Every Friday from 5 to 7 PM (4 to 7 PM when the Cohoes Farmers' Market is operational (June to October)), wonderful New York State wines can be sampled at Harmony House Marketplace located at 184-190 Remsen Street. The Wine Seller at Harmony House carries product from 115 NYS vintners, large and small, new and old. All five grape growing regions of the State are represented. The atmosphere is fun and informal and the philosophy used is: "Good wine is wine you like."
This Friday a sampling of wines from Chateau LaFayette Reneau (Hector, New York) and Treleaven (King Ferry, New York) can be tasted.
While at Harmony House check out R & G Cheesemakers, located in the back of 188 Remsen. Sean and his team produce fabulous goat and cow milk cheeses; one of which was recently featured on the Food Network!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Saturday, May 15, 2010
I'm Back After Finding My Farming Roots in Poland
Hello! So sorry for my absence as I have been out and about on holiday...
I had the most incredible opportunity to travel to southeast rural Poland this month and meet family.
It all started with a lost letter, which was subsequently found after forty-two years. Written in Polish and being curious, I had it translated into English. The letter, which had been authored by a unknown cousin, was originally written to my now deceased maternal grandmother asking for buttons, pieces of material and handkerchiefs. (I can only assume the difficulty one encountered living under communism.) Needless to say, I wrote the author of the original letter and she wrote me back! We corresponded for almost two years with her writing in Polish and me then having to write back in English. The process was very time consuming but exciting. Note: I did sign-up and for a short period of time to take Polish language lessons from a wonderful woman named Kazia in Cohoes. (As you can imagine, I did not do very well.)
Many times my new-found cousin invited us to come visit them and finally, with frequent flier miles about to expire I said, Let's go!" Too bad only my husband had interest in traveling to Poland with me. Off we went... I cannot begin to describe what a wonderful, friendly, scenic country Poland is. In total we meet at least fifty new-found family members; all of whom opened their homes, kitchens and hearts. Almost all were self-sufficient with homemade cheese, kielbasa, dumplings and plum vodka. They had root cellars, potato fields and backyard wells. Everyone had barns filled with chickens and pigs (and watch dogs). A few times it felt like we were visiting the pages of "National Geographic" with Polish women in boots and handkerchiefs tying bundles of twigs. Most had never meet Americans before and were thrilled that a family member had returned to the Motherland. It is the strangest feeling when people attentively watch you eat a meal or try the homemade vodka.
In many respects we were treated like celebrities. Only one family member could speak English...the poor kid (my official translator) missed several days of high school so that we could communicate with family as we went about visiting. We visited cemeteries and I was able to trace back five generations on a family tree. No one we meet ever had the opportunity to go to college. Most homes contained at least three generations of family. No one smoked! I was told it was because cigarettes are too expensive. And everyone, although they seemed to have so much less material wise, was HAPPY. Don't figure.
I have a new found pride in my Polish heritage. I realize how lucky I was to have found that letter. Next Sunday, my ailing mom turns 80. My four older brothers and I are throwing her a party complete with a Polka Band, dumplings and vodka shots! Here's to being Polish...
I had the most incredible opportunity to travel to southeast rural Poland this month and meet family.
It all started with a lost letter, which was subsequently found after forty-two years. Written in Polish and being curious, I had it translated into English. The letter, which had been authored by a unknown cousin, was originally written to my now deceased maternal grandmother asking for buttons, pieces of material and handkerchiefs. (I can only assume the difficulty one encountered living under communism.) Needless to say, I wrote the author of the original letter and she wrote me back! We corresponded for almost two years with her writing in Polish and me then having to write back in English. The process was very time consuming but exciting. Note: I did sign-up and for a short period of time to take Polish language lessons from a wonderful woman named Kazia in Cohoes. (As you can imagine, I did not do very well.)
Many times my new-found cousin invited us to come visit them and finally, with frequent flier miles about to expire I said, Let's go!" Too bad only my husband had interest in traveling to Poland with me. Off we went... I cannot begin to describe what a wonderful, friendly, scenic country Poland is. In total we meet at least fifty new-found family members; all of whom opened their homes, kitchens and hearts. Almost all were self-sufficient with homemade cheese, kielbasa, dumplings and plum vodka. They had root cellars, potato fields and backyard wells. Everyone had barns filled with chickens and pigs (and watch dogs). A few times it felt like we were visiting the pages of "National Geographic" with Polish women in boots and handkerchiefs tying bundles of twigs. Most had never meet Americans before and were thrilled that a family member had returned to the Motherland. It is the strangest feeling when people attentively watch you eat a meal or try the homemade vodka.
In many respects we were treated like celebrities. Only one family member could speak English...the poor kid (my official translator) missed several days of high school so that we could communicate with family as we went about visiting. We visited cemeteries and I was able to trace back five generations on a family tree. No one we meet ever had the opportunity to go to college. Most homes contained at least three generations of family. No one smoked! I was told it was because cigarettes are too expensive. And everyone, although they seemed to have so much less material wise, was HAPPY. Don't figure.
I have a new found pride in my Polish heritage. I realize how lucky I was to have found that letter. Next Sunday, my ailing mom turns 80. My four older brothers and I are throwing her a party complete with a Polka Band, dumplings and vodka shots! Here's to being Polish...
Friday, April 16, 2010
Catharine Valley Winery Visiting Cohoes This Evening
On Friday, April 16th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM, Judy from Catharine Valley Winery (Burdett, New York) will be at Harmony House Marketplace in Cohoes for sampling and discussion of their popular wines such "Lost Irishman" and "Sweet Revenge". One of the newest Seneca Lake Wineries; Catharine Valley is a family owned and operated Farm Winery committed to deliver the very finest Domestic and Alsatian style varietal wines.
NOTE: About their name... Catharine (pronounced Cathareen) was Queen of the Seneca Indians and known for her grace and cordiality.
Call 238-2232 for further information.
NOTE: About their name... Catharine (pronounced Cathareen) was Queen of the Seneca Indians and known for her grace and cordiality.
Call 238-2232 for further information.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Women's Business Networking Luncheon Every Month in Cohoes
Every second Tuesday of each month we host a Women's Business Networking Luncheon at Harmony House Marketplace in Cohoes. The cost is always the same, but the meal choices and list of attendees tends to change. Yes, we have our core group of regulars but each month new women come and with them, they bring their business ideas and entrepreneurial spirit. Not a month goes by without some inspiring antidote surfacing. It is a very relaxed, welcoming meal that allows attendees to introduce both themselves and their business (or business idea). The luncheon is open to anyone (even men) and we tend to get a sampling of many industries; from real estate agents to contractors, from restaurant owners to bankers, from Mary Kay Sales Representatives to Yarn Shop Owners. It is a wonderful atmosphere to meet and greet.
One such individual I have had the opportunity get to know is Julie DeFruscio, Cohoes resident and Partner in "Girly Girl Studio." Here’s a new company that bears a second look. They support local manufacturing and have a unique fun product; custom made handbags. You can actually have a home party to create your perfect bag or you can design the bag on line. Girly Girl Studio, has a unique concept called “Pocket to Purse” with a collection of great “Pursey Paks” (cell phone cases) that you design to match your handbag, you then can clip these cases right inside your handbag. Want to grab your pursey pak for a quick run into the store than grab it and clip it to your belt loop. They are really cute and these Pursey Paks, will hold cell phone credit cards and more. Just a fun company with a growing line of not only handbags, but t-shirts, jewelry and more. Check out their website at www.girlygirlstudio.com
Better yet, come to our next Women's Business Networking Luncheon on Tuesday, May 11th at 12:00 noon and meet her yourself!
One such individual I have had the opportunity get to know is Julie DeFruscio, Cohoes resident and Partner in "Girly Girl Studio." Here’s a new company that bears a second look. They support local manufacturing and have a unique fun product; custom made handbags. You can actually have a home party to create your perfect bag or you can design the bag on line. Girly Girl Studio, has a unique concept called “Pocket to Purse” with a collection of great “Pursey Paks” (cell phone cases) that you design to match your handbag, you then can clip these cases right inside your handbag. Want to grab your pursey pak for a quick run into the store than grab it and clip it to your belt loop. They are really cute and these Pursey Paks, will hold cell phone credit cards and more. Just a fun company with a growing line of not only handbags, but t-shirts, jewelry and more. Check out their website at www.girlygirlstudio.com
Better yet, come to our next Women's Business Networking Luncheon on Tuesday, May 11th at 12:00 noon and meet her yourself!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Calling All Park Angels - The City of Watervliet is Looking for a Few Good Volunteers
On Monday, April 19th at 7:00 PM, Mark Gleason, General Manager for the City of Watervliet, will be holding an informational meeting at the Mayor J. Leo O'Brien Municipal Center, located at the corner of 15th Street and Broadway, on the implementation of a Park Angel Program in the City.
What a wonderful way of connecting to the community while keeping Watervliet beautiful. Volunteers will be able to share their gardening knowledge while learning new techniques.
Why become a Park Angel? It's easy, it's free and your parks will thank you!
For further information please call 270-3800 ext. 100.
What a wonderful way of connecting to the community while keeping Watervliet beautiful. Volunteers will be able to share their gardening knowledge while learning new techniques.
Why become a Park Angel? It's easy, it's free and your parks will thank you!
For further information please call 270-3800 ext. 100.
Free Friday Night Tasting of Casa Larga Wines at Harmony House this Evening
From 5:00 - 7:00 PM this evening, Jack Mehan will be at Harmony House Marketplace, providing free samples of Casa Larga Wines. Established in 1974 in Fairport, NY, Casa Larga Vineyards is Monroe County's only winery.
Casa Larga was the winner of the 2005 Governor's Cup for "Best Wine in NY State", and winner of the 2008 Trophy for "Best Dessert Wine" at the 2008 International Wine & Spirits Competition in London.
Harmony House is located at 184-190 Remsen Street in Historic Downtown Cohoes. Participants must be at least 21 years of age to sample. Please call 238-2232 for further information.
Casa Larga was the winner of the 2005 Governor's Cup for "Best Wine in NY State", and winner of the 2008 Trophy for "Best Dessert Wine" at the 2008 International Wine & Spirits Competition in London.
Harmony House is located at 184-190 Remsen Street in Historic Downtown Cohoes. Participants must be at least 21 years of age to sample. Please call 238-2232 for further information.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Hello
Introductions should be made. Hello. My name is Diane Conroy-LaCivita. (Yes, I do realize that my name is a mouthful...my apologies. Think of "Lots of Pizza" and you will remember "LaCivita"). I reside in the Town of Colonie, work for the City of Watervliet and co-own a small business named Harmony House Marketplace in Historic Downtown Cohoes. I am proud to be part of the Capital Region, believe in educating the public and working collaboratively with others so all involved have the opportunity to benefit. At Harmony House, we go by several mottos, two of which are "When you buy New York, you build New York" and "Buy Local - Everyone Wins."
I was asked by The Record to begin a Blog that would share the perspective of a small business owner while incorporating all other "stuff" we are involved in.
Upcoming activities include:
Educational Field Trip to Long Island
As part of our educational mission, Harmony House Marketplace is sponsoring a weekend bus outing to Long Island on Sat. and Sun., May 8th and 9th to learn more about the crops, product and produce originating in this agricultural region of New York State. The itinerary includes stops at a potato vodka distillery, an oyster farm, a local buffalo restaurant, many well known wineries and a brand new brewery. The group will be staying overnight in Greenport and will have an opportunity to meet the people influencing agriculture in Long Island. For further information, please call 238-2232.
Watervliet and Cohoes Farmers' Markets Getting Organized for 2010 Season
The Watervliet Farmers' Market has changed its name to the Watervliet Waterfront Farmers Market to reflect its move back down to the pavilion at Hudson Shores Park (directly off Exit 8 of Interstate 787). This Market will officially open on Tuesday, June 1st from 2:30 - 5:30 PM and features many well known local farmers and producers. Come check out this Market's wonderful location right on the banks of the Hudson River in a newly dedicated "dog friendly" park.
The Cohoes Farmers' Market will officially open on Friday, June 4th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the large municipal parking lot on Remsen Street directly across the street from Harmony House and BeauKnits Yarn Shop. In addition to growers and producers, the Cohoes Market has many community groups participate. Remsen Street becomes the community center on Friday nights during the summer with many shops staying open later to accommodate the foot traffic.
Both Markets’ are still accepting applications for new vendors. For the Watervliet Farmers’ Market, please call 270-3800 ext. 123. For the Cohoes Farmers’ Market, please call 238-2232.
I was asked by The Record to begin a Blog that would share the perspective of a small business owner while incorporating all other "stuff" we are involved in.
Upcoming activities include:
Educational Field Trip to Long Island
As part of our educational mission, Harmony House Marketplace is sponsoring a weekend bus outing to Long Island on Sat. and Sun., May 8th and 9th to learn more about the crops, product and produce originating in this agricultural region of New York State. The itinerary includes stops at a potato vodka distillery, an oyster farm, a local buffalo restaurant, many well known wineries and a brand new brewery. The group will be staying overnight in Greenport and will have an opportunity to meet the people influencing agriculture in Long Island. For further information, please call 238-2232.
Watervliet and Cohoes Farmers' Markets Getting Organized for 2010 Season
The Watervliet Farmers' Market has changed its name to the Watervliet Waterfront Farmers Market to reflect its move back down to the pavilion at Hudson Shores Park (directly off Exit 8 of Interstate 787). This Market will officially open on Tuesday, June 1st from 2:30 - 5:30 PM and features many well known local farmers and producers. Come check out this Market's wonderful location right on the banks of the Hudson River in a newly dedicated "dog friendly" park.
The Cohoes Farmers' Market will officially open on Friday, June 4th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the large municipal parking lot on Remsen Street directly across the street from Harmony House and BeauKnits Yarn Shop. In addition to growers and producers, the Cohoes Market has many community groups participate. Remsen Street becomes the community center on Friday nights during the summer with many shops staying open later to accommodate the foot traffic.
Both Markets’ are still accepting applications for new vendors. For the Watervliet Farmers’ Market, please call 270-3800 ext. 123. For the Cohoes Farmers’ Market, please call 238-2232.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
