Average ‘08 home improvement spending to top $11,000

Angie’s List members to spend 2.9% of home value on upgrades; stay put not sell

The national downturn in home sales that began in 2007 may cause an uptick in the home remodeling industry in 2008.The annual Angie’s List project poll indicates homeowners will spend about $11,250 on average on home improvement and maintenance projects in 2008, up 13 percent over the average they reported spending in 2007.
On average, homeowners answering the poll plan to spend 2.9 percent of their home’s value on repairs and renovations this year.
“More than 60 percent of our respondents tell us they will update their homes this year, and nearly half of them will oversee their home improvement projects themselves,” said Angie’s List founder Angie Hicks. “Building experts tell us they’re getting calls for work from homeowners who would otherwise move and put their current home on the market, but are afraid they can’t sell it quickly enough to afford the newer, bigger house.”

In specific, Hicks said, most poll respondents plan to invest in kitchens, baths – areas real estate experts say provides the best return when selling a home. They’re also the rooms people spend the most time when they’re at home. Other popular projects for 2008 are:

• Landscaping and yard work
• Painting inside or out
• Flooring
• Doors and widows
• Decks and porches

Slightly more than a quarter of the poll respondents said they will hire help in 2008; not to update, but to repair problems with their homes.
“Whether your project is large or small, the two smartest things you can do before you start are to make sure the professionals you hire are reliable and to make sure you have the resources to cover both your project costs and the unexpected home repairs that will come up throughout the year,” Hicks said.

Angie recommends following these three guidelines before you start any project:
1. Planning: Take a few minutes to walk around your house and observe the shape of your house inside and out.
2. Budgeting: Consider how much available money you have to spend and start with projects that you can afford. Make sure money you spend will add value to your home.
3. Executing: Timing is key in projects. Factor in what season you’ll be doing the work or what time of year may be the best time to get on a contractor’s schedule if you’re hiring out the project.

Once you have your list of projects in hand, consider these 10 factors:
1. Start small: Tackle the smaller jobs first because you’ll more likely finish the project.
2. Wants vs. needs: Make a list of projects that “need” to get done. Finish those first, then move on to your “wants”.
3. Safety concerns: Handle any projects that could affect your family’s safety. Do you have water damage or faulty plumbing? Leaking water should be a priority because it could cause structural problems down the road. Also, check to make sure your smoke alarms are working and childproof your home.
4. Upgrades: Perform projects that reduce energy and water consumption. This will save you money in the long run.
5. Small tasks, big rewards: Make easy, low-cost improvements that can offer significant results such as painting a room or changing a light fixture.
6. Tedious jobs: Polish off repairs that have been a nuisance or that you have been putting off, such as that squeaky floor and leaky faucet.
7. Pest control: Check for the insect kind or the small furry ones. Sealing your home and lawn against pests is important home maintenance item.
8. Cosmetic: Fix that hole in the wall, repair molding or add a splash of color to your walls.
9. Curb appeal: Improvements to the home’s exterior will make it more inviting. Get a new front door or spruce up the landscaping.
10. Stay positive: Don’t get discouraged. Just remember not to get too overwhelmed or you’ll never see the project through. At the end of the year, you’ll have a lot to look back on.

• 1,309 Angie’s List members took the 2007 poll. Responses are representative of Angie’s List members but not the general public. Detailed results are available upon request.

Angie’s List is where consumers turn to get the real scoop on local contractors and companies in more than 280 different categories. Currently, more than 600,000 consumers across the U.S. rely on Angie’s List to help them find the right contractor or company for the job they need done. Members have unlimited access to the list via Internet or phone; receive the Angie’s List magazine, which includes articles on home improvement and maintenance, consumer trends and scam alerts; and they can utilize the Angie’s List complaint resolution service. Get more information and consumer tips at www.angieslist.com.

Four ways to find a contractor you can love

When it comes to sheer potential for relationship disaster, the worst in-laws in the world can’t compare to a shady contractor.
Hire a questionable contractor and you could be setting yourself up for serious heartache. Find a contractor you can love and you’ll be building the foundation of a lasting, happy relationship - not to mention the home of your dreams.
But the numbers show that many Americans have difficulty finding reputable contractors. In fact, the Better Business Bureau logged more than 9,600 complaints against contractors in 2006. Of the 3,800 different categories of complaints accepted by the BBB, those against contractors rank lucky 13 in terms of prevalence.
Here are four steps towards building a lasting, happy relationship with a quality contractor:

1. Run from . . .
Despite the volume of BBB complaints logged against certain contractors, most are honest and operate within the law. The Federal Trade Commission offers the following tips for recognizing a contractor who possibly isn’t on the up-and-up:
• Beware of signs such as soliciting door-to-door, only accepting cash, not having a listed business number in the local telephone directory, or offering to do your project with materials “leftover” from a previous job.
• Watch out for contractors who want you to obtain required building permits or find them new customers (some will offer discounts if you find them new business).
• If the contractor is offering something that seems too good to be true—like exceptionally long guarantees or offering to do your home as a “demonstration”—it probably is too good to be true.
• Finally, if a contractor pressures you for an immediate decision to hire him, or to borrow money for the project through his preferred lender, you may want to take your business elsewhere.

2. Check them out
Don’t hesitate to check out the background of the contractor you’re considering for your job; he won’t be offended if he has nothing to hide. Likewise, find out if he intends to subcontract some work, and do a background and financial check of those contractors as well. Fortunately, there are a number of resources with information on contractors, from the BBB to websites that maintain databases of contractors, such as ContractorCheck.com.
Launched by Experian, the company known for its credit reporting and protection services, ContractorCheck allows consumers to search for contractors in their area, check a specific contractor’s business background and avoid contractor fraud. For each contractor in the database, consumers can check to see if he is bonded, the status of his business license and insurance, how long the company has been in business, and if the contractor has any judgments or liens against him.

3. Talk to people who already love them
During your dating years you probably “checked out” prospective dates by talking to their friends and others who knew them. You need to do the same kind of word-of-mouth research before committing to a contractor. Talk to past clients to determine how reliable, speedy and reasonably priced they think your contractor candidate is. Were they pleased with the work but thought it took too long to complete? Did the contractor deliver on-time and on-budget?
Reputable contractors maintain a list of satisfied customers who have agreed to act as references. If your potential contractor can’t provide the names, phone numbers and email addresses of past satisfied customers, you may want to ask yourself why he can’t.

4. Get it in writing
Good contractors will give you a binding estimate in writing. They also won’t work without a written contract. The contract should clearly spell out, in easy-to-understand terms, exactly what the project will cost, what will be accomplished and the anticipated time frame for completing the job. Don’t hesitate to get an attorney to review the contract before you sign it, especially if you are dealing with a high-price-tag project.
Beware of verbal agreements; as the saying goes, in a court of law, they’re often as good as the paper they were written on.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Caring for your hardwood floors this winter

Homeowners with hardwood floors are often concerned about damaging their floors during the winter season. Without proper care, winter’s harsh elements—slush, snow and salt—can dull the varnish of hardwood floors and even cause warping and gapping.
It’s almost impossible to avoid winter elements. After all, what would the season be without building a snowman or sledding until you’re soaked? Rather than missing out on winter fun, here are a couple of simple steps you can take to protect your floors this winter.

Install floor mats
Catching slush and snow at the door is the best way to avoid damage. It is important to keep these mats as clean and dry as possible. You may even consider investing in an additional mat that you can use while drying the other. If your kids enjoy playing outside, encourage them to remove their wet snow apparel as soon as they come back inside to avoid trekking snow all over the house.

Get creative with everyday household materials
Placing a dish-drainer tray mat by the door with a towel underneath can be a nice place for shoes and boots to dry off. Kindly ask your guests to remove their shoes as they enter. Buy inexpensive or disposable slippers to make your guests feel more comfortable.

Train your pets
Pets are the number one offenders of tracking snow and slush into the house. Train your pets to patiently wait by the door while you dry their paws with a towel, and then reward them with a treat. Consider placing a bowl of treats by the door as a reminder.

Be prepared
Always keep soft towels or a wet/dry vacuum on hand in case you need to get rid of water right away. While towels can clean up most of the mess, it’s best to invest in a quality floor care kit. Lumber Liquidators offers a Bellawood Floor Care Kit which comes with one 32-ounce bottle of Bellawood’s soy-based cleaner, one mop with a washable terry cloth mop head, and one tin with 100 felt furniture pads. The Bellawood Floor Care Kit can be found on the Lumber Liquidators website at www.lumberliquidators.com and at all store locations for $25 per kit.

Check the warranty
Some companies offer warranties, should snow or other harmful elements damage your floors. Make sure to find out before you purchase your hardwood floors what type of product warranties the company offers. Lumber Liquidators offers warranties on most flooring options, which in turn helps protect you and your floors.
“Damage to hardwood floors in the winter is among the top concerns we hear from our customers,” said Tom Sullivan, founder of Lumber Liquidators. “Using our floor care kit on a fairly regular basis should do a thorough job of protecting your floors. While winter is a key season to be cautious, there are damaging factors all year long so we recommend the kit be used regularly.”
While winter can be a difficult time for hardwood floors, there is one benefit to this season: It’s one of the best times to install hardwood flooring. According to Sullivan, indoor moisture levels are at their lowest, which helps to prevent gapping.
For more information about installing hardwood flooring, call (800) FLOORING (356.6746) or visit www.lumberliquidators.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Easy, do-it-yourself upgrades to make your home more functional

The age-old argument of form versus function need not apply while upgrading your home. There are easy, do-it-yourself ways to improve your living spaces while making your home more beautiful and functional. Whether your home is a small apartment or a large estate there are many simple, low-cost projects that can have a big impact.
Unlike the cookie-cutter homes of yesteryear, today people want their interior spaces to be customized. Upgrades such as custom walk-in clothes closets and slab granite countertops are nice, but pricey and frequently require professional installation. What if you live in an older home that has no overhead lighting in the bedroom? Or you’ve got a small living room that has room for extra seating or a coffee table, but not both?

Under cabinet—out of sight, not out of mind
There are many products that may be installed under your cabinets to make your kitchen more functional while using previously wasted space. If you like to be entertained while preparing food, but have no counter space to spare, try an under cabinet television, radio or combination of the two. Under cabinet lighting brightens up any kitchen space and can shed light on nooks and crannies that had been neglected in the dark.
Install an under cabinet spice rack to free up valuable counter real estate. The racks hold 14 to 24 jars of herbs and spices without sacrificing cabinet, counter or drawer space.

Up a wall
If you need to add extra space to your place, look up. The walls are an often overlooked area when adding storage to your home. Add shelving to the kitchen, bathroom, laundry area, linen and clothing closets to increase space for the things we accumulate.
The least expensive way to add shelving is to purchase pre-made wire shelves from your local retailer. But wire shelves are not very attractive and the spaces between the wires often allow for products-and messes-to spill through. The Shelfanator is a solid white wood-look shelf cover specifically designed to fit right over wire shelving. The Shelfanator cover locks in place and creates a flat, even and sturdy surface on top of sometimes clumsy wire shelves and gives them a custom look. The covers are water and stain resistant and significantly brighten up the areas where wire shelving is typically used-laundry rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and closets. Installation takes just a few minutes.

Shed some light in tight spaces
The addition of a comfortable chair and wall-mounted lighting can easily create a book nook in an unused corner. Adding wall-mounted lighting to both sides of a bed provides light that is adjustable based on the reader’s — or sleeper’s — preference. Lighting mounted on the wall is stylish, clean, uncluttered and does not take up precious table space needed for alarm clocks and books.
Install dimmer switches to control the light level in a living room, bedroom or dining area. Dimmer switches add ambience and changing the light instantly changes the way a room looks.

The garage - Not just for the car anymore
Purchase an epoxy coating kit from your local hardware retailer and follow the simple instructions to transform your dingy garage floor in just a few hours. Not only does a fresh epoxy coat look nice and add value, but it hides stains and is easy to clean. It even increases the usable floor space in the garage by brightening the space and eliminating formerly cobwebbed and dirt covered spaces.

Stuff to put more stuff
The next time you’re in the market for a chair or coffee table, purchase a piece of furniture that does double duty. There are coffee tables with tops that lift up to create a workspace and have shelves and drawers to store the remote controls. Storage ottomans have hidden space inside to store books and blankets, but when the top is on they add extra seating or can act as a footrest or table. Sofa beds offer a comfortable seating option and the bed inside pulls out when guests stay overnight.
The next time you have a free afternoon, take time to upgrade and customize your space. The payoff is clean, uncluttered rooms that are comfortable and functional.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Bring your entertainment room into the 21st century

Upgrading your family room to a family entertainment room is expected to be one of the hottest home improvement projects for 2008, and if you’re among the millions planning to do it, the best place to start is by deciding how to put the main attraction, your new HDTV, on display.

Popular installation methods include sitting on top of a furniture cabinet, hanging from the wall, or even mounted overhead in the corner of a room. “The possibilities are really endless thanks to innovations in the technology available to support these TVs,” said Keith Pribyl, vice president of retail sales for Sanus Systems, a manufacturer of audio video furnishings, mounts and accessories.
The company expects home theater accessories to be popular in the new year, especially its four new VisionMount full-motion wall mounts for medium flat-panel TVs. The new mounts offer features such as tilt, swivel, pan and extend motions, and Virtual Axis 3-D technology for smooth, effortless tilting with the touch of a finger. The LAS1A and XAS1A side speaker mounts that attach to Sanus’ large and extra-large full-motion flat-panel wall mounts are also expected to be hot items.

Sanus Systems products are available at thousands of retail locations nationwide. A store locator is available at www.sanus.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

How to prep like a painting pro

Painting is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to update your home. A fresh coat of paint can give new life to a dull room, or a completely different color can add personality and pizzazz throughout your living space. To ensure a professional-quality job, take the appropriate preparation steps.
“To achieve great painting results that last a long time, it’s crucial to prep the surface thoroughly and get the right tools,” said Anne Horst, customer service manager at Wooster Brush, a company dedicated to producing quality painting products. “Surface preparation is key for getting expert-looking results.”
Preparing the surface is the most important part of any painting project. If the paint doesn’t have a smooth, clean surface to adhere to, the result will be a poor-quality job that doesn’t last very long. “You should spend at least as much time on surface prep as you will be painting,” advised Horst.

Follow these seven steps to ensure a professional-level prep job and beautiful painting results:

1) Start by clearing the space. If you can’t move the furniture out of the room, push it all into the center and cover it with drop cloths. Remove outlet covers, wall heating vents, light fixtures and other hardware. The job will go faster because you won’t need to paint around these objects, and the overall coverage will be more professional.

2) Next, scrape or sand flaking paint from the surface. If you are painting over a semigloss or gloss finish, the gloss should be removed or else new coats of paint may not adhere. Horst recommends using sandpaper with 220 grit or a liquid cleaning/dulling agent.

3) As you prepare the surface, look for flaws. Fill cracks, gouges, chips, and nail holes with the appropriate patching plaster, spackling compound, or wood putty. When the patch is dry, sand it lightly and feather the edges of any rough spots so they’re level with the rest of the area. Remember, the smoother the surface, the better it will look after it’s painted.

4) “After sanding the surface and fixing chips, wash the wall with a 50/50 mix of ammonia and water to get rid of grease, dirt and dust. Allow it to dry completely, then lightly wipe with a damp cloth. This helps ensure the wall is clean and ready for paint,” said Horst.

5) Before priming and painting, make sure to get the proper brushes and rollers so the job goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. Horst points out, “If you are a fairly steady painter and you’re using a high-quality brush like Wooster Ultra/Pro, you might not even need to tape off the trim. Steady or not, if you’re working with a cheap brush you’ll need to buy masking tape and apply it, adding to the cost and time of the project.”

6) When painting ceilings, cover the entire floor with drop cloths. For walls, you can simply cover the floor next to where you’re painting.

7) The final step is to prime the walls. Use the correct primer on the entire surface if it is newly constructed, stained by water or smoke, prone to mildew, rusted or aged. Your local paint store can provide recommendations. Primer helps to seal and even out the surface so the paint goes on smoother, adheres better and lasts longer.
One technique experts use to save time and get a high-quality finish is to use a mini-roller for small wall spaces, trim work or edging close to the ceiling. The Jumbo-Koter mini-roller has a special cage frame that provides a smooth operation without skidding, and the roller fabrics match the full-size Wooster covers so you get a uniform finish. It eliminates the band of brushmarks around the wall edges or near the baseboards.
For more information, visit www.woosterbrush.com or look for Wooster products at your favorite paint store.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Fix up the focus of your bathroom for less

Many homes in America have a dirty little secret—a dated, dingy, dark and dysfunctional bathroom. While the average return on investment of a bathroom remodel is 80 to 90 percent, the average cost—$10,000 to $12,000—can easily put the brakes on the project before it’s even started.
The largest focal point in most bathrooms is the bathtub or shower. Sprucing up the main focus freshens up the entire bathroom for a fraction of the price of a full remodel.
“There are ways to reap the rewards of a better bathroom while putting a cap on project costs,” says Derek Cassoff, marketing manager at Bath Fitter — a custom bath, shower and wall company.

Glaze over the problem
One popular option is to re-glaze, or repaint, your existing bathtub. This is one way to cover up chips or cracks. In some cases, you can even use it to change the color. However, the results are usually temporary and may only last until you’re ready to re-do the entire bathroom.

Cover it up
A more permanent option is to install an acrylic bathtub liner right over your existing bathtub or shower surround. Bath Fitter can build a custom acrylic liner to go over your bathtub, shower and wall for much less than it would cost to rip out and replace the existing fixtures. The high quality material is easy to clean, has a lifetime warranty and is a permanent fix, unlike re-glazing. The process takes about a day meaning your bathroom won’t be out of commission for weeks. You can even instantly design your own new bathroom on their website: www.BathFitter.com.

Start from scratch
Embrace your funky pink bathtub and re-tile in a complementary color. Tiling can be tedious, but if Art Deco is your style you can find tiles that fit with your bathroom’s existing color style and color scheme. Be careful when removing old tiles so as not to damage the wall underneath. Hiring a professional may cost a bit more up front, but can pay off in dividends when you don’t have to repair an accidental hole in the wall.
Remember you can always update or change the look of your bathroom with a gallon of paint and some decorative accessories.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Make a dramatic home improvement with a small budget

Do some of your light fixtures look like they are fugitives from another era, and are certain rooms in your home better looking with the lights off? If so, it’s time to do something about it.
Small changes with regards to lighting can make a dramatic improvement in the look and feel of your home, and they don’t cost much to do. Here are some ideas from the experts at LightingShowplace.com—a company that over the past 13 years has helped more than one million customers with their projects - on how to dress up your home in an instant, starting at the front door.

Front door
When you drive up to your home at night, what do you see? If the answer is “not much,” then you should replace your front entry light with a lamp that gives off more light. A well lit front entrance says ‘Welcome,’ while at the same time enabling you to greet guests and identify visitors. Not only will updating your lighting improve the look of your home from the street, it will enhance your sense of security because the front door will be better lit.
If you have a single lantern next to the door, consider replacing it with matching wall lanterns to give the home a warm look, while assuring the safety of those who enter. For homes with a porch or overhang, you have even more options: a recessed, chain-hung or ceiling fixture.

The dining room
Want to dress up your dining room without spending a small fortune on new furniture? Simply painting those plain white walls and switching out the chandelier hanging over the table will make a dramatic difference.
Not sure what color to go with? Here’s a guideline from the National Kitchen and Bath Association on what some of the most popular colors can do:
Soft yellows can be cheering and make individuals feel sunny. Bright yellow can be used as an accent that attracts attention and helps to brighten a room.
Green is the ultimate pacifier. Often associated with nature, it is both relaxing and reassuring. Pale yellow-greens conjure images of growth while deep greens are associated with status and wealth.
Blue arouses feelings of freshness, coolness and relaxation. In lighter hues, blue is airy and open while dark blues represent wealth, strength and respect, evoking the feelings of reassurance in individuals.
Red attracts attention, causes excitement, and even raises blood pressure. Intense red is stimulating; however, it can also be distracting in large amounts. Red is associated with wealth and sophistication, while high value reds (pinks) can make people feel good about the way they look.
Once you choose a paint color move on to the task of replacing your plain, boring fixture with one that gives the room more of a “wow” factor. For a look of opulence, you may want to go with a crystal chandelier. For a more contemporary look, consider a fixture that features softened and rounded lines. If you’re going for a modern look, you’ll want something with polished surfaces, strong geometric shapes and asymmetry, while the rustic look reflects the visual patterns found in nature.
Adding a floor lamp in the corner of the room that fits the same theme will help you really dress up the room. It will make those extra chairs resting near the wall a more inviting place to hang out while people are waiting for the meal to be ready.

The bathroom
And if your bathroom still looks like it’s circa 1970 with dark paint and globe lights around the mirror, choose a lighter paint color and swap out the fixtures for a bold new look.
An ideally lit bathroom will have a fixture above the mirror with usually two, three, four or more bulbs. This fixture will provide overhead and top of the features lighting. The next type of fixture you will need to achieve a well lit bathroom are sconces. One sconce on either side of the mirror will help avoid shadows and fill in the rest of your face and neck properly. Most bathrooms will require additional flush mount ceiling lighting in the toilet area or center of the room to fill the entire room properly with light.
When it’s time to start shopping for fixtures, you don’t need to spend a lot of time running from lighting store to lighting store. To get an idea of the latest looks available, just log on to www.lightingshowplace.com, and you’ll have access to an online catalog with hundreds of fixtures to choose from. You can shop by brand, collection or style and once you find a look you like, the site makes it easy for you to pair up matching pieces.
According to Daniel Auer of Lighting Showplace.com, customers come to his online store for three key reasons. “They come to us because they know they can find quality merchandise at a good price, that they can expect the products to be delivered quickly, and that they’ll have all their questions answered either in the informational articles on our Web site, or on the phone when they talk to one of our customer service representatives.”
Auer adds that unlike box stores which typically hire people who aren’t familiar with all the brands and products they sell, his customer service personnel can answer any question the customer has, and they will offer a quick response via e-mail or phone.
Whether you’re ready to shop for your lighting needs today, or just looking for ideas that will jump start your project, log on to www.LightingShowplace.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Demand for ENERGY STAR®

Compact fluorescent lighting spurs more options, styles and higher standards.

ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs have been on the market for more than a decade now, and as consumer demand has grown, so have the styles and sizes to accommodate all kinds of lighting fixtures. Despite their 75 percent power savings over regular incandescent bulbs, and rising consumer demand, there are still many concerns about CFLs that steer some consumers away from buying these high-quality bulbs. For instance, older versions of CFLs fit into all normal-size light sockets, but they either didn’t always fit a particular fixture or lampshade or didn’t work for certain applications like dimmable lights. These versions also took a few seconds to warm up and sometimes flickered. That’s no longer the case today, as ENERGY STAR-qualified fixtures and bulbs give off the same amount of light as incandescent or halogen lighting, while providing a true and natural color without the flicker, hum or buzz.

There are many versions of CFLs for recessed lighting, dimmable ballasts, outdoor fixtures and more. Some ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures and CFL bulbs come equipped with 3-way lighting. Also, new CFLs now look almost like traditional incandescent bulbs in both shape and size. Bottom line, ENERGY STAR qualified CFL bulbs can replace regular, incandescent bulbs in almost any fixture, making them appropriate and cost-effective for fixtures throughout your home. Also, for ENERGY STAR fixtures, there are pin-based CFLs (unlike standard screw-based CFLs) that are made specifically for the energy-efficient fixtures. ENERGY STAR fixtures fitted with pin-based CFLs allow for maximum lighting efficiency and quality.

Using 75 percent less electricity, CFLs can produce the same amount of light as a common incandescent bulb and last about10 times longer. They have lower wattage ratings making them more energy efficient and less harmful to the environment. CFLs are also much cooler to touch than incandescent or halogen bulbs because they produce about 70 percent less heat.

Tired of changing the ceiling lights year after year? ENERGY STAR-qualified fixtures last seven to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. All ENERGY STAR-qualified light fixtures are tested to meet strict specifications and carry a two-year warranty—double the industry standard! CFLs use less energy, resulting in less fossil fuels being burned and less greenhouse gases released into the air. In fact, if every household in New York State replaced one incandescent bulb with an ENERGY STAR CFL, we would avoid releasing approximately 340,000 tons of carbon dioxide into the air. That is the equivalent of taking over 68,000 cars off the road. Lower your electric demand and save money with CFLs! By replacing five of your most used bulbs with CFLs, you will save approximately $60 a year in energy costs. When compared to traditional incandescent light bulbs, CFL bulbs are more expensive to purchase, but are much less expensive to operate. They will save you about $30 per bulb in energy savings over their lifetime, more than offsetting their initial cost.

To find out more information about ENERGY STAR lighting, tips to save more money on your energy bills and other New York Energy $mart programs, visit www.GetEnergySmart.org or call 1-877-NY-Smart.

Home security systems go a la carte

By Amy E. Tucker

If you ever thought having a home security system (HSS) was a luxury for the rich and famous—think again. New technologies and customized add-on services have made protecting your home and valuables not just affordable, but a smart investment.
“It’s really more of an emotional product, today,” said Van Mekeel, general manager for security at Time Warner Security (TWS). “It’s not just a good, old-fashioned, burglar alarm anymore, but an extremely modular and customizable configuration that can accommodate individualized security needs.”
The advent of dual income families has increased the number of adults away from the home as well as the reliance on home security devices and monitoring systems. Homeowners have joined businesses in utilizing electronic security to protect and safeguard their property and valuables when they’re not on the premises—and even when they are.

Emotional security
“Emotional ‘triggers’ are big motivators for purchasing a home security system,” said Ann Lindstrom, director of corporate communications for ADT Security Systems, Inc., a unit of Tyco Fire & Security.
“Life changing events such as a marriage, moving into a new home or having a baby prompt people to contact ADT,” she said. “Sometimes those events are more negative, such as hearing that a neighboring home was burglarized or that crimes have occurred in the surrounding community.”
Mekeel agreed, but said people require security for more than just peace of mind or a change in lifestyle.
“Add-on services for environmental conditions such as fire, temperature and water detection are becoming more popular than the primary security service,” he noted. “We service a lot of seasonal homes where subscribers purchase a low-temperature detector or basement water detection.”
Commercial customers might install security systems for liability protection and to deter, detect and document crimes, including theft. In fact, the proven deterrent value of having a professionally-installed and monitored security system has prompted many insurance companies to require systems or offer premium reductions for the service.

Differentiating systems
In an industry comprised of both national vendors and independent local alarm companies, TWS is a national brand that’s surpassed the quarter-century mark. Available in the Capital District for the last 15 years, its business is approximately 70 percent residential and 30 percent commercial.
“We focus on residential primarily because we feel it complements our core services nicely,” said Mekeel.
ADT Home Security Systems, Inc., on the other hand, enjoys a relatively 50-50 split.
Established in 1874 as American District Telegraph (ADT), the 133-year-old company has been in business longer than any other electronic security services company and services nearly six million customers in North America.
Ranked as the largest security services provider by Security Distributing and Marketing Magazine (www.sdmmag.com), they cite Brinks as their closest competitor in the residential market and HSM in the commercial marketplace.
“Some consumers prefer a local ‘alarm guy’ that they heard of through word-of-mouth referral,” Mekeel said, “where others will prefer a large, name-brand, national service provider like Time Warner, ADT or Protection One.”
What sets the competition apart according to Mekeel is the quality—of the hardware and the service. There are hundreds of different installation variables. Customers may just want their doors secured and have a motion detector, or they may want all their windows and doors secured.
“TWS doesn’t require a long-term contract to ‘bind you’ to our services like most national providers,” explained Mekeel. “If your needs change or you’re unhappy with the product, you can terminate the service.”
In addition to TWS’ lifetime service warranty, there are no charges for service calls and no maintenance agreements or extended warranties to purchase for the hardware.
“We want the consumer to be comfortable using the system,” Mekeel continued, “and not be afraid to call with questions or concerns because they might be charged for a service call.”
All credible security providers should have a central monitoring station that is Underwriter Laboratories (UL)-certified.
TWS owns and maintains a UL-certified monitoring station in Syracuse which accommodates the entire company’s installations. A redundancy (back-up) system can reach out to a regional location in Syracuse or it can be drilled back to a divisional level if necessary.
ADT’s network of five, fully UL-certified, interconnected, customer monitoring centers are strategically located in diverse geographic areas of the country including Rochester, N.Y.; Aurora, CO; Jacksonville, Fla.; Kansas City, MO and Omaha, Neb. These monitoring centers are equipped with the latest technology to prioritize and direct calls for the most prompt attention.

The service menu
ADT’s total security solutions include intrusion, fire protection, closed circuit television, access control, critical condition monitoring, electronic article surveillance, radio frequency identification (RFID) and integrated systems.
“Beyond burglar alarms people appreciate the value of having a monitored smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector to help provide life safety as well as security,” Lindstrom said.
ADT’s new Safewatch® Videoview® surveillance system allows homeowners to monitor their homes remotely. The system can even generate email alerts whenever a customer-defined event or intrusion occurs.
With an Internet connection and a password, customers can log on to an encrypted and secure website to make sure family members have arrived home safely, check on possible damage to a vacation home after a storm or monitor the progress of repairmen from anywhere.
ADT doesn’t offer a basic starter kit or entry-level pricing. Each home is individually customized to meet the consumer’s needs and pricing is figured accordingly. You’re paying only for what you need, and those needs are individually assessed for your specific home/structure and security concerns.
TWS offers a standard HSS package for $95 consisting of three door or window contacts, one motion detector, an interior siren, a command center key pad, phone connection and communicator panel.
Standard features include zoned areas that can be turned on or off when residents are home; buttons to summon fire, police and emergency medical assistance and pet immunity motion detectors that can be set to ignore motion from objects weighing less than a specified amount.
Additional add-on components or modules include smoke, water and temperature detectors; additional alarms for windows or doors and an Escort ™ System for remote activation of alarms.
The TWS sales team educates the subscriber to help determine what components are needed. In a commercial environment for example, areas can be partitioned so that a warehouse is armed separately from the office. Another popular TWS feature for families with young children is the addition of a door chime. If a child opens the door, the keypad beeps, notifying the adult.
Education also includes landscaping alternatives for new homes, such as planting a thorny bush beneath an accessible window in lieu of purchasing an additional contact. (what do you mean by contact?)
“When we arm a window,” Mekeel explained, “we use the screen as the point of detection for the contact. That way you can raise the window to let fresh air in, but still have the system armed. If the screen is opened or cut, it would trigger the alarm.”
For vendors large and small, the future of security systems is evolving as rapidly as the technology.
According to Mekeel, the industry will continue to evolve into a value-added system like a touch-screen center for information
“We’ll provide information such as traffic and stock reports, horoscopes, news and weather, in addition to the ability to turn on your lights and arm your system remotely. I see it eventually converging into a home-management system.”
All this may eventually be operable from a button on your wrist watch or television remote.
For information on ADT Security Systems, visit: www.adt.com. For information on Time Warner Security visit: www.twalbany.twalb.com/security/ or contact 242.8990.

Molding and trim

The crowning glory of any room

If you’re like most homeowners you probably don’t think much about trim and crown molding. But walk into a room with crown molding and you will immediately feel you are somewhere special. Trim and crown molding really complete a room that may otherwise seem dull and lackluster.
Baseboards and doorway trim are essential to give a room a finished look. And upscale touches like crown molding can add to the elegance of almost any room. In fact, trim and crown molding is so important that finish carpenters - craftsmen who specialize in making and/or installing room trim—can command high prices for their work.
“The good news is that thanks to some innovative new products, and readily available advice and education, you can fire your finish carpenter,” said trim expert Mike Denny of So-Simple Crown Molding. “It’s easier and more affordable than ever for do-it-yourselfers to install trim, even crown molding.”

Here are facts you should know about trimming a room:
• Trim types include baseboards, molding around doors and windows, ceiling trims and crown moldings. They can all be as elaborate or simple as your taste dictates. Most home builders install basic base moldings and door and window trim.
• Baseboards or floor trim are both decorative and functional. Installed where the bottom of the wall meets the floor, base moldings anchor a room visually and also protect walls from damage by feet, vacuum cleaners, brooms, mops or other cleaning tools.
• The wider the trim, the greater its visual impact on a room. If you are trimming a grand, open space, wide, highly detailed moldings can add depth and interest to the room. Keep scale in mind when choosing the size and complexity of trim.
• Crown moldings have long been considered the hallmarks of upscale homes. Historically, builders have marketed these moldings as expensive upgrades and finish carpenters have charged handsomely to install these trims in existing homes.

“Until recently, most homeowners would have hesitated to tackle installation of crown molding on their own,” Denny said. “Thanks to the growth of the do-it-yourself market, manufacturers, such as SoSimpleCrown, have created beautiful and affordable crown molding that makes it easy for virtually anyone to trim a room themselves.”
Crown molding has entered the realm of the do-it-yourselfers thanks to pre-cut corners. “Traditional wood crown molding has a reputation as a difficult home improvement project for the do-it-yourselfer,” he said. “Most people are intimidated by the angled cuts required and the tools such as the, nail gun, needed to install traditional crown molding.”
Enter products like So-Simple Crown Molding, a light weight, easy to handle foam crown molding product that looks exactly like real wood crown molding. Much less expensive than wood crown, this innovative molding eliminates two of the biggest challenges of crown molding installation—corner cuts and nailing. With a simple online ordering process, homeowners specify the number of corners in their room and the company pre-cuts the moldings for the proper fit. Precut corners and the molding’s light weight means one person can easily install the molding.
Additionally, this product installs with caulk. No nails are required. For more information about crown molding visit, www.SoSimpleCrown.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content

Remodeling that pay$

By Amy E. Tucker

As the winter months drag on, many homeowners turn to remodeling and rehabbing projects to pass the time and increase the resale value of their homes. When deciding on which projects to undertake, it’s important to remember: not all projects are created equally.

You may be longing for that in-ground swimming pool this summer, but adding a deck might provide more bang for your buck when it comes time to put your home on the market. To take some of the guesswork out of the process, the following suggestions were derived from Home Modeling Magazine for the best remodeling projects across the country.
The two best home remodeling projects by far in terms of return on your investment are the kitchen and the bathroom.

A kitchen remodel ranges anywhere from $15,000 and up and adds between 80-110 percent increased value to your home. A complete overhaul could include new cabinets and countertops, re-wiring or plumbing alterations, structural changes and new or custom cabinetry and appliances.

Remodeling your bathroom, though typically less expensive than a kitchen remodel, provides a whopping 80-115 percent return. Bathroom remodels start at approximately $7,500 and include new fixtures and fittings, tile, floors and walls, in addition to possible plumbing and structural changes. Adding a second bath can yield more than 100 percent resale value! Bankrate.com quoted Julius Lowenberg, president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, as stating “people are spending more time in their bathrooms and bedrooms. It’s a luxury item for them.”

Luxury showers with pulsating or multiple shower heads, marble countertops and double vanities are no longer limited to million-dollar homes. Simple, inexpensive fixes include custom-fitted tub liners, which replace the existing tub without the mess of ripping it out.

When deciding on a room addition, the type of room selected could make or break the deal. Constructing a new room can be costly, ranging anywhere from $30,000 and up, with the return value varying from a mere 50 percent to 110 percent according to Home Modeling Magazine. The addition of a family room or master suite and bath adds more to a home’s value than adding a private office or fourth bedroom.

Converting existing space in an attic, basement or garage, however, is much less costly and can provide the same conveniences. Assuming no structural changes need to be made, and that plumbing doesn’t need to be added, a typical conversion ranges between $10-15,000 and, depending on the type of room created and the size of the existing house, it can increase the value from 25 to 40 percent.

The next best remodeling projects focus on the exterior of your home. Adding a deck or repainting the exterior both yield a 40 to 60 percent return, with a fresh coat of paint perhaps adding the “best profit” to selling an older home (cost and return estimates for aluminum and vinyl siding were not included in the report). Relatively speaking, paint is much less expensive averaging about $1,500 and up compared to $5-10,000 and up for a deck. Warmer climates also increase the value of adding a deck and amenities such as a gazebo, trellis work or a spa.

Finally, adding that coveted in-ground pool can yield a 20 to 40 percent return depending on the size, the climate of your area and desirability to future homeowners. An average, rectangular-size 16’ x 32’ pool can cost anywhere from $20,000 and up with fencing, typically required for safety and insurance purposes, pushing the bill still higher.

Additional improvements such as installing insulated windows, paving the driveway, landscaping and more can beautify and improve both the functionality and efficiency of your home. But when it comes to remodeling that pays, stick to the guidelines above for the best return on your investment.

Adirondack Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Executive Woods, 5 Palisades Drive – Suite 201, Albany
348.0634; www.adirondackoralsurgery.com
648 Plank Road, Entrance B – Suite 210, Clifton Park

Owners: Dr. Gary S. Wadhwa, Dr. Paul S. Johar, Dr. Timothy J. F. Lynch
How long have you been in business? Since 1994.
Describe your business: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery specializes in dental implants, wisdom teeth removal under anesthesia, extraction of teeth and impactions, state-of-the-art diagnostic CT scan and planning of dental treatments and traumatic and aesthetic facial and jaw surgery.
What sets you apart from competitors? We focus on quality using six sigma and lean theory of constraint initiatives to focus on the quality of our patient’s care. We are constantly training staff in quality and clinical advancements. We also the first health care facility to receive the Governor’s award in excellence, the highest award for leadership and management development in New York State.It is awarded to organizations that utilize highly effectivepractices for leadership, planning, employee development, customer service and continuous improvement.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is an academically and professionally awarding career. We are a dental surgeon specialty that allows both hospital and private practice experience. Demand for practitioners has grown nationally.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We plan to grow with more staff and services for the community. We plan to improve customer service and continue to invest in cutting edge technology for the Capital Region. We are constantly taking continuing education courses to bring the latest advances in the field of oral & maxillofacial surgery to our patients.
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-5pm.


Aird Dorrance
43 Round Lake Road, Ballston Lake
899.0049; www. AIRDDORRANCE.com

Owners: Barbara,Sheila and Frank Dorrance
How long have you been in business? Aird Dorrance has been in business for over 50 years, however the family has been in the decorative plumbing and heating business for over 125 years between Aird-Don of Troy and Aird Dorrance.
Describe your business: Aird Dorrance is a very diverse wholesale/retail company supporting the construction/remodeling industry. We offer baths, kitchens, heating, plumbing, flooring, lighting, municipal and industrial products backed by a very large staff of experienced designers and product specialists.
What sets you apart from competitors? At Aird Dorrance we are very proud of our employees, who have hundreds of years of combined experience in each of our product areas, which means top service for our customers. Our Premier showrooms are among the largest and nicest in the country and offer a gallery shopping experience, with over 50 kitchen and bath vignettes complete with lighting and flooring.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Always remember what your customer is shopping for. She is looking for a lifestyle, a way to enhance her gracious living, a satisfying complete experience—not products or things.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We expect to continue being the leader in assisting Capital Region residents to improve and experience their gracious living lifestyle during remodeling or new construction.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-4pm.


Avanti Hair Studio
2005 Western Avenue, Albany
869.6721


Owners: Jo-Leen Benincasa & Patricia D’Arpino
How long have you been in business? We just celebrated 20 years in October.
Describe your business: Avanti has a staff of 17 stylists who are highly trained in hair cutting, styling and all aspects of hair coloring. The atmosphere in our salon is warm and friendly. We care about our customers and cater to their needs, using only the highest quality hair products.
What sets you apart from competitors? The business has a firm foundation because we have been friends since childhood. We feel that building a relationship with our customers is important. We are committed to providing quality service to each and every customer, many of whom have become friends.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? This is a great career if you want to be your own boss and have flexible hours. A business will automatically grow if you put the customer first and treat them with respect.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We hope for continued growth of loyal staff members and satisfied customers.
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9am–9pm; Saturday 8am–5pm.


L’Azur Med Spa
World-Class Treatments, Products and Services At Beaux Visages, Latham Farms
783.1988; www.beauxvisagesnewyork.com

Owners: Cheryl Anne MBA & Alan R. Jones
How long have you been in business? Five years. This is our second Med Spa. Our first opened three years ago and is the market leader in Rockland County, just outside of Manhattan.
Describe your business: Our dedicated and qualified staff of advanced medical, aesthetic and wellness professionals deliver of-the-moment high technology and time-treasured treatments and products to achieve ultimate personal enhancement, rejuvenation and graceful aging — offered in a warm, inviting Mediterranean environment. We work hard at retaining the old-fashioned values our parents instilled in us. The reality is we live in a high-tech, post-modern society leaving many of us feeling stressed, alienated and deprived of the basic need for caring human touch.
What sets you apart from competitors? L’Azur Med Spa focuses on the sp-a-a-a-h-h in Med Spa and the laser, medical treatments follow. All of our treatments are non-ablative so our clients won’t have to concern themselves with downtime or discomfort. Still, it’s a new experience and we give our clients the T.L.C they deserve. We are looking to forge long-term relationships as we satisfy the needs of body and soul. Physical transformations can be spectacular, but what pleases us most is that we deliver them with a warm, human touch in an atmosphere scented with lavender as you sip soothing green tea while lying on a comfy, cushioned bed surrounded by lovely Mediterranean art.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Do your homework and gain a clear understanding of this unique hybrid industry. Though a retail concept is necessary to survive it is, after all, medical above all else.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We have a winning formula, which we intend to share with physicians seeking additional revenue opportunities. Insurance cutbacks have been financially devastating; still it takes a whole lot more than buying an expensive laser and offering Botox to succeed as a medical spa.
Hours: Monday 10am-4pm; Tues-Thurs 10am-8pm; Friday 8am-5pm, Sat 8am-6pm.


California Closets
952 Troy-Schenectady Road, Peter Harris Plaza (Rte 7), Latham
785.5723; www.californiaclosets.com


Owners: Sean and Joy Rafferty
How long have you been in business? The California Closets name has been around for 30 years. We have been involved in our locally owned and operated business since 2003.
Describe your business: We custom design, build and install home storage/organization systems such as: closets, mudrooms, kitchen pantries, garages, home offices, media centers, etc.
What sets you apart from competitors? We have a large, centrally located showroom in Latham with numerous displays and a design area with wood color choices and various accessory samples. Our designers are professionally trained and work with customers to design systems to meet their specific needs, wants and budgets. As a locally owned business, we feel it is very important to help local non-profit organizations. We recently held a very successful women’s clothing drive at our showroom to benefit Dress for Success of Albany and we are currently in the process of donating our goods and services to the Ronald McDonald House of Albany.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be ready to work hard. It is very rewarding to have your own business, but the responsibility for everything rests in your hands. Also, treat your employees well. You are only as good as the people who work for you. We have a fabulous team of dedicated people who work for us and we couldn’t be where we are today without them.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Designing and installing much more than just closets. There are so many areas of the home that can benefit from custom storage systems. The trend in new housing is for homes to be built with larger closets and other storage areas. New materials are also becoming available that will give people even more choices for their home storage. I see us doing more garages, media centers and other non-traditional storage systems for our current and new customers.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm; Saturday 10am-4pm.

Capital Region Spinal Rehabilitation and Chiropractic–A Spinal Aid Center of America
8 Century Hill Drive Suite 202 Latham
782.5060; www.spinalaid.com

Owner: Dr. John P. Milham, DC
How long have you been in business? I have been in practice for over 11 years. I relocatedto the Capital District last year and opened Capital Region Spinal Rehabilitation and Chiropractic in April 2007. This office is the first Spinal Aid Center of America office in upstateNew York.
Describe your business: A non-surgical spinal decompression clinic in which we treat patient’s with severe and chronic back conditions such as herniated/bulging discs, disc degeneration, stenosis, sciatica and facet arthrosis.
What sets you apart from competitors? This treatment is innovative and not widely available in upstate New York. We provide friendly atmosphere and help patients feel comfortable by educating them and answering any questions they may have. We also address body mechanics and lifestyle changes to help our patient’s optimize spinal health for years to come.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? It is very satisfying work and a great career if you are dedicated and motivated to helping people in pain.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Making this advanced treatment (non-surgical spinal decompression) more available to people throughout the greater Capital Region.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30am-6pmby appointment.


The Crooked Lake House
2339 State Route 43, Averill Park
674.3894; www.TheCrookedLakeHouse.com

Owner: Paul D. Vincent
How long have you been in business? I have owned The Crooked Lake House since September 2006, with the dream of bringing it back to its former glory.
Describe your business: We are a full-service restaurant and banquet facility that ranges from casual to elegant. Our chef, Bill Bensen, offers a tavern menu as well as a fine dining menu. We can accommodate more than 300 guests for weddings, banquets and corporate events. A variety of music adds to the ambiance on the weekends and special dining experiences such as “Stammtisch”, which is a German word referring to our monthly multi-course dinner served at large tables in our Great Room. Join us this month, on the 24th, when we will travel to South America where the cuisine will be Carnivale in Brazil, seating at 6:30pm.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our 200-year-old building has a rich history and amazing views. It is situated on a beautiful lake in a rural setting that is minutes from the Capital District. The panoramic views from our ballroom complete the mood for a calm and relaxing venue regardless of the size of your party. Lakeside dining on our terraces is a must in the summer months.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Anyone who is passionate about the restaurant business knows it demands hard work and dedication of many hours to provide customers with a dining experience that exceeds their expectations. Having the passion to carry on a rich tradition that brings our past into the present requires one to love what they do and not just work to be accomplished. It is a way to give an enjoyable dining experience back to the community while preserving the past.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Continuing to reclaim its’ place as a favorite location for entertainment, private parties and fine dining.
Hours: Tavern Menu: Wednesday-Sunday at Noon; Full Menu: Wednesday-Sunday at 5pm; Brunch Menu: Sunday 11am-3pm.


CR Wireless
11 locations from Queensbury to New Paltz
Headquartered in Delaware Plaza, Delmar
www.crwireless.com

Owner: Frank Grant
How long have you been in business? 13 years.
Describe your business: We are a community-based retailer of cellular products and services. We work with people who are tired of poor service, are looking to save money on their wireless bills and appreciate one-on-one personal service from a great staff. We are the number one AT&T retailer in the Capital Region.
What sets you apart from competitors? CR wireless is the only place on the planet where you can get “The Loved Customer System”, which ensures value and a great experience for our customers. Our award-winning customer retention rate of over 99% is another thing that sets us apart.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Go for it! You should always pursue your dreams and there is always room in any industry for quality, passionate people who love what they do.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We will continue to see more video and mobile Internet offerings and the “convergence” of entertainment and communications on what we now call “phones” at CR Wireless. We will also be focused on creating value and great experiences for our customers and clients through “The Loved Customer System”.
Hours: Vary by store. Mall locations are same as malls, other locations are open Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm and all stores have Sunday hours and the ability to schedule appointments upon request. Visit www.crwireless.com for more details.


Landscape Inc...
Loudonville
489.2341

Owner: Pete Rossi
How long have you been in business? Over 18 years.
Describe your business: Landscape Inc... isthe premierprofessional installer of brick paver patios, walkways, pool surrounds and retaining walls. We also have divisions that take care of year round property maintenance, landscape design/installationand commercial snow removal.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our finished product is simply the best. We use top of the line materials, we are ICPI certified and we stay on top of ourproduct manufacturers’continued education, which is constantly updating methods and standards in the industry. When we finish a job we leave behind the “WOW” factor. Guaranteed!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Pay extra attention to the smallest of details.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? The five-year plan is to grow and improve.
Hours: 7:30am-4pm.


Pine Lake Stoves
747 Saratoga Road (Rte 9), Wilton 584.9070
1087 State Routes 10 and 29A, Caroga Lake
835.8900
www.pinelakestovesandspas.com

Owner: Tim Willard
How long have you been in business? Since 1991 at the Caroga Lake location and May 2007 in Wilton.
Describe your business: We sell, install and service most hearth products, including: wood, pellet and gas stoves, wood, pellet and gas fireplace inserts, and custom wood and gas fireplaces. We also sell and service spas and sell kayaks and canoes. Service work includes chimney, stove and fireplace cleanings and repairs (both warranteed and for a fee). We sell and install chimney liners, mantels and cultured stone products.
What sets you apart from competitors? Product knowledge, personal service and community support. We spend time with our customers both in our store and in their home to fully understand their heating requirements and product preferences. Our community support, both financial and through personal involvement in charitable organizations, is unparalleled. We understand the importance of supporting the communities in which we do business, as they support us.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? The hearth industry is a critical component to our country’s ability to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, including foreign oil. Individuals interested in this industry should develop a well-rounded background of working in a retail setting, while learning about installation techniques, fire codes and mechanical operations of fireplaces and stoves.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Our business will grow significantly and become more mainstream, as the dramatic rise in oil prices have caused increasing numbers of people to seek alternative ways to heat their homes. Also, the increased focus on our environment and air quality benefits our industry, as our products produce low carbon emissions and are fueled by renewable resources, such as cord wood, wood pellets and corn.
Hours: Both stores are open Monday-Thursday from 10am-6pm, Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm.


Saratoga Sotheby’s International Realty
432 Broadway, Suite 7, Saratoga Springs
580.8500; www.SaratogaSothebysRealty.com

Owners: John A Burke Jr, Shane Newell, Harold W Reiser III, William Parker
How long have you been in business? The business officially launched August 9, 2007. Launch reception was held at the Saratoga National Golf Club by invitation only.
Describe your business: Artfully uniting extraordinary properties with extraordinary lives. Experience the Saratoga Sotheby’s International Realty difference. Here, we specialize in providing our customers and clients with professional real estate services in the Greater Capital Region and the Adirondacks. We represent both buyers and sellers utilizing industry-leading international marketing programs to provide you with maximum exposure for the unique and distinctive properties of our beautiful regions.
What sets you apart from competitors? An international marketing platform along with buyer/seller relationships who invest in commercial and residential real estate holdings.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Become licensed in the state you wish to practice real estate.Then, carefully select the branding platform that will give you a strategic and competitive advantage in the marketplace you service.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We expect to be the premier real estate company to market unique & distinctive residential and commercial properties across upstate NY.
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am–6pm; Saturday 9am–5pm. Available 24/7 via answering service and remote communication tools.


Save-More Wines and Liquors, Inc.
444 Broadway, Menands
449.8436

Owners: Shannon Briscoe and Sandra Brokaw.
How long have you been in business? We have been in business for 31 years.
Describe your business: We are a retail wine and liquor store.We carry barware and hand painted stemware from Mimi’s paintbrush and also sell NYS Lottery.
What sets you apart from competitors? We are a family owned and operated business. We have a large selection of domestic and imported liquors and wines and happily recommend wine selections for food pairings.We gladly accept special orders.We have a friendly, efficient staff in a convenient location.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? If you want to pursue a career in retail, I would recommend that you pick a trade that you really like. You will invest a lot of time and hard work, so you should enjoy it.Our customers are wonderful people, which makes our job even better.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I think our store will have a bigger selection within the next five years. I hope to meet many more people in the coming years and share good wine suggestions with them.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm.


Stockade Oriental Rug Imports
543 Broadway (the old Fire House), Saratoga Springs
583.2044

Owner: Deborah K. Barthold
How long have you been in business? I established Stockade Imports 25 years ago in the old Stockade section of Schenectady. I learned the trade from my father, Joseph Reinhardt, former President of Jacobsen’s Oriental Rugs in Syracuse. I have traveled to India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey and China to establish direct links to weavers and suppliers.
Describe your business: We sell a wide variety of high quality, hand-made, individually selected oriental carpets; often supported by in-home decorating expertise and trial installations. Stockade Imports is also an excellent source for oriental carpet cleaning, repairs and appraisals.
What sets you apart from competitors? Stockade is dedicated exclusively to providing the highest quality hand-made 100 percent wool Oriental rugs at fair price and assuring that each piece complements the décor in which it is placed. We have a large current inventory and ready access to wholesale markets both within the US and abroad. Delivery, installation and decorating counsel are free. Customers are encouraged to take rugs home on an approval basis.
What advice would you give others wanting to pursue a similar career? Start early in life studying the history and styles of Oriental rugs since each design is linked to a geographic region. Learn the history of weaving and step-by-step rug construction and an ability to judge the quality of work since two rugs, which may look alike, may vary greatly in value. Learn the differences in appearance and durability of both wools from various parts of the world and different dyes. Then establish a network of wholesale sources, including weavers themselves.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Our reputation for quality, for working hard to match each rug to its surrounding décor and for fair pricing will assure a continuation in the growth we’ve enjoyed in the Capital Region. Our business growth has catapulted along with the new home construction in Saratoga Springs. Continued growth will be spurred by interest in condominiums where interior décor is especially important.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am–5pm. Other hours by appointment.


Teakwood Builders Incorporated
563 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs
587.2880; www.teakwoodbuilders.com

Owner: James Sasko
How long have you been in business? Since 1995.
Describe your business: We are a design/build contractor specializing in luxury building, remodeling and historic restoration for residential and commercial projects. We take responsibility for every aspect of a project from its initial design to the appropriate furnishings to compliment the space. Our design team consists of cooperative relationships with the Capital Region’s finest architects, engineers and interior designers. Inside, we do everything from single-room remodeling to home theaters to basement makeovers to whole house renovations. Outside, we build pool cabanas, sunroom additions and porches. Our new homes can be built on your property or ours and there is no limit to design or style.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our relationships with our clients are critical to our success – there are no “contractor horror stories” to tell. We strive to exceed their expectations. Our craftsmen and sub-contractors are chosen not only for their superior skills, but it is also equally important that they meet our superior standards of honesty, cleanliness and courtesy while working within our clients’ homes.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? It is not an easy career. Long hours of hard work and unceasing commitment are required in order to succeed. For those who take pride in seeing an old home rejuvenated and new structures come into being, it is very rewarding. Unlike many other endeavors, the results of one’s work and the positive effect it has on a client are readily apparent.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Building and remodeling is highly competitive so making predictions is a dubious venture. Nevertheless, there will always be a need in the Capital Region for the quality of services we provide. Moreover, our increasingly large base of satisfied clients is a reliable source for additional business and referrals to new clients. So it is likely that in five years we will have continued to grow in a controlled manner in terms of the scope of our work, further refinements of our customer service and our staffing.


Uncle Sam’s All American Chocolate Factory
2571 Albany Street, Schenectady
372.2243; www.unclesamscandy.com

Owner: Joseph Suhrada
How long have you been in business? 80 years.
Describe your business: We sell handmade chocolates, nuts and candies.
What sets you apart from competitors? The best quality chocolate, made fresh and locally.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be prepared to work many hours.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Continuing to grow here in the Capital Region.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm; Sunday 11am-6pm. We stay open 8am-8pm Monday-Saturday for holiday seasons.

I consider myself very lucky that I have a father who can do just about anything when it comes to home improvements. Not only does it save money, but he thoroughly enjoys it. So, when my husband and I recently bought a newer home, I think my father was a bit disappointed(though he loves the house). It didn’t need a new bathroom, the floors were new and its windows and walls were in perfect condition. Luckily for my dad, I hit on one little thing for him to do: a deck. As the soon as the ground thaws, he said he’ll be up digging for the footers.

For those of you who don’t have a father who’s good with tools, this issue is for you. You’ll learn tips on hiring the right contractor, prepping your walls for painting, choosing home renovations that will bring a return on your money and easy DIY projects like installing molding and ways to make your home more functional.

This issue is not all work and no play, however. With Valentine’s Day in the air, wellness columnist Diane Lykes ponders the age-old debate of love versus infatuation. It doesn’t matter if we’re teens or adults, we’ve all been there, and Diane’s column will help clarify any confusion you may have about your relationship.

I also have a few favors to ask of you. First, I want to meet people in the community who are doing extraordinary things. It can be an amazing child, a business leader, or a patient with a positive attitude. Whoever it is, please email me at Marybeth@crlmag.com and tell me about this person. He or she may be featured in an upcoming issue. We are also looking for nominees for a parental “make-over” and are soliciting comments of 500 words or less touting your nominee for our Mother’s Day and Father’s Day makeovers. Along the same lines, we are accepting photos of ridiculously cute dogs, cats and other endearing pet pics. If you have one, send it to me and look for the March issue—your pet may be in it! Finally, it is our 5th Annual Best of the Capital Region survey. Be sure to vote for your local favorites. Results will be published in the May issue.

In the meantime, we are printing reader’s favorite comfort food recipes in the March issue. Though spring is on the horizon, it’s still winter and there’s nothing like down home comfort food to feed our souls. Until then, keep warm and think spring!

Love versus infatuation

By Diane E. Lykes

Did you know that we form our first impressions of another’s attractiveness in a tenth of a second? And, that our sense of smell plays a very important role in determining our interest in a romantic partner? In the early stages of falling in love, distinct biochemical forces are at work to help us attract a partner in order to ensure the survival of the species. Although this sounds pretty unromantic, it can help us understand why we are drawn to certain individuals despite our differences.

Infatuation and the science of sexual chemistry
This month’s issue of Psychology Today boasts a nearly naked couple on the front cover with the caption: “The Big Turn On…9 Forces of Instant Attraction”. What they are referring to are the specific ways in which we become romantically interested in another person. Some of their findings are of no surprise. Things like: physical appearance, intelligence, a sense of humor and high earning potential all play a part in how we decide on our next love.

What is not obvious is that infatuation begins with a small molecule called plenylethylamine or PEA. This is the substance in the brain that is responsible for feelings of elation, exhilaration and euphoria. When we are crazy about someone, our limbic system becomes saturated with PEA and other brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and dopamine.

The feeling of falling in love is so powerful and pleasurable that most people agree it surpasses any other “high”.
As with most intensely pleasurable things, this feeling cannot last forever. In some ways, this is a good thing. At some point we have to come down from the clouds and focus on other activities, such as our careers, family/friends and even saving for retirement! As a result, couples either transcend into the next stage of love called “attachment” (real love) or they end the relationship because the intense euphoria has subsided.

You may know someone who consistently mistakes the infatuation phase for “true love”. Each time the euphoria fades, they believe their love has died and a breakup ensues. These individuals tend to have one to three year relationships their entire lives never recognizing that they have mistaken infatuation for deep, long lasting love.

While infatuation is limited in time and depth, deep love often grows stronger with each passing year and can last a lifetime.

In search of real love
Writer Frances Ford had this to say about love: “While there are many definitions of love, its’ essence, when used as a verb, can be captured in a few phrases: to care for, to cherish, to respect, to honor, to show interest in, to value or to treat with kindness.”

Whereas infatuation is marked by intensity, a strong sexual desire, possessiveness and insecurity, love is characterized by a gradual development, deep commitment, trust and security. In this stage of the relationship, couples feel a sense of deep love that is peaceful, comfortable and secure. There are new chemicals that saturate the brain called endorphins. These chemicals are similar to an opiate, therefore producing feelings of calm, serenity and relaxation.

In an environment that feels so safe and secure, couples can move into the next stage of the relationship—marriage. It can take one to three years for couples to move from infatuation into real love. Understanding and accepting each other’s imperfections is an important part of this transition.

Finally, after couples commit to a lasting relationship, they may decide to move into another distinct stage—having a family. And we know that having a happy and healthy family is best accomplished when you are in a loving and committed relationship.

Falling in love is truly a wondrous experience, and choosing a lifetime partner is one of the biggest decisions we will ever make. Understanding what it means to be infatuated as well as what it means to experience real love will help you choose that very special person. The one who will join you in life’s greatest fulfillment—love.

What does Ann Landers have to say about this?

Ann Landers, the syndicated columnist whose frank advice has reached millions of readers, printed this insightful essay titled “Is it Love or Infatuation?” It clearly explains the differences between the two in a way that only Ann Landers could.
Infatuation is fleeting desire—one set of glands calling to another. It is marked by a feeling of insecurity. You are excited and eager, but not genuinely happy. There are nagging doubts, unanswered questions, little bits of pieces about the relationship that you would just as soon not examine too closely. It might spoil the dream.
Love is friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows, one day at a time. It is quiet understanding and mature acceptance of imperfection. It gives you strength and grows beyond you to bolster your beloved. You are warmed by his presence, even when he is away. Miles do not separate you. But near or far, you know he is yours and you can wait.
Infatuation says, “We must get married right away. I can’t risk losing him.” Love says, “Be patient. Don’t panic. Plan your future with confidence.”
Infatuation has an element of sexual excitement. Whenever you are together, you hope it will end in intimacy.
Love is not based on sex. It is the maturation of friendship that makes sex so much sweeter. You must be friends before you can be lovers.
Infatuation lacks confidence. When he’s away, you wonder if he’s being unfaithful. Sometimes you check.
Love means trust. You are calm, secure, and unthreatened. He feels your trust, and it makes him even more trustworthy. Infatuation might lead you to do things you will regret, but love never steers you in the wrong direction.
Love is elevating. It lifts you up. It makes you look up. It makes you better than you were before.

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

Self massage and fitness

By Judy Torel

No matter what form of exercise you engage in: walking, jogging, biking, swimming, weight lifting, yoga, pilates, hiking (you get the picture) you can benefit from self massage. After any fitness workout muscles can become knotted. Stretching will help to lengthen the muscle fibers, but is of limited use in displacing the knots. These knots, or fibrosis of the muscle tissue, can lead to pain, reduced performance and injury!
Research shows that in order for massage to be effective at breaking up muscle fibrosis, it should be performed a minimum of two times a week for at least 30 minutes. Professional athletes have a massage therapist on hand and receive a massage after every workout. Most fitness enthusiasts exercise enough to warrant needing massage post-workouts, yet do not have the luxury of a personal massage therapist on hand daily.
Self massage can improve your health, mood and athletic performance. It can be performed multiple times a day, if needed, without expense or scheduling hassles. It is simple to perform once you know a few basic strokes and have the right tools.

How it improves health
Massage improves the health of the human body in two ways: it strengthens the immune system and it increases circulation. It strengthens the immune system by helping the nervous system calm down from stress and reducing the production of the stress hormones including cortisol and adrenaline. In today’s society, humans have more psychological stress than the physical stress of primitive times when we had to run away from wild animals that were attacking us. Today, we get stressed over red lights when we are late and our bodies can’t release the stress hormones because we don’t get out of our car and run down the street. Instead sit there stewing in our own stress hormones. Chronic stress is correlated with increased appetite, weight gain, sleep disorders, loss of sex drive, increased blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, heart attacks, strokes, increased abdominal fat and diabetes, depression and anxiety and higher frequency of colds and the flu. Self massage decreases stress, thereby reducing the risk of the above mentioned disorders.
Self massage also increases circulation, which enhances the flow of oxygen and facilitates a supply of nutrients via the blood into all the cells of our body. When the muscles are knotted it is difficult for oxygen and nutrients to get into the areas of the muscles that most need them. Increased circulation also means enhanced elimination of the waste products produced by the working muscles. When waste products pool in muscles that have been exercised without a way to get out, delayed onset muscle soreness can result. This equates to pain and limited movement.

How it improves mood
Massage also helps improve mood. Humans crave what has come to be termed “safe touch”. Human touch helps reduce states of anxiety, depression and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. By elevating mood, self massage can also help a fitness enthusiast train more consistently

How it improves athletic performance
Self massage speeds recovery after workouts through the increase of circulation as mentioned above. It also reduces muscle soreness and pain by helping to break apart the fibrosis of the muscle tissue that was traumatized during a workout, which translates into improved fitness levels and athletic performance. It also allows for more effective training and more frequent workouts with less muscle discomfort.
Self massage also prevents injurs by stretching the muscle fibers not just lengthwise, but also across muscle fibers, which helps to prevent and break up the knots.

How do I perform self massage?
Self massage is very instinctual. Who hasn’t found themselves kneading a sore muscle without even thinking? There are a few different types of strokes: gliding, squeezing, pressing, rolling and drumming.

• Gliding involves a long smooth stroke over the target muscle group. You can vary the speed, length and pressure of the stroke by following your body’s feedback.
• Squeezing involves using your fingers to grasp the muscle through the skin and squeezing it. You can use a pulsing-type rhythm for a gentle or more intense holding squeeze.
• Pressing involves taking a few fingers and applying direct pressure into a knot. You can vary the intensity by applying gentle or more intense pressure.
• Rolling involves a movement similar to kneading bread.
• Drumming involves percussion-type massage. This could be using the sides of your hands and hitting a knotted area with a high frequency karate–chop like movement.
There are many wonderful massage props that are available to enhance self massage. One of my personal favorites is The Stick. It is a two-foot plastic tool that has several free moving cells along its length. The rod is flexible and molds to your body contours, allowing you to apply pressure where needed.
Foam rollers are larger styrofoam rolls that you can lie over in a variety of positions, using your body weight and gravity to apply a massage pressure over a larger surface area. You can roll on the roller to break up fibrosis and massage large muscles more effectively this way.
Finally, a plain and simple tennis ball can be used on the bottom of your feet to help reduce arch pain caused by knotting and traumatized muscles and tendons. Simply roll your foot over the ball until you find “hot spots” and then put additional pressure on these spots to help break up the fibrosing.

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

Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman, Cayman, Cayman Brac, Little Cayman Paradise above and below the sea

By Linda McClain, CTA

Are you in search of the perfect beach? Do you long for the warmth of sunshine on your back instead of a cold winter chill on your face? Discover why endless stretches of sugary white sand beaches and crystal turquoise waters are just a part of this Caribbean allure.

Planning your trip
• Location: 480 miles south of Miami, just south of Cuba and roughly 180-miles north-west of Jamaica. From Miami, Grand Cayman Island is just 70 minutes by air.
• US citizens need a valid passport.
• Non-stop air service is available from JFK or Newark. Connecting flights from Albany to the Caymans arrive by mid-afternoon. There is also scheduled air service to Grand Cayman’s sister islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
• Originally called Las Tortugas (the turtles) by Christopher Columbus, The Caymans are still brimming with remarkable marine life.
• Capital City: Georgetown, Grand Cayman.
• Weather conditions average 82 degrees, year-round. Water temperatures are pleasingly temperate.

Cruise ship port
The Caymans are vulnerable to hurricane weather conditions May through November. However, Grand Cayman is a leading cruise ship destination in the Western Caribbean, year round.

Historical significance
In 1665, the Caymans went from a Spanish to British Territory. Slavery was once legal, but the British banned it when they took possession of the country.
The island’s National Trust Foundation is dedicated to protecting the country’s historic significance and natural environment. For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.ky.

Where to stay
Grand Cayman’s beautiful Seven Mile Beach is fringed by silky white sand with a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury spa accommodations. Condominiums are plentiful and can be found island wide. However, all-inclusive resorts are scarce in the Cayman Islands. Instead, people arrive seeking its peaceful lifestyle and Cayman diversity.
Car rental? Remember to drive on the left. If you prefer, select from a wide range of tours and activities and have transportation provided.

What can I do there?
Want a destination wedding? You can be married the same day you arrive, with proper preparation and documentation. Have a happy honeymoon in paradise.
Love to golf? Participate in the Lions Club’s annual golf tournament. Players of all skill levels can compete for a variety of prizes and free gifts each March.
Need family chaos prevention? Let the Caymans help you with their discounted rates and sea school for the little ones from June to September.
Planning ahead? If you love music, you won’t want to miss the annual Jazz Festival. This annual event is sponsored by the Cayman Turtle Farm and allows visitors to sponsor a turtle and assist in the release of hundreds of sea turtles from Seven Mile Beach. Both take place each November.
PADI certified? Experience spectacular world-class scuba diving, with up to 200% visibility. The Caymans exotic underwater world is vibrant with color, offering some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean.
Boatswain’s Beach - This attraction includes the famous Cayman Turtle Farm, a predator tank, nature trail, bird aviary, two snorkel lagoons and a freshwater pool. In addition, an authentic Caymanian street offers activities for everyone.
Black Pearl Skate and Surf Park - A skate and surf park for kids and adults.
Stingray City - This is your opportunity to pet tame stingrays while swimming among them at this Cayman’s famous attraction.
Stingray Brewery - Home of Stingray beer, not found anywhere else in the world.
Butterfly Farm - Stroll through a tropical garden filled with colorful butterflies, collected from around the world.
Hell - If you choose to visit this West Bay village, you can send postcards from here to friends back home.
Horseback Riding - Guided riding tours are available for families, couples and individuals. You can ride your horse to secluded beaches or over scenic trails. Looking for the unusual? Ride at sunset or during a full moon.
Purchase the Heritage Passport and receive a 25% discount with admission to four island attractions: The Cayman Islands National Museum, Queen Elizabeth Botanic Park, Pedro St. James historic site, the oldest building on Grand Cayman and Boatswain Beach, the Cayman’s premier attraction.
With over 150 restaurants on the main island, it can be fun to explore your dining choices.
Little Cayman is beautifully tranquil. It is a fabulous spot for couples and families, while Cayman Brac is a perfect fit for the nature lover. Hiking and bird watching enthusiasts will love it, here. Find out why Cayman Brac is called the Caribbean’s “underground Grand Canyon”.

Fun facts
• The Caymans were featured in John Grisham’s book, The Firm, The motion picture was shot on location in The Cayman Islands and starred Tom Cruise and Gene Hackman. However, the Caymanians did not like the negative message it sent out to movie viewers about their country.
• Celebrities from Sheryl Crow to tennis superstar Serena Williams to musician Chris Isaak have enjoyed vacationing in the Cayman Islands.
• Mark Cuban, owner of the NBC Dallas Mavericks owns a second home in Grand Cayman.
• R&B legends Chaka Khan and Brian McKnight were recently on-island for Cayman jazz fest 2007 and have said they can't wait to come back.
• Victoria Secret model Selita Ebanks hails from the Cayman Islands.
• This is the only island to have an operational turtle farm.
• The famous cartoon logo of “Sir Turtle” was purchased to represent the Cayman Islands for just $1.
• There are 226 species of birds within the three Cayman islands.

Whether you are planning to do all or nothing at all, The Cayman Islands are waiting for you! For more information visit www.caymanislands.ky. l
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.

Sweet treats

By Craig Allen

Rich bouquets and sweet notes—the perfect pair for romance and the perfect recipe for dessert wines.
Freezing temperatures, mutage and noble rot—it doesn’t sound incredibly romantic, but it happens to be the process to increase sugar levels in order to produce a fine dessert wine.

Let’s start from the beginning

Dessert wines are simply sweet wines which are usually served alone, as an aperitif or with dessert.
• In the United States, wine is legally considered dessert wine if it has more than 14 percent alcohol.
• Dessert wines in Germany contain about half the amount of alcohol as American wines, but are still considered dessert wines.
• Over in the UK, dessert wines are any sweet wine served with a meal.
Whatever the country, traditionally speaking, dessert wines can be broken down into:
• Late Harvest
• Sauternes
• Ice Wine
• Fortified wines

Before I describe each type of dessert wine, I should explain “Noble Rot”. No, it is not just a band in Massachusetts, it is a grey fungus known as Botrytis. No need to gasp, this mold actually helps produce concentrated sweet wine. Botrytis strikes during moist conditions when the grapes become ripe. If moisture continues, the grapes will become “grey rot” and it will destroy the crop. However, if dryer conditions persist the process become “noble rot” and voila! You have a spectacular fine sweet wine.
Late Harvest means exactly what it says—it’s a late harvest when the grapes have actually dried out or “raisin” on the vine. You can find these sweet white wines all over the world in every price range.

Suggestions:
Peter Lehmann Botrytis Semillon 375ml (Australia) $14.99
Chateau Pajos Tokaji 5 Puttonyos 500ml (Hungary) $49.99
Sauternes is also a late harvest dessert wine. It is a region of Bordeaux, France located in a river valley (again, the misty conditions create the “noble rot”) and procudes a rich, deep brown, creamy wine with honey notes, as well as hints of apricot, peach and vanilla. Semillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle grapes are used for Sauternes. Vintage is very important with Sauternes and it can age indefinitely.

Suggestions:
Chateau de Sugur 375ml - $19.99
Ch Rabaud Promis 750ml - $69.99
Ice Wine is the extreme form of late harvest dessert wines where the temperatures have to be below 20 degrees in order for the water in the grapes to freeze out, yielding high concentrations of sugar. Since ice wines depend on very cold temperatures, you will find most of the production coming out of Germany, Canada and New York’s Finger Lakes. Most of these wines are made with white grapes and produce a thick sweet wine with honey, apricot and peach notes. However, you will find some red ice wines made with Red Zinfandel or Monstrar. Since these frozen grapes yield very little syrup, ice wines tend to be a bit pricey.

Suggestions:
Standing Stone Vidal Ice 375ml (New York) $22.99
Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine 375ml (Canada) $59.99
And now we come to the fortified dessert wines, which essentially means alcohol has been added to the raisin wine fermentation. They typically produce levels of 20-percent alcohol, are very full, very rich and very good. In fact, some would say vintage port is the best wine in the world. It started in Portugal in the 17th century and takes the name from Oporto located in the Douro Valley along the Rio Douro, which is also known as the river of Gold. Port-style wines are produced all over the world; however Port or Porto strictly denotes wines produced in Portugal.
Port wines are divided into two categories: vintage and non-vintage.

Vintage Port can only be declared a vintage when the weather warrants it, which is about three times every 10 years. The perfect weather conditions are essential for producing scintillating vintage ports: a cold wet winter, a dry, warm spring and an incredibly hot summer.

Port wine is then aged in barrels and stored in caves. “Declaration” of a vintage port can take years. It begins with the Port Wine Institute after the young port has been aged for just over a year. If it receives a nod, the producer must then make a “Declaration” to the Wine Trade. The argument could ensue for some time.
Vintage ports produce the richest, fullest body and you will certainly pay for it with many bottles priced at upwards of one hundred dollars.

Suggestions:
Niepoort Vintage Port 2003 375ml $42.99
Non-Vintage Ports are still incredible, they just aren’t “declared” (perhaps the weather wasn’t as opulent that year). They can also be blended ports, meaning various years of harvest. They mimic a vintage port, but are much more affordable. Non-vintage ports are broken down into two categories: Ruby and Tawny.
Ruby ports are stored in stainless steel or concrete tanks. This helps preserve the claret color by preventing the oxidative aging. Ruby ports are aged 3 to 5 years and should be opened soon after you buy them. They are the most inexpensive of ports.

Suggestions:
Fonseca Ruby 750ml - $16.99
Tawny ports, on the other hand, are aged in a wood barrel where oxidation takes place. Unlike the claret color in ruby ports, tawny ports take on a golden brown color and picks up a caramel, nutty flavor. Tawny ports also come aged (Tawny Reserve Port have aged at least seven years in barrels). As more time is spent in oak barrels, the tawny port takes on deeper more concentrated flavors and it becomes tamer and balanced.

Suggestions:
Dows Fine Tawny 750ml - $14.99
Grahams 20 year Tawny 750 ml - $58.99
Rich bouquets of gold, ruby and claret with sweet notes of apricot, peach and vanilla—treat yourself (and a special friend) to a bottle of dessert wine; the perfect recipe for those cold winter nights!
Cheers!

Craig Allen is owner of All Star Wine & Spirits in Latham Farms. For more information call 220.9463 or visit www.allstarwine.com.

Happy Valentine’s Day! February is also winter break month, the perfect time to read a new book.
Perhaps one of the following would appeal.

Now You See Him by Eli Gottlieb is a suspenseful novel narrated by Nick Framingham, a man whose life has fallen apart since the suicide of his childhood best friend six months ago. Rob Castor, a brilliant writer known for his critically acclaimed book of short stories, didn’t just kill himself—he also murdered his estranged author girlfriend, whose recent work had started to eclipse Rob’s own. Rob’s death shakes the foundations of Nick’s life - his 10-year marriage to Lucy is crumbling under the weight of his obsession with finding out what drove his friend to such extremes. His search for the truth about the end of Rob’s life leads him back to his childhood haunts. He visits Rob’s mother, an alcoholic who taunts him with a secret about Nick that she refuses to reveal and resumes his high school/post-college affair with Belinda, Rob’s sister, who comes back to town to clear out some of Rob’s belongings. He visits his parents in their retirement home in Arizona to explore some recently surfaced childhood memories. Lucy’s attempts to bring Nick back from the brink of disaster are fruitless - nagging, fighting and marriage counseling are useless against his desire to know how he and Rob ended up where they did. As Nick gets closer and closer to the deeply buried secrets of his past, the mood becomes darker and more suspenseful. Lucy finally has enough and throws Nicks out. The shocking revelations about his past and the truth about Rob’s death that are finally revealed will have readers reeling at the train wreck Nick’s life has become. If you enjoy literary thrillers, you’ll enjoy this book.

Lauren Groff’s debut novel The Monsters of Templeton is set in a town modeled on Cooperstown, where Groff grew up. In it, Wilhelmina (Willie) Upton has just returned to town from an archeological dig where she was pursuing both her doctorate and her married professor. When the professor’s wife shows up, Willie realizes that her affair will have no happy ending and she returns to her hometown to lick her wounds and to decide how to deal with her unintended pregnancy. Willie herself never knew who her father was (her mother’s free-spirited hippie days resulted in Willie’s birth) and Vi’s reaction to her daughter’s return and pregnancy is disappointment that her daughter should have followed in her footsteps. And then the bombshell—Vi does know who Willie’s father is, and he is a prominent citizen of Templeton who is also descended from Marmaduke Temple, the town founder (Willie’s grandparents were both descendants of his), thus making Willie even more related to the town’s founding family. Furious at Vi for keeping her in the dark for so long, Willie turns her prodigious research skills towards finding out who her father is by going to the local library and examining their genealogical records. As her research progresses, we hear from her various ancestors the stories of their lives and how their actions affected the town of Templeton. Actual photographs from Cooperstown are interspersed in the novel, making the characters seem real. Also intertwined in the novel is the legend of Glimmey, the counterpart of the Loch Ness monster that resides in Lake Glimmerglass. When a dead creature, presumably Glimmey, is dragged from the lake, the town is infested with reporters and scientists eager to investigate its origins, while the Templeton natives would prefer to mourn Glimmey in peace. Lauren Groff does a masterful job of keeping the many strands of the story woven together. Anyone with an interest in Cooperstown will enjoy the local flavor of this novel and book groups will enjoy discussing the literary devices Groff uses liberally throughout.

Last year I reviewed Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin, describing it as “a twelfth century CSI.” The author has written another mystery featuring Adelia Aguilar, who is called out of retirement to investigate the death of Rosamund Clifford, Henry II’s mistress, who was poisoned by a person or persons unknown. Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry’s estranged queen, is the prime suspect. Once again, Adelia must put her forensic skills to work in service to the English king. Franklin has written another thrilling page-turner. If you haven’t yet read the first in the series, it will be out in paperback this month.

Susan Taylor has been in the book business, in one aspect or another, since 1982. She spent 14 years in the Boston area (which included stints at the Harvard Bookstore and the Wellesley Booksmith) and now works 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!

Sun Sign Forecast

For February 2008

By Arlene DeAngelus

Best Days for February: 4th, 11th, 25th and 29th

Aries: (March 21 to April 20) Friends, social events and group activities are highlighted this month. You seek out new friends who are more compatible with your current ideas. You may join a humanitarian group or become a supporter of a cause that you believe in. You re-evaluate your goals and directions after the 18th. Efficiency in your work area becomes important after the 20th.

Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Career recognition and status, or the equivalent, as well as your life path become important this month. If you have accomplished less than you expected, you may explore new opportunities. Confusion surrounding career matters clears after the 18th. After the 20th, you enjoy pleasant times with children and loved ones. This is also a time to begin a creative project.

Gemini : (May 21 to June 20) Intellectual and spiritual studies are your focus for this month. You attempt to broaden your perspective of life through mental expansion and wisdom. Such subjects as the law, philosophy and foreign cultures interest you. You may even decide to take a workshop or course after the 18th. Family and personal matters can be resolved after the 20th.

Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Shared assets, resources and values are your main issues for this month. Your attitudes toward sharing are also examined. Problems in these sharing relationships can be resolved more easily after the 18th. After the 20th, you become involved in your everyday environment and neighborhood. Later in the month, you focus on your communications with others.

Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Partnerships, both business and personal, are the areas that you will be working on this month. After the 18th, you decide what you truly value in your interactions with these special relationships and discuss it openly with him or her. There are possible changes involving your personal income or financial dealings later in the month. Start a new savings plan.

Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) Work relationships, job environment and the services that you perform for others are highlighted this month. After the 18th, you may pursue a new job or additional training in your field so that you can advance more quickly. You are also interested in physical efficiency as well. Later in the month, you shop for new clothes or decide to try a new hairstyle.

Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Creativity, romance and children are your focus for this month. You evaluate your relationships with these loved ones in order to determine if your emotional needs are being fulfilled. After the 18th, you enjoy pleasant times with loved ones and are introduced to new creative activities. Later in the month, you become more serious and look for spiritual fulfillment.

Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) The Emotional security, family and your roots become important to you this month. There’s a sense of melancholy as you take a trip down memory lane. Research your heritage and communicate with your family after the 18th. There are changes in your friendships after the 20th. Toward the end of the month, you set new goals and long-term directions.

Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) Learning, thinking and communication are the important issues for this month. You take a renewed interest in your everyday environment and surroundings. Attend a community meeting after the 18th. Later in the month, your career comes into focus and you seek recognition for something accomplished. You may set new goals or change your career path.

Capricorn: (December 22 to January 19) Material needs, finances and values become your focus for this month. You now look at what is really important in your life. After the 18th, confusion clears around financial issues and decisions can be made. Your interest turns to intellectual and spiritual subjects after the 20th. You want to expand your perspective on life and explore new areas.

Aquarius: (January 20 to February 18) Personal expression, self-awareness and identity are your concerns for this month. You want to become more independent and to show the world who you really are. Self-expression becomes easier after the 18th. You question issues regarding shared resources and joint assets later in the month. You can resolve these questions and settle outstanding debts.

Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Spirituality, the inner self and hidden motives are the center of your attention for this month. Look within to find the solutions to problems that you want to resolve. Take part in a self-study or go on a retreat after the 18th. Later in the month, focus on your one-to-one relationships, both business and personal. Compromise if necessary to improve these important relationships.

February is for lovers

By John Gray

Are you in love? I ask this personal question because it is February and everywhere you look the people trying to sell us things— flowers, candy, cards and diamonds—make it very clear that you should be. Websites that will match you with your soul mate by asking you one thousand four-hundred and twelve questions that will reveal the real you (unless, of course, you’re lying to build yourself up in the hopes you’ll land someone who isout of your league). And for the lazy among us, e-cards that you send to someone’s inbox that so eloquently translate to: “I love you and would do anything for you except actually get off my fat butt to go to the store and buy you a real card.”

I have to tell you, I’m not a big fan of Valentine’s Day. I think if you are crazy about someone you should show it at times when they least expect it and in ways that have very little to do with spending money. If your wife loves her garden, but hates weeding it, imagine her delight if she went out there on Saturday morning to find you kneeling in the shrubs pulling crab grass. Oh and girls, if he’s absolutely nuts about baseball consider just once buying a silly jersey with the word ‘Jeter’ on the back and going with him to the local sports pub to eat bad food and curse at the TV screen. One quick tip though: if he tells you it’s a sweet idea but he’d rather go alone, then clearly he’s having an affair with some floozy bartender whose standards areonly lower than her neckline.
My dislike for Valentine’s Day goes back to when I was a boy. Do you remember being in second grade and all the kids would bring in those cute little Valentine cards to hand out to the classmates they liked? I had such a crush on Gina Torino, and there was nothing more excruciating than watching her walk around the class handing them out wondering if I made the cut this year. In that 20 secondsmy little eight-year-old mind was thinking, “She hates me, my life is over, there is no reason to go on. I’ll hurl myself in front of the school bus after class. Goodbye cold cruel world. Goodbye Hoffman’s Playland and Storytown. Goodbye Mallow Cups and Bazooka Joe gum…” Then she turned and said, “Oh, here John” handing me one. To this day I will swear to you the heavens opened and you could hear the angels singing “Halleluiah”.

Growing older doesn’t make these affairs of the heart any easier to understand. Part of the problem is the false advertising we are bombarded with. If you are not in a relationship in the month of February you might as well hang a sign around your neck that says LOSER. Everywhere you turn, there’s a TV commercial with some cute couple in love. The girl is having lunch with her underwear model boyfriend and suddenly on the end of her fork is a $50,000 diamond bracelet. I always think to myself, “Does anyone in these commercials work at Wal-Mart and make 30k a year? Who can afford this stuff?” Then the announcer comes on and says, “Tell her you love her all over again.” Hey buddy, unless you want to kick in a few bucks, stay out of it.

There are some cool things about Valentine’s Day. Let’s start with the candy. I’ve never met a girl who wasn’t on a diet so the bigger the box of chocolates the more likely she’ll say, “You have to help me eat these.” If you want to have some fun, give her the box that has a chart inside the top cover describing what each piece of chocolate is and then when she’s not watching move the pieces around on her.

Everyone loves those little candy hearts with the cute sayings like “Love You” or “Text Me”. I think it would be refreshing if the hearts had sayings that were more truthful to the world of dating. Stuff like—“I asked for your phone number, but I’m not going to call” or “I’m just pretending. I really can’t stand your mother.”

If you’re not in a relationship the question is, where can you meet someone you won’t want to smother with a pillow six months later? Dating websites are pretty popular, but am I the only one who thinks the old guy from eHarmony.com is a little creepy? You know, the one with the white hair, glasses and goofy smile. He looks like that uncle your mom wouldn’t let you sit with at the family reunion. He’s probably a nice guy, but I’d be afraid to give him all my personal information. I’d be worried I’d be in the produce section at Price Chopper and he’d sneak up behind me and say, “I see you like tomatoes? Well John, did you know at eHarmony we have over five-thousand women who also enjoy rainy Sunday mornings, Macy’s one-day sales and fresh tomatoes?”

I always laugh when I hear people on those commercials say, “I looked at her and it was like fireworks.” No, my friend, that’s called lust. I think you have to be with someone for at least four seasons before you have a clue who they really are. Talk to me about how ‘in love’ you are when you are shopping for Halloween candy for a second time, okay.

I don’t recommend a ‘blind date’. Trust me, the person your friends think would be perfect for you, is nothing like what you are looking for. A female friend of mine who doesn’t have a single tattoo was set up with a guy who had his eyebrow pierced and the map of Italy tattooed across his entire back. She asked the waiter for the check before he could show her where Sicily was.

I think since, according to Hallmark, so many people are already in love, we don’t need a special day for them. Therefore I declare, from this day hence, Valentine’s Day should be about single people. Spas should offer free massages to anyone who hasn’t had a decent relationship in two years. Florists should hand out roses to any woman not wearing jewelry on her left ring finger. And, if you walk into Lindt Chocolates and utter the phrase, “It’s not me, it’s you,” you get a complimentary bag of truffles.

Lest you think I’m a jaded old fart, I do want you to know that I still believe in love. In fact, I tell young people the secret to making a relationship last can be found in any backyard garden. In early summer when you plant your flowers, everything looks fantastic. The hard part is the daily care and attention you need to pay in order to keep your plants strong and healthy. Relationships are pretty much the same. I also tell anyone who is thinking of dumping their partner because they think the ‘grass is greener’ to spend five minutes looking at some of the people looking for love on Craigslist, specifically the section called Casual Encounters. You’ll be scared straight my friend. It’s a jungle out there and the animals have escaped from their cages.

There are a lot of famous quotes on love, but my favorite is by Anonymous: “Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss and ends with a teardrop.” Isn’t that adorable? In fairness I should probably mention to the men that if they don’t take out the trash, wipe off their muddy feet and buy her a present now and then, love can also “Begin with a fight, grow with a lawyer and end with alimony.” Muah!
Happy February.

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