Metroland Online

Andrea of America Jewelers-Importers, Ltd. is 30 years old! From that very first August day when we opened at our present location, my mother Roz Itzkow and I were determined and committed to bring the Capital Region a shop with an international flair so real in selection, inventory and ambience that the experience would be as close to “being there” as possible. The proof is in the pudding—Irish bread pudding, that is! We are the Capital Region’s original Irish store, offering an extensive collection of imported Irish jewelry, Belleek China, Galway crystal, and other hand-crafted gifts and clothing. In July 2005, our design entitled With Love for To Life premiered at a fund-raising event hosted at our store. If you purchase one of these signature pink-and-sapphire pendants, 10 percent of the sale gets returned to To Life, a local nonprofit organization offering cancer education and support. We have always embraced social responsibility as a way of giving back to the Capital Region community. After 30 years, we continue to evolve and diversify. A special thank you to Metroland readers for voting us Best Kept Secret 2006! Stop by and see why! Our building is handicapped-accessible. We speak Spanish, Russian, and Ukrainian and will accommodate your busy schedule. Help us get the secret out. We know you will make Andrea of America your family tradition!

Aunt Katie’s Attic

Kate Halasz

7052 Amsterdam Road, Scotia, 887-3026, www.auntkatiesattic.com

Fun, funky, functional. These are just a few words to describe the eclectic atmosphere at Aunt Katie’s attic, located on Route 5 in the 104-year-old Hoffman’s school building, in the beautiful Mohawk Valley. Vintage kitchen may be our specialty (home to the largest collection in the Capital District), but the shop is always brimming with fascinating inventory from vintage to antique—from primitive furniture to retro tchotchkes—a bit of something for everyone! As you bop through the shop, you’ll be transported to another era. Many of our customers have described it as a nostalgic trip back in time. We frequently hear gasps and giggles as someone exclaims “Oh, I haven’t seen that since I was a kid!”

Our colorful displays are always changing, as our frequent shopping trips, dealers, and consignors refresh inventory on a daily basis. Our motto is “You never know what you’ll find at Aunt Katie’s Attic!” Our fun and lively staff is always ready to help you come by that hard-to-find item: Most recently we located a 1961 Montgomery Ward catalog for a most delighted customer. The fun is in the hunt!

Over the years, Aunt Katie’s has been busy evolving and expanding; we also celebrated our 11th year in business. Attend our spring open house event on Saturday, April 1 (our actual anniversary—no fooling), from 11 AM to 5 PM. We know how to throw a party! Also highlight Saturday, June 3, on your calendar to visit our annual outdoor flea market from 9 AM to 4 PM, featuring 25-plus vendors, Big Boys BBQ, and you. When you come to Aunt Katie’s, be prepared for a stimulating experience. If you are looking for something different, we are the destination. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM, Sunday noon to 4 PM. Shopping parties by appointment.

Bad as Art

Beth Ann Feldman

316 Delaware Ave., Albany, 426-4378, badasart@bluefrog.com

Art is passion! Exposure to art can be inspirational, invoking contemplation, wonder and enjoyment. The local artists we represent celebrate the diverse uniqueness of our own community while those represented by our fair-trade global imports sustain a positive cultural influence with their thought-provoking creativity. For the same cost as an impersonal mass-produced product, you can invest in an original piece of beautiful art with which you can connect on a deeper level. Support the arts and support your community. We bring you the unexpected, the intriguing, the most extraordinarily provided works of fine art and fine crafts. We are your local hand in the global art community. Our hours are Monday, Wednesday & Thursday from 11 AM to 7:30 PM, Friday, Saturday from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, and Sunday from noon to 4 PM.

Beaver Body & Paint

Kirk H. Link

9 Garden Alley, Albany, 463-7044

We’ve been in business since 1937, right off of Dove Street, between Madison Avenue and Hamilton—that’s over 69 years in the same location! Current owner Kirk has been running the business since 1985 and has more than 35 years of experience in the auto-body repair field. We continue to put out the finest work in the Capital District! Our niche in the auto-body repair business is the highest quality in the area. When your car has been in an accident, we try to make the vehicle better than pre-accident condition. This is accomplished through precision alignment of the metal and superior paint refinishing. All of our customers know us for unparalleled work and continue to return time and time again. We had to close temporarily for eight months in 2005 due to a motorcycle accident but we have re-opened as of January of this year with some major changes to the interior of the building. If you are concerned about your vehicle’s appearance, call or stop in today. We do minor-to-major repair on all makes of vehicles! We’ll treat your car like our own! It’s not just a slogan, it’s a promise. Open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

bombers Burrito Bar

Matthew Baumgartner

258 Lark St., Albany, 463-9636, www.bombersburritobar.com

Founded in 1997, Bombers Burrito Bar is an Albany institution! Serving GIANT burritos, tacos and chicken wings for wee little prices, we are the hot spot for students, poor rock bands, cheap state workers and pretty much anyone with a tattoo or multiple facial piercings. What started out as a small take-out joint has grown into a full-scale bar and restaurant specializing in delicious margaritas and tons of tequila. Stop in on any night of the week and we’re packed! Nightly themes such as Monday Wing Night, Karaoke, and Trivia Night provide quality entertainment to go along with your burrito and shot of tequila. As an added bonus, Bombers gives our customers a margarita the size of a bird bath for free on your birthday! Bombers Burrito Bar is open seven days a week.

Café Hollywood

Collin Rost and son/future owner, Nathaniel Quinn

275 Lark St., Albany, 472-9043

Collin Rost, owner and general manager, has been with Café Hollywood since its birth. Approximately 12 years ago renovations began to morph the Beverwyck Bar and Restaurant into what we all know and love as Café Hollywood. At that time Collin was a laborer, molding the physical shape of Café Hollywood. But, as time crept forward, he became a waiter, bartender, manager, and finally owner. These days Collin is on active duty with the Air Force and is in our prayers while occasionally deployed.

Our establishment is a pillar of Lark Street, persevering times when other businesses have crumbled and become grainy memories. To some it is a mystery, but many others understand our strength: We accept all walks of life and embrace diversity.

Café Hollywood is home of the original two-for-one chip special, 10 years and running on Sunday nights. Tuesday evenings you can get down with old-school music and new beats. Every happy hour, from 3 to 7 PM, you can enjoy $2 draft pints, $2 domestic bottles and $2 well drinks. During Saturday happy hour there is a video-game system with wireless controllers available to patrons. Also, look for our new food menu, dart and pool league, and the return of Bar & Restaurant Appreciation Night on Mondays.

We also boast the largest private patio on Lark Street, open during the warm season. If you are more inclined to be recognized you can sit on our front street-side patio with your cocktail. Our two-floor café also houses two pool tables, three dartboards and a Mega XL touch screen. Our state-of-the-art digital jukebox allows you to search and download tunes that aren’t in our regular catalog. In addition, you can enjoy your favorite sporting event on one of our four LCD flat screen televisions.

Come to Café Hollywood to immerse yourself in diversity and amenities while enjoying a cocktail with some friends. . . . Or meet somebody new.

Center for Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy

dan cronin

3 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany, 489-4026, www.cnwsmt.com

Imagine a tree . . . Its trunk growing strong and healthy. Its roots firmly anchored in the soil. Its branches reaching up toward the sky. Its seeds floating in the wind, until they land and begin to spread their own roots.

That is our vision at the Center for Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy. We created this school to provide a place for students of all ages to come and learn, to share their gifts, to gain knowledge, and to take their experience and expertise into their individual communities to help others become healthier and stronger.

Through a comprehensive program of study that carefully balances the art and science of therapeutic massage, the program strives to enrich the lives of its students. Our program provides students with the opportunity to grow personally and examine their own relationship to self and others in a supportive environment. They are encouraged to bring mindfulness and awareness to each moment in order to experience their lives more completely. This balancing of body, mind and spirit, naturally allows health and wellness to arise.

Our highly trained faculty is deeply committed to creating a safe, nurturing and intimate learning community that honors the diversity and unique gifts that each student possesses. The process of becoming a massage therapist is a life changing experience that allows individuals to bring their hearts more openly into their work. Our staff maintains high standards of integrity, character, and ethics, while cultivating these qualities in each of our students.

Call for a catalog or to schedule a tour today!

Student Clinic: We invite you to share some time with us and experience the relaxation of massage along with its many other benefits. Students offer massage modalities that correspond to his or her level of training. Call to make your appointment for a massage in our Student Clinic today! 489-4068. The Center for Natural Wellness also carries a full line of massage products and massage related products. Visit us today!

Central Art Supply

Robyn and Jorge Diaz

4 Central Ave., Albany, 426-3501, www.4centralartsupply.com

Convenient location, friendly, knowledgeable service, and quality art supplies! Central Art Supply offers products such as Liquitex and Golden acrylic paints, Rembrandt Oils, stretched canvas, tons of Strathmore paper pads, Bee rolls of watercolor and drawing paper, Windsor Newton brushes, pencils, charcoal, ink, pens, and more! Plus, you will always find discounted items at our store.

Central Art Supply is owned and operated by a husband-and-wife team. Before making the decision last June to open the store, Jorge and I had lived in Albany for six years and wondered why a place like ours did not exist in the Lark Street area. As artists, we have years of experience that allow us to offer the kind of help and service you will only find at an independent shop.

We’re also actively involved in the Upstate Artists Guild, an artists’ collective for the Capital Region. The UAG provides a place where artists can exhibit, teach, and learn about art. Central Art Supply and the UAG are a perfect combination—many of the art classes held at the UAG require supplies, for which we provide package deals. Here at the store, we’re often connecting local artists to the UAG at 247 Lark St. in Albany, or www.upstateartistsguild.org

We love to hear what our customers wish to see in stock! Items like easels and portfolios can be special ordered. We work with local nonprofits and schools to develop supply lists for their art programs at a discount. If you’re a student, show us your valid student ID and get 10 percent off your purchase. If you’re searching for a gift but don’t know what to get, we also have gift certificates. We are conveniently located at 4 Central Ave., just around the corner from Lark Street. Hope to see you soon!

The Counties of Ireland

Robin McDonough

77 3rd St., Troy, 687-0054, www.thecountiesofireland.com

Our original store opened in Troy on June 8, 2000. Our main focus was to bring something a little different to our customers . . . something unique. We not only wanted to cater to our Irish customers, but to any nationality! That is why we consider ourselves “not your typical Irish shop.”

In June 2005, we opened our new store at 77 3rd St. in historic Troy, making this our permanent home. Formerly the Coopers Shoe Store, our newly remodeled store is a spectacular sight, with original tin ceilings and hardwood maple floors. Our store is new, but we still offer a unique line of Irish clothing, jewelry, accessories and giftware. We are currently featuring new lines such as Lee Valley Clothing, Bog Standard scented candles, and Owen Molby ironworks—just to name a few. All of our lines are manufactured and imported directly from Ireland. No matter what age or nationality you are, the Counties of Ireland invites you to visit our shop or online store and experience a bit of Ireland in Troy!

DeJohn’s Restaurant & Pub

Justin’s

legends

John and Monika DeJohn

288 Lark St., Albany, 436-7008; 301 Lark St., Albany, 465-5275, 286 Lark St., Albany, www.justinsonlark.com, www.dejohns.com

Another year and still no stopping. We are proud to say that Justin’s has experienced a renaissance, bringing back to life a wonderful institution for both food and jazz. My wife Monika and I have enjoyed watching one of our favorite places to dine evolve under our guidance, and remain one of Lark Street’s oldest and best places to meet friends, savor great cuisine, be pampered by our staff and enjoy the wonderful sounds of live jazz five nights a week.

DeJohn’s, our first effort, and our baby, is packed every weekend with regulars who have come to love our extensive menu, each developing their own favorites, and our great staff. Many of our customers have returned to celebrate their special occasions in our beautiful private party room located upstairs. People are already starting to ask when the patio is scheduled to reopen. . . . It won’t be long now.

Finally, our new effort is on the horizon. We are painstakingly planning and executing design plans in order to renovate, restore and reinvigorate the property at 286 Lark St. Formerly Rome, the space will be the upcoming home to “Legends,” a comfortable, classy restaurant and sports lounge, giving our patrons yet another choice when it comes to great food, and to many of our patrons, another opportunity to indulge their passion for sports.

We take great pride in joining several other establishments and shops along Lark Street in keeping the Lark Street neighborhood a destination to be proud of not only in Albany, but across the entire Capital Region.

A special thanks to all of our patrons who named us as winners in six different categories in Metroland’s reader’s poll!

Diamond Eight Billiards

Irene Skawinski

9 Johnson Road, Latham, 786-8048, www.diamondeight.com

It has been another great year for Diamond Eight! Thanks to all of you for your continued support and for voting us the Best of the Capital Region!

We now have karaoke with Mark the Shark on Friday nights, in addition to our popular Monday night edition. Sing, play pool, and then sing some more!

The APA (American Poolplayers Association) pool league is still going strong. We have league play on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights! The APA is the world’s largest pool league, and the best way to learn the game, meet some great people, and most of all, have fun! Join the area’s best-kept secret—a new session starts in June.

We are also gearing up for the (6th annual!) 2006 Edward M. Skawinski Memorial Golf Tournament. Join us on Sunday, July 9, to play golf, pool and enjoy great food and great company, all to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

Digital Artist’s Space

Karen Schlesinger

27 2nd St., Troy, 203-1096, www.digitalartistspace.com

Established by partners Karen Schlesinger and Chris Jordan, Digital Artist's Space is an artist-centered digital-service bureau, created by artists for artists. We have an inherent understanding of the art-making process and are committed to working with you to help attain your vision. With our state-of-the-art digital lab and our unparallelled experience in the field of digital imaging we will work with you step by step, from the inception of the idea to the final print.

Ink Jet Printing: Archival-quality wide format printing, up to 44 inches wide by virtually any length, on our state-of-the-art Epson printer. A wide variety of papers are available, including Glossy, Enhanced Matte, Luster, Somerset Velvet, Watercolor, Textured and Japanese papers. Other specialty papers are available upon request.

High-resolution scanning: 35mm, medium format, and large-format negatives and chromes, as well as A4 reflective materials up to 8000 dpi. Retouching, including color adjustments or dust removal, can be included for an additional fee. However, our service is designed to offer scans that are true to the original, so most people will not require additional retouching.

Consulting: Want to bring digital tools into your traditional workflow but don’t know where to start? Are you finding all the techie-speak in reviews and magazines a little mind-boggling? Let us help you sort through the hype and specs to find the tools that are appropriate for your situation.

One-on-one and group Photoshop workshops are coming soon, as well as a fine-art gallery featuring local artists! Customer service is a lost art. We are dedicated to providing not just the best quality scans and prints, but also the best customer-service experience possible. Please stop by and find out what we can do for you.

Drome Sound

Tony Popolizio

3905 State St., Schenectady, 370-3701, www.dromesound.com

We are a full-line music store selling a variety of guitars, amps, drums, pro audio and DJ equipment and have been in business since 1968. We thrive on customer satisfaction and having the best possible prices available. We carry name brands like Epiphone, Takamine, Martin, Dean, Vox and Marshall and our pro-audio department carries Alesis, Mackie, Numark and Yorkville sound. We also specialize in hard-to-find parts in each department. Come visit us at Drome Sound where we provide all types of rentals, electronic and guitar repairs and music lessons for guitar, bass, drums and keyboards.

El Mariachi

Patty Bermejo-Bhola and Freddie Bhola

144 Washington Ave., Albany 465-2568; 289 Hamilton Street, Albany, 432-7580; 2955 Route 9 (South Broadway), Saratoga Springs, 581-5901

We began our family business in the Capital Region almost 10 years ago. El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant I will celebrate its 10th year anniversary in June. My parents come from Puebla, a beautiful colonial city where the traditional cuisine and outstanding specialties include Mole Poblano, Pipian (a pumpkin-seed sauce) and Gorditas Poblanas. Other favorite dishes include Pollo al Chipotle, Tacos al Carbon and Cochinita Pibil, which has also been selected as “Dish of the Year” (Times Union).

I (Patty Bermejo) come from a family of five brothers who have all been in the restaurant business 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 have two locations in the downtown Albany area. In 2005, we opened our third location, El Mariachi III, in Saratoga Springs. At Mariachi I and II we put into practice one of my brother’s expertise in Spanish cuisine, adding 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. Our tequila selection (more than 80 choices 100-percent agave!), house-made sangria and special house-flavor margaritas are among our customers’ favorites. I thank all of our loyal customers for voting us No. 1 nine years in a row (Metroland’s Best Of the Capital Region Reader’s Poll) and my family, who stand together to keep the business growing.

photocap:Robert jr. bermejo

Elissa Halloran Designs

Elissa Halloran

225 Lark St., Albany, 432-7090, www.ehdesigns.com

Five years is a milestone. I feel proud to have reached it this month. The sale I’ve been having to celebrate this event has been a terrific success. It is great to see everyone I’ve grown to know during my tenure on Lark Street. The time has flown, and I’m as surprised as everyone else to be celebrating my fifth anniversary. Seems like just yesterday I was painting the walls. I appreciate the support of my loyal customers and look forward to making new friends in the store.

Stop by and see my eclectic collection, featuring my handmade jewelry and assemblages. I also carry the work of other local artists, including pottery, jewelry, scarves, wild handbags, candles, cards, picture frames and chocolates. I love to fill my store with interesting items so that you can fill your home with them.

Elissa Halloran Designs is located at 225 Lark St. in Albany, New York. My hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday 11-6, Thursday and Friday 11-7, and Sunday noon-5. I am closed on Mondays.

Eyedentity Eyewear LLC

Loretta Ackerman and Marie Coluccio

1315 Central Ave., Albany (Omega Plaza), 459-2638, www.eyedentityeyewear.net

When it comes to today’s eyewear it’s important that you not only see clearly, but look great too. Eyedentity Eyewear specializes in doing just that! We are Loretta and Marie, owners of Eyedentity Eyewear LLC . We share more than 60 years of experience in the eyewear industry and will soon celebrate the beginning of our seventh year at our present location. We are dedicated to providing the finest optical products to the Capital District. This, in combination with unsurpassed customer service and one-on-one personal attention, makes Eyedentity Eyewear your premier optical destination. We provide full-service optical care and eye exams, high-quality lenses, and the most fashionable and unique designer frames (Lafont-Paris, Lindberg, Lulu Guinnes-London, Pro Design-Denmark, Alain Mikli-Paris). Fashionable accessories are also available, including funky eyeglass cords and specialty cases. Stop in to our relaxing showroom and you’ll “see” why we were voted Best Of three years in a row (2001- 2004) by Metroland. By the way, thank you Metroland and your readers for that honor! Eyedentity Eyewear. . . . It’s what sets you apart.

Fleurtacious Designs

Kris Ann Blanchette

470 North Greenbush Road, Route 4, Rensselaer, 283-7262, www.fleurtaciousdesigns.com.

I, Kris Ann Blanchette, opened Fleurtacious Designs almost three years ago. Fleurtacious is a floral boutique—just a fancy word for a florist and gift shop—and is located on Route 4 in North Greenbush, just a short distance from the intersection of Routes 4 and 43.

The shop is open six days a week and we are open till 6 PM on weeknights. We do daily deliveries throughout the Capital Region. The shop is full of premium cut flowers, plants, candles and gifts.

Here’s little background: I started in the floral industry more than 10 years ago. I started working in a local shop in high school, found a love for flowers and decided to go to SUNY Cobleskill to study floriculture and graduated in 2000 with my BS. After college, I went to work in another shop where I gained a ton of experience in wedding work. A few years later Fleurtacious Designs happened.

I had always wanted my own shop, and I found myself in April 2003 buying the contents of a shop that was closing, and signing a lease for that June. It was a little crazy, since it was happening with not a lot of foresight.

Now, almost three years later, the shop is in full swing, with staff, delivery vehicles, and a spring, summer and fall full of weddings and parties. I love relating to the brides, and as a young woman I know how important your wedding day is—especially the wedding flowers. I feel that I put my youthfulness into my work and I am creative and up on the current trends.

We would love to see you at the shop, so stop in and see what is new and growing here at Fleurtacious Designs. Hope to see you. . . . You can also visit our Web site!

Furniture Theatre

Tom and Ed Caro

2785 Route 9, Malta, 587-9420, www.furnituretheatre.com

What is Furniture Theatre? Furniture Theatre is a furniture store situated in front of the Malta Drive-In Theatre on Route 9 in Malta. We’ve been here for three and a half years, but have been furnishing the region for 19 years, formerly as Furniture Plus. In addition to running the store, we have operated the Malta Drive-In Theatre for the last 16 summers.

Furniture Theatre has distinctive home furnishings for every room. We have an especially wide selection of country, cottage, mission and Adirondack lodge styles for your home. If your living room needs some help, let us show you our comfortable sofas, chairs, recliners, occasional tables, lamps, art and accessories.

Have a big television? Our great selection of entertainment centers can accommodate it.

Need some new dining furniture? We have a plethora of dining tables and chairs, china cabinets and curios. Ready to redecorate the bedroom? We have a variety of suites to choose from, many with solid wood construction and dovetailed drawers. Don’t forget a new mattress for a restful night’s sleep. We carry Serta and premium Masterpiece bedding.

Over and over again visitors tell us our store and selection is different from everything else out there. Our non-commissioned sales people are friendly and informative. We receive nothing but compliments about our delivery guys. See what we can do for you and your home. See you at the Theatre!

Indian Ladder Farms

Peter G. Ten Eyck II

342 Altamont Road, Altamont, 765-2956, www.indianladderfarms.com

Indian Ladder Farms is excited to announce its first spring-bearing Pick Your Own Strawberry crop, which is anticipated to begin in late May and run through the month of June. Last spring we planted a half-acre of strawberries, which will come into full production this spring. We are looking forward to a bountiful and healthy crop. For up-to-the-minute Pick Your Own information please call our Pick Your Own Hotline at (866) 640-PICK.

Farm markets such as Indian Ladder face are now facing stiff competition from grocery chains that are bringing in organic products and local produce in an effort to gain the niche farm markets have traditionally filled. In response, Indian Ladder Farms is making a concerted effort to expand our summer pick-your-own. Offering consumers the opportunity to pick their own fruit and vegetables on the farm is nothing any grocery store is ever going to be able to compete with. In addition to berries, Indian Ladder Farms hopes to offer a tomato pick your own this summer.

For the past several years, Indian Ladder Farms has closed after the winter holiday season, reopening in July with the blueberries and raspberries. This year, the new strawberry crop will enable the farm store to open in the spring and stay open through the end of December. The farm market will open April 13 with Baby Animal Daze, which will run through April 30. During the month of May, Indian Ladder Farms will celebrate Mother’s Day with a Mother’s Day Brunch and hold an Apple Blossom Festival featuring bird watching, talks about honey bees, honey tastings and more. For a complete schedule of events go to www.indianladderfarms.com.

Photo credit: Dietrich Gehring

Jenne Leatherwork

Scott & Jennifer Kaler

128 Milton Ave., Route 50, Ballston Spa, 885-1055, www.jenneleatherwork.com

Last spring, our new shop joined the storefronts in the quaint business district of Ballston Spa. Although the store is a new endeavor for us, working with leather is certainly not. We have over 30 years experience with other businesses from Massachusetts, Vermont and New York!

With an established base in working with several large stores’ repair needs, Jennifer is enjoying working directly with customers again! We can expertly repair or alter leather coats, pants, skirts, bags and accessories. Belts can be shortened to achieve a custom fit. A favorite coat can be relined. New, off-the-rack designer garments can have the sleeves or length tailored just for you. Our industrial equipment can also assist in the repair of many athletic items, customize motorcycle gear, and of course stitch on patches! Even heavy-duty, non-leather items such as backpacks, instrument cases and equestrian repair can be brought in.

Scott is showcasing work by several woodworkers, potters, painters, Vermont shearling slippers & mittens and also some pewter. He is a skilled framer himself and has put together a nice collection of antique labels and postcards for sale.

Our business philosophy: “We don’t believe in just throwing everything away . . . especially when it is just worn and aged to the point of perfection.”

Tess’ Lark Tavern

Tess Collins

453 Madison Ave., Albany, 463-9779, www.larktavern.com

The Lark Tavern opened legally in 1933 right after prohibition. Tess purchased the bar two years ago from her friend Gail Maugere. The goal was to keep the same atmosphere and traditions but to expand the Lark’s menu, as well as its reach into the entertainment and arts scene. The Lark’s motto is “Where good friends meet.” We have increased our food, business serving burgers, spaghetti and wings. We also have homemade desserts and Daily Grind coffee. The kitchen stays open til 2 AM during the week and 3 AM on Friday and Saturday. We have a diverse selection of beer and wine—and many people are in awe of the huge bar selection. Check the entertainment section for cabaret, comedy, music, open mic and music competitions. We hope you stop by to experience the camaraderie and diversity of the people who frequent the Lark!

LogosPrint.com

Craig K. Hall

105 Wolf Road, Albany, 320-8690, www.logosprint.com

LogosPrint.com synchronizes and consolidates your printing and outsourced marketing needs: large-format digital printing, vehicle graphics, banners, signs and signage, in-store displays, graphic design, Web design and all other promotional and printed products. We are a reliable, customer-service oriented company that prides itself on delivering the highest quality in printing and promotional services. Our clients receive products produced by a knowledgeable and professional staff, and printed on state-of-the-art equipment.

Lorraine Michaels Dance Centre

Lorraine Muller

69 Fuller Road, Albany, 459-2623, www.lorrainemichaelsdance.com

Lorraine Michaels Dance Centre offers a wide variety of social dance and fitness classes for adults of all ages. What sets us apart from other studios are the diversity of our classes, how affordable they are, and how much fun we have.

After years of dancing I opened the dance center in 1981. I wanted to provide a non-competitive environment where people felt good about themselves and experienced the joy of dancing. Our instructors are very warm and encouraging. The great thing about our classes is that you don’t need a lot of skill, and you don’t need to come with a partner.

We currently hold monthly classes in: Ballroom, Swing, Lindy Hop, Argentine Tango, Hip Hop, Club-Style Latin Dance, Belly Dance, Kick-boxing, Country Two Step, Hustle and Women’s Self-Defense. We have men and women in their teens through their 80’s, with every age in between.

Our newest class, “Exotic Dance for the Everyday Woman,” has attracted a lot of attention. I decided the time was right to bring it to the Capital Region after hearing how popular exotic dance classes were becoming in major metropolitan areas. Exotic Dance has been so well-received that we expanded it to include more advanced sessions using the pole and chair.

Our next addition is a class starting in April called “Dance Like A Star.” Many people enjoyed the television show “Dancing With the Stars” and want the opportunity to dance on that level. The class involves a 20-week commitment to train, followed by several performances.

If you haven’t tried dance recently I recommend coming to one of our Saturday dance parties. Parties are $5 with lessons and demonstrations. Once you feel the rhythm and see the benefits to your body and mind, you will be back!

Magnolias on the park

Theresa and Mike Kellom

462 Madison Ave., Albany, 449-2492, www.magnoliasonthepark.com

Magnolias has been open for two years and we are excited to be located in the historic Lark Street district across from Washington Park. We are offering a unique dining experience that focuses on cuisine with a distinct southern flair. Although we have been in the Capital District area for nearly 16 years and call it home, we were raised in Augusta, Ga., and Mike trained in many of the south’s finest restaurants. We have put together a collection of our favorite recipes including Charleston Blue Crab cakes, coconut shrimp, Georgia baby-back ribs, pan-fried catfish and a variety of outdoor grilled steaks and seafood all served with our favorite side dishes, such as red beans and rice, black-eyed peas and cream grits. To further your dining pleasure, we feature live music Thursday through Sunday with an open jam Thursday and Sunday. We also have rotating works of art provided on consignment by various local artists. Our dining room is open for dinner six days a week and for brunch on Sundays. So if you’re looking for classic southern fare served with a side of southern hospitality, Magnolias On The Park is the place to be.

Mary Jane Books

Carole Renzi/Thomas Wilk

215 Western Ave., Albany, 465-2238, www.maryjanebooks.com

Get used on the corner of Western and Quail! In 1998, Mary Jane opened her doors to college students and the local community on the corner of Western and Quail. Stocking primarily used college textbooks for University at Albany and Hudson Valley Community College, as ordered respectively by college professors, Mary Jane’s mission is to provide an affordable alternative to on-campus college bookstores.

Her smart and sassy staff run a “counter service” operation, bringing textbooks to you based on classes you’re taking—and if Mary Jane doesn’t have your book, she can special order it for you at no extra cost.

Additionally, Mary Jane is more than just textbooks: she houses many foreign-language books, fiction and non-fiction titles, local author publications, lava lamps, school supplies, and fabulous Mary Jane T-shirts.

An extremely well-recognized local icon, Mary Jane is a positive presence in the Pine Hills business district and would love for you to take a ride on her beautiful blue Magic Bus!

Mensroom Barbershop

Terry Crouch, Ryan Peterson

54 Columbia St., Albany, 449-1400, www.mensroom.biz

We are excited to announce the opening of our second location—Mensroom midtown—in July, located at 99 Washington Ave., in One Commerce Plaza. We are also celebrating our fourth anniversary at Mensroom downtown, 54 Columbia St., in August. Our purpose is to offer an “old school feel” while having a contemporary atmosphere. What separates us from other establishments is the quality of our services and the convenience of making an appointment with a master barber; we offer everything from hot-towel shaves to men’s color. We also carry grooming and shaving products exclusively for men. We love what we do and are confident you will too. Open Monday-Friday 10 AM-6 PM; appointments appreciated, but walk-ins are welcome.

Mexican Connection

Jason and Johanna Friedman

41 Nelson Ave., Saratoga Springs, 584-4466, www.mexconx.com, dine@mexconx.com

Every night’s 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 flat track and a half-mile north of the Saratoga Gaming & Raceway Nelson Avenue entrance. Everything on our menu is homemade to order by Donna, our chef for over 15 years, and our entire menu is available for take-out. We have a full bar featuring 80 kinds of 100 percent blue-agave tequila, the area’s largest selection of premium sipping tequila. Please come and enjoy great food and drink in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Voted Best Mexican restaurant in Saratoga this year; we are thrilled to continue the tradition of the Mexican Connection, serving Saratoga for over 25 years. ¡Viva la tequila!

Nick Pavoldi

4 Executive Park, Albany, 526-NICK (6425), www.nickpavoldi.com

Thank you Metroland readers for voting Nick Pavoldi Best Massage Therapist of 2004, 2005, and 2006. This April, Nick Pavoldi will relocate his growing structional integration and massage therapy practice to 4 Executive Park, adjacent to Stuyvesant Plaza. Whether you are an existing or prospective client, we encourage you to visit our new location with expanded massage rooms and a comfortable waiting area! Experienced certified bodywork professionals are encouraged to inquire about employment opportunities within this growing practice. For more information about our services or employment, please visit www.NickPavoldi.com.

Night Sky Café

Cathie Russell

402 Union St., Schenectady, 372-2590, E-mail: nightskycafe@yahoo.com

This is my dream: to create a warm, welcoming environment, conducive to the free exchange of ideas, the appreciation of music and the enjoyment of good food, good drink and good company. My son, Ben Gidley, is on board to bring this dream to life. The Night Sky Café is a place where visions are born, romance flourishes, laughter rings, thoughts are shared, friends are found and comfort settles. It is for everyone, every age. We are perfect for an intimate first date or a chance to catch up with old friends. The Night Sky Café is an easy place to be alone or fun place to get together with the gang. Music adds to the ambiance and overall good feeling.

The Night Sky Café offers “Metza’s,” little plates of food, to enjoy with a drink, during conversation, before or after the show, any time! The plates are filled with olives and cheeses, gourmet crackers, antipastos, fresh fruit and nuts, and hot pastry hors d’oeuvres. We also have great sandwiches and soup. Our signature dessert is three perfect cookies served with whipped cream and strawberries. Specialty beverages were chosen to accompany our menu. We serve a unique selection of bottled beer, very nice red and white house wines, great coffee and a large variety of herbal teas, cappuccinos and lattes, as well as frozen smoothies and cappuccinos. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 7 AM till 11 PM; Saturdays and Sundays, 5 PM till midnight (or later). We have off-street parking and we offer free wireless Internet.

When you find the Night Sky Café, you’ll come back to feel it again.

Noche

Matt Baumgartner, James and Demetra Vann, Victoria Lamas

895 Broadway Ave., Albany, 434-4540, www.nochealbany.com

A new addition to North Albany’s Warehouse District, Noche is the first lounge and tapas bar to truly grasp the sophistication and style of a New York City lounge. Although Noche has only recently opened the doors of this transformed firehouse, it has already made a definitive and much-needed impact on the Albany bar scene. Noche attracts a smartly dressed crowd of adults in their 30s, 40s and 50s . . . all of whom have a martini, mojito or glass of wine in their hand. Noche opens at 4 PM daily for a terrific 2-for-1 Happy Hour. Try their homemade red or white sangria while you sample food off their impressive tapas menu. If you have a group of friends looking to visit Noche, we recommend calling in advance to reserve one of the beautiful, luxe brown leather banquette seats. You will be happy you have your own section, as Noche is often busy. To be invited to one of their fabulous Open Bar parties, sign onto their Guest List at www.NocheAlbany.com.

The Orlo Studio

Rick and Alice Caputo

1475 Balltown Road, Niskayuna, 381-3555

We’re a group of young, talented, professional hairstylists from the Capital Region and we’re bringing our creativity and expertise to a new location in Niskayuna! Studio Orlo announces the opening of our new hair salon in a completely renovated location at the corner of Balltown Road and Nott Street (near Channel 6).

Studio Orlo promises to give its customers an individualized beauty experience in a relaxed and rejuvenating environment. The Orlo group has a long-standing tradition throughout the area for excellence and innovation in the beauty industry. With the prestigious Orlo name behind us, along with advanced education from world-renowned companies such as Aveda and Goldwell, you can be assured the highest quality of service.

Tired of the old you? Or do you just want a new and improved you? Come by for a free consultation and meet the friendly staff. We are eager to meet you and offer our expertise in hair color, hair cutting, makeup, and skin care.

The salon is open seven days a week. Stop in or call for an appointment at 381-3555. Visit us and change your perception of the beauty experience. You won’t be disappointed. In fact, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Peaceful Inspirations

Anne DeClue

384 Kenwood Ave., Delmar, 439-7039

When Peaceful Inspirations opened its doors in November 2005, it was the fulfillment of a long-held dream of owner Anne DeClue to have a retail establishment dedicated to the enrichment of spirit, mind and body, not just for adults, but for children also. Come browse our products that inspire, such as angels, crystals, locally handmade drums, Serenity Prayer paperweights, aromatherapy non-GMO soy candles from Vermont, and products to deepen your meditation practice, such as a variety of high-quality cushions, music and guided meditation CDs, handmade fair-trade Tibetan prayer beads and singing bowls, incense, and deity altar boxes. There are yoga supplies, cookbooks and handmade soaps, too. Other audio CDs/tapes focus on creating peace within ourselves and the world, finding right livelihood, and living joyfully. The children’s books and CDs have positive messages for developing good self-esteem. We even have a cuddly “Chakra Bear” for little ones and nature/science games to help foster ecological awareness.

Our hand-held labyrinths are very popular; following the path of the labyrinth is a calming experience. There are no dead ends, you just “stay on the path.”

Part of my mission in opening a store was to feature the work of local artists and crafters. Most of the gemstone jewelry is made by local artisans, as well as paintings, and spectacular framed photographs and cards.

What I like about being in business for myself is not only having the freedom to choose items I think may inspire people and deepen their spiritual connection, but also I can listen and learn from my customers’ suggestions. Many people come in the store and tell me, “It really is peaceful in here.” Come browse our store on: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM-6 PM, Thursday 10 AM-8 PM, Sunday 1-5 PM.

Pinto & Hobbs Tavern

Jessica Pinto and David Hobbs Kuk

32 Dove St., Albany, 426-4900

We have a thirty minute deadline, with three hundred words to write. Blah blah blah blah blah, established March 2006, blah blah blah blah blah, classic tavern food, blah blah blah blah blah, killer martinis, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, Sunday Brunch, blah blah blah blah blah, great patio, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, Occasional live music, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, Nextel Dancers, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, late night grill menu, blah blah blah blah blah,Viagra, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, beer, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, Flat Screen TVs, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, parking is a bitch, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, great music, blah blah blah blah blah, best soup in the world (puffery, but true), blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, love our customers, blah blah blah blah blah, casual dining room, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, I'm over 200 words now, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, lunch and dinner, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, No Sheriff, shanigans allowed (private joke) blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, formerly Bleecker Café blah blah blah blah blah, arrgh, blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah, thank you very much, blah.

Precision Automotive, Inc.

Sean Nava and Dave Mooney

2200 Central Ave., Schenectady, Sales 346-5581/Service 382-9005, www.prcautomotive.com

For expert Volvo repair in Colonie, Schenectady, Niskayuna, Saratoga, and Albany, Precision Automotive, Inc. and Precision Motors, Inc. is your one-stop solution for Volvo service and previously owned Volvo sales. We service all years and makes of Volvo automobiles. We also sell previously owned Volvos. Our success is derived from the trust and loyalty of our repeat customers. We measure our performance by the feedback our loyal customers have given us throughout the years. It takes many years to develop a reputation for expertise, quality, and integrity. That’s why we provide our customers with personalized attention and do everything in our power to make the maintenance of your vehicle our top priority. We may not be the least expensive, but we have been, and always will be, the best value! We pride ourselves on our ability to repair or service most cars on the same day and we carry a large inventory of OEM quality parts to ensure quick and professional service. All work is done by appointment only.

We are an independent repair shop and sales facility that specializes in servicing Volvo automobiles. We are not, in any way, affiliated with the Volvo Car Corporation. We use the term Volvo solely to describe the nature of our business.

Saratoga Savoy Center of Dance

Keira Lemonis and David Wolf

7 Wells St., LL, Saratoga Springs, 587-5132, www.saratogasavoy.com

We are a dance studio specializing in authentic social dances such as Argentine tango, salsa, swing and Lindy Hop, as well as all of the ballroom dances, hiphop and more. We have been in Saratoga Springs for three years and have been teaching people how to look great and feel comfortable on the dance floor while having a terrific time enjoying their new talent.

Our mission is to expose everyone to the many benefits of social dancing through our memorable instruction or through the many events and performances that we produce. Not only do we teach on a daily basis, we also produce shows, hold monthly dances that are open to the public, instruct children in area schools, teach and dance in local night spots and hold fund-raising events for local nonprofit organizations.

At the Savoy, we take pride in our extremely skilled instructors, who have trained with some of the most well-known dancers in the world today. Our relaxed and friendly environment, our unique and unrivaled music selection and our continuous pursuit to keep up with the trends of social dancing also contributes to our remarkable reputation. Our knowledge and respect for each dance is so great that we also like to focus on the cultural aspects of dancing as well as the technical.

We like to consider ourselves a very progressive dance studio that strives to produce fresh ideas. Not only do we have a special dance program designed for teenagers aside from our adult classes, we are also the first upstate dance studio to offer a dance program for the GLBT community or for anyone who would like to learn partner dancing outside of traditional gender roles. Overall, we want to share our passion and ability with anyone who is willing to give it a whirl!

Schenectady Museum Shop

Erin Breslin

15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady, 382-7890, www.schenectadymuseum.org

Truly unique . . . We offer an amazing array of high-quality, unusual items. From hand-crafted clothing and fine jewelry to educational toys, we truly have something for everyone. See work from the area’s finest craftspeople. Treat yourself or someone special to jewelry hand made with precious metals and gemstones. And our clothing is art! While most clothes just hang in the closet, our one-of-a-kind clothing could hang on the wall. Whether woven, quilted, or hand-painted, we have that unique piece for your wardrobe. Tired of filling your home with knock-off imports from big-box stores and catalogs? An extensive line of high-quality home items awaits you at the Schenectady Museum Shop. See a variety of decorative and functional pottery as well as other items in leather, glass, and wood. Our children’s gifts are out of this world! Choose from a large selection of astronomy and space items. Make learning fun with our cool, educational toys.

Let us do the work. . . . For your shopping convenience, we offer call-ahead gift selection. Just phone us with an idea of what you’re looking for and we’ll select some items for you to consider. Unlike mall stores, we offer individual customer service. And once you’ve made your selection, we’ll be happy to gift wrap it free of charge. Located near Proctor’s Theatre and Union College, the Museum Shop offers easy, convenient shopping. With ample free parking close to the entrance, we eliminate the hassle of crowded parking lots and long walks through malls.

Shop Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 AM-4:30 PM, Saturday-Sunday noon-5 PM. Visit our new satellite shop, called Innovations, at 180 Jay St., Tuesday-Friday 11 AM-2 PM. Open during special events and by appointment.

Some Girls Boutique

Diva de Loayza and Morsel

17 Colvin Ave, Albany, 489-0505; 13 Second St., Troy, 271-1172, www.somegirlsboutique.com

Some Girls Boutiques are like having Greenwich Village-Soho shops in the Capital District. With two locations, one in Albany and one in Troy, they are the destinations for women and girls who want hip new styles. More importantly, visiting Some Girls boutiques is an experience. Maybe it is the colorful, cozy atmospheres or maybe it’s the talented staff that loves to help you look incredibly stylish or maybe it is being greeted at the door by Morsel, the resident Pomeranian, who has designed her own doggie T-shirt line!

We travel regularly to New York City, Las Vegas and Los Angeles to hand-pick a selection of unique handbags, jewelry, belts, hats, scarves, shoes and fashionable clothes. We buy a few pieces of each style and make sure that you will not find the same things at the mall. We add new things all the time so the choices are always fresh!

Some Girls Boutique is the exclusive Capital District outlet for the House of Bimbo T-shirt line available in hundreds of stores across the country. In fact, 17 Colvin Ave. is the headquarters for the House of Bimbo Company. When you visit Colvin Avenue, check out the large map of the United States behind the desk where you can see all of the stores that carry our line. You will also see Hailey and Hillary Duff along with Lucinda Williams, Terri Clark and Angie Harmon wearing Bimbo T-shirts in press clippings that decorate the stores.

Who is the genius behind all this? Diva de Loayza—yes Diva is her real name—designer, entrepreneur, and Albany hometown girl. If you want to be noticed as a style leader, stop in for some personal attention from Diva, the style goddess herself, and her fabulous fashionistas: Margaret Partyka and Rachel Wrightson.

State of Grace

Grace Liney

11 Second St., Troy, 272-1055

January marked the beginning of the fourth year of business for State of Grace Fine Clothing & Gifts in downtown Troy. Over the past three years, the store has become a favorite for many Capital District shoppers as the destination for unique fashions and accessories. We have been honored to be named Best Women’s Boutique for three years in a row by Metroland. This spring should prove to be a great shopping adventure at State of Grace with great new fashions from Mac & Jac, Kenzie, and April Cornell, to name just a few. Plus we have just launched an April Cornell Kid’s corner with the sweetest little dresses and accessories you will ever see for little girls. For your convenience, we are open 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturday.

Zombie Planet

George Vasilakos

1238 Central Ave., Albany, 438-7202, www.edenstudios.net/zombieplanet

My mission with Zombie Planet is to give the Capital District a one-stop full-service adventure-game store, a place for people to find new and unique card, role-playing and board games to stimulate their minds and to do something other than sit behind a TV or computer screen. We specialize in role-playing games like the cult classic, and our most popular, Dungeons and Dragons. We also carry the Magic the Gathering card game as well as the kid favorites Pokemon and Yu-Gi-OH! For the superhero fans we have Heroclix, which is a collectible miniature game using the heroes and villains from DC and Marvel comics. Our second floor is open to people to play games on site and meet new players for their favorite games. What sets us apart from other stores like us? We have a huge inventory of products and a knowledgable staff. Plus a huge gaming space for people to play.

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