Saratoga Family Fall 2021 by Saratoga TODAY

S A R AT O G A Family

H E A LT H • F I T N E S S • F O O D

FALL

2021

Complimentary

KIDS • PARENTS • SENIORS

Brought to you by

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SARATOGA

Welcome to

Saratoga Family Magazine Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com | 518-581-2480 ext. 201

Family Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty

General Manager Robin Mitchell Creative Director / Managing Editor Chris Vallone Bushee Magazine Designer Kacie Cotter-Sacala Ad Designer Kelsey Sherman

Saratoga Family is about FAMILIES, PEOPLE and MAKING TIME FOR THOSE WE LOVE, (good topics, right?!) This magazine is filled with interesting people I want you to meet, with stories worth telling. People such as Cherie Tessier of iCandy Designs, for example. Cherie is an extraordinary face painter and yes, you would think she should be in a “family” magazine, but what I find most captivating about her story is that she re-created herself as an adult, and pursued this business – way to go! That’s what I call living life to the fullest We have so many great articles, wonderful advice for any stage you’re at, and the requisite PUMPKIN PATCH guide, because what’s fall without pumpkins and some PSL (that’s Pumpkin Spice Latte for those not up on their Instagram terms!) I just love putting together the area’s only multi-generational print magazine, so please continue sending me people and topics you want to see cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com. Thank you to our advertisers, who allow us to provide this informative magazine free of charge, to the thousands of people that read each issue! Please mention us by name when visiting their businesses… Saratoga Family, a Saratoga TODAY publication. I hope you enjoy this issue and the slower pace that Autumn brings to our lives… I wish you all a FABULOUS Fall :)

is r h C

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Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Contributing Writers Rick Cobello Deb Czech Jodie Fitz Rich Frank Wendy Hobday Haugh John Kalil Megin Potter Dr. Dorothy Reynolds Ginny Smith Dr. Alison Synakowski, DPT Ralph Vincent Diane Whitten Photographers Congleton Photography Rich Frank Jess Hohenstein Andres Jimenez, That Army Guy Photography Kim Koza Super Source Media

Published by

Saratoga TODAY Newspaper 2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com Saratoga Family is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2021, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

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contents 32 adulting

50 family life

12 staying active

STAYING ACTIVE

ADULTING

Have you joined the YMCA yet?

Cherie Tessier Creates a New Life for Herself

Meet... The Morris Family

Medicare… Demystified For You

Prevent Sports Injuries

FAMILY LIFE 16 22 24 28

30 50

Meet... a Very Talented Group Discussing Marijuana Legalization with Your Kids

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits

GOOD EATS 42

Jodie Fitz

Meet… The Veitch Family

Quick (& Healthy!) Breakfast Options

Saratoga with Kids

PETS

Back to School Eye Care

The Charlton School

46 48 49

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Plant Based Meals

Cooking with Kids!

Meet… James S. Covey, Westminster Judge Calling All Dirty Dogs!

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contributors DEB CZECH

MEGIN POTTER

Deb Czech writes frequently about recreation, food, and Saratoga area events. She is the owner and marketing strategist at Miles Ahead Communications and a licensed plant-based diet instructor and coach at Planted Platter.

Megin is an expressive writer and artist with work published in books, newspapers, corporate communications, and online. A resident of the region for over 20 years, she continues to discover anew the interesting people, places, and products it has to offer. As a mother to her active young son, she is inspired to explore even more.

JODIE FITZ Jodie Fitz is a wife, working mother of three and the creator of the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club. She is the author of two cookbooks (The Chaotic Kitchen and Cooking Up Fun) as well as a children's book (Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden). You will find her on WNYT with her Real Food Fast Segments and at www.jodiefitz.com sharing her delicious recipes and brand programs.

GINNY SMITH Ginny Smith is a mother to three wonderful kids in Saratoga Springs. Following her enthusiasm for finding meaningful things to do with her kids, she began sharing their local family adventures on Instagram @saratogawithkids. Follow Ginny for their latest local outing. Let her know what you love about living in Saratoga by tagging @saratogawithkids and @saratogafamily or by using #saratogawithkids.

DIANE WHITTEN MS RICHARD FRANK Richard Frank, Owner of Four Seasons Natural Foods since 1990. Spends his time working at the business, working as a volunteer at the Waldorf School, working at home with his family, working at getting exercise, working at eating right, working at relaxing and being peaceful, working at getting a good night sleep and working and failing at not being too dull.

WENDY HOBDAY HAUGH Northville freelancer Wendy Hobday Haugh’s short stories, articles, and poetry have appeared in dozens of national and regional publications, including Woman’s World Weekly, Highlights for Children, and WritersWeekly.com. Her stories have appeared in 15 different Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies. To learn more, visit www.wendyhobdayhaugh.com.

Diane Whitten is a food and nutrition educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County where she’s worked for the past 17 years. Her classes focus on healthy eating and cooking, plus food preservation methods. Her nutrition radio spots can be heard on WJKE the Jockey and WABY Moon Radio. Her bi-monthly column, Know Your Farmer Know Your Food, is published in the Saratogian and Troy Record. Diane has a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University in Nutritional Sciences, and a masters’ degree in Education from the College of St. Rose.

Check out SimplySaratoga.com for more stories, photos, and tons of great content!

Photo by Kim Koza and Jess Hohenstein. See the story on page 16.

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Happenings

at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park...

The Washington County Cheese Tour is Back!

Photo provided.

TUESDAYS ARE FOR...CRAFTING IN NATURE Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is continuing to host Nature Craft Hours under the pavilion at Camp Saratoga every Tuesday, through the end of September! This program runs from 4-5 p.m. and is geared for children of all ages. Each Tuesday will feature a different and creative nature-themed arts project. Activities are TBA but have included sun prints, natural tie dye, seed medallions and more! Please note, there is a craft supply fee of $3 per participant. Participants should park in Parking Lot #1 located on Scout Road directly across the street from the pavilion. Registration is required. Space is limited. FRIDAYS ARE FOR... POND EXPLORATION! Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s popular Pond Exploration Programs will be running every Friday throughout September! Revolving around discovering aquatic wildlife at Delegan Pond, this scheduled reoccurring program is taking place every Friday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Participants can use the dip nets that are provided to search for pond life, including frogs, salamanders, tadpoles, crayfish, and aquatic insects. Registration is required. Space is limited. This is a free program.

For more information about the program or to register, please contact the Preserve & Park Office at 518-450-0321 or email info@wiltonpreserve.org. Please provide your name, phone number, email address and the number of people attending within your party. For up-to-date trail and program information, visit our website at wiltonpreserve. org. The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is a non-profit organization that conserves ecological systems and natural settings while providing opportunities for environmental education and outdoor recreation. SF 10 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

The annual Washington County Cheese Tour with Wine, Beer & Cider- also known as The Cheese Tour - is back after being cancelled last year due to the pandemic. Always held the first weekend after Labor Day, this year’s outdoor, self-guided tour will take place Saturday, September 11 and Sunday, September 12, 2021 – from 10 am to 4 pm. Adventurers gather their friends and family to travel the twists and turns of Washington County’s country roads to visit four cheesemakers, a farm winery, a craft farmstead brewery, and a farm cidery during the weekend event. While there is no admission fee for The Cheese Tour, free product samples may be limited based on turnout, but a full range of products will be available at each tour location. Participants of The Cheese Tour include The Argyle Cheese Farmer at their new location in Fort Edward, Consider Bardwell Farm in Pawlet, VT, Dancing Ewe Farm in Granville, Moxie Ridge Farm & Creamery in Argyle, R.S. Taylor & Son Brewery in West Hebron, and Victory View Vineyard in North Easton. New to this year’s tour is Slyboro Ciderhouse located in Granville at the site of Hick’s Orchard. Slyboro's owner, Dan Wilson, is a long-time Washington County leader in agritourism. “All of us who are part of The Cheese Tour cannot wait to welcome guests back to our farms,” notes Angela Miller, President of the Washington County Cheese Guild - which organizes the event - and co-owner of Consider Bardwell Farm. “We’re excited to see old friends and new faces, and share our passion, all while providing a better understanding of our craft with our customers,” states Miller.

Founded in 2005, The Cheese Tour was created by a small group of Washington County cheesemakers to address the challenge of bringing more people to their farms and forging a better understanding between customers and the foods they love, as well as a way to support these seasonal farms. These founding cheesemakers would later create the nonprofit Washington County Cheese Guild whose main focus is to put on the annual, two-day event which has grown to include an estate winery, a farmstead brewery, and a cidery. Attendance at any one farm over the two days can range from 1500-2500 people. For more information visit thecheesetour.com. SF saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Back-To-School Sales Makes Giving So Much Easier! As the new school year approaches and preparations for school begin, Operation Christmas Child shoebox packers in Saratoga Springs can make use of back-to-school prices to purchase supplies, essential items, and gifts for children in need overseas. Here’s how families can prepare and participate ahead of time: • Collect school supplies like notebooks, crayons, pens and pencils, erasers, etc.

• Hygiene items like soap and a toothbrush are also useful

• Including a fun toy brings a bright smile to the youngsters • Add a photo and a personal note of encouragement • Pack items in a shoebox

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Samaritan’s Purse will deliver these gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 100 countries. Additionally, throughout the year, residents can also build a shoebox online. It takes less than five minutes. DROP OFF LOCATIONS • Saratoga Springs, NY Grace Fellowship Saratoga

• Rexford, NY Faith Baptist Church

• Middle Grove, NY Barkersville Christian Church • Halfmoon, NY Grace Fellowship Halfmoon • Glens Falls, NY Calvary Assembly of God

For more information call 518-437-0690.

Photo provided.

National Collection Week is Nov. 15-22. Participants can donate $9 per shoebox gift, online through “Follow Your Box” and receive a tracking label to discover its destination.

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 186 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 160 countries and territories. SF

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the YMCA

HAS IT ALL…

and it’s all open!

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Adapt and overcome. Things are changing day by day, and this fall, the whole family can reshape their minds and bodies to better flow with the changes at the Saratoga Regional YMCA (SRYMCA). TAKE AIM The archery range at the Saratoga Springs branch is as stealthy as the sport itself. “A lot of people didn’t even know we had a range for so long,” said Chris Henderson, a USA Archery Level 2 instructor at the facility. Their archery area can accommodate up to 18 archers at once in the pavilion’s six shooting lanes. They teach the fundamentals of the sport so participants can learn how to safely navigate the range and the equipment while also practicing bow-handling and accuracy skills.

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It’s a chance to slow down and intentionally focus on their body’s movements and rhythm as well as their position in the space around them. Teens and adults complete exercises in-line with the USA Olympic Archery standards. This is a chance for parents and their kids to engage in the sport together as a team. “It’s a really, really beautiful experience,” said Henderson. Also, in their Longshot Archery Club, members have the opportunity to compete in small groups in a lowpressure environment.

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COURAGEOUSLY TAKE THE NEXT STEP This year, the SRYMCA has expanded into the outdoors more than ever before, so that even in a pandemic, they are giving the community a place to get their fitness on safely while remaining socially distant. “There’s something for everyone in the family. We are keeping everyone active by supplying and supporting programs outdoors,” said Youth Development Director Kristi Savage. Inside this expansive fully-equipped health and wellness center there is a plethora of fitness machines and workout spaces, but outdoors there are a number of opportunities as well.

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From soccer league to t-ball, the Y is leveling the playing field and adapting to change. Adults can partake in a variety of strength-training, cardio, yoga, Zumba, and other exercise classes outdoors, as well. Families are also invited to pick their challenge on the Y’s Aerial Adventure Course. The lower level is 12 feet off the ground. There’s a bridge, net, and other obstacles to test your balance, core strength, hand and eye coordination. The brave can scale the climbing wall up to 35 feet in the air before triumphantly sliding down the zip line to cheer on others. Join the boot-camp style Spartacus Warrior Training Program for next level fun, embracing the challenge in the elements (rain or shine). saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

JUMP IN The SRYMCA’s state-of-the art aquatic area includes an 8-lane swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and whirlpool, so that no matter what kind of activity you’re looking for, you’ll be able to do it at the Saratoga Springs branch. “There is a definite increase in health, physical and mental well-being for everyone who comes here,” said Aquatics Director Ilene Leverence. Parents accompany their child into the pool for infant to preschool-age swim lessons. The whole family learns how to safely be in and around the water, as well as to progressively develop swimming skills in a fun group environment. “It teaches them to be safe and to learn lifelong, life-saving skills.”

Financial assistance is available for both membership and programs at the Y, ensuring that no one is ever turned away due their inability to pay. For more information about the YMCA Financial Assistance Program, please call 518-583-9622 or visit srymca.org.

Kids can then join a variety of age and skill-based classes, and even become a member of the Stingrays swim team. Classes and a variety of exercise and therapy- programs are also held in the pool for adults. Private and semiprivate lessons are also available. For those looking for a place to swim on their own or family swim time, lap lane reservations are available. “People are glad that we’re open. They are so grateful. We have gotten so many comments and kudos for that,” she said. REWARD YOURSELF The satisfaction of achieving your goals is often most felt when we loosen up and have a little bit of fun along the way. Even the family vehicle can get in on the action at the SRYMCA Trunk or Treat event. Truly a one-of-a-kind happening in the area, families are invited into the parking lot for some “Trunk-or-Treating.” In previous years, car trunks have been decorated to look like everything from zoos and monsters to fantasy castles, while their costumed drivers hand out candy to kids dressed in their Halloween best. For more information, programs and events, follow them on Facebook and go to srymca.org. SF saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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craf ting

A Legacy of Love

From One Generation to the Next

3 Generations of artists: Jess, Claudette, and Kim.

WRITTEN BY WENDY HOBDAY HAUGH | PHOTOS BY KIM KOZA & JESS HOHENSTEIN

Within families, it’s sometimes said that a certain talent ‘skipped a generation.’ But in the case of one local family, creative genes have been effortlessly passed along for five generations. Claudette Koza of Edinburg can’t remember a time when arts and crafts weren’t a huge part of her life.

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A miniature library created by Kim.

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A miniature Coffee Café created by Kim.

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“Wet Leaf ” by Kim Koza.

‘Snowy Scene’ by Kim Koza.

4 Generations: Coline, Claudette, baby Kim, and Great-Grandma Julia.

Kim’s grandchildren, Gray & Ella, enjoying a Sacandaga sunset.

“I grew up with a mother who did everything,” she says. “Coline Austin D’Avignon was an author, poet, artist, seamstress, and loving mother.” Coline could paint whimsical Americana scenes on almost anything: dressers, chests, saws, even walls! “Our house was unique,” Claudette grins. “Over a tub, she once painted a naked girl sitting on a rock with her back to the room and her head turned sideways looking at the water in a pond. There was also a hole in the wall with a mouse peeking out. At the end of the tub was a tree with apples and names of our family and ancestors.” A lifelong lover of dolls, Coline started her own doll repair business, ‘Davignon’s Doll Hospital,’ in the 1950s. “My mother restrung, painted, and dressed old ball-joint dolls,” Claudette recalls. “She melted wax to repair wax doll heads and then repainted their features. She went to garage sales to buy old clothing so the materials she used for the dolls’ clothing was authentic.” A master miniaturist, Coline’s love of creating tiny, detailed scenes in shadow boxes was quickly picked up by her daughter Claudette who, years later, inspired her daughter Kim’s love of all things miniature. In time, Kim’s daughter Jess was also smitten by the art form, inspired by the enchanting scenes created by her great-grandmother, grandmother, and mom. Like her mother before her, Kim Koza can’t remember a time in her life when she wasn’t actively, eagerly engaged in arts saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Claudette’s shadow box of her mechanic husband, Michael.

and crafts. “When my grandchildren come over now, I always have to have a snack and a craft for them because my mother always had a snack and a craft for my daughter. I always plan something that we can make, draw, create or build.” As a child, Kim was blown away by a shadow box her mother made of her mechanic husband, Michael, working in his garage (see photo). “I remember going to Loblaw’s market,” Kim says, “and my mother would give me and my brother Kenny coins for the gumball machines and say, ‘Go get me tools. I need tools for Dad’s shadowbox.’ The minute I saw that thing, I was hooked.” “They had scissors and wrenches and all kinds of things in those little plastic containers,” Claudette adds. “We must have spent a fortune on those machines!” To this day, Claudette and Kim, who are neighbors on Great Sacandaga Lake, enjoy getting together to work on various craft projects. As secretary and an active member of the Edinburg Historical Society (EHS), Claudette creates crafts year-round to be sold at EHS fundraising events. This past winter, Kim and Claudette created adorable Christmas ornaments out of Ball canning-jar tops and Winnie-the-Pooh character buttons. They also teamed up to create greeting cards depicting local landscapes and historic scenes. Kim, a professional photographer, takes all of the photographs. Then, Claudette mounts the photos on card stock and writes up historic or descriptive information, often embellishing the cards with additional designs or images. FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 19

A doll house kitchen created by Coline.

Kim Koza’s love of photography began at age 17 when her father presented her with his old Minolta 35mm camera. Her passion surged, however, with the birth of her daughter, Jess, in 1991. “I’d received so many cute outfits as baby gifts that I was dressing Jess in three different outfits a day just to photograph her in each one,” recalls Kim, who has owned and operated her own Silhouette Images Photography Studio for the past 30 years. Kim gives credit for her keen photographic eye to her maternal great-grandfather, Henry Lewis Austin of Berlin, NY. A renowned photographer during the late 1800s and early 1900s, Austin was one of the first artists to hand-paint images to create colorized photos and postcards. Greatgranddaughter Kim, a 30-year member of the Schenectady Photographic Society, has won countless awards for her work. “Photography is all about the light,” Kim explains. “Photography is painting with light.” From an early age, Kim’s daughter, Jess Hohenstein, showed a keen interest in, and talent for, photography. Growing up, she entered dozens of photography competitions sponsored by Schenectady’s Daily Gazette newspaper and won many awards. As college neared, Jess knew she wanted to pursue either art or engineering. Although accepted into the Rhode Island School of Design, Jess ultimately opted for engineering, earning a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering/Mathematics Minor from Northeastern University (2014), M.S. degrees from Cornell University in 20 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

Jess’s miniature, mixed-media ‘Book Nook.’

Mechanical Engineering (2016) and Information Science (2019), and a Ph.D. in Information Science from Cornell in 2020. Throughout her academic years, however, Jess continued to hone her skills in photography, arts, and crafts, as clearly evidenced by her amazing ‘Diagon Alley’ miniature and ‘Wizarding World’ papier-mâché/papercutting sculpture. “I was brought up by a photographer mom, a secretary grandmother, and a mechanic grandfather,” Jess writes, “and they are the most well-rounded and clever people that I know. They each took every opportunity possible to share their expansive knowledge with me, whether it was showing me how to crop a photograph, write a story, or weld. They were always there to foster my diverse interests and assure me that I had the potential to be successful in whatever discipline I chose. I am a product of my upbringing: an engineer and an artist.” Without a doubt, creativity runs high in this talented family of women who are forever sharing ideas, inspiring one another, and brainstorming new and fun projects to pursue together. With a new generation of grandchildren and great-grands in the picture now, their legacy is bound to continue... and Claudette, Kim, and Jess wouldn’t have it any other way. To see more of Kim’s and Jess’s work, check out www.facebook.com/SilhouetteImagesPhoto and https://hohenstein.infosci.cornell.edu/ SF See SimplySaratoga.com for more! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Cannabis Conversations WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER

T 22 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

here is a documented history of cannabis use that spans 5,000 years, yet in many places today, it is still talked about in hushed tones and with sideways glances to see who might be listening. This thin veil of secrecy piques interest, especially in adolescents. Cannabis is now legal for medical and recreational use, so kids have questions. Here’s how to have those conversations:

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BEGIN WITH THE FACTS In March, Governor Andrew Cuomo passed legislation legalizing recreational marijuana in New York, which is now the 16th state (along with Guam and the District of Columbia) to do so. “I didn’t think it would happen, but it seemed to overnight. They’d talked about doing it for years and years,” said Tom Urkevich, manager of Green Witch Vape. The store, which sells CBD products, vape supplies, glass and accessories, has seen the landscape around the controversial drug change since they opened their first store in Greenwich in 2018 and then expanded to a second location in Ballston Spa the following year.

All of this exposure might seem like it would increase underage cannabis use, but data indicates that legalization actually causes a decline in the number of adolescents who are trying and using the drug regularly. The reason? It increases honest discussions between parents and kids. Adults have the opportunity to control the narrative, to educate kids more fully about what cannabis is and why people use it. State officials are also launching an awareness, education and prevention campaign that will include school programs. “Education is so important. We have to be very educated so we can help teach everyone who comes in here,” said Urkevich.

“It was definitely taboo before, but now, it’s brought in people who would not have stepped foot inside the store before,” he said.

Minors under the age of 21 are not allowed inside Green Witch Vape. Signs are posted and IDs are required.

The new law, called the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, allows for the possession of up to three ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of cannabis concentrate. It also allows for the growth of up to six plants at home.

Cannabis legalization, like conversations about alcohol, are not something that you have just once, they are a series of ongoing conversations.

BE HONEST New Yorkers who are 21 years and older, can now smoke marijuana almost everywhere they can smoke tobacco (with some exceptions; there’s no smoking in parks, on public or in private transportation, in some restaurants and bars). In addition to the smoke, adolescents are going to be seeing more vape pens, pipes, bongs, edibles, and equipment in more places. They are going to hear ads, see it in the news, and pass by more shops.

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MAKE IT AN ONGOING CONVERSATION

The state rollout during the next few years will include licensed dispensaries opening as soon as December 2022 and the growing of plants at home 18 months after that. The new laws will bring hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue into the state, farmers will be eligible for loans and grants, and tens of thousands of people previously convicted for possession will have their records expunged. Asking adolescents questions about what they know will help you formulate age-appropriate answers about these changes.

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Back to School Planning

Don’t Overlook Eye Care

WRITTEN BY

DR. DOROTHY REYNOLDS OF SARATOGA HOSPITAL Dorothy Reynolds, MD, is a fellowshiptrained pediatric ophthalmologist and head of Saratoga Hospital Medical Group – Pediatric Eye Care. Learn more at SaratogaHospital.org

hether your child is returning to school in the classroom or online, now’s a good time to be on the lookout for vision problems that could affect learning. August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety month and a good reminder of the benefits of vision screening. Experts agree that about 80% of what children learn comes from information that’s presented visually. That places kids with undetected vision problems — roughly 1 in 4 school-aged children in the U.S. — at a significant disadvantage. School can be frustrating for students who can’t see clearly. It’s hard and tiring to keep up when you’re struggling to decipher words and numbers. Confidence suffers when you lag behind your classmates in reading comprehension. Physical activities are less enjoyable if you can’t make out that soccer goal line in the distance. The good news is that vision problems can be detected through appropriate vision screenings, allowing for earlier treatment with better vision outcomes.

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SIGNS THAT IT’S TIME FOR AN EYE EXAM

• Rubbing their eyes frequently

All children should have regular vision screening by their pediatrician, healthcare provider, or school. If the screening identifies a potential vision problem, a complete eye exam with an eye doctor (pediatric ophthalmologist) is recommended to allow for proper treatment. If your child wears glasses or has another eye condition, follow the exam schedule recommended by your eye doctor. Regular eye exams are the best way to make sure your child’s eyes remain healthy and can see clearly.

• Complaining of double or blurred vision

In between vision screenings, watch for the following signs that your child might be having a vision problem:

KEEPING YOUNG EYES HEALTHY

• Squinting

• Closing or covering one eye

• Tilting their head to one side

• Sitting too close to the TV, computer screen, or handheld device

• Holding a book close to their face while reading

• Losing their place or using their finger to mark their place while reading • Poor reading comprehension

• Tiring easily or having trouble concentrating while doing schoolwork • Avoiding close work

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• Experiencing headache, nausea, or dizziness • Clumsiness or poor eye-hand coordination

If you don’t have an eye doctor, ask your pediatrician or primary care provider for a recommendation. Even if your child does not need glasses now, that could change as they get older, so a trusted eye doctor is an important member of your family’s healthcare team. Some of the same habits that build overall good health can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of better vision. For example, a heart-healthy diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables, especially deep yellow and green ones, is also good for your child’s eyes. Sunscreen and sunglasses go hand in hand to guard against sun damage to your child’s skin and eyes, respectively. And, frequent handwashing can help reduce the spread of eye infections. PREVENTION IS KEY Just as routine physicals help keep your child’s body healthy, regular eye and vision screenings — with a complete eye exam with an eye doctor when indicated — can help ensure continued eye and vision health. SF FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 25

Caution...

Don’t Let Your Young Athlete Return to Their Sport Too Early Following Injury

WRITTEN BY

DR. ALISON SYNAKOWSKI, DPT

Dr. Alison Synakowski, DPT has been practicing physical therapy for over 12 years in the Capital Region. She practices out of a unique practice, Suarez Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy with locations in both Latham and Saratoga. She holds her Orthopedic Specialty (OCS) in PT and has a background in Athletic Training and Strength and Conditioning. She has a strong passion for injury prevention and improving the quality of healthcare.

Children, young adults, high school athletes, and college athletes are more often returned to sports much, much too early following injury. At times, it is gut wrenching how early some are returning or more so, the lack of testing, discussion, education, and preparation for return to playing a sport. More often than I’d like to admit, I see a kid following a second, or third injury — sometimes the injury is to the same body part, other times to a different one (which we tend to think is independent of the first one which is usually not true). I’ll give an example from years ago, although I see this almost every month. A 14-year-old breaks his tibia (lower leg). He is in a cast for 6 weeks, nonweight bearing to allow the fracture to heal. Upon return to get the cast off, he is x-rayed and told the bone has healed beautifully. What happens after the bone has healed is extremely important, the body needs to recover, build strength, and build back better. Confidence needs to improve to not only enhance performance, but to reduce the likelihood of future injuries.

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When we do not use a body part for even a few days (think crutches for 2 days after an ankle sprain), there can be a lot of strength lost. The body needs to be strengthened, taught how to work again through movement and progressed back to the level it was at before. But, when returning to sport without properly conditioning, the chances of injury are increased due to being under prepared. A child could “take a bad step” and have another injury and we chalk it up to “bad luck.” Often “we can’t believe this happened,” when in actuality, the ability to reduce the risk of this happening couldn’t be more clear. When we are injured, in a cast, not putting weight through the leg — muscles lose strength, they atrophy. When returning to only jogging following ACL reconstruction (or any leg injury) it is expected the individual can do at least 15 repetitions of a single leg heel raise, 15 hops, 15 single bridges and have adequate strength. To return full to sport the criteria is harder. Kids are resilient thus we think they should just “bounce back” and the pressure of returning to sport is high these days — and the most challenging part — they feel good. When assessed there are so many key components of movement and strength that need to improve to allow full and safe return to sport. When we return anyone too fast to sport — the chances of them needing rehabilitation or treatment again for the same or a different injury are quite high. They are in

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and out of the doctor or physical therapy or chiropractic care for injury, after injury, after injury — maybe different injuries and we wonder “what is going on, what is wrong with them?” When in actuality, it is just poor decision making and lack of preparation for returning someone to sport. We do need to motivate and encourage kids to return to sports after injury — often they consciously or subconsciously do not have the confidence to return because their movement or strength is not there. If this is their first time injured and coaches, doctors, PTs, parents are saying — “you’re fine, just get out there” — we may be putting them at increased risk. You do not know where they truly are unless you test it. Test strength, test jumping, cutting, assess confidence, and gradually and smartly return them to activity — that is what will give the best picture of readiness. Trying to return kids to sport too quick after injury has a high cost — literally and figuratively. Imagine if the first injury was managed well and took four months to return vs. six weeks. Short term, It’s really hard, but long term, the time out of sport is significantly reduced and many injuries are prevented (and money saved due to medical visits). Please, take a step back when a kid has an injury, question quick returns to sport, be sure they are tested with movement, think about the ramifications and let’s take care of our young athletes so they can keep their social identify, stay healthy, and want to be active for the rest of their lives.

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A Brief Hiatus WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

inding someone trustworthy to watch your children is a dilemma for any parent. When you have two children with autism however, there are additional care-giving needs that must be considered.

FINDING RESPITE It was more than a decade before Matthew Veitch, and Stephanie (his wife of 22 years), were able to leave their two boys with anyone other than family. “You can’t just go out to dinner and say, ‘Ok, we’ll be back in a couple of hours.’ When you have two children with autism, you don’t have that opportunity,” said Matt. Matt who has been the Saratoga Springs Supervisor since 2008, is a long-time Verizon employee, and an avid cyclist. Going for a bike ride, or even just getting chores done around the house – uninterrupted – used to feel like an unattainable luxury.

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In many families, as kids become teenagers, they start to take on more responsibilities (like watching the house when the parents are out). The Veitchs could not do that. Thanks to AIM Services Respite Care, Matt and Stephanie can get out once in a while. The couple has also been able to enjoy two vacations to St. Croix in the Virgin Islands. “Respite allows for us to get that free time out and not have to worry about our kids’ safety or security,” said Matt. Those are things that before Respite, they’d never imagined were possible. UNIQUE CHALLENGES, INDIVIDUALIZED SOLUTIONS Jacob Veitch spent much of his childhood upside-down. “He experienced the world from an inverted position. He spent many, many years upside down, so he knows the world upside down and right side up,” said Matt. Jacob loves movement and has an uncanny ability to spin objects extremely fast. This manipulation of the physical world earned him the nickname, Sir Isaac Newton. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Now, Jacob is 18 years old, and has grown into a young man. He remains very physically oriented but is also completely non-verbal. Although he understands spoken language, and can utter sounds, he’s never talked. Unable to communicate in other ways, he cries, stomps, and kicks. David Veitch, 16, loves organizing and building things, but is also very physical. He runs toward what interests him, and his echolalia (a meaningless repetition of words) makes it hard for others to understand why he left or where he went. The children now attend Wildwood School in Albany, but the Veitchs have also always been a part of the AIM family because of the additional programs they offer. AIM Services base their individual respite care on each person’s interests and goals. There are group respite programs, as well: Friday and Saturday Recreation, Summer Recreation, Evening Recreation Programs, and After School programs. These age-specific programs are educational and build social skills through sensory and recreational activities, as well as community experiences (like going to the park, playground, sporting events, yoga classes, museums, theaters, and more). “They love it; the activities, the change of pace, having something to do, and getting out into the community,” said Matt. MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR MORE PEOPLE Respite care can take place in a family’s own home, at daycare centers, or at residential facilities. “It helps. Really, at the end of the day, it’s trying to provide the most appropriate experience for them and to help them practice being away from us. These are experiences everyone wants to have and although they’ll always have saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

a supportive community around them, this helps them to eventually transition from living with us to being more independent,” said Matt. Aim Services, which has been certified by the New York State Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and the New York State Department Of Health (DOH) has been offering traditional Respite since 1992, and Enhanced Respite (which is unique to AIM) since 2015. Currently more than 80 families participate in the programs, and they are continuing to grow. “Really, it’s for everybody. Everybody needs a break sometimes. Having that makes us better as a family,” said Matt. Use of these services is person specific. AIM Care Coordinators help families navigate the process of getting enrolled and are approved by the state for a certain number of hours depending on their needs. Traditional Respite is funded by Medicaid as a free service to families. (If they wish, families do have the option to pay privately.) Enhanced Respite has additional clinical and behavioral components. Staff members receive ongoing training based on the unique diagnosis, needs, abilities, and assessment of each person they support. AIM covers the additional costs of this enhancement through fundraising and grants. Like many organizations, AIM curtailed some of their fundraising events last year because of COVID. Their Respite Services however, remain crucial to the well-being of so many. “They’re well-run and have been around a long time. They offer programs for other people, not just those with autism. They’re really much bigger than that. They’ve just been wonderful for us and our family,” said Matt. For more information, go to www.aimservicesinc.org

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“

HOPE IS PASSION

FOR THE POSSIBLE”

– SOREN KIERKEGAARD

ccepting the concept that hope is possible is a first step toward having it. For teens who have mental or emotional disabilities, hope is a critically important factor in the recovery process. It’s fueled by the notion that a teen with a mental or emotional disability wants to get better and believes he or she can.

at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, majoring in Feminist Philosophy. She attended Charlton for her Junior and Senior year of high school. After that, she was home 6 months and then went on to Sienna College, where she graduated four years later with a triple major and minor, as well as a research certificate.

“The journey of recovery is an ongoing, personal process, which aims to allow a person to have a satisfying life despite the limitations posed by their condition. Several factors are important in permitting it, ranging from learning how to manage one’s condition, to improving self-esteem. However, the central tenet in recovery is hope.” 1

The student had a history of difficulties with separation anxiety and parting issues from an early age. She was very bright and had many friends. She graduated middle school as Valedictorian and attended a prestigious accelerated high school in NYC. Always an overachiever, her clinical symptoms worsened under the pressure. By October of freshman year, she was calling the suicide hotline for help.

Our fourth family in this editorial series tells of a student who has been successful in navigating her way along the path of recovery to a bright future. She is presently attending the Ph.D. program

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After seeing a therapist for a number of years for anxiety, the student was later labeled with depression, generalized anxiety disorder and suicide ideation. She was hospitalized, and then attended the Restart Program, followed by a roller coaster series of additional hospitalizations. She made a couple of serious attempts to take her own life, being saved by strangers who were on the scene. The mother kept asking the doctors and therapists about residential treatment and was told to wait. She was advised to seek residential treatment as a “last resort” instead of seeing it as a middle-line choice for treatment. The mother described it as a “fight” to get her medical advisors to approve of a residential therapeutic facility. Instead, it was suggested to go the route of “lockdown” in the hospital because of her daughter’s “high risk” factor.

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The mother struggled to gain support from school for her daughter. Faced with a disharmony between what she intuitively felt was right and what she was being advised to do, she didn’t know where to turn next. It was then that one of the Department of Education school-based support team administrators recommended the Charlton School. The mother researched the school and applied, and her daughter was accepted. “Charlton was our only hope at the time,” said the parent. “The Charlton School saved my daughter’s life.” The mother commented that her daughter was “complicated.” She had interrupted transcripts and yet her Regents scores were excellent. “At Charlton, they listened to her needs and accepted that she wasn’t a cookiecutter model,” the parent said. “At Charlton, they work together as a staff and team. They understand the complexity of meeting kids where they’re at!” the mother added. The parent talked about the Equestrian Program that Charlton offers and shared how her daughter bonded with the teachers in the school’s Art Program.

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The parent expressed that “If my daughter had gone earlier to a residential facility, she would be better today. It’s not right that our system sets our kids up to fail.”

“…it is the catalyst for change, and the enabler of the other factors involved in recovery to take charge…hope offers the means by which a better future can be perceived; and therefore, achieved.” 2

Regarding her journey, the mother said, “When you first start, you don’t know what’s next.” She continued, “The institutions won’t let you out until a plan is in place, but they won’t help you put it in place. As a mom, you have to be your child’s advocate, take care of other children in the family, and make a living. I was second guessing myself all the time. I didn’t know if my daughter would be alive, let alone graduate from college. Now, I don’t take anything for granted. I’m still on high alert and hyper-vigilant. I have hope she will continue the tremendous path she’s on.”

The Charlton School is a therapeutic learning community offering the right treatment in the right environment for students who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or complex traumas. The Charlton School also sees students who exhibit school refusal, fragility, or withdrawal; students lacking in self-esteem, motivation, or social skills; or students who are struggling with relationship or identity issues. The Charlton School strives to create a safe and nurturing environment that fosters growth in their students and empowers them to succeed educationally and emotionally throughout their lives. For more information on The Charlton School, visit TheCharltonSchool.org. SF

This family is one of many who have journeyed through years of struggle toward recovery. Studies have shown that teens with mental and emotional disabilities who receive the treatment intervention and support they need can move on to have fulfilling futures. The cornerstone is hope…

1 Archarya T, Agius M. The Importance of hope against other factors in the recovery of mental illness. Psychiatr Danub. 2017 Sep; 29 (Suppl3): 619-622. PMID 28953841 2 Archarya T, Agius M. The Importance of hope against other factors in the recovery of mental illness. Psychiatr Danub. 2017 Sep; 29 (Suppl3): 619-622. PMID 28953841

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Unforgettable

Magic Photo: Andres Jimenez, That Army Guy Photography

The thrill of fascinating face painting. WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED (UNLESS NOTED)

One glance at Cherie Tessier’s work will stun you out of the ordinary. The amazing detail in her fantastical face and body paintings trick the observer with seemingly impossible illusions. The artistic precision of her work is so captivating it makes you believe what you’re seeing – whether it’s someone with four eyes or half a face. ENJOYABLE & IMAGINATIVE Creative from a young age, Cherie always enjoyed art and design. It wasn’t until 2019, when she hired a face painter for 32 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

her daughter’s birthday party, that she decided to try her hand at it, also. So moved by the delight it brought to children and adults alike, she launched iCandy Designs Face Painting LLC. Now, this Saratoga Springs-based artist creates unique, customized designs for festivals, birthday and holiday parties, school, corporate, and fundraising events. She also does makeup for photo shoots, special occasions, and even maternity belly painting throughout the Capital Region and beyond. “I can customize to any theme or design you'd like, to accommodate to your party and make it one to remember,” said Cherie. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

EYE-CATCHING DESIGNS Cherie, mom to 6-year-old Jack, and 5-year-old Jillian, also works full time at the New York State Funeral Directors Association, so she hones her craft on her own face late at night while her children and husband, Scott, sleep. “I have a problem stopping. I keep adding details. Like for a full tiger face I did, I used flicks of the paintbrush to make it look more like real fur,” she said. Her results are extraordinary. Cherie posts these masterpieces (that even morph and move!) on social media before moving on to the next challenge. She’s spent as long as three hours on a single design and is always scouring for inspiration from artists, including Mimi Choi.

Photo: Andres Jimenez, That Army Guy Photography

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC The mass appeal of iCandy Designs Face Painting has been showcased as a marketing tool by promotional companies and events like The Day of the Dead Party, sponsored by Avion tequila, held in downtown Saratoga hot spots including Morrissey’s at the Adelphi Hotel, Bailey‘s Saratoga, and Harvey’s Restaurant and Bar. Masked, professionally insured, and using only highend FDA compliant make-up at her sanitized station, Cherie has a special knack for working with kids, too. She paints awesome kids designs (for a very reasonable price) in just about four minutes each. “A lot of kids look forward to getting it done, and at the end of the day, it is all about making others happy; that’s what’s important.” Find out more by following iCandy Designs Face Painting on Facebook, Instagram, and visiting icandydesignsfacepainting.com SF saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Look for iCandy Designs Face Painting at these upcoming events: September 11 • 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Farm Day Out, Windy Hill Orchard 1297 Brookview Station Rd, Castleton September 25 • 12 – 4 p.m. Halfmoon Harvest Festival Halfmoon Town Park, 162 NY-236, Clifton Park October 9-10 • 12 – 6 p.m. West Mountain Fall Festival 59 West Mtn. Road, Queensbury

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A Family with FIGHT WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTO BY SUPER SOURCE MEDIA

FINDING THE BALANCE OF POWER. In the 1950's, Teri Takemori's father, Jimmy, started The Washington Judo Club at the Pentagon. The club then moved to Alexandria, Virginia and although they had a strong women’s team, Jimmy didn’t allow Teri and her three sisters to participate at first, believing (as many did at that time) that judo wasn’t a sport for girls. Eventually, he relented, and at age 10, Teri began a practice that would shape her life.

A graphic design major while at San Jose State College, Teri created the club’s logo, posters, and produced 30 issues of a judo magazine. “I think judo has helped me become a more well-rounded person, to be a hard-worker, do things correctly, and to do the best in everything I can.” Teri has also moved up quickly as a woman referee in the judo world. She refereed the 2003 World Championships and was an alternate referee at the 2004 Olympic Games.

THE STUDENT BECOMES THE TEACHER

In recognition of her continued dedication to judo, skills in competition, coaching, refereeing and mentorship, she was awarded the Shichidan-7th Degree Black Belt from the US Judo Federation in June.

Through her involvement in judo, Teri travelled the world, including through Europe, South America, and even to places like Cuba (that were restricted to other visitors then).

VALUABLE TRAINING FOR LIFE Today, Teri and Jason encourage their 11-year-old twin daughters, Randi and Dani, the value of judo.

In 1985, she won the Gold Medal at the Pacific Rim Championships in Japan. She’s also earned eight medals in the US Senior Nationals and has been in the top tier of the US Open five times.

“We want them to do it for the long haul. It’s good exercise, builds flexibility, core strength, and confidence. It makes me feel good - my daughters can handle themselves because they have judo,” said Teri.

Teri found competitions frustrating however, because there wasn’t a trainer able to help her reach her goals. While at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, instead of a critique of her performance, she was told by a coach that she should teach.

She’s seen inspiring transformations in her students, as well.

“Then, he loved that we were doing it, but he still made us take the beginner’s class twice, because he wanted to make sure we were doing it right,” she said.

“He said, ‘You have so much better Judo than I. You could teach everyone here’,” she said. DEVELOPING THE HEART, MIND, AND BODY Although she would’ve loved to compete in the Olympic games herself, her coach back then was right. As a judo instructor, Teri has found a tremendous sense of satisfaction. In 2000, she and her husband, a four-time Olympian, cofounded the Jason Morris Judo Center where they have trained nine Olympians and 408 international medalists. “Coaching is more satisfying because I guide people in judo, but also in their life, diet, and sleep habits. It feels good and I’m proud to be able to help kids to achieve their goals,” she said. 34 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

Parents' worries that the sport was too dangerous melted away when they saw how it made their once painfully shy daughter, blossom. “Right from the beginning, she just loved it,” said Teri. Another boy lacked confidence and athleticism when he began taking classes at age 8. By the age of 14 however, his fitness had improved so much that he became a lacrosse goalie, played football, and was recruited for the wrestling team. “We are a judo family. We care about anyone that comes through our door and we treat them with respect, to enjoy the sport we love, and to achieve their goals.” Try two classes for FREE. For more information, find the Jason Morris Judo Center on Facebook, Instagram, and at www.realjudo.net SF saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Key Strategies to Maximize Your Social Security Retirement Benefits WRITTEN BY JOHN KALIL

any Americans spend their lives working hard and dreaming of one day when they can finally retire. But transitioning into retirement requires more than just dreaming – it means being strategic, especially when trying to determine the best time to collect Social Security retirement benefits. However, these days it has become increasingly difficult to find information that is relevant in order to make an informed claiming decision. Most of the information found on social media websites or written by the mainstream press can best be described as largely antiquated. Strategies that once may have made practical sense for a

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previous generation of retirees, have simply not evolved or kept pace with modern times. Unfortunately, many of these same outdated strategies continue to be regurgitated and in many instances, could potentially cost unsuspecting preretirees thousands of dollars in lost retirement income if this decision is not properly evaluated for the right reasons. It’s important to note, there is no one-size fits all approach to maximizing Social Security benefits as everyone has a unique set of circumstances, many of which may differ. More importantly, traditional views, conventional thinking and societal attitudes concerning retirement and Social Security will require today’s retirees to change their mindset before attempting to collect their benefits. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Consider the following key strategies to maximize your Social Security benefits.

Social Security is hardly an entitlement and could be your single largest asset.

Contrary to public opinion, Social Security is a legitimate source of future income and should be treated no differently than any other similar asset that would be utilized for retirement. Much like pieces of a puzzle, the timing of when to collect these benefits is critical and requires proper positioning and coordination with all of one’s other retirement assets. This is especially important as Social Security benefits, if properly positioned, can be potentially leveraged with other retirement assets and a combination of various financial instruments to achieve an even greater maximum overall income benefit.

According to the website AARP.org, the average Social Security check for 2021 was $1,543 per month which amounts to $18,516 annually. At face value, this may seem like small change for some people. However, when you consider the value of your Social Security benefits, one would need to have an eye-opening $617,200 saved and earning a guaranteed 3% annual interest rate to generate this amount of retirement income. It’s easy to see why Social Security could very well be a person’s most valuable asset next to their home, savings and investments - making this one of the most important financial decisions of a lifetime.

Change your thinking from mortality to longevity.

For the previous generation of retirees, it may have made good sense to take benefits sooner rather than later based upon a shorter life expectancy. However today, with advances in modern science, medicine and technology, there should be little debate that people are living longer and the time spent in retirement could realistically be 25-30 years. According to the government website SSA. Gov, one in three retirees are expected to live until age 90 and one in seven retirees are expected to live until age 95. This is especially concerning for many retirees as they fear living too long and realistic possibility of outliving their money. Even more concerning are escalating out-of-pocket healthcare costs that have reached unprecedented levels and will more than likely continue to follow this same trend. In the past, yesterday’s private sector workforce was often provided with generous pensions that guaranteed income for life and protected their spouses. Today, those plans have since been replaced by defined contribution style plans whereby the worker is largely responsible for the funding and assumes the majority of the risk - for better or worse, making for a somewhat unpredictable outcome. Similar to a traditional pension, Social Security provides income for life and includes a spousal survivor benefit. For most people, the decision of when to claim benefits should be made on the basis of what their long-term future household income needs may dictate rather than assuming death at an early age or simply collecting benefits because one is newly eligible for them. In fact, if benefits are claimed as early as age 62, one could find themselves at risk for losing potentially thousands in lost future retirement income dollars. On the other hand, if benefits are delayed

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until age 70, it can mean as much as almost 2/3 more in annual retirement income for the remainder of one’s life.

Determine whether your Social Security benefits will be discretionary or essential

From the years 2015-2020, I was fortunate to have conducted nearly 5,000 brief interviews with pre-retirees who had attended any one of my 300+ informational seminars that were held in public libraries across upstate New York. What I had observed was completely unanticipated, as I had no idea of what to initially expect. As a result, it became increasing clear that the strategies one would employ to collect their Social Security benefits were driven by completely opposite views. In essence, I had made an unintended and unprecedented breakthrough observation amongst my professional colleagues in the financial services industry.

Whereby, all of those in attendance, fell into two separate and distinct categories. For approximately 10% of those in attendance, Social Security benefits would serve as a discretionary source of “extra” retirement income and for approximately 90% of those in attendance, benefits would be required an essential source of “needed” retirement income. In short summary, each category would have required all of the attendees to have had the proper knowledge and prerequisite experience in retirement income planning as well as a full understanding and awareness of the multitude of variables that existed in order for them to have successfully implemented their own personal Social Security claiming strategy without outside help - sure recipe for failure. It’s also worth noting that the majority of my seminars' attendees, were initially unable to determine which category they fell into when asked for a response. Most admitted to needing further assistance in trying to determine the correct response before they could answer the question. Nonetheless, I am truly grateful to have had this firsthand experience which has allowed me to gain tremendous insight and confirm from a sample population just how widespread and misunderstand Social Security has become. More importantly, this experience highlights and further confirms that there is no substitute for professional guidance when one is attempting to collect Social Security benefits on their own. For more information, please visit www.RetirementSolutionsLLC.com. John Kalil, LUTCF, is the Founder and President of Retirement Solutions, LLC, located in Saratoga Springs. Mr. Kalil has nearly 27 years of professional experience in the financial services industry. He is a Retirement Coach and Financial Advisor who specializes in helping people develop their own personal Social Security claiming strategy for the purpose of maximizing their retirement income benefits. He is not affiliated, endorsed or employed by the Social Security Administration or any other Governmental agency. John Kalil is also a Registered Representative of Hazard & Siegel, Inc. Securities are offered through Hazard & Siegel Inc., 5793 Widewaters Parkway, Syracuse, New York 13214. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Hazard & Siegel Advisory Services, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. SF FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 37

DON’T LET

ROBO CA Steal Your Season!

WRITTEN BY RICK COBELLO, PRESIDENT GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY SOLUTIONS LLC

How many times have you received a call about an extended warranty that you don’t have or that free Marriott vacation? This time of year, it is especially important to be vigilant due to tax filing time. Many scams exist during the tax period. “Robo calls are the greatest consumer complaint to the FCC with over 200,000 complaints each year—around 60 percent of all the complaints we receive. Some private analysts estimate that U.S. consumers received nearly 4 billion robocalls per month in 2018. Unfortunately, advancements in technology make it cheap and easy to make massive numbers of robocalls and to "spoof" caller ID information to hide a caller's true identity.” (Federal Communications Commission) SPOOFING — WHAT IS IT? Spoofing is a method used by both legitimate and illegitimate parties to make it seem as if a phone call is coming from a certain number when it’s actually coming from somewhere else. For businesses, spoofing can be a practical and necessary activity… EXAMPLES OF LEGAL SPOOFING Spoofing is usually legal when the person making the call has the legal right to use the spoofed number, even when calling from a different number. Examples of legal spoofing include: • contractors hired by a company to make calls can spoof by displaying their client’s business number on the caller ID instead of the telemarketers’ own phone number. • A business with a toll-free number may spoof by displaying their toll-free number on the caller ID instead of the internal line. • As a professional, you have the legal freedom to spoof your office number when making business calls from your personal device. Calls like you usually get from your doctor. 38 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

ILLEGAL SPOOFING IS EASIER TO DETECT. Spoofing is almost always illegal when the spoofer doesn’t have legal rights to the number being impersonated. A few examples of illegal spoofing include: • Deception: This is when the caller spoofs with the goal of hiding their real number and they don’t care which number they use for the spoof. • Impersonation: This is when the caller intentionally spoofs a believable number that the receiver will be more likely to pick-up or trust. • Neighborhood Spoofing: Neighborhood spoofing is similar to impersonation, but imposters attempt to mimic a number from a local company or individual. WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Don't answer calls from unknown numbers. If you answer such a call, hang up immediately. • You may not be able to tell right away if an incoming call is spoofed. Be aware: Caller ID showing a "local" number does not necessarily mean it is a local caller. • If you answer the phone and the caller - or a recording - asks you to hit a button to stop getting the calls, you should just hang up. Scammers often use this trick to identify potential targets. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

ALLS • Do not respond to any questions, especially those that can be answered with "Yes."

• Use caution if you are being pressured for information immediately.

• Never give out personal information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers, mother's maiden names, passwords, or other identifying information in response to unexpected calls or if you are at all suspicious.

• If you have a voice mail account with your phone service, be sure to set a password for it. Some voicemail services are preset to allow access if you call in from your own phone number. A hacker could spoof your home phone number and gain access to your voice mail if you do not set a password.

• If you get an inquiry from someone who says they represent a company or a government agency, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, in the phone book, or on the company's or government agency's website to verify the authenticity of the request.

• Talk to your phone company about call blocking tools they may have and check into apps that you can download to your mobile device to block unwanted calls. • If you use robocall-blocking technology already, it often helps to let that company know which numbers are producing unwanted calls so they can help block those calls for you and others. • To block telemarketing calls, register your number on the Do Not Call List. Legitimate telemarketers consult the list to avoid calling both landline and wireless phone numbers on the list. Register your phone numbers with the Do Not Call List by calling 1-888-382-1222. It won't make a huge difference because scammers don't care about rules. But it might cut down on some legitimate solicitors. There are many apps for your phone that may help. Many of these apps require a monthly fee. This is an app that has some reasonable success, and it has a no cost version… HIYA: Hiya identifies calls you want and blocks numbers you want to avoid, and comes with options like auto-blocking and reverse phone lookup. To receive premium features there is a monthly charge. There are many other apps, but this is a start to determine your individual needs. In 2019, the median loss with a robo call was $700.00 with many instances of much more. Make privacy and security part of you cybersecurity plan. Protect yourself and your information... Don’t be a victim! (The software mentioned is representative of available call blocking software. The author has no vested interest or received any compensation for mentioning the software)

For more information: GlobalCybersecuritySolutionsLLC.com

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piecing together

The Medicare Puzzle

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

he first thing you do when you put together a puzzle is spread out all the pieces. It seems overwhelming at first, but once you have a strategy, it’s not so scary.

Maybe you look for the corners and side pieces, or match together the ones that are all the same color. One thing is certain however, when you’ve found the right piece, it just fits.

When it comes to Medicare, piecing together the full picture requires a comprehensive strategy. Misleading television commercials, ads, and mailings introduce doubts and fears that you may be missing a piece, and creating worry that it might never fit together.

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“I would love to see this less complicated. There should not be this level of complication. It’s a puzzle. I do the navigating through the many pieces of Medicare. Every plan has its own sweet spots,” said Maureen Hallaran, an independent Medicare Broker at Mosaic WSG, Ltd. “It bothers me that our local Senior/Medicare consumers are not getting clear information, that they are worrying about their healthcare choice and if they have made the right decision. Healthcare plans are consumer specific, and plans vary greatly by State and County. I enjoy working with my clients, I live in the area and know the local pharmacies, doctors, and hospitals. I take great pride and get satisfaction in helping my neighbors get all the benefits that they are entitled to.” saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Maureen Hallaran

NO COST, NO OBLIGATION As an independent broker, Maureen doesn’t work on commission and her services are available at no cost to the customer – giving her the freedom to find you the pieces of a custom-built plan that best fits your unique healthcare needs. “The dynamics of that are just tremendous. Everyone is an individual. It’s not black and white,” she said. With Medicare there are four parts, Supplemental Insurance, and an Advantage Plan. Knowing which combination of options is right for you begins in Maureen’s office with a one to two-hour consultation. The results of this meeting could end up saving you thousands of dollars every year. “I know these plans. I love my job so much because when someone leaves my office, I know I’ve gotten them the most cost-effective plan and am saving them the most money.” CHOOSE THE RED PILL In the 1999 film, The Matrix, there is a choice. Take the "red pill" and learn a life-changing truth, or take the "blue pill" and remain ignorant. Many people on Medicare aren’t even aware of their choices until Maureen helps illuminate them. She has been a broker since 2009, and previously worked as a pharmaceutical representative, she has an intimate understanding of just how varied drug pricing can be. Drugs are priced differently based on if they are caplets, tablets, extended-release, single-acting, and which preservative is used to maintain shelf life. A different delivery method can save consumers a lot of money. There are five tiers of drug pricing based on your plan’s preferred choices. Pharmacies are also categorized based saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

on whether they’re considered a standard, out-of-network pharmacy vs. a preferred, in-network pharmacy. These differences can triple your monthly medication costs. BRACING FOR DENTAL DECISIONS In addition to medication, another big expense can be dental costs. Comparing dental insurance costs to your needs (and the discounts offered through other channels) is essential. “Don’t pick a Medicare plan based on dental coverage. Dental coverage is often misinterpreted by the Medicare consumer,” advises Maureen. READY FOR YOUR CALL Eager to educate people about their options, Maureen invites families to call her anytime and to come in together to get all their questions thoroughly answered. “If you get sick, call me. Let me be the second call after your diagnosis. Most people are not locked into a plan,” she said. There’s no need to be tech savvy either, she does all the research for you. If there’s a change in your status, income, or medications, she’ll know just what to do. As a certified insurance professional, she undergoes rigorous annual testing and training to stay up-to-date on the latest products and changes. Maureen also teaches seniors within the community through Zoom, and once the pandemic is over, she’ll resume in-person instruction. Find out more about connecting the pieces of your healthcare and financial future by calling 518-581-1642 or visiting MosaicWSG.com SF FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 41

Get Cooking with Jodie Fitz Hi, I’m Jodie Fitz! Welcome to my kitchen. If you're looking for ways to make real food for your family and make it fast, or if you're trying to figure out how to get your kids to eat foods you didn't think they'd eat, you're in the right spot. Enjoyed by both family… and friends! I am always experimenting & creating tasty bites, finding the simplest way to do it and love sharing great flavor and time-saving finds along the way. Let's get cooking!

One Pot Mac N Cheese INGREDIENTS • 1 - 16 oz. ditalini pasta • 4 tablespoons butter • 1/2 cup sweet onions, finely diced • 3 1/2 cups milk • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 3/4 teaspoon sea salt • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated INSTRUCTIONS 1. Melt the butter in a medium to large saucepan over low heat. 2. Once the butter is melted, add the onions. Cook the onions over low heat until they begin to soften. Stir frequently to prevent the butter and the onions from browning. 3. Once the onions have started to cook, add the onion powder, salt, garlic powder and black pepper to the butter. Stir all the ingredients together well. 4. Add in 3 cups of milk and increase the heat to a medium heat and bring it to a low boil. 5. Add in the pasta, stir it into the milk and cover it. Stir frequently and cook until the pasta has cooked through. 6. Lower the heat temperature. Add in the cheese and additional 1/2 cup of milk. Stir frequently until the cheese is fully melted.

42 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

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Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie Bowl INGREDIENTS • 1 – 1 ½ cups frozen fresh strawberries • 1 cup Greek vanilla yogurt • ¼ cup honey • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/4 cup granola cereals • 2 tablespoons coconut flakes • 1 tablespoon chia seeds • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed • 2 tablespoons peanut butter • Fresh strawberries INSTRUCTIONS Place the frozen strawberries, Greek yogurt, honey and vanilla extract into a blender or food processor. Blend until the ingredients form into a soft serve ice cream consistency. Scrape the mixture into a large bowl or two small bowls. Top it with the granola, coconut flakes, chia seeds, flaxseed, peanut butter, and fresh strawberries.

More thoughts about my Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie Bowls: Nut allergies? • Replace the peanut butter with WowButter®. This can be located at your Price Chopper/Market 32 Supermarkets • Make sure you are using a nut free granola. Dairy allergies?

Lessons for Children Making Smoothie Bowls: • Measuring

• Slicing

• Blending

• Knife safety

• Utensil Safety

• Following directions

• Strawberry hulling and cleaning fruit

• Label reading

• Replace the yogurt with a Greek styled non-dairy option.

You can always catch what’s going on in our lives at www.JodieFitz.com and www.facebook.com/jodiefitzcooks, or check out my cook books - available on my website! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 43

Flexible and Fast

Plant-Based Meals

WRITTEN BY DEB CZECH, PLANTEDPLATTER.COM

As the lazy days of summer taper off and fall arrives, the new season brings some hustle into many households. Whether due to family members heading back to school or the change in temperatures and daylight hours, fall sends us into the kitchen in a new way, ready for different types of meals. Vegetable and grain-based bowls can be a flexible and healthy way to assemble a quick lunch or dinner, allowing each person to build their own meal from a variety of choices. While a simple equation for a grain bowl often calls for “a grain + a green + a bean,” it’s fun to add more flavors as well. In the home kitchen, some simple advance work will go a long way toward streamlining these colorful, plant-powered meals. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll avoid the temptation to yield to less healthy options when life gets busy. STREAMLINING PLANT-BASED MEAL PREP 1. Prep and Cut the Veggies: Set aside time on the weekend or in advance of the dinnertime rush-hour to wash and pre-cut ingredients like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and peppers. Cut up and steam vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or sweet potato. These prepared vegetables can be used in grain bowls and a variety of meals, including pasta dishes, stir-fries, soups, and salads. Short on time? Cook up a bag of frozen mixed vegetables and you are all set with a colorful, nourishing mixture. 44 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

2. Batch-Cook Grains & Beans: Whole grains are not hard to make; they just take some time. By preparing grains like rolled or steel-cut oats, brown rice, and quinoa in advance of when you need them, they’ll be all ready to use for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Oatmeal with fresh fruit makes a heart-healthy, fiber-rich breakfast. Quinoa, rice, and other grains can be the foundation for grain bowls or let them add substance to soup or stew. While dried beans are wonderful to cook with, most require advance soaking and longer cooking times; with limited time, purchase prepared canned beans that only need to be rinsed before they are all ready to go. 3. Prepare Dressings or Sauces: If you’d like a more flavorful alternative to store-bought salad dressings that are often high in fat, sugar, and salt, try making your own. Recipes abound online. These are useful not only for grain bowls and salads, but also to add flair to cooked vegetables and pasta dishes. For more ideas on assembling grain bowls, visit plantedplatter.com. To build your knowledge of plant-based cooking and nutrition, join Deb Czech for an upcoming class. Planted Platter’s fall schedule of a dozen Zoom cooking events is on the website. SF

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Healthy Breakfast 101 WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY RICH FRANK OF FOUR SEASONS NATURAL FOODS

Back to School means back to routine and back to habits — both the good habits and the bad ones! So where does your weekday, breakfast protocol stand? We’ve all heard (and generally ignored) — breakfast is the most important meal. Unfortunately, for breakfast, it falls right after you semi-willingly abandon your bed and just before you need to be doing something else, so it gets skipped, ignored and unloved. It’s one thing to treat yourself badly at breakfast, but harder when you are responsible for your kids. They can’t deal as well as you think you can yourself.

Here are some ideas to help when there’s little time and energy! COLD CEREAL. There’s a reason the box took over weekday breakfast in the last 50 years — complaint-free, fast and super easy. Open component 1: Box Open component 2: Milk Mix together in bowl. Eat

Fortunately, you can follow these basic rules and up the game a little. Component 1: The Box Try some less sugary alternatives: GRANOLA/MUESLI: Too numerous to count, there are a lot of great versions here--many with whole grains or paleo or gluten free, depending on your style. They can be filling and delicious with good nutrition. Feel free to mix with high quality cold cereal to change the taste and texture. We love local favorites like Battenkill and Little Lads! UPDATED ORGANIC COLD CEREAL: Like the commercial favorites, organic, no preservatives or artificial versions now abound. Cascadian Farms, Barabara, Nature’s Path and others have good options. Component 2: The Milk Try some alternatives to dairy milk.

Joining first round favorites of soy, rice and almond, now macadamia, cashew, saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

banana, hemp, coconut, sesame are all new to the field. No need to be an exact replica of cow’s milk, alternatives can bring interest, flavor, different nutrition, and variety to the same old, same old. HOT CEREAL - OATS: These are wicked easy--ditch the packet and take 6 minutes to simmer on the stove top… add your own raisins, cinnamon, walnuts, maple syrup etc. But, it’s not just oats out there anymore--try other whole grains and seeds from amaranth and quinoa to millet and flax. EXOTIC TOAST In degree of homemade difficulty: Waffles > Pancakes > French Toast. Now, let’s get real — all of those take time, energy and worst of all, mess! Try these: Cinnamon Delight: Put some butter on whole grain bread, sprinkle with maple sugar and cinnamon. Put in toaster oven for 3 1/2 minutes. Yes! Avocado Toast: Smoosh some ripe avocado in a bowl, add sea salt, spread on well-toasted whole grain or gluten-free bread. (Variants include adding garlic, chopped greens, poached egg, jalapenos) to the bowl before spreading. Don’t knock it ‘til you tried it.

MILKSHAKES... I mean, smoothies. They aren’t milkshakes, but you can get pretty close, especially when you start calling them milkshakes. In blender, add bananas (try frozen ones!) and berries. Add in yogurt, favorite milk, peanut butter, hemp seeds, whatever else sounds good. Blend and serve. It tastes too good to be that easy and nutritious. PLAIN FRUIT Yes, obvious, but often overlooked. You know--oranges, grapefruits, apples, grapes and the like. Have some once and awhile! CEREAL BARS Maybe not the best, but could be worse too. Check out Kind or Nature’s Path as decent options. CHIA SEED PUDDING Into a quart Ball jar, put a 1/2 cup of chia seeds, 2 1/2 cups almond milk, a tablespoon of maple syrup, a few pieces of lemon or orange rind. Shake well and refrigerate overnight. CARROT RAISIN MANNA BREAD It comes frozen, simply thaw it. It’s made from sprouted grains mashed up into a loaf. Eat cool, room temperature, or warmed slightly in the toaster oven. Spread on some tahini or nut butter. SF FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 45

Cooking with

s d i K

WRITTEN BY DIANE WHITTEN, CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION

Cooking shows on TV or the internet are peaking interest in cooking, including among children. You might be surprised to find you have a budding chef in your family. Invite your children into the kitchen to help make meals or snacks to learn and develop the important life skill of cooking. When kids are encouraged to help in the kitchen it can also increase their self-confidence. OTHER BENEFITS Kids are experiential learners, and cooking uses all five of their senses. It’s fun and can be quality time spent with parents or loved ones. Children are more likely to try new foods, if they’ve helped to make it, so you can expose them to a variety of foods leading to a lifetime of healthy eating. Cooking with Kids is a perfect opportunity to teach basic food safety, such as Clean/Separate/Cook/Chill. • Clean: Wash hands, utensils and surfaces often • Separate: Don’t cross contaminate • Cook: Cook to the right temperature • Chill: Refrigerate and freeze food properly AGE-APPROPRIATE KITCHEN ACTIVITIES Depending on your child’s age and developmental stage they can do certain kitchen tasks. 2-4 YEARS • Develop fine motor skills • Wash produce

• Mix ingredients with spoon or hands • Spread butter or icing • Roll, shape and cut dough • Pour liquids 5-7 YEARS • Introduce more difficult cooking skills • Measure dry ingredients • Clean and sanitize counters • Cut with butter knife • Mash soft foods, like fruit, hard-boiled egg • Crack egg 8-11 YEARS • Can complete simple recipes independently • Whisk with a handheld mixer or whisk • Boil eggs and pasta • Use vegetable peeler • Grate cheese • Open cans 12+ YEARS • Challenge them with more complex recipes • Understand the basic science of cooking • Use oven and stove safely • Whip egg whites • Handle raw meat safely • Use chef knife

The following recipes are from Nutrition.gov under the Recipe tab. There you can search for kid friendly recipes.

No-Cook Peanut Butter Balls This is a great recipe that 2-4-year-old children can help with by mixing and rolling. Makes 12 servings. • 1/4 cup peanut butter (or another nut butter) • 1/4 cup honey • 1/2 cup instant dry milk powder (nonfat) • 1/2 cup whole grain cereal (crushed flakes) 1. Mix peanut butter, honey and dry milk in a bowl. 2. Shape into 1-inch balls. Roll in cereal. 3. Chill until form for 30 minutes or longer. Source: www.nutrition.gov/recipes/peanut-butter-balls 46 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

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Pita Pizzas Older kids can make this on their own, younger ones can put on toppings. Makes 4 servings.

• 1 cup tomato sauce • 1 cup chicken breasts (grilled, boneless, skinless, diced • 1 cup broccoli (rinsed, chopped, and cooked) • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated) • 1 tablespoon basil (fresh, rinsed, chopped or 1 tsp dried) • 4 pitas (whole-wheat, 6 1/2-inch) 1. Preheat oven or toaster oven to 450°F. 2. For each pizza, spread ¼ cup tomato sauce on a pita and top with ¼ cup chicken, ¼ cup broccoli, ½ tablespoon parmesan cheese, and ¼ tablespoon chopped basil. 3. Place pitas on a nonstick baking sheet and bake for about 5–8 minutes until golden brown and chicken is heated through. Serve immediately. Source: www.nutrition.gov/recipes/pita-pizzas

Broccoli Potato Soup Kids over 12 will have a sense of accomplishment making soup for the family. Makes 8 servings. • 40 ounces broccoli (frozen, chopped) • 4 cups water • 1 onion (chopped) • 4 chicken bouillon cubes (low sodium) • 2 cups evaporated milk (nonfat) • 1 cup potato flakes • 4 tablespoons cheddar cheese (shredded, reduced fat) 1. Combine broccoli, water, onion, and bouillon cubes in a stockpot. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. 2. Add milk and slowly stir in potato flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. 3. Serve with sprinkled cheese on top. Source: www.nutrition.gov/recipes/broccoli-potato-soup

Crunchy Chicken Nuggets Older kids can cut meat, younger ones can shake the bag to coat it. Makes 25 chicken nuggets. • 1-lb. chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into 1" cubes) • 1/2 cup barbeque sauce • 3 cups cereal (flakes) *For a dipping sauce, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard. 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix chicken and barbeque sauce in a large bowl. *Wash hands with soap and warm water after handling raw meat. 2. Pour cereal flakes into a large plastic bag and crush into small pieces. 3. Place chicken pieces in the bag, reseal, and toss to coat. 4. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange coated chicken pieces on the baking sheet. 5. Bake until crispy and golden brown and chicken is no longer pink inside, about 20 to 25 minutes. Source: www.nutrition.gov/recipes/crunchy-chicken-nuggets saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 47

o e f v d o l o g e s h t r o … F

AN INTERVIEW WITH JAMES COVEY WRITTEN BY RALPH VINCENT | PHOTO BY CONGLETON PHOTOGRAPHY

onsidered to be the most prestigious event of its kind, the Westminster Dog Show has been held annually since 1877. For Saratoga County the 2021 Westminster Dog Show had a local connection, in that Ballston Lake resident James S. Covey judged the Sporting Group. This was Mr. Covey’s third time judging at the legendary show. He has extensive experience and has served as a judge in dog shows around the United States, and in Sweden as well. In addition to the Sporting Group, he is approved by the American Kennel Club to judge Norfolk Terriers, Norwich Terriers and Best in Show as well.

The world of purebred dogs and dog shows, have long been a part of Mr. Covey’s life. At the age of 12 he began working in a neighbor’s Irish Setter agility and conformation kennel in Selkirk, New York. There he learned about feeding, cleaning and grooming dogs. As time went on he gained knowledge about breeding and showing dogs as well.

Determined to have his own show dog, James saved his allowance for three years, and at the age of 15, purchased an English Cocker Spaniel named “Ancram’s Jessica.” With Jessica he gained experience breeding purebred dogs. She was bred to the Champion English Cocker Spaniel, Dunelm Galaxy and produced a number of champions herself. 48 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

James’ accomplishments continued with regard to breeding and showing purebred dogs. He developed championproducing breeding programs for English Cocker Spaniels, and later Norfolk Terriers. Eventually his enthusiasm and hard work led to his first experience as a dog show judge in 1980 at the Washington Avenue Armory in Albany, NY. I asked James what a typical day would be like for a judge at the Westminster Dog Show. As he described it, the day starts early, arriving at the show venue by 7:00 a.m. On entrance he checks in with the superintendent. Next is inspecting the show ring he will be working in. Judging begins at 8:00 a.m. and with the exception of a break for lunch, continues well into the afternoon.

Madison Square Garden is usually home to the all-breed competition each February. However due to safety concerns related to the Covid 19 pandemic, the 2021 show was held in June as an open air event at the historic Lyndhurst estate in Tarrytown New York. James shared that the Westminster Kennel Club did a wonderful job making this venue work, while maintaining the safety of all present.

After years of achievement working with purebred dogs and a career as a court recorder, James is enjoying retirement. As far as the future is concerned, he said he enjoys judging and plans to continue doing so occasionally.

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Slush Puppies WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Chomping at the bit to get a clean dog but dreading the hassle and mess of doing it at home? Gator’s Barks n Bubbles has a high-tech solution.

Banish the stench of wet dog from your home by instead washing your fur babies at the easy self-serve dog wash station, Gator’s Barks n Bubbles, which recently opened in the Burnt Hills Café Plaza. “It’s so easy, so simple, and I’m always there to help,” said shop owner Voula Paravalos. SEE WHAT’S PAW-SIBLE Paravalos has three pups; the shop’s mascot, Gator, a twoyear-old pit bull; and two Pekinese dogs, sisters, Gidget and Gigi. Like every dog-owner, Paravalos knows how stressful giving them a bath at home can be. Now, there’s no more bending and wrestling with wet dogs since she introduced the self-serve iClean dog wash system – the first of its kind - to the Capital Region.

Any size dog, from Yorkies to Great Danes, can hop up into the stainless-steel tub (lined with a nonslip mat) while their owners insert payment and choose from a variety of spa-like experiences. Organic shampoos and conditioners, even flea treatment and disinfectant, spray out already mixed in with the water, from the easy-grip nozzle. PUP-ARAZZI PREPPED & READY When the washing is done, a hand-held blow dryer gets dogs looking gorgeous.

Then, finish-up with a spritz of a comforting sugar cookie scent or try grapefruit spray for a sweet-smelling pooch.

“They all leave happy and smelling good,” said Paravalos.

RESULTS YOU’RE GONNA LOVE Sofas inside and a bench outside, as well as smocks, towels, and treats are available to ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish.

For about a quarter of the cost to go to the groomer, you’ll be in-and-out, with a dog you’re just going to want to hug. “Even the little kids are loving it because it’s something neat and different. Everyone is really enjoying it.”

Gator’s Barks n Bubbles, 800 Saratoga Rd, Burnt Hills, is open Tues. – Fri. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Washes are $10/each. Buy 10, get 1 free. Gift token available. For more information, call 518-956-4145, and find them on Facebook. SF

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FALL 2021 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 49

SARATOGA with Kids

PICK YOUR OWN PUMPKINS WRITTEN BY GINNY SMITH

icking your own pumpkins is a fun way to spend a beautiful day enjoying fall as a family. We are lucky to be surrounded by picturesque countryside in Saratoga County and to have many pumpkin patches and fall farms nearby. Whether you’re looking for carving pumpkins, decorative pumpkins, edible pumpkins, fall activities, or beautiful pictures in a pumpkin patch, these farms near Saratoga have you covered. SUNNYSIDE GARDENS, SARATOGA SPRINGS

Sunnyside Gardens transforms into a pumpkin patch every September during its annual fall festival. The garden center sets up beautiful displays of pumpkins, large straw bale structures decorated in various themes, and a pumpkin patch. A little blue train ride surrounds the pumpkin patch and there are also hayrides available. And a pumpkin Hall of Flame filled with hundreds of carved Jack ‘O Lanterns completes the experience. There is no admission fee to enter the garden center or pumpkin patch. Activities and food may be purchased separately. www.sunnysidegardensllc.com HANEHAN FAMILY FARMSTAND, SARATOGA SPRINGS

The Hanehan family grows many different varieties of pumpkins to fill their beautiful farmstand every fall. The farmstand provides wagons to fill with pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, and decorative corn. There is a vintage tractor photo spot for festive fall pictures. Some fall weekends, the family brings a baby calf to visit the stand. The cost is free to enter. www.facebook.com/hanehans.pumpkins VINCEK FARM, SARATOGA SPRINGS

Vincek Farm has been family owned and operated since 1920. The Vincek family operates a seasonal vegetable stand during the warm weather months and grows pumpkins for fall. They also sell cornstalks, hay bales, gourds, and decorative corn. There is no charge to enter. www.facebook.com/vincekfarms SCHUYLER FARMS, SCHUYLERVILLE

Schuyler Farms hosts an annual fall festival. You can take a hayride to the pick your own pumpkin patch, which has beautiful views. Schuyler Farms has a petting zoo with a

50 | SARATOGA FAMILY | FALL 2021

variety of adorable farm animals. Activities include a zip line, gemstone mining, and a large corn maze, for which the theme changes every year. It’s free to enter, but there is a charge for activities. www.schuylerfarms.com ELLMS FAMILY FARM, BALLSTON SPA

Ellms Family Farm opens for its season in mid-September and continues through Halloween. There is a 5-acre pumpkin patch for picking your own pumpkins as well as a variety of pre-picked pumpkins. Ellms has over 40 other attractions, including ropes challenge courses, zip lines, mini excavators, farm animals, jumping pillow, and corn maze. General admission tickets start at $19.99 for adults and $22.99 for kids. Pumpkins, food, and some premium activities may be purchased separately. www.ellmsfarms.com LIBERTY RIDGE FARM, SCHAGHTICOKE

Liberty Ridge’s Fall Festival runs from mid-September through Halloween. Liberty Ridge is a beautiful scenic farm with a pick your own pumpkin patch. Fall farm attractions include an 11-acre corn maze, farm animals, a pumpkin cannon, games, and trolley rides. General admission tickets start at $23.95. Pumpkins, food, and premium activities are extra. www.libertyridgefarmny.com SF

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Saratoga Family Fall 2021

Articles inside

DON’T LET ROBO CALLS Steal Your Season

Saratoga with Kids

Quick (& Healthy!) Breakfast Options

Calling All Dirty Dogs

Plant Based Meals

Jodie Fitz

Meet… James S. Covey Westminster Judge

Cooking with Kids

Medicare… Demystified For You

Meet… The Veitch Family

Meet... The Morris Family

Maximize Your Social

Prevent Sports Injuries

Discussing Marijuana Legalization with Your Kids

Back to School Eye Care

Cherie Tessier Creates a New Life for Herself

The Charlton School