Blogging the Avenue Albany-The E Newsletter

Avenue goes blue to prevent cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 20:29:00 +0000

Each year, 10,000 New Yorkers are diagnosed with colon or rectum and 3,500 die from the disease. People over 50 are at increased risk. However, with early screening, more than half of these cases could be prevented. March is colorectal cancer awareness month and to promote screenings, cities in the Capital Region will be illuminated and decorated in blue and free take-home colon screening kits will be distributed. Central Avenue businesses will be participating, including PriceChopper, Planned Parenthood, and Bob and Ron's Fish Fry. “The Businesses of Central Avenue in Albany are proud to be working together with so many great partners to help spread the message of colorectal cancer awareness," says Anthony J. Capece, Jr., Executive Director of the Central Business Improvement District. "The New York State Department of Health has created a very proactive life saving screening program and we are honored to offer our help to deliver the message to our community and the region. Many of our businesses are actively promoting this awareness effort and many are also hosting events. We encourage residents to find a Central Avenue business that is hosting an event and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.” The Cancer Services Program of Albany also provides free and low-cost screening for breast, colon, and cervical cancer throughout the year. For more information about the program, visit their website at: http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/services/partnerships/albany.htm or call them at 454-4055.

Shining Rainbow wins national dining competition

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 18:16:00 +0000

Shining Rainbow is one of the nation's best Chinese restaurants--officially.

The local restaurant has been named one of the country's Top 100 Chinese restaurants in the Top 100 Chinese Restaurants Competition annual competition. In its seventh year, the contest honors the nation's best restaurants in nine categories. Shining Rainbow won in the healthy menu category.

"It's a pretty big honor," says Justin Chi, Shining Rainbow staffer.

Since opening in 2008, Shining Rainbow has received a great deal of critical praise, including receiving five stars from New York Talk of the Town. The restaurant was also visited by famed Chinese chef and cookbook writer Martin Yan, who came to sample the cuisine and talk with the staff.

Nationally, Chinese restaurants are big business. The Top 100 organization says that there are 46,700 Chinese restaurants in the country, more than the number of McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King restaurants combined. Chinese restaurants generate about $20 billion annually.

Top 100 contest winners were honored in January at a ceremony in San Francisco that brought it all back home. The first Chinese restaurant in America opened its doors in San Francisco in 1849. The ceremony, "The Future of Chinese Dining, and its 150-year History in America," honored this business's illustrious history. Here's to more honors in the future!

Get your ackee: Linstead Market brings taste of the islands to Central

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 21:45:00 +0000

The first thing you notice when you walk into Linstead Market and Island Cafe is the pumping reggae music, which is fitting, given that the specialty grocery store is named after a Jamaican folksong.

Owner, Delcita Mitchell opened the store 15 years ago on Lexington to cater to Caribbean transplants and the local community. Last year, she moved Linstead to Central Avenue, hoping that the new location would be busier--and it has been, she says.

Mitchell carries a large selection of African and Carribean mainstays, including ackee, the national dish of Jamaica, callaloo, jerk seasoning, curry powder, pounded yam, plantains, and farina. She also serves a range of Island dishes at the Jamaican Grill, which is the cafe side of the business. The handwritten menu behind the cash register announces a mouth-watering array of traditional prepared foods including curry chicken, oxtail soup, porridge, jerk chicken, ackee and cod fish, and brown stew snapper. Mitchell does a bustling lunch business. Customers can sit at one of the metal and formica tables at the back of the store or take their food to go. Prices start at $1.50 for a beef patty or fried chicken leg and go up to $14.50 for a dinner of ackee and cod fish. All dinners are served with cabbage and plantains, and your choice of white rice and peas or dumplings with yams and bananas.

"Come in and try the food," Mitchell urges. "It's tasty."

Linstead Market and Island Cafe is located at 109 Central Avenue. The store is open Monday through Saturday 9am-9pm. For more information, call 434-0092.

Albany Assessment Review Board Opening

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:21:00 +0000

Albany Board of Assessment Review Opening
Application Deadline: February 2, 2011

Dear Friend:

There is currently one opening on the Albany Board of Assessment Review
which is appointed by the Common Council. This is the Board that
considers property owner challenges to their assessments during the
annual grievance period in May-June. Below is additional information on
the Board and the process for submitting a letter of interest and
application for appointment. The deadline for applications is February
2. This is a very important Board, if you or someone you know is
interested please consider submitting an application.

Richard Conti
President Pro Tempore
Albany Common Council Member 6th Ward

City of Albany
Common Council

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

The Albany Common Council is seeking applications from qualified
residents of the City of Albany for the following position:

Title of Position:

Member, Board of Assessment Review

Term of Appointment:

Immediate for a term ending 9/30/15

Position Responsibilities/Duties:

The sole purpose of the Board of Assessment review is to guarantee
taxpayer rights by hearing real property assessment complaints
(grievances) and arriving at fair and impartial determinations regarding
those complaints. Members of the Board should be individuals with
knowledge of property values within the municipality and must attend and
complete a training course in order to participate in the hearing and
determinations of assessment complaints.

The training course will not exceed four hours in length and shall
include, but not be limited to, the functions, duties and
responsibilities of the Board of Assessment Review, assessment review
and assessment procedures, and exemption administration. Additional
topics may include real property tax legislation, judicial decisions and
administrative opinions.

The Board's work will primarily take place during a five week period;
May 25 through June 30. Members of the Board should expect to work five
days a week, eight hours a day during that period. This should be
considered a full-time job during that period. Board members will be
compensated $1,000 annually during their term of appointment.

In addition to hearing grievances and making determinations as part of
the regular grievance process, board members will also assist property
owners with preliminary assessed valuations and informal challenges.

Statutory Authority:

NYS Real Property Tax Law, section 523

Application Requirement:

Applicants are requested to submit a letter of intent describing
qualifications and include a current resume to:

Cashawna Parker
Senior Legislative Aide
Albany Common Council – Room 206
City Hall
Albany, NY 12207

Tel: 434-5087
Fax: 434-5081
e-mail: parkerc@ci.albany.ny.us

Applicants will be interviewed by a selected committee of the Common
Council prior to appointment.

Deadline for Applications: Close of business, Wednesday, February 2,
2011.

Policy Statement

The Common Council is committed to assuring that its appointments to
city boards, authorities, commissions or committees is representative of
the diversity of Albany's population. Consistent with the City of
Albany Human Rights Law, it is the policy of the Common Council to
prohibit discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national
origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, disability, marital or domestic
partner status in all aspects of its personnel policies, programs,
practices and operations.

Second Time Around offers new life for donated goods

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:16:00 +0000

Wedding dresses. Formal gowns. Outgrown baby clothes and bassinets. Wouldn't it be great if these items could be used again? Second Time Around, the new thrift store behind Mohawk Ambulance offers a second chance for used goods, and profits go to fund City Harvest Family Church missions overseas, says coordinator Ann Pratt.

Second Time Around sells clothing for men, women and children, as well as home furnishings at a steep discount. The merchandise is donated, the staff is volunteer, and the profits are given away, making the store a kind of epicenter of giving. And that's the point, says Pratt.

The thrift store is a way to reach out to the surrounding community, and connect them with other church programs, many of which are housed in the same building, Pratt says. One such program, Angelfood, provides boxes of food to families and seniors at a discount. Customers can choose from a variety of packages, including the Bread of Life box, which promises to provide a week's worth of meals for a family of four for $31, or the Just 4 Me After School Box, which provides afterschool snacks for a week for a scant $16, or the Fast and Flavorful Cuisine, which provides convenience meals for seniors for just $28. These boxes are not a hand-out, Pratt says, "they're a hand-up."

Soon, the building will also be home to an internet cafe that Pratt hopes will attract more neighbors, including clients of Saint Anne's Institute. The building also houses some low-cost apartments for families in need, she says.

Second Time Around is located at 181 N. Main Street, behind the Mohawk Ambulance Garage. The store is open Thursday 10am-2pm, Friday 10am-2pm, and Saturday 11am-3pm. For more information, contact the store at 632-1012.

Business Council President Kenneth Adams nominated to run ESD

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced the nomination of Kenneth Adams, President of the Business Council of NYS to be President and CEO of ESDC. Kenneth is a good friend who has been a strong supporter of NYSEDC and the economic development agenda we have championed. NYSEDC looks forward to partnering with Kenneth and Governor Cuomo in our mutual efforts to move New York forward.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Nominates Kenneth Adams to Serve as President and CEO of ESDC

ALBANY, NY (01/27/2011)(readMedia)--

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the nomination of Kenneth Adams as President and CEO of the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC). Governor Cuomo said the appointment is part of his plan to change the leadership structure of ESDC, separating the CEO and Chairperson functions.

"With Ken Adams as President and CEO, the Empire State Development Corporation will fuel New York-based innovation and create jobs at home while helping to transform the state into a world-class center for business and new ideas," Governor Cuomo said. "As I said in my State of the State address, we need a strong voice to help say that New York is 'open for business.' A fast growing and forward-thinking economy begins with changing the state's business climate to attract and maintain cutting-edge companies. Ken is clearly the right person at the right time for New York and I thank him for agreeing to serve the people of the state. He succeeds Dennis Mullen, who has been a tireless advocate for business, marketing and growth for our state and I thank him for his dedication to New York."

Kenneth Adams has been President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State, the state's leading business association, since 2006. Mr. Adams has led the organization in its mission of creating "economic growth, good jobs and strong communities across New York State." The Business Council represents nearly 2,500 member businesses, chambers of commerce and professional and trade associations, employing a total of more than 1 million New Yorkers.

Prior to leading the Business Council, Mr. Adams was President of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and Director of the MetroTech Business Improvement District in Downtown Brooklyn. Kenneth was also the founding Executive Director of New York Cares, New York City's leading volunteer organization, from 1988 to 1994.

Mr. Adams serves on the Empire State Stem Cell Board, the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Community Foundation and the Steering Committee of the Association for a Better New York. He is vice-chair of the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Youth Chorus Academy. He also serves on the City University of New York Business Leadership Council, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100 and the Council of State Chambers.

Mr. Adams will also serve as Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development. A Chairperson for ESDC will also be chosen who will bring a specific understanding of the issues facing economic development in Upstate New York.

In his new role, Mr. Adams will work closely with Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy to implement Regional Economic Development Councils across the state. Mr. Adams was also recently named to Governor Cuomo's Task Force on Mandate Relief, tasked with finding ways to reduce the costs of mandated programs, identify mandates that are ineffective and outdated, and determine how school districts and local governments can have greater ability to control expenses.

Kevin Burke, President and CEO of Con Edison said, "Ken knows doing business in New York can be like swimming upstream, but now he is in a position to change the tide. Business leaders know and trust him, and for good reason. His knowledge and dedication will help New York reclaim its place as a national pro-business leader and center for job creation. We commend Governor Cuomo for his wise choice and we look forward to working closely with our partners in government so we can once again declare New York 'Open for Business.'"

Kirk P. Gregg, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for Corning, Inc. said, "New York is poised for great things with the addition of Ken Adams to state government. He is a true professional who will work diligently to achieve real results for struggling communities across New York. We applaud Governor Cuomo's emphasis on job-creation and transforming New York into a business-friendly destination for everything from entrepreneurs to major global corporations."

Denis Hughes, President of the AFL-CIO, said, "Ken is a good friend and someone who can do a great job at ESDC. He has a full understanding of New York's economy and businesses, and he is someone that the Labor Movement can work with for the betterment of our state. I'm very happy for Ken and I applaud his appointment."

Linda Sanford, Senior Vice President for Enterprise Transformation at IBM Corporation, said, "Kenneth and I worked in close partnership on the Business Council of New York for many years. He is a proven leader, and that's exactly what New York needs at this critical time. Governor Cuomo has outlined a vision of making New York State business-friendly, and I can think of no one better to make that vision a reality than Kenneth. I commend the Governor on his selection and look forward to working with Kenneth as he embarks on this new endeavor."

Rob Simpson, President of CenterState CEO, said, "Governor Cuomo understands that for New York state to thrive once again, we need a strong private sector to lead the way. His choice of Ken Adams to head ESDC shows that he is serious about transforming New York. Ken will do wonders for New York's economic development and I applaud the governor on his choice."

Brian McMahon

Executive Director

New York State Economic Development Council

111 Washington Avenue, 6th Floor

Albany, NY 12210

Phone: (518) 426-4058 x3

Fax: (518) 426-4059

www.nysedc.org

Leadership. Advocacy. Professional Development.

You've got a ticket to ride: CDTA rolls out BusPlus on Central

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:48:00 +0000

If you ride the bus on Central Avenue, your commute just got easier. This winter, CDTA completed construction of 18 new BusPlus shelters on either side of Central Avenue. The shelters represent the next phase of the CDTA’s much touted BusPlus program on Central, which will be officially rolled out April 4.

The BusPlus program offers faster trips between Albany and Schenectady by providing buses that make limited stops. These easily recognizable red and silver buses will stop only at the busiest intersections, now marked with CDTA’s new matching shelters. Bus riders can take shelter from the wintry weather inside the new red and silver shelters and wait for their bus on comfortable benches.

CDTA hopes people enjoy the new BusPlus shelters—enough to start taking the bus more often. “We hope they enjoy them enough to ride,” says Margo Janack, CDTA spokesperson.

These new express buses which will also make use of new technology like traffic signal preference, priority at traffic lights, and up-to-the-minute arrival time information, all making your bus ride more convenient.

Plus, when the new BusPlus service is unveiled April 4, everyone rides for free, Janack says. Riders can try out the BusPlus route for free the first two weeks, a promotion CDTA hopes will help introduce many new people to public transportation.

BusPlus service on Route 5 will be the first of a proposed 100-mile rapid transit network with Washington Avenue and Western Avenue the next areas slated for BusPlus.

Central is the busiest travel corridor in the Capital Region, serving more than 3.5 million CDTA riders each year.

Beginning April 4, BusPlus Service will operate Monday-Friday from 4AM to Midnight, 6am to 11pm Saturdays, and 7am-6pm Sundays. For more information, visit the CDTA website www.cdta.org

Wavers hail tax season: Liberty Taxes out in full force

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:14:00 +0000

As you pass Liberty Tax Services near Hannaford Plaza, the Statue of Liberty that stands out in front of the building comes to life. Decked out in robes and the famous tiara, this statue is anything but frozen. Instead, the statue leaps up and down, waving enthusiastically at the passing cars.

"It's our number one marketing tool," says Ed Welch, owner of four Liberty Tax Services, including two locations on Central Avenue. Liberty Tax Services is one of the fastest growing tax services nationally, Welch says, owing in part to these employees.

Each year, Liberty hires people to stand in front of the store and attract customers. Known as "wavers," these employees are encouraged to dance and ham it up for the passing traffic. They also wave signs around advertising discounts at Liberty. The best wavers are animated. "You don't want someone who just stands there with his hands in his pockets," Welch says.

Unfortunately, the busiest time of the tax year, January 25 to February 7, can also be the coldest. Special precautions are taken so that wavers don't suffer, Welch assures. They're encouraged to bundle up, and they are even issued hand warmers. They take frequent breaks, coming inside the nearby store to warm up and get a hot cup of coffee. If the weather is too frigid, they're given the option not to work, he says. Many wavers come back year after year.

Liberty Tax Service was established in 1996 and it the third largest tax prep business in the country. The business specializes in individual income tax preparation, but can also assist with business returns. Rates vary based on complexity of the return, but a typical return costs between $100 and $300, Welch says. Liberty is open Monday through Saturday from 9am-9pm and on Sundays, from 12pm-5pm.

Liberty Tax Service is located at 157 Central and 900 Central. For more information, contact the offices at 453-2330 or visit the website at www.libertytax.com.

Community Loan Fund Small business class

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:49:00 +0000

The Capital District Community Loan Fund offer a small business class beginning January 29^th for its next 8 week session. The class is a great opportunity to learn some of the basics you need (or someone you know) to get started in business. Business Plans, legal issues, reading financial statements, understanding what questions to ask your accountant, lawyer, or insurance person - these are some of the things you will learn in this practical leaning opportunity. The class is modestly priced and geared for the micro-enterprise business of five or fewer people but any business is likely to benefit. There is a charge for the class but it is extremely reasonable. You will receive training and support from Dr. Michael Mathews and other instructors from the College of Saint Rose School of Business, and professionals in the community. Please refer to the attached FLYER to sign up for the course or pass it to others who may have an interest.

See attached Flyer for details and sign up information..

Planned Parenthood moves to Central

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 21:10:00 +0000

In September, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood relocated its Lark Street offices and health center to the newer, more modern facilities at 855 Central--and staffers say they couldn't be happier. "We're thrilled to be in your district," says Blue Carreker, Vice President for Public Affairs and Marketing at Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood.

The new 18,000 square feet facility on the third floor of the 855 office building includes administrative offices, a teen center, a health center, and conference facilities, says Carreker.

"We've increased capacity by 50%," Carreker says. "That allows us to see a lot more patients." Currently, the agency sees about 8,000 patients a year, and that demand is rising, she says.

The move also allows the center to increase its education and outreach capacity. The agency's new teen center is bigger and more accessible to area high school students, and Carreker says the teens who work there are very happy with their new, roomier digs.

The move was made possible by a capital campaign that successfully raised $1.692 million, says Carreker. The agency still needs to raise about $250,000, she says.

The new Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood offices are located at 855 Central Avenue. For more information or to book an appointment, please call 434-5678 or visit the website at www.plannedparenthood.org/uhpp/

Happy Holidays at Paradiso 'On the Avenue'

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:37:00 +0000

All the best of the Season from Matt, Odette, and everyone at the Paradiso

Here is the Paradiso Holiday information

The Paradiso will be open 5pm to 9pm on Christmas eve and closed
Saturday and Sunday, December 25 and 26

the Paradiso will be open New Year's Eve and taking reservations
between 5 and 10 that night

the special menu includes soups, starters, and main courses

the starters are in the $7 to $10 dollar range and include Salmon and
sweet corn cakes with a Lobster Sherry Cream Sauce, Potato Gnocchi
with sweet Italian sausage and a spicy arrabiatta sauce, Colossal
Shrimp cocktail with a chipotle vodka cocktail sauce

Entrees are from $19 to $27 dollars and include Veal Osso Bucco with a
three cheese risotto, House-made wild mushroom and spinach ravioli in
a rosemary and garlic veloute, and a 20 oz Delmonico steak with twice
baked potato, grilled asparagus, and a rosemary merlot pan sauce

From our family to yours, a happy, healthy, and wondrous Christmas and New Year

Ristorante Paradiso
198 Central Avenue
Albany, New York 12206
518.462.5812

Know your Nikes: StreetGame sells shoe history

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 18:43:00 +0000

With its vintage merchandise and its knowledgeable sales associates, StreetGame is selling more than shoes; it's selling shoe history.

The Albany location is the sixth store in this upstate New York franchise. "We thought customers needed us in Albany," says Jay Choi, General Manager.

This new Albany shoe store caters to urban wear conniseurs who can tell their Nike Airs from their Air Maxes (hint: it has to do with the size of the air pocket). Opened in August, the store has already become the destination for people looking for classic Nikes. It's the only licensed Nike store in the area, making it the best source of the very latest in styles and colors. You can also find the best in Timberlands, and a great selection of T-shirts and athletic wear.

"We are the biggest Nike and Jordan authorized dealer in upstate New York," says Choi. "We are the ones who carry the most diverse and hot items." The store also offers a large selection of rare, limited edition shoes, he says.

The store is also a great place to score a good deal on shoes. On the store's Buy One Get One Free wall, you can pick any shoe, and get a second pair of equal or lesser value for free. You're liable to find anything on the wall--from high tops to kids' kicks--so check it out frequently.

Best of all, StreetGame's staff gets a kick out of shoe trivia, and they can answer almost any question you might have about Nikes. Local manager Eric Pitts is a shoe genius, and during a recent tour he provided a full history of the iconic shoe, complete with demonstrations. Pitts is an asset to the new store because he knows things about Nikes that few people know, says Choi. "I don't know, but he knows," admits Choi.

StreetGame is located at 818 Central Avenue, Albany in the plaza next to Clothes Mentor. For more information, call StreetGame at 729-5975.

Community Loan Fund upcoming programs

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:20:00 +0000

Attached are two flyers about programs we are sponsoring. If you have an interest we encourage you to attend. Otherwise please pass them along to someone who may be interested. Please help us get the word out. Please help locate entrepreneurs who may find this useful. We offer many supports especially for start-ups. Thanks, and we look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely,

Paul Stewart

Central Avenue is Friendly Place to Invest

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:56:00 +0000

A Second Serving of Pepper Jack's in Albany

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:10:00 +0000

Mayor Jennings will be on hand today to cut a ribbon for a new location for Pepper Jack's, a well known college student staple for burgers, is opening a new location at 192 N. Allen Street, and bringing its special mix of sandwiches and burritos to even larger crowds.

The restaurant hopes this new and larger space will allow them to accommodate even more people, says owner Philip Stein. "It's a lot larger," Stein says. "The setup is more efficient." The menu will stay largely the same as Western Avenue, although he hopes to be able to deliver more hot meals and breakfast.

Stein and his partner Christopher Soden opened the Western Avenue restaurant in 2000. The two were interested in the restaurant business. Soden was born and raised in Albany, and Stein has lived here for 20 years. Stein was a UAlbany student and said he knew first-hand that there weren't enough dining options for students. They were "saturated with pizza and Chinese," he says. "We wanted to open an eatery that's more our style," he says. Pepper Jack's, with its wide selection of burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups and appetizers, was that eatery, he says. The two started the business as primarily takeout spot on the corner of Quail and Spring, and then moved to a larger space on the corner of Quail and Western. This new building at 192 N. Allen represents yet another expansion for the duo. "We'll be able to seat 25 to start, and we're hoping to expand from there," he says.

The new building is also more centrally located and offers more parking. Pepper Jack's has been around for 10 years, we would like to be around for 30 years," says Stein.

For more information, call 426-5505 or visit their website atwww.pepperjacksalbany.com

Sports Night: Bobby T's Sports Grill

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:38:00 +0000

Twenty-six TVs. Hog wings. The full NFL package. The new Bobby T's is an oasis for sports fans.

Opened at the beginning of October, the grill is the culmination of Bobby Taaffe's experience. Taaffe has been an entrepreneur and restauranteur for 30 years, and has several previous successes under his belt including Paolo Lombardi's in Wynantskill and the Elbo Room in Albany. Taaffe opened the grill because he wanted his own place, somewhere he could catch the game. His own Christian Brothers' Academy jersey hangs on the wall, in between the bar's TVs and sports memorabilia.

The grill offers a pub menu, including burgers, salads, and pizza. Bobby T's is the only restaurant in the Capital Region that serves "hog wings," pork shanks with seasoning. Monday Night will be "Hog Heaven," with specials on the tasty wings and a great seat for the game.

Bobby T's Sports Grill is located at 221 N. Allen Street in Albany.

Ristorante Paradiso New Year Eve Raffle

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:12:00 +0000

Now thru December 19th 2010

New Year's Eve Contest
Every time you come in to dine, fill out an our email list request
with your name, email, and phone number. We will enter you into our
fantastic New Year's Eve Drawing. You and a friend can win dinner for
2 on New Years Eve, a bottle of house wine, and a champagne split!
Come in, have dinner, enter to win -- how wonderful is that? One
entry per table; you may enter every day you come in for dinner.
Hosting a Holiday Gathering? Get 2 chances!

Drawing will be conducted on December 20th, 2010.

Ristorante Paradiso
198 Central Avenue
Albany, New York 12206
518.462.5812

Great Food, A Special California Red and Live Music - This Friday!

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 21:19:00 +0000

Special California Red Wine and Live Music This Friday Night

Join us for a special October Friday night at Grappa 72 - the Capital Region's Best New Restaurant! Relaxing live music from Sonny and Perley and a special California Red - hand picked for this special evening.

Make your reservation now!

Visit Facebook.com/Grappa72 and tell us how much you Like us!

See the remodeled restaurant on Flickr!

Taste of home: Mexican grocery packs forgotten favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:09:00 +0000

Emmanuel Santa Cruz opened the Mexican Market located at 656 Central Avenue, near North Allen Street, so he could get a taste of home. When he couldn't find any food from his native land, he and his wife decided to open a grocery store carrying favorites he remembers from childhood, as well as homemade burritos and tamales.

Beginning November 1, they will open a small taco shop at the back of the store, making homemade food for takeout. His wife, Placida make the burritos and tamales, and Santa Cruz makes the tacos. He will also stock cotijo cheese, chorizo, queso fresco, and beginning in November, he'll also have produce. Right now, he carries a selection of dried chile--the widest this side of the Rio Grande, including chile costano, chile morita, chile d'arbo, chile ancho.

Open for three weeks, the store is doing well, catering to a growing crowd of transplants hungry for a taste of home. He points out the cooler of soda, all in glass bottles. "Nobody can find this anywhere," he says proudly. One customer came in and said he hasn't seen the glass bottles in 40 years, he says. "In Mexico, they never change anything like this. They don't change anything. I think it's for tradition," Santa Cruz says. "Any party you go in, they have the glass bottles. Any birthday party, any occasion."

He points to the shelf of cookies, including Marias and Arcoiris, and says he remembers eating them when he was four-years old. As we talk, one customer comes in and selects a soda--all are sold in glass bottles, just like in Mexico, Santa Cruz says proudly. As he walks to the register, his eyes fall on a package of cookies. "Marias!" he exclaims, as though greeting a long-lost friend. He grabs a package and sets it on the counter with the soda.

"I just tried to open it because there's not a store like this around," Santa Cruz says. He points out that there are a number of international markets in the area, including Indian and Asian, but none from Mexico. "I just tried to bring something to everyone," he says.

Burgers and nostalgia: Landmark diner reopens

noreply@blogger.com (Molly Belmont) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 23:58:00 +0000

Wilfredo Ruiz holds up the new Jack's Burger. Piled high with bacon, ham, fried egg, corn, and french-fried potatoes, it is a hefty sandwich--and that's before you take into account the burger itself!

Ruiz, the new owner of Jack's Diner, created the burger to celebrate the restaurant's grand reopening, and today, the diner's waitresses are parked on stools all along the counter giving the burger a test-run. Judging from their exclamations, the burger is a hit. In fact, the new sandwich is a veritable feast by any standards--delicious, with a smoky flavor from the bacon and ham and a sweet pop from the corn--and it bodes well for the newly reopened diner. If this is the new Jack's, I'll take seconds!

Jack's is a landmark on Central, and a landmark nationally. With its gleaming silver sides and fabulous Art Deco insides, Jack's is one of the few remaining Comac-designed diners in the country--and it's all ours. The diner has been located at the junction of Central and Clinton for 62 years, watching the world pass by its windows. This spring, Ruiz and a partner purchased the diner from Jack Murtagh, who had owned the diner for more than 40 years. Murtagh was also on hand that day, having lunch and sharing stories about the diner's infamous waitresses, surly short order cooks, and murky office. It clear that the diner has been loved, and Ruiz is excited to return it to its former glory.

"I'm very proud," Ruiz says. "I have a little piece of history."

The diner was closed for a short time after Ruiz took over ownership. During that time, he made some changes to the interior, remodeling the kitchen and and closing it off from the dining area. He repainted and refurbished the exterior. The menu has also been revamped, but customers will still find some of the food they remember, he says. After all, many of his customers have been coming for years. Ruiz says they are happy to see the doors open once more. "Many come in every single day," he says. "The love the old-fashioned diner." So does Ruiz. "I love it. It's peaceful. I have great customers, great people. I would say 'great.'"

Jack's Diner is located at 547 Central Avenue. Takeout is available. For more information, call 482-9807.

Townsend Park Bakery Cuts ribbon

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 20:41:00 +0000

Mayor Jennings of Albany was on hand today to cut the ribbon on the re launch of Mark Smiths renewal of the bakery

Small Business Branding Work Shop Flyer

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:45:00 +0000

Attached: Branding 10.19.10.pdf

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Check out the 2010 Fall Calendar for Small Business from the CDCLF

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:44:00 +0000

Attached: 2010 Fall Calendar Flyer.10.10.pdf

Message from anthony@centralbid.com:

Capital District Community Loan Fund Small Business Programs PDF Calendar/Flyer

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Fwd: 2010 Hudson Valley Region Small Business Forum

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:41:00 +0000

Good morning,

Enclosed is the agenda for Tuesday, October 12 Small Business Forum at SUNY at New Paltz. The purpose of this forum is to provide guidance to aspiring and existing businesses with federal & state tax responsibilities, tax credits, access to capital and free services. Representatives from federal & state agencies will be speaking on Hiring Incentive to Restore Employment Tax Credits, Small Business Health Care Tax Credits, Small Business Administration Programs, Services and Loan Guarantee Process, Free Assistance for Starting & Existing Entrepreneurs, Finding Access to Capital, State Credits, Programs and Services for Small Businesses and more. Please share this invitation and enclosed agenda with your clients, members and customers to attend this forum and learn more about federal and state agencies free services for the small business community. Attendees will also have the opportunity to raise any issues and questions to the respective agency representative during the forum.

To register please call (845) 257-2930 or e-mail Dr. Hadi Salavitabar at salavith@newpaltz.edu with your name, address, telephone number and email address as soon as possible as seating is limited. Here is the link to the campus map www.newpaltz.edu/map and the best parking areas are parking 6, 7, and 8 which are behind gym.

Thank you for your continuing support.

Richard Torres

Senior Stakeholder Liaison

CL & D, Stakeholder Liaison Field

1 Clinton Avenue, 6th Floor

Leo O'Brien Federal Building

Albany, NY 12207

518-427-5460 office

518-427-5480 fax

518-858-7511 cell

Fwd: OCT 5th SBAC: PLEASE RSVP BY 9/27/10

noreply@blogger.com (Central BID Blogger Staff) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 13:27:00 +0000

If you are an employer who wants to retain valued employees…

If you are an employment services provider or advocate who strives to promote successful employment experiences for job seekers and newly-employed individuals…

If you are looking for strategies that will support your efforts to be successful at work…

Please join us on Tuesday, October 5^th, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at our Statewide Business Advisory Council meeting.

TOPIC: Self-Disclosure and Reasonable Accommodations:

POTENTIAL IMPACT ON AN EMPLOYEE'S ON-THE-JOB SUCCESS

Meeting will be held at Seton Health/St. Mary's Hospital, Conference Room A & B, 1300 Massachusetts Avenue in Troy.

Lunch will be served.

PLEASE RSVP BY SEPT. 27^th

For program details, see attached notice.

Marsha

Marsha Lazarus, MBA

Director of Consumer and Business Outreach

Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc.

194 Washington Ave

Albany, N.Y. 12210

(518) 434-0439 ext 224

www.MHANYS.org

Register online at www. MHANYS.org to attend MHANYS' 2010 Awards Dinner and Conference on Wednesday, October 20 & Thursday, October 21st...Theme is HEALTH CARE REFORM; HEALTH/MENTAL HEALTH INTEGRATION

Mental Health Matters in all facets of our life, including the Workplace!