TEA, PLEASE! WHISTLING KETTLE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS—AND ITS UNBROKEN BESTIE SPREE!
FOOD TRUCKS ARE ROLLING IN MEET THE WINNER OF OUR NEWEST CATEGORY
APPLE BARREL, GUS' HOT DOGS, PANZA'S, HIGHER GROUND DISTILLING 266 + MORE WINNERS!
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This past April marked two momentous occasions: Not only did we wrap up this second Besties issue of the year, but we also kicked off a new initiative to highlight local businesses by way of pop-up parties hosted by CAPITAL REGION LIVING. Our first two events shined the spotlight on perennial Bestie winners Truly Rhe and Yanni’s Too (see more scenes from Truly Rhe on page 51 and the Yanni’s ones in our next issue). Interested in having us pop up at your business? Reach out to terese@saratogaliving.com to get started!
These two events helped tide us over for our biggest event of the year, Bestie Fest, which will return to The Hangar at 743 on June 11 with NEWS10’s Bestie-winning Christina Arangio and Lydia Kulbida emceeing. And who will we be honoring on such a momentous occasion? Well, the local people and businesses immortalized in our two 2024 Besties issues, the second of which you’re holding in your hands, of course! Flip to page 20 to read about the 20th anniversary of Whistling Kettle, which has won Best Tea since it’s been a Besties category, and page 22 to meet the rest of this year’s winners, from old favorites Panza’s and Gus’s Hot Dogs to rising stars Megabites Food Truck and the new Apple Barrel Home + Pantry.
If you’re a Bestie-winning business owner, keep your eyes on your email for Bestie Fest tickets. (If you’re a winner or finalist and don’t see an invite, please email info@crlmag.com.) If you’re a non-Bestie-winning business owner, start getting the word out about the 2025 Besties awards now—a little effort goes a long way. And if you’re just a regular Capital Regionite looking for the best food and drink in the area, go ahead: Dig in.
—The Editors
Summer is breathing new life into some of our favorite Capital Region spots, from Stuyvesant Plaza and Crossgates to Malta, where new luxury homes are ready for an influx of techies.
BY ABBY TEGNELIA
Albany’s Stuyvesant Plaza has been busy, welcoming two big names early this summer (plus its new Lawn with free Wi-Fi for all!). Simone’s Kitchen— known for its “mezza bowls” and other tasty Mediterranean fare—is known around the Capital Region because of its Schenectady hotspot and Coxsackie location that owners Shan Kaurejo and Bashir Chedrawee recently reopened. Around the corner, Union Hall Supply Co.’s new Capital City digs are three times as big as its Saratoga flagship, and owner Heidi Owen West promises the store will be packed with the same style of casual clothes (no suits or ties!) for the modern man. And turn to page 36 for another hotspot coming July 1!
For year-round fun in the adventure realm, head straight to Urban Air Adventure Park’s newest location, at Crossgates Commons Plaza (between Walmart and PetSmart). The all-ages trampoline park is a mega-hit for kids parties, but it is also perfect for team-building events for adults—or just a day of physical fun. In addition to the trampolines, Urban Air also offers a Sky Rider zip-line, virtual reality, a ropes course and a “warrior course” that’ll make die-hard fitness buffs feel like they’re on TV’s American Ninja Warrior
One of the most popular restaurants in Saratoga has just finished a refresh. Prime Restaurant has reopened with a slightly tweaked name and a new menu that prioritizes farm-fresh, local and sustainable products—think beef tartare, house-made pasta and the hotspot’s signature surf and turf rolls. Prime is open daily for lunch, happy hour and dinner (dinner entrées include heavier options such as salmon, veal and ribeye). The menu will change seasonally to reflect the freshest local ingredients, with summer being one season not to miss, thanks to Prime’s stunning patio overlooking Saratoga National Golf Course.
Capital Regionite Jeff Foley made a name for himself as a photographer, but his newest book took a complete left turn. Healed on the Inside: The Power of God’s Love, a Family’s Battle with Cancer, and a Will to Live is scheduled to hit Amazon in June, with the goal of helping other cancer patients triumph over the inevitable adversities. Says Foley of his book about hope and finding the sliver lining of life’s toughest days: “Even in the darkest times, you can find joy. As long as you’re not dead, you can live.”
GlobalFoundries created thousands of well-paying tech jobs when it opened its $15 billion campus in Malta—and a second chip factory is on its way. But where will all the workers live? Luckily, GrandeVille’s luxury carriage houses, townhouse buildings and apartments are ready. Built by nationally acclaimed LeCesse Development Corp., this second phase has just been completed and includes 189 units that range in size from one to three bedrooms. Apartments come equipped with a cutting-edge SMART home package—suitable for professional techies—and amenities include a clubhouse with an indoor pool, gym, game room, spa and dog park.
"Tea is healthy, but at the same time, it tastes great," says Whistling Kettle's Meahgan Borowsky, seen at the bottom of the opposite page with her husband and business partner, Kevin.
TWENTY YEARS AFTER LAUNCHING WHAT WOULD BECOME A TEA EMPIRE, WHISTLING KETTLE OWNERS MEAHGAN AND KEVIN BOROWSKY LOOK BACK
AT HOW THEIR BUSINESS BECAME A PERENNIAL
Have you ever wished you had an instruction manual for how to achieve your dream? Well, when selfproclaimed “tea people” Meahgan and Kevin Borowsky were thinking about opening their own tea shop, they found just that.
While they were living in Manhattan in the early 2000s, the young couple heard about a class at the Learning Annex on—yep—how to open a tea shop. “We took it,” Meahgan says. “We were like, ‘What are the odds?’”
“The guy running the show was honest,” Kevin continues. “He was like, ’95 percent of you are never going to get to the point where you open one.’”
“Kevin and I looked at each other,” Meahgan jumps in, “and were like, ‘We’ve got this.’”
The Borowskys did indeed have it. After quitting their corporate city jobs and relocating to Round Lake, the couple discovered Ballston Spa, where the Medbury Inn and Spa was undergoing a huge renovation that was expected to draw traffic to the area. Though they’d originally been eyeing Saratoga for their tea shop, Meahgan and Kevin stumbled upon a larger space just down the road from the Medbury. In 2004, Whistling Kettle was born.
“People thought we were opening a T-shirt shop,” says Meahgan, pointing to the fact that tea wasn’t as popular back then as it is now. But after successfully opening their Ballston Spa restaurant (the size of the space warranted more than just a tea shop), they got to work on
schooling the Capital Region in the fine art of loose leaf tea.
“There’s way more to the tea universe than what you see at the grocery store,” Kevin says. “That’s literally like one-one thousandth of what’s out there.”
“If you imagine a screen, and they take the tea leaves and the good tea leaves stay on top of the screen and the dust falls underneath the screen, the dust is what’s in the grocery store,” Meahgan says. “Our tea is the good stuff.”
Clearly, the Capital Region agrees. Ten years into running the Ballston Spa location and a small e-commerce operation, the Borowskys opened a second location in Troy, followed by a third location in Schenectady in 2019. During the pandemic, their retail tea business exploded, and they moved operations to a 10,000 square-foot warehouse in Albany. Whistling Kettle now has a tea of the month club, a tea & book club, an online “tea university,” and a library of recipes for everything from tea-infused cocktails to a play on Starbucks’ Pink Drink. The Borowskys are also in the process of developing a grocery store line, as well as a line of sparkling tea that will be packaged by Nine Pin. And, oh yeah, they’ve won Best Tea in the Besties every year since it’s been a category.
“Tea can relax and calm you, but it can energize you, too,” Kevin says. “It’s really an extremely versatile beverage because there are so many teas. It’s something that’s just a lifestyle.”
After 20 years of serving Oolong and Yerba Mate, Matcha and Rooibos in the Capital Region and beyond, it's safe to say Whistling Kettle has become a lifestyle, too.
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
West Avenue Pizzeria
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub
95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111 swiftyspub.com
UNCOMMON GROUNDS
Multiple Locations uncommongrounds.com
Pearl’s Bagels & Bakery 16 Picotte Drive, Albany pearlsalbany.com
West End Bagels
5 Southside Drive, Clifton Park 518.952.4762 westendbagels.com
BELLA NAPOLI
672 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.783.0196
721 River Street, Troy 518.274.8277 bellanapolibakery.com
Villa Italia Bakery
226 Broadway, Schenectady 518.355.1144
villaitaliabakery.com
The Placid Baker
250 Broadway, Troy 518.925.2232 theplacidbaker.com
PJ’S BAR-B-QSA
1 Kaydeross Avenue West, Saratoga Springs 518.583.2445 pjsbarbqsa.com
Rollin’ Smoke Handcrafted BBQ & Saloon
1613 Route 9, Halfmoon 518.280.4601
Rollin’ Smoke Handcrafted BBQ & Saloon on Facebook
J&J Smokehouse BBQ
550 Main Street, Catskill 518.943.5053 jjsmokehousebbq.com
DELMAR BEVERAGE
242 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.439.7275 delmarbeverage.com
Oliver’s Beverage Center 105 Colvin Avenue, Albany 518.459.2767 brew-crew.com
BEVS (formerly Minogue’s Beverage Center)
Multiple Locations bevsny.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Higher Ground Distilling Company
2513 Route 30, Mayfield 518.527.5490
Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook
Tipsy Moose Tap & Tavern
Multiple Locations tipsymoosetavern.com
BOUNTIFUL BREAD
1475 Western Avenue, Albany 518.438.3540 bountifulbread.com
Prinzo’s Bakery
344 Delaware Avenue, Albany 518.463.4904 prinzosbakery.shop
Perreca’s (tie)
31-33 North Jay Street, Schenectady 518.372.1875 perrecas.com
The Bread Butler (tie) 15 Wolf Road, Albany 518.992.5760 thebreadbutler.com
CAFE MADISON
1100 Madison Avenue, Albany
518.935.1094
359 Northern Boulevard, Albany 518.898.9630 cafemadisonalbany.com
Iron Gate Cafe
182A Washington Avenue, Albany 518.445.3555 irongatecafe.com
Blue Ribbon Restaurant & Bakery
1801 State Street, Schenectady 518.393.2600 blueribbonrestaurant.com
BROWN’S BREWING COMPANY
417 River Street, Troy 518.273.2337
50 Factory Hill Road, North Hoosick 518.205.5049 brownsbrewing.com
When you think of a food truck, what typically comes to mind is a taco truck, pizza truck or burger truck. Megabites Catering is all three—and more.
“We meet with the client and talk about what their favorite foods are, and then we transform our trailer into that,” says Megabites owner Megan Podrazik. “So, they want Thai food? We’re Thai food. They want all-American burgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese? We’re that. We show up to a kids carnival party? We’re a carnival truck. We’re big into food allergies and specialize in gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian items.”
That versatility is a big reason why Megabites won Best Food Truck, a new category we implemented this year. Podrazik launched her mobile catering service during Covid, when all events were being held outside and social distancing was front of mind. Having a truck made it possible for guests to come up one by one, limiting the risk of spreading the virus. A few years later, the food truck catering trend hasn’t lost steam, and Podrazik is riding the wave. Since launching Megabites, she’s opened two new event venues in Amsterdam with onsite catering by—yep—Megabites.
And Megabites doesn’t do just food. Its three-truck fleet also boasts the “Megabar,” which serves soda, beer and cocktails to round out all of your catering needs.
“I always loved food trucks, but I felt like they had a bad aura around them—like, they’re dirty, or they only serve hot dogs or tacos,” Podrazik says. “That’s why we decided to take this to the next level.”
Druthers Brewing Company Multiple Locations druthersbrewing.com
Great Sacandaga Brewing Co. 3647 Route 30, Broadalbin 518.883.7012 greatsacandagabrewing.com
NIGHTHAWKS RESTAURANT & BAR 461 Broadway, Troy 518.272.1000 nighthawkstroy.com
Illusive Restaurant & Bar 3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer 518.977.3602 illusives.com
Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub 95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111 swiftyspub.com
BELLA NAPOLI
672 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.783.0196
721 River Street, Troy 518.274.8277 bellanapolibakery.com
Villa Italia Bakery 226 Broadway, Schenectady 518.355.1144 villaitaliabakery.com
Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe
390 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer 518.477.2140 zacharyspastryshoppe.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Chez Mike
596 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 518.479.4730 chezmikerestaurant.com
Patrick Henry’s Waterfront Tavern
48 South River Street, Coxsackie 518.731.9982 patrickhenryswt.com
RUSTY NAIL GRILL AND TAVERN 1781 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.371.9875 myfavoritetaverns.com
West Avenue Pizzeria 99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
Illusive Restaurant and Bar (tie) 3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer 518.977.3602 illusives.com
The Towne Tavern (tie) 2850 Route 43, Averill Park 518.674.3040 thetownetavern.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans
518.756.7033
yannisrestaurants.com
Otis and Oliver’s
30 Mill Road, Latham 518.785.9291
otisandolivers.com
The Towne Tavern 2850 Route 43, Averill Park 518.674.3040
thetownetavern.com
KRAUSE’S HOMEMADE CANDY
1609 Central Avenue, Albany 518.869.3950 krausescandy.com
Uncle Sam’s Candy
594 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.608.4949
2571 Albany Street, Schenectady 518.372.2243
unclesamscandy.com
Candy Kraft Candies 2575 Western Avenue, Altamont 518.355.1860 candykraftcandies.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Otis and Oliver’s
30 Mill Road, Latham 518.785.9291 otisandolivers.com
fin - your fishmonger (tie) 2050 Western Avenue, Guilderland 518.452.4565 finshops.com
Apple Barrel Store + Cafe (tie) 115 Route 30A, Schoharie 518.295.7179 shopapplebarrel.com
INDIAN LADDER FARMS
342 Altamont Road, Altamont 518.765.2956 indianladderfarms.com
Golden Harvest Farms 3074 Route 9, Valatie 518.758.7683 goldenharvestfarms.com
Cider Belly Doughnuts 53 Fuller Road, Albany 518.253.4640
Cider Belly Doughnuts on Facebook
STEWART’S SHOPS
Multiple Locations stewartsshops.com
Uncommon Grounds Multiple Locations uncommongrounds.com
Gipfel Coffee Company 2869 Route 43, Averill Park 518.712.5017 gipfelcoffee.com
THE COOKIE FACTORY
520 Congress Street, Troy 518.268.1060
1705 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.280.7644 thecookiefactoryny.com
Bella Napoli
672 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.783.0196
721 River Street, Troy 518.274.8277 bellanapolibakery.com
Upstate Cookie Shack 474 North Greenbush Road, Rensselaer 518.244.5181 upstatecookieshack.com
COCCADOTTS CAKE SHOP
1179 Central Avenue, Albany 518.438.4937 coccadotts.com
Alexander Brand, MD, FAAP
Holly Swanson, MD, FAAP
Jennifer Larner, MD, FAAP
Daniel Fernandez, MD, FAAP
Veronica Armbruster, MS, FNP-C
Michael Looney, MD, Founder
Bella Napoli
672 New Loudon Road, Latham
518.783.0196
721 River Street, Troy
518.274.8277 bellanapolibakery.com
The Cookie Factory
520 Congress Street, Troy 518.268.1060
1705 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.280.7644 thecookiefactoryny.com
GERSHON’S DELI
1600 Union Street, Schenectady 518.393.0617 gershonsdeli.com
McCarroll’s The Village Butcher & Deli 406 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar 518.439.3936 fix8media-delmar.squarespace.com
Pellegrino Importing
1197 Central Avenue, Albany 518.459.4472 pellegrinoimporting.com
ALEXIS DINER
294 North Greenbush Road, Troy 518.286.2603
alexisdiner.us
Capital City Diner
1709 Western Avenue, Albany 518.250.4261
pilarinoshospitalitygroup.com
Latham ‘76 Diner
722 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.785.3793
latham76diner.com
HIGHER GROUND DISTILLING COMPANY
2513 Route 30, Mayfield
518.527.5490
Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook
Albany Distilling Company
75 Livingston Avenue, Albany 518.949.2472 albanydistilling.com
Harvest Spirits
3074 Route 9, Valatie 518.758.1776 harvestspirits.com
If you’re looking for a fun night out, chances are the southern tip of the Great Sacandaga Lake can deliver. As is evidenced by numerous Bestie wins from Broadalbin to Mayfield, Sacandaga may just be the place to be this summer.
Kick off your evening at Great Sacandaga Brewing Co., which bills itself as the coziest taproom in the Great Sacandaga Lake area. Beating out dozens of Capital Region breweries, the little-brewery-that-could placed third in this year’s Brewery Bestie, coming in behind only Brown’s and Druthers, two bona fide upstate beer empires.
Next up is dinner at Stacy’s Scratch Kitchen, a new Broadalbin restaurant that nabbed first place in the Fulton County Restaurant category, again beating out many longtime favorite establishments across the county. Then, stop by Zippy’s Ice Cream in Mayfield, which placed third in the Ice Cream Stand category, for a soft-serve twist, sundae or decked-out milkshake. And did someone say after-dinner drinks? Pop in for a cocktail at Mayfield’s Higher Ground Distillery, which this year won not only Best Distillery in the Capital Region but honors for its martinis and Bloody Marys as well. Cheers to Sacandaga!
BOCAGE CHAMPAGNE BAR
10 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs
518.450.1115
bocagechampagnebar.com
Higher Ground Distilling Company
2513 Route 30, Mayfield
518.527.5490
Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook
The Misfit 1 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs 518.285.0129
themisfitsaratoga.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Apple Barrel Store + Cafe 115 Route 30A, Schoharie 518.295.7179 shopapplebarrel.com
West Avenue Pizzeria 99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
677 PRIME
677 Broadway, Albany
518.427.7463 677prime.com
Panza’s
129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.584.6882 panzasrestaurant.com
15 Church
15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs 518.587.1515 15churchrestaurant.com
TED’S FISH FRY
Multiple Locations tedsfishfry.com
Yanni’s Too 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Eddie F’s New England Seafood 1742 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.280.6372
119 Clinton Street, Saratoga Springs 518.450.7830 eateddiefs.com
MEGABITES CATERING
135 Perthshire Drive, Amsterdam 518.866.4225 megabiteseventsandcatering.com
Shady Lady
13640 Route 9W, Hannacroix SHADY LADY on Facebook
Slidin’ Dirty Food Truck and Catering (tie) 518.217.5688 slidindirty.com
Little Big Fatz (tie)
158 Main Avenue, Wynantskill 518.629.9555 littlebigfatz.com
HATTIE’S
Multiple Locations hattiesrestaurants.com
The Cuckoo’s Nest
234 Western Avenue, Albany 518.650.7215 cuckoosnestalbany.com
West Ave Chicken
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.539.4771 westavechicken.com
TATU TACOS & TEQUILA
100 Congress Street, Troy 518.874.1028 tatuny.com
Track 32 Italian Pub
1368 Indian Fields Road, Feura Bush 518.439.0032 track32ny.com
Different Blend Bakery 3403 Carman Road, Schenectady 518.355.3008 differentblendbakery.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
The Misfit
1 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs 518.285.0129 themisfitsaratoga.com
Pasta Pane
18 Park Avenue, Clifton Park 518.371.5762 pastapane.com
GUS’ HOT DOGS
212 25th Street, Watervliet 518.273.8743 gusshotdogswatervliet.com
The Famous Lunch
111 Congress Street, Troy 518.272.9481 worldfamouslunch.com
First Prize Mike’s
1135 Erie Boulevard, Schenectady 518.382.9213 mikesfirstprize.com
GUPTILL’S ICE CREAM
1085 New Loudon Road, Cohoes 518.785.0660
Guptill’s Ice Cream on Facebook
Jim’s Tastee Freez 58 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.439.3912 jimstasteefreez.com
Zippy’s Ice Cream 2513 Route 30, Mayfield 518.961.5000
Zippy’s Ice Cream on Facebook
NIGHTHAWKS RESTAURANT AND BAR 461 Broadway, Troy 518.272.1000 nighthawkstroy.com
My Place and Company
241 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.439.7610 myplaceandcompany.com 1640 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack 518.477.5555 myplaceschodack.com
Bob’s Diner 929 19th Street, Watervliet 518.274.2393 bobsdinerny.com
DRUTHERS BREWING COMPANY Multiple Locations druthersbrewing.com
Yanni’s Too 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Tipsy Moose Tap & Tavern Multiple Locations tipsymoosetavern.com
MEXICAN CONNECTION
41 Nelson Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.584.4466
mexconx.com
El Loco Mexican Cafe
465 Madison Avenue, Albany 518.436.1855 ellocomexicancafe.com
El Mariachi
289 Hamilton Street, Albany 518.432.7580
271 Lark Street, Albany 518.465.2568 elmariachirestaurant.com
9 MAPLE AVENUE (TIE)
9 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.583.2582 9mapleave.com
THE MISFIT (TIE)
1 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs 518.285.0129 themisfitsaratoga.com
Park & Elm
19 Park Street, Glens Falls 518.480.3220 parkandelm.com
If you didn’t see videos from Gus’s Hot Dogs’ 70th anniversary party this past spring, you may not realize just how much Capital Regionites love their hot dogs. On April 8, the historic Watervliet hot dog shop celebrated its big birthday by offering its signature mini hot dogs for the price they were when Gus’s opened in 1954: 10 cents. Diehard fans flocked to the restaurant to cash in, and the line for hot dogs smothered in mustard, onions and meat sauce wrapped around the block and down the street.
Gus’s, which won Best Hot Dogs in this year’s Besties, is only one of the Capital Region’s hot dog–focused restaurants. Locals love their hot dogs so much that we feel it necessary to include the tubular delicacy as a category in the Besties, and every year we get tons of votes for top dogs Famous Lunch and First Prize Mike’s. But every year (at least for the last five years) Gus’s Hot Dogs comes out on top. And how could it not? Hot dog is in the name.
Higher Ground Distilling Company 2513 Route 30, Mayfield 518.527.5490
Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook
CARDONA’S MARKET Multiple Locations cardonasmarket.com
Canali’s Italian & American Restaurant 126 Mariaville Road, Schenectady 518.355.5323 canalisrestaurant.com
West Avenue Pizzeria 99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
PEARL’S BAGELS & BAKERY 16 Picotte Drive, Albany pearlsalbany.com
Hannaford Multiple Locations hannaford.com
Bake For You 5001 Dunhill Court, Slingerlands 518.207.5430 bakeforyou.com
HILL CREEK TAVERN 3925 Route 2, Troy 518.279.9993 hillcreektvrn.com
Park & Elm 19 Park Street, Glens Falls 518.480.3220 parkandelm.com
Coray Kitchen (tie) 360 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.650.6033 coraykitchen.com
The Scene Coffee & Cocktails (tie) 1671 Western Avenue, Albany 518.713.6659 scenecoffee.com
IRON GATE CAFE
182A Washington Avenue, Albany 518.445.3555 irongatecafe.com
Pearl’s Bagels & Bakery 16 Picotte Drive, Albany pearlsalbany.com
Duncan’s Dairy Bar
890 Hoosick Road, Troy 518.279.9985 duncansdairybar.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
550 Waterfront by Druthers
550 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.306.5761 druthersbrewing.com
Sea Smoke Waterfront Grill
10 Starbuck Drive, Green Island 518.326.4164 seasmokegrill.com
WEST AVENUE PIZZERIA
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
Canali’s Italian & American Restaurant
126 Mariaville Road, Schenectady 518.355.5623 canalisrestaurant.com
D’Raymonds
269 Osborne Road, Loudonville 518.459.6364 draymonds.com
SMITH’S ORCHARD BAKE SHOP
4561 Jockey Street, Ballston Spa 518.882.6598 smithspieshop.com
Golden Harvest Farms
3074 Route 9, Valatie 518.758.7683 goldenharvestfarms.com
Lakeside Farms
336 Schauber Road, Ballston Lake 518.399.8359 lakesidefarmcidermill.com
KAY’S PIZZA
10 Walsh Lane, Averill Park 518.674.5413 kayspizza.com
DeFazio’s
264 & 266 4th Street, Troy 518.271.1111
75 Livingston Avenue, Albany 518.977.4041 defaziospizza.com
West Avenue Pizzeria
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788 westavenuepizzeria.com
DRUTHERS BREWING COMPANY
Multiple Locations druthersbrewing.com
Brown’s Brewing Co.
417 River Street, Troy 518.273.2337
50 Factory Hill Road, North Hoosick 518.205.5049 brownsbrewing.com
Otis and Oliver’s 30 Mill Road, Latham 518.785.9291 otisandolivers.com
SWIFTY’S RESTAURANT & PUB
95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111 swiftyspub.com
O’Slattery’s Irish Restaurant & Pub
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.439.5634 oslatterys.com
Brown’s Brewing Co.
417 River Street, Troy 518.273.2337
50 Factory Hill Road, North Hoosick 518.205.5049 brownsbrewing.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Otis and Oliver’s 30 Mill Road, Latham 518.785.9291 otisandolivers.com
PJ’s Bar-B-QSA (tie)
1 Kaydeross Avenue West, Saratoga Springs 518.583.2445 pjbarbqsa.com
Rollin’ Smoke Handcrafted BBQ & Saloon (tie) 1613 Route 9, Halfmoon 518.280.4601
Rollin’ Smoke Handcrafted BBQ & Saloon on Facebook
PANZA’S
129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.584.6882 panzasrestaurant.com
Sea Smoke Waterfront Grill 10 Starbuck Drive, Green Island 518.326.4164 seasmokegrill.com
Park & Elm (tie)
19 Park Street, Glens Falls 518.480.3220 parkandelm.com
Café Capriccio (tie)
49 Grand Street, Albany 518.465.0439 cafecapriccio.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Zappia & Fryer is a womenowned and operated business by two sisters, Drs. Kendra Zappia and Morgan Fryer. For the past 15 years, Drs. Zappia and Fryer have provided comprehensive dental treatment for patients of all ages. They believe in customized care in a relaxed and friendly environment. Warm hand mitts, massaging chairs, and their relaxation room are comforts offered while you receive excellent treatment with the most up to date dental technology.
We’re happy to welcome new patients to our practice.
West Avenue Pizzeria
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.886.3788
westavenuepizzeria.com
Illusive Restaurant and Bar (tie)
3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer 518.977.3602 illusives.com
Rooted and Rind (tie)
14 Booth Road, Delmar 518.599.5055 rootedandrind.com
PELLEGRINO IMPORTING
1197 Central Avenue, Albany 518.459.4472
pellegrinoimporting.com
McCarroll’s The Village Butcher & Deli (tie) 406 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar 518.439.3936 fix8media-delmar.squarespace.com
Cardona’s Market (tie) Multiple Locations cardonasmarket.com
Gershon’s Deli (tie)
1600 Union Street, Schenectady 518.393.0617 gershonsdeli.com
YANNI’S TOO
16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
fin- your fishmonger
2050 Western Avenue, Guilderland 518.452.4565 finshops.com
Sea Smoke Waterfront Grill
10 Starbuck Drive, Green Island 518.326.4164 seasmokegrill.com
WEST AVE CHICKEN
99 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.539.4771 westavechicken.com
More than 40 years after owner Susan Loden purchased Apple Barrel Store + Café, the Schoharie brand is coming to Albany. That’s right, Capital City foodies: You no longer have to drive 40 minutes for your favorite home goods and pantry items. Apple Barrel Home + Pantry is shooting to open in Stuyvesant Plaza (in the old Frank Adam’s Jewelers spot) on July 1.
“The new store will be a bit of a new concept for us,” says Apple Barrel’s Joshua Loden-Bray. “It’s going to have an elevated European countryside feel to it, and we’re going to focus more on ‘pantry provisions’—so dry goods and our own branded sauces, dressings, jams, jelly, scone mixes, soup mixes…things like that.” Apple Barrel Home + Pantry will also carry the sort of home décor and kitchen accessories shoppers can find in Schoharie, but it won’t have the onsite café. Instead, customers will be able to pick up pre-made meals, including Apple Barrel’s soups and salads, as well as curated packages from New York vendors such as charcuterie boards to go.
“We have 70,000 people a year that come,” Loden-Bray says of Apple Barrel’s flagship location. “Eighty percent of our customers come from the Albany/Saratoga/Schenectady area, so it made sense as a natural placement for us.” Sounds like a natural placement for us, too.
Slidin’ Dirty Food Truck and Catering 518.217.5688 slidindirty.com
Jack’s Drive In
24 Main Avenue, Wynantskill 518.283.5110
Jack’s Drive In on Facebook
JUNIOR’S BAR & GRILL Multiple Locations juniorsbarandgrill.com
The West Side Sports Bar & Grill
112 Congress Street, Saratoga Springs 518.691.0193 thewestsidesportsbar.com
Kings Tavern (tie)
241 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.581.7090
Kings Tavern on Facebook
Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub (tie)
95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111
swiftyspub.com
677 PRIME
677 Broadway, Albany
518.427.7463 677prime.com
Black & Blue Steak and Crab 1470 Western Avenue, Albany 518.313.7388 blackandbluesteakandcrab.com
The Bear’s Steakhouse 8254 Duanesburg Road, Duanesburg 518.895.2509
The Bear’s Steakhouse on Facebook
SHOGUN SUSHI & SAKE BAR
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.252.0986 shogunofdelmar.com
Wasabi
195 Wolf Road, Albany 518.818.1458 wasabialbanyny.com 63 Putnam Street, Saratoga 518.450.1092 wasabisaratogany.com
Mr. Fuji Japanese Cuisine (tie)
1475 Western Avenue, Albany 518.269.3999
19 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park 518.383.5538
Sake (tie)
611 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham 518.785.7215 sakelatham.com
THE WHISTLING KETTLE
Multiple Locations thewhistlingkettle.com
Saratoga Tea and Honey
348 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.871.1419 saratogateaandhoney.com
Short & Stout Tea Company 1736A Western Avenue, Albany 518.456.8327 shortandstouttea.com
ROOTED + RIND
14 Booth Road, Delmar 518.599.5055 rootedandrind.com
Pearl’s Bagels & Bakery
16 Picotte Drive, Albany pearlsalbany.com
Tatu Tacos & Tequila
100 Congress Street, Troy 518.874.1028 tatuny.com
ROOTED + RIND
14 Booth Road, Delmar 518.599.5055 rootedandrind.com
Pearl’s Bagels & Bakery
16 Picotte Drive, Albany pearlsalbany.com
Take Two Cafe 433 State Street, Schenectady 518.280.9670 taketwo518.com
BOCAGE CHAMPAGNE BAR
10 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs 518.450.1115 bocagechampagnebar.com
Park & Elm
19 Park Street, Glens Falls 518.480.3220 parkandelm.com
The Shaker & Vine 221 Harborside Drive, Schenectady 518.630.6318 theshakerandvine.com
ALTAMONT VINEYARD & WINERY
3001 Furbeck Road, Altamont 518.355.8100 altamontwinery.com
Saratoga Winery
462 Route 29, Saratoga Springs 518.584.9463 thesaratogawinery.com
Adirondack Winery (tie)
285 Canada Street, Lake George 395 Big Bay Road, Queensbury 518.668.9463
adirondackwinery.com
Middleburgh Winery (tie) 2636 Route 145, Middleburgh 607.643.1402
middleburghwinery.net
CHEZ MIKE
596 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 518.479.4730 chezmikerestaurant.com
Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub 95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111 swiftyspub.com
Yanni’s Too 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
ALA SHANGHAI 468 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham 518.783.8188 alashanghai.net
The Plum Blossom Restaurant 685 Hoosick Road, Troy 518.272.0036 The Plum Blossom Restaurant on Facebook
Gold Coin
1360 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands 518.439.6428 goldcoinrestaurant12159.com
CHEZ PIERRE
979 Route 9, Gansevoort 518.793.3350 chezpierrerestaurant.com
Tighe’s Bistro Americain
2703 Route 43, Averill Park 518.712.5166 tighesbistroamericain.com
Le Quai Bistrot Français
49 Broad Street, Waterford 518.874.1047
Le Quai Bistrot Français on Facebook
ATHOS RESTAURANT
1814 Western Avenue, Albany 518.608.6400 athosrestaurant.com
Pegasus Restaurant 10885 Route 9W, Coxsackie 518.731.9200 pegasuson9w.com
Grecian Gardens 1612 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.373.9950 greciangardensny.com
KARAVALLI
9 Johnson Road, Latham 518.785.7600 karavalli.com
Shalimar
Multiple Locations
Taj Fine Indian Cuisine
365 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont 518.977.3050 tajfineindian.com
PANZA’S
129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.584.6882 panzasrestaurant.com
Canali’s Italian & American Restaurant (tie)
126 Mariaville Road, Schenectady 518.355.5323 canalisrestaurant.com
Caffe Italia Ristorante (tie)
662 Central Avenue, Albany 518.459.8029 caffeitaliaalbany.com
D’Raymonds
269 Osborne Road, Loudonville 518.459.6364 draymonds.com
AKANOMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT (TIE)
2568 Western Avenue, Altamont 518.357.0888 akanomisushi.com
SHOGUN (TIE)
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.729.5727 shogunofdelmar.com
Sake Cafe
273 New Scotland Road, Albany 518.459.6688 sakecafeny.com
anza’s Restaurant has been a staple in the Saratoga Springs community for more than eight decades…and it just keeps getting better. After moving from the shore of Saratoga Lake to its current location just outside of downtown in 2019, the restaurant has continued its legacy of authentic Italian fare, attentive service, impeccable private events and live music in a classic setting. More and more people are taking notice, and stopping at Panza’s before SPAC shows, on Sundays for the popular Sinatra and Friends show, or on any old day for a drink at the intimate piano bar.
But why are we saying all this? Well, Panza’s cleaned up in this year’s Besties, winning first place in the Italian Restaurant category for the first time ever. It also picked up wins in the Romantic Dining and Saratoga County categories, as well as second place in Fine Dining. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, you obviously need to experience Panza’s for yourself.
Unagi Sushi (tie) 118 4th Street, Troy 518.326.4300 unagitroyny.com
Sake (tie)
611 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham 518.785.7215 sakelatham.com
EL LOCO MEXICAN CAFE
465 Madison Avenue, Albany 518.436.1855 ellocomexicancafe.com
El Mariachi
289 Hamilton Street, Albany 518.432.7580
271 Lark Street, Albany 518.465.2568 elmariachirestaurant.com
Mexican Connection
41 Nelson Avenue, Saratoga Springs 518.584.4466 mexconx.com
THE HILL BEER & WINE GARDEN
379 Congress Street, Troy 518.662.4455 thehilltroy.com
New York Restaurant
353 Main Street, Catskill 518.943.5500 nyrestaurantcatskill.com
Brasserie Benelux
390 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.682.6950 beneluxny.com
CELADON THAI RESTAURANT
860 New Loudon Road, Latham 518.250.5551 celadonthaialbany.com
Srisiam Thai Restaurant
337 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 518.915.1655 srisiamthaifood.com
Chontong Thai Restaurant 155 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.915.1907 chongtong.com
VAN’S VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
307 Central Avenue, Albany 518.436.1868 vansrestaurantny.com
Saigon Spring 1683 Route 9, Clifton Park 518.982.0425 saigonspring.com
Pho Yum
1558 Central Avenue, Albany 518.869.9866 pho-yum.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans 518.756.7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Lanie’s Cafe
471 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville 518.438.5005 laniescafe.com
Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub
95 Everett Road, Albany 518.472.0522
367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar 518.475.1111 swiftyspub.com
THE GREENS AT COPAKE COUNTRY CLUB
44 Golf Course Road, Craryville 518.325.0019 thegreensatcopake.com
Plaza Diner
300 Fairview Avenue, Hudson 518.822.0356
Plaza Diner on Facebook
La Bella
2967 Route 9, Valatie 518.758.6611 labellavalatie.com
PEGASUS RESTAURANT
10885 Route 9W, Coxsackie 518.731.9200
pegasuson9w.com
Red’s Restaurant
12005 Route 9W, Coxsackie 518.731.8151 redsrestaurant.com
Barnwood Restaurant 14 Deer Lane, Catskill 518.943.2200 barnwooddining.com
STACY’S SCRATCH KITCHEN 101 West Main Street, Broadalbin 518.752.6255
Stacy’s Scratch Kitchen on Facebook
Raindancer Restaurant 4582 Route 30, Amsterdam 518.842.2606
raindancerrestaurant.com
Plaza’s Italian Bistro
130 North Pine Street, Gloversville 518.725.4007 plazasbistro.com
LORENZO’S SOUTHSIDE
1 Port Jackson Square, Amsterdam 518.212.2256 lorenzossouthside.com
Bosco’s Family Restaurant and Bar
165 Division Street, Amsterdam 518.842.5077
Bosco’s Family Restaurant and Bar on Facebook
CHEZ MIKE
596 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 518.479.4730 chezmikerestaurant.com
Illusive Restaurant and Bar 3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer 518.977.3602 illusives.com
Verdile’s Restaurant
572 2nd Avenue, Troy 518.235.8879 verdile.com
PANZA’S
129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs 518.584.6882 panzasrestaurant.com
15 Church
15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs 518.587.1515 15churchrestaurant.com
Hamlet & Ghost
24 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs 518.450.7287 hamletandghost.com
CANALI’S ITALIAN & AMERICAN RESTAURANT
126 Mariaville Road, Schenectady 518.355.5323 canalisrestaurant.com
Ferrari’s Ristorante 1254 Congress Street, Schenectady 518.382.8865 ferrarisristorante.com
Johnny’s (tie)
433 State Street, Schenectady 518.982.5657
johnnysdowntown.com
Daley’s on Yates (tie) 10 Yates Street, Schenectady 518.901.0174 daleysonyates.com
APPLE BARREL STORE + CAFE
115 Route 30A, Schoharie 518.295.7179
shopapplebarrel.com
Schoharie Valley Farms/ The Carrot Barn 5605 Route 30, Schoharie 518.295.7139
schoharievalleyfarms.com
Grapevine Farms 2373 Route 7, Cobleskill 518.234.9148 grapevinefarms.com
PARK & ELM
19 Park Street, Glens Falls 518.480.3220 parkandelm.com
The Log Jam Restaurant
1484 Route 9, Lake George 518.798.1155 logjamrestaurant.com
Radici Kitchen & Bar
26 Ridge Street, Glens Falls 518.804.1007 radicikitchen.com
DENATALE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR
214 Main Street, Hudson Falls 518.409.8187 denatales.com
Anvil Inn Restaurant 67 Broadway, Fort Edward 518.747.0556
The Anvil Restaurant on Facebook
Elsasser’s Beim 111 111 Main Street, Greenwich 518.531.4777 elsassers111.com
ART GALLERY
ALBANY INSTITUTE OF HISTORY AND ART
Albany Center Gallery
The Arts Center of the Capital Region
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT SARATOGA
miSci
Berkshire Museum
CONCERT VENUE
SPAC
The Egg
Palace Theatre
THE ALTAMONT FAIR
The Saratoga County Fair
Columbia County Fair
NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM
Clark Art Institute (tie)
National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame (tie)
Tang Teaching Museum
OUTDOOR SUMMER VENUE
SPAC
The Hangar at 743
Tanglewood
SEASONAL EVENT
SARATOGA RACING SEASON
Troy Victorian Stroll
Albany Tulip Festival
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
THE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Miller Animal Hospital
Sand Creek Animal Hospital
MARCELLA’S APPLIANCE CENTER
Earl B. Feiden Appliance
Green’s
ARCHITECTURE FIRM
WALLANT ARCHITECTURE
Conklin Architecture
Phinney Design Group
LAWTON’S AUTOMOTIVE AND TIRE CENTER
LaBarge’s Tire & Auto Service
Bethlehem Auto Service
TRUSTCO BANK
Bank of Greene County
Adirondack Trust Company
GREGORY’S BARBERSHOP
Will’s Barbershop
Michael John Barber Lounge
BOCAGE CHAMPAGNE BAR
Yanni’s Too
The Misfit
TAMMIE MARTIN
Mellyia Maicus
Leeanne Shade
YANNI’S TOO
2Shea Catering
Cardona’s Market (tie)
Daley Hospitality Group (tie)
CHEF
MARC YANNI
Marty Gerrity
Joseph Ventrice
CHIROPRACTOR
DELMAR CHIROPRACTIC
Capital District Family Chiropractic
Enlighten Chiropractic
CREDIT UNION
BROADVIEW FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Sunmark Credit Union
Hudson Valley Credit Union
CUSTOMER SERVICE
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
Priority 1 Urgent Care
Broadview Federal Credit Union
COMPLEXIONS SPA FOR BEAUTY AND WELLNESS
Blush & Co.
Spa Mirbeau
ZAPPIA & FRYER GENERAL DENTISTRY
Bethlehem Town Family Dental
Dental Wellness of Albany (tie)
Shakil Virjee, DMD (tie)
BEST CLEANERS
Handy Dandy Dry Cleaners
Cudney’s Cleaners
EVENT PLANNER
CULLEN ENDERS
Katie O’ Weddings and Events
Kyleigh Zangen
FACIAL
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
Breathe Massage Therapy
Karli Jillian Esthetics
FINANCIAL PLANNER
BONANNO FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Fenimore Asset Management
Bouchey Financial Group
FITNESS CENTER
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
Vent Fitness
Anatomie
FLORIST
THE ENCHANTED FLORIST
Flowers by Pesha
Janine’s Floral Creations
FUNERAL HOME
DEVITO-SALVADORE FUNERAL HOME
Applebee Funeral Home
Bryce Funeral Home
FURNITURE STORE
OLD BRICK FURNITURE
Mooradians Furniture
Furniture Plus
GENERAL PRACTITIONER
KHYBER KHAN, MD
Oldendorf Medical Services
Delmar Family Medical (tie)
Sabiha Friedrich, MD (tie)
HAIR SALON
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
Blush & Co. Hair and Beauty
Ambiance Salon
HAIRDRESSER
TAMMIE MARTIN
Mellyia Maicus
Jessica Shattuck
HEALTH CARE/HMO
CDPHP
MVP Health Care
The Empire Plan
HEATING & COOLING
CRISAFULLI BROS. PLUMBING & HEATING
Family Danz Heating & Cooling
Main-Care Energy
HOME BUILDER
WITT CONSTRUCTION
Amedore Homes
Barbera Homes (tie)
Michaels Group Homes (tie)
ATTENTIVE CARE
Marquis Certified Home Care
Right at Home
HOSPITAL
ST. PETER’S HOSPITAL
Albany Medical Center
Saratoga Hospital
INSURANCE AGENCY
BROADVIEW INSURANCE AGENCY
Anatriello Agency
Grapeville Agency
INTERIOR DESIGNS ATELIER
Sensory Six
FunCycled
TROY’S LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
A Cut Above Landscaping & Design
Faddegon’s Landscaping (tie)
Gallivan Corporation (tie)
LAW FIRM
O’CONNELL AND ARONOWITZ
Lemery Greisler LLC
Mack & Associates, PLLC
LOCAL COLLEGE/ UNIVERSITY
SIENA COLLEGE
Hudson Valley Community College
University at Albany
VENUS NAIL SPA
L Perfect Nail & Spa
Queen House Nail & Spa
COEYMANS LANDING MARINA
Doc’s Marina
Point Breeze Marina
MASSAGE
MASSAGE BY MEG
Breathe Massage Therapy
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness
MEDICAL SPA
LUCIE CAPEK, MD PLASTIC SURGERY & MEDSPA
Ascend Wellness MD
Artistry of Face (tie)
The Rejuva Center at Williams (tie)
MEDICAL SPECIALIST
THE BONE & JOINT CENTER
Albany ENT & Allergy Services
Capital Cardiology Associates
ORTHODONTIST
COONEY & TYNER ORTHODONTICS
Albany Braces
Efros Orthodontics
PAVING/SEALCOATING
L. BROWE ASPHALT SERVICES
Smith’s Paving and Sealcoating
Luizzi Asphalt Services
PEDIATRICIAN
DELMAR PEDIATRICS
Giombetti & Brady Pediatrics
Schoolhouse Pediatrics
TONI HOWARD
Jessica Lubin
Dylan Thompson
PET SERVICES
PET SPAS PAMPER & PLAY
The Detailed Dog
Ideal K9 Training LLC
PHOTOGRAPHER
CHELSEA SYLVESTER PHOTOGRAPHY
Kristen Renee Photography
All Occasions Photography
PILATES STUDIO
SERGEY’S PILATES
Free Movement Pilates
Pilates Principle
GABLER REALTY (TIE)
JULIE & CO. (TIE)
Coldwell Banker Prime Properties
Signature ONE Realty Group
TREE SERVICE
ADVANTAGE TREE SERVICE
Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping
New Leaf Tree Services, Inc
YANNI’S TOO
The Greens at Copake Country Club
Tatu Tacos and Tequila
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
The Hot Yoga Spot
Anatomie
APPLE ORCHARD
INDIAN LADDER FARMS
Golden Harvest Farms
Samascott Orchards
BOOKSTORE
I LOVE BOOKS
Northshire Bookstore
Market Block Books
BRIDAL SHOP
BRIDAL GALLERY BY YVONNE
A Love Story by Angela’s Bridal
DeAnna’s Gifts, Clothing & Bridal
CANNABIS DISPENSARY
UPSTATE CANNA CO
Stage One
The Pass
CSA/COMMUNITY CO-OP
HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP
Niskayuna Co-op
Fox Creek Farm CSA
CAR DEALER
AUDI ALBANY
Lia Auto Group
New Country Auto Group
TRULY RHE
Circles
Boho Chic Boutique
THE CLOSET SHOP
Something Olde, Something New
Polkadots Consignment Shop
TROY WATERFRONT FARMERS’ MARKET
Delmar Farmers’ Market
Schenectady Greenmarket
TROY’S LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
Hewitt’s Garden Center
Faddegon’s Nursery
GIFT SHOP
5TH CORNER GOODS AND GIFTS (TIE)
CROSS EYED OWL GIFT SHOP (TIE)
Maggie’s Gift Shop
Apple Barrel Store + Cafe
ROBINSON’S ACE HARDWARE
Phillip’s Hardware
Hatchet Hardware
HEALTH
HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP
Healthy Living
Four Seasons Natural Foods
JEWELER
JOYELLES JEWELERS
Drue Sanders Custom Jewelers
Hannoush Jewelers
EMPIRE WINE & LIQUOR
Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor
Exit 9 Wine & Liquor Warehouse
MR. FORMAL WEAR
Mark Thomas Men’s Apparel
Britches of Troy
RIVER STREET BEAT SHOP
Parkway Music
John Keal Music
NEW YORK OPTICAL
Hughes Opticians
Buenau’s Opticians (tie)
DiNapoli Opticians (tie)
BENSON’S PET CENTER
Healthy Pet Center
Head to Tail
COLONIE CENTER
Clifton Park Center
Stuyvesant Plaza
SPORTING
MAD DOG BICYCLES (TIE)
STEINER’S SPORTS (TIE)
Tune Skis
Berkshire Bike & Board
SUPERMARKET
HANNAFORD
Price Chopper/Market 32
Honest Weight Food Co-op
TIRE STORE
WARREN TIRE
Grand Premier Tires & Custom Wheels
Adirondack Tire & Service
TRAVEL AGENCY
AAA HUDSON VALLEY
Blue Skies Travel
Enchanting Escapes
ARTIST
PREMO DESIGNS FACE PAINTING & MORE
iCandy Designs Face Painting
Julia Durgee
AUTHOR
MARILYN A. PITTELLI
John Gray
Patricia Crandall
AFTERNOON ANCHOR
CHRISTINA ARANGIO, NEWS10 ABC
Faith King, NewsChannel 13
Lara Bryn, CBS 6 News
BAND/MUSICIAN/ ENTERTAINER
KELSEY DODD
The Refrigerators
Joe Barna
EVENING ANCHOR
LYDIA KULBIDA, NEWS10 ABC
John Gray, NEWS10 ABC
Mark Mulholland, NewsChannel 13
EVENING TEAM
NEWS10 ABC TEAM
NewsChannel 13 Team
CBS 6 Team
STEPHANIE RIVAS, NEWS10 ABC
Chris Onorato, NewsChannel 13
Julia Chapman, Spectrum News
MORNING TEAM
NEWS10 ABC TEAM
NewsChannel 13 Team
CBS 6 Team
STEVE CAPORIZZO, NEWS10 ABC
Jill Szwed, NEWS10 ABC (No longer at NEWS10)
Paul Caiano, NewsChannel 13 MUSIC RADIO
RODGER WYLAND, NEWSCHANNEL 13
Ashley Miller, NewsChannel 13 (tie)
Griffin Haas, NEWS10 ABC (tie)
ASSISTED LIVING/ NURSING HOME
EDDY SENIOR LIVING
Delmar Place
Kingsway Community
CAMPGROUND
Thompson’s Lake Campground
Whippoorwill Motel and Campsites
hrs)
LAKE PLACID, NY
Lake George, NY
Stockbridge, MA
HIGHER GROUND DISTILLING COMPANY
Thacher State Park
June Farms
ALBANY COUNTRY CLUB
RADIO PERSONALITY
JOE DONAHUE (WAMC)
Chad O’Hara (B95.5)
Brian and Chrissy (WGNA)
PRINT JOURNALIST
CHRIS CHURCHILL
Steve Barnes
Paul Grondahl
Columbia Golf & Country Club
Schuyler Meadows Club (tie)
Shaker Ridge Country Club (tie)
COPAKE COUNTRY CLUB
Saratoga National Golf Club
Sycamore Country Club
THACHER STATE PARK
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
Pine Hollow Arboretum
THE SAGAMORE RESORT
The Adelphi Hotel
Mirror Lake Inn (tie)
Crowne Plaza Albany - The Desmond Hotel (tie)
THE INN AT SARATOGA
The Dorset Inn
Reluctant Panther
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
High Rollers Roller Skating KJ’s Gymnastics
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
Camp Fowler
YMCA Camp Chingachgook
PARK
THACHER STATE PARK
Saratoga Spa State Park
Washington Park
THE SPINNEY AT VAN DYKE
THE SPINNEY AT POND VIEW
Shaker Pointe at Carondelet
Beverwyck
ROMANTIC GETAWAY INN
THE DORSET INN
Mirror Lake Inn
Mohonk Mountain House
SKI AREA
GORE MOUNTAIN
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
West Mountain
THE APPEL INN (TIE)
THE HANGER AT 743 (TIE)
Liberty Ridge Farm
Old Daley on Crooked Lake
APRIL 12 ALBANY CAPITAL CENTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY
APRIL
Your vision is 2Shea Catering’s inspiration. One of the Capital Region’s premier catering services for weddings, corporate events and more, 2Shea offers menus that range from traditional to the most current innovative cuisine. Whether it’s incorporating your favorite recipes into a menu or honoring a dietary or culturally specific menu, the 2Shea team, which boasts more than three generations of experience, will make your event unforgettable.
518.389.2889 | 2sheacatering.com
Dr. Andrew T. Frank maintains a very friendly and caring boutique dental practice that always provides the highest quality of dentistry—and has become couples’ go-to dentist for pre-wedding needs. Although he continues to practice general dentistry, his passions have led him to more complex and rewarding cosmetic and reconstructive cases such as dental implants, Invisalign and veneers.
Nestled amid nature and with stunning views of the Helderberg Escarpment, Altamont Vineyard & Winery is ready to take your wedding day to the next level. Say “I do” in an intimate setting surrounded by vineyards, and let the tranquility carry over into the early days of your marriage. Catering, bar packages and event design are available to ease in the planning process so that you can fully enjoy your celebration.
3001 Furbeck Road, Altamont | 518.355.8100 | altamontwinery.com
Nestled on 36 acres and featuring a flowing creek and vintage barns, The Appel Inn Gathering Space adjoins the historic, 250-year-old tavern built by Hendrick Appel in 1765. Offering the perfect atmosphere of graceful elegance and an outdoor ceremony space, the space accommodates small and large gatherings of up to 175 comfortably, and allows for various themes, from casual weddings to formal Champagne events.
590 State Route 146, Altamont | 518.861.6557 | appelinn.com
You’ve never even dreamed of a wedding venue like this. Located steps from the Albany Airport tarmac, The Hangar at 743 is a versatile event space adorned with authentic airplane parts and an impressive collection of WWII military aircraft that add a unique charm to any event held there. Keep the Hangar door open to watch as planes take off on the runway, making for an unforgettable backdrop for your big day.
743 Albany Shaker Road, Latham | 518.633.1155 | hangar743.com
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, Joyelles Jewelers is her husband-to-be’s best friend! Joyelles has been the Albany area’s source for top-quality wedding bands and engagement rings for 34 years, and for good reason: Owner Mary Vail is more committed to building relationships with customers than with making a big sale. Plus, gemologists are on hand to help you select (or design!) the perfect ring for your special someone.
In the eyes of owner Matt Baumgartner, there is no place more magical than June Farms. The happy farm animals, beautiful scenery and incredible staff all come together to make your wedding dreams come true. Whether you’re booking a Sunday brunch wedding for 50 guests or a three-day wedding weekend, no detail will be overlooked. Contact June Farms today to get started planning your dream wedding.
The Lodge on Echo Lake’s intimate size and pristine Adirondack location offers you, your family and your guests a warm, rustic and elegant setting for your wedding celebration or special event. Nestled in the southern Adirondack Mountains just 10 minutes from Lake George, The Lodge is famous for its excellent service, delicious cuisine and creatively planned wedding receptions and private functions. 175
| thelodgeonecholake.com
When you work with Music Man Entertainment, you’re not just getting one of the region’s top DJs for your wedding. In addition to DJ services, Music Man offers photobooths, lighting, video presentations, furniture and game rentals— everything you need to make sure your reception is a night to remember. DJs Mike Garrasi and Steven Simboli will take care of everything, but don’t you sit back and relax: Get out on the dance floor!
518.842.4065 | musicmanentertainment.com
Over the course of an impressive 40-plus-year career, photographer T.R. Laz has photographed more than 4,500 events and counting. His signature style is traditional, creative and journalistic, and is sure to capture the romance, passion and excitement of your wedding day. Offering both photography and videography services (and the option for one or two shooters) T.R. Laz can be booked hourly, or you can build your own wedding program from his array of options.
518.458.7008 | trlaz.com
All Seasons Equipment, Inc. is family owned and operated, and provides the latest and best in outdoor power products to make your outdoor living more enjoyable. The staff in Scotia are happy to help you find the perfect outdoor power equipment, service or parts you’ve been looking for, from brands including Ariens, Honda Power Equipment, Scag, STIHL and Toro.
Classic Shed & Patio is a family-owned, one-stop shop for the finest home storage sheds. Known for allowing customers to design their dream project themselves, Classic Sheds builds the most reliable custom sheds (think Quaker, A-frame, barns and New England styles), as well as gazebos, playgrounds and any outdoor special project—from chicken coops and dog houses to sunrooms and playhouses.
1997 Central Avenue, Colonie | 518.869.7474 | classicshedandpatio.com
Clean, healthy water isn’t a luxury; it’s an absolute necessity and essential to your health. That’s why Claverack Pump Service has been providing quality water solutions (well drilling, water pumps, water filtration, hand pumps, geothermal drilling and more) to New York homes and businesses since 1946. Don’t trust just any business to handle your water needs—turn to Claverack Pump.
8960 NY-22, Hillsdale | 518.828.6267 | claverackpumpservice.com
Cypress Pools & Spa specializes in in-ground and fiberglass pool installations, ensuring quality and lasting results. The exclusive turnkey builder in the Capital District, Cypress handles every aspect from permit acquisition to seamless coordination with local builders to curate your perfect backyard. Dive into swim season with the Cypress team!
115 Wade Road, Latham | 518.783.5232 | cypresspoolsandspas.com
Whether you are in the market for a beautiful blooming plant for your porch, a screened-in gazebo for your backyard, fertilizer for your lawn, or a storage solution for a little extra space, head straight to the Garden Time location near you. Garden Time also offers a wide selection of outdoor furniture, as well as excellent customer service to provide you with everything you need for a beautiful lawn and garden.
Multiple Locations | 518.793.8555 | gardentimeinc.com
GNH Lumber’s expert kitchen and bath team, led by the esteemed Jacqueline Newell, is ready to make your dream home vision a reality. Take advantage of Newell’s 20 years of rich experience helping clients visualize each layer of their kitchen and bath design (plus windows, doors, gardens and lumber/building), from floor plan to finish. Visit the GNH Lumber showroom, or call today to schedule a free consultation.
898 New Loudon Road, Latham | 518.313.1229 | gnhlumber.com
With 50 years in the business and seven stores located in the 518 area code, Hewitt’s Garden Centers is a local company specializing in lawn- and garden-related products, services and information. The fifth largest independent retail garden center in the country, Hewitt’s is known for its experienced staff, who are always ready to assist you with your project. Multiple Locations | hewitts.com
Housewright Cabinetry—where bespoke cabinetry transcends the ordinary. Enhance your home with artistic cabinetry, created with the highest quality craftsmanship by the Capital Region’s most prestigious builders and designers. Reach a new level of luxury with a wide and enticing selection of materials, finishes and styles for every taste, including historical, mid-century modern, traditional and contemporary.
75 Church Street, Saratoga Springs | 518.934.3101 | housewrightcabinetry.com
L. Browe Asphalt Services has served thousands of residential and commercial customers in the greater Hudson Valley, with installations that are built to last becuase of correct elevations and subtle detailing that ease the job into the land. The end product is a true, level, aesthetically-pleasing job with artistic curves and superior function that complete and enhance the entire property setting
Rensselaer | 518.479.1400 | broweasphalt.com
Marcella’s Appliance Center is a family-owned appliance store with showrooms in Schenectady and Clifton Park that together boast more than 30,000 square feet of inventory and feature appliances for every budget. Since 1957, they have served Capital Region customers with the area’s best selection of appliances at the best prices, top-notch customer service, and a dedicated service and repair team.
Redbud Development is a landscape construction company specializing in the custom design and quality installation of residential improvement and development projects. With a creative and collaborative approach, Redbud helps clients imagine and build exterior environments that connect seamlessly with their interiors to reflect the homeowner’s personality and lifestyle. Call today to schedule your no-cost initial consultation.
2 Commerce Park Drive, Wilton | 518.691.0428 | redbuddevelopment.com
Rotor-Matic’s sewer, drain and water jetting services range from routine residential drain and sewer services to emergencies and advanced commercial plumbing repairs and replacements. Equipped with the latest tools, equipment and technology, RotorMatic’s highly experienced and conscientious technicians go the extra mile to get the job done right. No job is too big, no job is too small. Call for 24-hour service.
Offering professional landscaping and property maintenance led by a lifelong Clifton Park resident, Seasons Supply Co. has all the tools you need to transform boring yards into enviable works of art. From shovels and wheelbarrows for your next DIY project to bulk supplies of mulch or sand for top-level contractors, Seasons has what you need to create the utmost in outdoor living.
Are you looking to renovate this summer? Take it to the next level with a lighting plan that integrates comfort, control and energy. Talk to the lighting experts at Wolberg’s Albany or Saratoga showrooms for the best guidance in lighting terminology, types of lighting and choosing the right LED bulbs. The helpful staff can show you how to use lighting to make your home safer, or help you create a dramatic design statement. Multiple Locations | wolberg.com
BY NATALIE MOORE
Breadalbane Scottish Gathering and Games
Great Sacandaga Brewing Company
If you don’t want to wait around for August’s annual Capital District Scottish Games, you can let your Scottish heritage shine at Great
Sacandaga Brewing Co.’s version, going on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. What’s in store? Well, Scottish games, for one—plus music, food, dancers, bagpipes, vendors and, of course, plenty of the brewery’s beers. Order your kilt today! 2024 Scottish Gathering and Games on Facebook
Charles R. Wood Festival Commons
Lake George’s annual Memorial Day weekend music fest is drawing some especially big names this year. Kicking off at 3:30pm on Saturday and running through 11pm on Sunday, the outdoor festival will be headlined by Dispatch and The Revivalists, with other must-see acts including Mihali, Ryan Montbleau Band, The Samples, Annie in the Water and others. One-day tickets are $65 and a two-day festival pass is $125, with VIP options available.
theticketing.co/e/memorialmeltdown24
If your little ones love to sing, dance, sculpt, perform, create and, most importantly, have fun, they can’t miss the 30th annual Schenectady Kids Arts Festival going on outside City Hall (or inside Proctors, if it’s raining) on June 1. Returning and brandnew activities include a musical petting zoo, poster contest, puppets, scavenger hunt, jewelry-making, coloring, pottery, face-painting, balloon art, corn hole, drums, tie-dye bandanas and so much more. The festival runs from noon to 4pm. kidsartsfestivalschenectady.com
The iconic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, located—yep—in the Hudson River between Hudson and Athens, turns 150 this year. To celebrate, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society is hosting a full slate of events this summer and fall.
One of the most notable? A boat parade that will take off from Athens Riverfront Park, which will host festivities from 11am to 4pm, and head to Dutchman’s Landing Park, at which point the boats (40-60 are expected!) will turn around and head north to Hudson or Coxsackie. Watch the parade, which will go on from noon to 2pm, from one of the aforementioned parks—or get a bird’s eye view from the Rip Van Winkle Bridge’s walkway. halps.org
Your favorite childhood sci-fi flick is now a Broadway musical—and the national tour is headed our way! Winner of the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Back to the Future: The Musical will stop in Schenectady for a four-show run at Proctors June 6-8. Watch as Marty McFly fixes the present, escapes the past, and sends himself back to the future—with a little help from Doc Brown—like you’ve never seen before. proctors.org
in tow—check out saratoga living’s all-ages Belmont viewing party from 4 until after the big race. We’ll be teaming up with The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, Good Karma Entertainment and West Ave Pizza for an afternoon full of kid-friendly activities, race-viewing on a huge LED screen, gravity-defying aerial performances, tons of food, and a full bar for guests 21 and up. saratogaliving.com
June 15
Capital Region Strawberry Festival
Liberty Ridge Farm
Die-hard Capital Region horse racing fans already know where they’ll be on June 8: at the historic running of the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga, of course! If you didn’t nab one of the coveted tickets to the third leg of the Triple Crown (which is taking place right in our backyard for the first time ever)—and especially if you have kids
Nothing says summertime like the ripening of one of upstate New York’s sweetest native fruits. Celebrate all things strawberries at the family-friendly Capital Region Strawberry Festival, which takes over Schagticoke’s Liberty Ridge Farm from 10am to 4pm on June 15. What’s in store? Besides the freshest of berries, there will be strawberry beverages, festival food, farm activities, live music by Harmonic Duo, photo ops, shopping and—we saved the best for last—strawberry shortcake. libertyridgefarmny.com
blends genres and highlights American multiculturalism. thegarageatchatham.com
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Since Albany’s bicentennial in 1976, Price Chopper and Market 32 have presented an annual celebration of America’s independence in New York’s capital city. The fun-for-all-ages event features live music, food and beverage vendors and, of course, a spectacular fireworks show. albany.org
July 19
Thirty years after legendary hip-hop mogul Nas released Illmatic, his first full-length album, the rhyme-master is coming to Albany’s Palace Theatre. Since that monumental debut, Nas has gone on to garner 16 Grammy nominations and his first Grammy win in 2020 with King’s Disease. More recently, he’s released King’s Disease II and III, sequels to that iconic album, as well as Magic 3, the sixth album Nas has produced with producer Hit-Boy. palacealbany.org
An Evening With Nas
BY CHANTAL MARIE | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT RISKO
ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 19
Are we tired of evaluating and reviewing our relationships yet, my fellow Aries? Too bad—there is still more work to be done in these areas, and it’s time to really dig into communicating what our needs are. If you never speak up, how can anyone know what you’re feeling? And while that may be the whole master plan you’ve been operating with, it hasn’t really been working out, has it? Use that bold voice of yours to confidently express yourself and watch how life begins to bow down to your will.
TAURUS APRIL 20 - MAY 20
Get ready for a big shift in focus, Taurus baby. For the last year, there has been a bright light shining down on you that’s brought blessings both in disguise and in clear sight. What have you done with this time and these experiences to further your life agenda? Like a squirrel gathering sustenance for the winter months, you should be actively banking the energy of the last year to carry you through into the next chapter of your journey. Everything that has happened has been for a greater purpose— one that will now unfold over the coming months and year. Go ahead and count your blessings. You’ve earned them.
GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20
Things are about to get really good for the Gemini collective, as the planet of blessings and opportunities is moving
into your sign for the next year. There will still be lessons and challenges to face, but the overall energy is one of luck and abundance, so revel in it, my loves. You will hardly recognize yourself in a year as you expand and grow beyond your current beliefs and circumstances in exponential ways. The seeds you’ve planted are now breaking through the soil. With continued nurture, they will bloom and blossom beautifully.
CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 22
The time is coming for deep introspection and soul searching on levels not yet explored. You are about to enter the mystical waters of your own inner being where you will find the next evolution of yourself and how it will need to be expressed. This is to usher in your next chapter and is all for your highest purpose, so don’t stress about the heaviness of the message. It will all work out and you will feel lighter and clearer once it’s all said and done. The answers to all those looming questions are coming, Cancer loves, and
that’s definitely something you can feel good about.
LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 22
If you’ve been wondering where your social life is or why it hasn’t been as fulfilling as you know it should
be, get ready to wonder no more. The last year’s focus has been on how to find purpose—in career, in status, in life—and we are now moving into a season of focus that will shift to who you know, not what you know. Not only should this alleviate some self-induced stresses, but it will also provide more outlets for letting loose and having fun. Your job is to allow yourself to accept and receive support and help from others while enjoying life more. Unclench your root chakra and let the present moment present you with presents.
VIRGO AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22
It’s time to seize every day, every opportunity, every experience, sweet Virgos. What you do every day has never mattered more and has never been more heavily linked to your future and reputation. You are in a time of both planting seeds and harvesting crops, and of working hard while burning the candle at both ends. The results you yield are motivating you
to continue to put in the effort, so use this time to advance yourself and skip ahead as much as you can. Everything will continue to pay off. Put yourself out there. The world is ready to see you now.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22
If you’ve been contemplating a new direction in life or have desired to breathe new energy into your current reality by exploring a new course of study or even perhaps uprooting everything and moving somewhere else, this is the time to do it, Libra. You’ve been weighing the options long enough, looking at every angle and carefully plotting out potential possibilities. The winds of change are picking up, so let them carry you into a new place. You have nothing to lose that’s worth keeping and everything to gain from letting your soul’s desires lead the way into the great unknown. If necessary, remind yourself that sometimes jumping first is what makes the net appear.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21
You of all people know that you have to take the good with the bad, which makes you very adept at transmuting “negative” scenarios into positive outcomes. In fact, digging into the darker aspects of your psyche tends to bring you much-needed clarity. Connecting to your past and even your ancestral lineage is going to be a big theme right now. The other side of the veil is calling to you; are you listening? There are messages, lessons and clues that want to lead you to inherited
abundance. Pay attention, stay open, and receive your blessings.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21
Have you been wondering where the love is? Well, wonder no more because all that love is coming for you like a heat-seeking missile.
Whether you are currently involved or presently single, intimate relationships are the focus, and matters of the heart will be highlighted throughout the next year. If you’ve been experiencing a drought of sorts, you may be flooded with options in the coming months. This is an excellent opportunity to really home in on what exactly you want in a partner. Stay open, communicate your needs, and make sure you’ve having fun above all else.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER
You know the saying “run the day or the day runs you”? Well, you are about to get some turbo boosters added to your running shoes that will supercharge your daily activities and increase their return on investment.
We know that every little thing adds up to the big things and, luckily for you, all those things are now going to multiply at a faster rate. This is a double-edged sword, though, Capricorn loves. If you don’t pay attention or give your time and energy to the right things, you may find yourself counting burdens instead of blessings. Put effort into what really matters and what you truly desire and want to pursue. This will pay off in both the short and long run of it all.
JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18
Could this be the best summer ever? The potential is there, sweet Aquarius. When was the last time you really let loose and enjoyed life to the fullest?
We both know it’s been too long. No more excuses as to why you can’t just throw logic to the wind and give in to your inner child’s demands. And while you’re indulging, this may be a good time for some self-reflection. Are you the person you promised yourself you would be? If not, how can you make the adjustments necessary to change that? This window of fun will show you what you’ve been missing out on and will motivate you to make some big lifestyle shifts.
FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20
If you find yourself shifting your attention to matters of the heart and home, it’s because your priorities are centering around grounding and roots. This may be a bit challenging for you, since you’re mostly used to swimming in the depths of the creation of your dreams, but trust in this moment; it is necessary to have a solid bedrock on which to continue to build your fantastical reality. That’s not to say that all things must be totally practical. Use your connection to your soul’s desires to motivate and inspire your plans for the future. Consider all options and choose the one(s) that best align with your goals.
Chantal Marie is a full-time astrologer, tarot reader and life coach. Find her full list of services on her website: akashiccrystalhealing.com
SARATOGA
Hibiscus Pomtini
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Conniption gin
1 oz Monin hibiscus syrup
1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
.25 oz pomegranate juice
1 egg white (pasteurized)
Instructions:
• Dry shake all ingredients
• Add ice and shake again
• Strain into a cold coupe glass
• Top with your choice of garnish.
BY NATALIE MOORE
ACROSS
1. Spear
5. “I’m a Survivor” singer McEntire
9 Robert Pattinson, for one
14. Nickname for Cecelia, maybe
15. Test
16. Sea 52-Across
17. Responsibility
18. “Three Blind ___”
19. Historical figure Keller
20. Just a short time
23. Type of canyon found in Utah
24. Before, poetically
25. Cooking appliance
26. Tire product
28. Prefix related to feet
29. One is said to be mightier than the sword
30 Brew illustrated by the shaded squares
33. “There ___ a time…”
37. Tool used on a Christmas tree farm
39. Expression of grief
40. Thing determined by a Punnett square
42. “Love Song” singer Bareilles
43. Mobile dating service
45. “You’re so Vain” singer Simon
46. Regularly
47. Expression of hesitation
48. ___-fetched
50. 30, for Harry Styles
51. Greek goddess of marriage
52. With 16-Across, what Sally sells shells by
55. Albany’s Complexions and Mirbeau, for two
58. Spherical laundry softeners
61. Poisonous substance
63. Shift into neutral, say
64. What GIFs do
65. Omit
66. JFK, for one
67. Carry, or something you carry
68. Stood still for a picture
69. Kind
70. Tennis competition
DOWN
1. Baked good that pairs well with 30-Across
2. Mid vocal range
3. Under 90 degrees
4. Top
5. Take away
6. Banished
7. BLT component
8. Last word in the Bible
9. ___ Wednesday
10. Pecs
11. Bridge fee
12. 53-calorie cookie
13. Award-winning musical-turned-movie
21. Exclamation made after a mistake
22. Alexander the ___
27. College, in Australia, familiarly
29. Φ
30. Russian title with a silent letter
31. ___ Grey (type of 30-Across)
32. Home’s counterpart, in a sporting competition
33. Pattern used in military garb, familiarly
34. Frozen snowman
35. Friends actor LeBlanc
36. Top left key on a keyboard
37. Part of a Sharpie
38. US Intelligence org.
40. Controlled, as a lion
41. Meas. of engine speed
44. Embrace
45. Hermit, for one
48. Tentative proposal, colloquially
49. Read one his or her Miranda rights, say
50. Out of the way
51. ___ Flask (Stanley competitor)
52. Brewer of Juice Bomb IPA
53. Mexican street corn
54. Resort town sharing a name with a tree
55. Type of YMCA class
56. Sport played on horseback
57 Allies’ counterpart in WWII
59. Tears
60. Mid vocal range
62. Simpsons neighbor Flanders
BY JOHN GRAY
Fiona Featherstone lived in a house that was well-known by all. It sat high atop a hill, like a bird on a branch, perched where everyone could see it. What drew your attention was not the architecture, but the perennial flowers that sprang up around it, from the first signs of spring to the last leaves of fall. The constant splash of colors was magnificent.
Fiona married young—he was a kind soul named Montgomery—and together they lived a modest life. They were not blessed by children, but they were truly happy. Fiona played her piano in the living room, while Montgomery tended to his prized flowers. She was convinced the dulcet tones of Brahms helped them grow.
When Montgomery passed away, everyone assumed Fiona would sell the place, but she hung on for another 18 years, making time to water her husband’s beloved garden.
When she left to join Montgomery in
heaven, Fiona’s estate listed the house at a rock-bottom price, which drew hundreds of prospective buyers. Suitors for the property soon learned that there was a catch for anyone eager to buy it.
The new owners had to sign a binding agreement with three stipulations.
They had to stay in the home for at least five years. They must agree to water the flowers themselves twice a day. And whoever bought the home had to be a young couple in love. A violation of any of the terms would put the buyer in breach of contract.
Abby and Denny Dershowitz were young professionals who adored one another and were searching
for a place to sink roots and grow a life together. When they saw the price of the house on the hill, they offered 10 percent over asking, hoping to seal the deal. To their surprise and chagrin, other buyers bid much higher—some significantly above what the late Fiona had in mind.
They were shocked when the realtor, who was a dear friend of the previous owner, accepted their bid, on the condition they only pay the asking price. To everyone involved, it made no sense, but those were the late Fiona’s wishes.
Abby and Denny loved the home and made certain to water the flowers as promised. A year after moving in, a child was born, and then a second two years after that. The babies grew alongside Montgomery’s peonies, roses and dahlias.
Five years after they closed on the house, to the day, there was a knock at the door. It was the realtor holding a bottle of Dom Perignon and a letter. Abby and Denny opened the Champagne, curled up in front of the fireplace, and read the words of Fiona Featherstone.
Dear Friends, I hope you are enjoying this home as much as my husband and I did. Thank you for taking care of the flowers. I know my request that you personally water them twice a day must seem strange, but let me explain why.
While my husband Montgomery was seen doting over the flowers, he actually planted them for me, each bud serving a purpose.
The purple phlox arrives in May, in tribute to Mother’s Day and my late mother, whom I adored.
The pink coneflowers bloom in July, attracting one of my favorites: butterflies.
The lavender hyssop appears late summer, inviting graceful hummingbirds to the yard.
And last, the aster that blossom in October are a favorite of bees, who provide us with the sweet honey I put in my afternoon tea. Perennials remind us that beauty is fleeting, winter is inevitable, but hope springs eternal to those patient enough to wait.
God Bless, Fiona
