There’s something about a food truck that is so appealing. I don’t know if it’s because I’m amazed by how one could make such bold flavor in such a little space or solely the novelty of eating from a truck grabs me but either way it’s an experience. After work a few Thursdays ago, I stopped at the MVP building in downtown Schenectady to get some food from Wandering Dago for the first time. I follow them on twitter and reading their menu pushed me to rush home after work to give them a try. I had such a hard time choosing from their menu. They use fresh and healthy ingredients that may change what you think about food trucks.

If your only experience with food trucks is hot dogs and hamburgers with no variance and no flavor then your next stop needs to be Wandering Dago. For example the day I went for lunch, their options included grilled chicken, mozzarella, pesto, brisket, hummus, feta, Gorgonzola, guacamole and I could name everything they used but you get the point. I ordered the side of the day which was bruschetta ($1) and the Kaschlopas ($8) which was grilled chicken, hummus, feta, kalamata olives and lettuce, tomato and onions.

I would’ve shared a picture of what the food looked like but my camera ran out of batteries and I was really hungry- it was lunch time! I’m sure though, that this will not at all be my last visit to the Wandering Dago truck so food pictures to follow the next time, promise. The Kaschlopas was amazing! The ingredients were remarkably fresh and delicious. I love olives and really enjoyed that I was able to taste them among all of the other stronger flavored ingredients, especially the feta. The only downside is that I think I would have preferred a nice warm pita along with it.

I expected the bruschetta to be on bread and was pleasantly surprised when it came on lettuce. The mix of basil, onions and tomatoes was great but the lettuce kind of took away from the bruschetta feeling of the side and it just felt like a really great salad. The squishy ingredients of the bruschetta was begging for something harder to balance the textures and if not bread, maybe a harder lettuce would do. Overall, everything was so fresh you’d be surprised to know it came from a food truck and not a full restaurant kitchen. I’m very impressed with the flavors that come out of that truck and I can’t wait to head down to Schenectady again in the coming weeks to try something else. If you want to know where they are each day or what is on the menu, follow them on twitter and make sure to LIKE them on Facebook!

I had the pleasure of going to a sneak peek event this past Saturday for Electric City Couture held in conjunction with a fundraiser for the Vanguard-Albany Symphony. I’ve never been to a fashion show before, aside from some charity shows at my high school a few years back but this was obviously very different. Fashion is one of those things that I find to be so overwhelming. I love shopping and I love looking at new clothes but my knowledge of designers and collections is very limited.

I was drawn to this particular show because of its local connection. The mission of Electric City Couture is “to create a sustainable, fabulous scene that raises awareness for the art of fashion and fashion related industries, specifically regionally produced design and services that can be introduced through local, independent boutiques, creating regional economic development through the Creative Economy.” To summarize, many designers from our area sell their designs to stores in New York City and in turn those stores sell designs back to the Capital Region. Electric City Couture wishes to take out that middle man and bring local stores and boutiques together to see a showcase of local designers and keep the business here.

The Stedman House in Loudonville, NY made for a perfect backdrop for this beautifully put together Parisian inspired fashion show. The house was a wedding gift in 1884 to George Woolverton Stedman from his father. The current owner purchased the house in 1997 from SUNY Albany which was used as the President’s Home. The Stedman house is the Vanguard Showhouse for 2013. The members of Vanguard participate in volunteer work on behalf of the Albany Symphony Orchestra and raise funds to make sure that the orchestra prospers. Each room is the house is partly furnished and restored by local companies and is really a sight to see.

The Vanguard Mansion Show is inspired by John Galliano’s 1993 Parisian Mansion Show. We were seated in various rooms throughout the house as models walked a path from room to room with a soundtrack of Petia Kassarova, cellist for the Albany Symphony Orchestra. We saw one-two pieces from each designer and all it did was make me want to see the rest.

The show began with the Marshall Roberts line from Johnstown, NY (designers: Kristen Marshall & Sarah Roberts). They had two pieces, a yellow dress as well as a men’s suit. They could be easily placed in an episode of Mad Men. Very structured, very tailored and though I don’t know the actual fabric used, it looked like mesh peek-a-boo cut outs in the dress. Very cute for office attire!

The second designer was Gamakache Black from St. Albans, NY (designer: Margaret Persaud) and I was in love with this dress. Persaud’s designs are all in black and if you think that you would need color in a design to grab your attention, you are mistaken. The minute the model, Rhonda Forester, walked into the room there is no way to keep your eyes from that dress. Personally the fabric of the sleeves and bottom is not something I would wear myself, but there is no hiding the flawlessness of the overall design. There is no back to this dress and I dare you to find a noticeable seam, it’s beautiful.

The next design was from Constance Rose Collections from Rotterdam, NY (designer: Nicole Munson). I was able to talk to Nicole and her model Rachel Aurie after the show and was explained that her goal is to make a petite line for those under 5’3″. I loved the black cocktail dress she designed, reminiscent of  the class of Audrey Hepburn’s classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s little black dress and I respect her for making versatile dresses for petite frames.

The next design was from Duchess- Beauty (and the pleat) from designer Danielle Breitenbach & Jessyka Neitzel out of Altamont, NY. Everything from their line was handprinted and painted. The designers featured two dresses, both with incredible lines and structure. The first dress was a black evening gown with a peek-a-boo blue pattern with small blue gems on the pleats. On the front of the dress, on the chest was a black bow. The second dress was a striped grey dress that, too, could be placed into the 1960s easily. These dresses are beautiful, especially after the fact, knowing that they are handprinted. This was followed by a corset set  designed by the very same Danielle Breitenbach. The corset was beautiful, very intricate. I can’t imagine the patience it takes to put together a corset. My only problem with corsets is that they seem to be, like in this case, too beautiful to just wear under clothing or to risk ruining wearing intimately.

I loved the coat designed by Vilma Mare of Sartorial Goods based in Hudson, NY. Mare focuses on fall and winter attire which is appropriate for our usually cold climate. The winter coat as well as white dresses  had raised lines of fabric as a pattern. It’s hard to imagine wearing these outfits with the recent humid and hot weather approaching but we are in the Northeast and the cold weather is inevitable.

My second favorite designer of the show was Khymanyo Studio designed by Kim Vanyo of Saratoga, NY. If the name sounds familiar it’s because you may be familiar with her designs that are already featured in local boutiques and Circles. The first piece was a mesh top and blue skirt with a feathered detail. It was cute but not particularly my personal style. The second piece was one of my favorites, a two piece suit with a raised collar. The shirt itself was black but with a patterned detail on the inside of the stand-up collar. The structure and detail were impeccable!

Second to last was e’ ko logic designed by Kathleen Tesnakis from Troy, NY. Both of her pieces were made of cashmere  a pink color blocked dress and a men’s shirt. All items are handmade and 99% recycled. The men’s shirt looked great but I wasn’t too fond of the dress. I love the design but I just wish it was in a different fabric. I am interested to see what other pieces Tesnakis brings to the big show to get a better feel for her style. The last designer was Kristina Collins Clothing from Saratoga, NY designed by Kristina Collins. Another of my favorite designers had a high-waisted pant with a short green military-style jacket (that I love and want). The second time around, we got to see the shimmer white blouse underneath.

The entire experience was incredible, something completely different from anything I’ve ever experienced. To be in the presence of Petia Kassarova playing cello alone is something to remember but add in the beautiful atmosphere of this antique house and I wish you all could’ve been there to experience it! If you’re interested in seeing these clothes firsthand, you can go to the 4th Annual Electric City Couture full show this Friday, May 24th at 8:00PM at Proctors GE Theatre, Schenectady for FREE!

Don’t know what music to see? I also wrote a break down of  the different acts performing: http://518bitesandsights.com/2013/04/17/tulipfest2013music/

Friday, May 10

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 7:00PM is Tom Chapin and Friends

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 7:00PM is Peggy and Pete Seeger in Concert

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 7:00PM is an ‘80s Dance Party

-          SCHENECTADY at miSci at 6:00PM-8:30PM is The Big Bang Gala to fundraise future miSci exhibitions

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is MOPCO

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-1:00AM is Carmie Hope Karaoke for FREE

-          ALBANY at the Beltrone Living Center at 11:30AM is the 15^th Annual Mother’s Day Fashion Show & Luncheon for $15

-          TROY at EMPAC at 8:00PM is It’s going to get worse and worse and worse, my friend http://empac.rpi.edu/events/2013/spring/worse-and-worse

-          TROY at the Hilton Garden Inn at 7:00PM-10:00PM is LLS’s Man and Woman of the Year Grand Finale for $75

-          SARATOGA at The Saratoga Winery at 6:00PM-9:00PM is Wood Fired Pizza & Live Music for FREE

-          ALBANY at the Palace Theatre at 6:00PM is Super Why! LIVE “You’ve Got the Power”

-          PITTSFIELD,MA at The Colonial Theatre at 8:00PM is Joan Rivers

-          BOLTON LANDING at The Sagamore at 6:00PM is the Double H Ranch Chef’s Dinner for $85

-          SARATOGA at Adirondack Appliance at 11:00AM-4:00PM is Grilling Demonstration! For FREE

-          GLENS FALLS at the South Glens Falls High School at 10:00AM-2:00PM is Safe & Secure Electronic Recycling for FREE

Saturday, May 11

-          ALBANY at the Palace at 8:00PM is An Evening with Joe Bonamassa

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Trent playing the piano

-          ALBANY at Albany Riverfront Park at Corning Preserve at 8:30AM-10:30AM is the Albany YMCA Run/3K Walk and Kids Fun Run

-          ALBANY at the Albany Country Club at 6:00PM is Doane Stuart School’s 36^th Annual Spring Gala & Auction

-          ALBANY at The Crossings at 9:30AM is The Promise Walk Albany for Preeclampsia

-          ALBANY at The Court Club at 8:00AM-4:00PM is Fit for Hope (Benefiting the American Cancer Society)

-          ALBANY at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center at 8:00AM-2:00PM is International Migratory Bird Day for FREE

-          ALBANY at the New York State Museum at 1:00PM-2:30PM is Thirst: A Civil War Story, followed by a Q&A for FREE (Huxley Theater)

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 7:30PM is Tom Rush

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 6:00PM is Susan Sanfords’ School of Dance

-          TROY on River Street (Through November) and Troy Atrium (November-Spring) at 9:00AM-1:00PM is the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market

-          HALFMOON at 7:00AM-4:00PM is the Halfmoon Car and Vendor Show for $15

-          WATERFORD at the Waterford Harbor Visitors Center at 9:30AM-6:00PM is Waterford/RiverSpark Canal Fest for FREE

-          SARATOGA at the Hall of Springs at 6:30PM-11:00PM is the American Cancer Society Gala of Hope for $250

-          SARATOGA at Division Street Elementary at 3:00PM-6:00PM is the Saratoga Farmer’s Market (Outdoors through October, Indoors November-April)

-          SARATOGA at Putnam Den at 10:00PM is Skeletons in the Piano: Record Release for $7

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Regional YMCA Saratoga Springs Branch at 10:00AM-2:00PM is Healthy Kids Day for FREE

-          DUANESBURG at Duanesburg Town Park at 9:00AM is Jog for Jugs: 4^th Annual Half Marathon & 5K for Breast Cancer

Sunday, May 12

-          SCHENECTADY at the Jay Street Marketplace is Schenectady County Downtown Flea Market and Craft Fair

-          SCHENECTADY, Downtown outside of City Hall (though October) and Inside Proctors (November- April) at 10:00A-2:00P is the Schenectady Greenmarket (EVERY SUNDAY)

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church at 4:00PM-5:00PM is the Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra Spring Classical Concert for FREE

-          SARATOGA at the Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room at 12:00PM-2:00PM is a Mother’s Day Wine Tasting Luncheon for $24

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Lucinda playing the piano live (classic musicals and other favorites)

-          ALBANY at the Albany Corning Preserve at 9:00AM-12:00PM is Mom’s Day 5K for $20

ONGOING

-          ALBANY (April 19-May19) at Capital Rep is Red

-          ALBANY (May 11-May 12) at Washington Park is the 65^th Annual Tulip Festival

-          SCHENECTADY (May 8-12) at Schenectady Civic Players is Sunday in the Park with George

-          SCHENECTADY (May 10-12) at Schenectady Light Opera Company is Sweet Charity

-          LAKE GEORGE (May 11-12) at Adirondack Winery Tasting Room at 11:00AM is “Treat Your Mom” FREE Wine Tasting

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is Cirque Zuma Zuma

-          ALBANY at The Egg at 8:00PM is Leo Kottke for $34.50

-          ALBANY is LAST DAY OF DOWNTOWN ALBANY RESTAURANT WEEK

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is MOPCO

-          SARATOGA at Siros Trattoria at the Lodge at 7:00PM is the Hollywood Gala for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 2013 for $150

-          MALTA at DiDonna’s South Shore Restaurant at 8:00PM-10:00PM is Laughter is the Best Medicine Comedy Night for $15

-          SARATOGA at the Saratoga Winery and Tasting Room at 6:00PM-9:00PM is Live Music & Wood Fired Pizza for FREE

-          SARATOGA at Vapor Night Club at 8:00PM is Cryin Out Loud for FREE

-          FORT EDWARD at Olivia Vineyards at 5:00PM-9:00PM is Friday Night Wine down for FREE, wine $5/glass

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-1:00AM is Carmie Hope Karaoke for FREE

Saturday, April 27

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is Jim Brickman

-          GLENS FALLS at the Glens Falls Family YMCA at 1:00PM-3:00PM is YMCA Healthy Kids Day for FREE

-          CLIFTON PARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 8:00PM is One More Time: A Tribute to Daft Punk for $15 day of show

-          TROY at the Troy Savings Bank Hall is Jake Shimabukuro

-          TROY on River Street (Through November) and Troy Atrium (November-Spring) at 9:00AM-1:00PM is the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market

-          TROY at EMPAC at 8:00PM is Trieste http://empac.rpi.edu/events/2013/spring/trieste

-          ALBANY at the Egg at 7:30P is Time for Three

-          ALBANY at the Palace Theatre at 7:30PM is ASO Classical Concert: Carnegie Hall Sneak Preview

-          ALBANY at Best Fitness at 9:00AM-11:00AM is Surfset Fitness Coming to the Capital Region + Member Appreciation Day for FREE, sponsored by Girlnetic

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Trent playing the piano

-          SARATOGA at Division Street Elementary at 3:00PM-6:00PM is the Saratoga Farmer’s Market (Outdoors through October, Indoors November-April)

-          SARATOGA at the Saratoga Winery and Tasting Room at 7:00PM-10:00PM is Saratoga Heart Walk Teams Fundraiser for $20

-          SARATOGA at Vapor Night Club at 9:00PM is Sights and Sounds with DJ Nick Papa Giorgio for FREE

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Springs State Park at 9:00AM is the 6^th Annual kLaVoy5k for $20

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Olive Oil Co. at 10:00AM-7:00PM is their 2 Year Anniversary Exchange Event for FREE

-          QUEENSBURY at Aviation Mall at 1:00PM-4:00PM is the Aviation Mall Health/Beauty Expo for FREE

-          COBLESKILL at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds at 8:00AM-5:00PM is the Schoharie County Maple Festival for FREE

Sunday, April 28

-          ALBANY at the New York State Museum at 1:00PM-2:00PM is a Guided Tour of Eugene Ludins: An American Fantasist

-          DELMAR at the Normanside Country Club at 5:00PM-11:00PM is Eat, Drink, Be Merry & Do Good to fundraise for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year

-          COLONIE at Wolf’s 1-11 is Coccadotts’ MEGA Event

-          CLIFTON PARK at Clifton Park Center is Coccadotts’ MEGA Event

-          CLIFTON PARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 7:30PM is Opeth & Steve Wilson (of Porcupine Tree) and Band with Katatonia for $27.50 advanced and $30 day of show

-          CLIFTON PARK at NorthStar Church at 9:30AM-12:30AM is Stephen Baldwin http://stephenbaldwin.eventbrite.com/

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, GE Theatre at 5:00PM-7:00PM is Empty Bowls: an international grassroots effort to fight hunger

-          SCHENECTADY at the Jay Street Marketplace is Schenectady County Downtown Flea Market and Craft Fair

-          SCHENECTADY, Downtown outside of City Hall (though October) and Inside Proctors (November- April) at 10:00A-2:00P is the Schenectady Greenmarket (EVERY SUNDAY)

-          SCHENECTADY at the Congregation Gates of Heaven at 10:15AM is the Cherry Blossom 5K Race for ALS followed by the 21^st Annual Cherry Blossom Festival

-          SARATOGA at The Parting Glass Pub at 12:00PM-9:00PM is Wildwoodstock 2013 Benefit Concert & Auction for $10

-          LATHAM at Hope Club at 12:30PM-4:00PM is the 2^nd Annual Spring into Relay for FREE

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Lucinda playing the piano live (classic musicals and other favorites)

ONGOING

-          ALBANY (April 19-May19) at Capital Rep is Red

-          ALBANY (Apr 27- Apr 28) at Best Western at 9:00AM-3:00PM is the Albany Sports Card & Memorabilia Show for $2

-          HUNTER (Apr 27-Apr 28) on Hunter Mountain is  TAP NY http://www.tap-ny.com/

-          SCHENECTADY (Apr 23-27) at Proctors at 7:30PM is Ask Mrs. Honey B.

I live in the Schenectady/Niskayuna area and pass by LT’s Grill (2305 Nott Street, Niskayuna) all the time and finally one day, curiosity got the best of me and I checked it out. I love the feel of the restaurant. I could see it having a great bar business and it being a great place to watch sports on top of serving food. The servers were great, very attentive and knowledgeable of  the restaurant. The first thing I spotted when we sat down was the salad bar and I knew I was going to have to get that with my meal. The salad bar was great, it not only offered iceberg but I could get mesclun which is a huge plus in my opinion. I got to add mushrooms, broccoli, tomatoes, sunflower seeds & oil and vinegar. Everything looked fresh, was crispy and tasted great. I was disappointed that it was the best part of my meal.

For dinner I ordered the Tuscan Sunset, which was a combination of bacon, spinach, roasted garlic and sun dried tomatoes, sauteed with chicken and tossed with pasta for 14.95. The pasta was cooked well but was a little salty. Overall the pasta dish just didn’t have that much flavor. It said on the menu that there was garlic and I hardly tasted any, the sun dried tomatoes had a good texture but they, too, were lacking in flavor. The only thing I actually could taste was the bacon and because everything else was lacking, the bacon flavor took over everything, especially the chicken.

For a meal that cost about $15, I expected a little more in terms of flavor. My Mom ordered the ribs and those too were a little disappointing. Most of the ribs had barely any meat on it and aside from being overly drenched in BBQ sauce, they could almost have been called jerky. I have a good feeling though that their burgers probably would’ve been good since I think they identify themselves more as a BBQ place than an Italian restaurant. Granted, the ribs were a little rough but with the feel of the place I feel it’s safe to assume that if I had a burger, this post would have gone in a completely different direction. Of course, there’s only one way to find out! If you were given just a bowl of plain pasta, what local ingredients would you cook with it?

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, GE at 2:30PM, 5:00PM & 7:30PM is In the Heat of the Night, part of the Film 100: The American Film Institute Essentials

-          SCHENECTADY at Aperitivo Bistro is Chris Dollard

-          CLIFTON PARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 7:30PM is Exodus with Brick by Brick, Armor Column, Hollow is Thy Heart, Dolabra and Protocol Seven for $17 day of show

-          WILTON at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 4:00PM-5:00PM is an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt for FREE

-          ALBANY at Wolferts Roost Country Club at 5:30PM-8:30PM is a Wedding Event for $10 bride/ $5 guest

-          MALTA at the Malta Community Center at 6:30PM-8:00PM is Healing Homes for $10

Tuesday, April 23

-          CLIFTON PARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 8:00PM is The Dillinger Escape Plan with The Faceless and Royal Thunder for $17 day of show

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-10:00PM is Tequila Tuesdays with Trivia ($5 Cuervo Margaritas) followed by a drag show hosted by Chardonnay LaTease and Rachel Corey

-          SARATOGA at the Chamber of Southern Saratoga County at 8:00AM is UAlbany School of Business Weekend MBA Program Information Session for FREE

Wednesday, April 24

-          GLENS FALLS at the Glens Falls Civic Center at 7:00PM is REO Speedwagon, Styx and Ted Nugent

-          SCHENECTADY at Aperitivo Bistro is Lee Shaw Duo

-          ALBANY at the New York State Museum at 10:30AM-11:15AM is Rain or Shine… It’s Reading Time for FREE

-          ALBANY at the New York State Museum at 12:00PM-2:00PM is Songs from the Piano Bench for FREE

-          ALBANY at the Albany Marriott at 11:00AM-2:00PM is the Albany Job Fair for FREE

-          ALBANY at the Alfred E. Smith State Office Building at 9:00AM-1:00PM is the National Crime Victim’ Rights Week Blood Drive for FREE

-          SARATOGA at St. Clemens at 3:00PM-7:00PM is Alzheimer’s at the Saratoga Health Fair for FREE

-          SARATOGA at Division Street Elementary at 3:00PM-6:00PM is the Saratoga Farmer’s Market (Outdoors through October, Indoors November-April)

Thursday, April 25

-          ALBANY is the 10^th Anniversary of Dining Out for Life https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dining-Out-For-Life-AIDS-Council-of-Northeastern-New-York/211668086672?fref=ts

-          ALBANY at The Linda at 8:00PM is Spurs USA CD Release Party for $15

-          ALBANY at the NYS Museum in Adirondack Hall at 12:00PM-2:00PM is Music Jam for FREE

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM is live music by Cherrilyn

-          ALBANY at New Horizons of Albany at 12:00PM-2:00PM is New Horizons’ Charity Chili Cook Off for a $2 minimum donation

-          ALBANY at the Capital Bank, Price Chopper Plaza (Slingerlands) at 5:30PM-7:30PM is First-Time Home Buyer Seminar for FREE

-          ALBANY at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center at 6:30PM is Ares Fight Night X for $30-75

-          ALBANY at the Beltrone Living Center at 10:00AM1:00PM is the Home Maintenance Fair for Senior homeowners for FREE

ONGOING

-          ALBANY (April 19-May19) at Capital Rep is Red

-          SCHENECTADY (Apr 23-27) at Proctors at 7:30PM is Ask Mrs. Honey B.

-          ALBANY (Until Apr 26) is DOWNTOWN ALBANY RESTAURANT WEEK

The true sign of Spring is when my favorite ice cream places open and I’ve done a pretty great job hitting up a good percentage of them in the first couple weeks of April. First, I went to Martha’s Dandee Creme in Lake George (1133 State Route 9) across the street from Great Escape. I’m not supposed to eat ice cream but it’s one of those things I just can’t stay away from.

Jumpin Jacks Opening Week 2013

What I like about Martha’s Dandee Creme is they have dole whip options which are healthier, have no-lactose and are also delicious! You can grab a whole calendar from the stand itself or check their Facebook everyday for a daily flavor update. The best way to describe their ice cream is a mix between the ice cream you’re used to and a frozen custard, that’s what makes it a dandee creme! Just be careful, with most ice cream places the sizes are a little exaggerated, I’d start with a small and go from there! If a regular ice cream cone isn’t your thing, you can also get an ice cream sandwich filled with one of the flavors of the day or a delicious sundae you create yourself!

My next stop so far this Spring was Jumpin Jacks (5 Schonowee Ave, Scotia). Jumpin Jacks isn’t known just for their ice cream but their Jackburgers as well. I’m not a fan of coleslaw but from what I’ve heard, it’s quite the experience if you’ve never had one before. The location reminds you of an old-time drive-in and I kind of treat it as such. My personal memories of Jumpin Jacks include sitting on your car in the packed parking lot chatting or eating ice cream with your friends. It’s definitely a go-to place in the Capital Region over the summer. Once the concerts in Freedom Park begin for over the summer and the Water-Skiing shows, there’s no where else you’ll want to be! Jumpin Jacks also offers a dole whip option if you’re looking to snack a little healthier. They usually have two flavors of regular ice cream and two dole whip options so you’ll be sure to find one (or a twist) that you’ll enjoy.

My third stop so far this Spring was Kurver Kreme (1349 Central Ave, Albany). They offer hot dogs but the reason there’s a line is because of the ice cream. They don’t offer the dole whip option but they do have a no-fat/no-sugar added ice cream aka. “no-no.” Out of the three, if you’re looking for a sundae, make Kurver Kreme your first stop. My most recent trip, I tried something new. I went for a waffle cone. They offer sprinkles (my favorite being chocolate mint) as well as a dip but I could get both in the cone so I figured there’s a first time for everything. I love their ice cream, there’s no doubt about that but the waffle cone was different. I don’t know if it was the waxy coating on sprinkles sometimes or something in the chocolate but the first half of the cone was not enjoyable. I ended up scooping out the ice cream and breaking off all of the chocolate- and I LOVE chocolate! The rest of the cone wasn’t bad, I just wish I didn’t waste the extra money on the chocolate and just got right to the waffle one from the get-go. Overall, it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had but I didn’t hate it but from here on out I’ll probably stick with the regular cone, save some money and focus on the ice cream.

There are so many places to get ice cream in the Capital Region. What’s your FAVORITE ice cream place in the 518? You can name two if picking just one is tough!

I don’t know about you but growing up in the Capital District in the summertime usually means that almost every weekend is spent in Lake George. Now that the weather is colder and the lake is way too cold to even think about swimming in, Lake George probably isn’t the first place you think of to go to for Winter activities. Just because the beaches are closed and the lake is freezing, don’t write it off.

Januaray was the Winter Carnival that starts off with the Polar Plunge but includes Chili Cook-Offs, Helicopter Rides, Snowmobile Racing and more! Though I do enjoy the Winter Carnival, luckily we’re looking at better weather ahead but if you go now, when it’s peaceful and you can really take in the area, you can see other stuff that tends to get overlooked. Shepard Park on top of hosting concerts and events is full of a lot of great little memorials that are easily missed. First, there’s the Centennial Fountain built to celebrate the 100 years of the Village of Lake George in 2003. The slabs around the fountain are formed with Adirondack granite and are covered with memorials, goals and businesses that donated money for their message to last in history until at least the next 100 year celebration.

Also in the park is a memorial to those we lost in the Ethan Allen Tragedy in 2005. For those of you who aren’t familiar, the Ethan Allen was holding tourists, mostly seniors, from Michigan and Ohio and sadly capsized and sank killing 20, though 27 did survive. This tragedy shook the community as it was so out of the blue with perfect weather conditions and though the tragedy was in October, the water was still a warm temperature. If you have a moment and find yourself in the park or haven’t come across the monument please take a moment to remember those lost. Another memorial found in the park is to all those lost because of their honorable service in the various armed forces.

I really enjoy being in Shepard Park. Even if there aren’t any events going on, there are always people in Lake George Village and there are great restaurants and stores in the area to visit. While you find yourself taking in the sights of the Village, don’t forget to take some time to sit and watch the lake. There is honestly no activity more calming than just watching the boats go by on a beautiful day in Lake George. What’s your favorite place/restaurant to visit in Lake George?

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 7:00PM is Gospel Jubilee

-          SCHENECTADY at Aperitivo Bistro is Jeanine Marie Trio

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, GE Theatre at 8:00PM is Wacky Chad- Stunt Comedy Show

-          SCHENECTADY at Crossroads Gifts & Wellness at 11:00AM-6:00PM is a GRAND Re-Opening http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1102906895218-1904/CROSSROADS+GRAND+OPENING.pdf

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is MOPCO

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-1:00AM is Carmie Hope Karaoke for FREE

-          ALBANY at The Egg at 6:00PM is Pajanimals Live: Pajama Playdate for $39.50 CANCELLED

-          ALBANY at the TimesUnionCenter at 7:00PM is the Albany Devils

-          ALBANY at The Egg at 4:00PM-10:00PM is GLSEN Breaking the Silence Rally for FREE

-          GLENS FALLS at the Glens FallsCivicCenter at 7:00PM is the Phantoms vs. Hershey

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio at 7:00PM-9:00PM is Paint. Sip, Party for $38

-          SARATOGA at Vapor at 8:00PM are The Audiostars for FREE

-          SARATOGA at Crush & Cask Wine and Spirits at 4:00PM-6:00PM is Bubbles and Baubles for FREE

-          CLIFTONPARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 8:00PM is Steel Panther for $25 day of show

Saturday, April 20

-          ALBANY at the TimesUnionCenter at 5:00PM is the Albany Devils

-          ALBANY & SCHENECTADY at Bomber’s Burrito’s is FREE BURRITO DAY!

-          ALBANY at The New York State Museum at 11:00-11:30AM is Furry Tales and Touchables for FREE

-          ALBANY at The New York State Museum at 1:00PM-3:00PM is Creative Art Day for FREE

-          ALBANY at The New York State Museum at 1:00PM is Preserving the Star-Spangled Banner- then and now for FREE

-          ALBANY at The New York State Museum at 2:00PM is The Conversation of the Flags: Red, White and Battered for FREE

-          ALBANY  at Crossgates Mall at 2:00PM-4:00PM is Radio Disney’s Red Carpet RDMA Pre-Party

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Trent playing the piano

-          ALBANY at The Albany Institute of History and Art at 4:00PM-7:00PM is Hudson Valley Hops presented by the Times Union/Table Hopping for $25

-          ALBANY at Taft Furniture at 7:00AM-1:00PM is the 11^th Annual Electronics Recycling Day

-          COLONIE at The Crossings at 9:00AM-12:00PM is Run 4 Vocations for $25

-          SARATOGA at Division Street Elementary at 3:00PM-6:00PM is the Saratoga Farmer’s Market (Outdoors through October, Indoors November-April)

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 8:00PM is Voca People

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, GE Theatre at 7:30PM is 8^th Step: Vishten

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, Underground at 9:00PM is Comedy’s Best Kept Secret Tour

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors, Underground at 11:00AM is Kids Close Up Comedy, Stunts and Magic

-          CLIFTONPARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 8:00PM is The Machine performs Pink Floyd for $22 day of show

-          VOORHEESVILLE in ThatcherPark at 9:00AM-4:30PM is Volunteer Day

-          QUEENSBURY at Queensbury High School Parking Lot at 9:00AM-1:00PM is 7^th Annual Community Shred your Documents for Life for a $5 donation

-          GLENS FALLS at the Glens FallsCivicCenter at 7:00PM is Phantoms vs. Springfield

-          SARATOGA at The Parting Glass at 7:00PM is Hair of the Dog

-          SARATOGA at Saratoga Cycling Studio at 12:00PM-1:00PM is the Lung Cancer Alliance Charity Spinning Class for $25

-          SARATOGA at Vapor Nightclub at 9:00PM is Sights and Sounds with DJ Playground for FREE

-          WILTON at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 9:00AM is Earth Day Volunteers for FREE

-          TROY on River Street (Through November) and Troy Atrium (November-Spring) at 9:00AM-1:00PM is the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market

-          CAPITAL REGION at Tri City Rental locations at 10:00AM-2:00PM is E-Waste Collection Event

-          DELMAR at Brueggers Bagels at 10:00AM-11:00AM is Home Buying 101 http://homebuying101delmar-eanrecb.eventbrite.com

Sunday, April 21

-          ALBANY at The Egg at 7:30PM is Pilobolus- “Classics”

-          ALBANY at the TimesUnionCenter at 3:00PM is the Albany Devils

-          ALBANY at 74 State at 8:30PM is the Terri Gordon Quartet

-          ALBANY at Crossgates Mall at 8:00AM-11:00AM is Best Buddies Friendship Walk for FREE

-          ALBANY at Tony’s Terrace at 8:00PM-11:00PM is Lucinda playing the piano live (classic musicals and other favorites)

-          CLIFTONPARK at Upstate Concert Hall at 6:00PM is the Kottonmouth Kings featuring Duece, Snow The Product, Eskimo Callboy and K. Daver for $20 day of show

-          SCHENECTADY at Proctors at 3:00PM is Schenectady Symphony Orchestra

-          SCHENECTADY at the Jay Street Marketplace is Schenectady County Downtown Flea Market and Craft Fair

-          SCHENECTADY, Downtown outside of City Hall (though October) and Inside Proctors (November- April) at 10:00A-2:00P is the Schenectady Greenmarket (EVERY SUNDAY)

-          LAKE GEORGE at FortWilliamHenryConferenceCenter at 8:00AM is the 2013 Lake George Half Marathon

-          SARATOGA at The Saratoga Winery & Tasting Room at 12:00PM-5:00PM is SSPW 2^nd Annual Vendor Fair Fundraiser for FREE

-          SARATOGA at Skidmore College Intramural Gym at 12:00PM-3:00PM is the 2^nd Annual Autism Information Fair and Carnival

-          NORTH CREEK at Copperfield Inn Resorts at 1:00PM-4:00PM is “Purely Adirondack” Wedding Expo II for FREE

-          TROY at EMPAC at 5:00PM-6:00PM is Susie Ibarra: “Circadian Rhythms” for FREE

ONGOING

-          ALBANY (April 19-May19) at Capital Rep is Red

-          ALBANY (Apr 20-26) is DOWNTOWN ALBANY RESTAURANT WEEK

-          LAKE GEORGE (Apr 19-20) at Adirondack Winery at 6:30PM-8:30PM is a 5^th Anniversary Celebration Ticked Event, buy tickets online

-          LAKE GEORGE (Apr 20-21) at Adirondack Winery at 11:00AM-5:00PM is their 5^th Anniversary Celebration for FREE

-          ALBANY, SARATOGA, SCHENECTADY (Until Apr 19) is Angelo Mazzone’s Restaurant Week

-          LAKE PLACID (UNTIL Apr 21) at Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa is The Adirondack Festival of Food and Wine; price based on events

Every year at the Tulip Festival, we have great artists come to the area and most of them, to be honest, I’ve never heard of. Since most of them are local, I want to give them a chance! Some of the artists are playing at the same time and I don’t want to pick one when the other is playing music that’s more my style. I usually do a bit of research to see who the artists are and why would I keep that to myself?

Saturday, 1:00PM — Tor & the Fjords (Amp Stage): Tor & the Fjords is head by Tor Loney,  a singer, song-writer and librarian from Albany, NY and specialize in indie-folk music. They headlined the 2012 Capital Area IndieFest and was chosen as a finalist at the 2012 Hudson Valley Songfest Best New Artist competition. If you want to know of any events Tor 7 the Fjords have coming up, follow them on twitter. Check them out on their website http://torandthefjords.com/

Saturday, 1:00PM — Royal Teeth (Main Stage): Royal Teeth is from Louisiana and made up of Gary Larsen (Vocals/Guitar), Nora Patterson (Vocals), Joshua Wells (Bass), Josh Hefner (Percussion), Stevie Billeaud (Guitar) and Andrew Poe (Vocals/Keys/Percussion/Programming). They specialize in indie/dance/pop music and have previously been featured on Last Call with Carson Daly. You can also keep up to date with them on twitter or via their website http://royalteethmusic.com/

Saturday, 2:15PM — Olivia Quillio (Amp Stage): Olivia Quillio is from Upstate New York. She says on her website that her music explores “the coupling of vivid folk-inspired lyricism and melodic jazz texture within those popular sentimental songs of unrequited love and stamp them with her own particular brand of heartbreak.” Her anticipated first studio album will be released Spring 2013. Keep up to date with her on twitter or through her website http://oliviaquillio.com/

Saturday, 2:30PM– The Features (Main Stage):  The Features is an indie rock band from Tennessee made up of Matthew Pelham, Roger Dabbs, Mark Bond, and Rollum Haas. The Features performed at Bonnaroo in 2009 and their song “From Now On” appeared on the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 soundtrack. Check out their newest video for “This Disorder” on their website http://thefeatures.com/

Saturday, 3:30PM — Rick Rourke & Lost Wages (Amp Stage): Rick Rourke & Lost Wages is made up of Rick Rourke from Troy (vocals, guitar, sax and harp), Larry Clyman from Albany (guitar), Lucas Reudy from Albany (bass) and Doug Klein from Albany (drums and vocals). With many of the members having roots in the Out of Control Rhythm and Blues Band, it’s not surprising that their music brings back the blues in traditional rock & roll. Listen to some of their songs on their website http://rickrourke.com/

Saturday, 4:00PM — Silversun Pickups (Main Stage): The Silversun Pickups is an alternative rock band from Los Angeles made up of Brian Aubert (singer, guitarist, songwriter), Christopher Guanlao (drummer), Joe Lester (keyboardist) and Nikki Monninger (bassist). Check out some of their music on their website http://silversunpickups.com/ and keep up with what they’re doing on twitter

Sunday, 1:00PM — Annie and the Hedonists (Amp Stage): Based in Upstate NY, Annie and the Hedonists are Annie Rosen (lead vocals), Jonny Rosen (guitar/vocals), Peter Davis (clarinet, tenor guitar, piano, and vocals) and Don Young (upright bass/vocals). They describe themselves as “a band with a great lead singer and tight harmonies, covering an eclectic mix of acoustic blues, vintage jazz and swing, and folk roots Americana.” For more, check out their website http://annieandthehedonists.com/

Sunday, 1:30PM — Grand Central Station (Main Stage): Grand Central Station from Upstate NY is Mia Scirocco (vocals/percussion), Paul DeBiase (drums/vocals), Frank DeBiase (bass), Pete Zarrillo (guitar/vocals), Bob Zampino (piano/keyboards/vocals) and Jenry Bejarano (vocals/percussion). Their versatile music skills keeps you always guessing. Their setlist stretches from now back before the disco era. Want to see for yourself? Check out their website http://www.gcsband.com

Sunday, 2:15PM — MaryLeigh & the Fauves (Amp Stage): MaryLeigh & the Fauves are rooted right here in the Capital Region and specialize in guitar-heavy indie rock. Samples of songs from their previous three albums can be found on their website http://www.maryleighmusic.com/

Sunday, 3:30PM — The Dylan Perrillo Orchestra (Amp Stage): A local orchestra that says it best on their Facebook page. “Playing the old school tunes from back in the day in true flapper fashion with no amplification.” https://www.facebook.com/DylanPerrilloOrchestra

Sunday, 3:30PM — Bennie & the Jets (Main Stage): If you couldn’t guess by their name, Bennie & the Jets is an Elton John Tribute Band led by Greg Ransom http://www.bennieandthejets.com/home.html

Sunday, 4:45PM — Eastbound Jesus (Amp Stage): From Greenwich, NY, Adam Brockway, Dave Wright, Carl Anderson, Luke Anderson and Zack Infante are Eastbound Jesus. We end our Tulip Fest musical stylings with Americana, Bluegrass and Northern Rock. http://www.eastboundjesus.com/