CRL June 2019

CONTENTS | JUNE 2019

24

10

COVER STORY

COLUMNS

10 Summer salads

43 Spiritual Grounding Manifesting your wishes and dreams

44 Parenting

FEATURES 17 Free-range shopping

45 Fashion Fashion FAQs

38 Four things you should know about melanoma

IN EVERY ISSUE 08

Letter

46

Arts & Entertainment

Why your teenager should get a job

21 Adirondack Jim’s rustic signs 22 Fishing in the Capital Region

38

50 Last Page with John Gray In praise of our nurses

SPECIAL SECTIONS 18 Summer adventures 24 Locally owned businesses 31 Home improvement 40 Women’s wellness

6 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

PRESIDENT & OWNER ANTHONY IANNIELLO ART DIRECTOR STEVE TEABOUT EDITOR/SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR DANI TESTA-SGUEGLIA OFFICE MANAGER/BOOKKEEPER TINA GALANTE SALES MANAGER TERESA FRAZER MEDICAL & SALES ASSOCIATE CAROLE KILPATRICK SALES ASSOCIATE TARA BUFFA SALES ASSISTANT TRACY MOMROW SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR ABBY TEGNELIA CONTRIBUTING WRITERS PAT BANKER RANDY CALE LUANN CONLON JOHN GRAY JOEY GRECO SANDY TIERNAN MENZER VIKKI MORAN NANCY MULDOON AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

HOME OFFICE 12 AVIS DRIVE #20 LATHAM, NEW YORK 12110 PHONE: 518.294.4390 FIND US ONLINE AT CRLMAG.COM SERVING THE GREATER CAPITAL REGION AND BEYOND Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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LETTER

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here is a relatively new meme out there in the ether renaming May as “May‐cember,” essentially com‐ paring the tasks, activities, and goings‐on scheduled for our bustling May to those that happen around the holidays. We have heard May referred to as “the holidays without the lights.” In reflection on our May, we have to agree with this sentiment.

Many of you have been on this journey with us, learning, as we did, of Vikki Moran’s much‐deserved retire‐ ment. While we are missing her jokes and infectious laughter in the office, we know that her spirit and tutelage can be felt in the pages that follow.

Vikki has certainly left a legacy and on May 20th we celebrated, in true CRL style, our Besties at our 4th Annual BestieFest. This was truly Vikki’s baby – an idea borne out of a dream. As we celebrated over 300 Besties, we know that values embraced and cultivated by Vikki and Dan – those of championing local business, of loving where we live, and enjoying the pure joys of life – will continue to be the backbone of everything we do here at Capital Region Living Magazine.

So as we say goodbye to a hectic May and welcome June, we look towards the bliss of sun‐kissed produce, laughter, peonies on the wind, and bright days that melt to an inky night sky.

You already know how we feel about our local businesses, so take some time to learn more about the businesses that grow and thrive in our backyard. We have also collected some amazing summer salad recipes from our local partners. We invite you to try a few – even pack a couple as you head out into your Summer Adventure. If you aren’t sure where to go, we have a few suggestions. But as you adventure, make sure to take the advice that the American Cancer Society lays out in their column.

Stay healthy and safe this summer and continue on this journey with us as we grow, thrive and continue to love where we live!

From our family to yours, we continue to be…

Gratefully yours,

The CRL Team

8 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

9

Summer Salads

Seared Ahi Tuna Salad - Old Daley Custom Caterers olddaley.com

Photo courtesy of Old Daley Custom Caterers

For the Ahi Tuna 6-8 ounces Ahi Tuna Loin Salt, pepper for seasoning Black and white sesame seeds 1 tablespoon high temp vegetable oil • Heat oil in an iron pan on high heat. Season tuna with salt and seeds and sear on each side for about 8 seconds. Place on a plate and refrigerate to cool.

¼ tablespoon sesame oil ½ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon sugar ½ teaspoon honey ½ teaspoon kosher salt Pinch of red pepper flakes Pinch of black pepper • Combine in a bowl or glass jar with a lid

For the Slaw 1 cucumber, seeded and sliced into a fine julienne ½ red bell pepper, fine julienne ½ yellow bell pepper, fine julienne 1 cup shredded red cabbage ½ cup shredded carrot 1 stalk celery, bias julienne 1 stalk scallion, bias julienne ¼ bunch of cilantro, chiffonade 1 cup of arugula or mixed greens 1 tablespoon of white sesame seeds 1 tablespoon of black sesame seeds • Combine all ingredients in a bowl and set aside

Sesame-Lime Vinaigrette Juice and zest from 3 limes

For the Wasabi Aoili ¼ cup wasabi powder ½ cup of water ½ lemon, juiced 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon honey Pinch of kosher salt Pinch of black pepper • Combine in a bowl Assemble on a platter or two plates: • Cut chilled tuna into thin slices. Mix slaw ingredients with sesame lime vinaigrette and place on a platter. Layer sliced tuna along the top of the slaw and zig-zag drizzle with wasabi aloili.

• Garnish with scallions and black and white sesame seeds.

Spiced pecan grilled peach salad with goat cheese

Photo courtesy of Family Features

Summer means it's time to stock up on fresh produce and light the grill for a season of outdoor gatherings with friends and family. Make entertaining easier with flavorful options that can make menu-planning a breeze all summer long.

A nutritious and versatile ingredient, American Pecans can be your secret weapon for a variety of entertaining occasions.

Add one bag of pecans to your shopping list and transform standby recipes into wholesome and delicious meals and snacks for the whole crowd.

Enjoy the long summer nights on the back porch with a Spiced Pecan Grilled Peach Salad, packed with the essential flavors and textures of summertime.

Discover more summertime entertaining recipes and cooking tips at AmericanPecan.com.

Spiced Pecans ingredients 1 egg white 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 2 cups pecan halves

Salad ingredients 1/4 cup, plus 2 teaspoons, extra-virgin olive oil or pecan oil, divided 1/4 cup white wine vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 large peaches, halved and pitted 6 cups mixed baby greens 4 ounces soft goat cheese

Directions • To make spiced pecans: Heat oven to 275˚ F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a bowl, whisk egg white, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and salt until well combined. Fold in pecans and mix until evenly coated. Spread in single layer on baking sheet.

• Bake 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally until pecans are fragrant and golden brown. Allow to cool completely.

• To make dressing: In bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Set aside.

• Brush cut sides of peach halves with remaining olive oil; grill on a preheated, medium temp grill until grill lines appear and peaches become tender, about 3-5 minutes. Remove peaches and slice.

• Divide greens among four plates. Top with grilled peach slices and goat cheese. Divide 1 cup spiced pecans evenly among salads and reserve remaining for snack. Top each salad with drizzle of vinaigrette. (Family Features)

Ric Orlando’s Vietnamese salad – New World Bistro & Bar newworldbistrobar.com

Photo courtesy of New World Bistro & Bar

Here is my signature Vietnamese salad. I have always loved the mix of raw veggies, sprouts, and herbs in a good Vietnamese salad. I have made it with so many ingredients; green mango and papaya, bitter lettuces, shaved wax and green beans, snow peas, long beans, shaved melon ... and they are all great, but they have limited seasons. I wanted this to be a year-round dish on my menu, so I worked it to the existing set up of cabbage, carrots, daikon, cukes, scallions, sprouts, herbs, peanuts and just a bit of lettuce.

But feel free at add whatever turns you on. When designing the dressing, I originally went with a basic Nuoc Cham; fish sauce, shallot, lime, sugar water. But I needed more tang, and that is where the tamarind comes in. This dressing is so addictive.

Veggies for the salad; Included but not limited to: cabbage, shaved crisp lettuce, shaved green or wax beans, shaved thinly carrots, julienne daikon radish, julienne cucumbers, peeled and sliced into half moons scallions, chopped mung bean sprouts chopped peanuts

basil, Thai or cinnamon basil, mint, cilantro, torn into pieces I like to cut everything not too small; as if it were going to be a stir fry

Dressing 1/2 cup palm or brown sugar 3 tablespoons tamarind concentrate * Asian or Indian market 1/4 cup hot water 1 cup rice vinegar 1/4 cup peanut oil 1/2 cup fish sauce 1/4 cup white sesame seeds • Heat the vinegar and water and pour over the sugar and tamarind. Dissolve the sugar and tamarind in the warm water and vinegar. Then add the oil, fish sauce, and sesame seeds.

Whisk together well.

• At New World, we layer the mix of cabbage, crispy lettuce, carrots, scallions, mung bean sprouts, cucumbers, daikon radish, mint, cilantro, basil and chopped peanut for our Vietnamese salad and we serve it in a bowl with chopsticks.

• Drizzle the dressing over generously.

• For a vegan version, omit the fish sauce and use tamari or soy sauce

Summer chopped salad with lemon vinaigrette – Oliva! Gourmet Olive Oils & Vinegars olivaevoo.com

Photo courtesy of Oliva! Gourmet Olive Oils and Vinegars

Salad ingredients

Dressing ingredients

5 cups mixed greens or 1 head romaine, chopped 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped 1 cup granny smith apples, sliced thin 1 cup red onion, sliced thin 1 cup green or red grapes, halved 1 cup mandarin oranges, juice drained 1 cup strawberries, halved ½ cup blueberries 1 cup walnuts ¾ cup blue cheese or gorgonzola, crumbled 2 avocados, cubed

⅔ cup Olíva! Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil ⅓ cup Olíva! Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic 2 ½ teaspoon dijon mustard salt & pepper

Directions • In a large bowl, toss together the greens, chicken, bacon, apples, red onion, grapes, oranges, strawberries, walnuts, cheese, and avocado.

• For the dressing, whisk together the Olíva! Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Olíva! Sicilian Lemon White Balsamic, dijon mustard, salt & pepper.

• Toss the salad with your preferred amount of dressing. Serve & enjoy!

Chop Salad - 677 Prime 677prime.com

Photo courtesy of 677 Prime

Serves 4

Directions

3 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped 1 cup romaine, chopped ½ cup radicchio, chopped ½ cup red onion, diced ¾ cup tomato, diced ½ cup cucumber, peeled and diced 1 avocado, diced ¾ cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese ¾ cup 677 Prime’s White Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing (see recipe) 1 ½ cup buttermilk fried onions (see recipe) Toss together all ingredients except dressing and buttermilk fried onions. Drizzle in dressing to liking and toss until combined. Fill salad into a round mold to form (optional), remove mold and top with fried onions.

• Place oil in pot and heat to 375 degrees. Pour buttermilk into a medium-sized bowl.

• Soak onions in buttermilk for about 15 minutes. Combine flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a shallow dish.

• Remove onions from the bowl and toss in flour until evenly covered. Remove onions from flour mixture and carefully drop in oil and fry until golden brown.

• Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel lined plate.

For the Buttermilk Fried Onions Makes: 3 cups 1 small white onion, sliced into 1/8 inch rings 1 cup flour 1 tablespoon paprika 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup buttermilk 2 cups vegetable oil

For the 677 Prime White Balsamic Vinaigrette Makes: 2 cups ¾ cup white balsamic vinegar 1 ½ garlic cloves 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ teaspoon salt ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 tablespoon granulated sugar 1 cup canola oil

Directions • Combine all ingredients except oil in a blender. Thoroughly blend. With the blender still running, slowly drizzle in oil until completely combined. Chill and serve.

Świeża Sałata (Fresh salad with creamy dill dressing) – Muza muzaeuropeanfood.com

Photo courtesy of Muza

Salad ingredients 1 package of spring mix 2 medium red beets 2 hard boiled egg, quartered 1 red onion, sliced Fresh dill sprigs 6 radishes, sliced 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup bacon crumbles 1 medium carrot, sliced 1 pint of cherry tomatoes

2 tablespoon fresh dill 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions The day before: Preheat oven to 375°F. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 1 hour or until tender. Once roasted, remove the skin and chill.

Preparing the salad: Lay spring mix in a large bowl. Top with chilled beets and remaining ingredients.

Dressing ingredients 1/4 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Dressing: In a food processor combine all dressing ingredients.

Puree for 20 seconds. Best if refrigerated for 30 minutes before serving.

Free-range shopping – Now open!

By Pat Banker, Cornell Cooperative Extension

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ith the last whispers of a very long winter firmly behind us and foliage in full verdant bloom, Mother Nature loudly announces that free‐range shopping is now open!

What is “Free‐range shopping?” It is a means of freely gathering nutritious and deli‐ cious food more commonly known as “forag‐ ing.” By mid to late April, as top layers of soil are visible and warmed by the sun, delicious morsels are offered free for the picking.

Some of the earliest available plants include dandelion, sunchokes, and ramps.

Dandelion, taraxacum officianle, roots may be harvested when deeper layers of soil are still frozen. As soon as the plant is barely visible, the taproot is cleaned, chopped and roasted in a 250‐300 degree oven until the smell is remi‐ niscent of brownies cooking. The roasted roots may then be ground in a coffee grinder or blender to make a delicious hot beverage that is low in calories, high in antioxidants, vita‐ mins, and minerals. Dandelion tea, a healthy coffee substitute, is also a diuretic that does not deplete beneficial potassium. When the dandelion’s leaves appear and are under 3 inches in length, the plant, along with the crown attached, can be harvested, washed, dipped in a light tempura batter and fried in a little oil until crispy and golden in color. This dish is called “Yard Squid” by 4H members who have enjoyed this nutty, sweet treat.

Dandelion flowers can be made into fritters, jelly, wine, and dehydrated and ground into a healthy, delicious flour additive used in baking.

Sunchokes, or Jerusalem Artichokes, helianthus tuberosa, are a member of the sun‐ flower family and native to the Northeast. The plant grows upwards of 10 feet in height and produces several small, yellow flowers. The tubers produced can be harvested in the late fall after several frosts and as soon as the soil is friable to a depth of 4‐6 inches in the spring.

The tubers are starchy and nutty in flavor, deli‐ cious roasted with meats and other root veg‐ etables, and sliced into French fries.

Ramps, or wild leeks, alium tricocum, started appearing in early‐mid May. Leaves are lily‐like in appearance so be certain there is a strong smell of onion or garlic when the leaf is bruised. Ramps can be harvested with the bulb and leaves. Please be aware that the ramp only reproduces with seeds that are formed every 5‐7 years. The germination rate is poor and can take up to 18 months. Pulling up the

entire plant will permanently stop the repro‐ ductive cycle. Many areas are now depleted of this pungent, but delicious, plant because of overharvesting. Sustainable harvesting is a must. Harvesting the leaves by cutting a cou‐ ple from each plant does not harm the plant.

The fresh leaves can be used in recipes, dehy‐ drated for long term usage, or chopped, blanched and frozen. The leaf is loaded with all the distinct wild ramp flavor. If the bulb is pulled from the ground, cutting off the rootlets with some of the bulb attached and placing it back in the soil will help ensure the colony is available for many more years.

Tips for safe Free-range shopping: • Do not harvest on private property without asking • Do not harvest on state land • Do not harvest within 200 ft of a high‐ way, under power lines where herbicides are used, along railroad tracks, near canals, drainage ditches, or any polluted waterways • Do not harvest next to farm fields • Check any new food for allergic reactions • Protect yourself from ticks • Procure at least two good identification guide books and learn from people who have knowledge and experience in identification, preparation, and stewardship of wild edibles CRL

Photos by Pat Banker

Taste nature with these upcoming events: Wild Edibles walks with the author: June 5, 12, 19, and 26th July 10, 17, and 24th August 14 and 21st 7/11 & 8/22 Wild Kids workshops are scheduled at the VIC for ages 12+.

9/28 Wild Edibles and Medicinal History Workshop; Hands‐on identification, making a full wild lunch, and preservation of your wild harvest. This workshop is from 9am – 2pm All walks are 1 ½ hours and take place at the Paul Smiths College, VIC, 7833 Co Rt 30, Paul Smiths, NY 12970. Visit paulsmiths.edu/vic for more information and to register.

Cornell Cooperative Extension also offers short classes and longer workshops in identification and utilization of wild edibles. Contact the CCE office, 518.483.7403 for more information.

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Summer adventures PUTNAM COUNTY visitputnam.org hether you’re seeking the majestic beauty of the Hudson River, gentle rolling hills, quaint villages, or the bucolic tranquility of farm life, Putnam County has a wealth of offerings for visitors seeking the best of the Hudson Valley.

Conveniently located and easily accessible to and from New York City, Putnam offers unexpected year‐round attractions just an hour’s drive north of midtown Manhattan. Looking for outdoor recreational activities? Putnam has a range of possibilities – from swimming, hiking, and golf on elite courses in the warmer months, to snowboarding and skiing each winter.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll be thrilled at how our innovative chefs transform fresh, local ingredients into superb artisanal dining offerings.

Arts lovers will be drawn to Putnam’s numerous festivals, theaters, gal‐ leries, museums, and music venues. And if you’re a history buff, you’ll find significant historical sites and well‐preserved, elegant 19th‐century estates.

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Children will always find something fun to do, with countless edu‐ cational programs and the annual Putnam County Fair. And given the diverse options in lodging, including inns and B&B’s, families will always find a welcoming home away from home.

So, come join us! Explore some of the hidden gems of the Hudson Valley by spending a day, a weekend, or even your next vacation in Putnam County, where there’s something for everyone, no matter what you may be looking for.

SARANAC LAKE ROOST – Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism 518.523.2445; roostadk.com ravel just a little north of the Capital Region for some fresh mountain air and pristine waterways. Saranac Lake makes the perfect basecamp for all your Adirondack adventures. With more than 30,000 miles of streams and brooks, 2,300 ponds and lakes, and 1,500 miles of rivers in the six million acre wilderness you will not grow bored with options to swim, paddle, or boat. Around town,

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you will find plenty of gear shops providing all you need for the perfect paddle, including guided tours. Spend time exploring one of the three major Saranac Lakes. Get lost in the St. Regis Wilderness Canoe Area. Exploration under a moonlit and starry sky encouraged!

Hear the wild call of the loons and soak in the views of mountains and wildlife all around.

To combine your paddling with more out‐ door fun, hit the trails biking or hiking. Saranac Lake is becoming a premier destination for mountain biking in the Northeast, and hiking has always been our tradition. Hike all six nearby peaks to earn a Saranac Lake 6er patch. The famed Mt. Baker still remains one of the most popular hikes in the Adirondacks.

At the end of one adventure, you will arrive at another…to a downtown bustling with live music, art, and innovative restau‐ rants. The village is still alive with its rich eclec‐ tic history that brought people from all over the world to our mountain village. Come see why Saranac Lake is the decidedly different mountain village with the most to offer.

AMTRAK Various destinations 800.872.7245; amtrak.com ee New York and save 15%. Travel through New York in comfort, not traffic. Enjoy miles of legroom and extra‐wide seats while you explore New York on Amtrak.

Enjoy nature’s kaleidoscope of colors on the Adirondack, rated a “Top 10 Most Scenic Train Ride in the World” as you discover why hikers, leaf‐peepers and snow‐lovers make annual pilgrimages to Lake Champlain’s shores. Along the way, history comes alive in places like Saratoga Springs and Ticonderoga.

Ride the Empire Service train to New York City. The city that never sleeps invites you to catch a show, walk the High Line’s elevated urban oasis or stroll the Brooklyn Bridge.

Explore Central Park on bike or marvel at the metropolis from the top of the Empire State Building. Catch a ferry to Lady Liberty and then explore your roots at Ellis Island.

Pack your passport and explore the inter‐ national energy of New York and Toronto on the Maple Leaf. Bring your appetite and grab some wings in Buffalo and some poutine on Parliament Street. Admire the power of Niagara Falls and the perseverance of those who trav‐ eled the Underground Railroad to freedom.

Celebrate the history, heroes, cuisine and cul‐ ture of two great nations on one great journey.

The Ethan Allen travels east to Vermont.

Once you step off the train, there's easy access to Vermont's downtown hotels, B&B's and inns. Vermont's downtowns are home to unique local businesses, locavore restaurants, historic architecture, as well as rich cultural and social activities. Book your unforgettable excursion on Amtrak today.

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A handcrafted Adirondack icon

By Nancy Muldoon

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he Adirondack Park was established in 1892. It is comprised of six million acres and includes both public and pri‐ vate land. Those of us who live in upstate New York understand full well just how blessed we are having the Adirondacks as our own per‐ sonal backyard. All that the Adirondacks offers; hiking, camping, kayaking, sailing, etc., suggests a longing for a simpler time that many people, even city slickers crave. The Adirondack region attracts 7‐10 million people every year.

We know we have arrived at the Adirondack Park region when we see those distinctive brown and yellow signs. They have become the definitive symbol of New York States ‘forever wild’ Adirondack Park. The iconic signs are a source of pride and comfort to tourists and locals alike. The significance of the Adirondack brown color of the signs is to compliment the natural beauty of the region, and the yellow is easily visible out on the trail.

Jim Thomson of Adirondack Jim’s Rustic Signs first hiked in the Adirondacks while he was in graduate school in 1989. That hike left an indelible mark on his soul. He knew then that he wanted to call the Adirondack region his home. “The Adirondacks are part of me; it’s a place where I feel alive and at peace. It’s kind of a haven and a spiritual place. I would see those trail signs, and I would get goose‐ bumps.” That was the inspiration to begin making the hand‐carved Adirondack signs.

Thomson lives in Saratoga County but is originally from Rochester. He started carving just for fun and educated himself on all things related to woodworking. He read books and watched videos and spent many hours in his garage. After some trial and error, he began making Adirondack signs in 2009 and has not had a slow season since. “Nobody else does hand‐carved work anymore,” said Thomson.

He used to make Adirondack furniture and is completely self‐taught. Jim uses a combination of tools for the signs. His main carving tool is a hand‐held electric router which is normally used for cabinetry. He uses hand tools mainly for layout and design. Pencil, straight edge, T‐ square, as everything is hand scribed.

“Because I also mill, shape and laminate, I have a complete woodshop of power tools.”

Visitors love to buy Adirondack themed merchandise to remember their visit. “Most people who come to me, do so because they want a handcrafted look,” said Jim. There is a huge market for these nostalgic signs.

“People who live and work here [Capital Region] are loyal to the Adirondacks,” said Thomson. Many hikers who have climbed all

Photos by Jim Thomson

46 high peaks in the Adirondacks have a sign made to commemorate their achievement.

The Department of Environmental Conservation and the Adirondack Mountain Club maintain the trails in the Adirondacks.

They both have incredibly informative and detailed websites.

Thomson has furnished signs for Hollywood movie productions and most recently a sign for the Adirondack Welcome Center at the rest area on the Northbound side of the Northway just before exit 18. He has been asked to do signs for weddings, farms, restaurants, boats, and other businesses. He

also does custom home signage. Thomson has also done more major projects such as signs for clothier Aeropostale, post‐production work for the movie Wild based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. “It’s such a niche market. When people want some‐ thing that looks rustic, I’m the go‐to guy.”

Jim primarily uses cedar and pine for his signs which are softwoods appropriate for carving. “Cedar is resistant to rot and decay. It will turn silvery gray,” said Thomson. “Pine signs are not really meant for outdoors. He also uses white oak, walnut, poplar plywood, and Douglas fir. If properly cared for, the signs will last indefinitely. Direct sunlight and water will shorten the life of the signs. Thomson offers free touch ups on all of his signs, but he hasn’t had any requests for those yet. The craftsmanship of the signs is beautiful and immensely popular. It is not unusual for peo‐ ple to bring Thomson various slabs of wood for carving. “So long as it can be carved, I can do it.” Thomson currently has an eight‐week wait‐ ing list.

Thomson also works full‐time as a social‐ worker for New York State. “I will do this [make signs] full‐time when I retire.” In the meantime, he happily fills orders for his signs in his time‐off and on weekends. Thomson does all of his work from his home workshop.

Jim has a heavy social media presence on both Facebook and Instagram. “Everything is social media.”

The “Please Register” signs are perfect for Adirondack themed weddings, which are becoming increasingly popular. Guests love signing in at the register box. They are also appropriate for family cabins. “Every Lake has a cabin, and every cabin needs a sign.”

CRL quips Thomson.

Contact information: NYS Department of Conservation, dec.ny.gov Adirondack Mountain Club, adk.org Adirondack Jim, 518.207.6205; adirondackjims.com Instagram at adirondackjim Facebook as Adirondack Jim’s Rustic Signs

Fun facts about the Adirondacks: • Mount Marcy is the highest point in all of New York State at 5,344 ft.

• The Adirondack Park is larger than Yellow Stone Park, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and Yosemite park combined • There are 3,000 lakes and ponds in the Adirondacks • The park boasts 200,000 seasonal residents and 130,000 year‐round residents • The elevation of the Adirondacks rises each year by 3 millimeters • There is no fee to enter the park • Mud Season is April‐May (sometimes June) • 7‐10 million people visit the Adirondacks every year • The Adirondack Park was created in 1892 by the State of New York CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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Photos by Joey Greco

Fishing throughout the Capital Region

By Joey Greco

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wo of my favorite things in life join forces during June, July, and August; fishing and the Capital Region. There are a staggering number of action‐packed angling opportunities right here in our area.

We are so fortunate to be surrounded by an endless number of rivers, lakes, ponds, and creeks most of which are teeming with a vari‐ ety of freshwater fish species. During this “warm water” period these systems become plentiful with forage, vegetation, oxygen and of course hungry fish awaiting their next meal!

Fish generally feed very aggressively during summer months to keep up with their rapidly increasing metabolism, which is regulated by water temperature. This can translate into some of the most fantastic fishing of the year!

Here is a quick breakdown of Capital Region hot spots, including some of my personal favorite techniques that will hopefully help you catch “the big one”!

22 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

Saratoga County Saratoga Lake, aka “the fish factory” is one of the best fisheries in the area for action and numbers. Whether it’s bass, crappie, bluegill or walleye, this lake will never disap‐ point, and even the novice angler can typically experience some success here. During June and July, we love using our Costa Del Mar polarized sunglasses to actually “sight fish” for crappie and bass hanging off weed edges and under docks. Bring a light‐action Daiwa Procyon spinning rod spooled up with some J‐ Braid and a few curly tail grubs on a 1/16 oz jig head and you will likely return with a tired arm. Try casting at these fish from a distance and on a slow retrieve wait for the classic “tick” of a bite.

This lake is a great place to take kids fish‐ ing as the abundant bluegill population will keep them busy for hours with a few simple

pieces of equipment. Some worms and small jig head in the 1/32oz size are all you need to catch these hard fighters on 4 to 6lb test line.

Look for deep weeds and wood, docks or other vertical structure where these little critters like to hang out all summer. Access this lake at the state launch at the north end off of Route 9P. Lake Lonely is a small lake that can pay big dividends! This small murky lake in Saratoga County has a great population of northern pike, black crappie and largemouth bass. To target bass and pike, black weedless jigs flipped on heavy braided line to the edge of weed lines will produce many strikes come June and July. For more information contact the Lake Lonely Boat Livery for week‐to‐week reports, boat rentals, and advice.

Washington County The Battenkill and Metawee Rivers have

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Warren County

CH

Y COUNTY B ‘EM Washington County Saratoga County

Schenectady County

Greene County

some of the finest trout fishing in all of NYS. Sections declared "catch and release only" con‐ sistently produce some really incredible speci‐ mens, and anglers travel from all over to fish here. All your classic stream trout lures will pro‐ duce fish here such as gold phoebe, small trout imitating stick baits and a variety of flies and streamers. Small yozuri stick baits in gold or trout patterns can be red‐hot during high water conditions. Consider hiring a local guide if you are unfamiliar with these bodies of water.

that does not get very much angling pressure and has some real monsters living in it! Work the lily pads early in the morning with frogs for Largemouth bass and troll lake clear wobblers with a #4 hook and half a nightcrawler for trout during the daytime. The "ledges" on the northern shoreline of the lake hold some nice trout early in the season. You can access Brant Lake at the state launch on the very southwest end of the lake.

Schenectady County Warren County Lake George is near and dear to my heart as I was raised fishing there with my father.

Lake trout, salmon and smallmouth bass rule these gin‐clear waters. Lake trout can be caught trolling lead core line with fluorocarbon leaders and a variety of spoons. We love our Mooselook wobblers in gold, silver, and the classic OBD or “orange with black dots.” For Smallmouth Bass live crayfish are the ticket and anglers can expe‐ rience 50 to 100 fish days when the bite is right.

Our favorite month for bass is late August and early September. Fish in 30 to 50 feet of water during this period and look for large schools of bass. This is a clear water fishery and using the lightest line possible will increase your catch rates. Stop by Fish 307 and see Jeff Goldberg for bait and tackle needs, he will get you pointed in the right direction.

Brant Lake is another great hidden gem

The mighty Mohawk River! Thousands of people drive over some of the best fishing spots every day. With the abundance of dams, bridges and rocky structure populations of smallmouth bass and walleye thrive and do not get nearly the attention they deserve.

Jigging is my favorite technique in the Mohawk and using a variety of jigs 1/8 to 1/2 oz in con‐ junction with plastic swimbaits, and crayfish imitations are lethal. I love the Custom Jigs and Spins Puls‐R Paddle Tail in White and Chartreuse/Orange core. Casting into deep holes, along dams and rip‐rap and retrieving the bait against the current, making periodic bottom contact, is a deadly technique for wall‐ eye and bass.

Greene County This section of the Hudson River is highly revered for its spring striped bass run but also

has some phenomenal fishing for plenty of other species. Smallmouth Bass grow very large in this stretch and can be caught on a variety of crankbaits and crayfish imitating jigs. Many streams in Greene County produce bountiful catches of brown, rainbow and brook trout as well. The Catskill Creek is a favorite and access sites can be found on dec.ny.gov.

To fish for these wary creatures stealth is essential to ensure the fish are unaware of your presence. Salted minnows, nightcrawlers, and Mepps spinners are great producers for trout anglers of all experience levels. During the summer months look for active fish early in the morning and work deep water retreats later in the day. Learning how to "read the river" will come with experience. Any current seam, wood structure, deep pool or other small variation in the habitat could potentially hold trout.

There you have it! Whether you're look‐ ing for the biggest fish of your life, a wily trout or you're just happy getting outdoors to wet a line there is surely somewhere nearby to expe‐ rience summer fishing in the Capital Region.

Fish ON! CRL Joey Greco is an NYS licensed guide with Justy‐ Joe Sport fishing charters (newyorkfishing.com) Joey’s philosophy on fishing and his recipe for success is to think like a fish, pay attention to details and never stop learning!

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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LOCALLY OWNED | BUSINESSES What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

What we love about the Capital Region is the diversity and friendliness of our cus­ tomers. Most everyone who walks through our door has an interesting story to share.

Spending time engaging with them is the best part of our day.

Patti Varga | The Cross Eyed Owl Gift Shop

THE CROSS EYED OWL GIFT SHOP 3143 US HIGHWAY 9, SUITE 8, VALATIE 518.758.6755; CROSSEYEDOWL.COM

Owner:

Patti Varga Describe your business with a brief history:

The Cross­Eyed Owl has been a 'go­to' gift shop in Columbia County for the past 25 years. We hand select each greeting card, gift item, and home décor piece to have something for everyone. Customers always tell us, “There's no way you can't find a gift for someone here." The shop is displayed by theme, so it makes it so easy to find exactly what you're looking for.

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

Larry Dickinson | The Towne Tavern

Our inventory is constantly changing. We are always seeking out the most fun and functional items for our customers, so there is always something new. Right now we love the American­made wooden signs by one of our favorite new vendors P Graham Dunn. We've been working on expanding our “Made in the USA” offerings.

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

When I have time, I like to work in my gar­ dens both at home and at the shop, hike, and travel when I can. That and a nap; naps are good too!

THE TOWNE TAVERN 2850 NY 43, AVERILL PARK 518.674.3040; THETOWNETAVERN.COM

Owner:

Larry Dickinson Describe your business with a brief history:

We are a locally­owned restaurant focused on making food with quality ingredients from scratch. We smoke our own meats, make all of our own sauces and dressings and have daily specials to keep things inter­ esting for our loyal regular customers.

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

An advantage of being located in the

VOTED BEST

West Sand Lake/Averill Park Restaurant

Finalist for Chicken Wings, Ribs

We invite you to come enjoy our award-winning food in the comfort of our renovated 1800s blacksmith shop creek-side in Averill Park. If you are stopping in for drink with friends or a family dinner, we have it all. Try our many barbeque entrees, slow cooked on premises, our award-winning pizza or one of our many home-style entrees. Our upstairs dining room features a private room for that perfect party!

GOOD FOOD ~ GOOD TIMES ~ GOOD FRIENDS

TREAT DAD TO THE BEST RESTAURANT IN AVERILL PARK

JUNE ENTERTAINMENT Saturday 1 ~ Morizio Friday 7 ~ DJ Sal Saturday 8 ~ School Bus Yellow Thursday 13 ~ Trivial Trivia Saturday 15 ~ Shyne

Friday 21 ~ Erin Harkes Saturday 22 ~ Doug Villano Band Thursday 27 ~ Trivial Trivia Saturday 29 ~ Gotham City

2850 NY 43 • Averill Park • 518.674.3040 • thetownetavern.com 24 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

Capital Region is definitely the connection to our community. This is a place where people raise families and have ties that will keep them coming “home” for a long time.

that it is a walkable city. Our customers work and/or live in the downtown area.

Troy has gone through a revitalization the past five years and has become a destina­ tion.

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

The hard work that our kitchen staff puts into preparing all of our menu items. Our food does not come from a frozen package, but rather, it is made from scratch by our staff here. You don’t see that in many places! We will be putting on some fresh salad specials and oysters for the summer.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

Rhe Potenza | Truly Rhe

TRULY RHE 1 BROADWAY, TROY 518.273.1540; TRULYRHE.COM

Owner:

Our daily lunch and dinner specials are where we put new things out for our cus­ tomers to try. We appreciate feedback and are always interested to know what our customers want to see more of. We also have an excellent selection of craft beers that are always changing.

Rhe Potenza

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

What advantage does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

Sit down for a nice meal with family and friends.

Describe your business with a brief history:

Truly Rhe is a clothing boutique nestled in the heart of downtown Troy. We opened our doors in September 2007. This September on Troy Night Out we will cele­ brate our twelfth anniversary.

One of the advantages of being in Troy is

Everything about my business excites me and better yet it continues to excite our cus­ tomers. New merchandise arrives almost on a daily basis and we now have a denim department! We have a great assortment of jeans and overalls.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

Keeping the merchandise fresh and contin­ ually updating keeps my regular customers coming back.

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

When I am not in my shop you will proba­ bly find me in my garden during the Spring and Summer months. I keep the shop filled with fresh flowers and you will always smell the scent of fresh herbs throughout the shop.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

25

2004, I purchased the OCA building in Cohoes, which sits on the corner of 787 and Ontario Street. We now have over 28 full­ time associates and a handful of part­time and seasonal employees. Our 10,000+ square foot building, has the largest show­ room in the Capital District, and we have the capability of embroidering, screen­ printing, heat sealing, and sublimating apparel and promotional items. In addi­ tion, we build and laser engrave our own custom trophies, plaques, and corporate awards right here on­site.

Steven A. Pesta | Awards by Walsh’s & Creative Marketing, Inc.

What advantage does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

AWARDS BY WALSH’S & CREATIVE MARKETING, INC.

We are centrally located in New York State which makes it easy to serve the surround­ ing cities.

233 ONTARIO STREET, COHOES 518.235.6362; AWARDSBYWALSH.COM

Owner:

Steven A. Pesta Describe your business with a brief history:

I would say I am as close to the American dream as possible. I started my business in a small office in Cohoes Bowl 29 years ago, outgrew that space many times over and, in

26 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

We are the only member of the highly regarded Awards Association of America from NYS and one of only 63 companies to be recognized nationally by this organization.

We are constantly updating our equipment with the newest technology and have just added a new laser engraver, banner print­

ing machine and a sandblasting machine to our arsenal of in­house equipment.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

We try to adapt to our customer’s needs by offering webstores and new product lines, as well as keeping up with the most up­to­ date brands.

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

I go to my camp on Saratoga Lake and take my pontoon boat out for a ride with my wife.

THE WINE SHOP 265 NEW SCOTLAND AVENUE, ALBANY 518.438.1116; THEWINESHOPALBANY.COM

Owner:

Joe Maloney Describe your business with a brief history:

We are a full­service wine and spirits shop that has been in business since the day Prohibition ended in 1933. We feature rare, vintage and everyday wines as well as a wide variety of spirits including single­malt scotches, bourbons, and artisan vodkas, gins, liqueurs, and whiskeys.

of upcoming wine tastings, specials, and discounts.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

Joe Maloney | The Wine Shop

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

We enjoy and appreciate the decades­long support of an amazing Albany neighbor­ hood. The Capital Region is so accessible that it’s easy for out of town customers to shop our store for those rare, hard to find special bottles of wine.

Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

We have a customer base that is always eager to learn more about wine and spirits.

Bringing in new products for them to try is the most satisfying aspect of our customer service. We now include a text marketing VIP Club platform to inform our customers

Our Friday night wine tastings are a big driver of customer excitement and engage­ ment. The tasting hours are friendly, fun, and full of excitement for what we’re pour­ ing. We even bring out some older vintage wines to sample. It’s like a block party every Friday night!

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

I enjoy cooking and baking with my wife and keeping in touch with our two college­aged children. I also love hiking, skiing, and golf.

Walking with my dog Charlie in Thacher Park is an every­morning occurrence.

J. HUNZIKER PAVING, LLC. WYNANTSKILL 518.585.7917; JHUNZIKERPAVINGLLC.COM

Owner:

Jason Hunziker Describe your business with a brief history:

I founded the business when I was 25 years old after working in construction since I was old enough to work. I am self­motivated and

Jason Hunziker | J. Hunziker Paving, LLC

goal oriented, and I wanted to provide my customers with an outstanding experience from the start of their project to the end.

We provide commercial and residential paving and seal coating to ensure the long life of your paved surface.

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

This area is seeing a lot of growth, and the economy is great. This is providing us with excellent opportunities to serve our cus­ tomers and grow as a company.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

27

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

Because I am a younger business owner, I get to compete with more established com­ panies. I push myself to stay on top of the technology and equipment and always make sure that we have the most up to date technology making for a better project, start to finish. I love seeing our finished projects all around the area!

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

We make sure that our logos and market­ ing stay fresh and I make sure that my crews always arrive on site with a great, positive attitude.

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

We keep a boat on Lake George. We love to get away and spend time as a family, and of course, my three­year­old keeps me busy and smiling.

PRECISION UPSTATE, LLC. 115 FREEMAN'S BRIDGE ROAD, SCOTIA 518.631.2268; PRECISIONUPSTATE.COM

Owner:

Peter Klein Describe your business with a brief history:

Precision Upstate designs & installs quality custom closets, shower doors, glass and mirrors for homeowners, builders and con­ tractors exclusively in Upstate NY. With over 50 employees, 15 installation trucks and 2 facilities, we are the largest installer in Upstate NY. What advantage does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

Focus… being a local company allows us to focus on our presence in the Capital Region.

We have our local design center in Scotia to inspire our customers and facilitate their choices in designing: · Custom closets · Shower enclosures · Printed glass · Custom glass · Custom mirrors We work with and for local builders, home­ owners, architects, designers, and realtors to design & install quality custom closets and showers. And we do everything with “Precision”…you should too.

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers?

In 2018 we won the design award from

28 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

Peter Klein | Precision Upstate, LLC

Monica Kasongo Muamba | Mkas Lika

CRBRA for printed glass. Since then we have developed a number of beautiful applica­ tions for glass countertops, backsplashes, fireplaces, and wine cellars. It’s truly an amazing look that couldn’t be achieved any other way. We are extremely excited and so are our customers who have seen it.

with joy because they have purchased some­ thing that is unique that they feel good wearing. The confidence of my customer is my business and quality is the mission.

MKas Lika will begin offering CPR classes in our conference room starting June 2019.

Check our website for more details.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

We are investing; in people, systems, and procedures. We remodeled our design cen­ ter in 2018 and added a second facility in Rotterdam for our commercial division. In addition, we launched a whole new product line of printed glass in 2019.

Not only do I keep the business fresh, but unique and captivating by supplying a small quantity of each product, there are times that I only have one!

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

Read, exercise, and meditate.

I enjoy fine dining, creative cooking, and traveling the world, experiencing different cultures and foods.

CECE’S WOOL YARNS AND MORE

MKAS LIKA 2080 WESTERN AVENUE, GUILDERLAND 518.456.6818; MKASLIKA.COM

Owner:

Monica Kasongo Muamba Describe your business with a brief history:

My business is to provide unique, captivat­ ing, affordable, hand­picked items from around the world. We carry men and women's clothes and accessories that build confidence and help our customers reach their potentials.

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

Many people commute into the tri­cities for work, so there is an opportunity to serve customers from different regions.

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

What excites me the most about my busi­ ness is to see a client leaving my boutique

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

2080 WESTERN AVENUE, GUILDERLAND 518.779.9985; CECESWOOL.COM

Owner:

Cecilia Tkaczyk Describe your business with a brief history:

I’m a sheep farmer that had a surplus of unique wool. We started the company in 2015 making wool bedding for people and pets. Our wool batting comes from local sheep farms and cleaned with only biodegradable soap and hot water. We’ve since expanded our retail store to include yarn, roving, wool fabric along with spin­ ning and weaving tools to create a mecca for fiber enthusiasts and people interested in all natural materials for bedding products.

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

We just moved our store to Hamilton Square Mall in Guilderland, which is centrally locat­ ed. Anyone looking for all natural bedding or just beautiful yarn can find it here.

Cecilia Tkaczyk | Cece’s Wool Yarns and More

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

Not only do we sell yarn, fiber, and pillows, but we also teach classes in the fiber arts and encourage new knitters and crocheters.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

We never stop learning and love making new products. We are excited to see those products or yarns and colors on our shelves and we are passionate about what we do.

What do you do to relax when you have a few minutes to yourself?

I love to take my dog Bayou for walks. You will also find me taking care of the sheep, attending fiber shows and playing with fiber!

ILLIUM BISTRO AT PINEHAVEN COUNTRY CLUB 1151 SIVER ROAD, GUILDERLAND 518.805.1122; ILLIUMCAFE.COM

Owner:

Marla & Brian Ortega Describe your business with a brief history:

We opened in 2009 as a 30 seat restaurant without a real kitchen. We cooked only on butane and with an electric oven for years.

Over the course of the 10 years we have been in business, we have expanded several times and now run food and beverage operations at Pinehaven Country Club in Guilderland as well.

What advantage does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

The Capital Region is where I grew up. My heart belongs here and I have strong fami­ ly roots here. The advantage of owning our business here versus anywhere else is the strong sense of community.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

29

With running the business and our three chil­ dren we keep pretty busy. Family time is what we really look forward to though.

DALEY’S ON YATES 10 YATES STREET, SCHENECTADY 518.687.3561; DALEYSONYATES.COM

Owners:

James Pettit, Gene Coletti and Martin Keary Describe your business with a brief history:

Marla Ortega | Illium Bistro at Pinehaven Country Club

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

We are always looking to grow and are looking for our next step.

How do you keep your business fresh for your capital region customers?

We feature specials daily along with our menu so our regular customers can enjoy a variety of new and fresh ingredients.

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

Relaxation moments are few and far between.

30 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

Daley’s on Yates is a Modern American Restaurant and the latest venture of Daley Hospitality. We have been in the industry for over 40 years, and this project allows us to express ourselves in a more frequent client interaction than our catering business.

What advantages does your business have being in the Capital Region rather than anywhere else?

James Petit, Gene Coletti and Martin Keary | Daley’s On Yates

a mid­century modern appointed old taxi garage that feels like you are in New York City. We just started booking Sunday wed­ dings to clients looking for an alternative to a banquet house setting.

We love that the area has many of the amenities of a larger metropolitan area while maintaining a home­town feel. We are excited to offer a weekly option for our dedicated customers.

How do you keep your business fresh for your Capital Region customers?

What about your service or products excites you? Do you have any new changes to tell our readers about?

What do you do to relax when you have a few moments to yourself?

We are excited to provide top­notch food in

We all dine as a sport and travel all over, looking for new and exciting design trends and food recipes.

We travel with our friends and entertain at our homes.

HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FURNITURE HOUSE

1254 Highway 9P, Saratoga Springs; 518.587.9865 1060 Route 9, Queensbury; 518.798.0133 thefurniturehouseny.com Whether building a new home, downsizing or just updating your current home, The Furniture House is the place to come for your home furnishing needs. Our design staff will help make YOUR dreams a reality; YOUR personality shine through.

We offer quality, unique pieces at a value you didn’t realize you can afford. Small rooms? No problem. Unique needs? No problem. From basic home pieces to murphy beds, custom pieces, adjustable coffee tables, jewelry mirrors, conversation sofas and more. Come see what all the buzz is about. The unusual as usual!

SCHENECTADY FLOOR COVERING

1910 Maxon Road Extension, Schenectady 518.372.5664; schenectadyfloorcovering.com In business for over 50 years, Schenectady Floor Covering has built its business on its reputation for customer service. Our 9,000-square-foot showroom has all the brands you know and trust CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

with all the latest styles, colors and designs. We specialize not only in carpet but also hardwood, ceramic tile, area rugs, laminate, and vinyl flooring. We are the Capital District's premier Karastan dealer. As part of America's leading flooring retail group, we can provide customers with low prices on many flooring options backed by the most solid warranties in the floor covering industry.

RANDALL IMPLEMENTS CO., INC. 2991 NY-5S, Fultonville 518.853.4500; randallimpls.com

Randall Implements is a Premier Kubota Dealer and was the 2016 recipient of the Fulton-Montgomery Chamber of Commerce Agricultural Business of the Year award. Randall Implements Co., Inc. is located on State Highway 5S in the village of Fultonville, approximately 35 miles west of Albany. Founded in 1966 by Robert Freeman, Randall Implements has grown from a small single-line dealer to one of the area’s largest and most trusted full-service multi-line provider including Ferris, Husqvarna, Case IH, Claas, and Landpride dealerships. Technicians are certified and trained in the newest technologies available in the industry. Randall provides quality factory parts at competitive prices, with next-day availability on over 100,000 parts.

KUGLER’S RED BARN

425 Consaul Road, Schenectady 518.370.2468; Find us on Facebook At Kugler's Red Barn, you can find an assortment of styles including Country, Shaker, Primitive, Transitional, and Traditional. All of our furniture is made in the USA by small family-owned factories.

We take pride in the quality of handmade furniture and offer options in ash, oak, cherry, birch, and pine. We also carry a large selection of gifts and accessories, framed art and paints. We carry a full selection of furniture for the bedroom, dining room, kitchen, living room, and family room, occasional and entertainment centers.

HEWITT'S GARDEN CENTERS, INC. Various locations hewitts.com

Hewitt's Garden Centers, Inc. is a local company specializing in lawn and garden-related products, service and information. With 50 years in the business

32 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

and seven stores located in the 518 area code, we are the fifth largest independent retail garden center in the country— and here’s why: • Largest selection of hardy shrubs and trees • Hewitt’s Country Estate lawn food and grass seed • Largest selection of perennial and annual flowers and vegetable plants • Extensive selection of fruit trees, blueberries, raspberries and more • Plant food, mulch, soil and garden accessories • Experienced staff ready to assist you with your project

HUDSON RIVER TRACTOR COMPANY Various locations hudsonrivertractorcompany.com

Hudson River Tractor is a full-line John Deere agricultural, commercial and consumer turf dealer with four locations in and around the Capital Region in Schaghticoke, Clifton Park, Chatham, and Fultonville. Hudson River Tractor carries agricultural equipment from John Deere, H&S, Krone, Oxbow, and Hardi, as well as Stihl hand-held pieces and Honda power equipment, including the industry-leading walk-behind mowers and generators. We also provide after-market support with genuine John Deere and OEM parts, factory-trained technicians, and mobile service. Hudson River Tractor—one company with people strong in their backgrounds and expertise—provides complete solutions for your needs.

SOUTH END POWDER COATING 120 Catherine Street, Albany 518.469.0251; southendpowdercoating.com

South End Powder Coating is a custom powder coater conveniently located in downtown Albany, offering a durable, long-lasting and beautiful finishing alternative to paint. Typical projects we encounter are lawn furniture, iron railings, decorative garden items, home radiators, and even car, truck, and motorcycle parts. With over 7,500 colors available, our personalized finishing service allows us to offer a finish to meet even the most demanding customer’s needs. Let your imagination run wild. Please give us a call to discuss your residential or commercial finishing projects. Why paint it? Powder coat it!

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

ALL SEASONS EQUIPMENT, INC.

60 Freeman’s Bridge Road, Scotia 518.372.5611; allseasonsequipinc.com All Seasons Equipment, Inc. is a family-owned and operated business located in Scotia. We can provide you with the latest and best in outdoor power products to make your outdoor living more enjoyable. In the area, there isn't a friendlier or more knowledgeable staff than ours.

We're happy to help you find either the perfect outdoor power equipment, service or the parts you've been looking for.

We carry many brands, including Ariens, Honda Power Equipment, Scag, STIHL, and Toro. Call or stop in—we're always ready to help!

GHENT WOOD PRODUCTS

1262 Route 66, Ghent 518.828.5684; ghentwoodproducts.com Summer is here and it’s time to dive into those home improvement projects that you’ve been waiting all winter to do.

Whether you are looking to improve your flowerbeds with fresh mulch or build a new stone wall, Ghent Wood Products is happy to help and give you helpful tips about their products. When it comes to your home and projects like putting down new flooring, re-siding your house or any number of other specialty projects, Ghent Wood Products has quite the assortment of wood species that are sure to brighten up your home and create a new highlight that will surely spark a conversation at your next barbeque!

BOB'S TREES

1227 West Galway Road, Hagaman 518.627.4260; bobstrees.com Our family-owned and operated nursery and garden center has been serving the greater Capital Region area since 1942. We specialize in providing you with the perfect Christmas tree for the holiday season, but we offer so much more, including more than 275 acres of trees and shrubs to help you complete the look you want for your yard. We are dedicated to serving the local community with quality trees and shrubs that are well acclimated to our local climate. Stop by and see us soon!

GARDEN TIME

Various locations gardentimeinc.com Garden Time offers a wide selection of sheds, gazebos, and outdoor furniture,

34 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

as well as excellent customer service and a superior shopping experience to provide you with everything you need for a beautiful lawn and garden. 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. We invite you to stop by one of our locations and explore what sets Garden Time apart from the rest.

SEASON’S SUPPLY CO.

852 Grooms Road, Rexford; 518.371.5730 2706 Route 9, Malta; 518.581.2900 seasonssupply.com Seasons Supply Co. was formed in 1997 by Clifford Hughes, a lifelong resident of Clifton Park. The inspiration behind the development of Season’s Supply Co. was to offer professional landscaping and property maintenance supplies, not available in big box stores, to contractors and homeowners who demand nothing short of superior quality and service. It gives us great pleasure to

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HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

Smoothh out o

do business with local companies and homeowners and to offer a personal, hands-on approach found nowhere else.

YOUR DRIVE HOME

Driveways

| Parking Lots | Sport Courts | Private Roads

CR GAS LOGS & FIREPLACES, INC. 15 Drywall Lane, Voorheesville 518.765.4279; crgaslogs.com

CR Gas Logs and Fireplaces has been a leader in the hearth and patio industry in the Greater Capital District for over 30 years. We pride ourselves on providing each customer with high-quality customer service, knowledge, and advice.

Our staff will help educate you on the right choice for your home. Our goal is to have every person we speak with, no matter if they purchase or not, to leave us with a positive shopping experience. Call today for a free home estimate.

L. BROWE ASPHALT SERVICES 518.479.1400; broweasphalt.com

AFTER

BEFORE

WE MAKE IT EASY. Free detailed d written quotes d, quotes, Better Business Bureau A+ rating, references provided with driving directions.

Call

518.479.1400 or request a FREE estimate appointment at

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36 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

Albany

|

Saratoga

|

Chatham

L. Browe Asphalt Services has served thousands of residential and commercial customers in the greater Hudson Valley.

Our installations are built to last, with correct elevations and subtle detailing to ease the job into the land. Transitions are smooth with good, level flow and slight changes in elevation to provide proper water drainage. We mill the end of the drive so that it retains its thickness and is not subject to being lifted up by plow equipment. The end product is a true, level, aesthetically pleasing job with artistic curves and superior function that completes and enhances the entire property setting. For more information and to request a free estimate, call 518.479.1400 or visit broweasphalt.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT | ADVERTISING SECTION

AMSTERDAM OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY

403 West Main Street, Amsterdam 518.842.7370; amsterdamohd.com Amsterdam Overhead Door Company is proud to offer superior quality garage door systems that are professionally installed for residential, commercial, agricultural or industrial applications.

We have proven expertise in every phase of garage door selection, installation, maintenance, service, and repair. Garaga Inc., the largest manufacturer of garage doors in Canada, has certified us as a Garaga Expert. This means that we can guide you in finding exactly the right garage door to meet your needs. Getting the proper advice when buying a door is essential; after all, we buy one or, at most, two garage doors throughout our lifetime. The Amsterdam Overhead Door Company is a family-owned business that was founded in 1924.

GSL LANDSCAPING & NURSERY, LLC 4820 Duanesburg Road, Duanesburg 518.506.1943; gsllandscapingllc.com

GSL Landscaping & Nursery, LLC is locally-owned and operated, servicing eastern New York and western New England. There are many options when it comes to creating an outdoor oasis.

Consider adding a kitchen or living area, a fire pit or fireplace, a water feature or a pool area and spa, along with walls, patios, and plantings to create a back yard sanctuary. GSL will design and install the outdoor space that you are looking to create. We enjoy working with specific and unique ideas for your dream property.

GSL also provides year-round or seasonal services to maintain your entire property.

Contact us today for a consultation.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

37

Four things you should know about melanoma

By American Cancer Society

A

s days get longer and warmer, people are flocking outdoors for recreation, yard work, and gardening. The sun’s rays feel great, but leaving your skin unpro‐ tected could lead to an unwelcome diagnosis.

Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer in the United States. In fact, more skin

38 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

cancers are diagnosed in the US each year than all other cancers combined. About one percent of skin cancers will be melanoma, the most serious form. Melanoma is far less common, but this year an estimated 5,150 New Yorkers will learn they have the disease.

Before you head outdoors, here are four

things the American Cancer Society wants you to know about melanoma.

Who is at risk?

While skin cancer is the most common cancer type, melanoma is far less common.

Some risk factors for melanoma you should be aware of include: Gender: In the United States, men have a higher rate of melanoma than women, although this varies by age. Before age 50, the risk is higher for women; after age 50, the risk is higher in men.

Age: The risk of melanoma increases as people age. The average age of diagnosis in people is 63; but it’s not uncommon to see cases in people under 30, especially women.

Race: Melanoma is more than 20 times more common in whites than in African Americans. Overall, the lifetime risk is about 1 in 30 for whites, 1 in 172 for Hispanics, and 1 in 1,000 for blacks. Whites with fair skin that freck‐ les or burns easily are at especially high risk.

Immune system suppression: People with weakened immune systems have an increased risk of developing melanoma. For example, people who get organ transplants are usually given medicines that weaken their immune system to help prevent them from rejecting the new organ. This increases their risk of melanoma. People infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, often have weak‐ ened immune systems and are also at increased risk for melanoma.

UV light exposure: Exposure to ultravio‐ let (UV) rays is a major risk factor for most melanomas. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Tanning beds and sun lamps are also sources of UV rays. While UV rays make up only a very small portion of the sun’s rays, they are the main cause of the damaging effects of the sun on the skin.

Moles: A mole is a non‐cancerous pig‐ mented tumor. Babies are not usually born with moles; they often begin to appear in children and young adults. Most moles will never cause any problems, but someone who has many moles is more likely to develop melanoma.

Family history: Your risk of melanoma is higher if one or more of your first‐degree rela‐ tives (parents, brothers, sisters, or children) has

had melanoma. Around 10% of all people with melanoma have a family history of the disease.

Having a risk factor, or even multiple risk factors does not mean you will get melanoma.

Still, it’s important to know the risk factors because there may be things you can do to lower your risk.

Cancer Society recommends the Slip! Slop!

Slap! Wrap!® method of prevention – slip on a shirt, slop on a broad‐spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30, slap on a hat, and wrap on sun‐ CRL glasses before any exposure to the sun.

If you or a family member is facing melanoma

or other skin cancer, the American Cancer Society can help you learn about treatment options and possible side effects and point you to information and services to help you in your cancer journey. Visit cancer.org/skincancer or call 1‐800‐227‐2345.

What are the signs or symptoms?

The most important warning sign of melanoma is a new spot on the skin or a spot that is changing in size, shape, or color.

Another important sign is a spot that looks dif‐ ferent from all the other spots on your skin. If you have one of these warning signs, have your skin checked by a doctor.

The ABCDE rule is another guide to the usual signs of melanoma. Be on the lookout and tell your doctor about spots that have any of the following features: A is for Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.

B is for Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C is for Color: The color is not the same all over and may include different shades of brown or black, or sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.

D is for Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.

E is for Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

Some melanomas don’t fit these rules. It’s important to tell your doctor about any changes or new spots on the skin, or growths that look different from the rest of your moles.

Other warning signs are a sore that does‐ n’t heal; spread of pigment from the border of a spot into surrounding skin; redness or a new swelling beyond the border of the mole; change in sensation, such as itchiness, tender‐ ness, or pain; change in the surface of a mole – scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or the appearance of a lump or bump.

Be sure to show your doctor any areas that concern you and ask your doctor to look at areas that may be hard for you to see. It’s sometimes hard to tell the difference between melanoma and an ordinary mole, even for doc‐ tors, so it’s important to show your doctor any mole that you are unsure of.

Is melanoma treatable?

When they occur, most skin cancers can be treated successfully if detected early – even melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.

Can it be prevented?

Most skin cancers could be prevented by limiting unprotected exposure to the sun. In addition to seeking shade, the American

Some thoughts on my experience with Acral-lentiginous melanoma

By Vikki Moran

According to The National Cancer Institute, "Acral‐lentiginous melanoma represents approximately 8% of all melanomas and is the most common melanoma in dark‐skinned people. Acral‐lentiginous melanomas represent up to 70% of melanomas in blacks and up to 46% in Asians. This type can occur on the palms, soles, and nail beds (subungual). Like nodular melanoma, acral‐ lentiginous melanoma is extremely aggressive, with rapid progression from the horizontal to the vertical growth phase.”

As a Caucasian woman whose ancestry does not reflect either African American or Asian traces, I am here to tell you that you cannot let your guard down concerning this deadly form of melanoma. I was first diagnosed six years ago, and then again this past September. I have had two surgeries, with the lat‐ est being a partial amputation of my big toe. A team of specialists at the Mayo Clinic feel that this may occur more times during my life because of the type of relentless cancer that Acral‐lentiginous melanoma is.

I have written about my battle with melanoma for Capital Region Living Magazine in the March 2012 article aptly titled, Just wear darker nail polish. I encourage you to read it if you have not already.

What can you do: 1. Don’t be swayed against caution concerning chance or percentages. I am living proof that everyone can get this cancer.

2. Take off that dark polish and opt for lighter shades of nude polishes. If you go from polish to polish, take a break and check those nails carefully for lines and moles. Mine started as a vertical line.

3. Get answers if you see something abnormal on your nails. It took me years to get answers. Many doctors told me that I didn’t have cause for worry and that I only had a pigmentation issue. I finally found a wonderful doctor who took one look and said to get a biopsy quickly. I will never know if an earlier diagnosis would have changed my eventual outcome, but I do know that if this cancer were more understood and recognized, I would be healthier for sure.

You have to be your own advocate.

4. Wear sunscreen all over, including your nails. My oncologist is not sure that this disease is caused by the sun, as other melanomas are, but there just isn't enough data yet to dispute the caution, so be safe.

5. Look over your children's nails as they typically don’t speak up or are unaware of such things. Be their eyes and advocate.

6. Listen to Bob Marley’s music. I know that sounds like odd advice and cer‐ tainly not something the medical community is going to tell you, but know this…had there been more awareness of Acral‐lentiginous melanoma, he may still be alive and performing today instead of having succumbed to the disease at such a young age.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

39

WOMEN’S WELLNESS | ADVERTISING SECTION

RAD SOAP COMPANY

1475 Western Avenue, Albany 646.595.0600; radsoap.com Welcome to the world of RAD! I’m Sue Kerber and this is my story. It all began in a small kitchen where I discovered hemp seed oil as a natural remedy for my son’s eczema. It was in those early stages where I recognized the power of the hemp plant and my mission to create all natural products was born. My mission has always been to offer you the very best products possible and RADCBD is no exception. This groundbreaking line of products has multiple benefits ranging from relieving stress to joint and muscle pain relief. Remember: If our family won't use it, we won't sell it.

GOMEZ NEUROLOGY

110 Wolf Road, Albany 518.650.2090; gomezneurology.com Women experience more recurrent pain, more severe pain, and longer lasting pain than men. Yet women are far less likely to seek appropriate treatment for their pain.

Continued on page 42

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WOMEN’S WELLNESS | ADVERTISING SECTION

Gomez Neurology believes that every patient in pain should have access to the most current and effective treatments for their pain, especially if it provides alternatives to opioid or invasive therapies. Gomez Neurology certifies eligible patients for Medical Marijuana and offers safe, non-invasive Scrambler Therapy for patients with qualifying neuropathic pain.

Contact Gomez Neurology at 518.650.2090 or visit us online at GomezNeurology.com

AMAZINGLY AGELESS MEDI-SPA 1202 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham 518.608.1252; amazinglyageless.com

Dr. Giugliano completed medical school with the desire to preserve health. After 20 years of practicing OBGYN, her focus is on looking and feeling AGELESS. Who doesn’t want to look and feel their best?

Amazingly Ageless Medi-Spa is a full-service med spa specializing in non-invasive treatments including Vaginal Rejuvenation for urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Microneedling, PRP, Body Contouring, Botox/Fillers, and Age-Defying Facials.

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Dr. Giugliano and her professional staff are excited to offer you cutting edge services to enhance your health and preserve your “ageless” look. Please call to schedule your private consultation.

MCGINNIS WOMEN’S MEDICAL CARE, PC 24 Computer Drive West, Albany 518.689.7548; mcginniswomensmedicalcare.com

More and more frequently, women are voicing concerns over their unsatisfactory intimate lives. I rarely speak with a woman who has mutually fulfilling sex with generous and loving partners.

Pharmaceutical companies are prepared to address this with new medications; hoping to recreate the success of erectile medications like Viagara. Unfortunately, those that are currently on the market are cost prohibitive and may not be covered by insurance. Medication alone, however, can not address a woman's concerns.

Female sexuality is very complicated, and female hormones are only a small part of the picture. Providing a comprehensive evaluation of these issues is essential. Empowering women to embrace their sexuality is part of our mission at McGinnis.

SPIRITUAL GROUNDING | BY SANDY TIERNAN MENZER

Manifesting your wishes and dreams!

C

an you believe we are already embarking upon the second half of 2019? Time flies when we're having fun and working hard! The summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, is June 21st this year! Many ask, “What does that mean?”

According to AskAngels, "The solstice is a natural way to reconnect with life’s divine plan and to feel a deep connection to all of life and the natural world. Reflecting on your journey is a wonderful way to celebrate the solstice… honor and celebrate your unique journey and the inherent cycles within walking a spiritual path and living a human life as well."

Earth's journey for us is not always an easy ride, as one of my favorite mentors, Tracy Fluty (a professional psychic medium) taught me! I believe our presence on Earth is an opportunity to learn, grow and to develop on a higher spiritual level!

Much of my entire life, I have studied to learn ways to make the path easier. Life's challenges are many, but it is not what challenge we receive, rather how we handle it.

The concept of Ask, Believe, Receive (The Secret) has worked very well for meeting my life's desires and also for many others I've met along the way. I believe each one of us has great power to create and mani‐ fest the life we choose. There are many ways to make it happen by just being more aware of the signs around us!

The following are ideas to implement into your life and routine that can make your dreams come true!

• Ask, and you shall Receive when you Believe!

• Have faith in the higher power within you and trust it.

• Keep your words and your thoughts positive as it is our subcon‐ scious that creates our true reality!

• Create good karma (what we give out, we receive back) by being kind and patient. A random act of kindness is a great way to create pos‐ itive energy in this world!

• Learn to trust, love and respect yourself and others while remain‐ ing grateful for the many gifts inherited and that surround you; Mom taught me: treat others the way you wish to be treated.

• Never judge those around you. You don’t know why they are act‐ ing the way they are. Keep an open mind.

• Dream big…anything is possible if you put your mind and effort into it and believe!

• Create balance in your life! Make time for work, plenty of rest, fun, family/friends, exercise, giving and receiving as well as eating healthy (your body is your temple, honor it.)

• Be true to yourself and others; honesty gets you everywhere. Be compassionate to others!

• Work hard; play hard!

• Always remain humble and smile often! A smile creates positive energy towards others, which is contagious!

• Take time out each day to "just be" and pray and or meditate to The Divine (your deity.) Talk to your angels, spirit guides, and ancestors who watch over us! They await our requests and protect us from the other realm.

• Receive as much knowledge in this lifetime as possible; knowl‐ edge is power!

• Embrace, versus fear change! We cannot grow here without change. The more we resist it, the more difficult life becomes! It's all

about energy movement!

• Spend time with individuals who lift you up and support you and make you feel safe and comfortable.

• Detach from negative thoughts. It’s the "stinking thinking" that creates fear, and can lead us down the wrong path and delay our dreams! Try to release from the fear energy that surrounds us each day due to the challenges we all have. In reality, there is nothing to fear and always a solution! Be aware of where you are focusing your thoughts and energy as this is how we create our reality!

• Spend time in nature as much as you can! Look for the signs around you! This is a great time to receive the answers within that you need.

• When in doubt or fear, call upon your angels, they are always awaiting our requests! Archangel Michael is the angel that protects us!

Archangel Raphael is the healing angel!

• Mastery of one’s thoughts is the key to enlightenment and feeling empowered. Buddha taught us the path to Nirvana; a transcendent state in which there is neither suffering, desire, nor sense of self and where we are released from the effects of karma and the cycle of death and rebirth. The goal is to learn to love with detachment!

• Find your passion, turn it into a business or a mission and run with it!! Get outside of yourself and give your gifts to others. We all have so many natural gifts to share!

• Make a decision when necessary, take time if possible and ask your angels to assist you. Procrastination is a manifestation of fear. Not making a decision can also create a lost opportunity.

Timing I believe one of the most difficult challenges in manifesting our wishes is to learn to be patient enough to know that everything we need will come to us in Divine timing, not when we think we should have it!

It is a great idea to pay attention every month to when the full moon and the new moon occur.

During the full moon, we feel the shift of energy more acutely because the energy of the full moon helps us to identify and make the changes needed to improve our lives for our highest good. In other words, having the strength to let go of what no longer serves us, and to stop dwelling on a past that we cannot change. Many of you will notice during a full moon people seem extra sensitive and emotional. This is because the moon energy rules our emotions!

The new moon is the best day to sit down and meditate and pray for what you would like to manifest and create in your life! You will be amazed at how much quicker you will receive your wishes. Be careful what you wish for and be clear in your intentions!!! Writing down your dreams can also help create the new opportunities and wishes you requested. The more positive you keep your thoughts and words, the more exciting new opportunities you will create for yourself and others!

Wishing you all a fabulous summer! Enjoy each day, live in the moment, and always look for the joy around you!

Sandy Tiernan Menzer is a professional Spiritual Intuitive, Clairaudient and healer. She has provided spiritual and life path direction readings to individuals and groups for over 25 years. For more information, visit findyourspirit.net.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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PARENTING | BY RANDY CALE, PH.D

Why your teenager should get a job!

I

n today’s modern world, teenagers are often on the move. A portion of teenagers play multiple sports, are involved in numerous organi‐ zations, and maintain an active social life. Some volunteer and oth‐ ers take summer classes or go to camp.

However, the national data suggests that most teens do not work.

Down from decades of roughly 50% employment among older teens, the research now shows that only 30‐35% of teens seek summer employ‐ ment. With that, most parents seem accepting of their high schooler being at home all summer and make no requirement for them to take on more responsibility.

This is a bad idea. And here’s why:

Six reasons why your teenager needs a job!

1. Work offers the best classroom for learning the rules of reality/life.

If your teenager is driven from one event to another, hangs out with friends and teammates, then wraps up the day on their phones, what lesson is taught? The lesson is clear: You get everything you want…and no effort is required. This is highly problematic because there is very lit‐ tle resemblance to the rules of reality.

It’s a painful, albeit valuable, lesson when teens later realize that they would have to work a full‐time job for three weeks to pay for their broken iPhone. Yet, most teens don’t have to experience this valuable lesson because we too often protect them from this lesson. In other words, we buffer them from reality.

I am a big fan of parenting with reality always in mind. Why? Because reality provides lessons that are best learned from experience, particularly at this age.

For example, some employers are grumpy. Sometimes the job is dirty. Sometimes you get yelled at by customers. Many learn that with‐ out skills, their time is not worth much. Skillful or not, teens must learn to get along with peers and customers.

Getting along, accepting others, dealing with adversity, and manag‐ ing time independently…these are all valuable lessons that a conversa‐ tion with mom and dad just won’t teach.

2. Work illuminates the value of effort, as well as earned income.

In the real world, we don’t get paid for an A. We don’t get paid for participating in three different soccer leagues. We certainly don’t get paid for hours on end of video games and posting on social media.

In reality, we get paid for effort. For teens, with few marketable skills, they quickly learn that work will reward those who put forth effort.

For many of our children, they have never experienced this relationship.

They rarely have had the chance to earn life rewards for effort. Now, it gets very real. Work hard and you make money. Don’t work, and you go home with no money.

There is an additional benefit that flows from this effort, and it is a remarkably valuable one. We learn to understand and appreciate what that money now buys us. Research has shown over and over that we sim‐ ply do not have the same appreciation and attachment to what we are given, as compared to what we have worked for, earned, and claimed as a result of our own hard work and sweat.

Many of you have noticed that your teenagers demonstrate little

44 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

appreciation and gratitude for your hard work and effort. Equally, they do not have any sense of the true value of a dollar, and what it takes to earn that dollar! This stems (typically) from a lack of experience that teaches this valuable relationship between real‐world effort and the reward (i.e., money) that the real world pays for that effort.

It's about having skin in the game. Work teaches kids about this potent life lesson. You simply cannot do this on your own.

3. A job teaches real‐life responsibility and related consequences.

Until your teenager takes on a job, the responsibilities they are given often do not come with real consequences. Certainly, their failure to turn in their homework has a consequence, but it’s not one that many adolescents experience strongly. A failure to lock the door at home sim‐ ply results in a lecture from mom or dad – and one like they’ve had many times before. In fact, most irresponsible actions, or failures to follow‐ through, only come with similar lectures to which they are absurdly immune to absorbing.

Adolescents that step into the workplace are often greeted with a different perspective. They are offered responsibilities, and with the responsibilities come reality‐based consequences.

This provides great opportunities for your son or daughter to see themselves in very positive ways. They receive input from supervisors, the public, and even their peers. The jobs get changed if they fail to per‐ form. Some teens who struggle academically realize their charm and effort can catapult them to relative fame in their employers’ eyes. Many find esteem building moments daily from exchanges with customers who appreciate their efforts.

4. Kids find career inspiration through work.

Inspiration can come in many forms. Sometimes kids discover they want to be entrepreneurs or find fascination with a career. They decide that this is what I want to do.

At other times, it’s the opposite: they discover that they do NOT want to end up waiting tables for their whole life, and this compels them to work harder in school and in life. Either way, we find work can inspire teens in a direction, and this is good!

5. Kids who work tend to do better in school.

Yes, it’s true. Moderate work experience is correlated with better academic performance!

But not if they continue to work above 15 hours a week after the school year begins. So just keep in mind, that work remains valuable for kids, if kept in check during the school year.

6. Teens who work tend to find jobs faster upon college graduation.

Future employers DO value that history of work, and reward candi‐ dates with higher rates of acceptance once they have their degree. We don’t know for certain if this is the case, but we do know that teens who work do find work sooner.

All of this adds up to one conclusion: Real jobs rock! Even if your son or daughter is an academic superstar or an athletic luminary, I encourage you to put them in a position where something must be given up in order to take on some work this summer. This will serve them well.

Dr. Randy Cale offers practical guidance for a host of parenting concerns.

For more information visit terrificparenting.com.

FASHION | BY LUANN CONLON

Fashion FAQ’s Everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask

J

ust like life, fashion moves fast…sometimes so fast that you aren’t always sure that what you have in your closet is still on trend or not. If you have to switch closets season to season, then these tips should help guide you in deciding what to purge and what to keep rock‐ ing through the fall.

Are maxi skirts still on trend?

Absolutely! Maxi skirts have been in style for a while now. They’re feminine and flirty. If you prefer not to show your legs, they are also a fashionable way to stay cool in the hot summer months. If you have ever struggled with what to wear with a maxi skirt, then my recommendation is to go with something simple, think white tee or white camisole...a top that is very neutral and won’t take away from the gorgeous skirt.

What are the skirt or dress hem lengths that are in?

As for hemlines, pretty much anything goes. This spring, look for everything from full circle skirts to flowy midis and maxis to flippy, flirty miniskirts. As always, the length or lengths best for you are determined by your height (petite frames, for example, can get swallowed up by maxis), the parts of your shape you want to highlight, and, of course, per‐ sonal style. Two rules of thumb to follow are when in doubt, go with a knee length, a timeless hemline, and avoid a hem that hits the fullest part of the calf, which will visually shorten and widen the leg.

Are cold shoulder or off-the-shoulder tops still in?

Per my research, unfortunately, you may need to say goodbye to the cold shoulder top, they are now off‐trend. The on‐trend look is one shoul‐ der and sexy strapless looks. Off‐the‐shoulder styles will always be a go‐to effortless seasonal essential but feel free to reuse the cold shoulder tops by adding another layer on top of the cold shoulder so you can squeeze out another year or so with the cold shoulder tops hanging in your closet.

What are some tricks to look slimmer?

There are definitely some intentional items to look for when shop‐ ping if you are trying to elongate your look or look a bit slimmer. Pair a dark wash boot‐cut jean with a lighter shade top. This will make your legs look much longer. Pointed shoes are also a way to add length to any out‐ fit. V‐neck shirts versus crew neck shirts will drag the eye down the torso. One last tip is to wear a longer necklace, and again this does the same as the v neck shirt by drawing the eye down the torso.

Hopefully, these answers have helped with any fashion questions you may have had and helped with your shopping decisions. Enjoy!

Luann is a lifelong curator of fashion and enjoys researching the latest trends and tips for all of our Capital Region Living readers. You can reach her at luann@crlmag.com.

How do you mix prints and look modern?

Mixing prints is all the rage right now. When mixing prints, stay within the same color story. It may be prudent to limit mixing two or three colors, so it doesn’t look too busy or confusing. For example, if you have a black and white horizontal striped shirt, then pairing the shirt with a black and white polka dot sweater or duster will make the look very hip and on trend.

Can you wear white denim all year long?

Yes! Many years ago, the old rule of no white after Labor Day and not before Memorial Day rang true but no more. White is so fresh and feminine. White denim can be unforgiving compared to the dark wash trend. One look to try is an all‐white look. Mixing textures and tones is the key to making an all‐white look work. One idea is to pair neutrals with all white using a beige sandal and a blush jacket. I prefer the ‘just above the ankle’ white denim with a frayed edge, add in the beige san‐ dal, and your legs will look much longer.

Are leggings still on trend?

Definitely yes! Most of us can agree, leggings are comfortable and look best when our backside is covered. To keep your leggings fresh, try a 7/8th length. The 7/8th look means the fabric ends right before the ankle. This length looks great with sneakers, slides or sandals. Another change in the legging look is a higher waistline, especially for the gym.

Fabrics have come a long way with compression and shapewear to give a streamlined look for the gym or on the go. Also, camo prints are big this season in the legging department.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

45

ARTS AND | ENTERTAINMENT

ALBANY COUNTY

COLUMBIA COUNTY

6/3 – 6/7 VARIOUS TIMES

6/1 9 AM – 2 PM

Free Scrambler Pain Therapy Information Sessions – Gomez Neurology, Albany; Come learn how Scrambler Pain Therapy offers chronic pain relief that is non-invasive, non-addictive and uses no drugs. Visit gomezneurology.com or call 518.650.2090 for more information.

Craft Fair on the Square – Village of Kinderhook; Unique craft fair with 30+ vendors, food, music and children events. Visit villageofkinderhook.org for more information.

6/4 5 PM – 7 PM

Comedy Night with Jerry Dymond – The Valatie Community Theatre; A comedy show the whole family can enjoy! Visit valatiecommunitytheatre.com for ticket information.

11th Annual WERC First Impressions, Second Chances Networking Event – The Crossings of Colonie; An exceptional evening of shopping, food, prizes and networking to benefit the women of WERC. Visit cdwerc.org for more information.

6/6 6 PM Historic Neighborhood Brew Tour – Discover Albany Brew Tour; Albany Beer Historian, Craig Gravina, author & co-founder of the Albany Ale Project, will be leading tours through Albany’s former brewing district, discussing the impact beer & ale had on Albany. Visit albany.org for more information.

BERKSHIRE COUNTY 6/8 6 PM Gala: Like Father-in-Law, Like Son-in-Law: Antonin Dvorak & Josef Suk – Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center; This program will transport listeners to those cobbled streets of the old town and back to an era when music served as the voice of the Czech people. An allstar ensemble of superb performers brings their extraordinary virtuosity and musicianship to this joyous and heartwarming repertoire!

Visit mahaiwe.org for more information.

46 | JUNE 2019 | CRLMAG.COM

6/8 8 PM

6/27 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM Food Truck on the Square – Village of Kinderhook; An evening of great food, local craft beer & excellent music. Visit villageofkinderhook.org for more information.

FULTON COUNTY 6/1 3 PM– 8 PM Southern Adirondack 5th Annual Wine & Food Festival – Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market, Inc., 30 North Main Street , Gloversville. $10 for tasting tickets pre-sale ($15 at the door) and $5 for non-tasting!

6/8 12 PM – 4PM Annual Strawberry Festival at the Rice Homestead – (Mayfield Historical Society Museum), Rice Homestead, 328 Riceville Road, Mayfield. Donations are $4 for adults and $2 for children under 8 years of age. Please contact Carol Johnston 518.332.0538 for more information.

A&E 6/12 – 6/15 9 AM – 11 AM Sacandaga Garden Club Flower Show “The Adirondacks” – Northville Public Library, 341 S. Third Street, Northville. View numerous handdesigned flower arraignments based on “The Adirondacks” theme.

Please contact Michael Burnett at 518.863.6922 or norlib@mvls.info for more information.

RENSSELAER COUNTY SATURDAYS MAY THRU OCTOBER 9 AM – 2 PM Troy Waterfront Farmers’ Market – Monument Square, River Street; Where the Farm meets the City!! Nearly 100 local farmers and fresh food vendors! Visit troymarket.org for more information.

THURSDAYS – SATURDAYS 12 PM – 5 PM Hart-Cluett House Exhibits: Two new exhibits for 2019: Bridging Rensselaer County: Two Centuries of Crossing the Hudson and From Country Drives to the Grand Tour: Travels to and from Rensselaer County. Visit rchsonline.org for more information.

5/30 – 6/2, 6/6 – 6/9 VARIOUS TIMES Albany Symphony’s American Music Festival, Sing Out, New York! – Various venues throughout the Capital Region; Two weekends of innovative concerts and the music of our time! Visit albanysymphony.com for more information.

6/6 History Talks – Hart-Cluett Historic House Museum, Troy; Visit rchsonline.org for more information.

6/8 2PM Hart-Cluett House Tours – Hart-Cluett Historic House Museum, Troy; Rich in architecture and culture, you will enjoy this tour that runs every 2nd Saturday of the month, and its significance to American life. Visit rchsonline.org for more information.

6/8 10 AM – 2 PM Lansingburgh Historical Open House – Melville House; Come tour the Melville House, view and have the opportunity to purchase the works of

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artist John Connors, and talk with him about his Burgh and Troy influences. Please contact John & Mary Ellen Ward at 518.885.4295 for more information.

6/12 6:30 PM History of Hampton Manor – Rensselaer Public Library; Historian Bobbie Reno will talk how the area of Hampton Manor was formed and its history from its beginnings to today. Visit rensselaerlibrary.org for more information.

6/13 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Take a Sip for TRIP – Hilton Garden Inn; This NY State beer and wine tasting event is back! There will be music, a red carpet entrance, light hors d’oeuvres, raffles, a wine pull, and more!! Visit triponline.org for ticket information.

6/18 5 PM – 7:30 PM Enjoy Troy! Deck Party – Rensselaer County Historical Society; To purchase tickets visit rchsonline.org or call 518.272.7232 x11.

6/29 11AM – 2 PM Summer Launch! – Rensselaer Public Library; Start the summer at Space Station Rensselaer! It’s a Universe of Stories for Summer Reading. We’ll have food, balloon twisting, astronaut training and other fun activities when families come and get their reading kit. Ages 2-18. Visit rensselaerlibrary.org for more information.

SARATOGA COUNTY 6/2 9 AM – 4 PM Gateway House of Peace: 5th Annual Charity Motorcycle Run – The starting point is The Factory Eatery & Spirits, Ballston Spa; Enjoy a continental breakfast before the ride, and then we will return to The Factory at 1:00 for a delicious lunch and live music provided again this year by Shades of Grey. If you are interested in the after party only, which includes the amazing band and lunch, join us at 1:00. Visit gatewayhouseofpeace.org for more information.

6/14 7 PM – 10 PM 1st Annual Dance Your Way for Gateway – Saratoga Springs Holiday

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Inn; CMA Award winner Kevin Richards will conduct a country line dance party with multiple giveaways, hors d'oeuvres, dance lessons and a cash bar. Tickets can be purchased for $25 at Double M Western Store, gatewayhouseofpeace.org, or at the door.

6/10 – 6/14 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM CanalWays Educational Program for 4th graders – Waterford Historical Museum & Cultural Center; The museum asks if anyone is interested in being a part of this program to help direct groups of students between the different station locations of the program. Contact canalwayscoordinator@gmail.com to learn more!

SCHENECTADY COUNTY SUNDAYS MAY THROUGH NOVEMBER 10 AM – 2 PM Schenectady Greenmarket – Downtown Schenectady; Each Sunday shoppers, musicians and friends gather and enjoy the festive marketplace with 70+vendors who produce everything they sell. Enjoy live music, prepared food and the region’s freshest local produce. Visit schenectadygreenmarket.org for information.

6/8 12 PM – 7 PM Discover Schenectady Kick Off to Summer – Central Park; This event will help you create your

“Summer Must-Do” list in Schenectady! Enjoy live music on the Music Haven stage ranging from jazz to reggae and music from the Empire State Youth Orchestra in the Rose Garden all day long. In addition to music, there weill be lots of food, beer & all kinds of activities and vendors for all ages! Visit discoverschenectady.com for information.

6/15 10 AM – 3 PM Strawberry Festival – Upper Union Street; A great selection of kids’ activities, food, vendors and live music for the whole family to enjoy! Visit upperunionstreet.com for more information.

ADVERTISERS | DIRECTORY 677 Prime .........................................................................8

GSL Landscaping & Nursery, LLC ..................................37

Randall Implements Co, Inc. .........................................32

Adirondack Orthodontics ................................back cover

Hewitt's Garden Centers................................................33

Rensselaer County Tourism.............................................4

All Season's Equipment, Inc..........................................34

Howe Caverns ..................................................................7

Saranac Lake/ROOST ....................................................19

Amazingly Ageless Medi-Spa........................................42

Hudson River Tractor Company.....................................33

Saratoga County Fair .....................................................47

Amsterdam Overhead Door Company...........................36

Illium Bistro at Pinehaven Country Club.......................29

Schenectady Floor Covering............................................3

Amtrak............................................................................20

J. Hunziker Paving .........................................................26

Schenectady Greenmarket ..............................................7

Awards By Walsh’s ........................................................25

Jumpin' Jacks Drive-In .................................................49

Season's Supply Co. .....................................................35

Bethlehem Terrace .........................................................46

Kinderhook Bank............................................................37

South End Powder Coating ............................................34

Bob's Trees.....................................................................34

Kugler's Red Barn ..........................................................32

Sri Siam Thai Restaurant...............................................47

Buttermilk Falls..............................................................45

L. Browe Asphalt Services.............................................36

St. Pauls Center..............................................................48

CeCe's Wool Yarn & More Store ....................................29

McGinnis Women's Medical Care..................................42

Ten Thousand Villages .....................................................8

CR Gaslogs & Fireplaces................................................36

MKas Lika.......................................................................29

The Barnsider...................................................................9

Dr. Gerald Benjamin, DDS, PC...............inside front cover

Muza .................................................................................9

The Cross Eyed Owl Gift Shop .......................................24

Dr. Randy Cale ................................................................46

NeuStudios, LLC. ...........................................................48

The Furniture House ......................................................31

Exit 9 Wine & Liquor ........................................................9

Old Daley Custom Catering..............................................5

The Towne Tavern ..........................................................24

Fagan Associates, Inc ...................................................50

Oliva Olive Oils & Vinegar ................................................9

The Wedding Group Bridal Show ..................................30

Garden Time ...................................................................35

Precision Upstate, LLC. .................................................27

The Wine Shop ...............................................................25

Ghent Wood Products ....................................................34

Putnam County Tourism ................................................18

Truly Rhe.........................................................................25

Gomez Neurology ...........................................................41

Rad Soap Co. .................................................................40

CAPITAL REGION LIVING MAGAZINE | JUNE 2019 |

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LAST PAGE | BY JOHN GRAY

In praise of our nurses

T

here’s an amusing story about a coroner who is called into work late one night because police found a body on the side of the road with no identification. The doctor does a thorough examination and announces to everyone in the room, “I don’t know who this woman is, but I know what she did for a living. She’s definitely a nurse.”

Astonished at this pronouncement the sheriff asks, “How could you pos‐ sibly know that?” The coroner says, “Easy. Her bladder is full, her stomach is empty, the soles on her shoes are worn out, and part of her backside is chewed off, no doubt from ungrateful patients. Trust me, that’s a nurse.”

Putting that joke aside, would you mind if we took a moment this month to talk about the truly unsung heroes that move among us in this world; our nurses? Recently the nursing community got justifiably ruffled when a state lawmaker in Washington State made the ignorant comment that nurses spent their days at work playing cards. Wow. Open mouth…insert foot. The comment brought an avalanche of criticism down on the woman’s head and inspired a few dozen memes that were “laugh‐out‐loud” funny. Putting aside her foolishness let’s chat seriously about how important nurses are to our everyday life.

A quick check on Google will tell you that there are nearly 30 million nurses in the world and about three million of them work in the United

States. Compare that to the less than one million doctors who are cur‐ rently practicing. That means if you, unfortunately, get sick and end up in the doctor’s office, urgent care or a hospital; the odds are very good that it will be a nurse who helps take care of you.

I’ve been fortunate in my life to not need hospitals for personal use, but I’ve certainly visited them plenty, and it is always the nurses who are the hands‐on staff making the sick and broken feel better. What strikes me isn’t the fact that they do a wonderful job but that they do it tirelessly and with a smile. Have you been in a hospital lately? People are miser‐ able, and you can’t blame them, after all, they are hurt or sick. How you walk into a room twelve times in a shift with a smile on your face know‐ ing the person you are trying to help just wants to bite your head off (or backside) is beyond me.

Nurses do a dirty, impossible job that most of us would walk out of on the first day and the pay doesn’t come close to being adequate for the abuse they endure. So, you can understand when they get upset to hear someone who has never walked in their shoes making a snarky comment that they play cards all day.

Did I mention how smart they are and have to be? Back in college at H.V.C.C., I briefly dated a nursing student. The only way she could make time for me was if I sat with her and did ‘flash cards’ testing her medical knowledge. I remember reading some of the things she had to learn and memorize and asking if she didn’t make a mistake and enroll in medical school by mistake? I said to her once, “If you have to know all this, I think you should just be a doctor.” She looked at me and said, “No, I’m a nurse.”

She said those words with such pride, and it was justified. What nurs‐ es do is the very definition of “life and death.” Two years ago, I visited the NICU at a local hospital and saw those tiny lives that are entirely depend‐ ent on the nurses who care for them. I saw one nurse tending to a baby that couldn’t have weighed more than a couple pounds and asked her what her job was? She pointed at the helpless baby and said, “Her.” That was her entire role and existence, to take care of that one baby. I later learned from someone at the hospital that when that child was having a “touch and go” day, that nurse came in on her day off to be with the child.

I have a mother‐in‐law and sister‐in‐law who are nurses, so I've had a front row seat for that life. It's nights and weekends and holidays and seeing things you can’t un‐see and then coming home to a family that doesn’t quite understand why you are so tired or perhaps just very quiet tonight. It’s a tough career and calling and, yeah, nobody really does have time to play gin rummy. They are, as the joke implies at the top, missing meals and waiting to take a bathroom break because the patient always comes first.

It is very fashionable to thank a soldier for their service to this coun‐ try, and I’m all for that. I’m also a big fan of thanking a nurse for what they do for all of us. Let’s face it; a nurse is likely the first face you’ll see when you enter this world and the last one, you’ll look at when you leave. We need them.

Since I started with a joke, it only makes sense that I should end with one too. What’s the difference between a nurse and a nun? Answer ‐ a nun only serves one God. John Gray is weekly columnist for the Troy Record and the Saratogian newspapers and news anchor at ABC 10 and FOX 23. He can be reached at johngray@fox23news.com.

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