THE COMEBACK ISSUE
@crlmagazine | crlmag.com
CAPITAL REGION LIVING Free
FLIP
SUMMER
Edition!
IS IN FULL SWING IN THE CAPITAL REGION
+
HOMETOWN HEMP LET'S GO TO COHOES! TLC FOR THE SOUL
CRL_RACES2021_Cover.indd 1
75
MUST-DO SUMMER ACTIVITIES
6/30/21 9:51 AM
2021 FORD EXPLORER ST
2021 FORD F-150
2021 FORD F-350
2021 SUBARU WRX STI
2021 SUBARU ASCENT
2021 SUBARU FORESTER
SARATOGA CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED PROGRAM INSPECTED Our certified pre-owned vehicles go through a rigorous 162 point safety and mechanical inspection process to ensure their performance for years to come.
CERTIFIED At Saratoga Ford Subaru we stand behind our vehicles because we believe in creating life-long relationships with our customers, built on honesty and integrity.
PROTECTED We back our certified vehicles with a 7 year, 100k mile Powertrain Warranty, so you can drive with confidence! Your complimentary Powertrain Warranty covers your vehicle’s Engine, Transmission and Drive Axle.
WHAT’S THE CATCH?
There isn’t one. We provide this protection as an added value to our customers.
3002 ROUTE 50 | SARATOGA SPRINGS | 518.691.3500 | www.mackeyautogroup.com
C2-03_CRLRaces21_TOC.indd 2
6/30/21 9:49 AM
Where American Muscle Meets European Luxury with a Twist of Off-Road Adventure
1966 SHELBY GT350
1969 MUSTANG BOSS 302
22,000 MILES, WIMBLEDON WHITE
8,300 MILES, WHITE
1967 SHELBY GT350
1971 MUSTANG BOSS 351
85,172 MILES, WIMBLEDON WHITE
1967 CORVETTE COUPE
1963 CORVETTE SPLIT WINDOW 346 MILES, DAYTONA BLUE • NCRS TOP FLIGHT •
46,049 MILES, WHITE
1967 CORVETTE COUPE
27,089 MILES, LYNNDALE BLUE • NCRS TOP FLIGHT •
37,868 MILES, MARLBORO MAROON • BLOOMINGTON GOLD •
2001 FERRARI 550 MARANELLO 4,375 MILES, ROSSO CORSA
2008 FERRARI 430 SCUDERIA
401 MILES, ROSSO SCUDERIA • WON CAVALLINO CLASSIC FOR BEST 8 CYLINDER •
1984 PORSCHE 911 TARGA
60,188 MILES, BEIGE
49,702 MILES, LYNNDALE BLUE • NCRS TOP FLIGHT & BLOOMINGTON GOLD •
2008 FERRARI 599 GTB 8,120 MILES, ROSSO CORSA
1986 PORSCHE 911 TURBO
29,694 MILES, GUARDS RED
1978 TOYOTA FJ CRUISER
1967 CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE
41,147 MILES, GUARDS RED
1965 MGB
371 MILES, BEIGE
1997 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90
25,239 MILES, ALPINE WHITE
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY EXCELSIOR AVENUE | SARATOGA SPRINGS | 518.691.3500 | www.mackeyvintage.com
C2-03_CRLRaces21_TOC.indd 1
6/30/21 9:49 AM
inside THE COMEBACK ISSUE
Cover Story
Reclaiming Summer By Karen Bjornland
28
MIND, BODY & SOUL: CANNABIS TAKEOVER
THE CALENDAR
RUN WITH IT
BY NATALIE MOORE
THE LATHAM MEDIUM
BY NATALIE MOORE
6 NE W AND NOW
22
44
ONE WONDERFUL WEEKEND: COHOES BY WILL LEVITH
C2-03_CRLRaces21_TOC.indd 2
BY JOHN GRAY
BY WILL LEVITH
BY ABBY TEGNELIA
15
54 BEFORE YOU GO: BEAR NECESSITIES ADVERTISING SECTIONS
27 WELLNESS 34 DAY TRIPS 4 2 LO C A L LY O W N E D BUSINESSES
The Experts
TRAVEL: ALEXANDRA BAACKES RECIPE: OLD DALEY CUSTOM CATERING WELLNESS: DR. MANUEL ASTRUC
ON THE COVER: The Columbia County Fair, photographed by Mattijs Vormer.
VISITLAKEGEORGE.COM
8
6/30/21 9:50 AM
NY_808
THE ULTIMATE DAY TRIP
HOTEL PATIO
SPECIALTY CRAFT COCKTAIL MENU & FREE LIVE MUSIC VISIT THELANDINGHOTELNY.COM TO LEARN MORE
THE ULTIMATE
WEEKEND GETAWAY BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY
RiversCasino.com 1 Rush Street | Schenectady, NY 12305 Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369).
NY_80869-1_Jul_CapitalRegionLiving_7-9_PrintAd_9x10-875_FINAL.indd 1 C2-03_CRLRaces21_TOC.indd 3
6/21/21 11:22 AM 6/30/21 9:50 AM
CAPITAL REGION LIVING THE HEART OF THE EMPIRE STATE
Abby Tegnelia EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF CONTENT
CEO
Will Levith Steve Teabout Natalie Moore
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Carmelina Albanese, Rose Merjos CONTRIBUTORS
April Arnold, Manuel Astruc Alexandra Baackes, Rachelle Booth Karen Bjornland, Alexx Bradley Francesco D’Amico, Samantha Decker Carolyn Driscoll, Dori Fitzpatrick Diane Foster, John Gray, Chloe Knapp Audrey Knizek, Dustin Lanterman Sue MacDonald, Alex Marsal, Sandy Menzer Barbara Pinckney, Nan Windmueller Tara Buffa SALES MANAGER PUBLISHER, SARATOGA LIVING
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER SALES ASSISTANT
Annette Quarrier Tina Galante Tracy Momrow
EMPIRE MEDIA NETWORK, INC. Anthony R. Ianniello CHAIR
Abby Tegnelia PRESIDENT/CEO
Tina Galante CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
VOLUME 18, NO.4
422 Broadway, Suite 203 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 $35 per year; (nonrefundable) FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA AT:
@capitalregionliving @crlmagazine TWITTER @crlmagazine
04-05_CRLRaces21_EdLtrMasthead.indd 4
6/30/21 9:50 AM
From The Editors
O
THE RETURN OF THE CAPITAL REGION SUMMER
(parasailing) VISITLAKEGEORGE.COM
n the flipside of this magazine, you’ll find a saratoga living issue dedicated entirely to Saratoga Springs’
most popular seasonal attraction: horse racing. While the track is certainly a better-than-average place to spend a summer afternoon (or several!), the greater Capital Region has so much to offer as well. So we’ve dedicated this issue of CAPITAL REGION LIVING to everything Upstate New Yorkers can and should do this summer…instead of spending a day at the races. In the pages that follow, you’ll find stories on what attractions are back after a year away, how to spend a day on the lake without owning a boat, and what to do on those (hopefully uncommon) rainy days (p. 8). Plus, we’re also bringing back our ever-popular calendar of all the region’s hottest happenings (p. 15), take you on a jam-packed weekend excursion to Cohoes (p. 22) and a longer road trip to Columbia County (p. 44). And if trying to fit two summers’ worth of activities into a single season has you feeling a little bit overwhelmed, we’ve got you covered with our special Mind, Body & Soul section (p. 28). So what are you waiting for? Get reading so you can live your best life during this sure-to-be-amazing Capital Region summer. —The Editors
Colorful parachutes catch the wind as parasailers get ready to launch into the sky.
THE COMEBACK ISSUE 2021 | CRLMAG.COM | 5
04-05_CRLRaces21_EdLtrMasthead.indd 5
6/30/21 9:50 AM
NEW NOW AND
A Hollywood film crew frenzy, a caterpillar takeover and an Uber dilemma top the region’s post-pandemic headlines. BY NATALIE MOORE
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLARS
It’s poetic, almost, that just a month after beloved children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle, best known for The Very Hungry Caterpillar, passed away, the northeast—New York, Carle’s birth state, included— would see a severe outbreak of gypsy moth caterpillars. Though darker and fuzzier than Carle’s famous greenand-red bug, these gypsy moth larvae are just as hungry, wreaking havoc on plants from Glenville and Queensbury to the Finger Lakes and Burlington, VT. The New York Department of Conservation says the critters will start to disappear by July, but as anyone who’s read Carle’s masterpiece knows, caterpillars don’t stay caterpillars forever. Stay tuned for the impending moth-pocalypse.
During the pandemic, Plumb Oyster Bar owner Heidi Knoblauch decided to temporarily close down her Troy restaurant. As of June 17, though, Plumb is back in action with a brand-new concept: It’s hosting a new “Chef in Residence” series, which gives foodies the chance to try experimental cuisine from some of the Capital Region’s hottest chefs in an established…well, establishment. First up are chefs Alexander Goldman of Five Senses Private Catering and Quang Tran of Quang’s Vietnamese Bistro, whose pop-up restaurant concept, Clermont, will populate Plumb through mid-September.
(caterpillars) NYDEC (gypsy moth) DIDIER DESCOUENS
PLUMB’S NEW GROOVE
6 | CAPITAL REGION LIVING | THE COMEBACK ISSUE 2021
06-07_CRLRaces21_NewNow.indd 6
6/30/21 10:47 AM
NEW NOW AND
AN UBER (BIG) DILEMMA
Have you been having trouble booking rides on Uber and Lyft recently? Turns out, you’re not alone. Ride-sharers are getting the “no cars available” message all across the Capital Region, and even nationally. “In 2021, we’ve seen more riders requesting trips than there are drivers available to give them,” Uber spokeswoman Becky Katz Davis told USA Today in late May. She went on to say many drivers stopped working during the pandemic and haven’t returned to their jobs. Locally, cab companies are making a major comeback, taking advantage of the shortage by posting messages about their services to Capital Region Facebook groups.
(Troy) DOWNTOWN TROY BID
SMALL CITIES, BIG SCREENS
In addition to the caterpillars, multiple Capital Region cities saw springtime swarms of another type—film crews!—descend upon them. First, they were filming Paint, an upcoming Owen Wilson comedy, outside of Spot Coffee and at Desperate Annie’s in Saratoga. Then, in May, production crews turned a major portion of Downtown Troy into 19th-century America to shoot HBO series The Gilded Age, which should feature some local extras. And finally, HBO limited series The White House Plumbers, which is about the Watergate break-in and stars Woody Harrelson, began filming in Downtown Albany in mid-June. And…scene!
THE COMEBACK ISSUE 2021 | CRLMAG.COM | 7
06-07_CRLRaces21_NewNow.indd 7
6/30/21 10:47 AM
51 HOTTEST WAYS TO
RECLAIM SUMMER
(Lake George) VISITLAKEGEORGE.COM; (demolition derby) FRANCESCO D’AMICO
BY KAREN BJORNLAND
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 8
6/30/21 9:48 AM
T
he Capital Region’s comeback summer is officially here. No more masks, social distancing or limited capacity anything. So you sort of have the right to go a little crazy. From Lake George to the mighty Catskills, Upstate New Yorkers are ready to get back out there and enjoy everything the region has to offer. Let’s get started.
Get out on Lake George by way of a Jet Ski or boat rental, or by booking a tour with the Lake George Steamboat Company; (from top) a performer at the Hudson Gallery Crawl; tubing at Big Big on the Battenkill; the demolition derby at the Saratoga County Fair.
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 9
6/30/21 9:48 AM
NO BOAT? NO PROBLEM!
L
ooking for a wet and wild weekend, but don’t own a boat? Ride the waves on the “Queen of American Lakes,” gorgeous Lake George, where you can rent stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks and canoes from Lake George Kayak Company (lakegeorgekayak. com); and motorboats, pontoon boats and Jet Skis from Chic’s Marina (chicsmarina. com). Or be the first in your squad to try the trendiest new way to have on-thewater fun, eFoiling, which allows you to coast on an electronic hydrofoil surfboard that can be picked up at Devil Ray Water Dutch Apple Cruises
Sports (devilraywatersports.com). If floating high above the lake is more your speed, why not let your legs dangle while harnessed to a parasailing parachute, courtesy of Parasailing Adventures (parasailingadventures.com)? The sky’s literally the limit. Not the sporty, adventurous type but still want to get the most out of lake life? Book a cruise with Tiki Tours (thetikitours.com), invite your besties, and go for a laid-back, cocktail-sipping ride on a floating barge with a tropical-style thatched roof and a bartender-captain. Afterwards, catch a show at Shepard Park (lakegeorge.com/ music-and-fireworks), which is located right next to your tiki takeoff and hosts free evening concerts all summer long. Also on the someone-else-is-captainingmy-boat front, it’s smooth sailing with the Lake George Steamboat Company (lakegeorgesteamboat.com) and its 190foot Lac du Saint Sacrement, the largest inland ship in the state. The company’s fleet also includes the smaller Mohican and Minne Ha Ha paddle wheeler. Lake George Shoreline Cruises
(lakegeorgeshoreline.com) will take you out on their Adirondack yacht or the stylish Horicon, a two-decker trimmed in mahogany and teak. If you prefer the Hudson River instead, instead, opt for the Captain JP Cruise Line (captainjp.com), whose four-deck ship is tricked out with dance floors and bars and docks in Troy; Dutch Apple Cruises (dutchapplecruises. com), 65-foot Albany Riverboat, which has a top deck that’s perfect for eagle-watching and sails south from its dock in Downtown Albany; or Mohawk Maiden Cruises (mohawkmaidencruises.com), whose authentic sternwheel paddleboat tours the Champlain Canal and upper Hudson from its pier in Schuylerville. For locals in search of some water and a beach, cool off with a swim (and a suntanning sesh) at Grafton Lakes State Park (parks.ny.gov/graftonlakes) on Route 2 in Rensselaer County. This year is the 50th anniversary of the park and its wide sandy beach on Long Pond, which Capital Region sun worshippers dubbed a “Bestie” for Best Picnic Spot earlier this year. It also features volleyball nets and scenic nearby
(eFoiling) VISITLAKEGEORGE.COM
The trendiest on-the-water fun is eFoiling, or riding on an on an electronic hydrofoil surfboard, from Devil Ray Water Sports on Lake George.
10 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E R A C E S 2 0 2 1
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 10
6/30/21 9:48 AM
hikes. The beach is open through Labor Day, and admission is $8 per car. Can an inner tube bring you inner peace? Yes! Stress and tension do indeed tend to melt away when you sink your weary bones into a puffy orange doughnut and float down the Battenkill in Washington County. At Battenkill Valley Outdoors (battenkillvalleyoutdoors.com) in Cambridge, the staff helps you pick out your tube and shuttles you to a drop-off spot in the river. Across the New York border, you can rent tubes at Vermont River Runners (vermontriverrunners.com) or Big Big on the Battenkill Kayaking and Tubing (bigbigonthebattenkill.com), both in Arlington, VT.
BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER
M
(SPAC) DAVE BIGLER; (Adirondaclk Outlaw) GREAT ESCAPE/SIX FLAGS
issed your annual lose-yourlunch date on amusement park rides last year? At Queensbury’s Great Escape
The Great Escape’s newest ride: the Adirondack Outlaw
(sixflags.com/greatescape), take a hairraising spin on the Adirondack Outlaw, the new thrill ride that zooms and twirls passengers, head over heels, 164 feet into the air at speeds of up to 50 miles an hour. After a COVID shutdown last summer, the ultra-popular Lake George area attraction is back on track with 100 rip-roarin’ rides, shows and attractions. Thirty minutes southward in Saratoga Springs, James Taylor, Maroon 5 and the Outlaw Music Festival with Willie Nelson will be swinging through the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)? Yep, SPAC
(spac.org) is back with all its usual fanfare: the Philadelphia Orchestra, New York City Ballet and Live Nation concerts aplenty. This summer, the Saratoga venue will also finally debut The Pines, its now-one-year-old collection of new buildings including updated concessions and restrooms, a rooftop terrace and an open-air pavilion. Is the roar of a prehistoric dinosaur more along the lines of music to your ears? Bring the kids to the still brand-new Lake George Expedition Park (lgepark.com), where 20 gigantic dinos swish their tails, turn their heads and growl as visitors walk along wooded trails. (Lake George Expedition Park opened in 2019 but had to skip its second summer because of the pandemic). Titanosaurus, one of the largest of the animatronic thunder lizards, is 38 feet long! In another section of the park, preschoolers will love the Magic Forest, with its oldfashioned fairytale-themed amusements and early ’60s kiddie rides. In Albany, our beloved entertainment
The Pines at Saratoga Performing Arts Center
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 11
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 11
6/30/21 9:49 AM
venues are up and running, too. At the Times Union Center (timesunioncenter-albany.com), cheer on the Albany Empire arena football team on July 17 and 31, or hang on until August 25, when singer Michael Bublé and his “ ” album tour heats up the Capital City. Plus, Tanya Tucker, Joan Osborne, Madeleine Peyroux and Melissa Etheridge are on the calendar at The Egg (theegg.org), and The Palace Theatre (palacealbany.org) has also reopened its doors (catch Michael Franti & Spearhead on August 21). We’re fairly certain you’ll be pumped to hear that Michael Bublé will per county fairs are for m returning to the in Capital Region this summer! Kick off the fan-fair July 23– 25 at the Saratoga County Fair
♥
st 25. Augu on ny ba Al
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 12
(saratogacountyfair.org), which this year will return to its roots as an agricultural fair, featuring animal shows, as well as truck, tractor and lawn mower pulls. The Washington County Fair (washingtoncountyfair.com), another agricultural fair, comes to town August 23–29, with the Columbia County Fair (columbiafair.com)—complete with demo derbies, a firefighters’ parade, monster tractor pull and rodeo—following right afterwards from September 1–6.
BUT WHAT IF IT RAINS?
S
tock up on chic umbrellas—not even a downpour should keep you cooped up at home now that lockdown’s over. For starters, grab a seat and pass the popcorn at Regal Cinemas (regmovies.com/theatres/regalcrossgates-imax) in Crossgates Mall. The theater jumps on the ’90s nostalgia bandwagon on July 16 with the premiere of Space Jam: A New Legacy, rated PG. Starring NBA superstar LeBron James with
Bugs Bunny, Tweety Bird and other kooky Looney Tunes characters, it’s sure to give the 1996 Michael Jordan version a run for its cartoon money. Not ready to eat popcorn in the dark with unmasked strangers? Go treasure hunting in the charming city of Hudson, one of the country’s premier destinations for art, antiques and vintage home and clothing items. On or near Warren Street, browse the more than 40 eclectic and sophisticated shops, like Arenskjold Antiques (arenskjold.com), known for its high-end Danish modern furniture, or Five and Diamond Vintage (fiveanddiamond. blogspot.com), where you can pick up an oh-so-glam ’80s party dress. Stores stay open until 9pm during the festive Hudson Gallery Crawl (hudsongallerycrawl.com) on the second Saturday of the month (July 10, August 14 and September 11). You can also take your summer show underground by visiting Howe Caverns (howecaverns.com), the massive subterranean cave where it never rains, and it’s always light-jacket season. At
(Saratoga County Fair) FRANCESCO D’AMICO
The Saratoga County Fair
6/30/21 9:49 AM
century architecture. Butterfly Plant Studio (butterflyplantstudio.com) sells handselected botanical specimens in stylish pots; Love of Fuzz (loveoffuzz.com) is the local guitar shop; and Hippies, Witches & Gypsies (hippieswitchesgypsies.com) is the place for incense, crystals, candles and magic wands. Market Block Books (bhny.com) has been River Street’s independent bookstore for 17 years, and The Counties of Ireland (thecountiesofireland.com), a shop for all things Irish, is celebrating its 21st year. Be sure to scare up some Space Jam: A New Legacy energy, weary traveler, for this final rainy day destination: Check out Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear at miSci (misci.org), an exhibit that runs through September 6. Developed by the California Science Center, it explores the universal emotion through interactive challenges and immersive experiences. While you’re
the famous Schoharie County natural attraction, tours begin in an elevator that descends 156 feet to the cave entrance and wind through a labyrinth of limestone and strange rock formations. There’s even a short boat ride on the River Styx. About an hour eastward and back on solid ground, you should definitely poke around Downtown Troy, where more than 50 retail establishments in the neighborhood of River Street promise hours of shopping amidst impressive 19th
at the Schenectady museum, swing through two other exhibitions: Schenectady Inventors the Changed the World and Engineering the Perfect Shot, an interactive minigolf exhibit. Fore!
Troy’s Hippies, Witches & Gypsies
Howe Caverns’ Pool of Peace
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 13
08-13_CRLRaces21_WhatToDo.indd 13
6/30/21 9:49 AM
Tropical Sunrise Yogurt Bowl SERVES 1 Ingredients: 1 (5.3 oz.)
Container Two Good® Coconut or Mango Hibiscus Greek Yogurt
1/4 cup
Fruits such as mango, pineapple or kiwi, peeled and diced
2 Tbsp.
Hannaford Vanilla Almond Granola
1 tsp.
Unsweetened shredded coconut
1 Tbsp.
Planters Lightly Salted Cashew Halves and Pieces, chopped
Directions: 1. Add yogurt to serving bowl and top with diced tropical fruits. 2. In small bowl combine granola, shredded coconut and chopped cashews.
This refreshing and fruity breakfast bowl pairs well with summer sunrises and morning bike ride adventures.
3. Top yogurt and fruit with crunchy mixture and enjoy.
simply healthy from your Hannaford Dietitians
We’re committed to supporting your health and wellness goals. Our team of registered dietitians offer free nutritional services online and in-store. Thank you to our sponsors for partnering with Hannaford to offer free dietitian services. Visit hannaford.com/dietitians to learn more.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories 200; Total Fat 8 g; Saturated Fat 3 g; Carbohydrate 19 g; Protein 15 g; Sodium 60 mg; Fiber 2 g; Sugar 10 g; Added Sugar 2 g
2021_HL_CRL_July_9x10.875.indd 1
6/21/21 11:38 AM
14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 14
6/30/21 9:58 AM
e
Events Calendar
» 15 summer happenings you won’t want to miss. «
BY NATALIE MOORE
Morgan McMichaels and Landon Cider, who’ll be serving up luscious looks and fierce realness all night long. palacealbany.org
July 25–October 17
Dinosaurs in Motion Universal Preservation Hall
hew d
Robert Lamm of the band Chicago, which will perform at SPAC on July 18.
This summer, explore the future of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (or STEAM) by stepping back, oh, 66 million years. Fourteen recycled metal dinosaur sculptures with exposed mechanics will descend upon Saratoga’s Universal Preservation Hall this July 25 and stay through mid-October. As visitors make their way through the interactive exhibit, they’ll be able to take part in art (sketching, drawing and sculpting); science (kinetics, biomechanics and robotics); and innovation (observing and experimenting) activities aplenty. universalpreservationhall.org
ded July 18
g: g; mg;
July 23
Chicago Saratoga Performing Arts Center
A Midsummer SLAY: The Slequel! The Palace Theatre
SPAC sure has a star-studded Live Nation lineup for its comeback season (see: Daryl Hall & John Oates, Alanis Morissette and the Jonas Brothers). But it’s hard to outshine Chicago, one of the longestrunning, best-selling music groups of all time. The 10-man band, which still tours with three of its founding members, will swing through the Spa Park on July 18 to play a set of their greatest hits. (Fingers crossed for “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” and “Will you Still Love Me?”) You won’t be able to look away. spac.org
Albany got a taste of A Midsummer SLAY’s divas back in 2019, and this July 23, the dragtastic crew returns to the Palace for the much-anticipated “slequel.” Hosted by Lady Bunny, the show will star Manila Luzon, Shea Couleé, Coco Montrese, Dinosaurs in Motion
T H E R A C E S 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 15
11:38 AM 14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 15
6/30/21 9:58 AM
Events Calendar police officers and firefighters at Clifton Park’s 17th annual National Night Out this August 3. Part of a nationwide community-building campaign to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, this National Night Out celebration will feature demonstrations by law enforcement K-9s, preparedness displays and safety information, plus crafts and games for the whole family. cliftonpark.org
August 5–8
July 27–August 1
August 1
Alice in Wonderland Cohoes Music Hall
ROCKTOGA Malta Drive In
Bring your little ones through the looking glass this summer at the historic Cohoes Music Hall. Watch as Lewis Caroll’s classic story of a young girl’s fantastical journey through Wonderland is brought to life in a musical adaptation featuring a cast of local students. thecohoesmusichall.org
Family-friendly fun for a good cause? Sign us up! The inaugural ROCKTOGA benefit for Albany Medical Center’s Children’s Hospital is coming to the Malta Drive In on Sunday, August 1 from noon–6pm. Bop to music by local favorites Grand Central Station, Big Sky, Jocamo and Superposition, and nibble on food truck bites while the kids have a blast in the onsite bounce house. The afternoon will also feature raffles—including one for an electric guitar—stock car displays and a celebrity special guest (who could it be?). Proceeds from the event will go to the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Med, which provides care for children and teens with cancer and blood disorders in 25 nearby counties and beyond. Admission is $25 a car in advance or $30 at the door. Search “Rocktoga Charity Event” on eventbrite.com
July 31
Earth Day Is Every Day Mescal Hornbeck Community Center Woodstock, NY isn’t just for music festivals—come July 31, it’ll be home to a free “Earth Day Is Every Day” celebration. From 11am–2pm, the Mescal Hornbeck Community Center will host an, open-to-the-public, kid-friendly festival featuring birds of prey, e-bike demos, electric vehicle test drives, food, raffles and more. Bring your mom and make the one-hour drive, south from Albany, to celebrate your other mother…Mother Nature! facebook.com/ WoodstockEnvironmentalCommission
Hasan Minhaj – Experiment Time The Rep Comedian Hasan Minjah of The Daily Show and Netflix’s Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj will bring his comedic take on the modern cultural and political landscape to The Rep in Albany for six shows between August 5–8. A Peabody Award winner, Hasan has earned rave reviews for hosting the 2017 White House Correspondents’ Dinner and Hasan Minhaj: Homecoming King, his onehour Netflix
Hasan Minhaj
August 3
Clifton Park’s National Night Out Clifton Common Get to know your local
16 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 16
6/30/21 9:58 AM
comedy special. Shows are at 7:30pm on August 5; 7pm and 10pm on August 6 and 7; and 3pm on August 8. capitalrep.org
Rock On!
9 CAPITAL REGION CONCERT SERIES THAT’LL KEEP YOU DANCING ALL SUMMER LONG. BY NATALIE MOORE
Freedom Park Summer Concert Series FREEDOM PARK, SCOTIA
Grab a Jack Burger and Twister Fries from Jumpin’ Jacks Drive-In then head just next door to Freedom Park for a free concert! The riverside venue will be highlighting local performers, such as Annie & the Hedonists, Ellan Sinopoli Dance Company and SIRSY, at 7pm on select days all summer long. freedomparkscotia.com
Jazz on Jay
JAY STREET, SCHENECTADY
August 7
Swan Lake The Egg Witness Swan Lake in Albany’s most recognizable entertainment venue. New York City’s internationally renowned Ajkun Ballet Theatre will perform the classical ballet at The Egg on Saturday, August 7 at 7:30pm. Watch as Tchaikovsky’s tale of a woman-turned-swan’s quest to find faithful love comes to life by way of artistic director Chiara Ajkun’s choreography and the dancers’ remarkable artistry, athleticism and elegance. Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 the day of the show. theegg.org
August 9–10
The Saratoga Sale Fasig-Tipton Back after a year hiatus and celebrating its 100th anniversary is Thoroughbred auction house Fasig-Tipton’s much-anticipated Saratoga Sale. Happening smack dab in the middle of the Saratoga Race Course season, The Saratoga Sale is considered the
Schenectady’s Jazz on Jay will be bringing the region’s best jazz music to the corner of Jay and State streets on Thursdays through September 23 from noon–1:30pm. Catch the Jon LeRoy Trio on July 29, the Henry Fernandez Quartet on August 19 or the Maggie MacDougall & Bossamba on September 9…and park for free in the nearby MVP Health Care parking garage. facebook.com/jazzonjay
Rock the Block
CANAL SQUARE, COHOES
Be sure to bring a lawn chair with you to Cohoes’ summer concert series, Rock the Block, at Canal Square in Cohoes. The Thursday evening series runs July 8 (The Refrigerators) through August 5 (Funk Evolution), with shows starting at 6:30pm. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. ci.cohoes.ny.us
Powers Park Concert Series POWERS PARK, TROY
There’s something for everyone at the Powers Park Concert Series—classic rock, country, dance music and more. Shows are 6-8:30pm on Saturdays in July and August, with featured bands including Skeeter Creek on July 31 and Wild Adriatic on August 14. facebook.com/powersparkconcerts
Performing Arts at the Common
CLIFTON COMMON STAGE, CLIFTON PARK
It’s not just concerts you’ll find at Clifton Park’s kid-friendly Performing Arts at the Common this summer—catch the Kids Open Mic Talent
Show on August 4, comedy magic show Mr. Mike and the Big Red Box of Magic on August 11, or multicultural musical experience Seth and the Moody Melix on July 21. Shows begin at 7pm. cliftonpark.com
Summer’s Eve Concert Series SCHAGHTICOKE TOWN HALL
Every Thursday at 6:30pm through August 26, join the Schaghticoke Entertainment Committee for a concert at Town Hall. Catch Beatle Guyz on July 22, Storm Front on August 19 and the Refrigerators with Maria Formica from The Voice (plus fireworks!) on August 26. townschaghticoke.digitaltowpath.org
Alive at Five
JENNINGS LANDING, ALBANY
Perhaps the Capital Region’s best-known free concert series, Alive at Five, returns to Jenkins Landing on Wednesdays this July. See Hartley’s Encore and Yim Yam on July 21 or Warrant and Joe Mansman and The Midnight Revival Band on the 28th. Not able to attend? Watch a recording of the show, which will be made available the following day on the Albany Events Facebook page or YouTube channel. albanyevents.org
Village of Coxsackie Music in the Park
On Sundays at 6pm this summer, venture down to Coxsackie Riverside Park to see acts such as Night Moves (classic rock/country), Wyld Blu (blues) and The Reverberators (rock and roll) as part of the Village of Coxsackie’s Music in the Park series. greatnortherncatskills.com
Shepard Park Concerts
SHEPARD PARK, LAKE GEORGE
The only problem with the abundance of concerts going on this summer at Shepard Park will be deciding which ones to attend! Choose from the Lake George Arts Project performances on Wednesdays, the Lake George Community Band performances on select Thursdays, Magical Musical Mondays, Tuesday Tributes and Fridays at the Lake concerts, among other special events, all summer long. lakegeorge.com
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 17
14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 17
6/30/21 9:58 AM
Events Calendar crown jewel of the North American yearling sales calendar, with horses regularly selling for upwards of $1 million. And no, you don’t have to be a seller or buyer to attend. fasigtipton.com
August 10–15
Schoharie County Sunshine Fair Cobleskill Fairgrounds Here comes the Sunshine Fair! Schoharie County’s annual event at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds will run for five jam-packedwith-farm-fun days, August 10–August 15. Highlights include a harness race, rides, Bengal tiger performances, demolition derbies, a tractor pull, a concert by local country outfit Skeeter Creek, chainsaw sculptures, racing pigs, a horse show, a rabbit show, Irish dancers, a circus, an animal costume parade and much, much more. sunshinefair.org
August 14–15
NY Capital District Renaissance Festival Indian Ladder Farms Pull out your tunic and puffy shirt and dust off those dancing shoes: The NY Capital District Renaissance Festival is returning to Ye Royal Village of Appleton (a.k.a. Indian Ladder Farms) for two days of music, entertainment and food. This year’s fest will feature the Queen’s Royal Joust, a Shakespeare impersonator, a comedy sword-fighting show, belly dancers, Pester the Jester, a princess tea party, falconry and an arrr-my of pirates. The royal shenanigans will take place from 11am–6pm on both Saturday, August 14 and Sunday, August 15. nycapitaldistrictrenfest.com
August 21
The Prescott Foundation’s Wings & Wheels The Hangar at 743 (from top) Schoharie County Sunshine Fair; NY Capital District Renaissance Festival pirates; The Prescott Foundation’s Wings & Wheels; (opposite) Cold War Kids.
Join the Prescott Foundation, a Lathambased organization dedicated to preserving and maintaining World War II aircraft while also honoring the war’s veterans, for its first-
18 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 18
6/30/21 9:59 AM
annual Wings & Wheels event on August 21 from 9am–2pm. Expect local vendors, food, a DJ, raffles and beer samples from Mixed Breed Brewing and The Real McCoy Beer Co., plus historic planes, cars and the M4 Sherman tank from the movie Tank. General admission is $12 or $25 (includes two beer sample tickets). hangar743.com
8pm, and general admission tickets are $28. empirelivealbany.com
August 26
Cold War Kids Empire Live Well, hang me up to dry—the Cold War Kids (whose summer anthem is, yup, “Hang Me Up to Dry”) will be one of the first acts to perform at Albany’s newest entertainment venue, Empire Live. Located in the old Capital Rep building on North Pearl Street, Empire Live is the next iteration of former Clifton Park concert venue Upstate Concert Hall. The indie rock band will take the stage on August 26 at
September 4
Capital District Scottish Games Altamont Fairgrounds The Altamont Fair, taking place August 17– 22, isn’t the only fairground-worthy festival coming to Guilderland’s little sister this summer. Celebrate your Scottish heritage (or, if you’re not Scottish, pretend you are for a day!) at the Capital District Scottish Games, which has been a fixture in the region for more than 70 years. The event will include bagpipe bands, highland dancing and athletic competitions (think hammer throwing and caber tossing), vendors, kids activities, overnight camping and, of course, kilts galore. Tickets range in price from $18 for general admission to $140 for entrance into the patron’s tent. scotgames.com
TWO MAGAZINES saratoga living saratogaliving.com
CAPITAL REGION LIVING
SUNDAY SOIREE! A Benefit for Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company Chrissy & John Colley Honorary Chairs Michael Nofal Master of Ceremonies
crlmag.com
Join us for a spectacular evening gala!
ONE MEDIA COMPANY
Sunday | Sept. 26, 2021 | 4:00 to 8:00 Loft 433 of the Hedley Building 433 River Street | Troy, NY Tickets:
518.527.7008 | sinopolidances.org
to:
Pho
old
ry G
Ga
Empire Media Network
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 19
14-19_CRLRaces21_Calendar.indd 19
6/30/21 9:59 AM
SUMMER DINING ADVERTISING SECTION
VOTED BEST WEST SAND LAKE/AVERILL PARK RESTAURANT The Towne Tavern invites guests to enjoy its award-winning food in the warm, cozy, and comfortable renovated creek-side blacksmith shop from the 1800s. Whether you are looking for a relaxed drink with friends or a dinner with the whole family, there is something for everyone on the tavern menu, from barbeque specialties to home-style entrées. Good Food ~ Good Times ~ Good Friends
2850 NY 43 • Averill Park • 518.674.3040 • thetownetavern.com
NOW OPEN FOR OUR 23RD SEASON!
Yanni’s by Car…Yanni’s by Bike…Yannis by Boat!
Thank you for voting Chef/Owner Marc Yanni best in the Capital Region! Thank you to all of our loyal patrons and our amazing Staff as we rolled with all the punches of this past year. Things may be different but we still maintain the same food quality and customer service. Come join us in our spacious dining room and on our 2 Large outdoor patios overlooking the majestic Hudson River. Wednesday through Sunday Lunch & Dinner. Dine-in, Take out & Curbside
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AND LOOK FOR DAILY SPECIALS!
Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 MARINA DRIVE • COEYMANS 518.756.7033 • YANNISRESTAURANTS.COM
20-21_CRLRaces21_SummerDining.indd 22
6/30/21 9:55 AM
SUMMER DINING ADVERTISING SECTION
Leap into an Abundance of Health Gräshoppa...
PLEASE CALL TO REGISTER
NOW OFFERING REIKI I & II CLASSES
• Energetic Cord Cutting • Akashic Record Reading • Chakra Balancing with Crystals & Reiki
TINA GALANTE | 518.210.7303
KRISTALLGRASHOPPA.COM 20-21_CRLRaces21_SummerDining.indd 23
6/30/21 9:55 AM
ONE WONDERFUL WEEKEND IN
COHOES The Spindle City will have you wound around its little finger.
Cohoes Falls. NEVIN
BY WILL LEVITH
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 22
6/30/21 9:54 AM
During your time in town, be sure to visit Cohoes Falls, the second largest waterfall in New York State, during your time in town.
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 23
6/30/21 9:54 AM
F R I D A Y
Holy, summer! The next time you feel like peeling yourself off your patio furniture or taking a break from taking poolside selfies, hit up some of the wonderful Capital Region towns we’ve been covering over the past year. That’s right—New York State has lifted all its COVID-era restrictions, so it’s getoff-the-couch time. In need of an kick-off point? Look no further than Cohoes, a.k.a. The Spindle City.
FRIDAY Cue BTO’s “Takin’ Care of Business,” ’cause you just worked like a dog for the entire week, and you deserve some delicious grub in your belly and a little something-something (i.e. a drink) to forget all about that TPS report that got jammed in the printer. Start your night out in Cohoes with a table at the hip, trendy taco tavern The Daisy (daisytacos.com), which serves up delicious left-field fillings like Pork Banh Mi and Coconut Shrimp and has a margarita list that’s seven strong (try the Smokeshow, because you are one; it’s made up of mezcal, triple sec, lime, agave and habanero bitters). Looking for a place that’s a little more shorts and Crocs instead of slacks and socks? The nearly 30-year-old Pig Pit BBQ (pigpitbbqny.com) has you covered... with gobs of barbecue sauce, that is. Grab yourself a Sliced Beef Brisket or Chicken Fried Steak specialty dinner, or just go whole hog with a Big Ol’ Combo (any two specialty dinners with extra fixings and homemade corn muffins). Finish your night off with one of two options: the kid-friendly ice cream route at Guptill’s (facebook.com/Guptillsicecream), which complements the business’ Guinness Record–breaking largest indoor roller-skating arena; or the out-withyour-homies/girls nightcap option at Bye-i Brewing (byeibrewing.com), which is open until 11pm on Fridays and has 10 craft beers on tap, including sensational sips like the Taylor Tot Chocolate Coffee stout and “1 in a Melon” wheat beer. (from top): The Daisy; Guptill’s Ice Cream; Bye-i Brewing.
24 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 24
6/30/21 9:54 AM
S A T U R D A Y
SATURDAY It never hurts to get a little fresh air to kick off your Saturday, so we’d suggest taking somebody you love and hiking it over to the four-acre Cohoes Falls View Park (ci.cohoes.ny.us), where you can catch a glimpse of the breathtaking Cohoes Falls, the second largest waterfall in New York State (it’s 1,000 feet wide and has a 60-foot vertical drop). Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed at the park—so if you can’t bear the thought of leaving your furry friend at home, we’d suggest Peebles Island State Park (parks.ny.gov/ parks/peeblesisland), where breeds of all stripes are welcome. And depending on when you go, you might be able to catch a glimpse of a bald eagle, one of which has a massive nest in a tree within eyeshot of the park’s trail. Now that you’ve worked up a considerable sweat and appetite, head on over to Hot Dog Charlie’s (hotdogcharlies.com) for, oh, 10 or so hot dogs. Wait, what? We’re actually not suggesting you go right from the great outdoors to a hot-dog-eating contest. Hot Dog Charlie’s has been a Capital Region favorite since 1922, and serves up its signature pointer-finger-sized mini hot dogs slathered in chili meat sauce, which can be had for about a buck apiece. Throw in some bacon cheese fries and a milkshake, too. Why not? Nothing on the menu exceeds $6! Since you’ll probably be able to make it past the normal dinner hour after that cholesterol-packed lunch, grab some light fare at Cafe Monocle (cohoescafe.com)—maybe a charcuterie board or a Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken rice bowl? Then top the night off with some tickets to a show at Cohoes Music Hall (thecohoesmusichall.org), the fourth-oldest operational music hall in America (usual events include tribute bands, comedians and solo artists). (from top): Cohoes Music Hall; Cafe Monocle.
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 25
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 25
6/30/21 9:55 AM
ADVERTISING SECTION
S U N D A Y
SUNDAY We started off this wonderful weekend with a song—so let’s end it that way. As soon as the Velvet Underground’s “Sunday Morning” disappears into the ether, you’ll magically find yourself whisked away to The Tiny Diney (facebook.com/thetinydiney) for Sunday breakfast or brunch. Besides the staples, like eggs, pancakes, French toast and omelettes, the jumbo shrimp of a hot spot also features a monthly list of tasty breakfast specials (you can find updates on its Facebook page). Next up: shopping time. Browse bath bars and kitchenware at Haven Home Decor (shophavenhome.com), then head over the train tracks to relive your childhood at The Locker Room 78 (thelockerroom78.com), where all manner of graded sports cards, certified autographs, packs and boxes can be found. It’s actually housed in a dude’s man-cave garage, for bonus points. Finish off your afternoon with a to-go coffee from Café con Mel (facebook.com/CafeconMel), then settle down at home with a slice of that Earl Grey Tea cheesecake you already preordered and picked up by 3pm yesterday at Cake Street Sweets (cakestreetsweets.com). In front of you looms your flatscreen, on which you’ll be firing up the Jack Nicholson movie Ironweed, based on the same-named, Pulitzer Prize–winning novel by William Kennedy, to see if you can spot the filming locations in Cohoes. Yep, they’re there. (from top): The Tiny Diney; Cake Street Sweets.
26 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 26
6/30/21 9:55 AM
WELLNESS Advertising Section
Wellness for the Win
These two local businesses are helping Capital Region residents live their best lives.
Albany Dental Care, PC
2 Kross Keys Drive, Albany; 518.482.0881; albanysedationdentist.com Albany Dental Care’s Dr. Harvey Winter is well known as a leading sedation dentist in New York’s Capital Region. Sedation dentistry, which is perfect for patients who have anxiety about going to the dentist, allows patients to relax in the office while receiving dental care. Albany Dental Care offers a variety of treatments, including cosmetic dentistry (bleaching, bonding and veneers) and general dentistry (fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, dentures and cleanings). Dr. Winter’s goal is to give his patients the best available treatments in a stress- and pain-free environment.
The Spinney at Van Dyke
Parker Mathusa Place, Delmar; 518.689.0162; thespinneyatvandyke.com Leaving your home doesn’t mean you have to leave your privacy behind. The Spinney at Van Dyke offers a new approach to living for the “55 and better” community, allowing residents to move away from the burdens of owning their own home while allowing a sense of privacy in a community setting. Each cottage at The Spinney features private entryways, back and front porches, instead of direct-access attached garages. The Spinney lifestyle is all about making a smooth transition from owninga home to downsizing and renting. Schedule a visit today to see why!
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 27
22-27_CRLRaces21_CohoesWellness.indd 27
6/30/21 9:55 AM
MIND, BODY &SOUL
Mary Jane’s First Dance
With adult-use cannabis now legal in the Empire State, the sky’s the limit for the budding marijuana economy. Here’s everything you should know about it.
PHOTO CREDIT
BY WIL L L EV ITH
28 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 28
6/30/21 9:54 AM
MIND
N
ope, that’s definitely not a skunk you’re smelling in Cousin Jimmy’s backyard. At the end of March, Governor Andrew Cuomo made New York one of 19 states to legalize adultuse cannabis (a.k.a. recreational marijuana). As of that day, anyone 21 years or older now can legally possess up to three ounces of pot and 24 grams of concentrates, and eventually, New Yorkers will be able to store up to five pounds (!) of marijuana in their home. The passage of the law will not only spell an economic windfall for the State and its localities—it’s projected to rein in $350 million in annual tax revenue—but could also create 30,000-60,000 new jobs. A State Office of Cannabis Management has already been set up— and a Cannabis Control Board is imminent—to draft and implement regulations for medical and adult-use marijuana, as well as cannabinoid hemp (or products derived from hemp that can be consumed by people), going forward.. At press time, nothing was stirring just yet on the rules and regs front. So don’t expect to be stocking up on Wedding Cake (a popular marijuana strain) at your favorite local dispensary anytime soon— unless you already have a medical marijuana card. Since we still have a bit of time before reaching peak pot-leaf-peeping season in the Capital Region, CAPITAL REGION LIVING wanted to key you in on the basics of the local cannabis market. You’ll soon be ready to “roll.”
Vireo Health - Johnstown
Education
Besides its dispensary in Albany, Verilife also has New York locations in Amherst, Liverpool and the Bronx, as well as others in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio and Illinois. Speaking of the latter, Chicago Cubs’ Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg is a spokesman for the company.
Excelsior College - Albany Talk about higher education! Albany’s Excelsior College is now offering a six-month online graduate certificate in cannabis control, which teaches students about the impact of cannabis legalization, tax schemes and risk assessment in cannabis control (e.g. cultivating).
Cultivation
PHOTO CREDIT
Curaleaf - Coeymans
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 29
One of New York’s largest cannabis companies, Curaleaf has a 72,000-square-foot medical marijuana growing facility in the Coeymans Industrial Park, the first of its kind in Albany County—but currently no Capital Region–based dispensaries. That could change soon. “In New York, we have begun construction to triple our existing cultivation capacity this year ahead of adult-use sales and are actively looking at additional cultivation options to effectively serve the New York adult-use market as it comes online in 2022,” says Patrik Jonsson, Curaleaf’s regional president of the northeast.
Is set to double the size of its present-day 100,000-square-foot grow facility in Fulton County in the coming months.
Dispensaries Fp Wellness Medical Marijuana Dispensary Halfmoon/Clifton Park So you’re looking for a specific marijuana strain to help ease your lower-back pain. According to Fp Wellness’ Dispensary Manager/Consulting Pharmacist Katie Ogden, PharmD, current State regulations prohibit her from actually naming the best types. “It’s something that we’re hoping changes with time,” she says, “because in order to really home in on somebody’s needs, you want to know what the actual strain is and how it affects you.” While she can’t technically sell a customer “Wappa,” which would be perfect for back pain, she can list it using a three-letter abbreviation: WPA. If you’re going the consumables route, don’t expect to find any whacky chocolate chip cookies, brownies or lollipops there, which New York dispensaries are not currently allowed to sell. “The closest we have are infused gummies,” says Ogden. “But we also have capsules, powders and tablets.”
Verilife Marijuana Dispensary - Albany
Vireo Health - Albany If you pictured a bunch of hippies in white lab coats and tie-dyed shirts passing out medical marijuana, think again. Vireo Health, which has a dispensary in Albany, has its own Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Stephen Dahmer, whose role is to not only test strains for potency, but also get in the weeds with the product. “We’re unique in that we’re currently participating in two largescale clinical trials,” he says. “We believe that clinical trial evidence and high-quality research can inform both a fun trip on the weekend and the treatment of chronic pain.” (from left) Vireo Health’s grow facility in Tryon Technology Park in Johnstown; Vireo’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Stephen Dahmer.
6/30/21 9:54 AM
MIND, BODY &SOUL
Just Run With It
How Schenectady’s Lisa Delugo has turned running into a tool for empowerment.
BY NATALI E MOORE
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 30
6/30/21 9:54 AM
BODY
W
PHOTO CREDIT
hen Schenectady resident Lisa Delugo was in high school, she joined the jogging club. “I tried it for a day,” she says. “I came home, and I had these big freaking blisters and was like, ‘Hell, no—I am not doing this again.’” But the allure of running, of achieving that elusive runner’s high, never really left her. “To me, it was the ultimate challenge,” she says. “Like, if I could do that, then I could do anything.” Fast forward a couple of decades and Delugo, having just gotten divorced, decided to revisit running. But this time, she didn’t quit after a day. “I kept going,” she says. “I got addicted, believe it or not, to running. It made me feel amazing. To me, running wasn’t about weight loss. It
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 31
was just like, ‘Oh, I need to do it—I’m stressed out.’ And the weight loss was the bonus.” As she went along her running journey, Delugo would post photos of herself after her runs as a way of holding herself accountable. Other women began to take notice, asking if they could run with her. She eventually hosted a Meetup—an event organized through an app of the same name— for women who wanted to get into running. It blew up, attracting more than 100 members. “I started doing these free ‘couch to 5K’ Meetups with beginner runners—women of all different shapes and sizes,” Delugo says. “I’ve had so many women say, ‘Well, I’m just going to be running on a treadmill.’ And I’m like, ‘Why?’ And they’re like, ‘Well, I don’t want anyone to see me run.’ And I say, ‘Why?’ ‘Because I don’t have a runner’s body.’ And I’m like, ‘Excuse me? What is that? Who said what a runner’s body is? You put your sneakers on—you’re running. End of story.’” And just like that, Delugo, a single mom with a full-time job in the health and safety industry, became a running coach. She recently launched a nine-week online running program that’s geared toward beginners and features nine modules, on topics such as why you decided to run, different types of stretches, and running as therapy, as well as cross-training videos. Clients communicate with Delugo via Zoom and the run-tracking app Surge and, if they’re local, even occasionally get the chance to run with Delugo in person. Delugo also hosts a podcast. “This is not just a podcast about running,” she says. “This is a podcast to empower women through fitness and health and everything in between.” At press time, Delugo’s program and podcast were called Not Another Mother Runner, a name she thought embodied who she was—a mother and a runner, but not a typical mother and not a typical runner. But because of trademark rules related to “Mother Runner,” she will have to change her business’ name. She polled her private Facebook group, and asked, straight up, what people thought of her. Only one person said “mother.” “I was just like, OK—I don’t need to have ‘mother’ in my name,” Delugo says. Instead, she decided on the name Ella-Go, a play on her daughter’s name, Bella. “I’m Spanish,” she continues, “and ella in Spanish means ‘she,’ so it’s ‘she goes.’ This company—who I am, my brand—is not just about being a runner. It’s about being a woman, feeling empowered and feeling like you can do whatever the hell you want to do.”
Lisa Delugo, who began running in her late 30s, hosts a podcast that shares the stories of female runners; (opposite) Delugo after a run.
6/30/21 9:54 AM
MIND, BODY &SOUL
A Path Forward
Latham-based psychic medium Tracy Fluty encourages us to pamper our souls as we reemerge during this post-pandemic summer.
BY A BBY TEG N EL IA
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 32
6/30/21 9:54 AM
SOUL
Tracy Fluty
A
s the Capital Region ushers in what’s going to be a fun-filled summer for the history books, there’s no question that most are also dealing with at least some lingering COVID-induced trauma. And that’s why nationally acclaimed psychic medium Tracy Fluty urges people to make some time amid the post-pandemic hoopla for some TLC for the soul. “Many of us have had a lot of time to think about our lives during this time of lockdown,” says the Lathambased Fluty. “We have reflected on people in our lives and those that have passed on, on politics, on if we even like our job anymore, and if we are living the best life that we can. For some, it’s also been a struggle, as addiction, depression and abuse of all kinds really skyrocketed.” Instead of brushing aside any suffering or trying to white-knuckle our way through it, Fluty, who for more
28-33_CRLRaces21_MBS.indd 33
than 25 years has been conducting readings connecting with loved ones who have crossed over, or interpreting a person’s aura light to help a client with his or her life path, recommends, as she puts it, “soul work” to steady oneself. “Soul work forces us to look at our lives and use our higher consciousness to put us on the best possible path,” she says. “For example, a person may have lost his or her job during this crisis and has to reinvent a new path ahead. That is not always easy for someone to do. But the soul forces one to get up and keep going forward.” Fluty’s signature brand of soul work is mediumship, which she describes as the ability to understand and relay messages from spirits who have crossed over to the souls that are still here. Her readings have been crucial to the healing process for so many grieving families across the Capital Region that she has a steady 6-8– week wait for appointments. “There have been clients who lost a loved one during COVID, and, due to hospital protocols, never got to say goodbye,” says Fluty. “They struggle with knowing if the person they loved made it to the other side, if they were greeted and by whom, and if they know the person here still loves them. It always happens where the person who died comes through to convey who they are with, what the last few moments were like, and I have had them describe even a dog they had in their youth that is waiting for them as well. They will often give me the names of who they are with and describe what their heaven space looks like. It’s always a place the person here can identify with, and it helps them find peace [knowing] their loved one is reunited with family and friends and is happy.” If you’ve never been to a medium before and are nervous, don’t be. “I haven’t met a person yet in my 26 years of doing this who doesn’t want to understand his or her purpose here or know that he or she is still going to see his or her loved one crossed over,” Fluty says. And you don’t have to be grieving to book a potentially life-changing appointment. “People see me for a variety of reasons,” she says. “Sometimes when they are younger, it is about the path ahead: future family and career. It’s always a different day in the office, for sure! I have seen [a person] as young as 8, when a mother brought her daughter in to see me, because she was doing prophetic dreaming and wanted to understand how to help her understand this; and [a person] as old as 98, who wanted to connect to all those that had gone before her.”
6/30/21 9:54 AM
DAY TRIPS Advertising Section
Day Tripping Is Back! Hit the road (or tracks) this comeback summer. Amtrak
Columbia County Tourism
Riding Amtrak brings you an entire region’s worth of day trips! Travel through New York in comfort, not traffic. Enjoy miles of legroom and extra-wide seats while you explore New York and the region on Amtrak. Ride the Empire Service train to New York City to catch a Broadway show, walk the High Line’s elevated urban oasis or stroll through Central Park. Or head east from the Hudson Valley or Saratoga on the Ethan Allen to Vermont, where you can explore farms, villages and the Green Mountains. Go ahead, skip the cab ride, and go for the train. Book your unforgettable excursion on Amtrak today.
Make this summer one to remember by planning an unforgettable trip to Columbia County! First, pick out a charming countryside B&B, campground or Downtown Hudson hotel to serve as your home base, then plan your stay! Food and drink options are aplenty, with regional farms supplying award-winning chefs with the freshest ingredients, and activities are in high supply, too: Be sure to check out Olana, Art Omi, the Scenic Sips Craft Beverage Tour and the Columbia County Fair, which will be in town September 1–6. The best part? Amtrak’s Hudson stop is just a 22-minute ride from Albany!
Various destinations 800.872.7245; amtrak.com
Columbia County 518.828.3375; columbiacountytourism.org
Columbia County Fair
182 Hudson Ave., Chatham 518.392.2121; columbiafair.com The 181st Columbia County Fair takes place over Labor Day weekend from September 1–6 in Chatham. A country fair filled with the best of the county’s fruits, vegetables, flowers and livestock, the Columbia County Fair provides fun for everyone with midway rides and games, local food favorites, competitions, live music, a firefighters’ parade, agricultural displays, demonstrations, a monster tractor pull, a petting zoo, retail vendors and exhibitors, demolition derbies, a rodeo, racing pigs, a horse show and more. Hours are Wednesday from noon–11pm and Thursday–Monday from 10am–11pm. Parking is included with admission and children 12 and under get in for free. The fair is put on by the Columbia County Agricultural Society, a nonprofit organization.
36 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
34-35_CRLRaces21_DayTrip.indd 36
6/30/21 9:54 AM
AFTER A YEAR OF DARKNESS, WE’RE READY TO LIGHT IT UP. 181 YEARS
NEW LOOK, MORE CONTENT!
CRLMAG.COM Check Back for Daily Updates!
CHATHAM, NY COLUMBIAFAIR.COM
$10 admission includes all entertainment and parking Kids 12 & under FREE
RIDES FOOD DEMO DERBIES TRACTOR PULLS GAMES LIVE BANDS ANIMALS PARADE CONTESTS RODEO AND MORE!
SEPT. 1-6
2021 Season WWW.MACHAYDNTHEATRE.ORG (518) 392-9292
JUL 29–AUG 8
AUG 12–22
AUG 26–SEP 5
SEP 10–OCT 3
SEP 11–OCT 2
DEBUT CHILDREN’S SHOW!
AUG 20 & 21, 27 & 28
d Events All September L ! Limite ong! NEW The summer continues into September with unique concerts and performaces, visit our website for details.
AUG 18, SEP 10 & 17 Still Within the Sound of My Voice: The Songs of Linda Ronstadt Elizabeth Ward Land SEP 1 & 29 Exiled: The Evolution of Kurt Weill James Benjamin Rodgers
34-35_CRLRaces21_DayTrip.indd 37
SEP 4, 15, 22 & 29 Showstoppers Mac-Haydn Company
Self-guided tours exploring the many purveyors of craft beverages around Columbia County, NY while drinking in the abundant scenic views of our countryside. As you meander through our picturesque backroads, enjoy restaurants, unique shops, outdoor activities, and attractions along the way.
SEP 15 & 22 Laura’s at the Helm Laura Helm SEP 24 & OCT 1 toUch Performance Art
COLUMBIACOUNTYTOURISM.ORG
6/30/21 9:54 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
From the pages of . . .
MANCHESTER & THE MOUNTAINS AREA GUIDE “Window Shopping” illustrated by Leonard Kenyon, featuring Gallery Art by Peter Huntoon. LEONARDKENYON.COM PETERHUNTOON.COM
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 36
STORY BY BENJAMIN LERNER
21
20
6/30/21 9:58 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
Let’s Go Shopping! Update your home décor and wardrobe with a fabulous Manchester shopping expedition! PETER HUNTOON
M
anchester is a wonderful place to own a home. It’s also a great place to shop! In the middle of a gorgeous mountain valley, country roads surrounded by beautiful houses carve a winding and poetic path towards a vibrant town center. Inside of each house, the décor, furniture, and fabrics tell an equally compelling visual story. Manchester is well-known for the discerning aesthetic sensibilities of its residents. The streets are lined with enticing shops and boutiques, which are replete with stylish clothing and domestic products. Have the pressures of modern life prevented you from bringing your dream home and wardrobe into reality? Fear not! Whether you’re a lifelong local, a part-time resident or a recently relocated newcomer, there’s never been a better time to spruce up your Southern Vermont sanctuary with a revitalizing makeover. Here at Manchester Life, we’ve taken the liberty of compiling a comprehensive list of stores, which offer a wide selection of high-quality home goods, accessories, jewelry, and garments for your perusing pleasure. Get ready for some much-needed retail therapy – it’s time to begin your marvelous weekend shopping trip in Manchester!
Clothing, Jewelry, and Accessories! SATURDAY 8AM Rise and greet the day with a wonderful morning meal at Up for Breakfast. Located in the heart of Downtown Manchester, this beloved eatery is well-known for its delicious food, courteous service and relaxing atmosphere. In the mood for something hearty and filling? Try their “Hungry Hiker” meal or their vegetarian “Garden Omelette” with plant-based sausage. For those interested in lighter fare, their gluten-free granola is both tasty and revitalizing. Pair it with a hot and fresh cup of coffee – it’s the perfect energizing boost for your world-class shopping experience.
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 37
PETERHUNTOON.COM
10AM After you finish your breakfast, get ready to seize the day and embark on a memorable retail adventure! Walking out of Up For Breakfast onto Main Street, you will see a number of tempting shops, including the Spring & Harbor Boutique directly across the road. This inviting store is full of colorful and versatile print dresses, bags, and other fun and fashionable sartorial staples. Athletically inclined shoppers with an appetite for open air exploration will revel in the selection of outdoor apparel and accessories at The Mountain Goat, and jewelry lovers will adore the meticulously-crafted pieces at McWayne Jewelers at the corner of Bonnet Street and Main Street. Walking northeast on Main Street, you will come across a lovely little triangular park at the intersection of Main Street and Center Hill Road. As you walk past the park, you will see Arson Skateboard Shop on your right. In addition to selling quality skateboarding gear for fantastic prices, this bold and distinctive store also features a well-curated selection of high-end streetwear from both international and local brands. After making a left at the intersection of Center Hill Road and Park Place, you will come across Miss Phyllis Fine Linens & Frocks on your right. Their charming collection of Bohemian-chic women’s clothing includes beautifully-designed shirts, dresses, and custom jackets. After completing your park-side promenade, make a left at the intersection of Main Street and Park Place. Bear left on Main Street at the intersection of Bonnet and Main. As you continue past the roundabout, you will come across a series of
6/30/21 9:58 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
sensational stores. At Apricot Lane Boutique, shoppers can browse through a vast array of trendy and affordable women’s clothing pieces. At Gap, you will find fantastic deals on a wide assortment of stylish menswear and womenswear items. For premium women’s intimate apparel, stop by La Pêche Lingerie for a fitting and consultation with their knowledgeable employees and staff members. Marimekko and The Artisan’s Key Boutique are ideal places to find both delightfully expressive garments and unique home décor essentials, and Zippy Chicks is a must-visit for seasoned shoppers with a taste for high-quality consignment clothing. Those who wish to dive deeper into the world of secondhand shopping should turn around on Main Street and head north towards the VNA & Hospice Thrift Shop. Featuring a lovingly-
curated selection of pre-owned pieces at unbeatable prices, this philanthropically-minded “thrift boutique” uses their proceeds to support the VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Vermont Region. Continuing southward on Main Street, Family Footwear and UGG provide the perfect opportunity to close out the morning portion of your shopping expedition on a solid and comfortable footing. Be sure to stop at the Orvis Flagship Store and Orvis Outlet further down Main Street for some iconic apparel from Vermont’s original outdoor lifestyle brand. 1PM It’s time to enjoy a lunchtime break at one of Manchester’s finest eateries! Looking to try something delicious and different? Stop in at Moonwink on Main Street to enjoy Burmese cuisine
at its pinnacle. Their vegan-friendly “Falafel Salad” is flavorful and fresh, and their “Burma Bowl” is robust and restorative. Mystic Café on Main Street is well known for their diverse offerings, which range from their “Fresh Tuna Poké Bowl” to their “Green Goddess Chicken Salad Sandwich.” Down on Depot Street, Zoey’s Deli offers scrumptious freshmade sandwiches, soups, cookies, and house made potato chips, and the skilled chefs at Zoey’s Double Hex are celebrated for their delicious “Roasted Salmon” and “Maple-Glazed Chicken.” For lovers of contemporary American bistro fare, Firefly Restaurant & Bar on Depot Street expertly serves up sandwiches, salads, and other captivating delicacies. Before you go, make sure to try their “Go-Go Garlic Bread” with gorgonzola fondue.
SATURDAY, AUG. 7TH
TICKETS: VTHOMEBREWFESTS.COM
2 BIG WEEKENDS IN BENNINGTON, VERMONT!
SATURDAY, SEPT. 4TH 100+ GARLIC, FOOD & CRAFT VENDORS SIDEWALK SALES + KIDS’ ACTIVITIES RESTAURANT SPECIALS + LIVE MUSIC
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 38
6/30/21 9:58 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
3PM Now that your hunger has been adequately sated, it’s time to resume your shopping expedition with newfound enthusiasm! Working your way eastward on Depot Street from the intersection of Depot Street and Main Street, you will pass by the well-known Manchester Designer Outlets. Polo Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines, and J.Crew offer a vast range of preppychic wardrobe staples for men and women that never fail to make a powerful first impression, and Michael Kors and Kate Spade New York feature a wide variety of sophisticated handbags and accessories. Looking for beautifully fitting minimalist clothing? Theory is a treasure trove for timeless and well-fitted women’s and men’s wardrobe essentials, and Eileen Fisher provides elegant and comfortable
women’s attire that adds depth to any closet. Athletic shoe fanatics will fawn over the extensive stock of high-performance footwear at New Balance, and avid adventurers will flock to Eddie Bauer for cozy and luxurious outdoor apparel. For elevated and refined suits, shirts, shoes, and other tailored garments, trust the experienced and tasteful clothiers at Armani or Brooks Brothers. If you’re in the market for remarkable jewelry, stop in at Nina Jewelry to browse through a diverse collection of showstopping pieces. Afterwards, head to the newly-opened TJ Maxx to peruse a wide range of clothes and home goods at unbeatable prices. Talbots is well-known for its quality selection of classic women’s garments and accessories, and Pendleton is celebrated for their comfortable flannel
PETER HUNTOON
PETERHUNTOON.COM
where to
STAY what to
TASTE get out and
SHOP
arts and culture
EXPERIENCES attend local
EVENTS manchester
LIVING your dream
manchestervermont.com
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 39
TIM PETERS
WEDDING
So Close, So Vermont Manchester, VT
6/30/21 9:58 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
shirts, wool apparel, and blankets. Before concluding your exciting afternoon of wardrobe enrichment, pay visit to Jockey for some comfortable intimate wear and basics, and pop into Johnston & Murphy for some trim and dapper men’s footwear. Lastly, stop in at Tumi and snag some stylish luggage – what better way to carry all of your new clothes? 7PM A long and successful day of shopping deserves an equally epic celebratory feast! Head back up to Main Street to enjoy a lavish dinner at one of Manchester’s preeminent culinary institutions. Those in the mood for classic traditional continental and New England food at its finest should look no further than Ye Olde Tavern.
Located in an historic 18th century building, Ye Olde Tavern offers an authentic old-world dining experience served in a warm and inviting setting. For a satisfying entrée, try their “Traditional Pot Roast” or their vegan “Quinoa and Lentil Meatballs”. Diners with a penchant for AsianFusion cuisine should book a reservation at Thai Basil, where a variety of Asian culinary traditions coalesce into a unified gourmet vision to create an inspired and eclectic menu. Their “Signature Half Crispy Duck” is blissfully savory, and the subtlyspiced flavor of their “Massaman Curry with Tofu” is sure to delight even the most discerning of vegetarians. For toothsome American fare in a fun and casual setting, Union Underground never disappoints. While basking in
the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of their basement dining room, be sure to sample some of their “Bar Room Bites”, including “Duck Rangoons”, “Fried Pickles”, and “German Pretzel Sticks.” As you pensively sip on your favorite relaxing beverage, reflect on your successful day of retail recreation. Don’t worry – your shopping adventure has only just begun!
PETER HUNTOON
PETERHUNTOON.COM
For the full story, visit:
manchesterlifemagazine.com
Subscribe Today!
Media
oldmillroadmedia.com
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 40
6/30/21 9:58 AM
An Advertorial, Courtesy of Old Mill Road Media
Destination Luxury Recording Studio With In-House GRAMMY®-Winning Engineer, Benjamin J. Arrindell
East Arlington, Vermont (802) 430 - 7398
oldmillroadrecording.com
for Best Studio Design
®
36-41_CRLRaces21_Berkshires.indd 41
®
6/30/21 9:58 AM
ADVERTISING SECTION
LOCALLY OWNED
BUSINESS The Capital Region Loves Local Four local businesses that are killing it post-COVID. tours and shopping nights have allowed us to engage with our customers in a whole new way. We can now show each new item as it arrives in the shop and host live online events where everyone can join in, no matter how far away he or she is.
Lucie Capek, MD of Lucie Capek Plastic Surgery Mary Vail of Joyelles Jewelers JOYELLES JEWELERS 318 Delaware Ave., Suite 12, Delmar 518.439.9993; joyellesjewelers.com Why did you want to open Joyelles? As a newly single mom, I liked the flexibility of being able to bring my daughter to work when it was necessary and to have more control of the future.
virtually. Our out-of-town patients especially appreciate having some of their follow-up visits after surgery virtually. What’s next for your business? I plan to utilize the lessons I’ve learned this past year to enhance our patient experience. We also have exciting plans to expand our services heading into 2022, so stay tuned!
What are you most proud of? I’m proud of the relationships I’ve developed with our customers over the 31 years that we have been here and the growth of our business.
Dominic Mainella of Bella Napoli Bakery BELLA NAPOLI BAKERY & CAFE 672 Loudon Rd., Latham 518.783.0196 721 River St., Troy 518.274.8277 bellanapolibakery.com
What’s new with your business since COVID? We renovated the store with new floors, fresh paint and brightened up our old cases. It’s great to see all of the customers again! LUCIE CAPEK, MD PLASTIC SURGERY 713 Troy Schenectady Rd. #308, Latham 518.768.1700; capekplasticsurgery.com What are you most proud of? I am proud of the dedicated team we’ve assembled and the high standards of patient care we deliver. We have seen significant growth in the last 3–4 years, and maintaining excellence as we grow means finding the right people to join us. What’s new with your business since COVID? We’ve learned to leverage technology by offering many routine patient appointments
What’s next for your business? We continue to explore additional options for online shopping and we’ll keep adding to our YouTube video library, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook. We’re hoping to bring back instore events, but probably not until 2022.
Patricia Varga of The Cross Eyed Owl THE CROSS EYED OWL GIFT SHOP 3143 US 9, #8, Valatie 518.758.6755; crosseyedowl.com Why did you want to open The Cross Eyed Owl? To be honest, I never sought out the role of business owner—it sort of found me. Twentyseven years later, I’m still grateful for each step that has led us to where we are today. What’s new with your business since COVID? Our Facebook Live and YouTube video store
Why did you want to open Bella Napoli? I always had an interest in being in business and always thought this was a natural fit for me. Watching my parents at a very young age was my inspiration. I then opened my first location in Latham when I was 25. What are you most proud of? I’m proud of the loyalty of my customers and staff. Being a big part of the community means the most. What’s new with your business since COVID? Our hours have changed. We are now open Monday-Saturday, 6am-7pm, and Sunday, 6am–6pm.
42 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
42-43_CRLRaces21_LOB.indd 42
6/30/21 9:54 AM
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 43
42-43_CRLRaces21_LOB.indd 43
6/30/21 9:54 AM
THE
Experts Retreating to Columbia County Researching breathtaking locales for an upcoming fall yoga retreat was the perfect excuse to explore the beautiful Hudson Valley. BY ALEXANDRA BAACKES
I
f you’ve been following me in your hypothetical camper on my quest to visit every county in New York State this year, you might be wondering how the heck I have all of this free time. And you would be right if you guessed it was COVID-related: From Thailand to Egypt and beyond, I specialize in making exotic corners of the world accessible to the average traveler but was temporarily grounded by the pandemic. That’s when I headed back to my roots in Upstate New York, and local travel quickly consumed me. When New York’s COVID restrictions were lifted in June, instead of immediately hopping on a plane to the Middle East, I decided to start a new chapter and offer a retreat in my own neck of the woods. I quickly landed on the iconic Hudson Valley and checked off another one of my counties with Columbia County. Plans for a perfect long-weekend retreat emerged: We would flow through asanas with llamas, kayak beside changing leaves, sip on spirits at a craft distillery, and enjoy nourishing farm-to-picnic bites along the way. But all of this took planning. (Hey, someone’s gotta do it!) I headed south from Albany to poke around and experience all of the magical Hudson Valley myself, before inviting my eager fellow yoginis. The charming town of Hudson may be the star of the region, but nearby Germantown quickly won me over on my research trip there to explore glamping options. I settled on Gatherwild Ranch (gatherwild.com), where seven Insta-ready
Travel // Recipe // Wellness bell tents, charming A-frames and eccentric cabins are spread across 15 acres of land. Amenities include a wooden hot tub, barnturned-yoga-sala from the 1800s, firepit for nightly storytelling, communal outdoor kitchen, and medicinal herb garden with free-range goats and chickens underfoot. It’s a bohemian paradise run by a couple from Brooklyn that moved upstate for a more peaceful life, and they now provide refuge largely to other city-dwellers looking for the same. Up the road, in Germantown’s modestly sized but immensely stylish downtown, I wandered by antique shops and design stores before grabbing lunch at Otto’s (ottosmarket.com), a market selling sundries and prepared foods. There, you can pick up wildflower bouquets, specialty soaps, craft beers and ciders, and on Friday nights, specialty pizzas. (My retreat’s chef will be baking pies to perfection in Gatherwild’s wood-fired oven this October.) On my retreats, I try to mix things up a bit, treating my retreat-ees to onsite dining on some nights, while taking them out to support local restaurants on others. That’s why I’ll be bringing them to Gaskin’s (gaskinsny.com), Germantown’s finest dining option, for the final dinner on my itinerary. The menu, packed with creative botanical cocktails and dishes prepared with an abundance of local, organic ingredients, also features the “Pay it Forward Cheeseburger,” which allows you to buy a burger for any community member. Good food is fuel for the mind, body and soul, and my guests will need plenty of it to power through their daily yoga sessions led by this really great yogi I know—me! I’m anticipating my upstate retreat’s yoga highlight being a class at Clover Brooke Farm (cloverbrookefarm.com), where we’ll be joined by curious alpacas and adorable pygmy goats, before crafting lavender loofahs from wool sourced from the farm. But we’ll also get blissed out off the mat. As a cheerleader for the New York State Parks system, I had to include a foliage-drenched kayaking trip to Lake Taghkanic State Park (parks.ny.gov) in Ancram, and hiking to the beautiful waterfalls at High Falls in Philmont. Of course, I couldn’t host a trip in
44 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
44-47_CRLRaces21_Experts.indd 44
6/30/21 9:54 AM
Upstate New York—actually, anywhere in the State (see my last column)—without nodding to its burgeoning craft beverage scene. And what better way to toast to a retreat weekend than enjoying a flight at the woman-owned distillery Cooper’s Daughter Spirits (oldeyorkfarm.com) in Claverack? The Buddha-Tini, made from its own distilled vodka and local dry cider, feels particularly fitting for an offbeat yoga retreat. With all this planning done, I celebrated my new retreat’s launch at the chic nearby winery Hudson Chatham Winery (hudsonchathamwinery.com). Whatever you’re drinking, be it herbal tea or a glass of local New York wine, I’m raising a toast to Columbia County, truly a retreat-worthy trip.
(from top) Alexandra in Triangle Pose; Hudson Chatham Winery; (opposite, from top) Gatherwild Ranch; Otto’s Market; Clover Brooke Farm; Gaskin’s.
While Alexandra’s popular retreat largely sold out upon launch, a few special glamping spots remain. Visit alexinwanderland.com/wander-women-retreats for details or contact retreats@alexinwanderlan.com.
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 45
44-47_CRLRaces21_Experts.indd 45
6/30/21 9:54 AM
THE
Travel // Recipe // Wellness
Experts
Sweet Pea!
Old Daley Custom Catering stirs up a quick, easy and delicious pea soup recipe.
P
ea soup has been warming sippers’ and spooners’ souls since the 19th century, and Old Daley Custom Catering is well aware, featuring the glorious green dish (chilled during the summer months) at everything from bridal showers to bar mitzvahs. Want to know how to make it in the comfort of your own Capital Region kitchen? Find out from the pea soup experts.
Old Daley Custom Catering’s Fresh Pea Soup Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter 2 cups chopped leeks (white and light green parts) 1 cup chopped yellow onion 5 cups frozen baby peas
4 cups chicken or vegetable stock 1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves 2 tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 2/3 cup crème fraiche 2/3 cup chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
• Heat butter in a saucepan. Add leeks and onions and sauté until translucent. Add stock, bring to a boil and add frozen baby peas. Cook for three minutes, then remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Add mint. • Purée soup in batches of about one cup each at low speed. Pour into a bowl and whisk in the crème fraiche and chives. Adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot or make ahead and serve chilled.
46 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1
44-47_CRLRaces21_Experts.indd 46
6/30/21 9:54 AM
Travel // Recipe // Wellness
How to Beat (Home) Office Burnout
Find post-COVID happiness with a little help from a Saratoga psychiatrist. BY DR. MANUEL ASTRUC
coaching program for entrepreneurs that helps them get on the right track, too. How can you beat back burnout and fall in love with your job again? Find out below.
FYI: Burnout Is a Syndrome The World Health Organization identified burnout as an occupational syndrome in 2019. They defined it in terms of work stress, but it obviously applies to lots of other situations, too. It’s defined by physical and emotional exhaustion; and negativity, cynicism and bitterness that starts to creep into your soul. In work settings, we talk about not being or feeling as effective. It’s kind of like being on a treadmill; every day is drudgery, and there’s no end in sight.
Stamp Out the ANTs I drew a line in the sand and said, no matter what, I’m going to start enjoying the ride. And what that had me do was stop wallowing in my negative thinking. One of the acronyms we use for negative thinking is ANTs—Automatic Negative Thoughts—and ANTs are everywhere. But we don’t have to pay attention to them.
Choose the ‘Growth’ Over the ‘Fixed Mindset’ The “fixed mindset” is that there’s nothing you can do, this is as good as it gets, there are no opportunities or changes available to you. The “growth mindset” opens us up to the opportunities in front of us. Like, something can change, I’ve got some power, I can get better at this, I have some agency in what’s going on here.
Find Quick, Easy Wins
I
f you’ve been working throughout COVID, you’ll know that it hasn’t been an easy road. Months of isolation and for many, remote work, led to longer hours in the home office and eventually, all the symptoms of burnout. (Zoom fatigue, anyone?) Maybe you’ve reached your breaking point. Dr. Manuel Astruc, a Saratoga Springs– based psychiatrist, feels your pain. In 2008, he reached a danger level of burnout
working at his private practice. “I made a decision that something had to change,” he says. The catalyst was the death of his twin sister. “I was looking at a picture of her, and she was happy and grateful to be alive every second that she had until the end,” he says. “And here I was, healthy and miserable.” That change manifested itself in a number of personal and professional tweaks that have allowed Dr. Astruc to be a lot happier, professionally. Eventually, it also led to the creation of Your Next Act (manuelastruc.com), his professional
Quick wins help to protect us from burnout. What I first did in 2008 was focus on the wins that I could accomplish: eating better, moving more, sleeping better, and then having a gratitude practice. Every day I would identify things that I was grateful for. I cut myself off from the news and started to listen to podcasts and audio books instead. Things that could teach me about the world and inspire and motivate me. If you spend one hour a day, when you’re burned out, focusing on intentionally doing things that are interesting to you, it opens up a whole lot of resilience against burnout.
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 47
44-47_CRLRaces21_Experts.indd 47
6/30/21 9:54 AM
before you go...
BEAR NECESSITIES BY JOHN GRAY
nce there was a guy hiking through the woods. Up ahead on the trail, he saw a big bear hanging out, eating a raw fish that it had just pulled out of the stream. The hiker, having read every article on what to do if confronted by a wild animal in the woods, immediately pulled off his backpack and rifled through it for his homemade bear protection kit. He produced two metal pots, a loud air horn and a can of bear spray. While the bear appeared to be minding its own business, the hiker could tell that this was a trap, because up on the hill above the bear were three more just like it, all watching from the ridge. He played out in his mind exactly how this was supposed to go. The hiker casually walked by the bear, and it looked up from its fish and said, “Oh, hey, how ya doin’?” (In case you couldn’t tell from its strange dialect, this bear was from New Jersey.) The hiker, sensing this was a friendly bear, waved hello and continued on his merry way. That’s when the congenial bear could’ve screamed, “NOW!” and the other three could’ve run down the hill, tackled the man and enjoyed a delicious hiker stew for lunch.
O
But that’s not how it went down. (No hikers were harmed during the writing of this column.) Our brave hiker instead flipped the script on the clever bear, stopping a few feet away and banging the pots together. The bear, startled, dropped its fish and said, “Oh, damn it all to hell!” (Bears swear, in case you didn’t know.) The bear looked up and was about to ask the hiker why he’d been making such a racket on such a peaceful day, when the hiker pointed the air horn at the bear and squeezed the trigger. While the three bears on the ridge all immediately broke into “the wave,” as if they were in the stands at a baseball game, the fish-eating bear put its paws over its ears and yelled, “STOP IT!” The hiker, in response to the bear’s aggressive tone, took out the bear spray and let loose, causing the area around them to smell like a combination of hot pepper and raccoon scat, which are both notoriously pungent. The bear, at this point, approached the hiker and said, “You know, pal, every day I see hikers come through and we have no problems. I’m a nice bear; why would you pull that nonsense with me?” The hiker, realizing he misjudged the situation entirely, responded, “I’m so sorry, Mr. Bear. How about we forget this ever happened, and you let me just walk on by?” The bear smiled and said, “Would if I could, buddy, but my friends up there are watching, and if I don’t eat you, it’s going to make me look bad back when we get to the Bear Den. That’s a bar where we hang out and throw darts.” The hiker responded: “Darts? Are you any good?” To which the bear replied, “I barely miss. Get it? Bear-ly, hee-hee!”
Here we are, in the summer of 2021, and like a pack of slightly groggy but
extremely hungry bears we are emerging from hibernation—i.e. the pandemic—and venturing forth into the world again. I know many of you are excited to fly to a far-off beach or go to Saratoga Race Course, but there are lots of other things to do with your free time if you want to beat the heat. Let me offer three that I have enjoyed in recent years and had a blast doing.
Tubing Down the Hudson If you enjoy drinking tasty beverages and floating down a lazy river, while simultaneously gazing at gorgeous nature, you have to get some friends together and try tubing down the Hudson. Just an hour or so from Albany, there are a couple of companies—try Tubby Tube (tubbytube.com) or Sacandaga Outdoor Center (4soc.com)—that offer tubular tubing on the mighty Hudson. If you can’t swim, snap on a life jacket, but most of the time, the river is so shallow you can stop and stand up if you wish. My only recommendation is to wear something on your feet, because the rocks are slippery to walk on. Also bring a small cooler stocked with your favorite adult beverages.
The Farmer’s Museum in Cooperstown On a recent trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame, my son and I happened upon a small farm that looked like something out of the 1800s (farmersmuseum.org). We stopped there and stepped back in time, walking through this miniature town and seeing how our ancestors lived. It was not only fun, but also fascinating. Make sure to have your smartphone camera at the ready.
Fort William Henry in Lake George Admit it: Every time you drive to Lake George you pass Fort William Henry (fwhmuseum.com) and never stop. I’m telling you, if you have kids or just like history, stop. The fort played a major role in the French and Indian War, and the tours are informative and enjoyable. Your guide might even fire off a cannon if you ask nicely. Hot tip: plug your ears. I hope you have a safe and joyful summer, and remember: If you do bump into a bear (or a cranky, post-lockdown human out of practice on the social front)...have compassion and be kind.
48 | C A P I T A L R E G I O N L I V I N G | T H E R A C E S 2 0 2 1
48-49_CRLRaces21_JGray.indd 48
6/30/21 9:53 AM
T H E C O M E B A C K I S S U E 2 0 2 1 | C R L M A G . C O M | 49
48-49_CRLRaces21_JGray.indd 49
6/30/21 9:53 AM
