We Call This HOME magazine - Third Edition, WInter 2023-24

We Call This

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

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Published by: CREATIVITY UNLEASHED

AMSTERDAM • JOHNSTOWN • GLOVERSVILLE and surrounding areas VOLUME 3 • Special Vets and Pets Edition • Winter 2023-24

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In this issue...

Special

Veterans Section Helpful Information for Veterans & their families ★★★★★★★ and more!

Follow Charles on Facebook My @CharlesBradleyBrown friends need homes! ~ Charles Bradley Brown

Read inspiring pet adoption stories and see pets available for adoption in this area. Starts on page 15.

Great local businesses are right here, in our communities SHOP • DINE • VISIT • JOIN A CLUB • CALL FOR SERVICE • WORK • PLAY • LEARN

www.CreativityUnleashed.org

A local man has been compiling information on our area Veterans to honor their service. See page 4.

!

It’s all nearby

Thank you Bill Trojan

We Call This

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

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for the excellent photography in our magazines!

Published by: CREATIVITY UNLEASHED

AMSTERDAM • JOHNSTOWN • GLOVERSVILLE and surrounding areas VOLUME 3 • Special Vets and Pets Edition • Winter 2023-24

FREE

We hope you enjoy this special issue of We Call This Home magazine!

We are honored to be able to bring attention to area Veterans in this One!are acissue. We will continue doing so in futurePlease issues asTake well. There tually three sections to this magazine. The Veterans section in which we purposely did not put any advertising in, so as to have more room for information for the Veterans and their families. After that, you will In this see a full “Crazy About Pets” magazine which starts on page 15 and goes issue... all the way to page 48. Get your tissues out forSpecial these wonderful articles. This magazine isn’t meant to be read in one sitting and you will definitely see why. The articles are like little Veterans Section short stories. We want to thank each person who submitted them - we truly appreciate you.

Helpful Information for Veterans & theirwe chose On page 49, is another section about our COMMUNITY. We each live in a community that families ★★★★★★★ to stay in for some reason. The businesses in our communities each hold a specialand place here. Some of more! them have been here for years and years, some are just starting out. We encourage you to stop in and let them know you saw their ad amongst these pages. They are the reason we are able to do this and we appreciate every one of them. Until next time, happy reading! ~ Linda & Mike Follow Charles on Facebook My We LOVE what we do and we are so grateful to live in and @CharlesBradleyBrown friendsaround communities full of amazing people. need homes! New Year 2024!

Happy ~ Charles Bradley Brown

Read inspiring pet adoption stories and see pets Questi ons Starts on page 15. or Comments? for adoption in this area.

Publishedavailable by

A local man has been compiling information on our area Veterans to honor their service. See page 3.

We Would Love To Hear From You!

nearby! ll a ’s t I Call (518) 842-6532 or email: linda@creativityunleashed.org

Great local businesses are right here, in our communities SHOP • DINE • VISIT • JOIN A CLUB • CALL FOR SERVICE • WORK • PLAY • LEARN

www.CreativityUnleashed.org

40 Rockton St. Amsterdam, NY 12010

518-842-6532

Look for this magazine online on our website!

Like us on Facebook: @wecallthishomemagazine

Bill Trojan is a photographer, photojournalist and educator who believes in the power of education and photography. He began his journey in photography as a teenager by taking photographs at family events, and now dreams of continuing his journey in photography throughout the community he lives in.

His biggest accomplishments to date have been educating area high school students and documenting local and national events through the medium of photography. Bill has had the opportunity of photographing many U.S. Presidents, rock stars, major national events, breaking news stories as well as local sports and concerts.

Bill Trojan grew up in Massapequa and Deer Park, Long Island, NY and presently resides in Gloversville.

Bill participates in all things photography, local car shows and music concerts and events.

For almost two decades Bill was the Photography Editor and Senior Photographer for the Leader-Herald Newspaper in Fulton County.

He has also taught high school students Art, Photography and U.S. Government and History in area schools. Bill is a new member of the Gloversville Civic Band Board of Directors. Bill is presently the owner of WATPHOTO Photography Services in Gloversville and the Chief Photographer for “We Call This HOME” and “Get Off Your APP & GO!” Magazines. Bill has authored a photo and poem book entitled: “The Magnificent Moon“ spotlighting many of his spectacular moon photos intertwined with a poem he wrote about the moon. He is happily married for 20 years to musician, music educator and certified dog trainer Ann Trojan.

To get in touch with Bill Trojan email him at

WATPHOTO@gmail.com

Be sure to read all the amazing articles in this issue!

Enjoy our special Veterans section and check out the adoptable pets too!

Please Note: The information contained in this magazine including contact information is provided for general reference purposes only.

www.CreativityUnleashed.org 2 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

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HOME of the FREE, Because Of The Brave Let us never miss a chance to thank a Veteran. They are the reason we are able to live freely in this great country.

We salute them and fly our flags for them to show our appreciation for their sacrifices and the sacrifices their families have made as well. In this special Veterans section of our third issue of We Call This HOME magazine, we only touch upon the many great men and women in this area who deserve our praises for all they have done. We couldn’t possibly fit all we would like to say in just one issue of our magazine, so watch for future issues to contain more information, with photos and stories of our brave Veterans.

Pictured here: Veterans Joe Harkins and Ken Martins with Bill Trojan

Photos above were taken at Amsterdam’s Veterans Parade 2023 Pictured here: Veterans Edward Niski, Eric Zwack and Larry Eagle

Fulton County Veterans K.I.A. Memorial - Gloversville, NY

Thinking Doughboy - Gloversville, NY

WWII Memorial at Veteran’s Park - Amsterdam, NY

“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”

- Arthur Ashe

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 3

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Local man has been compiling books to honor our area Veterans What could be more patriotic than honoring the very people who have given us the ability to live freely in our country?

Pictured L. to R.: Anthony Ferraro, WWII Veteran Frank Perrella and Veteran Gray Pitkin, President of the Board of Directors of the Gloversville Senior Center - standing in front of the display case honoring Veterans.

Contact Form for all USA Veterans ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE

Name of Veteran Address Branch of Service Time and Place of Service Any interesting story to tell?

Photo in Uniform?

Mail or Take this form to the

Gloversville Senior Center

53 Church St., Gloversville, NY 12078 or call Anthony Ferraro at

(518) 736-1828 or (518) 495-5963

We Salute Our Veterans GLOVERSVILLE SENIOR CENTER Phone (518) 725-0923

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Anthony Ferraro does just that by keeping local Veteran information in binders he has been compiling since 2005. Anthony has been a member of the Gloversville community his entire life. He worked in sales at Nelson Jones Ford starting in 1961, then he owned Ferraro-Weis Ford in Northville, NY in the 1970’s. After that he worked for the Terry Morris dealership in Burnt Hills, NY in the Chrysler Division as the used car manager.

He is a member of the Gloversville Senior Center and it is there that he keeps the binders in a beautiful case decked out with patriotic items. It is evident when speaking to Anthony that he has much appreciation, as we do as well, for those who have served in all branches of the United States Military.

In the beginning of the binder, Anthony has written a paragraph about why he started this project and what he hopes will come of it.

Most of the Veterans are from Fulton and Montgomery counties and the books contain stories, photos, poems and obituaries. Anthony will meet with the families of those who have served to find out more about them and is more than willing to put information about those service members in his books.

The Gloversville Senior Center applauds area Veterans for their great courage and for their time in the service. Anthony said he hopes to expand upon their history by creating a monthly story to get out to the media so that they can be saluted.

On the page in book #1 titled “We Salute Our Veterans” is this quote and wording...

All gave some And some gave all We Salute you all God Bless you and God Bless America Would you like to contibute to the book Anthony has been working on to honor area Veterans? If so, he can be reached at the Senior Center at this number: (518) 725-0923. If he misses your call he will get back to you as soon as he can.

Check out the Gloversville Senior Center’s Facebook page to keep up with all that is going on there and to see open hours.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ There are so many wonderful photos and information about our area Veterans in the book - here are a few of them.

Please consider contacting Anthony Ferraro to preserve the memories of yourself or your loved ones that have also served.

John Nicholas Vagianelis was born on Oct. 3, 1916 in Gloversville, NY. He grew up on Washington and Burr Streets. He was the Valedictorian of his class at Gloversville High School in 1933 at 16 years of age. Within 2 mos of Pearl Harbor, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy - joining his brothers James and Paul. (see their stories in the book). In April 4, 1942 he was quoted in the Morning Herald as saying his primary reason for enlisting was “Patriotism”. He achieved a career rank of Radioman Second Class.

John served in the North Atlantic, the Norwegian Sea, and the Arctic Ocean.

John Nicholas Vagianelis John also spent considerable time in the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf.

He served on the SS Francis Asbury, the David H. Houston and the George M. Radioman Second Class Cohan. He left the Navy in 1945 and earned service medals for the American, European-African, and Middle Eastern Theatres of naval warfare.

John owned and operated a restaurant in Albany for over decade with his brother-in-law, called the Valencia and then worked for the NYS Department of Agriculture until his passing in 1970.

(More details about John can be found in the binder “Volume One” at the Gloversville Senior Center, including photos and stories about John’s brothers Paul N. And James N. Vagianelis)

Wally was born on Dec. 11th, 1917 in a small village in Illion, NY and raised in Gloversville where he lived in the same house at 19 Fourth Ave. until he was married in 1948 to Madeline Winona Menge. They had 2 daughters, Darlene and Valerie and a son, Wallace G. as well as 6 grandchildren.

Wallace “Wally” Burr 1941 - Age 23 • US Army 9th Division • 60th Infantry 1942 - Private First Class Regiment, Company E, 2 Battalion. 33 mos. overseas. He fought in the African Oct. 1942 Corporal (Fort Bragg) campaign (Algeria, French Morocco, Tunisia), Sicily, Italy, England for training Jan. 1943 Sergeant (to Staff and Technical) for the Normandy invasion, landed in Normandy on D-Day+4 on Utah Beach.

Aug. 1944 - Second Lieutenant Fought in Central Europe campaigns in France, Germany and Belgium.

Returned to the United States and was Wally was transferred to company G on Jan. 23rd, 1945. While he was away Honorably Discharged - Demobilization he wrote more than 400 letters to his family, sending his money home to on Oct. 10th, 1945 them, except for a bit of spending money. He ended all of his letters with “Don’t worry about anything because I am getting along fine.” Wally has a tribute page with much of the information submitted by his daughter Darlene. The page can be found on a website about WWII at: Https://9thInfantrydivision.net/wallace-edward-burr/ This is a very interesting website where information about WWII can be found and family members are invited to submit information about their loved ones who have served our great country.

When Annemarie was 4 years old her family came to live in Ilion, NY from Germany. She became a US Citizen at age 21. When her brothers enlisted in the Army, she decided she wanted more in life than her current situation, testing 2 pound military shells for the war. So at the age of 23, in 1943, she enlisted. She was stationed at the Chelsea Navy Hospital near Boston, MA. As a hospital corp WAVE, she cared for patients, worked with the Red Cross, Master of Arms over WAVES quarters and did clerical work in the hospital personnel office.

One of her most vivid memories was watching Helen Keller going among the Annemarie Hansel Hospital Corp WAVE, stationed beds in the ward to visit the wounded. near Chelsea Navy Hospital After the war, she went to Paris to study art, came back and cared for her aging parents, ended up working back at Remington Rand, who sent her to Pittsburgh to work in the machine division. She also worked as a bookkeeper and a seamstress. After her parents passed away she came back and moved to Pine Lake where her family had a vacation home. She enjoyed traveling and continued to participate in Navy Waves gatherings throughout her lifetime.

She held the position of Vice President of the Leatherstocking unit of WAVES, was a member of WAVES National Association, and a member of the Veteran’s group at the Senior Citizen Service Center of Gloversville and Fulton County. Ms. Hansel passed away in 2018.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 5

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Please check out the information below and if you think you may qualify and don’t now receive these benefits, reach out and find out more.

Thank you for your service!

233 W. Main St., Johnstown, NY 12095

Montgomery County Veterans Service Agency 64 Broadway, Fonda, NY 12068

We Provide Transportation to the STRATTON VETERANS ADMINISTRATION MEDICAL CENTER in Albany, NY Assistance in filing claims for:

The Veteran’s Service Agency of Fulton County assists Veterans and their families in identifying and applying for benefits they are entitled to as a result of their military service.

Mission

Our Veteran Service Agency will help you navigate the Department of Veterans Affairs benefits process. We work closely with the New York State Department of Veteran Services and can also assist with filing appeals and denied claims. Primarily we assist eligible Veterans and their family members.

★ Compensation ★ Pension ★ Vocational Rehabiliation ★ GI Loans ★ Burial Benefits ★ Grave Markers ★ Education Benefits ★ Property Tax Exemptions ★ Widow/Dependant Benefits If you would like information please contact:

It is worth your time to set up an online account at

Executive Director: Brenda Rava brava@co.montgomery.ny.us Director/Veterans’ Service Officer: Randy Weaver rweaver2@co.montgomery.ny.us 518-853-8152 • Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30am to 4:00pm

Veterans Affairs at: www.va.gov

There you can find out information and eligibility requirements for each VA benefit.

If you would like more info please contact

Please bring with you…

DD 214 (For all claims) Specific dates and times of service are needed in all cases Marriage License (to establish benefits relationship) Death Certificates (for burial or pension claims) Birth Certificates (for children related claims) Proof of Service Connected Disability (of the Veteran) Other evidence may be needed as well, including Medical Reports or Records and Financial Documents.

FULTON COUNTY website: www.fultoncountyny.gov

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Our Mission:

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Some tips for those who seek to qualify for services

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Awards and Medals, Burial Benefits, Civil Service Veterans Credits, Dependency Indemnity Compensations (DIC), Education Benefits, Home Loan Guarantee, Hunting/Fishing License, Health Care Benefits, New York State Real Property Tax Exemption, New York State Park Pass, Non-Service Connected Pension, Replacement of Lost Documents, VA Insurance, Spousal Death Pension, DD214s

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Some potential benefits…

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Ian Pitcavage, Director and Brenda Anich, Veterans Service Aide at (518) 736-5651 Email: veterans@fultoncountyny.gov

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Fulton County Veterans Service Agency

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A Hero in Action PFC Joseph P. Dwyer 64 Broadway, P.O. Box 1500 Fonda, NY 12068

Office Phone: 518) 853-8323 24/7 Phone: (518) 774-9134

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“To assist Veterans, service members, and their families to achieve and sustain personal health, wellness, and purpose in their post-service lives through the support of trained veteran peers.”

Volunteers Needed!

We are looking for volunteers to assist in various tasks! If you are interested, please call (518) 774-9134 This is a PEER LED program: it is not a clinical setting, although we can get you to the right people if needed.

We are PEER social support, and we are looking to make our community of Veterans/Active Duty and their families stronger, healthier & connected!

MONTGOMERY COUNTY website: www.co.montgomery.ny.us

Federal Veterans website: www.va.gov • The NYS Veterans website: www.veterans.ny.gov 6 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

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Remembering Luigi Greco

Gunners Mate 2nd Class Petty Officer A Proud WWII Veteran from Amsterdam, NY

We thank him for his service to our county Mike and I had the honor of spending time with Luigi and getting to know him through our Aunt Mary Jobin, who he was with for 18 years before he passed away in 2021. We, and all who love him are eternally grateful to have had him protecting our families during the war. He was never shy about telling stories about his time in the service. It was evident that he had much pride and an incredible amount of patriotism. We are honored to show some photos of Luigi here, may he rest in peace. ~ Mike and Linda

A few formal photos of Luigi - in the Navy - he was a Gunner’s Mate - 2nd Class Petty Officer Luigi enlisted in the Navy when he was only 17.

Above and Below: photos of Luigi and his crew mates on the USS Restless

The USS Restless Luigi in his Naval Uniform as a young man Luigi holding a homemade sign, made with LOVE

Luigi seeing his Flag for the first time put up in Amsterdam, NY

Ships Luigi served on: USS Restless/Corvette USS Drury USS General T.H. Bliss USS Oklahoma City

Luigi Greco enlisted in the US Navy on 1/16/42 and served until 4/18/47 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ He was a Gunner’s Mate Second Class Attended Boot Camp in Newport, RI

The USS Restless was a US Navy Corvette.

When Luigi served on it, it was an escort ship for merchant ships.

One of their duties was to go after German submarines off the coast of NY.

Luigi was entitled to wear these ribbons & medals: Asiatic Pacific • American Area • European African • Victory • Good Conduct • On the job try for machinist

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ If you are a Veteran and would like to appear in a future Veterans section of this magazine, please reach out to Anthony Ferraro at: (518) 495-5963 or (518) 736-1828 (read about Anthony on page 4) or email him at: dnaferraro@gmail.com We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 7

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Veteran’s Time to Thrive This is the rendition of the proposed housing unit for Veterans

Veteran’s Time To Thrive (VT3) is in the beginning stages of developing a 10-unit apartment complex designed to serve veterans and their families in Montgomery, Fulton, and Saratoga County New York. This first of its kind housing development is designed to empower military families, by giving them the ability to support themselves and each other in a way the civilian population cannot, nor the Veteran’s Administration has been capable of. As well intentioned as they are, the VA is still attempting to utilize services designed for the Vietnam, Korean, and Cold War, which consisted of a 2.1 million active-duty force, not the 1.4 million it is today. By creating this unique, first of its kind housing development with military personnel in mind, VT3 is looking to disrupt the vicious cycle of divorce, addiction, homelessness, and most importantly the suicides we see throughout our military regardless of status.

The VT3 building will foster fellowship among its residents and area veterans by providing a supportive environment. At the heart of the building will be a communal kitchen, where families can cook and dine together and help their neighbors that have time constraints between work and kid’s extracurricular activities. Office spaces to meet with counselors and get assistance with their military to civilian transition, and a computer lab to support veteran services, mentoring, and furthering education.

“President Biden has said that our country’s most sacred obligation is to prepare and equip the troops we send into harm’s way, and then to care for them and their families when they come home.” Yet our veterans today are a vulnerable community and face numerous challenges at a greater percentage than the civilian population. Veteran’s Time To Thrive, is ready to meet those challenges in a way designed for this generation’s military.

For more information and to support this great cause, you can visit their website at www.VT-3.org Check out their Facebook page for upcoming fundraisers

SOME HELPFUL NUMBERS FOR VETERANS Do you know of a Veteran who is on the verge of homelessness or struggling with issues related to housing, health care or substance abuse?

Send them our way. In addition to assisting with emergency shelter and transitional housing for homeless veterans, Soldier On now provides in-home services for veterans facing eviction or foreclosure. They also provide peer support, counseling, education and employment services and more. Soldier On’s mission is to provide veterans with the services they need to carry on healthy, productive lives in homes of their own.

CALL TOLL FREE

VETERAN’S OUTREACH WESOLDIERON.ORG

GERALD B. H. SOLOMON

SARATOGA NATIONAL CEMETERY

The funeral home or next-of-kin should contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office to make burial arrangements for Veterans and/or their eligible dependents.

For more information call (800) 535-1117. The Scheduling Office is open 7 days a week from 7am - 6:30pm, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

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1-866-406-8449 Our Mission

The National Cemetery Administration honors Veterans with final resting places in national shrines and with lasting tributes that commemorate their service to our nation.

For more info: www.cem.va.gov

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Flags that honor our Veterans may be available in your city for purchase

Gloversville Hometown Heroes

Amsterdam Heroes

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A banner costs $100, due with the application and it basically covers the cost of printing and shipping. The person filling out the application will attach a copy of a DD214 and a photo. Once the application is recieved, it is submitted to the printer who creates a proof. He emails it back to Jennifer and she will forward it on to the family for approval.

This way, she can ensure there are no errors before printing.

Once the approval is given, the printer creates the banner and ships it back. When it is received, Jennifer will let the family know and she takes it to DPW to hang. It can take a week, depending on what else is on DPW’s schedule to get the flag up. Typically, this process can take about a month.

The family will be kept involved in every step so you will have an idea of when the banner will be hung.

The City of Amsterdam proudly honors those who serve through The City of Amsterdam Military Banner Program. The program is designed to recognize both active military and veterans.

Information submitted by Jennifer Donovan Gloversville Downtown Development Specialist Fulton County Center for Regional Growth

How do you start the process?

Applications can be picked up at CRG, 34 W. Fulton St., Gloversville or by downloading from the website at

www.downtowngloversville.org/hometownheroes.org They can also be mailed to you if you call CRG and request that at (518) 725-7700 ext 4.

The banners are good for about three years. When wear and tear occur, the office will reach out to the families to see if they want to pay for a replacement. Electronic versions are found at www.downtowngloversville.org with a brief description of where they can be found in town.

The banners are hung on the historic light poles in the Downtown Corridor, which is basically North Main Street to roughly the Post Office area, and South Main Street to roughly the Stewart’s area. It is also East and West Fulton Street from basically the library to the corner of West Fulton and Cayadutta Street.

Information submitted by Michele Pawlik City of Amsterdam Marketing & Recreation Amsterdam City Hall

As an ongoing program, applications will be accepted the months of March 1st – March 31st and September 1st – September 30th by those who wish to sponsor a banner. Banners may be sponsored by individuals or organizations. A banner costs $160. It will be the sponsor’s responsibility to replace the banner if it becomes tattered due to normal wear and tear.

Replacement banners cost $85.

The application can be filled out online by going to https://www.amsterdamny.gov/162/Amsterdam-Heroes *Please note: The program is closed at this time and will open March 1st. Applications will be open through midnight September 30th. To produce all banners in a timely manner, no application will be taken after the deadline passes.

Interested in having your loved one honored on a banner?

• Submit required information on application, which includes Honoree, Sponsor, Biography and Photograph.

• Photograph: Provide a copy of a high-quality photo or high resolution digital/scanned picture 300 dpi or higher. Honoree in uniform is preferred.

• Biography: Please send in an 8-10 sentence bio of the honoree to add to our website.

• Payment: Banners being hung will cost $160, this includes hardware and installation. Once payment is received production of your banner will begin.

The families can give Jennifer a preference of where they would like it hung if a pole is available. If it already has a banner or there is an issue, such as lights or awnings are in the way, then they will work on another choice spot.

If you need assistance filling out the online application, or if you prefer to come into City Hall to process the application in person, please contact Michele Pawlik at (518) 841-4307 or email: mpawlik@amsterdamny.gov

This program was created in 2021 by James Hannahs, with an estimated 20 created this year. There is a current total of 93 banners at the time of this printing.

City of Amsterdam City Hall 61 Church Street Amsterdam, NY 12010

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We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 9

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Ibi Semper Training, Inc. Fulton County Regional SPCA’s partnership with Ibi Semper Training, Inc. began in August of 2022 and provides fully vetted dogs to the organization free of charge who then go on to be matched with veterans and first responders to become certified PTSD support teams.

Regional Alumni, Axel, was brought in to the shelter as a stray and called the shelter home for 79 days until on December 12, 2022, he became Regionals very first dog to enter Ibi Semper Training with his handler and new dad, Brett. Axel passed the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen, and Public Access Tests and officially became a certified PTSD Service Dog on September 28, 2023.

Ibi Semper Training, Inc. is a charitable Kathy S. with Veteran Brett and Axel on Graduation Day nonprofit organization dedicated to matching If you would like to support shelter dogs with a veteran or first responder Ibi Semper Training, Inc. with PTSD and training them free of charge to please mail your tax deductible donations to become a PTSD Service Dog Team.

Ibi Semper Training, Inc. 25 Dublin Drive, Niskayuna, NY 12309

For more information or to donate to this amazing program, visit ibisempertraining.org

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We Specialize in Wedding Photography,

High School Senior and Family Portraits All Occasions

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518-369-8866 Bill Trojan, Photographer

As the photographer for our “We Call This HOME” magazine, look for Bill’s photos on these pages. Thank you Bill for taking and sharing these photos for us!

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A country road lined in Autumn’s colors in the Town of Johnstown.

Fulton and Montgomery Counties are rich in history and full of wonderful people who make this a great place to live and raise families.

This page of photos taken all over the area we live in comes to you compliments of

Bill Trojan -

Photographer/Owner at WATPHOTO Professional Photography Services If you would like to contact Bill,

Call (518) 369-8866 Email: WATPHOTO@gmail.com or message him on Facebook See Bill’s Bio on inside cover, WATPHOTO ad on pg. 10 and all the photos throughout the magazine taken by Bill.

The Robert J. Johnson memorial pavilion, overlooking the Northville Lake, is located at the Northville Waterfront Park in Northville.

The FJ & G Railroad tracks and box car on display and located at Trail Station Park in Gloversville.

A scenic and breathtaking view of the Great Sacandaga Lake from the shoreline of Lanzi’s on the Lake restaurant in Mayfield.

Ava O’Dell, a dancer with the High Performance Dance Center of Johnstown, performs with her dance team in the 2023 Gloversville Christmas Parade on Dec. 2.

A vibrant red fall leaf is seen floating in the Mayfield Lake.

Want to see more photos from WATPHOTO Professional Photography Services? Go to: www.watphoto.zenfolio.com We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 11

12 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Montgomery County Health Department, driven by its commitment to the well-being of the community, has a comprehensive Opioid Overdose Prevention Program (OOPP) that focuses on harm reduction, awareness, and saving lives. This program offers a wide range of services, including NARCAN Trainings, the distribution of NARCAN to first responders and community members, and DETERRA bags. In addition, they provide #EndOverdose Kits packed with essential items, such as NARCAN, educational materials, water, chapstick, rescue breathing shields, gloves, and granola bites. This article explores Montgomery County Health Department's OOPP, highlighting how it is making a positive impact on the community.

NARCAN Training: One key element that Montgomery County Health Department offers is the NARCAN training. NARCAN, also known as Naloxone, is a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. The health department offers free training sessions to equip community members and first responders with the knowledge and skills needed to administer NARCAN effectively. These training sessions empower individuals to become potential lifesavers, providing an immediate response to opioid-related emergencies. All attendees receive NARCAN upon completion of the training.

DETERRA Bags: In addition to NARCAN, Montgomery County Health Department is proactive in addressing the root causes of the opioid crisis. They distribute DETERRA bags, a safe and convenient way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications. By offering these bags, the department actively promotes responsible medication disposal, reducing the risk of misuse and accidental poisonings. DETERRA bags are a simple yet effective tool in mitigating the opioid epidemic.

End Overdose Kits: The End Overdose Kits are thoughtfully designed to provide comprehensive support during critical moments. Each kit includes: 1. NARCAN: The essential medication for reversing opioid overdoses.

2. Educational Information: Resources that help community members understand the signs of overdose and how to respond and for people who are overdosing to seek help if needed.

3. Rescue Breathing Shield: To ensure safe and hygienic assistance during rescue breathing.

4. Gloves: To protect the rescuer from potential harm.

Montgomery County Health Department's OOPP is an example of a proactive and communitycentered approach to addressing the opioid epidemic. Through NARCAN training, NARCAN distribution, DETERRA bags, and the provision of End Overdose Kits, the health department is actively working to prevent opioid-related deaths, increase awareness, and support those affected by this crisis.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 13

◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ Memories Last a Lifetime One Christmas, after I lost my heart dog, Brownie, I asked for a special gift ❤ Brownie Painted by Morgan Munger

This portrait on the left...this beautiful, amazing, perfect rendition of the dog that truly changed my life, means the world to me. It hangs in my office and I look up at it often, for inspiration.

I have met a few incredibly talented artists who also paint and draw and as an artist myself, I am in awe of the work they do. What a great gift this would make for someone!

Check out the work from these two artists... contact them if you are interested in having a portrait done.

Fulton County native, Maria Simone, is an artist, animal advocate, and SPCA volunteer whose work runs the gamut from black and white photorealistic animal and family portraiture to large scale mixed media abstracts. Her pieces are held in collections from San Francisco to Boston and have been shown in galleries all along the East Coast.

Maria’s photorealistic portraits are created in pencil on archival paper and come framed and ready for hanging. For more information on commissioning a portrait, visit simonecreativeconsulting.com/portraits or email maria@simonecreativeconsulting.com Maria Simone Maria Simone Stay connected on Instagram & Facebook at @mariasimoneart

Vicky Pautler

As a self-taught artist, Vicky Pautler delved into the realm of realism, specializing in the creation of animal portraits. She works in both pencil and watercolor works, and tries to capture the essence and personality of each subject. She has donated her services at fundraisers, most recently the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s grand finale in the spring of 2023.

To contact Vicky, you can visit @victoriaann.art on instagram

Vicky Pautler

FULMONT COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY, INC.

518-853-3011 • www.fulmont.org • Community Services • Head Start • Weatherization • Empower NY • Universal Pre-k (UPK) • WIC • Volunteer Income Tax Preparation (VITA) • Fulton County Senior Transporation

EXCELLENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!!

14 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

about

PETS Maybe we can’t save them all...but we sure can try! ❤

10th Edition

A special section in the “We Call This Home” magazine issue #3 • Published by Creativity Unleashed

Look Inside for

GABBY

She had a rough start after adoption.

Find out how her family worked it out with training.

See Pages 46 & 47

ELLIE CHARLES BRADLEY BROWN Check out the center spread where Charles answers questions from his friends about his life with his Mama.

See Pages 32 & 33

Check out all the adoptable pets in this issue!

sure knows how to smile!

EMMA Her adoptive family talks about how it is going, a year after choosing this shy kitty!

Find Us On

See Page 29

Have a story or idea for the next magazine? Let us know!

@crazyaboutpetsmagazine We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 15

Let’s Talk SMALL HOW DO OUR AREA SMALL BUSINESSES FEEL ABOUT THINGS?

Many times, we may find it easy to get on our phones or computers to place orders.

BUSINESS But if we stop and think about what actually makes up our communities, the people,

the places, the feeling of HOME...don’t small businesses come to mind?

The best way to thank those businesses that are always there when you need them, is to simply SHOP SMALL - not just one day a year but every day you can!

READ ON TO HEAR ONE BUSINESS SPEAK ABOUT BEING A PART OF THE COMMUNITY (and why it is important that we realize what goes into their ability to stay)

HARVEY’S PET 250 N. Comrie Ave., Johnstown

Choosing Community: The Unmatched Value of Shopping at Local Businesses like Harvey's Pet

In the heart of Johnstown lies Harvey's Pet, a small haven for pet lovers offering a range of services from pet supplies to grooming, and even pet daycare, hotel, and training. As a cornerstone of our community, we face new challenges every day in a world increasingly dominated by online giants like Amazon and Chewy.

What is the Economic Impact of Shopping Small? Shopping at Harvey's Pet means investing in our community. Every dollar spent here supports local employment and contributes to our local economy.

This is a huge economic Impact for our community!

Quality of Service - We provide a level of personalized service and expertise that big online retailers simply cannot match. Our team's dedication to pet care ensures that each customer receives the best advice and products for their pet's needs.

Community Support - As a local business, we believe in giving back.

We regularly donate to local animal shelters and support community events and charities, fostering a strong community spirit.

There are Challenges for Small Businesses in the Online Era - As we face much competition with online giants, we strive to compete with the convenience and pricing of big online retailers, despite the uphill battle.

Small Businesses Face Visibility Issues - Gaining visibility in a market dominated by large corporations with extensive marketing resources is a constant challenge for us. We just simply do not have the funds to hire the marketing teams to get our name out to the community.

How Do We Maintain Relevance? - Staying relevant and appealing requires constant innovation and adaptation, a demanding task for any small business.

There is a Personal Impact of Customer Actions - Negative reviews can be disheartening for a small business like ours. Unlike large corporations, we take each review personally, as they directly impact our staff and their families.

Overlooked Contributions - we are always here when needed, whether it be during hoarding situations or influx of pets to a shelter for grooming, food, cleaning supplies. Yet, we often see people directed to donate to shelters via online stores like Amazon or Chewy.

Consider buying from a local business like Harvey’s - whether it be a gift card for the shelter to use or items you purchase directly - to add to the shelter donation basket in the store. When you give this way, you are ALSO helping that business stay alive in your community.

Unrecognized Gestures - When big corporations make donations or offer special gifts, they receive public acclaim. However, our acts of kindness, like assisting customers after hours or providing free products in emergencies, often go unrecognized. While we hear praise for the big players, our efforts, even when they exceed expectations, are sometimes met with comments about higher prices, overlooking the value of immediate, personal assistance, and simply going elsewhere.

The support for local businesses like Harvey’s Pet is crucial. Without it, we may not be here in the future. The convenience of online shopping comes at the cost of losing local businesses that add character and heart to our community. We invite you to experience the difference in service and quality at Harvey’s Pet. By choosing to shop local, you’re ensuring that businesses like ours can continue to serve and enrich our community for years to come.

Together, let’s keep the spirit of our community vibrant and enduring.

If you are a small business and would like to talk about how things are going with your business, please contact me at Linda@creativityunleashed.org 16 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Your pet will love it here!

250 N. Comrie Ave., Johnstown, NY 12095 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm; Closed Sunday

518-762-7613

www.harveyspet.com

See our weekly Flyer on our website or Facebook page

For Your Convenience We Offer Curbside Pickup

Luxury Pet Hotel & Doggy Daycare

Harvey’s Pet is your HOMETOWN Pet Daycare, Hotel, Training, Grooming & PET Supplies place!

A Safe, Fun Environment!

Professional Grooming

We Bathe and Groom Your Dog in our Beautiful Spa!

35

Starting at $

Professional Dog Training

Come meet our Certified Dog Trainers We have the right class for your dog…

Crissy Castelluccio, ABCDT Christina VanValkenburgh, ABCDT

We at Harvey’s thrive on teaching Basic Obedience so all dogs must show no fear or aggression towards people or other dogs.

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Class

$175/6 Sessions: Students in this class are under 6 months of age and will work on basic training with their human guardians to get the best possible start while the puppy is still young.

Advanced Puppy Class

$175/ 6 Sessions: Students in this class have already taken the S.T.A.R Puppy Class and are ready for the next step!

Beginner Class

$175/6 Sessions: Students in this class are over 6 months of age.

Intermediate Class

$175/6 Sessions: Students in this class must have completed the previous classes or are approved by our trainer.

Experienced, Friendly Staff

Call to make an Appointment or Schedule a Tour

New Classes Coming

CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

For dates, times & more information see our Facebook page or go to www. harveyspet.com

Required for all classes: Up to date shot records, registration form and full payment prior to class. A minimum of 2 students must sign up for classes to take place. All dogs are required to be in a harness or collar and on a 6-foot leash during class. No retractable leashes are allowed. Avoid feeding your dog before training. A hungry dog is a good dog!

✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥✥

Specialty Spa Care Pet Spa Skin Therapy for your special needs pet

Call For Details

One on One Sessions

Certified Canine Esthetician on staff!

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 17

HERKIMER

HERKIMER HUMANE SOCIETY - Herkimer, NY This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love!

COUNTY

Providing a Safe Haven for Animals Since 1913

This Guy is a Big of Love!

The Herkimer County Humane Society is a Hunk non-profit, 501c3 charitable organization dedicated to providing shelter and safe haven for stray dogs and cats, until their forever homes are found.

514 State Rt. 5S, Mohawk, NY 13407 • (315) 866-3255

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 73, Mohawk, NY 13407

KEEGAN

LUCY and HARLEY

DIABLO

Male 2 years old. Came in as a stray and is extremely sweet. He loves to go for walks and craves people.

Females 1-2 years old. They may be small with big personalities! Crate trained and do have to stay together.

Male He is a sweet boy, who is not too active, walks around the block.

Loves people and other dogs.

,

TROOPER

GRIZZLY and MAJOR

1.5 yrs. old

Males

2 yrs. old

They are our longest residents and the best dogs! They are housebroken and they love people!

BIRCH

Male 2 year old. He was returned and seems defeated. He needs a forever home that will give him time and patience. Dog friendly, chases kitties.

or go to: www.herkimerhumanesociety.org

Email: info@herkcountyhumanesociety.org

Male

1 year old. Sweet kitty with feline leukemia. If you have a FeLV positive kitty or no kitty, please consider Birch.

Hours: Mon. 12-4:30pm: Tues. & Wed. Closed • Thurs. & Fri. 12-4:30pm; Sat. & Sun. 12-3:30pm

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

We offer

Family Owned & Operated Since 1992

Find all your pets’ favorite food, treats, and toys!

18 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

ALFIE’ RESCUE - Queensbury, NY

Helping rescue lost dogs is a work of the Heart

By Jen Atchinson

I originally got interested in helping lost dogs back in June 2022, when a dog here in Glens Falls got loose from a boarding place. Alfie’s family were here on vacation from Pennsylvania at the time. I watched an entire community come together and work together to find him and the reunion in the end was like nothing I had ever seen, so heartwarming.

Since then, talking with other trappers, reading articles, doing a lot of research online and working with one of my greatest mentors, Jill. There is also a lot of hands on stuff that seems to be different for every dog, but for the most part, it comes down to locating the area they are in, getting them to eat at a particular location and setting up trail cams and then placing a trap Alfie’s rescue is based out of in a strategic location.

South Glens Falls, NY. Once I receive a call, I get as many details as I can about when the dog first went missing. I ask At Alfie’s Rescue we the owners to put up posters in that area the dog went missing and then I take a drive to that Thrive on giving the gift of location. I then either assist with getting posters up, walk or drive the perimeter of that area LOVE back to pet owners. and look at terrain and various buildings around there. We then proceed with constant contact with either the pets owner or the people who may have spotted them last and try to narrow We are a small group down where they are. of volunteers that have I usually try to stay within a 20 mile radius of my home in South Glens Falls. I volunteer to do come together to make this and with the cost of fuel in addition to everything needed to help bring a dog home, much sure your four-legged family members get back further and it isn’t cost effective. However, as with Loki, the lost boxer in Galway area, his situahome safe when lost. tion had become dire to bring him home, so nothing else mattered but to do that. So depending on the situation, I’m usually open to traveling further if needed.

I have people who help me behind the scenes. They assist with social media posts or running Find out more about to get supplies, monitoring cameras while I’m in the field or taking/making phone calls for me.

Alfie’s Rescue and I have 4-5 people that can assist with those tasks if needed. For the most part, I either go out donate on Facebook alone or with my friend and mentor, Jill.

We have an ongoing Gofundme posted on our page. The cost to bring home a lost dog can get expensive quickly and depends on how long it takes to bring them in. We always take monetary donations, dog food, any frozen meat, gas cards, bacon, liquid smoke, dog toys, blankets, etc. It is all very useful to us. We always welcome volunteers to help with hanging posters, as it can become very time consuming.

Our rescue doesn’t take in pets that need rehoming. I do this out of my home. We do work very closely with a woman who fosters and trains dogs and who is wonderful so there is always an option. We can also assist with posting on social media to try to help rehome a pet.

Finding lost dogs can be tiring, expensive, an emotional rollercoaster, time consuming…. None of that will matter when you look at your camera and you see that dog inside your trap, just waiting to be picked up and brought home. The reunion with the pets owner will bring a tear to your eye every single time and I walk away knowing that baby is safe, warm and loved and THAT is the only thing that matters.

Please consider donating to Alfie’s Rescue. Any donations made go directly towards helping us get more cameras, traps, food, etc. so we can help as many pets as possible find their way home!

Jen Atchinson • 518-222-6219 jmound36@hotmail.com

Contact me today for all of your home financing needs!

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We offer low down payment FHA loans,

I love helping people understand the homeloans, buying&and financing 3% conventional more! process and am happy to answer any of your questions”

BrateLoan Operator Jessica Jessica Brate - Licensed Licensed Loan Originator Cell: 518-505-1304 jbrate@homesteadfunding.com Cell: 518-505-1304 8 Airline Drive, Albany, NY 12205 • Office: 518-464-1100 jbrate@homesteadfunding.com

Licensed Mortgage Banker • NYS Department of Financial Services • NMLS ID# 56711 • Company NMLS ID# 3232 8 Airline Drive, Albany, NY 12205 • Office: 518-464-1100 Product requirements effective 1/1/22. Product availability & requirements subject to change at any time. Additional restrictions/conditions may apply.

Licensed Mortgage Banker • NYS Department of Financial Services • NMLS ID# 56711 • Company NMLS ID# 3232 Product requirements effective 1/1/22. Product availability & requirements subject to change at any time.

Additional restrictions/conditions may apply.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 19

ESTHERVILLE ANIMAL SHELTER - Greenfield Center, NY Est. 1954 All the animals at Estherville are beautiful-both inside and out, & cannot wait to share all of their joy & undying love with a forever family. It is our mission to not only give them the food, water, shelter and veterinary care they need to physically survive but to also guide them on their journey of finding a forever home by helping them be the best they can be. This is accomplished by offering them love, support and understanding along the way.

Read the rest of the

Mission Statement on our website

CHLOE

BABY BEAR

GUCCI

LADYBUG

Female 4 years old. Pitbull Mix. It’s hard for me to trust but once I do I am a love bug. Needs a no other pets home.

Male 7 years old. A very sweet boy who loves attention. I would be the perfect addition to any home.

Male 3 years old. Pitbull Mix. Looking for a home w/no other pets. Kids 10+ are fine! I am sweet and energetic.

Female 9 years old. Border Collie Mix. Best fit would be a quiet home with 1 or 2 adults & maybe a male dog.

PEPPER

CAPONE

BUSTER

JUNIOR

Male 4 years old. Boxer Mix. I do well with other dogs and cats (w/proper intro), but children are a no.

Male 1 year old. Mastiff Mix. I need a loving and stable home. I am a goofball hiding behind my shyness.

Male 4 year old. Lab Mix. I need a home with NO children or other animals.

Slow to trust but can be sweet.

Male 1 year old. Pitbull Mix. Can be dog selective so meet and greet needed if you have other dogs.

Lovable and playful.

Check us out on https://esthervilleshelter.wixsite.com Hours: OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10am - 2pm

100 Russell Rd., Geenfield Center, NY 518-893-7451 See Petfinder.com or Facebook for more info Email: esthervilleanimalshelter54@gmail.com

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Estherville Animal Shelter

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

~ Thank You Inglenook Realty, Inc. for sponsoring Estherville Animal Shelter ~

NYS Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner 1525 State Highway 29, Suite B, Galway, NY 12074 • (518) 882-6236 4560 State Highway 30, Amsterdam, NY 12010 • (518) 843-HOME (4663)

Cell/Text: (518) 365-5137

Kgordon@inglenookrealtyinc.com

I am a full-time dedicated Real Estate professional and I take my job very seriously.

I understand that buying and selling Real Estate can be a life changing event for many of my clients. I consider your business and your time to be an honor and a privilege. I will always strive to exceed your expectations!

www.inglenookrealtyinc.com 20 - We Call This HOME - Issue #3

APY R E H T

G O D

at Boulevard Elementary School in Gloversville, NY

By Ann Trojan • Photo Credit, Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

Having a therapy dog in school is so beneficial to students. They bond readily to the dog and it helps them have a more positive view of school. A therapy dog helps improve their well being. School can be quite intense for some children and having a therapy dog around can help them focus on the positive things. A therapy dog can bring out confidence in them and help them interact better with other students and teachers.

Ann Trojan, who has taught music in Gloversville for 29 years, 7 of them at Boulevard Elementary School is also a Certified Dog Trainer. This year she has gotten permission to bring her own therapy dog, Gabe to the school. Here, she talks about how she, herself, trained and got Gabe certified through Pet Partners. Read on to see how Gabe has positively impacted the students at Boulevard Elementary and find out what a typical day is like for him.

“As a certified dog trainer, I trained Gabe myself for the Therapy Dog test and his certification as a Therapy Dog is a testament to my positive reinforcement training techniques. As soon as Gabe turned 1 year old, he was eligible to test to become a Therapy Dog. Gabe and I were certified as a team through Pet Partners, which is a volunteer organization. I had to take an online course and exam. I trained Gabe beginning at 8 weeks old, but focused on the skills required for his test for 6 months prior to the Handler Team Test. The Handler Team Test is approximately one hour long and requires the demonstration of twenty different skills; definitely not a test for the faint of heart!”

Most people are only familiar with the organization Therapy Dogs International (TDI) for the certification of Therapy Dogs. However, according to the American Kennel Club website, there are 6 New York State specific organizations for Therapy dog certification and numerous organizations that are nationwide. In fact, Pet Partners (the organization that Gabe and I were certified through) was 1 of 6 organizations that assisted the American Kennel Club with the launching of their AKC Therapy Dog title.

Above: Students enjoy a part of their day with Gabe Con’t next page We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 21

While Gabe is in school with me during my regular work day, he is considered an “in house Therapy Dog”. Gabe and I are fortunate to be able to volunteer E at the After School Program at Boulevard, B A G where we also conduct the Read with Me Program.

On August 23rd, John Gray (newscaster and author) had posted on his Facebook page that he needed nominations for 8 schools to receive a box of 60 copies of his book “Keller’s Heart”. A parent of one of my band Zach and Henry with Gabe students nominated Boulevard Elementary School and one day a box arrived from a publishing company! I was so grateful and honored! Gabe and I have been using these books for the Read with me Program and once the student has read it to Gabe, he or she is given the book to take home. ~ Ann

Mike and I love the idea of a therapy dog in school and as we watched Ann’s Facebook page with posts about Gabe, we saw how many smiles there were from children, teachers and other staff. We contacted her and asked if she would answer some questions about it.

“We love having Gabe at Boulevard!

He brings a sense of joy to everyone he encounters. We are all appreciative of the work that Ann has put in to start the Read With Me program at Boulevard. It is a perfect compliment to the social emotional learning initiatives at our school. I love seeing Gabe interact with our scholars and also support their reading.” ~ Brian DiPasquale, Principal of Boulevard Elementary School, Gloversville

We are happy to share those answers here...

1

How did you go about obtaining permission to bring a therapy dog into a classroom setting?

The first step was to be sure Mr. DiPasquale, the Principal of Boulevard, was on board with having a Therapy Dog in the building.

Once I had his permission, I had to submit a written proposal to Mr. Halloran, Superintendent of Schools, and the Board of Education. The Board of Education had to vote on my proposal during a regular meeting.

3

Have the children seemed to bond with the dog and vice versa?

The children have definitely bonded with Gabe. In fact, they look forward to seeing him more than they do me. They all say hello to him when they see him and want to pet him.

2

How did the idea to bring Gabe to school as a therapy dog come about?

It has been a dream of mine for many years to have a Therapy Dog in school. When we brought Gabe home as a puppy, my husband and I realized that Gabe has a calm temperament, a tremendous love of people, and is extremely patient. He absolutely loves attention and being petted.

4

Do you think bringing Gabe to school gives the kids something to look forward to each day?

I do! In fact, the adults look forward to seeing Gabe just as much, if not more, than the students do.

Gabe’s Picture School 2023

Gabe looks forward to seeing all of his human friends. He sits at my classroom door every morning waiting for someone to stop and pet him!

Principal Brian DiPasquale with Gabe

“Therapy dog Gabe has been a wonderful addition to the Boulevard Elementary School this year. He is a handsome gentle dog who genuinely loves interacting with adults and children alike. The pictures that have emerged this year of Gabe laying amongst our scholars while being read to are heartwarming. He exudes tranquility, trust and acceptance and his contentment has a calming effect on all who spend time with him.” ~ David Halloran, Superintendent of the Gloversville Enlarged School District Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

22 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Con’t next page

5

How long do you spend interacting with the dog and the kids each day?

It all depends on the day of the week. We spend most of Tuesday conducting the Read with Me Program and an hour on Wednesday. I try to fit as much in as I can the rest of the week around my normal teaching responsibilities.

6

Does he spend all day in your classroom, or does he visit other classrooms as well?

Gabe and I visit other classrooms on Tuesday and Wednesday, as we are involved in the Read with Me Program. This is a special initiative that I signed up for when Gabe earned his Therapy Dog certification. Through this program, individual students read a book to Gabe and me for 15 minutes, without human correction, and they then earn a certificate. The purpose of this program is to increase students’ self confidence in reading out loud.

When students aren’t reading to Gabe, he spends time in my classroom with my music students. He does have his own space to rest if he gets tired. It is appropriately named, “Gabe’s Get-Away”. The students are very respectful of his space.

7

Do you need to let the children know not to “get in the dog’s face, squeeze him too hard, etc?” Do they respect that?

8

Does Gabe go to school with you every day?

Before we started visiting students for the Read with Me Program, Gabe and I went to each classroom to explain some expectations when interacting with Gabe. Most all of the students do a wonderful job meeting those expectations and respecting Gabe as a living being.

Gabe goes to school every day with me, but works 2 full days and half days on the other days.

9

Have you noticed that it also boosts the moral of the staff and teachers?

Oh, yes! There are several of my colleagues who stop in my room each morning to love on Gabe. If Gabe and I are walking through the hallways, almost everyone will stop to pet him. He certainly brings a lot of smiles to peoples’ faces and that makes all of the training and hard work worth it!

10 Emma and Braylin with Gabe

Ann Trojan is certified through Pet Partners.

Lucy and Ava with Mrs. Trojan and Gabe

Do you hope that your experience with a therapy dog in school inspires other schools to do the same?

Every school deserves to have a Therapy Dog. I did have a teacher from another district reach out to me about the process I went through in order to have Gabe approved in Gloversville.

To find our more about Pet Partners check out: www.petpartners.org

To keep up with all that Gabe is doing - please “LIKE” and Share GABE’s WORLD on Ann Trojan is a Certified Dog Trainer who, as well as being a music teacher at Boulevard Elementary School, also owns Golden Star Dog Training. See page 25 for more information, if you are interested in training for your dog.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 23

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Monoclonal Antibodies By Dr. Crystal Murray, DVM Monoclonal antibodies in medicine are made by cloning a single antibody which binds to a specific antigen. (An antibody is a protein that the body makes in response to an antigen, which is a noxious stimulus.). In veterinary medicine, there are three new Monoclonal antibodies available that are proving to be helpful in treating common diseases.

Frunevetmab (Solensia) is the felinized monoclonal antibody that targets the nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a hormone that is produced and released into tissue in response to stimuli and transported through the nervous system to pain receptors. This stimulates the release of inflammatory Dr. Crystal Murray, DVM owner of molecules. Both the elevation of NGF and the resultant inflammatory cascade are common in cats with osteoarthritis and cause the sensation of pain. By binding to NGF, pain is significantly reduced in approximately 80% of cats receiving a monthly injection.

Bedinvetmab (Librela) also binds to and so inhibits free NGF, thereby blocking the reception of pain signals, but in dogs rather than cats.

Lokivetmab (Cytopoint) binds to soluble Interleukan-31 (IL-31), which is an inflammatory cyto5877 Route 30 South, Amsterdam, New York 12010 kine that triggers an immune response against pathogens. Dogs with chronic skin conditions often (518) 843-2882 have an over active immune response. Binding to IL-31 quickly decreases the immune system reDr. Murray graduated from Cornell University Veterinary School in 1996. sponse in many dogs, thereby decreasing skin inflammation and itchiness.

She did a brief stint as an emergency All of the monoclonal antibodies listed above are given as subcutaneous injections by your veterinarian before settling into a caveterinarian on a monthly basis. Because they are very targeted medications, they are safer than reer with small animals, mostly dogs and cats. Crystal lived in NJ prior to many other medications available for these conditions. For the most part, patients can continue to moving up to NY in 2006. She bought receive any other needed therapies for their conditions concurrently. During clinical trials, some the closed Mohawk Valley Veterinary Hospital in 2010. Crystal redesigned humans on chronic NSAIDS reacted negatively to the humanized Monoclonal Antibody targeting the building to improve its utility as a NGF. For this reason, it is not recommended that patients stay on NSAIDS longterm if transitioning veterinary hospital, and supervised them to Monoclonal Antibody treatment. Despite an impressive safety record for all of the above its complete renovation. She opened Country Valley Veterinary Clinic a few medications so far, some side effects are inevitable for all medications, and we always recommend months after this. In her spare time, close monitoring when starting a new therapy. It is also worth mentioning that older dogs receiving Crystal is the mother of two wonderful children, and the guardian of two dogs, significant pain reduction may injure themselves by being over active after receiving the injection. four cats, one horse and too many Personally, I have used all of the above medications for my own pets with great success. My cat chickens.

Maja’s last year of life was made infinitely more pleasant by alleviating her pain. I have a dog with severe and chronic allergies who is significantly improved on Lokivetmab, and I am struggling to keep my senior boy quiet on Bedinvetmab – he thinks he’s a puppy again!

If you are dealing with chronic osteoarthritis – and most senior pets do indeed have some degree of arthritis – or with allergies causing itchy, red skin, please consider talking to your veterinarian about these relatively new treatment modalities. Your veterinarian will need to do a thorough examination and may require other testing, and will talk to you in more detail about all of your treatment options, but we are finding Monoclonal Antibodies to be very helpful in expanding our treatment options in many cases.

Find out more about Country Valley Veterinary Clinic at www.CountryValleyVet.com or check out their Facebook page.

We treat your pet as we would our own.

Dr. Crystal C. Murray Dr. Stacey Bunting Dr. Stephanie Rogers Dr. Kelly Spence

Accepting New Patients!

Routine and Non-Routine Health Issues

including Urgent Care, Therapeutic Laser, Surgery Suite and Digital X-Ray Unit On-Site, Abdominal Ultrasound See Facebook & State of the Art Dental Equipment for Hours

5877 Route 30S, Amsterdam, NY 12010

(518) 843-2882 • www.countryvalleyvet.com 24 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

The Pooch Parlor

Located at the The Kinney Insurance Company 5243 Rt. 147, Galway, New York 12074 (518) 843-1537

Professional Grooming for Small Breeds “We Paws To Please” Tina Novak, Certified Dog Groomer & Author

Call to Pick Up a Copy of Tina’s book! $22 ea. or 2/$40

“To L

ove a nd Be Lo ved”

By: T ina N ovak

JAMES A. BRENNAN MEMORIAL SOCIETY - Gloversville, NY This Guy is a Big Hunk ofHUMANE Love!

TILLY

A dedicated staff and volunteers, helping to care for the many lost and unwanted dogs and cats in Fulton County. The Brennan Humane Society provides a tangible example of humane ethics and compassion for all living creatures.

BROOKE and CAESER

Male and Female These two are big goofballs who have not had an easy start in life. They’re somewhere between 1-2 years old and would love a real family. We would love for them to be adopted together because they really enjoy each other’s company but we understand that it might not be possible. Caesar and Brooke love car rides, swimming, and pretty much any kind of toy.

Female 1-2 years old. She is a sweet girl who is full of energy but also loves to snuggle.

GIZMO

Male

Gizmo would love a comfy couch.

He loves to go on walks but also loves to curl up in his blanket.

SQUASH

TURKEY

BRANDY

Male He isn’t fancy or flashy, just a dog that would bless your home all year.

A good boy and would love a family!

Male 6 mos. old. Shepherd mix who is ready for his forever home. He’s got lots to learn but is eager to please.

1 year old. This girl loves people and does ok with other animals. Lots of energy so an active home is best.

Needs a 1-2 person home w/no kids or other pets and not many visitors.

Loves rides hikes & toys!

437 Nine Mile Tree Rd., Gloversville, NY 12078 518-725-0115 www.pawsforyou.org

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Brennan

Check us out on Hours: Mon. 10-3pm: Tues.11-3pm; Wed. - Sat. 10-3pm; Sun. 10-2pm

Female

We offer both group and private cremation in your time of need. Please call for pricing and information.

VIOLET

Female

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

~ Thank You Golden Star Dog Training for sponsoring the James A. Brennan Memorial Humane Society ~

~Where Dogs & Humans Learn How to Shine~

Ann Trojan

All stages of dog training!

CCTA Certified Dog Trainer (CCDT)

Patient • Passionate FULLY INSURED

I train using ONLY positive reinforcement methods.

Private One Hour Lessons 6 weeks @ $180* • Puppy Kindergarten • Basic Obedience • Intermediate Obedience

Let me help you and your dog learn how to shine!

(based on the teachings of Susan Garrett)

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Tricks Class - 4 weeks @ $120*

(518) 844-0123 • goldstarpaws@gmail.com

Impulse Control 3 weeks @ $90*

*Standard mileage rates added to areas outside of Johnstown/Gloversville.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 25

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤ Kindness and Love Flows for Years in this Local Family Let’s face it, most of the huge hearted people who have and continue to rescue senior dogs and cats probably didn’t go into it, understanding what they themselves would gain from it.

There are so many reasons, some truly heartbreaking, that dogs or cats end up needing someone to love them in their elder years. Rescuing or fostering a senior pet is such a gratifying thing to do. It may not be for everyone, but if you have ever thought of it, why not consider contacting a rescue and inquiring about the sad ones, the older ones, the less than perfect ones?

One local couple, Phil and Lorrie Venneman have been stepping up to adopt senior pets for many years. They love them through their older years, getting them the vet care they need and enjoying every moment they get to spend with these animals. Surely they are appreciative of their new mom and dad and according to Lorrie and Phil, it is not as hard as it may seem to step up when needed. They don’t ask for much - a nice comfy bed, a ramp in some cases, perhaps some meds, and the ability to feel safe and loved, which they will, when they realize they are HOME. Read on to hear about Phil and Lorrie’s experiences with special needs and senior pet adoptions. The photos are proof positive that if you would ask either one of them if they have regrets they would say, ”Not ONE!”

Why do we love to foster/adopt older or less fortunate animals? By Lorrie Venneman

I’d have to say it’s the love that appears in their eyes when you meet and the daily “thank you” they show us every day. We’ve been doing this for almost 15 years now.

There can be many sleepless nights when we may need to sit with one of our kitties or dogs that might be ill. Phil and I get many hours of great enjoyment out of watching a sick kitty or dog finally feeling better, health wise, while getting comfortable in their new home.

Our first senior was a guy, named Uncle Buck. Some may remember his story. When I found Uncle Buck his owner had passed and no one cared for Uncle Buck. He was eating sticks and stones and leaves to fill his belly. Needless to say, he was a very sick boy. We had to carry Lorrie and Phil with Winston and Uncle Buck him to put him in our vehicle and the next morning he met Dr. Chester, of Sacandaga Veterinary Clinic. Doc and staff were skeptical as to whether he was going to survive. When Uncle Buck was ready to be discharged from Dr. Chester’s he came home and started his recovery. At that time we only had one youngster, named Winston.

Uncle Buck If Winston approved when a newcomer came into the house, they were in. He brought Uncle Buck his favorite toy, a sqeaky newspaper, that was his way of breaking the ice. Uncle Buck started our journey of wanting to continue on and help save as many pets as possible.

After Uncle Buck, came Boone, a Rottie mix, and then Sheila, a neglected older beagle.

The next really sad and disturbing case was a boy named Spartacus. His family decided after he got so ill, that they no longer wanted him. They took him for a walk and tied him Boone to a post on the rail trail. Luckily for Spartie, a sweet caring lady named Darlene was walking the rail trail and came upon Spartacus. She immediately called a friend to come Phil with Dolly, their most recently adopted dog. help and she brought him to a vet. After a day at the vets he came home to us. And the stories can go on. Even through all 26 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

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❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ Cont’d from page 26❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤

their passings have been heartbreaking, it’s still ok. We know in our hearts how much we loved each and every one of them and we know they loved us back.

Years later came the 22 French Mastiffs, The Stratford 22.

They were pretty much left to fend for themselves, until they were saved. Many passed away but 2 of them came into our lives. First, was a girl named Agnes. She was a very broken Sheila, basking in the sun in comfort. and sad case. We were lucky enough to have her for 10 days.

Dolly, chilling out at her new home.

Winston was doing his job getting Agnes to come out of her shell and learn what it was like to have a family to love her forever. Unfortunately, she left us too soon. Agnes suffered a major medical upset and went through 4 hours of surgery at Galway Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Smith saved her life, but sadly, on the day she was coming home she suffered a fatal blood clot and passed away. We were devastated, to say the least. After a couple of weeks we received a call from Christie at James Brennan Humane Society that there was another female there, named Lola. We visited and then adopted Lola and she soon became the house clown. That girl truly bonded with her new brother Winston. We were able to spend 6 great years with this gentle giant. She passed away this past Winston, not minding his “ears”.

June, after a year of Dr. Smith caring for her heart and lung condition - we are truly grateful to him for that. Before Lola passed, she lost her best friend Winston. We knew she needed a friend. While at the James A. Brennan Memorial Humane Society one day, a little adorable Blue Merle Cocker came and laid on my feet. This little sweetie was 3 yrs. old, and happened to be blind and deaf. We both knew a shelter is no place for a dog like that, so home she came! After Lola Simon, enjoying some time outside. passed, then Dottie needed a guide so she could finish learning how Just one of many cats Lorrie and Phil have rescued over the years. to navigate through strange surroundings. You guessed Lola and Dottie it! Another dog that needed us as much as we needed her was found. She’s a beautiful 6 year old Golden Retriever named Dolly.

After a few months they have become best friends who sleep together and have to eat next to each other.

Lola and Dottie sleeping soundly after a long day.

There are many more similar stories and new ones to be made I’m sure. To sum it up - If you’re thinking of fostering or adopting a senior or special needs dog, Phil and I want you to know that it is very rewarding! It gives you such a good feeling when you’re job is done. Just keep in mind that sometimes it’s hard work and hard decisions have to be made along the way. It’s also very Lorrie relaxing with Dottie important to have good veterinarians to be there if you need them - Veterinarians who are caring and compassionate, like the ones Phil Mersh, resting. and I have. We are very grateful for that and glad we are able to be clients of both. ❤

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 27

FULTON COUNTY This GuyREGIONAL is a Big Hunk ofSPCA Love! - Gloversville, NY

Here at Regional SPCA, we believe that all animals deserve a safe, loving home. We also feel that education and awareness is key to eliminating the over population and animal cruelty crisis facing our communities.

By offering low-cost spay and neutering services, low-cost rabies and vaccination clinics, and classes on training and healthcare, we are confident that we will be successful in resolving these issues.

TATER

BLUE

BELLA

BROLEY

Male Lovable mush, could use some one-on-one time w/his person. He is super smart and loves treats!

Male Precious boy, even sweeter than he looks! Loves people and other dogs, but cannot be around cats.

Female She loves all people she meets! She can live w/a properly matched dog, no cats! Older kids are best.

Male He is a sweet boy, who is not too active, walks around the block.

Loves people and other dogs.

JET

ODIE

SISSY BEAR

RUSTY

Male Look at his soulful eyes! He had a rough start in life, from home to home. He does well w/properly matched dogs and cats.

Male His rough start in life has him so appreciative of love and care. Loves snuggles, children and other dogs.

8 years old. This sweet girl would love a lap to snuggle on. She is good with

Check us out on Report lost/found pets and Animal Cruelty:

Male

Female

other dogs and cats.

Healthy, happy boy, he was never trained but with a bit of patience, he will learn quickly. He could live with a properly matched dog & cats too.

117 W. Fulton St., Gloversville, NY 12078 (518) 725-5956 www.fcrspca.org

(518) 736-2100

Hours: Call for an Appt.

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Fulton County Regional SPCA

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

~ Thank you Phil’s Truck and Auto for sponsoring the Fulton County Regional SPCA ~

Make us your first call for all your Automotive Repairs

ing e d i v o Pr Servic ity 84 l a u Q 19 e c n i s ck

r i a p e Tru& R to

s ’ l i h P

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www.philstruckandauto.com

306 South Main St, Gloversville, NY 12078

Phil & Lorrie Venneman, Owners 28 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Electrical Systems Computer Diagnostics Scheduled Maintenance NYS Inspection Station NYS Motorcycle Inspections

(518) 725-8779

Accepted

✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤✤ Emma’s mom, Kristie was happy to allow us to print her original post on Facebook and also give us an update on Emma.

So you adopted a kitty? Shy, cautious, and slow to warm up? Trust the process!

FROM THE ORIGINAL FACEBOOK POST: November 27th, 2022 was our lucky day! We met a black & white cat named Emma at Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter. Now I take this opportunity to advocate for other cats who may be like her. Not all cats will readily welcome an extended hand, pets or to be scooped up. Some may even cower in a corner, try to hide or run away. Don’t be discouraged. Your patience may pay off and result in a world of love like no other. There were numerous other cats vying for our attention when we went to meet Emma. Rolling over, purring, playing, accepting pets and calling out to us. Some may have been prettier, younger, friendlier and might have more willingly jumped into our pet carrier. Meanwhile Emma chose to quietly slip up and away onto a ledge overlooking the cat room. She seemed quite pleased with herself for being so keen. Little did she know we wouldn’t be swayed by the more bold cats advances. Something about Emma spoke to us and we were up for the challenge of loving her and showing her she could safely love us too. This would prove to be no small feat! The entire car ride home Emma sang a loud song of uncertainty.

We had a bedroom set aside for her to acclimate in and for nearly 2 weeks she took residency under the bed. At first she wouldn’t come out at all so we would take turns lying on the floor next to the bed to talk to her, offer treats and hope for any sign of trust. Putting in such time ever so slowly began to show progress with Emma. Little by little she began communicating her opinions. She would venture out from under the bed at night and quickly scoot back under in the morning. Eating, drinking, using the litterbox and eventually playing with toys! Slow blinks of approval began and next she would choose to lay just under the bed to begin taking in the new world around her. Our other cat, Leo began taking an interest as he could hear her moving about behind the closed door. Finally they began exchanging sniffs and Emma’s paw would occasionally poke out playfully from under the bedroom door. By the end of week 2 we could briefly pet Emma before she’d dash back under the bed. We started to allow Leo to come to the open doorway and at first the two would exchange curious gazes. It was difficult to remain patient at times, but we knew it would be best to continue to allow Emma to set the pace. She let us know she did not approve of a canned food option, by piling a blanket on top of the food bowl. She let us know if we were moving too fast by darting back under the bed. I was the recipient of a swipe or two because I missed (did not yet know) her warnings when she was over stimulated and needed space. But we also started hearing Emma’s soft pur, chatter and meow. She began rolling to show her underbelly and accepting pets. And wow, does she love to play! We were learning to appreciate her personality and were thrilled it was starting to show. Next she began to be our “hallway cat” ... Emma would brave the hallway outside of the bedroom. Leo and Emma had an introduction and would slowly engage in curious play off and on. Emma would head back to her bedroom to process, take a break and to sleep over nights.

Week 3 brought our daughter home from college for the holidays. Ready or not Emma had a roommate for 2 weeks.

Thankfully this brought about leaps and bounds of progress. With encouragement Emma began roaming the rest of the house in spurts and then disappeared back under the bed whenever she felt it necessary. It has been amazing viewing the house through Emma’s eyes - nearly every single thing was new to her. One of my favorite things for her is to have discovered she can run and embrace the zoomies!

Fast forward, and we are now in week 6 of the journey of loving Emma. The process has felt lengthy at times, but worth every moment.

Emma and Leo now enjoy free roam day and night of the house together. Emma still retreats under the bed on occasion and Leo seems to have an understanding that means leave her be. He’s had moments of pouting and acting out as he too is adjusting. We’ve needed to referee now and then but overall they are meshing quite well. I’ve even caught a glimpse of Emma attempting to groom Leo. He seemed grossed out, just as expected for a “sibling.”

It feels special to gain the trust of a shy and cautious cat. She is making us earn it, but she’s also proving it’s well worth the wait.

UPDATE - ONE YEAR LATER What a year it has been! It brings me great joy to provide this update with hope that you too may consider adopting a shy, cautious cat. Our patience has paid off so well and Emma has made leaps and bounds of progress. We feel so honored to continue to get to know her true, and more confident self. She spends her days patrolling her home with curiosity, as she notices every little change. She has proven herself to be quite intelligent and she easily manipulates her younger "sibling," Leo. She takes the lions share of Happy Emma! food, snacks and sometimes attention. Less than a year ago she wouldn't have dared. She has made claim to her spot at the top of the cat tower and enjoys looking down over the household. If visitors come she may still scamper away at first, but soon after you may find her coming to greet you or at least check things out from a safe distance. Emma loves to chatter at the window as she watches the birds. My personal favorite part of this update is to include that Emma is slowly becoming a lap cat. I am thankful we did not overlook Emma that day at the shelter, because she was more reserved and cautious. We have needed to work to gain her trust, and the reward is her love.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 29

AYRES MEMORIAL ANIMAL SHELTER This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love! - Sprakers, NY Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter operates a No-Kill “quality of life” shelter, and the devoted workers are committed to making sure that each and every animal in their care has exactly that.

Their home between homes ❤

SIMON

PUMPKIN & BUTTERBALL

SANTIAGO

Male 7-8 year old. Neutered DSH. Loves people. Needs to be the only pet.

Males 8 year old brothers we are trying to adopt together. Min Pin mixes.

Approx 20 lbs. Good with dogs, cats and kids over 5.

5 -6 year old FIV + Maine Coon mix.

Loves people. Not good with dogs.

Okay with female cats.

4-5 year old Rottie/Malinois mix.

About 55 pounds. Good with some other dogs.

LENNON

ANISE

CARLOS

ANYA

Male 2 year old Redbone Coonhound.

Good with other dogs. Loves people.

No kitties. Loves to play!

Very smart boy.

8 years old. Spayed DMH. Talker.

Okay with other cats that give her space. Loves to be pet. Lived with a small senior dog.

Check out our on or go to: www.AyresAnimalShelter.org

Female

Male

Male

2 year old Pitbull mix. Shy at first.

Very sweet once he gets used to his people. Older kids. May be able to have a properly matched dog friend.

DARBY

Male

Female

8 years old. Spayed. Good with other cats, lived with a small dog.

Loves attention.

133 Hilltop Road, Sprakers, NY 12166 518-673-5670 Hours: Thursday: 1pm - 3 pm; Friday: 1pm - 3 pm Saturday: 1pm - 3 pm; Sunday: 1pm - 3 pm

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

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AMSTERDAM • JOHNSTOWN • GLOVERSVILLE and surrounding areas

30 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

U

Creativity eash nl

e

d

HOME

Got Ideas?

AYRES MEMORIAL ANIMAL SHELTER This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love! - Sprakers, NY Our Wish List Includes:

For Dogs: Kongs, Dental Chews, Purina One Dog Chow, Canned Dog Food, Martingale Collars, Slip Leashes, Lumabone Type Chews, Treats, Toys, Waterless Shampoos • For Cats: Purina Kitten Chow, Purina Indoor Cat Chow, Catnip Mice, Canned Cat Food, Cat Litter, Cat Nip, Litter Scoops, Cat Scratchers See www.AyresAnimalShelter.org for Cleaning Supplies and Misc. Items, which are always needed as well.

APOLLO

CYNTHIA

TULIP

Male 7 mos old. Neutered DSH. He is ready to be your forever shadow! Good with other cats, kids and would learn to live w/a dog.

Female Adult. Pitbull Terrier, spayed. She is silly, sweet, sassy and loves people.

Good w/some dogs, needs a dog who can put up w/ her energy.

2 years old. Spayed DSH. Sweet girl, came in as a pregnant stray. She is a love bug!

ANGUS

Female

Male

1-2 years old. Shar Pei/Terrier mix. Needs breed experienced home. He seems good with cats and is okay with some dogs.

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

Visit them at: 133 Hilltop Road, Sprakers, NY 12166 518-673-5670

The Fultonville Redemption Center is always accepting donations of bottles and cans for Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter!

~ Thank You Fultonville Redemption Center for sponsoring Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter ~

Fultonville Redemption Center We Accept All Brands w/a NYS Deposit

19 Erie Street, Fultonville, NY

No Sorting Required

Smal lL Large oads or Tru Loads ckloa ds

Proud to be this year’s

WINNER of

Thank you to all who voted for us!

Bottle Drives & Convenient Drop Off Service Available Fundraisers Welcome Pre Counts Accepted Mon. & Tues. 10-5; Wed. Closed: Thurs. & Fri. 10-5: Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-3

(518)853-1468

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 31

Meet Charles Bradley Brown of Broadalbin, NY Mike and I have had the pleasure of meeting Charlie and Linda Eastman (Charlie’s Mama), at the Broadalbin Christian Book Store at 16 N. Main St. He is an amazing dog and the perfect greeter for patrons of the store. He has admirers all over town, in other states and even internationally!

We asked his Mama if we could do an article on him.

She said yes and reached out to his friends who answered some questions about Charlie.

WooF!

✥

My name is Charles Bradley Brown, but you may call me Charlie. I am a rescued Plott Hound who now lives in Broadalbin, NY where I am the greeter at Broadalbin Christian Bookstore and Linda’s Antiques.

Many of my friends have questions about me, so I thought I would answer them here. If you have questions you can come see me or write me on my Facebook page.

Melissa and Maggie: Were you adopted as a puppy? Where did you live before?

CBB: I don’t like to talk about my past. I was running around the Amsterdam area in 2021 when Penny Ross found me and brought me to her rescue “Dally’s Hope 4 Paws”. That is where I met Mama.

Carol: What was it like when you first realized you are going home with Mama forever?

CBB: I was so happy. When I met Mama I sat on her feet and leaned against her legs so she would know that I had picked her.

I am so glad that Penny agreed that I had made a good choice.

Carol, Dawna, and Linda M.: Do you have a favorite comfort toy, one that you sleep with or keep close to you?

CBB: I love my chew bones and bring them to bed with me.

Leeann: Do you sleep with your mom in her bed?

CBB: I sleep at the foot of the bed. I would sleep closer to Mama but her cat, Princess CallieAnnabelle won’t let me.

Lisa Anne and Nadine: What is your favorite ice cream?

CBB: Vanilla, my vet, Dr Chester, says “Always feed your dog vanilla ice cream. If you are ever drowning they will remember it and rescue you”. He is right.

Camille: What is your favorite berry?

CBB: Blueberries! From my favorite blueberry farm in Broadalbin, of course!

Donner: What place in Broadalbin has the best treats?

CBB: In the village Miss Suzanne at the Post Office gives me the best treats. Outside of the

village I get lots of good treats from my friends at NBT bank.

Nadine, Cindy, and Erica: What is your favorite thing to do with your Mama?

CBB: My favorite thing is to go hiking at Camp Cedarbrook with Mama. I love being in the woods and I love Camp Cedarbrook, especially when there are people at camp and I get treats. I love treats.

32 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

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Joy: What is your doggy mind thinking while you patiently wait for your mama as she prunes back overgrowth on the Camp Cedarbrook hiking trails?

CBB: I am glad for the rest! Keeping up with Mama can be hard work. Sometimes I know there are wild critters nearby so I keep watch. I would let Mama know if any came close.

Linda L: You’re a pretty mellow dude, Charlie, but what might scare you?

CBB: Being away from my Mama scares me a lot. I want to be with her all the time.

Betty: What do you think about going to different churches?

Do you like one more?

CBB: I love going to church. My favorite is Mayfield Center Community Church because I get to sit with Miss Sharon and Miss Sally, and get treats.

Here I am with my Mama, at the store.

Sally: Do you like being the canine greeter in your mom’s store?

CBB: I LOVE it, I really love it when they give me treats.

Jean: How many chipmunks or red squirrels have you chased and caught?

CBB: I haven’t caught any yet but I did climb almost 8 feet up a tree after some of them.

Abby: What’s your favorite holiday?

CBB: I love Christmas. My fan club sends me gift certificates and I get to go shopping.

Vicki: What do you really think about all the attention Mama gives all the foster kitties?

CBB: I know what it is like to be homeless so I really don’t mind it too much.

Jamie: Share a time when you got into a little harmless mischief!

CBB: Well, I thought it was fun but Mama’s cat Marmalade Monkeyshine’s didn’t.

I ate the nose off Marmie’s favorite mouse toy.

Stacy: What is your superpower?

CBB: My superpower is making people smile. There are not enough smiles in the

world. Do you need smiles in your life? I bet there is a dog or cat with special super powers just for you. Check out all the ones in this magazine for your new loving friend or two!

When I am not resting or on one of my many adventures with Mama, I will be looking out the window for you!

You can come shop and meet me!

“LIKE” me on

I even have my

own business ca

rd!

so you can follow my adventures!

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 33

KITTEN ANGELS - Mayfield, NY (and other Capital Region Areas) Scan Here to See Kitten Angels is a non-profit organization dedicated to resPets Available for cuing abandoned and orphaned kittens, pregnant cats, and Adoption at Kitten Angels mama cats in the New York Capital Region and surrounding area. All of our Kitten Angels are in foster homes or at one of our Pet Partner locations. Our organization is run completely by volunteers; we have no paid employees. You can go online to Petfinder to see some of our available cats for adoption, or you can follow us on both Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.

233 Houseman St., Mayfield, NY 12117 (518) 573-9906 adoptions@kittenangels.org

Belle

Cloe

Buffy and Willow

Jada

Belle is a beautiful young lady who was rescued with her 5 kittens. She is shy at first, but loves to be petted.

She will do best in a quiet home with no dogs. If you are looking for a purring machine, Belle is your girl!

Hi, I am Cloe, a beautiful sleek girl who loves snuggles and lap time.

My brother was adopted and now I am all alone, which has been scary. I’m looking for a quiet home that will give me the time and space to blossom into the beautiful cat I know I can become. I am fostered by Denise D.

Sisters Buffy and Willow are a bonded pair who need to be adopted together. Rescued from an abandoned lot they are playful and curious. They will need a patient adopter as they are still shy.

They will do best in a home without children.

Jada was rescued with her 2 kittens. She has come a long way and now likes being petted. She is looking for a quiet home with someone who is willing to give her time to adjust and learn to trust.

Esther

Lola and Neko

In Loving Memory of

Esther is a sweet calico who wants love and attention on her terms until she feels safe with you. Life in a hoarding situation was hard on her but she is coming out of her shell. She is on special food for her sensitive tummy. Esther loves playing with wand toys, mousies, and laser toys. Her foster is Denise D.

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Hi, I am Lola, a beautiful black kitty, and this is my best buddy Neko. We met while we were being fostered

by Kitten Angels and have been inseparable ever since. Sadly, our adopter passed away so we are back here. We need to be the only cats in a quiet home. Our foster is Emily.

Kim Jackson

Kim Jackson, who was the founder of Bella’s Blankets, was a friend and supporter of not only Kitten Angels but shelters and rescues all across the area. Kim lost her long battle with cancer on August 19th, 2023.

Rest In Peace, Kim. May you walk in the sunshine and may all your days be filled with furry companions to love. www.kittenangels.org

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34 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

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DALLY’S HOPE 4 PAWS RESCUE - Hagaman, NY

NORA

BROWNIE

FEMALE 2 - 3 years old.

Wire Terrier mix.

Nora is housebroken and dog friendly.

She loves car rides and likes to talk by howling. This girl is a sweetheart.

No Cats.

PATSY CLINE FEMALE Patsy Cline is 18 mos. old and 80 pounds.

She is a Plott Hound Great Dane mix. A very sweet girl who loves to cuddle. Patsy loves to play and rides great in the car.

She loves walks and is crate trained. Call to meet this good girl!

FEMALE A sweet young lady!

Hound. Approx 60 pounds. She is crate trained and loves walks. She loves to meet new people.

She is great in the car.

Just a very friendly girl. She has been here since June with no applications.

Very food motivated.

TWINKI

DAISY FEMALE 1 - 3 years old. Catahoula Mix .

43 pounds full grown.

She has been treated for heartworm. Daisy is dog friendly and loves people of all ages. This is a very calm, housebroken girl who would love a family and enjoys attention.

FEMALE 10 Year old Beagle.

She is 23 pounds and is Male housebroken. lives DSH. with 7-8She yearcurrently old. Neutered Loves to be other dogs butpeople. wouldNeeds love an the only “Only Twinki” home!

She pet. wants her human all to herself. Twinki snuggles under the blankets and loves car rides and going for walks. She is also crate trained. What a sweetie!

Dally’s Hope 4 Paws Rescue

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Dally’s Hope 4 Paws

Hagaman, New York 12086 (518) 410-9201

Inquire on any dog on Petfinder at dallyshope27@yahoo.com

Check us out on

PLEASE CONSIDER APOPTING ONE OF THESE WONDERFUL PETS! SCAN THE QR CODE TO SEE MORE INFORMATION ON THIS SHELTER

~ Thank You Country Feed Store for sponsoring Dally’s Hope 4 Paws Rescue ~ SAVE ON GAS WITH

Upper Market St., Amsterdam (518) 842-5360 M-F 6am - 10pm • Sat. 7am - 10pm • Sun. 7am - 10pm

In-house Frequent Buyer Program

We Now Sell Beer!

Merrick Dog Food Buy 12 - Get 1 FREE

Redemption Center on premises - Open Every Day except Tuesday

Gas • Milk • Coffee • Snacks • Lottery • Cigarettes • Dog & Cat Food • Horse Feed • Newspapers • & More!

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 35

H.A.L.O. is a no-kill, cage-free feline shelter and animal rescue organization in Little Falls, NY, and we are happy to announce that we are celebrating 20 years of rescuing cats and kittens. We owe our success and offer our gratitude to our many wonderful supporters and volunteers.

This year we took in 111 cats and kittens, and we have had 97 adoptions thus far. Some rescued kittens have been found abandoned and left in the cold or extreme heat; some cats have come to us injured or sick; others have been given up for various reasons. At present, we are at full capacity at the H.A.L.O. House, but we do provide a waiting list and do our best to accommodate urgent situations.

To be successful with our mission of saving and improving the lives of animals, H.A.L.O. has many fundraisers including flea markets, Chinese auctions, craft shows, paint & sip events, pet photos, a Halloween party, an Open House and other events. For event dates, visit our Facebook page or our Webite at: halorescue.net.

Stop by the H.A.L.O. House at 615 Albany Street, Little Falls, and visit our cats and kittens of all ages and personalities that are available for adoption. You’ll be sure to fall in love with them instantly and no doubt find your forever pet. For more information, call 315.985.3738 or visit our website at halorescue.net.

- Victoria Graham Chambers and Natalie Massita, H.A.L.O. Members

On these next two pages are just a few of the residents at H.A.L.O.

BUSTER

Buster has been with H.A.L.O. since February 2022. He is 8 ½ years old, very handsome, sweet, and he is definitely the boss here. He likes pets and kisses on his head. He can be grumpy at times, but who of us isn’t! His mom went to a nursing home, and while she was there, he was isolated and alone except for someone feeding him. His mom had to remain in the nursing, so he was brought to us.

His fur was quite matted; in fact, the vet shaved him except for his boots and head. He developed a cold but recovered, and then developed an ear infection. Once he was better, we had his teeth checked. He has one snaggletooth that sticks out – giving him character. Upon x-rays, the vet found his jaw had been broken and was never treated. The tooth that is sticking out can’t be removed because it is holding his jaw together, and surgery to repair would be very hard on him.

He is on daily medication for anxiety and is doing so much better now. Buster has been through a lot, and we are hoping he will find a special person soon to adopt him into his forever home.

WINDY Just look at that pose!

Windy came to us from the Town of Danube in August at just five weeks old with three siblings after losing their mom.

She is very shy to people but loves all her foster fur siblings here at the H.A.L.O. House and especially her foster fur mom, Lacey. She loves to play, enjoys her treats, but watch out if she’s on catnip. She gets the “zoomies” sometimes.

~ Thank You Coldwell Banker for sponsoring H.A.L.O ~

JOHNSTOWN OFFICE

363 N. Comrie Ave (Route 30A) Johnstown, NY 12095

518.762.9885 GREAT SACANDAGA LAKE OFFICE 66 Northville Rd. Northville, NY 12134

518.863.2653 36 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

H.A.L.O. - Helping Organization ThisAnimals Guy is a Live Big Hunk of Love! - Little Falls, NY

Some words from H.A.L.O.’s Website - All pets available for adoption can be found at Halorescue.net Each cat is checked by a vet, spayed or neutered and they are also tested for feline AIDS & Leukemia, then are put into our cat colony to socialize with other cats so they can be adopted in a home of their own or learn to live with others. When you are looking for that special cat, remember they are also looking for that one special human. Just remember every cat is adoptable. Some just need to find that one special person first.

Stevie & Scotty

Lacey

We would like to see this bonded pair be adopted together.

Sweet Lacey arrived at H.A.L.O. in August 2023 with six, four-week-old kittens who were all living under a table in a backyard. She is the most amazing mom ever. She raised her six kittens plus sixteen others, and every time she hears a kitten, she wants to check it out. Now it’s her well-deserved time to find her forever home. She is less than two years old, super sweet, loveable, and very playful. She has never met a human or animal she didn’t like!

Katy Pury

Benny Benny

She came to us from Utica in May, 2023, with four kittens. All of her kittens were adopted, and now it’s her turn. She’s about 1 ½ years old, very sweet and playful, but a little shy.

Benny Benny was a TNR in Utica.

In April 2022, he jumped in someone’s car and refused to get out, and that’s how he arrived at H.A.L.O. He’s 3 ½ years old, loves pets and sleeping in the sun.

Stevie (left) is a polydactyl and is very sweet and loving. He arrived with an infected toe but is fine now. Scotty (right) is playful and loves caring for his brother.

Maggie May

Kaia

This beautiful girl was pregnant when she arrived in April 2023. All her kittens have been adopted, and now it’s her turn to find a forever home.

She’s the boss here, or so she likes to think. She loves attention and everyone she meets, but she’s not crazy about other kitties – not yet anyway.

Kaia gave birth under a deck in March 2022 when she was still just a baby!

She is now 1 ½ years old and loves to snuggle on a lap, on her terms of course. She often has a lot to say.

(315) 985-3738 • halorescue.net 615 Albany St., Little Falls, NY 13365 See Petfinder.com or Facebook for more info

Together, we can ALL make a difference!

Please adopt, donate or volunteer today!

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at H.A.L.O.

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

Whatever you need to GO get the job done!

We have

it here.

A Full Service John Deere Dealer.

Sell, Service & Support.

3021 State HWY 5S. Fultonville, NY 12072.

(518) 853-3405

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 37

N E W

B U I

L D I

Now Open!

Montgomery County

(518) 842-8050

Fill out applications to volunteer here!

Email: info@mc-spca.org Wed. - Sun. 12-4; Closed Mon. & Tues.

4-Story Cat Condos

ie!

igg B e e oS

G

N G

After years of research, planning, fundraising and construction, the brand new, state-of-the-art, Neena Rao Family Animal Care and Adoption Center - Montgomery County SPCA is OPEN! Located on 22 acres at 1232 State Highway 5s, Amsterdam, NY 12010, the facility has a surgery suite and will offer low cost spay and neutering and vaccinations to the public complete with recovery rooms.

It has isolation areas for new arrivals and grants animal control personal access to holding kennels for stray and abandoned dogs. The air circulation system refreshes the air 10 times per hour, greatly reducing the risk of disease. Large ceiling fans remove the odor that is so common in animal shelters. There are two laundry areas, one for animals in isolation and one for those cleared for adoption, which reduces the risk of cross contamination.

The glass front Cat Condos are spacious and bright. “Our cats love them” boasts the staff. And the dog adoption area holds twenty glass front kennels allowing the dogs and adopters to see and interact with each other. Separate rooms allow potential adopters the opportunity to meet one on one with their favorite dog or cat. The reception area is bright and cheery, and the exterior invites you in.

There are so many other features associated with this facility, such as a 10’x12’ insulated shed for their feral cat colony. The list goes on.

You should plan a visit to the latest improvement to the City of Amsterdam.

The Board of Directors would like to thank all those individuals, business owners, state and local governments who gave their time and money to the homeless, abandoned and stray animals who need our help so much.

er!

rey B e e oS

G

38 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Phone: 518-842-8050 Website: www.mc-spca.org New Address:

1232 State Highway 5s, Amsterdam NY 12010

Cat Room

SCAN HERE to see all the adoptable pets at MCSPCA

Dog Kennels

Montgomery County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love! SPCA - Amsterdam, NY The Mission of the Montgomery County SPCA is to provide protection, care and shelter to animals in need in the community, and placement of animals into appropriate homes. We do not euthanize animals for space. All of our animals stay as long as it takes to find them a good home.

JAY

FLAPPY

Male I am a sweet and friendly boy who loves attention from people. I would love a calm home to relax in the sun!

I get along with other cats.

I am a friendly & energetic boy.

I would love a large yard to play in. I will enjoy going on lots of walks with you!

I am a friendly and energetic boy!

I like playing with my toys and would do best in an active home.

One of my favorite things to do is play and go for walks. I love people and would enjoy an active home.

Stop by and play with me!

ADELE

BIGGIE

LILLY

DAISY

Female I have a lot of energy and would do best in an active home. I am friendly and like going for walks and playing with my toys.

I would love a large yard to run in.

3 yrs. old. I love people and toys.

Going for walks is fun, but I will relax with on the couch too.

I would really love a home!

Check us out on or go to: www.MC-SPCA.org

Male

Male

BATMAN

Male

Female

WIGGLES

Male

Female

I can be shy, but then I warm up.

I love attention and would be best as an only cat. I would enjoy a calm and quiet home to lay in the sun!

I am an affectionate girl once I get to know you. I may be shy but I warm up quickly! I will be your loyal companion.

1232 State Hwy., 5S, Amsterdam, NY 12010 518-842-8050

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at MCSPCA

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 12 - 4 pm Closed Monday and Tuesday

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

~ Thank you Adirondack Express Lube for sponsoring the Montgomery County SPCA ~

ADIRONDACK EXPRESS LUBE 4648 STATE HWY 30 AMSTERDAM

997 STATE HWY 29A GLOVERSVILLE

518-842-8377

518-725-8885

OIL CHANGES WHILE YOU WAIT! We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 39

IMMUNIZATIONS

Lifelong Protection Through childhood, adolescence and into adulthood vaccination protects health at every stage of life.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEA LT H D E PA R T M E N T 40 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Immunizations: Lifelong Protection Your Guide to Vaccines at Every Stage of Life

By Lauren Wohlgemuth, LPN

Immunizations are the unsung heroes of public health. They provide protection against a range of diseases, from childhood to old age. In New York, we are fortunate to have a comprehensive vaccination program that safeguards our health at every stage of life. In this article, we'll explore the importance of immunizations at various life milestones.

Early Years: A Strong Start Childhood vaccinations are the foundation for a healthy life. From birth to age 2, vaccines like hepatitis B, rotavirus, polio, haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), pneumococcal and diphtheriatetanus-pertussis (DTaP) protect against serious infections. In early childhood, between ages 4-6, completion of vaccine series like MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and Varicella (chickenpox) provide continued protection. Before enrolling in school, children must meet immunization requirements required by New York State (NYS) Public Health Law. Adolescence: Beyond the Basics As teenagers, additional vaccines become essential. Beginning as early as 9 years of age the HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls to protect against cancers caused by the HPV virus. In addition, the meningococcal vaccines guard against bacterial meningitis and is a requirements for students to attend school in NYS. Vaccination not only keeps our adolescents safe but also prevents the spread of these diseases in schools and communities.

Adulthood: Staying Up to Date In adulthood, the need for immunizations doesn't fade. Annual flu vaccines, recommended for all adults, protect against seasonal illness. The shingles vaccine (recommended at age 50) guards against a painful reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Pneumococcal vaccines, typically given at age 65, safeguard against potentially life-threatening infections.

Golden Years: Securing Health in Aging As we age, vaccines continue to play a vital role. In addition to flu and pneumonia shots, COVID-19 vaccinations have become essential. These protect against diseases that can be more dangerous with age. Protecting seniors against severe respiratory virus’ has been a priority in New York and worldwide. Vaccines have allowed many older adults to maintain an active and engaged lifestyle, even during challenging times.

Immunizations are a vital part of public health in New York. Regardless of age, vaccines keep us, our families, and our communities safe. To protect your health and the health of those around you, make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with immunizations. We're all in this together, and immunizations are a key tool to safeguard our shared well-being. Remember, vaccination schedules may vary depending on personal medical history and other factors. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the right vaccines at the right time.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 41

This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love!

AMSTERDAM KITTEN ADOPTION - Amsterdam, NY This Guy is a Big Hunk of Love!

We are a local rescue dedicated to helping local kittens find homes. Our adoption fee covers the spay/neuter, rabies vaccine, fvrcp vaccine, flea treatment, dewormer, nail trim and ear cleaning.

If you like kitties but don’t think you want a long term commitment we are always looking for foster homes.

Snow birds welcome! This is a great way for people who love kittens to spend time with them while they wait for their forever homes.

SUN

1 YEAR OY FEMALELD

SUNDAY

DECKER

3.5 YEAR OLD FEMALE

2.5 YEAR OLD FEMALE

Call about any of these wonderful adoptable kitties!

FREYA

1 YEAR OLD FEMALE

www.amsterdamkitten.org KEYLIOLD

1.5 YEAR LE FEMA

CORIANDER 6 MONTH OLD FEMALE

CAMMY

2.5 YEAR OLD FEMALE

CLAUWDIA 1 YEAR OLD FEMALE

Hagaman, New York 12086 • (518) 265-2842 Gina Kline

Check out Amsterdam NY Kitten Adoption on

or call Gina Kline for more information

Scan Here to See More Pets Available for Adoption at Amsterdam Kitten Adoptions

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

~ Thank You Junell Realty, Inc. for sponsoring Amsterdam Kitten Adoption ~

Junell Pasquarelli NYS Licensed Real Estate Broker

www.JunellRealty.com Serving Montgomery, Fulton, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie & Albany Counties 42 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Email: JunellRealty@yahoo.com

Office/Cell/Text: 518-588-5141

THE ANIMAL SHELTER OF This Guy is aSCHOHARIE Big Hunk of Love!VALLEY, INC. - Howes Cave, NY Do you have love in your heart to become a foster parent? Call Today!

See our wish list on our website. We are always in need of detergent, cat litter, dog food canned in gravy, Lysol all purpose floor cleaner with bleach, dry dog food, kitten food canned and dry, 2-sided sponges and more!

SOLSTICE

Female 1 year old. She is super sweet and

LITTLE BEAR and SARAH SNUFFLEUPAGUS

Females

Male

Female 1 year old Beagle. She is super sweet and loves people! She loves to run and play like a typical beagle!

Good w/dogs and seems fine with cats. Seems like she is fine w/kids.

SARGE

affectionate! She is a queen bee and will need a home without other cats. She would be fine in a home with kids. She has not been around dogs yet.

This mom-daughter duo are attached at the hip, and we don’t want to separate them. SUPER sweet and affectionate girls.

1+ year old.He used to be shy but has come a long way. Bashful but comes out for treats.

Great w/other cats.

22

DINO

ZAHARA

Male 1-2 year old Pitbull mix. Very energetic and loves the outdoors. Needs basic manners and help learning how to walk on a leash. Good w/dogs & cats.

Male 7-8 years old. Shar Pei mix(40lbs).

Female

He’s a happy, goofy boy that loves to run!

He is affectionate on his own terms, and will need a family that understands he can get grouchy when he wants space.

8 year old Pitbull mix. She is super sweet and loves people. She’s been at the shelter for over a year and it is taking a toll on her. No cats.

304 Howes Cave Rd., PO Box 40, Howes Cave, NY 12092 518-296-8390

Check us out on or go to: www.schoharieanimalshelter.org

POPPY

Open: Tuesday - Sunday from 1- 3 pm.

We are closed to the public on Monday.

Male

4-5 year old Pitbull mix. He is an absolute sweetheart, and adores kids!

He loves to go for walks, and thinks car rides are the best! He will need a home without other animals.

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at The Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

If you would like to advertise in a future issue of We Call This HOME magazine, please call Linda at (518) 842-6532 Just a reminder, when you are adopting a pet remember to take the time to meet the scared ones, the shy ones, the ones that don’t stick out to you, the ones with the boring colors or missing limbs, the older ones, the frail ones.

They have not given up.

They just need you.

And maybe you need them too. ~ Author Unknown

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 43

Lead Exposure - Renovate Right Dear Homeowners, Landlords and Property Managers, Do you have plans to renovate a home? Lead exposure can cause serious problems, especially for children under six years old. Lead-based paint was used in millions of homes until it was banned in 1978. If your home was built before 1980, the Montgomery County Health Department has some tips for your safety during renovations. Here are some facts you should know: • • •

• •

Lead can affect a child’s brain and developing nervous system causing reduced IQ and learning disability. Children under 6 are most at risk.

Lead exposure can cause behavioral problems.

Lead in dust is the most common way people are exposed to lead. Lead dust is often invisible. You can get lead in your body by breathing or swallowing lead dust or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.

Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.

The only way to know if a child has lead poisoning is to get them tested.

If renovations are taking place in your home or child-care facility, the work areas should not be accessible while the work is being done. Moving out of your home temporarily while the work is being done or considering alternative accommodations for children may be a possibility to consider.

Federal law requires contractors who are hired for renovations in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978 that disturb painted surfaces, be certified and follow specific practices to prevent lead contamination. Landlords who do renovations, repairs and painting must also be certified. Lead-based paint may be hazardous on surfaces that children can chew on such as windowsills, doors and doorframes, stairs, railings, banisters, porches and fences.

Lead can also be found in drinking water in homes that have plumbing with lead or lead solder.

For more information about the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) visit the Environmental Protection Agency Web site at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.

To learn more about the dangers of lead exposure to children and adults, or for more information about becoming a certified lead renovator call the Montgomery County Health Department at (518) 853-3531.

44 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

FREE EPA CERTIFIED LEAD TRAININGS CLASS SIZE IS LIMITED—REGISTER TODAY—ALL TRAININGS ARE FREE Funding for RRP classes is provided by Montgomery County Public Health Department CLPPP+ Program

EPA Certified Renovator Initial Training Course (RRP I) Plus Two RRP Refresher Courses To be held at: Effective April 22, 2010, workers performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination and must be certified. This federal EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rule applies to contractors, painters, plumbers, carpenters, electricians, window replacers, roofers, and landlords.

The Riverfront Center 1250 Riverfront Ctr. Amsterdam, NY 12010 7:45 am registration/ continental breakfast 8:00 am - 5:00 pm training

Trainings to become EPA certified are offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County, an EPA accredited training provider. This course is approved for purposes of certification under Section 402 of Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for the respective discipline.

Upon successful completion of the RRP Initial course including passing an exam at the end of the class, participants are EPA certified renovators. This certification is good for 5 years. Certified renovators must take a RRP Refresher course before their certification expires.

Failure to comply with EPA's RRP program requirements could result in penalties of up to $37,500 per day per violation.

Each participant will receive a FREE starter renovator kit over $500.00.

Class size limited to 24 participants

FOR TRAINING DATES PLEASE CONTACT:

Montgomery County Health Department For more details at: 518-853-3531 Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:00pm

Questions can be answered by: Nancy at (518) 765-3521/NKL1@cornell.edu PARTICIPANTS MUST PRE-REGISTER Please register online: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events.cfm?dept=201 ALL RRP INITIAL TRAININGS INCLUDE: Continental Breakfast * Lunch * Refreshments * Course Manuals & Materials

New York State code officials successfully completing Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County’s 8 hour EPA RRP Initial training course will receive 8 hours of Professional Development Electives toward their 24 hours of annual In-service credit. (Individuals must sign in, complete all paperwork, have their picture taken, pass the exam, and sign out. All students must follow these procedures to receive in-service training credit for this class.)

24 Martin Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186 518-765-3500 ● FAX 518-765-2490 ● www.ccealbany.com ● www.facebook.com/ccealbany Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Please contact the Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County office if you have any special needs.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 45

When adoption doesn’t go as planned & giving up is not an option I remembered that Jessica and her family had some issues at the start when they adopted Gabby. It reminded me of Tobie and how we needed to seek training for him as well. I asked Jessica to write about her experience with Gabby. Hopefully her story will inspire others who may find that things did not go perfectly when their new family member came home. It is so worth the effort though to push through it and get the help needed. ~ Linda

If you are considering adding a pet to your family, I truly hope you consider rescuing a dog instead of purchasing a pup- JESSICA LEE BRATE Licensed Mortgage Originator py from a pet store or breeder. There are dogs of all breeds, NMLS 56711 y b Gab Homestead Funding Corp. sizes, ages and demeanors in our local shelters waiting for a Licensed Mortgage Banker NYS Department of new family. Many of these dogs are young, affectionate and Financial Services active, and some have even been well trained. All of them deserve another chance. Any pet requires NMLS 3232 an adjustment for your household and will take work and effort to train. When rescuing a dog, you See ad on page 19 may be swapping housebreaking a puppy for working with a fearful dog or one with bad leash manners. If you do adopt from a shelter, please be prepared to enlist the help of a professional trainer if necessary and make every possible attempt to avoid sending them back because they need an extra bit of attention and effort.

My family has rescued two dogs and had two vastly different experiences. The first dog we adopted was our dream dog. Junior was a pure-bred Boston terrier who was well trained and well adjusted. Apparently he was given up due to change in living arrangements for his past owner and ended up in a shelter in Florida that was going to euthanize him. A small volunteer rescue from Vermont saved him and brought him to New York. We knew we found the perfect dog for our two child household the moment we met him and never had a single issue with his behavior. Sadly, after just 4 r years with us, our perfect pup was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. After variJunio ous medications, several midnight ER visits and numerous close calls, his heart could no longer keep up and he passed away just 6 months after being diagnosed. To ease our heartache, we decided to look for another small breed dog to rescue. We stumbled upon Gabby, an adorable female mixed breed (Boston Terrier, Shih Tzu, Beagle mix), through one of the Pet Finder websites. Her foster mother described her as a sweet, quiet, young dog who seemed fine with other animals and people. She had her for 4 months and was keeping her in her grooming shop with a couple of other foster dogs and there had been no issues.

We drove from New York to Pennsylvania to get her. Upon our arrival she barked at us nervously and we assumed it was because she was overwhelmed by the four of us crowding around her. We took her to a nearby park to give her a bit more space and we each took turns walking her one on one. That seemed to help put her at ease, so we loaded her into the car for the 4-hour trip home. The ride back was uneventful as she slept between our kids in the back seat for most of the ride. Once we got home, she was a little shy and tentative about her new environment for a day or two, but had no major issues.

As advised, we kept visitors to our home at a minimum for the first week so she could adjust. About 10 days later, our whole family got Covid and ended up housebound for nearly 2 weeks. During that time, Gabby took turns laying with whoever was in bed or on the couch for the day. Only after everyone was better and life got back to normal did we realize that her behavior had changed significantly. Unbeknownst to us, during the time we were in the house sick, she began thinking her new role was to “guard” her family and she felt that it was her job to keep us safe and to keep people out.

Cont’d next page 46 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Cont’d from page 46

She was confused and was trying to be the pack leader. Her sweet disposition turned threatening and scary the instant people entered our home. Kids were afraid to come over and play because she sounded so vicious. She would growl, bark and be ready to lunge at anyone who came within 10 feet of us on a walk. She hadn’t bitten anyone, but we feared she might, so we had to crate her if we had visitors. It was disappointing and frustrating that she wasn’t the sweet dog she had been and we began wondering if we would have to send her back to the foster home. I couldn’t stand the idea of giving her back which I knew would confuse her even further and I knew she had potential to be sweet like she was in the beginning. So, we decided we needed professional help.

We tried several trainers that were recommended from friends and our vet.

A couple of them came to our house weekly for a month or two, but there was little progress. By now we had her for 4-5 months. I loved her but our kids hadn’t bonded with her and they felt like she was a burden. I was desperate to find the right person to help us and while scouring the internet one night, I came across the website for a business called Primitive Dog, LLC in Charlton, NY. I emailed Tammy Alvarado the next day and she seemed confident she could help. She came over for a consultation and immediately realized what Gabby’s issues were and shed a lot of light on the things we were doing that were inadvertently reinforcing her bad behavior. She taught us how to deal with resource guarding which is common. Typically, dogs guard toys or food and it is a behavior which can be corrected fairly easily. It’s less common, very unhealthy and harder to deal with a dog who displays that guarding behavior toward humans. After a couple of visits, we decided to have Gabby attend a board and train with Tammy for 2 weeks while we took a vacation. When we came back Tammy brought her home and worked with all of us so we were all on the same page and could maintain her routine. The changes in Gabby were remarkable. Without a shock collar she got Gabby to curb her barking, know her role and understand that people are in charge. She seemed like a “normal” dog again (at least most of the time). Tammy taught us how to properly respond to the situations that came up, like when visitors come. She came back for some follow up sessions every few weeks to make sure we were sticking with it.

Turns out, dog training has as much to do with training their humans as it does with the dog. Gabby continued to improve and after about 6 months we knew we could keep working with her and she’d be able to stay. A year later, she is calm, sweet and a beloved part of our family. Aside from a brief barking episode when new guests arrive, she is usually at ease with people coming over. We can walk her and people approach and she ignores them. We take her to the park and she hangs out casually, even if there is a crowd. On occasion, if a kid charges at her unexpectedly or approaches with hands out, she will do that old aggressive bark, but it is easily controlled and we are not afraid of her.

Of course, the cost of this training added up and it took effort to follow the prescribed protocol. But I feel it was justifiable since we didn’t have to spend a lot of money to adopt her initially as we would have if we purchased a puppy. We never had to housebreak her or do basic obedience training. Saving an animal is not necessarily going to be easy every time, but I think it’s a chance worth taking and a worthy investment. We sure are glad we didn’t give up on Gabby and are thankful we found the right trainer to help us.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 47

Fa Pet STER

...because fostering a pet may save their life!

We try to share the cutest photos of our adoptable dogs on social media to highlight their very best sides in hopes that someone will fall in love with them the way that we have.

61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

(518) 581-5100

Email: Info@friendsofthemilitarymuseum.com Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-4pm • Closed Sunday

JACKSON - At shelter But there is a 219

The New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center tells the story of New York State’s rich military history and the service and sacrifice of its citizens through interpretive exhibitions, public programs, and the collection and preservation of artifacts and archival material related to the state’s military forces and its veterans.

AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION at

★★★★★★ Announcement ★★★★★★

daysthat only different side our volunteers see…

Jet

The New York State Military Museum

Fulton County Regional SPCA

117 W. Fulton St. Gloversville, NY 12078 (518) 725-5956 • Open By Appt. Only • www.fcrspca.org

Can’t adopt but interested in Fostering?

Read some FAQs below...from Foster Mom Alex...

Foster a Pet Today!

Fostering gives a temporary loving home for some of our animals who do not do well in a shelter environment. Fostering is also the only way Regional can help cats in need, as we do not have a safe space for cats at the shelter. We need fosters for both cats and dogs!

To foster, you must be at least 21, complete an application, and consent to a home visit. Meet and greets are mandatory if there are other animals in the house. As a foster parent, you help an animal in need while making space for another that needs it. All of the supplies and all veterinary expenses are provided

by Regional, you provide some love and a couch.

Are the goodbyes hard?

Of course they are. But if I kept every foster dog, I wouldn’t have a warm, safe place for the next dog who needed it. I do my best to keep in mind from the very beginning that the dogs I foster aren’t “mine”. My job isn’t to spoil them stupid (though there certainly is spoiling that happens), instead my job is to get them healthy and used to living in a home and ready to have a family of their own. Sometimes it’s the ones who can’t handle shelter life and need a quiet place to decompress and sometimes it’s those who need a spot to go when the shelter is full.

Is it a disruption to your household and routine?

Yup. I wish I had the pleasure of being a stay at home doggie mom but I work a 9-5.

My resident dog is rather insecure (and a bit of a brat with strange people and dogs), so he’s not thrilled with having a houseguest. I am really lucky to have help from my family and shelter family, who help support the foster effort by transporting dogs to appointments and providing care when I can’t be there so that in spite of all of the obstacles I am still able to foster.

Does it cost any money?

Nope, the shelter supplies absolutely everything and pays for all of the veterinary care the dog needs. You do need to use the shelter’s vets.

Do you love it?

Absolutely YES! I get so much warm fuzzy out of seeing a dog go from zero to hero, from homeless and skinny to king or queen of their own couch.

How exactly does it work?

It’s very similar to caring for a new dog at the shelter! When they first arrive, they get a bath, often get dewormed, and receive a flea and tick preventative. They get a checkup at one of our awesome vets, tested for Lyme and heartworm, vaccinated for rabies and parvo/distempter, fixed and microchipped.

Because they are in foster, we get to know more about what their ideal home looks like than the dogs who live at the shelter because they are already in a home setting. When they go up for adoption I talk with potential adopters about their personalities and their needs and essentially help to hand pick the home that is the very best fit for them.

Go to www.FCRSPCA.org to read more!

48 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Robert Gordon, Associate Broker at Inglenook Realty, Inc. will be hosting an EMMY AWARD nominated TV show!

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Starting in February 2024 watch for Robert to be a Real Estate & Lifestyle Host and Production Manager for the Nationally-Acclaimed The American Dream Network.

Join me as we tour the BEST of the Capital Region!

TV HOST | PRODUCTION MANAGER REAL ESTATE & LIFESTYLE EXPERT NYS LICENSED ASSOCIATE R. E. BROKER

Do you know a business, charity, event or a unique story that deserves national attention? We’re looking for authentic stories that encapsulate the spirit of the Capital Region.

Contact me at (518) 852-4408

This isn’t just my journey; It’s ours.

So, let’s make it epic together! Spread the word, engage and let’s bring the best of our area to the national stage.

Thank you to Craig Sewing for this amazing opportunity!

Watch for details on www.InglenookRealtyInc.com or the Inglenook Realty Inc. Facebook page

COMMUNITY One word that can mean so many things to each of us.

What comes to mind when you think about HOME? No matter what your age, you probably have a favorite “something”. Maybe it’s your first family home, your favorite school, your first place of work. Maybe it’s long walks in area parks with great conversations & fun with the family. Maybe it’s watching the sunset somewhere, walking the dogs, shopping downtown and admiring windows dressed for the season. Perhaps your library comes to mind and the feeling of peace you feel while there, or a museum you have enjoyed visiting and learning about the past. We all know we have a favorite “hang out” or restaurant that makes us feel close to home, a place to go to unwind after a long week. What about a club you may be involved in? Being involved in a club or organization is a great way to give back to the community and meet new people. Consider joining a club or organization or volunteering for something in your community - you won’t be sorry.

New things to do are popping up everywhere it seems and it is exciting! Your community is your safe haven.

It’s wonderful to get away once in a while, but we have to admit - there is a feeling we get when we come back to that place “We Call HOME”.

The advertisers in this magazine are all part of the community. The owners are familiar, they are a part of the community too. Think LOCAL! We call them when we need them, we go there when we are hungry, we grab a gift for that special person. We gas up for our next adventure. We get some exercise and have fun doing it!

If you see an ad for a business you are not familiar with, why not venture in or call and find out more about it.

After all, our community thrives on togetherness and staying close to home is always a great choice!

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 49

Rock’n J

FLEA & ANTIQUES

Texas Huge!

20+ Indoor/Outdoor Vendors

YEAR ROUND!

@Rockn J Flea & Antiques Open: Mon. 1-7; Thurs.-Sun. 10-4

20% OFF ANY PURCHASE w/coupon

397 West Main St. • Amsterdam West End 5S

Chili

Sunday, Feb. 4th • 12 noon

10th Annual

Cook-off

at the Johnstown Eagles Club Lots of exciting changes this year!

Keep an eye out on Facebook for event details coming soon!!

$ $ And get

$ ls

LIQUIDATION

SHELF PULLS

She Shed He Shed

Great Prices!

Thrift Store and More

(518) 224-4031 A little shop filled with so many unique items There are all sorts of treasures to be found here!

Donations Accepted

Fall/Winter Hours Thurs 10-2 • Fri-Sun 10-4

26 Riverside Drive, Fultonville, NY 12072

Save a fist full of money!

a e D t a Gre

K C O T ERS

OV

CLOSEOUTS

✂ CLIP ‘N SAVE Coupon Expires 2/29/24

20% OFF

w/this coupon Cannot be combined w/any other offer or sale

232 N. Comrie Ave., Johnstown, NY 12095

(Located INSIDE the Pyramid Mall)

(518) 705-4133

HOURS: Tues.-Fri. 11-5; Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-3

50 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

2nd Location • Commercial side items only

Located in Johnstown • By Appt. Only Located in Johnstown • By Appt. Only

518-848-3018

Stop in to one of the local libraries, grab a book, come out of the cold.

Bring the kids! Check out their websites or Facebook pages to get information about events coming up.

AMSTERDAM

GLOVERSVILLE

JOHNSTOWN

BROADALBIN LIBRARY

PUBLIC LIBRARY

PUBLIC LIBRARY

PUBLIC LIBRARY

58 East Fulton St., Gloversville, NY 12078

28 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

38 South Market St., Johnstown, NY 12095

10A North Main St., Broadalbiin, NY 12025

Valerie Acklin, Library Director

Nicole Hemsley, Library Director

Erica Wing, Library Director

gpl@mvls.info

amslib@mvls.info

ewing@mvls.info

The library is a non profit administered and managed by local volunteers and funded through the generosity of patrons and citizens of our community.

Hours: Mon. 2pm -7pm Tues. - Thurs. 10am - 7pm Fri. 10am - 5pm Sat.10am - 4pm • Closed Sunday Call for Summer Hours

Hours: Mon. & Thurs. 10am -7pm; Tues. & Wed. 10am - 5pm Fri. 10am - 3pm Sat. 10am - 1pm Sun. Closed

Hours: Tues.-Wed.-Thurs. 9am - 6pm Fri. 9am - 4pm Sat. 10am - 1pm Sun. & Mon. Closed

(518) 725-2819

(518) 842-1080

(518) 883-5976

(518) 762-8317

broadalbinlibrary@gmail.com Hours: Mon. 3 - 5pm Tues. 2-4pm • Wed. 3-5pm; Thurs. 2-6pm • Fri. Closed Sat. 10-12 • Sun. Closed

A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert. - Andrew Carnegie

Let’s Talk CLUBS WOULD YOU LIKE TO TALK ABOUT A CLUB OR ORGANIZATION? and Local Organizations

Our communities are filled with wonderful clubs and organizations of every kind.

In this issue we have featured a few. If you would like to talk about your club or organization, please reach out via email to: Linda@creativityunleashed.org or call us at (518) 842-6532 and leave a message.

OPEN every day 7am-2pm (closed Tues. & Wed)

The L.A.B. Shack

Breakfast and Lunch Stop in and enjoy a great meal!

(518) 613-4117

LabShack2532@gmail.com

2532 State Highway 30, Mayfield, NY 12117 We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 51

After you check out your local library you may want to consider also visiting an area musuem. There are many in the area.

Check out their websites or Facebook for open hours.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan - WATPHOTO

The Fulton County

Walter Elwood

237 Kingsboro Ave. Gloversville, NY 12078

100 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

The Museum consists of six exhibit spaces dedicated to particular areas of Fulton County history.

Programs are made possible by the NYS Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the NYS Legislature.

Exhibits include

MUSEUM

MUSEUM

(518) 843-5151

(518) 725-2203

Free Admission

Local Artists Room Vintage Children’s • Toy Room Military Room • Carpet City History Animal Room • American Locomotive Native American Company History Exhibit Conference Room • Research Library

Call to set up visits to the museum by appt. during our “closed” months.

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10am - 4pm Call for weekend or evening appts.

GALWAY

FROTHINGHAM

212 East St., Galway, NY 12074

28 West Main St., Fonda, NY 12068

(518) 882-6385 galwaypubliclibrary.org

(518) 853-3016 fon@mvls.info

Galwaypubliclibrary@gmail.com

frothinghamfreelibrary.mvls.info

Hours: Mon & Tues. 10am - 6pm; Wed & Thurs. 2pm - 8pm; Fri. 2pm - 6pm • Sat. 10am - 2pm; Closed Sunday

Hours: Mon., Tues. & Wed. 10am - 6pm Thurs. Closed Fri. 10am - 6pm Sat. 9am - 12pm

Gs

The snowmobile trail leads directly to us...

No need to cross the road anymore!

Lemon Cookies... & many other flavors Flourless Chocolate Cake, Carrot Cake, Cheesecake, Muffins, Big Cookies Specialty Coffee & more!

Famous Lemon Cookies

We are at the top of

Bleecker Mountain!

(518) 212-5177 (518) 423-4371

Serving homemade food in a quaint cabin with a family friendly atmosphere!

FREE LIBRARY

PUBLIC LIBRARY

Hrs: Wed.-Fri. 8:30-6; Sat. & Sun. 9-5; Closed Mon. & Tues.

Breakfast Pizza & Breakfast Sandwiches Serving Soups & Sandwiches on Homemade Bread Pizza, (Gluten Free available) Macaroni & Cheese

44 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010

gsfamouslemoncookies.com

Bikes, ATV’s and snowmobiles are welcome!

d for o o F s u Delicio ake-Out! Eat-In T 105 County Highway 112,

DINER

(518) 882-9871

Gloversville, NY 12078

(518) 448-0020 Watch for our specials on Facebook!

52 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Open: Thurs. - Mon. 11-7

1602 Route 29, Galway, NY 12074 Open 7 Days A Week - 7am - 1:30pm

Check

For Specials!

◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

Zonta Club of Montgomery-Fulton Zonta International was established in 1919 in Buffalo, New York by a group of business and professional women who wanted to improve the lives of women and girls.

Today there are approximately 30,000 members in 1200 Clubs in 62 countries working toward that goal.

Globally, one in three women experience physical or sexual violence mostly by an intimate partner. Violence against women and girls is one of the most pervasive human rights violations. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, evidence has shown that all types of gender-based violence, particularly domestic violence, has escalated. Zonta’s mission is to decrease and eventually eliminate all forms of violence against women. To this end, Zonta has funded international service projects in Africa, Central America, the Middle East, and the Far East. These projects provide health services, and education, and address gender-based violence, human trafficking and child marriage, and more.

In the US, Zonta is working to end child marriage in every state, as this remains a problem in many areas of the country. Locally, Zonta Clubs sponsor projects and programs that address issues relevant to their communities. The Zonta Club of Montgomery Fulton sponsors scholarships to high school students going on to college and in the past scholarship for women returning to college. We have hosted educational presentations on health issues, human trafficking and cyber safety, conducted the Read to Me Program with the Amsterdam Public Library, and sponsored the Zonta Mammography program. We contribute funds and goods to the Catholic Charities domestic violence program and the homeless shelter.

Every year Zonta Clubs throughout the world participate in the 16 Days of Activism – Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women. This campaign works to raise awareness of the various forms of violence involving women and girls. Activities include sponsoring billboards, road signs and bus signs, writing newspaper articles and holding rallies. The Zonta Club of Montgomery Fulton participates in the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign by posting orange signs throughout the community to raise awareness of the violence taking place in our community.

The Zonta Club is looking for new members.

Please contact montgomery-fulton@zontadistrict2.org if you have questions or are interested in joining.

h s May C ange e m Ti

(518) 883-8383 Check our our Daily Specials on Facebook!

Hours: Monday Closed • Tues.-Fri. 7am-2pm • Sat. & Sun. 7am - 1pm

17 W. Main St., Broadalbin, NY 12025

e! nu i t Trad n itions Co

Located in the heart of Mayfield 8 School Street, Mayfield, NY 12117

Best Bar & Grill in Town!

Great Food and Drink Selection Special Events & Live Entertainment!

You get the Real Deal Hometown Feel here!

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 11:30am-9:30pm

(518) 661-6088

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 53

Consider Joining A Local Senior Center LISTED BELOW ARE A FEW...THERE ARE MANY OTHER OPTIONS IN THE AREA. IT’S A GREAT WAY TO GET TOGETHER!

Horace J. Inman Senior Center

Gloversville Senior Center

53 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, NY 12010

53 Church Street, Gloversville, NY 12078

Montgomery County 135 Guy Park Ave., Office for the Aging, Inc. Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 843-2300

(518) 736-5650

The center is open five days a week with some special events on weekends and evenings.

seniorcentergloversville@yahoo.com

Vital information for vital generations 19 North William St., Johnstown, NY 12095

(518) 842-3815

(518) 725-0923

The Fulton County Office for the Aging www.fcofa.org Email:fcofa@fultoncountyny.org

The Shirley J. Luck Senior Citizens Center

109 E. Main St., Johnstown, NY 12095

(518) 762-4643

www.officeforaging.com

Home of The 50 Plus Club cseniorc@nycap.rr.com

“It’s Not the Years in Your Life That Count. It’s the Life in Your Years.” - Abraham Lincoln

Waterwheel

Village, Ltd.

1778 County Hwy. 107 Amsterdam, NY 12010

2259 Route 29, Galway, NY 12074

Let’s Twist Again is a 1950’s style themed diner, home of the “Over the Plate Pancakes” and Perth’s Best Kept Secret!

toric s i H A

Serving Breakfast and Lunch • (518) 883-1122

County Store

!

me o H o t e s o l C

Open 6 Days A Week • 7am-2pm • Closed on Tuesdays Open Until Christmas Eve at 1pm then Closed until Spring!

The

Garden Bug

Primitive & Country Gifts, Greenhouses & more

Happy New Year 2024!

Scan to like us on facebook

Thank youyaeallr! f o r a gr e a t

Watch facebook for 2024 dates!

844 Fort Hunter Rd., Amsterdam, NY 12010 • (518) 829-7024 54 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

The Finest Aged New York State Cheddar Cheese from Our Aging Cellars

Hours: Tues.-Sun. 9:30-5:00

Specialty Crackers, Syrup, Old Fashioned & Novelty Candies, Odd Sodas & Craft Beers, Jams and Jellies and Collectable Hot Sauces We sell Mourningkill Bake Shop items

Stop in and Browse!

MAIL ORDER AVAILABLE

www.waterwheelvillage.com (518) 882-9576

Check out these fun places to spend some time in the winter with loved ones!

Scan the QR codes to find out more about each and/or visit their Facebook pages

Oak Mountain

Fun for the whole family, located in the beautiful Adirondacks. Affordable skiing, snowboarding, tubing, more.

Amsterdam Ice Rink Sponsored by Alpin Haus

Fun for all ages • Open from Sunrise until 9pm No Skate Rentals Available Amsterdam Tourism, Marketing & Recreation Page on website

Veteran’s Park - Locust Ave. Amsterdam, NY 12010

Please watch City of Amsterdam Tourism & Recreation’s Facebook page or website for date the rink opens this year. (depends on the weather) Right: A young skier after completing his ski lessons at Maple Ski Ridge

Royal Mountain

A Friendly, Small Town Experience, for large scale outdoor fun.

Check out the website for Snow Drag Races, a Cardboard Sled Derby and more.

3072 NY Route 10, Caroga Lake, NY 12302 Or call (518) 835-6445 Email: info@royalmountainskiarea.com RoyalMountain.com

141 Novosel Way, Speculator, NY (518) 548-3606 Email: info@oakmountainski.com oakmountainski.com Did you learn to ski at Oak Mountain? They will be gathering photos to share weekly through the 2022-2023 ski season.

Please message or email photos to info@oakmountainski.com Mark VanWort with medal after completing Ski Lessons at Maple Ski Ridge.

Maple Ski Ridge

We are a small family owned business that focuses on big family fun. Ski/Snowboard locally with us!

2725 Mariaville Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 381-4700 Email: mapleskiridge@msn.com mapleskiridge.com Events from weddings to parties can be hosted at Maple Ski Ridge.

For more information email: events@mapleskiridge.com

Spending too much time looking for a plan?

Call us TODAY and let us help you pick one!

Discounts for all branches of the Military, Veterans, First Responders and Law Enforcement Personnel

Roofing & Siding Windows & Doors Additions Sheetrock Painting Pool Openings, Closings & Service Decks, Patios, Fences, etc.

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Let us show you Plan Options from a variety of carriers, so you make a Well Informed Decision based on your own specific needs.

Contact us for a no cost, no obligation analysis of your current insurance.

Office by appt. only: 1728 State Highway 29, Suite 5, Gloversville, NY 12078 Phone: 518) 883-5044 • Fax: (888) 331-9897 Dedicated Medicare Line: (518) 774-7980 kellyc@kmcconsulting.net • keithc@kmcconsulting.net

Federal Disclaimer: “We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area.

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 55

❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉❉ Play a great game of

P•I•C•K•L•E•B•A•L•L at this new facility in Amsterdam!

If you thought pickleball was just a fair-weather sport, think again! Xtreme Pickle is Amsterdam's first dedicated indoor pickleball facility and it’s making waves and breaking the mold with its recent soft opening on October 7 at 1800 Riverfront Center.

Built and run by Mike Barker and Corina Gabriel, Xtreme Pickle is a game-changer for the local pickleball community. The facility boasts four top-notch indoor courts featuring professional outdoor surfaces. Xtreme Pickle is more than just a facility; it's a pickleball haven, a place where the nation's fastest-growing sport finds a home in the heart of Amsterdam.

As the colder months settle in, Xtreme Pickle emerges as the go-to spot for enthusiasts who would otherwise be left shivering on makeshift outdoor courts or enduring lengthy drives to find a suitable playing space.

While the grand opening is on the horizon, the courts are already bustling with activity. Avid players and newcomers alike can participate in daily open play sessions, tournaments, leagues, court rentals and training sessions. Never played but want to learn?

Free Learn 2 Play clinics are offered in a fun, group setting. Unlimited monthly members enjoy unlimited Open Play sessions and discounts on all activities. Non-members can join Open Play for $12 a session. The response has been overwhelming.

What sets Xtreme Pickle apart is not just the courts but the community it's building. Barker and Gabriel are creating a space where players can connect, compete, and share the joy of pickleball.

So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, head over to Xtreme Pickle, where the courts are ready, the community is thriving, and the pickleball revolution is in full swing. Get your game on at the centrally located mall that's become the epicenter of pickleball excitement in Amsterdam!

For more information go to https://xtremepickle.com

Pickleball is a fun workout! Have you tried it yet?

Pickle Wear is here!

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newbie, these courts are the perfect place to meet fellow enthusiasts, swap stories, and serve up some friendly competition.

Xtreme Pickle Amsterdam is an

Indoor Pickleball Facility with 4 courts, a lounge and a training room

Become A Member!

Join Open Play any day of the week!

FREE Free for members, $12/pp for non-members “Learn 2 Play” Book Online!

www.xtremepickle.com

Questions? Email us at: xtremepickleclub@gmail.com

1800 Riverfront Center in Amsterdam , NY 12010

56 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Clinics Offered

Let’s Talk About 4 Generations! Howell & Pierson Inc. dba Main Motorcar George Kline was a motorpool instructor during WWI and came to Johnstown to work in a repair shop. John Howell and Ben Pierson were in a buggy repair business and needed someone who knew about automobiles. George was their guy. He was the Wells family and Knox family chauffeur and was a great mechanic. They formed Howell & Pierson, Inc. in 1918. They also sold Hudson and 224 W. Main St., Terraplane autos.

Johnstown, NY 12095 In 1937, George was able to get the franchise to sell Dodge cars and trucks. He had satellite (518) 762-3183 dealerships in Canajoharie and Northville too, In 1952 he expanded to Gloversville and opened H & P Motors. Richard Kline and Nunzio IsaHours: Mon. - Fri. 7:30-5; Sat. & Sun. Closed bella came to manage these stores and eventually became the dealers - Nunzio in Gloversville www.mainmotorcar.com and Richard in Johnstown When the Plymouth dealership went out of business. the Plymouth line was added to their stores. Alex Isabella became a part of H & P after finishing his education at Northwood College in Texas in 1975. George Kline became a part of Johnstown Dodge after finishing at Northwood College in Michigan in 1977.

In 2009, the year of the big banking crisis and stock market crash, the manufacturers were closing small franchises and H & P and Johnstown Dodge were given a choice of a coin flip to see who would survive. At this time Alex and George agreed to merge their two stores and become Main Motorcar. They were also able to procure the Jeep Franchise during this time.

During the last 14 years, Main Motorcar has become involved in supplying law enforcement vehicles to many police departments and minvans to many ARC Programs. The Fleet division at Stellantis Corp. has taken to calling Main Motorcar “The little dealership that could!”

Now, Alex and George are still operating the dealership but are in the process of transitioning the store to the next generation. George’s daughter Shannon is managing the dealership and James Isabella is the manager of service, parts and fixed operations. They are going to do a great job.

Four generations, and so many great people who work at Main Motorcar have been priveleged to serve this community, and will remain a part of this community for a long time.

As was told to a factory rep years ago “ We’ve survived two depressions, untold recessions, market fluctuations, undesired models, gas shortages, banking disruptions, and two bankruptcies by our manufacturer. We’ve never Story Submitted by Richard Kline given up on our business or this community.”

Over 100 Years in Business!

If you are a business and would like to be featured in this magazine, please contact me at Linda@creativityunleashed.org

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We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 57

Two Great Businesses Under One Roof

Linda’s Antiques & Broadalbin Christian Bookstore

Come explore our beautiful gift selection!

Glass • China • Books • Chair Caning • Wall Art Adirondack Gifts • Glassware • Greeting Cards Bibles • Inspirational Books • Jewelry & More 2024 KITTEN ANGELS CALENDARS Available Here $20 Donation

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Whether you are looking to buy or sell, I would love to speak with you!

Christine Gerber Associate Real Estate Broker, CBR

25 years of Real Estate Excellence Outstanding Reputation • Top Producing Realtor Global Marketing Platform • Relocation Network

As as a lifelong resident of the Greater Capital District and a full time Realtor with an an impressive 26 years track record I know the lay of land. I specialize in a wide range of real estate areas, including residential, lake properties, second homes, new construction, investment and commercial properties. With a diverse skill set, I am well equipped to cater to the unique needs of each client.

I service the entire Capital Region and Southern Adirondacks. My productions as a top producer with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services is evidence of my professionalism and dedication to my craft. I work very hard putting 100% into everything I do. This includes continually adding to my education and skill set while staying current with updated technologies in order to provide my clients with the best service possible. My passion for real estate and dedication to providing top-notch services is what sets me apart. I absolutely love my career, which is the driving force to my success.

Contact me today and let’s embark on a real estate journey together. 518-848-7425

14-16 North Main St. Broadalbin, NY

518-883-8306 Mon. - Sat. 10-5

Check out Charles Bradley Brown on Pages 32-33

www.BroadalbinChristianBookstore.com

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

HomeServices Blake, REALTORS®

9 Offic e in the s Capita Region l .

376 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Focus on Photography Many cell phones now come packed with many photography options, including a photo editor (or two.) Photo editors are used on your images post production for many reasons, including adjusting brightness, turning an image into black and white, to zoom in on a particular subject, or to place your newly minted signature on your photo. The trick is to practice finding and using all your camera settings in your phone camera menu so that eventually you will be able to get to them easily.

So pick out a photo, start opening each camera phone photo option, and have a blast being your own “photo editor!”

Until next time... “Focus.”

Sue Clark M.Ed.

58 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Lind would

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦ It’s a Great Day for a

SKATE

at High Rollers

Located at 4313 State Highway 30 in Amsterdam, New York, High Rollers has been a part of the community for over 35 years. Recently under new management, High Rollers provides an atmosphere for the entire family. Come and roller-skate on our wood floor, play in the arcade, visit the Stuff shop and enjoy a break in our Snackbar. During warmer months, there is an outdoor Go-Kart track. Open Tuesday and Friday evenings, Saturdays for afternoon and evening sessions and Sunday afternoons, skaters can rent roller skates, rollerblades or speed skates For new skaters, skate mates are available while learning and we offer Skate lessons the first three Saturdays of each month.

In order to provide a safe and family friendly environment, High Rollers does have a Rink Rat program in place. This requires all patrons 16 and under to have a Rink Rat Cord or be accompanied by an adult in order to attend the Friday and Saturday night sessions. More information is on our Facebook page.

Other events held at the rink include birthday parties, private parties, school and organization field trips, adult skate nights, corporate events, car shows, and special monthly events and themed activities. New to the rink is a STEM program for schools as well as Girl Scouts and BSA. Visit us on our Facebook @highrollersskating or call the Rink at 518-843-0783 to schedule your event and for more information.

WCTH

EXP. 6/30/24

4313 STATE HWY 30 AMSTERDAM NY 12010

HOSTING H O S T I N G BIRTHDAY BIRTH AND PRIVATE PARTIES, FAMILY GATHERINGS, CEREMONIES, FUNDRAISERS, FIELD TRIPS... WHATEVER YOUR EVENT, LET US HELP!!!

CALL TODAY 518-843-0783 FACEBOOK@HIGHROLLERSSKATING We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 59

Let’s GO!

Have you been thinking about getting away?

Whether it’s for the day or longer...

Column by fine arts photographer and wanderer Sue Clark. M.Ed. (AKA Mustang Sue)

Destination: Sandwich Glass Museum, Sandwich, MA

Hello all.

Let me introduce myself properly.

Sue Clark is my name. A M.Ed. degree explains my style - a combination educator, storyteller and fine arts photographer.

I’m also a car enthusiast, a twin, a writer and a wanderer. That’s the short list.

I find many “out of the way” places through my wanderings... and record said wanderings/ discoveries with my trusty camera beside me, whether that be my Canon DSLR or cell phone camera. Believe it or not... the advances in cell phone camera picture quality simply blow me away nowadays, so I find myself using the cell phone camera more often than not.

I start my “Let’s Go!” column with the name of the local destination, post hours and contact information, give a little history about the destination, and include some photos.

BTW... it’s always good to call ahead to any travel destination to confirm hours of operation.

Yes. Linda said I would not get rich producing this column... yet.

OK then. I’ll be doing it for the fame.

BTW, I’m not a historian by profession.

My writing style is more like a storyteller/ educator/entertainer.

So pour yourself a glass of your choice, and come along for the ride. We all could use new places to visit that won’t break the bank.

Who says visiting Cape Cod is just for the summer season? I took a quick ride out to Sandwich, Massachusetts, home of the Sandwich Glass Museum, to tour their fabulous glass collection. (Amsterdam is approximately approx. 4 hours from Sandwich, Massachusetts.) We then had lunch at the fabulous Marshside in East Dennis, which boasts one of the best views of a salt marsh anywhere, right from where you are seated! Innovative offerings such as local day boat sea scallops, fish tacos and apple cider glazed short ribs, along with a long list of carefully crafted cocktails and mocktails make for a mighty tempting menu.

After lunch, we hit the beach for a brisk walk when the sun was dipping lower, a joy to behold in the golden light of late afternoon, when the summer crowd is no longer. So take a drive out and stay a couple of nights. You’ll swear it’s right around the corner!

Got ? s e i r o t S Community tos o h P d l O ds? r a c t s o or P

Info to share?

Contact us at (518) 842-6532 or reach out via email to: linda@creativityunleashed.org

60 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

NEW BUSINESS FEATURE Many of the businesses right here in our backyards were started generations ago and are still going strong. They may have had ups and downs but what sticks out is that they stayed!

There are businesses here that hire community members, give back to our communities and they don’t give up! We will be featuring more businesses in our next edition.

Contact us if you know of a business you would like to see in a future issue.

Watch for more local, long-time businesses in our next issue!

We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 61

› › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › ›

The Fulton County Antique Car Club Submitted by Anthony Ferraro

The club was formed at its first meeting on Sept. 16th, 1958 by a group of 6 Model A owners. Club officers were elected at the second meeting on Oct. 6th of the same year, and club dues were set at 25¢ (this was later changed to $3 per year). By February 1959, the club was officially named the “MODEL A RESTORER’S CLUB”, and for a while was affliliated with the National Model A Restorer’s Club as the “Glove Cities Chapter”.

On Oct. 4th, 1960, the club’s name was changed to “FULTON COUNTY ANTIQUE CAR CLUB” to widen the field to accept all makes of cars and around that time the affiliation with the National Ford Club had been dropped. By 1961 club activities were broadened to include parades, longer trips to meets and spring and fall dinner meetings.

Meetings were held at the Johnstown Moose Club at some point in the 1970’s before being moved to the Johnstown VFW Post 510 in 1982. In that year, club dues were $15 and the club began meeting April to November on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. We had monthly dinner at various local restaurants, decided upon at the monthly meetings. The Fulton County Antique Car Club also used to hold annual road clean-ups with the Adopt-a-Highway Program. Other activities include: holding and attending car shows, fundraisers, a Christmas Dinner in Dec. and an annual mystery ride.

In 2009, the club celebrated its 50th Anniversary by holding a car show at the Johnstown Moose Club.

In 2018 the club put on a car show at the Fulco Airport on July 4th called “Wings & Wheels”, including a small parade, with food vendors and a D.J. Donations and proceeds went to the James A. Brennan Memorial Humane Society with food items donated and brought to Fulton County food pantries.

Currently in 2023 dues are still $15 a year. The club meets in February for breakfast. Meetings are held April through November, the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Meetings are held at the Johnstown Senior Center for a yearly donation. We continue to meet for monthly dinners at various local restaurants from April - December. We participate in local cruise-ins and the membership uses Facebook and Emails to say in touch with eachother. We are open to all makes, models and years. Consider joining us!

For more information visit www.capitalcarshows.com or the club Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/FultonCountyAntiqueCarClub Do you know of a club or organization that would like to be featured in a future issue? If so, please contact me at Linda@creativityunleashed.org

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62 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

Rodney Whitbeck Owner/Mechanic 122 County Hwy 110 Broadalbin, NY 12025

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2 West Main St., Fonda, NY 12068 DETAILING • CAR PARTS • SWAP SHOP • MUSIC Large Selection of HERKIMER DIAMONDS! Make an appt to get Many Different your car detailed Sizes VINYL RECORDS - CD’S STEREOS - DIECAST CARS

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We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3 - 63

Adult Literacy & Corrections Education

(518) 736-4340 www.HFMBoces.org

Work Ready ESL + Job Training

Clases de inglés de formación laboral

Develop English language and job skills to become a

Regístrese para las clases de habilidades aborales en inglés para convertirte en un Ayudante de Maestro o un Defensor Certificado de Rehabilitación de Pares

· Teacher Aide or · Certified Peer Recovery Advocate

Teacher’s Aide

Aides assist the teacher with non-instructional tasks, including individual student support, maintaining attendance and other records, monitoring participation, classroom management, maintaining the learning environment, proctoring tests, collecting and correcting assignments, and related activities.

Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA)

Peer advocates use personal experience with mental health, substance, and alcohol use disorders to help others in treatment and recovery. Learn skills to work in non-clinical support settings to support recovery plans, effective coping habits, and life skills for navigating recovery.

Instruction will include:

Ayudante de Maestro:

Los asistentes ayudan al maestro con tareas no instructivas, incluyendo apoyo individual al estudiante, mantenimiento de la asistencia y otros registros, monitoreo de la participación, gestión del aula, mantenimiento del ambiente de aprendizaje, pruebas de supervisión, recolección y corrección de tareas, y actividades relacionadas.

Defensor Certificado de Rehabilitación de Pares:

Los defensores de pares usan la experiencia personal con trastornos de salud mental, sustancias y alcohol para ayudar a otros en el tratamiento y la recuperación. Aprenda habilidades para trabajar en entornos de apoyo no clínicos para apoyar los planes de recuperación, hábitos de afrontamiento efectivos y habilidades para la vida para navegar por la recuperación.

La instrucción incluirá:

· English communication skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing · Employability skills · Occupational training · Job search skills · Basic technology & online resources · English immersion instruction · 40 hours of instruction

· Instrucción de inmersión en inglés · 40 horas de instrucción

Earn a certificate upon successful completion!

¡Obtén un certificado al completarlo con éxito!

· Share it with employers · Be valued as a bilingual employee

· Compártelo con los empleadores · Ser valorado como un empleado bilingüe

Training starts in January!

¡El entrenamiento comienza en enero!

Call Tressa today for more information.

Llame a Tressa hoy para obtener más información.

518-736-4681, extension 4631

518-736-4681, extensión 4631

Upper Level of United Presbyterian Church 25 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 64 - We Call This HOME - 2023 - Issue #3

· Habilidades de comunicación en inglés: Escuchar, hablar, leer y escribir · Habilidades de empleabilidad · Formación ocupacional · Habilidades de búsqueda de empleo · Tecnología básica y recursos en línea