Blogging the Avenue Albany-The E Newsletter

Avenue goes blue to prevent cancer

2011-03-27T16:29:00.006-04:00

Each year, 10,000 New Yorkers are diagnosed with colon or rectum and 3,500 die from the disease. People over 50 are at increased risk. However, with early screening, more than half of these cases could be prevented. March is colorectal cancer awareness month and to promote screenings, cities in the Capital Region will be illuminated and decorated in blue and free take-home colon screening kits will be distributed. Central Avenue businesses will be participating, including PriceChopper, Planned Parenthood, and Bob and Ron's Fish Fry. “The Businesses of Central Avenue in Albany are proud to be working together with so many great partners to help spread the message of colorectal cancer awareness," says Anthony J. Capece, Jr., Executive Director of the Central Business Improvement District. "The New York State Department of Health has created a very proactive life saving screening program and we are honored to offer our help to deliver the message to our community and the region. Many of our businesses are actively promoting this awareness effort and many are also hosting events. We encourage residents to find a Central Avenue business that is hosting an event and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.” The Cancer Services Program of Albany also provides free and low-cost screening for breast, colon, and cervical cancer throughout the year. For more information about the program, visit their website at: http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/services/partnerships/albany.htm or call them at 454-4055.

Shining Rainbow wins national dining competition

2011-03-15T14:16:00.006-04:00

Shining Rainbow is one of the nation's best Chinese restaurants--officially.

The local restaurant has been named one of the country's Top 100 Chinese restaurants in the Top 100 Chinese Restaurants Competition annual competition. In its seventh year, the contest honors the nation's best restaurants in nine categories. Shining Rainbow won in the healthy menu category.

"It's a pretty big honor," says Justin Chi, Shining Rainbow staffer.

Since opening in 2008, Shining Rainbow has received a great deal of critical praise, including receiving five stars from New York Talk of the Town. The restaurant was also visited by famed Chinese chef and cookbook writer Martin Yan, who came to sample the cuisine and talk with the staff.

Nationally, Chinese restaurants are big business. The Top 100 organization says that there are 46,700 Chinese restaurants in the country, more than the number of McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King restaurants combined. Chinese restaurants generate about $20 billion annually.

Top 100 contest winners were honored in January at a ceremony in San Francisco that brought it all back home. The first Chinese restaurant in America opened its doors in San Francisco in 1849. The ceremony, "The Future of Chinese Dining, and its 150-year History in America," honored this business's illustrious history. Here's to more honors in the future!

Get your ackee: Linstead Market brings taste of the islands to Central

2011-01-30T16:45:00.010-05:00

The first thing you notice when you walk into Linstead Market and Island Cafe is the pumping reggae music, which is fitting, given that the specialty grocery store is named after a Jamaican folksong.

Owner, Delcita Mitchell opened the store 15 years ago on Lexington to cater to Caribbean transplants and the local community. Last year, she moved Linstead to Central Avenue, hoping that the new location would be busier--and it has been, she says.

Mitchell carries a large selection of African and Carribean mainstays, including ackee, the national dish of Jamaica, callaloo, jerk seasoning, curry powder, pounded yam, plantains, and farina. She also serves a range of Island dishes at the Jamaican Grill, which is the cafe side of the business. The handwritten menu behind the cash register announces a mouth-watering array of traditional prepared foods including curry chicken, oxtail soup, porridge, jerk chicken, ackee and cod fish, and brown stew snapper. Mitchell does a bustling lunch business. Customers can sit at one of the metal and formica tables at the back of the store or take their food to go. Prices start at $1.50 for a beef patty or fried chicken leg and go up to $14.50 for a dinner of ackee and cod fish. All dinners are served with cabbage and plantains, and your choice of white rice and peas or dumplings with yams and bananas.

"Come in and try the food," Mitchell urges. "It's tasty."

Linstead Market and Island Cafe is located at 109 Central Avenue. The store is open Monday through Saturday 9am-9pm. For more information, call 434-0092.

Albany Assessment Review Board Opening

2011-01-27T19:21:00.001-05:00

Albany Board of Assessment Review Opening
Application Deadline: February 2, 2011

Dear Friend:

There is currently one opening on the Albany Board of Assessment Review
which is appointed by the Common Council. This is the Board that
considers property owner challenges to their assessments during the
annual grievance period in May-June. Below is additional information on
the Board and the process for submitting a letter of interest and
application for appointment. The deadline for applications is February
2. This is a very important Board, if you or someone you know is
interested please consider submitting an application.

Richard Conti
President Pro Tempore
Albany Common Council Member 6th Ward

City of Albany
Common Council

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

The Albany Common Council is seeking applications from qualified
residents of the City of Albany for the following position:

Title of Position:

Member, Board of Assessment Review

Term of Appointment:

Immediate for a term ending 9/30/15

Position Responsibilities/Duties:

The sole purpose of the Board of Assessment review is to guarantee
taxpayer rights by hearing real property assessment complaints
(grievances) and arriving at fair and impartial determinations regarding
those complaints. Members of the Board should be individuals with
knowledge of property values within the municipality and must attend and
complete a training course in order to participate in the hearing and
determinations of assessment complaints.

The training course will not exceed four hours in length and shall
include, but not be limited to, the functions, duties and
responsibilities of the Board of Assessment Review, assessment review
and assessment procedures, and exemption administration. Additional
topics may include real property tax legislation, judicial decisions and
administrative opinions.

The Board's work will primarily take place during a five week period;
May 25 through June 30. Members of the Board should expect to work five
days a week, eight hours a day during that period. This should be
considered a full-time job during that period. Board members will be
compensated $1,000 annually during their term of appointment.

In addition to hearing grievances and making determinations as part of
the regular grievance process, board members will also assist property
owners with preliminary assessed valuations and informal challenges.

Statutory Authority:

NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 523

Application Requirement:

Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent describing
qualifications and include a current resume to:

Cashawna Parker
Senior Legislative Aide
Albany Common Council – Room 206
City Hall
Albany, NY 12207

Tel: 434-5087
Fax: 434-5081
e-mail: parkerc@ci.albany.ny.us

Applicants will be interviewed by a selected committee of the Common
Council prior to appointment.

Deadline for Applications: Close of business, Wednesday, February 2,
2011.

Policy Statement

The Common Council is committed to assuring that its appointments to
city boards, authorities, commissions or committees is representative of
the diversity of Albany's population. Consistent with the City of
Albany Human Rights Law, it is the policy of the Common Council to
prohibit discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national
origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, marital or domestic
partner status in all aspects of its personnel policies, programs,
practices and operations.

Second Time Around offers new life for donated goods

2011-01-27T14:16:00.006-05:00

Wedding dresses. Formal gowns. Outgrown baby clothes and bassinets. Wouldn't it be great if these items could be used again? Second Time Around, the new thrift store behind Mohawk Ambulance offers a second chance for used goods, and profits go to fund City Harvest Family Church missions overseas, says coordinator Ann Pratt.

Second Time Around sells clothing for men, women and children, as well as home furnishings at a steep discount. The merchandise is donated, the staff is volunteer, and the profits are given away, making the store a kind of epicenter of giving. And that's the point, says Pratt.

The thrift store is a way to reach out to the surrounding community, and connect them with other church programs, many of which are housed in the same building, Pratt says. One such program, Angelfood, provides boxes of food to families and seniors at a discount. Customers can choose from a variety of packages, including the Bread of Life box, which promises to provide a week's worth of meals for a family of four for $31, or the Just 4 Me After School Box, which provides afterschool snacks for a week for a scant $16, or the Fast and Flavorful Cuisine, which provides convenience meals for seniors for just $28. These boxes are not a hand-out, Pratt says, "they're a hand-up."

Soon, the building will also be home to an internet cafe that Pratt hopes will attract more neighbors, including clients of Saint Anne's Institute. The building also houses some low-cost apartments for families in need, she says.

Second Time Around is located at 181 N. Main Street, behind the Mohawk Ambulance Garage. The store is open Thursday 10am-2pm, Friday 10am-2pm, and Saturday 11am-3pm. For more information, contact the store at 632-1012.

Business Council President Kenneth Adams nominated to run ESD

2011-01-27T11:48:00.002-05:00

Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced the nomination of Kenneth Adams, President of the Business Council of NYS to be President and CEO of ESDC. Kenneth is a good friend who has been a strong supporter of NYSEDC and the economic development agenda we have championed. NYSEDC looks forward to partnering with Kenneth and Governor Cuomo in our mutual efforts to move New York forward.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Nominates Kenneth Adams to Serve as President and CEO of ESDC

ALBANY, NY (01/27/2011)(readMedia)--

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the nomination of Kenneth Adams as President and CEO of the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC). Governor Cuomo said the appointment is part of his plan to change the leadership structure of ESDC, separating the CEO and Chairperson functions.

"With Ken Adams as President and CEO, the Empire State Development Corporation will fuel New York-based innovation and create jobs at home while helping to transform the state into a world-class center for business and new ideas," Governor Cuomo said. "As I said in my State of the State address, we need a strong voice to help say that New York is 'open for business.' A fast growing and forward-thinking economy begins with changing the state's business climate to attract and maintain cutting-edge companies. Ken is clearly the right person at the right time for New York and I thank him for agreeing to serve the people of the state. He succeeds Dennis Mullen, who has been a tireless advocate for business, marketing and growth for our state and I thank him for his dedication to New York."

Kenneth Adams has been President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State, the state's leading business association, since 2006. Mr. Adams has led the organization in its mission of creating "economic growth, good jobs and strong communities across New York State." The Business Council represents nearly 2,500 member businesses, chambers of commerce and professional and trade associations, employing a total of more than 1 million New Yorkers.

Prior to leading the Business Council, Mr. Adams was President of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and Director of the MetroTech Business Improvement District in Downtown Brooklyn. Kenneth was also the founding Executive Director of New York Cares, New York City's leading volunteer organization, from 1988 to 1994.

Mr. Adams serves on the Empire State Stem Cell Board, the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Community Foundation and the Steering Committee of the Association for a Better New York. He is vice-chair of the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Youth Chorus Academy. He also serves on the City University of New York Business Leadership Council, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100 and the Council of State Chambers.

Mr. Adams will also serve as Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development. A Chairperson for ESDC will also be chosen who will bring a specific understanding of the issues facing economic development in Upstate New York.

In his new role, Mr. Adams will work closely with Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy to implement Regional Economic Development Councils across the state. Mr. Adams was also recently named to Governor Cuomo's Task Force on Mandate Relief, tasked with finding ways to reduce the costs of mandated programs, identify mandates that are ineffective and outdated, and determine how school districts and local governments can have greater ability to control expenses.

Kevin Burke, President and CEO of Con Edison said, "Ken knows doing business in New York can be like swimming upstream, but now he is in a position to change the tide. Business leaders know and trust him, and for good reason. His knowledge and dedication will help New York reclaim its place as a national pro-business leader and center for job creation. We commend Governor Cuomo for his wise choice and we look forward to working closely with our partners in government so we can once again declare New York 'Open for Business.'"

Kirk P. Gregg, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for Corning, Inc. said, "New York is poised for great things with the addition of Ken Adams to state government. He is a true professional who will work diligently to achieve real results for struggling communities across New York. We applaud Governor Cuomo's emphasis on job-creation and transforming New York into a business-friendly destination for everything from entrepreneurs to major global corporations."

Denis Hughes, President of the AFL-CIO, said, "Ken is a good friend and someone who can do a great job at ESDC. He has a full understanding of New York's economy and businesses, and he is someone that the Labor Movement can work with for the betterment of our state. I'm very happy for Ken and I applaud his appointment."

Linda Sanford, Senior Vice President for Enterprise Transformation at IBM Corporation, said, "Kenneth and I worked in close partnership on the Business Council of New York for many years. He is a proven leader, and that's exactly what New York needs at this critical time. Governor Cuomo has outlined a vision of making New York State business-friendly, and I can think of no one better to make that vision a reality than Kenneth. I commend the Governor on his selection and look forward to working with Kenneth as he embarks on this new endeavor."

Rob Simpson, President of CenterState CEO, said, "Governor Cuomo understands that for New York state to thrive once again, we need a strong private sector to lead the way. His choice of Ken Adams to head ESDC shows that he is serious about transforming New York. Ken will do wonders for New York's economic development and I applaud the governor on his choice."

Brian McMahon

Executive Director

New York State Economic Development Council

111 Washington Avenue, 6th Floor

Albany, NY 12210

Phone: (518) 426-4058 x3

Fax: (518) 426-4059

www.nysedc.org

Leadership. Advocacy. Professional Development.

You've got a ticket to ride: CDTA rolls out BusPlus on Central

2011-01-21T19:48:00.005-05:00

If you ride the bus on Central Avenue, your commute just got easier. This winter, CDTA completed construction of 18 new BusPlus shelters on either side of Central Avenue. The shelters represent the next phase of the CDTA’s much touted BusPlus program on Central, which will be officially rolled out April 4.

The BusPlus program offers faster trips between Albany and Schenectady by providing buses that make limited stops. These easily recognizable red and silver buses will stop only at the busiest intersections, now marked with CDTA’s new matching shelters. Bus riders can take shelter from the wintry weather inside the new red and silver shelters and wait for their bus on comfortable benches.

CDTA hopes people enjoy the new BusPlus shelters—enough to start taking the bus more often. “We hope they enjoy them enough to ride,” says Margo Janack, CDTA spokesperson.

These new express buses which will also make use of new technology like traffic signal preference, priority at traffic lights, and up-to-the-minute arrival time information, all making your bus ride more convenient.

Plus, when the new BusPlus service is unveiled April 4, everyone rides for free, Janack says. Riders can try out the BusPlus route for free the first two weeks, a promotion CDTA hopes will help introduce many new people to public transportation.

BusPlus service on Route 5 will be the first of a proposed 100-mile rapid transit network with Washington Avenue and Western Avenue the next areas slated for BusPlus.

Central is the busiest travel corridor in the Capital Region, serving more than 3.5 million CDTA riders each year.

Beginning April 4, BusPlus Service will operate Monday-Friday from 4AM to Midnight, 6am to 11pm Saturdays, and 7am-6pm Sundays. For more information, visit the CDTA website www.cdta.org

Wavers hail tax season: Liberty Taxes out in full force

2011-01-17T11:14:00.008-05:00

As you pass Liberty Tax Services near Hannaford Plaza, the Statue of Liberty that stands out in front of the building comes to life. Decked out in robes and the famous tiara, this statue is anything but frozen. Instead, the statue leaps up and down, waving enthusiastically at the passing cars.

"It's our number one marketing tool," says Ed Welch, owner of four Liberty Tax Services, including two locations on Central Avenue. Liberty Tax Services is one of the fastest growing tax services nationally, Welch says, owing in part to these employees.

Each year, Liberty hires people to stand in front of the store and attract customers. Known as "wavers," these employees are encouraged to dance and ham it up for the passing traffic. They also wave signs around advertising discounts at Liberty. The best wavers are animated. "You don't want someone who just stands there with his hands in his pockets," Welch says.

Unfortunately, the busiest time of the tax year, January 25 to February 7, can also be the coldest. Special precautions are taken so that wavers don't suffer, Welch assures. They're encouraged to bundle up, and they are even issued hand warmers. They take frequent breaks, coming inside the nearby store to warm up and get a hot cup of coffee. If the weather is too frigid, they're given the option not to work, he says. Many wavers come back year after year.

Liberty Tax Service was established in 1996 and it the third largest tax prep business in the country. The business specializes in individual income tax preparation, but can also assist with business returns. Rates vary based on complexity of the return, but a typical return costs between $100 and $300, Welch says. Liberty is open Monday through Saturday from 9am-9pm and on Sundays, from 12pm-5pm.

Liberty Tax Service is located at 157 Central and 900 Central. For more information, contact the offices at 453-2330 or visit the website at www.libertytax.com.

Community Loan Fund Small business class

2011-01-13T12:49:00.001-05:00

The Capital District Community Loan Fund offer a small business class beginning January 29^th for its next 8 week session. The class is a great opportunity to learn some of the basics you need (or someone you know) to get started in business. Business Plans, legal issues, reading financial statements, understanding what questions to ask your accountant, lawyer, or insurance person - these are some of the things you will learn in this practical leaning opportunity. The class is modestly priced and geared for the micro-enterprise business of five or fewer people but any business is likely to benefit. There is a charge for the class but it is extremely reasonable. You will receive training and support from Dr. Michael Mathews and other instructors from the College of Saint Rose School of Business, and professionals in the community. Please refer to the attached FLYER to sign up for the course or pass it to others who may have an interest.

See attached Flyer for details and sign up information..

Planned Parenthood moves to Central

2011-01-02T16:10:00.004-05:00

In September, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood relocated its Lark Street offices and health center to the newer, more modern facilities at 855 Central--and staffers say they couldn't be happier. "We're thrilled to be in your district," says Blue Carreker, Vice President for Public Affairs and Marketing at Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood.

The new 18,000 square feet facility on the third floor of the 855 office building includes administrative offices, a teen center, a health center, and conference facilities, says Carreker.

"We've increased capacity by 50%," Carreker says. "That allows us to see a lot more patients." Currently, the agency sees about 8,000 patients a year, and that demand is rising, she says.

The move also allows the center to increase its education and outreach capacity. The agency's new teen center is bigger and more accessible to area high school students, and Carreker says the teens who work there are very happy with their new, roomier digs.

The move was made possible by a capital campaign that successfully raised $1.692 million, says Carreker. The agency still needs to raise about $250,000, she says.

The new Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood offices are located at 855 Central Avenue. For more information or to book an appointment, please call 434-5678 or visit the website at www.plannedparenthood.org/uhpp/

Happy Holidays at Paradiso 'On the Avenue'

2010-12-22T08:37:00.001-05:00

All the best of the Season from Matt, Odette, and everyone at the Paradiso

Here is the Paradiso Holiday information

The Paradiso will be open 5pm to 9pm on Christmas eve and closed
Saturday and Sunday, December 25 and 26

the Paradiso will be open New Year's Eve and taking reservations
between 5 and 10 that night

the special menu includes soups, starters, and main courses

the starters are in the $7 to $10 dollar range and include Salmon and
sweet corn cakes with a Lobster Sherry Cream Sauce, Potato Gnocchi
with sweet Italian sausage and a spicy arrabiatta sauce, Colossal
Shrimp cocktail with a chipotle vodka cocktail sauce

Entrees are from $19 to $27 dollars and include Veal Osso Bucco with a
three cheese risotto, House-made wild mushroom and spinach ravioli in
a rosemary and garlic veloute, and a 20 oz Delmonico steak with twice
baked potato, grilled asparagus, and a rosemary merlot pan sauce

From our family to yours, a happy, healthy, and wondrous Christmas and New Year

Ristorante Paradiso
198 Central Avenue
Albany, New York 12206
518.462.5812

Know your Nikes: StreetGame sells shoe history

2010-12-14T13:43:00.009-05:00

With its vintage merchandise and its knowledgeable sales associates, StreetGame is selling more than shoes; it's selling shoe history.

The Albany location is the sixth store in this upstate New York franchise. "We thought customers needed us in Albany," says Jay Choi, General Manager.

This new Albany shoe store caters to urban wear conniseurs who can tell their Nike Airs from their Air Maxes (hint: it has to do with the size of the air pocket). Opened in August, the store has already become the destination for people looking for classic Nikes. It's the only licensed Nike store in the area, making it the best source of the very latest in styles and colors. You can also find the best in Timberlands, and a great selection of T-shirts and athletic wear.

"We are the biggest Nike and Jordan authorized dealer in upstate New York," says Choi. "We are the ones who carry the most diverse and hot items." The store also offers a large selection of rare, limited edition shoes, he says.

The store is also a great place to score a good deal on shoes. On the store's Buy One Get One Free wall, you can pick any shoe, and get a second pair of equal or lesser value for free. You're liable to find anything on the wall--from high tops to kids' kicks--so check it out frequently.

Best of all, StreetGame's staff gets a kick out of shoe trivia, and they can answer almost any question you might have about Nikes. Local manager Eric Pitts is a shoe genius, and during a recent tour he provided a full history of the iconic shoe, complete with demonstrations. Pitts is an asset to the new store because he knows things about Nikes that few people know, says Choi. "I don't know, but he knows," admits Choi.

StreetGame is located at 818 Central Avenue, Albany in the plaza next to Clothes Mentor. For more information, call StreetGame at 729-5975.

Community Loan Fund upcoming programs

2010-12-09T09:20:00.000-05:00

Attached are two flyers about programs we are sponsoring. If you have an interest we encourage you to attend. Otherwise please pass them along to someone who may be interested. Please help us get the word out. Please help locate entrepreneurs who may find this useful. We offer many supports especially for start-ups. Thanks, and we look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely,

Paul Stewart

Central Avenue is Friendly Place to Invest

2010-12-07T09:56:00.001-05:00

A Second Serving of Pepper Jack's in Albany

2010-11-10T12:10:00.000-05:00

Mayor Jennings will be on hand today to cut a ribbon for a new location for Pepper Jack's, a well known college student staple for burgers, is opening a new location at 192 N. Allen Street, and bringing its special mix of sandwiches and burritos to even larger crowds.

The restaurant hopes this new and larger space will allow them to accommodate even more people, says owner Philip Stein. "It's a lot larger," Stein says. "The setup is more efficient." The menu will stay largely the same as Western Avenue, although he hopes to be able to deliver more hot meals and breakfast.

Stein and his partner Christopher Soden opened the Western Avenue restaurant in 2000. The two were interested in the restaurant business. Soden was born and raised in Albany, and Stein has lived here for 20 years. Stein was a UAlbany student and said he knew first-hand that there weren't enough dining options for students. They were "saturated with pizza and Chinese," he says. "We wanted to open an eatery that's more our style," he says. Pepper Jack's, with its wide selection of burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups and appetizers, was that eatery, he says. The two started the business as primarily takeout spot on the corner of Quail and Spring, and then moved to a larger space on the corner of Quail and Western. This new building at 192 N. Allen represents yet another expansion for the duo. "We'll be able to seat 25 to start, and we're hoping to expand from there," he says.

The new building is also more centrally located and offers more parking. Pepper Jack's has been around for 10 years, we would like to be around for 30 years," says Stein.

For more information, call 426-5505 or visit their website atwww.pepperjacksalbany.com

Sports Night: Bobby T's Sports Grill

2010-10-28T20:38:00.006-04:00

Twenty-six TVs. Hog wings. The full NFL package. The new Bobby T's is an oasis for sports fans.

Opened at the beginning of October, the grill is the culmination of Bobby Taaffe's experience. Taaffe has been an entrepreneur and restauranteur for 30 years, and has several previous successes under his belt including Paolo Lombardi's in Wynantskill and the Elbo Room in Albany. Taaffe opened the grill because he wanted his own place, somewhere he could catch the game. His own Christian Brothers' Academy jersey hangs on the wall, in between the bar's TVs and sports memorabilia.

The grill offers a pub menu, including burgers, salads, and pizza. Bobby T's is the only restaurant in the Capital Region that serves "hog wings," pork shanks with seasoning. Monday Night will be "Hog Heaven," with specials on the tasty wings and a great seat for the game.

Bobby T's Sports Grill is located at 221 N. Allen Street in Albany.

Ristorante Paradiso New Year Eve Raffle

2010-10-27T12:12:00.001-04:00

Now thru December 19th 2010

New Year's Eve Contest
Every time you come in to dine, fill out an our email list request
with your name, email, and phone number. We will enter you into our
fantastic New Year's Eve Drawing. You and a friend can win dinner for
2 on New Years Eve, a bottle of house wine, and a champagne split!
Come in, have dinner, enter to win -- how wonderful is that? One
entry per table; you may enter every day you come in for dinner.
Hosting a Holiday Gathering? Get 2 chances!

Drawing will be conducted on December 20th, 2010.

Ristorante Paradiso
198 Central Avenue
Albany, New York 12206
518.462.5812

Great Food, A Special California Red and Live Music - This Friday!

2010-10-19T17:19:00.000-04:00

Special California Red Wine and Live Music This Friday Night

Join us for a special October Friday night at Grappa 72 - the Capital Region's Best New Restaurant! Relaxing live music from Sonny and Perley and a special California Red - hand picked for this special evening.

Make your reservation now!

Visit Facebook.com/Grappa72 and tell us how much you Like us!

See the remodeled restaurant on Flickr!

Taste of home: Mexican grocery packs forgotten favorites

2010-10-13T20:09:00.007-04:00

Emmanuel Santa Cruz opened the Mexican Market located at 656 Central Avenue, near North Allen Street, so he could get a taste of home. When he couldn't find any food from his native land, he and his wife decided to open a grocery store carrying favorites he remembers from childhood, as well as homemade burritos and tamales.

Beginning November 1, they will open a small taco shop at the back of the store, making homemade food for takeout. His wife, Placida make the burritos and tamales, and Santa Cruz makes the tacos. He will also stock cotijo cheese, chorizo, queso fresco, and beginning in November, he'll also have produce. Right now, he carries a selection of dried chile--the widest this side of the Rio Grande, including chile costano, chile morita, chile d'arbo, chile ancho.

Open for three weeks, the store is doing well, catering to a growing crowd of transplants hungry for a taste of home. He points out the cooler of soda, all in glass bottles. "Nobody can find this anywhere," he says proudly. One customer came in and said he hasn't seen the glass bottles in 40 years, he says. "In Mexico, they never change anything like this. They don't change anything. I think it's for tradition," Santa Cruz says. "Any party you go in, they have the glass bottles. Any birthday party, any occasion."

He points to the shelf of cookies, including Marias and Arcoiris, and says he remembers eating them when he was four-years old. As we talk, one customer comes in and selects a soda--all are sold in glass bottles, just like in Mexico, Santa Cruz says proudly. As he walks to the register, his eyes fall on a package of cookies. "Marias!" he exclaims, as though greeting a long-lost friend. He grabs a package and sets it on the counter with the soda.

"I just tried to open it because there's not a store like this around," Santa Cruz says. He points out that there are a number of international markets in the area, including Indian and Asian, but none from Mexico. "I just tried to bring something to everyone," he says.

Burgers and nostalgia: Landmark diner reopens

2010-10-13T19:58:00.005-04:00

Wilfredo Ruiz holds up the new Jack's Burger. Piled high with bacon, ham, fried egg, corn, and french-fried potatoes, it is a hefty sandwich--and that's before you take into account the burger itself!

Ruiz, the new owner of Jack's Diner, created the burger to celebrate the restaurant's grand reopening, and today, the diner's waitresses are parked on stools all along the counter giving the burger a test-run. Judging from their exclamations, the burger is a hit. In fact, the new sandwich is a veritable feast by any standards--delicious, with a smoky flavor from the bacon and ham and a sweet pop from the corn--and it bodes well for the newly reopened diner. If this is the new Jack's, I'll take seconds!

Jack's is a landmark on Central, and a landmark nationally. With its gleaming silver sides and fabulous Art Deco insides, Jack's is one of the few remaining Comac-designed diners in the country--and it's all ours. The diner has been located at the junction of Central and Clinton for 62 years, watching the world pass by its windows. This spring, Ruiz and a partner purchased the diner from Jack Murtagh, who had owned the diner for more than 40 years. Murtagh was also on hand that day, having lunch and sharing stories about the diner's infamous waitresses, surly short order cooks, and murky office. It clear that the diner has been loved, and Ruiz is excited to return it to its former glory.

"I'm very proud," Ruiz says. "I have a little piece of history."

The diner was closed for a short time after Ruiz took over ownership. During that time, he made some changes to the interior, remodeling the kitchen and and closing it off from the dining area. He repainted and refurbished the exterior. The menu has also been revamped, but customers will still find some of the food they remember, he says. After all, many of his customers have been coming for years. Ruiz says they are happy to see the doors open once more. "Many come in every single day," he says. "The love the old-fashioned diner." So does Ruiz. "I love it. It's peaceful. I have great customers, great people. I would say 'great.'"

Jack's Diner is located at 547 Central Avenue. Takeout is available. For more information, call 482-9807.

Townsend Park Bakery Cuts ribbon

2010-10-08T16:41:00.001-04:00

Mayor Jennings of Albany was on hand today to cut the ribbon on the re launch of Mark Smiths renewal of the bakery

Small Business Branding Work Shop Flyer

2010-10-08T13:45:00.001-04:00

Attached: Branding 10.19.10.pdf

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Check out the 2010 Fall Calendar for Small Business from the CDCLF

2010-10-08T13:44:00.001-04:00

Attached: 2010 Fall Calendar Flyer.10.10.pdf

Message from anthony@centralbid.com:

Capital District Community Loan Fund Small Business Programs PDF Calendar/Flyer

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Fwd: 2010 Hudson Valley Region Small Business Forum

2010-10-08T13:41:00.001-04:00

Good morning,

Enclosed is the agenda for Tuesday, October 12 Small Business Forum at SUNY at New Paltz. The purpose of this forum is to provide guidance to aspiring and existing businesses with federal & state tax responsibilities, tax credits, access to capital and free services. Representatives from federal & state agencies will be speaking on Hiring Incentive to Restore Employment Tax Credits, Small Business Health Care Tax Credits, Small Business Administration Programs, Services and Loan Guarantee Process, Free Assistance for Starting & Existing Entrepreneurs, Finding Access to Capital, State Credits, Programs and Services for Small Businesses and more. Please share this invitation and enclosed agenda with your clients, members and customers to attend this forum and learn more about federal and state agencies free services for the small business community. Attendees will also have the opportunity to raise any issues and questions to the respective agency representative during the forum.

To register please call (845) 257-2930 or e-mail Dr. Hadi Salavitabar at salavith@newpaltz.edu with your name, address, telephone number and email address as soon as possible as seating is limited. Here is the link to the campus map www.newpaltz.edu/map and the best parking areas are parking 6, 7, and 8 which are behind gym.

Thank you for your continuing support.

Richard Torres

Senior Stakeholder Liaison

CL & D, Stakeholder Liaison Field

1 Clinton Avenue, 6th Floor

Leo O'Brien Federal Building

Albany, NY 12207

518-427-5460 office

518-427-5480 fax

518-858-7511 cell

Fwd: OCT 5th SBAC: PLEASE RSVP BY 9/27/10

2010-09-21T09:27:00.000-04:00

If you are an employer who wants to retain valued employees…

If you are an employment services provider or advocate who strives to promote successful employment experiences for job seekers and newly-employed individuals…

If you are looking for strategies that will support your efforts to be successful at work…

Please join us on Tuesday, October 5^th, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at our Statewide Business Advisory Council meeting.

TOPIC: Self-Disclosure and Reasonable Accommodations:

POTENTIAL IMPACT ON AN EMPLOYEE'S ON-THE-JOB SUCCESS

Meeting will be held at Seton Health/St. Mary's Hospital, Conference Room A & B, 1300 Massachusetts Avenue in Troy.

Lunch will be served.

PLEASE RSVP BY SEPT. 27^th

For program details, see attached notice.

Marsha

Marsha Lazarus, MBA

Director of Consumer and Business Outreach

Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc.

194 Washington Ave

Albany, N.Y. 12210

(518) 434-0439 ext 224

www.MHANYS.org

Register online at www. MHANYS.org to attend MHANYS' 2010 Awards Dinner and Conference on Wednesday, October 20 & Thursday, October 21st...Theme is HEALTH CARE REFORM; HEALTH/MENTAL HEALTH INTEGRATION

Mental Health Matters in all facets of our life, including the Workplace!

Event at Grappa '72

2010-09-08T09:46:00.000-04:00

More Live Music Friday Night @ Grappa '72 Ristorante

This Friday September 10th from 5:30pm-8:30pm we will have
"Sonny and Perley" playing live outside on our patio.

-----The Chronogram Magazine says they are "Harbingers of aesthetic jazz...and romanticism"

Visit sonnyandperley.com for more information about their duo.

$3 Beer/ $5 Wine/ $5 Well Drinks/ Great appetizer specials!!!

Click the Grappa logo to make reservations online or call (518) 482-72

Family Fun: Greco Bros. amuses for 50 years

2010-09-01T21:04:00.008-04:00

Poker tables. Pool tables. Darts. Foosball tables. If you're looking for fun, look no further than Greco Brothers. The family-owned business has been selling games for 50 years--and for the past 10 years, they've been doing it from their Central Avenue store.

Thomas Greco and his brother inherited the business from their parents. Initially, they sold the arcade equipment business to business, operating the business from a large warehouse, says Debbie Greco. But 10 years ago, they decided to purchase a showroom on Central, opening the business to families and individuals. Today the business specializes in family room equipment, and the store is packed with items--everything from pool cues to bar stools. A full-size pool table takes center stage, and one whole wall is covered with dart boards. The store even sells neon signs for man caves; of course, over the last year, people haven't been building man caves, or equipping family rooms.

"Business has been very bad the last year," says Greco. "People are not spending money on the extras." Greco says the recession has hit the amusement industry hard, and that the already-difficult task of running a business has been made that much more difficult. One of the big challenges has been finding and keeping help. Small businesses can only afford to pay employees so much, Greco says, and after a while, employees get frustrated. After losing a number of employees, the Grecos resorted to manning the front counter themselves, locking the front door so they can work in both the front and back of the store. "We can't afford to have someone just sit out and do nothing," Greco says.

Of course, summer is also a slow season. "You don't think about putting stuff inside your house in the winter," Greco says. The Grecos are looking forward to colder weather, and hope that the new year improves the economic outlook.

Truly Assie: a dream come true

2010-08-23T18:36:00.008-04:00

Assie Bishop and Vivian Kornegay had been talking about opening a business for 11 years, but it wasn't until Kornegay was laid off last summer that she really considered it seriously. She decided to follow her heart, and the result, Truly Assie is a testament to the two women's friendship and of course, fashion. "We did it all on our own, just the two of us," Vivian says. "We just did what was in our heart."

By combining their resources and energy, the two friends were able to open a small shop on Everett Road in November. Truly Assie specializes in one-of-a-kind jewelry, handbags, sunglasses and clothing, and the store did so well, that they opened a new larger location on Washington Avenue in July. "We had a good time and it grew," Kornegay says.

The new location has more visibility and gets more street traffic--"people actually get off the bus and come in," she says. Today, Kornegay and Bishop couldn't be happier with their store.

Kornegay says the business has been a labor of love, and a pleasure from the start. "Our friendship--she's my mentor and my big sister so she's more than just my friend--and working together has been, it's just been great. And I don't believe that you could do this type of business without having a special type of friendship," Kornegay says.

The store has a gallery-like feel, and the pieces--bold necklaces and striking handbags--feel almost like works of art in the space. In a way, they are. The women select the pieces themselves, and buy in very small quantities, so the pieces you buy there are unique to the Capital Region. "We look for quality. We don't buy a lot of the same thing."

"Women want to be unique. We don't want to be stamped," Kornegay says. "We don't want to go into a play and see six women there with the same necklace we have, so we try not to make that happen."

Kornegay says the store has been a dream come true for the duo. She spends her days in the store, and can't get over how enjoyable it is. "I told her if this is retail, I'll do retail forever," she says with a laugh.

Truly Assie is located at 266 Washington Avenue in Albany. For more information, call 482-4905.

New kabab restaurant joins district

2010-08-23T18:31:00.004-04:00

His name is Shamma Tabraiz, but you can call him Mr. Tikka Kabab. Those are, after all his specialties, the dishes that top the menu at his new restaurant, named—what else—Mr. Tikka Kabab.

Opened in June, the restaurant specializes in Indian and Pakistani food, cooked in a traditional tandoori oven on premises.

Tabraiz says this is his first restaurant venture. He says he opened the take-out and delivery eatery because he wanted to offer good food to the local community. He is particularly proud of the fact that all the food is halal, which means that it is prepared in a way that meets Muslim strictures.

The menu is straightforward and fits easily on a business card, which is, in fact, what he’s done. He hands me one of the card-size menus he had printed up. The list consists mostly of tried-and-true dishes—tikka, kababs, wraps, bread, and samosas and pakoras. It’s a strategy he hopes will help draw in business lunch traffic. The meals are highly affordable, ranging from $3.99 for the wraps to $1.50 for the chicken seekh kabab, which comes in lemon, hara spicy, or fried. All tikka and kabab specials are served with chatni and salad. You can finish your meal off with a $1.99 halwa or mango lasi.

For more information, call Mr. Tikka Kabab at 472-8080 or visit the restaurant at 117 Lexington Avenue, between Central and Washington.

Grappa '72 carries on tradition

2010-05-03T18:45:00.016-04:00

When Carmine's Restaurant closed last summer, longtime maitre'd Armand Ymeraj was understandably disappointed. After all, he was out of a job. But Armand wasn't just upset because he lost his job after eight years. He was saddened by the loss of such a landmark establishment in this area.

Today, Armand is carrying on that tradition--right in the same spot. He opened Grappa '72 in the former Carmine's, making this restaurant a destination for fine dining. Grappa '72 features a menu that is "pure Italian," he says, and a list that's straight from the old country. In fact, Ymeraj boasts that his new restaurant has the largest Italian wine selection in upstate New York.

Opened three months ago, Grappa '72 is already successful, and that's because many of the customers are former Carmine's customers. Ymeraj says much of the clientele has been coming to the restaurant for years, and in the Italian tradition of hospitality, he welcomes them back with open arms. But the customers aren't the only familiar faces; many of the new restaurant's employees also worked at Carmine's and stayed on to work under Ymeraj's capable hands.

Ymeraj has been managing restaurants his whole life, first in Canada and then in New York. While Ymeraj has plenty of management experience, this is the first restaurant he's opened on his own. He's enjoying his new enterprise, although he does acknowledge that it's not withoutits drawbacks. "When you work for yourself, things get more complicated," he says with a laugh.

Walking into Grappa, it seems like old times. Even though it's been refurbished top to bottom, the restaurant has maintained a sense of warm elegance. Families enjoy their dinner in the dining room, while business execs take a drink at the bar. Ymeraj knows how to treat his customers, and the bar patrons enjoy some appetizers on the house while they watch the baseball game on T.V.

At the very back of the restaurant, in a quaint room with floor-to-ceiling wine racks, more patrons enjoy their dinners around a long family-style table.

Garden Grows in Beverwyck: Community Gardens opens new site on Bradford

2010-04-14T11:38:00.016-04:00

Want to grow your own vegetables? All you need is a little plot of land, and Capital District Community Gardens can help with that. The local non-profit organization provides area residents with parcels of land to grow their own food and they have just opened a brand-new garden in Beverwyck.

Community gardens are large plots of land, divided into smaller parcels and assigned to people so they can plant gardens. Often, the gardens are given to people who live in apartments and may not have a space of their own to garden with. The community gardens are often located in vacant lots, and help to transform blighted areas into urban oasises.

Capital District Community Gardens (CDCG) has a grant to open nine more sites in the next five years, and based on the success of this latest spot in Beverwyck, they may decide to put several more in the area, says Sharon DiLorenzo, Program Manager for Capital District Community Gardens.

In fact, the spots in the new garden at 462 Bradford Street filled up so fast that the organization is actively looking for new property in the immediate vicinity, DiLorenzo says. "We could use more land in any of the Albany neighborhoods," she says. The organization currently has 47 gardens scattered across the capital district, and provides gardening space to hundreds of families and individuals.

The Beverwyck site was donated by a couple whose house burnt down. "They took what was a tragedy and turned it into such a good thing," DiLorenzo says. The site measures approximately 3,800 square feet, and will provide between 9 and 10 new plots.

CDCG began work on site improvement earlier this year. After a soil test came back negative, the organization excavated the entire area, removing 1-2 feet of soil and all the hard surfaces, including the old driveway and sidewalks. Then they brought in new soil, layering the entire area with sandy loam and organic matter.

DiLorenzo says the importance of good soil can't be understated. "It's all about the soil," she says. Especially when gardeners are growing produce organically, she says.

The organization will complete the garden by adding a toolshed, fence, and water spigot and should be finished with the new garden by mid-May--just in time for gardeners to get to work planting, she says. While this particular garden is nearly filled, sign-ups are still going on, and DiLorenzo encourages anyone who may be interested in having a plot in the new community garden to contact the organization. Even if they are not able to assign the person a plot, it will help them get an accurate measurement of the number of plots they will need, which will help with future site planning, she says.

To find out more about getting a garden plot, contact the Capital District Community Gardens at 274-8685 or email them at info@cdcg.org

To your health: Kitsu restaurant opens

2010-04-12T11:09:00.014-04:00

Kitsu is hard to ignore. It's the new restaurant on Central Avenue with the giant setting sun in the style of the Japanese flag painted on the front.

"You definitely won't miss it," says owner James Chen with a laugh. Kitsu's door is the center of the flaming sun, and when you enter, more murals greet you. Birds and Japanese symbols decorate the walls alongside large abstract canvases. The paintings are the work of Tommy Watkins, a local artist. Kitsu owner James Chen collaborated with him on the restaurant remodel. It is the fourth restaurant the two have worked on; Chen also owns Mr. Wasabi, Shogun, and Edo.

Kitsu, which means "health," opened last month. Kitsu is the third Asian restaurant to open on this strip this year, but insted of being intimidated, Chen believes the competition will help. The area has become a destination for people looking for good international cuisine, he says. Central is a high traffic area, another advantage for this new business, he says.

Kitsu offers a full Japanese menu, but specializes in sushi with a number of custom-made rolls. The restaurant also serves a number of Hibachi entrees, including salmon, filet mignon and lobster tail. "A lot of people, they don't just want to stick with a plain California roll or tuna roll," Chen says. He maintains a white board of lunch and dinner specials at the newly remodeled sushi counter.

Located at the site of the former Saso's Noodle House, the restaurant has undergone an extensive update, including the addition of sleek modern tables and chairs and new countertops. The upscale restaurant is also in the process of obtaining their liquor license, and expects to be able to serve alcohol by the end of this month, says Chen.

A veteran restauranteur, Chen says the secret of running a successful restaurant is good food, good service and quality atmosphere. With that in mind, it looks like Kitsu is off to a healthy start.

CDTA unveils new high-tech website

2010-03-10T18:34:00.001-05:00

CDTA has launched a new website that brings their riders up to the minute service information.

The new website combines Twitter and RSS feeds, and a new iPhone application and text messaging that promises to deliver route and schedule information directly to riders cell phones and PDA’s.

“Communicating effectively with our customers, stakeholders and potential riders is critical to providing efficient service in the way they want it and a top priority for CDTA,” said CDTA Chairman Dave Stackrow. “Integrating the latest technology tools into our new website helps us to provide the most current information on service changes and improvement plans and also encourages our customers to become engaged in transit planning decisions.”

The new website www.cdta.org, went live January 27. The website receives nearly 1.2 million hits annually.

New store offers on bargain prices on designer fashion

2010-03-06T12:15:00.006-05:00

Clothes Mentor, a nationwide chain of resale stores, has opened a franchise in Albany, offering designer labels to locals at a fraction of what you'd pay at retail stores. The store opened February 27, and owner Kellie Robertson says it's been full of customers ever since.

"People are very excited that we're here, both to buy and to sell," Robertson says.

Robertson and her husband Neil Robertson opened the resale store after the success of their sister store, Plato's Closet, which is just next door. Plato's Closet, also a resale store, focuses on teen clothing, while Clothes Mentor focuses on clothing for adults, including 0-plus size 24, maternity wear, and accessories, she says.

The store offers cash on the spot for recent fashions in good condition, and buys all seasons--and customers reap the benefits, getting pieces for 80% less than they would spend at the mall, says Robertson. "In this economy, it's the best thing around," she says.

The store also has a wide selection of accessories, including designer purses from Coach and Dooney & Bourke. Robertson invites customers to come in and check out their selection. The clothes are organized by size and item, and displayed neatly on racks, so that you can find exactly what you're looking for, she says.

Clothes Mentor is located at 818 Central Avenue. The store hours are 10am-8pm. For more information, call the store at 689-1019.

New Dentist Office Under Construction on Colvin

2010-01-22T18:02:00.004-05:00

What was once a wooded lot on the corner of Colvin and Lincoln is now being turned into a brand-new dentist office.

Robert Vignali, DDS will open new offices at 29 Colvin Avenue this spring. The new one story building will include a 23-space parking lot adjacent to Buell Street.

The dentist office represents the "highest and best" use for this vacant land, says Joseph Cunniff, Upper Washington Neighborhood Association President.

The parcel has been vacant for many years, and during that time, many businesses have been proposed for it, including ice cream shops, drive-thru banks and drug stores, but they were deemed not a good fit for the highly residential area, says Cunniff. However, the neighborhood association is eager to welcome this new business to the area. "Although there are those who hoped the property would remain vacant forever, we are happy to have a new neighbor who we believe will blend into the neighborhood seamlessly and will be an asset to our neighborhood and city," says Cunniff. "Indeed we are pleased that this parcel will now join the tax rolls and help contribute to our city's bottom line."

The dentist has agreed to incorporate a wooded area along one side of the parking lot, to screen it from the adjacent houses, Cunniff says.

The new offices of Dr. Robert Vignali, DDS will be located at 29 Colvin Avenue.

2010-01-19T08:49:00.002-05:00

Albany Police are trying to determine if there is a connection with recent reports of a man impersonating a fire inspector with three additional incidents that have occurred since last July in the city.

Officers took a report yesterday at 91 Southern Boulevard from the owner
of the Food Mart. The owner said on Monday while his wife was watching
the store a man walked in and showed a badge and told her he was an
inspector from the Albany Fire Department and he was there to inspect
the fire extinguishers. He then placed a certification tag around the
extinguisher and gave the wife a receipt for $40 which she paid. The
suspect is described as a white or Hispanic male, medium height and
build

In addition there were two more incidents that occurred this afternoon.
One at 423 Madison Avenue, Emperors Palace and one at the Lark Street
Flower Shop at 262 Lark Street. The suspect was successful in getting
$40 from Emperors Palace but was unsuccessful at the flower shop. He
was described as a Hispanic male, 6’ wearing a blue puffy jacket

It also appears this individual also approached other businesses in
Guilderland, Colonie and Schenectady with the same motive.

In 2009 there were three additional reports in which a man claimed to be
an inspector for the Albany Fire Extinguisher Company and was there to
inspect their fire extinguishers. On July 17 a man walked into the
Unique Army & Navy store at 129 Central Avenue and told the clerk he
wanted $40 to check their extinguisher otherwise they would face a $500
fine from the Albany Fire Department.

On July 20 a man walked into the Subway at 324 Central Avenue and
approached the manager and told him he was there to inspect the
extinguishers and wanted $30. The manager refused to pay him and the
man left the store.

On December 22 a man walked into the EZ Care Fabric Store at 900 Central
Avenue and told the clerk he was from the Albany Fire Extinguisher
Company and wanted money to inspect the extinguisher. He was
unsuccessful in getting any money and left the store.

Mayor Jennings stated, “All of our local businesses should be on alert
to the fact that it appears we have someone impersonating an Albany Fire
Fighter or a representative from a local fire extinguisher

company and are trying to elicit payment for fake inspections. I
strongly encourage anyone who is approached in this manner and is
suspicious of the individual’s credentials, to call our police
department.”

Chief Robert Forezzi Sr. said, “All of our firefighters, as well as our
inspectors from the Division of Building & Codes, are equipped with the
proper identification that they must carry at all times when on duty.
Any fees associated with inspection services are only received at City
Hall and if anyone feels something improper has occurred they should
report it immediately to the department.”

Detective James Miller
Department Spokesperson
City of Albany Police Dept

Chinatown's grand opening: Lively celebration for promising new venture

2010-01-12T11:12:00.010-05:00

The One of a Kind Teahouse held its grand opening December 28, and like its namesake, the celebration was unique. Complete with dancing dragons, a generous complementary lunch buffet, the mayor and other city dignitaries, and flashing paparazzi, the celebration brought together the best of old and new traditions for what promises to be an exciting new business venture on Central Avenue.

The teahouse is a "focal point" for the business, a place where everyone can gather together for food and drink in the ancient tradition, says Jenny Liu-Nhan, Chinatown's co-owner.

Started two years ago by Matthew Nhan and his wife, Jenny Liu-Nhan, the Chinatown complex is a unique retail project. When it is completed, the building will house several Asian-inspired stores, an eatery and teahouse, as well as an upscale Chinese restaurant, providing a wealth of shopping and dining experiences for Central Avenue. The project is located on the same block as several other Asian restaurants including Van's Vietnamese and CCK, making this part of Central even more of a destination for visitors.

Mayor Jerry Jennings attended the ribbon-cutting and celebration and praised the Nhans for their creative vision. "Small investments like this make a big difference," Jennings says. It's independent business owners like the Nhans who are going to turn Central Avenue around, he added.

Originally, the Nhans hoped to open the entire complex at once, but an uncooperative economy and complicated building codes changed their plans, and so they have decided to open the businesses in stages, says Jenny Liu-Nhan, Chinatown's co-owner. "The economy hasn't gone well, and that put a little damper on it, but we're back on track now," she says.

The teahouse will open January 15, followed by the stores in the spring. The restaurant is expected to open next year.

The Nhans have spent over a year remodeling the former furniture store, and the results--inside and out--are beautiful. The building is divided into several small spaces with a long hallway running down the center. The hallway is decorated with cherry paneling, and boasts a pagoda-like facade that gives you the feeling that you are walking through a Chinese marketplace, not a storefront in Albany. The rear of the building has been reserved for a large Chinese restaurant, and construction on this part is still under way.

"You create a sense of place with this type of architecture that people want to come to and hang out in," says Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the Central Business Improvement District. "This is another destination on Central Avenue."

The tea house is also beautiful. A bamboo screen divides the dining room from a small sitting area which has been decorated with ornate cherry furniture. The ancient-looking tables and chairs are all custom made, and promote a sense of timeless tradition, says Liu-Nhan.

Biggest Winners Celebrate Victories at Closing Ceremony

2009-12-01T17:07:00.022-05:00

Maria Morales Before the Biggest Winner Program

Maria Morales After the Biggest Winner Program

Maria Morales lost 127 pounds with the help of the local Biggest Winner Program, but she's not the only person to find success. In fact, in the Biggest Winner program, everyone's a winner.

This year-long health program has helped hundreds of people drop pounds, control their diabetes, quit smoking, and lower their blood pressure, but most importantly, it has helped them take control of their health--and that makes them all winners.

Now, the local grassroots initiative is drawing to a close, and to celebrate these victories, the whole community will be invited to a closing ceremony, to be held January 28 from 4-7pm. The location has not yet been announced.

The ceremony will include singing, dancing, and some inspirational stories from Biggest Winner participants. The evening will culminate with a grand prize drawing for $5,000.

Started in April, the Biggest Winner program is a collaboration between Downtown Campus of the University at Albany's Center for Excellence in Aging program and the Healthy Hearts on the Hill program. (both programs particpate on the Central Avenue Farmers Market) The program has about 260 participants, who were recruited at block parties, health fairs, farmers' markets, and other community events across the city, says Kimberly Connell, program coordinator through the Center for Excellence in Aging. "People were very eager to be a part of it," Connell says.

These participants agree to work toward a healthier lifestyle, and they earn points for participating in healthy activities like exercising, visiting the doctor regularly, and eating healthy food, she says. These points are recorded on a scorecard, which they carry with them and then turn in at the end of the month.

The Biggest Winner is a winner because of its relatively narrow focus, Connell says. The program also works because it engaged people in their own communities, and provided help that was in line with individual goals, she says. The program also gave participants plenty of incentives to stick with their new healthier lifestyle, including monthly prize drawings for people who earned at least 30 points. At the end of the year, these individuals qualify for the grand prize drawing of $5,000.

The program focuses on taking small manageable steps, but participants report that the impact is anything but small. Ron Scott, Townsend Park Homes Tenant Association President helped bring the program to the affordable housing complex on Central Avenue. Scott is active with "Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables," Healthy Hearts on the Hill, Active Choices, and serves as a task force member for the Neighborhood Health Task Force and the Center for the Elimination of Minority Health Disparities. He liked the Biggest Winner program because it "ties all these programs together," he says, and because it helps residents feel like they're in charge of their aging and health.

Since bringing the program to the complex, Scott says more residents are taking advantage of the nearby Albany YMCA. He also reports that the seniors have become more mobile, and are taking advantage of some of the activities in the area. Residents will tell him they walked to the CVS and back, the next time he sees them, they say they've gone to the park, he says. "They're more active and sometimes that means their minds are more active," he says.

One winner's story

Looking at Maria Morales, it's hard to believe that just over a year ago, she weighed 300 pounds. Today, this woman is a svelte 173 pounds, and full of life, but a year ago, she says, she spent a lot of time at home, in bed. "I would get up to go to the bathroom, or the kitchen, and then go back to bed," Morales says, sitting on the couch in her parents living room. "I didn't do anything."

Morales attributes her weight to depression; not long before the weight gain, she had broken off her marriage. She also successfully battled two bouts with Hodgkins-Lymphoma, but the cancer had left her with a rod, plate, and screws in her leg. She was taking regular medication to combat the pain, but it left her feeling slow and lethargic.

Finally, her primary care physician, Dr. Robert Paeglow, gave her a hard dose of reality. "'Maria,' he said, 'you're going to die of a heart attack if you don't lose some weight,'" she recalls. After that, she says, she made a conscious decision to start a diet and start exercising. Morales wasn't a big eater, but she liked her sweets, she says--cookies, cake, candy, ice cream--and giving them up was not easy. She also joined a gym, and began to swim regularly at her brother's pool and go on long walks. She was on a fixed income, so she needed to find affordable ways to get in shape. Initially, she was exercising 4-5 times a day, a vigorous schedule for anyone, but for someone so overweight, it was particularly challenging. Sometimes, it was hard to find the motivation, but Morales just kept telling herself she could do it and that her life was worth it. In no time at all, she had gotten down to 279 pounds, but she felt like she needed some support to keep going.

Dr. Paeglow, who was one of the co-founders of the Biggest Winner program, encouraged her to join the new initiative as a way to stay on track. Morales joined and found great support in the new program, she says. She liked it because it covered the full spectrum of health, both physical and mental. She got involved in new activities like zumba, and began attending regular meetings Overeaters' Anonymous meetings. As a result, she became more social, more self-confident, she said. "Now I feel like that Mary J. Blige song, 'You Ain't Got Nothing on Me,'" she says with a laugh.

Before the Biggest Winner program, Morales had trouble walking up a flight of stairs, today the 39-year-old woman feels like she can do anything. "That program saved my life," she says. She glows with new life, and looks forward eagerly to what awaits. Morales has a new boyfriend, and is contemplating another wedding. She is also looking forward to returning to school and finishing her clinicals so that she can become a nurse, she says. The Biggest Winner program taught her the secrets of healthy living, and she plans to continue working out and eating right: "Now I know forever how to do it," she says.

Morales is looking forward to the Closing Ceremony and her shot at the $5,000 grand prize, but, she says, she already got the best prize she could hope for: she got control of her life. "The Biggest reward for me is that I'm going to live," she said. "I'm not going to die."

NABA completes tenant parking lot

2009-11-30T12:58:00.005-05:00

The Northeastern Association for the Blind of Albany completed their brand-new parking lot on Central Avenue. The parking lot will provide much needed spaces to the non-profit's tenants at their two adjacent properties. The lot also offers a small green space for clients' guide dogs, complete with a picnic table donated by the Girls, Inc. club of Albany.

The new lot was completed in mid-November, and is now in use. For safety and security, the parking lot is fenced with handsome brick and iron; tenants are issued a code to gain entrance. New lightpoles have been added to ensure that the parking lot is well-lit. It's been landscaped as well, to make it more pleasant.

The lot will provide 10 spaces to the University at Albany, NABA's tenants at 299 Washington Avenue, as well as additional spaces for the future tenants at 80 Central Avenue, says Christopher Burke, NABA's Executive Director.

Eighty Central is currently empty, but NABA is in talks with a potential tenant for the old building, says Burke. If terms are agreed upon and met, this tenant would take a good portion of the building's 17,000 square feet, and NABA would use the remainder to expand its children's programming and technology resources, he says. NABA is already pressed for space in its current location at 301 Central, and by collaborating with this potential tenant, they could gain as much as 5,000 additional square feet.

The new tenant will not be named until all the paperwork has been finalized. In the interim, NABA is trying to identify funding to begin to rehab the old building, starting with the historic facade. This process could begin as early as spring, Burke says.

The collaboration with this new tenant is very exciting, Burke says. Building a new parking lot, securing tenants, and restoring an adjacent building for expanded programming is part of an innovative multi-phase approach to building and developing the agency. It's ambitious, but also it's exciting, Burke says. "That will make us permanent," he says.

Veteran's Day Parade 2009

2009-11-25T10:11:00.002-05:00

Seems like old times: Original Shalimar Owner Reclaims Landmark Restaurant

2009-11-24T17:10:00.011-05:00

Qasim Bhatti just opened Lazeez on November 1, but already, he feels at home. Not surprising, since Bhatti owned and operated Shalimar out of this building for years before deciding to take a break from the restaurant business in 2000. He turned the business over to his brother-in-law, Leo Ashiq, who went on to open two additional locations in Bethelehem and Clifton Park.

This fall, when Ashiq announced plans to close the original Albany Shalimar to focus on his suburban locations, a collective groan went up across the city. Thankfully, the restaurant's original owner swiftly stepped in and filled the gap. In fact, there seemed to be almost no interruption in service, and the only outward sign of the shift was the new restaurant sign on the building.

Bhatti's restaurant Lazeez offers a menu almost identical to Shalimar's, and the dishes are cooked by the same chef and served by many of the same staff members. Customers who have grown accustomed to the comfortable ambience, complete with lantern lights and colorful artwork will be happy to find that the restaurant's interior is exactly the same. Even the buffet is the same--in fact, I wouldn't be surprised if the chafing dishes were in the same order.

"The perception is that it's a new restaurant because of the name, but they come in and they see it's the same or an even better operation," Bhatti says.

In the future, Bhatti would like to update the menu with some new vegetarian options and to offer some new appetizers, but all cooked in the same northern Indian style that his customers have come to so appreciate, he says.

After a nine-year hiatus from the restaurant business, Bhatti says it's a pleasure to be back on Central Avenue. He and his wife started the restaurant in 1992, during a real turning point in the area, and they became intimately involved in the neighborhood and its residents. Bhatti has been gratified to see many of those same customers still coming in. "The local community has supported me over so many years," he says. He hopes that same level of support will continue.

Lazeez is located at 35 Central Avenue, Albany. They offer delivery service. For more information, please call 435-0333 or visit their website at http://www.eatlazeez.com/.

Roadmap for the Future: Albany's Comprehensive Plan Underway

2009-11-24T12:13:00.012-05:00

Where are we going? Are we there yet? The City of Albany has engaged a planner and appointed a new board, all with the goal of creating a comprehensive plan for the city. The plan will take a long range view of the city's future, to figure out both where we are, and where we'd like to be in the next 20 years.

Slated for release in 2011, the comprehensive plan will be the first in the city's 400 year history.

Neighborhood Association members across the city are being invited to attend a series of January meetings so that residents can provide their input on the state of the city. At Monday night's West End Neighborhood Association meeting, John O'Grady, president, exhorted members to participate in the meetings. The city needs to hear from its constituents, he explained to the members who met at the West End Presbyterian Church.

The plan is an important document, which promises to have a long-lasting impact on Albany. It will serve as the city's guiding policy document, and "set a common direction for the city," says David Rouse, Principal with Wallace Roberts and Todd, a planning and design firm out of Philadelphia that was hired to consult on the process.

The firm will work with the city's Department of Planning and Development, as well as the city's recently created Comprehensive Planning Board. The 30-member comprehensive planning board is made up of city personnnel, business owners, and civic leaders who were appointed by the city's Common Council in September. According to the city website, the board will provide guidance for the plan and make a recommendation to the council for its adoption.

The process for creating the city's first comprehensive plan promises to be both thorough and thoughtful. "We're under way, and we're looking for the entire process to take between 15 and 18 months," Rouse explained. The comprehensive planning board will host group meetings, hold one on one interviews, and conduct massive surveys, all with the goal of soliciting input from the public. This week, Rouse and his colleagues kicked off the process by holding meetings with city stakeholders, including transportation agencies, neighborhood associations, and business improvement districts. During the meetings, attendees were asked about the city's strengths and challenges.

While it's still early in the process, the meetings have nevertheless revealed a number of concerns, Rouse says. Stakeholders voiced concerns about the high number of tax-exempt properties in the area, the perception problem with the city school district, and safety issues. However the meetings also revealed a long list of city assets, including walkable neighborhoods, a number of vibrant arts institutions, and a wealth of historic architecture.

In January, the city will hold another series of public meetings, this time aimed at city residents. "We want as many people to participate as possible," Rouse says. Residents will be asked what they like about living in the city and what they would like to see improved.

The idea is to capitalize on some of the city's assets and solve some of the problems that have been identified, Rouse says. The plan will serve as a starting point, and could help direct zoning changes, regulatory changes, and transportation infrastructure, he says. It could even make the city more eligible for grant funding: "Generally, if a community has a good plan in place, it puts them in a good position for competitive grants," Rouse says.

The meetings will be held on January 28, 29 and 30. Times and location will be announced soon.

Other meeting notes:

--Janet Parker, community liasion for the Albany Police Department, updated the audience on recent criminal activity in the area. There's been an upsurge in burglaries from cars, which will probably continue to rise as the holiday season approaches, she cautioned. She advised people to park in well-lit areas, don't leave valuables in plain sight, and always lock your car doors and roll up your windows. "I've seen larceny for things like change in a cupholder," she said.

--A public meeting will be held on December 3rd at 6:30pm in the Education Building of the St. Rose College, Carl Touhey Forum to discuss the selection of the new police chief. Residents will be asked to help choose criteria for the selection of this new post.

Legal clinic for small business

2009-11-13T14:20:00.000-05:00

Contact: Paul Stewart
Capital District Community Loan Fund
518/436-8586 tel
For Immediate Release
November 16, 2009

Free Legal Clinic for Entrepreneurs

The Capital District Community Loan Fund and the Legal Project of the Women’s Bar Association are sponsoring a legal clinic for small business and micro enterprise owners on Thursday, December 3rd at the Legal Project Office, at Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany.

Volunteer attorneys with expertise in business-related matters will provide individual and confidential consultations on specific questions about: the various forms of business ownership and legal structure; purchasing an existing business; trademarks & copy rights; contracts; and permit and zoning issues for example.

Space is limited. Participants must sign up for an appointment by calling the Legal Project at 435-1770. Priority is given to women, minorities and low income people starting or owning their own business. The meeting place is handicap accessible and there is free parking.

This clinic is one part of the Capital District Community Loan Fund’s efforts to provide accessible, affordable and relevant training and capital to businesses that have traditionally been denied access to services. The Community Loan Fund is a non-profit community development financial institution founded in 1985.

The Legal Clinic of the Women’s Bar Association is offering this clinic as part of their Small Business Legal Network and with financial support from the New York State Bar Foundation.

Mayor's Drop Off Event a Success in spite of rain

2009-11-09T13:45:00.004-05:00

With the support of the Lodges, Central BID, Hannaford Supermarkets, Nigro Real Estate, Stewarts, and Hoffmans Car Wash, Mayor Jerry Jennings held his annual Drop Off Event on October 24. The event held at Hannaford Plaza to gather winter gear for Albany's underprivileged kids, and even rainy weather couldn't dampen the spirit of giving. Tents were erected to protect volunteers, and as the day went on, the coats and winterwear kept piling up.

The Mayor will distribute the proceeds at five area schools on November 16, said Bob Van Amburgh, Executive Assistant to the Mayor.

"Girls Need a Place": Girls, Inc. holds annual lunch

2009-11-09T11:58:00.009-05:00

The vision for Girls Incorporated is simple. It was founded in 1957, when three girls were prohibited from joining the city Boys Club. The girls took action, and went to the then-mayor Erastus Corning to ask for help. Fifty-two years later, at the foundation's annual luncheon, Gail Wilson-Giarratano, President and CEO of Girls Inc. recalled the important message the girls carried to the mayor so long ago: "'Us girls, we need a place,'" she said, her voice filling the ballroom crowded with Girls Inc. members and alumnae.

Mayor Corning agreed with the young women, and he established Girls Incorporated, which has been offering fun, educational programming for young women ever since.

The message those "three girls in action" carried to Mayor Corning is as true now as it was then, Wilson-Giarratano explained at Thursday's Girls in Action Fundraising luncheon. In today's stress-filled world, where there is more pressure on girls than ever to become prettier, skinnier, and stronger, they need a safe haven where they can escape from that pressure, and figure out what they want, she said.

To that end, Girls Inc. offers educational programs in media literacy, financial literacy, sports and adventure, health and wellness, as well as homework help. Perhaps most importantly, the clubs offers a safe space for girls to meet with other girls and simply be themselves, she said.

Thursday, one young woman after another took the stage at the Century House and spoke of the important role Girls Inc. played in their lives.

Lisa Simmons, a former police officer and is now a Crime Prevention Specialist at Union College, who was a member of the club in the 1970s spoke about how important it was to have that consistency in her life. "I was a girl who needed a place," she told the room. Marsé Pulley, who just graduated from high school and is just about to embark on her training as a nurse, agreed. For her, Girls Inc. was "a stepping stone to overcoming adversity," Pulley said.

Girls Inc. has two locations, one in Albany and one in Schenectady. These clubs offer vital afterschool programming, as well as workshops and summer camp, but they need financial contributions in order to continue their mission, explained Felix Neals, member of the Board of Directors. Luncheon attendees were encouraged to make a donation using pledge cards distributed at the tables. Neals explained that "there's no right or wrong amount of giving," and that even small amounts help connect girls with services.

People can also help by giving their time, explained Penny Page, Vice President for Development. People can donate their time and skills to the Cornerstone Group, a committee that helps with fundraising, she said. The luncheon program also listed a number of supplies needed by the club in the form of a "wish list." Their wish list includes everything from modeling clay to photo paper, white T-shirts, computer mouses and journals, all of which would be used for programming.

Girls Inc. is located at 25 Western Avenue, Albany. (518) 436-0034. For more information about Girls Inc. of the Capital Region and how you can get involved, please visit their website: http://www.girlsinccapitalregion.org/

Girls Inc. Wish List

modeling clay
plaster of paris
beads and string
markers
colored
paper
scissors
pipe cleaners
tissue paper
styrofoam balls
glue
badge kits
photo paper
organizing bins
easel boards
white boards
new volleyball net
exercise flooring
mesh sports
bags
10 compound light microscopes
soldering iron
12 scientific
calculators
bunsen burners
beakers
hot plates
graduated
cylinders
K-nex building kits
leaf blower
breast exam model
various woods for woodworking
t-squares
hand push drills
disposable cameras
writing tablets
2 electric CD players
headsets
journals
sand table/water table
lights for growing
plants
computer mouses
turtle filter
blenders
apple corer
First Aid kit supplies

Caribbean Breeze Packs Flavor Whollop

2009-10-26T16:07:00.008-04:00

Brisas Del Caribe, the newly-reopened Caribbean and Spanish-American restaurant on Washington Avenue, brings the taste of the tropics to Townsend Park. The menu offers Caribbean favorites like jerk chicken and fish, oxtail soup, curried goat, and fried pork chops as well as a selection of more mainstream and vegetarian dishes.

Reopened under new ownership in late September, the remodeled restaurant offers an expanded menu, with the same eye toward flavorful, authentic Caribbean food. The restaurant maintained the same chef. He uses fresh ingredients, and then seasons and cooks them just right, turning even simple dishes into Caribbean reveries.

On the night we went, we ordered jerk chicken ($8.99) and pork pernil ($10.99). The jerk chicken was falling off the bone, and so savory that my dining companion couldn't stop raving. I was equally impressed with my entree, a slab of pork obviously fresh, and roasted in its own skin to maintain its tenderness. It was topped with peppers and onions that carried vinegary power punch, but it was served with a hot bowl of beans that tasted like they had been simmering all day, that more than balanced out the vinegar. Both dishes came with our choice of white or yellow rice, and a side of steamed vegetables to round things out. We also ordered fried plantains ($2.50) and an empanada ($1.50). Dinner came with salads. The portions are generous, so plan to bring some home for lunch the next day.

We had the restaurant to ourselves that night. The liquor license is still in the works and that may be scaring people off, our waiter told us. The food was so good (and affordable) that we were baffled as to why people would skip it just because you couldn't order drinks. Don't they know that if they drink too much of the island rum, they won't be able to appreciate the yummy spiciness of the food?

In addition to expanding the menu, the new owners also gave the restaurant a much-needed facelift. In addition to some more superficial changes, the wall between the narrow bar and dining area was torn down to give a more open feeling to the space. Tearing down the wall also revealed the island-inspired murals painted along one side of the dining room. The room was so dark and narrow before that you could hardly see them; now you can gaze at these prettily-painted oceanscapes and farm scenes, and almost believe you're on vacay.

Our bill came to about $30.00. For bargain hunters--try the All You Can Eat Buffet, $7.99. It takes place Monday through Friday from 10:30am-3pm, making this a perfect stop for lunch, letting you sample a range of dishes and all for an affordable price.

Brisas Del Caribe is located at 244 Washington Avenue, near the corner of Henry Johnson Boulevard. For more information, call 462-0895.

"Dead is the New Alive": The Linda's Zombie Fest Welcomes Undead

2009-10-26T10:36:00.006-04:00

This weekend, the dead took to the streets as part of the Linda's second-annual Zombie Film Feast II. Beginning Friday, October 23, audiences enjoyed three nights of zombie entertainment that included 10 films, live music, video gaming, and a celebration of all things undead.

"The festival has been a success," said coordinator Graeme McKenna. "We've had nice crowds at the films, and lots of people purchased passes so they could attend all three nights. We've had good consistency."

The festival culminated Saturday night with a zombie walk down Lark Street and Central Avenue, a brain-eating contest, and a zombie prom. Dressed in their funereal best, people began meeting at the Lark Street BID at 4pm. Couples, individuals, friends and even whole families met on the sidewalk, to compare costumes and discuss the finer points of zombie lore. Some took the opportunity to reapply their makeup, adjusting their bloody maggots and making sure their bite marks were on straight. By 5pm, a sizable crowd of bloody zombies had assembled for the walk, and when McKenna gave the signal, the hoards began their long limp down Lark Street and Central Avenue to the Linda.

Crowds assembled on either side of the street to watch the 100-or-so participants stagger past, snapping pictures and shuddering at the gorey scene. As they moved down the streets, they groaned and growled, and yelled for brains. The corpses were in various stages of decomposition. Many looked as if they had really stepped right from the grave, complete with torn and muddy clothes and rotting flesh.

Play It Again, Karim: Casablanca Moroccan Restaurant Delights

2009-10-19T07:48:00.007-04:00

Central Avenue has long been a destination for international cuisine. Worldly palates come uptown to taste the very best in Asian and Middle Eastern foods, and with the addition of Casablance Moroccan Restaurant, they can add one more stop to their dining itinerary.

Casablanca is located in a small space off Townsend Park, on the same block as already well-known restaurants like Shalimar, Gandhi and Aashiana. Its owners have worked hard to upscale the space, using Moroccan lamps, statues, weavings, and boldly striped fabrics to make it a little oasis from the hustle and bustle of Central.

I had never eaten Moroccan food before, so the menu was a completely fresh experience for my tastebuds. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a range of dishes that include items from the grill, appetizers, salads, soups, tajines , and couscous. At the chef's suggestion, my dining companion and I split a salad sampler, which provided a more than ample taste of four salads: smoky zalook with eggplant, bell peppers and tomatoes; cherifiya, a fresh-tasting mix of red peppers, tomatoes, lemon and cilantro; potato salad, which bears little resemblance to the mayonnaise-based conconction we swear by in this country; and a beet salad, served cold and finished with a dash of orange blossom water. Karim, the restaurant's chef and our dining tour guide also introduced us to loubia, white beans cooked in a spicy sauce and served with homemade bread.

For the main course, we ordered a vegetable tajine and a vegetable couscous. Casablanca is extremely friendly to vegetarians, because they go out of their way to provide detailed preparation instructions for each dish. They also do not mix meat and vegetables during cooking, so you can be sure the dish you order is truly vegetarian.

The tajine was a mix of seasonal vegetables served in a light sauce, flavored with olives and served with rice sweetened by candied apricots. But the couscous was the real show stopper. Karim warned us that Moroccan couscous is not the instant dish served in this country. In Morocco, cooking couscous is an all-day affair, and uses three separate steaming procedures. The dish we enjoyed had a completely different texture from the boxes of couscous sold at the supermarket, and a buttery, smoky flavor that you can't find in the grocery store. The dish was topped with zucchini, carrots, squash, turnips cabbage, onions, and roasted chick peas. After lunch we split a pot of sweet Moroccan mint tea and baklawa and basabousa, a semolina cake sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, and listened to Karim's story about his windy way to restauranteurship.

With its affordable menu (meal for two came to $25) and friendly owners, Casablanca should be your next dining destination. It promises to be a wake-up call to your palate.

Casablanca is located at 14 Central Avenue. For more information, please call the restaurant at (518) 463-1111.

Mayor's Drop-Off Day Promises to be most successful yet

2009-10-19T07:27:00.007-04:00

This week, Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings announced plans to hold a local Drop-Off Day, where city residents can donate winter coats and clothing for city children.

Part of the National "Make a Difference Day," the drop off day initiative is in its fourth year, and promises to be the most successful yet, said Bob Van Amburgh, Executive Assistant to the Mayor. The event's new location and exciting attractions will really draw people in. "As people are riding by they're going to see this and say what's going on?" Van Amburgh said.

This year, the event will take place in the Hannaford Shopping Plaza on Central Avenue this Saturday, October 24. The mayor has invited the New York State Police Dive Team, who will be demonstrating their skills with a large dive tank. Radio station 99.5 The River will be broadcasting live from the site, and the Albany Fire Department will also be on location.

In previous years the event was held at Washington Park. This year, the Mayor's office reached out to the Central BID for help in finding a new location. The new location at the shopping plaza will be more visible and provides enough room to create a "curiosity factor," Van Amburgh said.

"We're extremely pleased with the new location," Van Amburgh said.

Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the Central BID, is pleased that the event is taking place in the district, and said he hopes businesses and residents will turn out to attend. "The event helps kids who can't necessarily afford a new jacket or winter gear, and there are quite a new in this neighborhood," said Capece.

People can participate by donating new and gently-used winterwear, or by donating cash to help purchase winterwear. Lodge's department store has discounted their stock of coats to $16.00 and slashed prices on the rest of their winter merchandise, "so for $20, you can really outfit a kid," said Van Amburgh. All proceeds will be used to purchase winter gear to help keep city residents warm this year. All participants will also be entered in a raffle to win a donated 32-inch flat screen T.V.

The mayor's office hopes the event will be gather up to 5,000 items for kids this year.

New York State Writers Institute Kicks Off Star-Studded Season

2009-10-13T08:18:00.008-04:00

Friday night, the New York State Writers' Institute inaugurated its 25th anniversary season with Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman at the downtown campus's packed Page Hall.

Krugman, the author of several bestsellers and columnist for The New York Times spoke about the country's current financial crisis, and answered questions about U.S. financial policy, international trade theory, and the country's economic history. Krugman, who recently had dinner with the President and several other renowned economists, admitted that the current crisis is dire indeed, but said he believes that with additional stimulus and careful allocation of funds, the U.S. can steer its way out of these problems.

The short talk on the current recession concluded with an extended Q & A period, which Krugman explained is always the "most interesting" part of these events. Krugman spoke frankly and humorously to a packed auditorium. He punctuated his entertaining and enlightening discussion with frequent quips and ribbings, proving that even genius economists have a sense of humor.

Page Hall's 900-seat auditorium was filled to capacity. In fact, the program was so well-attended that many people were turned away at the door, said Program Director Donald Faulkner. With a roster that includes award-winning authors, historians, and politicians, this season's series of programs promises to be a series of turn-away events.

This fall, the New York State Writers Institute is celebrating its 25th Anniversary Season. The program was signed into law in 1984 by then-state governor Mario Cuomo, and November 16, Cuomo will make a special appearance to help commemorate the legislation. The season looks to be a truly remarkable one, with a line-up that includes Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Lorrie Moore, Richard Russo, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Russell Banks, and Don DeLillo.

Since the program started, it has hosted over 1,000 writers and screened 400 films. Events take place at the uptown and downtown campuses of the University at Albany. For more information about these events, please visit the website at www.albany.edu/writers-inst

Magic Hands: Mildred Elley Offers Discount Massages

2009-10-13T07:41:00.008-04:00

This fall, let Mildred Elley get their hands on you.

Students from Mildred Elley's Massage Therapy program will be providing massages to the public as part of their training. Clients can choose from a number of styles for their 50-minute massages, including Swedish, hot stone, and pregnancy massages. The massages cost just $30, with a $10 discount for seniors.

The massage clinic takes place in the state-of-the-art spa at the school's recently renovated building at 855 Central Avenue. Arriving clients check in with the receptionist and complete paperwork, and then conduct a brief interview with their massage therapist. After that, they are taken to a semi-private area to undress and get on the table. Massages take place in relative silence with some relaxing music. Clients can indicate whether the pressure is appropriate.

"The massage clinic is important to the students training because it give them the opportunity to have a real life experience," said Belinda Green, Massage Clinic Coordinator. "They have the opportunity at this point in the program to work on the public, which allows them to encounter different pathologies." Students will work with clients with a range of conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, sciatica, as well as more everyday problems like muscle discomfort and stress, she said.

"The students also learn how to educate the public on the health benefits of massage therapy," Green said. "It's important to take time for you."

Mildred Elley also offers a full menu of spa services including haircuts, haircolor, manicures, and pedicures, all done by students and all at cut rates. The school uses high-end Redken products for their clients.

The fall massage clinic schedule:

September 21-November 13, 2009
Tuesday & Thursday
12pm to 4:30pm

Monday & Wednesday
5:30pm to 9pm

October 9-November 22, 2009
Saturday & Sunday
10:30am-2:30pm

Mildred Elley is located at 855 Central Avenue, Albany. For more information, please contact the school at 786-0855.

Central celebrates last farmers' market of the season

2009-09-29T14:41:00.009-04:00

Recently customers strolled through the brisk open-air Central Avenue Farmers' Market enjoying the season's final harvest, but the mood was anything but sad.

After just a season together, customers greeted the farmers and staff like old friends, and lined up to buy fresh winter squash, apples, potatoes, homemade bread, pies, and other fruits of the season. Nearby, dancers from the Center for Nia and Yoga beckoned to the audience, and a few brave souls joined them for a joyful dance that seemed to capture the mood of the morning. Market staff and sponsors said there was a lot to celebrate.

"We're very proud of all the hard work and the outreach that was done to promote this market and bring it to the neighborhood. We learned a lot, and we're looking forward to making it even bigger and better next year," said Anthony Capece, Executive Director the Central BID, one of the market's primary sponsors and organizers. "It's been nice to be a part of bringing something like this to Albany."

"We were amazed at the outpouring of vendors and neighbors in support of the market at The Linda. What a great season and we owe it to, in large part, the CBID for making it all happen," said Alan Chartock, President and CEO of WAMC Northeast Public Radio and WAMC's performance venue, The Linda.

The market will return to the parking lot of the Linda, WAMC's Performing Arts Studio in next May. "We look forward to continuing to help the market grow in vendors and in recognition as it is the only inner city market in the area, attracting people from all walks of life and accomplishing great things," added Chartock. "I just love it!"

In addition to bringing the best in produce and goods from local farmers to the public, as well as inviting people to take another look at Central Avenue and what it has to offer, the new market continually demonstrated a focus on health and education. During its inaugural season, the market offered a range of resources to the public, including cancer screenings from Cancer Services Program, health screenings from Whitney Young Health Center, information about healthcare reform, Biggest Winner programming, and Active Generations programming. The market also offered health education focused-programs for kids, including a yoga class and two healthy eating workshops, as well as workshops from Five Rivers Nature Center, The Nature Conservancy, the Albany Public Library, and the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center.

The summer market was so successful that the BID has announced plans to launch a trial " Concept Fall Harvest Market". The new market, which will feature fall produce, will take place in the parking lot of 855 Central Avenue, every Saturday from 10am-2pm during the month of October.

"We have a number of vendors who still have a lot of produce to sell, apples, pumpkins, squash, baked goods, and we wanted to offer them an opportunity to keep bringing that service to the public," said Molly Belmont, Market Manager.

The new harvest market will began Saturday October 10.

Big Bellies Gobble Garbage, Smash Trash with Sun's Rays

2009-09-11T11:28:00.006-04:00

Last week, in another green efficiency iniative, the Central BID deployed new trash cans throughout the district. The new Big Belly Solar Compactors work like mini garbage trucks, gobbling up litter and then compacting it for greater storage capacity. This translates into less maintenance work and cleaner streets. Plus, the Big Bellies are solar-powered, so there are no extra energy costs associated with disposal.

The Big Belly cans were posted at bus stops throughout the Route 5 corridor, where trash is most abundant. Regular compaction means no more overflowing cans. It also means trash can go longer between pick-ups, and that saves fuel and labor costs. The compacted trash also takes up less space in the landfill, and since the cans run on solar power, it's clean and green.

The Big Belly cans were purchased with money from a NYSERDA grant, through a partnership with CDTA and have already been two weeks on the street with no mess and no pick-up. "They're already paying for themselves," Anthony Capece, Executive for the BID explained at a recent committee meeting about the district.

Will Sing for Food: Sing for Your Supper at Paradiso

2009-09-11T10:05:00.008-04:00

Brave? Talented? Just hungry? Ristorante Paradiso, a Central Avenue fixture, is hosting "Sing for Your Supper," a new promotional event that allows customers to sing popular tunes in exchange for their meals. Sing just two songs, and your meal is on the house.

The event kicked off last night, and everyone got into the act, with customers singing hits by Elton John, Pat Benatar, Simon and Garfunkel, and even the bartender chiming in with his bass voice for Chantilly Lace. Participants got to enjoy a buffet of Chicken Francaise, Eggplant Roulades, Baked Ziti, and House Salad.

Sponsored by G.A.E.S. Magazine, the "Sing for Your Supper" event will take place each week for the next two Thursdays, September 17 and 24, from 6-8pm at Ristorante Paradiso on Central and Robin. Depending on its success, the event may continue through the month of October.

The event is the brainchild of Matt Woodruff, Publisher/Editor of G.A.E.S., Albany's Gay Arts, Entertainment and Shopping Magazine. Woodruff says he wanted to come up with a way to support Ristorante Paradiso, a longtime Albany business that's he says has been very supportive of the gay community. Woodruff says they saw that Paradiso had karaoke, but noticed that people didn't really turn out for it, and thought offering free dinner in exchange for some music would be a popular idea.

In tough economic times like these, the event is a fun, affordable way to have a night out, with good food and entertainment, Woodruff says.

The event also benefits the magazine, offering a new opportunity for exposure. G.A.E.S. is a relatively new monthly magazine, in existence just six months, but is already available in over 150 locations throughout the city, he says.

Ristorante Paradiso is located on the corner of Robin and Central Avenue. Sing for Your Supper takes place every Thursday night from 6pm to 8pm.

Central BID Helps Celebrate National Night Out

2009-09-04T11:34:00.008-04:00

No insurance? We've got your protection against cancer

2009-09-04T10:53:00.012-04:00

ALERT: The Cancer Screening will be held at the

CBID famers market this weekend!

For many people, consistent medical care is simply out of reach. Their jobs don't offer health insurance, and that means living in perpetual fear of getting sick or hurt. But for the last 10 years, the Albany County Cancer Services Program has been trying to ease that fear by offering free screenings, and treatment for those diagnosed with cancer.

The program is aimed at early detection, and so it promotes annual exams for everyone, regardless of income, said Christie Ray-Marchetti, Outreach Manager for Cancer Services. "We want to try to catch cancer early when it's most treatable," Marchetti said.

The Cancer Services provides annual pap tests, clinical breast exams, mammograms for women and colorectal screenings and prostate education for men. If cancer is found, the program will also cover chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, "whatever they need," Marchetti said.

The program works through a network of care providers, including private physicians and area hospitals like Albany Medical Center and St. Peter's Hospital. "People have a choice when it comes to who they see," Marchetti said. "It's not a clinic."

Funded by the New York State Department of Health, the Cancer Services Program offers cancer screenings to women over 40, men over 50, and anyone who doesn't have health insurance, or whose insurance doesn't cover screenings.

Last year, the program conducted 650 screenings in this county alone.

For their convenience, patients can get screenings in the evenings, and the program also works with the Bellevue Mobile Mammogram Van to bring medical care right to people's work and neighborhood. The Cancer Services Program has physicians right off Central Avenue, Marchetti added.

Now there is simply no excuse not to get regular, annual cancer screenings and protect yourself against cancer.

To schedule your free cancer screening, call the Cancer Services Program Intake Coordinator at 454-4055, or check out one of these upcoming screening events:

Upcoming Events:

September 14, 10am-2pm

Cancer screenings at Koinonia Health Center, 553 Clinton Avenue

October 6, 3pm-6pm

Cancer screenings at the Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Avenue

Chapman Stained Glass Studio Restores History for more than 100 years

2009-09-02T12:49:00.015-04:00

Near-BY News:

Stained glass windows lean up against the windows in the showroom of the Chapman Stained Glass Studio, offering a lesson in what the clear glass windows could be. Inside the workspace, more windows wait for their touch-ups.

The converted garage on the corner of Quail and Elberon is filled with glass projects in various stages of completion, and contains everything from leaded glass door panels to monumental church windows. The shop is a short history in the advances made in the art of stained glass windows, beginning with the small jeweled windows, progressing to large glass portraits with painted surfaces that show shading, and then making way for Tiffany's opalescent shimmer and creative use of leading.

Ron Buckley, the shop foreman and head glazer points to a series of cracked gable windows from a Schuylerville church. Glazer Adam Krawczak is binding the cracks in these ancient windows, first soldering the pieces together, and then using horseshoe nails to hold the pieces in place until they dry.

Chapman Studios is also responsible for rescuing the generations Albany High School stained glass windows from the old high school at the corner of Washington and South Lake Avenue last year. The windows had been stored away in an old corner of the building when the old high school moved to its new location in 1913, and had long-since been forgotten. When work crews discovered them last year, Chapman Studios was responsible for moving, restoring, and storing them for the school district for future use. More recently Chapman completed the stained glass projects at the Albany Courthouse and Hackett Middle School.

The studio also creates new windows for homeowners and churches, and you can see examples of their detailed work in the showroom. The studio was established in 1898, and moved to its present location in the 1980s. Buckley has been working here since 1990, when he came on as intern. "I like the job because we're restoring history," Buckley says, looking around the shop. Where possible, they also try to connect private buyers with pieces that would otherwise end up in the landfill. Recently, they successfully sold two mammoth glass windows to a private buyer in Pennsylvania. Buckley and his crew are very happy because the shop has been looking for a home for the pieces for more than 30 years, he says.

Chapman Stained Glass Studio, Inc. is located at 212 Quail Street, Albany, NY 12206. For more information about their work, please call them at (518) 449-5552.

New Green Machine Hits Streets

2009-08-26T18:39:00.005-04:00

District regulars who are out and about will notice a new vehicle on the streets this week. The Green Machine is a new lean, mean, cleaning machine and it's coming to a corner near you.

The new street-cleaning machine, a 636 Tennant Sidewalk Vacuum, was delivered to the Central BID offices last week. Staff watched excitedly as the machine got loaded off the delivery truck by means of a tow truck, and then gave it a test run before stowing it in the garage.

Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the BID says that the new machine will make life much easier for the crew. The new machine boasts a powerful vacuum system and power washing system, and a cab with better visibility and steering capacity, which means a safer driving experience for the crew.

Super Sandwiches and Deli Shop Offers Affordable Lunch to Local Community

2009-08-26T18:20:00.005-04:00

Anthony Davis and his family just opened Super Sandwiches and Deli Shop in the old wireless phone store at 171 Central. Red patent leather stools and a tall lunch counter adorn the comfortable lunch spot, which boasts a large selection of Boar's Head sandwiches and subs.

The deli has been gaining ground since it opened two months ago, and today Davis, who previously worked in construction, says that business has been steady. "Business is going okay considering we just opened," Davis says. "I can't complain."

Davis decided to open the shop after doing extensive research on the food and local community. "I was thinking it would be a nice place to open up shop that does sandwiches and soups, and you could get them to go," he says. Davis likes serving the local community, and enjoys visiting with his regulars. He tries to make lunch as convenient as possible by also accepting pre-orders by phone and fax.

New to Super Sandwiches? Try one of the big subs, which can be ordered with all the fixings including pickles, olives and hot peppers and a homemade banana pudding for dessert. And with breakfasts starting at $2.50 and sandwiches at $4.99, you can't beat the price! Maybe it's time to stop brown-bagging your lunch...

Super Sandwiches and Deli Shop is located at 171 Central Avenue, and open Monday through Friday from 8am-7pm, and Saturdays 9am-7pm. To place an order for pick-up, you can call the shop at 487-9960.

Albany Convention Center Authority Open House

2009-08-20T09:55:00.004-04:00

The Albany Convention Center Authority will be holding an Open House on Thursday, August 27th from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Authority Offices at 386 Broadway (the R.B. Wing Building) in Albany.

LOCAL CAREER COLLEGE RECOGNIZED BY CITY & LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP

2009-08-20T09:47:00.001-04:00

Working together, Albany City Councilman Michael O’Brien and County Legislator Ray Joyce met recently with Faith Takes, President of the locally operated Mildred Elley/Austin School of Spa Technology, located at 855 Central Avenue in Albany. The school now in its 91stth year, is one of the Northeast’s best recognized career colleges, offering programs in Business Management, Cosmetology, Digital Graphics, and Nursing. A number of area residents, primarily returning adult students and those re-training themselves for vocational careers, make up the student body of 1200 full-time students. During their discussions, Councilman O’Brien, Legislator Joyce and President Takes analyized the prospective courses which are of greatest interest to the student residents in the Capital Region community. Mildred Elley offers the most advanced training available because they know how crucial up-to-date employment skills are in professional development. Complete course offerings are detailed by visiting the school or going to http://www.mildred-elley.edu/.

Vacant building opens as grocery store

2009-07-31T17:45:00.008-04:00

A new grocery store opened on Townsend Park.

Festooned with flags, the 37 Central Avenue Market just opened its doors for the first time 10 days ago and since then Owner Yasir Osman business has been "all right." Osman decided to locate the store in the building that was once the Deja Vu Video store because of its proximity to the Townsend Park Homes. Osman wants seniors and residents nearby to have easier access to necessities like bread, soup, ice cream, sodas, laundry detergent, soda and juice.

The store also sells snacks, cigarettes, cell phone accessories, and coffee. The thing that sets his grocery store apart is that he does not sell beer or lotto. "I think they just get you into trouble," Osman explained.

Osman said he invested about $16,000 in remodeling the building, and today it is neat as a pin. The shelves are neatly lined with salad dressing, coffee, and cereal. The hot coffee and cream display are set up on a table with a clean white tablecloth, and here and there soda and chips are arranged in tidy displays. Osman cashes out two little girls buying ice cream bars on a shiny new register. "They're neighbors," he says with a smile.

Groceries are a new endeavor for Osman, and he says he hopes that the store serves his community and supports his family.

New Farmers' Market Hits Its Stride

2009-07-31T10:27:00.009-04:00

In its 10th week, the Central Avenue Farmers Market is already hitting its stride. Fruits and vegetables have started to pour in, and this week marks the beginning of tomato season. Corn, salad fixings, and green beans continue to be plentiful, and customers are also stocking up on the market's farm-raised poultry and 100% grass-fed Angus beef.

The market has been featured in a number of news stories, and the market's publicity efforts are also starting to pay off. Customer numbers are climbing, and expected to keep growing as more produce rolls in.

This week marks the beginning of the Market Fresh Kitchen cooking series, where a number of area chefs will be providing cooking demonstrations at the market. Noah Sheetz, the Governor's Chef and a perennial favorite, will return to the market to kick off the series. Sheetz is known for his emphasis on local foods, and is a strong advocate of farmers' markets.

Other upcoming events include a Holistic Health Day, a Flea Market, and an Artist's Market. The market continues its outreach efforts trying to hook local audiences, and make the market part of their weekly routine.

Market organizers are also investigating how the can better serve low-income populations, andthey are currently putting together a survey to solicit feedback about the market.

To highlight the Avenue's international flair, the market will offer cuisines from around the world. Food vendors will include Capital Q, for a taste of down-home south, The Big Fat Greek for Greek and Meditterranean food, Al-Baraki Lebanese, Paquito's Mexican Food, and for a green touch, a Solar-Powered Hot Dog Stand. Each week the market will feature a different vendor.

The market is open every Saturday from 9am-1pm and is located at the Linda, WAMC's Performing Arts Center at the corner of Quail and Central. For more information about the market, please check out the website at www.centralavenuefarmersmarket.com.

This Week at The Central Avenue Farmers Market

2009-07-31T08:52:00.003-04:00

Come join us at the Central Avenue Farmers' Market
Every Saturday, from 9am-1pm
At the parking area of The Linda, WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, 339 Central
Quail and Central, Albany
THE MARKET WEB SITE
Support the city's newest market!
This Week, Saturday August 1
Farmers and Vendors
14 farm stands will provide the very best in homegrown fruits and vegetables, 100% grass-fed Angus beef, poultry and eggs, artisan cheeses, fresh-cut flowers, homebaked pies, fresh herbs, homemade bread and scones, handmade jewelry, crafts, and gourmet specialty items. Click here to see our full list of vendors.
Cooking Demonstration with the Governor's Chef
Please join us for a cooking demonstration by Noah Sheetz, the Governor's Chef. Noah will show you how to make great dishes with the very freshest ingredients of the season! This event marks the beginning of our cooking demonstration series, "Market Fresh Kitchen." These demos will take place every week, and highlight a different chef every time.

Food stamps now welcome

Now market customers can use their EBT benefits to purchase groceries at the market. Just bring your card to the Market Manager booth to purchase tokens for use in the market. It's that easy to buy fresh, local goods!
Central Avenue Farmers' Market--Growing Our Community!

Albany Named ALL AMERICAN CITY

2009-07-31T08:46:00.001-04:00

First published in print: Saturday, June 20, 2009

Albany has won the title of "All America City" after city officials promoted its municipal improvements, youth programs and historical significance.

The National Civic League made the award Friday to a team of 25 boosters, including Mayor Jerry Jennings, during a meeting in Tampa, Fla. Jennings said by phone after the ceremony that it was a tough competition, pitting Albany against some of the best and brightest cities in the country.

"It's celebration of everything we've done and all the efforts the city has made to make it a great community for everyone," Jennings said.

The last time Albany received the award, which the league considers the equivalent of a "civic Oscar," was in 1991. Albany was one of 10 to receive the award among 32 finalists nominated. Jennings and others had submitted a 27-page application that detailed improvements made to the city since the mayor'selection, including the Capitalize Albany revitalization plan.

The city could use the All America City logo for up to the year, said Mark McGrath spokesman for the National Civic League, using it to market the city and attract tourists or businesses.

Humberto Martinez and Jordan Carleo-Evangelist contributed to this story.

Townsend Park Turnaround: Workshop creates plans to improve neighborhood park

2009-04-13T10:11:00.000-04:00

Townsend Park is at a crossroads, literally and figuratively. Not only is the little triangular park located at a fork in two busy roads, it is now at an important turning point. The city of Albany and the Central Business Improvement District are working with concerned citizens and nearby business owners to try to reclaim the park, and make it a more attractive place for the community.

The park has long been a destination for vagrants, and frequent drunk and disorderly conduct citations are given out there, said Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the Central Business Improvement District. This group wants to turn that around, and make the park less attractive for undesirable activities, and more attractive for shoppers, after-dinner crowds from the adjacent restaurants & Lark Street, Capece said.

The community group met in late winter, and then again in early spring to discuss their plans. At the recent meeting, held at the Townsend Park Bakery, Barton & Loguidice Consulting, an engineering firm, introduced some modifications that could help change the park’s personality, Capece said. The engineering firm made suggestions about maintenance, lighting, trees, and plantings, all with an eye towards making the park more useful for the public. Then, the panel discussed ideas and made some suggestions of their own.

Other concerns that the groups have brought up:

1) The age & safety of the overgrowth of the trees and the lack of quality grass

2) The appearance of the parking lane on Central Avenue near the meters

3) The lack of any kind of "feature" like a fountain or light display

4) the landscaping and long term control of the ammenities (benches, trash cans, statues etc)

Now, the next step is for the consulting firm to digest that information, and create some design plans for the park. Then, another meeting will be held to review those plans, and make some decisions about how to proceed, Capece said.

“We want to take the whole park and make it better,” Capece said. “We want to say, ‘What functions here, and what doesn’t,’ and then make changes.”

Boost for non-profit: NABA expands manufacturing

2009-04-13T09:52:00.000-04:00

With the economy in a prolonged downturn, it’s nice to hear some good news every once in a while, and the Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany has some. “You pick up the Business Review and everything’s doom and gloom, and meanwhile, we’re growing,” says Christopher Burke, Executive Director of the Association.

This quarter, the Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany (NABA) hired eight new employees for its manufacturing unit.

Sales have gone up, too, Burke said. This year’s sales are already up $828,000 over last year’s, and with orders continuing to come in, Burke expects to them to go up even further.

The association attributes increased demand to government stimulus money and the manufacturing unit’s faster turn-around. “We’ve improved operations so much that turnaround is up,” Burke said. “Now we’re getting repeat orders.”

Located on the third floor of the NABA building at 301 Washington Avenue, the manufacturing unit consists of a vast network of industrial sewing machines, other machines for fabrication, and storage and shipping facilities. Here, sighted and visually impaired employees work together to construct safety vests, tyvek suits, and other uniform components for organizations including the New York City Transit Authority, the Long Island Railroad and the U.S. military. On a recent weekday afternoon, employees, NABA’s workforce totals 90, bustled over the machines, and carted materials back and forth across the busy floor.

The association also houses a clinic for the visually impaired, and provides services and programming for children, adults and the elderly, including training programs and summer recreation programs.

Recently, New York State Senator Neil Breslin awarded the association a $15,000 grant to help expand the children’s programming—another good piece of news. The association will use the grant money to help set up technology facilities for the youth on the 4th floor of the building. There, kids will have access to tools like magnifying screenreaders, voice-activated GPS, and software that makes text on the computer screens larger. Once installed, these desks will also be used by adults, teens, and other populations.

NABA houses all these programs and the manufacturing unit under one roof, and there’s not a lot of space left over, Burke said. They’ve already reconfigured the building to expand operations, and if they grow much more, he said, they’ll run out of room.

Still, Burke admits, these are good problems to have. “We’re very busy now, we’ve got orders in hand. The future looks busy,” Burke said. “In this economy, that makes for good morale.”

Shine On! 'Shining Rainbow' Restaurant a mecca for unusual dishes

2009-03-26T09:21:00.002-04:00

Beef with Balsam pear. Squid fried celery. Spinach with garlic sauce. Not your typical Chinese fare, right? But maybe that’s not so surprising when you discover the name of the restaurant is Shining Rainbow. Then, dishes like spare ribs with bitter melon don’t seem so out of place.

This new Chinese-Japanese restaurant on Central Avenue has a menu that seems to encompass every possibility—even though the kitchen is about the size of a lunch counter. The restaurant has Chinese dishes, sushi, and a fairly large dim sum selection, which makes for some difficult dining decisions.

The waiter recommends their mushroom with chicken hot pot, “a real Chinatown specialty,” he said. My companion has chicken lo mein, as per his usual (he is becoming a connoisseur of lo mein.) We also order some dim sum to begin our meal, green leek dumplings, stuffed bean curd, and steamed pork dumplings. These appetizers were prettily presented, flavorful, and large enough to be a meal in and of themselves. I would highly recommend this place for dim sum; they seem to have a lot of show in them. The main dishes were less artisitic, but still good. The lo mein was smoky, with tender pieces of chicken and slivers of scallion and carrot mixed in with the thick noodles. My hot pot was a new experience for me to handle, the chicken was still on the bone and clearly seemed to be more for flavoring than eating, however combined with the tasty mushrooms and the unique sauce, it mixed well with the sticky rice and made for good, cozy eating. Our bill, with two sodas, came to about $30.

Next time, I’m going to order from the sushi menu, which is the same sushi as that served in the very popular Shogun Sushi in Delmar (the restaurants share partners). While we waited for our food, several sushi rolls came out that looked wonderful, including one elaborate roll that was wrapped around an orange.

Shining Rainbow has great lunch specials, with plenty of seating for diners-on-the-go at their lunch counter. There are also a number of deep, gondola-like booths ranged around the restaurant for longer, more involved meals. This three-week old restaurant is just getting on its feet and eager to please, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Come looking for something out of the ordinary.

Shining Rainbow is located at 209 Central Avenue. They are open every day, and also offer delivery. 396-3881.

Everyone's invited: Blessed Sacrament School hosts open house for prospective parents

2009-03-26T09:09:00.000-04:00

Next week, Blessed Sacrament School opens their doors, and invites the community in for a visit. Parents interested in exploring the school, and parents who already have children in the school are all welcome to attend.

“The open house is important, because we feel it is a way to let people know we are here!” said Administrative Assistant Nancy Kelly. “We often ask the parents visiting how they heard about us. Most people respond by saying by word of mouth, from a family member, friend or co-worker or by the advertising we do in newspapers, flyers and inserts. Many people didn't even know we where here.”

Parents take the tour with a current student and explore the school. The student will answer any questions the parent might have. After the tour, the parent will visit the classroom teacher that their child will possibly have next year for further academic information.

The open house also provides an important opportunity for students to show their parents around, and get them up to speed on what they’ve been working on and introduce them to their teachers and school staff.

“Every faculty member and staff knows each and every child's name and grade,” said Kelly. “We have an excellent faculty who is involved with both child and parent. Our principal's office door is always open to both student and parents with any concerns.”

The school is located next door to the Blessed Sacrament Church at 605 Central Avenue. The Open House will be held on Thursday April 2 from 6-7:30pm. For more information, please contact the school at 438-5854.

Bringing the market to your doorstep: Farmers Market Opens on Central

2009-03-10T10:34:00.000-04:00

Farmers may be headed to the city this summer, bringing their homegrown fruits and vegetables to sell on Central Avenue. The Central Business Improvement District and WAMC-Northeast Public Radio are teaming up to create a new farmers’ market in the parking lot next to the Linda Norris Auditorium.

The parking lot is cold and empty now, but starting May 30, it will be home to crowd of vendors offering a range of farm fresh products to district residents. The market will be a convenient source of fresh fruits and vegetables, and will also be a boon to farmers, who are always looking for new places to sell their wares.

The market also promises to be a unique opportunity for neighbors to meet, bringing together people from Washington Park, West Hill, and Sheridan Square every week. Discussions are currently underway on other programs this new public square might host.

One goal of the planners is that the market will accept EBT and WIC benefit cards, so that everyone has access to the very freshest produce for healthy meals, and it could also become a place where people can make donations to the Capital District Food Pantries.

WAMC and the BID say the market is part of a long term vision for the neighborhood. The people who live and work on Central see it as a working, thriving area for development, and the market is a way to display the very best the region has to offer.

The market will take place in the parking lot beside the Linda Norris Auditorium—WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio at 339 Central Avenue on Saturdays from 8am to noon, lasting from May to September. Any farmers/vendors who are interested in selling goods at the market should contact the Central BID at (518) 462-4300.

Come Again--Ristorante Paradiso Reopens!

2009-03-10T10:32:00.000-04:00

Matthew Daskalakis has tried many things over the years, but this former pro baseball ballplayer, turned New York State worker, turned restaurateur, has found a home at Ristorante Paradiso. The restaurant reopened in January after a seven month hiatus, and owner Daskalakis welcomed back his loyal customers. “That’s the very best part of the restaurant,” Daskalakis said. “We do have a very decent clientele.”

Daskalakis said the economy is tough for restaurants, but he can’t imagine doing anything else. “There’s parts that you don’t miss. You don’t miss the cost. This is a tough building when it comes to costs,” he allows. “But you get through it.”

During the break, Daskalakis remodeled and retooled the restaurant, expanding the dining room to allow for more even more guests. The restaurant is now open for dinner and banquets, and will continue serving Italian specialties like chicken marsala, eggplant parmigiano, Delmonico steak and prime rib that it's been so famous for.

Once a 24-hour cafeteria, the Ristorante Paradiso has been an Albany fixture since the 1920s. Daskalakis purchased the restaurant in 1977, the same year the location was being used for the filming of Ironweed, a movie based on William Kennedy's novel about Albany. Today, the restaurant has the same old world charm it has always had and the same great food, and author Kennedy is still a frequent patron.

As part of the remodeling, Daskalakis removed the platform and booths in the dining room to make way for more tables. Daskalakis has also begun to offer some new specials and discounts, including complimentary drinks on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. On Valentine’s Day, the restaurant offered a special menu, and the dining room, already quite romantic with its stain-glass windows, painted ceilings and table top lanterns, was festively decorated with bunches of red and white balloons. Daskalakis presided over all of it, welcoming customers in like old friends and showing them the restaurant’s latest updates—clearly glad to be back doing what he loves.

Ristorante Paradiso is located at 198 Central Avenue, serving dinners Tuesday through Sunday from 5pm to 10pm. Ristorante Paradiso makes a great setting for banquets.

District Deals: Discount shopping goes up

2009-02-24T20:23:00.002-05:00

Except for a brief stint at UPS over the holidays, Jayvon Israel has been without a job for several months. “I’m putting in applications, but there’s nothing out there,” he said. Israel was shopping at the Dollar General on a recent weekday, snapping up low-priced juice, dish soap, and paper towels. “I do more of my shopping here now,” said Israel. He also does more shopping around than he used to, comparing prices at the grocery store, box stores, and discount stores before he makes purchases, he said.

Israel’s not alone. The current economy has a lot of people looking for ways to stretch a dollar, and many are shopping for bargains right here in the Central Avenue BID district.

According to a Datamonitor report on national shopping trends, more people are turning to discount stores for good deals on food and groceries. “The current economic downturn has contributed to consumers switching to discount stores and private label alternatives more often in 2008,” the report states.

“Business is on the rise,” said Dollar Tree Manager Ben Nisky. The dollar store in Westgate Plaza offers a range of merchandise and also boasts a wide selection of holiday and party goods and toys, and more customers are coming in looking for a good deal.

This past Friday, customer Rita Fiscarelli loaded her cart with Valentine’s Day gift bags and cute stuffed animals. “I like to get holiday stuff here because it’s inexpensive,” she said.

Business is also booming at The Dollar Shop, located across the street in Hannaford Plaza. The store expanded two months ago to keep up with its growing customer base, said Manager Pervez Butt. The new store offers more space for displays and also more shopping aisles, stacked with everything from aluminum baking pans to candles and cooking spices. The store carries over 100 different brands, he said.

More people are coming in, but they’re still buying the same things, Butt said: “Mostly candy, hair stuff, socks, party stuff.”

Over at Dollar General at 484 Central Avenue customer numbers are also up, and so is demand for grocery items. Store staff report that customers are buying a wider range of goods here than previously, including more food, household goods, and clothing. To accommodate demand, the store carries more name-brand grocery items, including soda, juices, milk and snacks, and drug store sundries like makeup, shampoo, and toothpaste, with prices as low as $1 and $2.

In a tough economy like the one we now find ourselves in, bargains like these can help families stay afloat.

Brand New Offices for Aspen Dental

2009-02-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

Aspen Dental will continue to keep your pearly whites, pearly white, but they'll do it from a couple blocks down the street, in a brand-new beautiful building to match your brand-new beautiful smile.

Aspen Dental relocated its office at Westgate Plaza to a brand-new freestanding building in front of Home Depot. The new office opened January 26.

"The decision to relocate was made to provideAspen Dental patients a more modern, pleasant,comfortable setting," said Mark Frank, Marketing and Communications Manager, Aspen Dental in Syracuse. The new facilities boast large patient rooms, and a bigger reception and consultation area.

The offices will also use the latest technology to make patient services more efficient and convenient. "As far as technology is concerned, the new office will provide state-of-the art Kodak Dental Systems digital radiography products, which saves patients time waiting for traditional x-rays and allows Aspen Dentists to better diagnose, serve and treat patients." Aspen also offers chairside T.V. for patients to help explain x-rays, and to make the visits more enjoyable.

Aspen Dental will continue to offer full range of services including hygiene, oral surgery, fillings, whitening and crown and bridge work, and an on-site denture lab.

As part of the grand opening celebration, the office will be offering free new-patient exams and x-rays, and special pricing on dental and denture services.

Aspen Dental features extended hours, including Saturday appointments.

The new Aspen Dental is located at 979 Central Avenue. To make an appointment, call 518-591-1000 or visit http://www.aspendent.com/

Honest Weight Approves New Store Design

2009-02-10T20:53:00.017-05:00

Honest Weight Food Co-Op members voted 185 to 10 approve design plans for the new green grocery store on Watervliet Avenue, and January netted $172,000 toward the organization's independent financing goal of $2 million.

While initially the co-op was planning to renovate the existing concrete block building at 100 Watervliet Avenue, they decided to build new store to suit their needs after doing a side-by-side cost comparison.

According to the presentation presented at the member meeting January 25, whether they rebuild or simply renovate, construction costs are coming in between $4.5 and $5.5 million. "Best case scenario (low ball, lowest common denominator building) for renovation would only save a small percentage over build to suit," the presentation states. "For this we get a building that functions as a store but isn’t very green." The renovated building would offer very little daylight and wouldn't be expandable without rebuilding.

Designs for the new store include an open floor plan with a second floor mezzanine, offices, community space, a teaching kitchen, cafe area, and a large parking lot. The co-op will be seeking the highest LEED rating for environmental-friendly construction. The co-op is working with 3t Architects.

New vision: NABA expands holdings on Central

2009-02-10T17:01:00.016-05:00

The Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany began their $3 million remodeling project this week. The organization demolished two buildings on Central to expand possiblities for their other adjacent holdings, which are a source of income for NABA, defraying operating costs for the expansive service program.

NABA resides at 301 Washington, and leases out offices next door at 299. This week, buildings located at 86 and 88 Central Avenue were bulldozed to make room for parking and a small dog park. This parking area, which is adjacent to 301 Washington, will serve the surrounding offices, including the newly purchased building at 80 Central.

Bought last year, the two-story office building at 80 Central is currently under renovation, with about $2.7 million worth of improvements planned for the inside and outside. The organization will also consider restoring the building's historic facade, with its soaring columns and intricate cornices. Once completed, NABA will look for a tenant to occupy the office space, to help generate income for their programming, said Christopher Burke, NABA's Executive Director.

The new parking lot next door will help entice tenants to the building, attracting many customers who otherwise not consider the location, Burke said. The private lot will be landscaped and gated, and an appealing addition to Central, he said.

"At the end of the day, we're bringing back a 2,400 square foot building, and bringing a Class A tenant into the district," Burke said.

NABA currently leases their space at 299 to SUNY Albany, and hopes to find similar tenants for the building at 80 Central. They are looking for a long-term non-profit or commercial tenant, Burke said.

NABA has been a district neighbor since 1958, and continues to be an active force in the district. "It's rare to have a non-profit stay and invest in an area," Burke said. NABA and its clients like being part of the fabric of uptown, with its supportive community and convenient businesses. Clients can walk to banks and restaurants, and the organization has a great relationship with the city and the police department, Burke said.

Getting people in and out continues to be a challenge, because parking can be hard to find. However, with the new lot and the newly leased spaces in the nearby Lexington Avenue lot, Burke is hopeful that visitors won't have such a hard time stopping in.

"This project shows our committment to the area," Burke said.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

2009-02-05T09:39:00.007-05:00

CITY OF ALBANY “AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH” GOSPEL GALA 2009 ANNOUNCED

Albany, NY – Mayor Jerry Jennings and the City of Albany are pleased to announce the “African-American History Month” Gospel Gala 2009.

On Friday, February 6, 2009, the City of Albany will host the eighth annual celebration of African-American History through gospel music at the historic Palace Theatre. This free event will officially kick-off African-American History Month in the City and will include performances by local gospel choirs and liturgical dance groups. This will also be the first opportunity for the Capital District to celebrate the election of the 44th President of the United States, and the first African-American, President Barack Obama.

Carter G. Woodson initiated the celebration of African-American heritage in 1926 as Negro History Week. This second week in February was chosen because it marked the birthdays of two men who greatly impacted the African-American population, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History expanded the observance and celebration throughout the month of February.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m. The program begins at 7:00 p.m. and will include the following:

o Ms. Ariel King singing the National Anthem

o Metropolitan NTM Baptist Church Horns directed by Bro. Cliff Avery

o H.I.P. H.O.P and Community Praise Dancers under the direction of Carleatha Wilson

o Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Liturgical Dancers

o Area Soloists

o Duryee AME Zion Men’s Choir

o Macedonia Baptist Church Voices of Faith

o Capital District Voices in Praise under the direction of Gospel Gala 2009 Coordinator and Minister of Music Dennis Lee Edney

o Team on Line – a self-taught gymnastics team featuring an all-male group ranging in age from 8 to 16 years old

New Toolcat Roars Through District

2009-01-24T14:12:00.010-05:00

The Central Business Improvement District has a new pair of hands shoveling snow and cleaning curb cuts. The CBID is currently leasing a 5600 Toolcat vehicle to assist with district clean-up.

The lease is on a trial basis. “We want to try it out, see if we like it,and see if it can handle the work load,” said Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the BID. The vehicle is equivalent to a 1-ton truck, with hauling capacity, and offers 40 different attachments to work with, including a sweeper and mini-bulldozer.

Before getting the Toolcat, the 16 miles of sidewalk clean-up was done by hand, with brooms and shovels, and, during the winter months, it took days for the five-person staff to complete. “It was tough,” said Stephen McBride, Supervisor of the BID Maintenance Crew.

“We couldn’t keep up with the weather, and I was wearing out the crew,” Capece added. Especially in a heavy winter like the one we’re having now, when there’s been no real thaw, and snow banks have built up along the sidewalk. “Everything’s hard as a rock,” Capece said.

But the Toolcat, emblazoned with the CBID logo, makes short work of the mountainous cliffs of snow. In seconds, Maintenance Crew member P.J. Stone scoops up a load of snow and carts it away. The vehicle is also great for punching out "cuts" in the snow banks and for spreading salt on crosswalks, to ensure safer pedestrian crossing. The new machine makes snow removal a pleasure (almost). The CBID helps the City and the property owners in keeping the crosswalks open in bad weather. It's just another way we try to make the BID area safer and cleaner.

“With the Toolcat the guys don’t mind the snow so much anymore,” said Capece, with a smile.

'Spare' Time: Bowling is affordable fun

2009-01-24T14:03:00.004-05:00

Looking for a fun, affordable way to spend an evening with friends or family? Consider bowling! But whatever you do, don’t call the bowling center, a bowling alley. Bowlers don’t like that. After all, alleys call to mind unseemliness and subterfuge—and what’s more above-board than bowling?

“Calling it a bowling alley is a no-no,” said Bowler Hal Bieber. “It’s a bowling center.”

Bieber, 77, and his pal, Norman Greenfeld, 83, are both volunteers with the Albany Bowling Association, a district resident since 1974. The bowling association is a not-for-profit organization, with just over 6,000 members, and as a member of United States Bowling Congress, the association is responsible for organizing bowling leagues and competitions in the Capital Region. The organization is also the interceptor for national bowling tournaments and athletes, Bieber said.

Bieber, Association Manager, has been bowling since 1953, and began to work for the association after he retired from AT&T in 1986. At that time, the association had just over 24,000 members, spread across three groups, the American Bowling Congress, the Women’s International Bowling Congress, and the Young American Bowling Association, but in 2006, the association merged these groups to trim expenses. Today membership is dwindling because there are so many different leisure activities competing for people’s free time, said Bieber. “It’s just too many things going on, and people can only participate in so many things,” he said.

The association offices are chock full of reminders from bowling’s heyday. The walls are decorated with murals of bowlers in mid-swing, as well as the giant aluminum bowling pins that decorated Sunset Lanes on Central before its recent remodel. There’s also a hooked rug of President Richard Nixon bowling, allegedly taken from the White House Lane. The offices also contain a case full of trophies and memorabilia—photographs from the Moscow Musical Theater Troupe in 1988 (what else?) bowling—and certificates and plaques commemorating historic accomplishments. Against one wall is the association’s Hall of Fame, showcasing the names of meritorious achievers, in two categories: good deeds and good bowlers, Bieber explains.

What does it take to be a good bowler?

“Depends what you mean by a good bowler,” Bieber says immediately.

“There’s guys who throw the ball all kinds of ways and get strikes, but I wouldn’t define them as good bowlers,” adds Greenfeld. Greenfeld, a retired University at Albany psychology professor writes a column for the association’s newsletter, titled ‘Why Bowling?’ and has devoted a lot of time to meditating on what it takes to be a good bowler.

According to this savvy bowler, good bowlers need know-how and good technique, and they have to be consistent. Good bowlers are also mindful of the surfaces they’re working with, including the surface of the ball and the lane, Greenfeld said. The weight of the ball can affect how it rolls, and the relative slipperiness of the lane can also be a factor in getting that strike.

“You need physical coordination, mental stick-to-itiveness, and consistency,” said Greenfeld. “It’s mechanical and psychological.”

Recently, Greenfeld was diagnosed with tendonitis in his shoulder and has had to take a break from bowling. He was asked to join a Wii Bowling League, a video game version of the sport, but he declined. For him, bowling is largely social, and he doesn’t see the sport in sitting around video-gaming. “You can find sport now in twiddling your thumbs,” he joked.

When asked about the future of the sport, these two bowlers are thoughtful. “It’s not going to get any bigger,” Bieber allows. However, as long as people are looking for an affordable team sport that is inclusive and promotes camaraderie, bowling will be there, he said.

For those of you looking to try the sport, here’s some tips from our pros:

*Your arm should swing like a pendulum. A lot of people try to force the ball, instead just let it roll off.
*Your body should be bent forward at a 6 degree angle as you walk up to the line, and as you reach the line, you want to put a slight slide and bend in your knee to act as a shock absorber.
*Keep your eye on the target, and keep your head still.
*Whatever you do, don’t call it a bowling alley. It’s a bowling center.
*Likewise, don’t call them gutters, they’re called channels. By that token, a gutter ball shouldn’t be called a gutter ball, then? “Right,” said Bieber. However, after a moment’s pause, he sighs, and concedes, “It shouldn’t be, but it is.”

The Albany Bowling Association is located at 253 Central Avenue. For more information about the sport or about joining a league, call (518) 465-4878.

Everett Road puts best face forward for city visitors

2009-01-08T12:00:00.009-05:00

The massive multi-million dollar road construction project on Central Avenue continues, and the latest piece heralds a new era for the city. Illuminated banner poles have been erected on both sides of Everett Road, to mark a grand new entrance to the city of Albany's main commerical corridor, Central Avenue.

Everett Road has been long recognized as one of the city's highest volume access points, with traffic from the east and west coming in from 1-90. The banner pole treatment will serve as a big entrance to the city, and will welcome thousands of visitors every year.

The banner poles are just the latest facelift for Everett. The busy road was also repaved this year, and to make pedestrian navigation easier, sidewalks, curbs, and medians were added. Look for world class flower plantings and a grand gateway sign.

Banners will most likely be mounted in the spring.

Salsa Latina Delivers Authentic Latin American Cuisine

2009-01-08T11:20:00.013-05:00

On a recent snowy night, I braved a wintry storm to get a little heat at Salsa Latina. The new Latin American and Mexican grill on Central had come highly recommended--and not just by the locals, but by other Mexican food enthusiasts. These are people like me, who came from the southwest, and now find themselves stranded in a land of ice storms and ketchup parading as salsa. This little group of expats is always on the lookout for a spicy fix, and they said they found it at Salsa Latina, so my expectations were high when I went in that night--and I wasn't disappointed.

We started with chips, salsa, and queso. The queso wasn't any of that cheez whiz goop that you find other places--this was homemade, a thick white sauce in the true Mexican tradition. And the salsa was...well, fresh homemade salsa, and that's a high compliment.

We ordered Carne Asada, which came with two big steaks, pounded thin and seasoned just right. They had that fresh-off-the-grill flavor, and were served with avocado, pico de gallo, beans and rice and warm tortillas, so I could eat them with a knife and fork, or roll 'em up. We also ordered the combination platter with beef enchilada and tamale. The enchilada was smothered with the cheese the way it's supposed to be, and the tamale had a nice crumbly masa shell with a flavorful filling. The service was great with plenty of soda refills, and a couple of trips back to the kitchen for more salsa. Our bill for dinner two came to about $28.

Owner Luis Uzhca caters to a range of tastes here, with authentic dishes from Central America as well as Mexico, including Bistec Salteado and Pollo al Limon. This isn't your average Tex-Mex experience, and fresh-baked breads and import sodas only reinforce that fact. The interior is warm and inviting--lots of dark wood booths, Spanish tile, and rounded arcades. They offer dine-in and delivery, and a Sunday breakfast, which now tops my to-do list. If their huevos rancheros or breakfast burritos are anything like their dinner entrees, I may have found a new home.

Salsa Latina is located at 315 Central Avenue. Call 426-7050 for more information, or visit their website at www.misalsalatina.com

Auto dealerships shovel out this winter

2009-01-08T10:51:00.007-05:00

Winter clean up isn't easy, and yet the car dealerships on Central Avenue are sparkling. From Armory Auto to Orange Motors to Lia Hyundai and Advantage Suzuki, Central Avenue is home to some of the biggest auto dealerships in the area. How do they manage to get all of winter's mess of those brand new hoods every day?

"It's a job, I'll tell you," said Armory Auto Salesperson Alan Alpart. With the spate of snow and ice storms we've had lately, the dealerships have to scrape the cars down almost weekly, and then drive them around the lot in a carefully choreographed series of moves, to allow for the snow plows to come through.

At Lia Hyundai, the staff cleans the 300 cars off by hand, using long snow brooms with foam pads, said Larry Burwell, Sales Manager at Lia. Once cleaned, they move them to one side of the lot so they can plow, then move them to the other side so that side can be plowed. "We move them around the lot all day," Burwell said. Usually, the whole staff teams up to make quick work of the clean-up project, he said. "You just get out there and do it."

At Armory, the sales staff runs the cars through the car wash they have on premises, and then hires an outside company to do the plowing and salting. With 800 cars on the lot, clean-up has to be strategic, Alpart said. They keep some cars inside, and try to clean the cars in front first, and then move back through the lines, depending on the time and weather, he said. Freezing rain is the worst, because the cars can't be banged up or scratched, so the ice has to be melted off.

"We hope that we don't have too much weather, but this year we've had some," Alpart said.

We wish you a short, dry winter, guys!

Holiday Gift Guide-Good time gifts: With budgets tight, give the gift that keeps on giving

2008-12-13T14:43:00.008-05:00

Cash is tight this year, not just for consumers, but for local businesses, too. Why not give a gift that supports local businesses, and enhances quality of life?

Research shows that money spent at local businesses stays local. When you spend a dollar at a local business, about half of that dollar stays in the local economy, in contrast with the dollar you spend at a national chain, where only about 13 cents of that dollar stays in the nearby economy. Likewise, money spent at independent locally-owned businesses recirculates an average 3.5 times more than money spent at a chain business. When you Christmas shop locally, you're not just keeping businesses open and preventing vacancies, you're helping your neighbors--and isn't that the true spirit of Christmas?

This year, consider giving the gift of a good time. Season tickets or the gift of a membership help defray someone's entertainment costs throughout the year. Experiential gifts like restaurant gift certificates and concert tickets can also help local businesses keep their doors open, since extras like outings and tickets are some of the first items that get scratched off a budget when times are tight. Give an experiential gift, and you give a gift that keeps on giving.

And the Central Business District has a lot of affordable entertainment options, from live music to gym memberships to basketball tickets--so there's something for just about everyone on your list.

Music, film, debates and theater--It's all happening at the Linda, WAMC's Performing Arts Studio at 339 Central Avenue. And with prices ranging from $6 to $25 and up, you can go online and buy a handful of tickets for a year's worth of events. Check out the schedule and buys tickets at http://www.wamcarts.org/ or call at 465-5233 ext. 4.

Know someone who could use a little relaxation or rejuvenation? Think about giving the gift of yoga classes or introducing them to Nia, a new fitness fusion program. The Center for Nia and Yoga at 4 Central Avenue offers a range of yoga, Nia, and meditation classes that reduce stress and promote wellness. You can purchase passes to individual classes or get a season pass through their website: http://www.nia-yoga.com/ or call the center at 463-5145.

Want to give the gift of health? Buy someone you love a gym membership.

Best Fitness at 911 Central Avenue, offers memberships, for fees as low as $19.99 a month. Membership includes access to fitness equipment, a full schedule of classes, childcare, and tanning and steamroom facilities. Check out their website at http://www.bestfitness.us/ or call the gym at 435-2378.

Another option is the the Capital District YMCA with fees starting at $11 a month for youth, and $46 a month for adults. Membership includes access to fitness equipment, a full schedule of classes, child care, camping, and a swimming pool. Check out their website at http://www.cdymca.org/ or call at 869-3500.
Fees to join vary.

Got a culinary enthusiast? Everyone loves a good meal, and Central offers food from around the world. Buy a gift certificate to your favorite restaurant, and you can introduce someone you love to something new! Check out some of the different options at http://www.dinetheavenue.com/

Capital Kidzwear: Urbanite brings urbanwear to Albany

2008-12-13T10:23:00.021-05:00

Before opening Capital Kidzwear, Suwie Waweru did her homework.

Waweru is an M.B.A., who was working in the financial services field in Manhattan. She describes herself as a "New York City girl pretty much forever," but after the events of September 11, she like so many other New Yorkers, decided to make a change.

Waweru decided to open her own business, and she approached the task with determination and energy. She began researching the Capital District, looking at census information for each city, and did surveys of the area. After learning about Albany's charter school boom, and its diversity, she decided it was the perfect location for the business she had in mind--a clothing store for children that specializes in urban wear and school uniforms. It was the kind of store that she saw all over New York and northern New Jersey, but there weren't any in the here, she said.

According to the store slogan, the store carries "clothes kids wanna wear," including stylish namebrands like Rocawear, Bank Street, and Pellepelle, as well as shoes, boots, and outerwear. They also have a range of formalwear for boys and girls, including little boys' tuxedos and christening clothing.

She and her husband, Patrick Waweru, opened the store in 2006, and business has been good since opening, she said. "It's following the economy," she said. Store sales were relatively stable until July, and then they took a sharp dive, she said. But Waweru, who regularly talks to the surrounding shopowners and other neighbors nearby, said that all small businesses are having trouble right now.

Many local businesses are not making a profit, and they haven't been since July, she said. They need some help or they're going to go out of business. "And you really don't want them to go out of business," she warned. "You really don't, because it will be harder to get that momentum going again."

Capital Kidzwear is on the block of Washington that overlooks Townsend Park, a section of the district that's been known for difficulties with vagrants and graffiti, but these days there's more security and more police support, and that's making it easier to do business here, Waweru said.

More businesses have also come to the area, and that's helping the community reclaim this part of the city. For a long time, many of the surrounding buildings had vacancies, but with the recent addition of Townsend Park Bakery and the new Trustco Bank on the corner, the area is almost fully occupied, and the large office building just down the street at 4 Central Avenue is being renovated to attract new tenants. With just a continued guidance and support, the area can be fully revitalized, she said.

Waweru is full of ideas for revitalizing the area. She believes the Townsend Park area needs better and more consistent signage. Similar signs in an area provide a sense of continuity and security, she said. Business owners could use some help with funding those signs; even $400-$500 in grants for businesses would be a big help, she said.

Waweru also wants businesses to work together to stamp out graffiti. "If you see graffiti, get rid of it," she said. Local businesses don't know that the BID and the city will help them remove graffiti, they think they have to do it themselves, she said.

She also wants more initiatives like Larkfest, to help drum up business. This year, for the first time, Larkfest included the lower part of the Central Business District. The event was "a Godsend," she said, and only wishes there were more events like it. Perhaps businesses could organize sidewalk sales, or another street festival. She also pointed to the themed events that take place in the Empire Plaza Concourse, and said it would be nice if more businesses were invited to participate in these events.

Central Avenue's diversity is valuable, and it should be seen as something positive, she concluded. "People shouldn't be afraid of people who aren't like them coming in and opening businesses. Most people are just the same as you. They're trying to make a buck and raise a family," she said. She urged the community to communicate with these businesses and to open a dialogue with them. They have ideas for initiatives, and input for new businesses, and they can provide guidance for one another, she said.

Neighborhood associations should reach out to business owners as well as residents, she said. The meetings could be a place where local businesses are promoted, and also a forum where residents can ask for goods and services that they need from surrounding businesses, she said.

"There's a lot of good smart people on Central. They're from different places, but that doesn't mean anything," she said. "They should tap them, and ask them questions. They'd be surprised."

Capital Kidzwear is located at 204 Washington Avenue in Albany, 462-2791. www.capitalkidzwear.com The store carries clothing, shoes, and accessories for boys and girls, ages ranging from infant to teen.

NABA Day--by Mayoral Proclamation: NABA Celebrates 100th Anniversary

2008-12-08T09:53:00.010-05:00

This year, the Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany is celebrating its diamond anniversary. The non-profit organization has offered services and programs to the blind and vision-impaired in the Capital District for the last 100 years.

Today, Mayor Jerry Jennings celebrated the organization's anniversary with a proclamation, designating the day as NABA Day. The mayor and media crews were on hand to help celebrate the association's accomplishments. The festivities included a speech by the mayor, and punch and cake provided by Crisan Bakery.

Executive Director Chris Burke read congratulatory letters from President George W. Bush, NYS Governor David Paterson, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Jennings also offered his thanks and congratulations, saying Albany is fortunate to have NABA, and to celebrate the "camraderie and friendships" built there over the last 100 years. To show his appreciation, Burke presented the mayor with a safety vest sewn at NABA's manufacturing center. The vest was emblazoned with the word "Mayor."

Afterwards, a tour was taken through the center and the Harry M. Judge Vision Rehabilitation Center, which opened in 2006 to help clients with diminishing vision. Clients with visual impairments are provided with a variety of tools, including magnifying televisions, check registers, talking watches, and canes.

Begun as a program that offered craft workshops and dances, NABA has expanded to a full-scale service organization with a variety of programs and employment. The center provides employment for 95, 45 of whom are legally blind. Many work at the center's industrial sewing facility. There, these men and women manufacture and ship 70,000 safety vests a year, said Brooke Newell, Director of Development for NABA. The industrial sewing operation gives these men and women independence and satisfaction that comes with a job and earning a regular paycheck, she said. NABA currently manufactures uniforms for MTA, and NYS, and hopes to expand operations this year, she said.

The anniversary celebrations also included a gala event and silent auction at the Albany Institute of History and Art on December 4. The show featured the work of the Blind Artist's Society, a collective of 25 artists coping with vision loss. The exhibit was the group's first official show. The event was attended by about 180 guests, and judged very successful, said Newell.

NABA began on December 7, 1908, when 10 blind men and women got together to offer social and workshop activities. The organization was housed at 105 Lancaster Street. To raise money to support the organization and offer employment for the blind, the members began to manufacture goods, a practice that continues today. In 1923, the organization moved to State Street, and then in 1958, moved to their present location at 301 Washington Avenue, across the street from the YMCA.

Today, NABA offers programs that cater to every age group. They provide free vision screening for toddlers, summer training programs for grade school age-children, internship programs for teens, employment training and transition programs to help high school students move into adulthood, vocational counseling for adults, and training for seniors to help them learn to use canes, magnifying glasses and special software.

Honest Weight Solicits Help to Make Dream Store a Reality

2008-12-08T09:11:00.008-05:00

Honest Weight Food Co-Op, a member-owned grocery and natural foods store on Central Avenue, is reaching out to the community, and asking for help to build a new store on Watervliet Avenue. The co-op is soliciting $2 million in private loans from shareholders to help make the new dream store a reality.

The co-op would like to raise as much as possible through shareholder loans, so that they can rely less on loans from financial institutions with all their attendant costs. According to the store's facilities committee, other cooperatives have had great success borrowing money from their shareholders.

According to the pamphlet sent to shareholders, loans must be in a minimum of $1,000, and interest on a loan for up to $10,000 will be 1-4% and 1-6% on loans for $10,000 or more.

Currently cramped for space at its location at 484 Central Avenue, the co-op bought a under-utilized, concrete block building at 100 Watervliet Avenue last fall (pictured above), with plans to renovate it. This fall, they announced plans to tear down the old building to build a new more environmentally sustainable Green building on the site, pushing their move-in date to 2010. The co-op hired 3t architects, and have reviewed designs for the new building. Construction is slated to begin in 2009.

As an interim solution to current space constraints, the store has transformed warehouse space into retail space. They spent the fall reorganizing floor plan to allow for more room and smoother flow of traffic. The produce section has expanded into health and beauty, and health and beauty has moved into the new warehouse space. Likewise, the bulk section and dairy have moved into the new space, to allow more space for canned and packaged goods. The new layout is much more appealing overall, and shoppers have more room to perambulate, without worrying about crashing carts with other shoppers. Their newly expanded orgainic cheese/deli department is the best for miles around.

The new store will be over 18,000 square feet, including a deli and bakery, a juice and coffee bar, and a teaching kitchen, and expanded parking facilities. This new construction project is also looking to meet high LEED standards.

Security Supply doubles facilities on Central

2008-12-05T19:59:00.008-05:00

Security Supply, a regional heating and plumbing supply business, has doubled the size of their retail space on Central Avenue.

Security Supply purchased the building next door to their location at 475 Central, which was previously owned by PHAC Products, Inc. After knocking down the PHAC building, they built a brand new showroom and office space. The showroom will offer additional space to showcase their tubs, showers and sinks, with large windows right on Central to beckon customers in. Security Supply's old showroom will become a training facility.

Security spent the fall constructing the new building, and is currently completing the interior finishing. Work is expected to be completed this summer.

Security Supply has been in business for 75 years. They have 11 locations in the region.

Mohawk Ambulance garage opens

2008-11-20T13:47:00.012-05:00

Construction on the Mohawk Ambulance garage on Central Avenue is complete. Located near the corner of North Main Street, the brand-new facility has room for six ambulances and a training facility on the second floor for continuing education and community CPR courses.

Currently, the three-bay garage runs three ambulances by day, and two by night, and their staff ranges from 4-6 people.

Mohawk is very happy with new garage and the loves the surrounding neighborhood, said Rich Brandt, Vice President for Operations for Mohawk. Brandt said the proximity to Central and 1-90 is particularly convenient. "It's great access for us," he said.

"We've been part of Albany for 22 years, and we're pleased to be able to continue serving the community," Brandt said. The garage is the second Mohawk facility in Albany. They also have facilities in Troy, Schenectady, and Brunswick.

Dinner is Served! Order your Thanksgiving Dinner ahead

2008-11-20T12:37:00.019-05:00

If Thanksgiving has you wringing your hands, rather than giving thanks, think about ordering dinner from one of the many merchants on Central Avenue.

These dinners are pre-cooked and ready to eat, so you won't have to spend the day in the kitchen. They have all the fixings, so your guests will never know the difference. You can order by phone, and then simply stop in to pick yours up.

Pre-made meals eliminate the hassle of cooking, and are especially good for people who are too busy to cook, said Kristen Weckesser, Assistant Manager at Carmine's. But the meal doesn't just save you time...For those people who aren't so hot in the kitchen, this gourmet meal can save you from holiday humiliation. "We can make you look like a superstar," Weckesser said. Carmine's has been making dinners for about four years, and last year they made 100 dinners.

Each year, Hannaford makes about 20 dinners, and they always go quickly, explained a customer service rep. This year there's only about 9 left.

Here's some holiday options for you:
Hannaford, 900 Central Avenue, 438-7296

Turkey Dinner or Ham Dinner, $54.99, serves 6-8 people

10-12 lb. turkey or 7-9 lb. hickory-smoked ham

3 lb. of stuffing or 2 lb. green bean casserole

4 lb. mashed potatoes

2 lb. butternut squash

2 lb. gravy

1 lb. cranberry sauce

12 rolls

8" pie

You can also order just the turkey for $24.99, and make your own side dishes. Place your order now because the dinners are going quickly.

PriceChopper, Westgate Plaza, 911 Central Avenue, 482-0280

Turkey breast or whole turkey dinner, your choice, $69.99. Breast serves 6-7, whole turkey, 7-8 4 lb. mashed potatoes
26 oz. gravy
3-1/2 stuffing
14 oz. cranberry sauce
12 rolls
10" pie
Ham dinner available with potatoes, rolls, and pie for $39.99
Please place your order by November 22.
Carmine's, 818 Central Avenue, 458-8688
Roasted turkey with a madeira gravy
Cranberry, apple and sausage stuffing
Homemade mashed potatoes
Port wine spiced cranberry sauce
Orange glazed candied carrots
Pumpkin butter sweet potatoes
Sweet Buttered corn
Roasted mixed vegetables
Fresh rolls with butter
Fresh baked pie
Serves
4-6 people for $95.00
10-12 for $180
18-20 for $240
Place your orders by November 23 at 8pm, and pick your dinner up anytime on Wednesday November 26. The meals even include a little instruction card for easy finishing.
Now there's no reason not to be thankful.

Gingerbread Fantasies--Annual HATAS fundraiser a building success

2008-11-17T16:53:00.019-05:00

A Spanish galleon, a winter market scene, carousels--all made out of gingerbread?

These were just some of the fantastic submissions to this year's HATAS Home Sweet Gingerbread Home event. "There were a lot of imaginative ideas," said Natasha Pernicka, Assistant Executive Director for HATAS. This annual fundraiser for Homeless and Travelers Aid Society (HATAS) brings together corporate teams, community teams and culinary professionals from across the region to construct gingerbread homes. The homes are then auctioned off, and proceeds donated to this social service agency.

This year, the homes, 15 in all, were displayed at Crossgates Mall on November 8, and then sold by silent auction at the Winter Gingerland Evening at the Fort Orange Club on November 13. The Gingerland Evening event, held for the first time this year, was very successful, said Pernicka. Last year, the gingerbread house auction raised $11,000, and this year, HATAS believes the fundraiser made nearly twice that, she said.

HATAS is a mission-based organization dedicated to providing assistance for the homeless and low-income individuals and families. HATAS serves as a central intake point for the Albany County emergency shelter system. HATAS offers emergency services as well as mental health programming, housing, and employment programming, for a truly comprehensive approach to the crisis of homelessness. The funds raised through Home Sweet Gingerbread Home are dedicated to furthering this mission, and raising awareness about homelessness in our community.

Thanksgiving Feat: Equinox feeds thousands at annual feast

2008-11-17T14:33:00.020-05:00

Stressed out about planning the upcoming Thanksgiving dinner? Imagine feeding 8,500...

Every year Equinox, Inc. serves dinner to thousands of needy, homeless, and homebound in the Capital Region, a sprawling effort that begins months before the actual meal. The Annual Thanksgiving Day Community Dinner started in 1969 when a group of University at Albany students couldn't travel home for the holidays. The students went to the First Presbyterian Church in Center Square, and cooked up a meal. They has such a good time, they decided to do it again the following year, and Equinox joined in the effort. Today the Thanksgiving meal is an annual tradition, feeding 500 at the church, and delivering an estimated 8,000 meals to shut-ins across the region.

This feat couldn't be accomplished without help from the thousands of people who donate their time, money, and supplies, said Patti Tullgren, Adult Services Coordinator for Equinox.

Just the amount of food Equinox has to pull together is staggering: 8,000 pounds of turkey, 2,000 pounds of ham, 2,800 pounds of yams, 940 pies, 19,500 pieces of fruit. That's just the beginning of the shopping list. Joan Harrington is so excited she hits the red button on her desk. Music blares out, and she and Tullgren do a little cheering. It's been a good day, Harrington explains. With today's donations from a farmer in Schoharie--800 pounds of potatoes and 500 pounds of carrots--Harrington has successfully reached her goal for potatoes and carrots, she says.

Harrington has been volunteering for the event for eight years, soliciting donations from organizations and individuals. The event never ceases to amaze her. "It's such a real picture of this community, and who gets involved and who helps," she said.

It takes a lot of materials to get this dinner off the ground. "It's little things you never even think of," said Tullgren. Volunteers like Harrington coordinate the donations of all the food--from turkeys to cherries--and all the supplies, including hair nets, refrigerated trucks, and to-go containers. Tullgren shows me the basement. It was packed with donated supplies just this morning, she said, before donated moving vans came to truck the boxes over to the plaza this afternoon. Here and there, boxes of pumpkins and gourds wait for the next trip. They'll probably use them to decorate the tables, she explains. Against the wall, there's a box of reusuable grocery bags from a local insurance agency--there was a misprint on the bags, and rather than throw them away, they donated them to the event, she said. These will be used to carry the meals into the home. Here, it seems, everything is put to good use, and nothing is wasted. "You read about all of this doom and gloom in the paper, and some people can't afford to help out this year, but for everyone that drops off, you have someone right behind them willing to lend a hand. It's amazing," said Tullgren.

Once all the food and supplies are in place, the cooking begins. In the week leading up to the dinner, thousands of volunteers swarm the Empire State Plaza after-hours and take over all the kitchens in the Concourse area. Every evening until the wee hours, they show up in shifts to peel potatoes, cook turkeys, and prepare fruit cups. All the cooked meals--some 8,000--are packed and stored in the refrigeration units there--also donated. Meanwhile, preparation is also going on at the church, where volunteers are getting ready to serve a sit-down dinner to another 500. Volunteers set up long tables with linen tableclothes and handmade decorations. "We make sure everyone really feels like they're having a nice sit-down dinner," said Tullgren.

On Thanksgiving Day, hundreds more volunteers show up at the church to serve dinner to the waiting crowds, and thousands more volunteers line up at the plaza to ferry the prepared meals out to shut-ins across the region, taking time out of their holidays to deliver a homecooked meal to the less fortunate.

"It's an amazing outpouring of community," said Tullgren.

Lea Bosquez also mans the phones at Equinox, recruiting volunteers and signing up people to receive meals. On Thanksgiving Day you will find her right here, still manning the phones, just to making sure everyone that signed up gets their meals. Bosquez has been volunteering with Equinox for four years, and says she keeps coming back because it is so rewarding. "People are really thankful," she said. "It comes through in their voices on the phone, and they say, 'Oh, thank you.' or 'God bless you, honey.' You can tell it really means a lot to them."

Dinner will be served at First Presbyterian Church on the corner of State Street and Willett Street in Albany from 1-4pm on Thanksgiving Day, first come, first serve. If you would like to make a donation or volunteer your time, or sign up for a meal, please contact Equinox at 434-0131. Donations can also be dropped off at The Corporate Offices of Equinox @ 95 Central Avenue in Albany. Equinox still needs a number of turkeys and hams to make their meal complete.

SUNY Showcase: Central Avenue comes to the students

2008-11-06T13:58:00.008-05:00

Last week, the downtown SUNY Albany campus hosted the second annual SUNY Showcase, welcoming businesses from up and down Central to the Avenue to show their wares.

"The students all need restaurants, laundromats, drycleaning, etc. and they may not know it's available right on Central," said Jerry Parker, Assistant Provost for the University at Albany.

This year marks the second annual showcase, and the atmosphere was fun and festive. Local restaurants offered ice cream and other nibbles, while other businesses offered coupons and discounts. The balloon man provided giant balloon columns, and a cariacature artist sketched excited students, adding to the fair-like feeling.

As an added bonus, the Central BID offered zip drives packed with Central Avenue menus, and links to the BID website, said BID Executive Director Anthony Capece. The drives are a quick, inexpensive way to provide the students with greater access to the Avenue, he said.

The growing alliance between the BID and the SUNY campus is win-win. The students are an untapped market for many local businesses, and the students benefit because the close proximity of so many shops, restaurants, autos an services means they don't have to travel far to get what they need.

SUNY will continue to hold the event, and is even considering making it part of Orientation next year to ramp up attendance, Parker said. "We want to have a greater presence in the surrounding neighborhood and community," Parker said.

Have the Avenue Delivered to your Door--at the click of a button

2008-11-06T13:08:00.009-05:00

Ordering lunch for the office? Or maybe you’re planning to place an order for family dinner? Or snacks for the dorm? Wouldn't it be nice if you could just place a food order online? Now you can.

The Central Business Improvement District has partnered with Delivery.com. The new website lets customers order food just like they shop—online. The initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to promote restaurants and other businesses within the district, explained BID Executive Director Anthony Capece at a recent presentation to real Commercial estate brokers. We are trying to be innovators in bringing the internet to main street.

The BID coordinated the involvement of a number of restaurants on Central, and provided a link to the website on this newsletter. Now, customers can "have the avenue delivered" right to their door.

The network of vendors on Delivery.com is still growing, but the website includes access to a number of different restaurants, including Ichiban, Salsa Latina, Gandhi Restaurant, and Aashiana. The website provides a full menu at each restaurant, and customers simply click the dishes they want added to their order. At the end, they pay with a a credit card via a secure server, just as they would online.

It's easy and fast, said Capece. And for those customers who tend to order the same things over again, Delivery.com saves your order, so you just press a button, and the restaurant brings you your usual, he said. Restaurants who are participating say they hope Delivery.com will help them reach out to more people.

Salsa Latina owner Luis Uzhca heard about the website through the BID, and liked the idea. He said he currently gets 2-3 orders a day through Delivery.com, and believes it will pick up, “if we could just advertise it a little more.” He suggests letting promoting the website through local hotels like the Clarion and Motel 6, so that hotel guests can order in.

Aashiana owner Saleem Khan said he hopes the website will raise his profile in the community. Currently, he’s had only two orders placed through Delivery.com. Not everyone knows that his Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant makes deliveries, and he’s hoping the website will help build his delivery business, he said.

The website also provides access to other categories besides food, including flowers and gifts, and household goods. The BID would eventually like to populate these categories with Central businesses as well, Capece said. If businesses want in they should call us, we make it happen...

New Trustco Bank: See what they have to offer

2008-10-31T12:49:00.007-04:00

Last week, Mayor Jerry Jennings marked the grand opening of the new Trustco Bank on Central with a special radio broadcast from the conspicuous building's triage of windows. The spot offers a simultaneous views of Central, Washington Avenue, and Henry Johnson Boulevard, and provides a rare window on the world.

But as nice as the view is, the bank is less interested in looking, and more interested in being seen.

The Trustco branch was located at 163 Central, but wanted a location that would provide more exposure, said Patrick Strahan, Bank Manager. Trustco wanted a location that was "more open" and a spot that people would see going to and from work, he said. Since moving to the new location, with access to three major thoroughfares, "everything's picked up," he said. The bank celebrated its grand re-opening on October 7, and the ribbon-cutting festivities on October 14. The bank offers a full range of services, including checking, savings, CDs, and mortgages, Strahan said.

Trustco Bank is located at 40 Central Avenue.

Igniting the Lights: Meditation Center celebrates Diwali

2008-10-31T11:22:00.017-04:00

On a cold, dark night, rows of flickering candles and hanging lights create a path to the Meditation Center on Central Avenue. Inside, men, women and children are joined together in joyful revelry to celebrate Diwali, a major holiday in much of the Indian world. The Thursday night event was marked with dancing, singing, prayers, and meditation. The celebration will extend through the weekend.

Diwali or "The Festival of Lights" is a major Hindu holiday that marks the start of the New Year. The holiday commemorates a number of significant figures and events including Lord Ram's return and coronation, Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity, and Lord Mahavira's attainment of Nirvana, making Diwali an important holiday for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jainists alike.

Spiritually, Diwali is the celebration of the "inner light" in all people, said Sister Ann Singh, Coordinator for the Center. This year marks the second celebration at the center, and this year's theme is "Igniting the Light of Spirituality."

"We hope people will leave from here with their own lights, and they will ignite others so that light spreads across the world," Singh said.

The evening began with a spirited talk by Pandit Jai Misir, a priest at a Schenectady temple, and professor at Hudson Valley Community College, who explained the importance of uncovering the light within. He talked of "clearing the fog" and pushing away the distractions that can block us from realizing our true nature. Next, there were Diwali songs sung by Mukesh Bhai, a large family band, and a traditional dance. The night culminated with a candle-lighting ceremony and refreshments.

The Meditation Center is part of the Brahma Kumaris Organization, which seeks to foster peace and non-violence through education and meditation, Singh said. The center offers a number of free programs that focus on discovering the peace that it believes resides within us, in an effort to build a community based on compassion and respect, she said.

Mala Khan, who owns the building where the center is housed, and runs MSK Tax and Accounting Service next door, said she hopes that the celebration, which is open to everyone, will help the larger Albany community become acquainted with this important Indian holiday. Khan, who has been a resident of the Capital Region for the last 20 years said the center is serving an important mission. Khan comes to the center every Thursday to meditate, and it has become her "home away from home," she said.

Sister Colleen, another member of the Brahma Kumaris, said the center has a sense of peace, that you feel as soon as you walk in the door. "It hits you right away," Colleen said. She said that it is her hope that that same sense of peace that pervades the center, will one day fill the world.

The Meditation Center is located at 184 Central Avenue. For more information about their open meditation or programs, please call 438-4180 or visit their website at www.bkswu.org

Art rocks: Local artists complete mural at Central Avenue nightclub

2008-10-20T16:00:00.002-04:00

Local artists have painted a massive mural inside the Fuze Box, a Central Avenue hotspot.

"Everything was their canvas so they went to town," said Mike Vinci, General Manager of the Fuze Box. Last month, sculptor and painter Samson Contompasis approached the club about the project, and they thought it was a great idea, Vinci said.

Contompasis and nine other artists spent two weeks at the club, working nights to complete the floor-to-ceiling scenes to the bar-room, stage and loft. Today, winged bottles dance and weave through familiar building-scapes, including the Alfred E. Smith Building, Lark Street's rowhouses, and the long-abandoned downtown refrigeration plant, for a look that is both industrial and whimsical. Here and there, larger figures--a snowy owl, a photograph of a woman, large guns--appear in the landscape, providing texture. The project culminated in an art show at the club on October 1, with smaller pieces done by the artists exhibited on the freshly-painted walls, and sold.

The show was so well-attended that club extended it, participating in Lark Street's First Friday and remaining open through the weekend. News of the show traveled fast, and mostly by word of mouth, and the club was filled through the art appreciators through the Monday. "People just love it," Vinci said.

The club, which has been open for seven years, has done art shows in the past and and hopes to do more, Vinci said. They also plan to continue participating in the First Friday monthly arts crawl.

The Real Deal: A.J. Wright opens new store in Westgate Plaza

2008-10-20T09:06:00.002-04:00

A.J. Wright, a national discount clothing store opened a new location in Westgate Plaza. The store held its grand opening on October 16. The festivities began at 9am, with a ribbon-cutting, and the first 100 shoppers received gift cards. Shoppers also tried to be discovered, as part of the "Real Model Search," where they had the opportunity to be photographed in their favorite looks from the store.

A.J. Wright is a division of TJX Companies Inc., the parent company for T.J. Maxx and Marshall's. The new store will offer brand-name apparel and footwear for men, women, and children, as well as a selection of giftware. The store will employ about 50 people. Other A.J. Wright stores are located in Troy and Rotterdam.

New Move: Easy Home added to Hannaford Plaza

2008-10-17T11:09:00.006-04:00

Easy Home, a furniture retailer and leasing business, has quietly unpacked and set up shop in Hannaford Plaza.

The store moved into the old CVS drugstore location (now in their new building across the street) on October 4, and personnel say that it's a very strong plaza, and has been very busy so far. The interior has been refitted and couches, washers and dryers stand where drugstore shelves once stood, and computers and flat-screen TVs line the walls.

The Canadian chain offers furniture, appliances, electronics and computers to rent or buy, with many flexible payment plans. Delivery and insurance are available.

Students Return to District: How local businesses can make the most of the growing student population

2008-10-02T13:05:00.022-04:00

This area is home to a number of educational institutions, and every fall, students come rushing back to our city, pocketbooks and wallets in hand.

In the Central Business District alone, we have four college campuses including the downtown branches of SUNY Albany and Hudson Valley Community College, which attract thousands of students to the district. This year, Mildred Elley and Austin School opened a brand-new campus in the district, bringing hundreds of additional students to our neighborhood.

There are a number of ways that businesses can make the most of this opportunity and serve the student population.

Hudson Valley's Workforce Development Institute offered these tips for businesses looking to cater to college students:

Advertise in college and alternative newspapers. Don’t forget radio advertising on youth-orientated stations, including college radio stations!
Identify products/services you offer that fall within the 18-24 demographic and advertise sales/specials for said products/services.
Hire on-campus student representatives on a commission basis who can advertise/sell your products.
Offer to sponsor on-campus clubs.
Contact the student activities board for local colleges and inquire what events are coming up throughout the year that you can help to sponsor. They can also help you identify on-campus clubs and organizations.
Get copies of the academic and athletic calendars for the local colleges to plan sales, advertising and promotions around special events.
If the company is big enough, consider establishing an internship program with a local college. This will promote closer ties with the college community.

Mildred Elley opens doors to public-Mayor welcomes school to town

2008-10-02T12:26:00.009-04:00

School's in! Monday, Mildred Elley and the Austin School of Spa Technology held their grand opening celebration at the new campus on Central Avenue.

Mayor Jerry Jennings and Mildred Elley President Faith Takes cut the ribbon at the tech school's new location at 855 Central Avenue, and ushered in a new era for the school. This marks the return of the school to Albany, and also the merging of the Austin School with the Mildred Elley School. The new facilities will also offer more space and expanded programming.

Jennings said he was pleased to welcome the venerable institution to Albany's Main Street, and said this was where the school belonged. He also thanked Anthony Capece, Executive Director for the Central BID, for all his help making the move possible.

The Central Avenue neighborhood turned out to welcome the new schools and give them a taste of What they can expect from our great restaurants on the Avenue. Shea's Restaurent from North Allen Street and Scenerio's Restaurant from the Clarion Hotel catered the event; serving geat treats from hamburgers and hotdogs to spinach puffs and an Ice Cream sundae bar . Gateway Diner even sponsered a entire table of cookies. Plato's Closet (818 Central; Same Plaza as Hollywood Video & Carmines) was also on hand to provide students with information about their unique clothing store. Students from the Austin School's new massage therapy program offered the public free hand massages as a thank-you. Radio station Kiss 102.3 was broadcasting from the party, adding to the celebratory feeling of the event.

After the ribbon-cutting, Takes lead Jennings and his staff on a tour of the school, showing them the brand-new classrooms and library, and introducing them to the students and staff. Students in the midst of a hair clinic were evidently surprised and delighted by the drop-in visit, and Jennings seemed to enjoy the opportunity to talk & laugh with them. "Do you want the mayor to finish that?" he asked one student in the middle of a haircut.

Jennings also encouraged the students to enjoy the new facilities, and to take advantage of the city and everything Central Avenue has to offer.

The school is enjoying a healthy boost in admissions this semester, said Maria Neal, Admissions Director. Currently, 500 students are enrolled.

Relics and Restoration: Architectural Parts Warehouse supplies hard-to-find pieces

2008-09-25T12:31:00.008-04:00

Looking for a fireplace mantle? An antique light fixture? A cast iron radiator? What about a clawfoot tub? You're sure to find all this and more at the Architectural Parts Warehouse on Lexington Avenue.

"Our mission is to help homeowners restore vintage homes without breaking the bank," said Manager Mark Brogna.

Brogna and his staff salvage the pieces from demolition sites and old buildings, curbs and dumpsters, clean them up, and sell them to architects, interior designers, and do-it-yourselfers. The parts are sold for well below the prices you'll find in antique stores or supply warehouses, and the funds go to support local preservation efforts.

Walking into the warehouse just off Central Avenue on Lexington, which is located in the converted Capitol Staple Building, is like walking into a world of parts. Picture your home. Now picture your home in pieces. All its pieces. Not just doors, but door knobs. Not just windows, but shutters. And don't forget the plumbing--sinks, toilets, tubs, radiators. You'll also find all the pieces of a porch, from balusters to railings, neatly piled along one side.

There's also plenty of treasures, including the Wellington Hotel's copper cornice adorned with lion heads and a 1950's era-General Electric Galley Kitchen, complete with working stove and sink. And the surprises keep coming, Brogna said. "A lot of things that show up, I don't even know what they are," he said. The pieces might have been common in their day, but whatever purpose they served has become obsolete, and now they're simply interesting relics of a bygone era, he said.

As we talk in one of the old offices, piled with interesting artifacts, we are frequently interrupted by customers. One wants to thank thank Brogna for his help renovating a bathroom, another wants to see about an antique light fixture, and still another wants to let Brogna know that if any more pocket doors come in, he wants them. Brogna has worked at the warehouse for seven years, and in that time he has assisted countless customers rehab old houses, he has also helped artists, interior designers, and set designers with their projects. The Architectural Parts Warehouse is just one of three salvage businesses in the area, which puts Albany on the map as a mecca for people restoring their homes, Brogna said.

The warehouse is a program run by the Historic Albany Foundation, which specializes in identifying and protecting Albany's architectural resources. Brogna reminds customers that preservationists are not just stewards of history, they are stewards of the environment. Restoring homes using salvaged pieces is affordable and eco-friendly, because you're keeping these items out of the landfill, and you're not expending any additional manufacturing energy, he said.

"The greenest building is the one that's already built," he said.

Each year, the Historic Albany Foundation sponsors an event called "Built," which celebrates Albany's architecture by soliciting artwork from local artists. Artists are asked to create pieces inspired by Albany's buildings, and these in turn are exhibited and auctioned to raise money for the foundation, Brogna said. Initially, the event was called "Vacancy," and focused on Albany's vacant buildings, but now the event includes all of the city's built environment, he said. The exhibit and auction will take place on November 8 at the Cathedral of All Saints at 62 South Swan Street. For more information, visit the foundation's website http://www.historic-albany.org/built.html

The warehouse is always accepting donated pieces, and is also seeking volunteers to work at the warehouse, Brogna said. So whether you're looking for a hard-to-find fixture, or a new way to help the environment, or a treasure hunt, visit the warehouse and see what they have to offer.

The Architectural Parts is located at 89 Lexington Avenue, just off Central Avenue. For more information, call 465-2987.