BESTIES PEOPLE & PLACES

CAPITALCRL REGION LIVING

BESTIES

PEOPLE AND PLACES

BESTIE-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER MORGAN CAMPBELL MAKES FRIENDS—BOTH HUMAN AND CANINE—WHEREVER SHE GOES.

plus

GOOD KARMA: HANGING TOUGH AND WINNING BIG

GLAMPING COMES TO SACANDAGA

&

MEET THE REST OF THIS YEAR’S WINNERS

Egg-Stravaganza WONDERLAND BY

The Best Interactive Family Attraction in the Capital District

JOIN US BETWEEN MARCH 30 AND APRIL 8TH

The Wonderland team is excited to bring you New York’s only family-friendly, fully interactive Easter experience for the entire family to the Via Port Rotterdam. For just a short time you can join us and enjoy a wide variety of Easter and Spring themed activities including:

• Photos with the Easter Bunny

• Meet & Greet with Special Character Guests

• Balloon Artists

• Sand Art

• GIANT Easter Egg Hung

• Carnival Rides

• Face Painting

• Easter Treats & Concessions

• Special Easter Village Walkthrough

• Special Entertainment Nights

Francesco D’Amico, Samantha Decker Jeff Dingler, Dori Fitzpatrick, Jim Gilbert Christine Graf, John Gray, Audrey Knizek Sandy Menzer, Chantal Mullens Konrad Odhiambo, Nate Seitelman

From The Editors PEOPLE FIRST

Welcome to the first of our two 2023 Besties issues, in which we recognize the winners of a months-long, region-wide survey. This edition is dedicated to the local people and places that our most dedicated readers deemed the best of the best, whereas our summer issue will focus on the bars and restaurants Capital Regionites can’t stop talking about.

While we’ve been publishing the Besties for more than a decade, making them one of the longest-running regional awards, we thought this year was high time to give our people and places categories a facelift to better recognize the individuals that make this area such a wonderful place to live. Turn to page 22 to read about all the new categories we added this year and the winners of said categories.

Some other standout winners of the 2023 awards: photographer Morgan Campbell (page 16), Wintertime Wonderland (page 26), Choices Hair Studio and hairdresser Leeanne Shade (page 30), talk radio station WAMC (page 32), Cross Eyed Owl gift shop (page 34), Good Karma Studio (page 40) and Glampful, the area’s newest glamping destination (page 42). Congratulations to all of this year’s Bestie winners, and thank you to those who chose to support the Besties and CRL with the purchase of an ad in this issue. With your help, we can continue our mission to highlight the best of the best in the Capital Region for many years to come.

—The Editors

Last year’s Bestie-winners at Bestiefest Besties Group (T.R. LAZ)

NEW NOW AND

BY ABBY TEGNELIA

SCANDAL AND INTRIGUE

Albany was abuzz with celeb-spotting during the summer of 2021, when A-listers Woody Harrelson and Justin Theroux filmed HBO’s White House Plumbers near the State Capitol—turning back the town’s clock via vintage cars and extras wearing retro ‘70s attire. And now Capital Regionites can at last tune in to see the final product: The limited series premieres on HBO this March (strangely, at press time no specific date has been released). The heavily stylized five episodes (also featured: Kathleen Turner and Game of Thrones’ Lena Headey) cover our country’s most famous journalistic story of all time, Watergate. The catch? Forget Woodward and Bernstein; here, E. Howard Hunt (Harrelson) and G. Gordon Liddy (Theroux) take center stage as the political masterminds who take down the presidency they were supposed to protect.

Spring has sprung, and the Capital Region is in a frenzy of new beginnings, from our region’s first pickleball facility and a pair of new cafés—to the premiere of a an HBO show that was filmed right here in Albany.

NOTHING BUNDT COOKIES

Nothing Bundt Cakes—which has locations in Albany and Clifton Park—has sweetened the deal when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth this spring. Available only until April 2, a new Cookies & Cream flavor features Oreo cookie pieces baked into a classic white cake and topped with the bakery’s signature cream cheese frosting. This limited edition flavor, available in all sizes of the coveted Bundt cakes, is available only while supplies last, so cookie monsters shouldn’t wait for the perfect occasion—“just because” just might have to do.

COURT DATE

When pickleball fever first swept the country, there was no time to build new courts, leaving many players forced to play on tennis courts by lowering the net and taping off a smaller playing area. But now that indignity is no longer necessary—at least in the Capital Region. True Pickleball Club is set for an April opening, filling a 20,000-square-foot portion of what used to be the Latham K-Mart. The facility, which is the first one in the region dedicated to pickleball, features a pro shop and lounge in addition to the indoor courts, and is the brainchild of Jon Foshee of Concord Pools & Spas and Mike Bibbo of The Bibbo Group.

BOOKS AND BITES

A new coffee bar and café, scheduled for an early March opening, is helping to make sure Schenectady stays caffeinated. And it’s throwing in curated floor-to-ceiling, cafélength shelving loaded with books to sweeten the deal—because who doesn’t love to read? From the owner of Puzzles Cafe, Novel Biblio Brew has re-imagined the space into a cafe serving a menu of sandwiches, salads, soups, flatbreads and baked goods. The newly-renovated spot now has a liquor license, too, in anticipation of adding local craft beer, cider, wine and specialty cocktail service. Novel will be open four days a week and even has a kids’ corner to keep the littles occupied while you wait for the caffeine to kick in and do its job.

THE SUITE LIFE

One of Upstate New York’s most luxe lakeside resorts just leveled up. Fans of The Cove at Sylvan Beach, an amenities-packed rental community that opened on Oneida Lake last year, can now stay in The Admiral’s Suite, a grand four-bedroom penthouse that boasts a restaurant-worthy kitchen, a 1,800-square-foot deck, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private gym and its own pontoon boat. From there, enjoy The Cove’s heated pool, playground with a zip line, and access to water bikes, kayaks, paddle boards and fishing gear. When it’s time to relax, head to the resort’s candy wall that’s made of 2,000 pounds of candy. After taking some snaps for the ’gram, dig into an enormous ice cream sundae or classic milkshake.

JAZZED UP

March is Music in our Schools Month, and the Park Theater Foundation is launching a new Music & Technology Program this year in celebration. The initiative is the theater’s first education and community outreach program, focusing on middle and high school students in the Glens Falls Central School District. The music, band and orchestra students enrolled in the program will get to perform and attend workshops in collaboration with the guest jazz artists who are regularly featured in the Foundation’s “Third Thursday Jazz” series, as well as an audio-visual engineer and local artists. “This program,” says the foundation’s executive director, Chris Ristau, “is only the beginning.”

DONUT MIND IF WE DO

In a flash, the owner of the popular Birch Bark Eatery—which closed its doors in Glens Falls earlier this year—has opened a new vegan spot, this time on Lark Street in Albany. Named Bitchin’ Donuts, the bakery is first focusing on coffee and (yup) donuts, with plans to eventually expand the menu to include some of the breakfast items from the former Birch Bark. Owner Tania Sharlow moved fast, with her recent pre-spring opening promised just two weeks after her announcement. She knew her fans were hungry to try her newest vegan treats.

PICTURES WITH FRIENDS

BESTIE-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER MORGAN CAMPBELL—A RECENT CAPITAL REGION TRANSPLANT FROM ALABAMA— HAS USED HER PROFESSION TO BUILD A COMMUNITY HERE.

BY NATALIE MOORE

Morgan Campbell; (opposite) a collection of the photographer’s work

When it comes to photography, Morgan Campbell’s favorite thing to shoot is the first thing she learned to shoot. “My mom was a professional photographer in Alabama,” she says. “So when I was in high school, she would have me assist her at weddings and I started doing every single wedding with her. I’ve been shooting since I was a sophomore in high school.”

Since those early high school days in the south, Campbell’s repertoire has expanded to include family and couple sessions (like the photobombed engagement session on the cover of this magazine), content branding photography for local businesses (such as Saratoga's Miss Scarlett Boutique and Kane’s Fine Wine & Spirits), and even editorial work (she shot Carson Kressley for the cover of saratoga living last summer). She moved to Saratoga in March 2020, and despite the poor timing pandemic-wise, emerged from Covid with a list of local clients, a job at Pure Barre and a social life. “My late husband worked for the Navy and they transferred us up here,” Campbell says.

“After he passed away I decided to stay because I had a ton of friends in the area and I loved my little job that I had.”

Campbell also loves Saratoga itself. “I always wanted to live in a walking town,” she says. “I was a huge Gilmore Girls fan growing up. This town is a mix of a city and a very walkable, Gilmore Girls-esque town. It’s so cute and, being a photographer, the whole town is just a wonderful backdrop to photograph.”

Campbell has certainly made a name for herself in Saratoga and the greater Capital Region for her photography skills—she describes her work as “not the most perfect, posed photo, but definitely one that’s interesting and makes you want to keep looking at it.” But it’s the connections she makes with her clients that earned her the coveted Bestie for Best Photographer; her effortless southern charm makes you feel like a longtime friend, even upon just meeting her.

“People welcome me into their home and I get to see a different side of them,” she says. “I make all kinds of friends and get to meet all kinds of people.”

First, let me thank you for inviting us into your home.

My name is Julie Bonacio, Broker/Owner of Julie & Co Realty. Having been in the real estate world for over 20 years, as an agent, and a developer and builder of commercial and residential properties, it was only a natural progression to establish our own real estate brokerage arm of the company.

First, let me thank you for inviting us into your home.

My name is Julie Bonacio, Broker/Owner of Julie & Co. Realty, LLC. Having been in the real estate industry for over 20 years, it was only a natural progression to establish my own real estate brokerage.

We are a small boutique office and we specialize in residential resale, new construction, commercial and residential leasing.

Julie & Co. Realty is a boutique office specializing in residential resale, new construction, commercial, and residential leasing.

When I look at our company, I see the best group of professionals in the business. I see individuals who are not content to rely on past accomplishments, but strive to find innovative ways to create value and provide the highest level of service to our clients, BY ATTENTION TO DETAIL.

When I look at my company, I see the best group of professionals in the business. I see individuals who are not content to rely on past accomplishments but aim to find innovative ways to create value and the highest level of service to our clients with careful attention to detail.

I am deeply grateful for all of our clients at Julie & Co. Realty that made 2022 such a successful year, and for being voted the #1 Real Estate Professional in the Capital Region!

We will constantly strive, not to be the biggest, but the premier boutique real estate company in the local area. We want to earn your trust and give you a great experience that you will pass on to family and friends.

We will constantly strive, not to be the biggest, but to be the premiere real estate company in our area. We want to earn your trust, and give you a great experience that you will pass on to family and friends. Julie A. Bonacio

Besties

CAPITAL REGION LIVING

PEOPLE PLACES AND

CULTURE

ART GALLERY

CLARK ART INSTITUTE (TIE)

225 South Street, Williamstown, MA (413) 458-2303 clarkart.edu

THE HYDE COLLECTION (TIE)

161 Warren Street, Glens Falls (518) 792-1761 hydecollection.org

Albany Institute of History and Art

125 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 463-4478

albanyinstitute.org

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT SARATOGA

69 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-5540

cmssny.org

miSci

15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady (518) 382-7890

misci.org

World Awareness Children’s Museum

89 Warren Street, Glens Falls (518) 793-2773

worldchildrensmuseum.org

CONCERT VENUE

SPAC

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9330 spac.org

The Egg Empire State Plaza, Albany (518) 473-1061

theegg.org

MVP Arena

51 South Pearl Street, Albany (518) 487-2000

mvparena.com

COUNTY FAIR

ALTAMONT FAIR

New York 146 & Arlington Street, Guilderland (518) 861-6671

altamontfair.com

Columbia County Fair

182 Hudson Avenue, Chatham (518) 392-2121 columbiafair.com

Schaghticoke Fair (tie) 69 Stillwater Bridge Road, Schaghticoke (518) 753-4411 schaghticokefair.org

Washington County Fair (tie) 392 Old Schuylerville Road, Greenwich (518) 692-2464 washingtoncountyfair.com

MUSEUM

NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM

222 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 474-5877 nysm.nysed.gov

Albany Institute of History & Art 125 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 463-4478 albanyinstitute.org

miSci

15 Museum Drive, Schenectady (518) 382-7890 misci.org

OUTDOOR SUMMER VENUE

SPAC

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9330 spac.org

PS21: Performance Spaces for 21st Century 2980 Route 66, Chatham (518) 392-6121 ps21chatham.org

The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 thegreensatcopake.com

SEASONAL EVENT

SARATOGA RACING SEASON

267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs (718) 641-4700 nyra.com

Troy Victorian Stroll Downtown Troy (518) 274-7020

victorianstroll.com

Saratoga Chowder Fest (tie) Downtown Saratoga (518) 584-1531

discoversaratoga.org

Wintertime Wonderland (tie) 93 West Campbell Road, Rotterdam (518) 901-4321

wintertimewonderland.com

SERVICES

ANIMAL HOSPITAL

THE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 2 Rocking Horse Lane, Slingerlands (518) 456-0852

theanimalhospital.com

Delmar Animal Hospital (tie) 910 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9361 delmaranimalhospital.com

Sand Creek Animal Hospital (tie) 130 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 446-9171 sandcreekanimalhospital.com

Bloomingrove Veterinary Hospital

498 North Greenbush Road, Rensselaer (518) 283-2700

bloomingrove.vetstreet.com

APPLIANCE STORE

MARCELLA’S APPLIANCE CENTER 15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 952-7700 560 Broadway, Schenectady (518) 381-1957

marcellasappliance.com

Earl B. Feiden Appliance Multiple Locations earlbfeiden.com

Cocca’s Appliance 158 Railroad Avenue, Albany (518) 453-6100

coccasappliancestv.com

ARCHITECTURE FIRM

BALZER AND TUCK ARCHITECTURE

468 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 580-8818

balzertuck.com

RED DENOTES WINNER | BLACK DENOTES FINALIST i e

New Kids on the Block

CAPITAL REGION LIVING’s mission is to celebrate our region’s communities—Besties season, and beyond. Since the best way to do that is to shine a spotlight on the people making the magic happen, we added a bunch of new Besties categories this year, with a focus on “People” in this “People and Places” issue.

The Capital Region’s creative communities enjoyed the limelight a bit, with new Artist, Author and Band categories. Channel 10’s John Gray added our first-ever Author Bestie to his collection—the journalist also regularly wins awards for Evening Anchor and Print Journalist—for his popular novels that include Manchester Christmas and Chasing Manhattan, and children’s books such as God Needed a Puppy. The beautiful harmonies of Albany’s Triskele, an all-female Celtic group, nabbed our first-ever Band Bestie, and both the first and second place Artist celebrated the art of face painting: Premo Designs and iCandy. (The esteemed Dahl Taylor picked up third.)

Some other categories were inspired by the pandemic, which really shined a light on local heroes who work hard to help others. Saratoga’s Lisa Mitzen, who tirelessly gives back to organizations such as Shelters of Saratoga and started Business for Good to help local businesses and charities, took home the first-ever Community Advocate Bestie. And Educator went to Lauren Werking, the school psychologist for the CairoDurham Central School District.

Another way we honored the people who make our communities tick was to acknowledge the people behind some of the Bestie-winning businesses. Leeanne Shade picked up the first Beauty Professional win to add to her Bestie collection for her Delmar salon, Choices Hair Studio. And new kids on the block Bocage Champagne Bar picked up an impressive Bestie haul that includes Best Wine Selection, so it made sense that they also scooped up a win in the Bartenders category.

CSArch 40 Beaver Street, Albany (518) 463-8068 csarchpc.com

Conklin Architecture

3 Fyke Road, Catskill (518) 943-4220 conklinarchitecture.com

AUTO SERVICE

LIA AUTO GROUP

Multiple Locations (855) 212-7985 liacars.com

Bethlehem Auto Service 62 Hannay Lane, Glenmont (518) 426-8414 bethlehemautoservice.com

Goldstein Auto Group Multiple Locations goldsteinauto.com

BANK TRUSTCO BANK Multiple Locations trustcobank.com

Pioneer Bank Multiple Locations pioneerny.com

Bank of Greene County Multiple Locations thebankofgreenecounty.com

BARBERSHOP

GREGORY’S BARBERSHOP

316 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3525

5 Southside Drive, Clifton Park (518) 371-7400 gregorysbarbershop.com

Jordan’s Barbershop 49 Main Street, Ravena (518) 756-2480 jordansbarbershop.com

Joe’s Barber Shop

337 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 852-0714

Joe’s Barber Shop on Facebook

BARTENDERS

BOCAGE CHAMPAGNE BAR

10 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-1115 bocagechampagnebar.com

The Greens at Copake Country Club

44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019

thegreensatcopake.com

Yanni’s Too 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

yannisrestaurants.com

BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL/ HAIRDRESSER

LEEANNE SHADE (CHOICES HAIR STUDIO)

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com

Jennifer Karius (Classic Trends) 257 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 410-9739

@auggyrocks on Instagram

Shelley Hutchinson

(Shelley’s Salon & Day Spa) 2 Greenbush Avenue, East Greenbush (518) 479-1500 shelleysalon.com

CATERER

YANNI’S TOO

16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

yannisrestaurants.com

West Avenue Pizzeria 99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 886-3788 westavenuepizzeria.com

Old Daley Custom Catering 2 Northern Drive, Troy (518) 235-2656 olddaley.com

CHEF

MARC YANNI (YANNI’S TOO)

16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

yannisrestaurants.com

Marty Gerrity

(The Greens at Copake Country Club) 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 thegreensatcopake.com

Kareem Najame (Tatu Tacos & Tequila) 100 Congress Street, Troy (518) 874-1028 tatuny.com

Triskele

CHIROPRACTOR

DELMAR CHIROPRACTIC

204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7644

delmarchiropractic.com

Enlighten Chiropractic

2 Tower Place, Albany (518) 313-6470

enlightenalbany.com

Shannon Chiropractic Wellness LLC

397 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-1916

shannonchiropractic.com

CREDIT UNION

BROADVIEW FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations broadviewfcu.com

Sunmark Credit Union Multiple Locations (866) SUNMARK sunmark.org

First New York Credit Union Multiple Locations firstnewyork.org

CUSTOMER SERVICE

CAPITAL REGION MEDICARE SPECIALISTS

728 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 929-1506

capitalregionmedicarespecialists.com

Bocage Champagne Bar

10 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-1115

bocagechampagnebar.com

Choices Hair Studio

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619

choiceshairstudio.com

DAY SPA

COMPLEXIONS SPA FOR BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 595-4845

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 309-7107

complexions.com

Tuscan Sun at Kimberley’s 982 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-5868

kimberleysadayspa.com

Spa Mirbeau

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (518) 647-2328

spamirbeau.com

DENTIST

ZAPPIA AND FRYER GENERAL DENTISTRY

1 Pine West Plaza, Albany (518) 869-1138

zappiafryer.com

Albany Dental Team

822 New Scotland Avenue, Albany (518) 482-6936

264 Osborne Road, Loudonville (518) 434-3151

albanydentalteam.com

Maestro Dental Wellness

225 Great Oaks Boulevard, Albany (518) 218-0713

maestrodentalwellness.com

DRY CLEANERS

BEST CLEANERS

Multiple Locations bestcleanersny.com

Stena Dry Cleaning

451 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 459-5944

Handy Dandy Dry Cleaners (tie) 240 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4444

Rainbow Cleaners (tie) 10 Ford Avenue, Troy (518) 274-0981

troyrainbowcleaners.com

EVENT PLANNER

KYLEIGH ZENGEN

The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019

thegreensatcopake.com

Katie O’ Weddings and Events (518) 275-6813

katieoevents.com

Christine Wheat Special Events

480 Broadway Suite 336, Saratoga Springs (518) 928-3968

cweventsfirm.com

FACIAL CHOICES HAIR STUDIO

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619

choiceshairstudio.com

Breathe Massage Therapy

48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar (518) 521-7979

breathemassagedelmar.com

Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 595-4845

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 309-7107 complexions.com

FITNESS CENTER

GOOD KARMA STUDIO

12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929

thegoodkarmastudio.com

Vent Fitness Multiple Locations ventfitness.com

Capital District YMCA Multiple Locations cdymca.org

FLORIST

THE ENCHANTED FLORIST

54 Columbia Street, Albany (518) 813-4990 enchantedfloristalbany.net

Chatham Flowers and Gifts

2117 Route 203, Chatham (855) 299-0342 chathamflowersandgifts.com

Flowers by Pesha

501 Broadway, Troy (518) 272-1980

flowersbypesha.net

FURNITURE STORE

OLD BRICK FURNITURE

33-37 Warehouse Row, Albany (518) 213-2686

2910 Campbell Road, Schenectady (518) 213-3194

oldbrickfurniture.com

Mooradians Furniture

800 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 489-2529

1758A Route 9 Parkwood Plaza, Clifton Park (518) 694-8452

mooradians.com

Furniture Plus

329 Fairview Avenue, Hudson (518) 828-3683

furnitureplushudson.com

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

DR. LAURA PICA, MD

St. Peter’s Internal Medicine

1240 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 475-9235

sphp.com

Dr. Jill Braverman-Panza, MD

Braverman-Panza Internal Medicine

1375 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 482-0007 sphp.com

Pamela J. Reamer, FNP-C St. Peter’s Internal Medicine

582 New Loudon Road, Newtonville (518) 783-0072

sphp.com

HAIR SALON

CHOICES HAIR STUDIO

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619

choiceshairstudio.com

Blush & Co. Hair and Beauty

211 Old Loudon Road, Latham (518) 608-1481

Blush & Co. on Facebook

The Shop

815 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 817-7195

theshopon7.com

HEALTH CARE/ HMO

CDPHP

500 Patroon Creek Boulevard, Albany (518) 641-3140

cdphp.com

MVP Health Care 625 State Street, Schenectady (518) 370-4793

mvphealthcare.com

518-783-5506

Our relaxing lobby provides a calm setting and our spacious pet grooming salon makes it comfortable for your pet to enjoy their pampering treatments.

Daycare

Offering enhanced interactions and activities, such as games and agility exercises, to stimulate their mind and exercise their bodies.

A Change of Seasons

Wintertime Wonderland’s thirdplace Bestie finish is incredibly impressive, given the magnitude of the seasonal events it was up against—the immersive Christmastime experience, located at VIA Port Rotterdam, was beat out only by the 160-year-old Saratoga racing meet and Troy’s 40year-old Victorian Stroll. Wintertime Wonderland on the other hand? The festive favorite—which tied for third place with Saratoga Chowderfest— has been around for only two holiday seasons. And parents, perk up: Organizers are already gearing up to open something new this spring.

“Wintertime Wonderland is the largest indoor Christmas event in the Capital Region,” says Morgan Gatus of Luizzi Asphalt Services, which sponsors the event. “With more than 65,000 square feet of indoor space, families from all over find themselves gliding through a frosty ice maze, parading past Santa’s village, wandering down Candy Cane Alley and helping stop the Grinch from stealing Christmas.”

This year, organizers are looking to expand on the event’s early success by bringing the Wonderland concept to a new holiday: Easter. “We have Egg-stravaganza by Wonderland coming this March 30 to April 8,” Gatus says. What’s in store for the interactive springtime experience? New rides and games; pictures with the Easter Bunny, SpongeBob SquarePants, the Cat in the Hat, Winnie the Pooh, Mickey Mouse and other characters; an Easter egg hunt with 50,000 eggs; and special events throughout the Easter season including a celebration of National Crayon Day, Pillow Fight Day and Peanut Butter & Jelly Day. wonderlandtickets.com

United Health Group

920 Albany Shaker Road, Latham (800) 328-5979 unitedhealthgroup.com

HEATING & COOLING

CRISAFULLI BROTHERS PLUMBING AND HEATING

25 Industrial Park Road, Albany (518) 302-2947

crisbro.com

Family Danz Heating & Cooling

404 North Pearl Street, Albany (518) 203-5035 familydanz.com

Roland J. Down

13 Airport Road, Scotia (518) 417-2938 rolandjdown.com

HOME BUILDER

AMEDORE HOMES

1900 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 456-1010 amedorehomes.com

Hanifin Home Builders (tie) 420 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9033 hanifinbuilders.com

Bonacio Construction, Inc. (tie) 18 Division Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9007 bonacio.com

Marini Homes

624 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 869-1200 marinihomes.com

HOME HEALTHCARE

WESLEY SENIOR SOLUTIONS

396 Louden Road, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-1200 thewesleycommunity.org

Visiting Nurse Association of Albany

35 Colvin Avenue, Albany (518) 489-2681 vnaalbany.org

Marquis Certified Home Care

1762 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 216-0100 marquishc.com

HOSPITAL

ST. PETER’S HOSPITAL

315 South Manning Boulevard, Albany (518) 525-1550 sphp.com

Albany Medical Center

43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany (518) 262-3125 amc.edu

Saratoga Hospital

211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-3222 saratogahospital.org

INSURANCE AGENCY

SEFCU INSURANCE AGENCY

469 State Street, Schenectady (518) 786-9905 sefcuinsuranceagency.com

Kneller Insurance Multiple Locations knellerins.com

Capital Region Medicare Specialists 728 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 929-1506

capitalregionmedicarespecialists.com

INTERIOR DESIGNER

SENSORY SIX

8 Butler Place, Saratoga Springs (518) 306-1099

sensorysix.com

Debut Property Staging (518) 313-0975

debutpropertystaging.com

E. Tanny Design (518) 821-8708 etannydesign.com

LANDSCAPER

FADDEGON’S LANDSCAPING

1140 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-6726 faddegonslandscape.com

Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping

1277 Route 9W, Selkirk (518) 635-4111 sevenzocks.com

Troy’s Landscape Supply

1266 New Loudon Road, Cohoes (518) 785-1526

troyslandscapesupply.com

Egg-stravaganza by Wonderland

LAW FIRM

O’CONNELL AND ARONOWITZ

54 State Street, Albany (518) 462-5601

oalaw.com

Harding Mazzotti

1 Wall Street, Albany (800) 529-1010

1800law1010.com

The Granich Law Firm, PLLC

21 Colvin Avenue, Albany (518) 862-7181

granichlawfirm.com

MANI/PEDI

VENUS NAIL SPA

52 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 326-9594

Venus Nail Spa on Facebook

Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 595-4845

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 309-7107

complexions.com

Lavender Nail & Spa

222 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 626-8718

MARINA

COEYMANS LANDING MARINA

20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-6111

coeymanslandingmarina.com

Boats by George

291 Cleverdale Road, Cleverdale (518) 793-5452

boatsbygeorge.com

Lakeside Tavern & Marina

306 Woods Hollow Road, Gloversville (518) 883-5253

lanzislakesidetavern.com

MASSAGE

BREATHE MASSAGE THERAPY

48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar (518) 521-7979

breathemassagedelmar.com

Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 595-4845

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 309-7107 complexions.com

Laberge Massage Therapy

204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 577-5488 labergemassagetherapy.com

MEDICAL SPA

LUCIE CAPEK PLASTIC SURGERY & MEDSPA

1003 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 765-8405 capekplasticsurgery.com

Artistry of Face

475 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 603-4544 artistryofface.com

Hebe Medical Spa

601 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 608-5545 thehebespa.com

MEDICAL SPECIALIST

CAPITAL CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES Multiple Locations capitalcardiology.com

The Bone & Joint Center Multiple Locations theboneandjointcenter.com

Albany ENT & Allergy Services (tie)

123 Everett Road, Albany (518) 701-2085

1785 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 701-2075 albanyentandallergy.com

Saratoga Schenectady Gastroenterology Associates (tie) Multiple Locations ssgastro.com

PAVING/SEALCOATING

LUIZZI ASPHALT SERVICES 70 Tivoli Street, Albany (518) 459-7325 luizziasphalt.com

L. Browe Asphalt Services East Greenbush (518) 479-1400 broweasphalt.com

Smith’s Paving and Sealcoating

3485 River Road, Rensselaer (518) 266-9526 smithspaving.com

PEDIATRICIAN

SCHOOLHOUSE PEDIATRICS

Multiple Locations (518) 456-1211

schoolhousepeds.com

Giombetti & Brady Pediatrics

208 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5611

giombettiandbradypediatrics.com

Shaker Pediatrics

10 Century Hill Drive, Latham (518) 783-5563

shakerpediatrics.com

PERSONAL TRAINER

JESSICA LUBIN

GOOD KARMA STUDIO

12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com

Chris Wertman Legacy Fitness Club

3637 Carmen Road, Schenectady (518) 817-5182

legacyfitnessclub-ny.com

Donna Topolski Girl Fight Fitness

126 Saratoga Road, Glenville 959 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 321-3524

girlfightfit.com

PET SERVICES

PET SPAS & SUITES

1 Cerone Commercial Drive, Colonie (518) 783-5506

petspasandsuites.com

Scallywags Dog Salon

881 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-5117

Scallywags Dog Salon on Facebook

Shawna’s Dogs 64 Hannay Lane, Glenmont (518) 417-3930

shawnasdogs.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

MORGAN CAMPBELL PHOTO @morgancampbellphoto on Instagram

Elario Photography elariophotography.com

First Choice

Not only has Choices Hair Studio won Best Hair Salon for six years running, but the charismatic owner, Leeanne Shade, also pulled in a win in one of our new categories, Best Beauty Professional. It’s no secret why customers love their regular trips into the Delmar salon for their cuts, color and hair styling. “We are very conscious of making everyone feel welcome to our salon and that it does not feel pretentious,” Shade says. “Our guests come from diverse backgrounds, so I make sure our staff does, too. This helps to find commonalities amongst them, which helps make those connections.” Shade opened Choices in June 1993, after the salon she was managing left its franchise, and hasn’t looked back. “The expectation of owning a salon,” she says, “has more than exceeded what I thought it would be.”

Shade works hard to stay on top of beauty trends and latest techniques. “We specialize in hair color, but we have a number of stylists who also are amazing at cutting, styling (including bridal/prom work), and texture/smoothing services. We also have a great aesthetician who offers a variety of skin services. I’ve always believed in offering quality products and services that the majority of guests will find affordable when comparing to similar salons.”

A certified Master Colorist since 2006, Shade has also been an educator who travels the country, always bringing home everything she learns along the way. “I love being able to connect with people and offer them looks that work for their expectations,” she says. “In the end, it boils down to learning about who they are, which is a pretty amazing perk to have in your workday.”

The Content Agency (tie) 368 Broadway, Saratoga Springs thecontentagencyinc.com

Konrad Odhiambo Photography (tie) (518) 331-4771 konradodhiambo.com

PILATES STUDIO

FREE MOVEMENT PILATES

5 Becker Terrace, Delmar (518) 275-2644 freemovementpilates.com

Core Pilates

4 Palisades Drive, Albany (518) 727-0271 corepilatesalbany.com

Studio 4 Hot Yoga & Pilates 151 Lafayette Street, Schenectady studio4hotyoga.com

REAL ESTATE

PROFESSIONAL

JULIE BONACIO

Julie & Co.

18 Division Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 350-SOLD juliecorealty.com

Cindy McMahon Hunt Real Estate

263 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 496-1299 gotcindy.com

TREE SERVICE

MARK’S TREE SERVICE

(518) 489-1196 (Albany) (518) 861-8566 (Voorheesville) markstrees.com

Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping

1277 Route 9W, Selkirk (518) 635-4111 sevenzocks.com

Davey Tree

1 Runway Avenue, Latham (866) 207-2031 davey.com

WAITSTAFF

YANNI’S TOO

16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033 yannisrestaurants.com

Illusive Restaurant and Bar

3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer (518) 977-3602

illusives.com

Tatu Tacos and Tequila

100 Congress Street, Troy (518) 874-1028

tatuny.com

YOGA STUDIO

GOOD KARMA STUDIO

12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929

thegoodkarmastudio.com

The Hot Yoga Spot Multiple Locations thehotyogaspot.com

Jai Yoga School

5 Vista Boulevard, Slingerlands (518) 496-8382

jaiyogaschool.com

SHOPPING

APPLE ORCHARD

INDIAN LADDER FARMS

342 Altamont Road, Altamont (518) 765-2956 indianladderfarms.com

Golden Harvest Farms 3074 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7683 goldenharvestfarms.com

Samascott Orchards

5 Sunset Avenue, Kinderhook (518) 758-7224

samascott.com

BIKE SHOP

MAD DOG BICYCLES

561 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3669

maddogbicycles.com

Steiner’s Sports Multiple Locations steinersskibike.com

Downtube Bicycle Works

466 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 434-1711

downtubebicycleworks.com

Leeanne Shade

Somethin’ to Talk About

WAMC, this year’s Bestie winner for Best News Radio, is no stranger to awards. Over the last 65 years (yes— the station was first established by Albany Medical College all the way back in 1958, though it wouldn’t be chartered as a public radio station until 1970) the station has garnered honors for a feature story about an Auschwitz survivor, its coverage of fans returning to Saratoga Race Course after Covid, an oral history of the Capitol siege, and many more.

A member of National Public Radio and an affiliate of Public Radio International, WAMC serves parts of seven states from its headquarters in Albany and 29 locations throughout the region. Perhaps its best known program is “The Roundtable,” an award-winning (we told you this wasn’t WAMC’s first moment in the spotlight!) talk program that has hosted many big names including Kurt Vonnegut, Maya Angelou, Jimmy Carter, Steve Martin, Stephen King and Lin-Manuel Miranda since its launch in 2001.

But perhaps WAMC’s biggest claim to fame has been its ability to modernize in an era when people are simply listening to radio less. The brand presents an impressive array of podcasts, has been recognized for its digital media presence, and in 2002 opened the doors to The Linda, WAMC’s performing arts studio. For those reasons and more, CRL readers hailed WAMC this year’s Bestie winner—now that’s something to talk about.

BOOKSTORE

I LOVE BOOKS

380 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 478-0715 ilovebooksdelmar.com

Market Block Books

290 River Street, Troy (518) 328-0045 bhny.com

Northshire Bookstore

424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 682-4200 northshire.com

BRIDAL SHOP

A LOVE STORY BY ANGELA’S BRIDAL

112 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 869-1848 alovestorybridal.com

Lily Saratoga

6 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-5017 lilysaratoga.com

DeAnna’s Boutique

3991 Route 43, West Sand Lake (518) 283-6252 deannasgiftsandclothing.com

CSA/COMMUNITY CO-OP

HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP

100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2667 honestweight.coop

Niskayuna Co-op

2227 Nott Street, Niskayuna (518) 374-1362 niskayunaco-op.com

Chatham Co-op

15 Church Street, Chatham (518) 392-3353 chatham.coop

CAR DEALER

KEELER MOTOR CAR COMPANY

1111 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (888) 600-3013 keeler.com

Lia Auto Group Multiple Locations (855) 212-7985 liacars.com

Mohawk Honda

175 Freemans Bridge Road, Schenectady (518) 243-1003

mohawkhonda.com

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

TRULY RHE

1 Broadway, Troy (518) 273-1540

trulyrhe.com

Caroline and Main

438 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-7350

carolineandmain.com

Violet’s of Saratoga

494 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-4838

violetsofsaratoga.com

CONSIGNMENT SHOP

WORTH REPEATING 123 Saratoga Road, Glenville (518) 384-0946

worthrepeating123.com

The Closet Shop

337 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5722

theclosetshopdelmar.com

Something Olde, Something New 1969 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 474-0663

somethingoldenew.com

FARMERS’ MARKET

TROY WATERFRONT FARMERS’ MARKET Monument Square, Troy (April-October)

865 2nd Avenue, Troy (November-March) (518) 708-4216

troymarket.org

Delmar Farmers’ Market 332 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar delmarmarket.com

Schenectady Greenmarket

105 Jay Street - City Hall, Schenectady (May-October)

432 State Street - Proctors, Schenectady (November-April) schenectadygreenmarket.com

GARDEN NURSERY

FADDEGON’S NURSERY

1140 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-6726 faddegons.com

(from top) The WAMC team; WAMC president and CEO Alan Chartock

Cross Eyed Owl’s Big Birthday

Patti Varga, owner of Cross Eyed Owl in Valatie, never set out to own a gift shop. “I was selling things I made in other craft co-op stores, and it just all fell into place,” the Kinderhook resident says. Now, three decades later, Varga isn’t just celebrating her shop’s 30th anniversary—she’s celebrating her 13th consecutive Bestie win in the Gift Shop category.

Why do CRL readers keep naming Cross Eyed Owl the best of the best? Well, gift-givers can find pretty much anything in the store’s aisles that are chock-full of greeting cards, garden décor, mugs, picture frames, stuffed animals, tea towels, wreaths, jewelry, purses, candles and all sorts of other trinkets and tchotchkes. They also find Varga’s smiling face, both in-store and online, where during Covid she took to posting Facebook Live videos promoting new products and has never looked back.

“In the last 30 years, I’ve learned that time flies by way too fast, especially if you’re doing something you love,” says Varga, who describes her store as her happy place. “When it stops being fun, and I no longer feel like what I do makes a difference, it will be time to retire!”

Hewitt’s Garden Center Multiple Locations

hewitts.com

Troy’s Landscape Supply

1266 New Loudon Road, Cohoes (518) 785-1526

troyslandscapesupply.com

GIFT SHOP

CROSS EYED OWL

3143 US Highway 9 #8, Valatie (518) 758-6755

crosseyedowl.com

Tailgate and Party

33 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 886-9015

tailgateandparty.com

5th Corner Goods and Gifts

395 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar 5thcornergoods.com

HARDWARE STORE

ROBINSON’S ACE HARDWARE

1874 Western Avenue, Guilderland (518) 456-7383

1900 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 475-9483

robinsonshardware.com

Hatchet Hardware Multiple Locations hatchethardware.com

Phillip’s Hardware

6495 Route 158, Altamont (518) 861-5364

235 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9943 shopphillips.com

HEALTH FOOD STORE

HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP

100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2667

honestweight.coop

Four Seasons Natural Foods

120 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-4670

fourseasonsnaturalfoods.com

Kaaterskill Farm Natural Storehouse

3 Boulevard Avenue, Catskill (518) 943-1919

173 Healy Boulevard, Hudson (518) 822-0790

Kaaterskill Farm Natural Storehouse on Facebook

JEWELER

JOYELLES JEWELERS

318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9993

joyellesjewelers.com

Hannoush Jewelers

112 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 715-8759

1750 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 616-9806

hannoushny.com

Drue Sanders Custom Jewelers

1675 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 464-9636

druesanders.com

LIQUOR/WINE STORE

EMPIRE WINE

1440 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 694-8503

empirewine.com

Exit 9 Wine & Liquor Warehouse

9 Halfmoon Crossing, Clifton Park (518) 688-0153

exit9wineandliquor.com

All Star Wine & Spirits

579 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 220-9463

allstarwine.com

MENSWEAR

MARK THOMAS MEN’S APPAREL

5 Metro Park Road, Albany (518) 438-7887

385 Broadway Suite 2, Saratoga Springs (518) 871-1293

markthomasmensapparel.com

Union Hall Supply Company 437 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-7025

unionhallsupplyco.com

Amore Clothing

595 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-4184

amoreclothing.com

MUSIC STORE

THE RIVER STREET BEAT SHOP

197 River Street, Troy (518) 272-0433

recordstoreday.com

John Keal Music

819 Livingston Avenue, Albany (518) 482-4405

Springtime gifts from Cross Eyed Owl

1758 Parkwood Plaza, Clifton Park (518) 371-4455

johnkealmusic.com

Parkway Music

1777 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 383-0300

parkwaymusic.com

OPTICAL CENTER

BRASS EYE CENTER

1783 Route 9 #106, Clifton Park 713 Troy Schenectady Road # 135, Latham (518) 782-7827

brasseyecenter.com

Buenau’s Opticians

228 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7012 buenaus.com

Hughes Opticians

411 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4971

hughesopticians.com

PET STORE

BENSON’S PET CENTER Multiple Locations bensonspet.com

Healthy Pet Center Multiple Locations healthypetcenters.com

SHOPPING MALL/CENTER

COLONIE CENTER

131 Colonie Center, Albany (518) 252-0215

shopatcoloniecenter.com

Crossgates Mall

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (518) 869-3522

shopcrossgates.com

Stuyvesant Plaza

1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 482-8986

stuyvesantplaza.com

SPORTING GOODS STORE

STEINER’S SPORTS

Multiple Locations

steinersskibike.com

Zero Tolerance Manufacturing

1131 New York 9H, Ghent (518) 938-1335

Zero Tolerance Mfg on Facebook

Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company 490 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-3500

mountainmanoutdoors.com

SUPERMARKET

HANNAFORD

Multiple Locations hannaford.com

Price Chopper/Market 32 Multiple Locations pricechopper.com

ShopRite Multiple Locations shoprite.com

TIRE STORE

GRAND PREMIER TIRES & CUSTOM WHEELS

591 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 477-4753

3361 South Thompson, Schenectady (518) 630-5055 grandpremieretire.com

Adirondack Tire Multiple Locations adirondacktire.com

LaBarge’s Tire and Auto Service 52 Route 9W, Glenmont (518) 436-8473 labargestireautocenter.com

TRAVEL AGENCY

AAA TRAVEL Multiple Locations hudsonvalley.aaa.com

Plaza Travel 623 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-3338 plazatravel.net

All Aboard Travel 396 Route 23B, Hudson (518) 943-6500

All Aboard Travel, Inc on Facebook

PEOPLE & MEDIA

ARTIST

PREMO DESIGNS FACE PAINT (518) 952-1328 facepaint518.com

iCandy Face Painting icandydesignsfacepainting.com

Dahl Taylor 915 Broadway, Albany (518) 432-0645 dahltaylorart.com

AUTHOR

JOHN GRAY johngraywriter.com

Marilyn A. Pittelli nogoandtell.com

Patricia Crandall patriciacrandall.com

AFTERNOON ANCHOR

CHRISTINA ARANGIO, NEWS10 ABC

Julia Dunn, CBS 6

Faith King, NewsChannel 13

BAND TRISKELE triskelemusic.com

Glass Pony glassponyband.com

Mike and the Monsters (tie) mikeandthemonsters.com

The Lawn Sausages (tie) The Lawn Sausages on Facebook

COLLEGE SPORTS TEAM

SIENA BASKETBALL sienasaints.com

The University at Albany Basketball ualbanysports.com

RPI Hockey (tie) rpiathletics.com

Union Hockey (tie) unionathletics.com

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

LISA MITZEN (BUSINESS FOR GOOD)

Mark Emanation (Capital District Area Labor Federation et al.)

Brittany Tibbits (Elle Potential)

MARCH 16 | GIRLS NIGHT OUT! (MALE DANCE REVUE)

MARCH 17 | DOGS IN A PILE W/ HAYLEY JANE

MARCH 31 | BEARLY DEAD

APRIL 1 | HOOPS AND HOPS WATCH PARTY

APRIL 6 | TROPIDELIC W/ JOEY HARKUM

APRIL 7 | THE LIZARDS

APRIL 8 | LUCZID W/ DATEBYTE VISUALS

APRIL 19 | DOPAPOD W/ BAKED SHRIMP

APRIL 28 | JIMKATA

MAY 4 | SPAFFORD

MAY 5 | START MAKING SENSE

MAY 20 | PRINCE/BOWIE: PERFORMING THE MUSIC OF PRINCE & DAVID BOWIE

EDUCATOR

LAUREN WERKING

Cairo-Durham Schools

Tamara Thorpe-Odom

Shenendehowa Schools

Ryan Carpenter Hudson Falls Schools

EVENING ANCHOR

JOHN GRAY, NEWS10 ABC

Lydia Kulbida, NEWS10 ABC

Subrina Dhammi, NewsChannel 13

EVENING TEAM

NEWSCHANNEL 13 TEAM

NEWS10 ABC Team

CBS 6 Team

MORNING ANCHOR

CHRISTINA ARANGIO, NEWS10 ABC

Stephanie Rivas, NEWS10 ABC

Julia Dunn, CBS 6

MORNING TEAM

NEWS10 ABC TEAM

NewsChannel 13 Team

Spectrum News Team

METEOROLOGIST

STEVE CAPORIZZO, NEWS10 ABC

Paul Caiano, NewsChannel 13

Steve LaPointe, CBS 6

MUSIC RADIO

WGNA 107.7 wgna.com

The CAT 100.9 1009thecat.com

K-Love 94.5

NEWS RADIO

WAMC wamc.org

WGY wgy.iheart.com

TALK 1300 talk1300.com

LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

SEAN AND ANDREA (THE CAT 100.9) 1009thecat.com

Brian and Chrissy (WGNA 107.7) wgna.com

Joe Donahue (WAMC 90.3/1400) (tie) wamc.org

Paul Vandenburgh (TALK 1300) (tie) talk1300.com

LOCAL PRINT JOURNALIST

JOHN GRAY Capital Region Living

Paul Grondahl Albany Times Union

Rob Smittix NYS Music

SPORTSCASTER

RODGER WYLAND, NEWSCHANNEL 13

Lexi Swatt, NewsChannel 13

PLACES

ASSISTED LIVING/ NURSING HOME

KINGSWAY COMMUNITY 323 Kings Road, Schenectady (518) 393-8800 kingswaycommunity.com

Teresian House

200 Washington Avenue Ext., Albany (518) 456-2000 teresianhouse.org

Eddy Senior Living Communities

One Glen Eddy Drive, Niskayuna (518) 280-8385 eddyseniorliving.com

CAMPGROUND

GLAMPFUL

162 Hatzenbuhler Road, Broadalbin (646) 539-9438 glampful.com

Roger’s Rock Campground 9894 Lake Shore Drive, Hague (518) 585-6746 dec.ny.gov

Moreau Lake State Park 605 Old Saratoga Road, Gansevoort (518) 793-0511 parks.ny.gov

DAY TRIP

(within 3 hours)

LAKE GEORGE, NY visitlakegeorge.com

Lake Placid, NY lakeplacid.com

Stockbridge, MA (tie) stockbridge-ma.gov

Woodstock, NY (tie) townofwoodstock.org

DOG-FRIENDLY SPOT

COLONIE CENTER

131 Colonie Center, Albany (518) 459-9020

shopatcoloniecenter.com

Higher Ground Distilling Company 2513 Highway 30, Mayfield (518) 527-5490

Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook

John Boyd Thacher State Park 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237 parks.ny.gov

GOLF COURSE (PRIVATE)

NORMANSIDE COUNTRY CLUB (SEMI-PRIVATE)

150 Salisbury Road, Delmar (518) 439-4505 normanside.com

Wolferts Roost Country Club 120 Van Rensselaer Boulevard, Albany (518) 449-3223

wolfertsroost.com

Colonie Golf and Country Club

13 Country Club Lane, Voorheesville (518) 765-4100

coloniegcc.com

Hanging Around

Good Karma Studio owner Jessica Lubin fell in love with yoga all the way back in high school, but it wasn’t until after she discovered aerial yoga (think yoga poses and major core work done in Cirque du Soleil-worthy hammocks hanging from the ceiling), when things began to “fly” for the creative entrepreneur. “I gravitated to aerial because I love the feeling of being upside down,” she says. And so do Capital Regionites of all ages: Good Karma won a whopping five Besties this year, for Fitness Center, Personal Trainer, Yoga Studio, Kids Birthday Venue and Kids Camp. The Colonie studio’s kids programs are mega-popular. “What’s not to love— flipping, flying and hanging upside down!” Lubin says. “But the best part is that they’re learning patience, trust and confidence.”

Adults, too, have a lot to gain from an aerial class—the workout improves strength, flexibility, motor skills and balance. (Yes, beginners are welcome.) But the main thing for most is the satisfaction of doing something completely outside of their comfort zone.

“My goal,” Lubin says, “is to make each person feel confident in their abilities, big or small, and to have fun along the way.”

GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC)

SARATOGA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-4653

golfsaratoga.com

Colonie Town Golf Course

418 Consaul Road, Schenectady (518) 374-4181

colonie.org

Frear Park Municipal Golf Course

2701 Lavin Court, Troy (518) 270-4553

troyny.gov

HIKING TRAIL

JOHN BOYD THACHER STATE PARK

830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237

parks.ny.gov

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar (518) 475-0291

dec.ny.gov

Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail albanycounty.com

INN (LOCAL)

THE INN AT SARATOGA

231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-1890

theinnatsaratoga.com

Reluctant Panther

39 West Road, Manchester Village, VT (802) 362-2568

reluctantpanther.com

The Inn at Erlowest

3178 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George (518) 668-5928

theinnaterlowest.com

HOTEL/RESORT

THE SAGAMORE RESORT

110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing (518) 644-9400

opalcollection.com

The Adelphi Hotel

365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 678-6000

theadelphihotel.com

Mohonk Mountain House

1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz (844) 207-8368 mohonk.com

Good Karma Owner Jessica Lubin

In Tent City

Not even a year into operation, Broadalbin’s Glampful is already winning awards. Part of the reason, co-owner Elina Leclaire says, is that the Bestie-winning campground, located just a mile from Great Sacandaga Lake, “is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself.”

For those who aren’t up on the newest trend in the camping world, “glamping”—or glam camping—is a type of accommodation that involves sleeping in a tent, but with many luxuries of a modern home. At each of Glampful’s eight secluded glamping sites (which sleep anywhere from 2-6 people), guests will find a canvas safari tent on a raised wooden platform with a bed or beds, linens, a dining table and chairs. Beyond their platforms, guests have access to bathrooms and hot showers, fire pits, barbecue grills, picnic areas, games like cornhole and bocce ball, and a camp store.

Glampful officially started accepting reservations on August 1, 2022, and is gearing up for its first full season, which is set to open on May 1. “Glampful is the ideal destination for nature lovers who want an Adirondack adventure without having to haul their own gear or pitch their own tent,” Leclaire says. “We’ve got you covered. Literally.”

KIDS BIRTHDAY VENUE

GOOD KARMA STUDIO

12 Walker Way 1A, Albany (518) 512-9929

thegoodkarmastudio.com

KJ’s Gymnastics

3143 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-2554

kjsgymnasticsny.com

The Pottery Place

1475 Western Avenue, Albany Stuyvesant Plaza (518) 446-0870

thepotteryplace.com

KIDS CAMP

GOOD KARMA STUDIO

12 Walker Way 1A, Albany (518) 512-9929

thegoodkarmastudio.com

Camp Fowler

152 Pelcher Road, Lake Pleasant (518) 548-6524 campfowler.org

YMCA Adventure Camp

1 Camp Nassau Lane, Guilderland (518) 640-1988 cdymca.org

PARK

JOHN BOYD THACHER STATE PARK

830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237 parks.ny.gov

The Crossings of Colonie

580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 783-2760 colonie.org

Saratoga Spa State Park

19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-2535 parks.ny.gov

55+ RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

THE SPINNEY AT VAN DYKE

6 Parker Mathusa Place, Delmar (518) 689-0162

THE SPINNEY AT POND VIEW

2490 Pond View, Castleton-On-Hudson (518) 479-0800

thespinneygroup.com

Coburg Village

One Coburg Village Way, Rexford (518) 952-9654

coburgvillageny.com

Beverwyck

40 Autumn Drive, Slingerlands (518) 280-8385

eddyseniorliving.com

ROMANTIC GETAWAY INN

RED LION INN

30 Main Street, Stockbridge, MA (413) 298-5545

redlioninn.com

Mirror Lake Inn

77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid (518) 523-2544

mirrorlakeinn.com

The Sagamore Resort

110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing (518) 644-9400

thesagamore.com

SKI AREA

GORE MOUNTAIN

793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek (518) 251-2411

goremountain.com

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort 37 Corey Road, Hancock, MA (413) 738-5500

jiminypeak.com

West Mountain 59 West Mountain Road, Queensbury (518) 636-3699

westmountain.com

WEDDING VENUE

OLD DALEY ON CROOKED LAKE 2339 NY-43, Averill Park (518) 674-3132

olddaley.com

The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019

thegreensatcopake.com

Hall of Springs

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-3003

hallofsprings.com

Thank you to all of our loyal patrons and our amazing sta that have supported us for over 25 seasons! Come join us in our spacious dining room and on our large outdoor patio overlooking the majestic Hudson River. Open Wednesday through Sunday Lunch & Dinner. Dine-in & Take out Like us on Facebook and look for daily specials!

Yanni’s Too Restaurant

Yanni’s by Car…Yanni’s by Bike…Yannis by Boat!

FIRST SEED

We love to photograph the things we do, the foods we eat, the places we go, the people we’re with. If it’s a good photograph, it will tell a story and evoke emotion. Sometimes it might be only you who understands, but that’s OK. I told this “story” by bringing my seed packets and planter to a shady spot where their colors would be the most vibrant. I purposely blurred the seed packets (which you can do either with your camera or later on in your photo editing software) to draw the eye to the tiny seeds in the planter. While some people might just see a box of dirt, for me, this photo tells the story of new beginnings and hope. When spring rolls around, I usually need a strong dose of both!

—Francesco D’Amico | f-d-photography.com

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

Up Next : 10 Capital Region Happenings

BY NATALIE MOORE

MARCH 18 & 19

ADIRONDACK SPORTS SUMMER EXPO Saratoga City Center

The largest outdoor sports, health and fitness expo in the northeast returns to the Saratoga City Center, where 10,000 attendees will be able to visit 200 exhibitors in the industry. In addition to shopping, the two-day festival will feature training runs, disc golf, ergometer paddling machine demos, club signups and, oh yeah, Oboys from Saratoga’s Esperanto. adksports.com

MARCH 24-26

CAPITAL REGION FLOWER AND GARDEN EXPO

Hudson Valley Community College

Kick off the spring season at the Capital Region Flower and Garden Expo, where floral creations, garden exhibits, seminars and demonstrations meet New York wine, cider and spirit tastings. Ticket sales for the event, which has been going on since 1988, help support Wildwood, an organization dedicated to helping people living with autism and developmental disabilities. flowerandgardenexpo.com

MARCH 25

THE REGIONAL FOOD BANK’S MAC-N-CHEESE BOWL

Downtown Cohoes

Capital Region comfort food lovers will once again descend on Remsen Street for the one-day-only Mac-n-Cheese Bowl, an outdoor festival featuring more than two dozen restaurants, booths and food trucks serving up samples of the stuff. General admission tickets are $35 (proceeds go to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York) and get you tastings of at least 30 mac-n-cheeses. At the end of the day, vote for your favorite! regionalfoodbank.net

MARCH 27

CAPITAL REGION THOMAS EDISON HALL OF FAME CEREMONY

Universal Preservation Hall

The biggest night in Capital Region music returns to UPH in Saratoga for an evening honoring eight legends of the local music scene. The “Eddies,” as the annual induction ceremony has come to be known, will feature live music, a brief video about each of this year’s inductees, acceptance speeches and more. theeddiesawards.com

APRIL 1

HOOPS AND HOPS

Putnam Place

While you can catch rounds one and two of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament in person at the MVP Arena on March 17 and 19, CRL sister mag saratoga living is hosting a first-of-its-kind Final Four viewing party in Saratoga. Watch the big games on Putnam Place’s huge screen while enjoying

Adirondack Sports Summer Expo

Flower and Garden Expo

game-day food and beer specials, plus bracket-esque games for prizes throughout the night. Putnam has a full bar for the adults, but basketball lovers of all ages are invited. putnamplace.com

APRIL 14

OLD DOMINION’S NO BAD VIBES TOUR MVP Arena

Eight years after the release of their debut album, Meat and Candy, Old Dominion, a group of songwriters and musicians who cut their teeth performing on small stages and writing songs for country’s big names, has skyrocketed to the top of the country charts, notching eight No. 1 singles to date. Catch hits like “One Man Band” and “Written in the Sand” at the band’s 2023 tour, which will swing through Albany this April. mvparena.com

APRIL 21

ARLO GUTHRIE: WHAT’S LEFT OF ME The Egg

After putting a stop to live concerts in 2020, Arlo Guthrie has confessed that “retirement was fun while it lasted” but is ready to return

to the stage with a spoken word show called “What’s Left of Me.” The show, which will stop at The Egg in Albany this spring, will be moderated by author and music historian Bob Santelli and feature rarely seen footage as well as an audience Q&A. theegg.org

APRIL 22

CAPITAL WINE FESTIVAL Albany Capital Center

Looking for your next favorite glass of vino? Head directly to the Capital Wine Festival, an afternoon of unlimited wine and spirit samples at the Capital Center. In addition to the sampling (every attendee will get a branded wine glass to carry around for the day), wine lovers can shop for full bottles, participate in a self-guided paint-and-sip activity, and take to the dance floor after a few of those samples have kicked in. empirestatewineevents.com

APRIL 4 & 5

BLUEY’S BIG PLAY Proctors

Can your little ones not get enough of the show Bluey and its eponymous canine heroine? Take them to see the lovable puppy and all her friends on stage at Proctors. Bluey’s Big Play is a theatrical adaptation of the Emmy award-winning TV series, with an original story by the show’s creator, Joe Brumm. Upgrade to the VIP package for a Bluey lanyard, gift and an opportunity to take a photo with a character from the show. proctors.org

APRIL 7

THE MOTH MAINSTAGE Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

Since its launch in 1997, traveling storytelling series The Moth has celebrated the ability of stories to honor both the diversity and commonalities that come with being human. Now’s your chance to experience the magic: The Moth will bring the voices of recognized storytellers among established and emerging writers, performers and artists to the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall stage this April. troymusichall.org

Capital Wine Festival

Bluey’s Big Play

Signs of the Times

BY CHANTAL MULLENS | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT RISKO

removed now; while your manifestations are finally becoming realized, the focus remains on what you do with this newfound flow of freedom. Don’t lose sight of the real motivation behind everything.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 19

You are feeling good, looking good and living good, Aries. Your love of self, others and money is on the rise and it’s safe to feel into all of it. Potential contracts, agreements and life seem to be moving at a quick pace, but it’s OK because you can keep up even if you’re not always quite sure where exactly you’re going to end up. Embrace the mysteries and enjoy the ride. After all, adventure is your middle name.

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20

Your social life takes center stage during this time, Gemini, but it could come at the cost of your (current) professional life. You are going through an upheaval; a soul’s quest and mission for purpose and substance. There could be a strong desire to escape reality in the name of a good time and that’s OK. Just remember that things don’t disappear simply because we aren’t acknowledging them. When you are ready to face the issues, you’ll find them right where you left them, ready and waiting for your expert solutions.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 22

You are the master of showing the rest of us the importance of self-love, but right now you are being asked to shift everything into self-reflection. As the world shifts toward appreciating raw, real and authentic stories, people and experiences over stylized, curated and filtered ones, it’s time to ask yourself if the real you is being represented. Take this time to dig deep and get intimate with yourself. Who are you really, and what is it that you truly need and desire to be in alignment and live in purpose? Then show us all how it’s done in true Leo fashion.

TAURUS APRIL 20 - MAY 20

It’s time to take a closer look at your inner circles and assess who’s really down for you and who is (not-so) secretly hating. If people and opportunities seem to be moving away and out of your life, let them. Saturn, the planet of karma, is cleaning house in your area of friends and social networks. Even though we can’t always know the reasons behind everything, we must trust the process. You are being set up for the sun to shine on you once again, and we love that for you.

CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 22

The time is fast approaching, dear Cancer, where your leadership skills and the big ideas that have been brewing within you will be called upon and highlighted. You have what it takes to steer the ship in the right direction not only for yourself, but for others as well—and you need to trust in that. Restrictions, blocks and obstacles are being

VIRGO

AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22

This time is all about organizing and prioritizing your relationships, whether it

be with others or simply yourself. Longterm commitments are forged during this time, so it’s a good idea to be absolutely sure and clear on what your expectations, boundaries and heart’s desires really are before agreeing to anything serious. Your own health will be a priority, and this is an excellent opportunity to create new routines that support you in the best possible ways— mentally, physically and spiritually.

hard work and efforts to set things right once and for all will not go unnoticed, and your rewards will be plentiful. Stay strong and true.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22

We’re not in your season, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have a main character moment, lovely Libra. Your power is found in the things that bring you joy, while the structure around your daily routines will feed into the ultimate storyboard fairytale life you’re building. Expect your close relationships to be a main centerpiece as they grow and expand right before your eyes in unexpected and wonderful ways.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22 -DECEMBER 21

These next few months may be challenging for you, Sagittarius, but this is intended only to support your pre-destined growth as you navigate some difficult themes surrounding communication and home life, as well as the restrictions that both may be presenting to you at this time.

Take this opportunity to learn from what has worked, what didn’t work, and what new perspectives are needed in order to move forward. Reflect, adapt and overcome as only you know how to do.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18

If you have been feeling the itch to change something about yourself, whether that be getting a new tattoo or some fresh piercings, changing your hairstyle or creating a whole new look all together, then go ahead and scratch it, baby. It’s time to welcome, embody and embrace the new version of yourself and step fully into the power that comes along with reinvention. While other areas of your life can feel a bit stuck right now, shifting your personal energy with a makeover is just the thing you need to feel like you again.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

How have your dreams been lately?

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21

Look who’s ready to break these generational curses in order to set up life for the better both now and for future generations to come. This could be revisiting and finally healing mother wounds or trauma related to nurturing relationships and your home life. Taking responsibility now and delaying gratification for later will pay off in the long run, darling Scorpio. Your

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19

Remember what was said about best-laid plans? They often go awry. That’s because even the most organized of us can still be surprised by the unexpected twists and turns of the universe.

If it seems like the doors that were once opened are all closing on you now, let them. And then, look for the open window that sheds new light and offers a new perspective on the entire situation. You’re not being blocked, just redirected. Go with it and discover something new.

Prophetic and too close to home? Dark and abstract? You know more than anyone that your dreams carry messages and meaning oftentimes beyond current comprehension. Write it all down and save it for later, sweet Pisces. When the fog lifts and the pressure cooker you’re currently in finally releases, you’ll find the understanding and clarity that seems to be evading you now. Perspective is the promised present waiting for you at the end of this cycle.

Chantal Mullens is a full-time astrologer, tarot reader and life coach living in Germany with her two young children and two cats. She has many Capital Region clients; find her full list of services on her website: akashiccystalhealing.com

Time for Tarot

BY SANDY MENZER

The Planets for March and April seem to be in a forgiving mood. With no retrogrades in sight for a few months, we have an opportunity to make significant changes in our lives, manifest anything we desire, and grow exponentially.

The following are tarot messages for the collective Capital Region regarding how we will prosper and grow during this refreshing period of divine time.

6 OF CUPS

Important focus: children. News from past connections. Ideas or people who reappear so we can decide whether or not there is unfinished business. Nostalgia for your childhood and happy memories from the past.

KNIGHT OF PENTACLES

Emphasis on finances and stability. Financial offers and contracts.

KNIGHT OF CUPS

Offers of love given or received, whether they be in work or friendships or relationships. Discussing emotions on a deeper level with others.

8 OF WANDS

Exciting news, rapid changes and communication. Speedy changes with decisions as well. Life moving in fastforward mode.

JUDGMENT

A sense of rising from the ashes. Healing after a time of despair. Legal contracts being signed, offered or reviewed.

HANGMAN

A time of reflection, sacrifice and feeling stuck. Decisions made to let go of what no longer serves us in all areas of our lives. Looking at life through a different lens.

HIGH PRIESTESS

Strong intuition and more interest in spiritual values and belief systems. Receiving or giving advice from/to a counselor, therapist or psychic.

ACE OF PENTACLES

Expect your ships to come in if asking Divine for additional prosperity in all areas of your life. Focus on making small investments, and stay excited about new possibilities in your financial status. Big purchases. Engagements, proposals and new beginnings in love.

2 OF CUPS

Focus on friendships, partnerships and mutual understandings in your love life.  Making decisions to go to the next level in your love life or in friendships. Healing of the hearts and emotions. Relationships developing that may mix work, business and love.

7 OF WANDS

Much planning for areas of life needing improvements. Being guarded or defensive with making sound decisions in important areas of your life.

KNIGHT OF WANDS

Excitement, travel and residential moves. Charging ahead after feeling stuck. Exciting and surprising news being received! Planning trips or travel.

SIX OF SWORDS

Moving  forward to smoother waters. Traveling to places to be around water. Better days ahead in areas of your life that have felt challenging.

This year will be one of abundance if we keep our dreams and thoughts positive. We all need to take part in making this world a better place to live in for ourselves and others by sharing our gifts. We all need to find our purpose here, so we can assist those who need our help.

Wishing  you peace and joy in life’s journey.

Sandy Menzer has professionally practiced her intuitive abilities for 25 years. She teaches and provides personal and group spiritual direction messages and readings by appointment. For further information, she can be reached at sanshaun@yahoo.com

Life&Leisure

Like Two Peas in a Pod

BY NATALIE MOORE

1. Toy Story astronaut

5. Possible alteration

8. Toy Story cowboy

13. Vegan cookie sandwich

14. Disney lioness 15. Trinket 16. Lead-in to gram or meter

17. Now and ___

18. Game of Thrones family name

19. Stop

20. Oft-disheveled Mystery Gang member

22. Run away

23. Toffee-centric candy bar

25. Nintendo dinosaur 27. Paper measurement

30. Mega Millions and Powerball, slangily

34. “Your ___ is a Wonderland”

37. Actual 40. Apart (from)

41. Prefix for -dural and -center

42. Theme of this issue, or what 1-Across and 8-Across, 20-Across and 63-Across, and 74-Across and 76-Across are

44. 34-Across part

45. 1970s music genre 47. Perceive a sound 48. Word usually used with “up”

49. Reciprocal of cosine

51. Enthralled

53. Spain’s Rafael

56. Droopy

60. Black, poetically

63. Canine Mystery Gang member, familiarly

66. Actress Issa ___

67. Fruit native to India

69. Grand Ole ___

70. Bean or world capital

71. Mattress brand

72. List of offerings

73. Home of Iowa State

74. Orange Sesame Street character

75. Much ___ About Nothing

76. Yellow Sesame Street character

DOWN

1. Blurred effect in photography

2. ___ trouble (bladder joke punchline)

3. “Legendary” video game princess

4. Where to find a tiger in New York

5. LOL

6. Poem of serious reflection

7. Fruit native to India

8. Loos, for short

9. Dresses

10. By word of mouth

11. ___ Straits

12. Frame fitted to a pair of oxen

14. Numbered with an unspecified or very large number 20 “___ Works Hard for the Money” 21. French fashion initials

35. Andy’s son in The Andy Griffith Show 36. A flat, round object

Had breakfast

57. Filth

58. Player of Esports, say

59 Fungus used in baking

60. “Or ___”

61. Porter or stout

62. Coastal country

64. Yes ___ answers

65. Sch. in Provo, UT

68. Last day of the year, for short

70. Experiment locale, for short

ANSWERS ON crlmag.com

SEARCH: CROSSWORD

“If you’re sober, why wouldn’t you have a bidet?”

–BAILEY’S SARATOGA

“You don’t ask who’s going to be at a frat party.”

–BALLSTON SPA

“She’s literally nocturnal because of Candy Crush.”

–GLENVILLE

“The last girl I dated was into witchcraft.”

–TRI-CITY TENNIS

Cassoulet, S’il Vous Plaît

Latham’s newest hotspot, Scarlet Knife, boasts an impressive program of live music and elegant wine dinners that lures new customers to its expansive dining room—but the main event is the food, including Executive Chef Paul Dimm’s duck cassoulet. Throwing a dinner party? This savory show-stopper—the recipe serves 10—will make your evening one to remember.

Breaking Down the Ducks

Ingredients:

5 Whole ducks, portioned

Directions:

• Trim the legs for confit.

• Keep the bones for brown duck stock.

• S et aside the breasts for searing.

• Pull off the chunky fat for rendering.

Toulouse Duck Sausage

Ingredients:

1 lb Coarse ground duck

1 lb Coarse ground pork

chuck

1/3 cup Dry white wine

5g Garlic, finely chopped

10g Kosher salt

1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped

8g Ground black pepper

1/3 tsp Ground nutmeg

Hog casing

Directions:

• Cut the meat into strips for grinding. Mix the salt, garlic and all the spices together and toss with the meat. Chill 4 hours or overnight. Along with the grinding press, everything needs to be cold; the meat can almost be frozen.

• S oak the hog casing and rinse with warm water.

• Grind through your meat grinder using the coarse die. Use an ice bath to keep the farce cold while grinding.

• Take out your big mixer’s medium bowl and add ground meat and wine with the paddle attachment. Mix for 90 seconds—

just enough for it to marinate a bit and bring out the seasoning. Let it rest in the fridge for an hour.

• Stuff the sausage into the casings all at once. Twist off links by pinching the sausage down and twisting and spinning it, first in one direction, and then with the next link, the other direction.

• Hang the sausages in a cool place for 4 to 12 hours to dry the casings and set the sausage. Sausages you plan to freeze need to dry longer.

Brown Duck Stock

Ingredients:

4 Duck carcasses, lightly trimmed of fat

1/2 gallon Rough chop mire poix, sautéed tender or roasted in some duck fat

Thyme to taste

1 Bay leaf

Garlic to taste

2 gallons Water

Directions:

• Roast the duck bones until brown with some tomato paste.

• Combine with other ingredients.

• Simmer 6 hours and strain.

Cassoulet

Ingredients:

2 lb White navy beans, soaked

1 gallon Medium diced mire poix

¼ cup Garlic, chopped fine

1/4 cup Fresh thyme, chopped

¼ cup Marjoram

1/4 cup Parsley, chopped

2.5 gallons Roasted duck stock

1 lb Smoked ham or smoked pork belly

10 Toulouse duck sausages (See above)

Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

• Soak the beans for at least 8 hours.

• Sauté the mire poix lightly with some duck fat; sear the duck sausages.

• Add the marjoram, thyme, parsley, beans, smoked ham or pork belly and stock.

• Cook covered in oven for 1.5 hours at 325 degrees.

• After 1.5 hours, add in the sausages.

• Cool in the oven overnight and portion. CRL

Spring Sips

Russell Hallabrin of Iron & Grass (ironandgrass.com) chophouse in Hudson is jonesing for spring (who isn’t?). To toast the rising temps and impending blooms, let’s raise our glasses to his #Yuzusreadyforspring cocktail.

Ingredients:

2oz Stubbornly Different gin

1oz House-made blood orange shrub

.5oz Lemon

.5oz Simple syrup

Fever Tree Sparkling Lime & Yuzu soda

Directions:

• Shake gin, shrub, lemon and simple syrup with ice.

• Pour into a tall glass and top with sparkling soda. CRL

BREATHE MASSAGE THERAPY

Breathe Massage Therapy provides the space for you to put relaxation and regeneration at the top of your priority list. Their massage therapists are trained to cater each session to your specific needs. With offerings ranging from cupping and facials to hot stone, the staff promises to leave you feeling like your best self. Book your consultation today.

48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar | 518.621.7979 | breathemassagedelmar.com

LUCIE CAPEK, MD PLASTIC SURGERY & MED SPA

Dr. Lucie Capek and her team of licensed professionals—this year’s Best Med Spa winner—will have you looking and feeling your best with their full range of cosmetic surgery and MedSpa services. They have you covered from head to toe, from Signature HydraFacial and LASER packages to injectable treatments and CoolSculpting. Gift cards are available.

1003 Loudon Road, Suite 101, Latham | 518.786.1700 | capekplasticsurgery.com

COMPLEXIONS SPA FOR BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

People who frequent a spa to de-stress live a more balanced life. With that in mind, not only does Complexions—a multiple Bestie winner again this year—have a diverse array of delicious treatments for skin, body, mind and soul, but you can also join the spa to have access to its de-stressing amenities all year round, including the sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge.

221 Wolf Road, Albany | 518.489.5231

268 Broadway, Saratoga | 518.306.5502 | complexions.com

FAGAN ASSOCIATES

Fagan Associates is a family owned and operated wealth management company with more than 600 million dollars in assets under management. They believe that investing is about more than just money—it’s about the people behind the numbers. Their team understands that every client has different goals and, as partners, they work together to help them reach their future aspirations.

787 Hoosick Road, Troy | 518.279.1044 | faganasset.com

THE HEBE MEDICAL SPA

This two-location boutique spa garnered finalist honors for Med Spa in this year’s Besties, and it’s easy to see why. To ensure the utmost in individualized and personal care, a visit to Hebe Medical Spa starts with a one-on-one consultation. Then your journey begins, from lasers and injectables to hair restoration, wellness treatments and state-of-the-art skin treatments.

601 Loudon Road, #7, Latham | 518.608.5545

1131 Main Street, Fishkill | 845.765.8181 | thehebespa.com

TUSCAN SUN AT KIMBERLEY’S

An esteemed finalist for Best Day Spa in this year’s Besties, the beautiful Tuscan Sun at Kimberly’s offers the very best in spa and salon services. This full-service Aveda salon includes customized cut and color services and hair extensions. Your day at the spa could include a luxurious massage, facial experiences, laser hair removal and more.

982 Loudon Road, Latham | 518.785.5868 | tuscanspaandsalon.com

ALBANY COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP

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

ALL SEASONS EQUIPMENT

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

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

California Closets Albany, which is locally owned and operated, creates custom storage solutions for any room in your house. In addition to closets of all shapes and sizes, its team designs home offices, mudrooms, pantries, garages, media centers and more. It all begins with a complimentary consultation done virtually, in the client’s home or at the Latham design studio.

CLAVERACK PUMP SERVICE

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

CR GAS LOGS & FIREPLACES

CR Gas Logs & Fireplaces has been a leader in the hearth and patio industry in the Capital Region for more than 30 years. Whatever you’re thinking for your indoor and outdoor fireplace needs, their staff will find you the right choice for your home. CR Gas Logs’ goal is to have all customers, whether they make a purchase or not, leave with a positive shopping experience.

FADDEGON’S NURSERY

Landscaping your yard can be one of the best investments you make in your home (it increases property value 15 percent!), and the Faddegon family has been doing it for four generations. Specializing in complete designs for your new home from start to finish, Faddegon’s installs plants, trees, walkways, patios, walls and outdoor kitchens, including makeovers and complete renovations.

GARDEN TIME

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

Multiple Locations | 518.793.8555 | gardentimeinc.com

HEWITT’S GARDEN CENTERS, INC.

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

Multiple Locations | hewitts.com

J. HUNZIKER PAVING

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

25 Correlis Drive, Rensselaer | 518.858.7917 | jhunzikerpavingllc.com

LUIZZI ASPHALT SERVICES

Luizzi Asphalt Services’ mission is to be the most trusted name in quality products and dependable service for homes and businesses across the Capital Region. Luizzi is a third-generation company that has provided services to thousands of satisfied customers over the years. Call Luizzi Asphalt Services for skilled solutions to all of your asphalt maintenance and repair needs.

70 Tivoli Street, Albany | 518.459.7325 | luizziasphalt.com

MARCELLA’S APPLIANCE CENTER

Marcella’s Appliance Center is a family-owned appliance store with showrooms in Schenectady and Clifton Park that together boast more than 30,000 square feet of inventory and feature appliances for every budget. Since 1957 they have served Capital Region customers with the area’s best selection of appliances at the best prices, top-notch customer service, and a dedicated service and repair team.

560 Broadway, Schenectady | 518.381.1957

15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park | 518.952.7700 | marcellasappliance.com

REDBUD DEVELOPMENT

Redbud Development is a landscape construction company specializing in the custom design and quality installation of residential improvement and development projects. With a creative and collaborative approach, Redbud helps clients imagine and build exterior environments that connect seamlessly with their interiors to reflect the homeowner’s personality and lifestyle. Call today to schedule your no-cost initial consultation.

2 Commerce Park Drive, Wilton | 518.691.0428 | redbuddevelopment.com

SCHENECTADY FLOOR COVERING

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

1910 Maxon Road Ext., Schenectady | 518.372.5664 | schenectadyfloorcovering.com

THE SPECKLED HEN

Sparkling after a spectacular refresh, The Speckled Hen reopened March 8 with an all-new look. The popular home décor store boasts a unique collection of new and old items from local artisans including reproductions, candles and a large selection of florals. Visit the store today—the array of home must-haves is ever-changing, so you will always find something new.

14 Saratoga Road, Scotia | 518.369.8771 | facebook.com/thespeckledhenscotia

HOWE CAVERNS

This spring, visit the largest show cave in the Northeast and the second-most visited attraction in all of New York State. Located just off Interstate 88 (just 45 minutes from Albany!), Howe Caverns offers its traditional 90-minute cave tour all year round. The tour includes a mile-and-a-quarter walk and quarter-mile boat ride on the cave’s underground lake, and is perfect for explorers of all ages. Tickets for the tour must be purchased online in advance. If you are looking for something else to do during your visit, stop by the gift shop, sift for gems during the gemstone mining activity, or book the fully immersive Escape Room “Ultramax Lockdown.”

STEUBEN COUNTY

Nothing says spring like the beautiful, wildflower-blanketed, panoramic views of the Finger Lakes region. While you’re there, sip your favorite vino on a winery’s openair patio, dine at the area’s top restaurants, and visit a craft distillery, where mad scientists and culinary wizards create exceptional gin, vodka, whiskey and moonshine. Spending the night? From charming B&Bs tucked away in the surrounding towns and villages, to accommodations that allow you to stay within a stone’s throw of all the action—the Southern Finger Lakes region provides plenty of lodging options. For a stress-free trip, check out Steuben’s themed itineraries such as wine-tasting or glassblowing. It’s time to spring into a trip to Steuben!

Steuben County ( STU GALLAGHER)

before you go...

SUDDENLY SIXTY

BY JOHN GRAY

Somewhere between trips to Hoffman’s Playland, bus rides to school, college, love, loss, licorice snaps, marriage, divorce, marriage again, kids and colonoscopies; I turned 60. Yeah, I can’t believe it either.

It seems like only last week I was rummaging through the weeds in South Troy looking for discarded RC Cola bottles to wash in a nearby stream and bring into Kay’s candy store to redeem for nickels, which I’d trade for Atomic FireBall candy.

If the goal is to live to be 80, then I’ve just started the fourth and last quarter of my life. I can’t know what’s lurking around the next corner, but I can look back at the mileage on the tires and glean some wisdom from what my grandpa would have called lessons hard learned

Since I don’t have a souped-up DeLorean with a flux capacitor that can take me back in time, and this is the Besties issue, I thought I’d mark this auspicious occasion by sharing a few of the best lessons that have been branded into me as permanently as the big Y in TV’s Yellowstone

Six decades equals six pieces of free advice, which I offer up in no order of importance. What worked

for me might not work for you, but I have a feeling this is a pretty solid blueprint for how to keep your soul and sanity in check.

Don’t do things you have to be talked into. You have a right to say “no,” and you owe no one an excuse other than, “’Cause I just don’t feel like it.” This served me well when it came to saying no to drugs, hanging with the wrong crowd or avoiding a party when I just wanted to stay in and relax on the couch. Remember: If you have to talk yourself into it, it’s probably a bad idea. The world owes you nothing but a sunrise and a sunset; what happens in between those two remarkable events is

on you, amigo. Life is rarely fair or easy, and the sooner you realize persistence beats whining six days a week and twice on Sunday, the better off you’ll be. That said, if you’re doing the work and it’s not appreciated, move on.

If you’re feeling down on yourself or just awful in general, help someone else. I don’t know why, but taking that misery and redirecting it into kindness toward others is the Amoxicillin for the soul. The good you push out somehow heals within.

Call your mother. Or father. Or whomever you love. Life is busy, but not too busy to surprise your grandparents with a dish of their favorite ice cream or to sit and talk to your dad. Trust me, one day you’ll wake up and realize they’re gone and wish you had those moments back.

Don’t try to fix people. Frank Kafka said, “In man’s struggle against the world, bet on the world.” If someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. It’s our nature to always want to help and fix, but don’t trade your happiness in the bargain.

And last but not least…

Forgive. Carrying around anger like a bag of bile is corrosive to you, not them. That doesn’t mean someone who wronged you gets a free pass; it just means you recognize the mistake, forgive them and move on. A wise man once said, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Sounds like a smart way to go. Now, does anyone have an Atomic FireBall?

Spring GIFT GUIDE

SIDNEY BYRON’S MAHJONG BAG SET sidneybyron.com

This travel set is the perfect gift for the mother figure in your life this Mother’s Day or to show your BFF you appreciate them. Get together with your gal pals to play this leisurely game of skill and luck while taking the time to truly appreciate one another, because women deserve the world! Calming shades of cotton velvet are lined with soft microfiber and feature interior pockets, zippered closures, and a touch of hand-beaded flash for good luck.

JAZZ BAND LIVE dnavibe.com

Affordable Red Light Therapy Used By Olympic Athletes! With Jazz Band’s Intelligent Light Therapy and four modalities including red light therapy, near-infrared light therapy, magnetic signals and micro-vibrations, you can get back to more of what you love. Reduce inflammation and pain while accelerating recovery without drugs or invasive procedures.

DREO SOLARIS MAX SPACE HEATER dreo.com

Wrap the entire family in all-around warmth. 24-inch Oscillating Space Heater. Convenient Remote Control: Control various settings from up to 26ft. away Digital LED Screen: Titled LED screen design makes it easy to reach and operate. Easy to Move: Hidden carry handle in back helps you carry around wherever you want. Tip-Over Protection: When tilting 45 degrees off the ground or being knocked over.

DIAMOND POINTELLE KNIT BLANKET feltmanbrothers.com

This knit baby blanket from Feltman Brothers is oh so sweet! It is made out of soft knit material with a classy diamond pointelle design throughout the weave and seed knit edges. Available in white, blue, pink, and our popular sea coral to match any outfit your loved one is wearing. Perfect for a baby bassinet, carriage, or swaddling your precious bundle of joy.

ALICIA ADAMS ALPACA

aliciaadamsalpaca.com

High-end fashion and home decor meet sustainability. This family-run retail business utilizes sustainably farmed alpaca wool for the design and production of textiles and clothing. Alpaca wool is one of the rarest and most luxurious materials because of its natural and exclusive fibers that are undeniably warm, water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and soft like silk.

MEDICAL SCRUBS COLLECTION medicalscrubscollection.com

We strive to offer customers their favorite scrubs at the lowest prices on the web. Our sales reps are dedicated to guiding customers to find the perfect nursing uniform that suits their needs and taste, all while offering incredible savings. Medical Scrubs Collection offers a fantastic selection of plus size scrubs, maternity scrubs, and Dickies scrubs.

TRIXSENT

trixsent.ca

Founder Athena Klee has spent 10+ years creating her own custom skin care for her and her family. As a mother of 3, she wanted to ensure everything she consumed was natural and organic. After years of creating her own formulas, she finally decided to release them into the world as Trixsent!

GEMINI BEAUTY geminibeauty.com

Skincare line created after 17 year old founder Joann Zehenni couldn’t find gentle enough products to help her and her family’s Lupus condition. Most importantly, her mission is to give back which is why she donates a portion of all proceeds to Lupus LA.

Spring GIFT GUIDE

GEL BLASTER

gelblaster.com

It blasts an eco-friendly water based gel pellet called Gellets that are safe for people, pets, and the environment. Gellets are colorful absorbent beads that disintegrate on contact that dehydrate, leaving no stain, no mess and no clean up.

AIR FRYER XL DELUXE

uberappliance.com

Oil less air fryers are proven to reduce 80% of fat from fried foods. Make your favorite foods without all the fats. Large 5 quart cooking capacity chamber allows for enough food to easily accommodate a family of 4-5 members. Cook an entire with a push of a button.

CASHMERE MOON

shopcashmeremoon.com

An indie beauty and body care brand that specializes in safe, vegan formulas using the minimum amount of plant-based ingredients in order to make the biggest impact. Coupled with their eco-conscious packaging, they’ve set out to change the way you moisturize starting with their Whipped Body Cream.

MYMEDIC FIRST AID KIT

mymedic.com

Created after a tragic car accident that took the life of a loved one due to lack of equipment, proper training, and the long wait for emergency services. Because of this, MyMedic wanted to help others be prepared for unexpected emergencies.