Remembering The College of Saint Rose

CAPITALCRL REGION LIVING

ON THE COVER: College of Saint Rose alum Jimmy Fallon, photographed by Todd Owyoung of NBC.

INTO LIGHT

Capalino Collection

Roy Collection

Cortes Collection

Witley CollectionCortes Collection

I nfinitely adaptable, THE OFFICER’S CLUB offers curated event perfection Chic ARMORY LOUNGE NY is picture perfect for smaller parties

Plan your historic event at ARMORY STUDIOS NY, the Art Deco architectural icon in the heart of Downtown Schenectady

CAPITAL REGION LIVING

EDITOR Natalie Moore

ART DIRECTOR Steve Teabout

EDITORIAL INTERN Natalie St. Denis

CONTRIBUTORS

Natalli Amato, Lisa Arcella Francesco D’Amico, Samantha Decker

Jeff Dingler, Dori Fitzpatrick, Sara Foss

John Gray, Nicole Ianniello

Hannah Kuznia, T.R. Laz

Chantal Marie, Konrad Odhiambo Nate Seitelman, 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, Esq. CHAIRMAN

Tina Galante

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

VOLUME 21, NO.5

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-year subscription: $45

2-year subscription: $75

To order a subscription or gift subscription, please email subscribe@saratogaliving.com.

From The Editors

BEFORE HE WAS JIMMY FALLON...

Steve Teabout and Jimmy Fallon working as security escorts at Saint Rose 1992

If you were at Nate Bargatze’s MVP Arena show this past March, you got to see a surprise stand-up set by none other than Jimmy Fallon, who, before he was a late-night TV show host—before even his first SNL appearance—was a student at the College of Saint Rose. If you listened closely, you would’ve heard the Brooklyn native shout out some of his favorite spots in Albany, as well as some of the people he was close with during his time here. One of those people? Steve Teabout: Amsterdam native, CRL art director and Jimmy’s sophomore year suitemate.

“I first met Jimmy at the summer program Saint Rose offered to incoming freshman,” Steve recalls. “Freshman year, just about every Saturday morning, he would somehow get in my room and wake me up by dancing on my bed like George Jefferson. I couldn’t be mad, because he always had coffee ready or brewing.”

While Steve went on to get his bachelor’s degree, Jimmy dropped out to, well, become Jimmy Fallon. (The school ended up awarding him a communications degree in 2009.)

And now, the place at which Jimmy and Steve met no longer exists. Flip to page 15 to read about the end of Saint Rose’s 104-year run, page 18 to read about Jimmy’s days at the school (in his own words) and page 20 to read more memories from nostalgic alumni. Because even though Saint Rose is closed, it lives on in the hearts and minds of those who spent their formative years between Western and Madison avenues—Jimmy Fallon included.

—Natalie Moore Editor

NEW NOW AND

A hot new star hits the Capital Region music scene, Palette goes national and Iron Mike stops in the Electric City ahead of his big November bout.

BY NATALIE MOORE

FIGHT NIGHT

It’s been nearly 40 years since an 18-year-old Mike Tyson made his professional boxing debut at Albany’s Empire State Plaza Convention Center, but this September the Baddest Man on the Planet will return to the Capital Region for the second time in just over two years. While you won’t get a chance to see Tyson in the ring, he will be reporting from the sidelines of Cage Wars 67, a high-energy mixed martial arts event going on at Rivers Casino on September 13. Can’t make it in person? Catch all the action on the streaming platform Stimulus, and be sure to tune in to Tyson’s much-anticipated fight against 27-year-old YouTuber/boxer Jake Paul, which will stream live on Netflix from the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX on November 15.

NEW NOW AND

LISTEN TO THIS

There’s a new rising star in the Capital Region’s music scene. Her name is Ella Warden, aka Lovella, and she just released her first EP, titled Outgrown, a few weeks before her 16th birthday. The EP follows Lovella’s debut on a 2022 album released by her father, Seth, and his band, Warden and Co., when she was 13. “Outgrown is a reflection on growing up and feeling like you’ve outgrown your past self,” she says. “Ironically, I’ve gotten to watch Outgrown grow into what it is today over the past two years.” Listen to the five-song EP wherever you get your music, or get tickets for the Outgrown release show coming to Caffè Lena on September 19.

GOING PRO

This is a message to the Capital Region’s basketball fanatics: You don’t have to drive all the way down to New York City to catch a top-tier game of hoops. This October, the Saratoga Racers, a new Spa City–based team that will play at the Saratoga Central Catholic gym, will join local teams Albany 518 Ballers and Hudson Valley Rivermen in the American Basketball Association, a relaunched version of the league that delighted sportslovers in the 1970s. Owned by former Glens Falls Dragons owner Keith Harrington and local sports announcer Mike James, the team will be coached by Bob Catherwood, formerly of the Albany Patroons and Albany Legends. This season, the Saratoga Racers will play between 20-25 games from October to February.

DINER DASH

The iconic Capital City Diner on Western Ave near Crossgates Mall is trading in its dated blue booths and wood paneling for a sleek new look, courtesy of New York City–based design firm Parts and Labor. The diner has been closed since June for a complete renovation that draws inspiration from 1960s and ’70s automotive design (think chrome and vinyl seating, deep burgundy marble and sleek, glossy surfaces), and is expected to debut its new look to the public this September.

EXPANDING OUR PALETTE

Earlier this year, when Catherine Hover stepped away from her CEO duties at Palette, the Capital Region coworking community she founded in 2019, she sent out an email. “I’ll be exploring new opportunities that allow me to expand my impact on and support for women in the workforce,” she wrote. It wasn’t clear what that meant at the time, but it got a little clearer when, in August, Hover announced that she would be expanding Palette to her home state of Louisiana with Palette Northshore. “We’ve created something special,” she said, “and it is my dream that we continue to share this with the world because everyone deserves a place to belong, community support and magic in their lives.”

REMEMBERING

THE END OF AN ERA

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MORE THAN A CENTURY, THE COLLEGE OF SAINT ROSE WON’T BE WELCOMING STUDENTS BACK THIS FALL. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR THE STUDENTS, THE BUILDINGS AND FOR HIGHER EDUCATION MORE BROADLY? CRL INVESTIGATES.

BY JEFF DINGLER

COVER STORY

REMEMBERING SAINT ROSE •

In 2014, incoming freshman Morgan Farnan arrived at The College of Saint Rose’s campus in Albany’s historic Pine Hills neighborhood— not far from her hometown of Burnt Hills—for a preseason welcome for recruits to the nationally ranked women’s soccer program. “The whole team immediately welcomed me,” recalls Farnan. “I was hugged by my head coach and her husband, who was an assistant coach. We had a team dinner on campus catered by Paesan’s Pizza, and I knew instantly I picked the right college and soccer program.”

At the time, Farnan had no idea she’d be a part of the last generation to experience Saint Rose. On May 11, 2024, six months after it was announced that the college would close due to ongoing financial difficulties, low enrollment and continued fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, the century-old institution held its final commencement ceremony at a packed MVP Arena. A month later, after summer classes, Saint Rose officially closed its doors.

Founded in 1920 as a women's college, Saint Rose began admitting male World War II veterans in 1946 and became fully coeducational in 1969, transforming the school into a popular private college destination for Capital Region residents. In the years that followed, the school saw certain alum continue on to successful careers, from Loretta Preska, chief judge of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, to late-night TV star Jimmy Fallon, who started at Saint Rose in 1992 and left a semester shy of graduation to pursue his SNL dreams. (It worked out for Fallon; he was awarded his BA in communications through portfolio of work assessment in 2009.)

and it did seem like we were still doing business as normal,” says Haidy Brown, former Saint Rose associate professor of management and chair of management and marketing. Brown taught at the school for more than eight years. “I think we all knew that we were kind of living or dying by enrollments,” she says. “But at the same time, it looked like we were on the upswing.”

Saint Rose’s Teach-Out Plan included agreements with 22 institutions that provided program-specific pathways for graduates and undergraduates to complete their degrees. All students had at least one teach-out option, and many had several choices among UAlbany, Siena, Russell Sage and Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. UAlbany took the largest number of undergraduate students, with more than 180 enrolled for the fall, and will maintain Saint Rose’s student academic records in perpetuity.

As for the now-empty 90-odd buildings that once made up Saint Rose, the hope is that all of them will go to a single buyer, but they may also be sold off piecemeal. According to a June Times Union article, the Albany City School District, Capital District YMCA and Albany Pro Musica have expressed interest in the properties.

News of the school’s closure was leaked to the press on November 30, 2023 and made official a day later. “College officials and I worked tirelessly to save Saint Rose,” former President Marcia White tells CAPITAL REGION LIVING. Regarding the timing of the announcement, White says, “The College’s leadership and board needed sufficient time to develop a Teach-Out Plan that would include agreements with colleges and universities to enable current students to continue their education and earn their degrees with the least disruption.”

Of course, there’s no good time to tell thousands of students and faculty that a college will soon cease to exist; the announcement came not only mid-academic year, but during finals week. The women’s soccer team, for which Farnan had gone on to serve as assistant coach, got the news on the eve of their NCAA East Region Final. They ended up losing the game to Adelphi University.

“It was a shock for us because we did see higher enrollments,

Saint Rose’s closure isn’t an isolated case; it’s part of a national trend in which many smaller, tuition-dependent institutions are suffering from low enrollments and retention rates. The last year has seen the shuttering of five other New York schools, including Wells College in Aurora, which was 156 years old. But while these schools may be closed, their legacies will be felt for generations to come.

“This closure doesn’t diminish the incredible impact that Saint Rose’s 50,000 alumni have had and continue to have on the world, and in particular, this area of New York,” White says. “The College’s impact, mission and legacy will live on through the contributions of each member of the Saint Rose community, past and present.”

Regarding that community, many former faculty members have found work elsewhere. Haidy Brown and the MBA program she helped manage have migrated to Russell Sage, which absorbed several of Saint Rose’s academic programs, including faculty from its renowned Pauline K. Winkler SpeechLanguage-Hearing Clinic. The championship-winning soccer team’s coaches and athletes, however, have scattered to the winds of education and employment elsewhere.

“We have a tight-knit community who came through that program,” says Farnan, “but our former players all found new colleges.” As for the former assistant coach herself, she’s landed a new gig as the head coach of the women’s soccer team at Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School, her other alma mater. But she’ll never forget her 10 years as both a coach and a player at Saint Rose. After all, a college’s purpose is to be a stepping stone on a path to somewhere else. For Farnan, that path just happened to lead right back home.

Morgan Farnan with coaches Jason Gutheil and Laurie Darling Gutheil

G OODBYE, SAINT ROSE

AFTER SHOUTING OUT HIS ALMA MATER IN A GUEST APPEARANCE AT AN ALBANY COMEDY SHOW EARLIER THIS YEAR—AND CRASHING A KEGS AND EGGS FRAT PARTY— LATE-NIGHT TV HOST JIMMY FALLON LOOKS BACK ON HIS YEARS AS A ROSEBUD.

When my last word is “Rosebud,” I hope people will understand the meaning.

I went to The College of Saint Rose in 1992 as a computer science major and received an honorary degree for communications in 2009. I had some of the greatest years of my life at that school. It could not have been more perfect. All the right people, all at the right time.

In 1993, I performed my first hour-long show ever at Saint Joseph Hall at 985 Madison Avenue. I was 18. I used to go into the laundry room in Lima Hall with my friend Frank Gentile (who went to JCA, which is now Sage College) to work on the “act.” I can’t even stress the amount of support I got from fellow students and faculty…I mean, they let me have an hour to do whatever I wanted. What an opportunity. They believed in me and built my confidence. After that show I remember thinking, “Wow, I’m gonna do this thing.”

To hear of Saint Rose’s closing makes me sad—sad for the kids that were enrolled who couldn’t graduate, who won’t have the camaraderie that I had, who won’t see the Golden Knights win a game, who won’t feel cool, who won’t fall in love, who won’t have their heart broken and who won’t have that slice of pizza at Sovrana at 2 in the morning—all of those little moments that add up to make a great college memory. And now, it doesn’t exist. I have a degree from a school that doesn’t exist. I’m going to have to explain that to people. “Where’d you go to school?” “Oh, you know that Spirit Halloween store on Western Avenue? I went there.”

I can’t say anything bad about my experience at The College of Saint Rose. I’m grateful to everyone I met there who helped me and took care of me as I was starting my life and career in comedy. I hope you, like me, think back fondly of any memories you have of Saint Rose. And if you don’t like my writing, please keep in mind that I got an honorary degree in communications from a college that doesn’t exist.

Rosebud forever.

—Jimmy Fallon

(from top) Jimmy Fallon's Saint Rose ID; Fallon with friends Frank Gentile and Steve Teabout in college

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Mia Scirocco • Class of 1991

This picture is truly a reflection of the strong friendships I made while attending The College of Saint Rose. We are all still close friends to this day. I am forever grateful that I was given the opportunity to attend Saint Rose and meet some of the greatest people I consider to be my extended family.

Wendy Hassett • Class of 1992

This picture is from the booze cruise, a Saint Rose tradition at the time. We all had a blast. I remember a lot of bad karaoke. I loved my time at Saint Rose—this past year, all my college friends met up and walked through campus, sharing memories and saying goodbye to good old Saint Rose.

Siobhan Sheehan Rosencranse • Class of 1998

“I grew up at Saint Rose, since my parents were professors. My dad, J. Robert Sheehan (seated in the photo above), built the music department there and chaired it for 16 years. I remember sitting and playing under his coworker’s desk while Dad was conducting Masterworks, and listening to another read me stories while he was teaching classes. Years later, I followed in my sister’s footsteps and actually went to Saint Rose. Some of my best memories were made there.”

Liz Gentile • Class of 1992

During my years at The College of Saint Rose, one of the most unforgettable experiences was our 1991 spring break trip to Myrtle Beach. We crammed six girls into one car, tying all our luggage to the roof. As we headed home early due to an approaching hurricane, some intoxicated high school boys helped us secure our bags. Halfway up I-95, the luggage started falling off. We had to squeeze everything inside the car with all six of us for a cramped 14-hour drive home, turning our road trip into a chaotic adventure we’ll never forget.

Steve Teabout • Class of 1998

Being an art major, 75 percent of my classes were on State Street (off Lark Street), which was a mile and a half from campus. One day, my classmate/roommate (Danny Martinez–rest in peace ♥) and I missed the shuttle bus to get to our portfolio reviews, so we had to run down Western Avenue in the middle of November with our 3’x4’ portfolio cases in order to make it to class on time. I recently looked up the route on Google Maps, and it’s a 32-minute walk.

Brittany DuQuette • Class of 2014

One of the things I enjoyed most during my time at Saint Rose was Rose Rock. Each spring, everyone would come together on the quad to listen to music for the day and just hang out. No matter how stressed we were, how much homework we had or how much we needed to study for finals, we all put everything aside to just be with each other and enjoy the music.

Vanessa Volpe-Rivera • Class of 2005

My favorite memory from Saint Rose was when my volleyball team made the postseason for the first time as a program. We thought of a fun way to celebrate: We decided to surprise our coaches with the first ever "Wacky Wednesday." The entire team dressed up in the most ridiculous outfits and practiced that night. We laughed so hard the entire night because half the team stayed in their outfits. It became a tradition in the program and still makes me smile to this day.

Katie Visco • Class of 2017

Anthony and I met at Saint Rose in the transfer dorms. We spent lots of time in the common room making dinners with our friends, playing games and studying. Anthony used to come watch me play volleyball. He and some friends painted their chests with my number to cheer me on at my senior night game. We started making memories as transfers at Saint Rose and now we are happily married with a precious baby boy.

REMEMBERING SAINT ROSE •

Taylor Cianciotto Mastrantonio • Class of 2017

My best friends and I roomed together in Centennial Hall at Saint Rose. Centennial gave us the feeling of the real world, but was still a ridiculously fun dorm. My favorite memories are from Halloween every year when we’d all go to TP the tree. Second to this are the pranks we pulled on one of our roommates, including the time we covered her whole room in tin foil. I’ll never forget the inappropriate messages written in the snow behind the building, the music fight we had out our window with someone on the other side of the building, or the childhood photo of one of the residents that appeared in random spots across the building.

Chris Lovell • Class of 2019

One time I dressed up as my philosophy professor, the late Dr. Ledbetter, for Halloween. A few days before Halloween and without any explanation, I asked him where I could find a bowtie similar to the one he wore. Instead of telling me where to buy one, he took one off his desk and said I could have it. On Halloween, I put on my sport coat and bowtie, found a coffee mug just like his, and tailed him into the classroom without him noticing. Before he could get to it, I uttered his signature line, “Mornin’, scholars.” He turned around and said, “The class is yours, professor.”

Maddy Halverson • Class of 2018

Back when Olde English Pub, Bombers Burrito Bar and Wolff's Biergarten were owned by the same people, we would do three stops on everyone's birthday to get a huge teacup of hard tea, a giant margarita and a boot of beer. If you did all three, you'd get a T-shirt.

Elle Petrucco • Class of 2023

My favorite memory is definitely the service trip I went on to Washington, DC in the spring of 2023. We were able to do a lot of really impactful work for those that are most in need down there, from handing out food to the homeless to speaking with representatives of the senators about the things we thought were most important for people most in need in our communities. We also made a lot of friends on the way, and spent some time touring the city as well. I made memories that I won’t forget any time soon.

BIG THE

200

WHILE THE CAPITAL REGION MOURNS THE LOSS OF SAINT ROSE, 20 MINUTES AWAY, RPI IS CELEBRATING ITS BICENTENNIAL.

BY SARA FOSS

When wealthy landowner

Stephen Van Rensselaer founded Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1824, he envisioned a new kind of education.

At that time, the college experience was passive; the typical college student attended

lectures and took exams. Van Rensselaer wanted students to be active. He wanted them to participate in lectures, engage with the material, experiment and go into the field to learn and apply their knowledge.

That vision has proved durable.

Since its founding, the Troy-based research university has been at the

forefront of scientific advancements and technological innovation, with graduates making their mark on the local, national and global landscape. RPI alums have been involved in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge and Panama Canal, the invention of sunscreen and the creation of the Ferris wheel, which made its debut at

The original building that housed RPI, in 1824; (opposite) the campus today

the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, where RPI had a booth showcasing the many achievements of its graduates.

RPI observes its 200th anniversary this year with activities and programs honoring its rich history, celebrating the present and charting a bright path forward. The school is well-poised for the future, even as America’s colleges and universities face challenging headwinds amid a rapidly changing educational landscape. A few months ago, The College of Saint Rose in Albany closed after years of declining enrollment and financial struggles.

That fate is unlikely to befall RPI. A STEMcentric school renowned for its engineering, computer science and game design programs, the school also has an impressive track record of placing graduates in good jobs and top graduate schools.

RPI president Martin Schmidt attributes the college’s longevity and ongoing success to sticking to its mission and valuing a handson learning experience. “The tagline for RPI is knowledge and thoroughness,” he says. “Another way to translate that is rigor. The primacy of the education has always been there.”

Schmidt, a 1981 RPI graduate who became the school’s 19th president in 2022, believes regional engagement is important, and that collaborating with other local institutions to strengthen the Capital Region will be a big focus of his tenure. The school recently brought a quantum computer to campus and announced a new quantum computing collaboration with the University at Albany in April.

“RPI’s advancement is tightly coupled to the advancement economically of this region,” Schmidt says. “The next decade is a really important one in opportunity for RPI and the region. While I see challenges, I see opportunities that far outweigh them.”

Zappia & Fryer is a womenowned and operated business by two sisters, Drs. Kendra Zappia and Morgan Fryer. For the past 15 years, Drs. Zappia and Fryer have provided comprehensive dental treatment for patients of all ages. They believe in customized care in a relaxed and friendly environment. Warm hand mitts, massaging chairs, and their relaxation room are comforts offered while you receive excellent treatment with the most up to date dental technology.

We’re happy to welcome new patients to our practice.

OLD MEETS NEW IN THE WASHINGTON COUNTY TOWN OF GREENWICH. IT’S TIME YOU CHECKED IT OUT. BY NATALI AMATO

Ruralenaissance

Anyone who has ever engaged in a creative act knows it requires the ability to place oneself

in two realities: in the realm of what is and the realm of imagination for all that can be. Driving the streets of Greenwich (that’s “green-witch,” NY, not “gren-itch,” CT) with my guide, Bethany Parks, who has devoted her own passion and creativity to renovating not only an old home but an old neighborhood in the historic town, we travel through both of these realms.

Pointing out the window, Parks draws my attention to the original leaded glass above 83 Main Street that was once hiding

under panes of wood, revealed when her partner, Mark Samu, began renovations of his own. (Samu will open a photography gallery in the space on October 1.) We drive past homes where DIYers have brought their own sense of artistry to their renovations—a process Parks’ friend and local business owner Rulyn Graves’ daughter, Haley, is engaged in right now. When we make a pit stop for coffee at Clutch, a new shop opened by the Graves family in early June, Rulyn is there with her husband, Tom, who proudly pulls up a video of the couple's daughter weeding through the left-behinds of her home’s previous owner. The can-do spirit is alive and well in Greenwich.

For every business we pass that catches my eye (like Pennywise’s whimsical, colorful storefront) there seems to be at least two

Mark Samu's photography gallery, opening in October

more popping up that Parks excitedly fills me in on. “That’s going to be the new Dominican restaurant,” she tells me, pointing further up the road.

As Parks and I talk renovations and community spirit, I’m reminded of Maggie Smith’s poem “Good Bones,” which ends with one of my favorite lines in all of poetry. “You could make this place beautiful,”

Smith writes of our often-too-dark world. Out here in Greenwich, Parks, Samu, Graves, and a host of other folks are doing just that: showing up as a community to create and build the magic they wish to see.

Here’s how to experience the spirit of Greenwich firsthand:

EAT

Rural upstate New York towns aren’t usually known for being hubs of globally minded cuisine. Greenwich, however, challenges this stereotype. Those exploring the small town’s food scene will quickly discover a wide variety of flavors ranging from Coffee And’s Swedish sweets to A Little Paris’ savory French crepes. Meanwhile, those looking

(from top) Coffee And pastries; Wallie's of Greenwich; Elsasser's Beim 111

Food, Wine, & Warmth!

Our food concept grows from a desire to bring you country style dishes based on the Germanic food culture of Germany and Northern France.

ELSASSER’S BEIM 111

111 Main Street, Greenwich 518.531.4777 • elsassers111.com

for a sit-down meal can opt for all-American pub fare at Wallie’s, Alsatian/German cuisine at Elsasser’s Beim 111 or a taste of the Caribbean at House of Flavor by Maggie

For the hard-core foodies who are game to drive an extra 20 minutes outside of the village, a stop at the New Skete Monasteries in Cambridge can lead one to taste what many claim is the finest cheesecake in the country. Made by hand by the Eastern Orthodox nuns in between prayer and monastic duties, these small-batch cheesecakes are sold in the

monastery’s gift shop and self-service vestibule. Sure, you can also order them online—but why turn down an adventure?

PLAY

Less than a 10-minute drive from Main Street, golfers can hit the links at Windy Hills Golf Course. Surrounded by views of gentle hills and clear ponds, the 18-hole course is a great way to get out and spend some time being active while appreciating Greenwich’s natural beauty. With pros

(from top) Windy Hills Golf Course; Just Because

on site to offer lessons, you don’t have to be an expert to get out and play. (Plus, there’s always the course's restaurant, The Greenhouse, to hole up in.)

For those who’d rather hit the trail, head to the Dionondahowa Falls trailhead. The 0.6-mile out-and-back trail is an easy but rewarding hike, leading you to an overlook where you can admire the cascading falls. It’s a family-friendly hike (dogs too!), so round everyone up for a quick jaunt in nature. Head over to Argyle Brewing Company’s Tap Room when you’re done for a pint and some live music.

SHOP

Every day trip requires some fuel for the journey: a fresh cup of coffee. For a morning brew or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, step inside the aforementioned Clutch Market—a general store/artist’s market located at 101 Main Street. Clutch owners Tom and Rulyn

Graves, along with their kids Collin and Haley, partner with local makers and farmers to bring sustainably sourced products into the heart of the village. Not only can you get all the fixings for a decadent charcuterie board, but you can also find functional pottery to serve your tasty treats in.

A few doors down from Clutch is one of the greater Capital Region’s bestkept secrets: the Pennywise Shoppe, a consignment store stocked full of forgotten treasures. It’s been almost 20 years since Pennywise first opened its doors in 1995, and while it’s changed owners since then, the eccentric second-hand shop remains a staple of Greenwich, marrying the quaint with the creative.

Stepping from Clutch to Pennywise feels like an apt metaphor for Greenwich: a village where what’s old and new are neighbors, and where there's plenty of room for both preserving history and looking to the future.

Clutch Market

Medical Profiles

Dr. Tejas R. Pandya, DPM, FACFAS

CAPITAL DISTRICT PODIATRY, PLLC

›› PODIATRY ‹‹

Dr. Tejas R. Pandya sees patients who are su ering daily from foot pain. His podiatry practice o ers simple solutions to help address your foot problems, because no one should have to live with pain. A board-certified podiatrist specializing in the treatment of simple and complex foot conditions, he sees patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, for conditions such as ingrown toenails, fungal toenails, heel pain, bone spurs, bunions, hammertoes, foot tumors, fractures and neuromas, as well as for diabetic foot care. He o ers nonsurgical treatment of Laser and EPAT for foot pain, arthritis, mobility and inflammation.

Dr. Pandya graduated from Siena College in Loudonville and went on to study Podiatry Medicine and Surgery at New York College of Podiatric Medicine in Manhattan. He then completed a surgical residency in foot surgery at Little Falls Hospital in Little Falls. He has served as vice president and president of the New York State Podiatry Association’s Northeast Chapter, is a Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatry Surgery and is Hyperbaric Medicine Certified. He also serves as chairman for the department of Podiatry at Samaritan Hospital.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

763 Hoosick Road, Troy 855 Route 146 Suite 150, Clifton Park 518.273.0053

capitaldistrictpodiatry.com

Alfred W. Hollis, DDS

›› GENERAL DENTISTRY ‹‹

When you enter Dr. Hollis’ boutique Saratoga Springs dental o ce, which recently celebrated its 12th anniversary, the library greets you as the first part of your warm welcome.

“What di erentiates our o ce is that we really are focused on building relationships with our patients,” says Dr. Hollis, a third-generation dentist. “We get the chance to know our patients and we spend time coming up with plans for optimizing their dental health together.”

Looking over photographs and x-rays and discussing treatment options with patients are important parts of what he refers to as codiagnosis, without all the confusing medical jargon. “People can see with their own eyes what needs to be done.”

Born in Glens Falls, Dr. Hollis completed his general practice residency at St. Clare’s Hospital and worked in Saratoga and Clifton Park before opening his practice in downtown Saratoga Springs. When he is not caring for patients, Dr. Hollis enjoys spending time with his wife and three children in the Adirondacks and on Lake George.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

157 Lake Avenue

Saratoga Springs

518.584.1400

alfredhollisdds.com

Lucie Capek, MD

CAPEK PLASTIC SURGERY

›› A SURGEON’S HANDS, A WOMAN’S TOUCH ‹‹

Cosmetic plastic surgery is a field in which a majority of the clients are female, yet most plastic surgeons are male. Dr. Lucie Capek, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Latham, takes pride in being one of the few women in her field, and has been able to use her privileged position to better relate to—and therefore serve—her clients.

After studying medicine and surgery at McGill and Harvard universities, Dr. Capek completed her Plastic Surgery and Craniofacial training at Washington University and the University of Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children. She opened her Capital Region solo practice in 2000, and quickly became one of the area’s most soughtafter plastic surgeons for her blend of advanced techniques, personalized care and artistic eye.

Dr. Capek performs cosmetic surgery of the face, breasts and body. Her signature procedures include facelift, rhinoplasty, natural breast augmentation, fat transfer and “Mommy Makeover.” She and her med spa staff are experts in a myriad of minimally invasive facial procedures including Botox, filler treatments, micro fat grafting and Precision TX LaserLift. The highly trained and licensed med spa staff at Capek Plastic Surgery also offer the most advanced skincare treatments including DiamondGlow and Hydrafacial, SkinPen Microneedling and various LASER services.

Dr. Capek performs most surgical procedures at Capek Surgical Arts, her state-of-the-art, QuadA-accredited operating suite located in Latham at the heart of the Capital District. She and her experienced team work their magic in a convenient and discrete private operating suite—no trips to the hospital required!

Above all, Dr. Capek understands that your beauty and confidence are about more than just your appearance; she practices “Beauty for Wellness.” To get started on a transformation that enhances your natural beauty and improves your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lucie Capek and her team.

CONTACT

518.786.1700

capekplasticsurgery.com

Medical Profiles

J. Craig Alexander, DMD

AESTHETIC DENTISTRY OF EAST GREENBUSH

›› GENERAL DENTISTRY ‹‹

Enjoy eating again! Smile with confidence!

Dr. Alexander is one of only a few dentists in the Capital Region who both places and restores dental implants, so your entire treatment can be done in one o ce. Dr. Alexander’s résumé includes:

• More than 30 years providing comprehensive quality dental care

• Dartmouth College graduate: summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa

• 1982 University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine graduate: first in his class

• Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston: two years of medical and surgical training

• Master of the Academy of General Dentistry

• Fellow of the International Academy of Mini Dental Implants

• Diplomat of the International Dental Implant Association Dr. Alexander treats all patients as friends and neighbors. Watch the doctor on YouTube!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

518.477.1008 jcraigalexanderdmd.com

Are you struggling with wondering if someone you love who has passed on has made it to the other side? Are you curious about what your future holds?

Eva the Friendly Ghost

NOW IN ITS 150TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR, COHOES MUSIC HALL RESERVES AN OPERA BOX FOR THE SPIRIT OF RISQUÉ VAUDEVILLE STAR EVA TANGUAY.

BY NATALLI AMATO

Every performer is moved by the Muses—the eternal spirits of inspiration. However, at the Cohoes Music Hall, it’s not just the spirit of creativity that charges the energy inside the historic venue’s storied walls. The spirit of Eva Tanguay, who first graced the Hall’s stage in 1890, is alive and well.

Known as the girl who made vaudeville famous, Tanguay was a renegade who was unafraid to use the stage as a platform to shock the status quo. “There are a couple of documentaries about her shows getting canceled when she was on tour for fear of moral issue,” says Cohoes Music Hall Production Manager Dennis Strainge. The issue? “She would wear pants on stage. Her act was very much like a feminist mark.” In other words, the 1800s equivalent of Lady Gaga’s infamous meat dress.

Today, Tanguay’s spirit presides over the stage where she first made her mark.

“She’s not a mean ghost,” assures Strainge, “but she wants you to know that you’re working in her house.”

Playful in spirit and still yearning for a piece of the spotlight, legend has it that the ghost of Tanguay likes to get into mischief, playing tricks on artists if they forget to bid her hello. It’s become a tradition for performers to leave her a tribute—some sort of small trinket—in her dedicated opera box before stepping on stage. The practice has become just as crucial a step as any sound check.

“Not for nothing, but we tend to run into odd issues,” explains Strainge. “We’ll sound check and everything will be fine. But if we forget to grab something for Eva, then there’ll be a weird radio signal coming through an amp that wasn’t there that we can’t get to go away.”

Naturally, there are quirks that come with operating in a 150-year-old theater, and Strainge acknowledges this with good humor. “Things are just bound to be weird at some point,” he says. “It’s nice to be able to put a name to it.”

This fall, Cohoes Music Hall is celebrating its 150th anniversary. “For 150 years, it’s been a place that families throughout the Capital Region can enjoy, and we’re really proud that we get to be its champion,” says Strainge of his team. “Eva is definitely one of our touchstones back through the years that keeps us thinking about that history.”

Setting the Standard for Luxury Living

For crafted luxury homes and bespoke cabinetry, call the experts at Teakwood Builders and Housewright Cabinetry.

Jim Sasko, founder and president of Teakwood Builders and Housewright Cabinetry, knows a thing or two about fine craftsmanship.

“We’ve built our reputation on an appreciation for—some might even say an obsession with—fine details,” he says. For nearly 30 years, Teakwood Builders has set the standard for luxury building and remodeling in the Capital Region. Newer affiliate company Housewright Cabinetry is positioned to do the same with its distinctive designs and products. With a commitment to visionary design and unparalleled craftsmanship, these leaders in the field transform spaces into dream homes.

What truly sets Teakwood apart is its diversity of talent and focus on excellence. With a project management team boasting more than 75 years of combined experience and lead carpenters with more than 50, the team’s depth of skill and dedication is remarkable. A third of

Teakwood’s staff has been with the company for more than a decade—a testament to an environment that encourages creativity and collaboration.

Teakwood’s specialty lies in finish carpentry: turning a house into a home through attention to detail and time-tested materials. This craftsmanship is complemented by Housewright Cabinetry, a company established by Sasko to meet the demand for high-quality, customizable cabinetry. “Our cabinetry is increasingly the go-to resource for builders and designers seeking luxury options,” he notes.

For those who cherish their homes and wish to enhance them, Teakwood Builders and Housewright Cabinetry offer the finest products alongside award-winning design and craftsmanship.

75 Church Street, Saratoga Springs teakwoodbuilders.com | housewrightcabinetry.com

Salami & Cheese & More

Ready, Set, STOWE!

THIS FALL, HEAD ACROSS THE VERMONT BORDER FOR SOME OF THE NORTHEAST’S BEST SIPS, STROLLS AND SIGHTS.

BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX

Stowe Community Church

When most of us think of Stowe, VT, we picture alpine adventures. (The town is nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountain State’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, after all.) But increasingly, Stowe is attracting visitors for reasons beyond shooshing down powdery slopes: namely, for its world-class resorts, craft food and drinks, foliage-drenched nature walks and thriving arts scene.

Far be it from us to name the best season to visit Stowe, but we will offer up our personal favorite: fall. The air is crisp but far from frigid, the foliage is popping (it generally reaches ultra-Instagram readiness in late September and early October, if you care about that sort of thing) and the farm-to-table drinks and snacks are reaching peak seasonal perfection. At three-and-a-half hours door to door from Albany, the charming town of Stowe is eminently accessible for a weekend getaway. But before setting your GPS and hitting the road, read on for a complete guide to making the most of your northern Vermont getaway.

Descending the Mount Mansfield Chin past peak leaf-peeping season in November

REST & RELAX

First up, you’ll need a home base from which you can set forth. The mountainside Topnotch Resort offers citymeets-country vibes with a small footprint (68 rooms plus 20 resort homes), highly personalized service and a raft of amenities that can keep visitors occupied for days.

The award-winning spa, yoga classes, tennis and pickleball courts, indoor and two outdoor pools (one for adults, one for families), hot tub, firepits, and two farm-totable restaurants could arrest your attention completely, but the primo location and free shuttle service to the village make getting out de rigueur.

Topnotch's worldly but unassuming vibe has earned the resort placement on Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best hotel list. Perhaps more importantly, it has been drawing loyal families year after year who love it as a home away from home—except with better snacks, maid service and amenities. (The concierge will also help you set up dinner reservations and tours).

Alternative lodging options include the historic Trapp Family Lodge, operated by the von Trapp family of Sound of Music fame (beer fanatics will love the onsite brewery and bierhall restaurant), and Tälta Mountain Lodge, which boasts a range of accommodations plus bike storage, ski lockers and boot-drying rooms.

STROLL & PEEP

Vermont is nicknamed the Green Mountain state for a reason: Of the 9,216 square miles that make up the state, more than 70 percent are forested. There are 808 lakes and ponds, more than 7,000 miles of rivers and streams, 55 state parks and the nation’s first through-hiking trail—the 272-mile Long Trail. In other words, there’s plenty of space to hike, peep and wander.

Accessible right from Topnotch Resort (stroll down the driveway, cross the road and walk past the horses munching on hay) is the paved 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path

The world-famous path, which will take you across 10 bridges spanning the West Branch of the Little River, offer endless mountain views and give you a direct route to downtown Stowe, where restaurants, boutiques, bars, galleries and one of the most photographed churches in the country, the charmingly quaint Stowe Community Church, await.

A beginner-friendly but slightly more nature-centric 1.3mile walk is the Mill Trail, which meanders parallel to the West Branch of the Waterbury River past several swimming holes, mini waterfalls and gorges up to the Bingham Falls. The wide trail passes by softwood trees, a northern hardwood forest, a historic cabin and the approach to the top of the gorge, which offers a birds-eye view of the thundering 40-foot falls.

Topnotch Resort

Trapp Family Lodge

The historic Moravian cabin along the Mill Trail

For more of a challenge, check out the Mount Mansfield Chin via Long and Profanity Trail, a rocky, uphill climb with sometimes-slippery and hard-scramble conditions. The trail’s about 4.8 miles long, and will bring you to the summit of Mount Mansfield.

DRINK & EAT

California is the country’s leading craft beer producer, but Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state (about 15 breweries for every 100,000 residents). Idletyme Tap & Tavern in Stowe offers a range of killer beers that span from the traditional to the offbeat, plus locally sourced pub fare including Vermont cheddar fritters and the Notch Burger with onion jam, roasted jalapeno aioli, fried onions and gruyere.

The wine scene in Vermont is nascent, but is considered by many to be one of the country’s most fascinating, with the now-iconic Shelburne Vineyard, La Garagista and the ground-breaking Kalche Wine Cooperative snagging headlines across the world. In Stowe itself, stop by Ellison Estate Vineyard’s tasting room (the grapes are grown an hour away in Grand Isle and the wine is made in Stowe). Don’t miss the Bobby Regan, made from the hybrid grapes Marquette, St. Croix and Frontenac Noir, with flavors of red berries, black cherries, smoke and sage.

At Smugglers’ Notch Distillery, father-son duo Ron and Jeremy Elliott channel the spirit of Vermont’s bootlegging and booze-smuggling history to craft a range of spirits made from carefully sourced ingredients. At the tasting room downtown, try the award-winning vodka made from Idaho-grown sweet corn, winter wheat and Vermont water, or the offbeat and indulgent Vermont Maple Cream Liqueur. While you’re there, pick up a bottle of bourbon barrel–aged Vermont maple syrup.

Aprés Cocktail & Wine is Stowe’s only dedicated cocktail lounge, (try the Nepo Baby Daydream, made with gin, aquavit, Montenegro, honey and lemon), but Cork, a restaurant, wine shop and market, is where it’s at for natural wines and imaginative farm-to-table fare. The store focuses on all-natural, unpretentious wines made by farming families, while the restaurant zeroes in on farm-fresh, scratch-made Vermont food filtered through an Italian lens. (Think roasted carrots with radicchio and honey; pappardelle with tomato sauce, sweet sausage and ricotta; and steak tips with marinated peppers and mesclun greens.)

If you’d rather have someone else do all of the rigorous work for you, from making reservations to driving, Savor Vermont Tours offers a range of reasonably priced threehour brewery and wine bar tours in and around Vermont.

SEE & SHOP

You could spend literal days exploring the dozens of boutiques, shops and tasting rooms of downtown Stowe, but we’ll suggest a few can’t-miss stops. First up is the Bryan Fine Art Gallery, which showcases the breadth and depth of New England art with paintings, sculptures, photographs and mixed-media works from established and emerging artists. The space compliments the main gallery in Jeffersonville.

For more from local makers, check out Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft, where jewelry, furniture, pottery and art are usually on sale. Bookworms will love Bear Pond Books, the second-largest indie bookseller in the state. Spanning 3,700 square feet, Bear Pond offers a vast selection of fiction, nonfiction, children’s lit, New England writing and fantastic gifts. And before you wing it out of town, swing by Commodities Natural Market, where you can pick up all of the locally made snacks and libations you fell in love with in Stowe.

Sad to be leaving? Take heart! It’s almost ski season. We know you’ll be back for that.

Aprés Cocktail & Wine

Cork

Bryan Fine Art Gallery

Idletyme Tap & Tavern

The Pumpkin Patch Opens

So

it’s Time to Pick a Wedding Venue…

HERE’S WHAT LOCAL EVENT PLANNER KATIE O’MALLEY MALONEY WANTS YOU TO KNOW.

BY NATALIE MOORE

The Lodge on Echo Lake

f you’re one of those people who has been dreaming about your wedding since you were little, you probably have a pretty good idea of what type of venue you want. Did 8-year-old you envision a rustic barn wedding in the countryside? A sleek, modern venue in a vibrant downtown? A classic ballroom with crystal chandeliers bathing the dance floor in shimmering light?

No matter what camp you fall in, the Capital Region has venues to match your freak, from the pastures of West Sand Lake’s June Farms and the rolling fairways of Craryville’s The Greens at Copake Country Club to the summer camp vibes of Warrensburg’s Lodge on Echo Lake and the vintage-meets-modern feel of Albany Airport’s Hangar at 743. The only thing left to do? Pick one.

That, of course, is easier said than done, as Latham-based event planner Katie O’Malley Maloney of Katie O’ Weddings & Events knows all too well. If you’re recently engaged (or not-sorecently engaged, or incredibly far-off from getting engaged but still excited about your future wedding), she can help. And we’d recommend taking her word—she’s planned dozens of nuptials, while you, hopefully, will stop at one marvelous, glorious wedding at the venue of your dreams.

Katie, what’s the first aspect of wedding planning that you discuss with clients? Budget. There’s no joy in wedding planning if the couple doesn’t have a clear understanding of what things cost and what they have to invest. We always make sure that everyone

June Farms; (above) Katie O'Malley Maloney

The flowers for the most important day of your life should be extraordinary.

is on the same page before we start planning to save time for both the couple and the vendors they’re reaching out to for service. For example, if your budget is smaller, your venue search and visits should reflect this. Looking at big-budget venues will only make the planning harder since they are out of reach.

How important is the venue to making clients’ wedding dreams a reality?

The venue helps create a day that truly reflects who a couple is and shares their love story. A venue sets the tone for their family and friends, from the aesthetics to the food, beverage and overall vibe it emotes.

What are the main considerations clients should take into account when picking a wedding venue?

The main considerations should be budget, guest count and what is included in the space. Your venue and food and beverage is typically about 50 percent of your overall budget, so plan to look at venues that will fit this. Be sure that the venue you choose provides what you need—some venues are space only, while some include tables, chairs, food and beverage, or a kitchen space for caterers. Always be realistic and plan on all of your guests attending: Don’t invite 150 people if you have a wedding venue that can only comfortably seat 120 guests.

What are three questions clients should ask of a wedding venue before booking that they may not have considered asking?

If it’s a venue with an outdoor ceremony space, what does the rain plan space look like? You don’t want to stress if the weather forecast isn’t

The Greens at Copake Country Club

in your favor on the day of. We always suggest that couples love their rain plan almost as much as their Plan A.

Does the venue require a certificate of insurance (COI) for vendors on site? This is a very simple request, but, you always want to let your vendors know as soon as possible.

And lastly, do they host more than one event a day or weekend? This is important in case you have an involved set-up that will require extra time. Also if there is more than one wedding at a time, you and your photographer should be aware of when the other couples plan on taking photos so you don't overlap.

Are there any venue trends that you've seen in recent years?

More clients want to host everything on site, rather than having the ceremony in a church. They dream of an outdoor ceremony and cocktail option with dinner and dancing inside. A lot of clients are hoping to make it a true weekend getaway experience, so they can enjoy more time with loved ones. We’ve seen a rise in the wedding after party, too! Couples want to keep the party going and feel like they can “let loose” and be more relaxed with their close friends once the main reception has concluded.

And lastly, given the season, do you have any favorite venues for a fall wedding?

The Capital Region has every kind of venue for a fall wedding celebration. The Wire Event Center in Coxsackie sits along the majestic Hudson River and offers beautiful views of the water and fall foliage. Saratoga National Golf Club in Saratoga Springs provides stunning golf course views on their patio and under the event tent. And The Ruins at Sassafras Museum, a former Shaker site located between the Taconic and Berkshire mountains, surrounds your guests with the magical colors of the season.

The Hangar at 743

ALBANY COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP

Each year, families pay thousands of dollars for unneeded heating and energy costs because their homes are not properly weatherized. The Weatherization Assistance Program, available through Albany Community Action Partnership (ACAP), allows households to become more energy efficient, resulting in cost savings averaging more than 20 percent. Visit ACAP online to see if you’re eligible.

333 Sheridan Avenue, Albany | 518.463.3175 | albanycap.org

ALL SEASONS EQUIPMENT, INC.

All Seasons Equipment, Inc. is family owned and operated, and provides the latest and best in outdoor power products to make your outdoor living more enjoyable. The staff in Scotia are happy to help you find the perfect outdoor power equipment, service or parts you’ve been looking for, from brands including Ariens, Honda Power Equipment, Scag, STIHL and Toro.

60 Freeman’s Bridge Road, Scotia | 518.372.5611 | allseasonsequipinc.com

CLASSIC SHED & PATIO

Classic Shed & Patio is a family-owned, one-stop shop for the finest home storage sheds. Known for allowing customers to design their dream project themselves, Classic Sheds builds the most reliable custom sheds (think Quaker, A-frame, barns and New England styles), as well as gazebos, playgrounds and any outdoor special project—from chicken coops and dog houses to sunrooms and playhouses.

1997 Central Avenue, Colonie | 518.869.7474 | classicshedandpatio.com

CLAVERACK PUMP SERVICE

Clean, healthy water isn’t a luxury; it’s an absolute necessity and essential to your health. That’s why Claverack Pump Service has been providing quality water solutions (well-drilling, water pumps, water filtration, hand pumps, geothermal drilling and more) to New York homes and businesses since 1946. Don’t trust just any business to handle your water needs—turn to Claverack Pump.

8960 NY-22, Hillsdale | 518.828.6267 | claverackpumpservice.com

GARDEN TIME

Whether you are in the market for a beautiful blooming plant for your porch, a screened-in gazebo for your backyard, fertilizer for your lawn or a storage solution for a little extra space, head straight to the Garden Time location near you. Garden Time also offers a wide selection of outdoor furniture, as well as excellent customer service to provide you with everything you need for a beautiful lawn and garden.

Multiple Locations | 518.793.8555 | gardentimeinc.com

GNH LUMBER

GNH Lumber’s expert kitchen and bath team, led by the esteemed Jacqueline Newell, is ready to make your dream home vision a reality. Take advantage of Newell’s 20 years of rich experience helping clients visualize each layer of their kitchen and bath design (plus windows, doors, gardens and lumber/building), from floor plan to finish. Visit the GNH Lumber showroom, or call today to schedule a free consultation.

898 New Loudon Road, Latham | 518.313.1229 | gnhlumber.com

HEWITT’S GARDEN CENTERS, INC.

With 50 years in the business and seven stores located in the 518 area code, Hewitt’s Garden Centers is a local company specializing in lawn- and garden-related products, services and information. The fifth largest independent retail garden center in the country, Hewitt’s is known for its experienced staff, who are always ready to assist you with your project.

Multiple Locations | hewitts.com

HIGH BRIDGE STONE CO.

Experience the beauty of natural granite/Belgian block with High Bridge Stone Co. For more than 40 years, High Bridge has been dedicated to providing high-quality, hand-cut, granite products such as cobblestone and pavers, along with exceptional customer service. The company’s new stone yard location in Coeymans, NY has brought beautiful stone to the upstate New York region. Let the High Bridge team elevate your space with a touch of timeless elegance!

Coeymans | 973.344.5522 | highbridgestoneco.com

J. HUNZIKER PAVING

When it comes to driveway paving, you need to work with seasoned driveway contractors who can ensure that your driveway is smooth and functional. J. Hunziker has 20 years of experience serving the residential and commercial paving needs of customers throughout Troy and the nearby areas, and is committed to providing customers with the best possible workmanship and service.

L. BROWE ASPHALT SERVICES

L. Browe Asphalt Services has served thousands of residential and commercial customers in the greater Hudson Valley, with installations that are built to last becuase of correct elevations and subtle detailing that ease the job into the land. The end product is a true, level, aesthetically-pleasing job with artistic curves and superior function that complete and enhance the entire property setting

Rensselaer | 518.479.1400 | broweasphalt.com

LEGENDS HARDSCAPES

It’s never too early or too late to start planning for your backyard renovation! Legends Hardscapes, the premier hardscaping company in New York’s Capital Region, can make all your dreams come true with low rates, financing and fast approvals. From patios and walkways to steps and fireplaces, Legends is ready to make your yard legendary. Call Mike today for an appointment.

41 Houston Way, Averill Park | 518.857.2912 | legendshardscapesny.com

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 | 518.691.0428 | redbuddevelopment.com

SCHENECTADY FLOOR COVERING

Having served the Capital Region for more than 50 years, Schenectady Floor Covering has built its business on its reputation for customer service and low prices backed by solid warranties. The company’s 9,000-square-foot showroom has all the top brands, plus all the latest styles, colors and designs. Schenectady Floor Covering specializes not only in carpet but also hardwood, ceramic tile, area rugs, laminate and vinyl flooring.

SEASONS SUPPLY CO.

Offering professional landscaping and property maintenance led by a lifelong Clifton Park resident, Seasons Supply Co. has all the tools you need to transform boring yards into enviable works of art. From shovels and wheelbarrows for your next DIY project to bulk supplies of mulch or sand for top-level contractors, Seasons has what you need to create the utmost in outdoor living.

WOLBERG LIGHTING DESIGN & ELECTRICAL SUPPLY

Are you looking to renovate this summer? Take it to the next level with a lighting plan that integrates comfort, control and energy. Talk to the lighting experts at Wolberg’s Albany or Saratoga showrooms for the best guidance in lighting terminology, types of lighting and choosing the right LED bulbs. The helpful staff can show you how to use lighting to make your home safer, or help you create a dramatic design statement.

Multiple Locations | wolberg.com

Your Capital Region Fall Bucket List

BY SARA FOSS

September 5-November 3

Autumn Glow Lantern Festival

Historic Mabee Farm, Rotterdam Junction

Get ready to be enchanted at the Autumn Glow Lantern Festival. This family-friendly nighttime event will wow visitors with a dazzling display of more than 1,000 handmade Chinese lanterns, each crafted to capture the season’s essence. Visitors can soak in the otherworldly atmosphere on a luminescent night walk and learn about the culture and craftsmanship of traditional Chinese lantern festivals. There will also be live entertainment, a bounce house and yummy treats. Open Thursdays through Sundays. autumnglowfestival.com

September 19-22

Adirondack Balloon Festival

Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury

Every year, the Adirondack Balloon Festival draws more than 100,000 attendees eager to see a sea of vibrant hot air balloons take flight against a scenic southern Adirondack backdrop. Founded in 1973 to attract tourists to the region after Labor Day, the long-running, free event is one of the biggest balloon festivals in America, though it continues to be organized and run by a small core of dedicated volunteers. Balloon flights typically occur just after sunrise or close to sunset. adirondackballoonfest.org

September 21

Farm Aid

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

It’s a dream lineup: Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and more. For the first time since 2013, the daylong music and agricultural festival Farm Aid is returning to SPAC, and it could be one of the last opportunities to see Nelson, the 91-year-old country music legend who fell ill earlier this year. Since 1985, Farm Aid has raised more than $78 million to help small family farms throughout the US. spac.org

September 21

Porchfest Schenectady

GE Realty Plot, Schenectady

Consider this a homey alternative to some of fall’s bigger marquee events. Now in its second year, Porchfest invites music-lovers to Schenectady’s GE Realty Plot, a historic neighborhood where

Autumn Glow Lantern Festival

Porchfest Schenectady

many General Electric researchers, executives and other employees once lived. Homeowners open up their porches to a dozen local musicians; listeners are welcome to stroll, stand or bring a lawn chair. Artists include up-and-coming singer-songwriter Angelina Valente, Mike Benedict Jazz Vibes and Brass Abbey. discoverschenectady.com

September 21-22

Sharon Springs Harvest Festival

Village of Sharon Springs

Fall is a great time to visit the charming Schoharie County village of Sharon Springs, and the community’s Harvest Festival celebrates both agricultural bounty and small-town hospitality. Once a fashionable spa resort, today Sharon Springs might be best known as the home of Beekman Farm, featured on the reality TV show The Fabulous Beekman Boys. The Harvest Festival will have food, beer, live music, local artisans and more. sharonspringsharvestfestival.com

September 24

Jelly Roll MVP Arena, Albany

Named New Artist of the Year at the 2023 Country Music Association Awards, Jelly Roll has been on a major roll, and he brings his Beautifully Broken tour to MVP Arena this fall. A former rapper turned country star, Jelly Roll rose to prominence on the strength of his hits “Son of a Sinner” and “Need a Favor,” and sings movingly about his troubled past, which includes arrests for drug-dealing and aggravated robbery. He’ll appear in Albany with openers Warren Zeiders and Alexandra Kay. mvparena.com

September 28

Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest

Saratoga Springs City Center

Parking Garage

Linus never saw the Great Pumpkin, but those attending the Spa City’s Giant PumpkinFest will see some very impressive gourds from throughout the Northeast. Growers will compete to see who produced the heaviest pumpkin at an official weigh-in. The event will take place next door to the Saratoga Farmers’ Market and feature food

October 5-6

Saratoga Book Festival

Saratoga Springs

Fall is the perfect time to curl up with a good book, and this literary-themed festival celebrates all things reading and writing. The full lineup had yet to be announced at press time, but confirmed authors include Kelly Link, Paul Tremblay and Roxana Robinson. Events occur throughout the city in venues ranging from Caffè Lena to Universal Preservation Hall. There’s also a KidZone, with children’s and young adult authors, read-alouds and other activities. saratogabookfestival.org

October 11-13

Hadestown Proctors, Schenectady

Proctors is the place in the Capital Region to see big Broadway productions, and one of fall’s highlights is Hadestown, the highly acclaimed, Tony Award–winning musical that retells the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in haunting and vibrant fashion.

With music by folk singer Anais Mitchell, Hadestown opened on Broadway in 2019 and is still going strong. atproctors.org

October 11-13

Lake George Village Oktoberfest

Canada Street and Shepard Park

On Columbus Day weekend, the heart of Lake George will be transformed into

Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest

a raucous Bavarian street fair. There’ll be nonstop German and polka music, traditional dancers, carnival rides, bratwurst, keg tossing, an Adirondack Brewery beer garden and more. The event is free and family-friendly. lakegeorgeoktoberfest.com

October 13 Chowderfest

Downtown Troy

When that autumn chill hits the air, a bowl of hot chowder can warm the soul. During Troy’s Chowderfest, restaurants throughout the Collar City will serve unique chowders, which cost $2 for a four-ounce cup. Troybased businesses will ladle out of their storefronts, while cooks from outside of town will partner with local businesses to serve in the city. Of course, the event offers more than a chance to sample chowder: It’s also an opportunity to check out one of the Capital Region’s liveliest downtowns. downtowntroy.org

October 19-20

Washington County Antique Fair

Washington County Fairgrounds, Greenwich

This antique show features more than 200 antique, collectible and craft vendors from throughout the US and Canada. Previously held in August, the fair was moved to October—the height of the leaf-peeping season! Just $5 for adults and free for children, the fair has a courtesy cart to help elderly attendees and others in need of assistance get around. fairgroundshows.com

Lake George Village Oktoberfest

Life&Leisure

Signs of the Times

BY CHANTAL MARIE | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT RISKO

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 19

We are deep into Retrograde season and it’s most definitely giving the message of slowing down and evaluating our recent choices and upcoming decisions and plans—most notably in the areas of long-term goals, close relationships and our daily habits. You are also being urged to bring some of those skeletons out of the closet because, quite frankly, it’s getting crowded in there and we need to clear some space. This is a time of transformation and transition and it may not be easy or comfortable but it is most definitely necessary. Put on your warrior armor and battle through the lessons. You will emerge the victor just as you always do.

TAURUS APRIL 20 - MAY 20

In order to experience breakthroughs, we most often must go through breakdowns first. Please remember this as you navigate your way through this Retrograde season and the potential trial by fire(s) that could pop up unexpectedly. Questioning your beliefs, habits, goals and even your own self as a person can lead to some pretty amazing insights that are meant to alter the trajectory of your current path in positive ways. So go ahead and dive deep into the psyche of

your life at this time; there is undiscovered treasure to be found that will reward and enrich your current and future experiences.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20

Try not to mourn the ending of things too much; as one door closes, another one opens, dear Gemini. The Universe has a habit of clearing space for us even when we don’t necessarily want or see the need for it. When this happens, you can be sure that better things are headed your way. This is a time for you to specifically seek out your joy; what do you actually want to do versus what have you felt obligated to do? Spend more time on passion projects because aligned energy is found in what makes us happy. Allow the expansion of joy to be your guide and watch how it can unfold for you.

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 22

If it feels like your life is getting a reboot or new direction/ start, then it’s time to embrace the process and lean into

the chaos, sweet Cancer babe. Things are rapidly shifting, but keep in mind that the wheels have been turning for quite some time—and with your consent, if not your outright help. The change you have been

seeking is finally taking shape and while it may not look exactly as you expected, it is what you asked for. And that’s a good thing because your highly intuitive self led you to this outcome. Trusting your ability to know what’s best for you is one of your many superpowers. So, ready or not, your new life is here to show you how good it can be.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 22

Sometimes, even when we think we have it all figured out, it turns out that the Universe has other plans for us. This may feel especially true right now as you navigate some tricky energies surrounding your career/long-term goals and daily/work life habits. Communicate clearly what you need from all this to help you to feel more stable and secure. Stay focused on the outcome you desire and not on which path will take you there. The details are still being worked out, so shift your mindset to everything “big picture” and let the unexpected doors of opportunity open for you.

VIRGO AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22

You’ve done so much expanding and growing over the past year; reflect on it all so you can know where the next steps in this journey will lead you. Anxiety and stress are not unfamiliar

energies to you, but now is the time to evaluate how and where you can plan for actual fun and enjoyment in your daily life. And since planning is a fun activity for you, let this assignment be no different. Map out trips, look into those courses you’re interested in, carve time out for ice cream on a park bench. Focus on what brings you joy and integrate that into your everyday goal of being better.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22

This is a time to focus on harmony and balance, dear Libra, as we will see the final eclipse in your sign before the nodes shift

once again. Laying to rest old realities and even the outdated version(s) of yourself is the order of the moment. Don’t make any big financial investment decisions right now, as there are some behind-the-scenes shifts occurring that need to settle first. Soon you’ll feel a surge of energy and motivation to pursue your new goals as opportunities to do so may arise that will require you to step out of your comfort zone. Stay focused on your inner calm and balance and you’ll welcome this new chapter with confidence.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21

If shadow work was an Olympic event, you’d win gold every time, sweet Scorpio. Your acute ability to

dive deep into energies and topics that others shy away from is something we can all learn from. This time your focus will be highlighting and reflecting on the areas of life that are usually shrouded in mystery or cloaked in darkness. Subjects and emotions that normally are unpleasant to examine

will demand a closer look at this time. Ponder and answer life’s deepest and most pressing questions to illuminate the way to your next great unfolding.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21

When life hands you lemons, you don’t make lemonade... you make limoncello, because nothing keeps a

Sagittarius down for long, if ever! Life’s setbacks are clearly motivational setups for you and this time period is no different. When the foundation you stand on seems a bit shaky, find the loose bricks and replace them until you can feel safely stable once again. It’s not always necessary to demolish the entire structure; simple repairs are oftentimes the best solution. Use discernment when moving forward under less-than-ideal circumstances and conditions. Pause, reflect and evaluate on what is real and what is projection or judgement. Then keep it moving like the unstoppable beast you are.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19

If you’ve been feeling nostalgic and revisiting your childhood memories more than usual, maybe it’s because you’re looking for confirmation for your current and future self’s plans. Studying the past can often help us understand the future, but while this is a helpful practice, it’s unwise to get so immersed in our previous experiences that we lose sight or focus on our current reality and future goals. Use the lessons from your life before to propel you forward and motivate you to achieve new heights that have been adjusted for the you that you are now. Growth

is beautiful, dear Capricorn, and it looks so good on you.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18

There very well could be an exciting new opportunity coming your way during this time, and it may be just the thing you’ve been looking for. Restructuring your previously held ideals to better fit what’s currently aligned for you is going to be a very smart move on your part. Take a look at where in your life adjustments can and should be made in order to shift your world in small yet dynamic ways. Tap into the motivation lighting up your area of daily habits and health to get going on long-term benefits through small changes made now. Things are moving in the right direction; the next chapter is already underway.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

Whatever struggles you’ve been facing recently are now coming to a close, leaving you free to move forward uninhibited and with renewed excitement for passion projects. You’ve been on the bench long enough observing, integrating, reflecting... It’s time put yourself back out there and play the game of life. Let your daydreams guide you to magnificent new adventures and watch how doors swing open with every leap of faith you take. Turning your dreams into reality is your unique skill set. Now’s the time to show everyone else how it’s done.

Chantal Marie is a full-time astrologer, tarot reader and life coach. Find her full list of services on her website: akashiccrystalhealing.com

Life&Leisure

Calendar » Horoscope » Recipe » Crossword

Brunch Is Served

YOU’LL FLIP FOR BIMI’S CANTEEN’S LEMON RICOTTA PANCAKES SERVED WITH WHIPPED MAPLE BUTTER.

CHEF ISABELLA WALDORF’S LEMON RICOTTA PANCAKES MAKES 6-8 PANCAKES

Ingredients:

1 tsp poppy seeds

1 1/3 cup of flour

1 tbsp of baking powder

3 tbsp of sugar

1/4 tsp of salt

1 cup of ricotta cheese

1 cup of milk

2 eggs (separated)

1 tsp of vanilla

Zest and juice of one lemon

Instructions:

For the Maple Whip:

• Mix together one part maple syrup with two parts butter until smooth.

• S erve in an individual ramekin. (Leftovers will keep in refrigerator for two weeks.)

For the Pancakes:

• Mix poppy seeds, flour, baking powder, sugar and salt into one bowl.

• Mix ricotta cheese, milk and vanilla in second bowl. Add the lemon juice and zest.

• Combine both bowls together and fold five to 10 times.

• Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.

• Gently fold egg whites into the batter. Keep the height you have whipped into the egg whites—don’t overmix!

• Cook the batter on a buttered pan over medium heat. Flip when the first side is golden brown, then let the second side brown. Serve immediately with maple whip.

Bimi’s Canteen and Bar is a Hudson Valley restaurant located next to its sister business, Bimi’s Cheese Shop, on Main Street in the Village of Chatham. Highlighting ingredients produced in Columbia County, the restaurant offers a new menu every five weeks to take advantage of the most seasonally current produce. Bimi’s Canteen serves dinner Thursday-Monday evenings and Bella’s Big Brunch on Sunday mornings. bimiscanteen.com

Calendar » Horoscope » Recipe » Crossword

Around the Block

BY NATALIE MOORE

ACROSS

1. Word on a red sign

5. What a cut turns into

9. Wrist accessory

14. Own

15. Sharpen

16. Bacteria that lives in your gut

17. Fruity Smirnoff drinks

18. Ski resort where snowboarding isn’t allowed

19. Waves away

20. Avenue to the NW of 27-Down

22. Camping shelters

23. Word before lion or monkey

24. Guided

25. Safe investment options, for short

28. They support MDs

30 Dark, sticky substance

31. “You ___ my Sunshine”

34. Gets better

36. Crowned

39. Leave out

40. They come after quarters

41. “Must be someone else”

42. Single-minded obsession

44. Dark, as a lamp

45. It’s three hours behind EST

46. Word with bronze and ice

47. Scale figs.

49. ___ Misérables

50. Ramp-regulating org.

51. One end of an iPhone charger, for short

53. Italian island that sounds like a type of pants

56. Street to the SE of 27-Down

62. One born between March 21-April 19

63. Busy (two words)

64. Origin

65. “___ evil” (1/3 of an ancient proverb)

66. See 27-Down

67 Euphoria content rating, for short

68. Comedian Minhaj

69. Home of Iowa State

70. Stiletto or wedge DOWN

1. ___ guard (soccer player’s protection)

2. Word with salad or Bell

3. Walkie talkie word

4. Termites and others

5. Magic-wielding priest or priestess

6. Coca-___

7 Prefix for hero and body

8. Garbanzo, for one

9. Avenue to the NE of 27-Down

10. Was sore

11. Animated show, for short

12. Clump of platelets

13. Snake’s greeting

21. Feminine possessive pronoun

24. Thailand neighbor

25. Chew noisily

26. Tears apart a house, on HGTV

27. With 66-Across, a local college that shut down this year

29. Part of a play

30. Courtroom proceeding

31. Ring-shaped island

32. Attach again, as with rope

33. Revises

35. Common burger toppings, briefly

37 Art ___ (Columbia County attraction)

38. ___ Arbor, MI

40. Epic story

43. Avenue to the SW of 27-Down

44. Azerbaijan was part of it until 1991, abbr

48. Monument Valley has many

50. First word in AFL

52. Start of a life

53. Card alternative

54. Geometry class

calculation

55. Coconut cream and strawberry rhubarb, for two

56. Prefix with chute

57. Particle that sounds like a man’s name

58. The sun and dough both do it

59. Soap brand

60. “I rock!”

61. And others, for short

before you go...

SHOOTING YOUR SHOT

BY JOHN GRAY

When we are little, people encourage us to dream. Whether we want to play center field for the New York Yankees or be a princess in a castle surrounded by dragons, the sky is the limit.

Then we grow up. Fantasies are replaced by necessities and paying the rent takes precedence over flights of fancy. It’s no one’s fault that the dreams die; we chalk it up to life.

Since the dawn of time, however, there have always been a persistent and lucky few who never completely let go of their dream and, despite insurmountable odds, shoot their shot, as the kids say. They risk being mocked by their friends and pursue the impossible anyway. Usually, they fail, but occasionally the gods smile on these brave souls and reward them.

For those of you harboring a secret dream of achieving the impossible, let me tell you the true story of Sadie Vimmerstedt. In 1949, Sadie was a 44-year-old beautician in Youngstown, Ohio. A widow, Sadie struggled to get by. What extra money she did have, she used to buy Frank Sinatra records, because she was his No. 1 fan in the whole wide world.

That all changed in 1950 when Ol’ Blue Eyes dumped his wife and high school sweetheart Nancy for the sexy actress Ava Gardner. Sadie was devastated and very disappointed in her idol. She stopped listening to his music and thought to herself, he gets his someday.

Sure enough, seven years later, Sadie was sitting at

her kitchen table when she read in the newspaper that Ava Gardner had kicked Sinatra to the curb. Sadie wished she was there to see it and said to herself, “I wanna be around to pick up the pieces when somebody breaks your heart.”

Sadie liked the line so much that she wrote it down on a piece of paper and showed it to a friend. That friend told Sadie that the line sounded like something the famous songwriter Johnny Mercer might come up with. Sadie thought so too.

Rather than let the matter drop, Sadie stuck the piece of paper into an envelope and sent it to Mercer. Wait—that’s not exactly true. Since she didn’t know anyone in the music industry, Sadie wrote on the front of the envelope, Johnny

the correspondence to ASCAP (that’s a publishing organization) and they forwarded it to Mercer. When he opened this note, he was touched by the innocent simplicity Sadie had shown and immediately wrote her back.

Mercer told Sadie it was a great opening line for a song and if he ever finished writing it and got someone to sing it, he’d cut her in on 10 percent of the profits. Sadie, broke as she was, wrote back saying that no payment was necessary—she was just tickled that such an important man liked her words.

Mercer, the man who founded Capitol Records and won two Academy Awards, did finish the song, gave it to Tony Bennett and “I Wanna Be Around” became a smash hit. Mercer also gave Sadie 50 percent of the profits, making the hairdresser rich.

In the 60 years since, Sadie’s song has been re-recorded by Michael Buble, Patti Page, Aretha Franklin, The Beach Boys, Bobby Darin and would you believe, Frank Sinatra. Talk about the chickens coming home to roost.

The moral of the story? No matter your