SEPTEMBER, 2020 - 518 PROFILES MAGAZINE by 518 Profile Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2020 Complimentary

CENTER STAGE

SEPTEMBER 2020

The “Pause” That Refreshes Sofie Snitkoﬀ Gives Lessons in Artistic Appreciation

pg. 4 PUBLISHER / FOUNDER Stephanie Sittnick

COPY EDITOR Elisabeth Allen

WEBMASTER

In This Place They Make Art

Tony Rivera

The Craft, Skill, & Sheer Mastery of Salem Art Works

ADVERTISING SALES

pg. 12

Stephanie Sittnick - Director of Sales ( 860) 227-8199 advertising@518mag.com

CONTRIBUTORS Carol St.Sauveur Ferris, Karen Richman, Rona Mann Chandler Stevens, Lawrence White, Kirsten Ferguson, Susan Brink, Vanessa G. Ahern, Joseph Raucci, Adirondack Winery, Crystal Cobert Giddens

Bear and Bird Boutique & Gallery “Where you’ll be curiouser and curiouser!” pg. 22

Welcome to the September issue of 518 PROFILES! It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to an end and the holidays are right around the corner. In a blink of an eye the leaves will start falling and the holiday decorations will be dusted off, brought up from the basement and unpacked to enjoy. In this issue our editorial has bounced around New York state from Troy all the way to North Tonawanda, New York and everywhere in between! Each one a hop skip and a jump away so take a day, grab a coﬀee, hop in the car and pop in for a visit. There is nothing like meeting and experiencing each of them in person. Everyone here at 518 PROFILES hopes you enjoy this issue as much as we do.

Putting a Spin on History

Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum pg. 32

As always, our goal is to deliver authentic, and unique content about creative people and interesting places. 518 PROFILES is the place to connect with your favorite artisans and small businesses throughout New York and abroad. Enjoy!

ENCORE Upstate Beat

Stephanie Sittnick Founder / Publisher

pg. 28

Music in the Time of Coronavirus

Guest Writer

pg. 40

The Honor System

518 PROFILES 587 Grand Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518 Profiles LLC All rights reserved. All content of this publication including but not limited to text, graphics, and photos may not be reprinted or reproduced without written consent from the publisher. 518 Profiles is not held responsible for graphics or images submitted for contribution to this publication. Every issue is printed using 100% Soy based ink.

www.518PROFILES.com Vol 1 Issue 11

Sweet Nostalgia

pg. 44

Daddy Had a Chevy Bel Air

The Adirondack Vines Rejoice! It’s the (other) Season!

pg. 46

ON SALE NOW THE FIRST EDITION

MONOPOLY GAME

A GAME WE ALL CAN WIN. The iconic family game is now all about the City of Saratoga Springs. For the first time ever, this authentic, Hasbro-produced classic is completely customized to celebrate our cherished city. Just like the original, you will enjoy buying, selling and building real estate, but this time with familiar and beloved businesses, destinations, and attractions you know so well. Discover the funny and quirky “Saratogaisms” as you marvel over the unique qualities that make our city world-class.

Get yours today! Quantities are limited! This collectible first-edition game is available for purchase at: Adirondack Trust branches

SaratogaSpringsMonopoly.org

Visit ATCCF.org for participating retail locations This first-edition City of Saratoga Springs MONOPOLY® game was made possible by the sponsorship of generous community members and businesses. Proceeds from the game sales will benefit the ATC Community Fund and their Lend-A-Hand Grant program. 06/2020 © Adirondack Trust Company Community Fund

ATCCF.org

8,) ):)6=8,-2+ 7%6%83+% 7836) ;

; ;

<] ; ; ; ‫ ףסמ‬ȲȌƊƮɩƊɯ (ȌɩȁɈȌɩȁ ²ƊȲƊɈȌǐƊ ‫ףלנ‬٧‫עףנ‬٧‫סססכ‬ XǿȯȲƵȺȺǞȌȁȺ²ƊȲƊɈȌǐƊ‫ى‬ƧȌǿ

0-:) 8,) 0)+)2( ;

;

; ;

;] ; ; ; ;] ; ; ‫ נןן‬ȲȌƊƮɩƊɯ (ȌɩȁɈȌɩȁ ²ƊȲƊɈȌǐƊ ‫ףלנ‬٧‫עףנ‬٧‫פףסכ‬ (ƊȲǲRȌȲȺƵ²ƊȲƊɈȌǐƊ‫ى‬ƧȌǿ

LIMITLESS FORMS OF EXPRESSION

19 Cary Lane Salem, NY 12865 www.salemartworks.org | 518.854.7674

DISCOVER. EXPLORE. CREATE.

Sculpture park open dawn to dusk. No admission fee.

The “Pause” That Refreshes Sofie Snitkoff Gives Lessons in Artistic Appreciation by Rona Mann photos by Stephanie Sittnick In 1929 Coca Cola introduced a new slogan, “the pause that refreshes.” It was catchy, positive, and served Coke well for a good number of years, drawing people to the intense enjoyment it provided. This is a story of another “pause” that refreshes. Take the time to read it; we think you’ll derive enjoyment as well. To many, it’s all one in the same. Craftspeople and craft artisans. But there is a difference. A big difference, a decided difference. Yet there are certainly similarities. Both make artistic objects by hand, certainly an art to be admired; yet there are important differences, such as the level of the creativity involved.

While both work in an artistic capacity, creating items with their hands, artisans tend to work on more unique projects that are designed for aesthetic appeal, Greeter Sofie sitting with Lou and Gail Snitkoff while craftsmen master the creation of functional, mass-produced items. Craftsman often focus on replicating a To many, the word “gallery” means a sterile piece to specifications exactly the same way, place where visitors speak in hushed tones, whereas artisans are professionals who have where small children are constantly admonished honed their hands-on artistic skills in a particular with the phrase, “don’t touch!,”, where adults field or media. They use select materials and tools, are spoken to in the same tone, and where you all the while utilizing a high level of creativity. look from afar, then move on to the next exhibit. It is these special people that Pause Gallery Cold. Sterile. in historic downtown Troy celebrates every day and why they are happily and loyally Well, Manager-Greeter, Sofie Snitkoff is having dedicated to art and artifacts for modern living. none of it at Pause Gallery...not for a minute!

The place that has become her second home is a place she wishes to make yours as well. She therefore joyfully invites you in to meet owners, Gail and Lou, to take your time walking around, stopping to ooh and aah and appreciate. Sofie urges you to definitely make some noise while you’re there because the beautiful, unique art at Pause Gallery is most definitely something to shout about, to laugh at, to exclaim, “Ooh, look at that!” Sofie understands that while much art is created in quiet reflection and concentration, its appreciation should be viewed and savored with unbridled joy.

others aware of the time, talent, and sacriﬁce that goes into the creation of each individual piece? And best of all, owners Gail and Lou Snitkoff have done all this while being fully cognizant of price points, working hard and scouring both the region and the country to bring original art to their gallery, some of which begins at just $15. for a beautifully handcrafted piece. She wants to introduce you to “the PAUSE that refreshes,” because when you think of it, what is more refreshing than spending an hour or more surrounded by beautiful, unique art, knowing that was lovingly and painstakingly fashioned by an artisan who has put all their talent and time into its creation? What is more refreshing than spending time with people who have devoted much of their lives to the appreciation of such work; and now in retirement from their lifetime careers, have chosen to spend the rest of their days showcasing this work, making

The Snitkoffs weren’t artists themselves, as gallery owners often are, they were scientists. But they were also ardent appreciators and “collectors of contemporary American crafts,” says Gail, a former college professor in the

field of microbiology and immunology. Her husband, Lou, who joins her in this 44 year old passion is a recently retired primary care physician who also served as Medical Administrator at Community Care Physicians and at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady. Gail had been drawn to American crafts since she was a high school student in Bennington and went to her ﬁrst American Crafts Council sponsored show in 1968...it was the ﬁrst of many. When she met and married Lou, he shared her fascination for the craft and its artists, resulting in an enviable collection amassed over many decades. “We wanted to support these artisans by buying a piece now and then,” Gail said. “Most people just don’t think of crafts as an art form.”

it’s all kinds of fun colors! We also have jewelry that’s ceramic and paper... gorgeous pieces!” Collection soon gave way to dreams of the future. “We always said, ‘wouldn’t it be fun to have a gallery when we retire?’” Gail offered. It was a dream that became reality in 2018, less than a year after Gail retired, and Pause Gallery was born. The gallery has a vast amount of artisan-crafted items ranging from paintings and photography, to ceramics, glass, jewelry, handcrafted wood puzzles, and other unique pieces of talented imagination. From the ﬁrst, the Snitkoffs wanted a gallery with wide appeal for both taste and pocketbook. “We really do have beautiful items that start as low as $15,” Gail says. “We have earrings for $24. and up, and we have jewelry in glass, silver, and anodized aluminum. The anodized aluminum is not silver –

Everything at Pause Gallery, the only gallery of its kind in the Capital District, is handmade, with most artists represented coming from the Northeast to the Mid-Atlantic regions. Lou and Gail travel extensively to find these one-of-a-kind pieces of art since we find “most of our artists at nationally juried shows; and at this price, you’re getting the best of the best. You’d have to travel far to find unique items like this. Isn’t it nice to have something beautiful that makes you smile every time you look at it in your home?” Speak for even a short time with the Snitkoffs, and you’ll quickly find the abiding theme of their conversation is not just the love they have for this work, but the absolute respect they have for the artisans who fashion each piece. “When it’s not mass-produced, you can feel the maker in each piece. You’re just one

hand away from the person who made it, and you can feel the connection.” And then there’s the engaging Sofie Snitkoff who will personally greet you when you enter Pause Gallery; and if you’d like, will accompany you around the space. But if you prefer to venture into these delicious waters by yourself, simply pat her on the head and tell her to, “Go lie down,” for Sofie is not just the gallery greeter, she’s also Gail and Lou’s compliant and adorable standard poodle. So...what are you waiting for? Go meet Sofie, and while you’re at it, treat yourself to a piece of one-of-akind American artistry at the Pause that refreshes. Visit Pause Gallery at 501 Broadway in the heart of historic downtown Troy. You’ll find them right on the street level of The News Apartments; or visit them online at www.pausegallery.com (518) 203-1251

The Laffer Gallery 96 Broad Street Schuylerville, NY

Nick Patten

Progressive Process September 12 - October 18 Featuring: Nick Patten | Leslie Peck | JoAnn Axford

Located just minutes from downtown Saratoga Springs. The Laffer Gallery is a contemporary fine art gallery and full-service custom frame shop. Exhibitions ranging from realism to abstraction rotate every 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 weeks, with opening receptions for each exhibit.

THELAFFERGALLERY.COM

N X+C T TC?

hÍæÛ Û¡È¡ Č ³Þ ¬ÍÍ ÞØ³Û³äÞ É ¬Û¡ ä «ÍÍ ļļļ Í ŀÞ ÍÛ ¡ÛÞļ

CC8 hCZQ Q T Qe X+C?

ňĥġĨŉ ħĩĢŊġġĥĠŖźŖ Í Þ¬«ļ ÍÈ

In This Place They Make Art The Craft, Skill, & Sheer Mastery of Salem Art Works by RONA MANN photos by Stephanie Sittnick

Old Mac Cafrtiz had a farm Ee i, ee i o And on that farm he had some welders and sculptors and glassblowers and painters... Ee i, ee i o

WAIT! WHAT? The town of Salem in Washington County, dates back to 1761 and possesses a rich Revolutionary War and Civil War history. It is one of those oft-forgotten pieces of geography that the townspeople would prefer be lost to the bustling outside world, for theirs is a town of wonder and covered bridges and history and art and exquisite natural beauty. And within this bucolic community of fewer than 2800 residents is situated a most unique farm, unlike any other in New York State. Matter of fact, it may be the only such farm in the Northeast. This 119-acre property was previously a working dairy farm. Although the cows are now gone, the “working” part of it is not. This farm is constantly being worked by artists... artists of every stripe who come to Salem Art Works to teach, to learn, to grow, and to stretch themselves in just about every artistic discipline there is. It is, in essence, an art farm, and there is nothing else quite like it.

photo by Salem Art Works

The brains behind this, the “Old Mac Donald” of the farm is founder/director, Anthony Cafritz, who is a visionary of sorts, for it was with hard work and dogged determination that he has been able to make his inspiration and dreams into reality.

photo by Salem Art Works

14 Bennington College in Vermont and his Masters degree at SUNY Purchase, however, he was inspired to create his masterpiece by a model at the now-defunct Black Mountain College in North Carolina, an experimental institution that was founded in 1933, but closed in 1957. The school was fully committed to an interdisciplinary approach that prioritized art-making as a necessary component of education and thus attracted some of the best and brightest visual artists, designers, poets, and composers. The model placed students

Founder/director, Anthony Cafritz Cafritz, who possesses an insatiable store of curiosity, never stops thinking, reimagining, and building. So, what exactly is this place? At its most basic of ground floor definition, Salem Art Works provides a unique alternative arts environment for any artist of any age or ability. It is a place for the most curious and reticent of young artists who wish to explore their talents and view the possibilities that may lie before them, as well as for those who are well established, willing to teach and share their experience, and perhaps learn something new themselves along the way; and it is a place where visitors may bring their own curiosity to see just whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on here in the shadow of the glorious Adirondack Mountains. To begin at the beginning...Anthony Cafritz is himself an artist, a sculptor and painter who received his undergraduate degree at

Nicholas Micros, 'Horseman and Other Rider', 1996-2000 (installed 2018)

Anthony Cafritzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work at North Main Gallery and educators equally on the same level plane, and the creation of art and the skill and craft of the artists was more important than ofďŹ cial grades or degrees. According to Salem Art Works Communications Director, Benj Gleeksman, Cafritz transferred the best ideas from this model plus his own ideas and ideologies and opened in 2005. Salem Art Works

Mark di Suvero 'For Euler' 1997 (installed 2005)

Sophie Eisner, 'Organic Systematic No. 4’ (created at SAW and installed 2012)

is all at once communal as well as collaborative, placing the uninitiated on the same plane with worldrenowned professionals where somehow it works successfully and has for the last 15-plus years. Salem Art Works is composed of three distinct parts,” says Gleeksman. “The first is our magnificent and expansive Sculpture Park, which is open to the public year ‘round.” Cary Hill Sculpture Park occupies a sprawling amount of land and is Vivien Abrams Collens, 'Kenergy', 2017 (created at thus accessible by either car or truck. SAW and installed 2017) It features a rotating roster of s upremely talented and noteworthy performance events as well. It is a place r e gional, national, and world renowned where visitors like to take their time to walk international sculptors and also serves as through art as they walk through nature, a venue for not only exhibitions, but for stopping here and there to gaze in unbridled awe and perhaps snap some photographs. Open 365 days a year, this magnificent space is waiting for you to come discover and view right now since social distancing is not an issue as the sculpture park is spread out over the many acres. The second important component of what Salem Art Works is and does is workshops. “We run public workshops for a variety of

artistic disciplines,” says Gleeksman. “We have glassblowing, welding, ceramics, plein air painting, blacksmithing, woodworking; there’s a wide selection of courses available and a wide range for every level of expertise, whether for a beginner who just wants to try their hand, or appealing to a more accomplished artist. Anthony just wants artists of any discipline to come and use the

Glassblowing Blacksmithing

above photos by Salem Art Works

Max Baynes, Marie Lemmond, and Joe Blocker 'Lighthouse' 2018 (created at SAW and installed 2018) facilities.” Workshops, which generally run spring to fall, are most often taught by Salem Art Works’ studio directors who are artists in their own right.

the watchful eye of those who have been in their shoes and are now ﬁrmly established. Together they work shoulder to shoulder in wide open spaces that once served as pastures. Cafritz is “happy, but always looking to grow,” says Gleeksman. “He is always seeking something new to add, and we’re always open to everything.”

Adding to the texture of this glorious place, artists-in-residence come to Salem Art Works and stay in either guest houses, tiny houses, or camp right on the property. “Artists typically come for a sixweek period,” Benj offers. “We run these for 12 weeks in the summer, and while here, they work on the property, utilizing our work-trade arrangement.”

This “everything” may include cross-media artists, the dream of eventual performing arts, and whatever else might pass through Cafritz’s imagination and onto the land he treasures and has built into an homage to both artists and the art they create. Children’s programming is also offered with ﬁeld trips during the school year and summer programs as well. Next year, offerings will be available for teens who want to explore different media. You will not ﬁnd another venue like this anywhere. What a perfect place to daytrip, take a mini-vacation, or sign up for a one-day or extended weekend workshop under the tutelage of some of the best artists in the world and in the shadow of the Adirondacks.

The whole of Salem Art Works is open to the public nearly year ‘round, although winter months are reserved for the 12-person staff to work at the facility, constantly improving upon the obvious success they enjoy. Gleeksman adds that Salem Art Works has a large social media presence on both Instagram and facebook and alerts the public to watch for an exciting online auction in the coming months. Community oriented from the start, there are a number of events run each year. Perhaps most notable among them is Music on the Hill, a free concert series wherein local bands perform on top of the hill above the sculpture park, backed by the incomparable views of Washington County and Vermont’s Green Mountains. A much-anticipated event is Festival of Fire, a weekend-long party where art is made with ﬁre by the artists who partake in workshops, guest lectures, and art-making sessions. If it requires heat, i. e. glass blowing, iron-pouring, welding, blacksmithing, or wood-ﬁred ceramics, it’s part of the fun and wonder at Salem Art Works.

If you listen, you can hear the wind blowing through the grass, and if you look, you will see what happens when creativity and imagination meet, with art coming alive before your eyes.

Bridget Beck 'Arthouse' 2017 (created at SAW and installed 2017)

The model first developed by those visionaries nearly 100 years ago at Black Mountain College is indeed alive and thriving in Salem, New York. Cafritz has managed to make good use of his 119 acre “dairy farm,” making it a place of discovery, education, expression, and joy. It is here that new artists are born, their talent awakened under

For more information on workshops, residencies, or a guided tour of the property, visit www.salemartworks.org email: info@salemartworks.org (518) 854-7674 We have a LARGE presence on both Facebook and Instagram, so check us out

Bear and Bird Boutique & Gallery “Where you’ll be curiouser and curiouser!” by Carol St.Sauveur Ferris photos by Stephanie Sittnick Perched on the edge of Schenectady’s downtown, like a wildflower blooming from the cracks in the sidewalk, you will ﬁnd a colorful new shop curated by Amanda Magnetta-Ottati, who as a recent upstate transplant, appreciates all the weirdness and history that makes the “electric city” unique.

Amanda Magnetta-Ottati

The boutique and gallery space is filled with interesting merchandise and artwork that can be described as both cute and strange. With a focus on illustration art, the space will feel familiar and appealing, while at the same time have your eyes darting around trying to take in the assortment of images and things you have never seen before. Established in 2007, the original Bear and Bird is located inside TATE’S Comics, a legendary South Florida pop culture superstore. It is still in operation there today. People often ask how the name Bear and Bird came about. While the use of “bird” has become a sort of shorthand for “cute

indie business,” it was always part of Amanda’s subconscious. It so happens that “Bear” and “Bird” are the nicknames that her parents always called each other. What better way to capture the whimsical nature of the gallery and boutique, while paying homage to her parents and honoring the wonder of childhood?

Upon entering, you are greeted by a very handsome, eight-foot ﬁberglass bear. “Barry,” as they’ve named him, was relocated from Magic Forest Amusement Park in Lake George. Sculpted by Leo Nelson in the 1960s, Barry’s age was showing a bit when he moved in, so Tate and Amanda took the time to restore him back to his original glory.

Amanda’s husband, Tate’s side of the family goes back generations in the Schenectady area, but both he and Amanda are native Floridians… a few years ago they made the leap and moved to upstate New York with their two children, Rosemary and Wolﬁe. Amanda said fondly, “Schenectady has so much potential, we really wanted to be a part of that by opening a little shop downtown.” The circa 1850 space on the edge of the Stockade Historic District has clearly been resurrected with love. Note the original brick wall and 1900 wood ﬂooring salvaged from a nearby Stockade Building, these details bring a sense of genuine history to the colorful space.

Every item in the shop is thoughtfully selected and personally tested by Amanda from the vegan lip balms in fun ﬂavors, made by Atlanta-based Crazy Rumors, to the gorgeous made-in-the-USA long cloak hoodie that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. The space is a delightful introduction to new and interesting things. Take, for instance, the little blind-boxed art figures. These special little boxes are imaginatively designed a nd contain detailed art ﬁgures. Themes are wide-ranging, from strange doll-like winter-costumed characters to keychains of cats on super-detailed sushi. As you continue your exploration, you will discover an assortment of enamel pins, patches, and stickers. Amanda thinks of these items, designed and created by indie graphic designers and illustrators, as affordable, mini-art masterpieces. They are a simple way to add some personality to your everyday wardrobe and just might spark a fun conversation with a stranger.

You’ll ﬁnd amusing and useful housewares like Nessie, a freestanding ladle that looks like the Loch Ness Monster is peeking up out of your soup tureen; Gracula, a vampire garlic crusher; and Jungle Spoon, a slotted spoon shaped like a tropical leaf, all waiting to be scooped up for your favorite cook. The array of unusual treasures includes beautiful, dangling earrings made from real butterﬂy wings; fun knit socks and warm hats with their graphic eye on you; and Flip and Tumble reusable bags that are designed by two female product designers, who met in school. Amanda swears by these bags and has carried one with her for over 10 years, so she can personally attest to their durability and usefulness. They are quick and easy to fold back into a fun ball shape and are strong, but light as a feather.

While there is an endless variety of fun gifts, books, and collectibles, Amanda’s heart belongs to the original artwork and silkscreen prints featured at Bear and Bird. She has a trained eye and a great appreciation for illustrative art and shares that, “Illustration is everywhere. You’ll see it 100 times a day, on cereal boxes, tattoos, t-shirts, magazine articles just to name a few… but as an art, I feel it somewhat under-appreciated. I love to change the context of illustration, as it’s commonly seen and present it in a gallery setting. I think

it feels both familiar and new at the same time.” Bear and Bird has an impressive collection of original vintage illustration artwork, which is truly affordable and always available for purchase in-store and online. The work is from the 1930’s through the 1980’s for the most part and features fun images such as a kitty cat in ‘80s workout gear or a family of long eyelashed bunnies from the 1960s out for a stroll. There is also a wide selection of colorful graphic silkscreen prints, whose beauty lies not only in their vibrant colors, but also in the textures and sheen. A quality that can be achieved only with a genuine hand-pulled screen print. These prints are perfect if you’re starting a collection or can be an affordable anchor piece for a new gallery wall in your home. If you prefer something more classic, there’s also an assortment of ﬁne art posters including works by MC Escher, one of Amanda’s favorites, and Salvatore Dalí, a timeless surrealist genius. “Collecting original art is something you will not outgrow or get bored of. We want to help people see that anyone can start collecting art. Art collating is such a positive thing that has far-reaching effects, outside of just making your home lovelier. Becoming an arts patron and starting your own art collection, on any level, directly supports artists and galleries who are bringing the work into the

community, making it a more interesting place for all.” And, “Perhaps one reason people don’t decorate their bare walls with artwork is because they haven’t come across the work that speaks to them yet. We hope to offer people an opportunity to connect with art and artists on a level they feel comfortable with, both in terms of price and how it makes them feel as a human being.” With so many of us staying home more than ever, the idea of making the walls of our “safe spaces” more reflective of our personal tastes, sounds very worthwhile. Though not nearly as fun as visiting in person, much is available in their online webshop. Curbside pickup and free local delivery are just a few ways this little shop is doing their best to make it as easy and convenient as possible for people to shop small and support local businesses. Plan a trip over soon or pop on their website to see for yourself that this very special shop can help you ﬁnd the perfect something for that special someone… who might just be you. Visit Bear and Bird Boutique & Gallery 107 State Street, Schenectady, NY, 12305 Hours: Wed – Sat, 11AM – 5PM Tel: 518. 227. 1145 Website: www.bearandbird.com Contact: amanda@bearandbird.com

Original vintage illustrations

Music in the Time of Coronavirus Sequestered in the Midwest, Christopher Peifer blasts out of lockdown with a bare-knuckle new album. By Kirsten Ferguson The coronavirus upended life for everyone this summer. Christopher Peifer, a former Capital Region musician now living in New York City, found himself in his Indiana hometown taking care of family. His career as a sound designer and composer for theater productions in New York City and New England is completely on hold. “100 percent of my work is audience dependent,” he says over the phone. “If I were in New York, I’d just be hanging out in my apartment.” But the major life disruption helped Peifer focus on a long-held goal: releasing his ﬁrst full-length solo record, Suicide Mission, on August 15. “The music’s been keeping me sane,” he says. “I just wanted to do this record until it’s safe to play shows again. We’re all in lockdown. Creative people have to stay creative. This is art and love in the time of coronavirus.” Suicide Mission is the culmination of Peifer’s three decades in the music business—writing, recording, touring and performing in his own bands and as a sideman in others. “I’ve always been more of a collaborator,” says the bassist and guitarist. “In 30 years, I’ve been in almost 20 bands.” Most recently, Peifer made up one third of Blockhouses, a kicking power-pop outfit that he formed with guitarist Guy Lyons, who grew up playing in the legendary Saratoga Springs band the Figgs. Peifer spent his formative years in the Capital Region in the 1990s, playing with then-local artists like Sandy McKnight, Stephen Clair and the Staziaks as well as

resident Albany musicians Michael Eck and Nick Bisanz (Peifer’s current guitarist for gigs). “It was an ideal time to be in Albany. The music scene was really vibrant,” he says. “Albany is an important place in my history—a place I’d consider home.” When embarking on Suicide Mission, Peifer realized he was tired of writing songs for bands only to have to scrap his songs when the bands eventually broke up. “A big part of me doing this album is having to start at square one all over again,” he says. Peifer recorded the album at Roots Cellar Studio in Cold Spring, New York, in a beautiful-sounding converted barn owned by his long-time collaborator Todd Giudice. “The album was inspired by some favorite time-tested records, like Elvis Costello’s Taking Liberties, with its two-to-three-minute catchy power pop gems,” Peifer says. “We wanted to make highly melodic and infectious

music. Additional influences were The Replacements, Hüsker Dü, The Figgs, Nick Lowe, Big Star, Sloan and maybe a little tequila.” The album kicks off with “Madrid,” a powerpop blast about an intoxicating honeymoon and the singer’s desire to awaken every day in Spain. “Throw You a Line” is an anthem and a call to arms: a tribute to Greta Thunberg and the next generation of kids stepping up. The melancholy “Poughkeepsie” is a heartfelt tune about pining over a long-lost love. Peifer wrote the nostalgic, 70’s-tinged “Stanton Drive” while driving from the Midwest back to New York City to check on his apartment just days before recording the album’s final two songs. The lyrics are especially poignant, as Peifer ’s father died of COVID-19 the following week: “We were all together / Feeling so alive / Wish it could last forever / So high on Stanton Drive.” For the recording, Peifer hit upon an unconventional recording style. “I didn’t send Todd the songs in advance,” he says. “I would introduce the song, diving in and playing guitar and singing while Todd learned the form and created the drum part. It’s the first time I’ve approached recording like this. Sometimes I finalized arrangements, or even finished lyrics on the Metro-North train, heading up the Hudson to the studio. It was very organic. I found I really worked well under that kind of self-imposed pressure.”

The album’s title is meant to be tongue in cheek and stems in part from Peifer’s former band The Kowalskis. “We all had these silly stage names,” he says. “I was Kamikaze Kowalski.” The album’s title also reflects a certain self-awareness about the difficulties of a lifetime in the music industry. “I’m of a certain age where, against all odds and good advice, I’m still playing music full force as best I can,” Peifer says. “This is a self-sabotaging situation. But in the end there’s a redemption. It’s the possibility of that redemption or rock and roll glory that keeps me going. I love playing rock music. It’s what I do.” Visit www.chrispei.com or download the album at chrispei.bandcamp.com.

Putting a Spin on History Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum by Carol St. Sauveur-Ferris One of the familiar signs that a carnival or fair is in town, is the loud, happy music coming from the carrousel. And that happy music is guaranteed to draw excited kids, parents, and grandparents through the gate. While there are many other sights to see, the nostalgia brought on at the sight of a carrousel is special for the “big kids.” For the “littles,” it’s an absolute thrill. But don’t wait for the carnival to come to town. Take a ride to the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum in North Tonawanda, New York. It’s an incredible opportunity to learn the history of the carrousel, see woodcarvers at work in the carving shop, tour several other signiﬁcant buildings, enjoy many educational programs offered by the museum; and of course, take a ride on a restored Herschell Carrousel accompanied by loud happy music from their authentic Wurlitzer band organ. Riding a carrousel has always been an exciting rite of passage for most kids. Their anticipation is palpable, creating an air of excitement for everyone patiently waiting in line to pick their favorite horse or animal to ride. In the Round House, when the operator gives the sign,

build as everyone waits for the loud, happy music to begin. When it does, the carrousel starts to move ever so slowly, then faster and faster it goes, while the horses move up and down, going round and round. It’s a fun time for everyone!

Allan Herschell everyone is allowed to move onto the platform and look for their horse. When mounted and safely strapped in, the excitement continues to

But long before Allan Herschell began manufacturing carrousels in the United States, there was an unlikely evolution to what we now know as merry-go-rounds or carousels. The origin of the carrousel dates back to the medieval days of knights and the Crusades. It seems that Arab and Turkish soldiers on horseback played a very smelly game they called “Little Wars “in the 1100s. Riding their horses in a circle at a full gallop, they would throw balls made of clay and filled with perfume at each other. If the soldier caught the ball he immediately threw it to another one. If the soldier was hit by the ball, it would break open and drench him in perfume, leaving undeniable evidence of his loss. In spite of the used perfume, it was a rough game requiring great skill and horsemanship which was done to prepare them for actual combat.

Armitage-Herschell Chariot European soldiers brought the game back to their countries but made some changes. In Italy, the game was called “Garosello,” and in Spain, it was called “Carosella”. The French version of the game, called “Le Carrousel” (notice the 2 Rs), involved far more pageantry, as the French are wont to do. By the 17th century, the game became a competition for men on horseback who attempted to spear tiny brass rings hung on a tree located outside the circular area. Soldiers and the aristocracy also trained for the game by riding in a circle on carved wooden horses and chariots, suspended from poles, so as not to tire their real horses before the competition. The circular

forward motion was provided by an unlucky commoner who had to literally push his assigned soldier round and round, so said soldier could practice and hone his skills. Needless to say, while the real horses were very well-rested, the commoner was deﬁnitely not. Eventually the commoners themselves began to play the game, and from there, carrousels began to pop up at fairgrounds across Europe. Early carrousels had no platform until the 19th century when they began to appear. By the mid-19th century the ﬁrst steam-powered carrousel with platforms, often called roundabouts, appeared in

England. Meanwhile, in the US, a gentleman named Allan Herschell partnered with another gentleman named James Armitage, to create the Armitage Herschell Company. The company was known for its carved wooden carrousels that were simple in style and portable. Eventually Herschell left the company and created the Herschell Spillman Company with his in-laws, who were the Spillmans. The new company carved and created carrousels in the traditional style and a number of elaborate ones that showcased a wide variety of animals. By 1915 Herschell

moved on yet again. He created the Allan Herschell Company, which specialized in portable machines including carrousels and other rides. His company produced over 3,000 rides that were all carved in wood then shipped to Canada, the United States, and around the world.

production of specialized rides for kids and also created thrill rides for adults like the Sky Wheel and Twister. Sadly, the company moved to Buffalo in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;50s and then merged with a rival company in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;70s.

In 1915, the factory complex in North Tonawanda was purchased for the exclusive production of wooden carousels. Later, Herschell expanded into the design and

It was during 1979 when a group of people came together to discuss bringing back a carrousel to North Tonawanda. Ironically, with all the carrousels made and shipped

Carving Room

Today, visiting the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum (which you must do), is a real treat. In fact, the entire complex is fascinating, including Round House of course, Kiddieland, the Mill Building, the Carving Floor, the Paint Shop and Storage Building, the Machine Shop, an Upholstery Shop, an Assembly and Testing Building, the Children’s Gallery, and the Loading Dock. from the Herschell Factory in town, there were none to be found anywhere in the area. Before long, Allan Herschell, the namesake of the Allan Herschell Company joined the group in this endeavor. And after an all-out effort in creative fundraising, a trip to London, Ontario in 1982 yielded three U-Haul trucks ﬁlled with parts and pieces of an original Herschell carrousel. The parts and pieces were eventually repaired, painted, and assembled to bring the magic of the carrousel back to North Tonawanda. Now located in the Round House where every carrousel ever made by Herschell was assembled and tested before shipping, it provides a wonderful opportunity for everyone to see and ride the “1916 Allan Herschell Number 1 Special,” an authentic and magical carrousel. Beyond the Round House, the ongoing work of the visionaries and volunteers can be seen everywhere. In 1984, the historic Factory Building was purchased, and through generous private donations, public and foundation grants, it has been completely restored as well as other historically significant buildings in the complex.

There are a number of fascinating exhibits to enjoy along the way that reveal the whole story behind Herschell carrousels and rides. And the Wurlitzer Music Roll Department is a must-see. It houses more than 1600 hand-punched original master music rolls that create the music in band organs going back to the turn of the century. If you’re lucky, the museum’s 90-year-old machines that make the rolls may be operating during your visit. You can even purchase a music roll and download the entire music catalog from their website. It is truly amazing to see the level of detail and precision required to build a carrousel, engineer a band organ, and punch music rolls. In addition, there is a self-guided tour that informs you as you walk through the buildings, plus very knowledgeable volunteers who can answer your questions and add interesting details to your experience. And not to be overlooked, a stop outside at Kiddieland is guaranteed to bring smiles and laughter to the faces of the little ones.

Wurlitzer Music Roll Department

The Jeanette E. Jones Children’s Gallery school age children; Solar Oven is one of four at-home projects for intermediate school-age children; while at-home projects for high schoolers are due to be released soon. There is a downloadable Education Guide for educators that lists available workshops for kids up to the ninth grade that will hopefully include ﬁeld trips soon.

Besides the tours and rides, there are a number of programs offered to families, youth, and children. Given the pandemic, at-home projects are very popular. Just Move Along is one of two at-home projects for elementary

Surprisingly, today’s coding has roots in the band organ’s binary coding and to the network of circuits in a vintage carrousel. A unique educational program demonstrates how the concept of STEM applies to the past as well as the present. In addition to these fascinating programs, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Education Department offers free, downloadable lesson plans for educators with a list of resources and the materials needed. And on YouTube, there is a series called

Carrousel Curiosities that introduces and examines in more detail, many of the artifacts in the museum’s collection and what makes them unique. It’s fun and informative. Very soon a downloadable coloring book will be available from this program. Today, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum is slowly reopening as pandemic restrictions are lifted, which is welcome news. While there is a protocol that must be followed including wearing masks, social distancing, and using sanitizing stations, the museum is working very hard to make your experience a memorable one. Please check their website for updates and perhaps plan a trip during this year’s foliage season. What a beautiful car ride that would be! Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum is located at 180 Thompson Street in North Tonawanda, New York. The museum can be reached at 716. 693.1885 Or visit their website at www.carrouselmuseum.org

G W uest

riter...

The HONOR System By: Crystal Cobert-Giddens I’m sort of a “foodie” of sorts. I love a good farmer’s market and picking veggies in my garden is usually one of my favorite activities. I would love to have a garden this year but we moved and the previous home owners weren’t gardeners. I’d have to start from scratch and it’s too late in the season to try and start now.

It’s been a warm summer, so I think we’re eating more fruit and vegetables than normal. We seem to run out of salad stuff by Thursday. I don’t know why, but we have run out everything by Thursday for the last four weeks in a row. No lettuce, no cucumbers, no fennel, tomatoes or peppers. We’ve been going through multiple pints of blueberries since every week, and I want (no, I need) more blueberries today, as in NOW. If you haven’t had them in your salad with a little goat, burrata or feta cheese…yum. Anyway, I don’t want to buy blueberries that just rode in a truck for 4 days to get here. I would rather have blueberries from one of the local farms in the area. They’re in season and so sweet this year! Where do you find fresh blueberries if the farmer’s market is 3 days away and you really want them in your salad? Road side stands, farmer’s carts and pick up trucks. Take any winding road in Saratoga, Burnt Hills or Slingerlands and you’ll find multiple road side stands with fresh corn, lettuce, summer squash, berries and lots of eggs. You’ll also find stands, picnic tables or pick up trucks with little hand painted signs and baskets (usually with money inside) asking you to put your money in the jar and feel free to make change if you need to break a $5.00. Some of the signs read, “Honor System” and that’s it. Other’s tell you the price and direct you to leave that cute little basket and use the bag that’s sitting on the chair. These farmers aren’t sitting around waiting for me to stop by on a Thursday. They’re probably out in the field somewhere, taking care of their crops and making sure we all have enough veggies for the week, so they use the honor system. What exactly is the honor system? It’s an assumed agreement between you and the person that left their goods, out in the open, in hopes you will purchase them, for the amount posted on their little sign.

It’s a promise that you will pay for whatever you take. It’s a system based solely on honesty and trust and it’s all over the 518 countryside. My mom was just telling me how she used to buy oranges from a truck parked in front of the entrance of an orange grove. The guy was never there, but he had a sign that read “Oranges ~ 2 for $1.00 and 5 for $2.00 HONOR SYSTEM PLEASE” She said she used to stop by all the time and buy either 2 or 5 oranges, and that she always had the correct change and would dutifully leave her $1 or $2 dollar bill. One day she only had a $5 dollar bill and really wanted oranges. She didn’t want to buy 12 oranges, but she didn’t have the right amount of change and the jar was empty. She was counting out 12 oranges with the farmer showed up, asking her if she was planning on making juice or something. She told him she only wanted 2 oranges, but didn’t have a dollar, so she was buying 12. She said he laughed so hard, he had to take out his handkerchief to wipe his brow. He actually called her “little lady” and told her that he and his wife knew she came every week and that he knew she was an honest woman. He told her that it was ok to take the 2 oranges and put an IOU in the jar. She was shocked, but took 2 oranges, wrote out an IOU, and thanked the farmer and left. The next week, she brought the correct change and put a little note in the jar, reminding the farmer that she was paying for the 2 oranges the week before, and the oranges for today. The following week, the farmer left my mom a note thanking her for remembering to pay her IOU. My mom bought oranges from that farmer until we moved away. I stopped at a farm stand today to get some blueberries and fresh corn. No one was there, but there was a sign that read “Honor System” and a big pickle jar with money in it and a price list near by. I chose 6 ears of corn and some of the best blueberries I have tasted this summer. I walked over to the pickle jar to pay and found a note sticking out of the top. It read, “John, here is my $5 for the corn today. The extra $5 is for my IOU for the corn last week, Mike.” I called my mom as soon as I got in the car. Crystal Cobert-Giddens, LE and owner of FACES on Beekman Street Organic Skin Therapy Studio 30 Beekman Street, Saratoga Springs, NY www.facesonbeekman.com Crystal Cobert Giddens, LE and owner of FACES on Beekman Street ~ Organic Skin Therapy Studio 30 Beekman St, Saratoga Springs, NY www.facesonbeekman.com

INSTINCTIVELY DIFFERENT>>

Daddy Had a Chevy Bel Air by Karen Richman I remember when he drove it home for the first time. It was shiny, long, and painted in gleaming turquoise and white...colors I had never noticed before on any car. I thought it was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen, and I was immediately filled with childish excitement. The year was 1955, a banner year for General Motors with their new Chevy Bel Air, today thought by many classic car enthusiasts to be the most popular car ever made. GM sold over three million of those beauties that year, an unheard of number back then in the automotive world. The ‘55Bel Air sported not only a great look, but a powerful new V8 engine and a brand new body design, just absolutely loaded with chrome and trim, more than any other model on the road. It also had “brand new” state-of-the-art options like power steering and power brakes. My father was in heaven driving this exceptional automobile, completely unaware that it would eventually go down in history as a classic. Ardent cinephiles may recall the screen debut of Harrison Ford in the film classic, “American Graffiti,” in which the young actor drove a black 1955 Bel Air straight into immediate worldwide stardom for both of them. But to a little girl who knew nothing about what constituted a classic and what didn’t, nor had little knowledge and even less interest in anything automotive, I just knew one thing: my Daddy had bought us a beautiful new car, and I couldn’t wait to go for a ride in the turquoise and white beauty. “Hop in,” he announced with a big smile. My mother wasn’t home at the time, so I was going to be the first in the family to be treated to its maiden voyage. We drove what seemed like hundreds of miles to my childish way of thinking – time mixed with a healthy dose of youthful impatience – but in truth, the Alderney Dairy was only 19 miles northwest of our home. It was a glorious working dairy farm that was one of the largest independent dairies in the United States at the time; but the real attraction, especially for kids, was that they had a creamery. Milkshakes and fresh ice cream were dispensed while you gazed at nearby cows who made up a significant part of the

Alderney production line. They gazed back at us, looking bored, and just kept chewing their cud while we licked our cones, being careful to enjoy them outside the new car. Daddy and I traveled many miles in that Bel Air, hundreds of them with Mom, but there was a special something when it was just the two of us out for a drive, as though we were going on some mysterious adventure, even if it were only to the hardware store. I had wonderful parents, but there’s something very special about the relationship of a father and his only daughter, that “Daddy’s little girl” thing you hear about. Sometimes we took long rides, other times short ones, but always there was the gift of time that he would give me, coupled with attention that was undivided, and an ear that would always listen to my childish chatter. It wasn’t the turquoise and white Bel Air that made me feel special. It was the short Polish man was the blonde hair and blue eyes, tiny mustache, and big heart that made me feel special. Today whenever I see a “Cruise Night” with its array of vintage cars, I always have to stop and look at the selection, for many times there is a Bel Air among them, and more often than not, it’s turquoise and white. It brings back such wonderful memories of those happy days filled with love and warm nights when we “put the top down” and felt free flying down the road. Daddy’s Bel Air wasn’t a convertible, but we liked to pretend it was every time we took rides on beautiful, sunny days that melted into starry summer evenings. Evenings when we’d open the windows wide, let the wind blow through out hair, and pretend we were rich and had a convertible. I didn’t realize it then, but I do now. We were indeed rich...very, very rich. Sometimes Daddy would flip the chrome button on the radio and turn the dial to one of our favorite stations that played all the great vocalists of the day: Frank Sinatra, Bill Haley & His Comets, Bobby Darin, the Four Aces, Fats Domino, Nat King Cole...there were so many we loved. Sometimes Paul Anka might be crooning, “Put Your Head on My Shoulder.” And I would.

;OL

(KPYVUKHJR

9LQHV

Rejoice! It’s the (other) Season! By Roberto Cruz - Photos by Adirondack Winery

Adirondack Winery in Lake George, New York, has their wines shipped to them from New York’s famed Finger Lakes wine region. Every year, they have over 100 tons of grapes (or 200,000 pounds!) shipped in. And even though crushing and de-stemming the grapes is done by a machine, it still requires their team of winemakers and cellar helpers to work long days for several weeks in a row. The team is also responsible for sorting the grapes (separating the best grapes from the ones considered unﬁt for winemaking).

Nope, it’s not about horses, but it is that time of year again at New York state wineries. Grape harvest season is here, and for the thousands of employees who work New York’s roughly 11,000 vineyard acres, it’s the equivalent of the playoffs in sports. All the marketing in the world couldn’t help a winery without a great product. Fortunately, in an industry as competitive and thriving as New York’s wine scene, winemakers here take harvest season very seriously – and work a ton of hours to ensure they create the best wines possible. Keep reading to learn more about why grape harvest season is one of the best times of year to visit a New York winery.

What Is Grape Harvest Season? Grape harvest season is exactly what it sounds like. It’s the time of year when wineries harvest their grapes to begin the winemaking process. In the Northern Hemisphere, grape harvest season is August to October (and in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s February through April). Its range varies because of different climates within the hemisphere and because some grapes take longer times to ripen than others. For example, grapes used in sparkling wines are often harvested early in the season when they have a higher acidity. White wine grapes are typically harvested before red wine grapes; the latter of which usually require more time on the vine to mature. For those interested in the science behind the ripening, grapes typically transform from hard little green berries to the green or purple grapes we know (and love) at about 30 to 70 days (depending on the climate). During this stage, the vines begin to impart sugar into the grapes, decreasing the acidity in the grape as time goes on. Sun and warmth can help hurry this process along.

At the Vineyard A vineyard is a piece of land where grapes are grown. At each vineyard is a team that closely monitors the growth of the grapes and harvests them when they are ready. Winemakers look for a few telltale signs that signal when a grape is prepared to begin its journey from vine to glass. From a simple taste test (when they’re a real expert!) to gauging sugars, acidity, and tannins (which create the drying sensation in your mouth when drinking wine), each winemaker has their own preferred process. Of course, Mother Nature also has her say, as it is common for winemakers to move harvesting grapes up or back due to heat, cold, or rain. Large scale vineyards typically harvest grapes with a machine that will remove the bunches from the vines, or in some cases, the vineyard staff will hand cut the grapes from the vine using shears. This often occurs very early in the day or even at night when it’s coolest. The grapes are collected into large bins (sometimes half-ton bins!) to be transported to their winery or to other wineries that buy the grapes from the vineyard. It is estimated that 2.5 pounds of grapes are needed to yield one bottle of wine.

At the Winery Contrary to popular belief, the winemaking process does not typically start with a group of wine elves stomping on piles of grapes. But the grapes do need to be crushed and their stems removed. Wineries typically use machines known as de-stemmers and crushers to get this done (not too exciting on the naming front)!

“The next steps vary based on which type of wine you are making,” said Brad Casacci, Associate Winemaker at Adirondack Winery. “White wine grapes are pressed to have their juices collected immediately after they have been crushed,” Casacci said. “Red wines are fermented ﬁrst (the process where yeast converts sugars to alcohol), then pressed, and that extra contact with the grape skins is what gives red wine its red color.” Wines can be aged anywhere from a few months to a few years, and wines that have been aged longer are often held in more esteem. At the onset of this article, it was mentioned that the grape harvest season can be one of the best times to visit a New York winery. You won’t find more activity at a winery than during grape harvest season. The hustle and bustle is really fascinating if you love seeing where your wine comes from. Not to mention, the weather in New York really doesn’t get any better than late August through early October. HAPPY HARVEST SEASON! Roberto Cruz, Adirondack Winery TASTING ROOMS: 285 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 4971 Lake Shore Drive, Suite 2, Bolton Landing, NY 12814