keeping women connected - HERLIFE Magazine

® 

HERLIFE MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2012 HERLIFENEWYORK.COM 

KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED 

Interview with 

AndrÉa Demirjian 

the kissing expert 

cutting 

& 

the 

apron strings 

UALbany’s 

weekend mba 

program 

Christy Lee 

H ughes Loving Life

2 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 3

herlife | contents 

february 2012 

16 

welcome 6 

health 10 

spotlight 12 

beauty 14 

inspirations 16 

cravings 20 

recipes 22 

trendsetter 26 

mother’s perspective 32 

christy lee hughes 

After another show-stopping performance on the stage, three-year-old Christy Lee Hughes proved to herself 

that acting was not just a fun thing to do, but a genuine calling. Seriously? At age three? You bet! When 

you know in your heart what you were born to do, destiny has a funny way of plugging into your soul and 

leading you in the right direction, no matter what your age. 

home 34 

business spotlight 36 

working women 38 

spotlight 40 

tie the knot 42 

14 

22 

in the region 44 

scene and be seen 48 

WHY WEDDING DRESSES ARE WHITE 

Whether your wedding bells are echoes from the 

distant past, still pealing in your newlywed ears, or 

softly chiming in your future, one thing’s for sure— 

you will always remember your wedding as the day 

you embarked upon a lifetime of love—togetherness 

and occasional befuddlement about why your 

beloved spouse does the things he or she does. 

double chocolate raspberry cake 

Chef Dale L. Miller, CMC, WGMC, AAC, is the 

Executive Chef of Sperry’s Restaurant in Saratoga 

Springs, NY. One of only 66 Certified Master Chefs 

in the United States and less than 600 (WACS) 

Global Master Chefs in the world. He is a Fellow of 

The Culinary Institute of America and Chairman of 

the Alumni Board. 

4 HERLIFEnewyork.com


herlife | welcome 

It’s All About Hear t 

photo by kermit hayes 

for kermit hayes photography 

Never a truer statement is to be made. Welcome to the month of February. 

Traditionally a very cold month, it’s highlighted by a celebration of the 

history of great men who have lead our country, a day that represents and 

reminds us to acknowledge those we love, a month to honor great African-Americans 

in history, and the month to pay attention to our heart health. 

In this month’s issue of HERLIFE, you’ll get to know two amazing women— 

actor Christy Lee Hughes, originally from the Capital Region, who is pursuing her 

dream in Hollywood and is passionate about her craft; and Andréa Demirjian, a 

graduate of Skidmore College, a writer, radio personality and an incredibly interesting 

lady who shares with us the inside scoop on kissing. We also give you a detailed 

glimpse into the passion that drives the UAlbany Executive MBA program, ranked 

fourth in opportunities for women by The Princeton Review. And for all of us, but 

even more importantly because it is the number-one killer for women, we learn 

about what our local Chapter of the American Heart Association is doing to better 

educate women on heart health. 

My notes this month are dedicated to the many African-American women 

in history who have overcome great obstacles to make a positive impact. A true 

standout for me was Isabella Baumfree, born into slavery in New York’s Hudson 

Valley, who after receiving her freedom changed her name to Sojourner Truth. She 

dedicated her life to the anti-slavery movement and dictated her memoir, The Narrative 

of Sojourner Truth: A Northern Slave. She was a mother who experienced her 

son being sold illegally and escaped because she did not want her daughter to realize 

the same fate. She courageously went to court and won custody of her son, hence 

making history. She gave speeches all across New York State and the Northeast. 

She endeavored not only to advocate for abolition, but also for women’s equality. As 

a freed slave, she fought two battles—first to not be discriminated against because of the color of her skin, and secondly to not be discriminated 

against because she was a woman. 

She was courageous enough to stand and advocate for both sets of rights, delivering her well- received, now famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” 

speech in 1851 at a women’s convention in Akron, Ohio. 

Sojourner Truth had heart. She was courageous, passionate and determined. It is on her shoulders and those of many other great women in 

history that I stand, and am extremely grateful. May we continue to pursue our passions with all of our heart and from HERLIFE, endeavor to 

Keep Women Connected. 

Respectfully, 

read 

share 

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® 

Staff and Contacts 

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief 

Angela S. Beddoe 

angela@herlifenewyork.com 

Account Executive 

Emily Mulholland 

emily@herlifenewyork.com 

Account Executive 

Janine Robinson 

janine@herlifenewyork.com 

Editorial Assistant and Administration 

Julie A. Pratt 

julie@herlifenewyork.com 

Editor 

Candi Smith 

candi@herlifemagazine.com 

Creative Director 

Casey Jones 

casey@herlifemagazine.com 

Design and Production 

Todd Grantham 

todd@herlifemagazine.com 

Art Director 

Elana Bell 

elana@herlifemagazine.com 

Stylist 

Nichole K. Rigolosi 

nichole@herlifenewyork.com 

Contributing Authors 

Chandra Blackwell, Ann E. Butenas, 

Joanne DiMarco, Dale Miller, 

Candi Smith, Linda R. Price, Marilyn Wright 

Contributing Photographers 

Jill Richardson, Kermit Hayes, Molly Sittner 

To contact HERLIFE® Magazine: 

65 Long Alley 

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 

Phone: 518-580-0000 / Fax: 518-633-5102 

© 2012 by HERLIFE® Magazine of New York is operated locally by Beddoe Publishing, LLC, an independently 

owned and operated franchisee of HERLIFE Magazine, LLC. To reach national headquarters, call 913-402-6994. 

© 2011 by HERLIFE® Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced 

and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 

HERLIFE® Magazine is owned by HERLIFE Magazine, LLC and is a free publication distributed locally and 

is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected specialty stores, grocery stores, doctor and dental offices, 

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Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. 

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for 

the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback. 

SUBSCRIPTIONS 

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HERLIFEnewyork.com 9

herlife | health 

How To Identify and Combat Household 

Mold and Mildew 

by candi smith 

Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately recognized a dank smell 

similar to one you find in antique shop, reminiscent of things that have been hidden 

away in attics and basements for a very long time? Well, believe it or not, fungus growing 

in one’s home has nothing to do the length of time it’s been there. It’s all about moisture 

and the circumstances that allow mold and mildew to grow, often in a relatively short amount of 

time. 

First off, it’s helpful to know the differences between mold and mildew. Mold is a fungus 

that grows in a form that looks like filaments. It is usually fuzzy in appearance, and varies in 

color from orange, green, black, brown, pink or purple. Mildew is actually a form of mold 

which grows flatly and is usually downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts out yellow in color, 

and then eventually fades to brown. Powdery mildew starts whitish in color, then becomes yellowish 

brown, and eventually turns black. 

Mold has been proven to cause health problems such as allergic reactions and respiratory 

problems due to the toxins it releases. Mold derives its energy from food and other organic 

products, and its spores are released into the air. It’s hardy and virulent, and able to survive in 

extreme conditions. By the time a person smells a musty odor and is able to see the mold, it’s 

already cultivated into colonies with its spores. 

Mildew usually causes more harm to 

plants and crops than humans, but it’s been 

proven that the inhalation of mildew causes 

headaches, lung problems, coughing and a 

scratchy throat. It can grow just about anywhere 

that moisture content is high such as 

clothing, leather, shower curtains, paper and 

window sills. 

By the time a person 

smells a musty odor 

and is able to see 

the mold, it’s already 

cultivated into colonies 

with its spores. 

Both mold and mildew are the result of moisture, 

so it’s important to keep your home dry 

and moisture-free. This can be accomplished 

by using a dehumidifier, removing perishable 

foods within three to four days, or by purchasing 

mildew removers at a hardware store. 

Areas in the home that are prone to collect 

moisture are those where plants are grown, 

basements and cold areas which harbor 

condensation. 

According to the Centers for Disease Con- 


trol, individuals who are prone to allergies, who have asthma or other 

respiratory illnesses, or those with compromised autoimmune systems 

should avoid outdoor areas such as compost piles, grass cuttings and 

wooded areas. Indoors, they should keep their home’s humidity levels 

between 40 and 60 percent, and ensure that showers and cooking 

Both mold and mildew are 

the result of moisture, so it’s 

important to keep your home 

dry and moisture-free. 

areas are well-ventilated. If you find mold growth in your home, the 

source of the water problem should be fixed and the mold removed 

with a bleach solution of one cup of bleach per one gallon of water. 

Ensure that you open doors and windows to provide fresh air while 

cleaning, wear non-porous gloves and protective eyewear, and don’t 

mix the bleach solution with any other type of cleaner. 

Further recommendations for preventing and reducing the 

chance of mold in your home include using your air conditioner 

during humid months; cleaning bathrooms with mold-killing 

products; adding mold inhibitors to paint before applying; ensuring 

you have proper exhaust fans and ventilation; not installing carpet 

in bathrooms and basements; and removing or replacing previously 

water-soaked carpets and upholstery. 

Finally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes 

that since there are literally thousands of types of mold spores, there 

is no way to prevent getting them in your home. However, what 

you can do is control moisture so that the spores don’t grow into 

colonies. It’s important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 

48 hours to prevent mold growth. If you find that absorbent materials 

such as ceiling tiles or flooring have been soaked by moisture, 

replace those items immediately. Prevent condensation in your 

home (often found on pipes, exterior walls, floors and roofs) by adding 

extra insulation. 

And be aware of the many things you can do to control moisture 

inside your home. These include taking shorter showers to reduce 

steam; always using your exhaust fan when cooking; landscaping to 

ensure that water runs away from your home; cleaning your gutters 

to prevent seepage in your basement; ventilate crawlspaces while at 

the same time covering any dirt to prevent water coming in from the 

ground; vent your clothes dryer to the outside; use area rugs (which 

can be washed often) versus carpeting when possible to avoid mold 

growth where it can’t be detected; caulk windows and install storm 

windows to raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture 

condenses; and, increase air circulation by the use of ceiling fans 

and moving your furniture away from wall corners. ■ 

Sources used in this article include: diffen.com, cdc.gov and 

epa.gov. 


herlife | spotlight 

Go Red 

For 

Women 

Sulagna (Suzie) 

Mookherjee, M.D., 

cardiologist at Albany 

Medical Center and 

a member of the 

American Heart 

Association Capital 

Region Advisor y Board. 

by ann e. butenas 

It’s the number one killer of both women and men. In fact, it kills 

more women than the next five leading causes of death combined 

each year, yet it is something so many women never imagine could 

ever affect them. After all, isn’t heart disease most likely to viciously 

and unexpectedly attack older, overweight males who suffer in agony 

as they clutch their chests in pain before hitting the floor? While most 

certainly that scenario can play out, the fact of the matter is that heart 

disease is not often the loud and obvious predator we think it is, and 

when it decides to prey on women, its approach is frequently vague 

and nondescript. 

Dr. Suzie Mookherjee, Cardiologist and Board Member for the 

local American Heart Association (AHA) chapter in Albany, is very 

dedicated to the topic of heart health and stresses the importance of 

knowing the warning signs of heart disease, which are frequently, and 

sometimes unfortunately, overlooked or ignored, especially by women. 

“You don’t want your first warning to be your last,” she said. “I am 

big on the preventative side of heart disease, and I encourage annual 

physicals so you know your number for blood pressure, cholesterol, 

weight and if you are diabetic, your numbers there as well. Diabetes is 

not a friend of the heart.” 

While Dr. Mookherjee notes we cannot always control the genetic 

end of the spectrum, there are modifiable risk factors we can address. 

“One of the biggest enemies to the heart is smoking,” she commented. 

“Just by ceasing that habit, you can greatly improve the health of your 

heart. We cannot control the genes we were born with, but there are 

other factors in addition to not smoking that we can control either by diet 

and exercise and/or by the use of medications: blood pressure, weight, 

cholesterol levels and diabetes. The goal is prevention.” 

Among the most common symptoms of heart disease in women 

are muscle pain in the back, neck, shoulder or arms; generalized 

fatigue; restlessness; unexplained shortness of breath; radiating pain 

into the teeth and jaw; nausea, vomiting and just an overall feeling that 

something isn’t quite right. “If we learn to recognize these symptoms, 

we can empower ourselves,” Dr. Mookherjee expressed. “It’s important 

to arm ourselves with the right information and make any necessary 

changes in our lifestyle, because the good news is that we can prevent 

this insidious killer.” 

As we waltz into Heart Health Month this February, the AHA is 

on the front lines, raising awareness of heart health while celebrating 

the power of women to come together to fight this disease. Katherine 

McCarthy, Senior Regional Director of Communications for the 

AHA in Albany, is excited to celebrate this month with a host of 

opportunities to raise awareness and funds to sustain continued 

research to fight heart disease. 

“The first Friday in February is designated as National Wear 

Red Day. On Friday, February 3, more than 500 work sites across the 

Capital Region will celebrate in this special day by wearing red and 

drawing attention to the need for women to become more aware of 

their own heart health, ” Katherine said. “ We have some amazing 

local supporters of this special day, including SEFCU, CDPHP and 

MVP. The Palace Theater illuminates its front in red each year, and 

last year SEFCU, CDPHP, First Niagara, WMHT and Realty USA all 

lit their buildings red on National Wear Red Day.” 

It’s not just that first Friday in February that will promote women’s 

heart health. Go Red for Women is a year-round campaign that 

works tirelessly to actively promote heart health issues for women. 

For example, Go Red for Women has already enrolled well over one 

million women who are committed to taking better care of themselves. 

The hallmark of this initiative is its annual Go Red for Women 

Luncheon, to be held this year on May 24 at the Albany Marriott, 

where guests will enjoy a variety of seminars and speakers dedicated to 

heart health issues. 

“This year’s co-chairs are Denise Gonick, the Chief Executive Vice 

President of Administrative Services and the Chief Legal Officer of MVP 

Health Care, and Lynne Oliker of the YMCA,” said Katherine. “We 

anticipate about 500 attendees and the money raised through this event 

will go towards funding further research. In the Capital Region alone, 

we are currently funding $1.2 million in research.” 


Katherine elaborated, “We also have a local group called the 

Circle of Red which consists of about 50 women who support this 

cause at a high level. They are committed to heart health with this 

significant financial contribution and by meeting with the other 

members on a monthly basis for an exciting group activity, having fun 

and empowering each other. On the night before National Wear Red 

Day the Circle of Red will attend–all dressed in red–a production of 

The Sisters Rosensweig at Capital Repertory Theater.” 

As research efforts continue, the AHA is moving towards its 20/20 

goal, which is focused on reducing death and disability by 20 percent 

while increasing health by 20 percent by the year 2020. “It’s all about 

prevention,” stated Katherine. ■ 

For more information on the local AHA chapter, heart health and 

Go Red for Women, visit heart.org or GoRedForWomen.org. You may 

also contact Katherine directly at 518-869-4049. 


herlife | beauty 

Goin’ to the Chapel of Love, 

Potential Danger and 

Flying Bouquets: 

Why Wedding 

Dresses Are 

White and Other 

Wedding Traditions 

by chandra blackwell 

Whether your wedding bells are 

echoes from the distant past, 

still pealing in your newlywed 

ears, or softly chiming in your future, one 

thing’s for sure—you will always remember 

your wedding as the day you embarked upon a 

lifetime of love—togetherness and occasional 

befuddlement about why your beloved spouse 

does the things he or she does. But did you 

ever stop to wonder why we do the things we 

do at the wedding itself? How certain wedding 

traditions came about? Some of the answers 

may surprise you, but most of these traditions– 

just like love itself–have stood the test of time: 

All Dressed in White 

Prior to the mid-19th century, a bride’s 

attire was simply the best clothing she owned, 

in any color. Whereas today, the “layered 

look” isn’t something we normally associate 

with a wedding, a bride in those days often 

piled on layers of fur, silk and velvet, in order 

to convince her husband-to-be that she came 

from a well-to-do family. Then in 1840, Eng- 

land’s Queen Victoria stepped out in a white 

gown trimmed with orange blossoms for her 

wedding to Prince Albert, thereby becoming 

well-known not only for representing an era of 

emphasis on morals, modesty and decorum, 

but also for influencing the fashion choices of 

brides for centuries to come. From that point 

on, ivory-clad brides abounded, and white 

became the color of choice for weddings (and, 

ultimately, P. Diddy parties) the world over. 

Something Old, 

Something New 

Queen Victoria’s influence on weddings 

didn’t stop at the dress, however; the Victorian 

era also spawned the famous (and poetic) 

tradition whereby a bride wears certain items 

which, combined, are said to bring good luck. 

The “something old” forever links the bride 

to her past and to her family (even oddball 

Cousin Eddie, who took to wearing smoking 

jackets in fifth grade), while the “something 

new” represents a new life with a new family 

(weirdos included, but hopefully only 

encountered on Thanksgiving). The borrowed 

item, if loaned by an already-happily-married 

wife, is said to grant a bit of good marriage 

mojo to the new bride. The color blue represents 

a host of qualities ideal for a successful 

marriage, like faithfulness and loyalty—but 

also, by coincidence, matches the color of the 

The borrowed item, if 

loaned by an alreadyhappily-married 

wife, 

is said to grant a bit of 

good marriage mojo 

to the new bride. 

ocean, which represents an ideal honeymoon 

spot. And finally, the penny (originally a sixpence) 

in the bride’s shoe is, of course, said to 

bring the newlyweds good fortune—and thus 

the means to finance that ocean view. 


Groomsmen and 

Bridesmaids 

Today, the men and women granted the honor of standing up 

next to the bride and groom on the blessed day take on a great deal 

of responsibility: hosting showers and throwing bachelor(ette) parties, 

delivering heartfelt and crowd-pleasing toasts at the reception, and 

flying to the rescue in the event of an 11th--hour wardrobe malfunction. 

Originally, however, the guy who served as a groom’s Best Man 

was also required to be a partner in crime—literally (and not just in a 

“What Happens in Vegas” sort of way). Back in the days when it was 

more common for a groom to take a bride by force than to smile and 

sweat his way through an uncomfortable dinner in an attempt to win 

the favor of her parents, the Best Man’s role was to assist the groom in 

kidnapping his bride. In this scenario, then, the “best” part of the Best 

Man title was more about his superior skills with weapons than it was 

about lifelong friendship or willingness to help the groom build a new 

backyard deck. 

Similarly, the women chosen by the bride to be her wedding attendants 

were required more for physical protection than for moral and 

emotional support. Whereas these days a bridesmaid’s dress for the special 

day generally morphs her into a clone of her fellow bridesmaids, its 

original purpose was to morph her (along with the other bridesmaids) 

into a clone of the bride. That way, any evil spirits or jealous former 

suitors would have a hard time distinguishing the bride from the other 

ladies, thereby failing at any plans to kidnap or hurl stones at her. 

Bouquet and Garter Toss 

In ancient times—even before brides started wearing rhyming 

items as good luck wedding day talismans—a bride was considered 

especially lucky on her wedding day. So lucky, in fact, that wedding 

guests would tear off parts of her dress as good luck talismans for themselves. 

Generally, a bride did not plan to wear her wedding dress again, 

anyway (although unlike today’s brides, she did not have the option to 

have it hermetically sealed and preserved for eternity). However, as you 

can imagine, it was still moderately unpleasant to have it ripped bit by 

bit from her body by wedding guests. As an alternative, then, the bride 

began throwing personal articles—such as her bouquet and garter—to 

the crowd in order to appease luck-grubbing guests and keep her attire 

intact. (And to think that these days, we consider it rude when a wedding 

guest fails to RSVP on time!) 

So it seems that a good number of well-known wedding traditions 

sprung from the fact that what we now know as a blessed occasion 

used to be pretty dangerous business! Luckily, we don’t seem to have 

those issues now—the most dangerous element of most weddings is the 

potential for an injury involving high heels and a conga line—but still, 

it never hurts to honor tradition and possibly earn Fortune’s favor in 

the process. ■ 

Sources: aomdj.com, yourwedding101.com, wedding.theknot.com, 

articles.cnn.com, pibweddings.com and brideandgroom.com. 


herlife | inspirations 

“I want people to know that 

it’s never too late to pursue 

your dreams. You can be 

whatever your heart desires 

if you set your intention and 

believe in yourself. I truly 

feel that the only things in 

life we regret are the things 

we do not do.” 


photography by jill richardson 

for jill richardson photography 

hair and makeup by jennifer mccarthy norton 

for true grace makeup 

wardrobe by new 2 you, upscale, 

resale & more latham, ny new2youny.com 

stylist nichole k. rigolosi 

for style by nichole kristen 

jewelry by connelly’s diamond gallery, 

latham, ny, connelleysdiamondgallery.com 


C hristy L ee 

Hughes 

After another show-stopping performance on the stage, threeyear-old 

Christy Lee Hughes proved to herself that acting was 

not just a fun thing to do, but a genuine calling. Seriously? At 

age three? You bet! When you know in your heart what you were born 

to do, destiny has a funny way of plugging into your soul and leading 

you in the right direction, no matter what your age. 

All grown up, professional actor Christy Lee Hughes, Albany native 

and now Hollywood resident, recalled that special time in her life, 

before she could even read. She pointed to a picture of the “Hollywood” 

sign and her mom asked her if she knew what it was. Despite her tender 

young age, Christy replied with all of the bravado and confidence of an 

experienced adult, “I don’t know, but that’s where I’m going to go!” 

While her mom embraced Christy’s obvious enthusiasm with 

all of the motherly love required at the time, she didn’t necessarily 

contemplate the depth of Christy’s proclamation. It wasn’t until 

years later when Christy’s talent, ambition, drive and trust in herself 

proved to her mom that the bold statement of a preschooler was less 

a misguided fantasy and more of a glimpse into a wildly spectacular 

future full of possibilities! When Christy sets her mind on something, 

look out! She definitely knows how to make dreams come true and 

former visions a reality! 

Of course, Christy knew when she was just a little girl that being 

an actor was not something just for her; it would be her gift to the 

world. “My first play was a Christmas play,” she recalled. “I was on 

stage with all of the other little kids and was the only one who knew 

everyone’s lines. I was whispering them into the ears of the other kids 

who forgot them.” 

Ever since she can remember, Christy has been fascinated with 

Hollywood and instinctively knew it was where she was supposed to be. 

Even when many people strongly suggested that Christy should just 

pursue a college degree and enjoy a “regular” life, Christy held fast to 

her performance ambitions and was actively involved in the community 

theater and was also a cheerleader in school. She has always loved an 

audience and never met a stage she didn’t like. 

Despite her inner calling to find her way in Hollywood, 

Christy first made sure to pursue her academic career, initially at 

Schenectady Community College, earning an Associate’s degree in 

paralegal studies and eventually receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree 

in Communications from SUNY-Albany. At one point, she even 

contemplated the rigors of law school, but her sincere desire to fulfill her 

dreams of acting quickly dissolved those ambitions. 

When she finally made her way out to Southern California in her 

early 20s, it was as if she had truly come home. “While it would have 

been much easier to take that proverbial nine-to-five job, that never felt 

right to me,” she noted. “When I came to California, however, I felt as 

if I had aligned myself with my true purpose. To me, the performance 

is all about making others feel good. I love the fact that through my 

performances, I can somehow help people.” 

This award-winning actress is a member of SAG, AFTRA and AEA. 

She is not only an accomplished and gifted actor, but holds her own as 

a comedienne, producer and writer. She honed her comedic skills with 

the Upright Citizens Brigade in Manhattan and with Lesly Kahn in 

Hollywood. She is currently with The Groundlings. 

Christy obtained her start in the business over ten years ago at 

Upstate Independents (UI), a non-profit organization consisting of 

media artists based in the Capital Region. “It is a wonderful resource for 

anyone interested in the entertainment industry,” she noted. “I learned 

a lot of valuable information and met some close friends through my 

association with UI. After serving on the board as the Secretary, I was 

then named its Vice-President. Kevin Craig West, a colleague and good 

friend is the current President.” 

Some of the highlights that comprise her extensive and impressive 

list of credits include earning the Critic’s Choice Award for Best Actress 

for her role as Anna in Amerikan Partizan at the Edwood Film Festival 

in New York in 2007. She also enjoyed the lead role in Thoreauly 

Lost at The Lake Placid Film Festival in 2008, which garnered her 

the Audience Choice Award. From there, she played the supporting 

role of Janice opposite Academy Award-winning actress Melissa Leo 


of The Fighter fame in the film Predisposed, which was accepted to the 

Sundance Film Festival in 2009. Christy was also the principal role in 

the National IBM commercial, What Makes YOU Special and played 

opposite Thora Birch in the film, Winter of Frozen Dreams. 

Not one to rest on her laurels, Christy also wowed audiences as the 

lead role of Beauty in the national tour of Beauty & the Beast in 2006, an 

unforgettable experience for her and one she will never forget. 

By 2010, Christy showed audiences that she had what it took as 

an actor on a much deeper level in her profoundly moving role of a 

distressed mother in the emotional drama short, The Boy Who Became 

King. Through that role, she became associated with director Trudy 

Sargent and with Alyson Fouse of Scary Movie 2 and Bring it On fame, 

and is now producing with them a psychological thriller with comedic 

elements called Summerland, currently in pre-production. 

Also on deck for 2012 is What’s Hot with Christy Lee, her own 

talk show through Loyal Studios in Burbank about which she is very 

excited. Her natural approachability readily led to this appointment, as 

she met Bob Bekian, owner of Loyal Studios, on the red carpet through 

their mutual friend, Gordon Vasquez, owner of Real TV Films. Gordon 

had hired Christy as a host for Real TV Films, and once Bob saw her 

work, he enthusiastically extended the offer to Christy to host her 

own show. “We will cover all types of topics in this weekly show, “she 

enthusiastically noted. “It’s going to be so much fun.” 

Despite her obvious success, which still continues to knock on her 

door, Christy remains humble and down-to-earth. “I’ve been blessed, but 

I will always push myself to do more. I love what I do,” she said, before 

adding, “And my mom is my biggest fan. While she is always proud 

of my accomplishments, she is never surprised by them. I believe that 

if you do what you are supposed to do, remain grateful in the process 

and always do things with an attitude of service towards others, you’ll 

accomplish whatever you set your mind to. It won’t always be easy, but it 

will be worth it.” 

When not giving it her all in front of the cameras or on the stage, 

Christy loves to spend her free time hiking, running, playing with her 

adorable three-year-old Yorkie, Baxter, and just hanging out at the beach. 

She even enjoys being part of an adult kickball league. “I am far from 

high-maintenance,” she laughed. “I enjoy the simple things that don’t 

cost any money.” Sure, she’d love to travel the world one day, but right 

now, her focus is on her work. 

Even though she feels right at home in Hollywood, she still misses 

her roots in New York, especially when it comes to the people here. 

Christy has deep admiration for the genuine nature of the people of the 

Capital Region, a quality she confesses can sometimes be rather elusive 

in Hollywood. As one who was born and raised here, she appreciates the 

lifelong friendships she has developed along the way. “I tend to gravitate 

towards good people, and, sometimes in Los Angeles, friendships are not 

always as sincere as they might seem to be. I have come to appreciate the 

authenticity, values, integrity and loyalty of the people in my hometown. 

They showed me what a good person truly is,” she reflected. 

One local favorite whom Christy admires is Benita Zahn, anchor 

for WNYT. “Benita is not only beautiful outside, but inside as well,” 

expressed Christy. “She is intelligent, talented, successful and totally 

down-to-earth. I have watched her since I was a small child. Now she is 

singing and doing comedy and theater and I am so excited for her. She is 

such an inspiration.” 

Christy’s greatest fan, her mom, is also a dynamic inspiration for her. 

“She raised two kids from a very young age, and while we may 

have had our differences over the years, I have come to learn that she is 

a survivor who graciously taught me the core values of honesty, loyalty, 

love and forgiveness,” Christy reflected and then smiled, “You want my 

mother on your team. Otherwise, you’ll lose the game.” 

Before the conversation ends, Christy’s undeniable enthusiasm 

for life reminded her to tell me the story of when she went sky diving in 

Kauai awhile back. “That was the most exciting two minutes of my life,” 

she beamed. “I have never been happier in those two minutes.” 

By all accounts, it seems the rush associated with sky diving will 

carry over into her career, and I have reason to believe that her life will 

be the happiest ever. Even jumping out of a perfectly good airplane 

above a gorgeous landscape below can’t trump what’s ahead for this 

promising actor. 

“I want people to know that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. 

You can be whatever your heart desires if you set your intention and 

believe in yourself. I truly feel that the only things in life we regret are the 

things we do not do,” Christy emphasized. Here’s to a life of no regrets! ■ 

For more information, visit Christy at christyleehughes.com. 



herlife | cravings 

by joanne dimarco | photography by molly sittner 

For most women, the four Cs of diamonds are important, but so 

are the four Cs of dining—Chocolate, Cheese, Chardonnay and 

Caffeine. For me, the perfect meal includes fantastic cheese, 

followed by a little something sweet. An evening meal is accompanied 

by a good glass of wine, while breakfast or lunch includes the perfect 

cup of tea! 

We were off to a great start at The Epicurean Bistro & Wine Bar 

in Latham Farms. I enjoyed the best cheese platter I have ever had— 

bar none. Our server offered us a selection of eight cheeses. Each one 

was unique and tempting, but we settled on a Cantalet, a cheddar-like 

cow’s milk cheese, the Barely Buzzed, a cow’s milk cheese rubbed 

with espresso and lavender, and the Ossau-Iraty, an aged sheep’s milk 

cheese with a fabulous nutty flavor. We paired the cheese platter with 

a Clos la Coutale Cahors Malbec, and we never wanted the cheese 

course to end. 

Fortunately, the Salade Waldorf, an endive salad with blue 

cheese, apples and walnuts, finished with shallot vinaigrette, was 

equally delicious. It was fresh, with an interesting blend of flavors. 

The only challenge was to not fill up on salad in anticipation of my 

entrée. Thankfully I was able to show some restraint! My Porc aux 

Échalotes Confites, also known as Pork Ribeye, was unbelievable. 

The Ribeye is a cut of meat taken from next to the loin that has a bit 

more marbling, and that had melt in your mouth flavor. It was topped 

with a caramelized shallot confit that had me savoring every bite. I 

tasted a forkful of the garlic mashed potatoes and they were tasty, but 

the vegetables were truly the star side dish. There was one perfectly 

cut piece each of broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, squash, red pepper 

and mushroom, each cooked to perfection so the unique flavors were 

able to burst through. My companion chose an Acorn Squash Risotto 

and since there were two sizes available, she chose the larger one. In 

hindsight, the smaller portion would have been more than enough. It 

was creamy and delicious with a layer of acorn squash at the bottom. 

For dessert we were in for a real treat. Of course, I had to try the 

Crème Brûlée, but we also opted for a Key Lime Pie. The Crème 

Brûlée was executed perfectly, but oh my goodness, the Key Lime Pie 

was to die for. The only way I can describe the sensation is that when I 

took a bite, my whole mouth burst with flavor. By the second bite, my 

mouth was literally watering in anticipation. 

The Epicurean Bistro & Wine Bar, in 

addition to offering wonderful French 

cuisine, also has an extensive cheese 

case for retail purchase with a selection 

that rivals and even surpasses many of 

the area’s gourmet markets. 

The Epicurean Bistro & Wine Bar, in addition to offering 

wonderful French cuisine, also has an extensive cheese case for 

retail purchase with a selection that rivals and even surpasses many 

of the area’s gourmet markets. If you’re interested in becoming more 

educated in French food and wine, they also offer a “French Passport” 

where each month, a different region of France is featured both in 

the cuisine and the wine. This was my first time having dinner at the 

bistro, although I’d been there for lunch, and to meet friends for a glass 

of wine and appetizers. Latham is a great central meeting location 

and I’m happy to see The Epicurean Bistro & Wine Bar surviving and 

thriving there! ■ 

Visit The Epicurean Bistro & Wine Bar at Latham Farms 

Shopping Center, 579 Troy-Schenectady Road in Latham, contact them 

at 518-786-8272 or check out their website at epicurean-ny.com. 


Joanne DiMarco is a 

woman about town, 

professional networker 

and Vice President for 

Marketing and Talent 

Acquisition for Select 

Sotheby’s International 

Realty. She travels all 

over New York State 

and has a passion 

for the food and 

entertainment the 

region has to offer. 


herlife | recipes 

Double Chocolate Raspberry Sweetheart Cake 

Makes 10 to 12 Small Heart-Shaped Cakes 

or (2) 8” Heart Cake Layers 

Ingredients: 

2 cups flour 

2 cups sugar 

1 cup baking cocoa 

2 teaspoons baking soda 

2 eggs 

1 cup vegetable oil 

2 cups water 

1 teaspoon vanilla 

Raspberry preserves, as needed 

Fresh berries and whipped cream, as needed 

recipes by 

chef dale miller, cmc, wgmc, aac, 

executive chef, sperry ’s restaurant 

photo by 

jill richardson 

1. Place all dry ingredients in a bowl. 

2. Mix eggs, oil, water and vanilla together and whisk by hand 

into dry ingredients until smooth. 

3. Spray small individual heart-shaped or Bundt cake pans 

with non-stick coating and fill cups about two-thirds 

to the top. (Two 8” heart-shaped or round cake pans 

may be substituted) 

4. Bake in a 325°F convection oven until cake springs back to 

the touch or a toothpick comes out clean. Do not overbake. 

5. Let cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from 

the pans. Serve warm with warm Chocolate Ganache (see 

recipe at right). 

6. Slice off the rounded part of the cake so that you have a 

flat bottom. Place cake on a wire rack and spread with 

raspberry preserves. 

7. Ladle ganache over cakes, allowing ganache to flow over 

the sides. You may have to tip cake slightly so that the 

ganache will be even and smooth. 

Note: Cakes may be heated in the microwave in short bursts 

before glazing with warm Chocolate Ganache. ■ 

Chef Dale L. Miller, CMC, WGMC, AAC, is the Executive Chef of Sperry ’s Restaurant in Saratoga Springs, NY. 

One of only 66 Certified Master Chefs in the United States and less than 600 (WACS) Global Master Chefs 

in the world. He is a Fellow of The Culinary Institute of America and Chairman of the Alumni Board. He is an 

active member of the American Culinary Federation and its Honor Society, the American Academy of Chefs and 

was unanimously voted in and inducted as a lifetime member of the elite Honorable Society of the Golden 

Toque, the highest acclaimed recognition a chef can receive in America. 


Chocolate Ganache 

Ingredients: 

1 pound semi-sweet chocolate chips 

1 cup heavy cream 

1 ounce butter 

½ to 1 cup hot black coffee 

Up to 1 ounce liqueur (optional) 

1. Heat chocolate chips, cream and butter in a double 

boiler on low heat, whisking constantly until smooth. 

2. Add hot black coffee in small amounts to get ganache 

to a desired glazing consistency. 

3. Small amounts of flavored liqueurs may also be added 

if desired (such as Gran Marnier, Frangelico, 

Cointreau, etc.) 

Note: Be careful to not get water into the chocolate 

mixture because it will seize up. ■ 



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herlife | trendsetter 

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herlife | mother’s perspective 

Cutting the Apron Strings 

How to Raise Happy, Healthy, Independent Kids 

by chandra blackwell 

If you’re a parent, you know what it’s like 

to wish for more sleep, more time and 

sometimes more patience. But one thing 

a parent hardly ever has to wish for is more 

advice...or criticism. Turn one direction and 

overprotective (a.k.a. “helicopter”) parents 

are being criticized for shielding their 

children from even the most minor difficulty 

or discomfort and creating, in some minds, 

a nation of wimps. Turn the other way, and 

mouths stand agape at the concept of freerange 

kids, a term coined and popularized 

by (in)famous mom Lenore Skenazy, who 

allowed her nine-year-old son to navigate the 

New York subway system alone. No matter 

where you fall on the spectrum, you may 

Where is 

the happy 

medium? 

be wondering: where is the happy medium? 

How can you cut the apron strings in a 

timely and appropriate way, so that your kids 

grow up happy, healthy, and confident—but 

also safe? The truth is that most kids grow up 

way too quickly for a parent’s comfort, but 

with a little effort and some deep breathing, 

you can support your kids without “hovering,” 

and encourage their independence and 

self-reliance without leaving them to the 

wolves. 

Toddlers (1-4) 

Resist the Urge to Rescue 

As parents, we have a built-in protective 

instinct that can make it difficult not to 

swoop in and save the day when we see 

our children struggling. And sometimes, 

of course, that’s appropriate; if 

your toddler’s shoelace gets caught 

in a sewer grate and there’s a 

garbage truck coming, it’s probably 

best to do what it takes 

to get him out of the street 

(and out of harm’s way) as 

quickly as possible. However, 

if he’s merely struggling 

to put his pajamas on by 

himself, it’s okay to offer 

encouragement from 

the sidelines while 

he figures it out 

on his own, even 

if he gets a little 

frustrated. It may 

quite literally 

require sitting on 

your own hands 

to do it, but encouraging a toddler to work 

out his own dilemma can help him begin to 

develop a healthy sense of self-reliance. 

Big Kids (5-8) 

Decisions, Decisions 

Even as adults, we depend on others; 

very few of us, for example, produce 

all of our own food, manufacture our own 

vehicles or cut our own hair (more than 

once, anyway). So of course, your child will 

continue to depend on you to meet certain 

basic needs, such as keeping her fed and getting 

her to the doctor and to soccer games. 

However, at this stage of her development, 

she should not be too reliant on others for 

making basic decisions; while she may rely 

on you to provide advice or perspective, she 

should be making her own choices in many 

situations. As a parent, you can encourage 

more independence in your “big kid” 

by allowing her to make simple, everyday 

decisions on her own: which clothes to 

wear (you can intervene to make sure she’s 

dressed appropriately for the weather, but 

may have to turn a blind eye to some aesthetic 

choices), what to order in a restaurant 

or which of Kafka’s works best speaks to the 

existential dilemma. What’s important here 

is that she’s becoming more confident using 

her own judgment as she moves toward 

more independence. 

Pre-teens (8-12) 

Talk About It 

At this stage, your child’s worldview– 

and sphere of influence–has expanded 

well beyond the nucleus of your home and 


family. It now includes friends, coaches, teachers, other parents 

and perhaps an annoying celebrity or two. This extension of social 

relationships, while sometimes frightening to a parent, is a normal 

and healthy stage of a child’s development. While you will have to 

relinquish some of the influence you once had over your child, you 

still remain an integral part of his life, and can help him navigate 

this stage of development by keeping the lines of communication 

Show him that you’re interested 

in what’s going on in his life 

by talking about school, 

about his teachers, about his 

worries, hopes and dreams. 

open. Show him that you’re interested in what’s going on in his life 

by talking about school, about his teachers, about his worries, hopes 

and dreams. And as always, keep fostering age-appropriate ways for 

him to become more independent; for example, now you might 

occasionally charge your child with planning a menu and making 

dinner for the family, allow him to choose paint colors and décor 

for his room (see previous comment about turning a blind eye to 

aesthetic choices) or, if he receives an allowance, give him sole discretion 

as to how to spend a specific percentage of his money. Above 

all, continue to work together as a family, to give him a solid base of 

support as his world expands. 

Teens (13-17) 

Get Ready to Compromise 

By fostering a sense of independence in your child early on, 

you can help alleviate some of the rebellion that can occur during 

the teen years. And once your child becomes a teen, allowing her to 

express her individuality in appropriate ways can make her less likely 

to revolt. Of course you’ll still need to keep boundaries in place, 

but be ready to compromise on certain issues, such as personal 

style (which may require a new mantra for you: “It’s only hair… it’s 

only hair…”), rules and responsibilities. Though you should resist 

the urge to think of your child as the adorable toddler you once 

cuddled, a good many of the toddler principles come into play here: 

resisting the urge to “rescue” your teen when she’s trying to make a 

tough decision or dealing with the consequences of a choice she’s 

made can continue the effort you began long ago to encourage her 

independence—and make her better equipped for the “real” world 

that looms in her immediate future. ■ 

Sources for this article can be found: askdrsears.com, 

simplemom.net, teachersandfamilies.com, greatschools.org, 

parentline.org, cyh.com, noomii.com and nytimes.com. 


herlife | home 

The 10 Best Plants 

For The Busy Home Gardener 

by linda r. price 

House plants are fairly reasonable 

and will grow under indoor growing 

conditions. Indoor conditions 

may not be ideal, but most plants will 

adapt and survive. The basic elements for 

plants are light, soil, water, temperature and 

humidity. 

Light 

Plants must have light to survive. Low 

light is usually found when windows face 

the north and receive no sun. Medium 

light comes in windows facing east or west. 

These windows receive the early morning 

or late afternoon sun. High light comes 

from southern exposures, is intense and 

should be avoided. The length of the day 

and the number of hours the sun shines 

in the window affect the amount of light 

received. Light is also reduced or increased 

by buildings, trees, shrubs, air pollution, 

and curtains or shutters which restrict 

light coming into the windows. Learn to 

judge your plants’ health by observing their 

growth. Plants which receive sufficient 

light grow compact forms while those with 

insufficient light will be leggy with widely 

spaced leaves. 

run-off after 30 minutes. Judge the amount of moisture available to the plant by touching the 

soil. If it feels dry, the plant probably needs watering. 

Temperature 

House plants will grow well in the average home temperatures of 68 to 74 degrees and will 

benefit from a temperature drop of up to 10 degrees at night. In the summer, as the afternoon 

sun is considerably stronger and hotter, you will probably need to move plants farther away 

from the window. Winter temperatures are generally not a problem unless plants are kept in 

cold, unheated rooms. 

Humidity 

Low humidity can be a problem. Both plants and humans benefit from raising the humidity 

level. A humidifier is a good idea if your apartment or house is constantly dry and overheated 

from central heating. If this is out of the question, try placing plants on pebbles in low trays 

filled with water; keep plants above water line. 

Soil 

The plants on our list like either a 

sandy soil or an all-purpose one. Both are 

available in garden centers. 

Water 

Plants need water to survive, but most 

do not like their feet kept wet so pour out 


The Ten Best Plants 

1. The cast iron plant (Aspidistra Elatior) is virtually indestructible. 

The plant has tall, dark-green broad leaves. The cast iron plant grows 

in any light, needs an all-purpose soil and moderate watering. 

2. Spider plants (Chlorophytum Comosum) are solid green or greenand-white 

with grassy leaves; plantlets develop on tips of long runners. 

The plantlets can be left alone or broken off to give to friends. The 

plant looks great on a tall table or in a hanging pot. It likes low-medium 

light, sandy soil and light watering. 

3. The rosary vine or string-of-hearts (Ceropegia Woodii) is a smallleaved 

vine, purplish in color with tiny flowers (bright light) or mottled 

green (lower light). The small bulbs along stems create new plants. It 

looks best in a hanging pot, adapts to any light conditions, likes sandy 

soil and moderate watering. 

4. Dumb cane (Dieffenbachia) has variegated tall leaves, is poisonous 

if eaten and is fast-growing. It likes low-medium light, all-purpose gardening 

soil and moderate water. Place on a window sill for best results. 

5. Dracaenas have elongated striped leaves and are variously known as 

the corn plant, the ribbon plant, the gold dust plant, etc. They grow in 

any light, need all-purpose soil, like light watering and look fabulous as 

floor plants. 

6. Peperomias are low-growing round leaves in various colors and 

textures. Two of the most popular are “Emerald Ripple” and the watermelon 

peperomia. Peperomias like low-medium light, all-purpose or 

sandy soil, light watering and look beautiful when placed in a window. 

7. Philodendrons are large-leaved shrubs or heavy vines requiring supports. 

The most well-known are the heart-leaf philodendron, the splitleaf 

philodendron, the fiddle-leaved philodendron and the velvet-leaf 

philodendron. Philodendrons grow in any light, all-purpose soil and 

like moderate watering. The small-leaved plants do well in a window 

sill and the bigger varieties on the floor. 

8. Snake plants (Sansevierias) are another hardy, virtually indestructible 

plant with spiky, mottled leaves edged in yellow or green with 

yellow edges. They like any light, all-purpose or sandy soil and light 

watering. They can grow in a windowsill. 

9. The umbrella tree (Scheflera Actinophylla) has shiny, long, oval 

leaves. It likes medium light, all-purpose soil and moderate watering. 

Schefleras look best as floor plants. 

10. The arrow-head plant (Syngonium Podophyllum) has mediumsized, 

veined, dark or light green arrow-shaped leaves. It is fast-growing 

in bright light, but will grow in any light. It likes all-purpose soil and 

moderate watering. The plant grows well as a window sill plant or in a 

hanging pot. ■ 

Source for this article: The Lazy Indoor Gardener by Roberta Pliner 1976 


herlife | business spotlight 

University 

at 

Albany 

dorothy urschel 

Weekend MBA Program 

don purdy 


While you could probably assimilate countless reasons 

why you don’t have time to earn an MBA or any other 

advanced degree, spending just a few minutes with the 

professionals at the University at Albany’s AACSB-accredited School of 

Business will undoubtedly give you many more reasons as to why you 

should consider getting that long-desired graduate degree. 

Don Purdy, Director of the Weekend MBA Program at University 

at Albany, has such a sincere enthusiasm for not only the school’s 

highly-regarded program, but for its amazing students, as well. “The 

core of our program is executive in nature,” he noted. “Students of all 

cultures, industries and backgrounds have the unique opportunity to 

engage in lively interaction in a stimulating classroom environment 

led by top-flight instructors. Our classes are composed of lawyers, 

scientists, doctors, project managers, nurses and even music teachers. 

The diversity is amazing.” 

The all-inclusive program is the only executive-level MBA program 

headquartered in the area and is the value leader among similar 

programs in New York State. It is also ranked in the top five MBA 

programs for Greatest Opportunities for Women, according to The 

Princeton Review. 

To reach as many women as possible, Don is very active in the 

Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber’s Women’s Business Council, 

attends events sponsored by the YWCA and the Women’s Employment 

& Resource Center, and markets the program in such women-specific 

vehicles as HERLIFE. 

“There is a reason why we are being recognized for our excellence. 

We truly do provide women with the resources and relationships 

to ‘power up’ their careers. In fact, one recent alum shared with 

me that she was just promoted to Senior Vice President-Investments 

in her company. I’d say that was a nice return on her investment!” 

Don noted. 

“The weekend format provides for a very unique and distinctive 

structure for students to balance the demands of their lives while still 

pursuing an MBA. The students are in a cohort with other working 

professionals from a host of backgrounds and varying life experiences. 

This allows for continued growth, understanding and experiences not 

typically found in other classroom settings,” he emphasized. 

From the very first day of class, it is obvious that the Weekend 

MBA Program is very different from others. It’s inviting, uniquely challenging 

and professionally stimulating, truly catering to the needs of 

students who already have multiple demands upon their lives. 

“We have students that come from as far away as New York 

City, Lake Placid and even Montreal to participate in our program,” 

expressed Don. “One student in particular, who was transferred from 

Montreal to London midway through the program, still continued with 

us by traveling to and from London every other weekend. He was committed 

to the program just as much as we were committed to helping 

him complete his academic goals.” 

One of the most exciting aspects of the program is its international 

trip. Each July, the student travels abroad to experience, learn and 

understand global business firsthand. Past destinations have included 

visits to Argentina, Ireland, Hungary, Chile, China and Munich. The 

2012 adventure is slated for the magical and mystical land of India. 

While the Weekend program is rigorous in nature, the rewards of 

this 22-month journey are endless. Students, who are working professionals, 

have the opportunity to discover and learn about cutting-edge 


usiness practices over the weekend and immediately apply those to 

their jobs on Monday morning. 

“The courses are taught by faculty members who are very learned 

in their respective fields,” expressed Don. “They have extensive 

research in their specialties. Students attend class every other weekend 

on Fridays from 2 p.m.—8:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 

a.m.—4:30 p.m. The cohorts commence in the fall, averaging 25 to 

30 students in each class. The students’ average age is 40, with an age 

range of 24 to 62.” 

Dorothy Urschel, a 2009 graduate of the Weekend MBA Program, 

is a solid testament to the lasting and impactful benefits of the 

program. Although she already had an advanced degree in Sciences, 

she chose this particular program for its flexible curriculum that 

allowed her the opportunity to tailor the learning experience to meet 

her professional goals. 

When she began the journey towards her MBA, Dorothy was 

already the Director of Cardiac and Vascular Surgery at St. Peter’s 

Hospital in Albany. While she still holds that position, the MBA allowed 

her to do her job with greater confidence and expertise, while 

at the same time enabling her to expand her involvement with other 

aspects of the business. Further, what she learned in the program 

provided her with greater understanding of the activities of other 

departments in her organization. 

“There is a reason why we are 

being recognized for our excellence. 

We truly do provide women with 

the resources and relationships to 

‘power up’ their careers.” 

While Dorothy will admit the coursework was challenging and 

demanding, it was also a very positive and rewarding experience, and 

notes that it is a great way to open doors for career advancement. “The 

coursework combined theory and practice, and the professors encouraged 

us to incorporate real-world problems from our professions into 

our assignments and projects,” she noted. “Earning my MBA was a 

valuable signal to my employer because it demonstrated I was hardworking, 

ambitious and dedicated.” 

Even though Dorothy would wholeheartedly encourage anyone 

interested in pursuing an MBA to do so, she does caution that it is not 

a decision to take lightly. “A person has to be prepared to put in the 

work,” she said. “It’s more like a marathon than a sprint, so it’s important 

to mentally prepare for the test of endurance.” ■ 

For more information on the Weekend MBA Program, and to look 

at the schedule of upcoming information sessions, visit them online at 

http://www.albany.edu/business/weekendMBA_index.shtml or contact 

Don at 518-442-4964, at dpurdy@albany.edu, or at @UAlbanyMBA. 


herlife | working women 

Separating 

Work and Personal Personas 

by candi smith 

Over 150 years ago, Sojourner 

Truth proclaimed that she could 

birth babies and plow fields—and 

emphasized, “Ain’t I a woman?” The more 

things change, the more they stay the same. 

We still work at home, outside the home and 

everywhere in between. 

But it’s important that as you forge professional 

and private personas, you set clear 

boundaries to help create rhythm in your 

life. Fortunately, today’s woman has many 

resources available at her fingertips to help 

guide her with this duality. 

Separate your work and home lifestyles 

by using technology consistently. For 

instance, carry two different mobile phones, 

ensuring that only one is used for work calls 

and emails. It allows you to continue to communicate 

with necessary professional contacts 

throughout the day and frees up your personal 

cell phone for calls from family and friends. 

Many employers provide a phone to you for 

business purposes. Additionally, by dedicating 

a line to work calls, you can take a business 

expense write-off (if self-employed) for taxes. 

If you work out of your 

home, make sure you 

dedicate a space for 

your home office. 

If you work out of your home, make sure you 

dedicate a space for your home office. It psychologically 

helps you put on your “professional 

hat” when you need to have your head 

in the game. And it helps keep your work life 

from seeping into your personal and private 

time. 

Create structure in your day by using 

some type of planner (online calendars work 

great because they have reminders and notifications 

that might otherwise get missed on 

hard copy calendars). This allows you to have 

a set end of your workday, especially important 

if you tend to be a workaholic who has 

a hard time recognizing when the workday 

is through. It also keeps you focused on tasks 

that you need to complete. 

Try to keep a notepad handy at all times 

for when you have those flashes of brilliance 

(which usually come in the middle of the 

night!). This allows you to jot down a few 

professional notes, but quickly return to your 

personal time. Don’t fully flesh out business 


ideas at this time—just refer to your notes later to start the creative 

processes flowing. 

Create separate email addresses for your work and private lives, 

along with appropriate email auto-responses. For instance, if you know 

that during your workday you won’t check your private email, set up an 

auto-responder to your family and friends that lets them know you’re 

unavailable during working hours. Likewise, on the professional side, 

set up a response that lets your clients or coworkers know the hours 

they can reach you. Then be sure you are diligent about being available 

so you don’t discredit yourself. 

Be smart about how you conduct 

yourself on blogs, social networking 

sites and in posted photos. 

Using technology to establish boundaries makes things easier 

but some areas can get a bit stickier. What happens when you have 

personal issues that carry over into the workplace such as a divorce, 

death in the family or financial problems? It’s important to do your 

best to only bring your professional persona into the office. Otherwise, 

you might cause your boss or peers to lose confidence in your ability to 

do your job. Create a plan of action that allows you to tackle whatever 

you’re dealing with so that you’re not adding job loss to your already 

stressful situation. 

Avoid hanging out with gossipy colleagues. If they will dish their 

own dirt, they will surely dish yours as well. Many accomplished 

women have regretted being open in the workplace about their private 

lives and putting their “business in the street.” While it’s human nature 

to want to reach out and connect with others, you need to carefully 

assess who you can trust with your personal issues. But if you find that 

there’s no one in the workplace you can turn to, seek outside professional 

help. If available, your company’s Employee Assistance Program 

is a great confidential resource to use. 

You’ve probably heard the phrase “dress for success”—this adage 

still rings true. Sweat pants and flip flops are perfect for a night of movies 

and popcorn on your couch. But don’t even think about showing 

up to work in them if you want to be taken seriously. And keep your 

conversations and language professional at all times in the workplace, 

even if you cuss like a sailor at home. 

Finally, remember that sometimes things you do in your private 

life have a way of finding themselves being discussed around the office 

water cooler. Be smart about how you conduct yourself on blogs, social 

networking sites and in posted photos. And don’t ever bash your boss, 

place of employment, or your peers and coworkers. ■ 

Sources for this article were found at: profitably.com, 

bradleygauthier.com and www.wikihow.com. 


herlife | spotlight 

Andréa 

Demirjian 

t h e k i s s i n g e x p e r t 


“I 

believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days.” 

Who could forget that classic line from Bull Durham, sensually 

and directly uttered by Kevin Costner? And when it comes 

to kisses, celebrated author Andréa Demirjian knows all about such 

kisses…and then some! Her hit book, Kissing—Everything You Wanted 

to Know About Life’s Sweetest Pleasures, takes an analytical scoring of her 

own personal accounts and magically transforms them into kissable tales 

of wonder, lust, love and heartfelt emotions to which many of us can 

relate and for which many of us pine. 

This New York City native, graduate of Skidmore College in 

Saratoga Springs and former advertising executive who has spent the last 

12 years consulting her own clients, recalled how she accidentally on 

purpose became the author of such an engaging title. 

“If you had ever told me that I would write a book about kissing, I 

would never have believed it,” she recounted. “However, this book just 

came about after an amazing and unexpected kiss that led to some silly 

introspection on my part. It was as if that single kiss awakened the Sleeping 

Beauty within, reawakening my spirit and restoring my confidence.” 

That reawakening led her to pursue the quest of her romantic side 

while indulging her analytical side. She began to keep a spreadsheet of 

her kissing activity, but such precision for an otherwise emotional act was 

nothing new for this ambitious woman. And setting the stage for obtaining 

a kiss began years before she had scribed her book. 

“When I was in seventh grade, Spin the Bottle was popular,” she 

laughed. “Before the night of a particular party, I would draw up a floor 

plan where the party would be and designate make-out points where my 

friends and I would kiss the boys.“ 

Her calculated spreadsheet, then, came as no surprise to those who 

know her well. “I had columns on the sheet for the person I kissed, his 

age, hair color, eye color, how he was dressed, his profession, political 

preference and even who made the first move,” Andréa explained. “It 

was very detailed and highly insightful.” 

“If you had ever told me that I 

would write a book about kissing, 

I would never have believed it. 

However, this book just came about 

after an amazing and unexpected 

kiss that led to some silly 

introspection on my part.” 

It was very fascinating, too, and when she showed this spreadsheet to 

friends, they saw things in it that Andréa didn’t, or, no pun intended, had 

failed to read between the lips! “My friends saw trends and patterns in my 

kissing behavior,” she said. “This led to further insight into the process that 

allowed me to objectively learn something about myself. For example, 

when I was younger, I favored darker skinned, darker-haired men, but as I 

got older, I seem drawn to fairer-haired and fairer-skinned men.” 

Self-indulgent folly or fodder for a great book? Yes…and yes. Andréa 

figured she had stumbled upon a unique opportunity to teach others to 

analyze their kissing behaviors. While she initially considered crafting 

an article to pitch to various magazines, she broadened her thinking and 

decided she had enough to write a book, one that is not only academic in 

nature but is tempered by a very frivolous and fun ambiance. 


So, her quest began. She pursued the idea in 2002 and worked on 

it, gathering various data and studying the physiology of kissing, eventually 

pitching the idea to agents. By February 2005, she struck a deal. 

While this book primarily appeals to women, the guys love it, too, and 

her research included interviews with men about what they want. 

“What men want is really not much different from what women 

want,” explained Andréa. “They want to feel loved and desired, too. Men 

possess an equal degree of sentimentality once you get them to think 

about it. They will recall special moments, such as their first date or the 

kiss at the altar.” 

Kissing has been around for centuries, and it shows no sign of 

disappearing anytime soon. Sometimes, even a little dab’ll do ya! “Go 

for that spontaneous grab in the morning,” Andréa encourages. “Give 

“Go for that 

spontaneous grab 

in the morning. 

Give your partner 

something to think 

about during the 

day. Just because a 

relationship is not 

new doesn’t mean it 

has to be stale. Keep it alive with 

the excitement of unexpected kisses 

or lingering pauses on the lips.” 

your partner something to think about during the day. Just because a 

relationship is not new doesn’t mean it has to be stale. Keep it alive with 

the excitement of unexpected kisses or lingering pauses on the lips. Kissing 

is an intense and intimate connection. People crave that. Even as we 

age, our spirit still longs for such emotional expression.” 

When we are born, hopefully all of us are lavished with kisses from 

admiring relatives. As we approach our final chapter, sometimes a kiss 

is the last touch we will feel from a loved one. Then there are all of 

the kisses in between our first and last breath. Those are the ones that 

create such memorable experiences. Never give a kiss simple lip service. 

Instead, in the words of the author, “Kiss with enthusiasm and respect. 

Kiss with abandon and no regret. Kiss knowing each one counts towards 

something. And forever be in quest of kissing.” 

And once you have completed this kissing journey, Andréa promises 

another book on the horizon soon. As for what it will deliver, well, 

you’ll just have to wait and see. After all, I don’t kiss and tell! ■ 

Kissing—Everything You Wanted to Know About Life’s Sweetest 

Pleasures is available on amazon.com. 

Photo: Leif Zurmuhlen 

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herlife | tie the knot 

Bridal gown: 

DeAnna’s Bridal Boutique 

in West Sand Lake 

Bridesmaids’ gowns: 

They each chose and bought their 

own (in espresso dark brown) 

Hair styling: 

Jenn Kim from Swagger 

in Saratoga Springs 

makeup: 

Jennifer McCarthy Norton 

of True Grace Makeup 

Photography: 

Jill Richardson 

Florist: 

Central Market Florist 

DJ: 

Lee Waddell 

Caterer: 

Mallozzi’s Italian 

Schenectady, NY 

Cake: 

Mallozzi’s Italian 

venue: 

Ceremony - St. Mary’s Church 

in Ballston Spa 

Reception - The Canfield Casino 

in Congress Park, Saratoga 

Kelley Timothy 

by marilyn wright 



Kelley Marie Brennan is 33 years old, and is a Reading Teacher at 

Lake Avenue Elementary School in Saratoga. 

Timothy William Brennan is also 33, works for 

Freihofer’s, and cooks part-time for Bentley’s Tavern. They both live in 

Saratoga Springs. 

Kelley and Timothy attended SUNY Potsdam for undergraduate 

school where they met, and dated their freshman year at college. After 

going their separate ways at the end of the school year, they would see 

each other now and then over the next 11 years at weddings and parties 

of mutual friends. Finally, in 2007, they reconnected and began dating 

again, and have been together for the past four years. 

Tim proposed on October 8, 2010, but there was an interesting 

twist. One New Year’s Eve, they went to a party and played a game where 

everyone wrote a New Year’s resolution on a piece of paper, put it in a 

hat and passed it around. Everyone pulled one resolution out of the hat, 

read it out loud and guessed who wrote it. Kelley ended up getting Tim’s, 

and it said, “To marry the woman of my dreams.” In October, the couple 

went to a family cabin for a weekend getaway. The first night there, Tim 

gave Kelley a heart-shaped box. She opened it and inside was the little 

white piece of paper...the resolution that said, “To marry the woman of 

my dreams.” When she looked at him, he was down on his knee with the 

ring in his hand, asking her to marry him! 

Their wedding was on Friday, September 16, 2011, with a 

wedding party that consisted of a Maid of Honor (Kelley’s best friend, 

Amanda Johnson); a Best Man (Tim’s cousin, Devin Mahoney); three 

bridesmaids (Kelley’s sister-in-law, Kristin Ekstrom, her friend, Kristin 

Finn and Tim’s sister, Kelly Brennan); four groomsmen (Kelley’s brother, 

Craig Ekstrom, and Tim’s friends, John Waters, Brian Finn and Brian 

Borges); and two flower girls (Jenna Ekstrom and Kimani Castro, Kelley 

and Tim’s nieces). 

The special day started with all of the girls taking their time 

getting ready at the Union Gables Inn, which is also where the bride 

and groom, bridal party and their friends stayed the night of the 

wedding. It was absolutely beautiful and they had the whole Inn to 

themselves for the night! 

Since Kelley is a teacher, she couldn’t take too much time off at 

the beginning of the school year, so they went on a two-night “mini 

honeymoon” the day after the wedding to the Mirror Lake Inn in Lake 

Placid. During the school break, the newlyweds are going to an allinclusive 

resort in Aruba for a week! ■ 


herlife | in the region 

Calendar of Events 

NOTE: All calendar events must be submitted by February 15 for consideration in our April issue. Please include 

event location, date, details and contact information and email Sherry@herlifenewyork.com. Events considered 

for publication are normally limited to community wide/charity events or events hosted by our advertisers. We 

cannot guarantee that all events submitted will be published. 

February 2 

Spoon and Whisk: Magnificent 

Chocolate! 

Date: February 2 

Time: 7:00pm–9:00pm 

Location: 1675 Route 9, Clifton Park, NY 

Details: Delicious, yet temperamental, 

chocolate is a classic way to say “I love 

you.” This session will cover the essentials 

of working with chocolate and give you the 

confidence to create spectacular desserts at 

home, featuring instructor Chef Sue Hatalsky 

and on the menu Chocolate Sponge Soaked 

in Rum Syrup with Decadent Chocolate 

Swiss Buttercream and topped with 

Chocolate Fans. 

Contact: spoonandwhisk.com or 

518-371-4550 

February 3 

First Friday with Elissa Halloran 

Designs 


Time: 11:00am–7:00pm 

Location: 229 Lark Street, Albany, NY 

Details: Stop by Elissa Halloran designs 

on first Friday and check out funky designs 

for the body and home; great consignment 

clothing. Handmade jewelry and work by 

local artists 

Contact: 518-432-7090 or ehdesigns.com 

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival: 

Space Alien Invasion 

Dates: February 3–February 12 

Times: All Day Events 

Location: Saranac Lake Area Chamber of 

Commerce, Saranac Lake, NY 

Details: The annual ten-day festival will 

include performances, sports, dances, parades 

and two sets of spectacular fireworks above 

the world-famous Ice Palace. Kicking off with 

the coronation of the Winter Carnival King 

and Queen, the event proceeds with the lighting 

of the Ice Palace, fireworks, parades and 

performances, and culminates in the Carnival 

Slide Show and Gala Fireworks. The 2012 

edition marks the 115th anniversary making 

the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival the longestrunning 

event of its kind in the eastern U.S. 

Contact: saranaclakewintercarnival.com or 

518-891-1990 

The 15th Annual Saratoga 

Winterfest 2012 


Times: Various 

Location: Saratoga Springs, NY 

Details: The spirit of winter in the Spa City 

with a weekend of live music, special events, great 

entertainment and, of course, Chowderfest! 

Contact: saratoga.com/winter/winterfest.cfm 

February 4 

“Bein’ Green: Why Every Color 

is Beautiful” 

Dates: February 4–February 5 and February 

11–February 12 

Time: 12:00pm–4:00pm 

Location: W.E.B. Du Bois Center, 684 

South Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 

Details: This exhibit features the fanciful 

artwork of Sesame Street and Muppets illustrator 

Joel Schick. The proceeds from the 

exhibit will be donated to Berkshire County 

Kid’s Place, Pittsfield. The illustrations and 

paintings of beloved characters such as 

Kermit the Frog, Cookie Monster, Elmo, 

Gonzo, Miss Piggy and many others from 

the Muppet menagerie will be on display 

throughout the Center, along with some of 

the finished books and toys for which the 

illustrations were created. 

Contact: duboiscentergb.org or 413-644-9595 

2012 Polar Cap 


Time: 10:00am 

Location: Lake George Elementary 

School, Lake George, NY 

Details: Don’t go into hibernation—put 

on your winter running gear and join us for 

a different kind of race! The Adirondack 

Runners Annual Polar Cap race is four miles 

of frosty fun. Cost: $20 preregistered ($15 for 

Adirondack Runners members) $25 race-day 

registration. 

Contact: 518- 636-6789 

Saratoga Chowderfest 2012 


Time: 11:00am–4:00pm 

Location: Participating Restaurants in Saratoga 

Details: Come enjoy samples of chowder 

from 50 local restaurants in Saratoga. Once you 

taste them all, you can vote for your favorite! 

Contact: discoversaratoga.org/chowderfest 


February 7 

Herzog Law Firm Estate and 

Medicaid Planning Seminar 


Times: February 7–February 8, 2:00pm, 

February 9, 10:00am 

Locations: February 7, Courtyard by Marriott, 

11 Excelsior Ave. Saratoga Springs, NY 

February 8, Courtyard by Marriott, 455 Washington 

Ave., Albany, NY 

February 9, Hilton Garden, 235 Hoosick St. Troy, NY 

Details: Join attorney Debra Verni for a 

discussion on the basic estate planning documents 

everyone needs and how to protect 

assets from the costs of nursing home care, 

probate and taxes. Call to reserve a seat. 

Contact: Stacy at 518-641-0026 or 

herzoglaw.com 

Torso Lingerie-Men’s 

Shopping Night 


Times: 6:00-9:00pm 

Location: 55 Front St., Ballston Spa, NY 

Details: Back by popular demand and in 

time for Valentine’s Day gift shopping. Enjoy 

food and refreshments and complimentary 

gift wrapping. One nigh only discounts 

include 25% off any single item and 20% 

off each additional item purchased. Bring a 

friend and you are eligible to enter a drawing 

to win a $100 gift certificate. 

Contact: TorsoLingerie.com 

February 8 

DLG Women’s Seminar: Know Your 

Financial Options and Strategies 


Location: DLG Wealth Management, 6 

Executive Park Drive, Clifton Park, NY 

Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm 

Details: Women are making more financial 

decisions than ever before. In this complimentary 

seminar, learn about options and 

strategies to help you harness your finances 

and accomplish your financial goals. Network 

with other women in an interactive workshop 

and enjoy a light meal. Call for reservations. 

Contact: Wendy Elliott at welliott@dlgwm. 

com or Tonia Kelley at tkelley@dlgwm.com, 

or call 518-348-0060. 

Live Well ADK-Weight Loss 

Seminar 

Dates: February 8, February 15 and February 29 

Time: 6:00pm 

Locations: February 8 and February 29, 12 

Haviland Road, Queensbury, NY 

February 15, 78 Church Street, Saratoga 

Springs, NY 

Details: If you are overweight, lack energy, 

are addicted to sugar or in chronic pain, attend 

this complimentary seminar and learn 

how the Live Well ADK Diet Program promotes 

a healthy lifestyle. Call today to reserve 

your seat. 

Contact: 518-793-5555 

February 9 

Animal Protective Foundation 

“Tails of Treasure” Recycled 

Jewelry Event 


Time: 3:00pm–7:00pm 

Location: Waters Edge Lighthouse Restaurant, 

2 Freemans Bridge Road, Glenville, NY 

Details: This annual event features thousands 

of pieces of previously owned jewelry 

for sale. Everything, including fine, vintage, 

costume, handcrafted, silver, gold and gemstone 

jewelry has been donated by the public, 

and is priced, sorted and available at very 

affordable prices. Cash bar and raffle baskets 

also featured. You may bring gold and silver 

to be donated and melted down to the event. 

All proceeds benefit local homeless pets at 

the Animal Protective Foundation in Scotia. 

Admission $3. 

Contact: animalprotective.org or Kim Jess 

518-374-3944, ext. 119 

Williams Center – Skin 

Care Seminar 


Time: 5:30pm 

Location: Williams Center, 1072 Troy- 

Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 

Details: You and your friends are invited to 

attend an informational seminar on how to 

take care of your skin using effective prescription 

and physician strength products. Call 

today to book your reservation. 

Contact: 518-786-7000 

February 10 

Capital Region Wine Festival 

Grand Opening 


Time: 6:30pm 

Location: Proctors Theater, 432 State 

Street, Schenectady, NY 

Details: The Grand Opening of the Festival 

begins with a wine tasting, and then moves 

to the Apkarian stage with ‘A Taste of Italy’ 

featuring Andy LoRusso, The Singing Chef. 

Enjoy a multicourse dinner prepared on stage 

with wine served to you at your table! 

Cost: $75. 

Contact: proctors.org/events/capital-regionwine-festival-grand-opening 

or Judy at 

518-382-3884, Ext. 134 

Drue Sanders Custom Jewelers: 

Trollbeads Special Event 


Times: February 10–February 11, 10:00am– 

4:30pm 

February 13–14, 10:00am–5:30pm 

Location: 1675 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 

Details: Stop in for special offers. Get a 

FREE bracelet with the purchase of a decorative 

clasp; buy 3 beads, get a 4th bead free 

(up to a $31 value); receive $50 off a two-tone 

bead worth $250 or more; receive $100 off a 

gold bead worth $500 or more. 

Contact: druesanders.com or 518-464-9636 


Connelly’s Diamond Gallery— 

Valentine’s Day Trunk Show 


Times: February 10, 10:00am–5:00pm 

February 11, 10:00am–3:00pm 

Location: 594 New Loudon Rd., Latham, NY 

Details: Closeout jewelry trunk show and 

all in-store merchandise at 50 percent off! 

Refreshments will be available. 

Contact: Dennis Connelly at 518-782-0569 

February 11 

Clifton Park Winter Festival 


Time: All Day Event 

Location: Clifton Park, NY 

Details: Join your friends and neighbors 

during this day of fun and excitement in and 

out of the cold! There will be local competitions, 

winter activities, family fun and more! 

Contact: cliftonpark.com/winter/winterfestival.cfm 

or 518-371-6667 

The College of Saint Rose 

Camerata 


Time: 7:30pm 

Location: Massry Center for the Arts, 1002 

Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 

Details: The acclaimed Hyperion String 

Quartet will join the Saint Rose Camerata 

in a performance of music by Dvorak, Boccherini 

and Mozart. Described as “vivacious” 

by New York City’s WQXR public radio and 

“a single living breathing organism - bringing 

grand and glorious life to the music” by 

Classical Voice of North Carolina. Free to 

the public. 

Contact: strose.edu/concerts or 

518-337-4871 

February 17 

The Flurry Annual Dance & 

Music Festival 


Times: February 17, 1:00pm–9:00pm 

February 18, 9:00am–1:00am 

February 19, 9:00am–6:00pm 

Location: Saratoga Hilton & Saratoga City 

Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga, NY 

Details: The Flurry is a great winter weekend 

for dancers and music lovers of all ages! 

There will be dances, workshops, singing, 

concerts, jamming, performances, family 

events, storytelling, crafts and more! 

Contact: saratoga.com/winter/dance-flurry.cfm 

Winter Wonderland Week 


Time: Varies 

Location: Mt. Sabattis, Long Lake, NY 

Details: Presidents’ Day week is a vacation 

for adults and kids, now in its third year! 

Snowmobile tours and sculpture garden at 

Mt. Sabattis. Long Lake Winter Olympics 

include skating races, sledding races, and 

obstacle course in the snow. 

Contact: mylonglake.com or 518-624-3077 

February 18 

The Third Annual Mac-n-Cheese 

Bowl in Albany 


Time: 11:00am–12:30pm 

Location: Albany Marriott, Wolf Road, 

Colonie, NY 

Details: Mac ‘n Cheese is a favorite food 

of all ages! Come to the Albany Marriott in 

Colonie and taste 30 different varieties of the 

dish, prepared by local restaurants. Then, vote 

for your favorites! The proceeds benefit the Regional 

Food Bank of Northeastern New York. 

Cost: $15 for adults/$5 for kids ages 5 to 12/ 

free under 5. 

Contact: saratoga.com/event/mac-n-cheesebowl-40165 

Raquette Lake Winter Carnival 


Times: All Day Events 

Location: Raquette Lake, NY 

Details: A two-day event featuring small 

town tradition and big time fun. The library 

is open all day for warmth, but outdoors is 

where the action takes place. Look for events 

and games for kids ages 5-12. 

Contact: mylonglake.com or 518-624-3077 

February 23 

Power Up-UAlbany Weekend 

MBA Program Informational 

Session 


Time: 6:00pm 

Location: Clifton Park, Executive Education 

Center, Clifton Park, NY 

Details: Attend and information session of 

the UAlbany Executive MBA, ranked fourth 

for opportunities for Women by The Princeton 

Review. 

Contact: dpurdy@albany.edu or 

518-442-4964 

February 25 

The Winter Ball: Bond Shaken 

Not Stirred 


Time: 8:00pm–12:00am 

Location: Hall of Springs, Saratoga Spa 

State Park, NY 

Details: Join Saratoga Performing Arts 

Center’s (SPAC) Junior Committee at the 

Second Annual Winter Ball: Bond Shaken 

Not Stirred. All proceeds benefit the Classical 

Performing Arts at SPAC. Cost $65-$100. 

Contact: hallofsprings.com 



herlife | scene and be seen 

Herlife Holiday Party 

photography by molly sittner 

The HERLIFE Magazine Holiday party 

was held on December 14, 2011, at 

Saratoga National Golf Club. A grand 

buffet was provided along with drink specials, 

including the famous HERtini, and attendees 

enjoyed music by the Garland Nelson Ensemble. 

Ricardo Sopin and Iraida Volodina, professional 

dancers and instructors from the Arthur 

Murray Dance Studio in Saratoga Springs who 

were featured on Dancing with the Stars and 

are the current Arthur Murray World Rhythm 

Champions, provided a dance demonstration. 

In addition, Frank Adams Jewelers, Connelly’s 

Diamond Gallery, The Mirror Lake Inn and 

Marika Charles donated prizes to be raffled off. 

The proceeds benefited The Guardian House, a 

shelter for homeless female veterans located in 

Ballston Spa, New York. 


Co

keeping women connected - HERLIFE Magazine

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