# 1 Area Country Band To Invade Powers Park:

   Skeeter Creek will make its first appearance on the Neil Kelleher Stage this Saturday. The 7 piece Country powerhouse has been thrilling crowds in the Great Northeast over the past 5 years with their, 'In Your Face' brand of Country.
   The group now includes my favorite local female Country vocalist, Renee' Lussier. Renee over the years has performed at every major Troy event including: Troy Chowder Fest, River St. Festival, Troy Pig Out, The Uncle Sam Jam, and the Powers Park Concert Series. I remember the first time I heard her at the first Uncle Sam Jam in 2006. She was just 13 years old, and was brought up on stage by the North 40 Band to perform a few songs. Her immense talent delighted the crowd, and she was brought back multiple times to perform with her new band, Branchwater.
   Skeeter Creek is just such a high impact, over the top, pedal to the metal Country group, that their reputation as the 'best', just keeps growing and growing. Showtime is at 6 p.m. As always, there will be a giant 50/50 raffle benefiting the Central Little League, along with Tri City Valley Cat tickets, as well as gift certificates donated by Snowman Ice Cream. 
   There is a 'No Pet' policy in effect for each show, so please leave Fido, or your pet snake at home.  

Extreme Funk Down At Powers:

   I've been trying to book this band for the past three years. But they are just so darn busy, we couldn't get together on a date. 

   Like our local Refrigerators, this group has a similar reputation as the hottest party band in the NY Metro area. Check out their website or Facebook page for bio's, and general band info. Comprised of quite a few Berklee School of Music grads, this group is just so damned good. Tight musical arrangements, covers, original music, and the Wall St. Horn's --Wow! This is a don't miss show. 

   I've been Blogging quite a bit lately, and have a show at Prospect Park tonight, so I'll let you do the research on this amazing group of musical talent. Showtime on Saturday is at 6:00 p.m. There are no pets of any kind (except service dogs), allowed at the concerts.

   We'll be raising money for the 9/11 Memorial Committee this week, so bring your appetites, and a lawn chair for a great night of music with NY Funk Exchange --direct from Manhattan  -which you can no longer buy for $24 & some beads!

   Many thanks to our media sponsors, The Record, and WVCR, 88.3, The Saint for all the fantastic advertising this season.

  

Quiet As A Clam --I Don't Think So:

   The Standard Clam's will make their way to the Pavilion at Prospect Park on Friday night, at week # 3 of Troy's new Jazz series. Voted the top Jazz band in 2012 by Metroland readers, this group of veteran area musicians has been gaining wide spread recognition over their four years together.
   Playing standards by Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darrin, and Ray Charles, the band also infuses their own Jazz versions of popular rock tunes into the set list. The group is fronted by guitarist/singer Mike DeAngelis, of Hair of the Dog fame. Scott Apecelli mans the drums, Rob Cohen on guitar, with the eclectic Ed Tourge laying down the groove on bass guitar. 
   Showtime is at 6:30, with a 'No Pet' policy in effect for the weekly event. Festival food and beverages are available, as is a beer & wine bar, provided by RBC Jazz Club in Troy. Prospect Park Jazz is presented by Mayor Lou Rosamilia & the City of Troy. Media support and sponsorship is provided by The Troy Record, and WVCR, 88.3, The Saint. Info is available at, albanyjazz.com, & troyny.gov, or read more in Friday's Troy Record. Prospect Park Jazz is dedicated to Mrs. Georgia Urban --former Troy Record writer and Jazz enthusiast.

   FYI: Next week will be the final show of the short season. Showtime for the amazing Keith Pray will be at 6:00 p.m. 
    

Don't Go Changin --Rockin on the River Rocks:

   Rockin on the River continues it's stellar season tonight, with a first time Troy performance by headliner, Robert Eric -a Billy Joel Tribute artist. Robert's voice is dead on accurate in mimicking the voice inflections of Billy Joel. Backed by a fantastic group of musicians, the group promises to thrill fans, both young & and old.
   Tonight's opening act is solo performer, Rich Ortiz --recognized by many as being the #1 solo artist in the Great Northeast. Rich's 'white soul' is always a crowd pleaser. Show starts at 5 p.m. So join us tonight for all the fun and excitement, and come to Enjoy Troy.
   FYI: Beginning next week, Rockin on the River will be moving to Riverfront Park from it's present location.

See You On The Other Side My Friend:

   I try not to put personal things on my Blog, but a dear friend of mine passed yesterday and I need to say a few things about him. Gus Demars died in his chair on Monday, while just sitting there chatting with his lady of the past 37 years, Shirley Kelly. 

   He's been battling cancer for quite a while now, but stayed active with the Uncle Sam Day Parade Committee, as well as helping out with the weekly 50/50 raffle at the Powers Park Concerts. Gus served on the parade committee since day one, and was active in making people remember, and advocating for the Korean War vets. If Gus happened to enter the concerts while I was on stage with a live microphone, I would always announce his entrance --sometimes telling people he was the last remaining Civil, or Spanish American War vet alive. He always took my insults for what they were--me just joking with a friend.

   I used to tell Gus that when his time came, St. Peter would open up the pearly gates of Heaven for him quick so he could get away from Shirley faster. We had some incredible conversations over the 13 years I've been involved with the parade. I liked this man, I loved this man, and I respected this man. Like many veterans, Gus didn't like to get into details of certain aspects of war. But the stories he did share of his time overseas were fascinating, to say the least.

   I would sometimes call him, 'Cotton Hill', from a character on the TV show, King of the Hill. He never knew what the heck I was talking about, but would laugh, and raise a fist in mock anger at me  -cause he knew the remark was probably not a compliment! Gus and Shirley loved the attention I showered on them over the years, both from the Troy stages, and in this newspaper.

   The parade certainly won't be the same without him -same for the concerts. To his 8 children, along with my friend Shirley, my heartfelt sympathies go out to each and every one of you -- his family. Gus was hero in my book. I'll miss him a great deal.

Help Solve the Mystery - Support the Uncle Sam Parade:

We need you for two things:

1) To help support the upcoming Uncle Sam Day Parade.

2) To help us solve a murder --OJ may or may not assist.

Here's all the info:

What: Murder Mystery Dinner.

Title: Murder at the Wedding Reception  --performed by the Highlight Acting Troup

When: Friday, July 26.

Where: Italian Community Center -1450  5th Ave. Troy

Cost: $35 per person -tax deductible donation.

Details: 6 p.m. Italian buffet, beer, soda, and dessert. With a Silent Auction and 50/50 raffle.

So how do I buy a ticket Vito?

Just contact either Darlene Simpson ( 518 235-6533)/ darlenesimpson6@gmail.com, or call Nora Dwyer at, 518 527-1705

So join us this Friday for a night of good food, and quality entertainment --and help solve this whodunit. Help support the 38th Annual Uncle Sam Day Parade. Coming to you on September 15. Shirley Kelly or Gus Demars were not harmed in the production of this play!

Refrigerators Will Put The Big Chill In Powers Park:

   The gran-daddy of local horn bands, the Refrigerators, make their third appearance at Historic Powers Park this Saturday. Now in their 21st year of performing in the Great Northeast, the group continues to thrill local audiences, bringing them to a fever pitch with their rock solid, unmatched performances.
   Formed in 1992, the Refrigerators have become one of the most sought after bands ever to hit the local music circuit. Consistently voted 'Best Band' by many local music polls, the Refrigerators infuse funk, rock, and R&B with a driving rhythm section, powerhouse horns, and offer a kinetic stage presence. The result is something you need to hear and see for yourself.
   With their trademark high energy performances, they have earned  a spot on bills with such industry giants as the Village People, Average White Band, 98 Degree's, Joe Walsh, Government Mule, Sugar Ray, and KC & the Sunshine Band. 
   The Powers Park Concerts are presented by the City of Troy, along with health care provider WELLCARE. They are supported in part by Whitney Young Health/Troy, Snowman Ice Cream, Lansing Laundry, Beverage Barn, L& B Grocery, Advanced Auto Parts, Tri City Valley Cats, and the Friends of 112th St. Media sponsorship is provided by the Record, and WVCR, 88.3, The
Saint.
   There is a strict 'No Dog' policy in effect for each show, so leave Fido at home. This weeks 50/50 raffle will benefit the upcoming (Sept 15) Uncle Sam Day Parade. Deposit can donations will benefit Central Little League. Showtime is from 6 -8:30 p.m.
Make Powers Park in Lansingburgh your destination this weekend to enjoy this free show, with one of the Capital Regions most legendary bands. Join us and 'Enjoy Troy'!

Jazz Kick-off Tonight:

America's music takes over Prospect Park tonight with the first installment of the Prospect Park Series.
Everything kicks off at 6:30 with a performance by Groove Nouveau. Showtime is at 6:30 at the Prospect Park Pavilion. No Dogs or glass bottles are allowed/ Food & beverages are available. The series runs through August 9.

Crazy --If You Miss This Show:

   This weekend at Powers Park will feature the amazing talent of Ms. Courtney Shayne, performing a tribute to country icon, Patsy Cline. Since she burst onto the local music scene several years ago, this young lady has been leaving crowds in awe of her dead on renditions of the timeless music of  the country great. Anyone who has seen this young lady sing say the same thing --she's absolutely wonderful, and it's a great show! Courtney hits the Neil Kelleher Stage at 6 sharp this Saturday.
   Powers Park Concerts are presented by The City of Troy & Wellcare. They are supported in part by Whitney Young Health Center, Snowman, Beverage Barn, Northeast Shuttle, L&B Grocery, Lansing Laundry, Advanced Auto parts, Tri City Valley Cats, and the Friends of 112th St. Media sponsorship is provided by the Record & WVCR 88.3 The Saint. 
   This weeks 50/50 raffle will be supporting the Uncle Sam Parade Committee. The are no dogs allowed (except service dogs), and no glass bottles. 
   If you don't join us --you're Crazy!!!!!!!!!!!

Dancin For Dano:

   This posting is an open invitation to anyone who reads it. Joe Mele & I have have partnered with Revolution Hall at Brown's Brewing Co, to plan a fundraising effort to help out a former charter member of the local music scene, Dan O' Brien. That's Dan on the left, playing with Peter Noone, formerly of the 60's pop/rock group Herman's Hermits.
   He left the area some years ago, making his move to warmer weather in Florida. Over the years, he continued his musical career down south, both performing, and as a studio technician. About 6 months ago, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Needless to say, for someone who play's at an extremely high level like Dan, Parkinson's isn't the news you would want to hear from your doctor. Another old friend, Jack Daley, who went on to play bass guitar with Lenny Kravitz, contacted me on Facebook, as did Jim Madden. They had an idea to raise some money for Dan. Joe Mele & I contacted Carrie Harkin at Brown's, and the deal was sealed.
   We've put together a fantastic musical show to get you there. The Daley Brothers, Jack, Frank, and Joe (of Super 400) are reuniting for this special night. Emerald City is also donating their time, as are some pretty special musicians from around the Northeast, as well as NYC, who are making the trek to Revolution Hall. We'll also be doing a 50/50 raffle, along with giving away some gift certificates. Brown's fine craft beers will also be available. And if you do drink, the Rensselaer County Safe Ride Program (Netters Fund) will be available to those who partake, and shouldn't be behind the wheel of a vehicle.
   Cost of this musical extravaganza is only $10 --but, you can donate more at the door if you would like. So if you're not busy, and want to hear some of the best rock n roll anywhere, join us at Revolution Hall Friday night. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the music beginning at 7 p.m. I hope to see you all there. Cmon out and Dance for Dano!

Pig Out -Vegan's Nightmare This Weekend:

Troy Pig Out/Bacon Fest takes place this coming weekend, beginning on July 13.

The 2 day event is always a crowd pleaser with all the meat you can devour, as well as plenty of music. Over the course of the event, you can hear such acts as Albert Cummings, Stellar Young, Twangbusters, Moonshine Holler, Hill Hollow Band, Hair of the Dog, and the Graham Tichy Band. See Andrew Beams story in today's Record, or go to, downtowntroy.org for more info. No animals were harmed in the writing of this blog. Oink oink!

Rockin on the River Goes Funky:

In case you missed them at Powers Park last weekend, the area's # 1 party band, Funk Evolution will be headlining tonight's Rockin on the River. These guys are just a fantastic group, who don't fall into the, 'cookie cutter' mold that far too many bands do these day's. They cover tunes with precision, and in all the times I've booked them, they never have failed to bring the crowd to their feet dancing. Rockin on the River kicks off at 5, so bring your dancing shoe's --you're going to need them. Enjoy Troy! 

10th Anniversary Powers Park

Funk Evolution takes to the Neil Kellher Stage for the July 6 kick off of the Powers Park Concert Series. Showtime is at 6 p.m. And don't forget there's a Family Safety Program being facilitated by the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch, and supported by the Troy PD, Troy FD, Rensselaer County Stop DWI, and the Rensselaer County Sheriff's Department. For all the info on the shows, read the Record, or listen to WVCR, 88.3 FM, The Saint.
Absolutely NO DOGS or GLASS Bottles are allowed. Bring a lawnchair.

Don't Stop Believing -In Troy Events That Is:

The musical magic of rock legends Journey, comes alive at Troy's 'Rockin on the River', this Wednesday evening,  with a first time Troy performance by Separate Ways --the Ultimate Journey tribute act. There are many Journey tribute bands across the country, but there is only one Separate WaysThe Band.If you're ready to be taken on a Journey like never before, then July 3 will be your chance to experience it, right here in Troy NY. For more info on Rockin on the River, visit, downtowntroy.org

You Gotta Have Faith:

Troy's 2nd annual Gospel Festival comes to Powers Park this Saturday,June 29, beginning at 12:00 p.m. Participating in the event are,Bethal Baptist/Troy, Oakgrave Baptist/Troy, 5th Ave. AME Zion/Troy,Mt. Pleasant Baptist/Albany, Mt. Zion Baptist /Albany, Mt Calvary Baptist/Albany, Metropolitan Baptist/Albany, AGAPE/Troy,  & Duryee AME Zion/Schenectady. Choirs comprised of church members will be performing throughout the day, with the Heavenly Echo's taking the Neil Kelleher Stage at 4:30 p.m. Food & beverages will be available on-site, so just bring a lawnchair and enjoy. There is a 'No Dog, or Glass Container ' policy in effect for this event. Just another way to Enjoy Troy!

To Be, Or Not To Be --Depending on the Weather:

The Troy Civic Theatre has partnered with the City of Troy to present a production of William Shakespeare's 12th Night, on Friday, June 28, at Barker Park, beginning at 8:00 p.m.
Barker Park is located on 3rd St. on the corner of State St.. Join us for another diverse event, right here in the home of Uncle Sam. Enjoy Troy!

Rockin On the River Makes Sense:

   Rockin on the River kicked off last week, with a record setting crowd attending the popular concert series. This weeks performance by Talking Heads tribute band, Stop Making Sense, will offer up a dead on tribute to one of the worlds most popular bands of the 1980's.     
   The concerts are held along the historic Hudson River, with the stage set right under the Green Island Bridge. Ryans Wake & Browns Brewing Co offer up river view dining with outside seating, or just bring a lawnchair and enjoy. No glass or coolers are allowed.
The series is presented by the Troy Downtown Business Improvement District, partnering with the City of Troy, with the show beginning each week at 5:00 p.m.
Just another great reason to Enjoy Troy!

Troy Kennel Club to hold practice competition Saturday - troyrecord.com

Troy Kennel Club to hold practice competition Saturday - troyrecord.com

Join us this Saturday, June 22, at the Knickerbacker Ice Rink Facility. All the info on this event is at your fingertips. Just click on the link.  Another great way to Enjoy Troy! Woof Woof

Troy Events Alert --Aquanett Kicks Off Rockin on the River:

  80's Hair Tribute band, Aquanett kicks off the 2013 Rockin on the River schedule tomorrow night,June 19, beginning at 5 p.m., down under --the Green Island Bride that is! Rockin on the River is another great way to Enjoy Troy each and every Wednesday evening. Free music, great atmosphere, and a well managed, trouble free event, equals a great time. Sit on the decks at Ryans Wake, or Brown's Brewing Company for a cold drink or some fine food, overlooking the Historic Hudson River. Or stop into Jose Malones for some Mexican fare, or one of their incredible frozen Margarita's. There's also a beer truck on site in case you just want to wade through the crowd, or just sit in a lawn-chair. 
    Aquanett is an incredible group of musicians, covering the classics of the 80's & 90's, with dead-on precision and accuracy. I've done numerous shows with them over the years, and they never fail to please. The weekly series is managed, and put together by the Troy Downtown Business Improvement District, with Executive Director Elizabeth Young, and her staff doing an outstanding job in developing the series into a must see, destination event. So join us tomorrow for the kick off to another great season of Rockin on the River. 
   One more thing --Troy has quite a few other bars and  fine restaurants. Take the time after the shows to explore everything Troy has to offer. 
    

River St. Festival -We're Havin a Party:

    Troy's kickoff to the 2013 event season kicks off this Saturday, June 15, with the 9th Annual, River St Arts Festival.
Three stages of music, food, arts & crafts, magic and more will be featured in this celebration, held at Monument Square in Historic Downtown Troy.
Stage 1 --located at 2nd St. & Broadway
10:30 --Rich Ortiz --White Soul
12:00 --Jacomo --R&B /Funk
1:30 --- Emerald City --Classic Rock
3:30 --- SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY & THE ASBURY JUKES

Stage 2 --located at State & River St.
10:45 --Holly & Evan
11:45 --Mike Thomas
12:45 --Molly Durnin
1:45  -- Maurizio
2:45 --  Erin Harkes

Stage 3 --by the Arts Center
ALL CHILDRENS ACTS

So bring your appetite, and bring your stamina --cause it's gonna be a long day. Event opens at 10 a.m.

Lansingburgh Fundraisers:

One thing is for sure about the Lansingburgh community. Whenever someone is in need of help, people just seem to come together to help them out. There's a couple of fundraisers planned  next weekend, for two long time residents of the 'Burgh,  to do just that.
On Thursday, May 30th, there is a Lasagna Dinner planned for Mike Harrison. Mike suffered two brain aneurysms on April 11th, and then endured more than 9 hours of surgery to save his life. Needless to say, Mike isn't doing to well right now. Having worked with Mike on several projects over the years, I can tell you he's alway's willing to help out with any project that benefits the 'Burgh.  His medical bills are going to be astronomical, so a few of his friends have stepped up to ease the burden. Here's the info you'll need to help Mike.
What: Harrison Fundraiser
Where: Veterans of Lansingburgh -777 1st Ave.
Cost: $10 suggested donation.
Contact: Call 795-4854, or donate online at, http://www.gofundme.com/2nb39c\
When: Thursday, May 30, from 4:30 -8 p.m.
Lasagna dinner, meat or meatless, salad & bread, available for eat in or take out. Please pre-order large orders by calling ahead..

Another fundraiser will be held the following day to help out another longtime  member of the 'Burgh.. Mike Malone was injured in a pretty serious fall, earlier this Spring, and will be out of work for months -if not longer. Mike is another guy who has always given back to his community. Now Mike could use our help. 
Here's the info you'll need:
What: Mike Malone Fundraiser
Where: All Troy Club, 538 2nd Ave.
When: Saturday, June 1, 3 p.m. to ???????
Cost: $20 suggested donation.
Contact Info: Mike & Sue Ryan /701-0545, or, Jim & Ellen Barrett / 470-3023.
Join us for a fun time, great food, raffles, 50/50, and music by DJ's extrordinare, Jim Barrett and Tim McDonough.

Please join us and show your support..

Something to do this Weekend:

For those of you looking for something fun to do this weekend, come on down to the Knickerbacker Field for the 2nd Annual, Agape Church Carnival. All ride passes are only $15.00, with food & beverages available. The carnival is open on Friday from 6 - 10 p.m., Saturday 1
p.m. - 10 p.m., and Sunday from 1 -5 p.m. Contact Rev. Anthony Lewis at, 813 -8840 for additional info.

Hey--I Thought It Said, Give Me Liberty:

   "Give me Liberty, or Give Me Death." Somewhere along the line, that message has gotten lost in today's political system. Everywhere you turn there's a new tax, regulation, ordinance, and violation of our Civil Rights, being force-fed to us by elected officials. 
   
   It brings to mind a line from an early 70's song, 'Do this don't do that can't you read the sign's." How dare any public official tell me what I can, and should eat, or how much I can drink at one time. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is way out of control if you ask me. His Socialistic attempts to regulate a persons intake of soda is a violation of every one's Civil Liberties.  Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Milton Tingling deserves quite a bit of credit for overturning this, 'Nanny Law', before it began financially hurting businesses, and manufacturers of the multiple sugary drinks on the market.  I myself prefer unsweetened  and drink soda only on occasion.  What gives any member of government the right to tell me how much I can drink, if I choose to purchase a large soda. It's all about personal choice being America is still somewhat of a Democracy  --isn't it?

   His attack on smokers is another abuse of power. If you are dumb enough to smoke, so be it --it's your choice. The government has become accustomed to picking smokers pockets for tax revenue.  A police officer friend of mine from Manhattan stated to me that,  " a pack of smokes in NYC cost more than a bump of crack." Now Bloomberg is trying to ban the display of cigarettes, attempting to make shop owners hide them under the counter. I don't know if any of you have ever been in a bodega in  New York City, but the first thing you see when you walk in is usually a glass case or three, full of crack pipes, and other assorted paraphernalia. Get what I'm saying here? 

   When and where will it stop? How far will they, and can they go? They always say, 'it's for your own good'. Restaurants now must display calorie counts on menu's. Businesses like McDonald's are vilified for selling their product. I haven't eaten there myself since 1975, but no one told me stop eating fast food -- I made my OWN choice. Which is the point I'm trying to make here. That people should have the right to make their own personal choice, and that government -federal, state, and local should keep their damn noses out of what we choose to eat, smoke, drink, or whatever. Enough is enough.

   'We hold these truth's to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness'. The Constitution --some of our politicians should read it for the Articles! 

   

Soul Food For the Soul:

Everybody needs a bit of Soul --Soul Food that is! If you happen to get the urge for some, the Agape Apolistic Church of Deliverance Community Outreach Dinner & A Service is ready to provide it.
On April 7, beginning at 12pm, take a ride down to 146 1st St for a  taste of home cooking. Choose from either a roast turkey & dressing dinner, or Bar-B-Q chicken with corn bread. Side's include potato sald, mac salad, collard greens, string beans mac n cheese, & sweet potatoes. Desert includes chocolate cake, lemon cake, and my favorite, sweet potato pie --yeah baby!
This community event is FREE ***FREE ***FREE. Everyone is encouraged to bring the entire family. So join come and enjoy a wonderful day of worship - music, food, fellowship & fun. The church is not looking for money to enjoy this event, but I'm sure they wouldn't mind a donation, if you can afford it.
'Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips: I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than necessary food. --JOB 23:12

Remember, Sunday, April 7, at 12 p.m., at the Agape Church --146 First St.  Say hello to my buddy Rev. Anthony Lewis, and tell him Vito sent you. 

Easter Bunny Spotted in Lansingburgh:

I just received a call that the Easter Bunny was spotted running the bike trail in the 'Burgh. He was last seen chasing some woman, in an attempt to grab her Easter Basket full of goodies. If you happen to see him hopping around, tell him to make sure he's on time for Lansingburgh's annual Easter Egg Hunt.

This years event returns to Historic Powers Park, located at 420 2nd Ave. in the 'Burgh. All the fun starts at 12pm, on March 30. It is open for children who reside in Troy, ages 1-10 years old. There will be plenty of candy hidden around the park so every child leaves with some sweet treats, and a smile on their face. 

The event will also offer face painting, and egg coloring for the children to enjoy. If you have any questions, feel free to call me at, 279-7162.
Follow The Record for more info.

Earth Day Meeting Scheduled:

The City of Troy will be hosting an Earth Day informational meeting for interested groups on Monday, March 25, 6:30 p.m., in Conference Room A, at City Hall. This years Earth Day, city wide cleanup will take place on Saturday, April 20. If you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns, give me a call at, 279-7162. Hope to see all of our neighborhoods represented on Monday evening.

Tiger Woods Spotted Getting Season Pass At Frear Park:

Now that I've got your attention -- Mayor Rosamilia has announced that Frear Park Golf Course season passes, along with resident ID cards are now available at the new and improved Pro Shop. The passes are available thru Thursday, from 10 a.m. till 2 p.m.
"The city is ready to tee off another season at Frear Park, after doing many improvements to both the golf course, and pro shop. We encourage all resident, and non-resident golfers to join us this season," said Mayor Rosamilia.
For any additional information, contact Larry Reilly at the golf course at, 270-4553

NEWS ALERT -- SNOWMAN OPENS TOMORROW:

   Forget the diets tomorrow folks, cause the Snowman, one of Troy's true destination locations, opens for the season, Saturday, March 9th, at 12 noon. 

   Owner John Murphy, is one of those quiet hero's of the community. He and his wife Christine appreciate the fact that our community supports their Landmark establishment, and give back to us in many way's --year after year. They were early believers of the Powers Park Concerts, and have been a valued sponsor for the past 8 seasons. They sponsor Lansingburgh youth baseball, soccer, football, as well as pretty much every fundraising event that's organized in this neck of the woods.

   Whenever they donate a few gift certificates for the weekly concert raffles, the lucky winners always smile and say, "ohhh -Snowman -yes! The key to their continued success, is that they never break the Golden Rule, which has made the Snowman so popular for 50+ years  -- serve  people TOP quality ice cream at a reasonable price, and treat them with respect. Their product is unmatched by anyone. Just look at the long lines, stretching around the corner night after night. You just don't get that kind of repeat, multi-generational patronage if you're not serving the best. Heck, there's plenty of places to get ice cream during the summer. But judging by the masses that flock to our community to get their ice cream, you'd have to say, Snowman is the best! Many thanks to the Murphy's for being a very big part of the fabric of what makes the 'Burgh a special place.

   You know, Lansingburgh is blessed to have a few, true destination businesses. Longtime establishments like Verdile's (the granddaddy), Testo's, & Jimmy's Pizza, bring people from all over the Capital District. New places like O'Brien's on 5th, 41 Sport's Bar on 112th, and the Infinity Cafe on 2nd are defining their own identities, by offering some great food, as does Chef Donnie Graham, of Graham's Lansingburgh Cafe on 5th & 112th. Bill Fisher keeps rising like the Phoenix, with his Willy's Hot Dogs on 5th -- and they just put in a new pizza oven.  To this I say yay.  Independents like Chubby's, have taken on the big sub places, and have been making a dent. Plus, in my opinion, Chubby's 'Top Rounder' has been the only TRUE recreation of the Mike Subb's, Neba -from years gone by.

   So take the time this weekend to make the drive up to 114th & 5th Ave, grab an ice cream from the Snowman, then go wash it down with some veal parm from Verdile's or Testo's!

Have You Seen This Woman?

   It's a story we hear all to often these days. A young woman or man leaves their home, usually talking or texting, on their way to enjoy their evening with friends, or whoever. Time passes, and they don't return - for whatever reason. 

   You've probably seen this on the news, or read it in the Record over the past few days. I happened to notice it on Facebook yesterday, on Mickey Durivage's page. Mick grew up in Waterford  and put out an appeal with his Friends, to share the missing poster with their Friends on the social network. So I'm posting it here, with the hope that someone who reads my blog ramblings might have seen this young lady, and can offer some help to the police, and her family. 

   I don't know Anna or her family, but as a human being and parent, I can only imagine the pain of uncertainty her family and friends are going through. Please take the time to Share this with your Friends on Facebook, and with e-mails.

We can only hope and pray for the best outcome.

Welcome to the Neighborhood Mr. Formal Wear:

   Attention Mark Wojcik, your powder blue tuxedo is ready! Mr. Formal Wear has opened it's doors at 360 5th Ave. In case you don't know, it's where Northeast Shuttle operates, and where I used to hold our Better 'Burgh Club meetings. 
   Owner, Justin Wilcox apparently has a big heart, and wants to do something for the community. He realizes that not everyone can afford to rent a tux for their big prom date, so he's opening up his heart by offering a free tux to 2 students, who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford one. Now prom night is a big deal in a teens life, and Justin feels that no student should miss this life experience because of  finances --or lack of. As a new business owner, he wishes he could do more, but to me, giving 2 at need teens this opportunity is a pretty big gesture on his part. As anyone who is in business knows, money is tight --especially when you're just getting it off the ground. But Justin wanted to do something for the neighborhood, which I know will support him in a big way in the long term.
   The risk with doing something like this, is there's always someone looking to get something for nothing --even if they can afford the price of a rental. In the past, I've seen families go from place to place for free Christmas gifts, driving a new SUV, and talking on an I-phone.  So I'm asking all of you, to let Justin know, if there's someone TRULY in need, who could use this offer. No kid should have to miss a memorable experience like their prom. Give Justin a call at 235-5511 to get the ball rolling. Or e-mail him at, justin@mrformalwear.com
   So if your planning a wedding, or any special occasion that requires a Tux, keep your business local, and give our latest entry into the Lansingburgh business community a try. Remember folks, your dollars help keep our neighborhood healthy and vibrant, and empty storefronts are a recipe for trouble.
   Welcome to the neighborhood Mr. Formal Wear!