Capital Region Living Magazine On Albany.com - Your Source For Albany & Capital Region Newstag:www.albany.com,2008-12-22:/capitalregionliving//152010-02-22T21:26:20ZFind Albany news, stories and things to do on Albany.com/CapitalRegionLiving, the official online home of Capital Region Living Magazine, a leading life and leisure magazine in the Albany area.Movable Type Pro 4.3-enArts & Entertainmenttag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56832010-02-22T20:10:53Z2010-02-22T21:26:20ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39Theaters Albany Civic Theater 235 Second Avenue, Albany 462.1297; www.albanycivictheater.org March 7-23 Our Town - by Thornton Wilder. Exploring the lives of people living in a small, quintessentially American town, this play covers a period from 1901 to approximately 1917, and is set in the New England community of Grover's Corners. It is divided into three aspects of the human experience: Daily Life, Love and Marriage, and Death and Loss - each aspect reminding playgoers to notice and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. It was the recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Literature in 1938.
Schenectady Light Opera Company 826 State Street, Schenectady 877.350.7378; www.sloctheater.org March 5-7 Side By Side By Sondheim - An elegant and glorious celebration and tribute to the music of Tony, Grammy, Oscar, and Pulitzer Prize winning composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim. Adults $22; children $12. Thursday-Saturday 8pm; Sunday 2pm. April 30 & May 1-2, 6-9 Kiss Me Kate - This is a play-within-a-play where each cast member's on-stage life is complicated by what is happening offstage. It combines Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew" with Cole Porter's music and lyrics. Adults $22; children $12. Thursday-Saturday 8pm; Sunday 2pm.
Ghent Playhouse Off Route 66, Ghent 392.6264; www.ghentplayhouse.org March 12-28 Mrs. Farnsworth - A Vassar co-ed meets a cute Yale undergrad. Sure, he drinks too much and probably isn't too smart, but his grandfather is a Republican Senator and his father has presidential aspirations, so what could be bad? It has all the makings of a good story, especially told by Mrs. Farnsworth. $15; $12 for members. Fridays & Saturdays 8pm; Sundays 2pm. May 14-30 The Prisoner of Second Avenue - What's a guy to do? You've lost your job, your apartment is burglarized, your shrink dies, your wife is fired, two over-sexed stewardesses live next door and your plants have succumbed to air pollution. Let's see...right! Have a nervous breakdown! It couldn't hurt! $15; $12 for members. Fridays & Saturdays 8pm; Sundays 2pm.
Home Made Theater Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs 587.4427; www.homemadetheater.org April 16-17, 23-25, 30, May 1-2 Noises Off - Doors slam, identities are confused and chaos reigns in this hilarious farce. You'll follow the antics of a motley and flamboyant company of actors as they rehearse, perform and simply try to make it through each performance of the show they are touring; a show with the titillating title of "Nothing On." Expect the unexpected! This Tony Award-winning play will keep you laughing uproariously as multiple mishaps snowball out of control. $21/$24.
Old Songs, Inc. 37 South Main Street, Voorheesville 765.2815; www.oldsongs.org March 5 Cara - A Celtic music band from Germany, Cara can handle traditional styles perfectly, while at the same time adding a nicely updated "now" sound to the music. Their female lead singers are perfectly matched to each other, and the fresh original material is unique while at the same time "stay-in-your-mind-catchy". The band magically weaves together flute, guitar, piano, fiddle, pipes and bodhrán. Adults $20; children 12 and under $5. 8pm. March 13 Red Hen - Acoustic quartet Red Hen delves into the deeper roots of American traditional music, playing songs and tunes from Appalachian Old-Time and Celtic sources. Adults $15; children under 15, $5. 8pm. March 20 Libana - A global music ensemble that illuminates the creativity, vision, and spirit of the world's women through the performance of traditional and contemporary music and dance. Adults $20; children 12 and under $5. 8pm. April 10 Le Vent du Nord - One of the most-loved Quebec folk outfits in the world. Some of their songs come from traditional folk repertoire, while others are original compositions. Adults $25; children 12 and under $5. 8pm. April 17 Scott Ainslie - Coming of age during the Civil Rights era and with his abiding affection for cross-cultural exchange, Scott Ainslie speaks about the Blues the way he plays them: with authority and passion. Armed with three or four instruments with carefully chosen historical anecdotes and personal experiences with senior musicians across the South, Ainslie brings the African roots of American music out into the open. Adults $20; children 12 and under $5. 8pm. May 15 Malinky - Malinky combines an array of vocal talent with a highly distinctive instrumental palette, in fresh yet timeless arrangements of both traditional and contemporary material. Adults $20; children 12 and under $5. 8pm.
Palace Theatre 19 Clinton Avenue, Albany 465.3333; www.palacealbany.com March 5 Kevin Hart & Friends - $35.50-$55.50.8pm. March 7 ASO Sunday Symphony: "Compose Yourself" - Adults $11; children 14 and under $5. 3pm. March 14 Dublin's Traditional Irish Cabaret - Adults $25; children under 12, $12.50. 5pm. March 26 Dokto Kaboom! School Time Performance - $5. 10:30am. April 3 Playhouse Disney Live! - $17-$57. 12pm. April 12 An Evening with David Sedaris - $40-$44. 8pm. April 23 Albany Symphony Orchestra: Tchaikovsky Spectacular - $20-$49. 7:30pm. May 2 The Spencers Theatre of Illusion - $12.50-$25. 3pm. May 9 Mark Knopfler Live! - $51.50-$81.50. 7:30pm.
Movies Adults $5, children under 12 $3; 7pm March 1 - To Kill a Mockingbird March 15 - Double Indemnity April 5 - All About Eve April 19 - The Guns of Navarone May 3 - Planet of the Apes May 17 - The Godfather
Cohoes Music Hall 58 Remsen Street, Cohoes 237.5858; www.cohoesmusichall.com April 8-18 Gypsy - $25-$35. Thursday-Saturday 8pm; Saturday & Sunday 3pm. May 13-23 Singin' in the Rain - $25-$35. Thursday-Saturday 8pm; Saturday & Sunday 3pm.
Sand Lake Center for the Arts Home of Circle Theatre Players 2880 Route 43, Averill Park 674.2007; www.slca-ctp.org March 19-21 & 26-28 Arms and the Man - An unromantic comedy about truthful liars and courageous cowards. $16. March 19, 20, 26, 27 8pm; March 21 & 28 2:30pm. May 14-16 & 21-23 The Hound of the Baskervilles - A heart attack or the cursed hound? What was responsible for Sir Charles Baskerville's death on the moor? $16. May 14, 15, 21, 22 8pm; May 16 & 23 2:30pm.
Exhibit Through March 31 Shawn Snow - Free. Wednesdays and Fridays 10am-12pm; Sundays 1-3pm.
New York State Theatre Institute Schacht Fine Arts Center, Russell Sage College, Troy 274.3200; www.nysti.org March 12-24 Romeo and Juliet - Shakespeare's sublime, tragic love story. Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet meet and fall in love before they realize they have crossed the line separating their feuding families. They rush headlong into their life together, only to have their families' enemies catch up to their plans and doom their dreams. Recommended for grades 8 and up. April 16-25 Orphan Train - Beginning in the middle of the 19th century and continuing for 75 years, orphans and "surplus" children from the streets of New York City were given a chance for a new life aboard the orphan trains arranged by the Rev. Charles Loring Brace and his Children's Aid Society. This haunting new musical examines some of the many stories of children sent west to be adopted and discovers their destiny: from inspiring success to dismal failure. Recommended for grades 7 and up.
Proctor's Theatre 432 State Street, Schenectady 346.6204; www.proctors.org March 3-4 Celtic Woman Songs from the Heart - $40.75-$70.75. 8pm. March 5 Girls Night, The Musical - $20-$45. 8pm. March 6 Bill Cosby -$20-$55. 7pm & 9:30pm. March 6 8th Step: Richie Havens - $28. 7:30pm. March 7 Fenimore Family Series: The Little Mermaid - $7-$9. 2pm. March 12 Band of the Irish Guard/Royal Regiment of Scotland - $20-$40. 8pm. March 12 8th Step: Capathia Jenkins and Louis Rosen - $26. 7:30pm. March 13-14 Annie - $20-$55. March 16-21 Late Nite Catechism -$39.50-$45. March 19 Fenimore Family Series: The Magic of Lyn - $7-$9. 7pm. March 21 Schenectady Symphony Orchestra: Music We Love - $5-$9. 3pm. March 23 MVP Health Care Organ Concert Series - Featuring Tom Savoy. 12pm. March 25 School Days: Stories That Dance - $6-$9. 10am. March 25 Rising Star Concert Series: The Band Perry - $12. 7:30pm. March 26 Michael Bolton - $20-$90. 8pm. March 27 Sixties Spectacular -$34.75-$49.75. 7:30pm. March 27 The Comedy Box: Bobby Collins - $28. 7pm & 9:30pm. April 10 Itzhak Perlman - $20-$70. 8pm. April 14-18 South Pacific - $20-$65. April 16-18 & 23-25 MOPCO: Tapestry - $15. 8pm & 2pm. April 20 MVP Health Care Organ Concert Series - Featuring Ed Goodemote & Al Moser. 12pm. April 23 Curtis Adams: Adrenaline - $20-$40. 8pm. April 25 Schenectady Symphony Orchestra: Music We Love - $5-$9. 3pm. April 27 San Jose Taiko - $15-$25. 7pm. May 1 Nobodies of Comedy - $20-$28. 8pm. May 3 School Days: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler - $6-$9. 10am. May 6 School Days: Tom Chapin - $6-$9. 10am. May 7 Engelbert Humperdinck - $20-$48. 8pm. May 18 Carol Burnett -$20-$90. 8pm. May 18 MVP Health Care Organ Concert Series - Featuring Scott Richard and Jim Brockway. 12pm. May 21-30 Classic Theater Guild Inc.'s production of A Doll's House - $13.50-$16.50. June 8 MVP Health Care Organ Concert Series - Featuring Bob Fredrick and Greg Klingler. 12pm.
The Egg Center for Performing Arts Empire State Plaza, Albany 473.1845; www.theegg.org March 4 John Hiatt and the Combo - $34.50. 7:30pm. March 5 The Holmes Brothers, Scrapomatic - $24. 8pm. March 6 Dave Mason, Leon Russell - $29.50. 7:30pm. March 7 Christopher O'Riley - Regular $28; students $20. 3pm. March 12 Sam Bush - $28. 8pm. March 13 Hammer of the Gods: The Led Zeppelin Experience - $34.50-$39.50. 8pm. March 14 Sharon Isbin & Mark O'Connor - $34.50. 3pm. March 16 Celtic Crossroads - $25 until March 5; $30 beginning March 6. 7:30pm. March 18 The Disco Biscuits - $31. 8pm. March 20 Aszure Barton & Artists - Adults $24; seniors $24; children $12. 8pm. March 26 David Garrett - $29.50. 8pm. April 5 David Gray - $40-$75. 8pm. April 11 Justin Roberts & The Not Ready for Naptime Players - $10. 1pm. April 11 The Turtle Island String Quartet with Mike Marshall - $28. 7:30pm. April 17 Shawn Colvin - $34.50. 8pm. April 18 Sleeping Beauty - Adults $20; children $15. 3pm. April 20 Joe Bonamassa - $29.50-$59.50. 7:30pm. April 23 Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks, John Hammond - $28. 8pm. April 24 Aspen Santa Fe Ballet - Adults $24; seniors $20; children $12. 8pm. May 1 Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company - Adults $24; seniors $20; children $12. 8pm. May 8 Colin Hay - $24. 8pm. May 15 Raise the Roof II - $25. 7pm. June 5 Jalala: Janis Siegel, Laurel Masse & Lauren Kinhan - $24. 8pm. June 25 Johnny Winter, James Cotton - $29.50. 7:30pm.
Union College 807 Union Street, Schenectady 388.6118; www.union.edu March 28 Chamber Concert Series: Brooklyn Rider String Quartet - $20. 3pm. Memorial Chapel. April 7 Chamber Concert Series: Yefim Bronfman - $25. 8pm. Memorial Chapel. April 24 Chamber Concert Series: Jeremy Denk - $20. 8pm. Memorial Chapel.
Lake George Arts Project's Courthouse Gallery 1 Amherst Street, Lake George 668.2616; www.lakegeorgearts.org Hours: Tuesday-Friday 12-5pm; Saturday 12-4pm; all other times by request March 13-April 16 Dana Clancy & Ben Schwab - Opening reception March 13 4-6pm. May 8-June 11 Michael Millspaugh - Opening reception May 8 4-6pm.
The Colonial Theatre 111 South Street, Pittsfield, Mass. 413.997.4444; www.thecolonialtheatre.org March 2-3 The Wedding Singer - $35; $60. 7:30pm. March 6-7 The Mikado - $25; $45. 3pm & 8pm. March 11 The Irish Rovers - $35; $45; $65. 7:30pm. March 13 Sam Bush - $25; $35. 8pm. March 18 Lisa Lampanelli in Concert - $42.75. 7:30pm. March 25 Craig Karges: Experience the Extraordinary - $35. 7:30pm. March 27 Roger McGuinn & Tom Rush - $25; $45; $65. 8pm. April 9 Susan B. Anthony Dance Theatre Troupe: "Back on Broadway" - 10am. April 11 Vicki Baird: Connecting with the Beyond - $35. 3pm. April 17 Songs of a Generation: Featuring Janis Ian & Karla Bonoff - $25; $45; $65. 8pm. April 23 Sarah Vowell - $25; $35. 8pm. April 24 Beatlemania Again - $24.50; $34.50. 8pm. April 30 Film: "The Path: Afterlife" - $15. 7:30pm. May 1 Neil Berg's 100 Years of Broadway - $25; $45. 8pm. May 8 Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny - $15. 1pm & 4pm. May 15 The Artie Shaw Orchestra - $25; $35. 7pm. May 22 The Blanks - $25; $35. 8pm. May 23 Vickie Baird: Connecting with the Beyond - $35. 3pm.
Colonial Little Theatre, Inc. One Colonial Court, Johnstown 762.4325; www.coloniallittletheatre.org March 19-21, 26-28 Hail Mary! - $14. June 4-6, 11-13 Moon Over Buffalo - $14.
Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Second & State Street, Troy 273.0038; www.troymusichall.org March 6 30th Annual Gala Celebration - $125. 6:30pm. March 12 Altan - $20-$29. 8pm. March 12 Music at Noon - A Chopin 200th Birthday Celebration - Free. 12pm. March 14 Sisters in Soul - $29-$42. 7pm. March 19 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: A Tribute to Cab Calloway - $29-$42. 8pm. March 21 Empire State Youth Orchestra and Empire State Repertory Orchestra - Adults $18; students and seniors $10. 3pm. March 26 A Composer Creates: An Evening with John Harbison and Friends - Adults $25-$49; seniors $20-$45; children/students $15. 8pm. April 1 Angelique Kidjo - $20-$37. 8pm. April 17 Music at Noon: Andre Laurent O'Neil & William Carragan - Free. 12pm. April 17 Albany Pro Musica - The Great Choral Tradition - Adults $25-$35; seniors $20-$30; children/students $10-$28. 8pm. April 23 Dennis DeYoung: The Music of STYX - $35-$55. 8pm. April 30 Troy Chromatic Concerts - Leila Josefowicz - $30-$35. 8pm. May 11 Music at Noon: Phil Minissale - Free. 12pm.
The Performing Arts Center at the University at Albany 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany 442.3997; www.albany.edu/pac March 1 Capital Trio: Celebrating Chopin's Bicentennial - $8; students $4. 7:30pm. March 4 Festival of Contemporary Music - $6; students $3. 7pm. March 7 University Symphony Orchestra - $6; students $3. 3pm. March 8 University Concert Band - $6; students $3. 7:30pm. March 11 "The Singer's Life" with Emalie Savoy - Free. 7pm. March 12 Emalie Savoy - $8; students $4. 7pm. March 24 An Evening of Opera Scenes and Chamber Music - Free. 7pm. April 15, 18 2 Harpsichords - $8; students $4. 7pm. April 19 University Jazz Ensemble - $6; students $3. 7:30pm. April 22 An Evening of Chamber Music and Song - $8; students $4. 7pm. April 28 Student Recital - Free. 7pm. May 3 The Sound of Trumpets, The Roll of the Drum - $6; students $3. 7pm. May 4 The Choral Hour - $6; students $3. 7pm.
WAMC's Performing Arts Studio 339 Central Avenue, Albany 465.5233; www.wamcarts.org March 5 Chip Taylor Presents "Yonkers NY" - $17. 8pm. March 6 Poetry Out Loud: NY State Finals - Free. 12:30pm. March 9 The Dear Companion Tour: Featuring Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore - $16. 8pm. March 14 Isle of Klezbos - $15. 3pm. March 18 Food For Thought: A Sea Change - $6. 6pm. March 20 Black Women's Association of Albany Award Ceremony - Free. 1pm. March 20 The Singing Anchors - $25. 8pm. March 27 Roots Music Festival - $15. 7pm. April 2 Bob Schneider - $20. 8pm. April 7 The Hold Steady with Special Guest The Oranges Band - $22 in advance; $24 day of show. 8pm.
Classic Theater Guild, Inc. PO Box 1575, Albany 441.2876; www.classictheaterguild.org April 2-3, 9-11 Outside - Enigmatic photographs, a threadbare child's toy, gnawing curiosity, trigger a woman's quest for answers about her family via an old man and his memories and secrets about Kristallnacht and the Kindertransport. Adults $15, seniors and students $12. Call for location information. May 21-23, 28-30 A Doll's House - Ibsen's classic play follows Nora Helmer, a seemingly everyday housewife who awakens to her disillusionment with married life and dissatisfaction with her husband, Torvald. $13.50-$16.50. 440 Upstairs at Proctor's. Charles R. Wood Theater 207 Glen Street, Glens Falls 798.9663; www.woodtheater.org March 19 Enhancing Main Street: Making Upper Floors Work Again - 9am. March 20 Highlights from "Coppelia" and Other Ballets - Time TBA. March 27 Three Little Pigs - Free. 11am. April 30, May 1-2 Blithe Spirit - $16-$21. 8pm. May 8 Rising Stars at the Wood - 6:30pm. May 13-14 Boathouse Follies Mystery - Thursday 1pm; Friday 7pm.
eba, Inc. 351 Hudson Avenue, Albany 465.9916; www.eba-arts.org March 6 5th Annual Benefit Cabaret & Silent Auction - $45-$100. 7pm. April 24-25, 30, May 1 Isadora Duncan Salon Concert - $12-$25. Friday and Saturday 7pm; Sunday 4pm.
Empire State Youth Orchestra 432 State Street, Schenectady 382.7581; www.esyo.org March 4 Festival of Contemporary Music - Performing Arts Center, University at Albany. Adults $6; students, faculty, staff and seniors $3. 7pm. March 14 Classical & Jazz Music Concert - Picotte Recital Hall, Massry Center for the Arts, the College of Saint Rose. Adults $8; seniors and students $5. 3pm. March 21 Classical Music Concert - Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Adults $18; seniors and students $10. 3pm. March 28 Concert Wind Ensemble Music - Picotte Recital Hall, Massry Center for the Arts, the College of Saint Rose. Free. 3:30pm.
Galleries Albany International Airport Gallery 737 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (third floor) 242.2241; www.albanyairport.com/exhibits Hours: 7am-11pm daily Free and open to the public Through June 20 Material Witness - A collaboration with the Rensselaer Schools of Architecture and Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. As an introductory exercise, Rensselaer students entering their first year of architectural education are challenged to imagine the new spatial and structural possibilities latent in found, discarded or recycled material. The exhibited work takes up issues of the poetic, the novel, the spectacular and above all the architectural possibilities that can arise from a zealous exploration of not only what the material is, but more importantly, what it can become. Through June 2010 The Best of SUNY 2009 - Since 2002, The Best of SUNY Art Student Exhibition has showcased the most compelling works of art made by students attending State University of New York campuses. Each piece was originally selected by the student's art department and then chosen for the Best of SUNY exhibition by a panel of arts professionals throughout the SUNY community. Located on concourse A. Ongoing exhibits Harold Lohner - Larger than life, these portraits embody a masculine vitality and charisma. The artist gathers hundreds of anonymous images and then recounts what seem to be recurring and significant gestures and expressions. While these monoprints are singular impressions of ink on glass and therefore highly individualistic, the portraits themselves blend the features of many faces with layers of pattern and color. Located on the second floor, concourse B.
Dean Snyder - His large and looming piece, Lubber, a sphere of laminated cedar veneer punctuated with hand-wrought iron rings, sits as a sentinel to the concourse. Lubber's title refers to a person that is out of sync with his environment, commonly known in the nautical expression, "land-lubber", a person not acclimated to seafaring. Located on the second floor, concourse B. Four Triangles Hanging - This exhibit was created by artist George Rickey who was one of the world's foremost kinetic sculptors. His work consists of tenuously balanced geometric steel constructions which combine linear elements and geometric forms, moved by air currents and gravity. Located on the second floor, concourse B.
Upstate Artists Guild 247 Lark Street; Albany 462.3501; www.upstateartistguild.org Hours: Thursday & Friday 5:30-8pm; Saturday 2-8pm; Sunday 2-6pm March 5-26 Slick - Works in oil and watercolor. April 2-23 ConTEXT - A national show of work containing text. May 7-May 28 The Yellow Show - With featured artist Keira Lemonis.
June 4-25 People's Choice 2010 - Featured works by local students.
Nicole Fiacco Gallery 336 Warren Street, Hudson 828.5090; www.nicolefiaccogallery.com Hours: Thursday-Monday 11am-6pm Sunday 12pm-5pm. Closed Tuesday & Wednesday Through March 20 View Four - paintings and works on paper by four artists: Beard, Courbois, Fintz, and Govantes. March 27-April 24 Haitian paints from a private New York Collection May Upstate II
The Arts Center of the Capital Region 265 River Street, Troy 273.0552; www.artscenteronline.org March 1 BookMarks: Maggie Estep - Maggie Estep will read from her book-in-progress, The Angelmakers, a novel about female gangsters in late 19th century New York, along with excerpts from her earlier work, including a sampling of spoken word poetry she performed on MTV, PBS and HBO's "Def Poetry Jam." Free. 7pm. March 21 Capital Region Knit-In - Spend three hours with friends and other fiber enthusiasts, tour the Arts Center and enter to win great prizes. Free. 1-4pm. March 31 Artists' Salon and Potluck - Food and fellowship for artists and those who make art happen. Bring a dish. Pull up a chair. Feed your body and your soul with sharing, discussion and dining at our seasonal potluck suppers. Free. 6pm. April 19 BookMarks: Cara Benson - Cara Benson will perform a series of interconnected poems from her new book. Through breath, repetition and trance chant Benson embodies a socio-political process of presenting the performer as both maker and destroyer. Free. 7pm.
Museums The Farmers' Museum 5775 State Hwy 80, Cooperstown 607.547.1450; www.farmersmuseum.org Hours: April 1-May 11 Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm; May 12-October 12 daily 10am-5pm. Admission: April 1-May 11 adults $9; seniors $8; children 7-12 $4; under 7 free. May 12-October 12 adults $11; seniors $9.50; children 7-12 $5; under 7 free. April 1-October 31 Wild Times! A New York Animal Road Trip - Inspired by the Empire State Carousel at The Farmers' Museum, Wild Times! A New York State Animal Road Trip showcases some of the animals on the Carousel, and explores their natural history, mythology, social history, art history and use in pop culture.
Fenimore Museum 5798 State Hwy 80, Cooperstown 607.547.1400; www.fenimoreartmuseum.org Hours: April 1-May 11 Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm; May 12-October 12 daily 10am-5pm. Admission: Adults $11; seniors $9.50; children 7-12 $5; under 7 free. April 1-December 31 Empire Waists, Bustles & Lace: A Century of New York Fashion - Features 19th century fashion and how the fashion was derived. April 1-December 31 Watermark: Michele Harvey & Glimmerglass April 1-September 6 In Our Time: The World as Seen by Magnum Photographers - Celebrating the first 50 years of Magnum Photos, the world's most renowned photographer-owned photographic agency, this exhibit represents 60 photographers.
The Clark 225 South Street, Williamstown, Mass. 413.458.2303; www.clarkart.edu Hours: Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm; closed Monday. Admission: Free November 1-May 31; June 1 through October 31 $15. Free to children 18 and under and full-time students with ID. Through April 11 Material Witnesses: Photographs of Things - Drawn from the collections of the Clark and the Troob Family Foundation, and featuring works by William Henry Fox Talbot, Roger Fenton, and Eugène Atget, this focused exhibition considers how documentary images stand not only as material witnesses to times and places past, but as aesthetic objects that are at once accessible and uncanny. Through June 23 Constable and After: Sir Edwin Manton and the British Landscape - Many of the paintings and drawings on display in this gallery were assembled by business leader and arts patron Sir Edwin A. G. Manton and his wife Florence, Lady Manton. With its concentration on landscape, the Manton Collection reflects Sir Edwin's love of his native England; he was born in Essex County, not far from Constable's birthplace. The Hyde Collection 161 Warren Street, Glens Falls 792.1761; www.hydecollection.org Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm; closed Mondays and all national holidays. Admission: Free, but donations are appreciated. Through March 28 An Enduring Legacy: American Impressionist Landscapes from the Thomas Clark Collection - The collection comprises representative examples from the last great generation of landscape painters who emerged both during and in the aftermath of the American Impressionist movement (1880-1920). These artists were the students and/or sketching partners of the seminal figures in the development of Impressionism in America such as William Merritt Chase, Childe Hassam, Willard L. Metcalf, John Henry Twachtman, and Robert Henri. Through March 28 Divided by a Common Language? British and American Works from The Murray Collection - The exhibit celebrates the works donated by Murray and reflects one woman's journey into the world of art and the creative process itself. Artists represented in the exhibition include Britain's Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, John Piper, Howard Hodgkin, and Paul Mount. American artists include Gregory Amenoff, Betty Parsons, Stuart Davis, and Ellsworth Kelly. April 11-May 23 Nineteenth Annual Regional Juried High School Art Exhibition - A display of outstanding artwork submitted by students from five area counties. June 12-September 5 Andrew Wyeth: An American Legacy - The exhibition will seek to unravel the myth surrounding Wyeth and understand the man behind the paintbrush. Works will include pencil, watercolor, dry brush and tempera works, and will feature sections devoted to early coastal watercolors and landscape paintings, as well as a look at Wyeth's models, his interest in vernacular architecture, and his connection to both the Regionalist tradition and Magic Realism.
The Children's Museum of Saratoga 69 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs 584.5540; www.cmssny.org Hours: July 1-Labor Day: Monday-Saturday 9:30am-4:30pm; Labor Day-June: Tuesday-Saturday 9:30am-4:30pm; Sunday 12pm-4:30pm. Admission: $6; children under 1 are free. March 5 & 19, April 2, 16, & 30 Wiggle & Giggle - A time for children to explore the many different things they can do with their bodies. 10-11:30am. March 12 Parents' Night Out: Pizza and Painting - Parents, enjoy your evening and leave your kids with us! We'll make our own pizzas, do some painting, and of course have free play-time in the museum as well. $15 per child, $12 for members, $5 for each additional sibling. 4-7pm. March 12 & 26, April 9 & 23 Stretching with Stuffee - Stuffee will be out to facilitate exercise through silly songs, games and stretching. 10-10:30am. March 17 Saratoga Reads! - An evening of crafts that explore the themes of this year's Saratoga Reads! book selection. 4-4:30pm. March 20 The Children's Museums' 20th Anniversary Party - Dinner and dancing at the Saratoga National Golf Club in celebration of the Children's Museum's 20th anniversary. The evening's celebration will also feature a silent auction. Tickets $75, $140/couple. 6-11pm. March 24 Cooking Around the World - We'll send our taste buds on an international adventure by cooking up kid-friendly recipes from around the world. Ages 5 and up $8 per chef; $6 for members. 4-5pm. March 25 & April 28 Katie's Kitchen - The cooking class for kids. Ages 3-6. Members $6; non-members $15. 11am-12pm. March 30 Seussian Celebration - A celebration for Dr. Seuss's birthday. 12-3pm. April 7 Community Impact: Seeds for Seniors - Kids will decorate small clay flower pots and plant seeds that will be taken to the Saratoga Hospital Nursing Home. 2pm. April 9 Beads!Beads!Beads! - Make jewelry, headbands, key chains and more! 1-3pm. April 14 Trash to Treasure - Use items and materials that would have ended up in the garbage to create brand-new pieces of artwork. 1-3pm. April 21 Stuffee Goes to Mexico! - Create artwork using techniques characteristic of Mexican art. Members $6; non-members $15. 4-4:45pm. April 22 Earth Day Workshop: Building Bird Feeders - Recycle and redesign old milk cartons to create bird feeders for some of Saratoga's feathered friends. 2pm. April 30 Arbor Day Tree Exploration - Learn about different types of trees and leaves, and all the things that come from trees and all the wonderful things that trees provide for us. 2-3:30pm.
New York State Museum Madison Avenue, Albany (Empire State Plaza) 474.5877; www.nysm.nysed.gov Hours: Open daily 9:30am-5pm. Admission: Free. Donations accepted at the door. Exhibits Through March 7 1609 - This exhibition introduces visitors to information about Henry Hudson, Native People of New York, and the Dutch period in New York state by dispelling some commonly held myths and showing the legacy these groups left to the residents of the state and the nation. Through March 14 "This Great Nation Will Endure" Photographs of the Great Depression - This traveling exhibition features more than 150 images of America taken between 1935 and 1942 by the legendary photographic unit of the Farm Security Administration. Through May 9 Seeing Ourselves: Masterpieces of American Photography from George Eastman House Collection - This exhibition from George Eastman House in Rochester, NY, presents photographic masterpieces that capture historic and contemporary moments in American history and represents more than 150 years of photography. Through September 6 Birds of New York and the Paintings of Louis Agassiz Fuertes - This exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the publication of Birds of New York, one of the most popular books issued in the State Museum's history.
Ongoing Exhibits Adirondack Wilderness - The drama of the Adirondacks is told through three topics- prehistoric wilderness landscape, wilderness in transition, and contemporary wilderness. Art for the People: Decorated Stoneware from the Weitsman Collection - The designs on the 19th century stoneware are considered to be the prime examples of American Folk Art. New York Metropolis Hall. Black Capital: Harlem in the 20s - Learn about the rich and diverse culture of Harlem in the 1920s through historic photographs, archival material, audio and visual components, artifacts and other items. New York Metropolis Hall. The Governor's Collection of Contemporary Native American Crafts - The collection reflects the broad range of artwork from Native artists from functional to unique and decorative, and from traditional to modern in style and technique. The World Trade Center: Rescue Recover Response - details the history of the World Trade Center, the September 11 attacks, the rescue efforts, the evidence recovery operation at the Fresh Kills facility, and the public response to the September 11th events.
Bennington Museum 75 Main Street, Bennington, VT 802.447.1571; www.benningtonmuseum.org Hours: Daily 10am-5pm; closed Wednesdays. Admission: Adults $9; students and seniors $8; children under 18 free. Through March 14 Small Distances - Watercolors by Erin McKenny in the Regional Arts. Inspired by the primary colors of her children's toys, books, and games, McKenny's work investigates the relationships of items not only being enclosed in a setting but also spilling, falling, and squeezing into new spaces. Through April 30 Vermont Impressions - Drawn from the museum's permanent collection, this exhibition will feature paintings in the impressionist vein dating largely from 1900-1950.
Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady 382.7890; www.schenectadymuseum.org Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm. Admission: Adults $7.50; seniors $6.25; children $5. March 4-6 FETCH! Lab: Whodunit? - Learn about science and do hands-on activities like the ones on the popular PBS tv show! 2:30-4pm. March 11-13 FETCH! Lab: Kaleid-o-mania - Reflections, light, and your artistic talents create a dazzling kaleidoscope. 2:30-4pm. March 13 Planting the Seed - Preschoolers and the adults in their lives explore nutrition and healthy living with a story and a special hands-on activity. Presented by the Junior League. 2-3pm. March 18 & 20 Little Wonders of Science: Air is All Around You - Bring children to discover air and inspire curiosity with storytelling and make-and-take activities. Children ages 3-5. 10:30am. March 18 Home School Day: Rusty Rocket's Last Blast - Enjoy an afternoon just for home school scientists! See Rusty Rocket's Last Blast Planetarium Show, explore engineering in our FETCH! Lab, and enjoy the Museum's interactive exhibits. 1pm. March 18 Boy Scout Space Exploration Workshop - Learn about the history and future of space exploration. See discoveries made from manned and unmanned spacecraft and learn about the space shuttle. Adults $4; scouts $8. 6-8:30pm. March 18-20 FETCH! Lab: Rescue Mission - Design a hook and retrieve a capsule submerged in water. 2:30-4pm. March 19 FREE! ART Night - Enjoy the Museum absolutely free during Art Night in March! Play Mindball! See All Aboard! The Power of Locomotives, Power House, and much more! 5-7pm. March 19
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Successful Peopletag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56822010-02-22T19:56:45Z2010-02-22T21:27:11ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Bill and Kimberly Aperance 300 Wormer Road, Voorheesville 765.2851 www.albanycc.cc
"We are bucking the private country club trend," said Dr. Henry Keys, president, Albany Country Club. "Our finances are sound, our facilities are top-notch and our membership is engaged. This is the direct result of the efforts of our general manager, Bill Aperance." "During Bill's six-year tenure, he has made sure our club has kept pace with how people spend their leisure time. A perfect example," notes Keys, "is the fun, family-friendly atmosphere Bill and his staff have created." During the summer, ACC offers its own "club camp" for younger children, providing a variety of supervised recreational activities, without the over-regimentation of a typical day camp. The swim team, part of ACC's summer program, serves as an anchor for those children under age 16. Tennis and golf instruction, designed to encourage an early enthusiasm for both sports, provides a fundamental part of each camper's day. "Why should children have all the fun?" asked Aperance. "Our club camp gives parents, especially moms, some much needed respite and the chance to enjoy club facilities. Our Tee for Three program has been enthusiastically embraced. It features a series of introductory golf clinics, along with the opportunity to play a few holes, followed by a social meal with friends." Throughout the year, ACC offers parents the chance to dine out, on select weekend nights, with babysitting provided on club premises. Bill Aperance concluded, "At Albany Country Club, we are committed to giving our members a break from the rat race with families spending leisure time together--all under one roof."
Chad Vaughn, O.D. 5 Ulenski Drive, Albany, NY 944.2300 www.silhouette-eyestudio.com
More than 22 million Americans suffer from cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Cataracts may require costly surgery, and treatment options for AMD are limited. Research shows there is a positive correlation between ultraviolet radiation and the prevention of both eye conditions. That is why sunglasses are so important to your eye health. The sun, in addition to visible light, gives off ultraviolet radiation. This radiation is divided into three types: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. The earth's ozone layer absorbs UV-C radiation, leaving sunglasses to protect your eyes against UV-A and UV-B rays. You should be aware that the sun's damaging effects are a concern year-round, whether you ski moguls in the winter or sink a 30-foot putt in the summer. You should also know that effects of UV radiation are cumulative, so it's important to develop good protection habits early in life. Dermatologists have done a great job educating us on the importance of protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays. It makes sense wearing sunglasses to protect our eyes from the same harmful rays that we are protecting our skin from. For optimum protection sunglasses should block 99 to100 percent both UV-A and UV-B; screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light; and be perfectly matched in color, and free of distortion and imperfection. You are sure to find the right sunglass and protection for whatever outdoor activity you enjoy at the Silhouette Eye Studio, 5 Ulenski Drive, Albany, north end of Wolf Road, right behind Professor Java's. Come in for a comprehensive eye health exam. Go to www.silhouette-eyestudio.com or call 518.944.2300.
Alan Decker 1632 Main Street Route 5S, Pattersonville 887.5552 www.thepondpeople.net
For 20 years, the goal at Decker's Landscape and Aquatics has been satisfying its customers beyond their expectations. Owner Alan Decker's passion and vision for aquatics and landscape design transformed backyards across the Capital Region, Lake George and the Hudson region. As a landscape and water feature design and installation company, they create outdoor living spaces to be interactive and tailored, meeting customers needs. The firm specializes in water feature installation of all types including ponds with cascading waterfalls, pond less waterfalls, waterfalls into swimming pools, and decorative water gardens including bubbling rocks and overflowing pots. Decker's also installs large swimming ponds, bog filtration, wetlands, earthen ponds and rain water harvesting systems. In addition to water features, the firm designs and installs landscape plantings, brick paver patios, walkways, driveways, retaining walls and fire pits to complete any outdoor living space. Alan and his wife Jodi also have a retail aquatic center selling everything water and garden related. Decker's is one of the Capital Region's largest supplier's of aquatic plant and pond supplies. The company provides everything for the do-it-yourselfer from pond liners, pumps and filtration to a large selection of pond fish. The one-stop aquatic shop provides a venue for customers to stroll through eight on-site display ponds and discuss options with its trained staff or participate in a hands-on aquatic workshop. Alan's natural passion for landscape and aquatics has built ongoing relationships with its customers based on customer service, expertise and integrity.
John D. Marcella 735 Crane Street relocating to 560-564 Broadway, Schenectady 381.1957 73 Karner Road, Colonie 690.0093 www.marcellasappliance.com
The Marcella name has been involved with the appliance business since the 1940's, when my father started his retail business. Going on my own in 1980, I started selling appliances out of the garage of my home. As the business took off, we moved to 735 Crane St., Schenectady, where we expanded, offering the finest selection of appliances available. We were one of the first dealers in Schenectady to invest in multiple lines of high-end appliances, and created a new electronics department with the finest audio/video products available. While this location has served us well, we have now invested in a beautiful facility on Broadway in Schenectady. The move enabled us to expand our electronics department with larger displays. We are proud to have been listed in the top 100 retailers in the U.S. by Twice Magazine. Our new displays on Broadway have been supplied by Zarrillo's Kitchens in Duanesburg, Park Building in Schenectady, and Columbia Cabinet Works in North Greenbush. Dave Delzotto of Delzotto's Builders has constructed our entire back wall display of high-end products. Even though we're expanding, we're not changing the way we do business. We will continue to provide appliances that fit into everyone's finances and maintain aggressive pricing. John D Marcella & Son Appliances 735 Crane St., Schenectady - Relocating to 560-564 Broadway Schenectady. Open Monday to- Thursday 9am-8pm; Friday 9am- 6pm; Saturday 9am-4pm 381.1957 73 Karner Road, Colonie Open Monday to Thursday 9am-8pm; Friday 9am-6pm; Saturday 9am-4pm 690.0093, www.marcellasappliance.com.
Kim Edberg 395 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 477.1274 www.kraftbykim.com
Krafts by Kim was a home-based craft business originating 23 years ago. Attending shows on weekends, while raising my two beautiful children seemed to be the foundation to my future. Hard work, patience, and support from my husband made the dream of owning my own store a reality. Located in East Greenbush, Krafts by Kim has developed into a cozy, country store brimming with many of my designs and primitives. It has become our "little neighborhood store" for the past five years. Showcasing fusion of the old with the new, one finds a variety of inspirational decorating ideas, handmade one-of-a kind items, wreaths (made with natural twigs, berries, and hydrangeas), candles, prints, primitive dolls, and stars. All packages are wrapped in a gift bag and bow. We also provide private parties; a wonderful way enjoying a night out and earning a free product at the same time. Another very popular event is "Tote Bag Savings Day." With a purchase of $50, you receive a special "Krafts By Kim" tote. Bring in your tote on the first Thursday of each month, receive 10 percent off your entire purchase. Krafts By Kim is located at 395 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush Call 477.1274 or go to www.kraftbykim.com Hours: Wed-Fri 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tim Ryan Stuyvesant Plaza Albany, NY 435.0075 www.frankadams.com
If you have ever shopped at Frank Adams Jewelers in Stuyvesant Plaza, chances are very high that Tim Ryan, store manager, played an integral part in your transaction. Ryan, referred by his employees as a true "team leader," has been a figure at the retail establishment for 12 years, and has worked in the jewelry industry for 28 years. Ryan's successes rank him among the top two percent of jewelry professionals nationwide, a statistic that won't surprise many. His ability to transcend a sales pitch, and form personal relationships with his clients, set him apart. Although it is extremely common to see a line of people waiting for Ryan, he always makes himself available to his staff for questions or advice. His willingness to help his coworkers and keep the store atmosphere fun and social earns both their respect and loyalty. When asked about Ryan, one valued client said, "I can always bounce ideas off Tim, and he will never steer me in the wrong direction." A vendor said, "he is a great manager," and "he always looks out for the best interests of his clients in all of his decision making." The store's owner, Kimberly Adams Russell gives him the highest praises saying, "I am so very proud of Tim's dedication to his clients, staff and my family. Our success is a reflection of his success!" Ryan approaches his personal life in the same way that he approaches his role at Frank Adams - with personal attention, precision and humor. He is dedicated to personal health and fitness and annually raises money for local charities including the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Northeastern New York.
Stephen Miller Albany, NY 439.6707 www.iblhoopsonline.com
Stephen Miller, a lifelong Capital Region resident, graduated from Union College in 1984, having earned a bachelor of science degree and master of science degree in electrical engineering. Upon graduation, Miller joined IBM, working at various positions for the last 25 years. Currently, Miller works as an executive at IBM Global Business Services, state and local government in Albany, NY. An avid sports fan, Miller, a community minded, married, father of four, also owns and serves as chief executive officer of the New Era Albany Legends, a member of the International Basketball League. As announced in October 2009, Miller, along with partners Bob Hord and head coach Derrick Rowland believe there is a real need to provide quality, affordable and accessible professional basketball. This sport directly benefits youth and community organizations with fundraising opportunities, youth clinics, internships, entertainment, role model appearances, and ticket donations. Miller was attracted by the International Basketball League's efficient business model and fast-paced excitement, including a 22-second clock. "This approach is different," said Miller. "We are excited about the potential to fill not only a sports entertainment need, but a real community need by working closely with community centers, youth organizations and other service providers that are so critical to our region's quality of life. Basketball is such a unique and positive way to reach kids and try to make that difference together." The Albany Legends home opener doesn't kick off until Friday, April 9, immediately following March Madness. While they don't compete with area college or minor league sports teams, the Albany Legends can be seen at various community events. "The need is there, and we are doing our part to play whatever role we can," concluded Miller. For more information on community opportunities or affordable ticket and sponsorship packages, visit www.iblhoopsonline.com or contact the Albany Legends at 439.6707.
Lorraine Greaney 568 Columbia Turnpike, Suite 8B East Greenbush, NY 477.9025 www.eastgreenbushwindowcoverings.com
Since 1987, Lorraine Greaney has owned and managed East Greenbush Window Coverings & Home Interiors. Greaney is known for work in both residential interiors and the commercial industry. The firm supplies and installs window coverings for business offices, state agencies, health care facilities and schools. In 2008, Greaney moved the design studio to its current location, Columbia Turnpike in East Greenbush where a "boutique -like" showroom was featured showcasing the residential interior design side of the company. The showroom features select pieces representing the firm's furniture lines plus rugs, lamps, artwork, floral and accessories. The extensive fabric and trim library offers a resource for the designer and a comfortable area to meet with clients. A one-stop-shop was created where clients enter the showroom, sit down with a designer, and create a sensible design plan in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. "Whether our clients are selecting one shade or planning a full room makeover, our intention is to provide the best service and individual attention," said Greaney. Call or stop in and see our extensive resources for drapery, re- upholstery, and custom bedding. East Greenbush Window Coverings is a New York State Certified Woman Owned Business. ]]>
Oh Dear, voir dire!tag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56812010-02-22T18:43:13Z2010-02-22T18:45:52ZVoir Dire: (vwar DEER), the process by which persons are questioned in order to determine their suitability and qualifications to serve on a fair and impartial jury. (the old French, "to speak the truth")...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Voir Dire: (vwar DEER), the process by which persons are questioned in order to determine their suitability and qualifications to serve on a fair and impartial jury. (the old French, "to speak the truth")
In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury...Amendment VI, United States Constitution There lay the document, waiting for me in my mailbox. In its upper left-hand corner, the seal of the State of New York Unified Court System proclaimed the mailing to be official. Across its face, a wide lavender stripe bore the large, bold words in all capital letters, "IMPORTANT: JURY SUMMONS ENCLOSED." In much smaller type, words warned that the willful disobedience of the summons is criminal contempt of court, punishable by a fine of $1,000; 30 days in jail, or both.
Some recipients might view this as an imposition or a pain in the butt; but not me. Although serving on a jury is regarded as a civic duty, I prefer looking back nearly 800 years, and seeing it as a civic privilege. It is one of the privileges living in a country governed by the rule of law, justice, and freedom. As they say, freedom isn't free, and with freedom comes responsibility. Over the years, I've been proud to give a couple of weeks of my time to sit on juries, because the alternative could be tyranny, injustice, and totalitarianism. No, thanks. Remember guys like Caligula, Ivan the Terrible, Hitler, Stalin, Idi Amin, Saddam Hussein? When the Commissioner of Jurors summons me, I'll be there - gladly.
What Happens isn't Painful Each week, a few hundred loyal citizens are summoned to serve as a pool of potential jurors whom the presiding judge, defense and prosecuting attorneys select the final jurors and alternates. These few hundred, each assigned a juror number, assemble in a large meeting room where walls are adorned by large gold seals of the Unified Court System. Last month, as one of these citizens, I felt pride looking at our American flag standing at the front of the room. I'm not saying that Superman's slogan, "Truth, Justice, and the American Way" came to my mind at that moment, but maybe it did.
Dawn, a representative from the Commissioner of Jurors office, briefed us in detail about procedures, complexities of remuneration, the law, and invited anyone with particular problems to speak with her individually. She even addressed issues as mundane as parking, coffee, lunch, and restrooms. The people in the commissioner's office were making every effort to allay any of our concerns, and to minimize whatever inconvenience jury service might cause us.
I'll See You in Court When Judge Thomas A. Breslin was ready, about 80 of us made our way to his courtroom where he addressed us from the bench. He stressed the importance of jury service and uniqueness of our judicial system. I don't think any one of us was unmoved by the profound significance of what lay before us, particularly as Judge Breslin read a six-count criminal indictment to us in the presence of the defendant, his attorney, and the assistant district attorney. A person's freedom or imprisonment would hang in the balance, although the judge emphasized "an indictment proves nothing," and the defendant is innocent unless proven otherwise beyond a reasonable doubt. The weight of our responsibility struck heavily as the judge swore us in as a group.
Our juror numbers had been placed in a rotating drum and 21 were now drawn by lot. One by one, as they were called, potential jurors left the gallery and moved into the jury box. The voir dire began with each person rising to give a brief thumbnail of their family status and occupation. After asking if anyone knew the attorneys or the defendant, Judge Breslin read a list of witnesses who might be called to testify in order to determine if anyone knew them. Other simple questions were asked before the judge moved onto questions he regarded as "more invasive." Had anyone been a victim of a crime or ever been accused of one? Prospective jurors were given the choice of answering publicly or discreetly at the bench. Following the judge's questions, a handful of 21 were excused and replaced by others from the pool. The attorneys then began their questioning. The goal was not educating jurors, but determining their suitability and competence, ensuring selection of a fair and impartial jury. Questions of bias, prejudice, and presumed innocence may carry special significance. Winnowing
After the attorneys finished questioning the panel, they met with Judge Breslin at the bench. Of the 21 questioned, 13 were excused, eight were sworn in as jurors for the case, another group of 21 was chosen by lottery, and the voir dire process began all over again. By the time the 12 jurors and two alternates were finally selected and sworn in, 60 people from our pool of 80 had gone through questioning under oath, in order to find the impartial jury that our Constitution guarantees. The remaining 20, including myself, who had not been questioned, were excused with thanks, our obligation fulfilled for a few years. The members of the jury who were selected prepared themselves to carry a small portion of our freedom in their hands. I thank them.
Ed. Lange writes "Guy Stuff" monthly for Capital Region Living. He may be reached at skipper@capital.net.]]>
Parentingtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56802010-02-22T16:40:45Z2010-02-22T21:27:56ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39The bedtime story Burden or blessing?
By Wendy Hobday Haugh
Bedtime story. As a first-time mother, those two words filled me with wonder, conjuring up cozy images of soap-scented, pajama-clad children snuggling contentedly against mama as darkness descends. My imagined scene was dreamy and serene . . . a lilting storyteller's voice coupled with a child's contented sighs. But as my storytelling years unfolded, the reality of bedtime became something which, for a short time anyway, bore more resemblance to a nightmare than a pleasant dream.
As a toddler, my first-born, Henry, had inexhaustible energy and the attention span of a cricket. At bedtime, as I struggled to capture his attention with colorful storybooks, he'd flip impatiently forward and backwards through the pages, focusing his attention on anything but the tale at hand.
A sweeter child could not be found, but to my intense disappointment, the traditional bedtime story just wasn't Henry's cup of juice. Despite parenting professionals' sage advice that I 'read, read, READ!' to my child, I couldn't help but wonder: Why bother? Henry had no interest in sedentary pastimes. He was a squirmer, not a snuggler; a chatterer, not a listener. My nightly attempts to turn Henry on to the magic of books inevitably ended in frustration until one night - fed up with fidgety toddler shenanigans - I slammed the book shut, told Henry in no uncertain terms to lie down!, and abruptly snapped off the light.
Side by side, we lay in the tense darkness. Why can't bedtime be serene? I cried silently. How can I capture Henry's interest - and spur his imagination?
Amazingly enough, at that precise moment inspiration struck. "Let's try something new!" I whispered, hugging him close to reassure him that 'The Grouch' had vanished. "I'm going to tell you 'The Story of Henry's Nice Day'."
Instead of reading a tale that meant little to Henry, I began recounting chronologically, in storybook fashion, the adventures of his very own day - events which engrossed him totally because they were his. He'd lived them, first-hand.
Beginning with breakfast and 'Sesame Street', I worked my way through backyard explorations, grocery market excursions, playtime with friends, and mischief with cats. I didn't censor anything, either. If Henry did something dangerous or dreadful, or if I'd scolded him, I mentioned these events, too, but always in an upbeat tone without judgement or rancor.
Almost immediately, an amazing thing happened: Henry stopped squirming! Fascinated by my nightly accounts of his own life, Henry became totally enchanted. Spellbound, he settled down and listened intently, night after night. And if I forgot to mention some little tidbit, he was always quick to chime in and remind me!
Recounting everything - good and bad, naughty and nice - helped to instill within Henry early-on a philosophical sense of perspective. Blunders are a normal part of everyday life - and they do not diminish a parent's love! The trick is to recognize mistakes and learn from them. Henry quickly came up with his own name for our nightly ritual. "Let's talk the nice day, Mommy!" he'd whisper excitedly as bedtime approached. Just hearing his breathless enthusiasm filled my heart with joy.
Looking back, it seems ironic to me that a moment of intense maternal frustration not only led to a heartwarming solution to a problem but helped to create a precious bond between mother and son. Henry and I continued our nightly ritual for three full years which happily, my son's attention span lengthened dramatically. By kindergarten, he was a voracious reader - and a highly imaginative storyteller!
With college and grad school behind him, Henry is off on his own now. But to this day, when one of us happens to mention "the nice day", a secret smile passes between us as fond memories of darkened bedrooms, warming sheets, and quietly lilting words reassure mother and now-grown son that each and every day of one's life is, truly, an adventure to be cherished.
Wendy Hobday Haugh, a freelance writer from Burnt Hills, writes fiction and non-fiction for children and adults.
Tips for a healthier lunch box
Packing a healthy lunch for your children is a great way to get them the nutrients they need to power through the school day. Unfortunately, lunch boxes are often filled with packaged 'convenience' foods like full-calorie soda, chips, and cookies. This can add up to a lot of excess fat, sugar, sodium and calories that may contribute to long-term health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. These extra calories may also make kids sluggish or cranky in the afternoons.
When deciding what to put in your child's lunch box, it's a good idea to include foods from different groups. Focusing on variety not only makes lunches more interesting, but also helps your children enjoy a balanced lunch that will provide the energy and nutrients they need to grow, play, learn and stay healthy.
The basics for a healthy lunch box Try to include: 1. One serving of vegetables or salad and one serving of fruit (fresh, canned or dried can all count). 2. One serving of a low-fat or fat-free milk or dairy item such as a low-fat cheese stick, a yogurt cup, or some cottage cheese. 3. One serving of meat, chicken, fish, eggs, peanut butter, beans or another protein source. 4. A healthy drink such as water or 100 percent juice. Easy, quick ways to pack a balanced healthy lunch with punch!
Healthy sandwiches • Swap the white bread for whole wheat varieties for added boosts of fiber. Whole wheat bread can also be more filling. • If your kids are bored with the traditional sandwich, try whole wheat pita or flatbread/tortilla wraps that you can quickly turn into sandwich swirls. • Switch from bologna, salami, pastrami or corned beef, and other fatty luncheon meats to low-fat alternatives such as lean turkey or chicken breast. • Sneak veggies like lettuce, cucumbers, or shredded cabbage in between slices of lean turkey or ham on a sandwich or in a wrap. • Use peanut butter in moderation: 2 tablespoons (about the size of a ping pong ball) provides about 190 calories and 16 grams of fat. • Try using a thinner layer of peanut butter and substituting jelly with banana or thin apple slices for a healthier spin on an old favorite. • Skip high-fat mayonnaise. Consider a small serving of reduced fat mayonnaise or skip it entirely and try using something with more flavor and fewer calories like mustard instead.
Pack a salad • Make it colorful: start with a base of dark greens then load up on bright veggies such as pepper, cucumbers, tomatoes and carrots. • A salad can be more than just a side item. To make it the main entrée, include a lean protein like hard boiled eggs, beans or grilled chicken. • Pack low-fat or fat-free dressing in a separate container to prevent the whole thing from getting mushy. Kids can drizzle it right on the salad before eating. • If you're not a fan of washing, chopping, and preparing salad, consider making it easier by buying bags of lettuce or precut carrots or make extra salad for dinner and just pack the leftovers for lunch the next day.
Easy entrées • Make a cold pasta salad made from whole wheat noodles leftover from the previous night's dinner--put in a portable container and voila! • Mix plain brown rice with canned beans or shredded lean meat for a high dose of protein and fiber. • Pack hummus with fresh veggies and whole wheat pita triangles or flatbreads for dipping. • Include low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese with carrots, cherry tomatoes, fresh berries, or melon. This makes for a calcium-rich, high-protein lunch.
Healthy drinks • If you pack juice, make sure it's 100% juice. All fruit drinks are required to list the "% juice" on the label. Many juice drinks contain no more than 10% juice and are mixed with a lot of sugar. • Water and low-fat milk are the best drinks for children. They can be frozen to help keep foods in the lunch box cool and will usually be defrosted for drinking by lunch time.
Energy snacks • Swap traditional fried chips for baked potato or corn chips. • Pack salt-free, dry-roasted almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts to provide kids with a dose of heart-healthy essential fatty acids--be sure to cap the serving at ¼ cup since nuts are high in calories. • Try a lowfat or light yogurt in exchange for the full calorie varieties targeted at children. If you'd prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, try packing fat-free plain yogurt mixed with fresh fruit. • Select whole grain granola bars that are low in fat and sugar - take a look at the food label and choose the ones that contain less than 1g of saturated fat per serving and are no more than 35 percent sugar by weight. To figure the percentage of sugar per serving, divide the grams of sugar by the gram weight of one serving and multiply this number by 100. • Aim to make snack treats occasional rather than everyday items. A small serving of animal crackers are lower in fat and sugar than regular cookies, doughnuts, brownies and other baked goods.
Packing a quick lunch when there's no time • Piece together things that don't need any preparation...a whole piece of fruit, a lowfat yogurt, individual packs of baby carrots, and sliced turkey wrapped in a tortilla is a great balanced lunch. • Save time by packing leftover rice, beans, chicken, salad, and other healthy options into lunch containers at dinner time. • If you're looking for pre-packaged lunches, aim for those with no more than a few hundred calories and the least amount of saturated fat, transfat, and sodium.
Family Travel Number one for fun
By Linda McClain, CTA
Thinking about taking the family on a vacation this year? Concerned that tighter security measures translate into longer lines at the airport? Could the thought of more hassles and possible plane delays affect your decision to travel as a family?
Think positively. The American dream of travel is a privilege worthy of passing down to the next generation. It's not just the realization of people and places we can learn about. It's forging memories that last a lifetime. Count to 10. Plan that trip! www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/index.shtm.
2010 commandments of family travel 1. Be realistic about how much you can see and do when traveling with your children. It's much different than traveling solo. 2. Brief your children about your planned destination. Share a movie or story to arouse their curiosity and enthusiasm. 3. Get the family involved by scheduling activities and tours. This is important when traveling with teens. 4. Select a vacation that meets the needs of your family. A river cruise or wine tour could be incredibly discouraging for children. 5. Plan wisely by packing the essentials. What if your child wants to tote toys and electronic devices along? Limit quantities to avoid losing them en route. 6. Be willing to reconsider daily activities. If the kids begin to misbehave, it may be a signal to give them more downtime. 7. Are you prepared if the kids get bored easily? Stash a puzzle book, travel game, music and snacks in a separate bag for an occasional diversion. 8. Never leave your child unsupervised or unattended, even for a minute. 9. Remind your children that their behavior counts. It's important to be polite and respectful when traveling. 10. Bring a couple of nightlights along. If your child awakens during the night, it's reassurance, when in a strange place.
Popular family destinations from Albany, NY Destination-average flight duration each way-best round trip cost, per person, based on travel March 2-9...Taxes additional Orlando, Fla.-3 hours, 15 minutes (nonstop available) $214 Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-3 hours, 10 minutes (nonstop available) $184.18 San Diego, Calif.-7-8 hours...$295.82 Myrtle Beach, S.C.-3 hours, 50 minutes...$226.98 Honolulu, Hawaii-12 hours...$738.97 Nassau, Bahamas-5 ½ hours...$341 Montego Bay, Jamaica-6 and 1/2 hours...$292 Cancun, Mexico-4 hours and 35 minutes... $297 Rome, Italy-9 hours and 52 minutes...$325 Dublin, Ireland-7 hours and 45 minutes...$485
Proper travel documentation A valid United States passport is required for anyone traveling outside the U.S. Please refer to http://www.travel.state.gov or contact the U.S. Postal Service with passport inquiries. If you already hold a U.S. passport, check the expiration date. It must be valid at least six months from the date of return travel, or you may be denied passage. Depending on the destination and airline, remember to consider baggage fees of $15 to $25 per person, per bag, each way. Southwest Airlines does not charge a baggage fee or change/cancel fee.
More family vacations packed with fun Cruise vacations: The convenience and savings of cruising from Cape Liberty, NJ, Port of New York, and Boston, Mass. bring added value to a family vacation. Itineraries from the Northeast sail to the Caribbean, Bermuda and Canada. It's great for those who want to save money on airfare or don't care to fly. Book early for the best rates! Club Med-Fifty percent off second adult or up to two kids stay free: All inclusive, endless sports and activities, gratuities included and more; U.S., Mexico, Caribbean. Go to www.clubmed.com Hyatt Regency Aruba-Reduced rates for April travel; fifth night free, breakfast for two adults and two kids daily or second room for kids 50 percent off. Go to www.aruba.hyatt.com Beaches Resort- An award winning sister company to Sandals Resorts located in both Jamaica and the Caribbean island of Turks and Caicos. Enjoy the luxury all- inclusive vacation of a lifetime. Supervised kids clubs, unlimited x-box games for the older kids and much more. Time intensive promotions come and go quickly. Go to www.beaches.com Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa-Montego Bay, Jamaica Up to two kids, 12 and under, stay, play and eat free when booked in a room with two adults. Go to www.rosehallresort.com
Adventures by Disney-Family group travel concept covering six continents. From Alaska to Australia, Disney will transform a destination into a family adventure. Go to http://www.ABD.Disney.go.com Disney World-When you book a five night Magic Your Way package by March 27, receive a free Disney gift card, valued between $300 to $750. Travel restrictions apply. Go to www.disney.com
Orlando Destination Wide Promotion-Kids Eat Free Card allows children, 11 and under, to eat free at over 100 select restaurants. One card per child, accompanied by a full paying adult. Card is valid for 90 days after first use. Go to www.kidseatfreecard.com Wishing you a great year with your family!
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.
Resistance training for children
By Judith Torel
The new thinking in the fitness world says strength training is a huge benefit, not only for adults, but for our children as well.
Once upon a time, it was believed that resistance exercises should be avoided by pre-pubescent children, because it was thought it would damage their growth plates and stunt musculoskeletal development. Just like the advice, "don't exercise when you are pregnant," has gone the way of the horse and buggy, so now is the thinking for resistance exercise and children.
According to Wayne Wescott, Ph.D., progressive resistance exercise training is the best way to enhance musculoskeletal development in boys and girls. Other experts agree and also believe that resistance training has its greatest influence on bone formation if done in the prepubescent years.
Factor into the scene that today about 15 percent of our youth are obese or overweight, children who are obese have a 70 percent likelihood they will develop obesity as adults, and most overweight children do not enjoy doing cardiovascular exercise because it is uncomfortable and embarrassing for them. You have the perfect storm for choosing resistance training as exercise programming for all children, even if they are not currently overweight!
What is resistance training? There are three main physical benefits from exercise: enhanced cardiovascular capacity, enhanced flexibility, and enhanced muscular strength and endurance. Although we tend to think that one exercise is only one "type," most exercise methods result in multiple benefits. For instance, yoga is primarily thought of as a flexibility exercise, but it also benefits muscular strength and endurance.
Resistance training exercise is typically defined as exercise that uses your body weight and/or additional resistance for the purpose of adding muscle, increasing muscle capacity or decreasing injury risk due to muscle, tendon and ligament weakness or instability. Resistance training exercise started with Nautilus machines, but today it has branched out to an almost unlimited variety of equipment. Strength training equipment includes your own body weight against gravity, selectorized weight equipment in a gym (think Cybex or Body Master), free weights, stretchable tubes and bands, medicine balls, kettlebells, pilates machines, and suspension equipment.
When it comes to resistance training for children, it is better to avoid the typical gym machines adults use. The machines were designed for larger body frames and setting adjustments do not include ranges for small bodies.
One note on resistance training for overweight or obese children: unlike the discomfort and embarrassment often experienced when performing cardiovascular type exercises, overweight or obese children are often able to lift heavier loads then their thinner counterparts. When they perform resistance training activities, not only is it psychologically enhancing for the youth (their self esteem tends to fly!) but it is also impressive to their peers creating a positive socialization experience as well!
The first step in getting anyone, child or adult, to consistently engage in exercise behaviors, is creating an experience making them feel good. Once this is established, it's much easier consistently doing it, and getting the benefits!
Resistance training for children 2-5 Children are not miniature adults. Their bodies are different on a physiological level. For instance, they don't sweat as well as adults, so they have a more difficult time regulating core temperature when exercising in the heat. Psychologically, they differ as well. They do not have the same capacity for attention . Children's exercise needs to be creative and somewhat different from adult exercise.
Children ages 2-5 are learning about their bodies and how to control them within space and time. Engaging in structured but episodic activities is best at this age range. The children are spontaneous, but are not yet able to sustain activity. They will tire out. The best resistance training activities at this age involves weight of the child's own body and gravity more commonly than any added resistance.
These years are also important because they are setting the foundation for behavioral patterns, likes and dislikes for their entire lives. It's also a time of life when the children are most in contact with immediate family, sometimes exclusively. It's very important that parents or primary caregivers are conscious of their own habits with activity and inactivity. Parents may have to push themselves to get off the couch or away from the computer on a daily basis playing home video games or go outside and toss a ball. Children tend to pick up on the behavioral patterns of the people they love at this age in addition to other sources.
Activities suitable for this age range include: free play, catching with objects including bean bags or light play balls, rolling objects, kicking or bouncing or tossing a ball, jumping, hopping, skipping, tricycles, introduction to swimming and home video games or electronic dance board games.
Resistance training for children 6-9 At this age, it is appropriate to introduce additional resistance to body weight movements and exercises. A parent can introduce their child to free weights in the form of light weight dumbbells, barbells, medicine balls, elastic tubes and bands.
I love to see adults with their 6-9 year-old children in the gyms, working with free weights and taking turns doing the exercises. Not only does this reinforce the positive psychological benefits (at this age, going to the gym with dad is amazing to the child and makes him/her feel great and important!), but it also helps the child feel comfortable in the gym environment setting the psychological template for future years and linking it with "feel good" feelings. This is unlike the more common experience of being embarrassed in a gym class during team sports or activities where the child, especially those overweight, are having exercise linked with feeling self conscious and worthless if not picked for a team until last.
Other resistance training activities appropriate for this age include swimming teams, martial arts programs, batting a ball, and obstacle course type activities.
Adults may use music showing children basic exercises including abdominal crunches, push-ups on knees, or arm curls without weights. The child would do the exercise until the adult stops the song.
Resistance training for children 10-16 Children in this age range do well with exercise including goals. Themes are no longer cool and are viewed as babyish. The more adult-like techniques of using sets, reps and increasing resistance loads are appropriate.
Children may engage in structured resistance programs using free weights. Depending on the child's body size, it may also be the time to introduce machine weights in gym settings. A fun way to integrate resistance workouts at home is a game of Rolling Dice Fitness. You need dice, light weights, bands, tubes and/or medicine balls. Set up the game by pre-designing a wall chart that corresponds to the numbers on the dice and links each number with an exercise. For instance, 1=push ups, 2= medicine ball press-ups overhead.
To play the game, partner children and have them take turns rolling the dice. The number on the dice designates which exercise on the chart the child is to perform. The adult or the other child then sets the number of repetitions and the child has to perform that exercise at that repetition number. Then, the children switch with the other partner rolling the dice and setting the number of repetitions. Setting a limit to the repetitions in the 1-20 range is a good idea. Resistance training is a physiologically and psychologically positive activity for children of all sizes, but especially for overweight children who have negative experiences with other types of exercise. As parents, it is important you model positive, healthy activity habits. Your behavior is sets the precedent for your children. Armed with this information, you can now actively participate in the reversal of our children's obesity epidemic for future generations!
Judy Torel is a USAT coach, personal trainer, nutrition consultant and psychotherapist. Her office is located in Planet Fitness, Loudonville. She can be reached at 469.0815 or jtorel2263@yahoo.com.
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History has no bearingtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56792010-02-22T16:38:17Z2010-02-22T16:40:11ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 Not today It's all about value - the value you deliver today, not yesterday, not last year - but today. Employers are continually measuring their return on investment (ROI) in manpower and looking for ways to increase their ROI -- often at the expense of an employee (s). In my practice, I see how employers are making decisions finding and retaining people who can provide the highest value for their dollar spent. When that value diminishes, often so does the person and their job.
In a recent survey, Careerbuilder (www.careerbuilder.com) found 37 percent of employers are planning to replace current employees with new talent in the market now. Reading between the lines, those producing the highest value will stay. The others will go, either voluntarily or involuntarily.
It sounds hard but it is the truth today. Your job as an employee is to determine how your employer measures value (see below) and then put yourself in a role or situation where your value can be measured. Common value measurements that are used in companies: • Impact on revenue (Do you have influence over how revenue is generated?) • Sales Results (You either sell or you don't) • Customer Service Feedback (How do customers evaluate your level of service?) • Teamwork (How does one work as a member of a team?) • Communication (Do you communicate - or not?) • Honesty (Are you perceived trustworthy and honest in what you say?) • Respect (Are you respectful to others - employees, customers, and management?) • Productivity (Do you do the job - plus more?) • Willingness to help others (When it gets busy, do you jump in and help?) • Willingness to take on extra work (and not ask for extra pay) • Cooperation (Are you regarded as being cooperative?) • Overall performance rating (How has your manager rated your performance, if you have a performance review system in place?) • Quality of work performed (Good work of high quality, or work that just gets by) • Commitment (Do you exhibit a commitment to your job, or not?) The list can go on. Determining how your employer measures your value The most critical step is understanding how your employer measures your value as an employee. The best way to find out ... Just ask...It's often that simple!
Many call it defining expectations. It's surprising to hear the number of employees - and employers - who haven't communicated their expectations, ending up in a disconnect. Some feel it is the employer's responsibility to define this - I believe it is your responsibility as well. You should take the lead. After all, it is your responsibility to manage your career success - your employer will likely not do it for you. Next: Align your performance to the value measurement Let's say, for example, communication is one of the important values in your company. Your job will be finding ways to improve the quantity, quality and frequency of the communication you deliver.
The value measurement is customer service feedback. Learn to ask every customer, at the conclusion of a service provided to them, how you did and document it. Not only will you be able to provide a measurement of your results, (value), but you will also see your performance improve.
Last: Ask for feedback Very critical - ask how you are doing. Are you meeting expectations? How can you improve? You might not get solid feedback, but asking questions might impress your employer. Manage your career. Think of yourself as your own company, You Inc. Take control, evaluate yourself continually, and always deliver value in a manner that can be measured.
Dan Moran is president & founder of Next-Act, a career management & transition firm located in Colonie. You can reach him at 641.8968 or dmoran@next-act.com or visit www.next-act.com.]]>
Gardeningtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56782010-02-22T16:34:40Z2010-02-22T16:36:23ZSeed catalogues, seed starting, organic seeds...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Seed catalogues, seed starting, organic seeds
Seed Starting Starting seeds indoors in your own small pots on your own window sill is one of the best ways I know of chasing away the cold winter blues. It's also a great way to grow the disease-resistant tomato varieties that will help you overcome all those blights and wilts that tortured us last summer. Growing exotic varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers, hard to find at most garden centers, are other possibilities.
Seed starting is relatively simple if you have new or sterilized pots, soil-less potting soil, warmth, light and timing. You can use almost any container to grow seeds in. I've had great luck using a seed starting system comprised of a seed starting tray, a greenhouse cover and a stand allowing good drainage. These are available at your favorite local garden center or online from Gardener's Supply in Burlington, Vt. Go to www.gardeners.com. This year, Gardener's Supply features Cowpots, 2 ¾ to 5 inch planting pots made from composted cow manure.
Fill your containers with a soil-less professional germinating mix of sphagnum peat and vermiculite. Sprinkle seeds on top, cover with a very fine layer of potting mix, water until moist with a misting spray bottle, and cover with the plastic greenhouse top or a sheet of clear plastic wrap.
Place the pots or tray in a 65 to 70 degree warm place. Wait for them to germinate. Warmth is more important than light at this time. I find the top of my refrigerator at home is a warm spot. Once the first leaves appear, remove the plastic sheet or cover, and prune out any redundant seeds. Keep the seedlings lightly misted. Then, place in a bright sunny spot that is still warm. A week or two before you plant the seedlings outdoors, take them outside for a few hours a day.
This way, the seedlings will get accustomed to the outdoor climate. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and other warm weather seedlings will not grow well until the soil is warm, usually around Mother's Day or Memorial Day. Backdate your seed starting eight weeks before that, late March to early April.
Seed Catalogues I buy the majority of my seeds online and a few from racks at my favorite garden center. I am particularly fond of Renee's Garden or www.reneesgarden.com, an Alice Waters buddy who features gourmet vegetables, herbs and old-fashioned flowers. This year, Renee is featuring a pretty Double Cosmos 'Rose Bon Bon.' I have also ordered Nasturtium 'Cherries Jubilee,' Nasturtium 'Vanilla Berry,' and Nasturtium 'Empress of India,' along with arugula, basil, chervil 'Rolande' haricot vert, and a few other things.
I was introduced to High Mowing Organic Seeds or www.highmowingseeds.com from Vermont at a National Organic Farming conference where I spoke this year. They are designed to support bigger growers than myself. A one ounce packets of seeds costs $2.75 each. I plan to buy peas, ancho chili peppers, radishes and a few others.
I also recommend, Pinetree Garden Seeds from Maine or www.superseeds.com; Johnny's Selected Seeds from Maine or www.johnnyseeds.com; and Southern Exposure Seeds Exchange from Virginia or www.southernexposure.com. Southern Exposure pioneered seed saving, and were the first ones to carry heirloom seeds in the USA including Radiator Charlie's Mortgage Lifter tomato. Totally Tomatoes or www.totallytomato.com has the most complete list of disease-resistant tomato varieties and heirlooms you can imagine.
Organic Seeds I'm not sure if growing plants from organically raised seeds will yield a better crop of flowers or vegetables for you, but I am going to grow some this year from High Mowing Organic Seeds. According to Horticulture Magazine, "Organic seed is seed harvested from plants that are grown organically. In terms of germination and seedling health, there probably isn't much difference between organic and non-organic seeds.
However, organic seeds represent another way to live an eco-friendly life. Seed producers grow thousands of acres of plants from which they harvest their seeds for sale. Buying organic seeds helps support producers who do not use toxic, persistent pesticides and fertilizers. This becomes more significant when you consider how seed crops generally require more chemical applications than food crops, because the plants must go through their entire life cycle for the seeds to mature, and they are usually left standing even longer so the seeds can dry."
Larry Sombke is a landscape consultant, garden designer and host of the garden blog www.beautifuleasygardens.blogspot.com. He lives and gardens in Delmar. ]]>
Book Reviewtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56772010-02-22T16:14:04Z2010-02-22T16:23:35ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Knitting is undergoing something of a renaissance recently; perhaps, another sign of the aging of the American population? (Only kidding--knitting is rising in popularity especially among young women, who are using the power of the Internet to trade patterns, learn techniques, and share stories.)
In any case, Sweater Quest by Adrienne Martini describes a tale of one woman's attempt to knit an authentic Alice Starmore designed Fair Isle sweater over the course of a year. Alice Starmore is revered among knitters for her famously complicated (and thus difficult) patterns. Adding to the challenge, her earlier pattern books have gone out of print, and her favored brand and colors of yarn are likewise not readily available. Despite this, Martini is determined to proceed with the project. By dividing the book into monthly chapters, the reader is updated on her efforts to obtain the pattern, her wool search, and her efforts teaching herself the technique necessary for knitting a Fair Isle sweater. Reading about what she had to do before beginning to knit the actual sweater dissuaded me from ever trying this at home. Perhaps veteran knitters would consider it a challenge, comparing Mount Everest to mountain climbers. The actual knitting isn't covered in much detail, but there are many digressions: interviews with famous knitters, the importance of the blogosphere in the popularity of knitting, and many explanations for why knitters feel compelled to fiddle with pointy sticks and yarn to make hats, scarves, and sweaters. As a novice knitter, I found Martini's quest fascinating, even if I didn't want to attempt it myself. Adrienne Martini will be in town Sunday, March 21 attending the annual "Knit In" at the Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy and reading from her book. Feel free to drop by, knit, and listen!
Susan Taylor has been in the book business since 1982. ]]>
S'mores Chocalate Moussetag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56762010-02-22T16:12:26Z2010-02-22T16:13:22ZCourtesy of Albany Country ClubChef Deven furman...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Chef Deven furman ]]>
• 24 Graham Crackers • 7 oz. Butter(unsalted) • 18 oz. Chocolate(couverture) • 8 Eggs(separated) • 1/4 cup sugar(granulated) • 5 Gelatin Sheets • 1/4 cup Coffee Liqueur • 26 oz. Heavy Cream • Marshmallow Fluff
1. Line 24 3-inch PVC molds with acetate paper (or parchment paper), place on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. 2. Crush graham cracker to the consistency of sand, melt butter and combine with crushed mixture. 3. Place 2 tablespoons of graham cracker mixture in each mold and thoroughly press down until even. 4. Melt chocolate over a double boiler, set aside. 5. Whip heavy cream to a medium peak and set aside. 6. Submerge gelatin sheets in cold water until soft. Gently remove from water disgarding all excess moisture. Place gelatin in a bowl and microwave to a liquid form, then immediately add coffee liqueur and set aside. 7. Whip egg yolks and sugar over double boiler to the ribbon stage, remove from heat and whisk in gelatin mixture. 8. Fold yolk/gelatin mixture into chocolate. 9. Fold whipped cream into chocolate mixture. 10. Place mousse in a pastry bag and fill PVC molds to the top and freeze overnight to set. 11. Pull molds from the freezer, push out from the bottom up, remove acetate paper, place under refrigeration. 12. Fill a pastry bag with marshmallow fluff, pipe a small amount on top of the mousse, brulée gently and serve. ]]>
Zaikatag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56752010-02-22T15:52:28Z2010-02-22T15:54:07ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Service 9 • Food 8 • Ambiance 9 • Price - $$$
After doing some research, I learned that "Zaika" means "taste" or "full of flavor." I was optimistic that this was a good omen for my first visit to the Clifton Park restaurant - but, let's be honest here, Zaika could have easily been named "place where Indian food is served" and I'd be excited to review it.
The adventure began when my dining companion, Peter, and I approached Zaika, housed in a square, wooden building, located right behind Clifton Country Mall. The large outdoor tiki-style bar threw me. As soon as we walked inside, the familiar comforting aromas and draped fabric décor I generally associate with Indian restaurants, surrounded us.
We had reservations, a good thing, because on this Saturday evening the place was hopping. Warmly welcomed by the hostess, we were immediately led to a table on the perimeter of the circular dining room, one of two dining rooms in the restaurant. As soon as we were seated, we were handed menus. A basket of Papadum, a crispy flatbread typically served as a meal accompaniment, along with a tamarind chutney and a refreshing Raita sauce made from yogurt and fresh herbs.
As we munched on our condiment-drenched Papadum I took in the surroundings. The circular shape of the room was unique, and seemed to create a communal environment, both cozy and comfortable. Even though the room was full of diners, the draped fabric walls provided a level of sound proofing, providing both a functional and aesthetic element.
I ordered a house Pinot Grigio, light and crisp, and a good way to cut through any rich and spicy foods to come. Peter decided to go authentic by ordering a Taj Mahal, a refreshing lager-style beer brewed in India.
Realizing we could easily fill up on bread alone, we decided to share the Pakora appetizer, ($4.50), a selection of eggplant, cauliflower, onions and potatoes, coated in a chickpea flour, then deep-fried. Our server brought them out quickly, disappearing almost as fast. The generous portion was piping hot and well prepared, both tender and a little crunchy, not heavy or oily. Dipped in the spicy and sweet tamarind chutney, the Pakora proved to be an enjoyable introduction to the menu.
Zaika's menu leans a little more toward Northern Indian cuisine, less spicy and not unlike Pakistani cuisine, features more dairy and meat than Southern Indian cuisine. However, both regions were represented on the menu, in the form of curries, tandoori dishes, kebabs and a generous selection of vegetarian entrees.
One thing was clear, the choice would be a tough one. I opted for the Fish Curry ($17.50) featuring breaded and fried cod fillets in a rich curry sauce, served with basmati rice. I've never had a seafood curry, so I eagerly awaited my dinner. Also, have too often experienced the inclination of some Indian restaurants chefs to tone down the spice level accommodating Western palates. Because of this, I wanted to assure our server that this would not be necessary: "Bring on the spice!" I wanted to say. However, I forgot. I know, now you've lost all confidence in me as an eating professional. I'm happy to report that when my meal did arrive, the chef did not compromise the authenticity of the dish by adjusting the spice level. The intensely flavored curry was brimming with turmeric, cumin, coriander and plenty of red pepper, resulting in just the right amount of "kick." The fish was tender, flaky and mild, a nice foil to the assertive sauce. It took all of my self-control not to lick the bowl; however, if I was dining alone, I can't promise it would not have happened.
Peter decided on one of the vegetarian dishes, Kadai Paneer ($12.50), Indian cheese cooked with spices, peppers, onions, also served with basmati rice. "Paneer" is one of the few types of cheese indigenous to India. Mild and creamy, the cheese takes on the flavor of whatever it is being cooked with, not unlike tofu. I was skeptical about trying this dish, but it turned out to be so exceptional, I would order it for myself in the future. It was full of contrasting textures and flavors; both sweet and spicy, full of crunchy onions and peppers and cubes of soft, silky cheese. Peter would have to guard his dish closely the rest of the night.
We accompanied our dinners with the obligatory, (at least in my book), side of Naan, ($2.50). There were several varieties offered, including Tikka Naan, stuffed with chicken tikka, but to best complement the complex flavors in our dinners, we ordered traditional plain Naan. It was slightly crispy on one side and soft on the other, brushed with melted butter, with a toasty flavor that comes from baking it in a hot tandoor oven.
For dessert, we shared the Mango Lassi ($3.75), a blended fruit and yogurt drink, similar to a smoothie. Unsweetened varieties typically accompany a meal, but we thought this sweet variety would be a pleasant way to end a hearty, spicy meal. Our server brought out the lassi in a large glass with two straws, a nice touch. It was cool, rich and fruity. We gave it our best shot, but could sadly only finish half of it. This was not a reflection on the drink, just a tribute to the rest of the satisfying meal.
At the end of the evening, my overall impression of Zaika was very favorable. The staff was attentive and eager to please, the atmosphere was cheerful and friendly, and best of all, the food was authentic and true to its name--full of flavor.
The total cost for one glass of wine, one beer, one appetizer, two entrees, a side dish and one dessert (excluding tax and tip) was a very reasonable $57.
Zaika is located at 54 Clifton Country Road in Clifton Park. Dinner hours are Mon - Sat: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 688.1548 or 817.3953 go to www.zaika-anindianrestaurant.com.
Christina DeMers is an online marketing manager, food blogger and amateur cook who lives in East Greenbush, but eats just about anywhere. ]]>
Sun Sign Forecasttag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56742010-02-22T15:44:05Z2010-02-22T15:50:08ZBest Days for March 2010: 4th, 14th and 19th. To trim those winter pounds, begin a diet on March 29th...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
To trim those winter pounds, begin a diet on March 29th
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Spirituality, inner peace and self-analysis are favored for this month. You look back, attempt to correct past mistakes, and pay old debts. The Full Moon at the end of the month indicates changes in your relationships. You learn about yourself through these partnerships and compromise forming happier and deeper bonds.
Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Friends, group associations and long-term goals are the highlight for this month. You attend social events and enjoy meeting new people with humanitarian interests. Co-workers are more cooperative after the Full Moon at the end of the month. You work to improve your physical condition through a new diet or exercise regimen.
Gemini : (May 21 to June 20) Status, recognition and career are favored for this month. This is a time when you can present an idea in your career area, or the equivalent, or receive recognition for a job well-done. The Full Moon at the end of the month finds you using your creative talents. You also look for new projects and ways to have fun with loved ones and children.
Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Foreign travels, intellectual studies and spirituality are the focus for this month. Begin making plans to go to one of those faraway places that you have always wanted to visit. You become more involved with family matters after the Full Moon at the end of the month. This is a time when you can resolve old matters and situations.
Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Joint assets, property and personal possessions are featured this month. You can reach an agreement with others concerning business matters and resolving old debts. The Full Moon at the end of the month brings a new interest in your neighborhood and community. You work with others to help those who are less fortunate than yourself.
Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) Partnerships, both business and personal, and relating to others are favored this month. You can learn much about yourself through your relationships with those closest to you. Changes in the way you handle your finances and personal possessions can occur after the Full Moon at the end of the month. You will budget more carefully.
Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Work, health and competence are highlighted this month. You look for both physical and technical efficiency. You research new diet and exercise programs. The Full Moon at the end of the month focuses on you and your appearance. This is the time to buy a few new outfits, or try a new hairstyle.
Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) Loved ones, children, and your social life are favored for this month. You find pleasure in fun things you do with these people. You also feel creative, and may begin a new project. The Full Moon at the end of the month brings a desire for spiritual attunement. You search out harmony in your life and explore your inner-self.
Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) Home life, family and its history are favored this month. You attend and enjoy family events, resolving any outstanding issues to everyone's satisfaction. You review your goals and long-term directions after the Full Moon at the end of the month. Friends ask for your help and you find yourself becoming involved with their projects.
Capricorn: December 22 to January 19) Siblings, communication and knowledge are highlighted this month. You want to study, learn and teach. Classes and workshops become inviting. Begin to study some interesting topic. The Full Moon at the end of the month brings recognition for a job well-done. You feel a burst of self-confidence.
Aquarius: (January 20 to February 18) Self-esteem, money and personal possessions are favored this month. You rethink your budgeting and spending habits, making any necessary changes. Your values also become important to you. You are interested in intellectual studies including the law, philosophy and foreign cultures after the Full Moon at the end of the month.
Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Self-expression, appearance and personality are favored this month. This is your month 'to shine.' If you need to sell an idea or make a point, do it now. The Full Moon at the end of the month denotes changes in jointly-held money and property including marital assets. This is the time you can agree and settle old debts.
Arlene is an author, astrologer and para-consultant and has studied and worked with astrology for more than 35 years. ]]>
Parenthoodtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.56732010-02-22T15:33:27Z2010-02-22T15:41:29ZIf a thief broke into my house, he or she would find very little worth stealing. I mean, sure there are a couple of TVs and this computer I'm typing on right now, but not enough to buy a one-way...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
If a thief broke into my house, he or she would find very little worth stealing. I mean, sure there are a couple of TVs and this computer I'm typing on right now, but not enough to buy a one-way ticket anywhere.
The theme of the magazine this month is 'Parenting'. Having three fabulous children, I can tell you it is, without a doubt, the most rewarding job on the planet. Of course, it's not all butterflies and biscuits, so I thought it might be fun to pass along a few of the things I've learned along the way to some of the newer or expecting parents out there. I offer these insights in no particular order.
The best book to buy before the baby arrives is What To Expect When You're Expecting. It tells you what's happening in your tummy every step of the way. Once they pop out, you're on your own.
Buy baby powder, lots of baby powder. You can never have too much.
Everyone will give you gorgeous outfits for your infant. Tell a few friends you need size 6-9 months. You will thank me later.
Picking a name is almost as hard as labor (said the man who never experienced it) and you will go back and forth a hundred times. Do not, I repeat, do not share your choices with anyone because one of two things will happen: family and friends will try to talk you out of your name choice, or worse yet, a pregnant friend will steal your name. Think I'm kidding? My name is supposed to be Matthew.
When it's time to have the baby, this is not a democracy, and the mother-to-be makes all the decisions. She will choose who gets to be in the delivery room. Period. Note to the father-to-be: this is not halftime at the Cowboys game and you are not a cheerleader. Do not utter the phrases, "You can do it," "You're doing great," and especially, "One more push." When we men have to pass a watermelon through our little wee wee, we will be in a position to understand what's going on and speak. Until that day, silence is golden. Do not attempt to put the crib together by yourself; you need at least six hands and an engineering degree.
Purchase a really good baby swing; it will be the best $100 you've ever spent. The day the baby comes home, turn the ringer on the phone OFF. Do not turn it back on until the child is in high school. Nothing wakes a sleeping baby quicker than a phone ringing. Get HBO because you will be up at 4am begging this child to sleep and there's nothing on regular TV at that hour.
When the baby naps, you nap. The laundry can wait.
Don't ask other parents when their kids started crawling, standing, walking or talking. Your baby will do those things when they feel like it. Trust me, they all catch up with each other before their second birthday party at Hoffman's Playland.
Bill Cosby was right; cake is a proper substitute for breakfast. Eggs, milk, butter, it's practically health food.
Don't ever buy your child candy at the supermarket checkout. Do it once and you do it forever. If you're at the playground and see your child and another kid fighting over a toy; your child had it first.
Kids go to school to catch colds. They come home to give them to you. When you sit down at a restaurant, tell the waitress she has exactly 37 minutes to complete the entire meal. Studies have shown that at precisely 38 minutes and 12 seconds, every child under three will change into a werewolf, and you don't want to be in the restaurant when that happens.
If they give your child four crayons at the restaurant, two will be broken and the other two will roll under the table.
If you're broke, take your child to the pet store. They don't have lions and tigers and bears (oh my), but they do have kittens and fishes and lizards. Every child thinks lizards are cool. That's why so many of us adults have switched to Geico.
If you find a good babysitter, pay her twice what she is worth and do NOT tell your friends. Have we learned nothing from the name "Matthew"? Grandparents can spoil your children, even when they are bold. Those are the rules.
Kids love being read too even when they pretend they don't. All boys love playing catch. All girls love playing dress up.
Siblings fight. It's there way of showing love. Stop yelling at them, just turn up the car radio. Oh, and if you're in the car, the phrase, "Don't make me come back there" only works if you actually go back there.
There is ABC gum hidden in your furniture as we speak. Milk tastes better from the carton and kids leave the lights on because electricity is free. Just ask them. High school is hard, peer pressure worse than when you were young and they really do need a cell phone.
Despite all appearances, they really are listening to you and paying attention to everything you do. Your conduct will shape their future. Just don't dance. They really do hate it when you dance.
And of course, because they are children, they do possess magic. Case in point, my son Jackson. One day when I was broke, he asked me to get him something. I searched the yard and found a common stick. After handing it to him, he told me it was a magic wand, pointed it at me and said, "You're a cow." I proceeded to moo. Then I was a dog, a pig, a horse and so on. When the game was done, he got a mischievous look on his face, then snapped the stick in two. Handing me half, he said, "Now you have magic too." Little did he know I found magic the day he, his brother and sister came into my life.
One last thing. Kids may clamor at the store for shiny things, but what they really want is you. Put simply - give them presence not presents.
John Gray is a Fox23 News anchor and contributing writer at the Troy Record. He can be reached at johngray@fox23news.com ]]>
Locally Owned Businesstag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.55182010-01-26T14:41:13Z2010-02-22T21:29:14ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39Delmar 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.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? My uncle John Abele was a dentist. And my father Harold Abele was a dental laboratory technician, who owned his own dental laboratory. These two family members inspired me to pursue a career as a dentist. I am very thankful I made that choice. For the past 25 years my father worked with me in our dental laboratory as the senior laboratory technician.
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 ensure 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 their dental treatment performed. 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.
Hours: Monday & Wednesday 8am-4:30pm (lunch from 12:30pm-2pm), Tuesday & Thursday 7am-2:30pm (no lunch).
Farrell Brothers Inc.- Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning 6 Simmons Lane, Albany 462.5454; farrellbrothers.com
Owner: Randy L. Rowe
How long have you been in business? Established 1921.
Describe your business: We are a full-service plumbing, heating and air conditioning business specializing in residential repair and replacement. We service over 10,000 households in the greater Capital Region area from changing a washer on your faucet to installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system in your home.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? I joined Farrell Brothers right out of college and came on board as general manager to oversee the retail store and increase sales in the service end of the business and diversify our product offerings.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our company promotes our "Same day Service" abilities and customer satisfaction. We also offer a flat rate pricing formula that lets our customers know what the cost of their repairs are going to be before we do the work. We also like to educate our customers about savings that may be available to them such as the $1,500 tax credits available for energy efficient improvements and National Grid rebates and rebates available from the manufactures that we represent.
Hours: Our service department is available 24- hours per day 365 days per year.
CNY Healing Arts & Fusion Medspa Fusion Spa, 38A Old Sparrowbush Road, Latham. 250.5758; www.fusionspaofalbany.com
Owners: Rob Kiltz, MD, Hania Stawowy, MD, & David Kimble, MD
How long have you been in business? We are nearing the end of our 3rd year.
Describe your business: Spa setting that has integrated Eastern medicine (i.e. acupuncture, therapeutic massage) and Western medicine (i.e. Botox, laser treatments) dedicated to improving health and wellness. The beautifully-appointed spa is nearly 10,000 sq. ft. with numerous fireplaces, resting areas and saunas that create the perfect environment for ultimate relaxation. Our list of services include: Botox, Juvederm, fillers, laser hair reduction, laser vein treatment, IPL for sun damage and facial rejuvenation, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, acne treatments, nail studio for manicures and pedicures, massage, acupuncture, and yoga. Jane Iredale mineral make-up, skin care products, and spa accessories are available in the spa boutique.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? By the request of the patients in our medical practice. It was a culmination of years of research and international travel to determine the most effective modalities available to offer our clients the best possible treatments and services in an environment only found in destination spas.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our vast array of services, exquisite spa environment, highly-skilled physicians performing all aesthetic services, a flawlessly-attentive staff, and a true love for the healing arts. Thinking outside the box is how we have become the spa of choice for the entire area. Clients travel from Canada and NYC to take advantage of the spa services. The best part is that we truly have only just begun.
Hours: Open daily, closed Sunday.
Holiday Inn Express-Albany University Area 1442 Western Avenue, Albany 438.0001; www.expressalbany.com
Owner: Michael C. Hoffman, president Turf Hotels
How long have you been in business? 35 years
How did you become involved in the business/industry? Michael Hoffman graduated from Clarkson College with a degree in Industrial Distribution. He began his lodging industry career in 1975, when he and his family opened a 202-room Best Western hotel. Soon after the hotel's opening, Hoffman became the hotel's general manager and in 1987 was responsible for the conversion of the hotel to the Holiday Inn brand.
What sets you apart from competitors? Michael Hoffman describes himself as a simple guy; to him quality is everything. He believes that an owner's job is to operate hotels that deliver a consistent, quality product and service and to deliver a quality guest experience. He believes that owners need to look at their property, as well as their competition, and ask themselves where they would stay if they were a first-time visitor to that market. Towards this end, a few short years ago, Michael visited competitive hotels of all brands in a 100-mile radius of his home in Loudonville. He drove over 1,000 miles in 3.5 days and visited a variety of hotels. He confirmed his belief that it is not necessarily the age or newness of a hotel that makes it great, but that owner involvement is what it takes to make a great hotel.
Joyelles Jewelers Main Square Shoppes - Suite 12 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 439.9993; www.joyellesjewelers.com
Owner: Mary Vail (second from left)
How long have you been in business? It will be 20 years in June.
Describe your business: Retail jewelry sales, repair and custom design.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? I chose Skidmore for their jewelry design department and continued graduate classes at Indiana University and through the Gemological Institute of America.
What sets you apart from competitors? The close-knit staff is like family; we work well together and care about each and every customer. We have a state-of-the-art laser welder that allows us to do jobs others can't. We keep prices pretty competitive because we're a small business.
Overhead Door Co. of Albany, Inc. 15 Corporate Drive, Clifton Park 348.0444
Owner: David Ripley
How long have you been in business? Overhead Door Co. of Albany has professionally served the Capital District with an office, showroom, parts department and warehouse in the area since 1989. We have created a solid foundation that the community has come to know and trust.
Describe your business: Overhead Door Co. of Albany, Inc. is a proud distributor for Overhead Door Corporation, the company responsible for pioneering the garage door and opener industry. Overhead Door developed the first upward acting sectional garage door in 1921 and the first electric door opener in 1926. That innovation continues today with a commitment to an ongoing research and development program that continually introduces new, high quality products for residential and commercial applications.
We are a team of professionals consistently providing quality, garage door products, superior workmanship and exceptional customer service to our valued customers.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? I served 20 years in the United States Air Force - the first 10 years as a maintenance specialist and a quality control inspector, the last 10 years in recruiting and supervising the Northeastern part of NY State Recruiting Service. The Overhead Door business fit like a glove. I was able to apply my mechanical and sales skills while also still doing what I enjoyed.
What sets you apart from competitors? Our professionalism and customer satisfaction. We are willing to go the extra mile and provide you with our personal attention from your first contact with us to our prompt response and thorough follow-up.
Wolf's 1-11 Restaurant & Games 111 Wolf Road, Albany 275.0561; www.wolfs111.com
Owner: Mike Diraddo
How long have you been in business? 3 months Describe your business: Wolf's 1-11 Restaurant and Games is three experiences all under one roof! Our sports bar has 30 HD TVs along with a 100-inch HD projection screen with surround sound and leather couches. Our fully-stocked bar offers a variety of 30 beers on tap and a large bottled beer selection. We offer an extensive menu of chicken wings, juicy burgers and steamed clams, to name a few favorites. Our friendly staff and service make the sports bar at the perfect place to enjoy your favorite sporting event. (Many of the pay-per-view sports packages are available.) Our elegant dining room is a great place to bring someone special for a quiet dinner. We offer sizzling steaks, robust ribs, seafood and pastas and a 50-bottle wine list. And there is our "million dollar" game room, which has something for all ages from the newest in video games to the always popular ticket redemption games. Wolf's 1-11 can also service parties and meetings of all sizes in our private room.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? I have been in the restaurant industry for over 20 years working for corporations in many capacities. It seemed like the right time to start my own venture with Wolf's 1-11.
What sets you apart from competitors? We offer something for everyone!
Hours: Restaurant: Sunday-Thursday: 11:30am-10pm; late night menu from 10pm-11pm. Bar open until midnight. Friday & Saturday 11:30am-11am; late night menu from 11pm-midnight. Bar open until 2am.
Capital Region Living Magazine 420 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar 475.9250; www.crlmag.com
How long have you been in business? 7 years
Describe your business: CRL is the leading life & leisure magazine in the Capital Region. We serve the counties of Albany, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Columbia, Fulton, Montgomery, Washington and parts of Warren. Each issue contains regular columns such as fitness, parenting, career, travel, food and book reviews and much more.
How did you become involved in the business/industry? We recognized the need for an independent voice in the community.
What sets you apart from competitors? We are the most distributed full-color glossy, complimentary publication in the area and can be found everywhere our readers shop, eat and are entertained. Our history proves our commitment to partnering with the area's locally owned businesses by promoting them in our magazine and supporting things that are important to them. We are also totally committed and very generous with our capital region non-profits.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm. And whenever there is an event we can support (many evening and weekend hours).
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Home Improvementtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.55162010-01-25T20:36:28Z2010-02-22T21:30:04ZDo it yourself or call the pros?...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Do it yourself or call the pros?
Home improvement experts recommend that you ask yourself these questions:
• Do I really have the skills and knowledge to take on this project? You may be able to install a light fixture, but that doesn't mean you can put up drywall if you've never done it before.
• Can I do a quality job? Some projects require more skill and experience than others. Make sure you feel confident in your ability to do a job you can be proud of. Poor quality work not only detracts from the look of a home, it can actually hurt the value.
• Do I have the time to do this? Experts recommend that DIYers double the amount of time a project is supposed to take. Do you have that kind of time to invest?
• Will I actually finish the project? Many homeowners start a project with great enthusiasm. But as time goes on and problems arise, the project gets overwhelming and often gets left unfinished.
• Can I do this by myself? If your project calls for more than one person, do you have a ready assistant who has the time and the skills to help?
• If the project requires permits, can I get them on my own? Some projects - or parts of projects - may require building permits. Call your local building authority to find out exactly what permits are required and how to get them. They can also tell you which aspects of the project require a licensed professional.
• Do I have the right tools? If not, can you borrow or rent them at a reasonable rate? Trying to make-do with the wrong tools will hurt the quality of your project, and could hurt you.
• What's the real cost of doing it myself? It's about more than just the supplies on a project list. Take into consideration things like gloves, safety goggles, tools you don't own and your time. You may also want to figure in the damage factor - what it costs to do things over or repair damage done in the process. Will it really save you money?
• Is it safe for me to do this? Lack of knowledge, experience and the right safety equipment can raise the risk of injury. If your home is older, it might contain hazardous materials like asbestos or lead-based paint. You should always have a professional do that kind of removal work.
Cosmetic changes such as painting, putting up wallpaper or paneling, and installing flooring are ideal DIY projects - if you can answer yes to most of these questions. But structural changes - foundation or system changes, major framing - are best left to the pros.
nd if you answer no to most of these questions, call a professional. The money you spend on expert help will save you time, hassle, money and regret in the long run. Courtesy of Family Features
Hidden danger Carbon monoxide poisoning By Marci Natale
It sneaks into our homes silently. It has no odor or color, but it's toxic. Carbon monoxide is a gas released when fuel is burned. As long as the house is vented properly, there should be no problems, but in the winter months when people are cranking up the heat and have sealed off cold air, there can be problems.
Dale Lingenfelter, chief of Niskayuna Fire District 1, said they respond to dozens of calls during the wintertime relating to carbon monoxide poisoning.
"I was in a home once where all the return air ducts, cold air ducts, were blocked and there was also an issue with the furnace. When we arrived, carbon monoxide levels were at 400-500 parts per million (ppm)." Typically levels should read zero.
In your home, carbon monoxide is found in a variety of things including: furnaces, wood stoves, gas stoves, space heaters, clothes dryers, charcoal grills, generators, vehicles and cigarette smoke.
"When the winter season hits, you should generally have your furnace and all fuel burning appliances inspected and maintained."
"If there's internal damage to your heat chamber then carbon monoxide can escape through that chamber and instead of going up through the chimney, it will go through your house," said Lingenfelter.
In taking precautions to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, a wood stove is considered safer than gas fireplaces.
"With a wood stove you would smell the resins and creosote in the wood. You can't smell burned gas in the combustion process," said Carm DePalma of CR Gas Logs and Fireplaces in Voorheesville.
"But, if people have their gas fireplaces inspected on a regular basis and check for any leakage, you're pretty much good to go."
When carbon monoxide builds up in a house, it can quickly put residents' and pets' lives in danger. By breathing in the gas, oxygen is not being transported to the body's cells. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it's difficult to know you're being exposed to it. At low levels, symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can mimic the flu. You may also experience a headache, nausea and dizziness.
Lingenfelter warned, "If you find yourself having these symptoms at home and not having them when you leave home, it could be an indicator, but the best way to know for sure is to have a carbon monoxide detector in the house."
Linda Dunn of Colonie thanks her brother for giving her a detector. "If my brother hadn't given that to me, we all would have been dead." Two days before Thanksgiving in 2007, Dunn and her family were sleeping when she heard the detector go off.
"I unplugged it and put it in a different place and it didn't go off, so I went back to bed. Ten minutes later it went off again, and I went and got my daughter." She called 911 and was told to get out of the house right away. "We had a hard time waking my sister up. The fire department had to give her oxygen."
As a result, her sister was in the hospital for a week as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Dunn had to get a new furnace and checks her CO detector everyday to make sure it's working.
Another way to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is by purchasing an EdenPure heater. The portable heaters contain a quartz infrared heating system that never reaches a temperature hot enough to start a fire. Traditional heating sources remove oxygen from a room which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, but the EdenPure does not.
Mary Muckle, owner of Rehm-Brandt's Design in Bennington, VT, sells this brand of heater in her store and has eight in her house.
"My furnace has been dead for two years," she said. "EdenPure is a must in your home if you want to save money and avoid any hazards, like carbon monoxide poisoning."
Plumbers also recommend that any fuel-burning appliance in the home is well-vented. Randy Rowe, of Farrell Brother's in Menands, pointed out that newer heating systems and hot water heaters have safety switches which detect backflow and will shut down the unit immediately. He recommends that older units without the safety switches are inspected and maintained regularly.
"In the winter months, many of the outside vents get covered with snow, so it's a good idea to walk around the house and make sure the snow is not blocking the vents," said Rowe. Whether its furnace maintenance, a carbon monoxide detector or an EdenPure heater, fire officials recommend you take precautions, because carbon monoxide poisoning is a deadly concern this time of year. The Centers for Disease Controls (CDC) has provided a list of tips to stay safe this winter season:
• Do have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Do install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
• Do seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed or nauseous.
• Don't use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement or garage or near a window.
• Don't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
• Don't burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn't vented.
• Don't heat your house with a gas oven.
Succeeding in the age of the big box store The recently opened Pfeil's Hardware in Troy faring well despite the economy and competition
By Mary Beth Galarneau
It takes incredible risk and a leap of faith to decide to open a business in the middle of a recession. But, husband and wife team Deane and Jeff Pfeil took that leap when they opened their hardware store, Pfeil Hardware, in Troy this past September. And, so far...it's paid off. The couple has been a fixture in the Capital Region real estate scene since the late 1980s, when they founded Pfeil & Company, a business focused on retail leasing, commercial and multi-family development, construction consultation and, most notably, the adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Two examples of their commitment to the reuse of historic buildings can be found in Troy, where the couple has become pioneers of sorts, purchasing and successfully converting two historic buildings into luxury apartments. The launch of Powers Park Lofts in Lansingburgh in 2007 marked the first high-end loft apartments located in a former textile factory in the Capital Region.
Most recently, the couple rehabbed the former Stanley's Department store at the corner of State and Third in downtown Troy. Built in 1903, the vacant building, renamed The Conservatory, houses 19 luxury apartments. Some amenities include washers/dryers, gas fireplaces, gourmet kitchens, high-speed Internet and cable services. Something else tenants can enjoy is the convenience of having a retail store on the first level. Or, to be more specific, a hardware store.
The Pfeil's originally had been trying to lease the space currently housing the hardware store, but weren't happy with the prospects coming in. "We wanted to put in a quality, sustainable retail store that would really work and fill a need in downtown Troy," said Deane.
Upon the closing of nearby Trojan Hardware on Congress Street in 2009 - an institution in the city for 94 years - the couple sensed a need for a hardware store, especially since they found themselves driving to Latham to shop at the big box stores every time they needed something. "From our standpoint, a hardware store was a great niche to fill," Deane said of their 8,700 sq. ft. store. "It's a useful store, and has things people need."
Unlike some hardware stores, the couple decided to concentrate on the housewares stock - things like wine glasses, place mats, Caldrea cleaning products - which not only are appealing for their upstairs tenants, but convenient for those around the city who don't want to travel far for these items. As Deane said, "we wanted the people in downtown Troy to come here to get what they needed." In other words, why travel across the river for what you can find in your own backyard? To add to its appeal, the store also features a small gift department carrying hostess gifts under $50.
But, despite the feminine touches, the store doesn't forsake its' hardware store feel. It carries a line of Benjamin Moore paints, including the new green line of paints, and they have an extensive plumbing and heating section, which they have been steadily adding to because, as Deane observes, "[Troy] is an old city with lots of old pipes and systems breaking all the time." The store attracts a wide variety of people, from residents, contractors, and plumbers to landlords and even RPI students. In fact, to take advantage of the student market, the store specifically stocks materials an engineering student would need, such as bass and balsa woods, foam core boards, metal rods, tubes, sheets, dowel rods and electronic fuses. But the Pfeil's would be the first to admit that they don't do it alone. In their employ is a staff of eight, including a manager who has 25 years experience managing hardware stores. And, according to Deane, the manager is still teaching them things about hardware.
"He lives and breathes hardware," she said. "He [the manager] knows every item in the store and how to use them." That kind of expertise comes in especially handy when a customer comes into the store asking for an item that he can't readily identify except by gesturing to some nondescript thing he has clutched in his hand.
To keep up with the big box competitors, the Pfeil's keep their prices competitive, offer great customer service and promote their wares as much as possible.
"We're still tinkering with price points," she said, adding that while they usually follow the pricing of their competitors, they can often offer better deals than the big stores.
Luckily for the Pfeil's, industry research shows that hardware stores actually fare pretty well during a recession, since most people are doing repairs themselves.
"That's not to say they haven't gone down a little, but the good ones withstood this quite well," said Deane.
The Pfeil's are proof that you can still succeed, even during these tough economic times. "We're very pleased. We have a nice, clearly defined market in downtown Troy," said Deane. "Bit by bit people are finding us and I hope they're pleasantly surprised."
Pfeil Hardware is located at 63 Third Street, the corner of State and Third in downtown Troy. For more information visit www.pfeilhardware.com.
Dramatically update your kitchen in six hours or less with six projects With the amount of time you spend in your kitchen, why settle for out-of-date features and decor - especially since it is easy to give your kitchen a 180-degree makeover? Try these six simple projects, and in no time at all you'll have a kitchen where you will want to spend more time.
Home sweet kitchen One of the easiest ways to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting is with updated lighting. And, luckily it can be an easy and quick project with the many conversion kits and lighting fixtures available today. Start by swapping any cold and unstylish fluorescent tube lighting with more decorative chandeliers or flush-mount lighting to flood your kitchen with ambient light. Next, fill in shadowy areas - or highlight objects you admire - with spot lights, such as recessed cans or dangling pendant lamps. Soon your kitchen - and your mood - will be glowing. Time: Two to six hours depending on the number of fixtures.
Update your sink with an eco-friendly faucet When it comes to your kitchen faucet, you may think - it's not broke, why fix it? But as a workhorse and focal point of your kitchen, that shouldn't be the case. Instead, update your faucet with a functional, stylish and environmentally friendly model. Available at Lowe's, options such as Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance kitchen faucets from Moen offer pullout/pulldown functionality with three unique settings - eco-performance stream or spray for tasks like washing dishes that require a constant, yet low-water flow, or a full-flow option when filling a pot or pitcher. This simple kitchen update can yield up to a 32 percent water savings - while also adding exquisite styling in to your kitchen. For more information about the Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance faucets from Moen, visit moen.com or call (800) BUY-MOEN (800.289.6636). Time: Ninety minutes.
Shortage of storage With so many gadgets, appliances and food, kitchen storage can quickly become sparse. Start by organizing your current storage, purging any items that you haven't used in years. Next, if you have room, add a kitchen island or additional cabinets to provide more storage and work room. Or, if space or cash is limited, search your local flea market or online at Craigslist.com for alternative options, like a vintage china cabinet or an antique overhead pot rack to house all your necessities and reduce clutter. Time: Six hours.
Add sass with a backsplash Tired of cleaning food or grease splashes from your kitchen walls? Spruce up drab or dirty-looking kitchen walls with a dynamic backsplash on walls near the sink or stove top. Hundreds of styles, textures and patterns can increase the sophistication in your kitchen and make it easier to clean. Plus, with step-by-step video instructions on how to apply the tiles available at Lowe's Creative Ideas website it's as easy as one, two, three. Time: Six hours.
Getting a new grip on cabinets Over time, cabinets made of wood or metal materials can deteriorate if they're not properly maintained, making your kitchen look run-down or aged. Cleaning your cabinets with soap and water, then polishing, is the best way to make them look new again. To combat grime, fingerprints and other messy substances, apply cabinet cleaner such as Liquid Gold to a cloth and buff cabinets until they shine. Replacing old handles and hardware on your cabinets with a new stylish design and finish to match your new faucet will add the final polished look to your kitchen. Time: Two to five hours depending on the number of cabinets.
Advance the technology Don't limit your technology to your phone and your TV - transform your kitchen with innovative appliances. Whether it's a microwave that fits in a drawer, a refrigerator with a TV, an oven that you can program or a customized wine and beverage cooler, adding new upscale appliances can take enjoyment in your kitchen to a whole new level. However, if these high-end appliances are out of your budget, upgrade your current appliances with new energy-efficient models in the latest finishes. Time: Two hours shopping plus waiting on deliveries. In no time at all you can easily turn your kitchen from drab to fab with just a few simple projects. Courtesy of ARA content
Wood is looking good this winter With winter rapidly on its way, the government is asking you to think about cost-effective and environmentally responsible ways to heat your home. In fact, it is encouraging eco- and cost-conscious families to consider efficient wood stoves or inserts by offering a 30 percent tax credit, up to $1,500, for the purchase of a 75 percent efficient biomass-burning stove in 2009 and 2010.
With the government behind this national movement from foreign oil to renewable and domestically produced fuel, it's time to consider the advantages both to the environment and to your wallet of owning a new, efficient wood-burning stove or insert.
"This tax credit comes at the perfect time - when people are trying to make their homes more energy efficient and less reliant on foreign oil, but are having difficulty making the transition due to the economy," said Bret Watson, president of leading cast iron wood-stove and insert maker, Jotul North America. "This credit essentially gives 30 percent off the purchase price of the stove or insert - up to $1,500 - making them much more approachable to everyone. Not only will taxpayers save money now through the tax credit, but they will save money on their heating bills in the years to come by buying an energy efficient wood stove or insert." This tax credit makes it very easy for people to purchase new, efficient woods stoves or inserts. In fact, www.smartmoney.com recently calculated that by using a wood stove to heat a home, a homeowner could recoup the cost of the stove within two to three years with the tax credit.
Once a new wood stove is installed, homeowners will reap the cost-benefits of heating with wood for years to come. To help compare the cost of various home heating fuels, free fuel cost calculators are available online for consumers. Visitors can see how much they would save by using wood instead of oil, gas, coal or electric.
Homeowners save money with new clean burning wood stoves or inserts because of the efficacy of the stoves to heat homes with the least amount of fuel. New wood stoves or inserts have been built to optimize the heat of the wood. Older stoves let gases go up the chimney unburned and leave large amounts of ash. Gases and unburned particles can represent 60 percent of the potential heat of the wood. To avoid this, new, efficient stoves have designs that bring secondary air to the combustion chamber to burn gases and particles that would normally go up the chimney unburned. This is normally called clean burning technology and will increase the efficiency by almost 40 percent.
Cast iron has long been the preferred wood stove material. All the cast iron used by Jotul is recycled. It is extremely durable and long lasting. Also, it is excellent at heat radiating; heat is stored and distributed more evenly and for a considerably longer period than any other material.
Another way wood stoves help lower costs is by directing the heat where it is used most. According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association, people regularly use less than 40 percent of their home. If a family uses a wood stove to warm the rooms used most, they can heat more efficiently by turning down their central thermostat, and save money - potentially 20 to 40 percent of their fuel bill.
In addition to the cost savings of wood stoves or inserts, the new efficient models are also much better for the environment. The fuel is renewable and supports American businesses, and the stoves release far fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than ever before. Many wood stove and insert dealers, such as the more than 300 authorized Jotul dealers across the U.S., will make it easy for taxpayers to receive the 30 percent credit on their new efficient wood stoves. They will provide a certification statement at the time of sale. This statement is all that is needed to receive the tax credit at tax time.
With the government encouraging everyone to make the move, now is the time to consider warming your home and office with energy efficient wood stoves or inserts. Courtesy of ARA Content
Don't let winter drafts get you down Are you shivering and bundling up inside your house? If your thermostat is set at the desired temperature, your furnace runs continuously, your utility bills are ridiculously high, but you are still cold, it is probably because energy is escaping your house.
As it gets colder outside, here are some clues that will indicate if your home has air leaks: • You feel drafts or air moving even when all of your windows and doors are closed. • The floor directly in front of the sink feels colder than the rest of the floor. • There is a drastic temperature difference between levels in your house. • You find bugs in the same room over and over again.
Outside air typically enters the home where building materials meet and where wires and pipes penetrate through the walls.
The EPA estimates that homeowners can typically save up to 20 percent of heating and cooling costs by air-sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces and accessible basement rim joists. Sealing and insulating these areas add up to an average of $200 worth of savings a year on energy costs.
There are several easy and cost-effective ways to eliminate drafts. * Replace weather-stripping around doors, including the garage door. • Add extra insulation in your attic. • Insulate perimeter walls in your basement. • Insure that the chimney flue is closed.
Filling gaps and cracks with an insulating foam sealant is an easy, fast solution that anyone can undertake. Sealants such as Great Stuff form an airtight, water-resistant seal that cures rigid. The foam is sandable, paintable and can be trimmed with a utility knife afterwards. Some common and effective places to seal include the holes where the HVAC ductwork enters the living space from the basement and attic, the attic hatch frame, plumbing stacks and shafts, and pipe, wire and conduit penetrations.
For a full list of places to use foam sealant, visit www.greatstuff.dow.com/pdfs/checklist.pdf. Courtesy of Family Features
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Home renovationstag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.55152010-01-25T20:28:19Z2010-01-25T20:30:42ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
It has been my experience that when it comes to eating, most of my clients are very well-schooled on what NOT to eat, but struggle with what healthy items to stock in their homes.
When it comes to fitness gadgets, there is the opposite problem. My clients seem to constantly purchase fitness gadgetry designed to totally revamp their bodies with one device. Finally, closets and drawers full of fitness clothing are areas that are usually sorely in need of upgrading.
So, let's get started.....
The kitchen First thing's first: get rid of anything that you have in your cabinets that you haven't used in over a year. The metals in canned goods leaks into the food. So, get a box, put those old canned goods into it and toss them.
Same thing with your refrigerator - old condiments in the door should be checked for recommended usage dates and anything ancient should be emptied and the containers recycled.
Once that is done, upgrade your cabinets with healthy foods that are quick and easy to prepare meals with. Staples to have on your shelves include: high quality carbohydrates such as 100 percent whole wheat pastas and pastas made from rice, corn and other grains; quinoa (a high protein ancient grain), brown rice; orzo (a rice-like product made of corn); couscous; oats; 100 percent whole grain cereals; and bean dips in glass containers.
Proteins like canned light tuna in water (look at labels and stay away from vegetable broth or hydrolyzed broth; both are high sodium and some people are extremely sensitive); a protein powder made from whey or hemp, or rice protein if you are dairy sensitive or vegetarian should be kept in the pantry for quick use when cooking protein isn't timely.
Semi-perishable items that are also high-quality carbohydrates include: 100 percent whole wheat bread, 100 percent whole wheat English muffins; 100 percent whole grain crackers and flat breads; 100 percent natural almond, cashew or peanut butter; raw chopped nuts and ground flax seed; green teas; and organic soups such as Nature Valley or Imagine brands (they are low sodium and organic).
Perishable items should be stocked in your refrigerator and include all fruits in their whole, natural form; all vegetables including: broccoli, carrots, pea pods, zucchini, cauliflower, tomatoes, celery; leafy greens such as Swiss chard, kale and spinach; starchy vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, acorn and butternut squash and parsnips; bean- based dips like hummus or black bean dip; organic condiments such as Annie's dressings and Aunt Millie's spaghetti sauce; 100 percent whole wheat tortillas; polenta; organic eggs and egg whites; 100 percent organic dairy products such as Greek yogurts (high in protein), cheese sticks, kefir (a yogurt-like drink that is high in probiotics) and cottage cheese; and bottled spring or distilled water.
Protein sources to stock include: organic (hopefully grass-fed, free-range from local farms) chicken breasts and tenders; ground turkey (93-97 percent lean because even these are still 40 percent fat by calorie volume. Eighty-five percent lean is over 50 percent fat by calorie amount!); lean beef cuts such as filet, New York strip, any round cuts and 93 percent or higher lean ground beef; white fish such as tilapia, flounder, sole or wild Alaskan salmon; shrimp and scallops (all fish listed are lowest in mercury).
If you are sensitive to wheat or dairy products, there are products made with alternative ingredients, such as rice or potato flour (Vann's is a product line of wonderful wheat and wheat-free breakfast foods such as waffles, pancakes, etc). To replace milk, there are almond, rice, soy, oat and hemp milks which are easy to find in the health food section of our area supermarkets.
In order to cook quick meals with the healthy foods listed above, we need to renovate your countertops a bit. Get rid of the cookie jar and replace it with a steamer that has a timer. You can put produce into the steamer during the day and it will steam and shut off so that your vegetables are cooked when you walk in the door after work. You can then start to munch on them as you prepare the companion foods.
Another kitchen necessity is a blender or food processor. Many a quick breakfast can be made with Greek yogurt, a scoop of protein powder, any green vegetable or variety of fruit and a tablespoon of ground flax. Put all ingredients into the blender/food processor and in one minute you have a healthy breakfast or snack on the run.
Fitness room As with the kitchen, get a big box or a U-haul as the case may be. If you haven't used the equipment in over a year get rid of it. Donate it to a local shelter or charity. List it on Craig's List. Put an ad in Buyers Guide. Just get it out of the house! Why? Because as long as it is there, you will delude yourself into thinking that you will start to use it one day. If you haven't this past year, you won't, so out it goes!
What you DO want to get are the following: three different levels of resistance tubes along with a door handle; an exercise ball that can double as a bench (they come in three sizes and are based on height so read the box); three pairs of dumbbells ranging from 3-5 pounds, 10 pounds and 15 pounds for women; and 5-8 pounds, 15 pounds and 25 pounds for men (heavier if you already have been working out). This is enough equipment to get a full-body workout at minimal expense.
All you really need for cardiovascular fitness is a pair of sneakers (go to Fleet Feet on Wolf Road or Absolute Fitness on Route 9 in Latham to get your gait analyzed and learn what type of sneaker your foot needs. Wrong sneakers equals injury.) A treadmill or elliptical machine is wonderful, but sneakers and a nice, safe neighborhood or local track is all you need to either walk fast or jog/run for cardiovascular fitness!
Finally, take up yoga. You can buy a beginner DVD or tape a yoga workout off the Fitness channel. Doing this a minimum of once a week will counter-balance the tightening of everyday life. Invest in a yoga mat to avoid slipping, but a carpeted floor will do to start.
Fitness clothes Once again, get a box or a garbage bag (notice a pattern?). Follow this rule of thumb: If you have been wearing it for over a year, throw it out! Fungus and molds get into the fibers from being frequently wet and produce odors that even WIN detergent (touted as odor-busting) can't get out! You can keep the clothes you use frequently longer than a year if they are made with carbon fibers (it stops the odors from getting into the fibers of the clothing).
Go through your socks - holes and thread-bare heels....out they go! Sneakers - six months or 300 miles is the limit. They may look fine, but they have been pounded down and can cause injury to leg and feet joints. T-shirts from races - how many do you really need before they take over your closet and drawers? (Mine keep reproducing and no matter how many I give to the Salvation Army, every year I still have 25! If I didn't pay them forward to charity I would have to move out of my house!)
Just like the annual cycles of life where things die in wintertime in order to make room for new life in spring, so, too, do your fitness clothes have to be cycled. Holding on to old items takes a lot of space and leaves you feeling energetically suffocated!
Along with the bigger renovations you may be doing or planning for your home, follow the renovations outlined above for your kitchen, workout space and closets to keep your health and fitness habits fresh and alive for 2010!
Judy Torel is a USAT coach, personal trainer, nutrition consultant and psychotherapist. Her office is located in Planet Fitness, Loudonville. She can be reached at 469.0815 or jtorel2263@yahoo.com.
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Love addictiontag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.55142010-01-25T20:26:25Z2010-01-25T20:28:06Z"For never was a story of more woe, than this of Juliet and her Romeo." - Shakespeare...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 ]]>
Like Romeo and Juliet, modern day "love addicts" believe that in order to survive and feel whole, they need to be in a romantic relationship. They suffer from withdrawal symptoms similar to an alcoholic in detox when their lover is unavailable or rejects them.
Read on to learn the many facets of love addiction. If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms, there are self-help "mantras" to finally set yourself free. Getting off of this roller coaster ride ensures that you will live your life with greater confidence, self-respect and the kind of love that doesn't thrive on Shakespearian tragedy.
Are you a love addict? In Pia Mellody's innovative book, Facing Love Addiction: Giving Yourself the Power to Change the Way You Love, she describes three major symptoms of the love addict:
1. They assign a disproportionate amount of time, attention and value above themselves to the person to whom they are addicted and this focus has an obsessive quality to it.
2. They have unrealistic expectations for unconditional positive regard from the other person in the relationship.
3. They neglect to care for or value themselves while they're in the relationship. The "Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous" brochure offers a 40-question pamphlet for self-diagnosis. Some questions include:
1. Do you feel that your life would have no meaning without a love relationship?
2. Do you ever find yourself unable to stop seeing a specific person even though you know that seeing this person is destructive for you?
3. Do you find you have a pattern of repeating bad relationships? Answering "yes" to any of these three questions indicates the possibility of an addiction. A good rule of thumb is: you are addicted to a relationship if being in that relationship has clear negative effects on your life, but you continue in the relationship regardless of the effects.
Uncovering the causes of love addiction Most love addictions have their roots in childhood. Mellody writes: "I have come to believe that people fall into love addiction because of the unhealed pain from childhood abandonment, and the feeling that they cannot be safe in the world without having somebody else hold them up. They cling to the delusional belief that the other party has the power to take care of them, affirm them and somehow make them complete."
Love addicts seek to alleviate their childhood pain and anxiety through a chronic search for security. As children, they were not given the unconditional love that is such a necessary part of childhood. A woman may grow up wishing for a Knight in Shining Armor to make her feel safe and loved. Both male and female addicts often attract partners who initially try to "rescue" them. Later, their partner begins to feel smothered and distances or avoids emotional intimacy. Sadly, this re-creates the childhood cycle of abandonment as these relationships often have painful endings.
8 mantras to free yourself from love addiction Recognizing the unhealthy patterns in your relationships and in yourself can be overwhelming. There are many different options for treatment ranging from individual therapy to support groups to 30-day rehab programs (check the Internet for services in your area). However, there are some immediate steps you can take right now:
1. Begin to love yourself as much as you love others. You can accomplish this by making choices in favor of yourself. As long as you're not hurting someone, it's healthy to take good care of yourself.
2. Understand the differences between reality and fantasy. Movies and romance novels are based largely on fantasies, not on normal, healthy relationships. If you want a Knight in Shining Armor climb on the horse yourself!
3. Make a commitment to stop getting involved with unavailable and dysfunctional people. Learn to look for red flags early on. If you are experiencing a great deal of drama in your current relationship, this is a red flag.
4. Learn to accept and tolerate all your feelings -- from anger to joy -- without escaping through a person or other addiction.
5. Accept that you cannot control another person. You cannot control how another person thinks, feels or behaves, and you especially can't make someone love you.
6. Learn to be your authentic self and to stop placating others in order to earn their love and affection.
7. Accept your humanness and imperfections. When you surrender the need for other's approval, you learn that it is what you think of yourself that matters most.
8. Finally, learn to accept how the past has shaped who you are today. Your first significant relationship lasted 18 years and it was with your parents or caregivers. They undoubtedly had an impact on how you relate to your current romantic partners.
When you begin your path to recovery, you learn that the road ahead requires patience, fortitude and support from others. Yet, overcoming these challenges leads to the healthiest and most fulfilling relationships of your life. And you deserve this...you always did.
Diane Lykes is a Principal of Synergy Counseling Associates in Albany where she specializes in individual and couples counseling, educational training and clinical consultation. She can be reached at 466.3100 or lykes-synergy@nycap.rr.com ]]>