Leona Velazquez - HER LIFE Magazine
Leona Velazquez - HER LIFE Magazine
Leona Velazquez - HER LIFE Magazine
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> MAGAZINE AuGust 2012 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>NEWYORK.COM<br />
Fun Family<br />
Game Night<br />
Ideas<br />
<strong>Leona</strong><br />
behind the scenes with<br />
<strong>Velazquez</strong><br />
...on being a wife of a jockey, motherhood and having faith<br />
KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED<br />
plus<br />
NATIONAL MUSEUM<br />
OF DANCE &<br />
Hall Of Fame<br />
and<br />
more!<br />
®
2 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 3
content<br />
August 2012<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | contents<br />
behind the scenes with <strong>Leona</strong> VeLazquez<br />
14<br />
Horse racing has been in <strong>Leona</strong> <strong>Velazquez</strong>’s blood since she was a little girl. As the wife of one of the<br />
world’s best-known, award-winning jockeys, John <strong>Velazquez</strong>, <strong>Leona</strong> understands and appreciates the hard<br />
work and dedication it takes to win the stakes. she also helps jockeys and their families off the track with<br />
her support of various charities.<br />
4 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
30<br />
nationaL MuseuM oF dance<br />
& haLL oF FaMe<br />
doris Humphrey, one of the founders of American<br />
modern dance, once pontificated, “there are times<br />
when the simple dignity of movement can fulfill the<br />
function of a volume of words.” that inspiring thought<br />
alone could convince this author to simply suggest<br />
you take a visit to the national museum of dance &<br />
Hall of Fame and that would be the end of this article.<br />
44<br />
ann o’Leary’s Just sayin’...<br />
carpe diem…a tenet i have lived by my entire life but<br />
driven home as my mother’s last suggestion to me. it<br />
insinuates sort of a selfish interpretation, as in living life<br />
to its fullest with disregard for others. i consider myself<br />
insanely lucky. i have survived a small bout of cancer,<br />
9/11 in new york, a plane crash, supremely challenging<br />
children, a handful of life’s other small indignities…<br />
weLcome 6<br />
HeALtH 10<br />
BeAuty 12<br />
inspirAtions 14<br />
crAVings 18<br />
recipes 20<br />
trendsetter 24<br />
Business spotLigHt 30<br />
motHer’s perspectiVe 32<br />
working women 36<br />
spotLigHt 38<br />
tie tHe knot 42<br />
Just sAyin’ 44<br />
in tHe region 48
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 5
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | welcome<br />
the August place to Be<br />
photo by kermit hayes<br />
for kermit hayes photography<br />
Join <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> new yor k magazine on Facebook and stay current on the hottest events and biggest deals around the region!<br />
6 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
wow, I can’t believe August is here! Rather than focusing on how much of<br />
the summer has already gone by, I prefer to relish the excitement that<br />
the rest of the summer will bring! Fun by the lakes, the beauty of the<br />
mountains and the world of horse racing focuses on Saratoga. It’s a great time of the<br />
year to be in this part of Upstate New York.<br />
In this issue we get to meet some pretty spectacular people. Our cover story on<br />
<strong>Leona</strong> <strong>Velazquez</strong> gives us a small peek into what it is like to be married to one of the<br />
top horseracing jockeys in the nation. <strong>Leona</strong> is also a friend and I have personally<br />
witnessed her kindness and caring, and her commitment to her husband, children<br />
and the sport of racing on a daily basis.<br />
In last month’s issue I foretold of showcasing some women who are committed to<br />
their community. In the pages ahead you will get to see how Michele Riggi is passionate<br />
about her community and her commitment to the Museum of Dance.<br />
We also meet Sue Johnson and her organization Seeds of Peace. This organization,<br />
through tiny plant seeds, sows giant results to help others in need.<br />
So ladies (and gentlemen!), kick your feet up, relax, grab a refreshment and<br />
enjoy another issue of <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>!<br />
Cheers,<br />
read<br />
share<br />
recycle
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 7
8 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
Staff and Contacts<br />
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief<br />
Angela S. Beddoe<br />
angela@herlifenewyork.com<br />
Account Executive<br />
Janine Robinson<br />
janine@herlifenewyork.com<br />
Editorial Assistant and Administration<br />
Julie A. Pratt<br />
julie@herlifenewyork.com<br />
Editor<br />
Candi Smith<br />
candi@herlifemagazine.com<br />
Creative Director<br />
Ashleigh Thomson<br />
ashleigh@herlifemagazine.com<br />
Design and Production<br />
Todd Grantham<br />
todd@herlifemagazine.com<br />
Art Director<br />
Elana Bell<br />
elana@herlifemagazine.com<br />
Makeup & Hair Styling<br />
Jennifer McCarthy Norton<br />
truegrace_makeup@hotmail.com<br />
Contributing Authors<br />
Ann E. Butenas, Lisa Taranto Butler,<br />
Joanne DiMarco, Kristen Doyle, Vicky Gilpin,<br />
Ann Stillman O’Leary, Candi Smith, Catie Watson, Laura Wynn<br />
Contributing Photographers<br />
Jill Richardson,<br />
Tracey Buyce, Kristen Doyle,<br />
Kermit Hayes, Tammy Loya, Michele Valberg<br />
To contact <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> ® <strong>Magazine</strong>:<br />
65 Long Alley<br />
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866<br />
Phone: 518-580-0000 / Fax: 518-633-5102<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>® <strong>Magazine</strong> of New York is operated locally by Beddoe Publishing, LLC, an independently owned<br />
and operated franchisee of <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>, LLC. To reach national headquarters, call 913-402-6994.<br />
© 2012 by <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>® <strong>Magazine</strong>. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced<br />
and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>® <strong>Magazine</strong> is owned by <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>, LLC and is a free publication distributed locally and<br />
is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected specialty stores, grocery stores, doctor and dental offices,<br />
medical spas, hair and nail salons, tanning salons, public libraries and numerous other high traffic locations.<br />
Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.<br />
We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for<br />
the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.<br />
SUBSCRIPTIONS<br />
Subscriptions are available for $20 (for 12 issues). Please go to www.herlifenewyork.com<br />
or mail a check made out to Beddoe Publishing, LLC to the above address.<br />
®
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 9
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | health<br />
defining your path<br />
to sustainable Fitness<br />
the first step on your path to fitness may not be the one you<br />
think. In fact, it may not even include the word “exercise.”<br />
How is this possible, you ask? Simply put, many people start<br />
out with good intentions only to mistake strategy for fitness goals.<br />
The first step in creating a fitness plan that lasts relies heavily on that<br />
second word—plan. Losing a pre-defined amount of weight, such as<br />
ten pounds, is not a final fitness goal. Running five miles is not a fitness<br />
goal. Doing 100 abdominal crunches each day is not the ultimate<br />
target when planning a permanent health regimen. While these are<br />
all great accomplishments and may very well be a large part of the<br />
activities you perform to become healthy, they are more accurately<br />
described as milestones on the path to reaching your true goal, which<br />
is permanent fitness health.<br />
Knowing how to reach your goal is the key. There are many<br />
resources to help you create steps to achieve your goal, such as reading<br />
books, browsing the Internet or consulting with a fitness professional.<br />
Take advantage of the knowledge and techniques available from your<br />
personal trainer. He or she will likely be more than happy to share any<br />
information that will make your personal goals easier to obtain.<br />
To be effective, ultimate goals need to be long-term. This is important<br />
to understand because fitness cannot be achieved overnight,<br />
or in one week, or even in one month. The first step in achieving<br />
true fitness is to identify and understand your overall fitness goal.<br />
10 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
by laura wynn<br />
It is at that point that you can create a sustaining and reasonable<br />
fitness program to get you there. People often say they exercise “to be<br />
healthy.” While that’s true, it’s vague. Without goals that are specific,<br />
measurable and tangible, it’s difficult to reward yourself and stay<br />
focused on long-term behaviors.<br />
Once you know what you want, the next step is to figure out how<br />
to go about creating a plan. To achieve the long-term results defined<br />
above, it’s crucial to divide the process into short-term goals. Shortterm<br />
goals are day-to-day goals that will, in the end, help you achieve<br />
your overall fitness goal. These will include positive habit development<br />
like eating breakfast, getting a minimum eight hours of sleep and<br />
drinking plenty of water. Consistency plays a big role in the pattern<br />
development necessary to achieve your goals.<br />
According to Sami Papacek, Wellness Program Manager at Kansas<br />
City Cancer Center and The University of Kansas Cancer Center, a<br />
fitness plan that will last needs to be “stick-tuitive.”<br />
“A stick-tuitive plan has a few important qualities. It will include<br />
activities that get visible results, meaning you have to be able to see<br />
that it makes a change in your body either physically or in how you<br />
feel,” shared Sami. “If you are simply taking a walk every day, then you<br />
may notice results at first. But once that initial excitement wears off,<br />
what is going to get you out of bed when you are tired? If you do the<br />
same exercise routine and your mind is bored, so is your body!” Sami
ecommends that your fitness program stays fresh by: changing up your<br />
fitness routine every six weeks; make it fun and don’t choose exercises<br />
that don’t fit your personality (some people love biking, others don’t);<br />
try new things and new classes, and don’t feel you have to commit<br />
for a year with a long-term contract at a gym; get a trainer for at least<br />
a few sessions so you can learn the basics that you should be able to<br />
continue on your own; check out YouTube or other websites for free or<br />
inexpensive workout ideas; and, sign up for a community events where<br />
you walk or run because being with others can offer a great sense of<br />
motivation and pride as well as a change in your fitness plan.<br />
Give yourself enough time to achieve your personal expectations.<br />
Reaching your goals will require patience. In the end, giving yourself<br />
a realistic timeframe will help keep you from becoming frustrated and<br />
disappointed. Create a reward system in order to maintain interest and<br />
increase the likelihood of longevity. Consider non-food prizes to avoid<br />
reversing the results from achieving your goal. It’s a good idea to pair<br />
with a buddy who will keep you accountable since your reciprocated<br />
enthusiasm will be support for one another.<br />
Wellness is not just about exercise—it’s also about being emotionally<br />
healthy. We tend to treat ourselves better when we feel good. We<br />
choose better meal options and are naturally more sociable when we<br />
feel productive. Knowledge is power. ■<br />
Additional sources for this article are allamericanfitness.net and<br />
healthbeautyandfitness.com.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 11
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | beauty<br />
designer<br />
sunglasses<br />
by catie watson<br />
over the past decade, sunglasses have joined shoes, purses and<br />
jewelry as must-have accessories that can make or break an<br />
outfit. Most of the top fashion design companies in the world<br />
now include sunglasses in their product line, including among others<br />
Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Armani, Chanel, Christian Dior, Prada, Ralph<br />
Lauren and Marc Jacobs. Many style-conscious women believe that<br />
designer sunglasses are worth the investment because they are well-made<br />
and more durable than cheaper versions. Another benefit is that virtually<br />
all designer sunglasses provide the correct level of UV protection (more to<br />
follow on that below).<br />
According to The New York Times, designer sunglasses are one luxury<br />
item that consumers continue to crave despite the recent economic<br />
downturn. Compared to designer dresses, shoes and handbags that may<br />
cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, designer sunglasses are a more<br />
accessible luxury item with an average cost of $200 to $400.<br />
Although classic designs in rich materials are a staple of upscale<br />
sunglasses, designers also follow fashion trends from season to season. In<br />
2011, many designers explored retro sunglass styles from the 1950s<br />
through the 1980s. That trend will continue in 2012, along with<br />
some eye-catching new designs that are strictly from the 21st century. Here are some the top sunglass trends you can<br />
expect to see in stores this summer.<br />
12 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
OvERSIzED<br />
Popular with celebrities, oversized sunglasses make a bold fashion<br />
statement. In addition to conveying an aura of glamour, oversized<br />
sunglasses offer increased health benefits since eye experts agree that<br />
they provide the most protection from the sun.<br />
Sunglasses with large frames first became popular in the 1970s in<br />
large part because they were favored by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.<br />
In addition to classic Jackie O styles with plain dark frames and lenses,<br />
look for oversized frames that are embellished, colored and patterned.<br />
Some of the most glamorous examples include oversized frames from<br />
Gucci and Bulgari that are bejeweled with crystals. In place of dark<br />
lenses, many of today’s oversized sunglasses feature gradient lenses<br />
that are tinted on top and clear at the bottom.<br />
vINTAgE<br />
The surge in demand for vintage-style sunglasses will continue<br />
for summer 2012. Plastic aviator glasses with teardrop-shaped lenses<br />
from the 1970s are a popular style for both men and women. Ralph<br />
Lauren, Stella McCartney, Bottega Veneta and Marc Jacobs all<br />
include aviators in their collections. Also look for classic Hollywood<br />
styles from past eras, including round glasses with pink frames from<br />
Chloe and imitation tortoiseshell glasses from Prada’s Miu Miu line.<br />
A fun vintage look for 2012 are cat eye sunglasses with a retro<br />
1940s vibe offered in a rainbow of colors from Linda Farrow<br />
Vintage, Proenza Schouler and other designers. Edgier versions<br />
of cat eye sunglasses by Nicole Farhi feature neon oversized<br />
frames that create a futuristic appearance straight out of<br />
science fiction.
UNIqUE COLOR AND DESIgN<br />
The most up-to-date sunglass styles use contrasting color and<br />
unique design details to make bold fashion statements. Examples of<br />
this trend include Paul Smith’s Frogskin glasses for Oakley, featuring<br />
pink and purple camouflage frames and bright blue lenses, or Giorgio<br />
Armani’s Strass glasses that include metal dragonflies on the arms of<br />
the frame. Even Ray-Ban has gotten into the act by offering its classic<br />
Wayfarer with bright yellow frames. Although you can’t wear these<br />
unique sunglasses with every outfit, you can definitely build a look<br />
around them.<br />
A stylish pair of sunglasses can be one of the most important<br />
accessories in your wardrobe. Besides adding a sophisticated, glamorous<br />
or fun touch to any outfit, sunglasses serve a very practical purpose by<br />
protecting your eyes from overexposure to harmful rays from the sun.<br />
The website for the American Academy of Ophthalmology<br />
(www.aao.org) warns that chronic exposure to sunlight can accelerate<br />
eye tissue aging and the development of cataracts, as well as increasing<br />
the risk of cancer. The Academy recommends wearing sunglasses<br />
whenever you’re outdoors, especially during summer, when near water<br />
and while participating in winter sports. Look for sunglasses that block<br />
at least 99 percent of ultraviolet (UV) light. Even if you wear contacts<br />
that provide UV protection, sunglasses can help shield your eyes from<br />
the drying effects of sun and wind. ■<br />
Sources:<br />
aao.org, style.com, huffingtonpost.com, nytimes.com and glamour.com<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 13
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | inspirations<br />
by ann e. butenas<br />
photography by jill richardson<br />
hair & make up by jennifer mccarthy norton<br />
It’s the kind of phone call she always keeps in the back of her mind<br />
as potentially occurring, yet she doesn’t like to think about it. However,<br />
when <strong>Leona</strong> <strong>Velazquez</strong> answered her phone on June 16, the<br />
reality of being the wife of an internationally known, award-winning<br />
professional horse jockey once again hit home. Although she is frequently<br />
present when her husband rides, she was not with him on this<br />
particular day in Kentucky. Her husband, Johnny <strong>Velazquez</strong> (known<br />
as John to the public), had sustained a riding accident that day at<br />
Churchill Downs when the horse he was riding broke a left front cannon<br />
bone and fell, throwing Johnny into the path of following horses.<br />
Johnny broke his collarbone and also incurred trauma to his kidney.<br />
Even though Johnny has an incredible history of show-stopping<br />
wins to his credit, it’s moments like these that cause <strong>Leona</strong> to step<br />
back and slowly breathe as she collects her thoughts, embraces her<br />
family and remembers the true rewards of why she loves being married<br />
to Johnny and how she fully supports and champions his career,<br />
despite the inherent dangers. After all, racing is Johnny’s passion, and<br />
steadfast <strong>Leona</strong> is proud to be his wife and number one fan.<br />
Fortunately, the injuries sustained by Johnny on that fateful<br />
day did not require surgery, and he remained hospitalized for three<br />
days in Kentucky where the incident occurred prior to coming back<br />
to his home base in Long Island, New York, to recuperate. It was<br />
14 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
Behind the scenes with<br />
<strong>Leona</strong><br />
<strong>Velazquez</strong><br />
during this time that I had the incredible opportunity to speak with<br />
<strong>Leona</strong> and discover what life is like both on and off the track for<br />
her, Johnny and their two children, Lerina (14) and Michael (9).<br />
Born in Virginia, <strong>Leona</strong>, as she described it, was literally<br />
“raised everywhere.” Her parents were originally from Ireland and<br />
her father, Leo O’Brien, was a noted Steeplechase jockey in his<br />
younger days until a riding accident caused him to leave the saddle<br />
and focus on training horses instead.<br />
<strong>Leona</strong> lived in Ireland for the first five years of her elementary<br />
school days before moving to West Hempstead, New York, with her<br />
parents. Although she never raced horses, she did love to ride them<br />
and simply be around them. “Any moment I got I would be at the<br />
barn with my dad,” she recalled, noting that her father still trains<br />
horses and it was through her association with the industry that her<br />
heart found Johnny back in the early 1990s.<br />
“Johnny is from Puerto Rico,” she said. “And when he was<br />
young, he and his friends would ride wild horses bareback through<br />
the streets in his hometown, putting a shoelace in their mouths to<br />
direct them.”<br />
It wasn’t long before some folks took notice of Johnny’s talents<br />
and suggested he become a jockey. After attending jockey school<br />
in his native land, he eventually moved to New York with the help
and encouragement of Angel Cordero, Jr. and Richie Allen, the<br />
famous baseball player for the Phillies who agreed to be his agent.<br />
As Johnny found his footing in the horse-racing arena, he also<br />
found <strong>Leona</strong>, which by all accounts truly seems like a match made<br />
in heaven. “I can watch him race,” <strong>Leona</strong> said, in response to the<br />
inquiry of whether watching him compete makes her too nervous.<br />
“I get very excited and enjoy watching Johnny ride. He does it so<br />
well. I am his number one fan but also his biggest critic. If I see he is<br />
slow or not hitting the same way, I know that it is time for him to go to<br />
the chiropractor or acupuncturist. I watch all the time for those subtleties<br />
that let me know where he might have a problem.”<br />
Among his many honors, Johnny recently won the Belmont<br />
Stakes on June 9 aboard Union Rags, an accomplishment that <strong>Leona</strong><br />
refers to as “amazing.” “It was so exciting to see him get that horse in<br />
position and be in a place that allowed him to really show his talent,”<br />
beamed <strong>Leona</strong>.<br />
Although Johnny races about<br />
five days a week and is all over the<br />
country, <strong>Leona</strong> calls Long Island<br />
their home base. “Johnny rides<br />
about three to four months in<br />
Florida,” she explained, “and we<br />
also spend time in Kentucky in the<br />
spring and fall, as well as occasionally<br />
go overseas to such places as<br />
England, Japan and Dubai.”<br />
So how exactly does a family<br />
remain a strong unit when Dad’s<br />
work requires him to constantly<br />
be on the move? “We keep the<br />
family unit together. That’s very<br />
important to us,” <strong>Leona</strong> noted. “We keep the kids with us at all times.<br />
It’s worked for us. The children have been doing this since they were<br />
born. It’s all they know. As such, they embrace it. Plus, they attend a<br />
great private school that understands their schedules and really helps<br />
them keep on track with their school work.”<br />
While Long Island is their main home, they also have homes in<br />
Saratoga Springs and Hollywood, Florida. When they are in places like<br />
Kentucky for a few weeks to enjoy Derby Week, that’s when a hotel<br />
temporarily becomes home.<br />
And since their children have grown up among horse tracks and<br />
horse racing, how do they respond to their dad’s line of work? “They<br />
prefer watching it live,” <strong>Leona</strong> explained. “Lerina is at an age where<br />
she understands it now. Michael enjoys the excitement of it all…<br />
the big races with lots of people, but he mainly prefers being in the<br />
jockeys’ room hanging out with the guys or just being in the barn with<br />
his granddad.”<br />
<strong>Leona</strong> does more than just tend to the family, champion her<br />
husband and keep things running smoothly as they move about<br />
throughout the year. She also uses her degree in Public Relations<br />
However, the race is always on<br />
for this dynamic family, and even<br />
though <strong>Leona</strong> does find it nerveracking<br />
at times (“The thought of<br />
injury is always in the back of my<br />
mind,”), she holds fast to her faith<br />
in God and once Johnny is out<br />
of the gate and the horses break,<br />
she simply exhales, watches and<br />
enjoys the ride.<br />
and Media Communications which she earned at Mount Saint Mary<br />
College, and has given of her talents in that capacity over the years to<br />
the entire New York race tracks and at Gulfstream Park Race Track<br />
earlier this year. Still, her kids are her main focus. “They are my<br />
priority,” she insisted.<br />
When the race is over and the kids are tucked into bed, and<br />
Johnny is resting and contemplating his next event, what does <strong>Leona</strong><br />
like to do with her personal time? “I love to run,” she smiled. “I do<br />
it for enjoyment more than anything. I also enjoy working out at the<br />
gym, reading a good book while relaxing in the sun, catching the latest<br />
movie, and going to restaurants and shows in Manhattan and around<br />
Saratoga Springs.”<br />
When in Saratoga, <strong>Leona</strong> and her family enjoy trying out all of<br />
the local eateries, with a special favorite being the West Side Stadium<br />
Café owned by their friend Dave Harmon. “It’s a lovely place with<br />
good food and good people,” she<br />
emphasized. “It’s also very kidfriendly,<br />
and that is important<br />
to us.”<br />
It’s not just the quality of<br />
racing in Saratoga that tugs at<br />
<strong>Leona</strong>’s heartstrings. For Johnny<br />
and <strong>Leona</strong>, the community is<br />
a place where they are creating<br />
extraordinary personal memories.<br />
“Saratoga is not just a place<br />
for top quality racing, but I think<br />
it’s a romantic place. Johnny and<br />
I love to go out together there,”<br />
she said.<br />
Adventures in travel are on<br />
the agenda, as well. When not rotating between New York, Florida,<br />
Kentucky and other professional points of interest, the <strong>Velazquez</strong><br />
family enjoys regular visits to see Johnny’s family in Puerto Rico. Of<br />
course, they really enjoy spending July and August in Saratoga, the<br />
horse-racing capital during the busy summer season, as they have<br />
made so many friends who have been supportive of their passions and<br />
endeavors, especially when it comes to giving back to the community.<br />
“The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) is an organization<br />
extremely close to my heart,” expressed <strong>Leona</strong>. “This is what my<br />
husband does for a living, and we need to support our men who risk<br />
their lives in this line of work.”<br />
The PDJF, established in 2006, provides financial assistance<br />
to both thoroughbred and quarter horse jockeys who have sustained<br />
on-track catastrophic injuries. It is governed by an independent board<br />
comprised of stakeholders from a broad cross section of the horse racing<br />
industry.<br />
“Saratoga has been a wonderful place to support our causes,” said<br />
<strong>Leona</strong>. “It’s the summer place to be so fans and everyone involved in<br />
racing are there. Therefore, it is a good opportunity to remind everyone<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 15
16 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
of those who are in need of our help.”<br />
Additionally, <strong>Leona</strong> supports Anna House, the Belmont Child<br />
Care Association located on the Belmont Park race track grounds, most<br />
recently becoming a board member for them. “Anna House is a facility<br />
where horsemen can bring their children, ages six months to six years,<br />
at 5:00 a.m. every day in order for them to go to work,” said <strong>Leona</strong>.<br />
“The racetrack hours are not 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., so it was necessary<br />
to have such a facility on the grounds. Anna House not only provides<br />
a safe environment for the children but it is more like a school. When<br />
the children graduate from Anna House, they are ahead in their kindergarten<br />
and first grade classes.”<br />
The life of a jockey’s wife is filled with excitement, anxiety, adventure<br />
and yes, sometimes heartache, disappointment and unexpected<br />
injuries, but <strong>Leona</strong> handles it all in stride, and is very matter-of-fact<br />
when it comes to their lifestyle.<br />
“Horse racing can be very exciting and can take you all over the<br />
world,” she noted. “In fact, our daughter learned to walk in Dubai.<br />
But it is a job for Johnny. It’s how we make our living. You have to<br />
stay humble and enjoy the positive moments when you can,” she<br />
emphasized.<br />
However, the race is always on for this dynamic family, and<br />
even though <strong>Leona</strong> does find it nerve-racking at times (“The<br />
thought of injury is always in the back of my mind,”), she holds<br />
fast to her faith in God and once Johnny is out of the gate and the<br />
horses break, she simply exhales, watches and enjoys the ride.<br />
“Johnny has been blessed with so much success,” <strong>Leona</strong> smiled.<br />
“The Kentucky Derby, which he won riding Animal Kingdom in<br />
2011, was one of his greatest wins. Of course, winning atop Union<br />
Rags in the Belmont Stakes this year was incredible. When he won<br />
the Belmont in 2007 aboard Rags to Riches, I was overwhelmed with<br />
emotion—it was his first win in a Triple Crown race.”<br />
Reflecting back on the Derby win, she recalls that time as very<br />
emotional. “I was beside myself,” she said. “It was so surreal to see<br />
Johnny’s dream come true, riding our friend’s horse. It was amazing.<br />
Our kids were there as were many of our friends. It was an<br />
unforgettable moment.”<br />
In addition to those spectacular wins, Johnny also won the<br />
Dubai World Cup in 2005, the World’s Richest Race aboard Roses<br />
in May, has won an impressive 11 Breeders’ Cup races and has<br />
nabbed the jockey title in Saratoga four times now. He currently<br />
serves as the President of the Jockeys’ Guild.<br />
Even though Johnny has clearly succeeded by leaps and<br />
bounds professionally, it is <strong>Leona</strong> who asserts she is the big winner.<br />
“I hit the jackpot with Johnny,” she beamed. “He is the most amazing<br />
human being ever.” ■<br />
For more information on Johnny and his recent activity, go to<br />
jockeysguild.com. For information on the charities the <strong>Velazquez</strong><br />
family supports and to which you can donate, visit online at pdjf.org<br />
and belmontchildcare.org.
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 17
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | cravings<br />
SaraToga primeaT NaTioNal<br />
There is a plethora of steakhouses in the Albany/Colonie<br />
area, everything from chain steakhouses to privately-owned<br />
versions, both traditional and with a twist. But in Saratoga<br />
Springs, there is just one real steakhouse and that’s Prime at Saratoga<br />
National.<br />
It was a beautiful summer evening, and my companions and I<br />
decided to sit outside. Our server, Matthew, graciously greeted us<br />
18 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
by joanne dimarco | photography by jill richardson<br />
and told us we could order anything on the menu with confidence. I<br />
tried to start my meal with the daily Foie Gras special (thank heaven<br />
I don’t live in California!) but it was sold out, so I settled on the<br />
Balsamic Roasted Tomato and Burrata. I was not at all disappointed.<br />
Burrata is a combination of mozzarella and cream with a firm<br />
exterior, and a luscious interior of mozzarella and cream that blends<br />
perfectly with the pesto, the expertly roasted tomato and the Balsamic
Gastrique. One of my companions ordered the American Kobe Steak<br />
on a hot river rock. This is a fun and flavorful appetizer of thinly<br />
sliced beef cooked tableside on the hot rock, served with a sesame<br />
slaw and two dipping sauces.<br />
Staying with the classics, I ordered the nine-ounce Filet<br />
Mignon with a Cabernet Demi-Glace and a side of Jumbo Onion<br />
Rings. The Filet Mignon melted in my mouth. The demi-glace<br />
was a little thinner than I prefer, but the flavor was savory with a<br />
touch of fruitiness. I must say, though, I asked to try the house label<br />
steak sauce, just to say I did, and I enjoyed it even more than the<br />
demi-glace. The Jumbo Onion Rings were coated in cornmeal, and<br />
we all know how much I love to dip, so I was very happy with the<br />
thick ranch dressing that accompanied the Onion Rings. The nicest<br />
surprise was the head of roasted garlic (meant to serve as garnish)<br />
of which I consumed every clove! The Atticus John Meritage 2009<br />
was the perfect wine between bites of Filet and Onion Rings.<br />
One of my companions ordered the Rack of Lamb with a<br />
Tawny Port Glaze. Visually, it was a work of art and the intensity<br />
of the flavors was spectacular. The side of Nori Tempura Asparagus<br />
with Soy Sauce (for dipping) is a must-taste. My other companion<br />
remarked as she enjoyed her Lump Crab, “All the work is<br />
done for you!”<br />
We completed the meal with our varied dessert choices. My<br />
ultra-healthy companion (the same one who dined on the Lump<br />
Crab and no appetizer) selected a Lemon Sorbet. It was light<br />
and refreshing, but...it was sorbet! I chose the cheesecake in true<br />
steakhouse tradition, but it was completely upstaged by my companion’s<br />
Big Chocolate Cake, a wedge of cake as big as your face<br />
that was pure decadence. With cake like that, who needs men!<br />
The perfect end to dinner at Prime at Saratoga National<br />
for me is a second glass of wine, and a nice, full-flavored cigar,<br />
another steakhouse classic. Gone are the days where you can<br />
sit inside a steakhouse with a cigar, but fortunately, at Saratoga<br />
National, the outdoor fire pit is the perfect place to indulge in this<br />
time-honored tradition.<br />
Whether it’s a special occasion, client entertaining or a place<br />
to unwind after the track, Prime at Saratoga National is the classic<br />
steakhouse, done right! ■<br />
Prime at Saratoga National is located at 458 Union Avenue in<br />
Saratoga Springs, New York. To make reservations, call 518-583-4653.<br />
Or visit online at golfsaratoga.com/dining.html. Lunch and dinner are<br />
served daily during golf season, and there’s Sunday Live Jazz brunch<br />
every weekend throughout the year.<br />
one of my companions<br />
ordered the American kobe<br />
steak on a hot river rock. this<br />
is a fun and flavorful appetizer<br />
of thinly sliced beef cooked<br />
tableside on the hot rock,<br />
served with a sesame slaw<br />
and two dipping sauces.<br />
Joanne DiMarco is a woman about town, professional networker and Vice President<br />
for Select Sotheby’s International Realty. She travels all over New York State and has<br />
a passion for the food and entertainment the region has to offer.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 19
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | recipes<br />
Bacon cheese Breakfast muffins<br />
recipes and photography by kristen doyle<br />
20 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
ingredients:<br />
1 egg<br />
1 cup milk<br />
¼ cup vegetable oil<br />
8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled<br />
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese<br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
2 Tablespoons sugar<br />
instructions:<br />
3 teaspoons baking powder<br />
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt<br />
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder<br />
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper<br />
1 teaspoon Zatarain’s Creole Seasoning<br />
1. In a large bowl, beat egg, milk and oil together. Stir in the bacon crumbles and<br />
shredded cheddar cheese.<br />
2. Add the dry ingredients, stirring as you go, incorporating just until blended.<br />
3. Grease muffin pan, and then fill cups ⅔ full. Bake at 400 degrees for 15-20<br />
minutes until cooked all the way through.<br />
4. Cool for 5 minutes and remove from the muffin pan, placing on a wire rack to<br />
cool. Best served when warm. ■
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 21
22 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 23
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | trendsetter<br />
24 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
Fashion in Bolton Landing, ny<br />
serendipity boutique<br />
4950 lake shore drive<br />
bolton landing, ny<br />
518-664-2120
photos by jill richardson<br />
model is karen olewnick for AMSmodels.com<br />
make up & hair by jennifer mccarthy norton<br />
styling by angela beddoe<br />
shot on location at the boathouse restaurant,<br />
3210 lake shore dr.<br />
lake george, ny<br />
getawaytolakegeorge.com<br />
serendipity boutique<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 25
adirondack cotton co.<br />
4941 lake shore drive<br />
bolton landing, ny<br />
adirondackcottonco.com<br />
518-644-2813<br />
26 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
adirondack cotton co.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 27
28 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
Co<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 29
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | spotlight<br />
Doris Humphrey, one of the founders of American Modern<br />
Dance, once pontificated, “There are times when the simple dignity<br />
of movement can fulfill the function of a volume of words.”<br />
That inspiring thought alone could convince this author to simply suggest<br />
you take a visit to the National Museum of Dance & Hall of Fame and<br />
that would be the end of this article. However, in an effort to further pique<br />
your interest into one of the most glorious and time-honored traditions in<br />
our area, it is imperative that we acknowledge what Voltaire, the French<br />
enlightenment writer and philosopher, once expressed in the legacy of his<br />
words, “Let us read and let us dance—two amusements that will never do<br />
any harm to the world.”<br />
Therefore, let your eyes dance upon this page and absorb the wonder,<br />
beauty, grace and excitement of this one-of-a-kind interactive museum<br />
dedicated entirely to the beautiful and expressive art form of dance. It<br />
thrives in the former Washington Bath House, circa 1918, and is located<br />
in the idyllic setting of Saratoga Spa State Park.<br />
Established in 1986 and founded by Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius<br />
Vanderbilt Whitney and Mr. Lewis A. Swyer, this spacious and airy<br />
facility boasts an impressive collection of photographs, videos, artifacts,<br />
biographies, costumes and more, spanning all areas of dance and the<br />
influences various well-known individuals and legacies of entertainment<br />
have had upon the industry.<br />
“This is absolutely a wonderful jewel we have in our midst,” beamed<br />
Michele Riggi, who presides as President of the Board of Directors for the<br />
museum, and whose passion for what it brings to the community cannot<br />
be contained.<br />
“It is such a privilege to be part of an organization that continues to<br />
honor the heritage of this building,” Michele expressed, in reference<br />
to the historical roots of the facility. “Two of the original rooms of the<br />
bath house have been fully restored to their original state, and are a<br />
part of the permanent exhibit for guests to enjoy and appreciate what it<br />
once was like.”<br />
30 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
Michele Riggi<br />
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF<br />
DANCE<br />
&<br />
HALL OF FAME<br />
by ann e. butenas<br />
photography by tammy loya<br />
This facility was once a retreat to which people came for resting,<br />
healing waters, massage and similar therapeutic measures. As part of the<br />
original restoration, there is even an old hot box on display in which guests<br />
sat to purge and sweat out any impurities. The detailed restoration of this<br />
building certainly takes one back in time.<br />
However, there is a progressive and forward-thinking vibe that embraces<br />
the museum, as well, and Michele’s unwavering commitment to bringing<br />
to life the exciting and fabulous world of dance to the public is evident in<br />
every square foot.<br />
The famed dance museum encompasses the rest of the grounds and<br />
boasts an impressive array of exhibits, dance classes, activities and more.<br />
It truly is a living museum where dance comes to life in every way, shape<br />
and form. The Museum operates May through November but is open<br />
throughout the year for programs, events, etc. The Dance Museum literally<br />
has something for everyone, and is also a wonderful setting in which to<br />
host art shows, private affairs, wedding receptions and more.<br />
Art in the Foyer, an annual rotating fine art exhibit, continually<br />
breathes new life into the Museum. This year, they are pleased to present<br />
Christopher Duggan, resident photographer for Jacob’s Pillow Dance<br />
Festival. He shares his photos taken at Inside/Out in celebration of the<br />
Festival’s 80th season.<br />
Also a dynamic part of the museum is its School of the Arts in the Lewis<br />
A. Swyer Studio, which currently enjoys 250 students who participate in<br />
all genres of dance classes. It is here that students are provided the unique<br />
opportunity to enroll in dance classes. The New York State Summer<br />
School of the Arts with renowned instructors can be observed in July and<br />
August. A Master class is offered with visiting professional dancers, giving a<br />
nod not only to the history of dance but to future interpretations as well.<br />
Of course, Michele is quick to point out that she works alongside an<br />
amazing and equally dedicated staff, without which none of this excitement<br />
and creativity would be possible. “I am so proud of how far we have<br />
come in recent years,” she smiled. “We have the most amazing, talented
and committed staff, and we are so enthusiastic about all of the things we Style and the Equine Dance where human handlers dance with animals.<br />
have going on every day. “<br />
There is a certain power and fierceness that comes through as they per-<br />
What keeps this staff on their toes (no ballet pun intended!) involves form together and share that connection.”<br />
the exhibits, the performances, the classes and the galas. Yes, the galas! Additionally, the museum is showcasing the En Pointe exhibit which<br />
The excitement has been building as dance enthusiasts and patrons pre- explores the history, myths and striking realities behind ballet and those<br />
pare for this magnificent annual fundraiser. On Saturday, August 11th at classic pointe shoes. (“Are there really pieces of wood in the tips of them?”<br />
7:00 p.m. on the museum grounds, the highly-anticipated “Song & Dance Alas, you will have to come to the museum to discover the wonder and<br />
Gala” promises to be the event of the season as legendary performer Ben mystery. Please, make it a pointe!) Guests will be treated to stunning visual<br />
Vereen becomes the 49th inductee into the Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney displays of toe shoes shaved in half with numerous autographed shoes from<br />
Hall of Fame. Mr. Vereen will perform an exclusive show for this special top ballerinas, exciting videos and educational forums on the do’s and<br />
night, and the New York Song and Dance Company will delight with an don’ts of dancing En Pointe! Sponsored by Bloch, Capezio, Freed, Gaynor<br />
equally impressive, show-stopping performance. The evening beckons you Minden, Grishko and Suffolk, and spearheaded by Leslie Roy Heck,<br />
to embrace the spirit of dance. Among the impressive and expansive list of former New York City ballet dancer, it’s a must-see exhibit for your little<br />
past inductees include Tommy Tune, Michael Jackson and Peter Martin. ballerina or an exciting place to indulge your inner ballerina!<br />
“This gala is our major fundraiser and it’s going to be a real party,” Also running through November is the exhibit on Eleo Pomare—<br />
emphasized Michele. “It’s the best gala of the season. All of the VIPs The Man, The Artist, The Maker of Artists, which highlights his career<br />
of the dance world will be there. The legendary Marylou Whitney and as a Colombian-American choreographer and his leadership as a black<br />
John Hendrickson will be the honorary chairs for the evening and will dance pioneer.<br />
share in the festivities with actor<br />
Director Donna Skiff, to whom<br />
John James, who will emcee the<br />
Michele refers as the museum’s<br />
affair. My son, actor Chris Riggi, will<br />
“fearless leader,” brings a host of<br />
also be in attendance.”<br />
talents to the table and works on a<br />
Even though the gala is a one-night<br />
variety of programming that keeps<br />
affair, the celebrations of dance con-<br />
the museum hopping. “Three<br />
tinue daily at the museum. One of the<br />
exciting events were held in July:<br />
permanent exhibits is the C.V. Whit-<br />
Dancer’s Health Day, National<br />
ney Hall of Fame, established in 1987,<br />
Dance Day and New York City<br />
which honors a host of influential<br />
Ballet Autograph Signing,” Donna<br />
dancers who have left footprints in our<br />
noted. “National Dance Day is an<br />
hearts over the years. These include<br />
annual two-hour dance-a-thon to<br />
Fred Astaire, George Balanchine,<br />
promote dance, and to support the<br />
Katherine Dunham, Martha Graham,<br />
Doris Humphrey, Lincoln Kirstein<br />
Michele along with Donna Skiff and Sarah Hall Weaver<br />
Dizzy Feet Foundation.”<br />
On July 9th, Dancer’s Health<br />
and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. They are recognized for their contribu- Day enlightened visitors about dance, common dance injuries and how<br />
tions to American professional dance.<br />
the body works. On July 14th, four dancers from the New York City Ballet<br />
There is also an interactive children’s area, The Alfred Z. Solomon were on hand to sign autographs and talk to the audience.<br />
Children’s Wing, which is a space designated just for kids to jump, play, “We strive to host at least two programs a month to celebrate dance,<br />
twist and dance, and includes a video library, reading corner, stage area whether it’s a screening of a movie, a festival or more. We want people to<br />
and even a Kids’ Gallery to showcase children’s artwork. “We encourage come to the museum and just have fun. That’s what it is all about,” said<br />
our young guests to create their own masterpieces!” noted Michele. Donna. “This is not just a dance museum. It’s a place for people of all<br />
Michele credits the ambitions of the museum’s staff with the success of ages to come and learn about dance. The School of the Arts has a variety<br />
the museum and the momentum it is gaining not only locally but nation- of classes from which to choose for ages 3 to 70, from Zumba® and Irish<br />
ally as well. Assistant director Sarah Hall Weaver is genuinely excited dance to belly dance, ballet and beyond. It’s simply an awesome place and<br />
about a few of the current exhibits.<br />
we are seeing some remarkable changes as Michele creatively guides us<br />
“Beginning this past March and running through November, we are through. Our goal is to make this a great little museum!” ■<br />
presenting our Tails and Terpsichore exhibit which depicts through videos For more information, visit the National Museum of Dance at 99 South<br />
and other displays the harmonious interaction of animals with dance Broadway in Saratoga Springs, New York, call them at 518-584-2225 or<br />
themes,” Sarah explained. “This exhibit is truly an educational one in that go online at dancemuseum.org. Their hours are Tuesday through Sunday,<br />
it combines scientific elements about bodies along with dances that relate 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information regarding the gala, contact the staff<br />
to animal themes. There are two sections in the exhibit: the Canine Free at info@dancemuseum.org or call 518-583-4935.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 31
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | mother’s perspective<br />
Let the Games Begin!<br />
by lisa taranto butler<br />
cell phones, video games and computers are a prevalent part<br />
of many families’ lives these days, but they don’t have to rule<br />
the roost when it comes to entertaining the troops. As much<br />
as our children may want us to think they are mortified at the idea of<br />
being cooped up rolling the dice with dear old mom and dad, they just<br />
might welcome the switch from normal plans and even enjoy family<br />
time without disturbance from modern-day media.<br />
So why not plan an easy game night to get back to basics and<br />
bring the family closer together while fostering a little friendly competition?<br />
Whether you are already gaming or just getting started, here are<br />
few ideas to pump up the family fun.<br />
PICk A NIgHT<br />
Fun<br />
Family<br />
game<br />
night<br />
ideas<br />
With parents’ work and kids’ activities, weeknights may be a bit<br />
hectic, so choosing a weekend evening or Sunday afternoon may offer<br />
a bit more peace and quiet. Either way, pick a convenient time and<br />
then decide if you want to get your “game on” each week or once a<br />
month—whatever works best for your brood.<br />
INDOORS OR OUTDOORS?<br />
Depending on the time of year, you may want to choose indoor<br />
board games for a cozy night in, or if weather permits, challenge each<br />
other to some favorite outdoor games where you can use your outside<br />
voices and skills.<br />
32 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
INDOOR FUN<br />
Nothing beats a good old board game. Favorites like MONOPOLY ®<br />
and SCRABBLE ® are always a hit, but check toy and department stores<br />
for new games on the market. Anything active like charades and drawing<br />
games are always exciting and call for a little creativity. Check out garage<br />
and tag sales for game boards and puzzles. Many times, these cast-offs have<br />
been entertaining families for years, but are still in good shape, contain all<br />
the pieces and are a fraction of the price.<br />
OUTDOOR FUN<br />
Good weather calls for good fun in the backyard. Older and younger<br />
kids will all appreciate some basic relay games like egg in the spoon, sack<br />
race and three-legged race. Divide teams evenly by skill level, or if your<br />
family is smaller in size, pair up with everyone once. Use small, inexpensive<br />
inflatable balls to aim into trash bins or buckets. Feed your fitness<br />
frenzy with a make-your-own obstacle course. Set out old tires, cones,<br />
ladders, hula hoops and jump ropes to concoct a kicking course.<br />
A DIFFERENT TAkE ON FAMILy FUN: gAME NIgHT AT THE<br />
AMUSEMENT PARk<br />
Plan ahead and visit the local amusement park or even a county fair<br />
to partake in a little carnival fun. Enjoy a few games of Soda Bottle Ring<br />
Toss, Milk Bottle Throw or Guess Your Weight/Age. Afterwards, nosh on a<br />
caramel apple or salt water taffy.<br />
If budget is a concern, try making your own games at home. A duck<br />
pond, dart game, fishing game or penny toss are easy and inexpensive<br />
when homemade. Use candy or small trinkets as prizes. Make the evening
merrier and invite the kids’ friends and their<br />
parents over for a night of carnival festivities.<br />
BOwLINg<br />
If indoors is where you’ll hang, then head<br />
to the local bowling alley. Take your time sizing<br />
shoes and choosing the right ball. Teach<br />
children the correct way to roll and keep score.<br />
There is no time limit, so discuss your rolling<br />
techniques and high-five one another after a<br />
fantastic roll!<br />
MINI gOLF<br />
Mini golf is much cheaper than playing<br />
eighteen or even nine holes at your local public<br />
course, so decide your budget and play as much<br />
as time allows. Some mini golf courses offer interactive<br />
holes with obstacles such as volcanoes<br />
or spraying water. Do some research to find a<br />
great course for your family.<br />
kIDS PLAN<br />
Now mom and dad can rest and siblings<br />
get a chance to take control! Have the kids work<br />
together to develop an easy game that everyone<br />
can play. Let them be in charge of the rules and<br />
equipment while you enjoy the competition that<br />
your children create.<br />
PARk PLAyINg<br />
If your backyard space is limited or if you<br />
just want a change of scenery, head to a local<br />
park and take advantage of what the city has to<br />
offer. Get ‘old school’ and play HORSE on the<br />
basketball courts or doubles in tennis. If the park<br />
has a lake, try your hand at fishing or paddle<br />
boating. Pack a simple picnic for a full evening<br />
of family togetherness.<br />
Game night can be taken to new heights<br />
just by thinking outside of the box. As your<br />
family event becomes a household tradition,<br />
expect kids to become more talkative and<br />
open—a sign that they are comfortable and<br />
relaxed. By practicing teamwork and using<br />
imagination, family game nights will make<br />
memories for a lifetime. ■<br />
Sources for this article are voices.yahoo.com<br />
and parents.com.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 33
Massage • Facials • Manicure • Pedicure • Waxing • Xtreme Lash Extensions<br />
Skin Rejuvenation • Hydrafacial • Dysport • BOTOX • Juvéderm • Radiesse<br />
34 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | working women<br />
by vicky gilpin<br />
working women travel the country in increasing numbers<br />
for job training, professional conferences and to network<br />
on behalf of their corporations. Not only do we have<br />
to remember numerous details associated with travel, we also have<br />
to consider how to choose the best travel clothes. Although choosing<br />
clothing seems to be one of the easiest decisions, many factors contribute<br />
to these choices.<br />
The best travel clothes have a number of specific characteristics<br />
that set them apart from your professional clothing. They are able to<br />
transition from daytime meetings to evening events with little to no effort<br />
other than an eye-catching accessory. A bright scarf and jewelry should<br />
draw the eye, making it more noticeable than the clothes themselves,<br />
which is important if a jacket or blouse may be worn later in the trip.<br />
This wardrobe is chosen with regard to color and material. Personal<br />
style and first impressions are important, but materials that resist<br />
wrinkles, and colors that resist stains, necessitate careful thought. Unfortunately,<br />
natural fabrics are not always the best choice. An exception to<br />
this rule would be a broomstick skirt which is meant to be stored twisted<br />
up to retain the “crinkles,” so it is excellent for travel. Additionally, it is<br />
36 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
The<br />
Best<br />
travel<br />
clothes<br />
the best travel clothes have a<br />
number of specific characteristics<br />
that set them apart from your<br />
professional clothing. they are able to<br />
transition from daytime meetings to<br />
evening events with little to no effort<br />
other than an eye-catching accessory.<br />
remarkably comfortable.<br />
A major point to remember is that the best travel clothes should<br />
be comfortable. Obviously, you want your clothing to fit well in order<br />
to make the best impression. However, pick something a little looser<br />
than normal, particularly to fly in or for days when you might spend<br />
most of the time sitting around a boardroom table. This is a better option<br />
than wearing something that will cause you to notice it after hours<br />
of being cinched at the waist.<br />
Although many women choose solid colors, or items revolving<br />
around one solid color, in order to make the most efficient choices,<br />
some fabrics or colors are better able to resist stains or an unkempt<br />
look. Some women enjoy tweed and plaids for this reason, particularly<br />
in autumn. Others prefer items that have color gradations to disguise<br />
water droplets from bathrooms with unreliable hand dryers.<br />
A debate exists over whether the best travel clothes should be high<br />
quality or somewhat expendable. On one hand, finer quality clothing<br />
usually has a better fit, encouraging positive first impressions as well as<br />
comfort. On the other hand, which is going to be more traumatic: getting<br />
ink on the sleeve of the nice but less expensive blazer, or on one
from a high-end store?<br />
With increased costs of travel, the most efficient way to fly is to<br />
pack one carry-on bag. Make every inch of space count by ensuring<br />
that each article can be used in a variety of ways. For example, not<br />
only should pieces be versatile for various types of events you might<br />
encounter (such as brunches, board meetings, focus groups and receptions),<br />
but they should also coordinate with every other item you pack.<br />
Stick with a color scheme that allows you to mix and match items.<br />
Black discourages obvious stains, but you should also consider items in<br />
a color palette. The important part is that the items work together in a<br />
versatile way.<br />
However, some articles are integral for the intrepid traveler. If you<br />
can fit a t-shirt and pajama pants in your bag, you will thank yourself as<br />
you try to wind down at the end of the day. In addition, many conferences<br />
and business trips encourage dinners offsite, so you may end<br />
up walking several blocks from your location. This may not seem like<br />
a lot, but if you have been standing in uncomfortable dress shoes all<br />
day, those few blocks are going to feel miserable. Therefore, your shoes<br />
must also be able to fit a variety of situations. If not, you want some<br />
comfortable shoes to wear in the evening which must also work with<br />
your professional clothing, unless you also take one business casual<br />
outfit for this very situation.<br />
The best travel clothes vary from situation to situation, and from<br />
woman to woman. However, the major components are comfort,<br />
imperviousness to dirt and wrinkles, and versatility! ■<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 37
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | spotlight<br />
its mission statement is quite simple yet very profound and far-reaching: “Seeds for Peace is a<br />
not-for-profit organization providing seeds, tools and assistance to war and weather-ravaged<br />
people throughout the world. We try to enable people and their communities to feed themselves,<br />
instill hope and to work peacefully beside those they once called their enemies.”<br />
An experienced gardener by passion and by trade, Susan Johnson, founder of<br />
Seeds for Peace, is a rare individual who truly<br />
works to plant seeds all over the world in an<br />
effort to do what we all should do—help our<br />
fellow man.<br />
Susan felt led to establish this organization<br />
back in 1998 when she read a newspaper<br />
article about the plight of those affected by the<br />
horrendous civil war in the former Yugoslavia,<br />
which left the country fragmented. As a result,<br />
thousands of people were barely surviving in<br />
burned-out ruins, and feeding themselves and<br />
their families was becoming nearly impossible.<br />
While calls for aid worldwide garnered<br />
photo by jill richardson<br />
responses from many, Susan also heeded that<br />
call and began a letter-writing campaign to various seed companies requesting donations. “I<br />
never really thought it would take off like it did,” she recalled.<br />
Excited by the positive responses she received, Susan began collecting, packaging and sending<br />
packets of seeds to a town in Bosnia, one of those fragmented areas. By 2000, her organization<br />
provided seeds for eight peace gardens in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thanks to the gracious<br />
support of the American Friends Service Committee, the gardens were established as a means<br />
38 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
by ann e. butenas<br />
photography by jill richardson<br />
photography by michele valberg<br />
Seeds Peace<br />
For<br />
by ann e. butenas<br />
to provide safe and supportive environments<br />
where people of different cultures and heritages<br />
could peacefully work together to grow<br />
food for their families.<br />
seeds for peace has been highly<br />
instrumental in providing vegetable and<br />
flower seeds, as well as basic garden tools,<br />
for communities in the ukraine, guatemala,<br />
uganda, tanzania, Lesotho and cameroon.<br />
even those in our country have benefited<br />
from this dynamic organization, as seeds<br />
were sent to residents in mississippi in the<br />
aftermath of Hurricane katrina.<br />
Within 4 years, the number of peace<br />
gardens grew to 15 and served roughly 280<br />
families, and even though 3 years later there<br />
were just 14 gardens, 3,000 people from<br />
Bosnia and Herzegovina were participating in<br />
the program.<br />
In addition to the extensive work in that
egion, Seeds for Peace has been highly instrumental in providing<br />
vegetable and flower seeds, as well as basic garden tools, for communities<br />
in the Ukraine, Guatemala, Uganda, Tanzania, Lesotho<br />
and Cameroon. Even those in our country have benefited from this<br />
dynamic organization, as seeds were sent to residents in Mississippi in<br />
the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.<br />
Even though the gardens in Bosnia no longer exist due to lack of<br />
funding, Susan was blessed to have visited that region several years<br />
ago, and was impressed by the hospitality of the people despite the<br />
dire conditions under which they were living. “The four women<br />
with whom I stayed lived very simply in a one-bedroom flat,” Susan<br />
recalled. “However, despite the limited conditions and resources, we<br />
had an amazing time. They treated me like family.”<br />
Still, what also lingers in her mind is the landscape so brutally<br />
affected by the war: bombed out houses, bullet holes in buildings and<br />
refugee camps left haunting images in her mind. “When I speak with<br />
young kids here in the U.S., I paint a picture of a life where there is<br />
no grocery store around the corner or school lunch every day. It’s very<br />
eye-opening to them,” Susan noted.<br />
This past spring, Susan was recently awarded the Ruby Award for<br />
Women Helping Women by the Soroptimist International Club of<br />
Saratoga County. This distinguished honor is given to a woman who<br />
has worked to improve the lives of women and girls through either<br />
professional or volunteer efforts. In Susan’s case, her organization<br />
addressed the most basic of needs—food. As women and young girls<br />
typically assume the role of cultivating, preparing and providing food<br />
for their families in developing nations, Susan’s work has been pivotal<br />
in that regard.<br />
Seeds for Peace continues to gain momentum as it finds more<br />
roots in South Africa, Haiti and Cuba. Closer to home, participating<br />
gardeners in Austin, Texas, enjoyed the equivalent of 6,813<br />
meals of fresh produce with over 5,947 county residents with the<br />
partnership Seeds for Peace established with the Sustainable Food<br />
Center there in 2011.<br />
Additionally, Susan’s seeds are donated to the local soup kitchen<br />
garden at the Presbyterian New England Congregational Church. She<br />
also donates seeds and vegetables to the backstretch at the Saratoga<br />
Race track where seasonal workers live during the summer months.<br />
As Susan’s efforts have clearly<br />
indicated, all it takes is one little<br />
seed to positively affect the lives of<br />
many. ■<br />
For more information, to<br />
volunteer or to donate, visit Seeds<br />
for Peace International, Inc. at<br />
seedsforpeace.net or e-mail<br />
info@seedsforpeace.net. Their mailing<br />
address is P.O. Box 10, Saratoga<br />
Springs, New York, 12866. You may<br />
also call them at 518-339-3937.<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 39
40 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 41
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | tie the knot<br />
42 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
Tied The KnoT April 21, 2012<br />
by candi smith<br />
photography by tracey buyce<br />
Amara (Salvatore) Altman was born on Saratoga Lake, New<br />
York, and currently resides in Malta in her newly built<br />
home with husband Matthew. Amara works in her family<br />
business, Salvatore Dental, which was founded in 1934 by her<br />
grandpa Salvatore. She began working in 2003 with her father, Dr.<br />
Richard Salvatore, Sr., and currently works with her brother, Dr.<br />
Richard Salvatore, Jr. Amara values family above all else, and her<br />
big, Italian family matches her exuberance with their verbose and<br />
enthusiastic nature. During family parties with the Salvatores and<br />
Mastroiannis, Amara’s chatterbox style of conversation is sure to<br />
be matched. Amara and her family’s fun-loving nature were truly<br />
showcased at her wedding reception.<br />
Matt Altman was born in Syracuse, New York. He was an<br />
undergraduate student at SUNY Oneonta, and a graduate student<br />
at Syracuse University. His first job out of school was at an environmental<br />
consulting company in Malta (which was two doors<br />
down from Amara’s dental office). He recently started working for<br />
GLOBALFOUNDARIES as an Industrial Hygienist in their Environmental<br />
Health and Safety department. He enjoys snowboarding<br />
(with three broken bones and counting), golf and is an obsessive<br />
fantasy football/baseball player (much to Amara’s dismay).<br />
The couple met when Matt became a patient of Salvatore Dental.<br />
While in the dental chair, Amara walked into the room and after<br />
seeing him, she put her flirt game in full force. Determining who<br />
made the first move following the appointment changes depends on<br />
who you ask. According to Amara, Matt asked her to go on a lunch<br />
date the next day since they both worked in the same complex. However,<br />
Amara brought lunch that day and asked to grab coffee instead.<br />
Matt, a non-coffee drinker, countered and got the nerve to ask her to<br />
dinner, which was his true intention in the first place.<br />
Since the couple worked two doors down from each other, they<br />
shared a mailroom. They would both sneak away during the day to<br />
see other. In October 2010, Matt picked Amara up for a date. It was a<br />
rainy Friday night and Matt had an umbrella set up. Unfortunately, it<br />
was dark because Matt had to wait to set up the mailroom with cham
pagne and roses because of an ill-timed UPS<br />
pickup. When Amara saw the ring, she didn’t<br />
even wait for Matt to ask. She just grabbed<br />
it, threw it on her finger, danced around and<br />
screamed “Yes!”<br />
The happy couple tied the knot on<br />
April 21, 2012. Amara and Matt enjoyed a<br />
spring wedding.<br />
The wedding was done in colors of<br />
charcoal gray with a splash of purple, accented<br />
by chandeliers and hanging flower<br />
arrangements. Attention to detail was around<br />
every corner and amazed guests when they<br />
walked into the room. Pre-wedding photos<br />
were taken on the carousel in Congress Park,<br />
giving the wedding party a chance to let<br />
loose and capture fun goofy photos. Amara’s<br />
sister and maid of honor, Pascal, unveiled<br />
her surprise wedding present right before the<br />
wedding ceremony—a photo booth rented<br />
from Saratoga Photo Booth. Placed directly<br />
next to the dance floor, everyone got their<br />
chance to capture and remember their fun<br />
times (even the priest!).<br />
Amara and Matt chose non-traditional<br />
instrumental music exemplifying their eclectic<br />
music taste. Grandparents and parents of<br />
the bride and groom walked down the aisle<br />
to “Ocean Breathes Salty” by Modest Mouse.<br />
Bridesmaids walked down the aisle to meet<br />
the waiting groomsmen to “Wonderwall” by<br />
Oasis. Amara was accompanied by her father<br />
to “Scar Tissue” by Red Hot Chili Peppers.<br />
The bridal party exited the ceremony to<br />
“Like a Prayer” by Madonna.<br />
Matt’s brother and Best Man, Joey,<br />
was deployed overseas during the wedding.<br />
Although unable to attend, Joey had the<br />
chance to give Matt and Amara his blessings<br />
through a pre-taped speech, projected for all<br />
the family and friends to cherish.<br />
Other attributes which contributed to<br />
the amazing time were a mad hatter wedding<br />
cake, Amara’s mom’s signature Pizza<br />
Frittes, a Cold Stone Creamery station,<br />
make your own cannoli and créme brûlée<br />
stations, a chandelier ice luge featuring the<br />
two signature drinks and movie ticket favors.<br />
The most important thing that made<br />
their wedding day special was that Amara’s<br />
father restores old cars as a hobby, and he<br />
restored a 1949 Jaguar, inside and out, specifically<br />
for their wedding car.<br />
However, none of these factors would<br />
make their day stand out if it weren’t for<br />
their family and friends who attended.<br />
The newlyweds honeymooned in St. Lucia<br />
in the Caribbean. They both share a love<br />
for the beach, and St. Lucia offered a beautiful<br />
mix of beach, mountain and rainforest. ■<br />
LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT<br />
SHARED IN THE LOVE<br />
BRIDAL GOwN:<br />
Something Bleu Bridal<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
BRIDESmAIDS’ DRESSES:<br />
Something Bleu Bridal<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
HAIR:<br />
Timeless Updos<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
PHOTO:<br />
Tracey Buyce<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
VIDEO:<br />
Saratoga Wedding Video<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
FLORIST:<br />
renaissance Floral design<br />
Albany, nY<br />
mUSIC:<br />
Soul Session<br />
CATERER:<br />
Mansion Catering<br />
Scotia, nY<br />
CAkE:<br />
Cakes by debbie Coye<br />
VENUE:<br />
Canfield Casino<br />
Saratoga Springs, nY<br />
wEDDING PLANNER:<br />
Christine A. Wheat<br />
Special events Firm, llC<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 43
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | just sayin’<br />
carpe<br />
diem<br />
by ann stillman o’leary | photo by jill richardson<br />
carpe Diem…a tenet I have lived by my entire life but<br />
driven home as my Mother’s last suggestion to me. It<br />
insinuates sort of a selfish interpretation, as in living life to<br />
its fullest with disregard for others. I consider myself insanely lucky.<br />
I have survived a small bout of cancer, 9/11 in New York, a plane<br />
crash, supremely challenging children, a handful of life’s other<br />
small indignities…and I have been humbled in life. I think you<br />
need to be humbled in order to have compassion, and so my new<br />
and improved version of carpe diem is to be of moral or financial<br />
support to those in need, yet it is tailored to the situation. Whether<br />
it is mentoring, providing work, helping to find work, finding shelter,<br />
providing shelter, lending money to get started, giving money<br />
to get started...you get the idea. Not that I am against writing a big<br />
fat check to a charity, but I don’t think I have the kind of money<br />
that would make a marked difference. There is a certain satisfaction<br />
in helping someone get a leg up…one-on-one. It is personal, and I<br />
think it puts one closer to the top on the big scoreboard of life and<br />
it is doable on a daily basis.<br />
Additionally, and in the same vein as “we are just visitors here<br />
(on this Earth),” should opportunity and money not be in your<br />
pocket to hand out, random acts of kindness are affordable and at<br />
the same time appreciated and rewarding. A compliment or kind<br />
word does not cost a penny but can make a person’s day or bolster<br />
a sagging ego. In the world of self-absorption that we live in, one<br />
would think bon mots were gold ingots to be hoarded. Ridiculous!<br />
I am a tough old crow in my business life. In fact, I believe I have<br />
successfully fostered an image of dragon lady, but I have made a<br />
44 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
practice of patting a co-worker on the back or telling a friend how<br />
great they look and meaning it. If overdone, this could be insincere<br />
and disingenuous…and frankly, too time-consuming. But we don’t<br />
say these things and should, and we should tell those we love that<br />
we love them more often. It’s free and it won’t show up on your<br />
credit card statement.<br />
My dear friend Erin McHugh has a blog and an upcoming<br />
book, One Good Deed, about 365 days of trying to be just a little bit<br />
better. She has embarked on a new career of getting up each day<br />
and, in some small way, having a positive effect on the planet. This<br />
could be contagious! What a wonderful epidemic for mankind to<br />
suffer from.<br />
So seize the day…AND make a difference…just sayin’. ■<br />
Ann Stillman O’Leary is an interior designer, author (Adirondack Style and Rustic Revisited, both published by Random House), president<br />
of Lake Placid Spirits and was the second woman in the country to own a micro-distillery. Ann is the mother of two children who will<br />
someday find out what it was like to raise hellions. She calls both Saratoga Springs and Lake Placid “home.” She enjoys life.
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 45
46 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 47
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong> | in the region<br />
calendar of events<br />
NOTE: All calendar events must be submitted by August 15 for consideration in our October issue. Please<br />
include event location, date, details and contact information and email Sherry@herlifenewyork.com. Events considered<br />
for publication are normally limited to community wide/charity events or events hosted by our advertisers.<br />
We cannot guarantee that all events submitted will be published.<br />
Freedom Park 2012 Concert<br />
Series<br />
DATES: Every Wednesday, Saturday and<br />
Sunday in August<br />
TIME: 7:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Freedom Park, Scotia, NY<br />
DETAILS: Grab a blanket and some lawn<br />
chairs, and come listen to some great local<br />
acts. Free admission.<br />
CONTACT: Email info@freedomparkscotia.org<br />
Live Music at the Mirror<br />
Lake Inn<br />
TIMES: Fridays 7:30-10:00 pm| Saturdays<br />
9:00-11:00 pm<br />
LOCATION: 77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake<br />
Placid, NY<br />
DETAILS: Enjoy live music each Friday at<br />
Taste bistro and Saturday at The Cottage.<br />
CONTACT: 518-523-2544 or MirrorLakeInn.com<br />
August 1<br />
Fire and Ice: The Saratoga<br />
Hospital Foundation Summer<br />
Benefit Auction<br />
DATE: August 1<br />
TIME: 6:00pm–9:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Polo Meadows, Saratoga Casino<br />
& Raceway, Saratoga Springs, NY<br />
DETAILS: The Saratoga Hospital Foundation<br />
Summer Benefit Auction promises to be a<br />
magical evening of fun and will raise money<br />
for an upcoming hospital project—a Community<br />
Health Resource Center. Cost is $150<br />
per person.<br />
CONTACT: Visit saratogacarefoundation.org<br />
or call 518-583-8340<br />
48 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com<br />
August 3<br />
The Philadelphia Orchestra<br />
Presents Family Night with<br />
Cirque del la Symphonie<br />
DATE: August 3<br />
TIME: 8:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Saratoga Performing Arts Center,<br />
108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs,<br />
NY<br />
DETAILS: Cirque de la Symphonie brings<br />
the magic of cirque to the music hall. It is an<br />
exciting adaptation of artistic performances<br />
widely seen in theaters and arenas everywhere.<br />
CONTACT: Visit spac.org.<br />
August 4<br />
Studio Prime-A Disco Inferno<br />
DATE: August 4<br />
TIME: 6:00-9:00 pm<br />
LOCATION: Saratoga National Golf Club,<br />
Union Ave. Saratoga Springs, NY<br />
DETAILS: A fundraiser for Medical Missions<br />
for Children; featuring the Dennis Collins<br />
Band which has performed with Beyonce.<br />
Admission is $250.<br />
CONTACT: mmfc.org<br />
McDonald’s African American<br />
Family Day<br />
DATE: August 4<br />
TIME: 12:00pm–7:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY<br />
DETAILS: Come celebrate the traditions and<br />
contributions of the African American community<br />
through music, art and community<br />
with special musical guests, inspiring speakers<br />
and family-oriented activities for all ages. Free<br />
admission.<br />
CONTACT: Visit albany.com or call<br />
908-676-2323<br />
August 5<br />
Schenectady County Downtown<br />
Flea Market & Craft Fair<br />
DATE: August 5<br />
TIME: 10:00am–2:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Jay Street Marketplace, Downtown<br />
Schenectady, NY<br />
DETAILS: Enjoy shopping eclectic flea market<br />
vendors, nestled among the unique shops on<br />
the Jay Street Marketplace. Antiques, collectibles,<br />
books, jewelry, memorabilia, artwork...<br />
everything you didn’t know you needed, all in<br />
one place!<br />
CONTACT: Email<br />
events@schenectadycounty.com<br />
August 8<br />
Herzog Law Firm Estate<br />
Planning Seminar<br />
DATE: August 8-10<br />
TIME: Varies<br />
LOCATION: Aug 8 | Hampton Inn, Clifton<br />
Park<br />
Aug 9 | Courtyard By Marriott, Wash. Ave.,<br />
Albany, NY<br />
Aug 10 | Glen Sanders mansion, Scotia, NY<br />
DETAILS: Learn about the basic documents<br />
you need for estate planning. Call for times<br />
and to register.<br />
CONTACT: 518-465-7581
August 10<br />
39th Annual Berkshire Crafts<br />
Fair<br />
DATES: August 10–August 12<br />
TIME: 10:00am–5:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Monument Mountain Regional<br />
High School, Great Barrington, MA<br />
DETAILS: The Berkshire Crafts Fair is a juried<br />
show of master artisans offering traditional<br />
and contemporary jewelry, furniture, ceramics,<br />
textiles, glassware, woodwork and more.<br />
Admission $7, children 12 and under are<br />
free.<br />
CONTACT: Visit<br />
massachusettsfairsandfestivals.com<br />
August 11<br />
National Museum of Dance<br />
Song and Dance Gala<br />
DATE: August 11<br />
TIME: 7:00pm<br />
LOCATION: 99 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs,<br />
NY<br />
DETAILS: The most exciting night of the<br />
summer season at the National Museum of<br />
Dance. Ben Vereen will be inducted as our 48th<br />
inductee into the Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney<br />
Hall of Fame that evening and performing an<br />
exclusive unforgettable show.<br />
CONTACT: dancemuseum.org<br />
Antiques Show & Sale<br />
DATES: August 11–August 12<br />
TIME: 8:00am<br />
LOCATION: Adirondack Museum, Route 28N<br />
& 30, Blue Mountain Lake, NY<br />
DETAILS: Browse and shop! Dealers in quality<br />
antiques and art from across the U.S. feature<br />
antiques at home in the Adirondacks. You will<br />
see camp/cottage/Mission furniture, historical<br />
fine art, militaria, folk art, vintage boats,<br />
taxidermy, quilts, oriental rugs, and Native<br />
American jewelry and artifacts.<br />
CONTACT: Visit adkmuseum.org or call<br />
518-352-7311<br />
August 12<br />
Summer Lobsterfest at the<br />
Boathouse Restaurant<br />
DATE: August 12<br />
LOCATION: 3210 Lake Shore Drive, Lake<br />
George, NY<br />
DETAILS: Enjoy Live Music with Andy Scott<br />
12-5 pm. Call for more details.<br />
CONTACT: 877-722-8959 or<br />
PartytimeAnytime.com<br />
August 14<br />
UAlbany School of Business<br />
Weekend MBA Program<br />
Information Session<br />
DATE: August 14<br />
TIME: 6:00pm–7:30pm<br />
LOCATION: Clifton Park Executive Education<br />
Center, 15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park, NY<br />
DETAILS: Come to our info session to learn<br />
more about the Weekend MBA Program<br />
and interact with students and alumni. Free<br />
admission.<br />
CONTACT: Visit albany.edu<br />
August 15<br />
Empire State Plaza Food Festival<br />
DATE: August 15<br />
TIME: 11:00am–9:00pm<br />
LOCATION: Empire State Plaza, 240 State<br />
Street, Albany, NY<br />
DETAILS: The annual Food Festival is a favorite<br />
among Capital Region residents. Visit over<br />
50 food vendors, including local and ethnic<br />
specialties and wineries. This festival also has<br />
a history of amazing musical entertainment!<br />
CONTACT: Visit ogs.ny.gov<br />
August 17<br />
Second Annual Lake George<br />
Music Festival<br />
DATES: August 17–August 23<br />
TIME: Evenings<br />
LOCATION: Lake George, NY<br />
DETAILS: The Second Annual Lake George<br />
Music Festival brings high-quality classical<br />
music to the seasonal and year-round residents<br />
of Lake George Village and its surrounding<br />
communities. Free admission.<br />
CONTACT: Visit lakegeorgemusicfestival.com<br />
or call 518-791-5089<br />
Sizzling Hot Pink Saratoga Hat Luncheon<br />
Date: August 17<br />
Time: 11:30 am<br />
Location: Saratoga Race Course at the Rail<br />
Pavilion<br />
Details: It’s Fabulous Fillies Day at the Track.<br />
Proceeds from the luncheon support the<br />
Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Ticket<br />
prices vary.<br />
Contact: JAdams@nyrainc.com<br />
August 23<br />
Hand Rolled and Neat<br />
DATE: August 23<br />
TIME: 7:00 pm-9:00 pm<br />
LOCATION: Vapor Night Club @ Saratoga<br />
Casino and Raceway<br />
DETAILS: Enjoy hand rolled cigars, live<br />
music and food to benefit pancreatic cancer<br />
research.<br />
CONTACT: 518-210-3649<br />
August 25<br />
143rd Running of the Travers<br />
Stakes<br />
DATE: August 25<br />
TIME: 7:00 am-Gates Open| 11:35 am-Post<br />
Time<br />
LOCATION: Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga<br />
Springs, NY<br />
DETAILS: Enjoy the Midsummer Derby for 3<br />
year old race horses.<br />
CONTACT: www.nyra.com/saratoga<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 49
50 <strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com
It’s your turn to make a splash!<br />
Look your best for summer parties, outings and vacations with the Splash into Summer<br />
Package from Skaná Spa. Our beauty consultants will show you how to create the perfect<br />
sunny glow and introduce you to the season’s hot new colors and fun trends like wet-look<br />
eye glosses. Treat yourself to the trendsetting luxury of our Top 100 spa.<br />
SPLASH INTO SUMMER PACKAGE | $ 120<br />
Features Manicure, Pedicure and Make-Up Application<br />
STAY | GOLF | MEET SPA DINE | ENTERTAINMENT | CASINO<br />
Top 100 Spas of 2011<br />
–Spas of America<br />
Call 315.361.8200 to book your appointment! 5218 Patrick Road • Verona, New York • turningstone.com/skana<br />
<strong>HER</strong><strong>LIFE</strong>newyork.com 51