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PUBLISHER / FOUNDER

Stephanie Sittnick

COPY EDITOR

Elisabeth Allen

WEBMASTER

Tony Graveheart

ADVERTISING SALES

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, Alan B. Richer, Crystal Cobert Giddens, Nellie Ackerman-Vellano, Kristina Watrobski

Chef Armand Vanderstigchel

COVER

“Low Country ll” 20x16 - H.M. Saffer

Welcome to the March issue. This is the month that officially kicks off the beginning of spring! Daylight savings time starts March 12. The days are getting longer, the nights shorter, and the sun warmer. Enjoy the sim ple pleasure of waking up to fresh sunlight streaming in your windows!

Sit back and enjoy reading our March issue. Some people within these pages you might know and the others you will definitely want to know. We hope they will inspire you with their passion, their dedication, their expertise, and most of all, their commitment to their talent.

As always, our goal at 518 PROFILES, is always to focus on the good, the beautiful and the positive by publishing stories with heart and soul. We strive each month to deliver authentic and unique content about creative people and inter esting destinations. Enjoy!

Stephanie Sittnick Founder / Publisher

518 PROFILES

587 Grand Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Prolific Painter, Man of Many Firsts

H.M. Saffer, Artist

pg. 4

“Taking a Building Down to the Studs is Fun!”

An Entrepreneur & A Former State Trooper

Love Glens Falls

pg. 14

At its Core, it’s All About Hospitality

The Multi-Concept Flavors of Park & Elm

pg. 24

An Eye, Yes... But NO Caffeine

The Much Sought-After Interior Designer, Paula McCormick

pg. 34

Sweet Nostalgia pg. 42 They Let Them All In

LIFEspa pg. 44

Gemstones Throughout the AGES

Culinary Destinations: pg. 46

Boston - Part One

March Events pg. 48

Events throughout the Capital Region

The Laffer Gallery

HARRY ORLYK | February 25 - March 26

Phone: 518-695-3181

Address: 96 Broad St, Schuylerville NY 12871

Gallery Hours: Thursday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm

FEATURING 200

PAINTINGS

Prolific Painter, Man of Many Firsts H.M. Saffer, Artist

by Carol St.Sauveur Ferris

Credit cards, microwave ovens, the Frisbee, electric microphones, cord less phones, acrylic paint, and full-bodied electric guitars are just some of many inventions that found their way into the mainstream and into the lives of children born in the 40s. HM Saffer spent his youth through his college years during this innovative time, and no doubt his curiosity, many talents, and entrepreneurial spirit were inspired and nurtured along the way.

He was born in 1942 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was a creative, inquisitive, and confident kid. His mother was an interior decorator, and his father was a photographer, so creativity was in his DNA. Saffer’s

parents encouraged his art and it showed. His early work was first shown publicly when he was just six years old, which foreshadowed his future art career. Years later, when he graduated from Temple University in 1965 with a degree in marketing and economics, Saffer headed straight to Paris, France to pursue a graduate degree in economics...and that’s where life would take an interesting turn.

Besides creating and painting throughout his youth, Saffer also played folk music and bluegrass on the banjo during his high school years. Not surprisingly, both his parents were talented musicians as well. His mother played piano, and his father was a self-taught banjo player

who played with the Mummers in Philadelphia. That early musical influ ence led him to seek out and join like-minded people in Paris which was far more exciting than waiting tables. He quickly joined the ranks of professional musicians, performing with French musical tal ents like Charles Aznavour and others, and admits to having the time of his life. He was also hired by Barclay Records as a producer and had several hit records in 1968 and 1969.

Saffer shares that he was making a great deal of money at the time, so of course, he decided to go 50/50 on a restaurant with a friend who was a chef…with one requirement. He insisted on working alongside him in the kitchen to learn the culinary arts and become a chef as well. They opened two restaurants together and had a great run until the riots of ‘68 in Paris forced them to sell. Not one to let circumstances get in his way, Saffer moved to Ibiza, Spain where he promptly opened a new restaurant.

Throughout his eclectic career, painting was like a talisman, familiar and steady, as he navigated the many arts he pursued. He exhibited his paintings in all three restaurants and other locations, literally selling out his pieces and receiving great reviews from the local press. In addition, he attended L’Ecole Des Beaux Arts where some of the world’s most famous painters such as Degas, Delacroix, and Renoir attended long before him.

In 1970, Saffer returned to the United States and joined Warner Brothers Productions as both Vice-President of New Talent Acquisitions and songwriter. He landed on the charts when he co-wrote the hit song, Look What They’ve Done To My Song, Ma with Melanie. The song was covered by well-known performer Ray Charles and others. When he wasn’t composing, Saffer was painting and even painted a giant, 40-foot mural on the walls of Warner Brothers Madison Avenue office where he also exhibited his other pieces.

He later joined the Crewe Group as Senior Vice-President, working with the Four Seasons, Frankie Valli, and other well-known singers of the times, but the entrepreneurial bug bit again that very same year. Not surprisingly, Saffer established HMS Two Music Ltd., which allowed him to write and produce music for films, commercials, recordings, and Broadway productions. His musical talents were also well-represented in his work for many recognizable companies including Pepsi, Michelob, Ford Motor Company, and others.

During this time, Saffer continued painting but began to broaden his fine art focus studying Japanese brush painting which dates back to the fourteenth century. The technique is known as “Sumi-e” and translated, it means “black ink painting.” Sumi-e was introduced to Japan by Zen monks and in keeping with the simplicity and minimalism of Zen, it employs few brush strokes with gradations of black ink to convey complex meanings. Mastering both takes years of practice, and that’s exactly what Saffer did.

Alongside his burgeoning music career, Saffer’s continuing love for the culinary arts now in cluded the food of Japan which also prompted him to study their culture as well. His multiple interests motivated him to take many 3-month visits to Japan, beginning in 1983 where he studied in depth, becoming knowledgeable and proficient in each one. He also met his future wife, Hisayo. They dated for a short time then lost touch. She ended up becoming a pastry chef in Belgium but years later they reconnected in Japan and married.

It wasn’t long before Saffer approached Hisayo and said he’d like to see if he could make it as an artist. Without hesitation, she took the leap of faith and supported him in his new career. His paintings were all on paper in the Sumi-e style and were very popular in Japan. And over the years his artwork hung in several galleries including Galerie Musee and

“Quietly flowing ll” 34x34

“Takayama Spring I”

“Tancho Tsuru IV” 24X24

the Artbridge Gallery in Japan. Later in Hong Kong, he became the res ident artist at Kwai Fung Him Gallery and enjoyed numerous suc cessful solo exhibits. Unfortunately, in 1994 when the economic bubble burst in Japan both galleries failed, and he lost all his valuable paintings. He and Hisayo had two children by then, so they decided it was time to move the family to the United States. They settled in upstate New York where they still live.

Saffer soon discovered that Americans prefer oil on canvas rather than ink on paper which he had been doing exclusively in Japan. Contemplating

what he would paint next, he discovered the landscapes of Gustav Klimt at the Clarke Art Institute at Williams College, in Williamstown, MA. He was surprised and taken by these beautiful pieces which aren’t nearly as well-known as his erotic paintings of women. Klimt’s style was similar to Pointillism, but the differences are what set his work apart from those who preceded him and what inspired Saffer.

Pointillism is a unique painting technique that became popular in the mid-nineteenth century. It followed Impressionist art which was defined by thick brushstrokes of paint capturing the essence of a subject rather

“Moon Waters” 30x30

than the details. In contrast, the artist using the Pointillism technique applies precise small dots of saturated color in assorted sizes close to gether, creating shapes, shadows, and light. The composition then comes together as the viewer steps back from the piece and views it as a whole.

Klimt employed the fundamentals of Pointillism but used large and small dots, dashes, and slashes to create his landscapes instead of all small dots. He also used vibrant colors. Inspired by what he saw, Saffer painted a couple of pieces trying Klimt’s more boisterous technique. They were instantly well-received, soon hung in a gallery in Connecticut, and sold quickly. Over 25 years later his paintings still hang in that very gallery and do quite well.

Saffer is now widely known for his Pointillism landscapes which are painted with a nod to Klimt. He is a self-described prolific painter, painting twelve hours a day, every day for nine months of the year, leaving the summers for commission work and biochar gardening. He admits that when he gets an idea, takes a good photograph, or someone sends him a picture, he has to drop everything and paint it. And when he paints, Saffer does a series of four paintings that start small and get larger with each new canvas. His largest paintings to date are 44” x 44” square. Incredibly, Saffer always has six or seven paintings going at one time because he simply cannot wait for them to dry, so he moves on to another one in the meantime.

A few examples of Saffer’s beautiful landscapes include:

Harvest Fields featuring undulating fields painted in vivid yellows and oranges with a vibrant green landscape and a blue, cloud-filled sky.

Moonglow painted with a moody blue sky and water accented by the glow of the moon.

And Shadows 1 featuring an intricate pattern of shadows cast by rows of brightly illuminated tree trunks on a bright yellow ground.

Given his distinctly different, yet connected careers in the arts, he was asked what might his next chapter be? His answer? A writer. But in order to be a successful writer Saffer knows he’d have to give up some painting time to devote to writing. He doesn’t want to do that. So, painting it is.

Now at the tender age of 80, Saffer is still going strong and exceedingly grateful for his amazing life. “I’ve had an incredible life. I say to myself if God forbid, I passed away today, I’d have no regrets. I’ve done so much. Traveled so much. There’s nothing I'd do over. I’ve had a great life.”

And that he has.

To view and purchase Saffer’s work, visit his website at www.hmsaffer.com or visit one of the many galleries representing his work listed there as well.

Field of Dreams III featuring a purple field with a vivid orange and red sky.

“Field of Dreams I” 16x20

“Harvest Patterns-lV” 30x24

“Taking a Building Down to the Studs is Fun!” An Entrepreneur & A Former State Trooper Love Glens Falls

by Rona Mann

Su zanne and Peter Hoffman are strongly committed. They are committed to each other, to their purpose, to the varied demographics they serve, and especially committed to the city they love, believe in, and are working every day to revitalize: Glens Falls.

As real estate developers and managers, their company, Glen Street Associates, has carved out a prominent and enviable place in the heart of downtown. “We don’t sell properties,” Suzanne begins, “we retain them.”

First, a bit of the backstory about the Hoffmans. Peter Hoffman grew up in a family of entrepreneurs working closely with his father from childhood. While the term “entrepreneur” often has a negative connotation to people, smacking of ill-gotten gains and nefarious business practices, it was not the case with Peter’s father who was originally in the restaurant business and later got in on the ground floor of real estate development in Clifton Park, back when it was largely farmland.

Suzanne’s backstory is altogether different. Growing up in the Saratoga area, she became interested in police work after her mother remarried, and her new husband’s family were all involved with law enforcement in one form or another. Suzanne, never one to hesitate, went straight to the academy throwing herself into a program that was both mentally

and physically tough, and became a New York State Trooper, a position she loved and kept for more than eight years. She requested and was assigned to, the Glens Falls area because she wanted to be near Saratoga, but somehow in a different area... and she fell in love. She fell in love with Glens Falls, with the people, the lifestyle, and everything about it; and along the way, she fell in love with Clifton Park restaurant owner, Peter Hoffman. In a short time, there were four children to raise, his and theirs, so Suzanne re moved the big trooper’s hat and re placed it with the hat of a real estate developer... her mission was to work with Peter buying, completely rehabbing, and then leasing historic properties in downtown Glens Falls.

The couple did and are still doing it successfully, “one building at a time,” Suzanne adds. “We take our time doing

it, though. We love to buy a building that is part of Glens Falls’ storied history and rehab it. Most of them are on life support when we get them, and we gut the buildings. Take them down to the studs. It’s a fun restoration, a fun thing for us to do. A labor of love, a fun ride.”

As of now, their “fun ride” has garnered Glen Street Associates 16 properties, most of them in

Smith Flats Luxury Apartments 53-61 Bay St, Glens Falls, NY

historic downtown Glens Falls. There is also one apartment building overlooking the river in South Glens Falls and two others in Hudson Falls.

Experts agree that the most successful way to revitalize a downtown and draw people back into the city center is to first understand the community itself... its profile, its demographics, its economic resources, and to be fully committed in every way to its growth. Next, developers must create an attractive and walkable area to invite people in and make them want to work, play, recreate, and come back to the heart of the city. Economic uses for the area must include diversification for a wide appeal, and businesses anticipating a move to the city center should be first shown a viable opportunity and plan for growth and equity. Projects for preservation and revitalization must not be empty rhetoric but be strongly and appropriately financed. Paramount above all of this should be an established in-placement local management with ever-watchful eyes, a willingness to

listen to their tenants, and fingers constantly on the pulse of all that is happening. This is what Glen Associates is all about and why their commitment runs deep. Some are strictly commercial, others residential, and many are mixed-use with apartment dwellers sharing the historic beauty of their four walls with financial companies, insurance brokers, hair stylists, art galleries, hand ther apists, restaurants, and psychology pra ctices within the same building. It all amounts to a re-gentrification of a downtown.

“We started in November 2004 just as urban renewal was taking everything to the suburbs,” Suzanne began. But the Hoffmans are visionaries, they saw what downtown Glens Falls could be if they didn’t tear down the history that was there, but re-imagine it, one building at a time. They began with the former PostStar building at 100 Glen Street, a commercial building where Glen Street Associates first had their offices, happily sharing space with a plethora of other businesses.

86 Glen Street, Glens Falls, NY

The old Joubert and White Carriage company which occupied 77-79 War ren Street was also purchased by Glen Street Associates. Suzanne added this was originally a luxury carriage manufacturer originating in 1865 and later became a showroom for Model Ts, the Empire Automobile Company. Preserving as many of the original artifacts as possible with each of their acquisitions, she said, “We always try to keep the original components so we kept the post and beam 14’ ceilings and the 10’ windows.”

Both Hoffmans point with pride to their building at 21 Bay Street which was built in 1929, the same year the Empire State Building was erected. “It is unique,” says Suzanne, “because it was not built of wood but of masonry tile and steel, making it unusual for the time and quite fireproof.” The upper floor houses 37 apartments, while commerce takes up the lower space.

77-79 Warren Street, Glens Falls, NY

The latest acquisition came last summer when Peter and his daughter, Christiana purchased a classic brick building built right around 1870 as a carriage house for Henry Crandall who gave Glens Falls Crandall Park and the library. Peter plans to lease it for commercial concerns, but first comes

“the fun.” Enhancing, replacing, yet keeping the history of the old bones with the original artifacts... and of course, looking for tenants!

In the end, it all comes down to two people thoroughly dedicated to preserving the character and integrity

21 Bay Street, Glens Falls, NY

of a city they love and to which they are fully committed. The former state trooper no longer wears the big hat and hands out tickets. She wears a smile and puts her hands out in welcome, friendship, and business. And the former little boy who grew up in a family of developers is now doing his own developing while shouldering the responsibility of putting the lifeblood back into one of America’s great downtowns. Other developers have since taken notice and are following the Hoffmans’ lead, and as a result, Glens Falls has turned the corner. “ Our tenants believe in downtown Glens Falls, just like us,” Suzanne said. “We are now

surrounded by shops, restaurants, a hospital, City Park, and the Queensbury Hotel. Our tenants a re a mixed demographic of young people who wa nt to be able to walk everywhere, of seniors who have down-sized homes and now want something different, and people who find joy in living and working in the city, while appreciating its history.”

Although they have brought major change to Glens Falls, Suzanne and Peter Hoffman have not changed much at all. Suzanne is still a trouper, just not a State Trooper. A trouper is someone who will fight for what they believe in and doesn’t give up easily, and Suzanne believes in and will never give up on this city.

And Peter, after more than a 40-year career in construction, leasing, and management is still at his very core an entrepreneur in the best sense, someone who can operate a busi ness by taking on greater than normal financial challenges in order to serve others as well as himself.

A match made in... Glens Falls, their little piece of heaven.

Glen Street Associates is located at 67 Warren Street, Glens Falls. www.glenstreetassociates.com (518) 743-8666

80 Warren St, Glens Falls, NY

At its Core, it’s All About Hospitality The Multi-Concept Flavors of Park & Elm

By Rona Mann Photos by Stephanie Sittnick

...Eleanor Roosevelt

At its very core, hospitality is really all about welcoming strangers, providing a safe haven, feeding them well, and always, always showing kindness. It’s not just the food, it’s the thought that goes into that food before even one ingredient is chopped or liquified. It’s knowing your customers, knowing the area, knowing what people are needing and wanting, and then giving it to them along with options, choices, and a smile. Consistently. Every day. “That” is true hospitality, and that’s what was the mantra and the intent behind the family who opened the Park Theater in 2018, complemented it with the successful Doc’s Restaurant, and then outgrew their own success and needed to make a move.

They didn’t have to look very far, they just crossed the street, purchased a four-story building that was in need of some renovation, love, and hospitality, and over the period of two years they created a new venue for food, fun, relaxation, and a special way to enjoy great food at nearly every price point.

From the first, Park Street Hospitality did it wisely and slowly, dotting every I and crossing every T along the way. They didn’t “close” Doc’s, it was reimagined and now is a much-loved venue for catering, special events, and supporting the art happenings and shows still going on at the Park Theater. In short, it is a hospitality center.

By moving their restaurant to a much-needed larger space, “we increased our dining capacity by 30%,” said Ben Miller, Hospitality Operations Manager. “We kept our same chef, Matt Delos, who is the Executive Chef and curates all parts of our operation.”

“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to guests.”

Ben Miller, Hospitality Operations Manager Credit - Bri Lyons | The Yellow Note

“All parts?” Yes. Yes indeed. This is what makes Park & Elm a unique addition to the dining and entertainment industry in the Capital Region, for when they moved their fine dining to one side of the building, they added a gourmet grocery, market, and deli to the other side, thus allowing patrons an opportunity to enjoy a special dining experience in their Contemporary American restaurant as well as order platters for a party, take out prepared foods, or even grab a ca sual breakfast or lunch at the deli counter. The latter showcases delicious imported products such as olive oils, charcuterie, and still sup ports their area community by using local eggs and produce items in their preparations.

Executive Chef Delos is classically trained at the famed Culinary Institute of America, and proudly shows off his French and Italian culinary influences

in much of his food, but Park & Elm does not deal in labels. “We don’t pigeon-hole or label, we’re just good food,” Miller adds.

The restaurant and full bar can comfortably seat 85 people, come this spring they will open patio dining allowing seating for 60 additional patrons and adding a pleasant outdoor dining experience.

Executive Chef Matt Delos

Veal Rib Chop Parmesan | San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, spaghetti squash, garlic, tomato

From the beginning, the hospitality group handled its expansion and renovations care fully. It took two years to completely redo the new venue, and the visible project created a lot of excitement in the area as local folks watched with great expectation until the grand opening last Fall. The Market & Deli opened first, just prior to this past Thanksgiving, with lines of customers ordering and purchasing free-range turkeys and sides to complement their meals. Early in December, the opening of the restaurant followed, “and the response was even greater than we expected,” Ben added. “From the moment we opened, we sold out all reservations, and even now, we heartily

recommend our patrons call for a reservation, especially on weekends.”

“Hospitality is almost impossible to teach. It’s all about hiring the right people.”

...Danny Meyer, Famed NYC restaurateur

The Park Street Hospitality folks know how to hire and although Ben Miller admits, “it was a whirlwind from mid-November to Christmas, now our staff can relax a bit, finetune what they do, and really get comfortable with who we are.”

Although much of the attention the last couple of months has been centered on the food op erations, the group has not forgotten the

Tuna Carpaccio | black truffle aioli, baby arugula, crispy olive breadstick

Stuffed Calamari | fennel sausage, spinach, charred tomato, fried caper berries, lemon broth

Pan Roasted Faroe Island Salmon | fingerling potatoes, pomegranate beurre blanc, crushed pistachios, wilted greens

Park & Elm gourmet grocery, market, and deli

Park Theater which continues to house small concerts and shows in addition to being a beautiful and flexible event space. “We can set up the theater for a concert or remove the rows of chairs, put in tables, add intimate lighting, and be a perfect place for a party or wedding reception.” All events and receptions are curated and catered under the watchful eye of Chef Delos so there is a consistency to the food on both sides of the street, even in the market and deli. “If you enjoyed a delicious steak in our restaurant last night, you can probably buy that same steak in the market’s butchery the next day. Same quality and flavor,” Miller adds.

All menus in the restaurant, market, deli, and catering will be rotated seasonally, and in the very near future recipe packages created by Chef Delos will be a prized addition to food baskets.

Yes, it’s all under one umbrella...your quick morning breakfast on the way to work, that sandwich or salad at lunch for take-out or eat-in, those imported specialties, charcuterie, deli salads, and more to take home; and right next door is a beautiful fine dining restaurant. “Dressy casual,” adds Ben, “but absolutely not stuffy!” And right across the street are events, concerts, art, parties, and receptions. Welcome, then, to Park & Elm, and see what the “boys on the block” have created.

When “hospitality” is part of your business name as it is with Park Street Hospitality, you had better deliver. It has to be your mission statement, your everyday challenge to grow and produce, and the knowledge that your first and most important responsibility is to your customer, whether fine dining patrons who linger over a great meal and after-dinner spirits or those who stop in for a quick sandwich or to order a party platter.

They’re doing it, alright. It’s delightfully different and a delicious addition to the dining landscape of the Capitol Region. Got an appetite for something new? Then go see for yourself.

“It’s not your customer’s job to remember you. It is your obligation and responsibility to make sure they don’t have the chance to forget you.”

...Patricia Fripp, Presentation Skills Expert

www.parkandelm.com

Park & Elm is located at 19 Park Street in downtown Glens Falls. Call for reservations, hours, and directions: (518) 480-3220

The Arthur Ave | mortadella, egg, broccoli rabe, provolone, toasted focaccia

Italian Mixed | prosciutto, sorpassata, capicola ham, provolone, white balsamic vinaigrette, toasted focaccia

Paula McCormick Interiors specializes in all phases of interior design. She will be able to assist you in every step of the design process. Whether you are remodeling your current residence or building a new home Paula and her team will guide you every step of the way.

Paula McCormick Interiors was the recipient of over a dozen Interior Design awards in 2022.

Julia Manny, Paula McCormick and Heather Thompson

Photo by Stephanie Sittnick

An Eye, Yes...But NO Caffeine The Much Sought-After Interior Designer, Paula McCormick

by Chandler Stevens

She moves at lightning speed. She speaks at warp speed, her thoughts tumbling out in quick succession. She works quickly, deftly, professionally because she possesses a unique sense of knowing what her clients need, and she gives it to them.

She is without a doubt, one-of-a-kind and at the very top of her field. And...she has never had a cup of coffee in her life!

Meet Paula McCormick, THE interior designer and much sought-after by an exclusive clientele all over the Eastern seaboard and beyond. Mc Cormick, who has been designing, renovating, and making commercial and residential spaces unique for more than 20 years, lives in Loudonville and has for more than 15 years. But her very varied and much-valued client base extends from the Capital Region and well beyond.

With a new design center housed in the luxury retail space of Starbuck Is land located along the Hudson across the bridge from Green Island and downtown Troy, McCormick’s expertise and unique talents unfold here in her office suite/showroom with esteemed clients on a strictly “by appointment” basis.

McCormick encompasses every phase of full-service interior design “from the planning stage forward,” she begins. She does it all by working only

with the very best construction teams, choosing stone, appliances, flooring, even exterior materials. She does it all for an upscale clientele that doesn’t have the time to be phoned multiple times a day and asked questions about minute details. This woman absorbs each client on an individual basis from an initial meeting and amazingly is able to schedule and complete six to eight meetings per day. She doesn’t waste precious time, but knows how to get down to what a client wants and needs to attain their desired result. “I have an eye for it,” she says.

Her skill set as a designer is immeasurable, for McCormick first and foremost has that “eye for it” which translates not only to a high degree

of creativity but to her attention to detail...every detail in every project. In order to craft cohesive spaces she focuses on both the little details and the big picture simultaneously and innately knows how to balance them to achieve maximum results. She speaks of being on top of every new trend as they appear and develop. Although most trends tend to

come and go, Paula McCormick is always ahead of the curve. Her ability to identify and predict trends is just another way she keeps relevant and much in demand. Paula also prides herself on being able to take two different style preferences in a home and make them work. “Most residential jobs involve couples, and when you have two people who don’t share the same taste, you quite often have two dif ferent ideas and wish lists of what they hope the end result will yield. I am skilled in being able to put their ideas together and give them a beautiful result that they both love.”

McCormick also points out a fallacy many decorators and designers incur, that being “they don’t personalize the end stage. They do a good

job of creating the design and working with the big picture but forget the needed accessories which personalize the space and add the fin ishing touch to the job. In addition to my services, I sell a high volume of accessories for just this purpose, and it always makes a real difference in the end result.”

Because Paula McCormick Interiors operates at such a high level, much of her residential business comes from referrals. “Over the years I have done two or three homes for the same clients because they may have a primary home here and another, say, in Naples, Florida. When they’re pleased with my work, they want me to do their other homes as well. This then brings a natural progression to referring business.”

Presently, Paula has ongoing projects in Princeton, New Jersey; New York City; the Catskills; and St. Petersburg, Florida. Of her residential work she offers, “To me, the palette in a home is big. I like to match the interior of the space to the exterior.”

When it comes to renovations and commercial design which has amounted to 40% of her business in the last five years, Paula has several crews she works with and only carries exclusive lines of home furnishings, wall décor, lighting, and accessories. Names such as Uttermost, Arteriors, and Mitchel Gold + Bob Williams will be familiar to the clientele accustomed to only the best for their home or business. Recently, she started carrying additional lines perfectly suited for apartment living.

Clients like Joseph Marrello, he of the Marrello Restaurant Group with a myriad of restaurants and counter stores from Albany to Saratoga and everywhere in between like Jacob & Anthony’s, Bellini’s, Bellini Counter, etc. Last summer Paula worked with stone designers and engineer Enzo Sofia and his team to add a venue room and patio to the landmark restaurant and is much in demand for what she brings to every project, completing 187 projects in 2022. In 2022, she garnered twelve design awards alone, and is a sought-after personality at the Saratoga Showcase of Homes, and speaker for college and high school classes in design, and everywhere there

are people who enjoy her style, her dedication, and her no-nonsense way of tackling every job, turning problems into beautiful spaces. She points with pride to the fact that she has worked on the personal residences of some of the top construction people in the area. “Working with a builder that you admire is the biggest accolade I can possibly receive,” she says.

Paula appears frequently on local TV as an expert on local fashion and interior design and produces and hosts fashion shows such as Sip

& Saddle with proceeds given to a different charity each year. Sponsored by realtors, mortgage companies, and builders, in the past ten years, Paula has raised more than a quarter of a million dollars for local charities and non-profits.

Early in her career, McCormick recounts she was reticent about asking for money upfront, about retainers, about people thinking she was too expensive. That ended the day she received some sage advice to never be afraid to ask for what you’re worth. “That was the best advice I ever received. Yes, I charge a higher re tainer, but I’m worth it because ultimately I can save clients time, money, and give them the very best of me.

Yes, Paula McCormick is at the top of her field and knows it, but also knows she has to prove it every day. “I have a lot of responsibility, but I love doing what I do. I love renovation, design, fashion, trends, and working with builders. I know I have a good eye for it, and I just thrive on design.”

All accomplished at warp speed with outstanding, exquisite results. She is without a doubt, a true clairvoyant, seeing things that aren’t there yet, running from this project to that, meeting with clients, envisioning beautiful things from empty spaces, and hardly stopping for a minute.

All of that without a single cup of coffee. Ever. Reach Paula McCormick at (518) 986-1196 www.instagram.com/10starbuckdesign www.facebook.com/paulamccormickinteriors email:pmyinteriors@yahoo.com

“I have advertised with 518 Profiles since its inception. I am extremely happy with the lush colorful layouts and positioning of ads. The magazine has my best interest in mind; offering advice to make visual im provements when necessary. Customer service is exquisite. I highly recommend advertising with this magazine.”

Tom Myott, Artist - www.tmyottart.com

“Doing business with 518 profiles has been an absolute pleasure. Stephanie is extremely professional in designing and ex ecuting our print ads exactly as we envi sioned. She makes the process smooth and easy leaving my time free to focus on our employees and guests”

Michael J. Fortin, Owner/Executive Chef MJF Restaurant Group LLC, Cohoes

"We have been very pleased with our a dver tising program in 518 Profiles magazine. Stephanie has created a unique and fresh advertising venue. We absolutely loved our feature story! The photography and layout, the writing, and everything about it. 518 magazine is a classy, informative, and welcome addition to our Ar tistic and Cultural surroundings."

Tom Clement Clement Frame Shop & Art Gallery, Troy

“Saratoga’s finest magazine! A magazine you pick up and keep for its quality, feel and content. I have done many ads in newspapers and magazines in my career, and we literally have people walking in with 518 Profiles in their hands looking for us. Advertising with the m agazine works well because the readers pay attention to the high quality and editorial.”

Saratoga Saddlery & International Boutique, Saratoga Springs

“The cover, alone, of 518 Profiles draws me in, e v ery time. I always wait for a block of time be fore o pening it, so I can settle in a nd enjoy. The ar ticles are in-depth portraits o f a busi ness or of a person and the photos are b rilliant. Even the ad ver tisements are quite spectacular. I had looked for ward t o placing my own business ad, and finally have done so. Stephanie is easy to work with and I just love the ad that was created.”

Kathy Agneta M&P Gifts LLC / Merriman and Pfister’s Marketplace, Delmar

“Working with Stephanie and 518 Profiles has been a consistently exceptionally profes sional and positive experience. They are very easy to work with and have an un usual attention to detail that is ap pre ciated! The award-winning publication i s beautiful... an d my customers look forward to picking up the new issue each month. We are proud to be among their advertisers!”

Amanda Magnetta Bear and Bird Boutique + Gallery, Schenectady

“My customers and I love 518 Profiles, the articles provide information about local artists, unique shops and things to do. The quality of the articles, im ages and publication val ues are hard to find anywhere else in the region. I am so pleased to be a part of the 518 Profiles family.”

Gail Snitkoff, Pause Gallery, Troy

“Love this magazine, down to earth articles about hometown folks and businesses, lots of great photos, well written.”

Bob Wheaton, Soave Faire, Saratoga Springs

'What a beautiful Magazine!! It’s a pleasure to display it in my shop... my customers love it! Stephanie is a delight to work with in all of the facets! I am very proud to be part of this publication which has not only brought me sales but has connected me with very loyal and devoted customers from all over our region!'

Cornina Oberai Corina Contemporary Jewelry, Ballston Spa

“A s a photographer, and the the advertising and mar keting director of The Alpine Sport Shop, a family owned business in Saratoga Springs, I appreciate the creative insight and thoughtful stories that 518 Profiles shares about local artists and businesses. The magazine is a quality resource and guide for its readers, on where to find what is interesting and unique in our area.”

Terri-Lynn Pellegri Alpine Sports, Saratoga Springs

“The Magic Moon is a small business that has grown with the community over the last 26 ye ars, and as such, we appreciate the efforts of 518 Profiles, a publication that consistently turns its spotlight on the le sser-known niche businesses in and around Saratoga Springs. From an advertiser's point of view, we're more than pleased with the personal attention we've received from the publisher, as well as the eye- catch ing presentation of the printed prod uct each month.”

The Magic Moon, Saratoga Springs

“518 Profile has provided great exposure for our business. Each issue inspires its readers and contributors.”

DB TRENDS, Ballston Spa

They Let Them All In

by Karen Richman

There was nothing unusual at all about it.

There’d be a knock at the door usually in the middle of the day. In most cases, the only one home at that time was a housewife, for back then, few women worked outside the home. They certainly didn’t lounge around watching soaps and eating bon-bons, they worked hard keeping the home clean and attractive and took great pleasure in doing so. They put a lot of thought into meal planning while carefully eyeing the budget and were thoroughly dedicated to their families.

So when a knock came at the front door, it was always thrown wide open either to a neighbor borrowing a cup of sugar, the mailman delivering a package, or more often, a door-to-door salesman. Growing up back in the ‘50s, it seemed like someone was always knocking on our front door, and when I was home from school on vacation or because I had chicken pox or a sore throat, I was always delighted to meet the salesmen my mother would welcome in. Today, the t hought of a woman all alone in the house letting in a male who was a complete stranger would be unheard of, but back then no one thought about untoward scenarios because they simply did not happen.

When that delicious knock came at the door, I would peer down the stairway to see who it might be and what treasures they had in their oversized large satchel. I especially loved the Fuller Brush man, dressed in a suit and tie, who always had so many different and unique ways to make cleaning a home easier. He usually carried a mop or sweeper under one arm and his case in the other. And when he opened that case, my eyes grew wide looking at all the cleaning solutions, polishes, laundry products, and “things that will make life easier for you and your Mom.”

Mom almost always bought something. We were a one-car family back then, and with my Dad at work all day, Mom couldn’t easily get to a supermarket, so this visit filled a need. My mother almost always put th e kettle on for coffee, and if there was a box of cookies in the pantry, she opened it, and together we three shared some time. Sharing some time with a stranger, then buying something from the well-dressed man who probably had to constantly rely on doors being opened in order to feed his own family, necessitating his pounding the pavement six days a week, rain or shine.

My absolute favorite door-to-door salesman was the vacuum cleaner guy because he dealt in drama, and how I loved that drama! He usually showed up in the evening because his was a high-ticket item, and he wanted to insure that both parents would be at home. He wanted to avoid the excuse of, “I want to think it over and talk it over with my husband,” because that meant a return visit and also lessened his chance of success.

Therefore, his presentation was a show, a show that began and ended with the power of suction. He produced a bag full of sand, grit, and dog hair, asked if it were okay, and before my parents could answer, he poured it on the carpet. My usually mild-mannered father would raise an eyebrow and emit a low growl, but my mother shot him “the look,” and he regained his composure. But there was nothing to worry about because the vacuum always did its job.

After WWII, Encyclopedia Britannica had strong, hard-working salesmen who began dragging vol ume after volume from house to house trying to convince parents that their children would be smarter and get better grades if they purchased a set. In 1996, they took their entire sales force of 2300 off the road, and door to door went to the internet.

The Fuller Brush Company which was established in 1906 and at one time employed thousands of door-to-door salespeople, still has a few stalwarts doing it the old-fashioned way because they have established loyal customers over the years who continue to enjoy this person-to-person commerce (Massachusetts actually has three men who still go door-to-door). The company has a very extensive website, so Fuller Brush continues to exist with seven-figure online sales and packages delivered by faceless people who unceremoniously dump them on doorsteps. There is no face to their business any longer as there isn’t to most of these companies that have either faded into history or onto the internet. The American family is rarely home during the day, and those who are don’t open the doors to strangers.

Fuller Brush. Encyclopedia Britannica. Kirby, Eu reka, and Hoover vacuum cleaners. Bibles. Venetian blinds. The Avon Lady. It was a wonderful era. A time when people trusted, when salesmen worked hard but honestly, to sell good products to good people, and when smiles were always welcomed because there were no strangers. No one was afraid. They let them all in.

Nothing unusual about it at all.

Gemstones Throughout the AGES

By Crystal Cobert-Giddens, LE

Rubies, diamonds, emeralds and sapphires have long inspired myths, legends, curses and spells.They have been coveted by royalty, rich collectors and movie stars.

In fact, the reverence that humans have for gemstones is almost as captivating as the gemstones themselves. They have been used throughout history to decorate a variety of items like combs, ceremonial or religious objects, crowns, swords and even horses.

I’ve always been intrigued by crystals and other stones. My grandfather gave me a rock tumbler when I was a little girl. We would put these dirty, plain rocks in the tumbler to polish and these beautiful stones would come out! I don’t know if my grandfather would toss a few semi-precious stones into the mix when I wasn’t looking or if it was just a little girl’s wish come true, but there were always stones like cat’s eye, rose quartz and lapis lazuli in the mix when we were finished.

There are over 200 natural gemstones that we know about today. They’re usually classified as precious and semi-precious. There are only four precious stones currently classified in the world now. Diamonds, Sapphires, Emeralds and Rubies. All the others are classified as semi-precious.

The other stones…the crystals and semi-precious stones…have long been used for their healing, spiritual and focusing qualities.

The oldest gemstone formed on Earth is the zircon. It has been carbon dated to around 4.4 billion years old.

The oldest extraterrestrial gemstone is the peridot. This gem has been mined here, but it has also been found on meteorite landing sites and in mineral samples collected from space.

The oldest mined gemstone is thought to be lapis lazuli, a stone with a vibrant blue color and was used during the Neolithic period.

Egyptians were making gemstone jewelry using lapis lazuli and amethyst around 4000 BC.

Jade is the earliest gemstone mentioned in Chinese historical texts around 3600 BC.

History dates the use of several gemstones in Greece and the Roman Empire to between, 1600 BC and 500 BC. Both civilizations used sapphires, garnets and pearls as amulets. The ancient Greeks believed that gem stones held many powers. They believed that wearing amethyst while drinking wine would protect them from drunkenness. In fact, the word amethyst comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “sober”. Sapphires are named after the Greek word sapphires, which literally means “blue”. In fact, the Greeks considered sapphires symbolic of wisdom and purity.

The Roman Empire was extremely powerful, far-reaching and wealthy. For over 1000 years they had unlimited access to the world’s precious resources, including gemstones. Roman jewelers would craft ostentatious jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones. They preferred emeralds, diamonds, topaz, pearls and amber. Their empire was so vast, they would fill chambers with pearls from the Persian Gulf, emeralds and peridot from Egypt and lapis lazuli and onyx from Persia.

Fast forward to gemstones in the Middle Ages. The church was the biggest and richest collector of valuable gemstones in Europe. There were a powerful display of wealth in a time marked by plagues AND widespread superstition,

fear and despair. During this time, the belief in the protective powers of gemstones grew. Those who could afford them wore gemstones as talismans on necklaces and rings to ward off illness and bad luck.

Modern times and there are jewelry stores, book shops and crystal apothecaries that carry assorted gems and crystals throughout the world. I dove deep into the healing vibrations of some stones and wanted to share my findings with you. Some of these are quite common and easy to find, but there are several that I had never heard of and thought you would enjoy reading about them too!

UNAKITE Healing Properties: Unakite is beneficial for people who have difficulty in being in the present. This gemstone helps you go with the flow.

OPAL Healing Properties: Helps control insulin levels and relieves PMS symptoms. For emotional healing, it is known to help you avoid negative energy.

ANGEL STONE Healing Properties: Helps you acquire vitality and strength. Offers positive energy to attract new opportunities and adventures.

CITRINE Healing Properties: Increases positive energy and promotes emotional wellbeing. It also helps with digestive illnesses, pain, inflammation, and hearing and sleeping problems.

TIGER EYE Healing Properties: Tiger Eye is a bearer of good luck for the wearers and improves the mind's focusing abilities. It can promote mental clarity and objectivity.

STRAWBERRY QUARTZ  Healing Properties:  Strawberry Quartz is believed to help heal wounds while enabling the wearer to attract abundance and successfully find their soulmate. (Wow!)

GARNET  Healing Properties:  Garnet enriches its warmth and helps im prove circulation while flushing out toxins. It also improves your metabolic performance.

AMETHYST  Healing Properties: Among the many physical healing ben efits, Amethyst can enhance your immune system, improves skin appearance and endocrine functions.

OBSIDIAN Healing Properties: Obsidian is a strong protector against negativity. It can absorb negative energies while enhancing the truth.

GREEN AVENTURINE Healing Properties: Green aventurine possesses soothing energy and calms irritation, anger, and nervousness.

LABRADORITE Healing Properties: This is an immensely spiritual stone and a source of relief for those who are overworked and burned out.

ROSE QUARTZ Healing Properties: Rose quartz is among the top crystal healers and can assist with emotional blockages and health while calming relationship problems.

TURQUOISE Healing Properties: Turquoise delivers detoxifying and anti-inflammatory effects.

LAPIS LAZULI Healing Properties: Lapis lazuli can help reconnect you with intuition, integrity, and clarity.

Crystal Cobert Giddens

FACES of Saratoga www.facesofsaratoga.com

Culinary Destinations: Boston - Part One

by Chef Armand Vanderstigchel

Conceivably for some folks, Boston seems afar - a long ride into the unknown - perhaps a drive of 4 hours or more?

I must confess - I was guilty of that mind-set until our friends Scott & Amra Varley invited us for a holiday trip to the city that in the early 1800s William Tudor proclaimed that Boston was "'perhaps the most perfect and bestregu lated democracy, earning a status as "the intellectual capital of the United States.

Boston shares many cultural origins with greater New England, including a dialect of the non-rhotic Eastern New England accent known as the Boston accent and a regional cuisine with a large prominence on Seafood and Beer production.

Regional Cuisine? Absolutely! The food and beer are prodigious from the world- famous New England Clam Chowder to the beer company Samuel Adams Brewery Boston by Jim Cook, the founding father of the American microbrew revolution!

In preparation of our journey, it was a delight to proclaim that Boston by car is a short 3-hour drive from Saratoga Springs! Our destination of lodging accommodations was the Encore Boston Harbor hotel/casino on the Mystic riverfront. The hotel is colorful -a vibrant structure with 40-foot ceilings, red Rubino glass chandeliers housing a dazzling array of mod ern restaurants and state of the art hotel room technology- attributed to the hotel opening in 2015.

R are Steakhouse at Encore Boston Harbor, a Forbes Travel Guide recognized highest-rated steakhouse in Boston, re defines the classic steakhouse experience. With a uniquely designed steak program and beautiful curated 700label wine list, it is a wine aficionado’s dream, complimented with elegant din ing overlooking the Mystic River. Recommended dishes are Tuna Tartare(a spectacular presentation), Chopped Salad - Avocado, crispy Potatoes, Romaine,

Tomato, Artichokes in Dijon Vinaigrette. Maine Lobster Bisque- poured tableside- velvety with chunks of Lobster. Jumbo Lump Crab Cakewith Persian Cucumbers and Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette is rich with lump Crab. Upon seat ing complimentary warm Boston Parkers Rolls set the mood for good eating! The extensive menu is encouragingly influenced by New England’s Seafood, and more accessible for fellow diners of less carnivorous palates, breaking free from the tired steakhouse menu monikers. The Seafood Tower is breathtaking when it arrives alike the Prime Rib dinnerKing or Princess cut- served with roasted Car rots, Horseradish- Potatoes, and sauces. Popular cuts; Filet Mignon, New York Strip and Tomahawk can be enjoyed with side-dishes as per Steakhouse traditions featuring Yukon

Carousel at the Encore Boston Harbor

Center Bar at the Encore Boston Harbor

Gold Puree, Roasted Corn & Bacon, Brussel Sprouts, or an enormous Loaded Baked Potato. The startling surprises here are the desserts, which emphasize the presence of a talented team of pastry chefs on premise! From the amazing Black Forest Baked Alaska for two – a chocolate and Bing Cherry Ice Cream, Chocolate Sponge Cake, Meringue flambés served table side -to a classic done rightVanilla Crème Brulee comprising of Tahitian Vanilla Bean, Berries, Raspberry Meringue crisps, Caramel Tuile cookie -it all makes sense to “save room for dessert”-as agreed by fellow- Pastry chef Tatiana.

Down the hall from Rare is Red 8 -Encore Boston Harbor’s signature Asian restaurant, featuring both classic and hard-to-find delicacies under the proficiency of Michelin-star chef Richard Chen. His unique “East meets West” culinary philosophy, showcases exquisite Dim sum, wok-tossed Noodles, Seafood, and Peking Duck skillfully pre pared in wood-fire ovens.

The interior design is stunning yet unpremeditated t o be intimidating, accented with rich reds, mahogany, b rass, marble floors and checkered French Bistro chairs.

Red 8 eliminates any doubt, that Chinese cuisine is limited to any chance of expansion or creativity! The food and presentation here is spectacular and the hour-long reservation waiting list that guests must overcome, is a result of this accomplishment.

Shrimp & Wonton soup comprising of delicate silky rich Wontons is served in Scallion rich broth. Steamed BBQ Pork Buns are pillow-soft. In the salad department praise to the Peking Duck Salad in a large crispy Wonton bowl and light honey Vinaigrette. Shaved Green Papaya Salad with chilled Shrimp is Thai inspired and constructed beautifully. For entrée, try a large bowl of Taiwanese Spicy Beef soup, loaded with sliced Beef, Vegetables, and fresh Noodles. The Peking Duck entrée itself, is spot-on and served with traditional Pancakes, dipping Sauce and Cucumbers- a must try!

Platters of steamed Sea Bass, Dungeness Crab and Chinese Vegetables such as sautéed Pea Leaves and Szechwan Green Beans were thankfully received by fellow diners around us. In succession, stunning desserts here break the mold of expectations!

The elegant flourless Hazelnut Cake of Praline Mousse, Chocolate crispy Rice, Chocolate Ganache is delightful! A Citrus Panna Cotta of Grapefruit, Blood Orange Gelée, Lime Meringue and Lemon Madeleine is exotic and underscores the “East meets West” techniques applied. Unique Tea selections such as the flowery Chrysanthemum in a beautiful pot is are perfect finales.

Resort Casinos understand the importance of having excellent restaurant choices on premise. It entices foodies and non-gamblers such as myself to visit based on those qualifications while accommodating the populace seeking the gaming aspect.

The following morning our car service awaited us at the hotel to visit the North End-Italian district for another culinary adventure in Boston – to be continued...

The Seafood Tower

40-ounce dry-aged Porterhouse

Jumbo Lump Crab Cake

Meringue flambé

Peking Duck

Citrus Panna Cotta

MARCH EVENTS

March 1-26 Schuylerville

Harry Orlyk. Artist Ret rospective. Featuring Over 200 Paintings. The Laffer Gallery, 96 Broad Street Schuylerville, NY 12871. (518) 695-3181

Gallery Hours: Thursday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm

March 1 - 18 - Clifton Park

Perspective Matters. A Testament to the power of Perspective featuring the works of all local artists. The Blooming Artist Gallery 675 Grooms Rd, Clifton Park, NY. 518-280-4928 www.thebloomingartist.gallery

March 10 Saratoga Springs

Guy Davis Album Release. Two-time,back-to-back Grammy nominee for Best Traditional Blues, Guy Davis is a musician, actor, author, and songwriter, playing six and twelve-string guitars, the five-string banjo, and harmonica – with sophistication, charm, style and a footstomping beat. Davis uses a blend of roots, blues, folk, rock, rap, spoken word, and global music to comment on, and address the frustrations of social injustice, touching on historical events, and common life struggles. Fri, March 10, 2023, 8:00 PM EST, Doors at 7:30 PM. Caffe Lena 47 Phila Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

March 11 Saratoga Springs

"Ballet at the Bar" March 11th at Artisanal Brew Works. 100% of proceeds go to Ballet IV and V dancers to attend the Regional Dance America Northeast festival in Harrisburg, Pa in May. 2-7 Taproom, 6 17 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs

March 2 Saratoga Springs

Lonesome Ace Stringband. Exiting a Lonesome Ace Stringband show you might overhear “those guys were tight.” Instantly you understand this Americana bluegrass trio – clawhammer banjo, fiddle, upright bass – is so in sync that every note of every tune, every pause, every cue, are well-timed, spot-on and electrifying. That level of precision doesn’t come by acci dent. Thu, March 2, 2023, 7:00 PM EST, Doors at 6:30 PM. Caffe Lena 47 Phila Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

March 4 Saratoga Springs

Impressions Pups’ 9th Annual Birthday PawtyJoin Impressions of Saratoga in celebrating the Impressions Pups’ Annual Birthday Pawty on Saturday, March 4 from 11 am to 3 pm. Each March we celebrate Smalls, Cookie, Smitty, Pupa and Thatcher’s birthdays with treats and fun for all. The day is filled with celebrations and is a dog friendly event. Dogs must be well behaved, good with other dogs and must be leashed at all times. If your dog would rather stay home, you are welcome to stop in and grab a Pawty Pick Up Pack and bring the fun home to celebrate where your dog is more comfortable. This year's birthday bash will be “Scout themed”! We will be serving for the pups BowWow Bisque and Scout Snacks! Plus, a local Girl Scout Troop will be in front of the store with their delicious Girl Scout Cookies for sale! There will be Pup Scout activities, treat tastings, special deals on Dog products, coloring contests and a raffle for a great prize basket for one lucky pup and their person! Your dog may even earn an “Impressions Pup Scout Badge”! We will be collecting donations for our local shelters; gladly accepting new or gently used toys, collars, leashes, beds, blankets, or towels. They can also use dried and canned dog and cat food and treats. Any donations are appreciated and will be delivered to one of our many shelters and rescues! They need our help more than ever. See you on Saturday, March 4 from 11 to 3 at Impressions of Saratoga, 368 Broadway in Downtown Saratoga Springs!

March 4 - April 22 Glens Falls "Elements of Style" Exhibition Opening. Join North Country ARTS on Saturday, March 4 for the opening of our new "Elements of Style" Exhibition at our main gallery location inside The Shirt Factory building in Glens Falls, NY (71 Lawrence Street, Suite #120.) Event runs 5pm - 7pm and is free to the public.

March 15 - April 15 Lake George

“Here and There”, a solo exhibition of paintings by Kathryn Lynch. Please join us for a gallery re ception on March 18, 4 – 6 pm. This event is free and open to the public. Kathryn Lynch’s paintings draw from a variety of subjects, often daily en counters that range from NY’s Hudson Valley landscape, NYC cityscapes, New England seascapes, and sometimes dogs, people, flowers, and even tug boats. Her paintings are not “plein air”, or observed from direct observation, but cap ture what is caught in the periphery, or peripheral vision – a sense form, light, and atmosphere. The simplicity of forms, and direct, yet seemingly loose strokes in her paint handling, become distilled records of passing moments. Lake George Arts Project, 1 Amherst St, Lake George, NY 12845

March 21 Ballston Spa

Historian Tea Talk: The Mott’s Apple Empire. The Saratoga County History Center is hosting a monthly series of informal Historian Tea Talks, presented by historians from around the county. March's program is Halfmoon Town Historian Lynda Bryan on The Mott’s Apple Empire. 3 pm Tea and cookies will be served, and the talks will take place in the Long Room at Brookside Mu seum, 21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Registration is not re quired but would be appreciated at https:brooksidemuseum.org

March 26 Lake George Bands ‘n Beans 2023! Mark your calendar for one of our biggest parties in the North Country – A chili fest with live music from 8 bands, amazing chili from 20+ of your favorite regional restaurants, raffle prizes, and more – A great way to see friends, and break the cabin fever! The Line-Up: Dirt Cheap, The Stony Creek Band, The Switch, Tim Wechgelear, Matt Mirabile, the Radio Junkies – & we still have two more bands to book! The proceeds from Bands ‘n Beans benefit the Lake George Arts Project’s FREE and Open to All music and art programs. Fort William Henry, Lake George, NY Tickets: $20 Early Bird (through March 24) or $25 at the door.