can bond in ways that non-dual career couples often can’t. Higher income and greater amounts of social support can also contribute to greater satisfaction with the dual-career lifestyle, so there is quite a bit to be grateful for. While the challenges are certainly daunting, in the end, the teamwork and shared sacrificing involved in being a dual-career couple can serve to make your relationship stronger and more fulfilling if you work at it and allow it to flourish.

Dr. Raymond Angelini of Hew Horizons Coaching has been in private practice for over 15 years in Saratoga Springs and specializes in assisting individuals in finding and sustaining careers that are more rewarding, life-enhancing, and in keeping with one’s personal and spiritual values. For more information, pleases feel free to visit www.newhorizonscoaching.com or email Dr. Angelini at newhorizons@spa.net.

“I keep getting’ broke”

By Bob McNamara

This was the answer given to me when I asked my nine-year old daughter, Rachael, why she needed twenty dollars. Her older sister Erin piped up, saying it was because she spends her money on things that she doesn’t really need. This conversation got my wheels turning. I have discussed money and finance with them, as I encourage all parents to do, but I probably fall into advisor mode too quickly. I often get the, “Yeah Dad, blah, blah.”
The training of good financial practices should start at an early age because it will lessen credit problems and strains on finances in the future. The knowledge of money ? what it is for and how it works will pay huge dividends in the future (I’m sorry for that pun, but it was too good to pass up).
Recently, there has been a great deal of discussion in the press about Sub Prime lending and the foreclosures they are bringing. A quick examination easily identifies why. These loans are higher priced for people with tarnished credit or low incomes who are considered greater risks. How they can name them Sub Prime is beyond me. The connotation of the title is for a rate of less than Prime, which is typically given to folks in a better than average financial situation. This lending practice, coupled with adjustable rate loans and the fact that 40% of mortgages last year were with no money down is a recipe for disaster. Home ownership is not for everybody and you need to be financially prepared for it. The lessons to be learned by this situation and the discussion between my daughters are numerous.

In most purchases, whether large or small, certain questions must be asked.
• Is this a want or a need?
• Am I prepared for it?
• How am I going to pay for it?

Back to my girls. Like most kids, they really wanted a Wii game. One of them asked “Daddy, will you buy us one?” The other came to me with a detailed analysis as to how they were going to pay for it. This included the use of some gift cards, savings and some future earnings. I was so impressed with this exercise that I folded and just bought them one. By the way, can you guess which one did the latter?
Larger ticket items like cars, residences or vacation homes obviously require more thought and effort than a video game, but the fundamentals stay the same. Once you have identified a purchase you need to make plans as to how you are going to pay for it. How much of your savings are you willing to use and what do you want your payment to be? Many people prepare carefully for these types of situations while others don’t. Hence, some of the problems previously mentioned.
The Millionaire Next Door is a popular book written a few years ago with the overwhelming premise of living below your means. Yet, our society and advertising keeps pushing us to spend first and save second. While that keeps a robust economy it spells trouble for the future. The Government talks out of both sides of its mouth with out-of-control spending while encouraging us to save for retirement. I digress, I did mention there was a lot going on in mind. Maybe Dr. Melfi will be available after Tony leaves.
Robert J. McNamara - Financial Consultants (Financial Planning for Families) is located at 132. S. Swan Street, Albany. For more information call 434.4383. 

Get in shape for summer:
Overview of local workout facilities

By Judy Torel

The hint of warmer weather historically brings on the second largest influx of new memberships at health clubs. Second only to New Year’s Resolution Makers, May is Winter Damage Reversal Month. People realize they have about four weeks to try to undo the results of a long northeast winter, full of high calorie, stick-to-your-ribs food and indoor hibernation.
In keeping with this month’s Best Of issue, I thought it appropriate to present a teaser of some of the premier health clubs and fitness specialty facilities in our area. So, if you are in the race to get in shape before summer officially begins, you can begin your search right here.

Franchise health facilities
Our area is home to several national and international franchise facilities. Typically, they offer benefits that can only be gained by joining a franchise club. As a member, not only do you have access to the club you joined, but you also purchase the ability to workout in any of the other franchise facilities both in this area or when you travel.
Franchise facilities are generally set up in the same way from club to club, so you can expect to find the same equipment and services within each. This makes working out in different places more familiar and helps to motivate adherence to your exercise program when out of town.Franchise facilities have a tried and true success model as their foundation and are less apt to go out of business without notice, so there is financial safety in joining.

Planet Fitness – Known as the Judgement Free Zone, Planet Fitness prides itself on creating an environment where no matter what size or shape your body is, you will be made to feel comfortable and will enjoy working out for the joy of exercise. Planet Fitness boasts that 80% of its members are first time gym members. The franchise caters to those seeking general fitness and has policies that discourage body builders per se.
Currently, there are branches in Loudonville, Rotterdam, Clifton Park and Delmar with more locations in negotiation.
Facilities include unlimited personal training with the staff trainer, extensive cardiovascular equipment, machine weights and free weights. A special black card membership will get you unlimited tanning, half price cooler drinks and unlimited guests. Open 24 hours Monday–Thursday. Friday closed at 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 7am-7pm.
Price: $39 initiation fee and $10 per month ($19 for Black card membership). For more info: www.planetfitness.com.

YMCA - Although not officially a franchise, this not-for-profit organization has multiple locations throughout the Capital Region and membership at one gets you membership at all. Long known for its family oriented facilities, the YMCA offers after-school and summer children’s programs, exercise classes, a 20 lap pool, sauna, hot tub and steam rooms, racquetball courts, an indoor track (26 laps per mile), a cardio room and weights. Personal trainers are available to set members up with a Ready Fit Program which is an individualized workout unique to the YMCA.
Locations include South Albany, Albany, East Greenbush, Bethlehem and Clifton Park.
Hours: Monday-Friday 5:45am-9:30pm; Saturday 7am-7pm; Sunday 7am-5pm.

Price: $100 initiation fee and $45 single adult (family memberships available). For more info: www.ymca.com.
Gold’s Gym - Known for its extensive class schedule and state-of-the-art weight room facilities, Gold’s Gym has been a premier health center in the Capital Region since the early 1990s. It offers childcare facilities, over 65 classes per week (Latham location), cardiovascular and weight equipment and includes an orientation for all new members. Dedicated to fighting childhood obesity, they are currently introducing a first-of-its-kind, children’s program called Jumping Jacks and Jills (Guilderland location).
Locations include Latham, Guilderland, Clifton Park and Niskayuna.
Hours: Monday-Friday 5am-11pm; Saturday & Sunday 7am-7pm.
Price: Varied. Stop in at any location to inquire. For more info: www.goldsgym.

Privately owned, single location facilities
The Capital Region also has its share of single location fitness facilities, each with its own unique offerings. Privately owned facilities usually have a particular specialty in which they excel.
LA Boxing - located at Albany Shaker Road and Osborne Avenue in Loudonville, LA Boxing offers a full gym and cardio center but really specializes in boxing, kickboxing and Ju Jitzu classes. All instructors are either pros or pro-fighter trainers. Classes begin at 6:30am and continue through 7:45pm Monday-Friday with additional classes offered on the weekends. The facility includes a full boxing ring for sparring and you can either purchase your own gloves and wraps or use their supply. Classes are 60 minutes and include work on the 150-pound heavy bags. This is a happening place and offers a really intense and entertaining workout.
Price: $49-$69 monthly with sliding scale initiation fee depending on length of membership purchased. For more info: www.laboxing.com.

Deb’s Sweat Shop Extension - located in the rear of the Hilton Music Center Building on Russel Road next to Price Chopper in Westgate Plaza, Albany, Deb’s Sweat Shop is a class-only facility. No need to purchase a full gym membership, you can pay as you go or purchase a package of 12 classes. The state-of-the-art classes are taught by some of the area’s most experienced instructors. Some of the classes include: Indoor Cycling, Iyengar Yoga, BOSU Circuit, Step, Muscle Pump and Body Burn. If the only reason you go to a health club is to take classes, you would do well to check out Deb’s!
Classes begin at 6am and end at 8pm and include weekend classes.
Price: $12 single class, $72 for a package of 12 (good for 3 months). For more info: www.debssweatshop.com.

Excel 180 - located in Metro Park off Wolf Road, Excel 180 is a small, exclusive club that specializes in providing exceptional personal training in an upscale environment. The facility includes a full line of cardiovascular and weight equipment and offers group exercise classes in addition to being home to some of the area’s most well-known personal trainers.
Hours: Monday-Friday 6am-9:30pm; Saturday 7am-4pm; Sunday 8am-3pm.
Price: $100 enrollment, $80 monthly, $75 per month/6 month contract, $70 per month/12 month contract or you can pay $35 per month plus personal trainer’s fee to just train without unlimited use of the cardio/weight facility. For more info: www.excel180fitnessfacility.com.

Rudy A. Cicotti Center - located behind Wolf Road Shoppers Park on the fringe of The Crossings Golf Course, this family wellness facility is home to the area’s most impressive aquatics center that you must see to really experience. There is a four lap pool that converts to a wave pool, a lazy river, a 20-foot multi loop water slide, splash pad and a warm water spa. The center also includes exercise classes, an indoor track, cardio and weight equipment, several full basketball courts, babysitting and youth games. Personal trainers are available for additional fees and rentals for children’s parties or corporate meetings are available.
Hours: Monday-Friday 5am-11pm; Saturday & Sunday 7am-10pm.
Price: $38 single/$78 family with student and senior rates available. For more info: www.colonieyouthcenter.org.

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.

Amazing Alaska!

By Linda McClain, CTA

“Within your reach, beyond your dreams”—Alaska Tourism Council.

If you are searching for your dream destination, look within our 49th state of Alaska. Its name comes from the Aleut word Alyeska, meaning The Great Land. Once you see for yourself, you will no doubt agree.
When is the best time to visit Alaska?
From May to September, this picture perfect state becomes one of the most sought after destinations in America. Alaska is so vast in size that the state of Rhode Island could fit into it 425 times. Its dimension is so large that it extends from the Atlantic East Coast to Pacific West Coast. Weather conditions typically peak from the mid 50s to mid 70s during daytime hours. However, extreme weather conditions, both high and low, can also be experienced. So, what should you pack? Plan to dress in layers—a shirt, sweatshirt or sweater and jacket with a zip out liner. Expect rain, expect snow. Expect glorious weather. In fact, you may experience them all in one day! Don’t forget the sunglasses, gloves and weather appropriate footwear.

How do I get there?
From Albany, flights depart to Anchorage on multiple airline carriers, but United Airlines offers some of the best schedules. From Albany to Anchorage, in season air prices begin at $595 plus tax. If you are flying to Fairbanks, you can expect to pay at least $100 more. Fly out of Albany early morning and expect to arrive in Anchorage by 1:30pm, local time. With a four hour time advantage you’ll be able to pre-arrange a local tour, helping you appreciate the eight-hour flight and 3,000 miles it took to get there. Don’t worry about nightfall affecting the views. Days are very long in Alaska, land of the midnight sun. Traveling on to Juneau, Fairbanks or Ketchikan? Scheduled air service is available, although limited and somewhat expensive. You might want to originate your trip from Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia – both gateways offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Cruise or tour?
The most popular method of touring Alaska is by cruise ship. It is the perfect way to experience miles of breathtaking scenery without re-packing your luggage. Most cruise lines have an onboard naturalist who gives a commentary about the glaciers, wildlife and history of Alaska as you travel each day. Of course, with a cruise experience comes the variety of exceptional dining options. Alaskan cruise itineraries originate from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, traveling north to Seward, Alaska or the reverse. Cruise itineraries also begin and end in Vancouver or cruise round trip from Seattle, Washington. Remember, a valid US passport is required for all passengers cruising to Alaska.

When should I make my cruise reservation?
If you think you’ll get the best deal by waiting until the last minute, think again. Because of the short cruise season, ships fill up early. If the cruise line sells out on their air allotment, you will need to arrange your own air arrangements. At this point, expect yet higher prices.
So, how much can I expect to pay?
Prices for an Alaskan cruise vacation varies on the dates, cruise line and if special promotions are offered. Typically, prices range between $1,200-$1,800. A “cruise tour” will cost more than a seven-night cruise because a land package is included. Prices are less in May or the first week of June, then they are mid-June through the end of July. August prices are lower as temperatures begin to dip. Remember, a valid US passport is required for all passengers sailing to Alaska.
Holland America Cruise Lines and Princess Cruises have designed dozens of itineraries with a winning combination of a cruise experience and a pre or post escorted tours. They emphasize different vacation experiences that include accommodations, rail travel, bus tour and sightseeing.
Here are a few examples:
• If you want to learn about the gold rush history choose a Klondike Trail cruise tour and visit over half-dozen national parks during your travels. You’ll visit ports and trails that were once only passable by sled or paddle wheeler.
• Looking for a top rated wildlife cruise tour? Find yourself on the shores of the Arctic Ocean, where sightings of caribou herds are often seen. Grizzly bears wander with cubs in tow. Eagles abound. From Prudhoe Bay to Fairbanks, you’ll experience your very own wilderness journey.
• Have you always wanted to see a glacier? Then, cruise to Hubbard Glacier where you can come face to face with a gigantic wall of ice that appears to climb into the sky. Watch from your ship as Alaska’s most mountainous section of coastline unfolds. With more glaciers and active ice fields in Alaska than anywhere in the inhabited world, it is more difficult to decide which glaciers should be a must see on your list.
• Do you want the best fishing experience of your life? Choose to include Homer and Kenai Peninsula on your cruise tour. Renowned world class salmon and halibut fishing are sure to thrill you. Pass through the Cook Inlet, where an estimated 350 beluga whales inhabit the area. Kenai Fjords National Park is home to pods of killer whales, humpback whales, as well as seals, sea otters, puffins, eagles and other bird life.
An incomparable experience—Denali National Park Watch miles of scenic splendor unfold. Spot moose and dahl sheep along the roadways. Look for bear among the streams. Golden eagles soar above, all the while, traveling through the astounding wilderness preserve. Eventually, one faces the breathless view of Mt. McKinley, also known as Denali, “the high one”.

Travel by rail
The Alaska Railroad offers a pleasing variety of vacation packages. By using a combination of rail travel and escorted tour options, you can choose from different modules that let you see regions you may not see otherwise. They include Denali, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kenai Fjords and many more. For information call 800.544.0552 or visit www.akrr.com.

Independent travel
If you would rather travel to Alaska alone, without a cruise or tour, you’ll want to do some serious advance research. Here are some worthwhile tips to help you out:
• Always pre-book your hotels and tour options. This is a high demand destination during a short tourist season. If you don’t plan ahead, you may be out in the cold, without a place to stay.
• Map out your itinerary in advance. The Alaska Marine Highway Ferry System (www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs) will be a valuable resource to help you plan your trip.
• Passenger and car ferry service is available, but limited. Advance reservations are necessary to ensure passage (www.ferryalaska.com).
• There are no roads to arrive in Juneau, the state capital. It’s boat or flight arrival only.

Things to do & see
Totem Poles - You’ll find them poles all over southwest Alaska. Most are found in Sitka and Ketchikan including:
• Sitka National Historic Park
• Saxman Village, Ketchikan
• Totem Bight State Park, Ketchikan
Fishing derbies—Fishing derbies during the summer in Seward, Homer and Anchorage let winning fishermen go home with as much as a $50,000 prize as well as their catch! Fishermen’s most popular targets are salmon (red, pink, silver, king and chum), freshwater and saltwater trout and halibut. In addition, there are lingcod, rockfish, Dolly Varden, Arctic grayling, sheefish and northern pike.
Hiker’s delight— Juneau’s main road system has 130 miles of hiking trails. Choose from eight national parks.
Mountain climbing—The highest peak on the North American continent is Mt. McKinley. Each year between May and July it attracts some 1,200 climbers from around the world. Alaska is home to 16 of the 20 largest mountains in the United States.
Bring insect repellent - With over 35 types of mosquitoes in Alaska, be prepared. The peak time for activity is mid-June through July. If you are going to be hiking be sure to bring a head net along.
Birding—114 species of birds can be found in Juneau. Southeast Alaska is home to over 20,000 bald eagles.
Three little bears? The world’s largest concentration of brown bears live on Admiralty Island, 10 minutes from Juneau, while Katmai National Park is home to over 2,000 brown bears.
Aurora Borealis—Summer visitors are likely to see stunning displays of the “Northern Lights” in August or September. These visual delights are caused by different gasses that make contact with the earth’s magnetic field. For more information and beautiful pictures of Alaska’s very own “sky show” visit www.alaska.com.
June 21st is the year’s longest day. The sun rises at 3:51am and sets at 10:09pm. No wonder giant vegetables are common due to the extremely long days of summer.
True or False? Anchorage gets less snow than Buffalo, New York. The answer is true! When you think of your next vacation, think of Alaska. There isn’t a beautiful picture of Alaska more meaningful than the memory behind it.

Linda McClain, CTA, is owner of Capital Region based Linda McClain Travel Services “From The Islands To The Highlands, No Dream Is Too Far From Here!” For more information call 372.7657 or visit www.lindamcclaintravel.com .

Garden Guru

By Kerry A. Mendez

Q: When is the best time to divide perennials?
A: Whenever I can fit it into my crazy schedule. I know that sounds a bit rash, but in reality most perennials are a lot tougher than we give them credit. The only ‘time out’ they get from my dividing spade and knife is when they’re in full bloom or about to flower. Other than that, they are fair game. As far as the BEST time to divide perennials, divide spring bloomers right after they bloom and summer and fall bloomers in the spring. You can attack as soon as there are three or four inches of foliage showing. Heck, for hostas you can move in when the pips (little stem tips) are just poking an inch through the ground. As you can see, spring is an incredibly busy time for plant divisions. Many garden books recommend dividing spring bloomers in the fall, but this can be risky in our colder climate. Recently divided plants are targets for winterkill if they haven’t recovered from transplant shock or rooted out well before freezing temperatures. Most perennials can be divided by slicing them in half with a spade or sharp knife. There are only a few that resent this treatment: oriental poppies, sea lavender, butterfly weed, baby’s breath, blue flax and balloon flower. These are typically propagated from seed or by cuttings. One other division exception: peonies and German bearded iris are best divided in late summer (August and September) instead of right after they bloom in spring. Remember, dividing perennials is good for every party involved – your plants, your gardens and your friends who may get some of the bounty.

Q: I am sick of hand edging my gardens. Is there an easier way to have nice looking edges without this backbreaking task?
A:YES! Welcome to the world of power tools. Nice edges on your gardens add crispness, definition and shout, “look at me!” I used to painstakingly edge all of my gardens by hand each spring until I discovered power edgers. And I am not talking about lightweight, sissy ones. Five years ago my husband and I bought an MTD Yard Master gas edger with a 3.75 HP engine. Bolens and Troy-Bilt also make similar edgers. This block-like machine on wheels has a strong, vertical steel blade that can be set at different heights for cutting edges. And it is easy enough for me to use, not just a “guy” tool. It was around $300 at that time, but now the prices have come down and you can get these time-savers in the neighborhood of $200 at stores like Lowes and Home Depot. Power on!

Q:I’ve heard that you can add crystals to potting soil so you don’t have to water containers as much. Can you tell me more about these timesavers?
A:Water retentive crystals can make your life a lot easier. They act like super sponges and slowly release water to thirsty roots. The little crystals swell and shrink as they absorb and release water. Initially they look like large salt crystals, but when you add water they resemble little jellyfish, swelling to more than 10 times their original size. To save money when assembling containers, buy crystals separately and mix them into your potting soil. But be careful to check if the potting medium already contains these micro-sponges – more is not better. I learned this the hard way. I once made the mistake of putting a generous scoop of crystals into my potting soil. I filled the container, artistically set colorful annuals in place and then watered in my masterpiece. To my horror, the whole thing started to slowly bubble up and over the container’s edge, oozing down the sides like some alien nightmare, as the crystals swelled to their full size. Ugly…and messy. From then on I always pre-moisten the crystals before adding them to the potting mix. You can also use these crystals in your gardens when planting new shrubs, young trees or more moisture-loving perennials. Just add some of these crystals to the planting hole before putting the plant in. These environmentally friendly, non-hazardous crystals are supposed to last at least five years in the soil. Popular water retentive products include Stock-sorb, Sta-Moist and Watersave. You can get these at many garden centers and big box stores.

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 .

Women Owned Businesses

By Mary Beth DeCecco

The statistics are staggering:according to the Center for Women’s Business Research, nearly 10.4 million firms in the United States are owned by women. That means that women own about half of the businesses in this country. In New York, the picture is even more encouraging. Between 1997 and 2006, New York State ranked fourth in the growth of privately-held firms owned by women, thirteenth in employment growth and seventeenth in sales growth. Overall, New York ranks fifth when it comes to women-owned businesses.
In light of these impressive numbers, each May we highlight successful women business owners right in our backyard. This month, I introduce you to 36 of them.

Jean Kaback
Accents Unique Fashion Accessories, Guilderland

Jean Kaback has had many jobs throughout her career: conference and event planner, kindergarten teacher, director of volunteers at a nursing home and garden designer.
“I developed my own interests as well as keeping my interests in my family,” said the mother of three, grandmother of four and wife of 40 years.
For the past five years, she has found her niche with her in-home boutique offering one-of-a-kind, unusual gifts, jewelry, accessories and clothing ranging from casual to dressy.
Arriving in the Capital Region in 1984 from the fashion-forward Montreal, Jean didn’t notice much flair in the fashion arena. So, she decided to do something about it.
Why the home as opposed to a storefront? “I have a life. I like to travel and see my family and I want to be married to my family, not a store.”
The difference between her shop and others is the appointment-only personalized shopping experience. She finds it “exhausting” to shop in today’s department stores, only to discover the same things in each store and the sometimes poor service.
“What I have is not the same old stuff,” she said. She buys her clothing from Juliana Collezione in NYC, which provides clothing for working women and those on the go. She also hosts personalized trunk shows seasonally, which consist of hundreds of pieces.
To Jean, there is no such thing as a “typical client”. Her clients make up all age groups and are people who “appreciate things that are different and are of quality.”
Her male clients come to her for gifts for their sweethearts and her service extends as far as gift wrapping and delivering the items to them.
Business, so far, has generally been word of mouth. “It’s a learning curve as with every new business. That’s challenging and I welcome it. It’s easy to let uncertainty and negativity work against you, but you must believe in what you’re doing.”
“I know people and I know their tastes.”

Jennifer Girard
Arthur Murray Dance Studio, Latham

Something inside of her pushes her to want to make a difference in the lives of others. And for many, Jennifer Girard has done just that.
This RPI grad had hoped to one day pursue a career in the medical field. But, a part-time job during school breaks led to a 180-degree turn in her career when she became owner/dance instructor of Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Latham.
Her mother is the one who saw an ad in the paper for ballroom dance instructors at Arthur Murray and talked her into applying. “I didn’t want to go on the interview because I didn’t know that form of dance,” said Jennifer, who has been doing tap, ballet and jazz since she was four-years old. “My understanding of it [ballroom dancing] was older people doing the waltz.”
After graduating with a BS in biology and a concentration in psychology, Jennifer gave teaching a try full-time. “I fell in love with it and moved up the ladder quickly and became manager.”
Two years ago Jennifer bought the business. “I knew a lot about it since I was the manager,” but there was still a learning curve.
The biggest change she has seen in the industry in the last 10 years is the drastic age drop of her clients. What were once 50-year olds are now young professionals in their thirties.
“It’s a sophisticated hobby,” she said. Not to mention a great place to meet someone. “We’ve had plenty of weddings happen because of us. I’m not saving lives physically, but I am saving the emotional and social lives of people.”


Patricia Peabody
Barefoot Floors of Clifton Park

Patricia Peabody started out in the industry helping her husband with their carpet installation business. But, when he unexpectedly passed away at the age of 46, she was left to not only run the business, but also raise a young son.
She decided to continue on with the business, but expanded into the retail side of it. Last September she opened Barefoot Floors of Clifton Park in a 2,600 sq. foot showroom.
“The retail store is a lot more interesting to me. It appeals to my creative side,” said Patricia who has a background in art.
She carries nationally recognized carpeting, area rugs and runners, vinyl flooring, laminates, hardwood, ceramic tile and window fashions for residential and commercial consumers. Coming soon is the Floors To Go Builder Program for contractors.
Some of her big commercial clients have included Home Depot, Pepsi Arena, Crossgates Mall and Quiznos.
“Business has been steady,” said Patricia. An office manager, service manager and eight installation crews keep the business running smoothly.
“Our customer service is superior to big box stores,” said Patricia. “We walk customers through the beginning of a job to the end.”
Even though she is in a predominantly male-oriented industry, Patricia doesn’t feel any adversity.
“I push on. It has nothing to do with being female,” she said. “It’s fun to watch it grow, but it was scary in the beginning.”

Donna Essepian
Rosemary Burgher
Bolt Discount Designer Fabrics, Latham

Sisters-in-law Donna Essepian and Rosemary Burgher started in business together in 1998 with an antiques and interior decorating business. During that time, they made a name for themselves decorating a handful of showcase homes in the area.
“We opened with the antiques, but it was the decorating that really took off,” said Donna.
Due to a change in trends, Donna and Rosemary decided to take their business in another direction. After a year of planning, Bolt Discount Designer Fabrics opened their doors on the same Latham property where they operated their previous business.
They carry 250 bolts of discounted designer fabric by the yard (Brunschwig & Fils, F. Schumacher & Co., and Kravet Inc. are just a few of the big names), hardware, trim and home décor accessories. They also have an extensive wallpaper center and a resource room with up to 1,000 books for customers to look through.
“People have really made use of the resource room,” Donna said.
On top of all this, they also offer complimentary design services.
Many of their customers come armed with items such as paint swatches and arm chair cushions, looking for the perfect fabric.
“They bring their ideas and we can help them put the missing link in a room.”
Because of HGTV and the “do-it-yourself” environment, Donna has found that many customers are enabled and empowered to do their own design and decorating. “People want to take charge and do their own thing.”
Unlike the days when the duo would visit client’s homes for a specific project, every day at Bolt is a new surprise.
“Our typical day is not so typical anymore,” said Donna. “We get a lot of walk-ins. People come in for something they want to sew themselves or for a full design for the living room.”
Popular design colors today are celadon greens, russet reds, browns, blues and organic yellow.
What about design trends? “More people now are taking a more modern approach,” said Donna. Furniture with simple lines are popular, as is modern draperies with grommet topped panels.

Michelle Liptak,
Nicole Canuteson, Amy Liptak
The Carolina House, Kinderhook

Back in 2005, Michelle Liptak and her two sisters came very close to selling their father’s restaurant, The Carolina House, which they all worked on and off in since their teenage years. In business for almost 20 years, he told them before he passed away that he wanted them to sell it. He didn’t want to see his daughters working the long hours, weekends and holidays a restaurant requires. “He wanted us to enjoy our lives,” said Michelle.
But, as the old adage goes, “you don’t know what you have until it’s gone.” After they closed the place and put it on the market, all three women realized how much they missed it.
“We missed the social aspect,” said Michelle. “We missed seeing the members of the community on a regular basis.”
After serious discussions, the three sisters kept the place and re-opened last June. “It held the family together,” said Michelle.
Since all three have seven children between them, not to mention other jobs—Michelle is the Director of the Writing Center at Siena College, Amy is a neonatal nurse at Albany Medical Center and Nicole is a stay-at-home mom they quickly had to figure out a schedule.
“We rotate shifts and it seems to work.”
Before re-opening, they made subtle décor changes, brought in a new chef and changed the menu. Offerings include ribs, Cajun style food and fried chicken. “It’s more new American, new eclectic,” said Michelle, adding that they also use fresh, local ingredients.
“The southern theme is embedded in the décor and the menu.”
Do they ever wonder what their father would think of their decision to keep the restaurant going? “He would be proud of what we’ve done here. We’ve maintained the original theme of Carolina House,” Michelle said. “We’re here because we want to be here.”

Suzanne VanBrunt
The Chocolate Moose, Chatham

If you’re afflicted with a sweet tooth, specifically chocolate, the Chocolate Moose in Chatham is the place to visit. There, you can find homemade marshmallow sandwiched between graham crackers, chocolate covered papaya, mango and figs and old-fashioned truffles with a firm center. (There’s even an adult-section of naughty edibles!)
Business exploded for Suzanne VanBrunt after The Chocolate Moose was featured on the Food Network in November of 2005. At the same time, she was currently in the middle of moving from a side street location to a bigger, more visible spot on Main Street in Chatham.
She started her business in January of 2003 working out of a tiny shop at her parent’s house in Spencertown. This former aerobic-instructor turned chocolatier use to make candy for family and friends during the holiday season. Since she had a knack for it she thought the logical next step was to open her own business.
“People are much happier eating chocolate,” she laughed.
Her new space, located in an old furniture building, is three times the size of her former space. The majority of things she sells are made on premises using top quality ingredients and no preservatives.
With the extra space, she recently turned the back half of the building into a café, where the concept is “grab and go gourmet”.
“It’s where people can de-stress,” she said. “We’re doing very simple foods like soups, sandwiches and salad.”
Many of her customers are local, but on weekends many Manhattanites frequent her shop.

Sharon Fenno
Circles, Albany

Fashionistas who want Manhattan style without the travel head to Circles in Stuyvesant Plaza.
“If there is something new we are going to have it,” said owner Sharon Fenno, who describes her merchandise as “classy, with a twist.”
Fenno opened Circles 13 years ago with no experience in the retail business. For 20 years, she worked for the government specializing in start-up programs. Eventually she felt it was time to put that knowledge to personal use and start her own business. The fashion industry made sense for Fenno who always had a love of clothes.
She first opened in a 1,200 sq. foot space in Delaware Plaza in Delmar, specializing in sportswear. Two years later she moved to a 1,600 sq. foot space in Stuyvesant Plaza, hoping to capture the traffic coming off of the Northway and the Thruway.
“I moved to Stuyvesant Plaza to expand my business in geographic reach,” she said.
It worked, because today she has regular customers who travel from Montreal, Lake Placid, New Hartford and Kingston.
Circles has grown to a 6,000 sq. foot store specializing in sportswear, special occasion dresses, footwear and accessories by designers such as Diane VonFurstenburg, Nicole Miller, Stuart Weitzman and Badgley Mischka, to name a few.
Due to a demand among babyboomers and an emphasis on skincare among the younger generations, Fenno has expanded her cosmetics and skin care line, which is now a major part of the business.
Currently, she sells cosmetic lines by some of the biggest names—Laura Mercier, Trish McEvoy, Molton Brown and Nars. They are lines that, said Fenno, “you just can’t get around here.”
Fenno thinks part of the success of her store is the personalized shopping experience from head to toe. At a department store, you might see a different person in each department, but at Circles you work with the same sales consultant for clothing, makeup, footwear, accessories and alterations.
She also attributes her location to her success, calling the Plaza a “niche.” “For me, it made more sense to be surrounded by specialty stores.”


Diane Lehmuller-Hardy
designsense, East Greenbush

Diane Lehmuller-Hardy demonstrated an interest in interior design as a young child. When her parents were away on vacation, she would rearrange the house and she also liked to paint her own room.
In her thirties she became a professional interior decorator focusing on window treatments, but it wasn’t until her fifties that Diane found her true calling. Just two years ago, she started designsense, an interior refining business.
The concept was developed in the 1980s by Lauri Ward, a Manhattan designer who believed in the philosophy of using a client’s own furnishing, artwork and accessories to refine a room.
In her 15 years as a decorator specializing in custom window treatments, Diane often noticed that her clients had nice furnishings, but needed help in arranging or making a room feel comfortable.
After taking Ward’s intensive weeklong seminar, Diane became a certified interior refiner. “I really strive to inform, involve and inspire clients,” she said.
About eighty-percent of her refinements involve the main gathering room, typically the living room or family room, but she has also worked in bedrooms, bathrooms and dining rooms.
A typical room refinement takes three hours and the client is there every step of the way.
“I work hand in hand with my clients,” said Diane. Many times, a job requires her to regroup artwork and accessories and get rid of clutter in order to make a room more inviting and comfortable. “If you give a room a good design basis it will be inviting.”
Often, she “shops” for items in other areas of the house. “I never tell anyone to get rid of their stuff. It’s their stuff and their home should reflect their tastes.”
Once finished, she sits down with her client and gives them a written design plan and goes over everything she did, offering suggestions on floor coverings and paint if needed.
“Very often it’s a teaching process. Sometimes it’s hard for people to think outside of the box.”
A big part of her business also involves working with real estate agents to stage homes to get them ready for sale. Called Re’sale Ready®, the mini-makeover focuses on the foyer, living room, dining area and master bedroom. Similar to room refinement, Diane uses what the homeowner already has, making suggestions on new products only when absolutely necessary.
“I make sure the rooms have a strong design foundation. I arrange furniture to make a room show bigger, as opposed to having better TV viewing.”
She also helps seniors who are downsizing. “I take them shopping in their home and help them choose what things will go with them.”
Many times, Diane’s work will inspire her clients to do more. “They see the here and now. It’s very gratifying.”

Karen Ackerman
Fresh Face Forward, East Greenbush

With numerous day spas in the Capital Region, the one thing Karen Ackerman, owner of Fresh Face Forward wants you to know is that she is definitely not a day spa and has no plans to become one.
“I specialize in a few services and do those best,” she said. Services at Fresh Face Forward include nail and skin care, facial and body waxing, massages and she sells a line of mineral makeup.
Karen has been sole owner of Fresh Face Forward for five years, but has eight years of experience in the beauty industry. In fact, it was Karen herself who created and coined the term “Cleopatra Pedicure”, which is a pedicure done while the client lies down, as opposed to sitting in a pedicure chair. With a warm neck wrap, it’s more relaxing for the client and easier for the nail technician. There have been a few copycats in the area, but she finds it flattering.
This isn’t the first business venture for Karen. For a number of years, she and a partner owned and operated a successful floral shop in Lansingburgh. When it came time to start a family she decided it was also time for a career change.
“The floral business was a lot of nights, weekends and holidays,” said the mother of two children – a five-year old and a five-month old.
She became a licensed esthetician and nail technician and for three years gained experience working in other salons and spas before opening up her business.
Though it’s a far cry from the floral business, it “still enables me to work with my hands and is very heavy on customer service.”
Does she miss it? “I do miss the flowers, but I don’t miss the craziness of the business.”

Sheila Mitchell & Judith Rappold
Highland Limited Cookie Creations, Schodack

Twenty years ago Sheila Mitchell, an avid baker, started her own cookie business from home.
“I had done computer work, but was looking for something else so I could be at home with my kids,” she said.
She made cookie bouquets, which were comprised of three-dimensional flower shaped cookies and sold them from home, at craft fairs and wholesaled them to a few local stores.
In 2000, her business took a little twist.
Enter Judith Rappold.
“We knew each other because she worked with my husband,” Sheila said of Judith, who had her own Scottish imports business.
It was while researching her own Scottish heritage that Judith started her business. What started out as one display table at her first festival quickly grew.
Both women were approached about becoming “holiday vendors” between Thanksgiving and Christmas. From there, Highland Limited with Cookie Creations was launched into a full-time business.
They opened their first storefront in East Greenbush, but have since moved to a building in Schodack that dates back to the 1700s.
“It’s been great. The building itself is really nice,” said Sheila, joking that they even named their non-existent ghost.
Today, the business focuses more on the imports, which, said Sheila, includes a “little bit of everything” such as: jewelry, bath products, fragrances, woolens, pottery, crystal, food, wedding gifts, children’s toys, prints, pewter, brass and much more.
She still bakes cookies, but mainly by order only. Her big accounts are corporate and she also deals with many brides for wedding receptions.
The duo still hit the festival circuit, which starts up again next month. “They’re the best way to meet and greet,” said Sheila.
In addition to the Scottish imports, Sheila sells Irish soda bread, scones and Scotch blarney cookies.
“They’re a favorite of everyone at festivals.”

Holly Applegate
Jean’s Greens, Schodack

“It’s been quite a ride,” said Holly Applegate of her four-year old herbal and tea business, Jean’s Greens.
By trade she is a clinical social worker, and for 10 years had a secure job working for the AIDS Council in Albany. For 30 years she enjoyed the hobby of growing her own herbs and is now a trained herbalist.
For years, Holly frequented Jean’s Greens in Rensselaerville and became friendly with the owner, Jean Argus, who started the business in 1990. “I knew her and used her products.”
When she found out Jean was retiring, Holly decided to purchase the business in 2003 with two partners. She credits her husband with encouraging her to follow her dream.
“I have a wonderful husband who was willing to say ‘this was your dream and we can make it happen’. He was even willing to pick up and move to Rensselaerville if it meant keeping the business there.”
A year into it, however, Holly’s partners left to pursue other ventures, leaving her the challenge of running the business. But, both remained a “source of support” to help her with the transition.
She carries over 250 organic and wild crafted herbs and approximately 30 different tea blends, which were formulated by Jean.
“There is a real art in blending tea to make it palatable,” said Holly. She also carries bath and beauty products, homeopathies from other herbalists, essential oils, candles, gifts, cards and books.
Many of her customers used to shop at the Rensselaerville location, but she also has her fair share of walk-in traffic and a booming Internet business with orders as far away as Scotland, Japan and Israel.
Holly keeps up on her education by attending a women’s herbal conference every year in New Hampshire, which draws more than 500 women from all over the world, as well as an international conference every other year.
“Jean built a solid, good business with a very good reputation,” said Holly. “When I bought the business from her I wanted to carry on her baby and make her proud.”

Mary Vail
Joyelles Unique Jewelery and Gifts, Delmar

Like many others in the design field, Mary Vail’s talent stems from childhood when she spent a lot of time drawing, painting and making things. To nurture her talent, the Bethlehem native majored in Fine Arts at Skidmore College. But, her education didn’t end there. She also took a summer’s worth of metalsmith classes at the University of Oregon, did some graduate work in metalsmithing at Indiana University and took classes at the Gemological Institute Of America (GIA) where she concentrated in diamond setting, stone setting, pearl grading and gemstone identification.
When she first started out in the business, it was very much considered a man’s world.
“Any where I worked I didn’t make much money,” said Mary, a bench jeweler and owner of Joyelles in Delmar for the past 17 years.
It took opening a store in the suburbs to overcome the perception that the jewelry business is a man’s world.
“I had a lot of female customers who were supportive,” she said, though there were still a few people who came in looking for the “little old man” jeweler behind the counter.
It was while she was working for another jeweler in downtown Albany that she heard about the availability of Joyelles. She jumped at the opportunity, keeping the name of the business because it was already established and in the phone book.
As a single mother with a young daughter, owning her business gave her the flexibility she needed and the ability to bring her to work when necessary.
Mary sells, repairs, designs, consigns and custom makes jewelry. She also sells lotion, perfume, glassware, lamps and more.
“We keep prices pretty competitive because we’re a small business.”
She employs a team of five women, which she calls a family. “We’re very good friends and choose to spend time together even if we’re not at work.”
Lucky for Mary she loves what she does. “Work doesn’t feel like work if you love what you do.”

Jana Yanover
just pilates, Delmar

Like many others in the corporate world who have children, after a dozen or so years of working at GE, Jana Yanover decided to make a change.
“I had young children and the corporate world didn’t give me the flexibility to be with my family.”
After enjoying the pilates classes she was taking, Jana decided she wanted to teach classes and began training at Pilates, Inc. in Manhattan, earning the required 1,000 hours of apprentice training. In 2002 she began teaching, first under someone else, then out of her home basement.
“It kept getting bigger and bigger,” she said of her new business.
In 2002, her family moved from Guilderland to Delmar. With the move came an unexpected surprise – her pilates machines didn’t fit in her basement, so she was forced to rent space at a local doctor’s office. But she was lacking the visibility needed to grow her business.
As luck would have it, a spot on the highly trafficked “Four Corners” section in the heart of Delmar, where Delaware and Kenwood Avenues intersect, became available. It’s been one month shy of a year and business is booming.
“I think what I love most is being on a corner. It’s such a busy street, you get to see all the people that walk around.”
Jana also appreciates the sense of community Delmar brings. “It’s more of a community here than in other places.”
When asked why pilates is such a popular way to stay in shape these days, the answer is simple. “Pilates is gentler on the body. Many people run, bike, hike and lift weights, but as they get older their bodies can’t take the pounding. Also, more people are looking for the mind/body connection in these busy days.”
Client can buy lessons in bulk for a savings or take one-on-one classes with Jana. “It’s about doing the exercises correctly. Your form must be right. There’s a concentration aspect that comes into play.”

Christina Feldman & Chantal Vogt
KBC Design Studio, Colonie

Experience and superb customer service is how the owners of KBC Design Studio, a retail kitchen and bath showroom, set themselves apart from the many big box and discount stores in the area. Not to mention their competitive prices.
Christina Feldman and Chantal Vogt faced a few challenges when they first started their business. Being women in a male-dominated industry, it wasn’t a surprise to be asked, “Hi honey, can I talk to the designer?” or when on new construction sites be asked by the builder if they knew how to read a tape measure.
“We had to work a little harder to earn our stripes,” said Chantal, originally from Montreal.
Working in a man’s world wasn’t completely new to Christina, who as a little girl, would travel around the Capital Region with her father, a kitchen designer. The experience impacted her because she went on to receive a degree in art.
The two women first met as business acquaintances when Chantal was a wholesaler of computerized kitchen design programs for Christina’s former employer. Not long after, they decided to capitalize on their strengths and go into business together.
That was six years ago. The early days were spent working out of their Jeep, taking cabinet samples to customers. Six months later they opened a 500 sq. foot store, followed by their current 2,400 sq. foot showroom.
“We do mid to high end design in kitchen and baths and also specialize in the commercial side of it,” said Chantal.
They offer two free consultations. The first takes about two hours and involves talking to the client about their needs, what they envision and, of course, the budget. The second involves visiting the house, seeing the current design, taking measurements and seeing how the person lives, if they like to cook and entertain, if there are children or grandchildren around and more.
Houses built today tend to feature a kitchen and family room that flow into each other. Called “gathering rooms”, it’s the place people migrate to in the house. Islands and prep areas are also popular, especially when there are multiple cooks in the family.
Bathrooms are becoming much more elaborate as well. Their work has even brought them as far as Florida where they are designing bathrooms with large walk-in showers using multiple showerheads.
Today, these two former business acquaintances are best friends. “People think we’re sisters,” said Chantal. “Sisters from different countries.”
These women are truly a success in every sense of the word.

Kimberley Comiskey
Kimberley’s… A Day Spa, Latham

Imagine getting married and opening a business the same year? That’s exactly what Kimberley Comiskey of Kimberley’s…A Day Spa did 20 years ago. While on her honeymoon, she was planning her business venture. And her husband didn’t seem to mind.
“I have the most wonderful support system in the world,” she said of her husband.
A hairdresser since the late 1970s, Kimberley held a regional position with Clairol Haircolor for four years which took her to salons all over the country. But visits didn’t always leave a lasting impression.
“The thing that upset me the most was looking at what consumers would expect to be a good salon. So many places didn’t meet my expectations, even in cleanliness.”
The only thing expected as far as education was graduating beauty school, said Kimberley, who today is a strong advocate of education in the workplace.
So, in 1987 with hopes of raising the bar in the industry, she opened her first hair and nail salon in Bayberry Square, Loudonville, always with the idea that she would expand into a full-blown day spa.
“That was a dream from day one,” said Kimberley, who started with baby steps. “I started with what I thought I knew best.”
The first to capture the name “spa”, she was truly the first to introduce day spas to the Capital Region. Though many hair salons seemed to have morphed into day spas, the International Spa Association, of which Kimberley is a member, has certain criteria to follow in order for a business to coin themselves a “day spa”.
Back in 2003, Kimberley moved the business to a brand new 18,000 sq. foot, highly visible location on Rt. 9 in Latham. With the additional space, she offers many different water therapies and body treatments, in addition to hair, nail and skin care.
Though you might assume the beauty industry as a woman’s world, it wasn’t always. When she first started out, things weren’t always so easy. “Banks were not willing to give money to people living on a pipedream.” Also, people would ask to speak to her husband, assuming he was the owner.
While it used to bother her, she has since let it go. “If you feel confident with yourself it doesn’t bother you.”

Kim Edberg
Krafts By Kim, East Greenbush

Two years ago, Kim Edberg successfully turned her long-established home-based craft business into a thriving gift shop in East Greenbush.
Like so many other women with children, she was looking for something to do from home while raising her children. For her, the answer was in the form of crafts – mainly wreath design and accents for walls and tables.
“I just had a love for it,” said Kim, whose goal was always to open her own store.
After 18 years (and when the kids were older), she opened up her cozy country store, specializing in country, primitive home décor. Many of the products she sells were designed and created by her.
“I’m known for my custom work,” she said. On her days off she tries to make time to concentrate on new designs. She also sells local pottery and other items that accent or complement her own products.
The most challenging part of the job is the balancing act between her business and her family. Though she describes it as “a lot of work,” Kim finds running her own shop very worthwhile.
“My biggest surprise so far is how wonderful it is. I wish I did it sooner.”

Connie Ware
MezzaNotte Ristorante, Albany

When she was a teenager, Connie Ware left the Albany area and began her career in the restaurant business which took her to places like Vegas, Atlanta and Miami. She worked in many capacities such as server, bartender, hostess, and for about 10 years, manager. Much of the experience she gained was at four and five star restaurants.
Upon returning to Albany a few years ago and frequenting restaurants, she was always disappointed. Not only was the food not up to the standards she was accustomed to, but something that really shocked her were the restaurants that charged patrons for valet parking. The four and five star restaurants she worked at always offered free valet parking.
“I vowed that when I owned my own place, no matter where it was, I would offer complimentary parking,” said Connie.
Sure enough, after two years of planning, Connie opened MezzaNotte on Western Avenue in Albany, where patrons can enjoy the luxury of having their cars parked for them. Formerly the location of a flower shop, the new building was built in just six months.
Another thing she learned throughout her career in the service industry is that “whatever a customer wants, the customer gets.” Her philosophy is to say “yes” to a customer before she even hears the question, and she has taught her staff to do the same.
Connie, who has traveled all over Italy, named her restaurant MezzaNotte, which means “midnight” in Italian. Its’ namesake is reflected in the various midnight scenes from Italian cities painted above each booth. It seats about 60 and features a smaller dining room on the second floor. The “upper scale” restaurant is the talk of the town and features a modern interpretation of classic Italian foods. “It’s traditional with a modern flair,” she said.
Connie, who has five brothers that all tend their own gardens, has also enlisted them to donate their fresh produce during harvest time.
At first, her new business venture was a bit scary, causing her to think “what am I doing?” But, everything has fallen into place for the entrepreneur who credits the Town of Guilderland for being wonderful.
Now that she’s the boss, rather than an employee, Connie remembers how it once was. “If you have happy employees, you have productive employees.”


Mary Predel
Predel’s Ranch Incorporated, Rexford

Mary Predel is up every morning at 4:30am, spends the first hour of the day with the Lord and then dives into work.
Born on a farm in Rotterdam Junction, Mary hasn’t strayed too far from the day-to-day life of farm living. Since 1964, she has been living on the 48-acre Predel family farm in Rexford, which has been in the family since 1916.
She runs a store on the property, selling organic beef and pork raised right on the farm, farm fresh eggs and vegetables. Other items include chicken organically raised in Vermont, jellies, honey, milk, Palatine cheese and fresh pies. The store is open year round, Monday-Saturday 10:30am-6pm.
“Everything is organic,” Mary said.
Not only is this mother of six children, 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren busy on the farm, but she also juggles her other business – T.A. Predel Co. a scrap yard in Schenectady.
“I do a lot of balancing,” Mary said. “Without God’s help you can’t do anything.”

Vera Dordick
Queen of Tarts, Guilderland

With her cakes the star attraction at many wedding receptions, fundraisers and other parties, you would think that Vera Dordick has been baking and decorating for years.
Truth be told, she has only been in business for two-and-a-half years. Seventeen years prior to that she worked in PR and Marketing and was a freelance speechwriter.
When searching for a new career, many people often consider their hobbies. Since Vera has always enjoyed baking, she began taking classes at Schenectady County Community College when her children where in school and received a degree in Culinary Arts with a concentration in baking.
“I really had a knack for it, especially decorating. It was a late discovered talent.”
She now teaches others what she has learned, serving as an adjunct professor at the very school that changed the direction of her life. One day a week she teaches “Elements of Baking” which focuses on cakes, breads and pies.
Since opening her shop in Guilderland, she has watched her revenue double each year. Just recently, the Queen of Tarts Café opened a few doors down.
“We had so many people coming into this location for biscotti and bridal tastings that we moved the retail out of here.”
Patrons can also enjoy tea, coffee, cold drinks, baked goods and even gourmet doggie biscuits. Her biscotti is also sold in shops further downstate, including F.A.O. Schwarz in Manhattan.
But, it’s the wedding cakes that are truly the reason behind her successful business. Her cakes have been featured in local publications and other shoots with national bridal magazines are pending.
The favorite part of her job is making and designing cakes. Her favorite dessert? Fruit desserts like tarts or pies.

Cindy Crounse
Refined Designs Original Fine Jewelry, Voorheesville

Cindy Crounse’s interest in art and jewelry extends back to childhood. After graduating high school, she enrolled in SUNY Albany where she received a bachelor’s degree in art, with a concentration in metal works. She got into the metal works program just in time – it was the last year it was offered.
“For once in my life I decided not to be practical and do what I love,” said Cindy, a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and a JA Certified Senior Bench Jeweler.
Following graduation, she worked as a receptionist for six months than landed a job as a bench jeweler for a year-and-a-half. From there she worked for a custom jeweler for 15 years before opening Refined Designs in 1992.
She housed her business in what was a decrepit old plumber’s shop. It was torn down below ground level and re-built in a Victorian-inspired style. “It’s small, but just big enough,” she said. Locals have referred to it as “the jewel of South Main Street.”
“I made the business small enough so if I ever thought of having employees I couldn’t,” she laughed. She serves as the owner, salesperson, designer and jeweler and that is what sets her apart from her competition.
“I’m so fortunate in what I do. I design jewelry with beautiful diamonds and gems with gorgeous colors and I get to do this directly with each customer,” said Cindy. For her the jewelry business is truly a rewarding and emotional one. “The icing on the cake is the reaction on the face of the person who sees it completed. It doesn’t get much better than that.”
Her advice for aspiring jewelers? “Get great training. If you have the time and money go through the GIA.”

Gynger Connolly
Blinds, Shades & More, Schenectady

Gynger Connolly used to live in England and negotiate multi-million contracts for GE. But, nine years ago she left her job, moved back to the United States and went into business with her father who has owned Rand Manufacturing for 30 years.
“It’s fun. I’m having a good time,” Gynger said.
A division of Rand Manufacturing (which sells radiator enclosures), Blinds, Shades & More opened 10 months ago and serves residential and commercial clients in all aspects of window treatments including: roman shades, wooden shutters, blinds, including vertical, roller shades and cellulars. They also sell top treatments such as swags and balloon valances and are entering into the line of draperies and sheers.
“It’s a big switch from working at GE,” Gynger said. “I get to work more one-on-one with people, rather than corporation to corporation.”
In this business, it’s important to do your homework and find out who your competitors are and what the market is. “You have to figure out where you can make the most impact without duplicating anyone else’s efforts.” Success, she said, comes in finding your own niche.
The fact that Blinds, Shades & More is a family owned business is the very fact that sets them apart from competitors, said Gynger. “We cater to low prices and customer service.”


Marri Aviza & Lisa Norgrove
Rumors, Loudonville

While attending Colonie High School, Lisa Norgrove and Marri Avista took the BOCES cosmetology hair course during their sophomore and junior years. They didn’t know it at the time, but that first step in the beauty industry would change their lives forever.
In 1986, at the age of 22, the ambitious childhood friends realized they wanted to raise the standards of professionalism for salons in the area and opened Rumors in Newton Plaza. Today, they’re one of the top three salons in the area that have survived and thrived over the years.
“Our customer service policy is to have a passion for excellence,” said Marri.
What started out with two employees has grown to a total of 57 dedicated professionals. In 2002, they opened Rumors IV Men across the street, because, as Marri said, “We felt it was better for us to open then a competitor.”
Not to mention the deer-in-headlights look the men had when they entered Rumors.
“It was intimidating for men to come here,” said Marri. “We thought we needed to create an environment and atmosphere sensitive to their needs.”
Women want to enjoy tea and other drinks while waiting to be pampered, while men just want to get in and out in a timely manner. This “barber spa” offers virtually no waiting, televisions for entertainment and the luxury of walk-in appointments.
“It was a new concept to the area when we did it, but now we see them opening more regularly.”
Back at the women’s spa, education is a very strong component – for themselves and their employees. In fact, over a 10 or so year period, both Lisa and Marri studied at the Vidal Sasson Academy in London.
“It’s still one of the best educations you can get in our industry,” said Marri.
Both women have traveled around the world educating themselves and they teach weekly classes onsite for their employees.
What does the future hold for these ambitious childhood friends? “We would like to open another five, six or seven salons in this area,” said Marri. They also envision opening their own training academy and have even volunteered to help change the cosmetology licensing exam, which hasn’t changed in decades.
“For so long we worked in our business, now we work at our business.”

Allison Meyers
seemless. clothing consulting, Saratoga

It doesn’t matter if you’re a size 2 or 22, women the world over have something about their bodies that they’re self-conscious about.
It was her own personal weight fluctuations that inspired Allison Meyers to want to help others. With a knack for fashion and an entrepreneurial mind, she did extensive research from professional stylists, created the program and launched seemless. clothing consulting exactly one year ago.
“I created the program around the theory that any woman who is unnaturally balanced [carries weight on top vs. bottom or vice versa] can create the illusion of an elongated hourglass shape with the right clothing choice.”
And in just a short time, she has gone from offering her services free of charge to being hired for speaking engagements and workshops. She has built up a personal client base and has even been featured in local television news segments. She has talked to local groups such as eWomen network, the Capital District’s Bar Association, Southern Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, PTA’s and church groups.
“Women are interested in what not to wear,” said Allison. A definite no-no and one all too common mistake she sees in the Capital Region are “mom jeans” – high waisted, tapered jeans that have a lot of room in the mid-section.
According to Allison, three key staples in every woman’s wardrobe should be: the perfect fitting black pant that will last many dry cleaning cycles and many years of trends; a well-fitting funky blazer (non-boxy is key!); and a great pair of trouser jeans.
Allison’s program is based in two parts. First is the personalized body shape analysis based on an interview and body measurements. Second, she visits clients’ homes to go through their closet to “identify gems and donations.” Or, clients can hire Allison to go shopping with them. She will travel as far as New York and Boston where there are more department stores and designer options.
“I don’t work exclusively with any store – it depends on your size, style and budget.”
Her goal for the next five to 10 years is be the name people think of when going to an event or when it’s time to re-vamp their wardrobes. As her tagline says: Recharge YOUR Flattery Battery.

Serenity Day Spa and Salon
Pam Wojeski & Kelly Hart, Schodack

Pam Wojeski and Kelly Hart knew each other socially for about 10 years. “We knew each other to say hi,” said Kelly. But it was their husbands who connected them on a business level.
Kelly had been a hairdresser since 1983 and Pam was a middle school math and English teacher. After meeting up one day, the two were in business six weeks later.
In November of 2004, the women opened Serenity Day Spa and Salon, with the motto, “comfortable elegance.” This isn’t the kind of spa where you have to get dressed up. “It’s not intimidating,” said Kelly.
It was a dream come true for Kelly who had always wanted to open a hair salon, but put the idea on hold to have kids. For Pam, it was a refreshing change from academia life.
Located on Columbia Turnpike in Schodack, Serenity Day Spa and Salon is a bustling, full service spa, offering all services, hair, massages, body treatments such as wraps, cellulite treatments and exfoliations, facials, silks wraps, natural nails and pedicures and full body waxing, with an expertise in Brazilian waxing.
They are also the only retailers in Rensselaer County of i.d. Bare Escentuals mineral makeup. Both women use the all-natural product and promote its skin healing properties.
Since they both have families, the women split their shifts, but work together one day a week to “put our heads together”. Kelly handles more of the beauty side of the business, while Pam’s expertise lies in the administrative and organizational part.
For Kelly, a veteran in the industry who has been on both sides of the chair, owning her own spa has been nothing short of wonderful.
“It’s been great,” she said. “The people in this area have been very welcoming. It’s like a bunch of friends. Everyone leaves happy.”
Future plans include some expansion within their building, but not too much that it will sacrifice the personalized service they offer.

Shelley Hutchinson
Shelley Salon & Day Spa, East Greenbush

Shelly Salon & Day Spa is a mother and daughter operation. Owned by Shelley Hutchinson for just under a year, her mother Lynn Collins serves as manager. It was her mom who talked her into going to cosmetology school, while she was already in college pursuing a math and science degree. “I was always into physics,” said Shelley, but also always loved playing with hair.
After taking a few college classes she decided to pursue her newfound passion. She worked in the industry for 10 years before deciding to go out on her own and opened Shelley Salon & Day Spa just under a year ago in East Greenbush.
Rather than worry about the competition, Shelley concentrates on the customer. “I offer what I offer and I do it to best of my ability. If you do a good job, people will talk about you.”
Aside from hair services, she also offers facials, massages, medicures/pedicures and waxing. “Clients come here to escape reality.”
When asked what the pros and cons to owning her own business, she said, “The pros are that you have control over what you do. The cons are that you’re responsible for what you do.”
Working between 70-80 hours a week, Shelley credits her mother for running the business. “I feel that if I want to operate the business correctly, I need to trust other professionals.”
Something she took with her from working for others is to treat her 14 employees the way she would want to be treated. “I very much believe in positive reinforcement,” she said, describing the workplace as a “team effort.”

Ronni Schnapp
Shutts Insurance Agency, Schenectady

In the insurance business, Ronni Schnapp has found that she always has to prove herself.
“It’s a tough business,” said the owner of the Shutts Insurance Agency. “People think insurance companies are out to get them and they’re not.”
The problem, she continued, is that not all people are truthful these days. “There is so much more involved in insuring,” she said. “In personal lines, auto is the toughest.”
Ronni got her start in the industry as a receptionist in an insurance agency in Albany. “It was kind of by accident,” said Ronni, whose friend helped her get the job. After a few other stints in the business, she landed at the Shutts Agency in Schenectady about 15 years ago.
It was five years ago that Ronni bought the agency, specializing in all lines of insurance, mainly automobile, homeowner’s and commercial.
The biggest change she has seen since first starting out is the increase in fraud in every line, but mainly worker’s compensation and auto insurance. “It has increased premiums tremendously.”
What Ronni likes best about owning her own business is the freedom. “I like the freedom to make decisions that I feel need to be made.”
Currently, she doesn’t have any big plans for a change in the business, enjoying the neighborhood atmosphere of the agency. “We’re doing well. I’m not looking to get too big. I like the personal service, that’s what we’re about.”

Stefanie Masher
Signatures Spa & Salon

Stefanie Masher just opened her business four months ago and already she’s thinking of her future plans.
“I have a lot of ideas,” she said. One of which involves offering classes to clients demonstrating how to properly blow dry hair and the proper way to use styling products.
“If you leave here knowing how to do your hair, it’s good for me,” said Stefanie.
Currently, Stefanie, a master stylist, keeps up on her own education by traveling to classes within the state and New England and brings in representatives from Redken to teach in-house.
Her father has been a barber in South Troy for 31 years, so the industry was something she has grown up around. After going to Hudson Valley Community College for two years she enrolled in the Orlo School of Hair Design and Cosmetology in Albany and began working in the industry 10 years ago, renting space and working for others.
But, she had so many ideas for a business that starting her own seemed inevitable. “I wanted to have a place where clients could get anything done.”
Aside from hair services, she also offers facials, body waxing, manicures/pedicures, massage therapy and bridal specialty services, such as hair extensions. There is also a private bridal room. She employs one person for each service and also has two receptionists.
Her spa is located in what was formerly a house on Rt. 4, in highly commercialized area.
When planning the interior, Stefanie considered her client’s needs. “I tried to make my place very comfortable and not intimidating.”
With so many other day spas to compete with, she did admit that it’s hard at first to set yourself apart. “You just have to get out there and try,” she said.
Other future plans include adding body wrap treatments and water treatments.
The one thing she likes best about her job is the clients. “I have great clients and I really enjoy them. It’s nice to be able to offer them more services.”
Like so many owners who eventually focus more on running the business then performing the task they were originally trained in, Masher, who would like to start a family in a couple of years, has no plans to give up cutting hair. “I definitely cannot give up hair,” she said.

Sheila McNeil
Slingerlands Wine & Spirits, Slingerlands

It seems in the last dozen or so years, the wine industry has completely exploded. Mainly, it’s due to aggressive marketing by the California wine makers, the health benefits of red wine and the fact that more people are interested in cooking and pairing wines.
“It’s a trend that is here to stay,” said Sheila McNeil. “It’s such a hobby, people just love it.”
To keep up with the trend, the owner of Slingerlands Wine & Spirits offers wine tastings every Friday (4pm-7pm) and Saturday (1pm-8pm) and helps numerous customers with wine and food pairings.
Sheila, who has 27 years in the industry, started out as a clerk in a wine shop in Clifton Park after her son entered school. Over the years, she has seen the world of wines unfold before her very eyes.
“It’s very exciting,” she said. “I grew with it and developed a passion for it along the way.”
She was able to secure the perfect location in 1997: a new Price Chopper Plaza was being built in Slingerlands and with it came the opportunity for her to open her own store.
She stocks thousands of varieties of wine and spirits and prides herself on her customer service and knowledge.
“The whole staff is wine knowledgeable,” she said. In fact, just as a hair stylist has a following of loyal clients, so does her staff. She even insists they take the Wine Spectator Course and encourages them to keep up on their education through courses and local tastings.
It is the wine tastings that is one thing Sheila really loves about her job. Everyday purveyors call on her, showcasing the latest wines. Right now, its the New World wines (those from Australia and California) and New Zealand that are quite popular, as well as South American wines.
If you’re looking to enjoy a bottle of wine after work, she suggests a $10 bottle that you might sip over the course of a couple of days. But, on a weekend when you have more time to cook and enjoy a meal, you might step it up with a more expensive bottle. Really though, it all depends on the particular wine you favor and your budget.
What’s Sheila’s favorite drink? “Champagne. Because it makes every occasion special.”

Jean Spinelli
Spinelli’s Downtown Café, Albany

When Jean Spinelli was laid off last fall from the mortgage industry after 10 years, it was the best thing that could have happened to her. Without the uncertainty that came with unemployment, she never would have opened up Spinelli’s Downtown Café.
Located on the first floor of a 12-floor office building on the corner of State and Pearl Streets in Albany, the café offers breakfast and lunch to the building’s tenants, but also welcomes the outside crowd as well.
“The whole idea was to create a comfortable atmosphere for people to come in and have a cup of coffee,” said Jean. Her son Michael, who has experience in the restaurant industry, works alongside his mother.
The menu consists of espresso-based drinks, smoothies, coffee, tea, breakfast sandwiches, bagels, muffins, pastries, soups, panini’s, fresh yogurt parfaits and fresh fruit.
“The focus is on healthy eating,” said Jean. There is also wireless availability and televisions. “We tried to think of everything we could to make it a comfortable, inviting environment.”
When planning to open a café, Jean always envisioned the business being located in an office building. As luck had it, a friend of hers knew the owner of the building who favored the idea of a café in space that was formerly an employee lounge. Renovations began in February and the café just opened last month.
Though it’s a huge career change from the mortgage business, Jean said that organization is key to running any business.
“I almost want to thank my former employer for laying me off,” she laughed. “I had a job I loved and I never would have made the step [to open a business]. This is a tremendous opportunity.”
What she looks forward to most is meeting new people and forming relationships, just as she did as a mortgage originator.
“We have the convenience of being right in the building,” said Jean. “We look forward to not only providing quality service and products, but to getting to know our customers.”

Julie Rose
The Movement Lab, Troy

Julie Rose was working as a dancer in Manhattan when her husband was offered a job in the Capital Region that was “too good to pass up.” So, they moved upstate, settling in Troy.
That was a year and a half ago. Today, she is the owner and instructor of a pilates studio, The Movement Lab, and is so busy that she has to turn people away.
A former dancer for various modern dance companies, Julie’s training led her to pilates. The results she saw in her own body inspired her to want to learn the methods and teach others. She became certified at Power Pilates in Manhattan earning 600 apprenticeship hours and taking various workshops.
“It was a difficult decision to leave dancing, but I was more passionate about pilates.”
Pilates has been around since 1920 and is a core-based low impact workout performed on mats or apparatus. “It’s a misconception that it’s a fad,” said Julie. “It’s been around for a while and will continue to be around for a while. People are really catching on.”
Her studio in Troy, the second in a year because her classes kept growing, is located at 4th & State Street.
“Classes are pretty full,” she said. “I’m surprised and impressed with the enthusiasm of the clients. We have a good time, but we work hard.”
Julie teaches class six days a week. Her clients run the gamut – those who are fit and want to continue to train in a new way to those who haven’t worked out in years and are ready to get back on the horse.
“Pilates is for all ages and fitness levels. My oldest client is 78, my youngest is 10.”
For those thinking about pursuing a similar career, Julie’s advice is to go for it. “Be prepared to have a lot of energy to sustain long hours and dedication to see it through.”
Would she do it again? “In a heartbeat,” she said.


Nancy Palmer
The Traveling Vineyard, Clifton Park

Home-based retail parties seem to be popping up all over these days. Visit your girlfriend’s house for a party on any given night and you can purchase handbags, jewelry, even lingerie. But, did you know that you can also buy wine?
The Traveling Vineyard is a relatively knew concept to the area. Based out of Massachusetts, it’s a multi-level marketing business that brings the wine t

Food and drink

Best Appetizers
Best Dining on a Budget
Applebee’s, Various Locations
Appetizers are used to stimulate the appetite and Applebee’s definitely has a selection that does just that. With mouth-watering dishes like boneless buffalo wings, cheesy bacon tavern chips and Nacho’s Nuevos, you’re sure to clean your plate and be ready for more. Combined with the fun and friendly atmosphere, and prices that don’t break the bank, it’s no wonder this restaurant is a stop for all ages.
2. TGI Friday’s 3. The Cheesecake Factory

Best Bagels
Bruegger’s Bagels, Various Locations
Started in 1983, Bruegger’s Bagels has since expanded into a thriving bagel company. It’s no wonder, with over 20 different types of bagels and 13 flavors of fresh homemade cream cheese. This bagel shop is a bagel heaven and a perfect (not to mention healthy) way to satisfy your bagel cravings.
2. Panera Bread 3. Dunkin’ Donuts

Best Bakery
Best Italian Cookies
Bella Napoli Italian American Bakery, Latham
It takes 50-60,000 pounds of sugar a year to keep the sweet side of the bakery going. In business for over 40 years the Mainella family continues to provide the Capital Region with delectable Italian cookies, just like Nonna used to make. From sweet granules to delectable confections, one glance into the bakery case and your eyes become much larger than your stomach. It’s worth the many trips back to try all of your favorites, or even discover something new.
2. Vanilla Bean Baking Co. 3. Villa Italia
Best Italian Cookie
2. Villa Italia 3. Vanilla Bean Baking Co.

Best Beer Selection
Albany Pump Station, Albany
American, Irish, Scottish, German, Bavarian. With all these styles of beer on tap at the Albany Pump Station, you’ll wonder if you’re sitting down for a beer or for a meeting at the UN! Once an actual pump station drawing billions of water from the Hudson, this brewery is now tough competition. They’ve won multiple awards including the 2004 World Beer Cup Bronze Award for American Brown Ale with their on tap version, “Kick-Ass Brown”.
2. Sutters Mill and Mining Co. 3. Mahar’s

Best Birthday Cake
Vanilla Bean Baking Co., Latham and Troy
When celebrating your special day, you need the right cake to top off the day. In business for over 20 years the Vanilla Bean Baking Company has found the perfect recipes for the best tasting birthday cakes.
2. Hannaford Supermarkets 3. Schuyler Bakery Inc.

Best Bistro
Best French Restaurant
Nicole’s Bistro at the Quakenbush House, Albany
Located in one of Albany’s most historic landmarks, the Quakenbush House, Nicole’s Bistro is a family owned and operated restaurant. An Albany staple for over 20 years, the bistro offers a taste of all things French, from the décor to the food. With plates such as Coq au Vin (organic chicken breast with red wine, tomatoes and mushrooms) and desserts like Vanilla Bean Créme Brulee, you’re sure to leave Nicole’s pleased.
2. Cella Bistro 3. Chez Sophie

Best Bread
Perreca’s Bakery, Schenectady
At Perreca’s the baking of the bread begins at 5am. This has been the tradition since 1913 at this family owned business. With a variety of choices (try the Italian bread, it’s some of the best around), the bread today is just as fresh, warm and crusty as when the business first started.
2. Panera Bread 3. Bountiful Bread

Best Breakfast
Best Late Night Dining
Denny’s, Various Locations
The words “breakfast” and “Denny’s” are synonymous. With a multitude of egg options and an array of bacon, ham and French toast platters (not to mention the pancake options), you can have breakfast whatever time you like at this franchise. With many locations open 24 hours you can also choose from their lunch, dinner and kids menu anytime of the day or night. With 1,600 restaurants nationwide, Denny’s has been serving up food that satisfies for over 50 years and looks to continue to do so for 50 more.
2. Starbucks 3. IHOP

Best Burger
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Latham & Clifton Park
With 307 restaurants nationwide, Red Robin isn’t the typical burger joint. The franchise offers colossal size burgers, with not-so-typical names. From the gourmet menu you might pick the Sauteed ‘Shroom Burger with fresh mushroom, garlic parmesan butter and melted swiss cheese. The gourmet lover might even opt for something more adventurous like the Grilled Salmon Burger. No matter the choice, you won’t leave here wanting for anything more.
2.Sutters Mill and Mining Co. 3. Beff’s Tavern

Best Chicken Wings
Wings Over Albany, Albany
Started in 1998, this franchise is wild about providing flavorful boneless and jumbo wings. Offering a wide variety of flavored sauces like honey barbeque, teriyaki, garlic parmesan, west text mesquite, and the ever popular original barbeque with varying degrees of spiciness, these wings will leave you licking your fingers like all good wings should.
2. Scubbers Hot Wings 3. Buffalo Wings & Rings

Best Coffee
Best Place to Spend a Rainy Day
Starbucks, Various Locations
This international best selling coffee house offers a cup of java for everyone. The business elite can grab something hot before work and college students can spend the day surfing the web and sipping on a latte. Rain or shine, this is a great spot to catch up on the social scene. Brewed coffees, espressos, frappuccino’s and Tazo tea will leave you in drink heaven.
2. Dunkin Donuts 3. McDonald’s
Best Place to Spend a Rainy Day
2. Colonie Center 3. NYS Museum

Best Chili
Chili’s Grill & Bar, Colonie & Glenmont
With a name like Chili’s it’s a safe bet that the winner of this category was in the bag. Their mouthwatering sides of chili will leave you wanting more. Their Terilingua chili is slow cooked and adds a special ingredient that you wouldn’t imagine—peanut butter! For non-beef lovers, try the Chicken Chili Blanco.
2. Wendy’s 3. Ruby Tuesday

Best Deli
Gershon’s Deli and Caterers, Schenectady
This older well-established deli offers everything from cold subs to salads to knishes and a line of gourmet foods and desserts. With a New York City feel, Gershon’s does deli style eating right with fresh bagels, every meat possible and a slice of pickle on the side. In business for about 50 years, it has everything you could ask from a deli and then some.
2. Gorman’s New York Deli 3. Genoa Importing Co.

Best Dessert
Best New Restaurant
Cheesecake Factory, Albany
Not even a year old to the area, the long-awaited Cheesecake Factory located in Colonie Center is the hot new place to enjoy everything from appetizers to pizza to steak and seafood, not to mention breakfast. Of course, one of its biggest draws is the dessert its famous for...cheesecake. Choose from 32 varieties ranging from the original recipe to the new Tres Leches Cheesecake, a cream soaked vanilla cake topped with Tres Leches Cheese and Bavarian cream and fresh strawberries.
2. Grandma’s Country Restaurant 3. Vanilla Bean Baking Co.
New Restaurant
2. MezzaNotte Ristorante 3. LT’s Grill

Best Diner
Tops American Grill, Bakery & Bar, Rotterdam
With a brand new, updated look, Tops is giving diners a run for their money. The new expanded design, with an art deco feel, is combined with your classic diner fare—burgers, fries, steak, seafood, pasta, and of course, an extensive breakfast menu. With large serving sizes and a friendly atmosphere, Tops is at the top for diners.
2. Latham 76 Diner 3. Alexis Diner

Best Early Dining
Canali’s Resaurant, Schenectady
Sometimes our food cravings hit a bit early on in a day. When this happens, Canali’s is your restaurant. A menu boasting jumbo shrimp cocktail, homemade cavatelli, chicken marsala and veal sorrento among other mouth-watering dishes, would leave even the pickiest eaters satisfied. And with dinner beginning at four o’clock, Canali’s is the ultimate in early dining.
2. Butcher Block Steak & Seafood 3. Alexis Diner

Best for Fine Dining
Angelo’s 677 Prime, Albany
This upscale steakhouse offers a great atmosphere while serving delicious seafood and desserts. Not to mention their steak, which is only the finest USDA Prime Aged beef. The walls are adorned with local artwork, which you can admire while sipping on one of their fine wines. With two private dining rooms, any celebration can be made more intimate.
2.McGuire’s 3. Jack’s Oyster House

Best Fish Fry
Ted’s Fish Fry, Various Locations
Specializing in fried fish platters since the 1950s, this restaurant knows its fish. Always served fresh, your mouth will water at the fried options. And, of course, with prices that won’t break the bank, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and affordable experience.
2. Bob and Ron’s Fish Fry 3. Harbor house

Best French Fries
McDonald’s, Various Locations
First opened in 1955, the telltale arches seem to call from every direction. And who can resist the ever-tempting French fries? Golden and delicious, it’s no wonder that Capital Region residents, as well of those all over the world, are drawn to them as a snack or to complete their meals.
2. Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries 3. Wendy’s

Best Happy Hour
Best Karaoke
JT Maxie’s Bar and Grill, Colonie
A repeat winner for best karaoke, Maxie’s is a Wolf Road hide-away worth exploring. Owner Margaret “Max” Baggetta works long hours traveling to industry trade shows and working behind the bar welcoming locals. Hard work, dedication and fun make the “Cheers”-like atmosphere one you’ll want to return to again and again for food and drink specials and big-screen karaoke.
2. Applebees 3. TGI Friday’s
Best Karaoke
2. Valenti’s Pizzeria & Pub 3. Bourbon Street Bar & Grill

Best Homemade Pie
Grandma’s Country Restaurant, Albany
Remember when your grandmother would bake homemade pies? Enjoy that feeling again with Grandma’s, a three-time winner. With over 20 different assortments, every fruit, cream and nut variety of pies is available.
2. Lakeside Farms 3. Kristy’s Barn

Best Hot Dog
Gus’s Hotdogs, Watervliet
This small hotdog stand serves up big flavor sausages, sandwiches and hamburgers for fair prices. But, it’s their tiny hot dogs that they’re famous. Which taste scrumptious with their
meat sauce.
2. Mike’s Hot Dogs 3. Charlie’s Famous Hotdog

Best Ice Cream Stand
Kurver Kreme, Albany
One of the first signs that spring is right around the corner is the opening of Kurver Kreme in late March. Flavors change weekly, so be sure to ask for the dates when your favorites will be available (chocolate and vanilla are mainstays). In addition to the delicious soft custard, they also have yogurt and fat free, sugar free flavors. There’s good news this season: the coffee hazelnut twist is back!
2. Toll Gate Ice Cream & Coffee Shop 3. Curry Freeze

Best Kid-Friendly Dining
Friendly’s Ice Cream Shop, Various Locations
The sounds of this restaurant are always a loud mixture of kid’s enjoyment, adult’s chatter and laughter from everyone in the family. With a menu that caters to adult’s hunger and kid’s picky appetites, Friendly’s is the perfect place to bring the whole family. Besides, who can resist their Happy Ending Sundae?
2. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers 3. Jeepers

Best Lasagna
Testo’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza Parlor, North Troy
Who can resist the ultimate in pasta dishes— lasagna? It’s the ultimate food and no one does it better than Testo’s. A true Italian restaurant and pizza parlor, their sauce is delicious and their specials are awesome. Stop in on Thursdays when lasagna is the special; get a heaping plate with a tossed salad for only $9!!
2. Verdile’s Restaurant 3. Moscatiello’s Italian Family Restaurant

Best Lunch Spot
Greenhouse, A Chopped Salad Company, Albany
If you’re looking for a different lunch spot, Greenhouse is a perfect choice. With a large variety of salads they offer all the fixings to make it just as you like. Add this to their soup selection and sweet and salty dessert menu and you have a healthy alternative to the fast food lunch stops.
2. Panera Bread 3.Lunch

Best Margaritas
Bombers Burrito Bar, Albany
This small student hangout is one of the best in the area for the perfect margarita. With 12 different types of frozen margaritas available, you might not know which one to choose. Your birthday entitles you to one of the largest margaritas around, but even if it’s not your birthday, it’s still worth the trip downtown to sip on one of these marvelous margaritas!
2. El Loco Mexican Café 3. Jose Malone’s Mexican Irish Restaurant

Best Martini
205 at the Turf, Colonie
“Shaken, not stirred” 205 at the Turf can serve up your martini ala James Bond style, or any other way you’d like. Cosmopolitans, Appletinis or Original gin, whatever your preference, 205 will make it right. Located in the Holiday Inn Turf on Wolf Road, 205 is a three-time winner for best martini bar, so there’s no question about where to get your martini fix.
2.Noche 3.TGI Friday’s

Best Outdoor Dining
Jumpin’ Jack’s Drive-in, Scotia
Where else can you eat a whale-fry, Indian, 747 or a whistle? Opening day at Jumpin’ Jack’s on the Mohawk River has been a rite of passage for area locals since 1952. Second owner, Mark Lansing, bought the business in 1976 and is proud of its history. “I grew up here and worked here. We were established in the 50’s and maintained the same décor. We’re family-oriented with good service and reasonable prices “we’ve been around longer than McDonalds.” Jumpin’ Jack’s is so popular that the nearby Burnt Hills and Scotia schools don’t let kids leave during school hours because they wind up skipping class on opening day!
2. Beff’s Tavern 3. Sutters Mill and Mining Co.

Best Pasta
Villa Valenti, Wynantskill
If you’re in search for perfect pasta, look no further. With a menu that boasts fettuccini balognese and alfredo, cavatelli, manicotti and lasagna, you may not know what to choose first. Add one of their eight specialty sauces and top it with peppers, sausage, capers and more, and you have just created the perfect plate of pasta. Are you hungry yet?
2. Romano’s Macaroni Grill 3. Testo’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza Parlor

Best Pizza
Paesan’s, Various Locations
Pizza. A favorite food for millions, everyone is in search of the best slice, and in the Capital Region you need look no further than Paesan’s. Not only do they offer steaming hot cheese pizza, and all the common toppings to choose from, they also have specialty pizzas like white pizza with broccoli and tomato, deluxe and chicken parmesan.
2. I love NY Pizza 3. DeFazio’s Pizzeria

Best Pub
Beff’s Tavern, Albany & Delmar
When it comes down to pubs you want to find one that’s close by, has friendly staff and offers you an array of drinks and food that will satisfy you, which is exactly what Beff’s does. With a large draft beer selection and an even larger menu of food, Beff’s is the perfect pub stop for everyone.
2.Valenti’s Pizzeria and Pub 3. Parting Glass

Best Ribs
Smokey Bones Barbeque and Grill, Colonie
It’s a sure bet that you won’t leave here hungry. This two-time winner has a menu that boasts award winning ribs that are smoked for 12 hours and then hand pulled, making them delicious and tender. With three varieties, the Smoked St. Louis, Baby Back Ribs and 50/50 Rib Combo that come in half or full racks, you know you’re going to leave satisfied.
2. TGI Friday’s 3. Giffy’s Bar-B-Que

Best Romantic Dining
Provence, Albany
Nothing says romantic more than dim lighting, a din loud enough so that others cannot hear your conversation, but not so loud you have to shout, cozy booths and candlelight. This is what you’ll find at Provence. Combine the ambiance with French cuisine and an extensive wine list and you’re sure to leave in the mood for love. Bon appetite!
2.Arlington House 3. Nicole’s Bistro

Best Sandwich
Best Soup
Panera Bread, Various Locations
Fresh baked bread, great tasting meats, cheeses and vegetables and a unique style of soup, all that in one eatery. Panera (the four time winner for soups!) offers the best for your soup/sandwich style with choices like Frontega Chicken Panini, Pepperblue Steak Sandwich or Boston Clam Chowder and Vegetarian Creamy Tomato soup. Just right for curbing your appetite and stimulating your taste buds.
2. Genoa Importers 3. Debbie’s Kitchen
Best Soup
2. Everybody’s Café 3. McDonald’s

Best Special Occasion Dining
McGuire’s, Albany
Looking for that special place to celebrate a birthday or anniversary? The service at McGuire’s will make you feel like a star and the food is on par with the service. A great place to order from soup to nuts—and be ready for some exotic choices. Reservations are a must.
2. Angelo’s 677 Prime 3. Glen Sanders Mansion

Best Sports Bar
The Stadium Café, Saratoga Springs
This unique sports bar/café is family oriented while still giving sports fans what they want. Boasting 25 various-sized televisions, sports memorabilia and hearty, delicious food it’s a sports fan’s dream. Spend quality family time, while not missing a moment of the latest game or stop in with your friends after a hard day’s work.
2. JT .Maxie’s 3. Smokey Bones Barbeque & Grill

Best Steak
Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse, Albany
With 16oz. thick, center cut New York Strip Sirloin, Sliced Sirloin, and the mother of all steaks—Filet Mignon—there was no question about best steak. As if that weren’t enough, if you’re brave (and hungry enough) try their pound-and-a-half house steak that’s seasoned and seared flawlessly.
2. Angelo’s 677 Prime 3.Barnsider Restaurant Co.

Best Sushi
Koto Japanese Steak House, Latham
Since sushi now resides somewhere between familiar and exotic on the dining out spectrum, Koto is the place to go for those looking for a more adventurous take on sushi. They offer the expected sushi rolls, but also venture into the more creative realm, with innovative ingredients prepared so artfully you feel a tiny bit bad about eating it — but you just can’t stop!
2. Ichiban 3. Okinawa

Best Take-Out
Sunny Wok, Troy
In business for five years, this small Chinese restaurant is the ideal place for take-out food. Always served fresh, orders are made fast and efficiently and delivered in the same manner. Their large menu includes all your favorites like egg rolls, sweet and sour chicken and crab rangoo. And don’t forget the restaurant’s most popular order, General Tso’s chicken.

Best Tapas
Vin Santo Tapas Wine Bar, Latham
With the heavy burden of being the Capital Region’s introduction to Tapas, Vin Santo can now rest easy knowing they have impressed the public. Vin Santo combines traditional Spanish Tapas with American fare served in the Tapas style and a raw bar to boot! Being a restaurant venture of the owner of All Star Wine and Spirits the wine list is impressive. This restaurant is best enjoyed with friends who are in the mood for a gastronomic adventure.
2.Cella Bistro 3. Antica Enoteca

Best Troy Restaurant
LoPorto’s Ristorante, Troy
With competition stiff among the many new restaurants popping up in Troy these days, it’s no wonder that it’s the long-established LoPorto’s that takes the award. This very Italian restaurant offers old-world cuisine that delights the taste buds. With a seafood menu and authentic pasta dishes you know you’ll leave satisfied. Combined with an open and welcoming atmosphere, it’s not wonder this was voted best restaurant in Troy.
2. Verdiles Restaurant 3. River Street Café

Best Wine List
Cabernet Café, Albany
Upon entering this classy restaurant, look down at the glass floor and check out the wine cellar which houses wine from all over the world. With more than 2,000 bottles, you’re sure to find something for even the most discerning wine tastes. With a wine to fit every meal, you can choose to have a bottle or savor the house wines by the glass.
2. The Gingerman Wine Bar & Restaurant 3. Vin Santo Tapas Wine Bar
Best Places

Best Bed & Breakfast
Saratoga Rose Inn & Restaurant, Hadley
A unique location between Lake George and Saratoga Springs makes this place the perfect bed and breakfast. With six guest rooms, each with its own unique Victorian theme, anyone could feel like royalty here. Combine this with fine dining and plenty of nearby activities and you have the perfect B&B.
2. Stockade Inn 3. Mansion Hill Inn & Restaurant

Best Bike Trail
Mohawk-Hudson Bike/Hike Trail
Albany and Schenectady County are connected by this long beautiful trail. Paralleling both the Hudson and Mohawk River, the off-road paved bike trail allows riders the ability to have peace while taking their time to ride through the beautiful surroundings. The 60-mile Mohawk Hudson Bikeway is the perfect respite for cyclists who love biking with no hassles.
2. Colonie Town Park 3. Corning Preserve Trail

Best Day Trip
Lake George
How lucky are we to live within an hour’s drive to one of the top 10 cleanest lakes in the country and a huge tourist spot for thousands? Boaters can enjoy the 32-mile lake with breathtaking views of the Adirondacks. There are numerous waterside restaurants to dine at, plenty of shopping, and of course, Million Dollar Beach. With so much to do, Lake George is the perfect spot for multiple trips throughout the year.
2. Cooperstown 3. Saratoga Springs

Best Public Golf Course
Town of Colonie Golf Course, Colonie
Originally established in 1969 as a smaller, nine-hole golf course, The Town of Colonie Golf Course has since been expanded to include a 36-hole layout. If you want to practice a different swing, there are five tennis courts. Either way this two-time winner offers the best golf course that’s available to everyone.
2. Saratoga National Golf Club 3.Stadium Golf Club

Best Private Golf Course
Troy Country Club, Rensselaer
Established in 1925, this 18-hole golf course will challenge even the most experienced players. The Troy Country Club, the only private golf course in Rensselaer County, offers a variety of membership categories. With a course designed by famed golfer and architect Walter J. Travis, members are sure to have a great golfing experience. Add to this tennis courts a swimming pool, a restaurant and snack bar, it is everything you could want a day at the country club to be.
2. The Edison Club 3. Wolferts Roost Country Club

Best Hiking Trail
Best Picnic Spot
John Boyd Thatcher State Park, Voorheesville
Always a winner in our survey, Thatcher Park, is a wonderful place to enjoy nature. Located along the Helderberg escarpment just minutes outside of Albany, this state park is a great place to steal away for the day. Set up your picnic at one of the many tables or spread out a blanket on the grass. No matter which spot you choose, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the view. Be sure to walk the Indian Ladder Trail, open May 1-November 15, weather permitting. The park itself is open year round 8am until dusk.
2. Adirondack Park 3. Pebbles Island State Park
Best Picnic Spots
2. Cooke’s Park 3. The Crossings

Best Hotel
The Desmond Hotel, Albany
Conferences, weddings, dinner and drinks or just a night away, the Desmond is the right hotel for any occasion. With 18th century décor, comfortable rooms, indoor landscaping and an amphitheater conference room with the latest technology, this hotel combines comfort, style and business flawlessly.
2. Holiday Inn Turf 3. The Sagamore

Best Kid’s Camp
Camp Chingachgook Lake George
Every summer deserves to be special and at camp Chingacook kids are sure to have a memorable one. With special programs for teens, children, and even adults, this camp brings a sense of unity and fun for all ages. Located on Lake George, its beauty and tranquility offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
2. Camp Love Joy 3. Albany JCC Camp

Best Park
Cook’s Park, Colonie
With 55-acres, Cook’s Park is a great place to spend family time. Want something to do? Plenty of events are held in the park like dances, concerts and soccer events. Are you into competition? Why not watch a Colonie little league game? When you want to relax, enjoy cookouts, picnics, softball or just a game of tag in this cozy park.
2. Washington Park 3. John Boyd Thatcher State Park

Best Place to Go for a Walk
The Crossings, Colonie
Outdoor concerts, crafts vendors, bike paths, wildflowers and so much more. With its multiple paths and trails, The Crossings, is the perfect place to take a short (or long) walk. Whether with your friends, the kids or going it solo, you will soon find yourself returning here over and over.
2. Washington Park 3. Saratoga State Park

Best Place to Meet Singles
Single’s Square Dance Club, Colonie
With dancing all the craze lately, it’s no wonder that Single’s Square Dance Club was voted the number one spot to meet singles. But don’t think this is a new organization; its been around for 42 years! Every other Wednesday of the month single people get together to form friendships (and sometimes more) through the art of square dancing. Singles Square Dance club has actually seen quite a few marriages over the past years. So if you’re single, stop on by and let someone dosey doe into your heart.
2. Singles Outreach Services

Best Place for Sledding/Tubing
Frear Park, Troy
This beautiful and historic park has many different features, a golf course, hockey rink and plenty of open space. The layout makes it an excellent place for sledding and tubing during the winter.
2. Schenectady’s Central Park 3. Maple Ski Ridge

Best Reception Hall
Franklin Plaza, Troy
When celebrating an event as monumental as your wedding, you of course, want it to be at the finest place around. At Franklin Plaza in downtown historic Troy, you and your guests will enjoy homemade hors d’oeuvres, customized menus and the very best wines.
Large windows, chandeliers, fireplaces and high ceilings add to the warm ambiance of their halls that will make every guest feel welcome.
2. Glen Sanders Mansion 3. Hall of Springs

Best Romantic Getaway
Mirror Lake Inn, Lake Placid
Transformed in 1924 out of an old country estate, Mirror Lake Inn offers all the beauty of the Adirondacks with the service of a New York City five-star hotel. Sanctuaries, spas, fireplaces and whirlpools make it the most relaxing and romantic places to steal away to. Share a dinner for two at one of the three restaurants or sit back and relax in a specialty suite perfect for a second honeymoon or just some much needed alone time.
2. The Sagamore 3. Saratoga Rose Inn

Best Ski Area
Jiminy Peak, Hancock, MA
Forty-four amazing trails on 170 acres of terrain await you at this mountain! Not a skier? You could always drop by and take a few lessons available throughout the season. There’s something for every age group and skiing ability.
2. Gore Mountain 3. Lake Placid

Best Weekend Getaway
Lake placid
Everything under the sun—that sums up what there is to do on a weekend in Lake Placid. Museums, golfing, fishing, boating or shopping—so much to do it will make your head spin. The natural beauty of the Adirondacks gives breathtaking sights and adventurous opportunities like ice climbing and white water rafting. Of course, you can always decide to sit back and relax in one of the many beautiful hotels or Inns and enjoy some quiet time.
2.New York City 3. Saratoga

Best in Culture

Best Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, Saratoga Springs
Need a place to go that will stimulate your child’s mind in a fun, creative way? Here, your kids will learn the wonders of science, art and history. Programs like “Lasting Impression”, which teaches kids about fossils or “Stuff”, a seven-foot doll that unzips to teach kids about health, make learning fun and exciting.
2. Children’s Museum of Science & Tech. 3. Schenectady Museum

Best Comedy Club
Comedy Works, Albany
When you’re looking for a night of side-splitting laughter, make reservations at Comedy Works. The club’s stage has been graced by big names such as Ray Romano and Robin Williams early in their career. Enjoy a great show for $20 or make it an event and add dinner. Either way, their performers will definitely leave you with that great feeling you get after a night of laughs.

Best Concert Hall
Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy
A historic landmark, the Troy Music hall has been in existence since 1823. For years, world renowned artists have graced the stage with concerts and operas. Artists have included Grammy-award winning violinist Joshua Bell and most recently, Grammy award winning Taj Mahal Trio. Home to the Albany Symphony Orchestra, a trip here brings you art, history and beauty all wrapped into one spectacular building.
2. SPAC 3. The Palace Theatre

Best Summer Fair
Altamont Fair, Altamont
Established as a permanent fair in 1893, this fair has been entertaining families for generations. As you stroll through the fairgrounds, you can visit an authentic Dutch barn, visit the farmhouse museum, learn about the development of the automobile or stop at one of the many vendors to purchase crafts and other wares. And of course, no trip to the fair is complete without going on the scrambler and throwing your diet rules away for a day to enjoy fried dough and corn dogs.
2. Schaghticoke Fair 2. Freihofer’s Jazz Festival

Best Festival
Lark Fest, Albany
Music, food and fun are what you find each year at Lark Fest. The Festival held on Lark Street brings together families, hundreds of vendors and restaurants. One of the largest street festivals in upstate New York, you can stroll down the street stopping in shops, to shop, eat and enjoy the live music.
2. St. Anthony’s 3. East Durham Irish Festival

Best Live Music
Alive at Five, Corning Preserve, Albany
The City of Albany comes alive every Thursday evening from June through August by the river with free outdoor summer concerts. Now in its 18th season, this summer you can grab your friends, enjoy a cold drink and vendor food and simply dance around like a kid again.
2. The Ruddys 3.SPAC

Best Local Band
Burners UK, Albany
Though they are now on hiatus, this band has burned up many of the local stages in the Capital Region. For those of you looking to get your fix, log onto their website and find out about purchasing one of their CDs or learn what’s coming up for each individual member.
2. Hair Of The Dog 3. Mojo Magic

Best Movie Theater
Spectrum 8 Theaters, Albany
Locally owned, this independent movie theater offers the blockbuster hits as well as independent and foreign films. While having all the things you love about the larger theaters, the Spectrum has its own sense of uniqueness before each movie, there is a slide show of local artists and the snack bar offers up more than just popcorn and candy. Here, you can get brownies, cakes, tea or coffee. Oh, and PS: the popcorn has real butter!
2. Regal Crossgates Cinema 18 3. Scotia Cinema

Best Museum
New York State Museum, Albany
Upon entering this museum, you’re greeted by the Cohoes Mastodon, which dates back to the Ice Age. Understand the Native American culture better through a unique collection of crafts. Or learn about the diverse and rich culture of Harlem in the 20’s. As you explore the different exhibits you’re sure to learn something new about art, culture, history and sometimes things you wouldn’t expect like...chocolate. Don’t forget to check out the carousel on the third floor that was originally built in 1912.
2. Albany Institute of History & Art 3. Schenectady Museum

Best Theater Plays/Musicals
Proctors Theatre, Schenectady
Proctors Theater has it all. The theater holds two stages that are no stranger to big names, some of which include Tony Bennet, Duke Ellington and Mariah Carrey. Also available is a GE multiple purpose theater where mainstream movies like “Babel” and “Kill Bill Volume Two” have run with ticket prices as low as $3! With an arcade in the works, thereÍs everything you could ask for in a night out.
2. Capital Repertory Theater 3. The Egg

Best Orchestra
Empire State Youth Orchestra, Albany
Empire State Youth Orchestra is comprised of over 75 students from the eastern New York States, western Massachusetts and southern Vermont who come together to make beautiful music. There are two full orchestras, wind orchestra, string Ensemble, two Jazz ensembles, three percussion ensembles and a city strings training program. After long months of practicing, the students perform about 30 public concerts a year and are featured on CBS6’s Melodies of Christmas.
2. Philadelphia Orchestra at SPAC

Best Symphony
Albany Symphony Orchestra, Albany
Founded in 1930 by Professor John F. Carabella, this orchestra records the work of both established composers and up and coming American composers to constantly bring different sounds to their audience. Performing at the Troy Music Hall their beautiful sound is a treat for anyone who appreciates amazing classical music.

Best in Services

Best Car Wash
Hoffman’s Car Wash, Various Locations
Tom Hoffman, Sr. was a professional bowler in Albany and purchased car wash equipment in 1965 after his grandfather’s bowling alley was destroyed by lightening. Current owner Tom Hoffman Jr. says, “It’s all the good people I work with that make our business great. We’re committed to servicing the car-care needs of their customers whether through Jiffy Lube or Hoffman’s Car Wash. It’s a family run, local business and we work really hard to hire and train good people and learn new ideas and implement them into our business to exceed our customer’s expectations.”
2. Colonial Car Wash 3. Rain Dancer Car Wash

Best Caterer
Classé Catering, Albany
The only caterer that handles off-premises catering exclusively, these caterers are able to handle any event at just about any location. From wedding receptions to cocktail parties to business functions, you know you’ll be pampered with Classé Catering. With a wide array of menu items from Mediterranean Chicken & Pecan Encrusted Salmon to cheesecake and crepes, every need can be met. They handle the cooking, set-up, serving and cleanup. All you have to do is show up and enjoy yourself.
2. Old Daley Inn 3. Glen Sanders Mansion

Best Dating Service
Match.com
Okay, so it isn’t exactly local. But, as the popularity of online dating has risen tremendously in the past few years, it’s Match.com that is the most popular site for Albany singles. Just log on, set up your profile and get ready to meet more people than you’ll ever meet out on a Friday night. Be prepared to meet your perfect match!
2. It’s Just Lunch 3. e-Harmony.com

Best Day Spa
Kimberley’s...A Day Spa Ltd., Latham
When you need a pick me up in a beautiful upscale atmosphere, Kimberley’s Day Spa is the perfect place to go. The menu offers traditional services like haircuts, facials and massages and not-so-traditional services such as the Triple Chocolate Decadence Manicure and Cucubita Pumpkin Masque Float.
2. Jean Paul Day Spa & Hair Salon 3. Serenity Day Spa

Best Fitness Center
Curves, East Greenbush
In today’s busy world, it’s hard to find time to work out. But, at Curves, all you need is 30 minutes to help get you in shape. With machines specifically designed for women you’ll be inspired by the other members to stick to your workout and live a healthy life.
2. Gold’s Gym 3. YMCA

Best Florist
Frank Gallo & Son Florist, various locations
The freshest flowers and prompt delivery is the promise made by Frank Gallo & Son Florist. In business since 1930, their arrangements are beautiful and appropriate for any occasion. They guarantee their flowers, plants and gourmet baskets, which ensures you that you’re ordering the best.
2. Price Chopper 3. Fleurtacious Designs

Best Manicure/Pedicure
Serenity Day Spa and Salon, East Greenbush
The warm weather is finally here so get your feet sandal ready! Here, pedicures are truly relaxing experiences complete with exfoliation and massages. Serenity is the perfect place to relax as professionals gently exfoliate, massage and polish your tired hands and feet. And don’t think it’s just for women; Serenity Day Spa and Salon offers separate men’s packages.
2. Fresh Face Forward 3. Kimberley’s…A Day Spa, Ltd.

Best Mechanic
Norm Stahlman’s Mobil, East Greenbush
Many will agree that finding a mechanic you trust is important. For the second year in a row, Capital Region residents agree that Norm Stahlman is the mechanic of choice. Open for inspections, auto repair, lube jobs and any other aspect of car upkeep, you can definitely trust your car to Stahlman’s Mobil.
2. Larry’s Foreign Auto 3. Lia Toyata

Best Men’s Hair Salon
Rumors IV Men, Latham
The ultimate man salon where you can sit back and watch TV with the guys as you get the perfect hair cut. Treat yourself to hot shaves and skin care or get in style with coloring and a variety of grooming products. Top off your visit with a shoe shine and you’ll leave looking like a million bucks.
2. Gregory’s Barbershop 2. Sal’s Barbershop

Best New Salon
Shelley Salon and Day Spa, East Greenbush
Whether you’re in need of a new look or just a trim, trust your tresses to the professionals. Prices vary by who is cutting your hair, but with a well trained team you can be sure you’ll leave looking great. Any look is possible, from perms to flat ironed sleek looks. They offer beard trims, for men and Shelley’s special children’s prices.
2. Cleopatra Salon & Specialty Boutique Tied 3. Signatures Salon & Spa, Shapes & Colours

Best Pet Groomer
PetSmart, Various Locations
“PetSmart started in the late eighties as a warehouse-concept pet retailer, but the needs of our “pet parents’ changed as pets became more accepted as family members,” said Michelle Freidman, spokesperson for PetSmart, Inc. “We provide total lifetime care for pets including all services, products, information and advice. Grooming including teeth cleaning, nail trimming and health care is certainly a part.” Friedman noted the extensive training program as being key to their success and adapting breed-specific training for the growing hybrid-breed market including labradoodles and puggles.
2. Petskleen 3. Pet Spa

Best Pilates Center
The Movement Lab, Troy
Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates to help wounded soldiers during WWII, but it has exploded over the last decade as a mat or machine based workout that centers on your core. At the Movement Lab you have a 55 minute workout, either by yourself or in a group. Move, stretch and breathe with classes that help improve your health and your physique.
2. Kula Experience 3. Albany Pilates Center


Best Women’s Hair Salon
Jean Paul Day Spa & Hair Salon, Albany
Every woman is special at Jean Paul Day Spa, where the mission is to provide excellent customer service and a great and welcoming attitude. No matter what the occasion, weddings, parties or just an everyday wash and cut, this salon is ready to cater to your needs. Is it any wonder that they’ve won best women’s hair salon?
2. Rumors 3. Fantastic Sams Family Hair

Best Yoga Center
Albany Kripalu Yoga Center, Albany
Kripalu offers over 40 varieties of yoga for every level of expertise. For your convenience, the Center has multiple class sites, with the main location off of Wolf Road. AKYC also offers a Sunday Sadhana, which is complimentary to members, as well as weekend classes on a variety of topics from drumming to meditation. There is also a yoga class for mom and baby!
2. Soluna Yoga Studio

Best in Shopping

Antiques
Bournebrook Antiques, Troy
Located in the old Thomasville Furniture Store, Bournebrook Antiques has over 12,000 square feet of space packed full of treasures from long ago from nearly four dozen dealers. Quality is the key when buying antiques and Bournebrook is at the top of the list when it comes to finding the perfect antique from any era, be it furniture, mirrors or paintings. Open seven days a week, you can go antiquing whenever the mood strikes you at this extraordinary antique center.
2. Eagle Mills Antiques 3. River Street Antiques

Bargain Shopping
Christmas Tree Shop, Colonie
As the familiar jingle asks, “Don’t you just love a bargain?” With such low prices, everyday is like Christmas at the Christmas Tree Shop! You can find everything from wrapping paper to toiletries to home décor, all at wallet-friendly prices. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, your home or just browsing, the Christmas Tree Shop truly has the most unrivaled bargains in the Capital Region.
2. Target 3. Marshalls

Bike Shop
Downtube Bicycle Works, Albany
Since its opening as a small shop in 1996, Downtube has grown to the largest online bicycling resource center. With some of the best service and a very knowledgeable staff you know you’ll find the right bike for you. They’ll also teach you how to take care of your bike to keep it in great shape! Whether you’re an old pro looking for the best new bike, or a newbie looking to break in a brand new bike (as well as purchase all your safety gear), Downtube is the right shop for you.
2. CK Cycles 3. Plains Bike Ski Snowboard

Book Store
Borders, Various Locations
With multiple locationl, book lovers don’t have to travel far to find what they want. With hundreds of titles in stock, as well as a huge selection of books and movies, Borders has something for everyone.
2. The Book House of Stuyvetsant Plaza 3. Bookmark of Latham LLC.

Chocolate Shop
Uncle Sam’s Candy, Schenectady
Customers travel from several states just to try Uncle Sam’s Candy. There’s a candy to fit every occasion, hobby and craving. Try the delicious fudge, turtles, chocolate bark and more. There are also plenty of tasty sugar-free options to choose from as well. You can visit the shop or order online from the comfort of your own home.
2. Krause’s Homemade Candy 3. The Chocolate Gecko

Clothing Shop
ME Fashion Boutique, Loudonville
New to the area for only six months, ME Fashion Boutique is the place for women to go for that perfect outfit, no matter what the occasion. Owner Lindsay Phillips chose the Newton Plaza location because “it gives the boutique much more personality” and sets her apart from her department store competitors. “I really like the plaza and the smaller home like community.” With a sleek Manhattan feel, there are even couches to rest your tired feet after a long day of shopping.
2. Circles 3. Some Girls Boutique

Consignment Shop
Liz’s Closet, Albany
For gently used clothes, Liz’s Closet is the place to go. With a huge selection of clothing, you can find a great wardrobe staple that you’d never find at the mall for a fraction of the price! Who doesn’t love to look great at half the price?
2. Something Olde Something New

Farm Stand
Kristy’s Barn, Schodack
Open May through Thanksgiving, Kristy’s Barn offers a large selection of high quality produce, flowers and plants. Unique to many farm stands, Kristy’s Barn also offers fresh meat and poultry, raised hormone-free, right on their farm. You can also shop for baked goods, jams, cheeses and honey syrups.
2. Calhoun’s Farm Stand 3. Gade Farm

Farmers Market
Troy Waterfront Farmer’s Market
Each Saturday, over 50 local farmers and vendors gather to offer fresh and locally produced products from meat to baked goods to farm fresh fruits and vegetables. So rather than trudging to the grocery store each week, head to the Troy Waterfront Farmer’s Market for some of the freshest goods around.
2. Kristy’s Barn 3. Rensselaer County Farmers Market

Garden Nursery
Hewitt’s Garden Center, Various Locations
For the past 40 year’s Hewitt’s Garden Centers have been providing the Capital Region with garden products, tools and services. With eight different locations in the Capital Region, Hewitt’s has grown to be the fifth largest independent retail garden center in the country. Stop in at any location to check out their large selections of perennials, annuals trees, shrubs and all the things you’ll need to make your garden fabulous.
2. Faddegon’s Nursery Inc. 3. Becker’s Farm

Gift Shop
Wit’s End Giftique, Clifton Park
Aside from having the area’s largest selection of collectibles, shopping at Wit’s End is an experience in itself. The inside of the store is complete with cobblestone “streets” leading shoppers to different areas containing new and interesting treasures. Be it unique or old classics, if you’re looking for that perfect gift you’ll find it here.
2. Pearl Grant Richmans 3. Krafts By Kim

Hardware Store
True Value, Various Locations
For home repair to weatherproofing to building a tree house, True Value has what Capital Region residents are looking for. With several locations you won’t have to travel far to find one. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden and need the latest tools or performing major surgery on your bathroom, True Value is the place to go for all your questions and tool needs!
2. Lowe’s 3. The Home Depot

Health Food Store
Honest Weight Co-Op, Albany
The Honest Weight Co-Op is member-owned and-operated, committed to providing the community with affordable, high quality natural foods and products for healthy living. Breads, produce, organic foods and much more are available.
2. Uncle Sam’s Good Natural Products 3. Earthly Delights Natural Food

Jeweler
Mayfair Jewelers, Scotia & Latham
Family owned and operated, Mayfair Jewelers was started by Frank Sosnowski in 1953, with brothers John and Victor buying into the business in 1989. Co-owner John, a graduate and certified gemologist said, “This validates something we’ve tried to do for a long time: to do the right thing for our customers. We’re straight, honest and supply competent information to our customers, plus we back our engagement diamonds up with a warranty that’s unmatched in the business.”
2. Frank Adams Jewelers Inc. 3. Hannoush Jewelers

Menswear Store
Spector’s, Colonie
For well over 80 years, Spector’s has been meeting men’s needs when it comes to dressing well. Originally located in downtown Albany, the store has changed locations over the years and now calls Colonie Center home. Every man with a sense of style should head over to Spector’s where they’ll find excellent quality suits, slacks, shirts, ties and jackets for special events, business and everyday wear.
2. Christopher’s Mens Store 3. JoS. A. Bank Clothiers

Music Store
FYE, Various Locations
Whether you are in Crossgates or Colonie Center, FYE is the place to go for a huge selection of music and movies. You can spend hours sampling new releases or listening to golden oldies. Every sound track imaginable is housed here, not to mention a few cool movies, games and electronic accessories that you just shouldn’t do without.
2. Best Buy 3. Borders Books & Music

Shoe Store
Saratoga Shoe Depot, Saratoga Springs & Delmar
Though the selection is enormous, Saratoga Shoe Depot offers more than just amazing shoes. Clothing, accessories, jewelry and even cool toys are all available, and at pretty reasonable prices. So when your feet are in need of pampering and you’re getting ready for a night out, Saratoga Shoe Depot is your one stop shop to glamorous.
2. DSW Shoe Warehouse 3. Macy’s Shoe Dept.

Sporting Goods Store
Sports Authority, Albany & Latham
No matter what your favorite sport is, Sports Authority has what you need. They offer athletic apparel and footwear, as well as fitness and sports equipment. With summer fast approaching you know you can get all your gear here and not miss a beat of the summer sports action!
2. Dick’s Sporting Goods 2. Goldstock’s Sporting Goods

Used Bookstore
Book Barn, Latham
For a huge selection of titles, Book Barn will surely have a book that suits everyone’s tastes. With a constantly changing inventory, the Book Barn has reading material that you can’t get anywhere else. And at a price much lower than the competition. It’s a steal!
2. Lyrical Ballad Bookstore 3. Good Buy Books

Wine and Liquor Shop
All-Star Wine & Spirits, Latham
Whatever your tastes, All-Star Wine & Spirits has such an impressive selection, you won’t leave here empty-handed. France, Italy, Australia and New Zealand are just a few places their wines are imported from. You can browse the shelves of the store to find something you like or you can order online.
2. Exit 9 Wine & Liquor 3. Vineyard Wine + Spirits

Local People and Media

Best Anchor
Liz Bishop, CBS6
Liz Bishop began as a sportscaster for Channel 6 in 1973, while a sophomore at SUNY Albany, when there were only a half-dozen women sportscasters in the country. Though known as the first woman reporter allowed in the New York Yankee’s locker room, Bishop describes the defining moment in her career as going to NYC with the Capital District Search and Rescue Team following 9/11. Upon receiving her award she says: “This area is home and it’s so gratifying to be recognized for working as hard as I do.”
2. John Gray 3. Greg Floyd

Best Artist
L.F. Tantillo
Growing up in Hudson, Leo Tantillo knew from a young age that art would be a lifelong passion. His paintings with mostly nautical themes are breathtaking. Truly talented he recently won the Rudolph J Schaefer award for his painting “The Marigold at Raspberry Island”, 1939. His gallery in the heart of Albany is a full service gallery and frame shop that showcases his talent in multiple medias, including stain glass.
2. Harry Orlyk 3. Audrey Romano

Best Meteorologist
Steve Caporizzo, WTEN News10
As people tune into the news each day, an always-burning question is, “What will the weather be like?” Enter Steve Caporizzo (a three-time winner) with up-to-date weather reports to help you plan your day. But this meteorologist has passions other than the weather. He spends his spare time raising money for local animal shelters both here and in Massachusetts and started the Pet Connection segment on News10 to help homeless pets find owners.
2. Steve LaPoint 3. Bob Kovachick

Best Musician
Ernie Williams
He played his first guitar when he was 13. After that, there was no turning back for this blues musician. Today, Ernie Williams is a seasoned blues veteran playing in various clubs in Albany, Boston and Chicago. He’s been the opening act for greats like B.B. King and Aretha Franklin, released eight CDs and has even been featured in a Cannon Printer commercial. There’s nothing Ernie hasn’t done, and there’s only more possibilities to come.
2. Brian Patenaude

Best Newspaper Columnist
John Gray
When he’s not delivering the news, Fox23 anchor John Gray spends time writing a weekly column for the Troy Record (and a monthly column for CRL). He tackles many subjects in a witty, down-to-earth manner from politics to relationships to pop culture. His passion for writing is evident in every column and his connection with the people of the Capital Region through words is unmistakable.
2. Fred Lebrun 3. Carl Strock

Best Politician
James Tedisco
As Republican Assembly minority leader, James Tedisco has been an active member of the Schenectady community for years. It’s no wonder that in 2005 he was unanimously elected into his position. He’s won numerous civic awards and honors and has proposed bills to make the government more accountable to its citizens.
2. Paul Tonko 3. Elliot Spitzer

Best Radio Personality
Bob Wolf, WPYX (PYX-106)
Bob Wolf, headliner of “Waking up with the Wolf,” which airs weekdays from 5:30am-10am, came to PYX in 1997 from WPDH Poughkeepsie. Together with sidekick Jesse Adams and flutist Ellen Z on news, the trio is well-known for involving their listeners in pulling off practical jokes and rallying around causes to make the area a better place. “The people here are tremendously generous,” said Wolf. “What they did for Extreme Makeover and the outpouring of support every year for PYX-mas wish is just amazing. And, I’ve seen that kind of giving here time and again.”
2. Don Weeks (WGY) 3. Chuck and Kelly (105.7 The Buzz)

Thank You for Voting!

It’s long awaited, it’s a ton of work, but our “4th Annual Best of the Capital Region” issue is finally here. Some of the winners were no-brainers, others surprised us, but all are deserving of their awards. Part of the excitement for us is telling the winners that they have won. This was the first year we did it before the issue hits the stands. I’d like to thank the hundreds of voters who flocked to our website to cast their votes.

In this issue we also feature 36 women business owners. Some you might know—Rumors, Queen of Tarts and Circles—while others you might be discovering for the first time, such TST Specialty Designs, seamless. clothing consulting and Jean’s Greens. I truly enjoyed interviewing everyone and learning about their businesses. Every one of the women was an inspiration for me and I’m sure you’ll feel the same. When asked what they like best about their job, “flexibility” was the unanimous answer, especially for those raising families.
I’m pleased to announce the debut of columnist Bill Dowd, who will be writing on many topics including food and travel, and Arlene DeAngelus, who writes the monthly horoscope column.
If you hadn’t already guessed by its heft, this issue is our biggest to date, with 80 pages. The past few months at CRL has brought about some great changes, with more yet to come. We are extremely grateful to our many advertisers and readers who have supported us over the years.
On behalf of the CRL staff, I wish you and your family a safe and happy Memorial Day!