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Gabby Fisher

5 Sizzling Capital Region Summer Arts Experiences

June 2, 2021 By Gabby Fisher

Andrea Hersh mural at the Adams St. Rail Trail entrance in Delmar (corner of Adams St. and Hudson Ave., Albany)

After more than a year of being cooped up indoors, I’m ready to explore and experience everything the Capital Region has to offer — safely, of course. I’ve been spending all of my spring and summer weekends exploring the outdoors, hunting for public art and enjoying whatever arts scene I stumble upon and of course, am always on the lookout for a new local spots to grab a craft beer or delicious food.

Here are five art experiences that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone — solo, on a date, or with your kids. Visit one at a time, or make a day trip out of it! So, get outside and enjoy the summer weather, AND support our amazing creative economy.

Art on the Rail Trail (ART)

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a daytime date

Albany Rail Trail
The entrance of one of the trailheads, 722 S Pearl St, Albany, 12202

The nine-mile Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail is perfect for walking, biking, or — my transportation mode of choice — rollerblading. I visited the trail on an absolutely gorgeous summer day and was blown away by how beautiful the scenery is! There’s greenery, flowers, and river. It’s a perfect spot to mix up an outdoor adventure while enjoying public art installations created by local artists. There are spots along the trail where you can see the art. Pop by and grab an Instagram pic at each!

Check out the current art installations at these locations along the Art on the Rail Trail (ART):

Young People's Mural
Young People’s Mural
  1. Susan Togut art installations between Main St. and Grove St. in Voorheesville (2020).
  2. Young People’s Mural at the Kenwood Ave. trailhead in Slingerlands (created 2019) — community mural designed by student Emily Meier, project work led by artist Andrea Hersh.
  3. Angela Cuozzo‘s mural for Bliss Juice Bar on Delaware Ave. in Delmar (created 2019).
  4. John DeMarco’s art on the columns under the Cherry Ave. bridge in Slingerlands (created 2018).
  5. Ramiro Davaro-Comas mural on the Rail Trail bridge crossing Delaware Ave. in Delmar (created 2018).
  6. Andrea Hersh mural at the Adams St. Rail Trail entrance in Delmar (created 2017).

Bliss Juice Bar (stop #3 on the Trail) is a perfect place for a pick-me-up, especially on a hot day. Delicious smoothies, toasts, coffee, and more…all right off the trail! Plus, there’s plenty of bike parking outside.

New York City Ballet at SPAC

Perfect for: family fun, a date

Gabby and her grandma
My Grandma and I, ready for the ballet!

Every year, my grandmother and I see a summer ballet matinee at SPAC. This July, we’re really looking forward to New York City Ballet‘s two 75-minute special programs –- Short Stories, hosted by Principal Dancer Maria Kowroski and All Balanchine, hosted by Principal Dancer Gonzalo Garcia. Both are excerpts from the Company’s wide-ranging repertory, performed by 15 dancers accompanied by piano on SPAC’s main stage. Socially distanced seating will be provided in the amphitheater and on the lawn. It’s a lovely way to spend a beautiful summer’s day or night with the family or on a date.

Where to eat, you ask? Before or after the show, my grandma and I usually make reservations at her favorite Saratoga restaurant, Scallions, or if we’re in the mood for a smaller bite, we head to Boca Bistro for tapas and wine.

SPAC Jazz Fest
SPAC Jazz Fest

(P.S. Another one of my absolute favorite summer activities at SPAC is going to the Jazz Fest! This is another annual tradition my grandma and I have. If you haven’t attended, I HIGHLY recommend the experience. It’s a bit more casual than the ballet. We bring in our own food, drinks & meet up for a picnic with some other jazz-loving friends while being serenaded by world-renowned artists. It’s this coming weekend, June 26-27 and there is still time to buy tickets!)

Explore Downtown Albany’s Public Art Scene via CDPHP Bicycles

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a day date

public art
“Float” & “Flight” by John Breiner, Albany

The array of public art in Downtown Albany is growing by leaps and bounds. One of my favorite initiatives is #CapitalWalls, which is a partnership between Albany Center Gallery, Albany Barn, and Albany Parking Authority. This project seeks to inspire the local community with uplifting, educational, or thought-provoking works of public art. You’ll find pieces under bridges, alongside buildings, and other structures. Click here to check out the current murals and locations and rent a CDPHP cycle to take a tour of your own!

River Garden Studio
River Garden Studio

Nearby the art displays, there’s SO much to explore! A few of my favorites… For a drink and/or delicious food, Loch and Quay or The Cloud Food Hall. For a cool little shop with local goods, Fort Orange Shop. Lastly, my personal favorite (because I’m an obsessed plant mom), River Garden Studio.

Cat’n Around Catskill

Perfect for: Family fun

Cat'n Around Catskill
Cats on Main Street

Looking for a super fun day trip with the kids? Downtown Catskill is where it’s at. For the 15th year in a row, Catskill’s Historic Main Street will be lined with community member renditions of cats! Designed by different local artists, each has its own unique theme and feel. Cat’n Around Catskill will take place through September. The cats will be auctioned off at the end of the showing period and proceeds will be donated to charity.

J&J Smokehouse BBQ
Pulled pork sandwich at J&J Smokehouse BBQ

Not only is it fun to walk along Main St. to enjoy the colorful cats, but there is so much more that the area has to offer. Historic architecture and unique shops are a big draw to the area. One of my favorite shops to visit is the Mahalo Gift Shop. There is such a wide variety of creative local goods there – mostly all from women-owned businesses. It’s a great place to visit with the kids too. They also have a toy shop close by!

Now I will recommend my new favorite place to eat in Catskill, and I am salivating just writing this: J&J Smokehouse BBQ. The flavors, the smells…everything about the place is just delectable. Try it out, you won’t be disappointed.

Stonewall Memorial and Black Lives Matter Memorial in Downtown Schenectady

Perfect for: solo exploration, family fun, a day date

Stonewall
Stonewall Memorial

IMHO, the Stonewall Memorial Schenectady memorial/public art display doesn’t get the attention it deserves. And, as June is Pride Month, there’s never been a more perfect time to head to Gateway Plaza, and explore the display. The Stonewall Uprising was a milestone in the gay-rights movement. This piece beautifully memorializes the civil rights struggles of the L:GBTQ community, and shines pride brightly.

Black Lives Matter Pieces

Recently, new additions were added to the park (right next to the Stonewall structure) to raise awareness of the Black Lives Matter movement. As a Schenectady resident, I’m proud of these pieces and the effort it makes to educate visitors on both Stonewall and Black Lives Matter. This park has become one of celebrating civil rights for everybody and a symbol for equality.

If you’re looking for food or activities nearby, I’ve got you covered. One of my favorite summertime spots is Jumpin’ Jacks Drive-In on the Mohawk River. It’s only a few minutes away by car or bike (there are CDPHP bikes to rent right in the park). I’ve been going there every summer since I was a little kid.

Collins Park
Collins Park Splashpad with my nephews!

If you have the family with you, right across the street from Jumpin’ Jacks is Collins Park, which has a playground, basketball courts, a splash pad and more! My nephews LOVE it.

Whether you’re looking for family fun, solo exploration, or a new date spot, these five outdoors arts experiences are a great way to support our local creative economy. If there are other experiences or events we should add to the list, send me an email to let us know! Enjoy and be sure to tag us in your adventures, @upstatecreative!

4 Self-Care Ideas for CapNY Singles

February 10, 2021 By Gabby Fisher

Capital Heart Connection – living our best single lives!

Capital Heart Connection always celebrate singledom – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be tough sometimes! Whether you get a little down seeing your coupled up friends on the gram, or maybe you find yourself wishing you had a romantic partner to do some exploring with, or just feeling down due to being stuck in the middle of a pandemic…we get it. Being single can get a little bit lonely sometimes. The good news is, there are so many great ways to enjoy a little self-care all throughout CapNY. We’ve got a few of our favorite ways to show ourselves a little love for you here:

Becky’s Tips:

1.Take Yourself on a Date

mad jack brewery
Mad Jack Brewing Company at The Van Dyck is a great spot to dine at the bar

I’m a big believer that you have to show yourself the love that you want to bring into your life. So, with that, sometimes I take myself on a date.  

If you’ve never done it, eating out alone can feel intimidating, but I’d bet many of you have a favorite spot or two where you know some of the bartenders or waitstaff. That’s a great place to start! (And, if you don’t have a favorite spot yet, this is a perfect way to find one). Clean yourself up, put on a favorite outfit and grab yourself a seat at the bar. Order a favorite drink and something decadent and enjoy! A few of my favorite spots for this are The Van Dyck and The City Squire in Schenectady. In my new neighborhood of Downtown Albany, I love DPs and The Hollow.

Pro tips — if you like sports, do this to watch a game and you’ll almost always make friends! And, if you’re not feeling social or chatty, bring a book or magazine with you so you can take a break from your phone while giving off a “no thanks” vibe to those who might try to chat you up. 

city squire
The City Squire’s French Onion Soup with a glass of Pinot Noir never disappoints


During the pandemic, I still try to create the same atmosphere for myself with some candles and special takeout. And yes, occasionally, I’ll even put on something cute just to stay home to show my non-sweatpants clothing some love. Some spots even do cocktails to go which is SO fun — check out Plumb Oyster Bar’s Cocktail Club, or Rosanna’s for some fabulous creations you can enjoy on your couch.

2. Move Your Body

Another favorite form of self-care is to get moving! There are so many ways to do this and you have to figure out what brings you joy. Movement should not feel like a punishment! 

yoga
Teaching a yoga class at the (sadly) now closed Elevate 518 Studio

I sometimes enjoy running, but lately I’ve found long walks a bit more relaxing. I love the Mohawk Hudson Bike path — I’m lucky to live walking distance from the Corning Preserve and can hop on the path there. I also love the portion of the path that starts at Lions Park in Niskayuna.

I also absolutely love yoga! Connecting my breath to my movement and taking time to really be intentional about checking in with myself feels amazing for my body and my brain. Now is a great time to try yoga if you’re a newbie – there are tons of free and low-cost online options. Many local studios are also offering online courses that will allow you to practice safely and support small business. One of my favorite spaces that I can’t wait to get back to post-pandemic is Studio 4 Hot Yoga — with a special shout out to the “Sweet Sunday Surrender” Class! 

Gabby’s Tips:

guinness
Solo travel (and being single) means lots of selfies…like this one in pub in Dublin drinking my first Guinness

3. Book yourself a night away

I’ve done a lot of solo travel, domestic and abroad. I traveled solo for a month and a half through Europe and it was one of the most awakening experiences of my life. I’m what one would call an ambivert – with extrovert and introvert qualities. So, despite the fact that I love being around and meeting new people, I rejuvenate through alone time, where I can reflect in peace. Solo travel is my definition of self-care. I’ve put together some of my favorite overnight stays in CapNY, which you can see via these links –Albany and Catskills.

mochi
My forever date/travel partner, Mochi

If I’m riding solo, I’d choose to stay in a Getaway tiny home in the Catskills, I’d bring my pup, Mochi, and spend a night in nature – phone off. Bring a book you’ve been wanting to read, turn up your favorite podcast, and cozy in for a night of stillness and peace. Wake up in the morning, brew yourself a cup of coffee, and take a stroll through the calm woods. There’s nothing like it

4. Nourish your body with locally sourced and homemade goods

charcuterie board
I love making charcuterie boards at home from goods I found at Farmer’s Markets

Self-care is about feeling good and paying attention to your health – mental, emotional, and physical. When I consume fresh, healthy goods and support small local business, it makes me feel whole and it truly nourishes my soul. Spend a day browsing local shops and farmers markets, invest in some foods that make you happy, find some treats that you love but rarely have, buy yourself a bouquet of flowers…I tend to engage in these type of self-care days often and here are some of my favorite CapNY spots to do it 

  • The Local in Cohoes – I’ll grab a breakfast sandwich and coffee (only $6!) and then grab a locally made candle, a plant or two (I’m an obsessed plant mom – my collection consists of more than 30 plants at this point), and I’ll always pick up some fresh veggies.
market
Hudson has some of the most amazing food shops I’ve ever been to
  • Olde Hudson Speciality Foods in Hudson – I love going here to get everything I need to make a charcuterie board…charcuterie board for one – with organic wine from 22 2nd St, Wine Co. in downtown Troy… I mix up stuff from all parts of CapNY…makes for the best smorgashboard.
  • Sometimes I like to stay close to home and less than a mile away my from house is The Schenectady Trading Co., which now provides produce from Capital Roots, flowers from Village Floral of Scotia, and countless other local goods.

Becky Daniels of Albany, 34, and Gabby Fisher of Schenectady, 28, are two single, boss women who ROCK being single. Now, they want to share with you why they love living and experiencing CapNY solo…so they present to you, Capital Heart Connection! Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to be kept in the loop on singles content, events, and more fun than you could imagine.

10 Reasons We Love Being Single in CapNY

January 6, 2021 By Gabby Fisher

Becky (left) and Gabby (right)!

Becky Daniels of Albany, 34, and Gabby Fisher of Schenectady, 28, are two single, boss women who ROCK – and love being single. Now, they want to share with you why they love living in and experiencing CapNY solo. We’re not the only ones who think this place is perfect for free spirits, Insurantly ranked the Albany-Schenectady-Troy Metro the nation’s 7th Best City for Single Millennials. With over 71% of millennials in CapNY living single – whether you love ridin’ solo or are looking for a partner, this is the place to be. 

Why Becky Loves Being Single in CapNY:

Izzie!

I am a near life-long resident of the Capital Region, growing up in Schenectady but recently moving to Downtown Albany. Here, I have built an incredible life living and loving in the 518. And the dating scene is great. however, being single here is pretty wonderful, too. I take great care of my furchild, Izzie, even if I struggle to keep plants alive,. So whether you’re looking for love — or are happier solo —  here are just a few reasons to love being single in #CapNY. 

1. CapNY is full of opportunities to meet new people

When I moved back after graduate school, I was lucky to have a great group of friends from high school to come back to. But I still wanted to expand my professional circle, find a mentor… and maybe some potential dates. There are so many ways to build a network. I found my people through joining the Palette Cafe Community and Junior League of Albany, attending events with our awesome local chambers and young professionals groups. Volunteering with community organizations including the local St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital team, New Leaders Council, and Capital Region Sponsor a Scholar also helped.

2. You can make a difference here

There are so many ways to feed your passion for making our community a better place. Whatever causes you might be interested in supporting, you can find it all here. Living in a community with such a vibrant nonprofit scene means that there are always an abundance of opportunities to lend your talents and treasures to worthy causes. For example, serving on nonprofit boards can be a rewarding way to enhance your own skills and experiences while meeting new people and making positive change in the world. As a current board member for the Schenectady City School District Education Foundation, I support our fundraising events, help distribute grant money to teachers and work with the other board members to guide the organization and make the biggest impact possible on the teachers and students we serve.

3. The housing options are incredible

I’ve rented, I’ve owned and I’ve even crashed with my parents for a month or two in between (spoiler: it wasn’t that bad!). I’ve recently returned to renting and love living in such a wonderful, vibrant downtown. Moral of the story? There are an abundance of affordable housing options in CapNY for a happy being single person.

Whatever living situation you’re looking for, it’s here. And, while moving can certainly be stressful, it’s fun to be able to try out different situations to see what suits you best before you take a leap and settle down in a more permanent situation (if that’s what your goal is).

4. Learning opportunities abound

There are tons of ways to have fun and learn something new at the same time! As an added bonus, dorking out over something you enjoy is a great way to meet new friends and potential dates with similar interests!

Here are some favorites that I’ve tried or come highly recommended by friends: 

  • Education institutions 
  • Health & wellness organizations 
  • Nonprofits that offer free and low-cost training on a variety of topics  
  • Local historical societies that host tours and workshops throughout the year (the haunted ones around Halloween are the BEST!)
5. There is always something to do
Great Flats Nature Trail, great place to go for a walk!

It’s pretty hard to be bored in CapNY! When I’m feeling outdoorsy, I love going for a run or walk on one of the waterfront bike trails. For a fancier mood, there are some incredible places to get a little dressed up and enjoy great food and service. I also absolutely love live music and comedy and there is no shortage of that here.

In post-covid times, I recommend keeping an eye on the Funny Bone in Albany, to catch some pretty big names and local comedy talent. Open Mic Nights at the Comedy Works in Saratoga are also always a good time! For live music – the free shows in the summer at places like Mohawk Harbor, Central Park and Freedom Park in Schenectady and Empire State Plaza in Albany are always fun. And for a bigger night out, SPAC is always a favorite! Want to try something new? Some of my favorite new activities include ziplining and  axe-throwing — which are both super fun with “just friends” or a date. 

Why Gabby Loves Being Single in CapNY

Gabby and her nephew Julian

Ah, to be single in CapNY… I love this place and I think it’s an especially dope place to be single. I was in a relationship all of high school and  college. When that relationship ended, I moved back to Albany – where I was born and raised – and found a new love for this place and the people in it. My relationship with myself, and this region, is blossoming every day. It was difficult to narrow down the list, but here are five reasons I love being single in CapNY.

6. Affordability

In October 2020, I bought a multi-family home in Schenectady. The fact that I can afford to buy this place as a single woman is huge. I love being single and living on my own. Plus, I live within a mile of two bustling downtown areas – restaurants, bars, boutiques…whether I feel like riding my bike to grab a bite by myself or meeting friends, the location is perfect.

7. CapNY transplants galore

An influx of interesting, ambitious people are moving to CapNY from all over in crazy numbers! I swear I meet a CapNY transplant, someone who has moved to CapNY from another place, at least once a week. It makes for a dynamic, diverse community. People of all backgrounds are here for many different reasons and it’s one of the things that make this place great.

8. We have the best first date spots
Kayaking on the Mohawk

From a solo dinner on a farm, to renting Kayaks on the Mohawk River, to grabbing a local beer at a dive bar, there is never a shortage of first-date spots. Trust me, you’ll never have to take your new Bumble date to the place you took your last Bumble date! Stay tuned, Becky and I will put together some of our favorite first date spots soon.

9. Bored? Never

I’ve lived in three cities in CapNY in my lifetime – Albany, Troy, and Schenectady. Each city has a distinct vibe, a unique character, and different communities of people. I hear from some friends, especially single friends, who live in other cities that they’re “over” living where they are. They’ve felt they’ve experienced all there is to experience in their current city and are ready for a new adventure being single in a new city. I’ve traveled to places all over the world and I’ve never felt that way about CapNY. If I ever get bored of Schenectady (highly doubtful), or feel like I need a different vibe, I’ll just move to a different city or town within CapNY. 

Indian Ladder Farms
10. This is where I’m from and this is where my heart is

Okay, going to get a little sappy on this one…I was born and raised in CapNY. My entire family lives here and has lived here for generations. Being single isn’t equivalent to being lonely. In fact, quite the opposite. I’m surrounded by loved ones who I can always count on to make me feel loved and at home. I can’t imagine living – or loving being single – anywhere else in the world.

Stay tuned for the launch of Becky and Gabby’s brand, Capital Heart Connection! More singles content to come!

#CapNYRedAlert Profile: Norman Dascher Jr., CEO of The Hyde Collection

October 12, 2020 By Gabby Fisher

Norm Dascher Jr., CEO of The Hyde Collection

Closed doors, a $500,000 budget deficit, reduced hours for staff…these are just a few of the harsh realities that The Hyde Collection in Glens Falls is facing due to the pandemic. In this #CapNYRedAlert profile, Norman Dascher Jr., CEO of The Hyde Collection sat down to speak with ACE about its hardships, but also the remarkable CapNY community that has rallied around them.

The Hyde House, in Glens Falls

Norm, when the pandemic first started, what were the immediate implications on your organization?

We closed on March 20th. Between March and our reopening on August 1st, our team converted to virtual programming. For example, our education staff has been busy putting together updated website, YouTube, and social media programming.

The Hyde Collection Galleries

We haven’t had any lay offs. Initially, everyone’s hours were reduced by 50%. Then, we were able to get the PPP loan and brought everybody back to full time hours through the middle of August. The PPP loan just ran out, so we’ve reduced hours by 20% again.

It’s been a challenging situation and I really admire the creativity of our staff.

The Hyde Foundation is a nonprofit. What kind of impact has the pandemic had on its finances?

The Hyde’s Sculpture Garden

Two major fundraising events were canceled this year, which has impacted us enormously. We have a $500K budget deficient we’re striving to close. So, we reduced non-salary expenses by $250K by delaying exhibitions until 2021. And, we’re reducing staff hours by 20%, but have to raise $200K between now and the end of the year.

I’d love to say we’re 100% confident we’ll get there, but donors are being approached by numerous nonprofits. There is donor fatigue in the CapNY community, but we’re staying positive.

The Hyde Collection is open to visitors by appointment

Norm’s Silver Linings

It’s inspiring to see how well our staff has adjusted. When we reopened, half of our staff would work from home to avoid crowding and they’ve been able to adjust well. I’m inspired by the love people have for The Hyde and how they’ve supported us thus far.

The arts community in the Capital Region is remarkable. Creative organizations have been reaching out to one another and sharing ideas on how to get through it. There is a great sense of collaboration within the region that has made this so much easier.

Connect with The Hyde Collection
Website
Address: 161 Warren St, Glens Falls, NY 12801
Phone: 518-792-1761
FB / IG / YouTube / Twitter

Support The Hyde Collection and our other local creative businesses and organizations by participating in #CapNYRedAlertNov1. Click here to register today.

CapNY Small Business: Upstate Coffee Collective

October 12, 2020 By Gabby Fisher

Matt (left) and Kevin (right) talk coffee with Nick Furnia (middle) of Knockabout Coffee Roasters.

Sipping on a freshly brewed cup of their flagship coffee blend, All Day ADK, Matt Pfeifer, Co-Founder of Upstate Coffee Collective, said that if he had the opportunity to connect with every single one of the million people that live across CapNY, he would be able to spread the value of drinking ethically sourced, carefully crafted coffee.

Coffee & Community

Kevin with Nick Zigich, Business Lead

The small business venture started when Kevin Miner, co-founder of Upstate Coffee Collective, invited his longtime friend Matt to kru Coffee in Saratoga Springs. Kevin worked at kru for free in exchange for learning the ins-and-outs of coffee science & culture. He shared his knowledge with Matt — the science, method, and trial & error behind that caffeine deliciousness. Both passionate about coffee culture, they decided to form a small coffee club. VOILA! The Upstate Coffee Collective community was born.

The Pandemic & The Pivot

The community quickly grew. About 30 people a month were showing up to their gatherings all across CapNY to taste and learn more about coffee, but then Covid hit. They pivoted, developed a website and a podcast where they shine a spotlight on people in CapNY doing cool things through the lens of coffee. They also set up an online retail store with highlights of special roasts and stories of its origins, producers and roasters. Matt said, “So many hands touch coffee on the way to your cup; the farmers are making a living on this agriculture, and we need to tell their stories.”

CapNY Entrepreneurship

When asked what role community has played in the development of the business and concept, Matt said, “Other CapNY coffee shop owners have been very supportive and are happy we’re chasing our dreams. They support us and we support them. It didn’t take much for me to make valuable business connections. People are so willing to hear your story and learn about your startup. I believe CapNY is in its infancy for major transformation in entrepreneurship…what we have now is incredible, but I see the possibility of something greater on the horizon.”

Connect with Upstate Coffee Collective!
Website
Phone: (518) 391-5773
Email
FB / IG

Photo credit: Kieran Mangels and Nick Rovazzini

Want to learn more about coffee? Read their blog, listen to their podcast, and check out their YouTube channel!

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