Capital Region Living Magazine On Albany.com - Your Source For Albany & Capital Region Newstag:www.albany.com,2008-12-22:/capitalregionliving//152010-09-01T17:44:17ZFind 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 4.37Food & Entertainingtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72332010-09-01T14:38:31Z2010-09-01T17:44:17ZWhether it's simple dinner for a few friends or a big bash for a crowd, taking the party outside takes entertaining to a whole new level....Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Whether it's simple dinner for a few friends or a big bash for a crowd, taking the party outside takes entertaining to a whole new level.
Easy Outdoor Entertaining Quick tips for an effortless get-together
If you're planning an outdoor get-together, don't spend all your time in the kitchen. These quick and easy tips will help you spend more time with guests and ensure your gathering is an effortless success. • Preparation is key. Prepare any appetizers you're serving the night before and keep in the fridge. This will allow you to focus on any last minute arrangements on the day of your party. • Think outside the box. If you're worried that you may not have enough serving dishes for your get-together, look for cups and glasses that may double as a dip bowl or unique container for fruits or vegetables. • Embrace the idea of "family style" dining. Serve appetizers on large platters or set a buffet where everyone can serve themselves. This way, guests can take what they want and eat at their own pace. • Make sure you have music. Loading up your iPod with fun songs, both new and old, will provide a fun atmosphere for your guests. • Candles are always a quick and easy way to add ambiance and class to any space. Keep several on hand to grab when the sun goes down, but the party is still going strong. • Serve a delicious iced coffee cocktail. These cool drinks provide guests with a sweet treat that no one will be able to resist. Plus, they're so easy to make you'll have plenty of time to tend to all of your other host duties. Just double brew your coffee in the morning and stick in the fridge until you're ready to mix and serve. Try these easy, indulgent recipes below to host a party all of your friends will be talking about. Visit www.Facebook.com/Baileys for more recipes, and videos of top baristas and bartenders from around the country making delicious iced coffee cocktails. -- Family Features
Baileys Original Iced Coffee Makes 1 serving 3.5 ounces Baileys Original Irish Cream 7 ounces iced coffee Pour ingredients over ice in a tall glass.
The Simple One Makes 1 serving 1 ounce Baileys Original Irish Cream 3/4 ounce cognac-based orange liqueur 3 ounces iced coffee Pour ingredients over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with an orange peel. Guatemalan Spice Makes 1 serving 3/4 ounce Baileys Original Irish Cream 1 3/4 ounces iced coffee 1 1/8 ounces rum 1/16 ounce cinnamon syrup Pinch of freshly ground cinnamon
Add Irish Cream, rum, cinnamon syrup and iced coffee to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously with ice, strain into a Delmonico or other glass of your choice, and garnish with freshly ground cinnamon.
Fresh Guacamole Makes 16 servings 2 avocados 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tomato, chopped 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Salt and pepper, to taste
Peel and mash avocados in a medium serving bowl. Stir in onion, garlic, tomato, lime juice, salt and pepper. Chill for half an hour to blend flavors.
Strawberry Parfait Makes 1 serving 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped 1 cup whipped cream 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Layer ingredients in a parfait glass.
Tips for making the best iced coffee cocktail • The type of roast used to make your iced coffee is more important than you may think. Using a medium roasted coffee bean will produce the best flavor for your iced coffee cocktail. The result is a blend that offers balance, sweetness and a mild acidity. • Another easy way to ensure your iced coffee never gets watered down is to freeze coffee ahead of time in an ice cube tray. Use these instead of ice to ensure your iced coffee cocktail is perfection.
The Fresh Market By Vikki Moran
Walking into the much-anticipated Fresh Market on opening day last month was like experiencing sensory overload - in a good way. Everything is bright and fragrant, drawing you right in.
The store, located at the corner of Rt. 9 and 155 in Latham at the site of the old Blockbuster Video store is a breath of "fresh" air to the food scene in the Capital Region. While we have been well served for many years by both Price Chopper and Hannaford, the philosophy of offering the best quality perishables and distinctive foods is a terrific addition. While traveling through the early morning reception, I kept my ear on what people's reaction was to the beautifully-appointed store and it was unanimously positive. One very excited woman stated that she no longer has to travel to Berkshire County for "this type of quality produce and meat."
Brian Wittman, vice president of the Northern Zone, explained that based on how this store performs, the family-owned, privately-held company would consider opening additional stores in the area. Currently, they plan on opening 12-14 stores next year throughout the country. They chose the Latham location after quite a bit of research. "We saw an opportunity here. There were no Trader Joe's or Whole Foods, who are generally our closest style competitors," he said.
All the employees that I spoke with mentioned that store openings are great and bring out many people, but it is the hard work after the hoopla that will make a great store. They expressed the need and commitment to be "very good and very consistent from this point forward."
I saw in the eyes of the newly-created staff, as well as those who are here temporarily to get the store off to a great start, that this is what their intention is as well!
The Fresh Market has more than 90 stores located in 19 states. The first store opened in 1982 by owners Ray and Beverly Berry. The Fresh Market was founded with one simple goal in mind: to bring friends, family and neighbors high-quality perishable products in a warm and friendly atmosphere with a high level of customer service.
Ontario County A Finger Lakes gem for food and wine lovers By Danielle Pitanello
A visit to the Finger Lakes region is an annual trip for many who appreciate and enjoy New York State wines. This year I suggest that you head to Ontario County for not only wine, but glorious foods and fun!
Ontario County has been called Lake Country because it is home to both Geneva and Canandaigua lakes. My husband and I stayed at the Acorn Inn located in Bristol Valley, in Canandaigua. The 1795 Inn is beautifully furnished, with no expense spared on antiques. After the long, yet wonderful days of exploration, returning to the Inn for a glass of wine and a dip in the garden hot tub was just what we needed and appreciated. Waking up to a creative and delicious breakfast of mixed fruit, French toast, eggs, bacon and homemade hashbrowns breakfast is certainly designed to set you off for a day of wine tasting.
On day one, we decided to hit the shops in downtown Canandaigua. This thriving Main Street has many stores offering items unique to the region. One of my favorites was a lovely olive oil shop named F. Oliver's. Not only are there many flavored vinegars and olive oils to choose from, you can grab a bottle of locally-made, delicious Butternut Squash Oil by Stony Brook. Don't leave here without doing a tasting of the vinegars and oils; you will be blown away with the combinations that you would never have imagined go together. My new favorite salad is dressed with blood orange olive oil and dark chocolate balsamic vinegar.
You will enjoy the lake vistas as you drive along the high road AND the low road (you will understand what I mean by that when you drive the area). If you feel the need to stretch, you can rent a bike at the shoreline and take a wonderful trek along the magnificently clean lake before heading back downtown for lunch. Simply Crepes offers more variety of crepes than can be imagined. I recommend sharing one as an entrée and sharing another as dessert. The Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion Canandaiqua is a must-see. Strolling around the lush gardens and landscape is like a visit to another world. The gardens were created by Mary Clark Thompson approximately 100 years ago. As an avid connoisseur of horticulture, she separated the gardens by international flavor, but all include thousands of perennials and annuals. Sitting stately in the middle of the property is a Queen Anne style mansion, where tours are given throughout the day. Make certain while exploring the magnificent home that you stop at every available window to grab a view of the vistas. At the time of our visit, restoration efforts were in full swing, but we didn't feel we missed anything.
One of the most fascinating places we visited was the Wine and Culinary Center. This "hands-on" culinary center was designed to serve as a cross between the agricultural, culinary and wine worlds that all thrive in the Ontario County communities. It is truly indicative of what can be achieved when the business world, the non-profit world and higher education join forces. The center is located at the north end of Canandaigua and can be a convenient trip from anywhere as it sits 15 minutes from the NYS thruway.
Inside the facility you will find a fabulous wine tasting room where you can learn about and taste NYS wines. You will also find the wine staff remarkably well-versed. I would recommend stopping here before heading out to the wine trail. It will help you decide which wineries suit your taste.
There is a state-of-the-art kitchen that holds classes for individuals, couples and groups. Visit their website www.nycc.com to learn more about classes and how to reserve. We took part in a sauté class with Chef Eric K. Smith. It was very enjoyable and quite humbling to realize how much you can still learn! I would not be a bit surprised to see Chef Eric on the Food Channel one day...he is that good.
When you are planning your visit, make a reservation for a truly lovely dining experience at the Taste of New York Lounge. The LeCesse New York Garden provides some of the vegetables and fruits used in the dinners and lunches that are served at the lounge, as well as the Southern Wine & Spirits Dining Room. The garden is a visiting point for the property showing off the many fruit trees, plants, flowers and grapes from NY State.
On a food and wine trip throughout the county, you will find many outstanding restaurants boasting great pride in the local fare. My trip included a dinner at the Brown Hound Bistro on Route 64 in the lovely Bristol Springs Mountain area. This is a funky, comfortable restaurant that boasts local everything - from wine to the ingredients in all dishes. Upon request, owner Trish will happily give you a list of the local purveyors of her food.
It would be difficult to hit and see all the wineries on a two-day trip, but I wanted to see The Imagine Moor Winery, where the labels and titles of the wines are throwback to the "love generation". Do not be fooled by the names, however, this is seriously good wine with a real zeal for art. The building that houses the tasting room, as well as the deck, have breathtaking views of the arbors and mountains, making it an out-of-the-ordinary wine tasting visit.
Another winery that boasts some very good wines and a very charismatic owner is the Arbor Hill Grapery. The country store is a collision of all that is produced in this region. At every stop, I could tell you what to bring home, but I respect your right to choose for yourself. I can't resist, however, telling you about their fabulous Arbor Hill Burgundy Garlic Peppercorn dressing. Your salads will thank me.
No trip to this region can be anywhere near complete without a taste of grape pie. I know, we here in the Capital Region do not make or eat much grape pie, but if you have grown up in Rochester or have family there, you will know the local passion for this Thanksgiving staple. I had a real thrill in meeting and tasting the most famous grape pie and maker from the region - Monica Schenk, owner and baker at Monica's Pies in neighboring Naples. She is a gracious and generous lady that truly seems humbled by all the fuss. She has been featured in ads for Pfaltzgraff Pie plates and on the Food Network. Monica works in a large kitchen on her property with her mother and aunt (both in their nineties), as well as a small staff. Together, they create the most fantastic grape pies all year along, as well as 24 other pie varieties. She is also developing quite a reputation for Chicken Pot Pies! Stories were told to me about the roadside stand where skiers from a neighboring mountain line up on their way home to grab a pot pie to throw in the oven when they get home. This skier-pie relationship is topped off by an honor paying system: take the pie and drop in the money. No fuss, no pretention, just real good pie by made by Monica and enjoyed by her honest and appreciative neighbors. Enjoy the recipe for Monica's Grape Pie courtesy of this lovely woman. She wants us to experience the joy of baking and eating the grape pies that our neighbors to the west have known for generations.
The fall season is an excellent time to head to the Finger Lakes. Drive through the gorgeous scenery that could be a Mediterranean movie set and go with an empty stomach and an empty trunk.
Five ways to eat well without breaking the bank By Christina DeMers
While it's true that tough economic times usually have people running to the nearest fast-food joint for a meal, it doesn't have to be that way. It turns out that there are a variety of fantastic deals out there just waiting to be discovered. Below is your own personal Dining Survival Guide featuring restaurants that offer menu items for under $20. This is, of course, just a short list of a few of my personal favorites. There are many more cheap eats out there waiting for you to discover them.
So, put down that greasy hamburger or that meatball sub and read on to learn how you can get a great meal at a great price right in your own neighborhood.
1. Mamoun's Best falafel in town? These succulent, moist and authentically-spiced chickpea patties are waiting for you at Mamoun's in Albany. Visit this little gem of an eatery on lower Washington Avenue for a delicious and authentic Middle Eastern meal. Not only is the food amazing, but the setting is pure charm with its hammered tin ceiling, exposed brick walls and ornate coffee bar. You may not be aware of Mamoun's authentic deliciousness, but critics have praised it many times, it's your turn to find out why.
For a great meal at a great price, order the grape leaves to start ($4.25) and the falafel sandwich platter ($6.95) which comes with homemade hummus and pita chips, and you'll still have money left over to buy yourself a piece of baklava! Two can even eat for under $20 by sharing an appetizer, like the hummus or baba ghanouj and ordering an eggplant, chicken or lamb kabob pita sandwich.
Mamoun's is located at 206 Washinton Avenue near the corner of Lark Street in Albany. Open Monday-Friday 11:30am-3pm and 5pm-10pm. Weekends noon-10pm. For more information call 434.3901 or visit: www.mideasterndining.com/index.html.
2. Bros Tacos Experience authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price on Ontario Street in Albany. Bros Tacos, a tiny little taco joint just big enough for a counter and a few small tables, boasts using the freshest ingredients from local farms and produce companies, and cheeses which are pure dairy with no processed or oil substitutes. They also make their handmade tortillas daily and feature a variety of freshly made, imaginative salsas like the sweet and tangy pineapple salsa or the very hot, but addictive, habernero papaya salsa.
My favorite? The grilled fish tacos served with pico de gallo, salsa roja & Bros Tacos crema for $3. Throw in an order of chips and salsa for an extra $1.75 or the popular grilled corn on the cob with lime, cotjia cheese, and chili powder for $2.75 and you have yourself an amazing south of the border feast at a bargain price.
Tacos start at a mere $2.75 for two, or get a taco platter with rice and beans starting at $6.25. Not in the mood for tacos? You can also get a variety of burritos, quesadillas, tamales or tostadas, all at $6.75 or less.
Bros Tacos is located at 319 Ontario Street in Albany. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-11pm and Sunday 1pm-8pm. Closed Mondays. For more information call 395.1096 or visit: www.brostacosblog.com.
3. Okinawa In the mood for sushi? I always am, and I'm always guaranteed top quality sushi at a great price at Okinawa in Wynantskill. At lunch time I tend to order the sushi combo special. For $7.95 I get two sushi rolls of my choice - Spicy Tuna and a Smoked Salmon with Avocado - are my go-to choices, along with a garden salad and a bowl of miso or wonton soup. The combo deal will run you a little more at dinner time, about $11.95.
You'll also find a variety of tempura and teriyaki dishes, starting at $9.95 with soup, salad and rice. But if you're looking for something remarkable and more unusual, consider the pepper tuna salad for $8.95. It is peppery, but if you like it hot you'll enjoy this light dish of raw tuna sliced over a shredded cabbage. The quality is unmistakable, as raw fish that isn't top quality is hard to disguise with no sauces or gravies for it to hide beneath.
And here's a tip for cocktail lovers: because Okinawa has no bartender, and apparently no real mixology experience, they tend to compensate with added alcohol. Talk about getting a bang for your buck! Try the lip-smacking (and butt-kicking) MaiTai for $6.75, just don't try to drive too soon afterwards.
While the service is always friendly and accommodating, don't expect to get in and out in a hurry; urgency is not part of the culture here. However, the food is consistently good and the atmosphere is relaxing and conducive to enjoying a good meal.
Okinawa is located in a small plaza off Route 66 in Wynantskill at 61 Main Avenue. Open Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am-10:30pm and Sunday noon-1opm. For more information call 283.7716 or visit: www.okinawa518.com.
4. Sukothai Affordable and exotic? Hit the jackpot with a visit to one of Sukothai's two locations in downtown Albany. The Central Avenue location is newer and bigger, but for the charm and intimacy that I have come to associate with Sukothai, head for the quaint Lark Street location. For rock bottom prices starting at $6.95, get yourself any number of wonderfully sweet and spicy curries, including yellow, red, green, pineapple, pumpkin, Masman or Panang all served with jasmine or brown rice and your choice of chicken, beef, pork, shrimp or tofu. I've sampled just about all of them, and they are all amazing, at this price or not.
Also available are a number of appetizers, all at $4.95-$6.95 and large enough to share with two or three people. My recommendation? Begin your meal with the crispy on the outside, tender on the inside Veggie Samosas. These little pockets of flaky fried goodness are stuffed with potato, onion, black pepper, yellow curry powder and served with a spicy sauce for dipping. Then move onto the green curry with shrimp for dinner. This variety includes bell pepper, green beans, carrots, zucchini, basil and coconut milk. Not only is the price right, but the portions are generous. I dare you to finish the whole thing.
The Central Ave location is open Monday-Friday 11:30am-10pm, Saturday-Sunday oon-10pm. For more information call 433.7203.
The Lark Street location is open Monday-Wednesday 11:30am-9:30pm, Thursday-Friday 11:30am-10pm, and Saturday & Sunday noon-10pm. For more information call 463.0223. For more information about either location visit: www.sukhothaialbany.com.
5. Off Shore Pier Fresh fish fry, broiled trout, steamed crab legs, clam rolls? No, you're not at the beach, you're at the Off Shore Pier, a no frills restaurant and fish market located on the corner of Route 4 & Third Ave Ext. in East Greenbush.
Since 1979, this small, unassuming little establishment has managed to stay afloat amidst an explosion of shopping plazas and big box stores. Why? Probably because for a song you can get some of the freshest fish around at a very reasonable price, all year long.
To start your meal off, the standard menu offers Manhattan and New England clam chowder ($2.95 for a cup) as well as clams or oysters on the half shell ($4.25 for six).
When you're ready for dinner, the selection is much more extensive. Try the traditional fish fry featuring fresh Haddock (at $6.75 you can't go wrong) or a shrimp or scallop dinner at $9.95. You can even get swordfish or Alaskan king crab legs if you want to spend a little more. All dinners come with choice of fries and either cole slaw, macaroni salad, potato salad or cottage cheese (but why bother trying to be healthy at this point?). Fry choices include regular, curly fries or "shore fries', which are basically home fries without the onion.
Most seafood items can be fried or broiled. I usually order the broiled trout or tilapia with curly fries and cole slaw. It's more food than I can eat in a sitting, a true cheap eats champion. Now, don't expect fancy here. You order your meal at a window, and it's served on a plastic plate with plastic utensils. But, if you're all about fresh seafood, this place shouldn't be missed. Find out for yourself why this place has survived for 30 years. But be sure to bring cash, they don't accept credit cards.
Off Shore Pier is located at 637 3rd Avenue Extension in East Greenbush. Open Monday-Saturday 11:30am-7:30pm (open until 8:30pm on Friday). Closed on Sunday. For more information call 283.9880 or visit: www.offshorepier.com.
Christina DeMers is an online marketing manager, food blogger and amateur cook who lives in East Greenbush, but eats just about anywhere.
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Preparing for next yeartag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72322010-09-01T14:25:58Z2010-09-01T14:28:56ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 The lawn - September is a wonderful time to solve many of the problems you had with your lawn this year. First, get a soil test done. You can contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga or your county. Give them a small soil sample and they will tell you if you need to add lime to bring the soil pH to neutral. Grass grows best in a soil with a pH of at or near 6.5.
Next, plant more grass seed. The cooler weather and more abundant rain fall will help your grass seeds get going. Good grass planted this fall will yield a better lawn next year. If you have a partly shady lawn, make sure the seeds in your blend are primarily perennial rye grass and fine fescue. If your lawn is sunny, again look for perennial rye and some Kentucky blue. Over-seeding is a good way to plant grass this time of year. Simply sprinkle the seeds over the turf and keep it watered. You should see grass sprouting in a week or two.
Herbs - Be sure to harvest and dry your herbs. If you have basil, make cuttings about a foot long. Form a bundle and tie the stems together with a rubber band. Hang the bundle in a dry shady place for a few days. Once they are dry to the touch, remove the leaves and place your basil in a glass jar. You can do the same with tarragon, oregano, thyme and rosemary.
Food garden -Lettuce, peas, kale, Swiss chard and most of the other food plants you grew this year can be added to the compost pile or returned to the soil as a type of "green manure". Just break up or chop up the plant remains and dig them into your garden soil. Some gardeners like to dig a trench for the plant remains, toss them in and cover with soil. This is a good way to fertilize the soil and add valuable organic matter. If your tomatoes and zucchini were covered with disease this year, remove the entire plant from the garden and throw it away. Do not place the plants in the compost bin which would perpetuate the spread of the disease.
Fall perennials As September and October take over the calendar, many gardeners turn to chrysanthemums for color. Mums are good, and an important member of the fall garden, but there are a few other perennials you might want to add to your beds:
Aster novi-belgii (Michaelmas Daisy) - In shades of pink, purple, blue and white, these delicate daisy-like blossoms start popping open in late August and continue on until frost. Pinching in the early summer turns these Asters into mounds with dozens of flower buds. Asters tend to creep throughout your garden, but their airiness allows them to blend particularly well with other flowers.
Caryopteris (Blue Mist Shrub) - Caryopteris is a sub-shrub that is often grown in the perennial garden. Caryopteris slowly blossoms in August with dazzling blue flower clusters. Just try and keep the butterflies and bees away. Caryopteris is cut back in early spring, like a Buddleia, and the gray-green foliage is attractive all season.
Chelone (Turtlehead) - Nick-named for their blossoms shaped like turtles heads, Chelone is a carefree fall blooming perennial whose only real dislike is excessive dry heat. Chelone behaves itself, growing in a dense clump with attractive foliage and red, pink or white blooms.
Eupatorium (Joe Pye Weed) - Joe Pye is one of those natives we take for granted because we see it by the side of the road, but it makes a wonderful backdrop to a garden border. The newer Eupatoriums have been bred shorter and less weedy, but the dense mop heads of mauve flowers still blend in beautifully in the fall garden.
Helenium (Sneezeweed) - Helenium is making a resurgence in gardens. They look like small russet-toned coneflowers, in reds, yellows and oranges. Many helenium can grow quite tall and will need to be staked or pinched. Like clematis, they like cool feet and hot heads. Helenium is also a good choice for poorly drained areas.
Larry Sombke is a garden designer and consultant, the garden blogger for the Times Union and the author of Beautiful Easy Flower Gardens and Beautiful Easy Herbs. Contact him with questions at larry@beautifuleasygardens.com. ]]>
The Jonesville Store tag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72312010-09-01T14:23:49Z2010-09-01T14:25:09ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 ]]>
Service 9 • Food 9 • Ambiance 7 • Price - $$$
The last thing I thought I'd experience at a 150-year-old farmhouse in Jonesville, a tiny, historic hamlet near Clifton Park, is one of the most innovative, refined and thoughtful meals I've had in the Capital Region. The first thing that occurred to me was how on earth have I not come across this place sooner? The second thing was how soon can I come back? It's nice to know that no matter how many places you go out to eat or for how long you've been dining out, there are still great new discoveries to be made. This was one such unexpected discovery.
Before I continue, let me properly set the stage for this culinary revelation. The Jonesville Store has been owned and run since 2006 by two families, the Travis' and the Unger's. Not only is it a restaurant in a beautiful historic building, it also houses a gourmet deli, gift shop, features live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and is even home to an art gallery upstairs. So far, there's nothing not to like.
When trying to find a parking spot in the Jonesville Store lot on a recent Saturday night, dining companion Peter and I knew immediately that not making reservations was a mistake. On the other hand, the packed lot was clearly a good sign and we were excited to find out what all these people apparently already knew.
Walking in, we were welcomed by friendly staff and a room that emanated with energy, thanks to a crowd of lively patrons and a lively musical performer. The restaurant has two rooms with seating. The main room is where most of the tables are situated along with an expansive deli counter that runs along the left side of the room. There are also half a dozen tables in the back room, which is where we were seated after a short wait.
The décor was simple, country; the menu, however, was all sophistication, including the wine and cocktail list that offered some unusual domestic and imported red and white wines, and a nice selection of draft beers. My drink choice was easy, the Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand ($8). This complex wine has slight citrus notes and a balanced acidity; it practically shouts "summer". Peter had the locally-made Brown's Tomhannock Pilsner ($6), a refreshing and completely accessible choice that most any beer drinker would appreciate.
Diving right onto the salad menu we decide to share the Cheese Plate ($8.99), which included three cheeses and crackers. All of the cheeses were enjoyable, but the standout was a sharp, crumbly cheddar that was wonderful alongside sweet pear jelly and candied walnuts. Peter also ordered a Gorgonzola Salad ($3.99) featuring fresh mixed greens, sliced pears, candied nuts and an abundance of creamy gorgonzola cheese in a light Balsamic dressing. Other options on the Salad menu included an Antipasti Plate ($5.99/$10.99) with sopressata, prosciutto, capicola fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers and a Caesar Salad ($2/$4.99) made with shaved Parmesan and garlic herbed croutons. Although this menu was not extensive, I think any of the choices would be marvelous; the cheeses are handcrafted and the vegetables are locally grown in most cases. And if this wasn't enough, there was also plenty of freshly-baked bread.
As good as the starters were, judging by the menu, dinner had the potential to be even better. More innovative and imaginative, all the choices were listed with wine pairing suggestions, a nice touch, especially given the impressive wine list. The dinners ranged from a Petite Chicken Cutlet ($15.95) with Raspberry Chutney alongside couscous and arugula pesto to a Slow Braised Pulled Pork ($15.95) served with Wasabi mashed potatoes, braised cabbage and a whole grain Gruyere mornay (essentially a Béchamel sauce made with cheese, how bad could this be?).
So, how were we ever going to choose? Most times, my strategy is to ask the server. This can be hit or miss, depending on the knowledge and taste level of your server; however, at the Jonesville Store I did not feel this would be an issue. Up until this point we found the staff to be informed, accommodating and eager to share their opinions.
After my line of questioning and a reassurance that I could also customize any selection, I ordered the mouth-watering Trottole, a pasta dish with portabella mushrooms, spinach, capicola and shaved Fontinella ($14.95). Peter ordered what was the most fascinating- sounding dish on the menu: Seared Scallops with Rhubarb puree and strawberries served with sugar snap peas and vanilla risotto ($17.95). Wow...! I am usually the more adventurous diner of the two of us, but on this night Peter was the one who ventured into new territory. And he was duly rewarded. This was one of those meals that I will likely never forget.
The scallops themselves were superbly seared producing a tender and flavorful bite. The unexpected pairing of vanilla with risotto was a resounding success; not sweet, but slightly floral, rich and intoxicatingly fragrant. This meal was made truly harmonious by the sweetness of the sugar snap peas and slightly tart rhubarb puree. Describing this dish I can foresee your puzzled look - but trust me, the Jonesville Store clearly knows what they are doing.
My Trottole, although not quite as daring a choice, was a dish in which every ingredient was of the highest quality. The olive oil, although perhaps a little overused, was fruity and earthy, the mushrooms were firm and meaty and the spinach was wilted, but not over-cooked. There was also some serious spice in this dish thanks to the sacrifice of many, many cloves of garlic. This was a heavier meal than Peter's, yet when our waitress came by, somehow both of our plates were (licked) completely clean. I implore you to put yourself in the hands of these culinary experts, and you will leave satisfied and delighted, and maybe even with your horizons expanded.
Saying no to dessert was not an option, especially given the fact that you unavoidably walk by the impressive dessert case upon entering the building. (Hmmmm, was that by design? Whatever the case, it was effective). Peter and I shared a piece of Carrot Cake ($4.95) generously spiced with clove and nutmeg. However, I think it may have been overly-spiced; the delicate sweetness of carrot was unfortunately overpowered. However, we found a bright spot in the cream cheese frosting, which we devoured with no complaints. There were also a variety of chocolate cakes (like the Chocolate Raspberry or Chocolate Pecan Praline) and NY Style Cheesecake. All desserts were from the Glens Falls-based Chocolate Mill Pastry Shop & Café.
At the end of the evening the restaurant quieted down a bit, but was by no means empty. Obviously the secret is out about the fashionable, modern food being served in this friendly country setting. I encourage you to try it; not only can you enjoy dinner at the restaurant, but you also have the option of ordering a daily Grab and Go Dinner. Each day for only $12.95 a different entrée is featured with salad and bread. Check the website for the menu. The deli is open all day, offering a wide range of salads, sandwiches and homemade soup. The Jonesville Store is brimming with both bucolic charm and upscale urban flair. This is a winning combination that shouldn't be missed.
The total cost for three glasses of wine, one bottle of beer, two salads, two entrees and one dessert (excluding tax and tip) was $80.83.
The Jonesville Store is located at 989 Main Street in Clifton Park. Open Tuesday-Thursday 8am-8pm; Friday & Saturday 8am-8:30pm and Sunday 8am-3pm. Closed Monday. Dinners served Tuesday-Saturday. For more information call 877.0507 or visit: www.thejonesvillestore.com.
Christina DeMers is an online marketing manager, food blogger and amateur cook who lives in East Greenbush, but eats just about anywhere. ]]>
Fico Pizzatag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72302010-09-01T14:22:32Z2010-09-01T17:44:56ZCourtesy of MilanoExecutive Chef Scott KrauseMilano Restaurant594 New Loudon Road, Latham, NY783.3334...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Executive Chef Scott Krause
Milano Restaurant 594 New Loudon Road, Latham, NY 783.3334 ]]>
Ingredients Fig Jam 2 oz Dried Mission Figs 3 oz Port Wine Simmer until the wine had reduced by half and puree with an emersion blender.
1 6.25 oz pizza dough 2 oz Mountain Gorgonzola cheese 1 ea Roasted Shallot (sliced) 2 oz Proscuitto (paper thin, juliened) 4 oz Fontina cheese 1 tsp Balsamic syrup
Directions: • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.. • Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. • Roll out the dough using a rolling pin • Spread Fontina cheese equally about the dough. • Place the shallot, fig jam mixture, Gorgonzola cheese equally about the pie. • Place the pizza onto a pizza stone and place in oven (use corn meal or semolina on the pizza peel to keep the pie from sticking). • Cook the pizza until the edges are slightly brown and the bottom is brown (about 10-14 minutes). • Switch the oven to broil and brown the top (about 3-5 minutes). • Remove, garnish with the Prosciutto and balsamic glaze. • Slice into 6 or 8 slices and ENJOY!
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Let women take a shot at ittag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72292010-09-01T14:02:04Z2010-09-01T14:21:35ZWarning: This article contains material that some may construe as sexist. Reader discretion is advised.As an avid, though amateur, history buff, I'm ready. No, check that. I've had it, and I'm more than ready for women to take over running...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 As an avid, though amateur, history buff, I'm ready. No, check that. I've had it, and I'm more than ready for women to take over running the world. Completely, officially. They can't possibly foul things any more thoroughly than we men have done for the past several thousand years. ]]>
Some background Very long ago, when "women's lib" was barely a twinkle in Gloria Steinham's eye, our (male) teacher in a high school social studies class asked if we thought a woman would ever become president. A few girls answered affirmatively, but the majority of the class dismissed the idea, declaring women too emotional and not logical enough to be president. Whether that assessment of women is accurate or not doesn't matter, because (and with apologies to Commander Spock), logic ain't all it's cracked up to be. The social studies class predated "Star Trek", too. After thousands of years of men running kingdoms, governments, businesses, religions and wars, it looks as though our world just might benefit from some good, healthy emotion.
I don't know, maybe I'm biased because I've had the privilege to teach and work alongside intelligent, talented, successful women all of my life - most of whom did not perceive themselves as intelligent, talented and successful as they, in fact, were. More's the pity. (Why is that, I wonder. Most men I know, including myself, see ourselves as more capable than we really are, and most women see themselves as less so. I don't get it.) Beyond that, my nuclear family numbers four generations of only children who are all female: my wife's mother, my wife, our daughter and our granddaughter. All of them only children, all female, all stunningly impressive.
Here's my plan Women in the United States weren't allowed to vote until 1920, less than 100 years ago. As a tangential counterpoint to this, it's fascinating to note that in 1805 during the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Sacajawea, who was both a woman and a Native American, was allowed to cast her vote on an important decision, as was Clark's slave, a black man named York. In nations around the world, New Zealand is regarded as the first nation to grant women the right to vote in 1893.
Put another way, with the exception of a few female monarchs, men have been running the world by themselves from the beginning of time until 1893 - roughly 120 years ago. Centuries, millennia of progress, innovation, invention and achievement. And centuries, millennia of war, corruption, slavery and genocide.
I figure, it's high time the world gave women a shot at running the place, the whole shebang. Let's begin with a reasonable trial period - 120 years. For the next 120 years, men don't get to vote - anywhere in the world. Men are precluded from serving in any elective office in any country. No man can work as the CEO of any corporation, and only women can serve as leaders of any religion. But that ain't all. Only women can sit on the presidential cabinets or ministries of any country and all male judges must step down and be replaced by women. Furthermore - and this one is going to really rankle - men have to get out of the news media during this same time period. No news anchormen (sorry, John Gray), no TV or radio commentators, no editorial writers. Men may continue to work as reporters, but not as editors. Plus, the rest of us men have to shut the hell up in mixed company.
What men may do At the risk of over-explaining, let me make clear that men must continue working in most all of the jobs and professions we currently hold - especially in the areas of engineering, mathematics, medicine, physics, construction, pro football, and so on, since we seem to be pretty good at those. But no more leadership roles, uh uh; we had our chance and look what it got us.
Now, I'm not deluding myself with this proposal. I realize that power does corrupt, and women have not been completely immune to the temptations of that seductive aphrodisiac. In this new world order, some women leaders will inevitably succumb to greed, empire-building, superiority and prerogative. But, we can only hope that their number will be a fraction of what it is for men today, and that other women leaders will restrain them more effectively and immediately than men have done throughout history with guys like Genghis Kahn, Napolean, Caesar, Hitler, Hirohito, Stalin, Kim Jong-Il, and the evil flavor of the decade. Why do I hope this? Well, one statistic stands out as persuasive evidence. In the United States, there are more than two million men incarcerated in prisons and jails. By comparison, there are only 200,000 women behind bars. So that may mean the odds are 10 to 1 in favor of women leaders being less corrupt and self-serving than their male counterparts.
Of course, this proposal is ludicrous and unrealistic, but if it weren't, I bet the world would be a better place. At least it's fun to imagine "what if..." Hey, it'd be worth the old coed try.
Ed. Lange writes "Guy Stuff" monthly for Capital Region Living. As a playwright, he is currently writing his tenth play. He may be reached at skipper@capital.net.
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Following Your Passiontag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72282010-09-01T13:55:29Z2010-09-01T17:43:41ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
John Worden has loved cars since the age of 12 when introduced to this hobby by his father, who taught him everything about them. It became their "thing" to do together - work on cars and go to car shows. It soon became his passion that he spends all his free time at. It would soon become more.
During the day John works in the family business, the well-known New Old Stuff Home Furnishings and Accessories (www.newoldstuffny.com) in Troy. The business will soon celebrate 30 years serving the region and John is quite proud of what they have accomplished.
But, he knew he wanted to take his car hobby one step further and to "monetize" it when he launched his own car magazine, Eastern Hot Rodder (www.EasternHotRodder.com). And this is where we caught up with John - where else, but at a car cruise at Alexis's Diner in North Greenbush. John, tell me how Eastern Hot Rodder came to being? The magazine started as just a black and white booklet I put together which I would take to car shows. It was a hit, and I just knew I wanted to grow it to be a magazine. I selected the title since my magazine focuses only on the Eastern part of the country and is for those serious about hot rods. I put some money into it, and then produced a color cover and black and white pages. Every penny I have made I plowed back into the magazine to make it better, grow it and now it is a full-color, glossy magazine that haves many subscribers on the east coast and around the country.
Where do you see the magazine going? I see it growing more, bringing on more sponsors and continuing to tell the stories those passionate about this hobby want to hear about. We are all about seeing what others have done with a classic car to make it special. We see this as an art of sorts. We always tell stories that the readers can relate to. I love doing this. I see the magazine expanding for sure with more frequent issues.
I have to ask - did you go to school for publishing? Not even close; I was a biology major. My Dad still laughs - one child is a biology major publishing a magazine and my sister, who majored in English, is in a totally unrelated business. I learned about this business by talking to others who are in publishing, through research, and of course, making a few mistakes along the way.
What does your family think about this endeavor? My wife Sonya supports me and she helps with the business side. I go to car shows whenever I can to promote the magazine, but really, to hang around other car people. My parents are very helpful and proud of the magazine, and that is important to me. I put in lots of time in addition to attending shows; working into the wee hours isn't uncommon at all!
It seems like you have it good in your job, as well as following your passion. Agree? Absolutely. I love working in the family business and I love the hot rod magazine business. I have a job, so I am not dependent upon the magazine to support our family.
What you are doing is a new strategy - working in a business while working on a business. It is something many just dream about doing, but don't take it to the next step. What is your advice for someone else out there reading this who wants to turn their passion into a business? My advice is simple: follow your passion always and get others to help and support you like I did with my hot rod friends and family.
Last question - how many cars have you owned and what is your favorite today? I have owned over 50 cars and right now, I have three hot rods. My favorite is my '57 Chevy that gets seven miles per gallon. I have to wear ear plugs when driving and it does scare children, but it puts a smile on my face. What a great example of someone in a totally different field following their passion. You can do it too!
Eastern Hot Rodder is subscription -bssed magazine that is also sold on some newsstands. John's goal is to be a quarterly magazine soon. For subscription information visit www.EasternHotRodder.com.
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.]]>
Food and body fattag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72272010-09-01T13:50:47Z2010-09-01T13:53:47ZHow to keep one without gaining the other!...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
How to keep one without gaining the other!
That said, we live in a society where food is everywhere! So, we have a dilemma: we want to maximize the amount of food we eat while at the same time minimizing the amount of fat we carry on our frames. The usual strategy is to focus on what we are eating and cutting out anything pleasurable until we lose weight or just give up and go back to choosing the wrong foods.
So, how can we live with food, enjoy it and still keep a pleasant body fat level? In my work with clients, I have learned that it isn't just what you eat, but several other lifestyle patterns involving food that can eliminate the choice of having your cake or your bathing suit!
Pattern #1: When you eat Most of my clients who are struggling to lose weight have a similar eating schedule. They tend to skip meals or under-eat meals during the day and then overeat at night after 6pm. Research on normal-weight individuals shows that they consume about 75% of their daily calories before the hour of 6pm. Over-fat individuals consume about 45% of their calories before the hour of 6pm and ingest 55% from 6pm until bedtime.
I have helped many people successfully lose fat by designing an eating frequency plan where they actually eat more during the day. Generally, you should eat every 4-5 hours throughout the day and take in about 300 calories per meal (women) or 400 calories per meal for men. That gives you five meals each day where you can enjoy good tasting food while achieving a healthy body fat level.
Of course, these numbers are generalizations because individuals have varied calorie burn rates, but the bottom line is that eating frequently and consistently while utilizing portion control is the way to go! Pattern #2: Where you eat Eating should be kept to very limited places in the home. The more places you condition to have food, the more places you will have to fight the triggers to eat....even when you are not hungry!
For the most part, I suggest eating only in the kitchen/dining area, never in the TV room or the bedroom. Once those spaces have been linked with food, it is very difficult to remove the drive to eat as part of your "go to sleep ritual" or your "TV-watching ritual".
I also advise my clients to avoid eating in the car. If you get take-out, then eat it when you get home or back to your office or on a park bench. Do not link eating to being in your car. We spend too much time driving to afford this place as a conditioned response to eating! Another pattern to break is eating when standing up: like when you have your head in the refrigerator and are taking bites of leftovers or when you are standing at your kitchen counter preparing a meal. A good rule to follow is to eat only when sitting at a table designed for meals.
I also like clients to eat their lunch away from their work desks. Again, we spend too much time here for it to be linked to eating. We are usually stressed at work and stress and eating is definitely not something you want to link in your nervous system! By minimizing the places that you habitually ingest food, you unconsciously streamline the number of places in your daily life that you get unconsciously triggered to eat! Pattern #3: How you eat Speed may be good in many areas of our lives, but when it comes to eating, speed is a sure path to weight gain. It takes some time for our brains to get the message that enough food has entered our body and that we can stop eating. For many of us, by the time that message is delivered, we have inhaled hundreds of calories.
Here's something to try: Set a timer for 20 minutes and make a portion of food that is appropriate for dinner to last that long. Just try this once and it will be an eye-opening experience. You will be satisfied with less food and will avoid that over-stuffed feeling that happens when your brain signal and stomach catch up to each other!
Pattern #4: Eating as entertainment This topic would need more than just a paragraph or two to fully address. What I want to highlight is that for almost all of my over-fat clients, food is the primary relationship in their lives.
Food, of course, is necessary to survive. Just like water, it needs to be a priority, but very few people have their social calendar revolve around drinking water (I won't discuss alcohol here!). Instead, many of my clients make social plans with eating as the main activity. For instance, people make the food at the party the primary focus or think about the special foods that they will be eating on vacation or can't go to a movie without eating in the theatre, even if just coming from dinner! You must take a hard look at how you are using food as entertainment and not as a necessary and enjoyable enhancement to the rest of your life!
Food and eating are pleasures that we engage in several times a day, every day of our lives. The problem is that when daily habits with eating run amok, the pleasure of food gets converted into added fat on our bodies and that robs us of the pleasures of hugging another person, riding a bike for the joy of it and just being in our body in everyday movements. But, if we modify our eating patterns, then we don't necessarily have to cut out all pleasure from eating and still be able to feel comfortable in our own skin!
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.
Below are sample mini-meal ideas. Mini-meal 1 • Cook 8 ounces of egg whites in the microwave for 3 minute and divide into 3 columns with knife (120 calories). • Take 3 corn tortillas (55 calories each) with .5 ounce of 1% fat shredded cheese (90 calories total) in the microwave for 45 seconds. • Take 1 handful of baby spinach per tortilla (20 calories) placed on top of melted cheese. • Place one of the egg white columns on top and roll into a burrito...put into transportable container for later or enjoy now! Total calories: 395
Mini-meal 2: • Microwave 5-ounce potato until soft - cut open and gut out about 2 ounces of potato. • Mix one pouch of Bumble Bee Salmon pouch (160 calories) with 3 ounces of plain fat free Greek yogurt (50 calories) and garlic powder. • Combine salmon with inside of potato and shredded carrots and cubed red or orange peppers. • Re-stuff the potato with the salmon-veggie salad ....put into transportable container for later or enjoy now! Total calories: 350
Non-cooking mini meals • Spread Laughing Cow lite cheese wedges (105 calories) on 16 Nut Thin crackers (130 calories) with 5 ounces of any fruit. • Mix 6 ounces of Cabot non-fat cottage cheese (100 calories) with 1 tablespoon of almond butter (90 calories) and 2 tablespoons of Polandar Fruit Jam (60 calories) and spread onto graham crackers (100 calorie portion).
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Book Reviewtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72262010-09-01T13:44:13Z2010-09-01T13:44:45ZStudents are back to school and many book groups are resuming their schedule after the summer hiatus. Both of this month's selections would be great book club choices, but even without a group discussion, they are worth reading....Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Students are back to school and many book groups are resuming their schedule after the summer hiatus. Both of this month's selections would be great book club choices, but even without a group discussion, they are worth reading.
Sometimes the change to a new publisher doesn't pan out. Case in point: although Charles Frazier's second novel, Thirteen Moons, was bought for a substantial sum by Random House, it never achieved the popularity of his first novel, Cold Mountain, published by the much smaller Atlantic Monthly Press. In this case, I think Sara Gruen and Random House have a winner. Ape House intertwines two stories, that of John Thigpen, a journalist, and Isabel Duncan, a researcher who works at the Great Ape Language Lab, who meet when John is assigned to write an article about the lab for the Philadelphia Inquirer. After meeting the apes, watching Isabel interact with them, and actually "talking" to them using sign language, John is almost as taken with the bonobos as Isabel is. Later that evening, when Isabel is alone in the lab, there is an explosion; Isabel is badly injured and the bonobos are kidnapped by masked intruders. Thus, our story begins. Who is responsible? Has a fringe animal liberation group gone off the deep end? Where are the bonobos and how can Isabel get them back where they belong? When a reality television show called "Ape House" starts airing, Isabel has her answer and John's investigative skills help them flesh out what really happened when the animals were abducted. There are several subplots--John's wife is trying to forge a career as a screenwriter in Hollywood; Isabel's fiancée, another ape researcher, is trying to interest her in another project; Celia, a worker in the lab, may have ties to an animal liberation group; and John may have an illegitimate son he knew nothing about--but the heart and soul of the story is the bonobo family and the fight to save them from human predators. Ape House raises questions about the nature of humanity and will make you think about the humanity of animals. Read and discuss!
This next book is a departure from my usual review fare. Beat the Band by Don Calame is a roisterous, riotous and ribald novel for teenage boys, and I enjoyed every moment of it. This is screenwriter Calame's second teen novel; the first was Swim the Fly, now available in paperback. Swim the Fly is narrated by Matt, one of a trio of best friends who make a summer pact to finally see a girl naked. That is actually a minor plot point in a wonderful book about competition, perseverance, lust and love. Coop, the second of the trio (oh, please let there be a third book featuring Sean!) narrates Beat the Band, and it is just as hilarious and over-the-top as the first. Coop is assigned to partner with Helen, the class "slut", for a health class project on contraception, and in order to shore up his sinking social status he decides he and his friends must compete in the annual Battle of the Bands at school. The ending is predictable, but the journey is so enjoyable it doesn't matter. Perfect for reluctant readers!
Susan Taylor has been in the book business since 1982. ]]>
Critical mistakes in the back to school game plan!tag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72252010-09-01T13:41:56Z2010-09-01T13:43:37ZSchool's back in session and parents everywhere have high hopes for a solid and successful school year. Below are three mistakes to avoid if you want to make sure your children are on the path for self-motivation and academic success....Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
School's back in session and parents everywhere have high hopes for a solid and successful school year. Below are three mistakes to avoid if you want to make sure your children are on the path for self-motivation and academic success.
False hope is what happens when we fall asleep to the reality building around us. Perhaps our children are constantly fighting us on homework. We see their grades during elementary years as just adequate, despite their potential. Or, perhaps with older kids we see their grades gradually getting worse, and their efforts dwindling.
False hope occurs when we 'hope' that the year will get better, yet there is no better plan in place. We have not developed a better method of teaching and managing the daily grind of homework and busy schedules, and 'hope' that it will all work out. Quite honestly, it often does not. When compared to other countries and cultures, we see that our children are performing more and more poorly. And yet there is no mystery here - the hand writing is on the wall when we see the quality of the habits our children have developed.
2. You can't talk your kids into 'realizing' the importance of good study habits. Too often we see children arguing for more independence and less oversight. Without a good system of managing daily habits, we often find the arguments and constant management to be overwhelming. And it should be! We really can't be successful by "talking them into" the realization that good study habits will often form the foundation of good life habits. Poor performance in school time and again tends to predict poor results in life. At the same time, you also can't trust that life will just 'give it to them.' For most children and adolescents, you have to do more.
3. Don't trust your bribes or their promises to get them to do better. Over and over again, I see parents get frustrated when they make a 'deal' with their child who is struggling at school. They expect their son or daughter to honor the deal. Yet, in the past such 'promises' were never honored; thus it makes no sense to believe that bigger promises today will yield bigger results tomorrow. It doesn't work that way. Instead, you need a better plan. Not better bribes or better promises.
Here is the short-cut to my core principles that produce success. If you follow these, your kids may not like you, but you will like the results. • Prepare them for a change. Explain that there will be no more lectures or long discussions. • Promise them that you won't nag or push you anymore...but, • Also promise them that there will be NO PLAY until the work is done!
This is the wonderful secret. We often make the mistake of setting up life so that the kids get to enjoy all the goodies (i.e., toys, TV, computer, phone, playing ball, friends, video games, etc.) BEFORE they do homework and chores. Instead, we never can surrender our leverage. In other words, you establish a single fundamental ground rule that does not change. They must finish their work... and ONLY then can they play. Once you have enforced this magical rule, you can now start to relax a bit. If you have more questions about how to create the habits of success, you can learn all the details at BackToSchoolSecrets.com.
Dr. Randy Cale offers practical guidance for a host of parenting concerns. For more information visit www.TerrificParenting.com.]]>
Sun Sign Forecast For September 2010tag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72242010-09-01T13:38:57Z2010-09-01T13:41:32ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
To trim those extra pounds, begin a diet on September 23rd.
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Work, health and pets are on your agenda for this month. On the 12th, you seek efficiency in health and work matters as you search for a new approach in both. You analyze your career goals after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you make subtle changes in your appearance and in the way that you express yourself.
Taurus: (April 21 to May 20) Children, romance and speculation are favored for you this month. On the 12th, you are given an opportunity to reach an agreement with a loved one. You want to broaden your knowledge and expand your horizons after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you have the ability to correct a past mistake and gain in spirituality.
Gemini : (May 21 to June 20) Family, domestic and personal matters are the highlight for this month. On the 12th, you gain a new perspective on your personal and family affairs. You become interested in abstract and spiritual teachings after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you will evaluate your goals and directions and make any necessary changes.
Cancer: (June 21 to July 22) Siblings, short trips and all forms of communication are the focus for this month. On the 12th, you want to increase your knowledge and are encouraged to enroll in a workshop or course. Avoid power struggles after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you receive an award or recognition for a job or project well-done.
Leo: (July 23 to August 22) Possessions, personal finances and values are favored for this month. On the 12th, you are able to negotiate or reach a financial agreement with another. You can eliminate any unwanted habits and improve health care after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you have an interest in foreign cultures, laws and philosophies.
Virgo: (August 23 to September 22) Personality, appearance and outlook on life are your interests for this month. On the 12th, you are able to express yourself and your ideas to others more convincingly. Happiness comes through your love relationships after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you review your joint assets, including marital, and settle old debts.
Libra: (September 23 to October 22) Subconscious mind, inner strength and spirituality are highlighted for this month. On the 12th, you explore new ways to expand your perspective on life. Unsettled issues from the past can be resolved after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, your personal relationships improve through your willingness to share and compromise.
Scorpio: (October 23 to November 21) Goals, friends and hopes and wishes have your attention for this month. On the 12th, you get new insight into your friendships and the groups that you belong to. A formal course of study or attending a workshop is inviting as you search for wisdom after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, your seek work and physical efficiency.
Sagittarius: (November 22 to December 21) Profession, status and aims in life are your focus for this month. On the 12th, you are able to present you ideas to management or supervisors. You examine your personal finances and values after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, your loved ones involve you in their creative projects and new ways to have fun.
Capricorn: (December 22 to January 19) Spirituality, long trips and foreign cultures are your interest for this month. On the 12th, you consider exploring such subjects as spirituality, meditation and religion. You are beginning a period of personal transformation after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, there will be subtle changes in your home and personal life.
Aquarius: (January 20 to February 18) Regeneration, shared resources and values are favored this month. On the 12th, you are able to resolve an existing situation or condition to everyone's satisfaction. You learn about yourself through mediation and dreams after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you look for knowledge and may begin a course of study.
Pisces: (February 19 to March 20) Sharing, partnerships, both business and personal, are your joys for this month. On the 12th, you find a new approach to both health and work matters. You become involved with new social groups and friends with interests in humanitarian issues after the 14th. After the Full Moon on the 23rd, you review your saving and spending habits. Arlene is an author, astrologer and para-consultant and has studied and worked with astrology for more than 35 years. ]]>
Turning the pagetag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.72232010-09-01T13:33:20Z2010-09-01T13:35:05ZCapital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 For children, that happens with the big yellow bus weaving its way through the neighborhood gathering up kids like a magnet picks up scattered nails. No matter how old you get or how many times you've been through the ritual, you still got butterflies that first day of school. New faces on the bus, deciding where to sit based solely on your level of 'coolness'. Fonzy in the back; Poindexter up front by the driver, please. Girls think that they are the only ones who sweated over what to wear to school that first day, but the truth is we boys worried too. Chances are it was something your mom bought you at the mall the weekend before. How many teens have had the perfect outfit undone by a price tag still attached that they missed? That always goes over well in the hallway.
It's a harsh world with sharp teeth and children learn that not long after they can spell the word M-E-A-N. Wear the wrong label or sit at the wrong table at lunchtime and you were quickly reminded that Mom and Dad were not here to save you this time. It's the way it should be I guess; at least it toughens you up for the real world later on. A little like that Johnny Cash song, 'A Boy Named Sue'.
When I see kids huddled together this month waiting for their bus, I'm excited for them and cringe at the same time. Never again will they be at a point in their lives where so much is possible. I want to pull over to teens I don't even know and yell, "This is it. Right here today. This is where it all went down. When you look back in 20 or 40 years and wonder why things are so awful or wonderful, THIS is the moment the seeds were planted." And the truth is, we are the farmers of our own fate. Blow off school, try a little drugs, have a little sex, just decide it's all a load of crap and you are opting out; those are the off ramps that take you from endless possibility to a plain old dead end.
Are you happy and successful? I don't even know you, but if you answered yes to that question I'm sure you can name one special teacher who had a hand in it. When the going got tough he or she was the one who sat with you after class to make sure you got it. If you have a talent I guarantee that teacher is the one who recognized and encouraged it. When parents drop out of parenting, it's the teachers who often fill the void. How many reach into their own pockets to buy a child a notepad or sandwich? You can argue over whether they are paid enough, but I know for certain we don't thank them enough. Don't believe me? Go shadow a class for a day and see if you aren't mentally searching for the exit inside of an hour.
September is also a joyous and tough month for the stay-at-home parents. As crazy as the kids can make you during the summer, it is very bittersweet to watch the bus door close and sweep your little cupcake away. You've yearned for peace, but now that it's here the house is a little too quiet. My youngest goes off to first grade this month, his first full-day of school, and I honestly don't know what I'm going to do with myself. Perhaps I'll count the gray hairs that weren't there when my oldest started school so many years ago. I can't imagine the nasty pangs that will be there when the last child heads off to college. An empty nest indeed, but not an empty life - not if you've done things right.
I used to think grandparents were nice because they were reaching the end of the road and wanted to score a little good will before they met St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. Now I know the truth. They are nice because the first time around, when they were just parents, they took some of it for granted. The dirty diapers, skinned knees and bicycle tires that constantly needed air. I'll bet you dollars to donuts when they see me with my children they want to pull the car over and yell, "This is it. Right here today. This is the good stuff."
I'm a long way from being a grandparent, but already I'm tucking away train sets and favorite size 2T sweatshirts for the day when one of my own kids bring home their own little 'cupcake'. I want to be ready for that warm September day when they climb up on my lap and ask me to draw them a picture. That's when I'll reach for that old, weathered Etch-a-Sketch. Paint faded, knobs a little loose, but like all of us on our better days, still able to make magic.
John Gray is a Fox23 News anchor and contributing writer at the Troy Record. He can be reached at johngray@fox23news.com. ]]>
Best Doctorstag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.69382010-07-26T18:01:52Z2010-07-29T13:19:21ZOf the Capital Region...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Of the Capital Region
Dr. Duncan Savage, MD Radiation Oncologist, Albany Radiation Oncology Associates, LLC and St. Peter's Health Care Services Undergraduate degree: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medical school: Albany Medical College Residency: University of Wisconsin Fellowship: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center
Cancer can affect people of all ages and all walks of life. Chances are you or someone you know has dealt with the disease in some form or another. A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary to say the least, and for doctors like Duncan Savage, it's important to understand those fears so that the treatment and healing can begin.
A resident of the Capital Region since 1975, Dr. Savage is now part of the team at Albany Radiation Oncology Associates, LLC (AROA) and the section chief of the Division of Radiation Oncology at St. Peter's Health Care Services. Originally from New Jersey, he came to the area to attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and enrolled in a program designed for students to earn both their bachelor's and medical degree in six years.
"I was really fortunate [to be a part of the program] because I left high school knowing I'd have a spot in medical school," said Dr. Savage. He went on to complete his degree at Albany Medical College and said he chose radiation oncology because he thought it was a good combination of science and dealing with people.
"It's a very visual way of treating cancer," he said. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and prevent them from spreading. It can be a tricky field to practice, as you are dealing with radiation 1,000 times more powerful than a standard chest x-ray, while making sure you are giving the appropriate dose to the appropriate area.
"You walk a fine line.Sort of like walking a tight rope." While higher doses of radiation control the tumor, you have to worry about increased side effects and not harming the patient. Before settling on radiation oncology, Dr. Savage worked in the chemotherapy field for a year, but did not find it as satisfying. Citing more side effects with fewer results, he found that radiation, while also having its drawbacks, proves more beneficial for patients.
"I think it really makes the difference between dying of cancer and being cured of cancer," he said. Creating a supportive and compassionate environment for his patients is one of the most important things for Dr. Savage and he noted that a big part of that comes from his team at AROA.
"When dealing with patients you always have to get inside their head and figure out what makes them tick," he explained. "You have to partner with them to make a plan that fits their treatment needs."
Dr. Savage said his team, which ranges from radiation therapists to nurses to the front end staff, all understand what an extremely difficult time this is in their patients' lives. "[The team] all understand the terror and enormity of what's going on and we really try to streamline the process for the patients."
With every patient, the team works together to bounce ideas off each other and Dr. Savage encourages input from all medical disciplines.
"Sometimes they see a side of the situation I haven't yet."
With the range of patients that he treats, there are times when someone newly-diagnosed thinks they may be able to handle more radiation than is healthy.
"It can be frustrating because some patients are willing to endure harsher treatments," he said, even though he may not believe it's the best option. This is when the team approach comes into play to develop the best treatment plan.
"It's a very humbling job," said Dr. Savage. "You can do everything right and things still go wrong." It's difficult for him to see patients not do well when you've done everything you can medically.
While his chosen field can be draining, he keeps things in perspective by remembering a former patient who was diagnosed with breast cancer. The woman told him she saw it as a gift and that the experience forced her to refocus her priorities and her life.
"We get so caught up in the day-to-day that we don't step back enough and look at the bigger picture," he said. "Thinking of her reminds me to take a moment and breathe." -- Ciara McCann
Dr. Dale R. Meyer, M.D. Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery Lions Eye Institute: 1220 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands Undergraduate degree: University of Virginia Medical School: University of Maryland Residency: Johns Hopkins University Fellowship: West Virginia University, Oregon Health Sciences University: Casey Eye Institute
Plastic surgery is often seen as a "beautification" procedure performed in star-studded places like South Beach or L.A., where a nip and a tuck are as common as soup and a sandwich. But, plastic surgery is also done, many times, to repair physical flaws. Dr. Dale Meyer specializes in Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery and is one of just 400 doctors in the United States with the unique ability to perform a host of delicate procedures around the eyes while taking advantage of opportunities to cosmetically enhance a patient's appearance.
"I like detail work and I like being able to be able to see what I've done, the visual aspect of it," said Dr. Meyer, whose specialty involves cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and eyelids. Reconstructive surgery involves eyelids, tear ducts and the orbit, or eye socket. His specialty is the area around the eyes.
Dr. Meyer practices at the Lions Eye Institute in Slingerlands, home to several ophthalmologic specialties. It is affiliated with Albany Medical Center and attracts approximately 30,000 patients each year, not only from the Capital Region, but also from western Massachusetts to the Canadian border.
Over the years, he has done a wide range of reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. "A lot of the work is eyelid work and my motto is: 'See how good you look. Look how good you can see.'"
He has also helped several patients recovering from skin cancer and tumors on their face, but there was one patient Dr. Meyer will never forget. In July of 2008, the parents of a newborn came to him seeking help for their daughter.
"She was born missing most of her upper eyelid. You have to re-build that," he said. So, at just one-week-old, he operated and was able to construct an eyelid. As if the success of the surgery wasn't rewarding enough, five months later he received a Christmas card from the baby's family with her photo on the front.
"It was a real blessing to see her improvement. I keep that card on my desk. It reminds me of the good stuff you can do."
Dr. Meyer grew up in Baltimore. He attended Medical School at The University of Maryland, where his son Eric will begin his freshman year in the fall. His daughter Elena is a freshman in high school. His wife, Joy is also a physician specializing in physical medicine. "She is the joy of my life, along with my children, of course."
First in his family to attend college, Dr. Meyer moved to the area in 1990 when he took a job as an Associate Professor at Albany Medical College, where he continues to teach today. "I actually thought when I started out that I wanted to do family practice or maybe surgery, but one of the rotations I did was ophthalmology and I really liked it." -- Marci Natale
Dr. Paul Spurgas, MD Neurosurgeon, Ellis Neuro Surgery Undergraduate degree: Union College Medical school: Temple University Residency: Albany Medical Center Hospital
One of the most sophisticated surgical specialties, neurosurgery is the medical field concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of the entire nervous system. Surgery on the nervous system may be necessary due to a birth defect, traumatic injury, cancer or other reasons.
Top in this specialized field in the Capital Region is Dr. Paul Spurgas. He has been a board certified neurosurgeon for 28 years and is a native of Schenectady. Even though he is the only member of his family in medicine, he said he never once considered any other profession. "I was always fascinated by thought and personality and the organ that controls it," he said. Dr. Spurgas performs the latest minimally-invasive surgeries on patients who have had strokes, cerebrovascular disease, brain tumors, lumbar disc and degenerative diseases, cervical spondylosis and aneurysms. Before returning to Ellis Hospital in Schenectady as Chair of the Department of Neurosciences and Chief of Neurosurgery, he previously worked and taught as an attending neurosurgeon at Albany Medical Center Hospital and most recently cared for patients at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA.
"My experiences at Albany Med and at Geisinger were fantastic," said Dr. Spurgas. "But, returning to Ellis was an opportunity to come home to friends and family."
His days start early and are filled with seeing patients in the hospital, in the office or performing surgery. He's often called to the emergency room for consultations and attends frequent meetings. Even with a hectic schedule and after years in practice, it's important for him to fully prepare himself for each patient.
"I reflect on every surgery and walk myself through the steps before every case," he said. "That helps to ensure positive outcomes."
Those positive outcomes have become much easier to come by thanks to today's technology, which Dr. Spurgas said has evolved dramatically since he started. When he began, there was no such thing as a CT scan or an MRI machine. Instead, diagnosis consisted of a combination of detecting variations in blood vessel position and clinical diagnostic skills. Now, he is able to make a diagnosis in minutes and remove tumors with precision. "The outcomes are markedly improved and the surgery is safer."
Dr. Spurges' philosophy is to be as open, friendly and compassionate as possible to his patients and listen to all of their concerns. He performs mainly spine surgeries and said the toughest cases involve the brain.
"While the surgery to remove a malignant brain tumor can be technically perfect, and we do everything we possibly can, often the nature of the disease precludes a long-term positive outcome for the patient," said Dr. Spurgas.
While reflecting back on previous cases, he said his most memorable patient was a young man who nearly died in a skiing accident. The man suffered a severe head injury and blood clot in the brain.
"Emergency surgery saved his life. He is now a successful businessman and we keep in touch regularly."
In his spare time outside of the operating room, Dr. Spurgas is active with the Saratoga Auto Museum and restores old Jaguars; something he has enjoyed doing since high school. "I am fascinated by mechanical components," he said. "The early cars were made with pride and craftsman signed their work. I'm just trying to continue the life of these beautiful machines."
He has also practiced falconry for 30 years. The sport involves the use of trained birds of prey to hunt or pursue game. He said he grew up hunting and finds it exciting to interact with falcons and hawks in what they do naturally.
These hobbies provide some release for him, and despite the long and busy days, he isn't thinking about switching careers any time soon.
"There is always something new to be learned," he said. "I feel blessed to be able to enjoy my profession." -- Ciara McCann
Dr. Sophia Socaris, M.D. Critical Care Medicine Albany Medical Center Undergraduate Degree: UAlbany Medical School: SUNY Health Science Center, Upstate Medical Center Residency: Albany Medical Center Fellowship: Albany Medical Center
It's 8pm on a Thursday night and Dr. Sophia Socaris is just getting home. While trying to catch up on her personal life and return phone calls, she finds herself hanging up abruptly. The hospital--the place she just left -- is paging her and she has five minutes to call back. Time is crucial, because every second counts when you're a patient in the Intensive Care Unit.
Dr. Socaris has been running the ICU at Albany Medical Center since 1992. She cares for all of the trauma patients, general surgery patients, neurosurgical, obstetrical, orthopedic and thoracic. Her staff cares for approximately 1,300 patients a year.
"It shows the volume of patients. Albany Med is a regional hospital. We have a lot of patients who travel from all over, including Utica, Kingston, Western Massachusetts and Vermont," she said. And she's proud to point out that, "Ninety percent of our patients survive and do well." In her early days as a medical student at SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse, Dr. Socaris did her training in Internal Medicine. It was while doing her residency at Albany Med, that she realized she didn't enjoy out-patient medicine. "I gravitated toward sicker patients," she said.
completing a fellowship in Critical Care Medicine at Albany Med she went on to work in the ICU at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady. Dr. Socaris returned to Albany Med in 1988 and in 1992 was named Physician Manager of the Surgical ICU.
In her time managing the ICU, she has experienced the highest highs and the lowest lows. "We have someone come in near death and we're able to treat them and they get better and they leave the ICU and it's amazing to know you not only saved a person, but have forever affected their life."
During the low points, the strength of her staff shines through. "The ICU is a team. It's a family and just like any family, we support each other. We celebrate our successes and mourn our losses and go on to the next day to help the next person."
Because the patients Dr. Socaris treats are critically ill, a lot of time is spent caring for them, and strong bonds are developed. One patient she'll never forget is a new mother who was admitted right after complications from her delivery.
"Her husband was at her bedside every day along with the staff and team of physicians. I remember us all standing at her bedside not knowing if she was going to survive, asking each other, 'What else can we do?' 'How can we get her through this?'" Thankfully, the woman made it and her son grew up. "It's that example, the bond you have with families, that makes you really become one."
When Dr. Socaris is not in the trenches of Albany Med's ICU, you can usually find her at her family's restaurant, Athos, on Western Avenue in Guilderland.
"The restaurant is great because so many people I meet over the years - families, patients - I see in the restaurant."
Her husband, George Danes, runs the restaurant, but helping him out provides Dr. Socaris a good outlet. She said there is a link between her work in the ICU and Athos. "They're similar; leading teams of people to achieve a certain goal." -- Marci Natale
Dr. Anthony Malone M.D. Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics CapitalCare Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Latham Undergraduate degree: Trinity College Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine Residency: Albany Medical Center Fellowship: Albany Medical Center
Having a child is a joyous, monumental occasion. But while we all hope for a healthy baby who achieves all of the development milestones, that's not always the case. When a problem arises with your child, Dr. Anthony Malone, MD, is the area specialist to seek out.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of pediatrics and developmental disabilities, Dr. Malone is the co-founder of CapitalCare Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics in Latham (a second office is located in Clifton Park) and serves as Clinical Associate Professor in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Albany Medical College. His practice serves about 3,500 children a year and is growing.
"We are a diagnostic center. Our clinicians help parents understand what the underlying problem is and the mechanisms for it to have developed," he said.
Dr. Malone became interested in this field during college when he worked at a camp for special needs children and felt an instant pull. Today, he prefers to see children under age six; older children are seen in the Clifton Park office.
Dr. Malone's office does not treat patients directly, however. Instead, they evaluate and diagnosis their patients, referring those with developmental disabilities to therapists and educators throughout the public systems, such as Early Intervention and pre-school services of local school districts. If needed, they will also refer patients to mental health professionals or other medical specialists.
"We have children who are referred here from as far north as Canada, Utica and Westchester for any concerns about [their child's] development," he said. "Our philosophy is to find things early to help take care of them and help parents find the right resources."
Patients range in age from newborn to adolescent and may suffer from a cognitive or learning disability, genetic disorder, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, or language and speech delay. Patients may also present with hearing and vision impairment, sensory issues and - the number one concern for parents right now - autism.
Dr. Malone and his team also see babies who graduate from the Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Albany Medical Center and St. Peter's Hospital for any concerns that may occur in their early years of life. Additionally, his team offers parents of domestic or international adoption an opportunity for developmental assessment, as well as support for planning and intervention for all developmental and emotional needs.
Besides treatment resources, they also refer parents to local help groups such as Parent to Parent, the Center for Autism and AIM High. And, they provide parents with resources for reading and are willing to meet frequently with them to review concerns or questions.
Whatever the case, CapitalCare Developmental Behavioral-Pediatrics will allay unfounded anxieties while paying special heed to those suffering from an identifiable disability. Not that the lay person can always tell the difference. Many parents, for example, will express anxiety about their child's perceived difficulty in communicating without realizing that the use of sign language in lieu of verbal communication is not as medically disconcerting as a complete lack of communication. "If they're [the child] is using sign language, that's okay. If they're not talking, that's a concern," he said.
The presence of symptoms don't always signify a serious problem though. According to Dr. Malone, a child who is developing properly is one who has the drive to learn, is always ready for the next step and has a strong interest in understanding social skills. In the end, though, the number one advice Dr. Malone can offer parents is to trust their instincts. "Parents have very a good ability to understand when something is not going right." -- Mary Beth Galarneau
Dr. David Foyt, M.D. Otolaryngology/Neurotology Capital Region Ear Institute Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery (Otolaryngology/Neurotology) Albany Medical Center Undergraduate degree: Columbia College Medical School: Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, Doctor of Medicine Residency: Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center Fellowship: House Ear Institute Inc. (House Ear Clinic)
As a child growing up in the Bronx, Dr. David Foyt often heard stories about his grandfather, a doctor in rural Czechoslovakia during WWII (now the Czech Republic). It was those stories that inspired him to go into medicine.
"My grandfather was an old school general practitioner who did everything from delivering babies to treating heart disease in elderly patients and rarely got paid with anything more than a chicken or a few sides of ham."
Dr. Foyt decided to specialize in Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat medicine) and Neurotology because he has always been good with very small things and finds the anatomy of the ear to be "beautiful anatomy."
After attending Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, he did his fellowship at the House Ear Institute Inc. (House Ear Clinic) in Los Angeles, CA, where he recalls the unforgettable experience of doing cochlear implants on an entire deaf family and activating them all on the same day.
"It was really pretty hilarious and very loud and a total zoo. We have several families here in the Albany area where we have implanted multiple family members, but never everybody at once!"
Following his fellowship, Dr. Foyt came to Albany. His practice at the Capital Region Ear Institute is made up of about half children and half adults and approximately half of all those patients come from the Albany area; the rest travel from areas such as Canada, Westchester, Syracuse and Vermont.
Much of what he does in his practice is the treatment of hearing loss, facial nerve disorders, balance and dizziness disorders and cochlear implantation. Since restoring hearing is one of the things he does, it often drives him nuts to see construction workers operating jack hammers. "They're putting 120 decibels of sound into their ears."
Oftentimes, he'll try to get their attention, which usually elicits a response along the lines of, 'Who's the crazy guy yelling at me?' It's a different story at home though, where he'll tell his daughter that if he can hear the music through her earphones, it's too loud and to turn it down; advice he offers to everyone.
Of the many causes of hearing loss, presbycusis is the most common and is age-related. He has recently seen an increase in treating military personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The soldiers are supposed to wear hearing protection when they are shooting or in blast zones, but then they can't hear their partner, creating an even greater problem. Some of them come home and may have ringing in the ears and differing degrees of hearing loss. To treat some of these patients, he uses physical therapy and other treatments like injecting steroids into the ear to restore hearing.
A multidisciplinary subspecialty clinic for acoustic neuroma (non cancerous growth) and skull base tumors is headed by Dr. Foyt along with two other local doctors, Dr. Alan Boulous and Dr. Duncan Savage. Every Thursday, in conjunction with Albany Medical Center, Dr. Foyt sees patients in the morning for evaluation and then the patients are referred to see either Dr. Boulous at Albany Medical Center or Dr. Savage at St. Peter's Hospital for further evaluation and diagnoses if required. The advantage of the clinic is that many patients can be seen on one day as opposed to having to travel back and forth from their hometowns over time to see each of the doctors.
Dr. Foyt is one of about 250 doctors worldwide who are board certified in neurotology and skull base tumors, with approximately only 100 of those doctors being in the United States. According to him, there is an increase in the number of skull base tumors, mainly because they are picked up more by MRI's. They are benign, and slow to grow, but are destructive. Tumors of this kind can affect many functions, including swallowing.
For treatment, they use the Novalis system (stereotactic radiotherapy) at St. Peter's Hospital. "It's a more precise treatment without affecting other body parts," he said.
Of the research that's happening in his field, Dr. Foyt said that electronics for cochlear implants (to restore hearing) have made huge jumps in technology. For example, a patient that may not have been helped by the implants five years ago is now able to be treated given the advances.
When asked what kind of research is on the horizon in his field, he said, "Stem cell research. Isolating the stem cells and teaching them [how to become hearing cells] is very exciting." Between his practice, the clinic and family life, it's hard to believe he has time for anything else, but he does. Five years ago he founded and sits on the Board of Directors of the Children's Hearing Foundation (CHF), a not-for-profit organization which donates cochlear implants to children who need them. They're currently planning their first trip out of the country to Napal.
The most rewarding part of his specialty, he said, is being able to restore a sense to somebody. "When I see a smile on a child's face who is hearing for the first time and that child looks up and gets a smile from mom...that's the best part."
These lists are excerpted from The Best Doctors in America 2009-2010 database, which includes over 40,000 doctors in more than 40 medical specialties. The Best Doctors in America database is compiled and maintained by Best Doctors, Inc. For more information, visit www.bestdoctors.com, or contact Best Doctors by telephone at 800-675-1199 or by e-mail at research@bestdoctors.com. Please note that lists of doctors are not available on the Best Doctors web site.
Disclaimer Best Doctors, Inc., has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list, but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010, Best Doctors, Inc. Used under license, all rights reserved. This list, or any parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without written permission from Best Doctors, Inc. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without the permission of Best Doctors, Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.
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Addiction Medicine John Melbourne Conifer Park 79 Glen Ridge Road Glenville, NY 12302 Phone: 518-399-6446 Allergy and Immunology James M. DeMasi Four Executive Park Drive Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-437-1890 Allergy and Immunology Thomas Flaim Certified Allergy and Asthma Consultants Eight Southwoods Boulevard Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-434-1446 Allergy and Immunology Scott L. Osur Certified Allergy and Asthma Consultants Eight Southwoods Boulevard Albany, NY 12211 Phone: 518-434-1446 Anesthesiology Paul C. Chalmers Anesthesia Group of Albany 1450 Western Avenue, Suite 102 Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-463-0050 Anesthesiology Cheryl A. De Simone Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology Elliott S. Greene Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology Anthony O'Leary Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology Kevin Wilson Roberts Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology Michael R. L. Sandison Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology Farhan Mohinddin Sheikh Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Anesthesiology David L. Trickey Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Cardiovascular Disease Steven Arthur Fein Albany Medical Center Division of Cardiology Physicians Pavilion, Second Floor 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5076 Cardiovascular Disease Edward Francis Philbin Albany Medical Center Division of Cardiology Physicians Pavilion, Second Floor 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5076 Cardiovascular Disease Joseph D. Sacco Albany Medical Center Division of Cardiology Physicians Pavilion, Second Floor 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5076 Colon and Rectal Surgery Samuel Feldman Capital District Colon and Rectal Surgery Associates Five Palisades Drive, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-438-2776 Colon and Rectal Surgery Edward Lee Albany Medical Center Department of Surgery 47 New Scotland Avenue, Floor A2 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-0940 Critical Care Medicine Gary L. Bernardini Albany Medical Center Neurosciences Institute 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5226 Critical Care Medicine Scott Bradley Groudine Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-8505 Critical Care Medicine David S. Palat Pulmonary and Critical Care Services Five Palisades Drive, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-438-4496 Critical Care Medicine Sophia Socaris Albany Medical Center Department of Surgery 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5963 Endocrinology and Metabolism Robert S. Busch The Endocrine Group 1365 Washington Avenue, Suite 300 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-4704 Family Medicine Sharon Ann Alger-Mayer 215 Washington Avenue Extension Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-452-3028 Family Medicine Denis E. Chagnon Latham Medical Group 713 Troy-Schenectady Road, Suite 224 Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-785-5881 Family Medicine Rebecca Lynne Elliott Greenville Family Health Center 20 Bryants Country Square Greenville, NY 12083 Phone: 518-966-8786 Family Medicine Gerald Hausler Center for Family Practice Eight Century Hill Drive Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-783-7173 Family Medicine Brian J. Izzo Saratoga Family Physicians 3044 Route 50 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: 518-886-5800 Family Medicine Neil C. Mitnick Community Care Physicians Albany Family Practice Group Two Clara Barton Drive, Suite 201 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-207-2273 Gastroenterology Catherine Bartholomew Albany Medical Center Division of Gastroenterology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5276 Gastroenterology Richard MacDermott Albany Medical Center Division of Gastroenterology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5276 Gastroenterology Howard Malamood Saratoga Schenectady Gastroenterology Associates 848 Route 50 Burnt Hills, NY 12027 Phone: 518-831-1500 Gastroenterology Seth Richter Albany Medical Center Division of Gastroenterology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5276 Hand Surgery Richard Uhl Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Hand Surgery Richard R. Whipple Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Infectious Disease Sarah L. Elmendorf Upstate Infectious Disease Associates 567 New Scotland Avenue, Suite One Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-435-0662 Infectious Disease Douglas G. Fish Albany Medical College Department of Infectious Disease 66 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4439 Infectious Disease Susan Hadley Bassett Healthcare Division of Infectious Diseases One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone: 607-547-3390 Infectious Disease Charles Kutler Medical Associates of the Hudson Valley Kingston Health Pavilion 360 Washington Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 Phone: 845-338-7140 Infectious Disease Alan M. Sanders Upstate Infectious Disease Associates 567 New Scotland Avenue, Suite One Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-435-0662 Infectious Disease Raymond Patrick Smith Albany VA Medical Center Division of Infectious Diseases 113 Holland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-626-5000 Internal Medicine Jill Marie Abelseth The Endocrine Group 1365 Washington Avenue, Suite 300 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-4704 Internal Medicine Sharon Ann Alger-Mayer 215 Washington Avenue Extension Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-452-3028 Internal Medicine Jill Braverman-Panza 1375 Washington Avenue, Suite 202 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-482-0007 Internal Medicine Carol Jean Burgess Prime Care Physicians 1444 Western Avenue, Suite B1 Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-458-2611 Internal Medicine William J. Caramore Albany Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine One Pinnacle Place Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-262-5735 Internal Medicine Kevin Costello Albany Medical Center Hospitalist Program 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-6281 Internal Medicine Mary Ellen Drislane Prime Care Physicians Four Palisades Drive, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-446-9545 Internal Medicine Joanne Marie Fogarty Newtonville Pediatrics 564 New Loudon Road Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-783-1445 Internal Medicine Carmen Giuliano One Pinnacle Place, Suite One Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-489-1109 Internal Medicine Robert M. Kelleher 319 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 206 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-489-8493 Internal Medicine Josephine Lee Albany Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine One Pinnacle Place Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-262-5735 Internal Medicine Jeffrey Perkins 1873 Western Avenue, Suite 101 Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-690-0171 Internal Medicine Laura E. Pica Prime Care Physicians Three Normanskill Boulevard Delmar, NY 12054 Phone: 518-478-0948 Internal Medicine Mary E. Rappazzo Prime Care Physicians Four Palisades Drive, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-446-9545 Internal Medicine John D. Rosenberger Albany Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine One Pinnacle Place Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-262-5735 Internal Medicine Alwin Steinmann Albany Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine One Pinnacle Place Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-262-5735 Internal Medicine Stefan A. Swicker Prime Care Physicians 1444 Western Avenue, Suite D Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-452-0587 Medical Oncology and Hematology Harry G. Dunn New York Oncology and Hematology 43 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-6696 Medical Oncology and Hematology Michael Kolodziej New York Oncology and Hematology 400 Patroon Creek Boulevard, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-0044 Neurological Surgery Paul E. Spurgas Ellis Neurosurgery Medical Arts Building, Suite 204 1201 Nott Street, Suite 204 Schenectady, NY 12308 Phone: 518-243-1876 Neurology Charles Evan Argoff Albany Medical Center Neurosciences Institute 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5226 Neurology Gary L. Bernardini Albany Medical Center Neurosciences Institute 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5226 Neurology Fabio Danisi Kingston Neurological Associates 365 Broadway Kingston, NY 12401 Phone: 845-331-5165 Neurology Alfred T. Frontera Kingston Neurological Associates 365 Broadway Kingston, NY 12401 Phone: 845-331-5165 Neurology Eric S. Molho Albany Medical Center Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-6611 Neurology Anthony Ritaccio Albany Medical Center Neurosciences Institute 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5226 Neurology Susan A. Weaver New York Oncology and Hematology 43 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-6696 Neurology Earl A. Zimmerman Albany Medical Center Department of Neurology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-0800 Obstetrics and Gynecology Cheryl Burack 62 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12209 Phone: 518-465-3318 Obstetrics and Gynecology William Bruce Clark 585 New Loudon Road Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-783-1472 Obstetrics and Gynecology Robert Dropkin Six Executive Park Drive Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-489-7439 Obstetrics and Gynecology Eileen E. Joyce Upstate ObGyn Associates 1365 Washington Avenue, Suite 201 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-4446 Obstetrics and Gynecology Camille Kanaan Albany Medical Center Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5100 Ophthalmology Gregory B. Krohel Northeast Eye Center 2200 Burdett Avenue, Suite 206 Troy, NY 12180 Phone: 518-271-6293 Ophthalmology Dale R. Meyer Lions Eye Institute Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery 1220 New Scotland Road, Suite 302 Slingerlands, NY 12159 Phone: 518-533-6540 Ophthalmology Robert A. Schumer Eye Associates 500 Aaron Court Kingston, NY 12401 Phone: 845-331-0711 Ophthalmology Steven Simmons Glaucoma Consultants 1240 New Scotland Road, Suite 201 Slingerlands, NY 12159 Phone: 518-475-7300 Ophthalmology George O. Stasior Albany Eye Physicians One Penny Lane Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-220-1400 Orthopaedic Surgery R. Maxwell Alley Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Allen Laurence Carl Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Robert Cheney Capital Region Spine 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-618-1111 Orthopaedic Surgery John Czajka Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Shankar P. Das Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Marc David Fuchs Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Robert Hedderman Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Paul P. Hospodar Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery John Herbert Kavanaugh Northeast Orthopaedics Everett Road Health Park 121 Everett Road, First Floor Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-453-9088 Orthopaedic Surgery Jeffrey Lozman Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Daniel Thomas Phelan Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Jon T. Toussaint Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Orthopaedic Surgery Richard Uhl Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Otolaryngology/Neurotology David Foyt Capital Region Ear Institute 1220 New Scotland Road, Suite 301 Slingerlands, NY 12159 Phone: 518-439-4326 Otolaryngology Steven M. Parnes Albany Medical Center University ENT of Northeastern New York 35 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5575 Otolaryngology William J. Richtsmeier Bassett Healthcare Department of Otolaryngology One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone: 607-547-3060 Otolaryngology Stanley M. Shapshay Albany Medical Center University ENT of Northeastern New York 35 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5575 Otolaryngology Aaron Sher St. Peter's Sleep Center Pine West Plaza Building One Washington Avenue Extension Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-464-9999 Pathology J. Andrew Carlson Albany Medical Center Department of Pathology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5454 Pathology Timothy Jennings Albany Medical Center Department of Pathology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5454 Pathology Tipu Nazeer Albany Medical Center Department of Pathology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5454 Pathology Jeffrey S. Ross Albany Medical Center Department of Pathology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5471 Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Thomas Flaim Certified Allergy and Asthma Consultants Eight Southwoods Boulevard Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-434-1446 Pediatric Anesthesiology Anica Crnkovic Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Pediatric Anesthesiology Melissa Anne Ehlers Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Pediatric Anesthesiology Cindy Weiss Hughes Anesthesia Group of Albany 1450 Western Avenue, Suite 102 Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-463-0050 Pediatric Cardiology Steven A. Kamenir Capital District Pediatric Cardiology Associates 319 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 203 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-489-3292 Pediatric Cardiovascular Anesthesia Anica Crnkovic Albany Medical Center Department of Anesthesiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-4300 Pediatric Critical Care Javier L. Sanchez Albany Medical Center Department of Pediatric Critical Care 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5127 Pediatric Critical Care Raymond F. Walsh Albany Medical Center Department of Pediatric Critical Care 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5127 Pediatric Dermatology Steven D. Resnick Bassett Healthcare Division of Dermatology One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone: 607-547-3300 Pediatric Developmental and Behavioral Problems Anthony Malone Developmental Pediatrics Crossroad Center Plaza 7B Johnson Road Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-782-7733 Pediatric Endocrinology Linda M. Riddick Albany Medical Center Division of Pediatric Endocrinology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5723 Pediatric Gastroenterology James Betzhold Albany Medical Center Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-8831 Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Jennifer M. Pearce Albany Medical Center Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 47 New Scotland Avenue, Suite A502 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5513 Pediatric Ophthalmology John W. Simon Lions Eye Institute Children's Medical Eye Consultants 1220 New Scotland Road, Suite 202 Slingerlands, NY 12159 Phone: 518-533-6502 Pediatric Ophthalmology Jitka Ludmila Zobal-Ratner Lions Eye Institute Children's Medical Eye Consultants 1220 New Scotland Road, Suite 202 Slingerlands, NY 12159 Phone: 518-533-6502 Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Allen Laurence Carl Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Richard Uhl Capital Region Orthopaedic Group 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 200 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Pediatric Radiology Barbara Dangman Albany Medical Center Department of Radiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3402 Pediatric Specialist/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine David Albert Clark Albany Medical Center Department of Pediatrics 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5333 Pediatric Specialist/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Marilyn Fisher Albany Medical Center Department of Neonatology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5421 Pediatric Specialist/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Michael Joseph Horgan Albany Medical Center Department of Neonatology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5421 Pediatric Specialist/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Joaquim M. B. Pinheiro Albany Medical Center Department of Neonatology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5421 Pediatric Urology Barry Allan Kogan Urological Institute of Northeastern New York South Clinical Campus 23 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3341 Pediatrics/General Joanne Marie Fogarty Newtonville Pediatrics 564 New Loudon Road Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-783-1445 Pediatrics/General Bradley A. Ford CapitalCare Pediatrics Guilderland 3732 Carman Road Schenectady, NY 12303 Phone: 518-356-4132 Pediatrics/General Robert Theodore Giombetti 208 Delaware Avenue Delmar, NY 12054 Phone: 518-439-5611 Pediatrics/General Constance L. Glasgow CapitalCare Pediatrics Clifton Park 942A Route 146 Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: 518-371-8000 Pediatrics/General Douglas P. Larsen 103 Great Oaks Boulevard Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-464-1392 Pediatrics/General Judith A. Lucas Albany Medical Center General Pediatric Group One Clara Barton Drive Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5588 Pediatrics/General Kallanna Manjunath Whitney M. Young, Jr. Health Services Department of Pediatrics 920 Lark Drive Albany, NY 12207 Phone: 518-465-4771 Pediatrics/General Edward M. Sessa CapitalCare Pediatrics Schenectady 700 McClellan Street Schenectady, NY 12304 Phone: 518-372-5637 Pediatrics/General Michael P. Sonnekalb CapitalCare Pediatrics Guilderland 3732 Carman Road Schenectady, NY 12303 Phone: 518-356-4132 Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Andrew Dubin Capital Region Spine The Bone and Joint Center 1367 Washington Avenue Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-2666 Plastic Surgery James L. Dolph Albany Medical Center Department of Plastic Surgery 25 Hackett Boulevard, Second Floor Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-2229 Plastic Surgery Debbie A. Kennedy Albany Plastic Surgeons Four Executive Park Drive Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-438-1434 Plastic Surgery Joshua A. King Albany Plastic Surgeons Four Executive Park Drive Albany, NY 12203 Phone: 518-438-1434 Psychiatry William N. (Bick) Wanck 401 Geyser Road Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: 518-583-3035 Pulmonary Medicine David S. Palat Pulmonary and Critical Care Services Five Palisades Drive, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12205 Phone: 518-438-4496 Radiation Oncology Duncan E. Savage St. Peters Hospital Department of Radiation Oncology 317 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 100 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-525-1404 Radiology Frederick A. Eames Albany Medical Center Department of Radiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3277 Radiology William A. Wagle Albany Medical Center Department of Radiology 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3277 Radiology Gary W. Wood Ellis Hospital Department of Radiology 1101 Nott Street Schenectady, NY 12308 Phone: 518-243-4311 Rheumatology Betty R. Fuchs 713 Troy-Schenectady Road, Suite 224 Latham, NY 12110 Phone: 518-213-0410 Rheumatology Joel M. Kremer Center for Rheumatology 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 101 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-4471 Rheumatology Donald Raddatz Bassett Healthcare Division of Rheumatology One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone: 607-547-3300 Rheumatology Lee S. Shapiro Center for Rheumatology 1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 101 Albany, NY 12206 Phone: 518-489-4471 Surgery David Conti Albany Medical Center Department of Surgery 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5614 Surgical Oncology Ankesh Nigam Albany Medical Center Department of Surgery 47 New Scotland Avenue, Floor A2 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-0940 Thoracic Surgery Edward V. Bennett Albany Cardiothoracic Surgeons 319 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 110 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-525-2525 Thoracic Surgery Lewis W. Britton III Albany Medical Center Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery 43 New Scotland Avenue, Suite A203 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-9777 Thoracic Surgery Harry J. DePan Albany Medical Center Department of Surgery 47 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-9777 Thoracic Surgery Karen McGinnis Bassett Healthcare Department of Surgery One Atwell Road Cooperstown, NY 13326 Phone: 607-547-6784 Thoracic Surgery Stuart James Miller, Jr. Albany Medical Center Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery 43 New Scotland Avenue, Suite A203 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-9777 Thoracic Surgery Javid Saifi Albany Cardiothoracic Surgeons 319 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 110 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-525-2525 Urology Daniel J. Finn Capitol Region Urologic Surgeons 319 South Manning Boulevard, Suite 106 Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-438-1019 Urology Hugh A. G. Fisher Urological Institute of Northeastern New York South Clinical Campus 23 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3341 Urology Ronald P. Kaufman, Jr. Urological Institute of Northeastern New York South Clinical Campus 23 Hackett Boulevard Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-3341 Urology Paul Pietrow Hudson Valley Urology 111 Mary's Avenue Kingston, NY 12401 Phone: 845-339-4900 Vascular Surgery Benjamin Chang Albany Medical Center The Vascular Group 43 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5640 Vascular Surgery Ralph Clement Darling III Albany Medical Center The Vascular Group 43 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5640 Vascular Surgery Dhiraj Shah Albany Medical Center Vascular Institute 43 New Scotland Avenue Albany, NY 12208 Phone: 518-262-5640 / ]]>
Wild and wacky place names of the Capital Regiontag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.69362010-07-26T17:58:57Z2010-07-26T18:01:02ZSummertime ripens fruit, vegetables and silliness....Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39 ]]>
Herewith, an examination of some of the more amusing, which may prove useful to visitors, newcomers and recently-arrived newscasters. For those of you who are long familiar with these, I suggest you look again at these names that you pronounce accurately despite the bizarre spellings. Most of these are either distortions of Native American names for various places or are legacies from the Dutch settlers who preceded us and who spelled things very strangely.
Feura Bush. My wife and I lived in this little town when we were first married, and the butchery of pronunciations our friends wrought upon us seemed endless. Nearly everyone got the second word right, but that "Feura" thing! The name comes from Moses and the famous fiery bush through which God spoke to him in the desert. The first word is pronounced FEW-rah. The second is the same as two presidents with the first name George. No, not Washington.
Cohoes. What's so difficult about this, long-time residents may ask. And I would wager that if you have lived in the city long enough, you have heard someone pronounce the name KO-hose instead of the inexplicably correct, ka-HOSE. Although there is some disagreement on the derivation of the name, the leading candidate* is Iroquois for "a canoe falling". Given the lovely falls in Cohoes, that name seems to fit pretty well. Ouch.
Coeymans. Everyone knows this is pronounced KWEE-mans, right? Locals do, sure, but look at the word through the eyes of a visitor. Shouldn't it be KO-ee-mans or KO-eye-mans? Where in the world does someone get the sound kwee from Coey? To make matters worse, the town name is actually a distortion of the name of a Dutch settler, Koijemans. So maybe Coeymans isn't so bad after all.
Coxsackie. Sorry, but nothing in the spelling of this name hints at the sounds cook-SAH-kee. And there is no reason to lay the blame at the moccasined feet of Native Americans. Their name for the area, which means "owl hoot", was pronounced by the French as cook-SAHK-ee. Nothing in my research reveals who the heck had the bright idea to spell the place the way we know it today, but I think it leans toward the embarrassing. But who gives an owl hoot.
Valatie. This is one of my favorites, and we can blame this one on the Dutch, too. The town name should obviously be pronounced VAL-a-tee. No question about it. But no, no. Are you ready for this one, new television newscasters? The correct pronunciation is (believe it or not) va-LAY-sha. Go ahead, use phonics, tell your young child who is just learning to read to try to "sound it out." Good luck with that. And I think we should have stayed with the original Dutch spelling, "Vaaltje," which translates as "little falls." At least we'd know we couldn't pronounce it correctly.
Sacandaga. Once, during the television show, "X-Files," Special Agent Muldar traveled to a lake he called sa-CAN-da-ga. You can't fault the guy. How was he to know it should have been SAHK-an-DAH-ga? This name is practically unsullied from the Mohawk name, which means "drowned lands". Surprisingly prescient of them, since the lake wasn't created until the Conklingville Dam was built in 1930 and drowned the valley.
Kayaderosseras. This one has got to be a joke. It's as though someone got started and didn't know when to stop. But in fact, the name does happen to be pronounced pretty closely to the way it's spelled. If anyone can figure that out! Although imprecise, most people colloquially condense the convoluted name to KADE-er-os, most likely to save time. This name, too, comes from our Native American predecessors and means, "Valley of the Crooked Stream", which may explain the crookedly meandering name.
And now for the Capital Region winner that will probably never be unseated...
Schaghticoke. Somebody must have been on coke when they dreamed up this beauty. At the beginning of this article, I criticized Tucson for using a silent "c." But lo and behold, here we have the remarkably rare, silent "gh". Our language is tough enough when "gh" is pronounced as "f", but a silent "gh"? Why bother? It doesn't look like it, but this town's name is spoken as SKAT-i-koke. Even back in the early 1800s, Horatio Spafford, who compiled a Gazetteer of New York in 1813, wrote, "This name, so long, crooked, and hard that it puzzles everybody is said to have originated with the Mohawk Indians."
Nevertheless, I suppose we can be grateful we don't have to cope with Quonochontaug Pond in Rhode Island.
*Most Native American name references are from: Aboriginal Place Names of New York, by Dr. William M. Beauchamp, 1906, New York State Museum, Bulletin 108.
Ed. Lange writes "Guy Stuff" monthly for Capital Region Living. He may be reached at skipper@capital.net.]]>
Optimismtag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.69352010-07-26T17:54:30Z2010-07-26T17:58:39ZCan a positive mood change your life?...Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Can a positive mood change your life?
Thousands of studies have been done about what causes anxiety and depression, but very few about what creates optimism and happiness. More recently, researchers have taken a greater interest in understanding the benefits of optimism on our mind and body. What they have learned is that optimistic people decrease their chances of developing heart disease, diabetes and cancer, and that a positive mindset will help determine who will fully recover from a serious illness both emotionally and physically (think Lance Armstrong).
They have also learned that if you educate teachers in how to teach optimism in their classrooms, tests scores rise significantly. It's not surprising that students who believe in themselves and their future perform better. If you teach optimism in the workplace, productivity improves and employees report greater job satisfaction.
So, how do you become an optimist? Many believe it's something you are born with; that you either "have it" or you don't. While genetics play an important role in who we are, we have a great deal of control over who we will become. Let's take a look at some of the character traits of an optimist and perhaps you can decide whether it is worth adopting some of these traits for yourself.
6 traits of the eternal optimist
1. Optimists "think" differently - In order to understand optimism, you must first build an awareness of how your thoughts affect your mood. You can put yourself in an unhappy mood just by replaying old conflicts you had or by thinking of all the things that can go wrong in your life ("what if" thinking). Optimistic people do not replay negative tapes in their minds and they live in the present moment rather then in a worried state about the future. Try this: Begin paying attention to the thoughts that run through your mind. Are they pleasant? Worried? Helpful? Hurtful? Some therapists suggest wearing a rubber band around your wrist and each time a negative thought pops up, snap the rubber band to remind yourself that this is NOT HELPFUL and will only lead to a negative mood.
2. Optimists have gratitude - Optimists have learned the secret of appreciating what they have vs. what they don't have. There was an interesting study done on people who experienced tremendous monetary windfalls. At first, their outlook on life improved and they had a more positive attitude. But within one year, people went back to their original disposition, even if it was a grumpy one. They were now just rich and grumpy! Try this: Start a gratitude journal that you write in daily or a few times a week. List the things in your life you are grateful for and consider telling those you love why you are grateful for having them in your life.
3. Optimists find the silver lining - Some people think eternal optimists have lives that have never been touched by hardship or tragedy. The truth is that very happy people experience the same pain and trauma, but their positive disposition helps them bounce back more quickly Optimists are very good at finding the hidden meaning or lesson learned in their difficult experiences. Rather than focusing on just the bad, they focus on what they got out of the experience. Try this: Think of a very hard time in your life. Now that you have hindsight, what did you learn from that experience that will help you in your life today?
4. Optimists live life courageously - Eleanor Roosevelt said, "Do one thing everyday that scares you." Sometimes you have to do the very thing you fear the most in order to develop immunity to it and feel a rise in your self-worth. Learn to control your fear rather letting it control you. Try this: Do something that is out of your comfort zone. When your anxiety and fear rise, tell yourself that this is an unpleasant feeling but it cannot harm you in any way. Doing the same thing a few times will loosen its fearful grip on you.
5. Optimists practice compassion and forgiveness - The most compassionate people are also the happiest and practicing forgiveness will lead to a more positive outlook. It is in our human nature to hold onto resentment, but it can also hurt us. Forgiveness is the key to letting go of the negative energy you are unnecessarily carrying. Try this: Find compassion for someone who has hurt you. Look deeper into the reasons why they may have acted the way they did. Try forgiving them in your own heart even if you never tell them.
6. Optimists are connected to other people and the world - Truly happy people are well-connected to others and experience the joy of great relationships. It's not about the number of relationships you have, but your ability to nurture and maintain them. Optimists also engage in acts of kindness. Serving others increases happiness ten-fold. Try this: Consider making an anonymous contribution or getting involved in a cause that helps improve the lives of others who are less fortunate than you. It will feel great. And, that's what optimism is all about...feeling great!
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. ]]>
Uncommon backyard fruit tag:www.albany.com,2010:/capitalregionliving//15.69342010-07-26T17:50:29Z2010-09-01T17:41:54ZHaving your own small backyard fruit orchard is a wonderful and rewarding treasure....Capital Region Livinghttp://www.albany.com/community/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&blog_id=15&id=39
Having your own small backyard fruit orchard is a wonderful and rewarding treasure.
Instead, why not try some unusual and uncommon fruits that are just as easy to grow as the more common fruits? All of them grow well here in the Northeast and are increasingly available at your favorite nursery or garden center, as well as by mail order from Miller Nurseries in Canandaigua, NY (www.millernurseries.com).
Asian Pear - Pyrus pyrifolia. Also called Korean, Japanese or nashi pear, these crispy pears are not pear shaped at all. They are more rounded than European pears and have firmer crispier flesh. Chojuro, Shinseiki and Hosui are just three of the cultivars you can grow. Not really that great in pies, they are wonderful added to salads or served on a cheese platter. It is best to grow two Asian pear trees for best pollination, but they do come in dwarf size so they won't take up too much room.
Flat White Peaches - Prunus persica. Sometimes called doughnut or Saturn peaches, these sweet, white-fleshed peaches are really delicious. Originally from China, flat peaches have been grown in the US since the 1880s, but they are just starting to become popular here in the Northeast. They are freestone, making them easy to eat out of hand, but they also are great cooked and tossed in salads. Trees are about 10-feet tall and you will only need one since they are self-pollinating.
Green Gage Plums - Prunus domestica Reine Claude. Named after both Renaissance French Queen Claude and the aristocratic Gage family in England, green gage plums were grown by both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. These golf-ball sized yellow to green hued plums are very sweet and grow on self-pollinating trees that reach only about 10 to 12 feet tall. They are best eaten out of hand, but they can also be stewed into preserves. I think of all the fruit trees, the blossoms of the plum are the prettiest.
Gooseberry - Ribes hirtellum. Until recently, gooseberries were illegal to grow in New York because they were susceptible to white pine blister rust disease which was harmful to commercial forests. Now that you can grow gooseberries, you should. They are compact shrubs, three feet tall and wide, they will tolerate some shade and all they ask is they you give them plenty of composted manure for growth. The fruits are small, about the same size as a marble and they can be eaten out of hand, or made into preserves or pie. Pixwell is one of the most common cultivars.
Black Currant - Ribes nigrum. Like gooseberries, black currants were also banned in New York until recently. Black currants grow on a shrub three feet tall and wide. The fruit is used mostly for juice, jams and in baking. Black currant juice is used widely to flavor vodka and is the juice you add to wine or champagne to make kir or kir royal. Currants are very high in Vitamin C and many people now say they are high in antioxidants and other essential nutrients making them very good for your health.
There are many other wonderful underutilized fruits you could grow: mulberries, quince, beach plum, elderberries, paw paws, persimmon, hardy kiwi, American cranberry, Cornelian cherry, even figs to name just a few.
For more detailed information on how to plant, fertilize, prune and care for pests, visit Cornell's horticulture website at www.gardening.cornell.edu.
Larry Sombke is a garden designer, landscape consultant, author of Beautiful Easy Flower Gardens, Times Union garden blogger and the host of his own blog www.beautifuleasygardens.blogspot.com. Contact him at lsombke@beautifuleasygardens.com.]]>