CAPITAL REGION LIVING
THE HEART OF THE EMPIRE STATE
CRL here come the brides
Word is officially out: The Wire Event Center in Coxsackie is the industrial wedding venue the Capital Region needed.
BY NATALLI AMATO
LAKE GEORGE: FROZEN IN TIME THE 518’S BEST SLEDDING HILLS WINTER IN MONTRÉAL & | |
The Wire Event Center, Coxsackie, NY
Industrial meets Chic
The Wire Event Center in Coxsackie, NY, is a stunning venue that offers a unique and versatile setting for weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations. With its modern industrial design, featuring high ceilings, exposed beams, and expansive windows, the venue creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. The Wire’s riverside location offers exceptional views that can be enjoyed from the lawn, wrap-around deck, or the garage-style windows in the atrium room.
The Wire Event Center has partnered exclusively with Mazzone Hospitality, a leading catering company, to provide an exceptional dining experience. Known for their culinary excellence, Mazzone offers personalized menus tailored to each event, whether it’s a wedding, corporate meeting, or social gathering. Corporate events benefit from a professional
and elegant setting, enhanced by top-tier service and delicious food. The partnership also extends to social events like galas and fundraisers, where guests enjoy both a beautiful venue and exceptional service.
Conveniently located 30 minutes south of Albany, NY and 2.5 hours north of New York City, the Wire offers 10,700 square feet of unique space to fit the needs of any event. From the large industrial style ballroom to the outdoor 6-acre lawn with tent event space, the Wire a variety of spaces to fit your dream event. Let us help you plan your social event, wellness retreat, business conference, wedding, gala or other event at our waterfront
COVER STORY: DOWN TO THE WIRE
Head south to the upper Hudson Valley where The Wire, a new wedding venue, blends rich history, scenic vistas and modern amenities. | BY NATALLI AMATO
FINE DINING: LIGHTING A FIRE
Schenectady unveils Ember & Cork, a new wood-fired restaurant with a killer wine list from Chef Marc Alvarez. | BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX
BOOK TALK: FROZEN IN TIME
A new publication by legendary Adirondack photographer Carl Heilman II captures the fleeting yet enduring beauty of Lake George. | BY JEFF DINGLER
The Back
THE ROAD: C’EST LA FEST
Pack your bags and head north on I-87: We’re going to Montréal, the City of Festivals. | BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX
Alexa Clouthier Pulliam and Chandler Pulliam photographed by Erin Marie Photography. Shot on location at The Wire Event Center in Coxsackie, NY.
CAPITAL REGION LIVING
Natalie Moore EDITOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kathleen Gates
DESIGNER Linda Gates
EDITORIAL INTERN Morgan Maschewski
CONTRIBUTORS
Natalli Amato, Lisa Arcella, Francesco D’Amico
Samantha Decker, Jeff Dingler, Sara Foss
John Gray, Nicole Ianniello, Hannah Kuznia
T.R. Laz, Chantal Marie, Megan Mumford
Konrad Odhiambo, Fiona Stevens, Kathleen Willcox
Teresa Frazer PUBLISHER
Tara Buffa SALES MANAGER
DIRECTOR OF SALES, SARATOGA LIVING Annette Q uarrier
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Tina Galante
SALES ASSISTANT Tracy Momrow
Anthony R. Ianniello CHAIR
Tina Galante CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
VOLUME 22, NO.1 | WINTER 2025 Copyright ©2025 | Empire Media Network, Inc. All rights reserved.
8 Butler Place Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
PHONE: 518.294.4390
FIND US ONLINE AT crlmag.com
Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Many of the ads in this issue were created by Empire Media Network, Inc. and cannot be reproduced without permission from the publisher. ESTABLISHED 2003.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
1 yearly subscription: $45
2 year subscription: $75
To order a subscription or gift subscription, please email subscribe@saratogaliving.com
FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA AT: FACEBOOK @capitalregionliving INSTAGRAM & TWITTER @crlmagazine
THE FRONT
» your starting lineup «
IT’S ALL DOWNHILL FROM HERE
The 6 best sledding hills in the 518, according to local parents.
2
1. CAPITAL HILLS AT ALBANY GOLF COURSE
65 O’NEIL ROAD, ALBANY
the vibe: Hilly golf course with lots of options for sledding why it’s the best: When the golf course closes for the season, it becomes an offleash dog park, so you can bring your furry friends along.
pro tip: Warm up at Capital Hills’ onsite restaurant, Martel’s.
2. LONGKILL PARK
CORNER OF LONGKILL ROAD AND PARKSIDE TRAIL, BALLSTON LAKE
the vibe: Wide hill leading down to a field why it’s the best: You can see the entire field from the hilltop, so your little ones will never be out of sight.
pro tip: Parking can be limited by the field, but there’s usually parking near the playground.
“Our kids always make new friends. Snowball fights happen. They share sleds
and try to make the longest sled train. It’s always a good day. Then we head to the Ballston Lake Stewart’s for a treat before heading home.” –KIM ANN MANSFIELD
FLIP AND OWEN SUAREZ AT LONGKILL PARK
AMANDA AND CONNOR O’DONNELL AT CAPITAL HILLS
THE FRONT
3
3. FREAR PARK MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE
2701 LAVIN COURT, TROY
the vibe: Many hill options, from gentle to steep enough for parents to question taking a ride themselves
why it’s the best: The hills have long runouts for slowing down at the bottom. pro tip: The steepest spot is near the fifth hole, but it’s usually less busy near Frear Park View off Strain Avenue.
“While the putting greens at Frear Park are known to be unfair and ruin many rounds of golf, by the time they’re covered with snow, golfers can leave that pain behind and bring their children for a fun day of sledding.”
–MATT CROSON
4. LINCOLN PARK
228 EAGLE STREET, ALBANY
the vibe: Steep hill that’s been downtown Albany’s go-to sledding spot for generations
ATTLEY ROLON AT THE GRAND REHABILITATION AND NURSING
why it’s the best: With a snow tube, you can easily get air going down into the bowl. pro tip: Back in the day, locals called it Dead Man’s Hill.
5. THE GRAND REHABILITATION AND NURSING AT BARNWELL
3230 CHURCH STREET, VALATIE
the vibe: Popular Columbia County hill that gets a lot of foot traffic from locals why it’s the best: The hill isn’t overly steep but makes for a long ride and a walk up that isn’t too strenuous.
pro tip: There are only a few parking spots at the top of the hill, but you can park at the playground at the bottom.
6. WOOD ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
300 WOOD ROAD, BALLSTON SPA
the vibe: Steep hill off the back of Ballston Spa’s elementary school complex that leads to a large, flat field
why it’s the best: Because of its location, it’s a popular meetup spot for Ballston Spa families. And there’s plenty of parking.
pro tip: Some parents teach their little ones to ski on the hill.
“Skip leg day! The hill is steep and you’ll be sure to get a workout in helping your kids head to the top in between runs.”
–CHRISTINE BOYD
HONORABLE MENTION:
COLLINS PARK, Scotia
CENTRAL PARK, Schenectady
INDIAN MEADOWS, Glenville
BETHLEHEM TOWN PARK, Delmar
KNOX TOWN PARK, Knox
TORK’S HILL, Voorheesville
SAND CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL, Colonie
A SNOWY DAY AT FREAR PARK
KEVIN AND GRAHAM BOYD AT WOOD ROAD ELEMENTARY
RILEY ACKLEY AND JOCELYN HYLAND AT LINCOLN PARK 4
Contemplation on Enlightenment
“Science without spirituality is blind. Spirituality without science is a gamble.” Leonard Perlmutter (Ram Lev)
12 UNDER 12
BANKING ON THE FUTURE presented by
THE
HENRY AND OLIVIA FICHTMAN
age: 12 AND 8
hometown: CLIFTON PARK
school: CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY AND KARIGON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
community involvement: BERNARD AND MILLIE DUKER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT ALBANY MED
» your starting lineup «
Twelve-year-old Henry Fichtman inherited the tradition of picking out and donating gifts to kids spending Christmas at the Bernard and Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Med from his older sister, Ava, but has since embraced it wholeheartedly.
“I like that I am giving kids who are suffering from an illness something to be happy about,” Henry says. “I like to choose things that I know I would enjoy if I was in their shoes.”
In recent years, Henry has even helped turn his family’s Christmastime tradition into something bigger by inviting his 12U Troy Albany Titans hockey teammates to be involved in the donation. And now, Henry and Ava are passing the tradition down to their youngest sibling.
“I like to donate toys to the kids at Albany Med because their Christmas is hard and they need to stay in a hospital bed,” says the 8-yearold Olivia. “I think it makes them happy to receive our gifts. I really love making them feel happy.”
This feature is part of a series in which we feature 12 young people from Saratoga Springs and the Capital Region who are making their communities a better place. Know a kid who fits the bill? Send their story to editorial@saratogaliving.com for a chance to be featured in a future issue!
Down to THE WIRE
Head south to the upper Hudson Valley, where a new wedding venue blends rich history, scenic vistas and modern amenities.
By NATALLI AMATO
Photography by ERIN MARIE, RACHEL LEINER and JP ELARIO
WHEN WE THINK ABOUT THE 518, we often conjure up images of the beating, urban (or at least suburban) heart of the Capital Region. But drive 30 minutes south from Albany as the Hudson River rolls, and you might be surprised to relish in views you mistakenly believed only belonged further downstate.
Tucked away in Coxsackie—a little town that marries the Capital Region’s history with the natural beauty of the Upper Hudson Valley—stands The Wire Event Center. One of the area’s newest wedding venues, the waterfront event space brings the past, present and future together under one roof.
In its previous life, The Wire was J.G. Newbury Ironworks, a foundry located in Coxsackie’s busy 19th-century commercial shipping port. When the port was eventually abandoned sometime in the 1970s, the impressive structure and the history it holds were left without a steward. That is, until real estate investor Aaron Flach purchased the property in 2018. Seeing the potential for beauty (and a boon to the local community) in the underutilized riverfront space, Flach set out to transform the former factory into a venue, tapping the top-tier counsel of Prestige Hospitality Group to help breathe spirit back into the building’s bones.
“When you go inside, even the beams and the trusses are all authentic,” says Anne Cloutier, Prestige’s vice president of sales and marketing. “There were a couple that needed to be enhanced and reinforced, but the original beauty of those beams in the brick building is just stunning.”
While the integrity of the building adds a lot to its allure and historic charm, its modern additions—like the stunning, yearround atrium—make it the ideal backdrop for today’s most special moments. Part of the magic, according to Cloutier? “Being
able to experience the river, no matter what’s happening outside.”
In 2024, The Wire’s second year hosting events, 31 weddings were on the books— quite a few for a new venue. Scaling up to that capacity so quickly could have been daunting, but Prestige brought in local events powerhouse Mazzone Hospitality to help make it a reality. Mazzone is now an exclusive partner to The Wire, offering its catering and wedding-planning services.
“Mazzone has been fantastic to have,” says Cloutier. “There’s nothing that they haven’t done before, and they have the creativity to think outside the box.” How far
outside the box? Let’s just say when it comes to décor, Mazzone doesn’t stop at tasteful centerpieces; for past events, they’ve brought live trees and even cars into the venue.
Making the imagined come to life is far from an effortless feat, but for those on the outside looking in, that’s how it appears.
“It’s about cultivating those relationships and making sure that people know that, OK, when Mazzone comes in, they’re going to deliver what they promise,” says Justine Ochal, Mazzone’s vice president of sales and client relations. “At every event, we provide a wedding attendant. If the bride or groom needs something, that person is there.”
And by something Ochal means anything She recalls a recent wedding in which an unlucky groomsman ripped the entire inseam of his pants. What did the wedding attendant do? Sewed them up good as new, of course. Ochal gives a knowing laugh.
“We’ve had to sew brides into their dresses before.” In other words, your wedding attendant is basically like an older sister with whom you’d trust not only your life, but your wedding dress.
While nature’s beauty and a reverence for history might be what draws you to The Wire, it’s that tangible feeling of trust that’ll make you stay.
The Inn at Saratoga
Mary Ann & Kris
NMAY 27, 2023
ew York City residents
Mary Ann Wincorkowski and Kris Woupio found their wedding venue when they weren’t even looking for one. Back in 2021, they decided to make a mini-vacation out of a visit with Mary Ann’s family, and opted to stay at The Inn at Saratoga.
“We both love historic hotels with charming details and great vintage style,” Mary Ann says. “We both loved the Inn immediately. There was a wedding happening the first night we stayed there, and I think we both immediately knew that we would get married there.”
friends to make it extra special.
“We tapped into the creative professionals in our lives, and asked if they would contribute their talents to give our wedding a personal feel,” Mary Ann says. “Luckily for us, our friends came through. Several of our vendors are friends of ours, and were also guests at our wedding. I’m a designer as well, so I handled all the stationery, and Kris and I combed through vintage shops for all of the milk glass vases for each table.”
The next year, when actually looking for a venue, the couple did their due diligence and checked out other venues to make sure the Inn was truly the one. Then, in May of 2023, they tied the knot in their favorite historic hotel, leaning on their creative
In the end, the wedding weekend went off without a hitch. “The team at the Inn did everything right,” Mary Ann says. “I was prepared to deal with one or two issues, but honestly there was not one hiccup the entire weekend. The best part was that we were able to relax, enjoy and savor every single moment with our family and friends.”
Mary Ann & Kris
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jessie Casey
VENUE/CATERER
The Inn at Saratoga
REHEARSAL DINNER
Brasserie Benelux
AFTER-PARTY
The Night Owl
MUSICIANS
Jessica Clark & Elisa Nieves
DJ Chris Meindl
CAKE
J & S Watkins
FLORIST
Samantha Nass Floral Design
BRIDAL, MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND FLOWER GIRL DRESSES
YALI by Yalenis Cepeda
TUXEDO TAILORING
D’Agostino Clothiers
MAKEUP
Fawn MUA
HAIR
Cassondra Luxury Hair
STAINED GLASS
Bespoke Glass
OFFICIANT
Timothy Ziegler
HOTEL BLOCKS
Inn at Saratoga & Holiday Inn
Kayla & Zachary
PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEOGRAPHY
Ben Blaufuss Photography
VENUE
The Lodge on Echo Lake
DJ Greg Frasier
DESSERT
Cake by Alissa
DRESS
Lily Saratoga
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Styled by Lily Saratoga
TUXEDOS
Mr. Formal Wear
HAIR
Cassondra Luxury Hair
MAKEUP
Erin Muller Makeup & Elizabeth Sommers Beauty
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Daisy & Lola Events
WEDDING CONTENT CREATOR
SayIDo Designs
RINGS
Hannoush Jewelers and Metal Pressions
DOG ATTENDANT
Spotted Snout
The Lodge on Echo Lake
SEPTEMBER 14, 2024
Kayla & Zachary
Kayla DiSiena describes herself and her husband, Zachary, as simple people.
So, when planning their “I do’s,” they skipped the fancy ballroom and whiteglove dinner service, opting instead for a laid-back wedding at a summer camp in Warrensburg, NY.
versatility, offering couples a blank canvas to bring their unique wedding vision to life. Kayla made her own floral bouquets and centerpieces, plus the ceremony arch floral swag, signage and the rest of the décor.
“We wanted a simple, Adirondack vibe,” Kayla says, “We wanted a venue that included everything so we didn’t have to bring in any extra vendors— one with an outdoor ceremony option and accommodations right on site. The Lodge on Echo Lake was awesome and everything we were looking for.”
One key appeal of The Lodge is its
“Everything turned out perfect,” she says. “The Lodge has beautiful cozy cabins, houses and a motel where guests can stay surrounding the venue, which everyone raved about. Both Emily, the owner, and Kathy, the coordinator, were so helpful and went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. And the fact that we were able to have our dog, Hudson part of the whole day—even the reception!— meant the world to us. I highly recommend The Lodge On Echo Lake.”
Going Greens
Your dream wedding awaits at The Greens at Copake Country Club.
Modern, intimate, relaxed. That’s how Dale Mauri describes weddings at The Greens at Copake Country Club. “Couples that have their wedding at our venue are typically looking for a more laid-back atmosphere where they can enjoy great food, drinks and memories with their loved ones,” says Mauri, the venue’s managing partner. “Whether in the restaurant or out on the golf course, you are surrounded by the beauty of Columbia County, with incredible vistas and sunset views.”
Copake Country Club is one year-round wedding venue that offers multiple ceremony and reception locations. Couples can get married on the first tee box overlooking the golf course, in a valley by a fountain, or on a hilltop with mountain views. They can celebrate inside The Greens Restaurant, which accommodates up
to 110 guests, or outside in a tent on the golf course (up to 250 guests).
No matter which you go with, you’ll have access to the creative genius of CIA-trained chef Martin Gerrity, whose menu offers three entrée levels. He is also happy to work with couples to create pretty much any dish they want that’s not already on the menu. Yours will also be the only wedding Copake books not only that day, but that entire weekend.
“We pride ourselves on the personalized approach we take with every couple, and our attitude is a solutions-oriented one,” Mauri says. “We understand the true importance of a wedding day and do our best to accommodate the wishes and ideas of all our couples.”
44 Golf Course Road, Craryville | 518.325.0019 x2 thegreensatcopake.com/weddings @copakeevents | @copakecountryclub
Smile, It’s Your Wedding Day!
Dr. Andrew T. Frank is ready to help you transform your smile in time for you to say “I Do.”
Most people wouldn’t consider a dentist a “wedding vendor,” but according to Dr. Andrew T. Frank of Albany Smiles Dentistry, perfecting your smile should be considered right alongside your photographer, venue and caterer.
“What better time to improve your smile than for your wedding day?”
Dr. Frank asks. “We’ve helped many couples as well as family of brides and grooms have confident and radiant smiles on their special day. Beautiful smiles to help create beautiful memories.”
As one of the Capital Region’s top cosmetic and general dentists, Dr. Frank’s pre-wedding work ranges from small enhancements such as whitening
to full smile makeovers including veneers, clear braces, crowns, bonding and/or gum contouring. Thanks to cutting-edge technologies employed by Albany Smiles, smile transformations that wouldn’t have been possible just 10 years ago are commonplace today. Call Albany Smiles, or book a consultation online; Dr. Frank won’t stop until both he and the patient are happy and smiling.
“You find the perfect dress, perfect photographer and perfect venue,” Dr. Frank says. “Why not have the perfect smile and feel your best on your big day? Improving your smile is an investment that is enjoyed well after your wedding day!”
1816 Western Avenue, Albany 518.809.8689
albanysmiles.com
A Ring to Rule Them All
You’ll find the perfect engagement ring—and much, much more—at Joyelles Jewelers, which has been serving the Albany area for more than 30 years.
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, Joyelles Jewelers is her husband-tobe’s best friend! Located in the Main Square Shoppes on Delaware Avenue in Delmar, Joyelles has been the Albany area’s source for top-quality wedding bands and engagement rings for 34 years.
“Our goal is to assist each client to the best of our ability,” says Joyelles owner Mary Vail. “As a family-owned and -operated shop, we are more interested in maintaining a warm relationship with our customers than in making a big sale.”
To service her customers, Vail provides a wide range of jewelry products, from engagement rings to estate jewelry, as well as services including custom jewelry design, repair and cleaning. But while Vail is very proud of the product she sells and the business she has
built over the last three-plus decades, she says the best part of owning a jewelry store is the customers. “It’s very rewarding to be a part of people’s special celebrations,” she says. “We help customers choose the perfect gift, design the perfect engagement ring, and repair family heirlooms that are very special to them. We work with generations of families, and know that they will always return. Many people have been with us for 25-30 years. We see their families grow.
If you’re looking to grow your family—or, in other words, pop the questions—stop by Joyelles, where experienced gemologists are on hand to help you select (or design!) the perfect engagement ring for that special someone. 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar | 518.439.9993
Lighting a Fire
Schenectady unveils Ember & Cork, a new wood-fired restaurant with an emphasis on wine from Chef Marc Alvarez. | BY
KATHLEEN WILLCOX
change of space “We redid the space, put in new banquettes, and brought in a fire grill, but the biggest changes were to the menu,” Alvarez says.
hat would it take to get you to move from the sandy beaches of a Caribbean paradise to snowy, slushy upstate New York? For chef Marc Alvarez, it was the chance to create an all-new restaurant from scratch.
The Riverdale native had been living with his wife, Natalie, and two daughters in Anguilla, a tiny island in the West Indies, since 2014. But when he got a call from a restaurateur friend who wanted to give him free reign to develop and execute a completely new concept near Natalie’s hometown of Niskayuna, the opportunity was too good to pass up.
“Andy was ready for a new concept,” Alvarez says of his friend Andy Zheng, who had run the restaurant Zen Asian Fusion Lounge on State Street in Schenectady for more than a decade. “And Natalie and I always wanted to end up back here closer to family. It was time to come home.”
This past fall, Zheng and Alvarez transformed Zen into Ember & Cork, a wood-fired restaurant that draws on global influences—specifically, those from Alvarez’s beloved Anguilla.
“We wanted to bring the West Indies concept here and use local ingredients,” says Alvarez, a Culinary Institute of America grad who has worked with restaurant industry bigwigs Charlie Palmer, Danny Meyer and Frank Crisp, and cooked for A-listers Barbra Streisand, Demi Moore, Sir Paul McCartney and others. “I like to do everything in-house, including the butchery, because it not only allows me to ensure the quality is high, but it allows me to use more of every cut. It ends up being less expensive. Butchery is a lost art.”
“I really believe that wine needs food and vice versa, so I work hard to get the best wines I can, and I don’t mark them up like most restaurants do.”
In addition to wood-fired strip steak, leg of lamb and suckling pig, Ember & Cork’s dinner menu boasts tons of fresh seafood—some of which is raw, like kombucured hamachi crudo and Hudson Valley steelhead salmon ceviche, and some of which is cooked on the wood grill or in the wood oven, including grilled big-eye tuna and wood-roasted lobster. There are also plant-based options, such as the Romanesco cauliflower shawarma, and a whole host of sharable small plates, from the Okonomiyaka Japanese pancake to the grilled Spanish octopus. For Sunday brunch, Alvarez serves up some of the same dishes, plus eggs ranchero, a full Irish breakfast and a Montreal-style bagel with smoked salmon. Nothing lands on a guest’s table unless it
is rigorously sourced and passes Alvarez’s quality, presentation and flavor tests.
The chef’s insistence on the best applies to his restaurant’s drink menu, too.
“I really believe that wine needs food and vice versa, so I work hard to get the best wines I can, and I don’t mark them up like most restaurants do,” Alvarez says. “I want people to enjoy a bottle of great wine, so I
put Plumpjack, Domaine Faiveley, Chateau Beychevelle and Jacque Prieur on the list for about half the price that you’d find them at any other restaurant.”
Indeed, at Ember & Cork, all of these wines are less than $300, whereas most restaurants list them for upwards of $550. For those who want a great wine for an even lower price point, there are less dear but
equally excellent options, from Valentin Leflaive Blanc de Blancs for $125 to Vidal Fleury for $38.
But Alvarez is equally excited about rum.
“No one drinks rum in upstate New York,” he says, wonderingly. “Everyone drinks bourbon and tequila. Well, I’m getting them started on rum. Now, when people try it once, they come back for more—both aged sipping rums and rum punch.”
So what exactly is Ember & Cork? Is it a woodfired chophouse? An island-inspired seafood joint? A classy wine bar with a rum problem? According to Alvarez, there’s no right answer.
“It can’t really be pigeon-holed,” he says of the restaurant. “It’s global. It’s the way people want to live, eat and drink now, with the best things presented together. It’s fine dining, without the attitude.”
cork values Everything Ember & Cork serves is made in house with local ingredients whenever possible.
Smooth Talk
When it comes to having smooth skin, the first wax is the hardest. Sam Loveless of EUROPEAN WAX CENTER, a nationwide franchise that has locations in Latham, Clifton Park and Saratoga, is here to make your first time a little less scary and stressful.
“I remember one guest who was feeling nervous about her first waxing experience, and I could tell she was a bit anxious,” Loveless says. “I made sure to take the time to chat with her and explain the process step by step, all while keeping the atmosphere light and fun. By the end of her reservation, she was so relieved—not only did her skin feel amazing, but she was also shocked at how comfortable and relaxed she felt throughout the whole service. That’s exactly the kind of positive, welcoming environment we strive to create for every guest.”
Think waxing might be for you? CAPITAL REGION LIVING caught up with Loveless to ask all your burning questions.
Does waxing hurt?
Waxing can be uncomfortable—especially the first time—but it’s not as painful as many people expect. Over time, the hair grows back finer, and the skin gets used to the sensation. Our professional estheticians are skilled at making the process as quick and efficient as possible, and we use a proprietary wax that’s designed to minimize discomfort.
How long should my hair be to get a wax?
You’ll get the best results if you let the hair grow out to about ¼ inch (the length of a grain of rice) so the wax can fully grab the hair.
Do I need to prepare for a wax?
Nope! Our wax specialists will take care of everything and walk you through tour 4 Steps to Smooth process.
How long will my wax last?
Usually between 3-4 weeks, but everyone’s rate of regrowth is different. With the right products, you can help extend your results longer.
Do men come in to get waxed?
Waxing is for anyone who wants smooth skin, regardless of gender. Men can benefit from waxing, especially for areas like the back, chest or eyebrows. Waxing provides longer-lasting results compared to shaving, which is why it’s becoming more popular among men.
Does waxing cause ingrown hairs?
Ingrown hairs can happen if proper aftercare isn’t followed. After waxing, exfoliating and moisturizing the skin can help prevent ingrown hairs. We have our own product brand to support both pre- and post-wax skincare needs.
Why should I get a wax?
Waxing is about more than just hair removal—it’s about boosting confidence and helping guests feel comfortable in their own skin. Here at European Wax Center, we focus on self-care and making guests feel refreshed, confident and ready to take on the world.
How does European Wax Center set itself apart from the competition?
We’re all about delivering an exceptional experience that goes beyond just waxing. Our team is passionate about building genuine relationships with our guests, ensuring they feel confident and cared for every time they walk through our doors. Plus, we’re all about convenience, offering flexible membership options that make regular visits affordable. It’s this perfect mix of innovation, personalized care and a vibrant atmosphere that truly sets us apart in this industry!
book talk
Frozen in Time
A new publication by legendary Adirondack photographer Carl Heilman II captures the fleeting yet enduring beauty of Lake George. | BY
JEFF DINGLER
CreATIVe oUTLeT This shot of a frosty, sub-zero morning along the outlet flow of Lake George in Ticonderoga is one of many wintertime scenes showcased in Heilmann’s new book.
hile most find the Upstate winters a good reason to move away, photographer Carl Heilman II moved here precisely because of them. “There are more opportunities for unique situations in the winter,” he says of the vistas he captures. “Fall colors are always spectacular, but with winter, the formations you can get with ice, icicles and snow are really cool.”
Nowhere is that truer than in New York’s rural and rugged North Country, which Heilman has made his primary muse; he’s built a
career out of publishing his stunning Adirondack photography in books and calendars. Last year, he released a new coffee table book entitled Lake George that focuses specifically on The Queen of American Lakes. “The Adirondacks are unique with their mix of mountains and water,” says Heilman. “Few places put that all together in one immediate location like Lake George.”
This is Heilman’s second photography book covering New York’s most prestigious lake (his first, also titled Lake George, came out in 2009). The new publication features 235 original images, including sweeping scenic shots, two-page panoramas and breathtaking scenes of a landscape
rich with nature and history. Each chapter, divided by lake geography, takes readers through the four seasons, from spring to winter. But its the coldest season that has a warm place in Heilman’s heart. At just 21, he was inspired to pursue photography by a wintry view of some High Peaks from Pharaoh Mountain. “I wanted to find a way to hold onto that feeling of being there, and thought I could do that with a camera,” he says. So Heilman picked up a Minolta SR-T 101 and some Kodacrhome film and started on his epic, lifelong photography adventure. “That was in 1975,” he says. “This September will be 50 years.”
by george (clockwise, from bottom left) The full moon settling into the western sky at dawn from Black Point Road in Ticonderoga; looking out at the Sagamore Resort from Rogers Park in Bolton Landing; the sunrise over Huddle Bay; paddling into The Narrows in a pair of Hornbeck canoes; the book’s cover photo was taken in the Pilot Knob area.
on the road
C’est la Fest
Pack your bags and head north on I-87: We’re going to Montréal, the City of Festivals.
By Kathleen Willcox
Everyone always says they love living in the Capital Region because of its proximity to bigger metropolises—New York City, Boston...you know the spiel. But how often are we locals really capitalizing on the main thoroughfares that cross through Albany? In this series, we’ll explore what to do in the cities we claim to love to visit. First up,our neighbor to the north: Montréal!
Are you in need of a Parisian getaway this winter? Mais oui! We all are. But if you only have a few days or a slimmer-thanCity-of-Lights-budget, we’ve got you covered with a back-up plan.
Montréal, just 221 miles north of Albany, has secured the admirable sobriquet “the Paris of North America.” And while Canada’s second-largest city is the closest thing we have to a European metropolis on this side of the pond, it may feel surprisingly familiar—like an urbane, tattooed cousin of the Capital Region that also appreciates history, culture, winter fun, home-grown food and drinks, and classic European-style architecture.
Founded in 1642 as Ville-Marie, Montréal’s current name was derived from Mont Royal, the name of a mountain—or, actually, a hill—located in the city. A relatively small-by-US-standards city of 1.76 million, Montréal has evolved to become Canada’s capital of art, culture, food and technology. The official language is French, but just about everyone speaks English. While going north this time of year may seem a bit counterintuitive, winter is arguably the best time to visit the chilly city, especially for cold-hardy Capital Regionites who thrive on outdoor winter festivals like Troy’s Victorian Stroll and Saratoga Chowderfest. That’s because Montréalers share the same idea of winter fun, and have planned not one but two unique festivals this freezin’ season.
First up is Igloofest, one of North America’s coolest dance parties, which kicks off January 16 and runs on weekends through February 8.
The annual outdoor dance music festival is held in the Old Port neighborhood, and is designed to get people motivated to dance mid-winter. This year is the 17th edition, and is drawing big names from the Euro dance scene. UK electronic musician Four Tet, UK rapper Skepta, Swedish rapper Bladee, German DJ Claptone and Swedish House Mafia’s Steve Angello, plus Canadian duo Zeds Dead and Montral-based musician Apashe, will all take the stage throughout the four-weekend festival.
in the loop Scenes from Montréal En Lumieres past, including food from L’Avenue, live performances and the
Later this winter is Montréal En Lumiere, an annual festival of light now in its 26th year. The gastronomic portion of the festival begins February 20, but the full food and culture show runs February 27 through March 5.
This year, Montréal En Lumiere will bring in more than 500 chefs, winemakers and culinary experts from across the world to run special dinners, tastings, cooking demonstrations and mini think tanks. The finest restaurants in Montréal will throw open their doors and welcome chefs and vintners from afar to collaborate on special tastings and events that reflect the rarefied elegance and boundary-pushing mentality of this northerly city’s food scene. Also on the festival agenda: an epic outdoor skating loop with a sound and light experience; a diverse, free musical lineup featuring rock, hip-hop and Afrobeat; live musical performances that range from folk to symphonic; and an all-night rager known as Nuit Blanc during which the whole city stays up to participate in hundreds of art, poetry, dance and cinema activities.
Of course, there’s a whole city to explore beyond these festivals. Get a lay of the land by starting at the Old Port, home to La Grande Roue de Montréal, a 60-meter-tall Ferris wheel that gives tourists views of the city from 42 climate-controlled gondolas. Then, scoot over to the hilltop Parc du Mont Royal, which boasts snowshoe, cross-country ski and sledding routes in the winter.
In search of culture? Check out the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, with its collection of 47,000 works of art showcasing Canadian heritage and indigenous and international art; the McCord Stewart Museum, which celebrates the life and culture of Quebec, past and present; and the Biodome, an exploration of five different ecosystems with animals and plants. Oh, and tickets to Cirque du Soleil are a must.
Any city with its own Michelin Guide is going to have a heady food culture, and Montréal is no exception. Indulge yourself at humble temples to poutine (like four-decade-old mainstay Chez Claudette and the buzzy punk-rock Mange Dans Mon Hood) and heartfelt paeans to smoked meat (like the iconic Schwartz’s Deli and Leonard Cohen fave Main Deli). Or experience the gourmet-butprogressive gastronomy of Vin Mon Lapin, with its stylish and French-inflected shareable plates and natural wine. Save room for snacks or an easy meal at Le Central, which houses 16 gourmet, counterservice restaurants right in the middle of Quartier Des Spectacles, a central hub of culture and shopping. Familiar, but foreign. French, but North American. Montréal is a perfect escape for a wintertime long weekend. Don’t forget your passport!
outdoor skating loop.
Volcano Asian BBQ and Hot Pot
2309 Nott Street East, Niskayuna | 518.666.3888 | volcanoalbany.com
Dinner at Volcano Asian BBQ and Hot Pot isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. That’s because while you’ll get all the raw ingredients for an Asian feast, it’s up to you to cook them. (Don’t worry—the menu comes with instructions for how long to cook each item.). Choose hot pot, BBQ or both, and then select the ingredients you’re in the mood for—all parties will get two hours of all-you-can-eat dining. Still not sure how it works? Check out the Niskayuna restaurant for yourself this winter.
Canali’s Restaurant
126 Mariaville Road, Schenectady | 518.355.5323 | canalisrestaurant.com
Canali’s Restaurant, which last year was named Best Schenectady County Restaurant by CRL readers, has been providing customers with wonderful Italian cuisine at its Rotterdam location for more than 75 years. Relax in the well-appointed dining room, entertain special guests in the beautiful private room, pick up take-out on your way home from work or let Canali’s cater your next a air—whatever you choose, you know you’ll be enjoying authentic, delicious Italian dishes and exemplary customer service.
FOOD & DRINK GUIDE
Sake Japanese Steakhouse
611 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham | 518.785.7215 | sakelatham.com
Located right o Exit 7 in the heart of the Capital Region, Sake has been serving local foodies for more than 13 years. The restaurant prides itself on providing the best in Japanese fusion cuisine—everything from sushi and hibachi to other favorite Asian dishes (you have to try the ginger salad dressing, which they also sell in bottles!). Wash it all down at the bar, which boasts some 20 signature cocktails plus large selections of both sake and wine. Whether it’s a business lunch or anniversary dinner, you can’t go wrong at Sake.
Panza’s Restaurant
129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 518.584.6882 | panzasrestaurant.com
Treasured family recipes have kept Panza’s a Saratoga staple since 1938. Expect authentic Italian food, an ever-evolving menu and weekly live music at the intimate piano bar and on the Starlight Lounge stage. Make your holiday dinner reservations now, or plan to stop in for a seasonal cocktail with friends. The Panza’s team would like to thank all who helped vote the restaurant Best Romantic Dining, Best Italian Restaurant and Best Saratoga County Restaurant in last year’s CAPITAL REGION LIVING Bestie Awards. Open Wednesday–Sunday 5-9pm.
the back/
10 Capital Region Concerts, Carnivals and Cups Coming This Winter
BY MORGAN MASCHEWSKI
JANUARY 22
Dancing With the Stars Live PROCTORS
Coming straight from Hollywood, America’s favorite dance show will take the stage at Proctors one night only. Dancing With the Stars Live will feature all the glitz, glam and fan-favorite dancers you know from TV. Hosted by viral American gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, the show features special guest stars including Season 33 winner/ Bachelor star Joey Graziadei and Olympic bronze–winning rugby player Ilona Maher. atproctors.org
JANUARY 25
Capital District Mayor’s Cup
MVP ARENA
RPI and Union College’s men’s and women’s hockey squads will once again take the ice at MVP arena for the annual Capital District Mayor’s Cup. Both the Union men’s team and RPI women’s team have won three straight titles…Can the Union women and RPI men stop their streaks?
Grab a chicken sandwich from West Ave Pizza’s new MVP Arena location and head to the stands to see the women’s game at 3pm and the men’s at 6pm. mvparena.com
dance around Professional dancer Alan Bersten and Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher will hit the road for the Dancing With the Stars Live tour, which stops in Albany on January 22.
IT’S SNOW TIRE SEASON
•
•
•
•
•
MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30-4:00 Kiskistireco.com
the back/calendar
JANUARY 24-FEBRUARY 1
Glacier Ice Bar
THE SAGAMORE RESORT
Every winter, the Capital Region’s cold-weather warriors make their annual pilgrimage north to Bolton Landing, where the Sagamore Resort hosts its coolest wintertime tradition. The Glacier Ice Bar, overlooking the icy Lake George, will be open on January 24-25 and January 31-February 1 for handcrafted specialty cocktails, ice luge shots, ice-cold beer, warm cocktails and mocktails, and three types of soup. opalcollection.com
FEBRUARY 1-MARCH 2
Lake George Winter Carnival
VILLAGE OF LAKE GEORGE
Going on every weekend of February, the Lake George Winter Carnival is an annual tradition complete with fireworks, cook-offs, pony rides, an outhouse race, a six-hole
glacier golf tournament, a hot chocolate bar and more. Ring in carnival season on Friday, January 31 at the carnival gala, and revel in the festivities all February long. lakegeorgewintercarnival.com
FEBRUARY 8
Saratoga Chowderfest
SARATOGA SPRINGS
Every year, on one Saturday afternoon in February, the streets of Saratoga come alive
with tens of thousands of people in search of their favorite chowder. Saratoga County’s top restaurants serve 4 oz. samples of the stuff, and Chowderfest participants are invited to vote for their favorite. But the crowds don’t leave downtown when the chowder gets packed up at 4pm—the spirit of Chowderfest lives on late into the night. discoversaratoga.org
FEBRUARY 8
Lou Gramm
PALACE THEATRE
The original voice of Foreigner is coming to Albany. Rock the night away to some of your favorite ’80s and ’90s hits (“Feels Like the First Time,” anyone?) at Lou Gramm’s One Last Look Tour, which pitstops at the Palace on Saturday, February 8. palacealbany.org
FEBRUARY 18-23
Life of Pi
PROCTORS
Witness the Broadway sensation Life of Pi right in your own backyard. Dubbed “an exhilarating evening of theater” (Wall Street Journal) that “gives new life to Broadway” (The Today Show), the three-time Tonywinning play is based on the bestselling novel by Yann Martel that follows a 16-year-old boy, Pi, as he fights to survive on a life boat with four companions. atproctors.org
FEBRUARY 21
Eli
Young Band
RIVERS CASINO
Like a little country with your rock? Head to Rivers Casino’s event center on February 21 to see the Eli Young Band, known for
hits “Crazy Girl,” “Love Ain’t” and “Even if it Breaks Your Heart.” Doors are at 5:30pm and the show starts at 7pm. riverscasino.com
MARCH 1
Capital Region Drag Festival
PROCTORS
Local queens Opal Essence and Regina Sapphire are teaming up with Proctors to present a vibrant, inclusive celebration of drag culture. Kicking off with VIP entry at 9am and GA entry at 10am, the day will feature DJs, drag competitions, meet-and-greets and a professional drag show. Dress to impress! atproctors.org
Grooming Training Day Care Boarding
MARCH 8
Blake Shelton
MVP ARENA
Speaking of country—or, more specifically, “God’s Country”—country superstar Blake Shelton will bring his Friends & Heroes tour to MVP Arena this March. The longtime Voice judge will be joined by Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins and special guest Emily Ann Roberts. mvparena.com
the back/
Signs of the Times
BY CHANTAL MARIE ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT RISKO
ARIES
MARCH 21–APRIL 19
The new year is bringing so much depth to your world, sweet Aries. The quest to find and really understand yourself begins by digging deeper into your inner psyche and foundational beliefs. You can expect to feel really empowered and confident while at the same time experiencing minor identity conflicts. This is meant to align all aspects of the newly integrated you; the last couple of decades were a set-up for this triumphant come-up. Don’t be afraid to look into your shadowy closets for pieces of yourself you hid or lost along the way. It’s time to let all of you into the light for the recognition you deserve.
TAURUS
APRIL 20–MAY 20
Happy Birthday, Aquarius & Pisces!
A new sense of direction can emerge now and guide you to open pathways that you may not have thought of before. Your social life will take a more prominent role as you are learning to discern who and what is actually good for you. You may take a spiritual journey and look into your inner (and outer) circles of friends, networks and relationships and come to some surprising conclusions. Outside of this, you’ll be feeling a bit more like yourself as a sense of control returns after a time of learning to let go and go with the flow—a most comforting thought for a practical Taurus.
GEMINI
MAY 21–JUNE 20
You are being green-lit and it’s full steam ahead for success and confidence, Gemini loves. The Universe is most definitely on your side and ready to launch you into your best life yet. You have the drive, motivation, knowledge and experience to make your big dreams and goals a reality; you’ve been preparing for this moment for a while and it’s finally time to take action and apply yourself in the jack-of-all-trades way that is your specialty. Expect nothing but the best and watch how it all falls into place as your future path develops into one that is even better than what you’ve imagined. Enjoy the accolades, accomplishments and recognition that are sure to come your way during this time.
CANCER
JUNE 21-JULY 22
As a notorious homebody/ homemaker, this time can present you with some challenges, dear Cancer. What does “home” really mean for you? Is it a place? A person? A feeling? Perhaps it’s time to reevaluate your own beliefs and shift or expand on them in new ways that may surprise even you. The time of contemplation is designed to provide you with the answers to questions that have not yet been asked of you. Reflect on your innermost thoughts, fears, dreams and desires. Soon you will be positioned to take action on new opportunities and experiences that have been created through this period of searching your soul for the definition of what life needs to look like.
burns up Ed Burns, an actor, filmmaker and author known for writing, directing, producing and acting in The Brothers McMullen, is a former UAlbany student. He’s also an Aquarius who will celebrate his birthday on January 29.
LEO
JULY 23–AUGUST 22
They say to get it while the getting’s good, and that most definitely applies to you at the moment, lovely Leo. It’s time to collect on all the things owed to you and reap the benefits of the collective good deeds you’ve been spreading around to others. We absolutely love this for you because it is so well deserved; as the representative of the lifegiving force in our Universe, the Sun-ruled Leo is widely recognized and always appreciated. So soak it up and open your arms wide as you ready yourself to receive unexpected blessings from others. Let the world give you a taste of what it’s like to be in a Leo’s favor; it’s a truly beautiful place to be.
VIRGO
AUGUST 23–SEPTEMBER 22
Love, intimacy and long-term commitments are all in the air for you now, my sweet Virgo babies. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself ready to settle down and commit to sharing your life with that special someone. If you aren’t currently involved, you may encounter soulmate connections at this time and/ or be in the mindset of calling in your future partner because the energy is in full support of your love life right now. You are one of the most romantically inclined signs (with Pisces in your house of relationships), so go ahead and throw caution to the wind and embrace the impracticality of love. Let life sweep you off your feet and be in love with love.
LIBRA
SEPTEMBER 23–OCTOBER 22
If you’ve already been feeling the urge to get yourself together (physically and routinely), then you are ahead of the game. This rush of motivation to organize your daily habits to create the lifestyle and reality you desire is pushing you to actual greatness. With consistency and dedication, you won’t recognize yourself in just a short amount of time, and others will be inspired to follow suit. This time is meant to push you to your greatest potential in molding your everyday life for long-term success. You will also find yourself ready to face challenges and obstacles that used to send you running in the opposite direction. Claim your power and reshape your world.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 23–NOVEMBER 21
Get ready to feel inspired and energized in your processes again, sweet Scorpio. It may feel like it’s been some time since you had the urge to dip your toes into the proverbial creative waters of unadulterated joy and happiness, so let this energy sweep you up and take over any and all blocks you may have put into place. It’s time to pursue your passions once again! Your specific magic is such a gift to the world; hiding it away is a tragic disservice to others. The next big thing could be poised to emerge from your ideas/hands/ offerings. Sink into the joy of being a creative being and allow the Universe to inspire your works.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 22–DECEMBER 21
Thinking about your place in this great big world is a favorite pastime of yours, isn’t it? At the end of it all, where do you hang your hat? Where is your heart’s home located? The contemplation of the big picture as well as small details is a never-ending quest that requires constant reflection and reevaluation. This season will help you gain clarity and perspective on the elusive truth of your continued journey. Further defining what to do in your daily life will also bring you closer to understanding what it all means for you. Every step so far has helped to shape the path you walk; looking back on it will show you how to proceed ahead. The future is defined by you. Full steam ahead.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22–JANUARY 19
It feels like you’ve been at the mercy of the Universe for quite some time, doesn’t it? Left with no choice but to ride the waves of turbulence and hope you can piece together the clues, your survival mindset has kept you afloat for long enough. Let’s leave the uncertainty behind and enter into an era of understanding, applying the lessons and experiences to your approach as you navigate this portion of your journey with practicality and open-mindedness for what could be possible. Being out of control teaches you how to find blessings in disguise. Now is the time to marry your natural intellect with your learned trust in your intuition.
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 20–FEBRUARY 18
The transitions coming your way need a solid foundation to build upon and that is exactly what this current energy is here to help you with. How can we successfully set up a secure and safe environment in this material world so we can be free to focus on the major shifts pushing us towards expansion and growth? It’s time to TCB (take care of business) and prepare yourself accordingly. Invest in your peace, however that looks and feels to you. Mostly, it will involve battening down the hatches and patching up any cracks in your areas of finances and physical security and comfort. Do the necessary work so that when the winds of change come blowing, your ship can withstand any storm.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 19–MARCH 20
Ooh, Pisces babies….It’s your time to glow up! Are you ready to have your identity, self-worth and overall personal style experience an upgrade? We are heading towards your main-character moment; your dramatic reveal is loading. Use this time to reframe your character, your story, your life. You are a lump of unmolded clay right now, teeming with unlimited potential and endless possibilities. It’s an exciting opportunity to truly make yourself as you wish to be. So the question is: Who do you desire to become? What version of yourself is ready to emerge from the cocoon that is slowly falling away? We can’t wait to marvel at your beautiful new wings.
the back/
calendar // horoscope // recipe // crossword
INSTRUCTIONS
Let’s Get Saucy
How to make Park & Elm’s Bolognese sauce at home.
CHEF MATT DELOS’ BOLOGNESE
SERVES 4-6
INGREDIENTS
1 lb ground beef
1 lb pork butt, cubed (roughly 2 in)
1 lb ground veal
1 cup carrot, small diced
1 cup onion, small diced
½ cup celer y, small diced
¼ cup garlic, fine diced
¼ cup olive oil
1 cup dr y red wine
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ tsp chili flakes
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 cups high- quality chicken stock
1 28 oz can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
1 cup parmesan or pecorino cheese, grated
1 lb fresh cavatelli or gnocchi
salt and pepper to taste
endless pastabilities This bolognese is served at Park & Elm in Glens Falls with homemade ricotta gnocchi, but is delicious with fresh pappardelle or cavatelli. You can get everything needed to make the dish at Park & Elm’s market and deli.
1. Heat a heavy-bottom saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the olive oil.
2. When the oil is hot, add the ground and cubed meat, caramelizing the meat until it is a deep golden brown.
3. Add the onions, carrots, celery and garlic, stirring often until caramelized (8-10 minutes).
4. D eglaze the vegetable and meat mixture with the red wine. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Add the chili flakes and chopped thyme. Stir frequently.
6. Add the canned crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, until the cubed pork is tender and begins to break apart. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a small amount of water.
7. Finish the Bolognese with half of the grated parmesan. Season with salt, pepper and fresh basil to taste.
8. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta (or gnocchi) of your choice. When the pasta is al dente, drain the pasta, reserving one cup of starchy pasta water.
9. Coat the pre- cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce, adding a small amount of pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Finish with more grated cheese and chopped basil.
Home Improvement
THESE FIVE LOCAL COMPANIES ARE READY TO HELP YOU TURN YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME THIS WINTER.
ADIRONDACK HEARTH, HOME & MORE
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the family-owned Adirondack Hearth, Home & More prides itself on providing the highest quality fireplaces, stoves, custom stonework, hearth tools, screens and accessories—in other words, anything to do with the hearth industry! Specializing in custom projects, the team recently improved their showroom and opened a 2,200-square-foot fireplace design center to help make your fireplace dreams come true.
4748 State Highway 30, Amsterdam | adkhearthandhome.com | 518.843.9276
CALIFORNIA CLOSETS
California Closets Albany, which is locally owned and operated, creates custom storage solutions for any room in your house. In addition to closets of all shapes and sizes, its team designs home offices, mudrooms, pantries, garages, media centers and more. It all begins with a complimentary consultation done virtually, in the client’s home or at the Latham design studio.
952 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham | californiaclosets.com | 518.785.5723
CYPRESS POOLS & SPA
Escape to paradise in your own backyard with a pool by Cypress Pools & Spas. Having served the Capital Region for more than three decades, the Cypress Pools team realizes that investing in a swimming pool is a big decision, so aims to make the process as easy as possible. No matter your vision, Cypress pools can make your dream backyard a reality. Call today to get started.
115 Wade Road, Latham | cypresspoolsandspas.com | 518.783.5232
HOUSEWRIGHT CABINETRY
Housewright Cabinetry—where bespoke cabinetry transcends the ordinary. Enhance your home with artistic cabinetry, created with the highest quality craftsmanship by the Capital Region’s most prestigious builders and designers. Reach a new level of luxury with a wide and enticing selection of materials, finishes and styles for every taste, including historical, mid-century modern, traditional and contemporary.
75 Church Street, Saratoga Springs | housewrightcabinetry.com | 518.934.3101
REDBUD DEVELOPMENT
Redbud Development is a landscape construction company specializing in the custom design and quality installation of residential improvement and development projects. With a creative and collaborative approach, Redbud helps clients imagine and build exterior environments that connect seamlessly with their interiors to reflect the homeowner’s personality and lifestyle. Call today to schedule your no-cost initial consultation.
2 Commerce Park Drive, Wilton | redbuddevelopment.com | 518.691.0428
the back/
Mountain Time
BY NATALIE MOORE
ACROSS
1. 64-Down’s sig. other
4. Thin
8. Supposedly happy sea creature
12. “Get out of here!”
14. What you may leave a message after
15. Tortoise’s opponent, in a fable
16. Warty critters
17. *Contents of some autumnal piles
19. Come to a close
20. Weapons, say
21. Golf courses have it in abundance
22. *Modern furniture chain
25. Good drivers org.?
26. Word on a street sign
27. Hoppy bev.
29. DREAMers policy, for short
33. Not put to use, say
36. Collegiate social org.
37. X owner Musk
38. ___ Speedwagon
39. What each of the first words of the starred clues represent
42. Key that’s not on a Mac
43. Desert descriptor
45. Give a score from 1-10, say
46. Nick, Joe or Kevin
48. Sport played on horseback
49. Dined
50. One of many at a food pantry
51. Title for MLK, Jr.
53. *Material often used in outerwear
57. Recurring motif
60. Old MacDonald had one
62. Body part that rhymes with what it does
63. *Color on the Dallas Cowboys’ uniforms
65. Small crown
67. Last word of the Bible
68. Exclamation that may be heard at a 25-Across event
69. 5am, say
70. Unwelcome critter
71. Suffix for life and wing
72. Parks and Recreation’s Poehler
DOWN
1. Some May celebrants, for short
2. Passing craze
3. Texting abbreviation
4. Rush, as a sports field
5. Fertile 35-Down
6. Pens
7. Hollywood’s Gibson
8. Act
9. Volcanic substance
10. Greek god said to have been kept in a bronze jar for more than a year
11. Untidy state of things
12. Long-simmered dish
13. Ice cream parlor selection
18. An ostrich’s is about 3 pounds
20. Part of 27-Across
23. Tit for ___
24. December 24 and 31
25. Meat spread
27. Furious
28. Cut [off ]
30. Cumming of Cabaret
31. Popular soft drink
32. They may go marching
33. Prepare a gift, say
34. Prefix common in aviation
35. Agriculture necessity
36. Italian auto maker
40. ___ Maga (martial art)
41. Slightly open
44. Asleep or inactive
47. Binary digit
50. URL ender
52. Fish whose name is a man’s name spelled backwards
53. Color of the Saudi Arabian flag
54. Watery-eyed
55. ___ Grey
56. Diagnostic scan
57. Word after mouse or booby
58. One of the baseball bases
59. Looks at
60. Belly ___
61. Glow
64. 1-Across’ sig. other
65. Gossip, in slang
66. Response to “Are you?”
before
you go...
THE KITCHEN TABLE
BY JOHN GRAY
It was at a bend in the road that a small sign reading “Estate Sale Today” jutted out from the snow. Emma and Levi were six months married and about to buy a home. Aside from appliances, houses usually come empty, so the newlyweds would need to fill it. Levi immediately put the directional on and pulled into the long, circular driveway of the house hosting the sale.
It was early, so most of the furniture was still available. White stickers with red marker trumpeted each item’s price. A headboard, bed frame and matching dresser for $400. An antique hutch with brass latches for $250. Couches, a dining room set, a pool table, a treadmill and a set of mint-condition TaylorMade golf clubs; the bargains seemed endless.
As Emma and Levi wandered through the 2,400-square-foot Victorian home, they noticed a middleaged man in a dark suit was standing watch by the door and taking money from customers. When he unzipped the leather satchel, a wad of cash peeked out. Off in the corner, sitting alone, was an elderly woman with white hair that matched her modest dress.
“Newlyweds?” she asked the couple as they strolled by.
“Is it that obvious?” Emma answered with a smile.
an elegant home. It was a plain, round, wooden table, with four matching chairs. The weathered wood wasn’t white but close enough. It too bore a sign, only this one read, “Not for Sale,” with a small red bow attached. Levi was running his fingers across the back of a chair when a voice said, “It’s American white ash. The wood. Don’t see much of it. Pretty, isn’t it?”
She could tell by their expressions that the newlyweds didn’t understand. The woman took a seat at the table and gestured for them to join her.
“This is my house. My husband died and I’m moving to something smaller.”
Emma and Levi nodded along.
“Of all the items in this house—I suspect most houses—the most valuable thing is often the kitchen table.”
“Why?” Emma asked.
The woman smiled warmly, “Kitchen tables are where toddlers sit on booster seats and learn to eat. They’re where homework is done, and where candles get blown out on birthday cakes. They’re where you share warm pancakes on snowy Sunday mornings.”
She continued. “This kitchen table is where I sat up with worry, waiting for my teenagers to come home safe. It’s where we did the bills and figured out how to pay for the childrens’ college.”
The old woman’s smile retreated now. “It’s where my husband sat to tell me he had cancer—where I held his hand and stroked his brow.”
She stood up. “The kitchen table is where life happens. The good and the difficult.”
“Kitchen tables are where toddlers sit on booster seats and learn to eat. They’re where homework is done, and where candles get blown out on birthday cakes. They’re where you share warm pancakes on snowy Sunday mornings.”
After covering most of the property and making up a list of the items they wanted to buy, the couple’s last stop was the beautiful kitchen. Granite countertops, hand-carved cabinets, Tuscany stone backsplash. Perfect.
That’s when they saw it. Something so ordinary, it clearly didn’t belong in such
The couple turned to find the elderly woman from earlier watching them from the doorway.
“Very pretty,” Emma replied. “But, not for sale.”
“No,” she answered. “It’s too valuable to sell.”
“I never thought of it that way,” Levi said.
“I can see why you’re keeping it,” Emma added.
“Oh, I’m not,” the woman replied. “I’m here today because I was hoping someone special might wander in. And…”
“And what, ma’am?” Emma asked. With that, the woman took the red bow off the table and stuck it to Levi’s sweater.
“They just did.”
