Saratoga Race Course

A sure summer bet

By Rebecca Eppelmann

Summer is upon us and with it come the staples of the season: barbeques, swimming, fairs, and of course, the Saratoga Race Course. I have a vivid memory as a child of visiting the track with my grandfather, choosing a winning horse and picking out a black velvet horse from the gift shop. But I’m not the only person to have this sort of childhood memory; since the track opened 140 years ago families have flocked to the summer destination as a way to experience the “enchanting mornings and exciting afternoons.”
If you think the number of people enjoying Saratoga this year will dwindle based on the economy, think again. “All indications so far, based on reservations, are that this is going to be a big year at Saratoga,” said Joe Dalton, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
People are spending less time flying since they don’t want to spend a day at the airport, not to mention skyrocketing fuel prices grounding many travelers. With its’ convenience to New York City, Boston and Montreal, Saratoga is an easy drive for many.

Start early
To get the full track experience, start your day well before the one o’clock post time. For track-goer and Ballston Spa resident Betsy Seplowitz, mornings at the track offer the most draw. “The most underrated thing about the track is the early morning features—breakfast, watching the horses workout and a tour of the back track.”
In that thought, she is hardly alone.
One of the track’s most popular dining experiences is the breakfast buffet. Served each race day, including Travers Day and Alabama Day, diners can feast on a full buffet from 7am until 9:30am while watching top class Thoroughbreds put in their morning workouts. The cost for breakfast is $14.95 per person. Admission to the track is free, but after breakfast is over, the track closes and re-opens at 11am.

Getting a good seat
Finding a perfect seat at the track is a very individual experience. For some, like Glenville resident Peter Miranda, the best seat in the house depends on the day. “For a casual day it’s always the picnic area. For a more eloquent experience it’s the rail pavilion.”
Whether you prefer a place in the sun or the shade, getting a place to rest your feet is an important part of a relaxing day at the track. If you plan to get there early, there is the tradition of claiming a picnic table by throwing a tablecloth over it.
For over 10 years, Kevin and Tina Kane of Cohoes have had their own “track ritual”. One Saturday every August, they go up early to secure picnic tables at the Top-of-the-Stretch for all of their close family and friends to join them in a day of fun and relaxation, rain or shine.
Tina views this spot as the best seat in the house. “To see and hear the horses round the top-of-the-stretch is simply amazing. And, with big-screen TV's in the picnic area, you still get to see the finish.”
If you don’t want to get up at the crack of dawn to get your seat, reserved seat sales can be made at the Union Avenue gate office at 8am, a great alternative, especially if you’ll be at the track for breakfast. Additionally, the downtown Saratoga Springs Holiday Inn sells reserve seats for both grandstand and clubhouse starting at 6pm the evening before. Buying these reserve tickets may not alleviate your chances of waiting in line, however. For major races and on most weekends, hundreds of people will wait in line. If you’re flexible with your days, pick a Monday or Wednesday race day, which typically attract lighter crowds.

Racing Museum
After breakfast, the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame right across the street is well worth your time. Open daily from 9am-5pm during track season, you can take a self-guided tour of the museum where you will learn about racing history from over three centuries and countless examples of elegant art, stories of human and equine sacrifice, determination and races, with heart pounding excitement and photo finishes.
In addition to the permanent galleries, two special exhibits will run through track season and beyond. Ride On!, which features equine veterinary medicine and the challenges involved in healing the horse, will be on display through December 31, 2009. White House Horses, a traveling exhibit that showcases the roles the horse has played in the White House will be on display through October 17, 2008.
Visitors can also take a behind the scenes tour of the “Oklahoma” training track, which begins at 8:30am.

New this year
A few new additions to the track will give fans more choices for their palate, more comfort in the heat and special packages and seating available online.
This season welcomes the inaugural year of Saratoga Restaurant Row. This new addition to dining will include highlights of some of Saratoga Springs’ most popular restaurants right on the track, with special house items priced between $4–$7. Featured restaurants are Brindisi’s, Grey Gelding, Panza’s, 1 Caroline Street Bistro/Mouzon House and Hattie’s, whose fried chicken beat out Bobby Flay’s in a Food Network throw down a few years back.
For those who avoid the track on the hot and humid days, relief is in the air – or rather, in the tents. Air conditioning has been added to the tents at the rail and the paddock for comfort. And, in response to intense demand, NYRA has added additional seating capacity for groups, with a second tent at the top of the stretch and a fifth luxury suite. Also new this year is special packages and seating available through Ticketmaster.
Whether you choose to spend a few hours at the track or spend a few days in Saratoga checking out multiple attractions the historic city offers, you certainly won’t be bored. For Tom Zayac of Ballston Spa, and many others, “Saratoga is the perfect place for young and old, rich and not so rich to have an absolute blast. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect and catch up.”

Track must-haves

A hat
The track has always been famous for sightings of the many different brightly colored and unique looking hats adorning the heads of female spectators. There are plenty of places to have them custom made for you, so be sure to pick a headpiece that will really make you stand out in the crowd.

Binoculars
A great way to give yourself a perfect close-up of your favorite horse. Or, use them to check out the crowd! Maybe you’ll spot a celebrity or two. If you don’t own a pair, don’t fret: the track has a rental facility.

Proper attire
This all depends on where you are watching the race from. Requirements for the Grandstand are simply shirts and shoes. Most other areas at the track prohibit short-shorts, tank tops (men), and jeans. Box seats have the strictest dress code: suits or sports jackets for men and dresses, skirts or pants for women.

An early start
The earlier you can get out of bed and get to the track, the better. Not only will you grab a better parking space, but you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy breakfast at the track while watching the horses run through their workouts.

A sense of humor
Okay, so you can’t win them all! Don’t get too serious about whether your horse finishes first or last. Loosen things up by choosing the horse with the most outlandish name on purpose. Don’t be skeptical: horses with names like Whywhywhy, Fuzzbuster, and Jelly Bean Holiday have been winners.

Glossary of racing terms
Do you know what Quinella, Parlay and Superfecta mean? Neither do I. That’s why a pocket-sized book or printed list of racing and betting terms might be helpful. It will help you to place a bet more easily and you won’t be confused over terms from the announcer.

Program
A track program is an absolute must-have. This way, you can read stats about the horses to determine which one to bet on. Racing schedules are already posted on the NYRA’s website at www.nyra.com.

Cooler
Not only will you be able to use it to store beverages or snacks, but use your cooler to save a coveted picnic table if you get to the track early enough. It is a time-honored tradition at the track that coolers or other personal effects on a table mean it is reserved. Also, there is no air conditioning anywhere besides the Luxury Suites, so plan on bringing lots of water if you’re planning on making a day of it. Make sure to leave glass containers at home.

Good company
Whether you win big that day or go home empty-handed, as long as good friends or family are along for the ride it should be an enjoyable day. Never underestimate the amount of fun that can be had at the track if you’re with the right company.
—Jill Vallecorsa

Summer fundraisers

July 31
Equine Advocates Dinner and Auction - Cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, silent auction, gourmet sit-down dinner, live auction, and an honoree presentation to Dr. Patricia Hogan and a special award to Virginia Kraft Payson. Live concert by Gladys Knight. 5:30pm-10:30pm. $300 per person. The New Stonebridge Farm at Clark Road, 148 Rte. 32, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 245.1599.
August 5
Lend an Ear – Benefits the YMCA of Saratoga's scholarship fund. Meet Michael B. Levinson, Interior Designer, author of Launch It. Taryn Rose, orthopedic surgeon-turned- shoe designer, will be the guest speaker and will donate a collection of her designer shoes as a raffle item. Silent auction of new and gently used earrings, Gemesis Jewels will sell fine jewelry, designer hats also for sale. In conjunction with this event, a fashion show of the latest styles and trunk show of Taryn Rose designer shoes will be held at Saratoga Trunk. 11am-3pm. $100 per person/ $75 for under 35 years old. Hall of Springs, Saratoga Spa State Park. For more info: 583.9622 ext. 126.
August 6
The Race For Choice - Benefits women's reproductive health care services at Saratoga Springs Planned Parenthood. 11:30am. $100; $50 under 30. Union Gables, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 374.5353 ext. 218.
August 11
2nd Annual Dare to Dream Gala – Guests of honor will be the David Cassidy family.
Tantalizing international buffet, festive selection of refreshing “mocktails” (alcohol will not be served), live music and auction. Cocktail attire. 7pm-11pm. $75; $600 for tables of eight. Hall of Springs. For more info: 581.1230; www.preventioncouncil.org.
August 12
Old Bags Luncheon - Silent auction of new, gently used, vintage and designer handbags and more. 11am auction, 12:30pm lunch. Saratoga National Golf Club, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 212.521.5305.
August 15
17th Annual Double H Ranch Gala – With a special performance by Big Medicine. 6pm-Midnight. Six Flag’s Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom. For more info: 696.5921 ext 228.
August 16
Saratoga Derby - Join in the fun of the annual Saratoga Derby 5K run/walk, to benefit Saratoga PLAN (Preserving land and nature) and the Saratoga Healthy Transportation Network. Registration is from 7:15am-8am, run/walk begins at 8:15am. Great prizes and gift bags. $15 advance registration; $20 day of. Saratoga PLAN, 112 Spring Street parking lot, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 587.5554.
August 19
One Fine Day – Benefits Shelters of Saratoga. Light gourmet fare, complimentary wines and pampering treatments. Snag a date with the area’s most eligible bachelors, including John Gray. $65 (must be purchased in advance), table $480. Union Gables B&B, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 581.1097.
August 19, September 18
Toast to the Ta-Ta’s - Enjoy an evening of food, fun and prizes to benefit the walking team of Avon Walk '08 to support Breast Cancer. $35. Village Pizzeria, Middle Grove. For more info: 882.9431.
August 20
Belmont Child Care Association Benefit - A Western Round Up, dinner and auction fundraiser honoring Tracy and Todd Pletcher. 6:30pm. $250 per person. Saratoga Springs City Center, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 488.2103.
August 21
10th Annual Ronald McDonald House Charity Saratoga Fashion Show – Benefits the House that Love Built exterior renovation project. Face, fashion, food & fun is the theme for this year’s silent auction, which will feature a plethora of fabulous goodies to bid on. Enjoy a wonderful luncheon and day of world class racing to top off the event! Guest tickets $150, patron tickets $250. The Railhouse Pavilion at Saratoga Race Course. For more info: 438.2655.
August 22
10th Annual Travers Wine Tasting - Benefits Senior Services of Albany's Meals On Wheels features wine tasting with 200 wines and beer, cuisine from DP Brasserie, McGuire's, Yono's, Glen Sanders Mansion, Vin Santo Tapas & Wine Bar, Hattie's, Classe Catering, The Farmhouse Table, and Springwater Bistro, “Speakeasy Courtyard” for the cigars and scotch and a “Jazz Lounge” featuring Jill Hughes. Silent auction, desserts and a live auction featuring a lease on a 2008 Audi, furs, jewelry, more. $125. 7pm-11pm. National Museum of Racing, Saratoga Springs. For more info: 463.4381; www.seniorservicesofalbany.com.
August 23
Saratoga Bridges Day at the Races – Benefits Saratoga Bridges. Enjoy a day at Saratoga Race Course on Travers Day with a delicious buffet and beverage service. $125. The Paddock Tent, Saratoga Race Track. For more info: 587.0723.

Saratoga Race Schedule

* Free giveaway with paid admission

July 30
The De La Rose
80,000 added
F&M 4YO & UP
1 mile (turf)

July 31
The John Morrissey (NYB)
80,000 added
3 YO & UP
6 ½ Furlongs

August 1
The Honorable Miss (Hdcp)
150,000
F&M 3 & UP
6 Furlongs

August 2
The Darley Test
250,000
F3YO
7 Furlongs

August 3
Fourstardave (Hdcp)
150,000
F 3& UP
1 1/16 miles (turf)
*Saratoga T-shirt

August 4
The National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame Breeders’ Cup
150,000 added
3YO
1 1/8 (turf)

August 6
New York Stallion Series Cab Calloway Division
150,000
3YO
1 1/8 (turf)

August 7
New York Stallion Series Statue of Liberty Division
150,000
F3YO
1 1/8 (turf)

August 7
The A. P. Smithwick Memorial (S’Chase)
75,000 added
4YO & UP
2 1/16 (turf)

August 8
The Waya
80,000 added
F&M 4YO & UP
1 ½ (turf)

August 9
The Yaddo (Hdcp) (NYB)
100,000 added
F&M 3YO & UP
1 1/8 (turf)

August 10
The West Point (Hdcp) (NYB)
100,000 added
3 YO & UP
1 1/8 (turf)
*Saratoga stadium seat

August 11
The Troy
80,000 added
4 YO & UP
5 ½ Furlongs (turf)

August 13
The Adirondack
150,000
F 2YO
6 ½ Furlongs

August 14
The Saratoga Special
150, 000
2YO
6 ½ Furlongs

August 15
The Lake Placid
150,000
F 3YO
1 1/8 (turf)

August 16
The Alabama
600,000
F 3YO
1 ¼

August 16
The Sword Dancer Invitational
500,000
3 YO & UP
1 ½ (turf)

August 17
The John’s Call
80,000 added
4 & UP
1 5/8 (turf)
*Saratoga long sleeve T-shirt

August 18
The Union Avenue (NYB)
80,000 added
F&M 3YO & UP
6 Furlongs

August 20
The Albany (NYB)
150,000 added
3YO
1 1/8

August 21
The Ballston Spa (Hdcp)
200,000 added
F&M 3YO & UP
1 1/6 (turf)

August 22
The Personal Ensign
400,000
F&M 3YO & UP
1 ¼

August 23
The Travers
1,000,000
3YO
1 ¼

The Victory Ride
100,000 added
F3YO
6 Furlongs

The Kings Bishop
250,000
3YO
7 Furlongs

The Bernard Baruch (Hdcp)
200,000
3YO &UP
1 1/8 (turf)

August 24
The Ballerina Breeders’ Cup
250,000
F&M 3YO & UP
7 Furlongs

August 25
The Saratoga Dew (NYB)
80,000 added
F&M 3YO & UP
1 1/8

August 27
The P. G. Johnson
80,000 added
F2YO
1 1/6 (turf)

August 28
The New York Turf Writers Cup (Hdcp) (S’chase)
150,000
4YO & UP
2 3/8 (turf)

August 29
The With Anticipation
80,000 added
2YO
1 1/16 (turf)

August 30
The Woodward
500,000
3YO & UP
1 1/8

The Forego (Hdcp)
250,000
3YO & UP
7 Furlongs

August 31
The Spinaway
250,000
F2YO
7 Furlongs

The Saranac
100,000 added
3YO
1 3/16 (turf)
*Saratoga cooler bag

It seems that every year the retail world is ready to pack up the current season well before we’re ready to let it go. I was the victim of such retail haste around the Fourth of July, when I went searching for deck furniture. To my surprise, the selection was meager, and what stock remained, while on clearance (always a plus), was either mismatched or missing pieces. And finding a market umbrella? Virtually impossible.

The shopping excursion got me to thinking. Since when did Fourth of July signal the end of summer? Sure, it may fall in the middle of the season, halfway between Memorial Day and Labor Day, but we still had a good two months of summer left. We still hadn’t endured the dog days of summer or enjoyed the baseball All-Star game and already the stores were gearing up for their back-to-school sales. It was enough to make me wonder if Saint Nick was lurking in some nearby mall.

Which leads me to this month. Okay, I’ll admit it: now that it’s August, we must acknowledge that summer is winding down. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. For parents, August brings the anticipation of the start of school, while for kids it’s the time to make the best of the days before school starts. And for those who pride themselves on style, it’s the time to think about fall fashions. CRL is here to help. With the expertise of Allison Meyers of Seemless Clothing Consulting, and the talent of photographer Tom MacGregor, this month features one fabulous dress with three completely different looks, a guide to selecting the most flattering jeans for your body type (I already know which jeans I’m going to purchase!), and a showcase of a few must-have accessories. We also worked with Mark Thomas Men’s Apparel to give our male readers some great fall looks.

Thought it’s hard to believe that we’re just on the cusp of fall, to me, the shorter days and crisper evenings signify an exciting change ahead. Until then, savor the remaining days of summer!

Enjoy!

Mary Beth Galarneau
marybeth@crlmag.com

You only look as good as you feel

By Diane E. Lykes, LCSW

At a time when plastic surgery is not just for the rich and famous, and botox is a household word, we need to examine just what it means to be beautiful.

Has our quest for beauty gone too far?
If you read the recent findings from The American Society of Plastic Surgeons you may think that all of America is going “under
the knife”.

In 2007, 11.5 million Americans underwent some form of cosmetic procedure. This is up 467 percent since 1997! Further, they predict that more then 55 million cosmetic procedures will be performed in 2015. It appears that regardless of the poor economy, the allure of a quick improvement to one’s appearance is too tempting to pass up.

There are some people, however, who are getting many cosmetic procedures in order to fit the stereotype of what is beautiful. In our counseling practice, we are surprised to see mothers supporting breast augmentation for their teenage daughters, even offering it as a gift for graduating high school.

We also see women who have had over 20 surgeries hoping for an improvement in their self-esteem. They tell us: “If my nose was smaller I would be much happier” or “If I had a perfect body, I would attract a wonderful partner”. Some women do find increased self-confidence after cosmetic surgery while others find that this “quick fix” does not address their feelings of low self-esteem.

Seventy-two percent of mothers hope that they have not passed on feelings of self-doubt or insecurity to their daughters and 67 percent of women avoid certain activities due to feeling bad about their looks. It’s no wonder that women are seeking ways to become more confident.

Is change on the way?
More recently, the media has begun to project new images of what it means to be attractive. The makers of Dove products, for example, surprised the beauty industry with their ads of real women (not supermodels) in their bra and undies strutting their stuff and showing pride in their bodies.

Dove’s campaign focuses on building a positive body image and healthy self-esteem. Their mantra: we come in all shapes and sizes and our beauty does not lie in our physical appearance.
Writer/feminist Gloria Steinem understood this point years ago when she said, “Self-esteem isn’t everything; it’s just that there’s nothing without it.”

The average women’s dress size is 12-14 - not a size 4. Torturing yourself to be younger, smaller, lighter, thinner or softer can only lead to low self-worth and unhappiness.

Silencing your inner critic
The voice that tells you that you are not attractive enough, not smart enough or simply not enough is called your “inner critic”.

Learning to silence this voice is central to improving the way you feel. Ann Kearney-Cooke, author of Change Your Mind, Change Your Body states: “the way you talk to yourself affects the way you feel and behave. Words have enormous power both physically and emotionally. Research shows that words can affect the chemistry of your body. Your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing are affected by the words you say to yourself. Emotionally your own words can break your heart.”

She states that your inner critic needs to be one of your best friends. If she is demanding perfection or chipping away at your self-esteem it is time to take steps to silence her.
Try this strategy. When you hear that voice saying “you’ll never have a great body” or “you’ll never have a love relationship” try counteracting these critical thoughts with more rational thoughts. For example you might say, “I will go to the gym 3-4 times per week to give my body the exercise I need to feel good” or “my chances of meeting a healthy love partner are greatly enhanced when I am feeling best about myself.”

Your negative self-talk will lead you down a road of unpleasant side effects, while your positive thoughts will lead you toward a total mind and body improvement.

Seeing with your own eyes
Sometimes it is not your own voice that is critical, though. Sometimes it is the voice of a romantic partner, a family member or a friend. “If only you lost 20 pounds you would look so much better” or “I notice you are looking older these days.” Although they may say they are “well-meaning” it can wreak havoc on your self-worth.

It is very important to learn to see yourself through your own eyes and not the eyes of others. You give up your personal power to someone else when you allow him/her to dictate how you should feel about yourself. If someone is critical, decide for yourself whether his or her feedback is warranted. If so, take action to address the issue for your own well-being. If not, let their comments go in one ear and out the other!

Embrace your own inner and unique beauty
Attractiveness comes from within and radiates outward. A new dress, great shoes or a fabulous haircut may give you fleeting confidence, but the beauty attributed to loving yourself will last a lifetime.

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 lykes-synergy@nycap.rr.com

Phlox, bulbs and more

By Larry Sombke

Question: My garden phlox are covered with mildew and it makes them look ugly. What can I do to stop this?

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) is a wonderful old-fashioned perennial flower that grows about two to three feet tall and is covered with tiny pink, white or pale purple flowers from late July until mid- September. They are a native American wildflower that have been bred and tamed for use in mixed borders and cottage gardens.
Their big problem is they are very susceptible to powdery mildew, a nasty fungus that discolors and eventually disfigures the leaves and stems of garden phlox no matter how hot and dry it is. The ultimate solution for this problem is to grow mildew-resistant varieties of phlox. A few cultivars which have shown good resistance include “David”, a white variety, “Eva Cullum”, which is pink and “Franz Shubert”, a lavender phlox.

You can reduce the mildew on your phlox by transplanting it to an area that gets more sun (phlox will tolerate quite a bit of shade) and thin out your clumps to give your plants a little more air circulation.
Finally, if you are very involved, you can spray your plants with a simple sulfur-based garden fungicide such as Safer's Fungicide beginning in May.
Garden phlox are the backbone of any well-planned cottage garden or mixed perennial bed. They bloom all summer and make great bouquets. But there are some other phlox you might want to add that are as equally pretty.

Phlox subulata, better known as moss phlox or moss pinks, is already well-known to a lot of gardeners around here. It is the pink, white and lilac colored phlox that grows like a ground cover over embankments and hillsides in full-sun and part-shade in early spring.

Phlox divaricata is better known as wild sweet William and blooms in May and June with unmistakable pale blue or lavender flowers. It seems to prefer its wild habitat and is not known as a garden plant.
Phlox maculata, better known as spotted phlox, is similar to tall garden phlox except it has dark spots on the leaves. It, too, is very disease resistant. Look for “Alpha” and “Rosalind”.
“Phlox stolonifera”, or creeping phlox, is a lovely woodland phlox that thrives in moist, shady spots and blooms in early spring. My small patch has spread consistently over the years and is always a welcome sight. It grows only about six to eight inches tall and is used primarily as a ground cover in my garden.

You should be able to find most of these varieties of phlox next spring in one of your quality garden centers or in a reasonably good catalogue. You may even be able to find a couple plants in a garden center this fall.



Question: I want to plant some daffodils and tulips in my garden. When should I do this and what are some good choices?

Spring blooming tulips, daffodils and other bulbs are a colorful way to get your garden season off to a good start early next spring. But to have flowers in May, you have to plant the bulbs anytime between now and the end of October. The sooner you get to the garden center or the catalogues, the sooner you will be assured of getting the bulbs you want to buy.

Daffodils are my all-time favorite, and I wouldn't enjoy spring very much if I didn't grow the 18" tall yellow trumpet “King Alfred.” But, the small 8-12” tall narcissi “Jack Snipe”, “Tete-a-Tete”, “Ice Wings” and “Thalia” are also good for small spaces.

If you have more space and are looking to create a naturalized look, collections of mixed daffodils are a good buy. They are usually a dollar a piece, but the collections can be priced at 20 for $10 all the way up to a half bushel for $65, for instance.

Plant your bulbs as soon as you get them. They like a spot that will be sunny in spring and that is well-drained. If you are going to plant just a few bulbs, you can dig the holes with a hand trowel or a special bulb spade. If you are going to plant a whole bed, it's better to dig up the whole area. Set the bulbs in and then backfill the dirt. If you are planting a lot of bulbs, you might want to get a bulb auger you attach to a power drill to dig the holes.

After the bulb has bloomed next spring, cut off the flower stalk but leave the leaves which help replenish the bulbs underground. Remove the leaves after they have turned yellow/brown in early summer. Apply natural organic fertilizer in the fall. Dig them up every few years and divide them if they begin to show fewer flowers.

Tulips are the most majestic of all the bulbs, especially the 24” tall Darwin hybrids in their bright reds and yellows. Pastels are all the rage right now, with some very interesting shades of pink, green and peach for the more color-conscious gardeners. Don't overlook the lesser-known tulips including:

Emperor tulips, a.k.a Fosteriana. These 12-18” tall, long-stemmed tulips are close cousins of the first tulips ever grown. 'Red Emperor', 'White Emperor' and yellow 'Sweetheart' are old-fashioned classics.
Species, or botanical tulips, most closely resemble the original tulips found in the wilds of Turkey over 400 years ago. You have to look closely at some of them to see the tulip resemblance, but do give them a try. Look for "Tarda', 'Turkestanica’, 'Lilac Wonder,’ 'Saxatillis' and up to a dozen more. If you have extra space and want to try a little bit of everything, buy a botanical tulip collection.
Kaufmanniana tulips are known as the “waterlily tulip” because when they open, their flowers resemble water lilies. ‘Heart's Delight', 'Stresa' and others are good examples.
Greigii tulips are low-growing, 6-8” tall tulips with variegated or mottled foliage and pretty two-tone flowers. 'Red Riding Hood', 'Golden Tango', ‘Corsage' and 'Plaisir' are just a few of the varieties in this interesting family.

Fragrant hyacinths and first-to-bloom crocus are the other two pillars of the bulb garden. Planted in a sunny well-drained site, both will last for years and years. Crocus can be naturalized in a lawn as long as you don't mow the lawn until the flowers are spent and the leaves are beginning to wilt. Luckily this time usually coincides with the first lawn mowing.

Larry Sombke is a guest on WAMC and the editor/host of his blog website www.beautifuleasygardens.blogspot.com. He is a landscape consultant and the author of “Beautiful Easy Flower Gardens.” Send your garden questions to him at lsombke@beautifuleasygardens.com.

It’s time to go laking

By Ed Lange

In keeping with the current trend of using nouns as verbs, this episode of Guy Stuff takes on the subject of the joys of summertime laking. If successful Olympic athletes can “medal” and if kids can “text” or “message” a friend, or a houseguest can “gift” a hostess, or we can “Google” some information, or a corporate executive can “leverage” a deal, then doggone it, you and I can “lake” if we want to. So, it’s time to go laking.

New York may not compete with Minnesota as a land of 10,000 lakes, but we do lay claim to a wealth of them—more than 3,000 according to one source. And the Capital Region enjoys its fair share of “large bodies of water surrounded by land” as defined by the Oxford Dictionary of Current English Usage. In fact, while researching this article (yet another noun used as a verb), I found so many lakes in the Capital Region that I have to limit the list to those that are at least 100 acres in size. Apologies go out to the smaller lakes scattered throughout every county of our area. Terrific little lakes beckoning to kayakers, swimmers and fishermen such as Crystal Lake, Myosotis Lake, Collins Lake and dozens of others.

Our four-dollar per gallon gasoline prices constrain the lake list even further. An arbitrary distance of 60 miles as-the-crow-flies from the center of the Capital Region (wherever that may be) seems like a reasonable range for a lake to be thought of as conveniently in our region.

With these blatantly random criteria established, I encourage you to inflate your inner tube, tie your canoe, kayak, or Sunfish to the top of your car, grab your fishing pole, wiggle into your swimsuit, hitch your ski boat or sailboat to your car, dig out your beach toys, fill up your cooler, stuff beach towels into a tote bag – and go laking! The fresh water has warmed nicely after weeks of basking in the summer sun, and all of the lakes listed here can be reached in an easy day trip.

10,000 Acres and Larger
Lake George, Warren County (28,479 acres, 44 sq miles). “The Queen of American Lakes.” Surely the most famous and most commercialized of all lakes in our region, and therefore the busiest and most crowded. Amusement parks, commercial ship tours, the Million Dollar Beach, souvenir shops, arcades, boat launches (permit required), motels, campgrounds, and every conceivable lake activity under the summer sun.

Great Sacandaga Lake. Saratoga/Fulton Counties (24,707 acres, 42 sq miles). Despite its nearly equivalent size, Sacandaga is vastly less commercial than Lake George. It does offer numerous marinas, shoreline restaurants, NYS campgrounds and boat launches, sailing clubs, sandy islands, excellent fishing, and a few samples of the commercial entities found at Lake George, but the lake is more get-away-from-it-all. Due to its wide open expanse, it’s an excellent lake for sailing and has sand beaches.

1,000 Acres and Larger
Schroon Lake, Warren County (4,105 acres, 6.5 sq miles). Boating of every type, fishing, a sandy town beach, music festivals, summer home of the Seagle Music Colony, arts and craft fairs, shopping, waterfront B&Bs, motels, campgrounds, and even a golf course are available at Schroon Lake. New York operates two boat launches: a paved launch for all types of boats on County Route 62 off of Route 9, and a hand launch site for small craft on Route 9, 2 miles north of Pottersville.

Saratoga Lake, Saratoga County (3,764 acres, 5.9 sq miles). Home of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club since 1957, Saratoga Lake is the largest lake within the rather nebulous boundaries of the Capital Region. New York State operates a pair of excellent launch ramps at the northern end on Route 9P. Unfortunately for sailors, there is a low slung bridge between the ramp and the main body of the lake. The bridge is high enough for power boats to pass under it, but sailors cannot raise their masts until passing beneath it.

Harriman Reservoir, southern VT (2,150 acres, 3.4 sq mi). Unlike Somerset, its neighboring reservoir, the seven-mile long, snake-shaped Harriman Reservoir allows all types of boats on its waters. The Green Mountain Flagship Company operates the Mt. Mills steamship which plies the mountain lake’s scenery through Labor Day, although it probably gives a wide berth to the nude beach at The Ledges. A paved launch ramp provides access for personal watercraft – 2 miles west of Wilmington off Vermont Route 9.

Somerset Reservoir, southern VT (1,600 acres, 2.5 sq mi) For those who prefer the more tranquil and natural way of life, the Somerset Reservoir awaits. Jet skis are not permitted and power boats may not exceed 10 mph – effectively eliminating water skiing. Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Bring your kayak, canoe, sailboat, rowboat, or small fishing boat and enjoy Somerset’s beautiful – and officially state-designated – wilderness.

Peck Lake, Fulton County (1,370 acres, 2.1 sq mi). One of the most unusual lakes in our region, Peck Lake was completely privately owned by the Peck family for many years. Although it has since been subdivided for private homes, the lake remains strictly regulated. No jet skis are allowed. Powerboats may mount a maximum of 40 horsepower. Water skiing permitted in certain areas and hours. The Peck’s operate a full service marina including boat rentals and a boat launch. In all, the lake remains semi-private with a reputation for great fishing.

Brant Lake, Warren County (1,357 acres, 2.1 sq mi). Yet another long, narrow lake, Brant Lake boasts private and rental waterfront homes on the shores of its clear Adirondack waters. The lake is open to all types of boating, swimming and fishing, and New York operates a paved launch ramp on Route 8, one mile northeast of the town of Brant Lake. Hiking and mountain biking are also special activities given the scenic beauty of the southern Adirondacks.

400–1000 acres
Cossayuna Lake, Washington County (659 acres). All types of boats. Paved NY State Launch ramp on East Shore Road off of County Route 9.
Onota Lake, Pittsfield, MA (617 acres). Located within the city limits of Pittsfield, access to the lake is by way of Burbank Park. Paved launch for all types of boats.
Pontoosuc Lake, Pittsfield, MA (480 acres). Just north of Pittsfield, the paved boat launch is located on Hancock Road off of Route 7 at the south end of the lake. Public beach.
Canada Lake, Fulton County (554 acres). All types of boats. Full-service marina and launch.
Caroga Lake, Fulton County (473 acres). Two, two, two lakes in one! Amusement park, public beaches, state campground and boat launch.
Copake Lake, Columbia County (410 acres). All types of boats allowed. Beautiful private and rental lakeside homes.

100-400 acres
Burden Lake, Rensselaer County (374 acres). All boats.
Kinderhook Lake, Columbia County (350 acres). No gas motors.
Round Lake, Saratoga County (321 acres.) Cartop launch. No motors.
Grafton Lakes State Park, Rensselaer County (294 acres, 5 ponds combined). Two ponds allow electric motors, three allow no motors.
Taghkanic Lake, Columbia County (168 acres.) Gravel launch ramp. No motors.
Queechy Lake, Columbia County (141 acres). Cartop launch. No gas motors.
Glass Lake, Rensselaer County (126 acres). Cartop launch.
Moreau Lake State Park, Saratoga County (122 acres). Cartop launch. No motors
Thompsons Lake State Park, Albany County (128 acres.) Commercial boat launch, NY state campground with beach and carry-in boats.
Crooked Lake, Rensselaer County (126 acres). Home to the famed Crooked Lake House — more than 200 years old.
Snyders Lake, Rensselaer County (108 acres). Seaplane airport.

A freelance writer, three of Ed Lange’s plays were finalists for national Audie Awards, in 2000, ’05, and ’07, and one of the three won. His articles have appeared multiple times in national magazines: Sail, Soundings, American Theatre, and Dramatics.

US Virgin Islands

America’s Caribbean

By Linda McClain, CTA

Are you dreaming of a vacation to the Caribbean? Do you desperately need to set your schedule to island time before the end of the summer? Are your plans on hold because you still don’t have your passport? If you have US citizenship, head for St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands (USVI). Why? It’s America’s Caribbean and no passport required! (Bring proof of US citizenship with certified copy of birth certificate and drivers license Id.)

How do I get there?
Located about 1,600 miles from New York and 1,100 miles from Miami, the US Virgin Islands are just 60 miles from Puerto Rico. There are about 50 islands and cays that compromise the USVI, with three main islands of developed tourism.

Connecting air service from Albany can have you arriving in St. Thomas or St. Croix in time to watch the Caribbean sun melt into the sea. If non-stop flights are your preference, then choose JFK to St. Thomas as your destination. If it’s St. Croix you wish to visit, flights from Albany and JFK require a connection. Based on current availability and fares, it’s possible to save hundreds of dollars by flying from JFK to this popular Eastern Caribbean destination.

Want to stay in St. John? Then you have to fly into St. Thomas and then take a brief, but scenic, boat transfer over to the island.
Weather: The US Virgin Islands experience tropical weather temperatures year round. Positioned between the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea, they are located in the Lesser Antilles. As part of the Leeward Islands, they are naturally sheltered from winds. Trade winds blow in from Portugal, keeping temperatures 70-90F.

Average year-round high temperatures: 85F-90F.
Average year-round low temperatures: 72F-78F.
Water temperature is about 83F, except in the winter when it drops to approximately 78F.

Hurricane season runs from June– November. The USVI experience heaviest rains in September and October. Weather is often affected by hurricane activity in the Caribbean.

History & culture
The Virgin Islands have been governed by seven different nations: Spain, England, Holland, France, Knights of Malta, Denmark and the United States.
Christopher Columbus discovered the territory in 1493. When he spotted St. Croix, he named it Santa Cruz, claiming it for Spain. Then, sailing further north, he encountered endless islands and christened them Las Islas Virgenes—The Virgin Islands.

In 1571, English explorer and navigator, Sir Francis Drake, sailed through the passageway that now separates the British and American Virgin Islands. (A popular spot to visit on St. Thomas is Drakes Seat. Overlooking beautiful Magens Bay, infamous Drake would conceal his fleet of ships while watching the activities of the Spanish Armanda.)

During the 1600s-1700s, European power both claimed and settled the Caribbean islands. By 1671, Denmark established their first settlement in St. Thomas. By the early 1700s the Danes expanded to St. John. They purchased control of St. Croix from France, uniting the three Virgin Islands.

St. Thomas was declared a free port in the 1800s and became a major trading emporium. The islands prospered with sugar plantations.
In 1848, Denmark abolished slavery on the islands.
United States purchased the islands for $25 million in 1917. US citizenship was not granted until 1927.
The Virgin Islanders come from all over the world. They mainly fall into four categories: African descendants, French (immigrants from French islands), Puerto Ricans and continental US transplants. There are also many “down islanders” from the southern Caribbean islands and a large number of East Indians.

Ferries and daytrips
Ferries can provide easy connections from St. Thomas, St. John or to Water Island (500 acres in size), the newest of the Virgins. It is unspoiled and can only be accessed by ferry boats. Remember to carry a valid US passport if you visit the British Virgin Islands.

St. Thomas
St. Thomas is 32–square miles and is home to Charlotte Amalie, the capital city of the USVI. If you’re looking for a cosmopolitan island with outstanding duty-free shopping, and a variety of restaurants and cafes, then you will love St. Thomas.

Don’t miss beautiful Magens Bay, distinguished as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Discover historic landmarks and monuments around the island.
See the view from the top on the St. Thomas Sky ride in Paradise Point. The tramway gondola climbs 700 feet, straight up, enabling a bird’s eye view of white sand beaches, vivid turquoise seas and towering green hillsides.

Or, go down under. The Atlantis Submarine Expedition takes you on a journey 80–feet below the ocean surface. View vibrant coral reefs and exotic sea life in an air-conditioned environment.
Check out dozens of sailing vessels as they visit the port of St. Thomas. Several cruise ships dock in St. Thomas during the week, giving you an opportunity to see some of the largest, most beautiful ships in the world.

Golfers will love Mahogany Run Golf Course, which has the distinction of being one of the most beautiful 18 holes in the Caribbean.
Fishermen will be in paradise. At least 24 sportfishing world records have been set in the Virgin Islands. Join a fishing charter and try your luck at blue marlin, sailfish, kingfish, wahoo, grouper and more.

St. John
Although the island is tiny in size, it is the natural choice if you love the outdoors. Over two–thirds of the island is a US national park (9,500 acres!).
Campers will choose a campsite at either Cinnamon Bay or Maho Bay, with the ocean’s edge close by.

Love to hike? Take the Reef Bay Hike with a National Park Service guide. It includes a stop at the island’s only petroglyphs and a 20-minute ride along St. John’s southern coast. (Archeological works show evidence that Indians from South America lived on St. John as early as 710 B.C.)
Water snorkel? Trunk Bay has a fascinating 225-yard self-guided snorkeling trail marked by underwater signs. It’s like an underwater museum! Trunk Bay is distinguished as being one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.

St. Croix
St. Croix is 84–square miles and the largest of the three islands. If you’re interested in cultural heritage this is the spot for you. Don’t miss the old-world charm of Christiansted and Frederiksted. Danish architecture, unspoiled beach and remnants of sugar mills are just part of appreciating St. Croix’s beauty and heritage.

Buck Island - The only US underwater monument is a spectacular coral reef and snorkeling trail.

Cane Bay Beach - Experience world-class diving with depths up to 1,000 feet.

Salt River - Where Columbus first landed in 1493.
Fort Frederick­–Located in Frederiksted, this was the site of the Declaration of Emancipation to the slaves on July 3, 1848.
Fort Christianvaern - A restored fort in Christiansted. Built by the Danes in 1774 to protect the harbor, it is now run by the National Park Service. The controversial dungeons make it a must-see.

Other facts
Driving: If you’re going to rent a car be prepared to drive on the left side. Roads can be curvy and steep. You may encounter cows, goats and even islanders in the middle of a windy back road.
Weddings: No waiting period is required, once on the island. However, advance preparation is necessary. The Territorial Court/Wedding Department must inspect your application to be married on the island at least eight days prior to arrival. A non-refundable fee for filing the marriage license is $50. Additional fees include $50 for the marriage license and $200 for ceremonies performed by a judge of the Superior Court.

Cruising: Cruise passengers are required to have a US Passport when traveling by ship to the US Virgin Islands. Verify documentation requirements before purchasing cruise travel.
America’s Caribbean is waiting… from sea to shining sea. For more information visit www.usvitourism.vi.
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.net.

Why whole food quality is not created equal

By Mary Beth McCue

The differences between conventional farming and organic farming lies in the quality and nutritional value, the impact of the environment and the health affects of everything on our planet.
Organic, sustainable foods are whole foods rich in nutrients and devoid of toxic pesticides, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and genetically modified organisms (GMO). The quality of the seeds, the soil and the final product far exceed that of conventional farming.

Sustainable agriculture refers to methods of farming that enables the farm to produce food indefinitely without causing irreversible damage to ecosystem health. It does not deplete the soil of nutrients, but rather continues to fortify them. This helps ensure the ability of future generations to meet their needs. In conventional farming, the ecological balance of the land is damaged.

The factors below describe some significant traits of the Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) and conventionally farmed foods.
Nutritional deficiencies have become a global issue. We are becoming more and more aware that eating common whole foods devoid of nutrients can result in many forms of “nutrient depletions” in the body. Sub-clinical symptoms can be fatigue, sore muscles and painful joints, digestion complications, memory loss, mood disorders, headaches, food cravings and imbalances in the metabolic and detoxification systems, just to name a few.
The quality of our food starts with the quality of the seed and the soil. Organic seeds are resistant to pests and disease the way nature intended them. Their seeds are often larger than that of non-organic, and they produce plants that root deeper into the soil and are hardier with leaves that spread quickly, which helps avoid weeds.

The quality of the soil also has a great influence on the growth of the seed and the nutrient content when the plant is harvested. Organic farming strongly relies on the natural breakdown of organic matter, using techniques like green manure and composting to replace nutrients taken from the soil by previous crops.

In a study published in the April 2001 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, it was noted that there was higher vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus and significantly less nitrates in organics than in conventional crops. In addition, there were lower amounts of some heavy metals in organic crops. There are further studies citing evidence on nutrient variations in support of organics on the Organic Trade Association site at www.ota.com.

Toxins are found in our food, air and water supplies. Over 100,000 chemicals are currently in use and 1,000-2,000 new ones are being developed each year. While it is impossible to avoid them, it is easy to decrease the use and exposure by choosing a more “toxic-free” life-style. Most conventional produce and conventionally-raised animals have toxic residues from chemicals, pesticides and pharmaceutical drugs used during their lifespan. Eating these foods causes enormous strain on the detoxification (the liver) and intestinal system of the body. The toxic ‘wear’ eventually leads to a breakdown of the metabolic and immune response system’s leaving the body vulnerable to many chronic conditions and disease. Visit the site: www.foodnews.org for the pesticide load list of over 40 fruits and vegetables.

Transportation of conventionally grown food has a median travel distance of 1,500 miles; not including the transportation of imported foods. It is estimated that for every one calorie of food consumed, there was 10 calories of fossil fuel energy used. These fuel emissions have a strong negative impact on the greenhouse gases, resulting in atmospheric change. Food that is trucked to the supermarket takes on average of 3 to 7 days from “farm to plate”. The food is picked “green”, meaning that it has not reached its maturity, nor its’ highest potential nutritional value. The food is then treated with chemicals to hasten its ripening.

Knowing where your food comes from by purchasing from a local organic farm is one of the best ways to ensure you know what you are getting. Not only is the food safe, ripe and nutritious, but also abundant in taste. Eating a diet of organic, sustainable foods will help the body obtain optimal health by constantly nourishing, supporting and “renewing” it.
Supporting your local community by joining a Community Supported Agriculture (C.S.A.) farm or using the local farmers markets are great ways to start. For a CSA near you, visit www.localharvest.org/csa. Other sources include: www.agmkt.state.ny.us/HarvestCalendar.html; www.localharvest.org/csa.jsp; www.lohas.com.

Mary Beth McCue is an Integrative Dietitian, a Certified NYS Nutritionist, and certified in Functional Medicine and has been in the business since 1985. She currently sees clients at The Roosevelt Baths & Spa in Saratoga and has a national (phone) client base. For more information visit www.sipn.info/mccue.htm or contact SaratogaNutrition@earthlink.net or 257.6530.

How to avoid workplace conflicts and handle a conflict that may exist

By Dan Moran

At some point in everyone’s career, they will be faced with a workplace conflict – with their boss, co-worker or someone else in the organization. It is estimated that managers spend 25 percent of their time working to resolve workplace conflicts with their employees. For those in the midst of the conflict, it is difficult to manage through—and sucks up time and energy that could be directed to positive outcomes in your job or life.

Workplace conflicts occur for a number of reasons, but are usually rooted in:

• Understanding who should do what–turf battles. So common – and so easy to correct. At times, you may feel that someone else should be performing a task or vice versa. This leads to disconnect in the company and between the two parties.

• Disagreements over how things should be done. Everyone has their own style of getting their job done, and unfortunately, we sometimes feel our way is the only way (and it may not be). Conflicts occur usually when there is a change – new person, new procedure, etc.—that isn’t accepted by one or more people.

• Personality conflicts. You may have heard that opposite personality types attract. Sometimes true, often not. If you take a hard-driving Type A personality and match that person up with a Type D personality (slower and easier pace supporter), there will be conflict.

• Lack of communication. By far, the reason most workplace conflicts occur. Lack of communication between co-workers, departments or the company as a whole, leads to another more dangerous situation – people begin to make assumptions without fact, understanding or the “truth”. People assume they know what others are doing, or assume they know what someone else is thinking when, in reality, it is just the opposite.

How to avoid these conflicts
Preventing conflicts is all about setting expectations and communication. It is not unlike raising children or being in a relationship where understanding the needs of your significant other is critical to getting along and growing together. The same goes for the workplace, but on a different level.

Address issues before they become problems. Handling issues on the job as they occur, and before they get out of hand (usually through making assumptions), is a huge step in avoiding conflict. It might be a bit uncomfortable to confront the issue, but in the long run will help avoid a costly conflict.

Handle issues directly and face-to-face if at all possible. Please do not “battle” by email and never, never “flame” someone in email (flaming is using all capital letters or inflammatory words in email) as you cannot see the other person and measure their response. I have also learned a very valuable lesson about email—if you exchange three emails on a subject without understanding, pick up the phone or go visit the other party to open communication.

Define your expectations
Clearly defining what you expect to do – and what others are expected to do – sets the stage for mutual respect and understanding. If you do not understand clearly what is expected of you or how your work will be evaluated, ask your manager directly and clear any confusion.

As a manager, I was almost compulsive in setting my team members’ expectations from the start – even putting them in writing. This way, there was never a question in their mind over my expectations, and their expectations of me.

Listen – listen – and then listen more. Have you ever been in a situation where you just knew the person you were communicating with just didn’t get it? That they were not listening? As a result, two-way communication does not occur and there is disconnect.

Learn to be an effective listener. Give the person your full attention and listen intently to what they are saying. Ask questions if you don’t understand, but give them the floor. Through careful listening, you will learn about what is expected, issues that may need to be resolved or how you may be disconnected from someone else.
Manage your reactions. We all overreact in some situations – it’s just human nature. In the workplace, it is important to manage your reactions. It is best to listen, evaluate and plan a response or action, rather than just react.

Bite your tongue. If you think you should keep your mouth closed, follow your instinct! Sometimes the least said the better.

What if the company you are with thrives on conflict?
Yes, there are companies that seem to thrive on having conflicts between people or departments. If you find yourself in this type of situation, it is time to move on and work elsewhere.
Close to 80 percent of our waking time is spent on the job. It is important that that time be energizing, productive and personally fulfilling. Try to avoid conflicts at any cost, but if one does pop up, handle it the right way.

Dan Moran is president & founder of Next-Act, a career management & transition firm located in Colonie. He specializes in helping people make career choices and seek new jobs. He is also a Certified Facilitator for Get Hired Now! and Get Clients Now! Programs, which help those in career transition and companies get results. You can reach him at 641.8968 or dmoran@next-act.com or visit www.next-act.com.

Welcome to the dog days of summer! If you are taking your vacation this month, you can keep cool with your choice of excellent books.

Gas prices are up, people are driving less, but there are still traffic jams. Read Tom Vanderbilt’s Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do and find out why. The author visited labs in which driving simulators are used to test driver reaction times; he also traveled the world to see how other cultures handle their motorized traffic. Reading about the polite drivers in Helsinki and the apparent chaos of New Delhi is fascinating, but the most interesting segment focuses on DriveCam, a camera installed inside a car to record unsafe “trigger events”. Companies can install the device in their fleet and make sure that their drivers are driving safely and responsibly. In addition, an 18-week trial in Iowa put DriveCams into the cars of 25 teenage drivers to see if their driving improved. The film of trigger incidents was sent to their parents, and each driver could keep tabs on his/her own “score” to see how their record compared to that of their peers. The result? Risky behaviors dropped dramatically. According to Vanderbilt, most drivers in the United States think they are better than average drivers. Reading this book might change your mind and make you a more careful driver; you might even change your merging habits!

The Gargoyle, by Andrew Davidson, is a very odd, yet wonderful, book. It is a horror story, a love story and a morality tale. It is as full of graphic, gruesome details as a Steven King novel, but it is drenched in the redemptive power of timeless love. Our unnamed narrator, a drug-addicted, promiscuous pornographer, begins the story with his horrific car accident. Instead of ending up dead, he is severely burned and helpless. He is bitter and depressed; he plans to commit suicide as soon as he is released from the hospital, until he meets an odd visitor named Marianne Engel. He doesn’t know her, but she seems to know all about him, and she begins to tell him stories of lovers whose tales end tragically. Then she begins to tell him about her life 700 years ago in a German monastery. Is she schizophrenic? Bipolar? Telling the truth? It is hard to tell, but her personal intensity and the stories she tells make the narrator (and the reader) eager to find out more. Filled with medieval details, references to Dante’s Inferno, and detailed descriptions of third degree burns and how they heal, this novel is not for the faint of heart, but would be a great selection for a book club because there is so much to analyze and discuss.

In stark contrast, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows is a charming, bucolic epistolatory novel set in the British island of Guernsey after the Second World War. Juliet, a writer based in London looking for her next book topic, receives a letter from a man from Guernsey who found her name by chance in a second-hand book. He is looking for other volumes by that same author. Slowly, she is drawn into her new friend’s world as she begins to correspond with him and his neighbors and finds out about their lives during the German occupation during the war. When she finally decides to visit Guernsey for herself, she discovers not only the subject for her next book, but a whole new way of life. Quirky characters, hilarious letters, and a strong core of the courage of ordinary people in extraordinary times make this an inspiring and deeply satisfying read.
Susan Taylor has been in the book business, in one aspect or another, since 1982. She currently 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 August 2008

By Arlene DeAngelus

Best Days for August 2008: 7th, 12th and 30th

To lose those extra pounds, begin a diet on the 16th.

Aries: (March 21 to April 20) Romance, children and your fun with others are highlighted after the 1st. You will want to express yourself creatively through a project or hobby. On the 16th, you look at your long-term goals and also ways to accomplish them. Later in the month, your interests turn to humanitarian causes and you want to give of yourself to help those less fortunate.

Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Personal affairs and your home life are the focus after the 1st. You look for ways to improve your family relationships and the actual appearance of your home. On the 16th, career matters, or the equivalent, are important as you balance your time between work and home. Later in the month, you concentrate your efforts on receiving recognition for a task well-done.

Gemini: (May 21 to June 20) Daily communications and your everyday environment are highlighted after the 1st. Reading and intellectual pursuits top your list of things to do. On the 16th, discussions center on abstract thought and foreign cultures. Later in the month, you begin to question your beliefs and you search for knowledge and wisdom to broaden your perspective on life.

Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Your values, money and personal belongings are the focus after the 1st. You analyze your financial well-being and ways to increase your income and resources. On the 16th, you share your ideas with another concerning any shared assets. Later in the month, you spend time reviewing both business and marriage resources. You look for ways to expand your financial security.

Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Self-expression, appearance and your personality are highlighted after the 1st. Adding a tint to your hair color and buying some new clothes help to create your new image. On the 16th, there’s joy through sharing in a personal relationship. Later in the month, you strengthen both business and marital relationships which in turn helps to increase your self-esteem.

Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) Spiritual enlightenment, hidden motives and your inner child are the focus after the 1st. A workshop or retreat can offer you the spiritual growth you seek. On the 16th, you evaluate your work and physical efficiency. This is the time to make any necessary changes. Later in the month, opportunities are given for you to join in and provide help or services for others.


Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Acquaintances, friends and your fun with others are highlighted after the 1st. You join a group that promotes a popular humanitarian cause. On the 16th, your time is spent with loved ones and children. If you are available, this can be the time of a romantic pursuit. Later in the month, you concentrate on these loved ones and have enjoyable times with them.

Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) Career, or the equivalent, and your direction in life are the focus after the 1st. You adjust your career goals to accomplish your desired directions. On the 16th, you resolve a personal matter to your satisfaction. This is a time when you may redecorate or change your home in some way. Later in the month, more time is spent with your family and researching your family roots.

Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) Intellectual, cultural and spiritual studies are highlighted after the 1st. You pursue such subjects as the law, philosophy and religion as you begin to change your beliefs. On the 16th, a workshop or class is inviting. You want to communicate with others and gain new knowledge. Later in the month, you explore your everyday environment and find ways to make it better.

Capricorn: (December 22 to January 19) Shared resources, other’s money and values are the focus after the 1st. This is the time to review all interests shared in marriage and business. On the 16th, your attention turns to your own finances. You may begin a new savings plan or budget. Later in the month, reorganize your personal resources and use care in either borrowing or lending money to others.

Aquarius: (January 20 to February 18) Partners, business and personal relationships are highlighted after the 1st. This is the time when others will teach you and you seek out meaningful partnerships. On the 16th, you are looking for change. Spend the day shopping and try a new style or hairdo. Later in the month, you seek ways to expand your personal interests and through them you gain a new sense of self-awareness.

Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Work, health care and relationships with co-workers are the focus after the 1st. You become more conscientious toward the services that you provide for others. On the 16th, you gain peace of mind by resolving old problems or mistakes. Later in the month, you search for spiritual understanding and growth. This understanding makes you less vulnerable to others.

Society time in Saratoga

By John Gray

Several decades ago when the Earth was flat and dinosaurs roamed the Northway, I sat at the head table at one of my brother’s weddings. The festivities were just getting under way when I realized I didn’t have a delicious roll, and the basket was clear across the table. Rather than ask my well-dressed sibling to pass them down I said, “Yo bro, throw me a roll.” Since men never really stop being boys, my brother grabbed one and tossed me a perfect strike. As I proceeded to butter that rascal, my mother appeared out of nowhere with a look on her face I hadn’t seen since I flushed my GI Joe down the toilet. In a stern voice she uttered just three words, “People are watching.” Mom was right. We were not back at home eating hotdogs in the backyard where throwing food was acceptable. Point taken. The food stayed still the rest of the meal.

I take this trip down memory lane because here we are: August in the Capital Region, which is the height of the social season. There are parties to attend, galas to crash and little black dresses scurrying every which way in Saratoga. Being from South Troy I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth, but have learned the hard way some of the dos and don’ts of attending these elite parties and I’m happy to share. I’ll break this into several categories so it’s easy to play along.

Food - This is one of the reasons to go to a fancy party this time of the year, but there are some rules to follow. Nobody really wants to sit down to dinner. Everyone knows the most fun and best food is during the cocktail hour before the dinner. This is where the schmoozing takes place, the martinis flow and you have your best chance to snag the elusive bacon-wrapped scallop. Tip #1 - anything that comes with a toothpick through it is yummy, but the stick itself is hazardous. Discard the little harpoon immediately lest you wave your hands around and stick someone, or worse off (guys), you put it in your pocket only to sit down later that evening and stab yourself in the scallops.

Liquor - There is only one reason for an “open bar” at a charity event. The goal is to get you so loopy that an hour later when they do a live auction you’ll lose control of all senses and bid $5,000 on a cappuccino machine imported from Italy. It is not cool to get drunk at one of these events because, trust me, everyone is watching. The only thing worse than you getting drunk is to have a date who is blasted.

Case in point: About 10 years ago I took a woman to one of these parties who, unknown to me at the time, had a slight drinking problem. One minute she’s having fun; the next she turns into Sybil saying, “Hey Gray. See that waitress over there. You like her don’t you. Why don’t you just ask her out? DO IT! DO IT!” The sad thing was that she was pointing at the 50-year-old man who was checking people’s coats. Apparently, after eight glasses of wine her vision went along with her class. That said, I swear to this day I did not have a crush on him.

Tattoos - This is a tough one, especially for the ladies. When you’re in acid washed jeans and a tie-dye tank top, your tattoo of a coyote howling at the moon on your right shoulder looks pretty darn cool. When you’re walking into the Hall of Springs in a strapless gold gown….hmm, not so much. Now, some people are rude and call a tattoo on a woman’s lower back a tramp stamp. Not only is that not nice, but the truth is, if you have to have a tattoo that is the perfect location to hide it under a fancy gown. Of course, if you’ve been slamming Grey Goose for an hour and you start telling the other guests, “No, it’s a dolphin jumping over a rainbow, wanna see it? Seriously, just help me with my zipper.” This is also not conduct that will get Cinderella invited back to the ball.

Fatcats - If you were to travel on safari into a dangerous forest, your guide would give you a short list of hideous creatures to watch out for. If you are planning to spend any time at Siro’s, Brindisi’s or any of a dozen other hotspots this month, I want to warn you about the Fatcat. He is usually a white male, often fat, who by luck or hard work has acquired some degree of wealth. Money in itself is not evil, but to the Fatcat it feeds an insatiable sense of entitlement. Translation—he’s a blowhard showoff who thinks he can buy anyone he wants.

I stood next to a Fatcat at Siro’s last year as he told the pretty young waitress (and I swear I’m not making this up), “Hey sweetheart. You don’t know me, but trust me you will. Here’s a twenty dollar tip. My way of saying I don’t want to have to look for you when I need a drink. Capiche?” He then proceeded to try to stuff the twenty dollar bill onto her person when she had no pockets. Not pretty. If you’re a woman, avoid the Fatcat. If you’re a guy hanging with Mr. Moneybags I have three words for you: guilt by association. Oh, and if you have a daughter waitressing in Saratoga this month, might I suggest a nice can of mace?

Hats & Shoes – Guys, this is one you will never understand so just let it go. Women cannot have enough shoes and when it comes to the social season she’s got to have the hat, too. Put the Visa on the counter and just walk away. Trust me, you don’t want to know. Now that said, ladies, be reasonable. If the hair and makeup is stunning and the dress is incredible do you really think anyone will notice if you are wearing Jimmy Choo or Payless? Okay, some women may, but most people won’t, especially if you have that coyote howling at the moon on your shoulder. Yikes.

I know nothing about hats only to say this: Ladies, if it’s big enough to land a small airplane on the brim you should consider going down a size or two. Just a thought.

Keep off the grass - True story. A woman I know attended a party at a private country club in our area. After several cocktails she and a few other women decided to wander off to the 18th green of the golf course and have a little late night picnic. Unfortunately, the spikes in their heels poked holes in the perfectly groomed green causing thousands of dollars in damage. They did what any drunk party goers would do—they ran! Not good ladies, not good.

Obey all signs - Another true tale. I’m at a party in Saratoga when one of the guests who recently had a baby asked the staff if there was a private room where she could go pump breast milk. The old pump and dump maneuver. They tell her to go upstairs. She reaches the top of the stairs and a sign clearly states: OPEN THIS GATE, ALARM WILL SOUND. Hmmm, what to do? She goes back downstairs and whispers, “What about the alarm?” They tell her to ignore it, they just put the sign up to discourage guests from wandering. You know what happens next. Up the stairs she goes, opens the gate and all hell breaks look. Sirens, lights flashing. Guests look up to see what caused the commotion and there she stands in her gown holding the breast pump. Priceless.

And finally…
It’s the people not the party - The best times I’ve ever had, had little to do with the venue and everything to do with the company I was keeping. My friend Julie raves about the SPAC Ballet Gala each year. She and a large group of friends dress up, set up a picnic on the lawn and have a blast. They look forward to it all year long.

I’ve been honored to be a guest several times at the Whitney Ball at the Canfield Casino, and you know what’s surprising? The food is simple, the liquor common, but the fun is in the guest list. Mary Lou Whitney brings together people who might not normally rub elbows and for three hours, once a year, they share stories and laugh. The shrimp is scrumptious and the decorations divine, but it’s the friends I’ve made at that party over the years that I think of and smile.

We’re quickly running out of space so let’s recap Gray’s tips on the social scene. Hats, dresses, shoes—go crazy girl. Alcoholic dates—leave at home. Tattoos are optional, but the closer to your butt the better. Toothpicks kill, Fatcats stink and always trust a sign that says ALARM WILL SOUND. And foremost, if you want to be assured of a wonderful evening, go with some nice people. Whether you’re sipping champagne at a gala or eating PJ’s barbeque on the way back home, the people you hang with will make or break the evening. ‘Twas always this way and always will be.

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

Fourth of July Events

Albany County
July 4
Independence Day at Schuyler Mansion - Enjoy an old-fashioned July 4th celebration on the Schuyler Mansion grounds. Games and music from the 18th century, activities and ice cream. $2 for Mansion tours. 11am-4pm. For more info: 434.0834.

July 4
Price Chopper 4th on the Plaza - One of America’s most dramatic settings for dazzling fireworks and great food, crafts, and entertainment. Empire State Plaza. For more info: 473.0559; www.albany.org.

Columbia County
July 4
Family Fest – Free kiddie rides, pony rides, face painting, climbing wall, hay maze, magic show, food and games. $5, under 3 free; free parking. Gates open at 3pm, fireworks at 9:30pm. For more info: 392.2121; www.columbiafair.com.

July 4
Independence Day Celebration - 18th century music and entertainment, food and the Saugerties fireworks display. $7 per vehicle event fee. Clermont State Historic Site, Clermont; 1pm-10pm. For more info: 537.4240; www.friendsofclermont.org

Greene County
July 4
Independence Day Parade and Fireworks – The event kicks off at 7pm with a parade through Windham that ends at Windham Mountain. The celebration continues with a fantastic outdoor BBQ and fireworks at dusk. Windham Mountain. For more info: 734.3852; www.windhamchamber.org

Montgomery County
July 3
Fort Plain Annual 4th on the 3rd Celebration – Fireworks, food and fun. Village of Fort Plain.

Otsego County
July 4
Independence Day Celebration - Every July 4th, The Farmers' Museum hosts a traditional Independence Day celebration. The event is based on a typical 1845 celebration of our nation's birthday and includes patriotic music, games, dances and orations. Noon-5pm. The Farmers Museum, Cooperstown. For more info: 607.547.1450; www.thisiscooperstown.com.

July 4
Independence Day Ice Cream Social - Featuring handmade and white elephant items as well as books. Hot dogs, lemonade, ice cream with homemade cakes. Games for children are also on hand. The event will be held indoors in case of inclement weather. First Presbyterian Church, 25 Church St, Cooperstown. For more info: 607.547.8401; www.thisiscooperstown.com

Saratoga County
July 4
Independence Day at Saratoga Battlefield - Morning citizenship ceremony is followed by Park Ranger Joe Craig portraying a 1776 town crier with news of American Independence. Join fellow citizens in toasting the 13 “new” states. Citizenship Ceremony: 10am; Readings of Declaration of Independence: 1pm & 3pm. Saratoga National Historic Park, Stillwater. For more info: 664.9821; www.saratoga.org.

July 4-6
Saratoga’s All-American Celebration – Friday: Revolutionary War Encampment, musicians in the park, fireworks at dusk. 1pm. Congress Park. Saturday: All-American Parade at 10am beginning at the intersection of VanDam/Broadway. Founding Fathers Tour with Hollis Palmer at 2pm. Bands on Broadway 7pm-10pm. Sunday: 11am-2pm. Patriotic Pooch Event on Grove St. Historic Tour with Dave Patterson and Charles Kuntzel. For more info: 587.3550; www.saratogajuly4th.com

Schoharie County
July 4
Independence Day Celebration at Old Stone Fort Museuem – Stone Fort Militia Programs, reading of the Declaration of Independence and other historical documents. 10am-5pm. Old Stone Fort Museum, Schoharie. For more info: 295.7192; www.schohariechamber.com
J
uly 4
July 4th Celebration - Main Steet parade at noon in Cobleskill. Concert in Center Park with Captain Squeeze and the Zydeco Moshers. Fireworks at the fairgrounds at dark. For more info: 296.8122.

Warren County
July 4
4th of July at Fort Ticonderoga - Fort Ticonderoga is the site of the first victory of the American Revolution. “Best Fourth in the North”, fair and fireworks in Ticonderoga Village. Declaration of Independence readings on Fort grounds throughout the day. For more info: www.fort-ticonderoga.org

July 4
Lake George 4th of July Fireworks – 9:30pm in Lake George Village.

July 5
Independence Day Celebration - Live entertainment, games for all ages and fireworks at dusk. 12pm at Ski Bowl Park, North Creek. For more info: 251.2421.

Fairs

Saratoga County Fair • July 15-20
General Admission (13 and Older) Tuesday-Thursday $7; Friday-Sunday $10; Child ages 6-12 $3; Child under age 6 free; Wednesday, Senior Day, Senior Citizen ages 65 & over until 5pm $4
Hours: Fair: 9am- midnight daily; Midway: noon-midnight daily; Beer Garden: noon-midnight; Concession Buildings: 11am-11pm

Discount Days:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday—$7 Adults
Wednesday $4 Senior (65 & over) Admission until 5pm
All gate fees include free parking in lots when available
For more info: 885.9701
www.saratogacountyfair.org

Washington County Fair • August 18-24
Adults $10; seniors (over 62, Wednesday only) $5; children under 14 free; 7-day pass $30; free parking.
Hours: Monday 5pm-10pm; Tuesday-Sunday 9am-10pm
For more info: 692.2464
www.washingtoncountyfair.com

Schoharie County Sunshine Fair • August 5-10
August 5 - Pony Halter Class Show, 5pm
August 6 – Harness Races at the Grandstand, 12pm
August 7 – Holstein and Brown Swiss Dairy Show, 6:30pm
August 8 – Open Class Wool Breeds Sheep Show, 4pm
August 9 – Western Horse Show, 8:30am
August 10 – Awards Ceremony, 10am
For more info and full event schedule:
234.2123; www.sunshinefair.org

Altamont Fair • August 12-17
August 12-17 - Families can enjoy the Zoppe Circus, petting zoo, karaoke and more every day at the fair along with many other special events.
August 12- Charles Smith Blues Band, 8:30pm
August 13 – Hair of the Dog, 8:30pm
August 14 – 2096, 8:30pm
August 15 – The Refrigerators, 8:30pm
August 16 – The Audiostars, 8:30pm
August 17 – Loose Canon Live, 6:30pm
For more info: 861.6671; www.altamontfair.com

Fonda  Fair • August 26-September 1
Adults $8 Monday-Thursday, $10 Friday-Sunday; Senior Citizen Days (65 and up) $5; Parking $2. Hours: Fair 8am-11pm; Midway 11am-11pm; Concession 11am-10pm.
For more info: 853.3313; www.fondafair.com

Schaghticoke Fair • August 27-September 1
$8; children under 13 free. Hours: Opening Day, 12pm-10pm; Thursday-Monday, 10am-10pm.
For more info: 753.4411; www.schaghticokefair.com

Columbia County Fair • August 27- September 1
$10 ($12 on Sundays); children under 12 free; parking free. Hours: Wednesday 5pm-11pm; Thursday-Monday 10am-11pm.
For more info: 392.2121; www.columbiafair.com

Craft Fairs

Albany County
July 12-13
Shaker Summer Craft Fair - many family activities including crafting projects and demonstrations, Children’s activities, guided site tours and on-site farm animals. 10am-4pm. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 875 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Colonie. For more info: 456.7890.

September 13-14
Fall Harvest Craft Fair - many family activities including crafting projects and demonstrations, Children’s activities, guided site tours and on-site farm animals. 10am-4pm. Free. Shaker Heritage Society, 875 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Colonie. For more info: 456.7890.

Saratoga County
July 29
Summer in Saratoga Arts and Crafts Fair – Benefits the Saratoga Central Catholic High School. 9am-4pm. Canfield Casino in Congress Park, Saratoga. For more info: 587.7070.

August 2-3
Outdoor Art & Craft Show – Crafts and more. 10am-4pm. Free. Lakeside Farm, Ballston Lake. For more info: 899.6138.

August 16-17
Round Lake Arts & Crafts Festival - Outdoor Arts & Crafts Festival in historic Round Lake featuring 200 juried crafters and artists. Food available. Benefits Round Lake Library. Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 10am-4:30pm. Free. For more info: 899.2285.

August 26
Craft Fair – benefits Saratoga Springs Historical Society. Over 70 exhibitors. 9am-4pm. Congress Park in Saratoga. For more info: 439.8379.

September 6-7
Lakeside Outdoor Art & Craft Show – Craft show and sale. Free. 10am-4pm. Lakeside Farm, Exit 11 off the Northway in Ballston Lake. For more info: 899.6138.

Schenectady County

August 23
Arts and Crafts Festival - The festival will feature the best in local area arts including pottery, wood crafting, folk art, jams, handwovens, floor cloths, candles, jewelry, fine arts, painted furniture, artisan demonstrations, historical boat tours and so much more. Great music and food! 10am-5pm. Mabee Farm Historic Site, 1080 Main Street (Route 5S), Rotterdam. For more info: 887.5073

Warren County
July 4-6
Arts & Crafts Festival - Quilts, ceramics, photographs, woodcrafts, jewelry, over 30 vendors. 10am-4pm, free. Rogers’ Memorial Park, Lake Shore Drive, Bolton Landing. For more info: 644.3831.

July 12-13
25th Annual Arts and Crafts Festival - Homemade items, arts, crafts, and food. Main Street, Warrensburg. 9am-5pm. For more info: 623.2161.

July 19
Riverview Arts and Crafts Festival - Handmade items by local & regional crafters & artisans, book sale, refreshments. 9am-3pm. Pavilion Park, Route 9N, Lake Shore Drive, Lake Luzerne. For more info: 696.3423.

Downstate

August 30-September 1
Woodstock-New Paltz Art & Craft Fair - 300 spaces, arts and crafts, handcrafted food, demos, wild life show, handcrafted musical instruments. Admission: $4.50-$8. Ulster Co. Fairgrounds, New Paltz. For more info: 845.679.8087.

Farmers’ Markets

Albany County

Capital District Regional Market
Season: July- September
Saturday, 7am-1pm
Broadway (Route 32) & Route 378, Menands
For more info: 465.1023
Cohoes Farmers Market
Season: Mid June-October
Friday, 4pm-7pm
Municipal Parking Lot, Remsen St., Cohoes
For more info: 238.2118
Delaware Area Neighborhood Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Tuesday, 4pm-7pm
St. James Church, 391 Delaware Ave., Albany
For more info: 463.7605
Downtown Albany Farmers Market
Season: July- October
Thursday, 11am-2pm
SUNY Plaza, Administration Building Lawn, State St. & Broadway, Albany
For more info: 732.2991
Empire State Plaza Farmers Market
Season: July- October
Wednesday & Friday, 11am-2pm
North end of Empire State Plaza, Albany
For more info: 474.5986
First United Methodist Church Farmers Market
Season: July-mid November
Tuesday, 2:30pm-6pm
428 Kenwood Ave., Delmar
For more info: 732.2991
State Campus Farmers Market
Season: July- October
Thursday, 11am-2pm
Harriman State Office Campus, Building 8 & 8A, off Western Ave., Albany
For more info: 474.5986
Watervliet Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Tuesday, 2pm-5pm
Hudson Shores Park, 23rd St. and Lower Hudson, Watervliet
For more info: contact Christopher Davis, 270.3811

Columbia County

Chatham Farmers Market
Season: July- August
Friday, 4pm-7pm
15 Church St, Columbia
For more info: 392.3353
Hudson Farmers Market
Season: May-mid November
Saturday, 9am-1pm
DMV Parking lot at N. 6th Street & Columbia St., Hudson
For more info: 828.7217
Kinderhook Farmers Market
Season: July-mid October
Saturday, 8am-12:30pm
Village Green along Hudson St., Kinderhook
For more info: 758.1232

Fulton County

Johnstown Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Tuesday, 3pm-6pm
Old Johnstown Hotel, 55 East Main St., Johnstown
For more info: 843.6539

Greene County

Catskill Region Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Saturday, 9:30am-2:30pm
Historic Catskill Point, foot of Main St., Catskills
For more info: 622.9820

Montgomery County

Amsterdam Downtown Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Thursday, 9am-1pm
Roosevelt Apartment, Division St., Amsterdam
For more info: 843.6539
Amsterdam Uptown Farmers Market
Season: July- October
Thursday, 3pm-6pm
Amsterdam Memorial Hospital 4988 NYS Rt. 30, Amsterdam
For more info: 843.6539
Canajoharie Farmers Market
Season: May 10-October 31
Saturday 10am-2pm
Parking lot of Arkell Museum, Canajoharie
For more info: 673.5715
Fort Plain Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Thursday & Saturday, 9am-1pm
Willet St. next to True Value, Fort Plain
For more info: 993.4806

Otsego County

Cooperstown Farmers Market
Season: May-mid December
Saturday, 9am-2pm
Pioneer Alley, 101 Main St., behind Key Bank, Cooperstown
For more info: 607.547.6195

Rensselaer County

Hoosick Falls Farmers Market
Season: July-August
Wednesdays, 4pm-7pm
Wood Memorial Park, Main St., Hoosick Falls
For more info: 686.4573
Rensselaer County Farmers Market
Season: July-mid October
Thursday, 2:30pm-5:30pm
Twin Town Little League Field, Williams Rd
For more info: 283.5187
Troy Waterfront Farmers Market
Season: May-October
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Hedley Park Place, 433 River St. north of Green Island Bridge
For more info: 321.5749
Troy Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Wednesday, 10am-2pm
Broadway between 3rd & 4th Sts., Troy
For more info: 686.5545

Saratoga County

Ballston Spa Farmers Market
Season: June 12-September 25
Thursday, 3pm-6pm Ballston Spa Business &
Professional Association
Dollar General Plaza
Season: May-October 25
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Dollar General Plaza parking lot, Route 50
For more info: 884.2909
Town of Ballston
Season: May-October 30
Wednesday, 4pm-7pm
Wiswall Park
Season: June 14-September 27
Saturday, 9am-noon
Wiswall Park, Front St.
For more info: 885.6693
Clifton Park Farmers Market
Season: July 3-October 30
Thursday, 2pm-5pm
St. George’s Church, Route 146, Clifton Park
For more info: 638.5530
Corinth Merchants Association
Season: July-October
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Arthur White & Son True Value Store Parking Lot
Gansevoort Farmers Market
Season: June 5-October 30
Thursday, 3pm-6pm
Village Park, Spring St., South Glens Falls
For more info: 792.0198
Saratoga Farmers Market
Season: May 5-October 27
Saturday, 9am-1pm
High Rock Park, High Rock Park Ave., Saratoga Spring
South Glens Falls Farmers Market
Season: June 2-October 27
Monday, 10am-1pm
Village Park, Spring St., South Glens Falls
For more info: 792.0198
Waterford Harbor Farmers Market
Season: June 1-October 26
Sunday, 9am-2pm (No market September 7)
Waterford Harbor Promenade
For more info: 665.8344

Schenectady County

Niskayuna Farmers Market
Season: July- October
Tuesday, 3pm-7pm
Niskayuna Reformed Church, Route 7
For more info: 399.6704
Schenectady Downtown Farmers Market
Season: May-October
Thursday, 9am-1pm
City Hall, Franklin & Jay Sts, Schenectady
For more info: 386.2225
Schenectady State Street Farmers Market
Season: June-October
Tuesday, 9am-1pm
St. Luke's Church, 1216 State St., Schenectady
For more info: 386.2225
Schenectady Union Street Farmers Market
Season: July-October
Saturday, 9am-1pm
Upper Union Street, behind Trustco Bank, Schenectady
For more info: 399.6704

Schoharie County

Country Music Festival Farmers Market
July 15-October 28
Saturday, 10am-2pm, Wednesday, 3pm-5pm, July 19-September 27
Rua & Sons Lot, Rt. 7, Cobleskill
For more info: 284.2609
Renaissance Market
Season: July-October
Thursday, 3pm-6pm; Saturday, 9am-1pm
Corner of Union and Main Sts., Cobleskill
For more info: 234.7558

Warren County

Glens Falls Farmers Market
Season: May-mid November
Saturday, 8am-12pm
South Street Market Pavilion, Downtown Glens Falls
For more info: 792.0438
Queensbury Farmers Market
Season: May-October
Monday, 3pm-6pm
Elks Club lot, Cronin Rd, Queensbury
For more info: 792.0438

Summer concerts and special events

Guilderland Performing Arts Center Summer Concert Series
Tawasentha Park, Rte. 146, Guilderland
All shows begin at 7:30pm
For more info: 456.3150
July 3
The Zucchini Brothers
July 10
Rick Rourke and the Lost Wages
July 24
Livingston Taylor
July 31
Groove Syndicate
August 14
Leo Russo Jazz Quartet
August 21
Captain Squeeze and the Zydeco Moshers
August 28
Albany Pro Musica

Monday Nights in the Park Concert Series
Washington Park Lakehouse, Albany
All shows 6pm-9pm
For more info: 434.3861; www.larkstreet.org
July 14
Featuring: The Dollyrots; Openers: Sirsy, Ophelia Smiles
July 21
Featuring: Odetta; Opener: Mother Judge
July 28
Featuring: Aimee Mann; Opener: Ashley Pond
August 4
Featuring: Lez Zeppelin; Opener: Ten Year Vamp
August 11
Featuring: Searson; Opener: Eileen McSweeney and friend
August 18
Featuring: Marcia Ball; Opener: Sarah Pedinotti

Riverlink Park
Route 5, Amsterdam
July 12
Schenectady Symphony Orchestra – 7:30pm-9pm
July 26
Doc Marshalls – 7pm-9pm

Park Playhouse
Washington Park, Albany
For more info: 434.2035; www.parkplayhouse.com
July 8- August 17
West Side Story – Tuesday-Sunday, 8pm

Park Playhouse 2
July 29- August 10
Guys and Dolls – Tuesday-Sunday, 5:30pm

Saratoga Performing
Arts Center
108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs
All performances in amphitheater.
For more info: 587.3330; www.spac.org.

New York City Ballet
July 8, 15, 19, 22, 26 – All Robbins, 8pm
July 9 – All Balanchine, 8pm
July 12 – All Balanchine, 2pm
July 10, 24, 26 – Founding Choreographers, 2pm
July 10, 12, 18, 24 – Founding Choreographers, 8pm
July 11, 17, 23, 25 – Mixed Rep, 8pm
July 16 – Four Voices, 8pm
July 17, 19 – Four Voices, 2p

The Philadelphia Orchestra
August 6 – Opening Night, “Fabulous Firsts”
August 7 – Emerald City Night
August 8 – The Extraordinary Martha Argerich
August 9 – Bartok, Beethoven, and Brahms
August 13 – The Magic of Marin Aslop
August 14 – Alpine Symphony Night
August 15 – European Extravaganza
August 16- Tchaikovsky Spectacular
August 20 – Midsummer Night’s Dream
August 21 – Repin Returns
August 22 – The Planets Night
August 23 – The Grande Finale

Concerts
July 3 – Chicago and The Doobie Brothers, 7:30pm
July 5 – Rush, 8pm
July 13 – Brad Paisley, 7:30pm
July 20 – 3 Doors Down, 6:30pm
July 27 – Channel 103.1’s Big Day Out, featuring Godsmack, 3:30pm
July 31 – Sheryl Crow, 7pm
August 1 – The Police with Elvis Costello and the Imposters, 7:30pm
August 2 – The Jonas Brothers, 7pm
August 10 – O.A.R., 7:30pm
August 12 – Maroon 5 and Counting Crows, 7pm
August 17 – Saratoga Folk Festival featuring Bob Dylan, 2:30pm
August 19 – The Allman Brothers Band, 7pm
August 24 – Journey, 7pm
August 25 – John Mayer, 7:30pm
August 29 – Cruefest starring Motley Crue, 5pm

Lake George Opera
All performances in the Little Theater
July 3, 12 – Pirates of Penzance – 7:30pm
July 5, 11 – La Traviata – 7:30pm
July 6, 9 – Pirates of Penzance, 2pm
July 8, 13 – La Traviata, 2pm
July 10 – Gianni Schicchi with Buoso’s Ghost, 7:30pm
July 12 – Gianni Schicchi with Buoso’s Ghost, 1pm

Summer Eve Concert Series
Schaghticoke Town Hall, Northline Drive
Food Vendors Available - Bring your chairs. 50/50 Raffle Prizes. No Alcohol Permitted. Free Concert. 6:30-8:30pm
July 3 – Vehicle
July 10 – North 40
July 17 – WYLDER
July 24 – Renee Lussier & Branchwater
July 31 – Al Bruno
August 7 – Not Rightt
August 14 – Don Romines as Elvis
August 21 – Soul Provider followed by Grand Prize giveaway and Alonzo’s fireworks

Times Union Center
51 S. Pearl Street, Albany
487.2000; www.timesunioncenter-albany.com
July 18
Conquest vs. Manchester – 7pm
July 25
Conquest Home Finale – 7pm
August 6
American Idols Live – 7pm
August 20
Neil Diamond – 8pm
September 4
Jeff Dunham – 7:30pm

2008 Concerts in the Barn at the Pruyn House
207 Old Niskayuna Road, Newtonville
Adults $5; children 8-13 $2
For more info: 783.1435
July 9
Polish Night with the Rymanowski Bros. Orchestra. 6:30pm-9pm; food at 5pm.
July 16
Italian Night with The Good Times Band. 6:30pm-9pm. Food at 5pm.
July 23
The Golden Age of Rock and Roll with The Lost Faculties. Sing and dance along to the hits of the 50s and 60s performed by this group of Shaker High teachers. 7pm-9pm.
July 30
German Fest with the Bavarian Barons. 6pm-9pm. Beer Garden at 4:30pm.
August 6
Hair of the Dog. 7pm-9pm. Free shuttle bus from Firehouse at 144 Old Niskayuna Road.

Powers Park Summer Concert Series
Powers Park, 110th St. & Second Ave. Troy
For more info: 270.4493
All shows 6pm-8:30pm unless otherwise noted
July 12 – Bluz House Rockers
July 19 – Al Bruno/ Oldies Weekend
July 26 – Vehicle
August 2 – The Heaters with Laura Patterson
August 9 – Decedent Royals – Rolling Stones Tribute Show
August 16 – Renee Lussier & Branchwater – Country Night
August 23 – Tom Healey Blues Band and The Foy Brothers, 3pm-8pm

Tri City Valley Cats
Joseph L. Bruno Stadium, Troy
Home game schedule, all games begin at 7pm
For more info: 629.2287; www.tcvalleycats.com
July 1 – vs. Vermont
July 2 – vs. Jamestown
July 3 – vs. Jamestown
July 4 – vs. Jamestown
July 9 – vs. Williamsport
July 10 – vs. Williamsport
July 11 – vs. Williamsport
July 12 – vs. Staten Island
July 13 – vs. Staten Island @ 5pm
July 14 – vs. Staten Island
July 19 - vs. Lowell
July 20 – vs. Lowell @ 5pm
July 21 – vs. Lowell @ 11am
July 28 – vs. Oneonta
July 29 – vs. Hudson Valley
July 30 – vs. Hudson Valley
July 31 – vs. Hudson Valley

Collar City Live
Riverfront Park, Troy
For more info: 273.0834
All shows at 6pm unless otherwise noted
July 13
Storm Front- Billy Joel Tribute
July 20
The Greyhounds
July 27
The Reverberators
August 3
Johnny Rabb & the Jailhouse Rockers
August 10
Wylder
August 17
Aged in the Hills
August 24
Take Me to the River Blues Fest 2008, 2pm
For the Kids, all shows at 12pm
July 16
Peter, Paul, and George
July 23
TrioGLOBAL/ Brian Melick
July 30
The Emeralds of July
August 6
Tales ‘n Tunes
August 13
Al Spain
August 20
Stuck on Stupid

At the Park Lunchtime Concert Series
Ten Eyck Courtyard, N. Pearl Street, Albany
For more info: 465.2143; www.dowtownalbany.org
All shows 11:30am-1:30pm
July 1
George Kilby Jr.
July 8
Happy Balky & the Good Livin’
July 15
Jump Daddies
July 22
Annie & the Hedonists
July 31
RumDummies
August 5
Jim Gaudet and the Railroad Boys
August 12
The Reverberators
August 19
Mojo Magic
August 26
The Royals
September 2
The Barefoot Boys
September 9
Rick Rourke and the Lost Wages
September 16
Byrds of Prey

Alive at Five 2008 Concert Series
Albany Riverfront Park
Opening bands begin at 5pm. Headline bands begin at 6:30pm.
For more info: 434.2032; www.albanyevents.org
July 10
Featuring: Bo Bice; Opening Band: Sirsy
July 17
Featuring: Kathy Sledge; Opening Band: The Trammps
July 24
Featuring: Terrance Simien; Opening Band: Captain Squeeze and the Zydeco Moshers
July 31
Featuring: WAR; Opening Band: Solid Smoke
August 7
Featuring: Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra; Opening Band: Sensamaya
August 14
Featuring: The Prodigals; Opening Band: Brother

Local art

Cat-n-Around Catskill

This 2008 festival of the feline will be celebrated all summer long in Catskill. There are 62 fiber glass cats along Main Street and West Bridge Street in historic downtown in the Village of Catskill. Each cat was hand-painted by a local artist and is sponsored by the businesses of Catskill. The festival comes to an end in September when the cats are auctioned off at the Cat’s Meow Auction and Gala. A few of the whimsical sculptures to look for are “Americat”, “Caddy Cat”, “Cinematic Cat” and “Cat Tales”. Take a walk through the village, bring your camera and see if you can spot all 62! This is the second year the Heart of Catskill Association has done the exhibit after the positive response from last year’s sculptures.

Horses, Saratoga Style

If some of the fiber glass horses you see scattered around Saratoga and Schuylerville this summer look familiar, you’re eyes aren’t deceiving you. After being carefully stored away for the winter, the horses from the 2007 show are back for public viewing. Seven of the 34 will be missing, however, because they are being showcased outside of Manhattan’s Museum of Natural History as part of their exhibit “The Horse”.

Sculpture in the Streets

While in the downtown Albany this summer, make sure to look for the 18 new original and abstract works of art on display. These large pieces can be found in the area’s business and entertainment districts and will remain there until April 2009. Fourteen different artists constructed the sculptures out of steel, plywood, iron, stainless steel, fiber optic lights and wood.

My husband and I had the pleasure of entertaining some friends on a recent Sunday afternoon. It was one of those temperamental summer days, featuring unpredictable bursts of sun and rain, but that didn’t stop us from having fun. In fact, five hours—and many laughs—later, we were still sitting on the front porch, enjoying each other’s company. The whole day felt aimless, but fun. As our friends were getting ready to leave, we agreed there is nothing like an impromptu visit to while away a summer afternoon.

On a weekend when I don’t have much planned, I like to get my errands done early in the morning so I can do things only to be enjoyed this time of year, like reading outside, tending to my flowers, taking a stroll with my niece, riding my bike…just lazy day things, with no pressure, no time tables. Just…relaxation. Like sitting around with friends watching the falling rain.
Of course, I also love to get out and do stuff. Summertime in the Capital Region is filled with many activities to keep your days busy for the next couple of months. There are fairs, festivals, craft shows, outdoor concerts and many other events.

If you want to get away for a day or weekend without spending too much money on gas or ever-increasing airline tickets, this issue features five places to explore in under two hours or less. Two spots I personally can’t wait to check out are Old Sturbridge Village and the historic homes in Deerfield, both in Massachusetts.

However you choose to spend your summer days, I hope you’ll enjoy a few lazy days here and there. After all, that is what summer’s all about, isn’t it? And it’s something that can be enjoyed, rain or shine!

Enjoy!

Mary Beth Galarneau
marybeth@crlmag.com

Could your water bottle be putting your health at risk?

By Judy Torel

Go into any gym across America and you will see a plastic bottle of something liquid within arm’s reach of almost everyone there.
What is in that bottle has been a source of debate in the health world. I’m not talking about if diet soda is healthy even though it has no simple sugars and no calories or the old debate of bottled water vs. tap water. This debate is even more compelling and receiving widespread attention: Is the plastic bottle you are drinking from a health risk?

What is in plastic water bottles?
Clear, lightweight and unbreakable plastic water bottles became all the rage in 2000 when Nalgene, a company that manufactures reusable water bottles, came out with cool colors in a reusable style water bottle. The concept that bottled water is healthier than tap was already fully manifested. So people around the country started carrying either reusable water bottles that they bought and filled on their own or they bought a bottle of spring water and then just refilled it over and over again.
Polycarbonate, one of the plastics used in the manufacturing of those re-usable water bottles that are great because they are hard and they keep their shape, contains a component called bisphenol A (BPA). The problem is that BPA acts as a xenoestrogen in the human body. A xenoestrogen is something that acts just like estrogen in the human body, but it is foreign to the body and it is harmful to both males and females.
There are different types of plastic water bottles and some are riskier than others. In 1988, the plastics industry came up with a number system to help recyclers separate different types of plastics. If you look toward the bottom of your water bottle you will see a recycle symbol (triangle) and in the center or to the right will be a number.
The number 7 is comprised of a mixture of plastics that can’t be recycled and may contain BPA’s, thus causing the most controversy right now. Plastic bottles with the number 1 on them are not made for re-use and are more susceptible to a build-up of harmful bacteria. They don’t contain BPAs, but they should not be used more than once.
BPA’s are not just found in plastic water bottles. They are a component in children’s sippy cups and are used in the linings of canned foods and canned sodas. These items are not labeled with a number 7 on them, but the BPA’s are there.

What do BPA’s do in the human body that makes them bad?
Animal studies that were conducted in the late 1990s demonstrated that endocrine disruptors like BPA’s can impair the reproductive systems of rats and mice, can reduce sperm counts and can cause changes in breast tissue that resembles early stages of breast cancer. Estrogen mimickers also were affiliated with abnormal behavioral changes and changes in brain cells and receptors in the rodents. BPA’s are also linked to increased risk of hormonally-related cancers (like prostate and breast cancer), diabetes and obesity.
The argument is, just because these were findings in animal studies does not mean that they would have the same result in humans and so far there are mixed results in the human studies. Because of this, scientists have determined that those most at risk from BPA’s are pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, infants, young children, adolescents and people with compromised endocrine systems. These populations especially would be well advised to minimize exposure to BPA’s, although everyone may want to rethink the use of BPA containers.

What are the alternatives to BPA leaching containers?
Plastic bottles that are most desirable for re-use are those that are made from polypropylene and say #5 PP on the bottle. Plastics that are labeled #2 HDPE are made from high-density polyethylene and #4, low-density polyethelyne, and are also safer to use because they do not contain BPA’s.
Several companies are making BPA-free products now. Eden Foods uses cans that aren’t lined with the epoxy resins containing BPA’s. Imagine and Trader Joe’s are two companies that make soups and other food products that are in aseptic (shelf stable) cartons as opposed to resin-lined cans.
Purchasing tuna or salmon in the pouches instead of cans and purchasing fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned will lead to reduced BPA exposure.
Nalgene, the company that manufactures the #7 re-usable water bottles, is switching to BPA-free alternative components due to the growing concern that BPA’s may be harmful to humans.
If you are using #7 re-usable water bottles, do not put them in the microwave or wash them with hot water. These practices cause the bottles to break down and the BPA’s to more readily leach into the liquids and foods they hold.
Additionally, you should avoid putting any plastic containers into the microwave for the same reasons. Instead, purchase ceramic or glass containers for microwaving and consider a glass water bottle for the gym.

Judy Torel is a USAT coach, personal trainer, nutrition consultant and psychotherapist. She conducts online services through her website www.judytorel.com. Her office is located in Planet Fitness, Loudonville. She is also a competing triathlete who is currently training for Ironman, Florida.

Bella Rouge
Cosmetic and Skincare Boutique
Clifton Park Center, Clifton Park
373.9500; zbellarouge@hotmail.com
Owner: Lisa Zibell
How long have you been in business? I have been in the skincare, cosmetic and spa industry for over 15 years. Bella Rouge is a new business for me. It is fashioned after so many wonderful skincare/cosmetic boutiques I saw while traveling with my previous job. I loved the concept and believed in the niche so I decided to go for it!
Describe your business: Bella Rouge offers a wide variety of options in skincare, cosmetics and beauty tools.
What sets you apart from competitors? The "beauty" of Bella Rouge is our variety of quality products; we are not married to one line in particular. Our goal is to listen to your needs and with a true understanding of our products, guide you towards products that suit your needs and lifestyle the best. We offer so many wonderful shortcuts to fabulous!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Do what you love, love what you do and the rest will follow.
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-7pm; Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 1pm-5pm.

BFS Restaurant & Catering
1736 Western Avenue, Albany
452.6342; www.bfsrestaurant.com
Owner: Shaw H. Rabadi
How long have you been in business? 19 years.
Describe your business: BFS is the home of the most authentic selection of Mediterranean food in the Capital Region. Our menu is complete with offerings such as deli sandwiches, soups and our famous wraps. We also offers Middle-Eastern favorites such as hummus, falafel, grape leaves, Taboleh, kabobs, Spanakopita, Moussaka and Moroccan dishes, as well as famous dishes from Lebanon, Greece, Italy, Morocco, a touch of France and a hint of Spain. Eat drink and be Mediterranean! Our new space was designed to accommodate the restaurant, take-out service and catering services division.
What sets you apart from competitors? Mediterranean cuisine by nature is not only a diet—but a lifestyle, and is considered heart healthy cuisine. One of the most rewarding results of our work and the restaurant’s reputation is the recognition by Dr. Paul E. Lamanski, M.D., director of the Center for Preventative Medicine and Cardiovascular Health, for recognizing our restaurant for serving heart-healthy food. This, without question, sets us apart from our competitors. Our customers never have to worry about how much saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol is in our food—and trust me; they’re not going to miss those things. This is definitely a hallmark, our signature, when compared to “competition”.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? The things that got me into this business are the things that will keep me in it: extensive knowledge of the industry, total personal commitment, burning passion for it and great perseverance. Of course, have fun as well.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Our main focus and goal is to remain competitive, diligent and grow in both the restaurant and the catering services in a challenging economy.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm. Closed on Sundays except for private catered functions.

Creative Kitchens of Glenmont, Ltd.
404 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont
432.1320; www.creativekitchensofglenmont.com
Owner: Edward Pacuk, president
How long have you been in business? I have been in the kitchen and bath industry for almost 20 years, and this July will be celebrating the five year anniversary of Creative Kitchens.
Describe your business: Creative Kitchens of Glenmont is a full-service kitchen and bath design and remodeling firm. From design concept to project completion, we provide expert services with personal attention. As a respected member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), we are held to the highest quality standards in the industry. At our showroom, you can see a wide variety of cabinetry, countertop materials and other innovative details to complete your project. Our goal is to make your dream a reality by designing a beautiful and functional environment tailored to your individual lifestyle. We create one-of-a-kind spaces, combining outstanding value with personalized services not found at other kitchen and bath dealerships.
What sets you apart from competitors? Very few companies possess the level of passion and pride that we do. I love getting phone calls, cards and emails from customers telling me how wonderful their experience was working with Creative Kitchens and how beautiful their new kitchen or bath is.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Everything in life happens for a reason, and far more often than not, the reason is because you put forth the effort and commitment to make it happen.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Unlike so many other business owners, I do not believe that bigger is always better. Right now our company is big enough to effectively handle the volume of business we do, while being small enough to provide intimate personalized service. Nothing would make me happier than to have the same team of people that I do now continuing to do what we love and do so well.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9am-5pm, Thursday 9am-8pm and Saturday 9am-3pm.

Delmar Dental Medicine
344 Delaware Avenue, Delmar
439.4228; www.delmardental.com
Owner: Dr. Thomas H. Abele
How long have you been in business? Since 1969.
Describe your business: Delmar Dental Medicine focuses on family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery and implants. We perform everything from routine cleanings to complicated surgical cases.
What sets you apart from competitors? We have the latest in dental technology and sterilization. Our on-site laboratory allows us to work closely with our patients to assure that they are completely satisfied with their dental treatment. Dr. Abele is certified in external conscious sedation in NYS, of interest to patients nervous about having dental treatment. Our close-knit staff members cater to patient’s needs. Our comfortable reception area has a relaxed atmosphere, with all the latest amenities. Our goal is to give our patients the most exceptional dental visit possible, to help achieve optimal dental health and to educate our patients so they can maintain dental health throughout their lifetime.
What advice would you give others wanting to pursue a similar career? We would recommend contacting your own dentist and observing dental procedures for one or more days. This will give you a better idea if you think the dental field is the right one for you.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We would like to continue our reputation for high quality dental treatment as one of the top dentists in Upstate New York.
Hours: Monday & Wednesday 8am–4:30 pm (lunch from 12:30pm–2 pm), Tuesday & Thursday 7am–2:30pm (no lunch).

Delmar Pediatrics PLLC
1220 New Scotland Road, Suite 203
439.CARE (2273); www.delmarpediatricspllc.com
Owner: Michael P. Looney, MD, FAAP
How long have you been in business? I have been in practice for about 19 years, we moved to this new location about two-and-a-half years ago.
Describe your business: We are a Pediatric Medical Practice, caring for infants through college-age patients. We follow the developmental, emotional and physical growth of our patients as well as providing for well care.
What sets you apart from competitors? I don't look at other pediatricians as competitors, but rather colleagues in different offices. Some of the aspects of our practice that I like are that all of our practitioners are parents, we all come from different medical centers and we have been working together for over 10 years. We also meet weekly to discuss cases, evaluate new studies and provide educational information to each of the practitioners. Our practice is very family-centered; we treat patients as we would like our own children treated. No practice runs on its own, and I feel proud that we have a dedicated support staff in administration, nursing and office personnel.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? You need to be very dedicated to the total care of your patient and their family. To me, pediatrics is the most rewarding of all the medical fields. Nowhere else do you get to see the creation of the family, that newborn infant arrival to the college-bound senior and his/her proud parent and see the emerging sense of self in the patient. I believe that you become part of the patient's family, especially those families with chronic disease or tragedy, and are able to provide support and care in such painful times. .
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I see our practice continuing to evolve in terms of the care we provide, the treatment modalities we use and the impact of electronic medical records on our practice.
Hours: Monday-Friday appointments 9am-5pm, but the office opens at 8am. Saturday 9am-noon; Sunday 9am-noon for emergencies only.

Gary L. Moscowitz, DDS
2 Pittsfield Avenue, East Greenbush
477.8026
Stillwater Family Dental
181 River Road, Stillwater
664.8918
Owner: Gary L. Moscowitz, DDS
How long have you been in business? We opened in East Greenbush in 1977 and our Stillwater practice opened in 1994.
Describe your business: It is a General Dental practice treating patients of all ages. We are strong believers in prevention and work hard to make and keep your smile bright!
What sets you apart from competitors? Patients enjoy a small home-like relaxed office environment. They receive 100 percent of our attention with one-on-one treatment. We also take pride in having a very attentive and caring staff.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Dentistry is very hard work. It can be stressful and you have to be a “people person”. But, the rewards of seeing people with healthy and beautiful smiles and the children actually looking forward to their time with Dr. Gary and staff are immeasurable.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Why change what works and what’s best for our patients? Naturally, new advances in materials and treatment techniques will always be considered and incorporated where appropriate.
Hours: East Greenbush: Monday and Tuesday, 7:30am-5pm; Thurdays 8am-5pm. Stillwater: Wednesday, 8am-5pm; Friday 8am-1pm.

Frye Companies, Inc.
4000 Silver Beach Road, Malta
583.3793; www.fryecompanies.com
Owner: John P. Frye
How long have you been in business? 6 years.
Describe your business: Frye Companies, Inc. is dedicated to providing quality services to its clients. We offer General Contracting, Construction Management and Design-Build services. Our history and experience coupled with top-of-the-line employees makes Frye Companies, Inc. one of the area’s best construction companies. With each owner, each architect, each subcontractor and each vendor, we will complete every project with outstanding quality, lasting value and complete customer satisfaction.
What sets you apart from competitors? Frye Companies, Inc. was founded primarily because of a need for a construction company that still believes in customer satisfaction; a company that prides itself on producing a quality product. A company that delivers exactly what it promises to the customer. By following these simple beliefs FRYE Companies has amassed a large satisfied customer base in a relatively short amount of time. FRYE Companies customers are primarily repeat customers or referrals from other satisfied customers.
John’s proven relationships with owners, vendors and subcontractors have contributed to stable growth within the industry and has attracted construction professionals to join the firm.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Hudson Valley Community College provides an excellent continuing education program that, fully matriculated, provides a solid foundation from which to build a career as a construction professional.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Continuing to grow at a controlled rate with an increase in market share of the high-end residential segment of business.
Hours: Monday–Friday 8am–5pm.

Glenmont Chiropractic Office
398 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont (Next To Cvs)
449.3071
Owner: Dr. Jeffrey P. Riker
How long have you been in business? 12 years.
Describe your business: Glenmont Chiropractic provides a patient-centered approach to a variety of musculoskeletal conditions with an emphasis on prevention and wellness. We also offer a variety of nutritional services and supplements.
What sets you apart from competitors? There are several things that we strive to do differently at Glenmont Chiropractic. First and foremost, I have always taken pride in the level of clinical skills that I provide to my patients. I have to be their doctor first before their chiropractor and make sure that they should be in my office in the first place.
Secondly, we provide a smaller, more comfortable atmosphere as opposed to some of the bigger practices in today’s world that can sometimes appear as factories as opposed to a doctor’s office.
Lastly is my staff. When you enter Glenmont Chiropractic you will be greeted by Chrissy, my office manager. She has been with me since 2002 and the office wouldn’t be the same without her. She loves serving our patients and does whatever she can do to make them more comfortable, whether that is chatting at the front desk or scheduling them for an MRI.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? I would advise others seeking a career in healthcare in general, or chiropractic specifically, to speak with others in those specialties. Investigate the educational process and be ready to make a commitment.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Right where it is today, taking pleasure in serving the people of the Capital Region with care and respect.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1pm-6pm; Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am-1pm; Saturday 8am-10am.

Great Finds
3037 Main Street, Valatie
758.8999
Owner: Maggie Calhoun
How long have you been in business? Two years, three months.
Describe your business: The store carries functional finishing touches for casual living, including amazingly soft and eco-friendly bamboo towels, Egyptian cotton sheets, locally made hand milled soaps and clean fresh personal care products which lack petrol-chemicals Housewares such as table and glassware from Portugal, France, China, Germany, Canada and America fill the shelves along with table linens in a myriad of beautiful colors. Simple white serve pieces are a staple of the store. Colorful salad spinners, colanders and smart and efficient kitchen gadgets are also available. Home décor items include original art, jute and wool rugs, pure beeswax candles and chenille throws that fill antique cupboards, bins and simple kitchen tables, also for sale. Both these refreshed antiques and new small accessory furnishings are also available. Baby gifts such as hand knit organic cotton sweaters, whimsical pewter spoons and silk covered brag books round out the collection.
What sets you apart from competitors? Style and function coupled with affordability.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Do what you love, get the support of those dearest to you and be patient. As my 92-year-old mom loves to say, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
Where do you see your business in the next five years? Well, in the next three months we are relocating to a lovely old Mill House just down the road, which my husband and sons are completely renovating. There, we will expand our product lines in many exciting directions. But for now I’m just taking one day at a time enjoying my great customers and making the store look beautiful.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:30am-5:30pm; Sunday noon-4pm; closed Monday.

Pine Hills Family Medicine PLLC
527 Western Avenue, Albany
482.1570; www.pinehillsfamilymedicine.com
Owners: Victor Tulchinsky, D.O.
How long have you been in business? 9 months.
Describe your business: Pine Hills Family Medicine offers personalized medical care for family members of all ages. We provide comprehensive, quality care to each patient and minimize the need for referrals. We also offer Osteopathic Manipulation, Concierge Medicine and home visits. Dr. Melissa Tulchinsky is available for clinical nutrition consulting on Saturdays. Most major insurances are accepted and payment plans are available. We are currently accepting new patients.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our main focus is on patient service. When you call this office, you get the doctor, not a voicemail phone tree. Appointments can be usually be made for the same day. We are conveniently located on Western Avenue and walk-ins are welcome. Our office is multilingual as Dr. Victor Tulchinsky speaks Spanish and Melissa Tulchinsky speaks Cantonese, Shanghainese, Mandarin Chinese, as well as English.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Go into the medical field if you like people and enjoy taking care of them. It is a rewarding profession that takes dedication and hard work.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? The goal is to expand the practice enough to have our own building for Pine Hills Family Medicine, while keeping the same high-level of service for all patients.
Hours: Monday & Tuesday 8am-5pm; Wednesday & Thursday 11am-8pm; Saturday by appointment only.

Pro Tech Automatic Lawn Sprinklers
59 Exchange Street, Albany
489.3260; www.protechlawnsprinklers.com
Owner: Todd Etesse
How long have you been in business? 23 years.
Describe your business: We do irrigation service and installation.
What sets you apart from competitors? We offer 24-hour emergency service. Our technicians are highly-experienced and we are a member of the Better Business Bureau.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Be prepared to be very busy from May-December.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We are constantly growing and offering new services like Holiday Lighting.
Hours: 8am-5pm

Rockabella Boutique
441 B Broadway, Saratoga Springs
581.8386; www.rockabella-ny.com
Owner: Jackie Szurek
How long have you been in business? A year-and-a-half.
Describe your business: Rockabella Boutique is a fashion hot spot located on Broadway in downtown Saratoga. We carry the best selection of trend-driven clothing, dresses and accessories for women and teens. We are proud to have become the destination for homecoming, formals, graduation, sweet sixteen’s and prom. Rockabella is also the destination for girls looking for the perfect "going out" outfit—a flirty dress, sexy top or a pair of great fitting jeans. The atmosphere is very fun and relaxed and customers can feel free to try things on without any sales pressure. We also have a seamstress on premises who specializes in altering dresses and hemming designer denim.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our amazing prices! Rockabella has often been described as a "guilt free shopping experience". Customers love the fact that they can afford to purchase two or three dresses instead of just one. We also go the extra mile for our customers, whether it be rush shipping a prom gown, special ordering an item or altering an outfit in less than 24 hours, our customers know they can count on us!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Go for it! Anything is possible if you believe in what you are doing. At age 13 it was hard for me to imagine really having my own clothing boutique, but the passion and the drive for this dream stuck with me. People always say you should do what makes you happy in life and now I know they are right!
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I see Rockabella expanding. By 2013, people will not only be shopping at Rockabella, but also wearing my own clothing line called Rockabella. Customers will also soon be able to purchase merchandise off of my website. I am having a baby girl in September, so maybe I will incorporate some trendy tween and kid’s clothing into the Rockabella family!
Hours: Summer hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm; Sunday 10am-5pm.
Winter Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm; Sunday 11am-5pm.

Simply Irresistible Salon
288 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham
785.7195; www.SimplyIrresistibleSalon.com
Owner: Debbie Caprara-Tanner
How long have you been in business? 16 years.
Describe your business: The salon is an upscale, yet private and personal space in which we provide all of the services of a full-service salon.
What sets you apart from competitors? What sets us apart from other salons is the fact that we are constantly updating our training and looking for new services to offer. If it means that we have to travel to other states or countries, we do!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Make sure you love what you do and that you are willing to keep up with the technology to stay on top of your game. Also, a good business plan is very important, so be sure to learn all you can about the ins and outs of running a business.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? I hope to be even better than we are today and I hope to see our staff and clientele still happy to be a part of our little world! I also hope to be able to provide services that are new and exciting and on the cutting edge… and to be able to do it at a reasonable cost to our clients.
Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10am-7pm; Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday 10am-3pm; closed Sunday & Monday.

Union Gables Bed & Breakfast
55 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs
584.1558; stay@uniongables.com
Owners: Thomas Fox, Jr. and Thomas P. Van Gelder
How long have you been in business? Union Gables has been under the current ownership since 2003. Thom Van Gelder came to Union Gables in June 2006 introducing INN-house catering and homemade baked goods. Our staff specializes in off-season fall and winter weddings, corporate meetings and intimate gatherings for all occasions.
Describe your business: The Union Gables is a location of relaxed comfort without any element of stuffiness. Our Inn is a sprawling 1901 Saratoga mansion with comfortable common areas including our massive wrap-around porch, billiard room and double parlor with fireplace. We are pet-friendly and offer catering to our guests for any affairs they have planned. Post Track dinners have become a wonderful tradition.
What sets you apart from competitors? Union Gables is a warm and inviting business. People often comment on feeling right at home and always among friends. We welcome families and love to fill the house with new and old friends. Laughter is common at the Gables!
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? The Bed and Breakfast/Inn business is a demanding, but very rewarding one. Doing homework on the demographics of year-round business and fully meeting the needs of your clientele is truly necessary for success.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? The Union Gables is growing at a fast pace. Our goal for the next five years is to achieve maximum capacity while never forgetting our roots of hospitality and affordable luxury for everyone.
Hours: The Union Gables is a year-round facility. Check-in is 3pm and check out is 11am after a wonderful home baked breakfast.

Webb Gold Krest Enterprises
3447 River Road, Rte. 9J, East Greenbush.
Farm Stand number: 465.0437; Chris, 365.5969
Owner: Chris Webb
How long have you been in business? The farm has been in business since 1930, when it was owned by my dad, Jim Webb, who used to be known as the “Sweet Corn King”.
Describe your business: Gold Krest has been a family owned business for 78 years. Besides the farm stand, we supply food for markets including Price Chopper and Hannaford, with the best and freshest produce available. All vegetables such as corn, squash, tomatoes and pumpkins are grown on the farm located off route 9J. Trees, flowers and fruit are also offered.
What sets you apart from competitors? We grow only the best varieties of vegetables and we pick them by the hour, not by the day; making it sometimes only minutes from our field to your table. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the most nutritious. “Eating local is the best way to eat and it is nice to see more emphasis placed on its importance.
What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue a similar career? Farming is demanding, but extremely rewarding as well. You are your own boss, you set your own schedule and you work in all types of weather. To start a farm stand, one should be prepared and do their homework, including visiting other farms. Study what they do and strive to do it better. Don’t be afraid to try something different. Whatever you do, always do it right and do it well! In this business, sometimes your best help is your friends and neighbors.
Where do you see your business in the next five years? We would like to expand our farm stand, add more greenhouses and include pick-your-own strawberry and pumpkin patches.
Hours: Farm stand hours are Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Wholesale hours are from 5am-9pm, 7 days a week.

Ga$ pri¢e$ got you down?

You don’t have to ditch your vacation plans—just stay close to home

By Jill Vallecorsa

Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Distance from Albany: Approximately 2 hours
Sturbridge, Massachusetts is an example of a classic New England region. Many original water driven mills from the 1700s still reside on the banks of the Quinebaug River. Some have, in fact, been turned into homes and shops. There are numerous state parks and forests in the area allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Sturbridge’s nature. Camping, hiking, kayaking and fishing are popular outdoor activities in the summer season.

What to Do
Step back in time to the 1700s-1800s and visit a small New England town at Old Sturbridge Village. History comes to life here as “history interpreters” (authentically costumed actors) display for visitors what life was like back then. The Village is the largest outdoor museum in the Northeast with 40 carefully restored buildings and 200 acres of land. Visitors can wander through homes, a law office, a bank, a school, sawmill, a copper shop, shoe shop, blacksmith, pottery and more. The sounds of workers plowing the fields and the blacksmith hammering away transports you back to the 19th century as you meander down the back roads of the Village. Don’t forget to take a ride in the stagecoach to experience the transportation of the past on your way through the museum’s many exhibits. For more information: www.osv.org.

Where to Stay
The Publick House – This historic inn was founded circa 1771 and has been hosting travelers ever since. There are 17 guest rooms and suites available with private bath and air conditioning and many are decorated with period pieces. Visitors can choose to dine in either the Dining Tap Room or Ebenezer’s Tavern. The Common, 277 Main Street, Rte. 131, Sturbridge, MA. For more info: 508.347.3313; www.publickhouse.com.

Vienna Restaurant and Historic Inn – Just three miles from Old Sturbridge Village, the Vienna transports guests into the world of “Old Europe”. Artwork, antiques and the sound of classical music set the atmosphere for those who stay. The three-story inn was built in 1812, but only recently opened its doors to visitors in 2003. The landscape includes a 200-year-old copper beech tree that visitors can enjoy while relaxing on the spacious front porch. 14 South Street, Southbridge, MA. For more info: 508.764.0700; www.thevienna.com.

Where to Eat
The Salem Cross Inn – The inn itself was built circa 1705, but the restaurant has been serving diners since 1961. This restored colonial rests comfortably on over 600 acres of land. Visitors can dine in either the dining room or the Hexmark Tavern. Both rooms serve lunch and dinner with entrees like grilled maple salmon, filet mignon bordelaise, baked stuffed shrimp and more. Reservations recommended. Rte. 9, 260 West Main Street, West Brookfield, MA. For more info: 508.867.2345; www.thesalemcrossinn.com.
Bullard Tavern – If you don’t feel like leaving Sturbridge Village to grab a meal, stop into the Tavern located right on museum grounds. Hot entrees, soup, sandwiches are served. 1 Old Sturbridge Road, Sturbridge, MA. For more info: 508.347.3770.

Deerfield, Massachusetts

Distance from Albany: Approximately 2 hours
The historic community of Deerfield, Massachusetts is located in the Connecticut River Valley. During the colonial days, the town’s strategic location made it vulnerable to attack during times of war. In 1704 during Queen Anne’s War, Deerfield was attacked by joint French and Indian forces in what is now known as the Deerfield Massacre. Some historic homes still bear the hatchet and bullet marks from that period. There are many trails to take advantage of, such as the Robert Frost Trail; a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers alike.

What to do
Visit the 350-year-old National Landmark of Historic Deerfield. The area is a preserved early New England town complete with 13 house museums. The original houses were built between 1730 and 1850 and are still furnished with antiques along with the exhibition galleries. Objects displayed in the houses were made or used in America from 1600-1900. The village spans more than 1,000 acres of scenic farmland. Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour of the historic homes and check out the special exhibits in the Flynt Center of Early New England Life. Adults $14, ages 6-21 $5. Old Main Street, Deerfield, MA. For more info: 413.775.7214; www.historic-deerfield.org.

Where to Stay
The Deerfield Inn - Built in 1884, this traditional country inn is located right in the middle of the Historic Deerfield Village. There are 23 guest rooms, all furnished with a private bath, flat screen televisions with DVD player and free Wi-fi. The dining room is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner is not served on Tuesdays & Wednesday). House guests are treated to a complimentary continental breakfast. 81 Main Street, Deerfield, MA. For more info: 800.926.3865; 413.774.5587; www.deerfieldinn.com.

The Deerfield Guest House Bed & Breakfast – This 1840s farmhouse has been extensively renovated over the years, and is located just a few miles away from Historic Deerfield. The inn is known for its rooms with wide pine floors and fireplaces. Three guest bedrooms are available, all with private baths. All rooms are air-conditioned with screened back porches and queen-size beds. The inn is “green” meaning that breakfast is usually made with home-grown fruits and vegetables when available. 108 North Hillside Road, Deerfield, MA. For more info: 413.665.0922; www.deerfieldbnb.com.

Where to Eat:
The Sierra Grille – This restaurant is known for its affordable menu. The “small bites” section lists dishes that are under $3, like roasted garlic, hummus and old sourdough loaf. Entrees include duck breast, rib eye steak and prawns. 41 Strong Ave, Northampton, MA. For more info: 413.584.1150; www.sierragrille.net.
The BridgeSide Grille – A restaurant claiming to be “full of local color.” Dishes served are mostly made using local products, and the restaurant itself is decorated with art by area artists. Many local musicians often stop by to play a set here. Lunch and dinner is served Tuesday-Saturday and breakfast only on the weekends. In addition to many specialty sandwiches and burgers, the entrées include salmon Florentine, steak and lemon chicken. 465 Hepburn Drive, Sunderland, MA. For more info: 413.397.8101; www.bridgesidegrille.com.

Chestertown, New York

Distance from Albany: Approximately 1 ½ hour
The hamlet of Chestertown is only 20 minutes north of Lake George. Founded in 1799, this quiet community is nestled in the Adirondack Mountains. It is surrounded by rivers and lakes earning it the nickname “the Crossroads of the Adirondacks”. These bodies of water add to the scenic beauty of the area, making for a very picturesque stay. Stroll down Main Street in town and peruse the charming shops and don’t forget to stop at the Main Street Ice Cream Parlor for a cool summer treat.

What to Do
The many bodies of water near Chestertown provide a place to enjoy every type of aquatic activity. The shady Adirondacks are perfect for a bike or hike to take in the fresh, cool mountain air in the summertime. Lake George is a short drive from Chestertown, where there is plenty to do: stroll through the many shops, enjoy a cruise on Lake George, shop, eat or play a round at Around the World Mini Golf.

Where to Stay
Friends Lake Inn – This luxury country inn overlooks a small lake in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. There are 17 guest rooms available; many with Jacuzzi, fireplace, and lake views. The Murphy House, a rustic lodge that overlooks Friends Lake and sleeps up to nine people, is also available for larger groups. Relax inside with the country décor or take advantage of the surrounding Adirondacks for outdoor activities. The award-winning restaurant serves elegant cuisine such as grilled veal chop, seafood bouillabaisse and Hudson Valley duck breast. 963 Friends Lake Road, Chestertown. For more info: 518.494.4751; www.friendslake.com.

The Chester Inn Bed & Breakfast – Built in the 1830s, the inn was restored in 1987 and faces the main street of the hamlet of Chestertown. Scattered along the 13 acres of property are meadows, barns, a carriage house and a smoke house. Located on the property is also the historic Fowley Family cemetery. Four rooms are available for guests, all with private baths and decorated with many antique period pieces. Also down the block from the inn, is the Main Street Ice Cream Parlor, an old fashioned soda fountain. 6347 Main Street, Chestertown. For more info: 518.494.4148; www.thechesterinn.com.

Where to Eat
O.P. Frederick’s – Located right near Loon Lake in the Adirondacks, this restaurant and tavern is a local favorite that also offers catering services. Salads, burgers and sandwiches are available as well as a variety of entrees including roast duck, chicken abril and cedar plank salmon. It is open Tuesday-Sunday for dinner starting at 4pm. 5064 State Rte. 8, Chestertown. For more info: 518.494.4141; www.viop.net.

Michael Arthur’s Steak House – A newer restaurant in Bolton Landing, this steak house was built in 1937 and originally served as an A&P market. The place is kid-friendly and known for its steak, but salads, sandwiches and pasta are on the menu as well. 4957 Lakeshore Drive, Bolton Landing. For more info: 518.644.3663.

Woodstock, New York

Distance from Albany: Approximately 1 hour
While the name of the town conjures memories of a famous music festival that happened in 1969, this festival did not actually occur here. The town of Woodstock lent its name to the now infamous Woodstock Music Festival which took place 50 miles south in Bethel. The town itself is a quaint community with a reputation for harboring creative and musical types during the summer season. Staying within the small town vein, Woodstock has no hotel or retail chains.

What to Do
Take a stroll down Tinker Street to peruse the many bohemian clothing and jewelry stores. Antique and art lovers won’t be disappointed with what Woodstock has to offer either. There are many renowned fine art galleries in town as well as antique shops. The Catskill Mountains are also nearby, perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. Or, head over to the Tannery Brook swimming hole to cool off in this natural pool. To learn more about the town’s history, visit the Woodstock Museum or the Woodstock Artist’s Association.

Where to Stay
The Wild Rose Inn – This historic 1898 Victorian serves as a bed and breakfast. There are three suites and two rooms available for guests to choose from, all adorned with decadent antique furnishings. Each also has a private bath and television and a gourmet continental breakfast is included with your stay. Many celebrities have stayed the night at the inn including Ethan Hawke, Chevy Chase and Arlo Guthrie. 66 Rock City Road, Woodstock. For more info: 845.679.8783; www.thewildroseinn.com.

The Woodstock Inn on the Millstream – A short way from Tinker Street is the three-acre property of the Woodstock Inn. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the luscious garden, pine trees, and the cascading water that flows from the millstream, visitors to the inn are treated to quite the scenery. There are 18 units available, ranging from standard rooms to studios. All rooms are equipped with private baths, television and free Wi-fi. A continental breakfast is served buffet style daily from 9am-11am. 48 Tannery Brook Road, Woodstock. For more info: 845.679.8211; www.woodstock-inn-ny.com.

Where to Eat:
Oriole 9 Café and Restaurant – Relax and enjoy music as you drink and dine on Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are served each day from 8:30am-4:30pm and dinner is available Wednesday-Sunday until 10pm. Dinner offerings include halibut filet, beef rib-eye and macadamia nut crusted rack of lamb. 17 Tinker Street, Woodstock. For more info: 845.679.5763; www.oriole9.com

The Bear Café – This café was started in 1971 by Albert Grossman, personal manager to legendary musicians such as Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, The Band and more. Patrons can either dine outdoors along the stream or choose to eat fireside indoors. Sesame-crusted Alaskan king salmon, filet mignon and pan-roasted chicken are just some of the entrée you’ll find on the dinner menu. Closed on Tuesdays. 295 Tinker Street, Woodstock. For more info: 845.679.5555; www.bearcafe.com.

Brattleboro, Vermont

Distance from Albany: Approximately 2 hours
The small town of Brattleboro is situated in the Southern region of Vermont and is listed as one of the top 10 art towns with a population less than 30,000. Its location right in between the West and Connecticut Rivers provides beautiful natural scenery for a nice summer’s drive or bike ride. There are many historic homes and inns in the area, giving this New England Town a lovely country feel.

What to Do
The historic downtown area is filled with galleries, bookstores and cafes. There is plenty of shopping to be done, but if you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors take a canoe ride or fishing trip down the floodplains known as Retreat Meadows. The scenic mountains surrounding the area provide visitors with ample opportunity for hiking, horse riding or a nice drive down a dirt road.

Where to Stay
Four Columns Inn – Located just 11 miles north of Brattleboro is this country New England inn. There are 15 rooms ranging from traditional, to deluxe fireplace suites, to luxury suites. Guests receive complimentary breakfast for two each morning, newspapers, free Wi-fi, and afternoon tea and coffee served with sweets. Many of the suites offer scenic views and a spa-size bath. The inn restaurant serves up fine cuisine such as pistachio crusted salmon, rack of lamb and crispy lump crab cakes. 21 West Street, Newfane, VT. For more info: 800.787.6633; www.fourcolumnsinn.com.

Forty Putney Road Bed & Breakfast – This inn is only a few blocks from the downtown section of Brattleboro. Built in 1929, the inn overlooks the scenic Retreat Meadows and boasts a garden as well as a wildlife sanctuary. Book your stay in one of six rooms available all with private bath, free Wi-fi and television. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning made from local ingredients and grab a drink or snack in the Putney Road Pub. 192 Putney Road, Brattleboro, VT. For more info: 800.941.2413; www.fortyputneyroad.com.

Where to Eat
Adagio Trattoria – Right in the heart of downtown Brattleboro, Adagio Trattoria is a family-run restaurant serving up Italian cuisine. A few of the many entrees include Pesto Amorini, Pollo Marsala and grilled salmon. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. 132 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT. For more info: 802.254.6046; www.adagiotrattoria.com.

Steakout Restaurant – This Brattleboro restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike. Sample the Lounge menu while grabbing a drink or enjoy a nice sit-down meal. Enjoy the many steak, chicken and seafood dishes or try a combination entrée. If you’re really hungry, add the soup, salad, shrimp and dessert bar. 1212 Putney Road, Brattleboro, VT. For more info: 802.257.1333; www.steakoutvt.com.

From survival to strategizing

Marcia White leads SPAC into the 21st century

By Amy E. Tucker

President and Executive Director of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) Marcia White took time out of her busy schedule to reflect back on her career and the future of SPAC.
“I came here [to SPAC] the first day when my daughter auditioned,” she said, speaking about her oldest daughter, Marilyn, who was a dancer for the New York City Ballet, which makes its summer home at the amphitheatre. “I had a five-day-old baby in a basket and two little ones playing on the lawn. My children grew up at SPAC having picnics on the lawn and attending rehearsals and performances.”
Alhough she took tap dance lessons as a child, the death of her mother when White was 10 left her with no one to expose her to the arts. She was also left to fend for herself and her younger sister – including taking care of her father and running the household.
Her 90-year-old father was a WWII bomber pilot who once landed his aircraft in flames, saving his crew. “But, I always joked that he couldn’t save his own life!” White said.
The Columbia County native spoke of those days reflectively, noting that the hardships not only taught her survival skills, but what’s really important in life. She learned that sacrifices, great and small, can yield big dividends. Like watching her daughter perform with the NYC Ballet.
“You learn that life isn’t about you; it’s about connecting with people. If you have passion for what you do, you’ll find the skills to be successful. But, passion alone won’t suffice. You need to learn about people and understand that they’re a critical component.”
White, who assumed her position in March 2005, feels that’s what happened to SPAC. People got complacent. They took the cultural icon for granted, letting it slip through their fingers, and didn’t recognize its value until it was almost gone. They knew they wanted to retain the world-class programming, but it took White’s passion and partnering abilities to move the vision forward.

First steps
White recognized that people needed to heal, to learn to trust in the leadership of SPAC and know that people cared about what they thought. She took the stage on opening night (in 2005) of the ballet and welcomed people to SPAC.
“You make choices in your life everyday, with what to do with your time and your funds. You’re thanked internally through partaking in the cultural experience. But, we have to thank you for getting here, opening the door and taking that first step toward that opportunity.”
Thus, White began making her mark—reaching out to patrons, donors and families and encouraging them to experience what SPAC has to offer and introducing a new generation of enthusiasts to the arts.
She re-branded the organization with a new logo and launched a new website last month. She also started the Vivian Anderson Program to bring underprivileged and inner city children to SPAC to see a performance for possibly the first time in their lives.
“Vivian was an educator who was passionate about the arts and children. Whenever you share the core philosophy that we have for education, you can never do enough. Changing the heart of a child makes them kinder, gentler citizens and goes a long way toward changing the philosophy of everyone.”
White is responsible for promoting events including the NYC Ballet and Philadelphia Orchestra, which make their summer home at SPAC, in addition to the Jazz Festival, Wine and Food Festivals and numerous promotional events. The Lake George Opera leases space, and the Hall of Springs and Live Nation, which produces and hosts rock and pop concerts, have separate contracts.
“We had a Saratoga Night at Lincoln Center in May and took two busloads of Saratogians to a double feature performance,” she said. “The SPAC flyer was inside the Lincoln Center program encouraging people to visit the NYC Ballet in their summer home. And our members got to see that they get the same performance at SPAC that they see in Lincoln Center—and it’s quite a bargain here!”

Ambiance and atmosphere
One of the first things people notice about SPAC is the sheer beauty of the facility and surroundings. Nestled in the heart of the Saratoga State Park, SPAC has been a cultural icon for 43 years, offering acoustically superb performances in an outdoor amphitheater.
Remembering her own time there with her daughter, White has been using the surroundings to her advantage. SPAC offers families the opportunity to ‘unplug’ and deprogram and enjoy a picnic on the lawn
“They can enjoy dinner together under the moon and stars and talk about what’s going on in their life and be enriched by a classical performance in the great outdoors.”
Improving family attendance to generate a new subscriber base is crucial to SPAC’s continued success. White recognizes that SPAC is one of the few venues that can offer the arts in a true family-style environment. To capitalize on that, they are running 20 different promotions, including Planet Night and American Girls Night, among others.
“We realize we’re encouraging people to take a vacation during a period of economic strain,” White explained. “But the weakened economy gives us an even greater opportunity to enrich the lives of people. We want them to stay in the area and come to SPAC to enjoy their summer.”
In addition to enjoying a world-renowned performance, guests can have a gourmet dinner in the Patron’s Club, enjoy a casual picnic on the lawn, attend a pre-performance talk to learn about the history of an art form, hear the master of the NYC Ballet or the author of a new book speak, or enjoy a pre-performance concert in the gazebo.
There are video screens (first used in the 1999 season) that have made the experience more “up close and personal.”
A $2.5 million renovation, the first major exterior improvements to the amphitheatre since it was constructed, is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2008. White has also focused on developing local and global partnerships to expand their core audience and attract new talent to the venue.
This year, they’ve arranged an appearance by Marin Alsop, the superstar conductor of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and daughter of two NYC Ballet musicians.

Have faith
White realizes that SPAC still has a long way to go. Less than 50 percent of ticket sales cover the costs of programming, with corporate nights and other fundraising events helping to offset the balance. She’s confident that they’ll get there because every decision that has ever been made since the 2005 transition has been made with SPAC’s future in mind.
“We just want to continue moving forward in this very difficult entertainment venue of classical arts,” said White. “We want to introduce the arts to the next generation and encourage them to be part of our growth and our future.”
She is reaching out to youth and techno-savvy patrons through a multimedia-based marketing plan aimed to educate, attract and advertise. In addition to adding podcasts and audiocasts to the web, a new video series will be premiering this summer on LCD screens in several downtown Saratoga locations displaying programming events and featured artists for the 2008 season. She feels that improving the product at SPAC is essential to its growth. And that’s good for the region.
“SPAC is an economic engine for this upstate region and the amount of exposure that a corporation receives from a SPAC sponsorship is something that surpasses most other opportunities,” stated White. “We’re community based, but internationally recognized. We have such value and such venue opportunities that it’s a wonderful place to be connected.”
For White, turning obstacles into opportunities is all-in-a-day’s work, just another of life’s challenges, that, when viewed with a positive outcome, can affect change.
“At the end of the day, you make a decision based on what would be good for SPAC,” said White. “What we really do here is enrich people’s lives, whether it’s through music or dance, family time together or the special opportunity to build a memory. Once you’ve had that opportunity, you can’t help but want to come back.”