Actor Bryan Batt's Backup Plan: Retail

Knowing that the fortunes of an actor are anything but reliable, Bryan Batt, who played Sal Romano on 'Mad Men,' had already established a rewarding side career. In 2003 he opened Hazelnut, a home accessories and gift store, in New Orleans.

Franklin Hospital Auxiliary members meet on Jan. 16

The Franklin Hospital Auxiliary met for its annual meeting in the conference room of the hospital on Jan. 16, 2012. President Betty Aiken called the meeting to order and welcomed members present. Billie Davis led the group in the auxiliary prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The minutes of the December meeting were read by the secretary and approved.

Carolyn Hax: Bowing out of the family Christmas

Hi, Carolyn: This time of year is all about family and tradition. It’s not really about convenience. I am 48 and the youngest of four children. We each have 2 to 4 children, some have grandchildren, plus our father. Before our mother passed, 13 years ago, Christmas dinner was held at our parents’. Now three out of four children rotate having Christmas for 25-28 people (one sibling lacks the ...

Fine Living: As Mill Valley's Maison Reve closes, Garnish and Farmhouse Urban open

WHEN ONE HOME décor shop door closes in Marin, it seems two new doors open. Yasmine McGrane, who opened Maison Reve stocked with flea market finds from Paris, the south of France and Belgium, recently announced the Mill Valley favorite will close Jan.

Fairs, fests and family fun

Fairs, fests and family fun Furry Tales and Touchables, New York State Museum, 264 Madison Ave., Albany When: 11 a.m. Contact: 474-5877 or http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/calendar/ Notes: A storybook reading comes to life as youngsters observe and touch real and replica museum specimens that relate to the story. Planetarium Program, Schenectady Museum & Suits-Bueche Planetarium, 15 Nott Terrace ...