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#1 Kendra Zappia, DDS and Morgan Fryer, DDS and the staff of Zappia and Fryer
#2 HenryHuang, DDS and the staff ofBethlehem FamilyDental
#3 ShakilVirjee, DMD and
#3Dr.RobertHerzog,DDSFAGDandDr.TriciaPrimomo, DDS and the staffofDentalWellness ofAlbany
#1 Brendan Cooney, DDS and Canaan Tyner, DDS and the staff of Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics
#2 Michael Sbuttoni, DDS, Marianne DiCerbo, DDS, Gregory Lawless, DDS, Paul Hyun, DDS, Oliva Turner, DDS and the staff at Albany Braces
#3 Greg Efros, DMD and the staff of Efros Orthodontists.
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Teresa Frazer
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After a long Capital Region hibernation, you’re surely ready to pack up that heated blanket and get back out into the world. Luckily, our annual Besties Awards are out just in time to give you a little inspo on everything from local shopping and much-needed services to cultural hotspots and outdoor recreation. Turn to page 18 to meet this issue’s cover stars—three ubertalented stylists at Delmar’s Choices Hair Studio who are ready to upgrade your up-do in time for spring—then flip the page for the rest of the 2024 Besties People & Places winners, including L. Browe Asphalt Services (new driveway, anyone?), The Children’s Museum at Saratoga (family fun, all summer long), and The Hangar at 743’s Cullen Enders (who’s ready to make your next big event shine).
Of course, you’ll have to wait for our summer issue for the reveal of this year’s Food & Drink Bestie winners, but on page 60 we give you a sneak peek: Stacy Tecler of Stacy’s Scratch Kitchen, which won the 2024 Bestie for Fulton County Restaurant, shares a recipe for her filet-topped cremini mushroom stroganoff. Try your hand at the recipe and sit tight—there’s much more foodie goodness where that came from. But first, meet this year’s Bestie-winning people and places of the Capital Region.
—The Editors
Hattie’s opens in Albany and Delmar gets a new fine-dining venue—plus two local books and breast cancer support in Amsterdam.
BY ABBY TEGNELIA
Business for Good, a foundation that, among other philanthropic endeavors, donates profits from restaurants it owns to Capital Region charities, has brought Saratoga’s famous fried chicken south to Albany. At press time, Hattie’s Albany was set to open March 14 in what used to be Lombardo’s Restaurant. While Hattie Moseley Austin’s famous Louisiana recipe was surely not altered, the Albany team has created some new dishes to serve during dinner (every day but Sunday) and weekend brunch.
Sandra Foyt, an Albany resident of more than 25 years, has penned an homage to her adopted hometown. In 100 Things To Do Before You Die, Foyt promises a hefty bucket list that both shows off New York’s Capital City to tourists and provides delightful-yet-obscure finds to surprise the natives. Her must-visit locales range from the Capitol building’s haunted Million Dollar stairs and the world’s largest indoor roller-skating rink to a mini hot dog stand. Already been to those? Just 97 more to go.
Amsterdam has officially welcomed To Life!’s signature brand of breast cancer support to town. The Delmar-based information hub was founded as a welcoming place for women to ask medical questions, learn how to explain things to their families, and even as a comfortable setting for trying on wigs and prostheses. The nonprofit’s new Amsterdam locale is in the Riverfront Center thanks to New York Oncology Hematology, which offered To Life! office space within its cancer treatment center. Two businesses, one goal: to show breast cancer patients that they’re never alone.
Chef Javier Villatoro cut his teeth in San Francisco, working his way up in the foodie-centric city after leaving his home country, Honduras. Next stop? Delmar, his wife Casey Carroll’s hometown, to open their own restaurant “surrounded by family and friends.” The recentlyopened Coray Kitchen offers a fresh oyster bar and a main menu kept to about a dozen small plates and entrées to ensure freshness and quality. “Everything is made from scratch, embracing a sense of home,” Villatoro says. “We proudly work with local Hudson Valley farms, and source from our own backyard garden, to deliver the best of the region.”
Grieving loved ones can be devastating, and now there’s a new book to help us get through it. The Grief Experience gathers 20 authors (including 11 from the Capital Region) with a range of experience with death and grief. “All of us authors have been through some tragedy or loss,” says Brittany DeMarco-Furman, a licensed funeral director and celebrant at Glenville Funeral Home—and author of the book’s Last Responder chapter. “We lay it all out there, telling you what helped us, honestly.”
DELMAR’S CHOICES HAIR STUDIO—LED BY OWNER LEEANNE SHADE, MANAGER TAMMIE MARTIN AND ASSOCIATE TRAINER MELLYIA MAICUS—DOMINATED THIS YEAR’S BEAUTY BESTIES.
BY NATALIE MOORE
Watching Choices
Hair Studio stylists
Tammie Martin, Mellyia Maicus and Leeanne Shade
interact, it’s easy to see why the three hair dressers swept the Beauty Professional category of this year’s Bestie Awards: They’re besties themselves.
“All of us have friendships with each other outside of the salon,” says Choices manager Martin of the 22 women who work at the Delmar salon. “We are so connected to each other and feel such a strong bond. It’s important to have that family feeling because we spend so much time together.”
Both Martin and Shade began working at the salon in 1988, five years before Shade took over as the owner and changed the business name to Choices. Since then, they’ve been building up a team of talented hairdressers who offer all sorts of services to clients at a wide range of price points.
“Leeanne encourages you to be the best you are as an individual person and stylist,” says Maicus, who joined the Choices team in 2013 and is now in charge of training new stylists. “She doesn’t want a cookiecutter salon where everybody’s the same. If your strength is in one area, she’s going to empower you to do that.”
The result? A salon where customers have (you guessed it) choices—believe it or not, not everyone is looking for balayage.
Tammie Martin and Mellyia Maicus got got first and second place, respectively, in the Besties Hair Dresser category.
Clients can choose a stylist who’s 17, or one who’s nearly 70. They can choose someone who specializes in curly hair, extensions, facials, nonsurgical grafting for hair loss or—yes—balayage. They even have choices when it comes to how much they pay.
“We do women, men and children here,” Shade says. “So I didn’t want a name that was too female driven. I wanted to incorporate that we do everything.”
And don’t think that the abundance of services at Choices is at the expense of the salon’s quality. They do everything well. In addition to first, second and third place honors in the Beauty Professional category, the salon went home with first-place wins for Facial, Hair Salon and Customer Service—out of all businesses in the Capital Region. Martin and Maicus even nabbed first- and second-place wins, respectively, in the Hair Dresser category.
Choices’ success after all these years can be at least partially attributed to its workplace culture—the Choices stylists aren’t worried about one stylist taking another’s client. “We’d rather have them come to anybody here than go up the street,” Shade says. “So we work as a team and consult as a team.” Another part—and this is a biggie for Choices—is continuing education. The regular classes Shade holds at the salon to keep stylists up to date on the latest beauty trends are one of the main reasons Maicus was drawn to work there in the first place, and Martin is known for never missing a class—even one that was held on the day after she had major surgery.
But the biggest piece of Choices’ success story is its staff’s members’ passion for their work. “I just enjoy being able to give somebody confidence in themselves,” Martin says. “When you get a card in the mail that says ‘I’ve never felt so beautiful,’ it’s so rewarding.”
ALBANY INSTITUTE OF HISTORY AND ART
125 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 463-4478 albanyinstitute.org
Albany Center Gallery
488 Broadway, Albany (518) 462-4775 albanycentergallery.org
The Arts Center of the Capital Region
265 River Street, Troy (518) 273-0552 artscenteronline.org
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT SARATOGA 65 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-5540 cmssny.org
miSci
15 Museum Drive, Schenectady (518) 382-7890 misci.org
Berkshire Museum
39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA (413) 443-7171 berkshiremuseum.org
SPAC
108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9330 spac.org
The Egg
Empire State Plaza, Albany (518) 473-1845 theegg.org
Palace Theatre
19 Clinton Avenue, Albany (518) 465-4663 palacealbany.org
THE ALTAMONT FAIR
Route 146 at Arlington Street, Altamont (518) 861-6671 altamontfair.com
The Saratoga County Fair
162 Prospect Street, Ballston Spa (518) 885-9701 saratogacountyfair.org
Columbia County Fair
182 Hudson Avenue, Chatham (518) 392-2121 columbiafair.com
NEW YORK STATE MUSEUM
222 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 474-5877 nysm.nysed.gov
Clark Art Institute (tie)
225 South Street, Williamstown, MA (413) 458-2303 clarkart.edu
National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame (tie)
191 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-0400 racingmuseum.org
Tang Teaching Museum
815 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 580-8080 tang.skidmore.edu
SPAC
108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9330 spac.org
The Hangar at 743
743 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 633-1155
hangar743.com
Tanglewood 297 West Street, Lenox, MA (617) 266-1200 bso.org
SARATOGA RACING SEASON
267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-6200 nyra.com/saratoga
Troy Victorian Stroll Downtown Troy (518) 274-7020 victorianstroll.com
Albany Tulip Festival Washington Park, Albany (518) 434-5411 albanyevents.org
THE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
2 Rocking Horse Lane, Slingerlands (518) 456-0852 theanimalhospital.com
Miller Animal Hospital
380 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 283-1166 millerah.com
Sand Creek Animal Hospital
130 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 446-9171 sandcreekanimalhospital.com
MARCELLA’S APPLIANCE CENTER 15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 952-7700
560 Broadway, Schenectady (518) 381-1957 marcellasappliance.com
Earl B. Feiden Appliance Multiple Locations earlbfeiden.com
Green’s
1207 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 458-7994
greenshasgonegreen.com
WALLANT ARCHITECTURE
883 Broadway, Albany (518) 436-9454 wallantarchitecture.com
Conklin Architecture
3 Fyke Road, Catskill (518) 943-4220 conklinarchitecture.com
Phinney Design Group Multiple Locations (518) 587-7120 phinneydesign.com
LAWTON’S AUTOMOTIVE AND TIRE CENTER
90 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 269-3550
Lawtons Automotive and Tire Center on Facebook
LaBarge’s Tire & Auto Service Multiple Locations
Sometimes a new location makes a world of difference. That’s certainly the case with The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, which has a long history with the Besties. Looking at just the past few years, the kids’ museum was a finalist in the Children’s Museum category in 2019 and 2020—when the museum slowly started its moving process from Caroline Street to the Lincoln Baths building in Spa State Park. The new digs apparently made the world of difference: The museum has won its category every year since, including 2021, 2022, 2023 and this year, 2024. Congrats to the museum’s staff, and to the kiddos who get to learn and make wonderful memories because of their hard work.
Bethlehem Auto Service
62 Hannay Lane, Glenmont (518) 426-8414
Bethlehem Auto Service on Facebook
TRUSTCO BANK Multiple Locations trustcobank.com
Bank of Greene County Multiple Locations thebankofgreenecounty.com
Adirondack Trust Company Multiple Locations adirondacktrust.com
GREGORY’S BARBERSHOP 316 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3525 gregorysbarbershop.com
Will’s Barbershop 444 Delaware Ave, Albany (518) 436-1308 Will’s Barbershop on Facebook
Michael John Barber Lounge 1775 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 456-7618 michaeljohnbarberlounge.com
BOCAGE CHAMPAGNE BAR
10 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-1115 bocagechampagnebar.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
TAMMIE MARTIN
Choices Hair Studio
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
Mellyia Maicus Choices Hair Studio
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
Leeanne Shade
Choices Hair Studio
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033 yannisrestaurants.com
2Shea Catering
257 Washington Avenue Extension, Albany (518) 389-2889 2sheacatering.com
Cardona’s Market (tie) Multiple Locations cardonasmarket.com
Daley Hospitality Group (tie) (518) 235-2656 daleyhospitalitygroup.com
MARC YANNI
Yanni’s Too 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033 yannisrestaurants.com
Marty Gerrity
The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 thegreensatcopake.com
Cullen Enders found out about the Besties at last year’s Bestie Fest, the yearly awards dinner for all winners and finalists. What was he doing there if not celebrating his own win? He was the party planner for the event! That’s right, Enders is the event planner at The Hangar at 743, where CRL held its big Bestie bash last year. It was one of the first high-profile events held at the fabulous party venue that overlooks runways at the Albany International Airport, and new-to-the-game Enders was impressed. He vowed to come back as a winner in his category—a conversation we mostly forgot until tallying up votes nearly a year later. When we saw he had won, we were thrilled. We look forward to our second Bestie Fest later this year at the Hangar, which also tied for Best Wedding Venue, and seeing Enders pull double-duty as both event planner and Bestie winner.
Joseph Ventrice Illusive 3 Ferry Street, Rensselaer (518) 977-3602 illusives.com
DELMAR CHIROPRACTIC
204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7644 delmarchiropractic.com
Capital District Family Chiropractic
40 Colvin Avenue, Albany 480 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 599-0067 cdfchiro.com
Enlighten Chiropractic
2 Tower Place, Albany (518) 313-6470 enlightenalbany.com
BROADVIEW FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Multiple Locations (800) 727-3328 broadviewfcu.com
Sunmark Credit Union
Multiple Locations (866) 786-6275 sunmark.org
Hudson Valley Credit Union
Multiple Locations (845) 463-3011 hvcu.org
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619
choiceshairstudio.com
Priority 1 Urgent Care
2080 Western Avenue, Guilderland (518) 867-8040 priority1urgentcare.com
Broadview Federal Credit Union
Multiple Locations (800) 727-3328 broadviewfcu.com
COMPLEXIONS SPA FOR BEAUTY AND WELLNESS
221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 489-5231
268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 306-5502 complexions.com
Blush & Co.
579 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-1481 blushcohairandbeauty.com
Spa Mirbeau
1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (844) 647-2328 spamirbeau.com
ZAPPIA & FRYER GENERAL DENTISTRY
1 Pine West Plaza, Albany (518) 869-1138 zappiafryer.com
Bethlehem Town Family Dental 241 Route 9W, Glenmont (518) 776-4939 btfdental.com
Dental Wellness of Albany (tie) 651 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 427-2447 651dental.com
Shakil Virjee, DMD (tie) 1533 2nd Avenue, Watervliet (518) 212-7166 virjeedental.com
BEST CLEANERS
Multiple Locations bestcleanersny.com
Handy Dandy Dry Cleaners
240 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4444 handydandyclean.com
Cudney’s Cleaners Multiple Locations cudneys.com
CULLEN ENDERS
The Hangar at 743 743 Albany Shaker Road, Latham (518) 633-1155 hangar743.com
Katie O’ Weddings and Events (518) 275-6813 katieoevents.com
Kyleigh Zangen
The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 thegreensatcopake.com
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
Breathe Massage Therapy
48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar (518) 621-7979 breathemassagedelmar.com
Karli Jillian Esthetics
350 Watervliet Shaker Road, Watervliet (518) 227-1422 karlijillianesthetics.com
BONANNO FINANCIAL ADVISORS
250 Osborne Road, Colonie (518) 438-1835 bonannofinancialadvisors.com
Fenimore Asset Management
4 Executive Park Drive, Albany 384 North Grand Street, Cobleskill (800) 721-5391 fenimoreasset.com
Bouchey Financial Group
340 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 1819 Fifth Avenue, Troy (518) 720-3333 bouchey.com
GOOD KARMA STUDIO 12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com
Vent Fitness
Multiple Locations ventfitness.com
Anatomie
52 & 30 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 649-0094 anatomielife.com
THE ENCHANTED FLORIST
54 Columbia Street, Albany (518) 813-4990 enchantedfloristalbany.net
Flowers by Pesha
501 Broadway, Troy (518) 272-1980 flowersbypesha.net
Janine’s Floral Creations 2447 Route 9W, Ravena (518) 756-3767 janinesfloralcreations.com
DEVITO-SALVADORE FUNERAL HOME
39 South Main Street, Mechanicville (518) 664-4500 devito-salvadorefh.com
Applebee Funeral Home
403 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-2715 applebeefuneralhome.com
Bryce Funeral Home
276 Pawling Avenue, Troy (518) 272-7281 brycefuneralhome.com
OLD BRICK FURNITURE
Multiple Locations oldbrickfurniture.com
Mooradians Furniture
800 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 489-2529
1758A Route 9 Parkwood Plaza, Clifton Park (518) 694-8452 mooradians.com
Furniture Plus
329 Fairview Avenue, Hudson (518) 828-3683 furnitureplushudson.com
KHYBER KHAN, MD
Ellis Primary Care 115 Saratoga Road, Glenville (844) 518-3627 ellismedicine.org
Oldendorf Medical Services
407 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 435-1300 oldendorfmedical.com
Delmar Family Medical (tie)
1499 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 320-7517 delmarfamilymedicine.com
Sabiha Friedrich, MD (tie)
St. Peter’s Internal Medicine 4 Palisades Drive, Albany (518) 446-9545 sphp.com
CHOICES HAIR STUDIO
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619
choiceshairstudio.com
Blush & Co. Hair and Beauty
579 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-1481 blushcohairandbeauty.com
Ambiance Salon
23 Executive Park Drive, Clifton Park (518) 782-7560 ambiancesalon.com
TAMMIE MARTIN
Choices Hair Studio
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
Mellyia Maicus Choices Hair Studio
180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4619 choiceshairstudio.com
Jessica Shattuck
The Shop 814 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 817-7195 theshopon7.com
This year’s Besties brought in some stellar first-time wins!
First up is Best Home Builder, which Saratoga’s Witt Construction scooped right up for the very first time. And we see why: Founded in 1987 by John Witt, the company has made its mark on the Spa City with its hundreds of award-winning, custom and semi-custom homes. And then we have the winners of this year’s new categories, including Best Financial Planner (Bonanno Financial Advisors, Albany), Best Funeral Home (DeVito-Salvadore Funeral Home, Mechanicville) Best Local College/University (Siena College, Loudonville) and Best Orthodontist (Cooney & Tyner Orthodontics, Troy and Ballston Lake).
Congrats to all—and welcome to the winners’ club!
CDPHP
500 Patroon Creek Boulevard, Albany (518) 641-3140 cdphp.com
MVP Health Care
625 State Street, Schenectady (888) 687-6277 mvphealthcare.com
The Empire Plan (877) 769-7447 empireplanproviders.com
CRISAFULLI BROS. PLUMBING & HEATING
25 Industrial Park, Albany (518) 254-8604
106 Dix Avenue, Glens Falls (518) 862-8936 crisbro.com
Family Danz Heating & Cooling
404 North Pearl Street, Albany (518) 427-8685 familydanz.com
Main-Care Energy
1 Booth Lane, Albany (800) 542-5552 maincareenergy.com
WITT CONSTRUCTION
563 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-4113 wittconstruction.com
Amedore Homes 1900 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 456-1010 amedorehomes.com
Barbera Homes (tie) 14 Wade Road, Latham (518) 690-0777 barberahomes.com
Michaels Group Homes (tie) 1 Marions Way, Mechanicville (518) 899-6311 michaelsgroup.com
ATTENTIVE CARE
5 Computer Drive West, Albany (518) 438-6271 attentivecareservices.com
Marquis Certified Home Care 1762 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 216-0100 marquishc.com
Right at Home
125 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 757-4041 rightathome.net
ST. PETER’S HOSPITAL
315 South Manning Boulevard, Albany (518) 525-1550 sphp.com
Albany Medical Center
43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany (518) 262-3125 albanymed.org
Saratoga Hospital
211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-3222 saratogahospital.org
BROADVIEW INSURANCE AGENCY
469 State Street, Schenectady (518) 786-9905
297 Main Street, Schoharie
(888) 250-6689 broadviewinsuranceagency.com
Anatriello Agency
2477 Route 9W, Ravena (518) 756-2877 weedross.com
Grapeville Agency
16 Boulevard Avenue, Catskill (518) 943-3220 grapevilleagency.com
INTERIOR DESIGNS ATELIER
3 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs (518) 886-1204 interiordesignsatelier.com
Sensory Six
245 Washington Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 368-2486 sensorysix.com
FunCycled (518) 629-5386 funcycled.com
TROY’S LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
1266 New Loudon Road, Cohoes (518) 785-1526
troyslandscapesupply.com
A Cut Above Landscaping & Design (518) 376-9632
Faddegon’s Landscaping (tie) 1140 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-6726 faddegons.com
Gallivan Corporation (tie) 2702 Sixth Avenue, Troy (518) 271-6100 gallivancompanies.com
O’CONNELL AND ARONOWITZ
54 State Street, Albany (518) 462-5601
1 Court Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-5205 oalaw.com
Lemery Greisler LLC
677 Broadway, Albany (518) 433-8800
60 Railroad Place, Saratoga Springs
(518) 581-8800 lemerygreisler.com
Mack & Associates, PLLC
270 Mount Hope Drive, Albany (518) 465-1451 mack-associates.com
SIENA COLLEGE
515 Loudon Road, Loudonville (518) 783-2300 siena.edu
Hudson Valley Community College 80 Vandenburgh Avenue, Troy (518) 629-4822 hvcc.cedu
University at Albany 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 442-3300 albany.edu
VENUS NAIL SPA
52 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 326-9594
Venus Nails Spa on Facebook
L Perfect Nail & Spa
400 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont (518) 432-4037
L Perfect Nail & Spa on Facebook
Queen House Nail & Spa
10 New Karner Road, Guilderland (518) 608-5741 queenhousenailspa.com
COEYMANS LANDING MARINA
20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-6111 coeymanslandingmarina.com
Doc’s Marina
117 School Street, Mayfield (518) 921-2595 docsmarinany.com
Point Breeze Marina
1459 Route 9P, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-3397 pointbreezemarina.com
MASSAGE BY MEG
251 New Karner Road, Albany (518) 391-8648 massagesbymeg.com
Breathe Massage Therapy 48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar (518) 621-7979 breathemassagedelmar.com
Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness 221 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 489-5231
268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 306-5502 complexions.com
LUCIE CAPEK, MD PLASTIC SURGERY & MEDSPA
1003 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 765-8405 capekplasticsurgery.com
Reviva Wellness
1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2121 jeanpaulspa.com
OArtistry of Face (tie)
475 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 620-8692
481 Glen Street, Glens Falls (518) 940-4723 artistryofface.com
The Rejuva Center at Williams (tie) 1072 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 308-4119 rejuvacenters.com
THE BONE & JOINT CENTER
Multiple Locations theboneandjointcenter.com
Albany ENT & Allergy Services
123 Everett Road, Albany (518) 701-2085
1785 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 701-2075 albanyentandallergy.com
Capital Cardiology Associates Multiple Locations capitalcardiology.com
COONEY & TYNER ORTHODONTICS
500 Federal Street, Troy (518) 274-4322
30 Round Lake Road, Ballston Lake (518) 400-1200 cooneyorthodontics.com
Albany Braces Multiple Locations albanybraces.com
Efros Orthodontics
424 Fairview Avenue, Hudson (845) 237-5321 efrosorthodontics.com
L. BROWE ASPHALT SERVICES
19 Sun Oil Road, Rensselaer (518) 479-1400 broweasphalt.com
Smith’s Paving and Sealcoating
3485 River Road, Rensselaer (518) 266-9526 smithspaving.com
Luizzi Asphalt Services
70 Tivoli Street, Albany (518) 459-7325 luizziasphalt.com
DELMAR PEDIATRICS
1220 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 439-2273 delmarpediatricspllc.com
Giombetti & Brady Pediatrics
ne pandemic-born category we’ve enjoyed watching grow over the past few years is Home Health—even though the industry itself has been around for decades. Ever since “aging in place” began to pick up steam, home healthcare entities have stepped in to make sure that seniors living at home have the care they need, within the comforts of their own home. We finally woke up to this crucial service in 2022, when we added the category for the first time. That year’s winner was Albany’s Marquis Home Care, and Saratoga’s Wesley Senior Services picked up the winner’s trophy in 2023. This year’s winner? Attentive Care, whose fleet of home RNs, home companions and caregivers have been serving the Capital Region since 1977. We’re happy we finally got with the program and added this crucial category after watching so many telehealth and homevisit services pop up—and stay—after the Covid lockdown. And happier that the winners have been doing what they do for longer than that. Now they have a place to shine in the Besties.
208 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5611 giombettiandbradypediatrics.com
Schoolhouse Pediatrics
Multiple Locations (518) 456-1211 schoolhousepeds.com
TONI HOWARD
Total Fitness with Toni (518) 339-3037 totalfitnesswithtoni.com
Jessica Lubin
Good Karma Studio 12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com
Dylan Thompson Best Fitness @d_thompson1 on Instagram
PET SPAS PAMPER & PLAY
1 Cerone Commercial Drive, Colonie (518) 783-5506 petspaspamperandplay.com
The Detailed Dog
2093 Western Avenue, Guilderland (518) 213-7911 thedetaileddog.com
Ideal K9 Training LLC 1779 Kennedy Road, St. Johnsville (518) 774-7774 idealk9trainingllc.com
CHELSEA SYLVESTER PHOTOGRAPHY
251 New Karner Road, Colonie (518) 657-1331 chelseasylvesterphotography.com
Kristen Renee Photography (518) 859-2089 kristenreneephotography.com
All Occasions Photography (518) 986-3440 alloccasionsphoto.net
LBrowe Asphalt Services knows its way around a Bestie win—and 2024 found it back on top. Going back to prepandemic 2019, the company—which handles professional paving for projects such as driveways, private roads and parking lots—has been a finalist or winner every single year.
SERGEY’S PILATES
431 New Karner Road, Albany (518) 258-3356 sergeyspilates.com
Free Movement Pilates
5 Becker Terrace, Delmar (518) 275-2644 freemovementpilates.com
Pilates Principle
578 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-1678 lathampilates.com
GABLER REALTY (TIE)
321 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 935-4800 gablerrealty.com
JULIE & CO. (TIE)
18 Division Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 350-7653 juliecorealty.com
Coldwell Banker Prime Properties Multiple Locations 866-323-2277 coldwellbankerprime.com
Signature ONE Realty Group
2460 Route 9, Malta (518) 639-4663 signatureonerealtygroup.com
L. Browe’s trajectory has been an exciting one, nabbing top honors in 2019, 2020 and 2022, and coming in as an esteemed finalist in 2021 and 2023. This made it extra-exciting when they rose to first place again this year. Congratulations, L. Browe, and see you at Bestie Fest!
ADVANTAGE TREE SERVICE
772 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 944-5172 advantagetreeny.com
Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping
1277 Route 9W, Selkirk (518) 635-4111 sevenzocks.com
New Leaf Tree Services, Inc
652 Route 9H, Hudson (518) 526-6675 newleaftreeservicesinc.com
YANNI’S TOO 16 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033 yannisrestaurants.com
The Greens at Copake Country Club 44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 thegreensatcopake.com
Tatu Tacos and Tequila 100 Congress Street, Troy (518) 874-1028 tatuny.com
GOOD KARMA STUDIO 12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com
The Hot Yoga Spot Multiple Locations (518) 219-8112 thehotyogaspot.com
Anatomie
30 & 52 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 649-0094 anatomielife.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
Samascott Orchards 5 Sunset Avenue, Kinderhook (518) 217-2868 samascottorchards.com
I LOVE BOOKS
380 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 478-0715
I Love Books on Facebook
Northshire Bookstore
424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 682-4200 northshire.com
Market Block Books
290 River Street, Troy (518) 328-0045 bhny.com
BRIDAL GALLERY BY YVONNE
895 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 782-9333 bridalgallerybyyvonne.com
A Love Story by Angela’s Bridal
112 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 869-1848 alovestorybridal.com
DeAnna’s Gifts, Clothing & Bridal
3991 Route 43, Wynantskill (518) 283-6252 deannas.houseacct.com
UPSTATE CANNA CO
1613 Union Street, Schenectady (518) 280-4289 upstate-canna.co
Stage One
810 Broadway, Rensselaer (518) 451-9540 stageonedispensary.com
Don Andrews—recent CRL cover star—has picked up his first Bestie, in the red-hot category of Best Dispensary. It was one of the more popular new categories this year, which came as no surprise to us. After all, we covered the growing industry of legal cannabis in our most recent issue. Now imagine how thrilled we were when that issue’s cover star, Don Andrews, handedly scooped up his first Bestie, winning the category hands down with his Schenectady dispensary, Upstate Canna Co. We chose Andrews to feature because of the leadership he’s exhibited—his being the first dispensary in the Capital Region to open after cannabis was legalized in the State of New York was the result of careful and strategic planning on his part. Now, he wants to support other dispensaries in their bids to open, and it sounds like he might one day expand his own business. “There is so much product out there and not enough stores,” he told us for the article. “I’m really looking forward to opening up more stores to give more communities goodquality, tested cannabis.”
The Pass
1375 North Main Street, Sheffield (413) 644-6892 thepass.co
CSA/COMMUNITY CO-OP
HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP
100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2667 honestweight.coop
Niskayuna Co-op
2227 Nott Street, Niskayuna (518) 374-1362 niskayunaco-op.com
Fox Creek Farm CSA
182 Fox Creek Farm Road, Schoharie (518) 872-2375 foxcreekfarmcsa.com
AUDI ALBANY
723 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-5003 audialbany.com
Lia Auto Group
Multiple Locations (855) 212-7985 liacars.com
New Country Auto Group Multiple Locations newcountry.com
TRULY RHE
1 Broadway, Troy (518) 273-1540
trulyrhe.shop
Circles
1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2554 circles-shop.com
Boho Chic Boutique 90 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 885-1546 bohochicny.com
THE CLOSET SHOP
257 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5722
The Closet Shop Delmar on Facebook
Something Olde, Something New 1969 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 475-0663 somethingoldenew.com
Polkadots Consignment Shop 10 New Karner Road, Guilderland (518) 452-1812 polkadotsconsignment.com
TROY WATERFRONT FARMERS’ MARKET
Inside Troy Atrium (November-April) Outside on River Street (May-October) (518) 708-4216 troymarket.org
Delmar Farmers’ Market
332 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar delmarmarket.org
Schenectady Greenmarket
Inside Proctors (December-April) Outside Schenectady City Hall (April-November) schenectadygreenmarket.com
TROY’S LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
1266 New Loudon Road, Cohoes (518) 785-1526 troyslandscapesupply.com
Hewitt’s Garden Center Multiple Locations hewitts.com
Faddegon’s Nursery
1140 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-6726 faddegons.com
5TH CORNER GOODS AND GIFTS (TIE)
395 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar 1475 Western Avenue, Albany 5thcornergoods.com
CROSS EYED OWL GIFT SHOP (TIE)
3143 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-6755 crosseyedowl.com
Maggie’s Gift Shop
521 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-2629 shopmaggies.com
Apple Barrel Store + Cafe 115 Route 30A, Schoharie (518) 295-7179 shopapplebarrel.com
ROBINSON’S ACE HARDWARE
Multiple Locations robinsonshardware.com
Phillip’s Hardware 6495 Route 158, Altamont (518) 861-5364
235 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9943 shopphillips.com
Hatchet Hardware
Multiple Locations hatchethardware.com
HONEST WEIGHT FOOD CO-OP
100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2667 honestweight.coop
Healthy Living
3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs (518) 306-4900 healthylivingmarket.com
Four Seasons Natural Foods 120 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-4670 fourseasonsnaturalfoods.com
JOYELLES JEWELERS
318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-9993 joyellesjewelers.com
Drue Sanders Custom Jewelers 1675 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 464-9636 druesanders.com
Hannoush Jewelers 112 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 472-0368 1750 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 930-2093 hannoushny.com
EMPIRE WINE & LIQUOR
1440 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 694-8503
48 Railroad Avenue, Albany (518) 226-8700 empirewine.com
Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor 70 Congress Street, Saratoga (518) 584-5400 purdyswine.com
Exit 9 Wine & Liquor Warehouse 9 Halfmoon Crossing, Clifton Park (518) 688-0153 exit9wineandliquor.com
MR. FORMAL WEAR 22 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park (518) 383-7701 mrformalwear.com
Mark Thomas Men’s Apparel 5 Metro Park Road, Albany (518) 438-7887
385 Broadway, Saratoga (518) 871-1293 markthomasmensapparel.com
Britches of Troy
216 River Street, Troy (518) 279-2752
Britches of Troy on Facebook
RIVER STREET BEAT SHOP
197 River Street, Troy (518) 272-0433
Rivers Street Beat Shop on Facebook
Parkway Music 1777 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 383-0300 parkwaymusic.com
John Keal Music
Multiple Locations (518) 482-4405 johnkealmusic.com
NEW YORK OPTICAL
116 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 438-8600
451 Hoosick Street, Troy (518) 274-8600 newyorkoptical.com
Hughes Opticians
411 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4971 hughesopticians.com
Buenau’s Opticians (tie)
228 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7012 buenaus.com
DiNapoli Opticians (tie) Multiple Locations dinapoliopt.com
BENSON’S PET CENTER
Multiple Locations bensonspet.com
Healthy Pet Center
Multiple Locations healthypetcenters.com
Head to Tail
1604 Union Street, Schenectady (518) 280-9898
Head to Tail Pet Wellness Center on Facebok
COLONIE CENTER
131 Colonie Center, Albany (518) 459-9020 shopatcoloniecenter.com
Clifton Park Center
22 Clifton Country Road, Clifton Park (518) 371-7467 cliftonparkcenter.com
Stuyvesant Plaza
1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 813-4959 stuyvesantplaza.com
MAD DOG BICYCLES (TIE)
561 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3669 maddogbicycles.com
STEINER’S SPORTS (TIE)
Multiple Locations steinersskibike.com
Tune Skis
272 Saratoga Road, Glenville (888) 863-7547 tuneskis.com
This year marked the Bestie debut of possibly (probably!) the youngest Bestie winner to date: Kelsey Dodd, a junior at Emma Willard School, who took home first place in the Band/Musician/ Entertainer category. With the voice and stage presence of someone twice her age, Dodd regularly performs in local theater productions, at Panza’s Starlight Lounge in Saratoga, and at charity functions for the American Heart Association, Ronald McDonald House Charities and other nonprofits. She’s even sung the National Anthem for major league sports teams the Baltimore Orioles and the Buffalo Bills. Dodd’s dream? “To perform on Broadway,” she says. “Ever since I saw my first musical—Phantom of the Opera—I knew that was what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.”
Berkshire Bike & Board
Multiple Locations berkshirebikeandboard.com
HANNAFORD
Multiple Locations hannaford.com
Price Chopper/Market 32 Multiple Locations pricechopper.com
Honest Weight Food Co-op
100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany (518) 482-2667 honestweight.coop
WARREN TIRE
Multiple Locations warrentiresvc.com
Grand Premier Tires & Custom Wheels
591 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 477-4753
3361 South Thompson Street, Schenectady (518) 630-5055 grandpremieretire.com
Adirondack Tire & Service
Multiple Locations adirondacktire.com
TRAVEL AGENCY
AAA HUDSON VALLEY
Multiple Locations hudsonvalley.aaa.com
Blue Skies Travel 2 Pittsfield Avenue, East Greenbush (518) 477-4700 blueskiestravel.com
Enchanting Escapes
2261 Western Avenue, Guilderland (518) 608-4644 enchantingescapes.net
PREMO DESIGNS FACE PAINTING & MORE Schenectady (518) 952-1328 facepaint518.com
iCandy Designs Face Painting Saratoga Springs icandydesignsfacepainting.com
Julia Durgee juliadurgee.com
AUTHOR
MARILYN A. PITTELLI nogoandtell.com
John Gray johngraywriter.com
Patricia Crandall patriciacrandall.com
CHRISTINA ARANGIO, NEWS10 ABC
Faith King, NewsChannel 13
Lara Bryn, CBS 6 News BAND/MUSICIAN/
KELSEY DODD Saratoga Springs @_kelseydodd_ on Instagram
The Refrigerators
Troy (518) 374-3400 the-refrigerators.com
Joe Barna
Troy
Joe Barna on Facebook
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
MORNING ANCHOR
STEPHANIE RIVAS, NEWS10 ABC
Chris Onorato, NewsChannel 13
Julia Chapman, Spectrum News
MORNING TEAM
NEWS10 ABC TEAM
NewsChannel 13 Team
CBS 6 Team
METEOROLOGIST
STEVE CAPORIZZO, NEWS10 ABC
Jill Szwed, NEWS10 ABC (No longer at NEWS10)
Paul Caiano, NewsChannel 13
MUSIC RADIO
FLY 92.3 fly92.com
WEQX 102.7 weqx.com
WGNA 107.7 wgna.com
TALK
JOE DONAHUE (WAMC) wamc.org
Chad O’Hara (B95.5) b95.com
Brian and Chrissy (WGNA) wgna.com
GLAMPFUL
162 Hatzenbuhler Road, Broadalbin (646) 539-9438 glampful.com
Thompson’s Lake Campground
68 Thompsons Lake Road, East Berne (518) 872-1674 parks.ny.gov
Whippoorwill Motel and Campsites 1784 Route 9, Lake George (518) 668-5565 whippoorwilllakegeorge.com
LAKE PLACID, NY lakeplacid.com
Lake George, NY visitlakegeorge.com
Stockbridge, MA stockbridgechamber.org
HIGHER GROUND DISTILLING COMPANY
2513 Highway 30, Mayfield (518) 527-5490
Higher Ground Distilling Company on Facebook
Thacher State Park
830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237 parks.ny.gov
June Farms
275 Parker Road, West Sand Lake (518) 444-3276 junefarms.com
ALBANY COUNTRY CLUB
300 Wormer Road, Voorheesville (518) 765-2851 albanycc.cc
Columbia Golf & Country Club
295 Route 217, Claverack (518) 851-9195 columbiagolf.org
Schuyler Meadows Club (tie) 17 Schuyler Meadows Club Road, Loudonville (518) 785-8558
schuylermeadows.com
Shaker Ridge Country Club (tie)
802 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 869-0246 shakerridge.com
COPAKE COUNTRY CLUB
44 Golf Course Road, Craryville (518) 325-0019 copakecountryclub.com
Saratoga National Golf Club
458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-4653 golfsaratoga.com
Sycamore Country Club
38 Tompkins Road, Ravena (518) 756-9555 thesycamorecountryclub.com
THACHER STATE PARK
830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237 parks.ny.gov
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
56 Game Farm Road, Delmar (518) 475-0291 dec.ny.gov
Pine Hollow Arboretum
34 Pine Hollow Road, Slingerlands (518) 992-2033 pinehollowarboretum.org
THE SAGAMORE RESORT
110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing (518) 644-9400 opalcollection.com/sagamore
The Adelphi Hotel
365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 678-6000 theadelphihotel.com
Mirror Lake Inn (tie)
77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid (518) 523-2544 mirrorlakeinn.com
Crowne Plaza Albany - The Desmond Hotel (tie)
660 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 869-8100 desmondhotelsalbany.com
THE INN AT SARATOGA
231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-1890 theinnatsaratoga.com
The Dorset Inn
8 Church Street, Dorset, VT (802) 867-5500 dorsetinn.com
Reluctant Panther
39 West Road, Manchester Village, VT (802) 362-2568 reluctantpanther.com
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com
High Rollers Roller Skating
4313 Route 30, Amsterdam (518) 843-0783 highrollersskating.com
KJ’s Gymnastics
3143 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-2554 kjsgymnasticsny.com
GOOD KARMA STUDIO
12 Walker Way, Albany (518) 512-9929 thegoodkarmastudio.com
Camp Fowler
152 Pelcher Road, Lake Pleasant (518) 548-6524 campfowler.org
YMCA Camp Chingachgook
1872 Pilot Knob Road, Kattskill Bay (518) 656-9462 lakegeorgecamp.org
THACHER STATE PARK
830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville (518) 872-1237 parks.ny.gov
Saratoga Spa State Park
19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-2535 parks.ny.gov
Washington Park State and Willet Streets, Albany (518) 434-5699
albany.org
THE SPINNEY AT VAN DYKE
6 Parker Mathusa Place, Delmar (518) 689-0162
thespinneyatvandyke.com
THE SPINNEY AT POND VIEW
2490 Pond View, Castleton-On-Hudson (518) 479-0800 thespinneyatpondview.com
Shaker Pointe at Carondelet
1 Bell Tower Drive, Watervliet (518) 250-4890 shakerpointe.org
Beverwyck
40 Autumn Drive, Slingerlands (518) 280-8385 eddyseniorliving.com
THE DORSET INN
8 Church Street, Dorset, VT (802) 867-5500 dorsetinn.com
Mirror Lake Inn
77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid (518) 523-2544 mirrorlakeinn.com
Mohonk Mountain House
1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz (855) 883-3798 mohonk.com
GORE MOUNTAIN
793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek (518) 251-2411 goremountain.com
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
37 Corey Road, Hancock, MA (413) 738-5500 jiminypeak.com
West
59 West Mountain Road, Queensbury (518) 636-3699 westmountain.com
THE APPEL INN (TIE) 590 Route 146, Altamont (518) 861-6557 appelinn.com
THE HANGAR AT 743 (TIE) 743 Albany Shaker Road, Latham (518) 633-1155 hangar743.com
Liberty Ridge Farm 29 Bevis Road, Schaghticoke (518) 664-1515 libertyridgefarmny.com
Old Daley on Crooked Lake 2339 Route 43, Averill Park (518) 674-3132 daleyhospitalitygroup.com
Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival
JANUARY
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.
60 Freeman’s Bridge Road, Scotia | 518.372.5611 | allseasonsequipinc.com
Barbera Homes— which proudly builds gorgeous new homes in our region’s most in-demand neighborhoods—has an honest approach to business that’s been honed over two generations. Earning the trust of homeowners, peers and partners, the award-winning home builder boasts a comprehensive Design Studio that features the most trusted brands for the ultimate in personalization when it comes to building your dream home.
14 Wade Road, Latham | 518.690.0777 | barberahomes.com
Classic Shed & Patio is a family-owned, one-stop shop for the design and creation of 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
From its office in the foothills of the Hudson Valley region, Conklin Architecture designs truly one-off custom homes and commercial spaces throughout New York State, from New York City to the Adirondack region. The Conklin team takes pride in finding a harmonious balance of its clients’ needs and strives to design a project with a unique, thought-through design.
3 Fyke Road, Catskill | 518.943.4220 | conklinarchitecture.com
Are you ready to transform your backyard into your personal paradise? Cypress Pools & Spas is a premier pool builder specializing in fiberglass pool installation, custom inground pools, pool maintenance, and so much more! Visit them online or at their retail store to get started.
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
Spring means warmth, longer days and new beginnings, and with it comes the excitement of spring projects. The Ghent Wood team is ready to help you get started on everything from preparing your garden (got mulch?) to that much-anticipated home enhancement. Whatever your next home improvement undertaking is, turn to Ghent Wood Products for your wood, stone and mulch needs to make your next project oh-so special!
1262 Route 66, Ghent | 518.828.5684 | ghentwoodproducts.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 selection of materials, finishes and styles for every taste.
75 Church Street, Saratoga Springs | 518.934.3101 | housewrightcabinetry.com
When it comes to driveway paving, you need to work with seasoned driveway contractors who can ensure that your driveway is smooth and functional. J. Hunziker has 20 years of experience serving the residential and commercial paving needs of customers throughout Troy and the nearby areas, and is committed to providing customers with the best possible workmanship and service.
25 Correlis Drive, Rensselaer | 518.858.7917 | jhunzikerpavingllc.com
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
Luizzi Asphalt Services’ mission is to be the most trusted name in quality products and dependable service for homes and businesses across the Capital Region. Luizzi is a third-generation company that has provided services to thousands of satisfied customers over the years. Call Luizzi Asphalt Services for skilled solutions to all of your asphalt maintenance and repair needs.
70 Tivoli Street, Albany | 518.459.7325 | luizziasphalt.com
Marcella’s Appliance Center 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 Sewer & Drain’s 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 to diagnose plumbing and drain challenges, Rotor-Matic’s highly experienced and conscientious technicians go the extra mile to get the job done right. At Rotor-Matic, there’s nothing too big, nothing too small.
720 4th Street, Watervliet | 518. 465.8000 | rotor-matic.com
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.
2706 US Route 9 | Malta | 518.581.2900
852 Grooms Road, Rexford | 518.371.5730
Witt Construction has built hundreds of award-winning, custom and semi-custom homes in the Capital Region, and excels at renovation of residential architecture, too. Founded by John Witt in 1987, the home builder has earned much acclaim for its innovative yet functional designs that reflect how young professionals, new and growing families, urban-dwellers and empty-nesters live today—with each home uniquely nestled in its natural surroundings.
563 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 518.587.4113 | wittconstruction.com
Zappia & Fryer is a general dentistry office owned and operated 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 a relaxation room are comforts offered while you receive excellent treatment with the most up-to-date dental technology. They are happy to welcome new patients to their practice.
Pop into Cross Eyed Owl the next
“I opened the shop back in
to sell my
and
handcrafted items,” says owner Patti Varga. “I never imagined that I’d still be doing this 31 years later. The shop is an extension of who I am and all the things I love!”
Countless Capital Regionites have special memories involving Joyelles and its fine jewelry, whether they were picking out an engagement ring or graduation gift, or having an inherited keepsake repaired. The shop carries fine jewelry (including diamonds of the highest quality for all of those engagement rings), sterling silver, pearls, estate jewelry, watches, glassware, giftware, scarves, scents and lotions. “I love helping customers choose the perfect gift or engagement ring,” says owner Mary Vail, “or repairing family heirlooms that are very special to them and have been in their family for generations.”
Lucie Capek
Dr. Lucie Capek knows that the decision to get plastic surgery is a big one, so she and her all-female team make sure clients have all the information they need before going through with a procedure that will change their body and life forever. “Knowledge is empowering and clarifies realistic expectations,” says Dr. Capek, who has been working in the Capital Region for more than 25 years. Dr. Capek’s practice offers a full range of aesthetic services, plus injectables, lasers and body contouring. She specializes in cosmetic surgery to the face, breast and body and is well known for her “mommy” and “menopausal” makeovers.
BY NATALIE MOORE
MVP Arena
Sugar, we’re goin’ down…to MVP Arena to see Fall Out Boy on March 24. Due to overwhelming demand, the Grammynominated punk rock band extended its 2023 So Much For (Tour) Dust tour into 2024, rechristening it So Much For (2our) Dust. The Albany show is one of more than 20 shows the group will perform across the country with special guests Jimmy Eat World, Hot Mulligan and Games We Play. mvparena.com
The Egg
Award-winning humorist David Sedaris is
beloved for his personal essays and short stories that are regularly published in The New Yorker as well as in numerous books such as Me Talk Pretty One Day, Calypso and Happy-Go-Lucky. Heck, two volumes of the man’s diaries were New York Times bestsellers. Many of his recent works include stories of encounters with fans at live shows like the one coming to The Egg on April 2. Will you be a subject in his next bestseller? theegg.org
du Soleil’s Corteo
MVP Arena
A couple of weeks after Fall Out Boy swings through Albany, head back to MVP Arena to witness Corteo, the Cirque du Soleil show that’s been described as a theatrical world of fun, comedy and spontaneity situated
in a mysterious space between heaven and earth. In this first-of-its kind show, the stage is central in the arena, with half the audience facing the other half. Experience the graceful power of Cirque du Soleil’s acrobats; the grandiose, Eiffel Tower–inspired set curtains; and the raw portrayal of humanity that’s within each of us on April 10. mvparena.com
One of saratoga living’s most anticipated events of the year is back. On April 10, dozens of Saratoga’s best-dressed ladies and gentlemen will walk the red carpet at Panza’s Restaurant (new venue, who dis?)—grand entrances encouraged! Paparazzi will be on hand to snap plenty of pics, Panza’s will provide its acclaimed classic Italian fare, and bubbly from Bocage Champagne Bar will be flowing. Saratoga’s Met Gala will culminate in a fashion show, and our esteemed judges will ultimately name the winners of Most Overdressed and Best Overall. saratogaliving.com
Celebrate the pink moon—April’s full moon named for the color of the wildflowers that bloom in North America during that time—at the free (!) Mind Body Soul Expo this April 21. Dozens of vendors, offering everything from tarot card readings and reiki to skincare products and handcrafted jewelry, will take over the Saratoga Springs City Center from 10am-6pm. Don’t miss free lectures and workshops going on throughout the day! mindbodysoulexpo.com
Glens Falls Wing Fest
Downtown Glens Falls
Looking for plans on April 27? Just wing it! In other words, head to downtown Glens Falls for the annual Wing Fest, a competition between restaurants to produce the best chicken wing. After three hours of wing-tasting at participating restaurants, an awards ceremony will be held at the City Park Bandstand. There, the winners in categories including Best Wings, Best Visitor, Best Rookie and Best Meatless Entrée will be named. glensfallscollaborative.com
BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Expo
Empire State Plaza Convention Center
Thousands of master builders-in-training will descend upon Empire State Plaza Convention Center this April 27 and 28 for BrickUniverse’s Build It! Tour. The ultimate LEGO fan experience will welcome professional artists from around the country who will exhibit their epic creations, including world landmarks, life-size sculptures, LEGO mosaics and interactive displays. Attendees will be invited to unleash their creativity at specified building zones, and stock up on LEGO pieces and merch before they head out. brickuniverseusa.com
When you purchase tickets to one of the eight performances of SIX coming to Proctors this May, you won’t just be signing up for an afternoon or evening at the theater—you’re in for 500 years’ worth of historical heartbreak remixed into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power. The Tony-winning musical is a modern retelling of the story of Henry VIII’s six wives, presented in the form of a pop concert. Slay. proctors.com
Albany
Albany Tulip Festival
Washington Park
Get your yearly dose of flower power at the 76th annual Albany Tulip Festival, which will take over the 81-acre “crown jewel” of Albany (aka Washington Park) this May 11-12. Experience traditions rooted in the
city’s rich Dutch heritage including tulip tours, street scrubbing and the crowning of the 2024 Tulip Queen as well as artisan booths, food, the KidZone, two stages of live entertainment and, of course, more than 140,000 blooming tulips in more than 150 different varieties. albanyevents.org
BY CHANTAL MARIE | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ROBERT RISKO
ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 19
All’s fair in love and war, and right now that’s the spectrum you may be swinging on, my Aries friends. Emotions could be running high, leaving you exhausted—but you still come back swinging to tell another tale like the warrior you are. Focus on yourself during this time and you’ll be right as rain once the dust settles. Towards the end of this cycle, fortune will be smiling on you as a very lucky transit moves through your area of finances. Keep your head and spirits up, stay locked in on your goals, and enjoy the wild ride.
TAURUS APRIL 20 - MAY 20
A rebirth is coming for you, sweet Taurus, but not before some deep introspection and reflection of where you’ve been. Have the things to which you’ve been dedicating your energy and time been advocating for the life you desire? If not, it’s time to change it all up and develop new action plans that align with your authentic self and true purpose. The winds are shifting and you will get a boost of confidence to chase your dreams, so be sure to steady
your sails in preparation of an energy push into wide-open seas of possibility.
GEMINI MAY 21 - JUNE 20
You are what you think, so make sure your thoughts are of the highest quality, Gemini. This doesn’t mean to take
everything too seriously: Make sure you are leaving room for and incorporating fun and whimsy into all aspects of life. And what’s fun without a healthy dose of imagination and fantasy? Let yourself dream and drift into what could be in the areas of career and social circles. Who could you imagine yourself rubbing shoulders with while doing the most for your public image? If practicality (re: doubt) rears its head, ask yourself, “why not me?” The answer is in what you believe.
CANCER JUNE 21 - JULY 22
The best-laid plans require and start with grand ideas, and you may find yourself conjuring up some pretty amazing things in
that beautiful head of yours. They say if you shoot for the moon you’ll land among the stars, so don’t hold back from those
big dreams, Cancer dears. Expanding your horizons (via travel or ideas) will lay the foundation for the motivation you’ve been searching for to act upon those career goals you’ve had for some time now. And never forget, who you know is most often more important than what you know.
LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 22
You’ve been exercising your demons for some time now, my Leo loves; it may be time to finally send them on their way for good. Let go of the old stories that have kept you in the dark by giving them new plot lines that paint a lighter and happier picture so that you may shine like the Sun’s chosen child you are. Then remove any blocks that have been holding you back from growth and go be a part of the world again! Career prospects are primed to shock and excite you in the best ways, so stay open to whatever the Universe lays in your path.
VIRGO AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22
It’s time to fall in love with love again and embody main character energy as the planet
Venus pays homage to your relationships, blessing them with all the beautiful feelings. This highlight into your personal life will be, of course, followed by some shedding of those who no longer vibe with you. When you shine the brightest, pay attention to who puts their shades on in an attempt to block or dim you. Matters in money and growth (both external and internal) will receive a healthy dose of glow-up magic once you’ve cleared the debris from your inner circles. Enjoy it, Virgos! You’ve earned and most definitely deserve it.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22
Time to shake off the cobwebs, Libras! Stuck energy/ projects are now ready to move forward and there could be some surprises in store that come along with them. All of this is happening at the exact right time and is working in your best interests; try to remember that if things get to feeling a bit jarring or intense. Don’t forget that breakdowns always lead to breakthroughs—so keep it pushing like the cardinal sign you are. Doors that close now will close for good; don’t look back because you’re most definitely headed forward.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21
You can look forward to some welldeserved fun and flirty times ahead!
Enjoy it, dear Scorpio. Just don’t forget that every action has a reaction and it’s all fun and games until it’s not. Responsibilities are always around and will eventually need your
attention, so try not to neglect too much of what’s important and pressing at the time. Your health and the daily habits that directly affect it may also demand more dedication. Make adjustments where necessary but don’t forget to let loose and let go; it’s important for your life balance.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21
Feeling like staying in more and more isn’t usually your method of living, but here we are, my Sag babes.
The (good?) news is that this won’t last and you’ll soon be back to your natural wanderlusting selves; however, let this homebody energy do its thing as it is important to recharge, reflect and renew your batteries every now and then. Maybe your ideas of what a good time is are shifting. Maybe your social circles are evolving. Whatever the reason, it’s a great opportunity to grow and expand your own personal beliefs and philosophies.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19
You’ve got a lot to say, Capricorn, and it’s all due to that beautiful brain of yours that’s downloading new thoughts
on what you want your life to look and feel like. You are encouraged to share your thoughts with the class and put your money where your mouth is. Don’t just dream it, do it! Tearing up old foundations to lay down new and improved ones will serve you well in the long run, so start now. You aren’t one to shy away from the hard work and sacrifice needed for your goals, so roll them
sleeves up and get going. You know it’ll be worth every minute.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18
Is it time to make some major moves yet, my Aquarius friends? It could be an actual move or maybe just renovations of the home you are currently in. Either way, a refresh is definitely on the horizon, and you’re feeling good about it all. And why shouldn’t you? You’re in your rebrand era and with that should come bold and courageous commitment levels to your new life. Peel back the layers of your home (literally and figuratively) to find surprise elements that were once hidden and now increase your value. It’s your time to shine!
PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20
If it feels like you’re riding a rollercoaster, my best advice is to put your hands in the air and just go with it. The ups and downs can give you whiplash if you are not flexible in how you move through the twists and turns. So do what you do best and let the energy take you where it wants to while you make the most of the ride, sweet Pisces. Things will settle, so you’ll have both feet planted firmly on the ground again soon. Until then, do your best to sway in the breeze—always bending, never breaking.
Chantal Marie is a full-time astrologer, tarot reader and life coach. Find her full list of services on her website: akashiccystalhealing.com
Calendar » Horoscope » Recipe » Crossword
HOT ON THE HEELS OF A BIG “RISING STAR CHEF” WIN AT ALBANY WINE AND DINE FOR THE ARTS, STACY’S SCRATCH KITCHEN COOKS UP FILET-TOPPED GOODNESS.
Cremini Mushroom Stroganoff With Filet Tips
Ingredients:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves
2 shallots
1 cup sherry
3 cups cremini mushrooms
1 Tbsp beef base
1 pint heavy cream
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp roux (corn starch & water)
12 oz tenderloin of beef tips/chunks
1 lb egg pappardelle
Instructions:
• In a sauté pan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Add two cloves
of garlic and cook until golden brown. Add two shallots and cook until translucent. Add one cup of sherry and let it reduce. Add three cups of cremini mushrooms and sauté until tender. Add one tablespoon of beef base and a cup of water. Add one pint of heavy cream and one tablespoon of Dijon mustard and reduce. Then add one tablespoon of the cornstarch and water mixture.
• S eer beef tips in a pan and finish in the oven to desired temperature.
• Bring water to a boil and add in egg noodles. Cook until tender and combine into sauce.
• Top the noodles with the beef and serve.
BY NATALIE MOORE
ACROSS
1. Meet your ___
6. Sloths work there in Zootopia, for short
9. Comedian Vulcano
12. Scent
13. Three-lettered outdoors store
14. Brand you may buy at 13-Across or 4-Down
17. Glad products
19. “The ___ does not exist!” (Mean Girls quote)
20. Long fish
21. “Unholy” singer Smith
22. Friendly
24. Word that means and rhymes with fan
26. Tupac’s genre
28. GA airport code
29. What the 32-Down does twice a day
31. ___ A Sketch
33. Bug spray brand
36. Honey-yellow gemstone
39. Real Housewife Jayne
40. Popular Thanksgiving dessert
41. Word used in many a cheese pun
42. Not even
43. Apple tablets
45. Make a mistake
46. Belly button variety
48. Reigns
49. Hibernation location
50. Nostril location
51. Nonverbal communication method, for short
52. Play a role
53. Chicago ___ (NBC series)
55. Cans of light beer, familiarly
59. Windpipe, medically
63. Roadside assistance org.
65. Glee star Michele
66. Starbucks size
67. Source of balmy temperatures
70 Slow-moving gastropod
71. “___ for one and one for ___”
72. Downton
73. Top of a container
74. Exclamation of approval
75. See 54-Down
1. Friends, in England
2. Word on Quebecois stop signs
3. Animal often mislabeled as a bear
4. Three-lettered outdoors store
5. Cheerleaders’ exclamations
6. ___ queen
7. Actress Ryan
8. Mastercard competitor
9. Make small and unnecessary distinctions, or a clue to this puzzle’s shaded squares
10. Popular sans-serif font
11. Baby sheep
15. Zero
16. Had a bite
18. and Star Go to Vista Del Mar
23. Semi-truck manufacturer
25. Require
27. Latin phrase meaning “for each day”
30. Idea belonging to a particular person
32. Moon-related ocean phenomenon
33. Multicolored gemstone
34. Bona ___
35. ___ up (tell the truth)
36. Got better, like fine wine
37. Word before Gore in a local ski resort slogan
38. It may be described as third degree
39. Ages
44. Divisive orange juice ingredient
47 Word after music or bank
51. Actor Driver
52. When Hamilton dies in Hamilton
54. With 75-across, one who wakes up before 7am, say
56. Objects with no distinct shape
57 Accented woman’s name
58. Greek woodland spirit
59 Flatscreens and others, for short
60 Kylo ___ (Star Wars character)
61. Excessively orderly
62. On vacation, say
64. At a distance
68. Pie ___ mode
69. Clean-up hitter stat
BY JOHN GRAY
enny Hickenbottom was a nice little boy who came from a strange world, at least in the eyes of his classmates. His family owned the town pet store and while selling goldfish and dog food was perfectly normal, it was the spiders, snakes and lizards that Kenny took care of after school that made him an outcast in the eighth grade. After all, who plays with such creepy, crawly things?
His favorite reptile was his pet iguana, Simon.
Once, when Kenny was nine, he brought Simon to school for show and tell He concluded his presentation by kissing the lizard on the head, a gesture that made his classmates groan with disgust.
One student, a blonde with pigtails named Becky Worthington, called him “Creepy Kenny” after his display of affection, and because of her popularity, the nickname stuck.
The name-calling continued for the next three years, and Kenny often found himself sitting alone at lunch or playing on the swings by himself at recess.
One day, the kind boy asked his mother why children like Becky were so mean. She explained that nobody is born that way, telling Kenny that kids are a lot like Jell-O: What you put in the mix early on will be stuck there once
the Jell-O hardens.
She told her son, “If you toss sliced bananas and raspberries in the Jell-O liquid, then put it in the fridge, it’s very hard to separate them later.”
When she saw Kenny didn’t grasp her analogy, she shared a secret about Becky that few people knew. His mother explained that Becky once had a twin sister named Rose who died of leukemia at the age of five. His mom said that Becky seemed to change after that loss, becoming meaner.
Even though she had been so unkind to him, Kenny was sad over Becky’s heartbreak and asked his mother if there was any way to change the Jell-O once it was hardened by life. She told him it was
difficult, but it never hurt to try.
Since it was time for the Spring Fling dance at school, Kenny came up with a surprise he hoped would win him some friends and, perhaps, change the Jell-O when it came to Becky.
On the day of the dance, Kenny arrived with 100 green cupcakes carefully arranged to look like a gigantic lizard. Since they were double chocolate with vanilla custard inside, the kids swarmed the display to grab one.
As the children devoured the dessert, the boy they called Creepy Kenny announced that there was a “secret ingredient” inside one of the cupcakes and he made certain that the special cupcake was given to Becky Worthington.
Everyone in the room stopped chewing and looked at her.
Becky, assuming the worst, spit the cupcake out, causing everyone to laugh.
Kenny Hickenbottom slowly approached, took the half-eaten cupcake from her hand, and showed Becky a small red rose petal made of sugar hiding inside with the custard.
“I don’t understand,” Becky said.
“I made two cupcake lizards,” Kenny explained. “One for school and one we sold outside the pet store last Saturday. The cupcakes went for a buck a piece.”
“Why?” she asked.
“So, I could raise money to buy a beautiful rose bush, which will be planted in front of the school to honor the twin sister you lost.”
Becky was speechless for a moment, finally asking, “Why would you do that for me when
I’ve been so mean to you?”
Kenny answered, “The secret ingredient in my cupcakes was forgiveness.”
From that moment forward, no one ever called him Creepy Kenny ever again.
X 10.375”