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 Zaida’s
Touch, Body by Bellydance
Zaida Morales
505-4604
At
some point in life, everyone asks themselves the same question:
“What do I want to do when I grow up?” After trying everything
under the career moon—from retail management to debt collections
to medical-claims insurance adjustor—I asked myself the same
question. Doing nails was something I had always enjoyed.
I’d done my own since I was 11, so off to cosmetology school
I went for my license. However, something was still missing.
How about belly dancing?! It is mysterious and sexy—not
boring like other dances. Three months later, I found myself
fanatical about the dance, and realized that my life was just
about complete. I felt positive about myself and my career
choice, and I was losing weight as well!
Have you ever noticed how many more women there are in the
world than men? Tell me: Why do we allow ourselves to be treated
the way we do? In the years I’ve been dancing, I have noticed
that belly dancers are so full of love and respect for themselves,
others and life. The circle of respect and admiration begins
here and is eternal.
Now I feel complete, and I wish to share it with you. Whether
it is with a relaxing pedicure, a make-up tip or helping you
find the feminine side you always knew you had, call me—we’ll
talk. Zaida.
 Elissa
Halloran Designs
Elissa Halloran
225 Lark St., Albany, 432-7090, www.ehdesigns.com
As I enter my third year of
business on Lark Street, I want to say “thank you” to all
of my customers for their support.
Having the store has allowed me the good fortune to sell my
jewelry to Soledad O’Brien of NBC’s Weekend Today.
This is a direct result of word-of-mouth advertising through
my customers. I feel very lucky to have someone of her stature
appreciate my designs. I have recently launched my Web site,
www.ehdesigns.com, where I am selling some designs on a limited
basis. I have also been expanding my jewelry line and experimenting
with mobile designs. I’m always looking forward to new possibilities.
 Precision
Tattoo
Christopher Robertson
1571 Central Ave., Colonie, 869-4869
I began tattooing three years
ago while I was attending a “stuffy” art school in Iceland,
my second home. I’ve always been interested in fine art and
painting. One day, during the school year when I was flipping
through a tattoo magazine in a local bookstore, I was blown
away. I thought what they were doing on skin was only possible
on canvas with paints or pencils. The skin became my canvas,
and the story begins for Precision Tattoo.
Tattooing has made leaps and bounds since its introduction
to America in the early 1900s. From tattooed freaks at carnivals
in the ‘20s and ‘30s, tattooing has come a long way. Presently,
it is respected more as a legitimate art form. This is largely
due to early tattooing talent—the late Paul Rogers, Sailon
Jerry and Cliff Raven.
My early influences are Deano Look and Aaron Bell; however,
you can find many others in my work as well. All are great
artists. I’ve even met some personally at conventions.
We do quality original art here. If that is what you are looking
for, Precision Tattoo is for you. So come in, look around
and get tattooed! It’s an American tradition.
 Stasky
Studios
Andrew and Alice Stasky
476 N. Greenbush Road #7, Rensselaer, 283-9325
Stasky Studios offers custom
large-format printing on a large selection of media—including
wallpaper, fabric, vinyl and canvas. Let us take your favorite
photo, piece of artwork or advertisement and reproduce it
as a full-color panoramic wall cover, a banner, flag or trade-show
visual. We can also reproduce any image as a tile mural for
the home or commercial environment.
Stasky Studios offers other services, including giclee printing,
artwork and photo enlarging, as well as photograph restorations.
We can also reproduce any image on ceramic mugs, shirts, mouse
pads and coasters. Don’t have the right photo? Stasky Studios
offers full photographic services. We continue to develop
alliances with other area businesses in an effort to offer
a full-range of printing capabilities. We invite you to “give
us your best shot.” Since our business results in some offsite
time, we recommend a phone call prior to visiting. All calls
are forwarded to our current locations.
 El
Mariachi Mexican Restaurant I and II
Patty Bermejo-Bhola and Marco Bermejo
144 Washington Ave., Albany, 465-2568, 289 Hamilton At.,
Albany, 432-7580
We
began our family business in the Capital Region almost seven
years ago. We are from the city of Pueblo, just south of Mexico.
I (Patty Bermejo-Bhola) come from a family of five brothers
who all have been in the restaurant business in New York City
for nearly 20 years. With the strong family tradition that
our parents taught us, we managed to start up an authentic
Mexican Restaurant in the Capital Region. We now run two locations
in the downtown Albany area. Recently we moved El Mariachi
Mexican Restaurant I, from 62 Central Ave. to 144 Washington
Ave. At the 289 Hamilton Street location, we put into practice
my brother’s expertise in Spanish cuisine, adding the paella
dishes and other traditional seafood dishes from Southern
Spain.
Here at El Mariachi, our menu typifies the foods from our
hometown and other Mexican states. Our recipes have been handed
down from generation to generation, starting with our great-grandmothers.
Some of our favorite dishes include Pollo San Marco, Mole
Poblano (an authentic dish from Puebla), Cochinita Pibil and
the seafood Paella dishes. The Cochinita Pibil has been selected
as “Dish of the Year” (Times Union) and our tequila
selection (over 100 choices) and special house-flavor margaritas
are among our customers’ favorites. I want to thank all of
our loyal customers for voting us No. 1, six years in a row,
and to my family who stand together to keep our family business
growing.
 Bel
Tesoro
Philip
Palmieri, Scott McIntosh
126 Central Ave., Albany, 463-2991, www.beltesoro.com
Bel Tesoro is leading the renaissance
on Central Avenue with our stunning array of beautiful Italian
treasures for gifts and the home. Whether it is Venetian glass
jewelry made by today’s leading glass artisans or Deruta ceramics
(hand-painted ceramics employing centuries-old techniques),
every piece has a story—and we love telling them!
The essence of these pieces is the “Dolce Vita”—the
“Sweet of Life.” Why would you settle for drab, mundane and
ordinary when you can surround yourself with extraordinary,
interesting and inspired? We believe we have
created an extraordinary little slice of Dolce Vita right
here on Central Avenue in our fully restored brownstone. So,
whether you want luxurious linens, sumptuous lotions and perfumes,
fun and funky kitchenware, or a unique and memorable gift,
join us at Bel Tesoro and bring a little sweetness to your
life.
 Mensroom
Barbershop
Ryan Peterson, Jerry Crouch
54 Columbia St., Albany, 449-1400
My partner and I have been
cutting hair since middle school. We met in the business world
10 years later while working at a barbershop together. As
he is from Averill Park and I am from Rotterdam, we decided
to meet halfway and set up shop in downtown Albany. We recognized
a growing city with many professional men and women that had
several salons that catered to women exclusively. We saw an
opportunity to develop a barbershop by men, for men.
At the Mensroom Barbershop, we concentrate on recreating that
traditional barbershop feeling. A man of any age can get a
classic cut or a modern hairstyle, while feeling confident
that he will leave with the perfect cut. Additionally, we
offer the quality, consistency and convenience of a master
barber at your service. Call or stop by today to experience
the Mensroom.
 Gem
Farms Buffalo Trading Post and Gift Shop
Gerry and George Mosick
1333 Van Hosen Road, South Schodack, 732-7452, www.gemfarmbuffalo.com
Who would think you could find
live buffalo roaming in fields only 10 miles south of Albany?
It was a dream that George and I acted on when we bought our
first three buffalo in 1974; we now boast more than 200 head
of buffalo.
Buffalo have non-marbled, low-fat, low-cholesterol red meat.
Our customers, many of whom are unable to eat red meat, love
our buffalo meat. Heart patients are referred to our buffalo
meat, as well as others on special diets. Others want to enjoy
the benefits of red meat with no chemicals, hormones or antibiotics.
Buffalo meat tastes like beef, only a bit sweeter. You are
getting more protein per ounce with buffalo, because there
is no fat.
George and I have been on the farm for more than 52 years.
It is a family affair, with our eldest son in partnership
with the dairy business. He has a son, Sam, who is anxious
to help carry on the family business, as well. Our goal is
to coordinate David’s vegetables—which normally go to farmers’
markets—with David’s wife, Melody’s greenhouse vegetable plants
and flowers, our sweet corn and our buffalo business. Visitors
stop at our Gem Farms Buffalo Trading Post and Gift Shop for
more than just meat: We sell a selection ranging from bleached
skulls, buffalo robes, mounted buffalo heads, mugs, T-shirts,
Leanin’ Tree cards, and even buffalo bones for dogs, for your
one-stop shopping adventure!
 Earthworld
Comics
JC Glindmyer
537 Central Ave., Albany, 459-2400
Comic books are an original
American art form, created during the Depression era as affordable
entertainment for the masses. In the years since, comics’
unique blend of words and pictures have matured and changed
with the times, while providing us with some of the most enduring
characters and stories in our popular culture. Thanks to films
like Road to Perdition, X-Men 2 and Spider
Man, plus television shows like Smallville, comics
have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity.
Earthworld is Albany’s preeminent comic store. This year,
we will celebrate our 20th anniversary! Our wide selection
of books, toys and anime will satisfy every collector. Additionally,
our knowledgeable staff is there to help as needed. Ranging
in subject matter from superhero adventures to slice of life
to crime noir to humor, there’s a comic out there for everyone.
If it has been years since you have read a comic, we invite
you to come see us on Saturday, May 3, when we will be celebrating
with 2,000 other comic stores worldwide for Free Comic Book
Day 2! When you visit on May 3, you will find a great variety
of free comics. There are comics for children, families and
adults, and especially for people who think they would
never read a comic book. Come by on May 3 and let us change
your mind—free!
 Super
Video
Lisa and Terry Field
1839 Central Ave., Albany, 869-6292, www.super-video.com
We love movie lovers! And after
spending nearly $2 million over the past 16 years, Super Video
has a huge library that movie lovers will love. With more
than 8,000 DVDs and 30,000 movies, plus games and audio books
to rent, Super Video is the Capital region’s largest independent
video store. It has been voted “Best Video Store” by both
Metroland and the Times Union.
Besides our huge selection, I think people will enjoy our
great customer service. Longtime staffers like Steve, Matt,
Tim, Jon, Barb, Carrie, Rachel and Julie give the store a
friendly, knowledgeable atmosphere that makes movie renting
fun.
In keeping with our service-oriented philosophy, Super Video
has created an informative Web site where customers can learn
about the latest new movies and games each week. Check it
out at, www.super-video.com, and be sure to visit our Super
Video soon!
 Furniture
Theatre
Ed and Tom Caro
2785 Route 9, Malta, 587-9420 (Furniture Theatre), 587-6077
(Malta Drive-In), www.maltadrivein.com
Pictured: Ed Caro, Michelle Davis and Tom Caro
We’ve
realized our dream of combining viewing movies on the big
screen and adding comfort to people’s homes with stylish furniture
and accessories between our two businesses, Furniture Theatre
and Malta Drive-In.
The legacy of drive-in movies has been kept alive with our
ownership of the classic Malta Drive-In Theatre since 1988.
Malta Drive-In is one of a few upstate New York drive-ins
still in operation today. Complete with speakers that pipe-in
movie dialogue, and snack choices from hamburgers to popcorn,
today’s popular movies can be seen from the comfort of your
own car.
At Furniture Theatre, we wanted to bring that feeling of comfort
and style to your home by offering distinctive furnishings,
such as Adirondack lodge-style, at affordable prices. So we
built an award-designed furniture store in September 2001.
Furniture Theatre gives a cozy feel with groupings of comfy
couches and music piped into all areas through vintage drive-in
speakers. Come in and browse in our relaxing atmosphere.
E l
Loco
Marcia Tolive
465 Madison Ave., Albany, 436-1855
Pictured: Jen, Jennifer, Pam, Michael and Marcia
Has
it really been 20 years? This October, for El Loco, it will
be! The Lark Street area has flip-flopped a few times since
1983, but here at El Loco, we keep doing what we do best.
El Loco provides a fun, convenient meeting place, serving
tasty and healthy Mexican and Southwestern fare, great margaritas,
Mexican beers and homemade sangria; all complemented by a
competent service staff in a richly decorated “South of the
Border” environment.
People and a sense of community are what makes small, privately
owned restaurants and shops the heart of the American landscape.
We’re planning a big benefit bash for El Loco’s 20th birthday.
It will feature a gathering of past and present employees
and customers—so many of whom have contributed to the craziness
over the years! We hope you can all attend our benefit party
come October 2003. Thanks again for the years of support and
good vibes.
M.
Tolive
 Diamond
Eight Billiards
Irene Skawinski
9 Johnson Road, Latham, 789-848, www.diamondeight.com
Have a party at Diamond Eight!
Sure, every night is reason to celebrate at Diamond Eight,
but we can also help you make your parties, from birthdays
to holidays, something to remember! With 17 full-sized pool
tables, a billiard table, a raised 35-foot full-service bar,
electronic darts, foosball and video games, Diamond Eight
Billiards is the ideal place for your special event. Ask to
see our party menu and discounted table time rates.
Sunday, July 13th, we are sponsoring the 3rd Annual Edward
M. Skawinski Memorial Golf Tournament to benefit Big Brothers,
Big Sisters of the Capital Region. Golf will be played at
the Fairways of Halfmoon with the “19th Hole” party held at
Diamond Eight. This year will feature many great raffle prizes,
all for a great cause! Please see our Web site, www.diamondeight.com,
for more information.
Join us every Monday for karaoke with Mark “The Shark,” and
Tuesdays for our weekly 9-Ball Tournament. Ask about our daily
drink specials! See you soon!
 Tipperary
at Tara
Thomas and Nancy McGrath
3956 NY2-Brunswick Road, Troy, 279-8272, www.tipperarytrading.com
The McGrath family is proud
of their reputation for service and friendly atmosphere. We
have provided customers with the widest choice imaginable
in authentic Irish jewelry and fine gifts since 1979. Tom
has served as a fine-arts judge on several occasions, by invitation
of Crafts Council Ireland. Nancy has recently presented at
a small business forum in Dublin.
Find the largest display of Belleek China in the region, authentic
Irish sweaters, clothing, religious goods, Irish crystal,
Celtic music, books, baby gifts and christening outfits. The
Blackthorn Gallery has framed prints, original paintings,
bronzes, pottery and Celtic rugs from Dublin; the gallery
is a must for those interested in acquiring fine art from
Ireland.
Tara’s jewelry department features Ireland’s most noted designers.
Wedding bands, claddagh rings, commitment rings, pins, pendants
and bracelets make up the region’s most comprehensive selection
of authentic Irish-made jewelry. Our customers deserve the
best and we strive to provide it for them every day!
 Eyedentity
Eyewear LLC
Marie Coluccio and Loretta Ackerman
1315 Central Ave., Albany, 459-2638
Celebrating the start of our
fourth year of business, Marie Coluccio and I (Loretta Ackerman),
invite you to stop in and see what thousands of people have
already discovered: an upscale, trendy optical boutique in
the heart of the Capital Region.
Visit our beautiful showroom in Colonie and browse through
unique eyewear lines generally reserved for optical boutiques
in large metropolitan areas.
Kickback and relax on our overstuffed chairs while enjoying
a cup of cappuccino. Marie and I will be happy to show you
frames from European designers and discuss the latest, state-of-the-art
technology in lens design.
Whether your goal is to update your eyewear look, or you are
trying to get that Buddy Holly or Elton John image, you’ll
find you can create your own identity at Eyedentity. Eyedentity
Eyewear—it is what sets you apart!
*Voted Best Optical by Metroland 2002
**Small Business Admissions Excellence in Business Award 2001
 Natural
Order Stained Glass and Antique Showroom
Candace Blodgett
165 River St., Troy, 272-5666, natord@nycap.rr.com
Natural Order Stained Glass
Studio and Antique Showroom began two years ago when I downsized
my life, sold most of what I owned, closed my real estate
appraisal business and moved to Troy. I needed to define my
life closer to my heart and creative energies. I rented a
small shop and opened the stained-glass studio. Before long,
the shop windows began filling with glass designs and folks
began to notice. As people came into the studio, someone approached
a grouping of furniture I had arranged to sit down and design
work. Next thing I knew, these items began to sell in addition
to the stained glass. Suddenly, Natural Order Antiques and
Showroom was born. I stayed in my little shop for a year while
business and the antique district were steadily growing in
Troy. Last June, I moved into the 2,000 square-foot studio
and showroom on River Street.
I feature local, regional and personally imported (from Europe)
antique furniture and accessories. There is a large assortment
of vintage and new stained-glass panels, lamps and custom-design
work made in the studio. I love what I do!
 Profile
Hair Design
Theresa Spinelli
1830 Western Ave., Albany, 218-0587
Profile Hair Design moved to
its Guilderland location almost four years ago. It has gradually
become a boutique that carries the works of over 30 artists,
both local and nationwide. Among our many items, you will
find hand-crafted jewelry, clothing (including FLAX, Salaam
and Fat Hat), kiln-fired glass coasters and soap dishes, hand-made
paper frames, lotions, soaps and candles, silk ties, handbags
by Maruca and more.
The time and effort that I have spent transitioning the salon
into a salon/boutique has been rewarded many times over by
the compliments of a satisfied clientele. I have received
much positive feedback from referrals and people who tell
me they prefer the relaxed and intimate atmosphere of my boutique,
compared to the chaos of a mall.
One of my goals is to continue to provide my clientele with
outstanding service and products made with quality craftsmanship.
We invite you to come in and check it out. There is always
a lot of great new stuff!
 Mexican
Connection
Johanna and Jason Friedman
41 Nelson Ave., Saratoga Springs, 584-4466, www.mexconx.com
Every
night is a fiesta at the Mexican Connection Restaurant and
Cantina! Join us for great food and fantastic margaritas in
a fun, casual setting located across the street from the racetrack.
Everything on our menu is homemade-to-order by Donna (our
chef for the past 15 years). Our entire menu is available
for take-out.
We have a full bar featuring 50 types of 100 percent blue
agave tequila, the area’s largest selection of premium sipping
tequila. Additionally, we have a large selection of imported
and domestic beer, including 10 kinds from Mexico.
We recently purchased the restaurant after working there for
the past two years, and just revamped the bar area with the
help of local designer Flora Garrett. Also, a beautiful mural
was painted by local artist Miguel Hoyos. Please come in and
enjoy great food and drink in a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Viva la tequila!
 Compliments
to the Chef
Andrea and Dave LaFrance
488 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 226-4477
Compliments to the Chef opened
with a bang July 4th. We have since strived hard to offer
our customers a wide array of common cooking items, as well
as the not-so-common. We are a complete kitchen store, featuring
Wusthof and Henckle cutlery, Viking and All-Clad cookware,
and Le Crueset and Emile Henry bakeware. If you do not see
what you are looking for, just ask and we would be happy to
find your item and special-order it for you. Our goal is to
keep you cooking by providing you with the right tools at
an affordable price, and exceptional service.
We look forward to your visit!
Dave and Andrea LaFrance
 Hattie’s
Restaurant
Beth and Jasper Alexander
45 Phila St., Saratoga Springs, 584-4790, www.hattiesrestaurant.com
Hattie’s remains one of Saratoga’s
historic landmarks, specializing in Southern and Louisiana
cuisine since 1938. In our two years of ownership, we have
enjoyed two successful Mardi Gras parties and are looking
forward to our second annual Kentucky Derby Party, an authentic
crawfish boil and of course, the upcoming track season.
Hattie’s has always been known for its fried chicken and fresh
biscuits. Not wanting to change a formula that has worked
for over 60 years, chef Jasper kept the same menu and added
new specials such as chicken and dumplings, Jasper’s famous
macaroni and cheese and daily fresh fish specials. We have
also designed a wine list to include diverse and exciting
wines to compliment our cuisine. We also offer takeout, catering
and box lunches for the track or SPAC.
In the spring and summer months, come dine New Orleans-style
in our magical covered courtyard, or stop by our late-night
bar for a mojito or orange martini. Our main dining room is
open all year and remains timeless in its charm. Whether you’re
looking for a traditional Southern dinner or some good old-fashioned
soul food, Hattie’s is the place to be! We are proud to carry
on such a wonderful Saratoga tradition and hope you’ll stop
by soon to see what all the hype is about!
 Cerasun
Video
Ian McGaughey
Saratoga Springs, 316-1613, www.cerasun.com/business
It is hard to beat the power
of marketing with video. Whether on tape, DVD, or on the Web,
video is a terrific way to reach customers, generate interest
and train employees.
Cerasun Video is a full-service video production company serving
the Capital Region and beyond with affordable, professional
video production for businesses, schools and organizations.
I (Ian McGaughey) founded Cerasun Video in 1997. Ian is an
award-winning videographer and 10-year veteran of professional
broadcast television. He has done work for NBC, ABC, ESPN,
CNN, Oprah and Inside Edition, to name a few.
From promotional and informational videos to company profiles
and commercials, Cerasun Video can create a high-end product
designed to meet your specific goals—on time and for less
than you may think.
Contact Ian today to discover how Cerasun Video can help your
business, school or organization grow.
 Ray
Supply, Inc.
Mike Timko, Keith Zoll and Mark Rogers
871 Route 9, Queensbury, 792-5848, www.rayssupply.com
For 69 years, Ray Supply has
offered the finest in photo and electronic products as well
as service and installation. The best people, products and
prices have helped our business grow every year. Although
our photographic department, the largest in upstate New York,
and our TV/audio/home theater product sales have been great,
the place we have experienced the most growth is our home
commercial installation. Our attitude—no job is too small
or large—combined with quality, dependable service all at
unbeatable prices, has us working from the Northern Adirondacks
to the Capital District.
Home theater, whole-house audio systems and residential projection,
plasma and LCD TVs have become important additions to homes.
Sound and video are part of our business. Our customers tell
us, because of our competitive prices, the best brands in
the business and unsurpassed service, they will not shop anywhere
else. Come see us, you’ll be glad you did.
 Hair
Loss Restoration and Removal Services
Walter D. Frasier and Linda LaBarge
1710 Central Ave., Colonie, 456-7775 or (800) 872-0790,
www.hairloss.com
HRS is an ever-expanding salon
for the private and undetectable treatment of any and all
hair-loss problems. After 20 years in the business and 15
years as a nurse, I have assembled the most knowledgeable
and recognized salon for the topical restoration of hair loss
in the Albany area. We serve satisfied clients from Florida
to California.
I take great pride in my work and I’m always searching for
better ways to do our job. Product education and training
is very important to me.
Two years ago, HRS expanded into the field of permanent
hair removal with the purchase of a “transcutaneous” hair
removal machine. This machine enables the technician to remove
hair from 12 two-by-four inch areas at one time. The machine
is painless, non-invasive, comfortable and effective. Scarring
and infections are a thing of the past.
My staff and I invite you to stop in and see our salon. We
will talk about your hair loss or hair removal problem.
 Focus
on Fitness
Josh Khachadourian
Clifton Park Center, Clifton Park, 723-2222
301 Dix Ave., Queensbury, 745-1111, www.focusonfitness.net
Now in its fourth year of operation,
Focus on Fitness continues to offer quality fitness equipment
for use in home or commercial settings, all at great prices.
Our vision at Focus on Fitness: We want our customers to get
into their best shape, feel great and enjoy life. I love it
when people tell us how much younger they feel and how much
better they look since they first stopped in. It is a great
feeling to improve the quality of life for our customers.
The niche we have created is not only to help people choose
what equipment is right for them, but also to develop individual
programs that help them achieve their specific fitness goals.
Our entire staff truly educates beginners as well as help
advanced fitness enthusiasts.
If you have not seen us lately, we have some new models in
our line of elliptical machines and bikes, in addition to
updated versions of our already strong line of treadmills.
If it is strength training you are looking for, check out
our individual strength pieces as well as our attractive multi-station
gyms that I think you will find surprisingly affordable.
Whatever your fitness needs may be, we look forward to helping
you find your best fit!
 Pinnacle
Behavioral Health
Laura A. Hunt
1 Pinnacle Behavioral Place, Albany, 689-0244
Pictured: Deborah Sweeny, Laura A. Hunt and Sherrie Szoke
Pinnacle
Behavioral Health is an outpatient behavioral healthcare company
providing ambulatory, non-hospital psychiatric treatment to
those experiencing emotional or behavioral disorders. In this
practice a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner or social worker
provides treatment, whether individually or as a team. I (Laura
Hunt), ACSW-R, am the founder and sole owner of Pinnacle Behavioral
Health, located in Albany.
The vision for Pinnacle Behavioral Health is to create an
atmosphere of respect and caring for the dignity of each and
every client that is in need of our service. In contrast to
many mental health programs, we have designed a treatment
milieu that is warm and inviting, helping to de-stigmatize
mental health treatment.
What enables us to be unique is the specialized programs we
offer to adolescents and adults. We are able to provide crisis
care within 48 hours, for counseling and medication management.
We accept most insurance plans, so please call to schedule
an appointment.
 Vanilla
Bean Baking Company
Debbie and Carl Alberino
216 Fourth St., Troy, 272-8605, 573 New Scotland Ave.,
Albany, 489-3216
521 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, 782-2326
(Pictured: Chefs Gerardo and Kate Tona, Will McDonough,
Jason Pixley and Jim Patricelle)
Celebrating
our fifth year in Latham, the Vanilla Bean Bakery Café proudly
showcases our culinary team.
We have three California Culinary Academy (CCA) graduates
on staff from San Francisco, one homegrown family member and
one Boston Culinary School graduate. Together they have created
a wonderful dining experience in our café, for your pleasure.
Please try us; whether it is your first visit or you have
tried us before, we are so proud of our culinary team.
We have the popular favorites and daily breakfast, lunch and
dinner specials. We now serve wine and beer to enjoy in our
café. Our service is attentive and friendly. We stay open
seven days a week, 7 AM to 9 PM (10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
Do not miss our full-line bakery with award-winning pastries
and cakes.
 Clayton’s
Olive and Evril Clayton
244 Washington Ave., Albany, 426-4360
Pictured: Olive Clayton
Evril
and I (Olive Clayton) were living in Westchester County and
dreaming of opening a Caribbean restaurant. There were so
many Caribbean restaurants in the New York City area that
it did not seem like a good idea to open a restaurant there.
Our nephew was a student at SUNY Albany, and told us about
this area. We paid Albany a visit, saw this location and thought
it was perfect. Clayton’s was established in 1995.
Clayton’s is a family-run restaurant serving authentic, homemade
Caribbean and Spanish food. Our chef from Santo Domingo prepares
our Spanish fare. The most popular dish is the Jamaican jerk
chicken; we also feature an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet.
Metroland, five years in a row, has awarded us Best
Caribbean Food in the Capital Region. We serve generous portions
at reasonable prices. Our goal is to accommodate all our customers’
needs and make everyone feel welcome.
In the future we would like to expand the catering business
and add a banquet room to the restaurant.
 The
Counties of Ireland
Robin McDonough
13 Second St., Troy, 687-0054
Located in historic downtown
Troy, The Counties of Ireland offers a unique line of Irish
clothing, accessories and giftware. All of our lines, except
for two that are made in the U.S.A., are manufactured and
imported from Ireland. Authenticity is very important to me.
Since opening in June 2000, The Counties of Ireland has explored
a contemporary look in traditional Irish clothing, jewelry,
giftware, etc. Of course, we still offer the traditional lines.
We just want people to know that there are different options
out there besides the traditional, white Aran knit sweaters.
No matter what nationality or age you are, The Counties of
Ireland invites you to visit our shop. Have a mug of tea and
experience a bit of Ireland.
 Shades
of Green
Nieves Gonzales-Montejano and Dennis Luke Phayre
187 Lark Street, Albany, 434-1830
Husband and wife owners, Dennis
and I (Nieves), began Shades of Green—a gourmet, vegetarian
restaurant voted Metroland’s Best Vegetarian Restaurant
from 1995 through 2002—shortly after we met twelve years ago
in the old Honest Weight Food Coop on Quail Street. I am a
native of Spain and my husband is a Bronx-born Irishman. Together
we have created a very unique and popular downtown eatery
that serves a wide variety of delicious and healthy foods.
We originally began our business as a very small take-out
shop with three stools and no experience. Essentially we learned
it the hard way. Everything was made fresh daily. Our rapidly
growing popularity quickly outpaced our ability to produce
enough food.
But success also came, in part, from our inexperience. We
knew how to create delicious, healthy foods for ourselves,
so when it came time to make it for everyone else, that is
how we made it: We make it like we were making it for ourselves.
We do not skimp on any of our ingredients and do not use any
second-rate products as well. Quality is always first, and
always has come first for us. That is what has accounted for
our success more than anything else.
 SinglesOnly
Bill Herzog (Chief Technology Officer), John Rudick (Chief
Marketing Officer), Jim Bard (President)
www.SinglesOnly.net
Formed in late 2002, SinglesOnly
is the first online matchmaking company to integrate Web-based
dating services with face-to-face interaction for its members.
They are also the first to bring “speed-dating” to the Capital
District, which is a “round-robin” style of meeting many people
in one night through a series of mini-dates. SinglesOnly is
preparing to revolutionize the dating scene for the local
population of busy professionals who are disillusioned with
blind dates and the drab singles scene.
The rapid-fire sequence of speed-dating allows singles an
opportunity to meet 11 other singles for seven-minute dates
in the course of one thrilling evening. The fast-paced cycles
of quick dates will be set in local restaurants, taverns,
museums and shops. Finally there is a fun and exhilarating
way of meeting potential love interests, in a safe and supervised
environment.
SinglesOnly’s fully interactive Web site, www.SinglesOnly.net,
provides a place to register for events and will eventually
host a fully integrated private e-mail system to allow members
of its community to the resource center for local,
single individuals to go for articles on dating, upcoming
events, etc.
 Saso’s
Japanese Noodle House
Yasuo and Kathy Saso
218 Central Ave., Albany, 436-7789, www.sasos.com
Yasuo and I met while working
together at a Japanese restaurant in 1990. Our love of the
restaurant business, Japanese cuisine and each other, led
us to marriage and the dream of someday opening our own small
restaurant. On May 30, 1996, that dream came true with the
opening of Saso’s Japanese Noodle House, a cozy place with
great food and service.
Chef Saso started as a young apprentice in a sushi restaurant
in Chiba, Japan. He became a skilled sushi chef and earned
his Japanese license in 1975. In addition to sushi, his cooking
experiences in Japan include traditional Japanese cuisine
and the specialized, exquisite cooking and art form called
Kaiseki Ryori.
As chef-owner, Saso has the opportunity to combine his skills
and creatively produce and serve the highest quality Japanese
cuisine in the area, using the freshest ingredients available.
Since opening, Saso’s has been chosen Best Japanese and Best
Sushi (by Metroland), and Best Soup (by Times Union)
in the Capital Region.
 The
Art of Belly Dancing Instruction & Performance
Habiba (Donna Marie Floyd)
436-9333, www.bellydanceny.com/p_habiba.html
I had been a belly dancer for
several years. I began my teaching career after being approached
several times by people wanting to learn the dance from me.
Belly dancing is a celebration of femininity, with movements
natural to the body: Undulating, almost meditative, soul-stirring,
rhythmic and energizing, providing a low-impact workout for
the entire body.
In choosing an instructor, potential students should ask for
credentials. For those desiring more in-depth study, I possess
the skills necessary to guide and inspire you to discover
your own unique style.
I have performed at wedding receptions, children’s parties,
anniversaries, etc., for diverse audiences. Some past appearances
include Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Manhattan’s Ibis Supper
Club, and the Organization of African Unity to the United
Nations.
I offer beginner and continuing level classes and private
coaching. Even beginning students can enjoy learning simple
choreographies, finger-cymbals and dancing with silk veils.
For the dedicated student, performance opportunities are also
available with my ensemble. The dance can be enjoyed by women
and girls of all ages and fitness levels.
In Albany you can always try your first class for free. Call
to register and receive a brochure. Troy classes begin on
April 22.
 Sanctuary
B. Salon
Bettina Mamone
116 Wolf Road, Albany, 482-8884
Sanctuary B. is all about our
clients. My goal was to open a salon that made clients feel
special and pampered.
Starting with the upscale physical setting, we have made every
effort to provide state-of-the-art services in a private,
comfortable and congenial environment.
Our staff prides themselves on developing a professional,
personal relationship with each client; questions about new
styles, products and services are answered with their particular
needs in mind. Continuing education for staff, including participation
in demonstrations, attending classes and meeting with product
representatives allow the staff to provide innovative, upbeat
services, all in a timely fashion.
The response has been gratifying. We were awarded “Salon of
the Year” in 2000 by Modern Salon Magazine and “Best
of 2001” by Metroland. Additionally, our stylists have
worked with Channel Co. News, ABC Sports and various media
personalities.
If you want to be treated special and look great, call Sanctuary
B. for an appointment.
 Saratoga
National Golf Club
Tom Newkirk, Bob Howard, Tony Malatino and Scot Thomas
458 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, 583-4653, www.golfsratoga.com
Pictured:
Addy Waldie (Director of Sales), Peter Tavares (Director of
Golf), Larry Schepici (Executive Chef)
Normally,
when a foursome makes plans to play golf, they reserve a tee
time, set their alarms, and off they go. These guys? They
built their own golf course!
The four joined forces several years ago to create 18 holes
of championship golf and a four-star dining destination in
Saratoga Springs. When they started, none of them had any
serious background in the business of golf. What they did
share was a love of the game and a dream to create a place
where everyone could experience golf at its best.
So they enlisted the help of famed golf course architect,
Roger Rulewich, who designed a challenging course with classic
features. Then, they built a grand Victorian-style clubhouse
that caters to golfers, diners and events alike.
The result is an upscale, luxurious experience that is accessible
to everyone. Even that casual foursome set the alarm and go!
 C
& V Distributing (A Division of Payless Beverage)
Michael Vinci, owner, and Frank Crisafulli, general sales
manager
1021 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, 713-2033
Pictured: Tino Santoro, Ray Kirby, Frank Crisafull,
Lucia and Mike Vinci
Having
been in the beer business for more than 14 years, Frank Crisafulli
and I (Michael Vinci) saw a niche that needed to be filled.
The consolidation of beer distributors by big breweries and
the downsizing of the variety of beers carried by these distributors
have left retailers fewer options in where to purchase their
products and what they can offer consumers. I have owned and
operated Delmar, Weigel and Payless Beverage for many years
and decided to join forces with Crisafulli to fulfill this
niche. The result is C & V Distributing: a specialty beer
distributor looking to cater to the needs of retailers, bars
and restaurants that want an alternative to the “big boys.”
Frank Crisafulli’s family has operated Westmere and Oliver’s
Beverage for many years and recently owned
Albany Craft Beer Distributors, sold in 2000. Carrying American
microbrews such as Dogfish Head, Shipyard, Grant’s, Dixie
Voodoo and more, we are certainly accomplishing our goals.
If you own a bar or restaurant and are looking for something
different to offer your customers, or you want to offer the
kind of service a small local distributor can provide, please
give us a call. Retail customers should be sure to stop into
one of our many local beverage centers to see the variety
of beers we offer.
 Oak
Hill
Victoria Crosby
15 Cresant Drive, Castleton, 732-4675
I recently opened this full-service
recording and photo studio for vocalists, instrumentalists,
bands, DJs and models, dubbed Oak Hill Productions, in Castleton,
New York. You can record your demo in a professional atmosphere
in our comfortable studio. Immediately after recording, you
will receive a CD, and if you so choose, a DVD, cassette and
VHS tape, in a portfolio with photos. Our models also receive
a portfolio with 8” by 10” photos immediately after the photo
shoot. Our rates are competitive and reasonable. Customers
will enjoy the relaxed settings. Our goal is to provide our
customers with a high quality product. Customer satisfaction
is our motto!
 State
of Grace
Grace Liney
11 Second St., Troy, 272-1055
What to do, what to do? That
was the question I faced last fall when the company I worked
for relocated out of the Capital District. The answer . .
. State of Grace! To own a clothing and gift shop has always
been a dream and since I opened last December, I have never
looked back. My goal was to create a store with unique clothing
and gifts that you will not find over and over again in the
mall. I also wanted to be sure that people felt welcome to
stop in and just browse, say hello and feel that there was
not any pressure to buy. I hope that my goal is a reality
for everyone who stops by State of Grace.
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