Saratoga Family Winter 2020

Saratoga Family Winter 2020 | Complimentary

The Christmas Edition!

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Saratoga Family Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty

General Manager Robin Mitchell Creative Director / Managing Editor Chris Vallone Bushee Magazine Designer/ Advertising Designer Marisa Scirocco Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Contributing Writers Geno Boarman Colleen Coleman Deb Czech Cindy Durfey Alan Edstrom Madison Feldhaus Jodi Fitz Richard Frank Ginny Franzan Barbara Garro Joel Goodman John Greenwood Ann Hauprich Jennifer Lefner, MD April March Megin Potter Theresa St. John Kristen Schultz Ginny Smith Chris Vallone Bushee Diane Whitten

Photographers Susan Blackburn Photography Heather Bohm Tallman Mallory Cail Portraiture Al and Patty Caruso Richard Frank Wendy Hobday Haugh AM Knizek Photo Theresa St. John Thistle and Stone Photography SuperSourceMedia.com

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Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, 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 © 2020, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

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Welcome to

Saratoga Family - The Christmas Edition!

Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com • (518) 581-2480 ext.201

Welcome to Saratoga Family – The Christmas Edition!

At this time last year, I was mentioning how Saratoga Family had just finished our first year as the area’s only multi-generational print magazine and how happy we were with the publication and the community’s involvement (Keep sending me your ideas, comments, and story suggestions, you know I love hearing from you!)

Well, apparently, we were not the only ones to think this was a great idea, as Saratoga Family won…

1st Place Niche Publication with the New York Press Association (NYPA). With the judges saying such wonderful things as “…an impressive entry that stood out right away.” We could not be happier!

And… Saratoga Christmas magazine won 1st Place Public Service / Non-Profit with the NYPA, for “…Gorgeous holiday magazine… consistent messaging… great engagement with the community” for our coverage of the multiple holiday events that happen in Saratoga Springs during the holiday season.

Well, as we all know…

This year is a little different, and it’s not just the fact that we’re putting out one Christmas Magazine versus two.

But if you have the holiday spirit in your heart, it can be just as wonderful as any other year… You can still view and purchase trees and décor at the Festival of Trees at the Saratoga Springs City Center (page 12), shop and eat downtown, make holiday treats (page 53) with the family, and sing off-key as you carol around the neighborhood (page 59)!

I’m betting no one will forget this holiday season.

Please make it special but keep it safe.

Thank you for staying with us this year (readers and advertisers!) we appreciate your support.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and God’s Blessing to All!

Love, Chris

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For more pics from this adorable photo shoot by Mallory Cail Portraiture, see page 66

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CONTRIBUTORS 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.

JODI 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.

MEGIN POTTER

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.

THERESA ST. JOHN

Theresa is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in Saratoga Springs. Even though history was not on her radar while in high school, she has a deep interest in all things historical now. She has been on assignment for several magazines and is published in both print and online venues. Last year she traveled to Ireland on assignment, which, she states "was a trip of a lifetime." She is the proud mom to two young men and Nonnie to six rescued dogs, two chinchillas, and a bird. Life is good.

WENDY HOBDAY HAUGH

KRISTIN SCHULTZ

ANN HAUPRICH

DIANE WHITTEN MS

A native of Burnt Hills, freelancer Wendy Hobday Haugh’s short stories, articles, and poetry have appeared regularly in dozens of national and regional publications, including Woman’s World Weekly, Highlights for Children, WritersWeekly.com, and ten Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies. 2019 marks Wendy’s 40th year as a freelance writer. Happily, she reports that the thrill of writing and submitting never wanes. To learn more, visit www. wendyhobdayhaugh.com.

When not writing magazine articles that warm hearts, lift spirits and tickle funny bones, Ann Hauprich keeps busy preserving the past and present for future generations at Legacies Unlimited in Ballston Spa. The historic upstate village where the author’s family settled half a century ago will be commemorated in her sixth book in 2020. To learn more, visit AnnHauprich.US and LegaciesUnlimited.com.

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Kristin Schultz has been writing about food, beverages and restaurants since 2014. She moved to the Capital Region in 2016 and enjoys scouring the area looking for delicious and interesting eats and drinks. She also loves spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking and has recently made it her mission to perfect the art of waffle making. Kristin will never turn down a glass of bourbon or a bowl of noodles. When she's not eating, Kristin likes to pile into the car with her family and explore new places.

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.

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Saratoga Family The Christmas Edition!

Winter 2020

12

50

53

contents photo by Theresa St. John

Happy Holidays!

FOOD

A GOOD READ FOR ALL AGES

10 It Feels Good to Give

28 Panza’s (on the lake) is open

– come see what’s new!

38 Local Chicken Soup for the Soul contributor offers up a

new story for Pre-Teens

12 The Festival of Trees 14 Meet… Father James Ebert 17 Editor’s Choice 33 Gift Giving Made Easy at

Four Season’s Natural Foods

36 How to Eat More Plants 31 Healthy Snack Ideas for Kids

(and Adults!)

HEALTH

34 Christmas Treats by Jodie Fitz

29 The Charlton School

50 Ice Castles

44 Babies + The Holidays…

How to Do it Safely

53 Holiday Desserts 59 The Holiday Song Book

45 OrthoNY – There When You

Need Them 48 Home of the Good Shepherd

Celebrates Their 150th!

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40 Books, Books and More

Books… Digital Learning for

All Ages 41 Looking to volunteer?

Check out YOU(th) Decide 64 Laughing Matters

New Column 52 Saratoga With Kids 66 Meet Our Cover Boy! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

BEAGLE SCHOOL

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It Feels Good TO GIVE COMPILED BY MADISON FELDHAUS

OPERATION ADOPT A SOLDIER

OAS collects supplies and gifts for packages that are then sent out to thousands of men and women serving overseas. Families of soldiers are also served with the help of the local community. For more information or to get involved email wiseeagle1@yahoo.com or OperationAdoptASoldierInc@gmail.com, or visit OperationAdoptASoldier.org, or call (518)-260-9922, you can even visit them at their location of 891 Saratoga Road, Gansevoort.

7TH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOGA

Most restaurants in Saratoga have boxes for new and unwrapped toys (please donate prior to December 4th). In addition, The YMCA – WILTON, The UPS Store and Saratoga’s Community Federal Credit Union are all drop spots.

THE EMPTY STOCKING PROJECT

The Empty Stocking Project is the largest and most widely recognized program of the Saratoga County Children’s Committee.

There are hundreds of children living within Saratoga County who need assistance yearly, but the holiday season can be the most trying time of year for parents and caregivers.

Our mission is to embody the holiday spirit by helping to provide these families with a joyous holiday. Each year, we are able to provide 900+ children living in Saratoga County with a wonderful holiday season because of your help.

SaratogaChildrensCommittee.org/emptystocking-project.

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HOLIDAY ASSISTANCE AT THE FRANKLIN COMMUNITY CENTER

When money is the main concern for families during one of the happiest times of the year, the Franklin Community Center is here to help. We take gift requests from children and parents and leave it to the citizens of Saratoga to help those in need and try to find a glimpse of happiness through these difficult times.

We work to ensure all families throughout the county in need receive help.

• If you find yourself in need of holiday assistance please call 518-587-9826 x 225, Monday - Friday between 10am - 2 pm.

• Those looking to donate should email @Jen@franklincommunitycenter.org.

Visit FranklinCommunityCenter.org programs-services/holiday-assistance or for further information.

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The 25 Annual Saratoga th

Dear Friends, The world as we know it has changed dramatically since last March. As COVID-19 continues to spread, the future has never felt so unpredictable. For the past eight months, we have been challenged by isolation from families and friends and limitations on freedoms we’ve always known. We have witnessed people losing their jobs or trying to balance working remotely while their children are often doing their schoolwork remotely as well.

Requests for help with basic needs are increasing dramatically, and in the midst of it all, Catholic Charities staff have not missed a beat in rendering services to those in need.

This year, we were hoping to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Festival of Trees in grand style – the agency’s primary fundraiser and the community’s premier holiday event. Due to the pandemic, we have had to make necessary modifications to ensure the safety of our community, our volunteers and ourselves. Thus there will be no Preview Reception on opening night, and Family Day with Breakfast with Santa, the holiday store and the raffle have all been canceled. We will have the usual display of beautifully decorated trees which will be featured virtually for purchase as well as in person. The smaller items – wreaths, centerpieces, etc. will be cash and carry. In lieu of breakfast with Santa we will offer face time visits with Santa, personalized letters and Christmas Cookie kits.

The needs of our neighbors are growing dramatically and will continue to do so in the near future. In times like this, we’re reminded of how interconnected we all are. Thank you in advance for supporting the mission of Catholic Charities and the Festival of Trees. Now more than ever our communities need us and we need you.

Sister Charla Commins, Executive Director

Earline Johnson and Bruce O’Connell, Event Chairs

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Festival Schedule Saratoga Springs City Center Wednesday, December 2nd 5:00 – 7:00 pm Thursday, December 3rd

4:00 – 9:00 pm

Friday, December 4th

2:00 – 6:00 pm

Saturday, December 5th

12:00 – 6:00 pm

Sunday, December 6th

11:00 - 2:00 pm

This year patrons can also view and purchase trees online at Give.classy.org/FestivalTrees COVID-19 related protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of all.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Bruce O’Connell VICE PRESIDENT Jim Norton TREASURER Paul von Schenk SECRETARY Pam Stiansen BOARD MEMBERS Fran Dingeman Earline Johnson Christin Mason Kimberly Pacheco Carol Raike

HONORARY COMMITTEE Wally & Sue Allerdice Mary N. Bonner Diana M. Burke Ellen & Hal Card Catholic Charities Diocese of Albany Rev. Thomas H. Chevalier Rebecca Christner & Carter White Linda & Vince Colonno Fran Dingeman Sharon & Stan Drosky Anita Dunn Claudette M. Farchione Thomas Frost Bishop Emeritus Howard J. Hubbard Kathleen James Matt & Earline Johnson Annie & John Krasnicki Drs. John Leary & Nancy Wade Leary Chris & Christin Mason Mike & Kate Naughton Anne Marthy Noonan Jim & Alison Norton Madge & Bruce O’Connell Kim & Keith Pacheco Chrissy & Cliff Passen Kathy Phelps Michele & Mark Phillips Helen Porter Ann Seton Quinn David & Deborah Quinn Norma M. Quinn Carol & Larry Raike Colleen & Ed Roohan Kristie & Tom Roohan Lynn & Bill Roohan Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger Dave And Chris Stack Pam & Steve Stiansen saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Festival of Trees Programs and Services offered

by Catholic Charities in 2019 Counseling – Individual, couple and family counseling. This program provided mental health services to 1457 individuals including 438 children, 970 adults, and 49 older adults.

Domestic Violence Project – Shelter,

Programs and Services are available to anyone in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, always accompanied by information, referral and advocacy as needed. Individuals are never refused services because of their inability to pay.

Administrative Office 142 Regent Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 • 518-587-5000 North County, , 35 Broad St. Glen Falls, NY 12801 • 518-793-6212

counseling, crime victim services, advocacy, education, 24 hour hotline services for victims of domestic violence and their children in Warren and Washington counties. 769 adults and 131 children were served in the program. A total of 2655 bed-nights were provided in the safe shelter. In addition, 2000 individuals received education and prevention services.

Mary’s Haven – A community home for the dying serving persons with irreversible illness, who are in the last three months of their lives and who no longer can remain safely in their homes. In 2018, the program served 32 families and provided 411 bed-nights to the terminally ill.

Mentoring Program – Prevention / diversion program impacting youth’s academic, social, and emotional milieu. 118 youth and 119 of their family members took part in the program last year.

NOEP (Nutrition Outreach Education Program) served 342 households with 1799 face to face contacts and 117 informational presentations throughout Warren County.

Services to the Elderly were provided to 532 senior citizens.

Emergency Services, primarily assistance with concrete basic needs, were provided to 1295 individuals. $56,495 was spent on concrete basic needs and $7340 in donated gift cards was distributed to those in need. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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MEET…

Father James Ebert, St. Clement’s Church

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA ST. JOHN

I

entered the church quietly, drawn towards the calming sounds of an organ playing in the distance. A young teen was practicing a hymn, eyes staring intently on the sheets of music before her.

I’d arrived for my interview with the new priest, Father James Ebert, a few minutes early, and I was happy to stand still and listen for a few moments, admiring the sunlight streaming in through stained-glass windows.

Eventually, she stopped, looked up, and spotted me. I was directed to the office area and called out a hello.

After our introductions, Father James led me back to the pews, where we sat together and talked.

It was hard not to notice the pews cordoned off due to social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because we were in a house of worship, where people come together to be closer to God, with no distance between humankind and the creator, the sight bothered me.

Father Ebert is a young 40-year-old man with a comfortable, open smile. He was easy to talk to, and I felt like I could ask questions and express personal views without being judged.

He grew up in Charlton, an only child. He, along with his mother and father, lived with his maternal grandparents. “I was close with both sets of grandparents and was showered with love from all of them.”

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He spoke of visiting the National Shrine of the North American Martyrs in Auriesville, NY, as a child. I had no idea what the significance was, and he explained it was a shrine dedicated to three Jesuit missionaries martyred at the Mohawk Indian village of Ossernenon in 1642 and 1646.

His desire to become a priest was innate. “Ever since I was, say, seven, I knew this was what I wanted/needed/was called to be.” I laughed and told him that I’m 62 and still don’t always know what I want to be.

“I would set up an altar and say Mass as a kid. I’d line up all my stuffed animals; they were my congregation.” He looked away for a second, then spoke again, an endearing grin on his face. “Funny story – once my Gram came into my room and asked what I was doing. I told her I was saying Mass and serving Communion.”

She stood by and watched the youngster carry out his duties and laughed when he handed her a basket.

“What’s this for?” she asked him.

“The offering,” young James replied.

Father Ebert spoke of a verse that has always encouraged him.

Luke 2:19. “Mary kept all of these things in her heart.” I’d asked him how he dealt with the anxiety of things going on today in the world. It was an admission from me – that I have doubts sometimes and wonder if things will get better. I have fears that the world’s condition will remain chaotic – and that this scares me. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

It was comforting to hear him say that these feelings were normal – we were going through some terrible things right now across the globe. “It helps to remember all of the times that God has been by our side in life,” he told me. “If we keep those memories in our hearts as Mary did, we can draw on them when we doubt God’s presence.”

He also drew attention to John Paul II, whose words remain meaningful, timely even. A few years before Father James was born, John Paul II said something as he stood out on a balcony, looking over the crowd below. “He spoke three little words,” Father James tells me. “They were ‘Be not afraid.’

I can’t even begin to tell you how those words speak to me.”

We talked more about worry. I mentioned the social unrest in the world, the rise in suicides since the beginning of the pandemic, anxiety over jobs, money, how every little thing seemed too much to handle sometimes. “It’s human to worry, things weigh on our spirit,” he told me. “and it’s ok to question things that are happening around us every day.”

One of the people he thinks of in times like these is Padre Pio, an Italian priest known for his adoration of charity and deep love for the people around him. “One of the many things he said that has always stayed with me is this; ‘Pray, hope, and don’t worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayers.’”

Easier said than done, but I had to agree. Worry is useless.

Father James has been the new pastor at St. Clement’s since September 1st. He explained that the congregation is his family.

“I cannot marry or have children,” he told me. “This is my family, and I spend time getting to know them – their lives and loves, who needs prayer and who is celebrating a milestone.”

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There are approximately 3,000 members, and during the pandemic, they’ve live-streamed services, recorded services, and have held five masses for those who wanted to come and worship in person.

Ordained in 2009, he was a graduate of Saratoga Central Catholic High School, Siena College, and St. Mary’s Seminary and University. He was assigned Pastor at Mater Christi in Albany.

He spent time as Pastor of the Church of the Holy Trinity, Cohoes, was assigned to St. Mary’s in Ballston Spa, and served as Chaplin of Saratoga Central Catholic High School. He also currently serves as the Vicar for Clergy in the Diocese of Albany. He always had the support of family and friends for his calling, a blessing for sure.

I asked if he was ever lonely. He shook his head ‘no.’ He explained that parishioners, strangers, and friends asked him the same thing over the years. “I am often alone, but I’m never lonely. My life is rich. I tell people that this is a beautiful life, a joyful life, and I mean that. I feel honored to be a spiritual connection – a bridge between the congregation and God.” When I asked him to offer up some sign of hope, something people could cling to during these times of great uncertainty; you could have heard a pin drop inside St. Clement’s.

Father James looked away for a moment. I swear his eyes were watering, another acknowledgment that the world was suffering.

His words were strong, though, and his message was clear.

“Emmanuel,” he stated. “Never forget God is with us.”

Walking out into the sunshine after saying our goodbyes, I couldn’t help but feel God close beside me at the moment, and my heart was grateful.

A powerful message in Father Ebert’s Mass from March 23, 2020

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Editors's CHOICE S

aratoga is brimming with local talent and small Mom & Pops, that all deserve our love – all year - not just at the holidays. Shop Local, Shop Small, Shop Saratoga, whatever you call it, it is what we do. We are local - and we support our local community.

I love introducing you to new craftspeople I discover.

I am always in awe when someone can take their dream and turn it into a viable business. If I can help promote that, I will.

With this year’s Editor’s Choice, I bring you a wide variety of local “makers” with great back stories (Thank You Megin Potter!) and an interesting array of products, any of which would make wonderful Holiday Gifts… if you haven’t already finished your list : )

Happy Shopping!

Love, Chris

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Smell the Memories

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

Spark memories and ring in emotions simply by lighting a candle.

NATURAL LAW “I always liked candles, but I couldn’t burn them too long without it being too much for my allergies,” said Michelle Law. So, Michelle began making and selling her own candles.

In November 2018 she opened the Wick Apothecary shop on Etsy.

“I only sell what I would burn and what I like. I like a lot of things. I want things to smell nice, and I want a nice, cozy home,” said Michelle.

MEMORY-MAKING MAGIC The magical science of Wick Apothecary candles comes from using specially selected ingredients.

Soy is a cleaner, longer-lasting alternative to petroleum-based candles containing paraffin.

“Soy is a natural ingredient and when you combine that with the cotton wick, it doesn’t put too much soot in the air, which is what aggravated my allergies,” said Law. Her 8 oz. candles burn between 40 and 50 hours and come in many varieties, including 15 wintery scents.

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Inhale the aroma of “Oh Christmas tree,” a combination of pine, fir, and balsam needles; escape to the “Winter Cottage” with a blend of blue spruce and bayberry spices; and warm up with “Winter” notes of clementine, pine, and clove. Find the quintessential essence of a Northeast winter in “Evergreen Forest” and try “Adirondack Life,” for an added smokey fireplace scent.

HOME DELIGHTS A visit to the Wick Apothecary online shop is an adventure with surprising delights – just like the memories that inspired it.

“These candles are made from the memories I have of things, like going up into the Adirondacks in the wintertime and seeing the beauty there. We have so much beauty here.”

“There’s No Place Like Home,” the gourmet blend that includes ripe delicious apples, red berries, falling leaves, cinnamon and a touch of firewood, says it all (and was named by Michelle’s 6-year-old daughter, Lily.)

“Making candles is just a real passion for me. I hand pour and handcraft them and a lot of care is taken into making each one. It makes me really happy that people have them in their home and are enjoying them,” said Michelle.

Most candles are shipped in one to three days. Free shipping on orders more than $35. For more information, follow them on Facebook and Instagram, and find WickApothecary on Etsy.

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A Composing Marvel WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY AL AND PATTY CARUSO

While today there are many ways to record information, none have been able to replace the pen.

A pen is an elegant and timeless tool that invites the written word to gracefully flow through it. A luxury pen has the added responsibility of being a status symbol that signifies to all those who see this most special of composition instruments, that you are writing with purpose and intention.

“When you’re using a fountain pen and using real ink, you tend to write a little better, neater, cleaner. You just take your time a little more,”said Al Caruso.

PERFORMANCE PIECES A woodworker for more than 40 years, Caruso has created all sorts of custom pieces for himself and others, including cabinetry, tables and more, but finds the craft of turning wooden pens to be endlessly fulfilling.

“You can turn one pen to make it as identical to the next piece as you want, but I think that’s pretty boring. I get a lot more satisfaction when I make each piece unique.

I pick out all my own wood so that I can orient grain, texture and color into each piece.”

Exotic hardwoods (like cocobolo sourced from Central and South America, which comes in a range of colors, or the darkly streaked African Blackwood which can have rich purplish tones) offer a world of possibilities.

Caruso also sees the beauty that others may overlook in domestic hardwoods, such as Birdseye maple, walnut, and cherry.

“You can get some spectacular looks with these and many other hardwoods,” he adds.

DESK JOCKEY DESIRABLES Having exhibited his work in juried shows throughout Southern California, Caruso moved to upstate New York where he joined the Northeastern Woodworkers Association and has remained an active member for more than 20 years.

In addition to writing implements, he crafts one-of-a-kind desk sets and keepsake boxes for the discerning shopper.

“When it’s a special event or for a special purpose, they’re looking for something they can’t find on the main stage, in stores or online, so I do my best to accommodate them,” said Caruso.

Alongside her husband, Patty Caruso often exhibits her Patty’s Petals floral and hardwood burl creations. You can see both artisan’s work at the Shaker Holiday Market, now until December 19th, at 25 Meeting House Road, Albany.

For questions or custom orders, call 518-877-8770 or email Al at abcwoodenman@nycap.rr.com or Patty at floralgal01@gmail.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Rock Star Style WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

Coveted and beloved

by the musicians that play them, a modified electric guitar is the stuff of legend.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind piece. No one else in this town, city, state, has that guitar. If you’re a musician, it’s really cool.

Even people who don’t play are intrigued by something they’ve never seen before,” said Jim Morahan.

MUSIC TO THE EYES Fifteen years ago, after a fruitless search for a guitar encased in tooled leather, Morahan’s passion for playing and repairing guitars led to modifying them.

“I thought it’d be really cool to have that guitar, but nobody made that guitar. I just couldn’t find one, so I thought I’d make it,” said Morahan.

Using tricked-out leather saddles for inspiration, he experimented and eventually created a leather guitar cover that looked great. The guitar also sparked a lot of excitement when he played it onstage as the lead guitarist for the alternative rock cover band, Watchdog.

“At almost every single gig, people wanted to come up to the stage and see the guitar.”

RECYCLING THAT RESONATES When in New York City, Morahan again found material inspiration, this time in the form of vintage couture garment bags.

“I always built the stuff I thought would be cool for myself and then other people loved it and thought they would like to have one for themselves, too,” he said.

Morahan found he is able to create two full guitar covers from each repurposed canvas bag. Among these high-style pieces is a Louis Vuitton guitar made for singer Post Malone.

SELF-EXPRESSION EXTENSION When the musician Arlen Roth wanted to share what was in his heart, he turned to Morahan for help.

As a tribute to Roth’s daughter, Gillian, Morahan created the “Pennies from Heaven” guitar covered in nearly 200 pennies from 1983 (the year she was born). On the back of the guitar, her signature is oversized, surrounded by the pennies shaped in a heart outline.

“It was a tribute to what I think she would’ve loved and would’ve liked to play,” said Morahan.

The emotional presentation of the guitar to Roth was done during a weekend when he played two sold out shows at the famous Iridium Club in NYC for the release of his 2012 album, All Tricked Out!

Creating a Morahan custom guitar takes 60 to 75 days.

Find out more by visiting MorahanCustomGuitars.com.

To see Watchdog’s 2020 gigs, go to WatchDogRocks.com

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Signs of the Times

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER, PHOTOS PROVIDED

Say something special with custom signage from Her Idea Whimsical Art.

By 2015, Amy Baringer, who has a degree in marketing, was painting so many signs that people told her she needed to start selling them.

Today, the Her Idea Whimsical Art Instagram page has more than 1200 examples of Baringer’s painted items.

THE OLD IS MADE NEW AGAIN Painting on repurposed barn wood is one of Baringer’s favorite mediums.

In Wilton, she was able to salvage wood from a barn built in 1892 that was in the process of being taken down. She also buys items from barn sales and paints on antiques like radio flyer sleds. Painting on scrap buckets is another popular request from her clients. For lightweight sports or college logos, she uses canvas cloth, perfect for the dorm room.

All her hand-painted designs are done freehand, in the style you choose, and without the use of stencils. Baringer’s personal favorite is a loose, loopy cursive.

“In my own house, I like to mix décor. It’s a new house, just a couple years old, so I like to have some new stuff, but also bring in old stuff to complement it with things that have a unique, aged look.” saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

THEME OF THE YEAR Each year, certain images, phrases, or items just seem to resonate with people.

One year, it was paintings of cardinals. Another, it was home portraits. Last year, Baringer made 515 assorted Christmas ornaments available in set sizes ranging from four to fifty.

This year, she has already painted 100 masked Santas.

“When people started requesting them, I was reminded suddenly that we are in the midst of this whole different way of living.”

PERSONALIZED GIFT GIVING NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE Baringer doesn’t keep an inventory of items on hand because each of Her Idea Whimsical Art pieces is madeto-order but they are distributed by two Vermont-based wholesalers and are in stock at the area’s newest novelty shop, Saratoga Tailgate & Party.

For custom orders, Baringer wants to talk with you, find out what you have in mind, and create the personalized piece that you’ve imagined. “’Custom’ means something to you or to someone you’re giving it to as a gift, so I want to make it look as nice as I possibly can!”

Find HER IDEA on Facebook and Instagram @herideawhimsicalart CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 21

When Light Speaks

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

A snippet of the natural world is enough to speak volumes.

Leaves, ferns, and other botanicals are, by their very nature, fleeting. Yet, when plucked at their peak and preserved, these delicate wonders can provide us material for many hours of contemplation. Set against a soothing, warm light, their simple silhouette is somehow both calming and invigorating.

“I’m using stuff from nature and bringing it to life. It’s kind-of cool that it speaks to so many people,” said Teresa Breuer.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT Paired with bases that Paul, who also owns Wooden Stone Construction, artfully crafts from oak, cedar, driftwood, burls, and rocks, these one-of-a-kind fixtures and accent lights are limited only by the imagination.

Teresa, who also works for the Hudson Headwaters Health Network, completes custom shade repairs and has been teaching students at the Adirondack Folk School how to make these pieces themselves for more than a decade, as well.

“We’re small potatoes, so we’re excited to make each one. It’s just what we do. We make it so they love it. The sky’s the limit.”

SIMPLY STUNNING

SAY SOMETHING SPECIAL

From their home nestled in the Southern Adirondack Mountains, Teresa and her husband, Paul, create Northeast Living Lights.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Northeast Living Lights is just how much variety and how many styles these pieces lend themselves to. When matched with repurposed pots or watering cans, they have a distinctly country charm.

A dark base creates a gothic chandelier, while a circular nightlight would be welcome in any child’s bedroom.

Each fall, Teresa sustainably harvests materials from her backyard, or while on a hike, presses and dries it for lampshades. These natural wonders are placed between a layer of polystyrene and a quality art paper, that are secured to a metal ring to give them their unique shape. They are trimmed with ribbon for a finished, final effect that is awe-inspiring.

“It has to be illuminated to really appreciate the lampshade – once you turn it on, it’s like WOW!” said Teresa.

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Creating luminaries with motivational phrases are among Teresa’s favorite projects.

“It’s really special to make those for me. They can be a labor of love but its always fun to make those because hopefully, they touch someone’s heart.”

See Northeast Living Lights at Rustic Charm, 6348 U.S. 9, in Chestertown. To order, go to NortheastLivingLights.com

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Say “Love” with Coffee

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY THISTLE AND STONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Coffee can fulfill our deepest desires.

In his bestselling book, The Five Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman describes how to radically improve any relationship by communicating your love in the right language.

Coffee can be that language.

“Coffee is the universal love language,” said Nate Reynolds.

THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE A self-professed “science nerd,” Nate Reynolds has always enjoyed crafting beverages. Working in the beer industry for Sierra Nevada, he’s also studied natural resource management because he’s interested in protecting and conserving the environment.

This year, combining both passions, Nate and his wife, Rebecca, a school psychologist, launched Grimble Coffee Co., which offers organic roasted coffees from humanely-harvested beans.

It’s a company that is showing us how coffee can say “love.”

WORDS OF AFFIRMATION The company’s name comes from "The Gnome" by Pink Floyd, a song about a nature-loving gnome named Grimble Crumble.

Their label’s artwork, by Brittany Statt Design, incorporates the national tree of the coffee’s country of origin.

“We chose the forest gnome as our icon because in folklore they're considered the guardians of the forest and are so attuned with nature that they are capable of moving through solid earth as easily as fish move through the water. As a company, we aspire to foster the same harmonious connection between our customers and nature through our products, community involvement, and sustainable initiatives,” said Nate.

QUALITY TIME

ACTS OF SERVICE

Put more intention into the experience of drinking a cup of coffee.

The nuances of fresh-roasted flavor are something you can’t get buying coffee from a larger retailer. Roasting beans that carry Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance and other certifications, Grimble Coffee is committed to the people behind the bean.

“Having coffee together is a really sacred part of the morning for us. It’s a peaceful, calm time that’s really special,” said Rebecca.

Each bag of Grimble coffee has guidance about how to best brew it, where the coffee is sourced, and when to enjoy it – if it’s best, for example, in early mornings, during lazy afternoons, or better left for late-night lingering.

PHYSICAL TOUCH The label clues you in about what the coffee will taste like even before it touches your tongue.

“It used to be that coffee was just coffee, beer was just beer, and people didn’t really give it much thought. We include things on the label like what elevation it was grown at and different pouring methods because it eludes to what the coffee might taste like – the heartiness, how dense it is, and how intense the flavors will be. For the extreme enthusiast, that’s really important for them to know because it gives them clues about what they can expect,” said Nate. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

That’s something to feel good about this Christmas when you’re sipping a cup of the exotic “Bali,” with its hints of chocolate, vanilla, and spice, or their rich, smooth “Reforestation” blend.

RECEIVING GIFTS Through their partnerships with Saratoga Tree Nursery and OneTreePlanted.org, Grimble helps plant one tree for every bag of coffee they sell. They’re also donating one percent of annual gross sales to environmental nonprofit organizations.

“We want to make sure we’re giving back and remain humble as we grow.”

Share the Love. Follow Grimble Coffee Co. on Facebook and Instagram. Sign up for a subscription and buy products at GrimbleCoffee.com CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 23

Rebel with a Cause

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

Free yourself (or others!) from burden with soft, bubbly skincare products.

Goats Milk Goodness

On 600 acres in Schuylerville, Annelise Wood is making bath products from the sugary milk produced by her 40 Nigerian Dwarf goats.

The Woods are the 5th generation to live on the farm, which has been in her husband’s family since the early 1900s. The Wood soap shop is in the family’s former antique store.

“It all happened very naturally. I grew up on dairy farms and when I had kids, I knew I wanted to raise them in an agricultural community,” said Annelise.

Now ages 9 and 11 years old, she is homeschooling them while running Rebel Wood Soapworks, which officially launched in 2015.

Compassionate Care Products Goats’ milk bath products are naturally soothing, and when the stresses of the pandemic hit this spring, Annelise knew how meaningful a gift package of her products would be for the front-line health care workers. She gave away 40 free care packages to help them through the tough times.

“This spring, things really changed on a dime and I went from bringing the goats and products to people, to being on the farm all the time. I am a registered nurse, so I felt a real affinity for those people working on the front lines.”

24 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

She understands that compassionate collaboration is always important for small businesses to succeed.

“Please, keep in mind local businesses when you’re shopping, they are still struggling to navigate things in this new world.”

Release the Rough Year No matter what else the year has brought with it, melting away the rough edges of winter with velvety smooth skincare products is just what the doctor ordered.

Lock-in your skin’s moisture with soaps, lotions, bath bombs, skin and lip balms (combined with beeswax harvested from the farm). Mixed with luscious ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, and natural fragrances, they’ll delight the senses with soothing goodness.

Try scents including the cherrywood smokiness of “Santa Baby,” the yummy butter rum scent of “Merry Grinchmas,” or create some wintery magic with “Snow Witch,”a combination of frankincense, myrrh, patchouli and warm, powdery sandalwood.

Find Rebel Wood hand balms at the Betsy Olmstead shop in the Saratoga Marketplace and all their products at Old Saratoga Mercantile and online at rebelwoodsoapworks.com

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates and events with Rebel Wood goats including goat yoga at Into the Woods farm and Kidding Around at Old Saratoga Mercantile.

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A Twinkle in Time WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

Human history has been forged by our melding of metal ores from the earth for functional and decorative use.

Tin is a relatively rare metal, and the tinsmiths who still work with it, rarer still.

One local man is giving tinware a renewed life, creating pieces that feel both vintage and contemporary.

The Timelessness of Tin A history teacher in Greenville for 37 years, Art Thorman understands the story of why metalwork has been so important to humanity.

“There’s a connection to the land and natural materials that is especially important today because we are becoming further and further away from our roots. It also gives me the chance to work with my hands. If I’m not working with my hands, I’m not happy,” he said.

Unlike with the other crafts he’s tried, creating 18th and 19th century tinware reproductions gives Thorman a sense of instant gratification.

“I make a zillion different things. I love making this stuff because it’s unique - you’re not going to see it anywhere else.”

Resilient Brilliance The number of items Thorman has crafted from tin is plentiful.

He has created light fixtures including candlesticks, chandeliers, wall sconces, and lanterns. He’s made saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

kitchen items like bowls, plates, cheese graters, and apple corers. He’s even formed tin dust pans and storage boxes for historical reenactors.

These custom jobs are complemented by tin decorations reminiscent of holidays past.

Thorman’s twisted thousands of tin icicles (an alternative to the traditional tinsel that is a lot easier to clean up!).

His punched or bent metal star-shaped tree toppers and angel ornaments shimmer with the memories of what has been.

“They make the tree look beautiful. With a candle in a luminary, the light reflecting off the tinware just gives it a beautiful glow that gives your home that warm, homey feeling,” said Thorman.

Tin is (Still) so… “In” Teaching tin crafting classes at the Adirondack Folk School in Lake Luzerne for nearly a decade, Thorman appreciates sharing his knowledge with students who are eager to learn it.

“They make beautiful things and are impressed with themselves and I help them along the way. Tin smithing is usually working by yourself, real hard, for hours, and hours, and hours, so when people see it and appreciate it, that's a great feeling.”

The durability of these pieces, which are actually made from tinplate (a rolled steel coated in tin to prevent rust), ensure they will continue to be kept in the family and enjoyed for years to come.

Learn more by visiting www.adirondackfolkschool.org CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 25

The Honorable Handbag WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY AM KNIZEK PHOTO

Traditional Style Meets Modern Needs

“The most common thing I hear from people is that I have an eye for design and pair fabrics together beautifully.

They can see how much attention to detail I put into finishing these pieces. I take a lot of pride in that and appreciate that it’s noticed,”she said.

Her daughter wanted Piracci to sew her a zippered pencil case from a vibrantly colored shirt. It was the first thing she had made in twenty years, but she found it immensely satisfying.

CRAFTED WITH CARE

As a mother of two children, ages 15 and 11 years old, Allison Piracci understands the importance of a durable, reliable bag.

“I’ve always been drawn to design and I thought, ‘Hey, this is really fun’, said Piracci. She started Solulu Handmade two years ago. Like many of us, she had a collection of handbags that she loved. Only the genuine Harris Tweed bags, however, are made with a fabric held to such high standards that it is legally protected by its own Act of Parliament.

THE ROYAL TREATMENT The finest fabric made in the Scottish Isles, Harris Tweed, is hand woven and naturally dyed by crafters in the Outer Hebrides, as it has been since the 19th century.

The Royal Family favors its muted tones and classic patterns for their sporting attire. Ideally suited for country pursuits, Harris Tweed is made in the colors, and has the enduring appeal, of the landscape that inspired them.

The craftsmanship put into Piracci’s heirloom-quality leather-strapped Harris Tweed bags pay homage to this fabric’s reputation for excellence.

26 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

Creating a range of products - including coin purses, zipper pouches, cross-body bags, and commuter totes - she puts the same care into everything in her Solulu Handmade collection of offerings, whether it is constructed from Harris Tweed or waxed canvas. You can also pamper your pets with high-style collars, bandanas, and waste bag pouches.

See some of her bags (and face masks!) at the Vischer Ferry General Store, or find her at markets in Schenectady, Albany, and Great Barrington.

Sturdy and versatile, Solulu market bags can also be thrown in the wash… Sounds like the perfect gift!

Working in small batches to keep her selection fresh, fun, and unique, Piracci’s custom pieces are made-to-order and shipped in two to three weeks.

Follow Solulu on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, market days, and to order, go to soluluhandmade.com

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Bring on the Zing!

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED

Say goodbye to bland dishes and hello to flavor with a nice, new, spicy condiment.

Hot Crispy Oil, made with a blend of peppers, garlic and shallots, adds just the right amount of bite to pastas, salads, sandwiches and more.

Created by restaurant veteran John Trimble, Hot Crispy Oil isn’t like anything else you’ll find in your typical kitchen pantry.

REPLACING SO-SO WITH GUSTO When La Serre, the French fine dining restaurant his parents started 43 years ago lost the bulk of their banquet business this past spring, Trimble began tinkering around with fried oils at home.

The overwhelmingly positive response from everyone who tried it sparked a fire in Trimble, who has since partnered up with his girlfriend, Maura Kelly, cousin Nick Treffiletti, and friend, Mike Crisafulli, to perfect the recipe and get the product out to the public.

The restaurant’s kitchen, which had been sitting vacant, was certified to start processing food products for distribution and Hot Crispy Oil was officially launched in August.

“It’s just been a wild ride,” said Trimble.

Now available to purchase online and from nearly 40 retailers, including locally at Roma Foods, Darling Donuts, Primal Butcher Shop, and Healthy Living Market and Fat Paulie’s. Trimble plans to expand its distribution and mold into a national brand.

“It’s received a fair amount of buzz in the area, so I’d like it to be in even larger chain stores in the future.”

ADDING PEP TO YOUR PREP Unlike the heat in tomato-based hot sauces, Hot Crispy Oil has a well-rounded flavor profile that has a little bit of sweetness, complemented by the deep, earthy, tang of fried garlic and onions.

Use it simply as a dipping oil or to add a little bit of sultry heat to simple sauces. Spicy food enthusiasts will get a kick out of the Extra Hot variety that elevates Hot Crispy Oil up to the next level.

The small chunks of goodness suspended in this vibrantly colored condiment make it an appealing stocking stuffer, business or holiday gift. A Hot Crispy Oil subscription plan will be available soon - sign up for their email newsletter to get weekly updates and discount codes.

For more information, find them on Facebook, Instagram, or by visiting HotCrispyOil.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 27

Panzas '

Brick Oven Pizza

WRITTEN BY KRISTEN SCHULTZ PHOTOS BY SUSAN BLACKBURN PHOTOGRAPHY

28  | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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The Panza family

has been serving up Italian food in Saratoga County for more than 80 years. And while the well-known Panza’s Restaurant relocated to South Broadway in 2019, the kitchen at the original location on the south side of Saratoga Lake is now known as Panza’s Brick Oven Pizza and is serving ample portions of Italian-American classics plus Neapolitan pizzas, burgers and wings in a casual setting.

“We wanted a low-key, casual restaurant,” Michael Panza said. While not involved in the day-to-day operations, he is known to stop by to lend his vocal talents to live music nights. “We started with pizza and take-out and then Tina came on board and added to the menu.”

Tina is Tina Marie Clements, a chef who has helmed many kitchens in the Capital Region including Clark’s Steakhouse (now The Basin Grill) in Schuylerville and Brown’s Brewing Company in Troy. But for Clements, it all began when she went to work for Tony Panza in the 1980s.

“Tony taught me so much,” Clements said. “He believed in me and he is my hero. I’m so grateful to be back, it’s like I’ve come full circle.”

Her confidence, experience and love of cooking is evident on the menu and on the plate.

Clements wants to make sure there is something for everyone and honors long-standing Panza traditions.

The menu boasts 11 Neapolitan pies including the pesto chicken pizza with a crispy crust and the telltale blistery bubbles at the edges, chopped grilled chicken, roasted red peppers and melty mozzarella. But Clements doesn’t take the credit for the classic pies.

“Payton makes the crust and Mike makes the pizzas,” she said. “They do a fantastic job.”

Also on offer are burgers, subs and chicken wings with choice of sauce. Diners familiar with Clements and her career will recognize the signature glaze on the bourbon glaze wings, which are baked and fried for crispiness then tossed in the sweet, caramelly glaze.

For those looking for more than pizza and wings, Panza’s Brick Oven Pizza also offers traditional Italian-American dinner fare.

There are nearly a dozen starters including a rich French onion soup, unique soups of the day and a basket of crunchy, buttery, garlicy garlic bread.

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CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 29

“Soups and sauces are my specialty,” said Clements who has taken top prize at Troy Chowderfest.

The antipasto salad is large enough to share and comes with a bed of greens topped with antipasto standards like salami, pepperoni and capicola. Mild provolone slices are tucked into a corner with small mounds of pepperoncini, quartered artichoke hearts and strips of roasted red peppers completing the plate.

The chicken cacciatore sees a juicy double-cut chicken breast smothered in a bright tomato sauce seated atop a bowl of penne pasta.

The linguini and clams dinner features tender, sweet little neck clams and shrimp nestled around a mound of infinitely twirlable linguini in a rich butter garlic sauce.

Gluten-free pastas and pizza crusts are available upon request.

To experience another of Clements’ signature dishes, diners should make reservations for Wednesday nights, the only night of the week that prime rib is on offer.

Requiring no fancy plating or additional garnish, the prime rib is an exercise in simple excess with an ample cut of meltingly tender beef served with traditional horseradish sauce and jus.

30 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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Tina Marie Clements, Chef and Rich Karwan, Owner of Panza'a Brick Over Pizza. Photo by SuperSourceMedia.com

If diners have any room left for dessert, they can enjoy a selection of cakes and pastries including the rich, moist double chocolate mousse cake.

No dinner is complete without drinks, and Panza’s Brick Oven Pizza has a selection of wines along with domestic and imported beers.

No time to dine in? No problem. Panza’s Brick Oven Pizza offers family meals for take-out. For $40 or less, busy families can enjoy a choice of entrée, bread, and salad with their choice of dressing. As an additional bonus, prime rib dinners are available for take-out. If a family dinner is on the horizon, Panza’s Brick Oven Pizza offers take-out and catering options for any size group.

While Clements is busy in the kitchen, Panza’s nephew Rich Karwan oversees the whole operation. Karwan is no stranger to the restaurant business as he spent his childhood in and around the family restaurant and when he turned 13, he began washing dishes and eventually taking on more responsibilities. Himself an accomplished cook, he now leaves most of the kitchen operations to Clements but is always happy to help her at any station. “[Rich] has been awesome,” Clements said. “I’m so happy to be working with his family again; he’s just amazing to work for.”

No matter if you choose to dine in, carry out or opt for catering, you won’t walk away wanting.

“I feel like it’s home when I’m here,” Clements said. “I cook with love, from the heart. Italians like to eat; you’ll never go away hungry.”

Dine in, carry out or catering; PanzasPizzeria.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 31

‘Tis The Thought Basket That Counts WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY RICHARD FRANK,

FOUR SEASONS NATURAL FOODS

Welcome to the Holidays 2020…

A brave new holiday gift giving experience. Like Santa, we may be dropping gifts by family and friends, waving as we drive out of sight and hearing what happened later (or not, as the case may be.) Don’t know what to give?

Gift cards are good, but let’s face it…boooriiing. In some ways, you might as well give the ultimate gift card, cash, but nothing says (except if you give a whole lot of it) “I don’t want to be bothered with this, but feel obligated” quite like cash does. Well, get ready, here’s a new one, well not really…but it does have more panache than plastic cards for sure…ready….gift baskets! (See, it’s all in the marketing.) Here below, we put together a few to inspire. We’re happy to help, but maybe get off the couch for a ½ hour and put together your own version.

It’s actually kinda fun, kinda.

SNACK-O-RAMA Sometimes, you just have to give the people what they want. Since March, we’ve all been eating A LOT of snacks and there’s no sign of letting up now.

So, yes, please eat vegetables and fresh foods. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, here’s a basket of real goodies. Honestly, you gotta love this country cause there are so many great health-food, junk food choices.

Highlights in our basket include: Vegan pork rinds, uniquely delicious popcorn and some of the best re-shelled pistachios we’ve ever had. (as shown $85)

IMMUNTASTIC Immunity or bust. No further explanation needed. Here’s some stuff to keep up and get you going when the chips are down.

We picked a few favorites including: Supportive mushroom blends, elderberry, zinc and some homeopathic remedies—all to help your basket recipient be as healthy as they can through the cold, flu and you know what season. Good health is truly the gift we all can use. (as shown $98)

32 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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CALL ME LOCAL Nothing says I care about you quite like a basket of locally made products. And we’re fortunate enough to have some good stuff in our region.

We picked some crowd-pleasing favorites—Chips, chocolate, coffee, peanut butter and sparkling water. You (or they) may consume all at once! (as shown $48)

HYGGE IN A BUCKET If you haven’t heard of it, now you have. And if you know it already, then you’re already tuned in. Either way, everyone can appreciate a little Hygge--the Danish term for being nestled in happy at home either alone or with friends. Pronounce it something like “hue-ge” but with a danish accent of course to get it right. Yeah, yeah, one person’s hygge is another person’s panic attack, but we picked what makes us feel good…as you should too! Enjoy! (as shown $49) saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 33

MOMMY AND ME TREATS

by Jodie Fitz

REINDEER COOKIES

SNOWMAN COOKIES (per cookie) 1 Pre-made sugar cookie 2 tablespoons vanilla butter cream frosting 1 tube of black gel or chocolate decorating frosting 1 orange slice candy 1 string of a pull and peel Twizzler®

(a twist on the ever popular peanut butter balls)

Assembly:

3 ¾ cups confectioner’s sugar

• Frost the cookie with the vanilla butter cream frosting.

1 cup peanut butter or WOWButter®

• Cut the string of Twizzler® in half and wrap around the top half of the cookie to serve as the top of the earmuffs.

¾ cup butter, salted and room temp 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Select two matching colors of mini pastel marshmallows. Press them slightly to flatten and place them firmly in place so that they stick to the frosting on either end of the cut Twizzler®.

Chocolate morsels, milk or dark

• Use the tubed frosting to create two eyes and a mouth.

Mini twist pretzels Red cinnamon candies

• Cut the orange slice candy in half lengthwise. Then cut one half into small triangles to create noses. Add one to the center of each cookie.

Mini candy eyes

Price Chopper/Market 32 Store Finds:

1 tablespoon milk

• Make certain that the butter has been softened at room • Soft butter only, do not melt.

• Mix the butter, sugar, peanut butter, milk and vanilla extract together. Roll the batter into balls; approximately 1-½ inches in diameter. Place the rolled cookies onto a waxed paper lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour.

• Melt the chocolate morsels in a glass bowl in the microwave on high. When you remove the bowl from the microwave they often don’t look fully melted. Simply stir the chocolate until all of the morsels are melted together. If they don’t melt completely, return them to the microwave for 30-second intervals stirring in between.

In the baking aisle you can find: the tubed frosting the mini pastel marshmallows In the bakery you can find: The sugar pre-baked cookies The butter cream frosting (ordered fresh at the bakery) In the candy aisle you can find: Orange slice candies Pull and peel colorful Twizzler® candies

• Dip and roll the cookies into the chocolate with a spoon until they are fully covered and return them to the waxed paper and let them set until the chocolate has fully hardened. Refrigerating will speed the process.

• Creating Reindeer: Break the pretzel rounds in half to create antlers. Once you have dipped the peanut butter balls into the chocolate, add the antlers, red cinnamon candy as a nose. And, the small candy eyes before you let them set.

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

WOWButter® is a peanut and tree nut free peanut butter option that is also gluten free. It can be found in your Price Chopper/Market 32 Supermarkets in the allergy friendly aisle.

34 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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BREAKFAST PIZZA

Flatbread or pizza crust 1 cup fresh baby leaf spinach, finely chopped ½ cup cooked ham, diced 4 large eggs 4 oz. shredded sharp cheese 1 tablespoon olive oil Sea salt Black pepper Nonstick cooking spray • Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.

• Cook the eggs in a scrambled fashion over medium heat in a pan coated with nonstick cooking spray.

Stir the chopped spinach and olive oil together.

Baste the flatbread or pizza crust with the spinach and oil.

• Evenly spread the ham and over the top of the crust.

• Add a little salt and black pepper to taste.

• Top the pizza with the cheese.

• Bake the pizza for 20 – 25 minutes; until the dough is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

More on making this recipe: • On the Run: Prep the pizza the night before and bake it fresh in the morning or bake the entire pizza the night before, slice and heat in the morning. Note: It’s always a little crispier if you reheat in a toaster oven or oven, the microwave can be a little soggy.

• Crusts: You can use a flatbread, traditional pizza dough or the FlatOut pizza crust; I love the size and shape of it for this recipe.

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!

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CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 35

Eat More Plants in 2021:

5 Ways to Make It Fun and Easy

WRITTEN BY DEB CZECH, PLANTED PLATTER

R

eady to say “Goodbye!” to 2020?! As you look toward the holidays and prepare to transition to a new year on the calendar, it’s a good time to take stock of your health.

What are your health and wellness goals for 2021? Do you want to regain the energy you had years ago? Do you have health metrics you’d like to raise or lower?

Are you motivated to eat greener for environmental reasons? Trying to get healthier to reduce your COVID risks? Medical research has shown that adopting a plant-based style of eating can be part of the answer for improving your health and well-being.

No matter your motivation, there are a growing number of ways you can embrace a plant-based lifestyle. With the proliferation of support networks, recipe resources, education, entertainment, and food service options, it’s not as complicated a journey as it was several years ago.

There’s never been a better time than right now to get started on improving your health for 2021. Build some small habits as you head into the holiday season and you’ll be ready to start 2021 on the right foot.

For more details and helpful links for all five of these suggestions, visit PlantedPlatter.com.

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram @PlantedPlatter.

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1 2 3 4 5

FIVE

Here are ways to make it easy to put more plants on your plate.

Join together with family members, a friend, or a group. Let’s face it: most challenges in life are easier with one or more buddies who can share information, celebrate successes, and push past the occasional mistakes. Whether you’re cooking for each other, following the same healthy eating program online, or just laughing over the normal stumbling blocks, it will be more fun if you do it together.

Take an online class – or give the gift of one to someone else! A good instructor will help you get comfortable and gain confidence with this new style of meal planning, shopping, cooking, and eating.

(It’s really not that hard!) Learn about new ingredients and how easy it is to build balance into your daily meals.

Find new recipe resources to guide you along. New vegan

or plant-based cookbooks are coming out all the time and recipes proliferate online and via apps. Home delivery of plant-based meals is becoming a more common service from both national and local operations.

Draw inspiration from a good story. There are many people who

have left their debilitating health conditions behind and found good health and physical strength by eating more plants. If you don’t feel like reading or listening to a podcast, check out all the movies about plantbased eating.

Ask your favorite local restaurants about their plant-based meal options. Many establishments are building their

repertoire of vegan-friendly dishes, recognizing the growing interest in this menu category. Even if there’s nothing listed on the menu, lots of chefs will get creative on request. (Especially in this time of changing business hours and operations, it’s a good idea to call ahead to help your favorite spot be ready for your request when you arrive.)

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Healthy Snacks for Children Recepies

WRITTEN BY DIANE WHITTEN, FOOD & NUTRITION EDUCATOR,

CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SARATOGA COUNTY

Snacks are an opportunity to provide nutritious foods that help to meet the daily nutritional needs of young children. Think of snacks as a mini-meal, not a time for treats. Try to offer your kids snacks that include foods from at least two of these food groups: milk, vegetables/fruit, grains/breads, and meat/meat alternative, and include a beverage. Snacks will help balance blood sugar levels throughout the day to prevent sugar cravings and overeating, as well as, diminish mood swings and behavior problems. Try some of these healthy, well-balanced snacks!

MILK GROUP: Milk provides calcium and vitamin D, nutrients essential for building and keeping bones and teeth strong and healthy.

• An ice-cold glass of milk (1% or skim for children older than 2 years) includes carbohydrates, protein and fat.

• Fruit smoothie made with milk or yogurt GRAINS: Choose whole grains whenever possible for extra fiber, and avoid grains with too much added sugar or fat. Grains provide carbohydrates, fiber, iron and B vitamins.

• Cereal, hot or cold (not more than 6 grams of sucrose and other sugars per 1-ounce serving) with milk • granola or cereal bars When choosing a prepackaged snack, such as granola bars, crackers or cookies use the nutrition facts panel to find a product that supplies no more than 6g of sugar, 5 g of fat, and 140 calories per serving. Sweetened grains should not be served more than 2 times a week.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins A and C to strengthen the immune system, help heal cuts, and keep skin healthy. Use snacks as a time to introduce children to new fruits and vegetables, such as star fruit or cauliflower. Limit fruit juice to just two times a week.

• Ants on a Log (celery, peanut butter or cream cheese and raisins) • Salsa served with whole grain, reduced sodium tortilla chips • Dips to use with vegetables: fat-free dressing, peanut butter yogurt, hummus or guacamole • Fresh fruit, cut up so it’s easy to eat • Frozen and canned fruit in its own juice or a light syrup are just as healthy as fresh fruit.

• Unsweetened applesauce sprinkled with cinnamon MEAT/MEAT ALTERNATIVES: Include food from both plants and animals which are excellent sources of protein and iron. Protein helps build strong muscles and repairs and builds new body tissue.

Foods in the meat/meat alternative group can be broken down into 6 categories: 1) Lean Meat, Poultry or Fish • Tuna fish salad made with low-fat mayo (serve as a sandwich or use as a dip for veggies) • Lettuce wraps (low-fat turkey with a slice of low-fat cheese wrapped in a lettuce leaf) 2) Yogurt, fat-free or low-fat • Fat free or low-fat drinkable yogurt • Fruit and yogurt parfait-layer fat-free/low-fat yogurt with fruit, top with granola 3) Eggs • Hardboiled eggs or egg salad made with low-fat mayo 4) Cooked dry beans, peas or lentils • Black beans, peas, edamame, hummus made with chick peas 5) Nuts or seeds • Peanut butter sandwich 6) Cheese (cream cheese is not included in this subgroup) • Low-fat cottage cheese • Low-fat cheese slices or mozzarella cheese sticks saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Fruit Smoothie

– Be creative and adventurous, let children help choose the fruit Ingredients: 1 cup fruit, fresh or frozen (try bananas, berries, peaches, mangoes, pineapple, etc.)

2 cups low-fat vanilla yogurt (try Greek for more protein and less carbs) 1 cup low fat milk ½ cup of ice cubes (omit if using frozen fruit) Instructions: • Mix all ingredients together in blender • Nutrition Information per 1/2 cup. (makes 4 cups): Calories 47, Carbohydrate 7 g, Protein 2 g, Total Fat .7g, Sodium 40g, Sugars 5g

Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip – Kids of all ages love this.

Ingredients: 8 oz. low fat yogurt, plain, vanilla or other flavor 4 oz. unsalted peanut butter Instructions: • Combine yogurt and peanut butter until well blended.

• Serve with apple slices, carrots, celery or whole grain pretzel sticks.

• Calories 48, Protein 2g, Carbs 3 g, Sugar 2.3g, Added Sugar .4g, Fat 3.5g, Sodium 34mg.

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 37

Emotional Tuning…

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY WENDY HOBDAY HAUGH

for pre-teens T

here is something so nourishing about a nice, warm bowl of chicken soup.

Stories and soup are similar; they both offer us sustenance when we need it most.

Strong Feelings, Sensitive Solutions Middle school is a time of transition. Children experience changes in their bodies, but also in how they feel about themselves and the world around them.

Knowing how to process these feelings is not innate - it is a vital skill that must be approached with sensitivity and reexamined throughout one’s lifetime.

The writer hopes this book will help her own preteen granddaughter, Lilli, navigate her preteen years;

Wendy Haugh holds Chicken Soup for the Soul’s new “Think Positive for Preteens” book.

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Cover of the preteen book in which Wendy Hobday Haugh’s story appears. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

The personal, positive, and uplifting stories collected in the Chicken Soup for the Soul books help people of all ages understand their emotions.

Of the publisher’s more than 100 million books sold in North America, more than 20 million copies of their 250+ titles are for children, teens, and preteens.

This year, Northville author (and Saratoga TODAY contributor!) Wendy Haugh had her 17th Chicken Soup for the Soul story published.

Changing Perspectives

Without being overly moralistic, this story, like others in the collection, offers reassurance to the reader by exhibiting the knowledge that they are not alone in their feelings.

“When something rang a bell in me and I could relate to the topic, I’d write about it, and by writing about it, I’d find out more about myself. These stories resonate because other families have had parallel experiences – they’re not exactly the same – but still, that’s the beauty of them,” said Wendy.

Royalties from Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Preteens help support Kids in Crisis. To find out more about Wendy Haugh’s work go to www.wendyhobdayhaugh.com

The Chicken Soup for the Soul books in which 17 of Wendy’s stories have appeared;

In five years, Wendy gave birth to three boys.

“I could write regardless of what was going on in the house,” she said. “I loved hearing my kids playing happily as I wrote.”

Over the years, she’d submit these works for publication in magazines including Woman’s World and Highlights for Children. For more than a decade, she’s also been writing a reflection column for the Calvary Episcopal Church’s newsletter. She also taught piano lessons for 22 years.

Some stories, however, she just didn’t share until after her boys were grown. Now, she is coming out of her shell, transforming her work into a family affair that includes input from her husband, her children, and her two grandchildren.

“Now, my boys are my editors. When they read the stories, they say, ‘Mom, I didn’t know that!’ I didn’t raise them chatting about my own youth. I didn’t bring them up with my own stories because I was busy watching theirs,” said Wendy.

Reassurance: A Real Treasure Hope, confidence, gratitude, compassion, and inspiration are motivations that need continuous renewal.

In Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Preteens, Wendy’s story, “Just Do it,” demonstrates how, as a preteen, she overcame her reluctance to help with day-to-day household chores. It’s a story about demonstrating gratitude and treasuring family. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 39

Reading and Literacy Through eBooks and E-audiobooks, provide a shared goal to promote

DIGITAL LEARNING

IN THE COMMUNITY (For all ages!)

T

"... information is power, and it is demonstrating the importance of public libraries. I am hopeful our students will become lifelong users of these precious resources."

echnology has become increasingly valuable in supporting new generations of lifelong learners and readers, especially now with more families choosing remote and hybrid learning options. Through a partnership with Capital Region BOCES’ School Library System (SLS), Shenendehowa Central School District and Southern Adirondack Library System (SALS) have joined an innovative new program to increase access to resources for student learning.

Shenendehowa is one of several area school districts that partner with Capital Region BOCES SLS to connect with their public library systems via a new program called Public Library Connection (PLC). This program increases access to digital ebooks and audiobooks by the thousands, and also removes potential barriers that may prevent people from visiting public libraries, such as library fees, transportation challenges, limited hours of operation, or identification requirements.

With the PLC in place, Shenendehowa students may browse and borrow from the Capital Region BOCES SLS’s digital library through the Sora app, and can also access SALS’ juvenile and young adult digital collections that are age or grade level appropriate. Because books in Sora are available anytime, anywhere - the digital library is “always open!”

“It is beneficial for our students to be able to search both the school library and public library’s online holdings through Sora with one simple login,” said Susan Kirby-LeMon, Skano School Librarian. “By offering this feature, we’ve magically increased our collection to support all our learners! It will certainly help us foster their curiosity and love of reading.

Additionally, information is power, and it is demonstrating the importance of public libraries. I am hopeful our students will become lifelong users of these precious resources.”

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Sora supports teachers by offering educationspecific tools such as title assignments, achievement badges, exportable notes, and reading progress tracking that encourages individualized learning.

Additionally, Sora provides a reading experience that is customized to each unique user, with options to alter text size and style, including a Dyslexia-friendly font, high-contrast color options, and changeable reading speed for audiobooks.

Jack Scott, SALS Technology and Youth Service Librarian, added, “We at SALS are excited to provide students with more access to reading opportunities. So read, think big, and Imagine Your Story!”

The Sora app was named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2019 and is available for download through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store as well as Chromebooks that support the Google Play Store. It is also available for use in web browsers at soraapp.com on any computer.

Members of Saratoga, Warren, Washington, and Hamilton county public libraries also can borrow and read SALS’ complete eBook and audiobook collection with a valid library card through the award-winning Libby app. The library’s tailored collection offers eBooks and e-audiobooks, including bestsellers and new releases. Readers of all ages can select from virtually every subject ranging from mystery, biographies, children’s books, history, business, science fiction and more! The Sora and Libby apps may be used on any major device or computer.

The PLC reading apps were developed by OverDrive and OverDrive Education. To learn more, visit meet.soraapp.com and meet.libbyapp.com.

For information about PLC, contact Annie Gersztoff, School Library System Director for Capital Region BOCES, at annesley.gersztoff@neric.org. To learn more, visit meet.soraapp.com and meet.libbyapp.com.

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UNDERAGE GAMBLING AN IMPORTANT CHAT

Did you know that in New York State 39.5% of youth between the ages of 12 and 17 have gambled in the past year? Nearly 30% of those youth stated that they began at age 10 or younger. NYS youth reported that the top 3 past-year gambling behaviors were playing lottery, lotto, and scratch offs; betting money on raffles or charity games; and betting money on sports.

Underage gambling brings with it several negative consequences, including, but not limited to: • Increased likelihood of developing a gambling addiction • Increased risk of delinquency and crime • Damaged relationships and poor academic performance • Mental health issues including depression and substance abuse disorders • Overall poor general health • Attempted and completed suicide There is not just one person, nor one group of people, who are affected by underage gambling. There is not just one factor in someone’s life that alone leads to underage gambling. There is also, not just one strategy that will alone prevent underage gambling.

If you, your group/organization, or child, would like to get more involved in YOU(th) Decide in your community, please contact: Amber Danaher ccfw-youth@preventioncouncil.org

Find out more at www.YOUthDecideNY.org.

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CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 41

“

PARENTING is the easiest thing in the world to have an opinion about, but the

HARDEST

thing in the world to do.”

– Matt Walsh

H

aving children is an amazing experience… parents watch them grow through a series of cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral stages and achieve developmental milestones along the way. The paradigm shifts for parents when they recognize “little differences” in their child that separate them from others. In response to this awareness, the course of action parents choose to take can vary from looking at the difference and questioning if it needs to be looked at more closely or looking beyond the difference and hoping it will correct itself.

Even with the great strides Americans have made in recent decades in becoming aware of childhood mental health conditions, there’s still too great a number of children and adolescents who go without the help they need. This is concerning when experts tell us there are high risk factors associated with not getting needed treatment early-on.

One of the reasons why finding treatment is delayed is that there is an ongoing stigma that surrounds mental and behavioral issues in children. Parents often struggle with shame, fear, and guilt - feeling as though they failed their kid in some way. All these factors affect a parent’s ability to trust where they should send their child to address the issues at hand.

What follows is a real-life story, the second, in an ongoing series of four. The story tells of a family who has a 15-year-old, whose Mom described as “a creative child, who is a great thinker and very verbal.” At some point in the schooling process the student was discovered to have learning issues. The family moved around a bit and the resulting inconsistencies due to travel, made it more difficult to pinpoint any psychosocial issues that were emerging.

42 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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Upon returning to the states after living overseas, the student began receiving special education classes and received a traditional US education. During this time, the student was involved in individual therapy. “It soon became clear what was needed to be done,” said the mother. “The student has a mind whose physical body just can’t keep up with… there seems to be a mismatch.” As the mother described it, “It seemed like everything was ‘ok’ and then flipped to ‘not ok’,” and she asked herself, “What just happened?” She continued, “Kids can only hold things in for so long.”

child best.” And lastly, “you can’t make it better by diminishing it and saying, ‘Oh it’s not really a problem’. I advise all parents to seek the help they need.”

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.

The mom was told her child was depressed and was labeled with many other contradicting diagnoses. There were signs of impulse control issues and self-harming behavior. The family went through a year of hospitalizations on and off. They had been making this journey now for three or four years.

“The intensity and extremeness of how things changed after the first hospitalization seemed surprising to me,” said the mother. “It was a year of sorting it all out. I didn’t understand what was happening and there was no turning back. That was unexpected by me. I wish we had gotten to that point earlier.”

It was then that their journey lead them to The Charlton School. Both parents were hesitant at first and unsure about sending their child to a residential facility.

“There’s a difference in The Charlton School!” the mother said. At Charlton they “tailor the program to each child’s personality. They know my child as not necessarily the kid who would come to you and open up about a problem. You have to watch and make the approach.”

She continued, “My child likes staying at Charlton. The small classes have been a benefit in fostering my child’s self advocation with school and with family. Friends and many internship opportunities make it a very worthwhile experience.”

When asked what her advice would be for other parents, she responded, “As a parent, being validated is important.”

“Know that many were raised in environments where people intending to do good for your kids, would tell you what to do. Realize that you know your

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CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 43

Holiday Visiting : Keeping Those Grandbabies Safe WRITTEN BY JENNIFER LEFNER, MD, CHIEF OF NEWBORN

MEDICINE, CHAIR OF PEDIATRICS, SARATOGA HOSPITAL MEDICAL GROUP –NEONATOLOGY

Holidays and small children go hand-in-hand. Grandparents often plan all year long to celebrate with their grandchildren. Now, in the middle of a combined pandemic and flu season, families are finding ways to do things a little differently, such as spending time together from a distance.

The safest thing for families is not to travel “over the river and through the woods” to grandmother’s or anyone else’s house this year. We even recommend no pictures with Santa or taking children to see holiday-dressed store windows.

I know how disappointing this must be, but we all have to be very careful about attending or holding family gatherings, even small ones. Much of the spread of COVID-19 is happening among relatives and friends who let their guard down, hug each other, or leave off their masks. That is especially risky around small children, because they cannot wear masks until age 2.

We have to keep our grandparents safe, too. While there have been very few studies showing grandparents being infected with an illness from contact with a baby, the baby’s parents or older siblings could pose a risk. The reverse, however, of a grandparent or other adult infecting a baby is all too common.

Those illnesses typically include COVID-19, flu, respiratory syncytial virus(RSV), and pertussis (whooping cough).

As a neonatologist, I have the pleasure of seeing newborns welcomed into the arms of their parents. I also have the responsibility of helping families understand how to keep them safe from infection, especially at such a vulnerable age. Here are some precautions that may help mitigate the risk of infection for everyone in your family.

First, whether you are celebrating the holidays or introducing your new baby, try choosing to enjoy your extended family from a distance. Just about everyone is using video technology such as FaceTime and Zoom for virtual visits and parties these days.

Another option is to hold an “open house,” where visitors come, one at a time, up to a window to see your newborn or small children while they wave, serenade, or hold up celebratory signs. You and your children can also have a meet-and-greet with visitors from your front doorway, as long as they are masked and standing outside, at least six feet away.

If you choose to welcome one or two visitors inside, I recommend the following checklist to make sure the visit is as safe as possible:

Jennifer Lefner, MD, Chief of Newborn Medicine, Chair of Pediatrics, Saratoga Hospital Medical Group – Neonatology

• Visitors must not have any symptoms of COVID-19, flu, or any contagion.

• Strongly recommend visitors have a flu shot and be caught up on their vaccines, such as a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) booster if they have not had one in a while.

• Visitors from out of state must abide by New York State COVID-19 travel and quarantine rules as listed on the New York State Department of Health website.

• Visitors who have been confirmed COVID-negative must have received the test results within three days of the visit.

• Ask visitors to self-quarantine for two weeks before they visit: meaning no shopping, everything delivered, and no contact with anyone outside their household for 14 days without exception.

• Visitors must wash their hands, use hand sanitizer, and wear masks that cover both the nose and the mouth. Bandanas and neck gaiters are not acceptable.

• Move your furniture 6 feet apart and mark tape on the floor in standing areas, like the kitchen.

None of these precautions can keep you from having a good time, and all of them can give you better peace of mind. No one wants to spend the holidays sick. There are many additional resources available for families who want to enjoy visitors while keeping their family members safe, such as Healthychildren.org, provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

For more information about Saratoga Hospital Medical Group – Neonatology, visit SaratogaHospital.org. And from all of us here at Saratoga Hospital, best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season!

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Them’s the breaks

... and the fractures ...and the sprains . . . and other ortho pains!

WRITTEN BY ANN HAUPRICH PHOTOS BY SUPERSOURCEMEDIA.COM

T

he phrase “them’s the breaks” comes from the game of pool or billiards. When the balls are racked up in formation and one player ‘breaks’ or takes the first shot to try and send the balls around the table. The result of this break reportedly cannot be changed, and the players must make do with what they are given.

Fortunately for those who find themselves in the care of OrthoNY specialists like Dr. Jonathan Gainor, expressions like “them’s the breaks” have an entirely different meaning. The orthopedic breaks can, in fact, be changed and patients are never expected to make do with the results of the accident or injury that led them to the practice. Any “shots” that might need to be administered

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involve treatment plans aimed at providing the best possible outcome that will ensure a rapid return to a normal and rewarding lifestyle.

In addition to breaks, fractures and sprains, the group of 41 board certified and fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons affiliated with the highly specialized practice that has a dozen locations throughout the greater Saratoga-Capital region also performs thousands of hip and knee replacements annually. Helping to ensure bones and joints mend properly are 24 physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners plus a dozen physical therapists, all with extensive experience providing sub-specialized orthopedic care.

CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 45

“Joint replacement is very successful at improving the lives of patients with pain from arthritis, traumatic injury, developmental defects, and other conditions that can lead to crippling joint pain,” explains Dr. Gainor. “Across our three regions and multiple hospital systems, as well as our outpatient surgical centers we are busy doing up to eight joint replacements a day per surgeon. That math adds up to many happy patients enjoying life and being pain free.”

Therapy is a rebalancing of the body and muscles. The literature clearly shows positive benefits for arthritis with physical therapy.

Yes, until that wand becomes available, I still am needed as a surgeon. Surgical techniques have become less invasive over the years. We are now sending our hip and knee replacement patients home the same day of their surgery. They are recovering faster than ever from this surgery. I am amazed at how far joint replacement has come in the last decade,” marvels Dr. Gainor.

Speaking of Star Trek, some patients reportedly felt as if they While Dr. Gainor has performed hip replacement operations on had wandered onto a sci-fi movie set when they arrived for patients ranging in age from 18 to 96, he doesn’t like the concept appointments at OrthoNY after Governor Andrew Cuomo of surgical candidates being categorized as too young or too declared a State of Emergency in March 2020 old. “Every patient is an individual not in an attempt to help prevent the spread a number on a calendar. You are either of the coronavirus. In fact, the pandemic healthy enough or not.”

"The therapist is going impacted OrthoNY in additional ways. to find what is weak and Although there were still no Star Trek

“With the complete shutdown of the Voyager Wands that could magically strengthen it, and they will heal patients as 2020 was drawing to a find what is tight and stretch world due to COVID, our practice came to a screeching halt. Elective surgeries were close, Dr. Gainor emphasized that not it. Therapy is a rebalancing canceled and the world stopped moving. all OrthoNY treatments are surgical in of the body and muscles. Literally, people stopped going out and the nature. “As people live long and prosper number of people having orthopedic injuries things wear out and begin to hurt. There The literature clearly shows are always new medications coming positive benefits for arthritis dropped off. PPE shortages were never an issue as we started the immediate rationing to market for treatment of orthopedic with physical therapy. " of supplies. We had enough supplies during conditions. I call those the potions, the shutdown, but there was constant lotions, and pills. They are a great place communication of our situation across all to start. Injections have been around for regions. The benefit of a larger practice, if one region ran low, a long time. Everyone seems to know cortisone, but the reality is we can shift things around. Our practice did an amazing job of I have never injected cortisone. It’s a generic term for the steroid keeping supplies on the shelf so we could remain operational and we inject. So better injections with better results than the classic continue to serve our community,” explains Gainor. “Thankfully, cortisone. No one likes needles, but they are less invasive than surgery. There are lubricating injections that can be given as well.” we were able to keep a supply of PPE and could allow the wonderful volunteers to give to others in need. Global Foundries In an interesting twist, Dr. Gainor says physical therapy is the had PPE for donation (thank you Greg Connors), Best Dressed hardest treatment option to sell to someone in pain. “People Windows in Town (Michele Erceg) made countless masks and get confused about what therapy is. It is not exercise. It is quite never took a penny for her efforts. There were many others that I the opposite. The therapist is going to find what is weak and don’t even know about. These silent contributors gave their time strengthen it, and they will find what is tight and stretch it. and materials to keep us safe.

46 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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In keeping with ongoing mandatory NYS guidelines for protection against COVID, masks and social distancing remain immediately noticeable, but much additional work goes on behind the scenes at OrthoNY, which was formed several years ago by a merger of Orthopedic Associates of Saratoga and Northeast Orthopedics.

“Management has had regular meeting with NYS DOH to stay up to date with the quickly changing protocols. Early on we limited the number of people in the building. It was one patient in a room, one in the waiting area, and the rest waiting in their car. Strange times for sure. As of late October, we were seeing a more regular schedule of patients, but we must continue to limit the number of people in the building. No mask, no entry is the NYS mandate that we enforce. There have also been cleaning protocols put in place, so all surfaces are wiped down with special cleansers between each patient visit and common areas are cleaned multiple times during the day. Temperature checks on everyone, employees and patients, prevent anyone with a fever from entering the building,” says Dr. Gainor.

Of course, not all patients have the option of advance planning when it comes to needing orthopedic care. That’s where OrthoNY’s specialized urgent care centers, including those in Albany, Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs and Schenectady come into orbit. “This is an active region,” notes Dr. Gainor. “People get hurt and our walk-in urgent care allows immediate access to an orthopedic professional. Regular urgent cares and emergency rooms can splint and immobilize but they will most often recommend you follow up with an orthopedic practice.

Specialized urgent care makes it possible to skip the extra step -and in today’s environment -- the extra copay.”

To learn more visit www.orthony.com.

Steps in the direction of resilience…

If Dr. Jonathan Gainor could have an inspiring message imprinted on the front of his favorite face mask, it would read RESILIENCE. “There are so many challenges in life, even before a virus shut the world down. If we catastrophize the events that challenge us, we lose before we start. I believe in the science of inertia. An object at rest will stay at rest. Take the first step, whatever that means in your world, once in motion an object will stay in motion. Use your resilience to not let those outside forces stop your momentum,” advises the orthopedic surgeon.

The hardest part of the New Normal for OrthoNY specialists has been the loss of the emotional bond that develops with the patients. “Putting a mask over our face removes a large portion of body language. A smile can go a long way to comforting someone.

Not having family members present in office consultations of even after a surgery is very different for me. When I come out of an OR and talk face to face with a family member, I see them relax and feel better after we talk. I know that they are comfortable and have had their questions answered.”

Someday soon…

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CHRISTMAS 2020 | SARATOGA FAMILY | 47

Celebrating 150 years of serving and caring for our seniors.

O

ur five homes are situated among local communities making family visits easy and accessible. Our mission remains the same as it did 150 years ago… “We believe that life, at all stages, and with all its challenges is a precious gift to be shared and celebrated and that it is our privilege to participate in the lives of our residents, their friends, and families by offering them not only physical, but emotional care, comfort, and support.”

There are many things that set Home of the Good Shepherd apart from other Assisted Living Communities, for instance, we do not require an application fee or a buy-in like a lot of other larger communities. Our basic Assisted Living services include medication management, person centered care which means resident’s laundry is done individually, housekeeping services, three freshly prepared in-season meals made with locally sourced ingredients, assistance with activities of daily living including bathing and dressing, stimulating mental activities, a men’s club, happy hour, transportation to medical appointments, and a range of individualized care services…all of this is included in one monthly rate.

Our Enhanced license also sets us apart from other communities because residents can “age in place” in our home-like environment instead of moving to a nursing home.

We can provide skilled nursing tasks such as assistance with ambulation and transferring, incontinence management, oxygen management, blood glucose monitoring, foley, and ostomy care, and/or assistance with feeding. Our certified Home Health Aides

48 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

can care for our residents in their own private room that includes a large bathroom with a walk-in shower.

During this pandemic and as we move into the holiday season, we are excited to keep our resident’s traditions alive. We pride ourselves on caring for residents holistically, meaning not just caring for them medically, but also making sure that their social/ emotional needs are being met as well. During this pandemic, our staff has gone above and beyond to ensure that we make up for the lack of in-person contact with loved ones and friends. Our staff is constantly assessing resident’s social/emotional wellbeing as well as visiting with residents on a daily basis, taking them for walks outside for fresh air and exercise, and reminding them of the numerous planned social activities that take place safely throughout the day.

Our maintenance and admissions staff have also gone above and beyond when it comes to new residents moving in or residents that have been discharged. Since visitors are not allowed in the building, our team has become movers and interior decorators by unpacking and decorating to make sure our new residents feel comfortable as they transition to their new home. This pandemic has been tough for everyone…residents, families, and staff, and we have grown as a team and family, together.

If you or someone you know is interested in Assisted Living, Enhanced Assisted Living, or Memory Care call 518-450-7360 x102

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day trippin' Just2FeetandaCamera.com

Ice Castles Deliver Now More Than Ever We Need Moments of Magic

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WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA ST. JOHN

ast winter, I had the chance to finally visit Ice Castles – a wonderland of frozen magic – in the charming little town of Woodstock, New Hampshire.

“Our primary goal at Ice Castles is to make people smile.”

A perfect mission statement, as a girlfriend and I found ourselves grinning ear-to-ear the entire time.

On the afternoon of our arrival, it was cold, the skies a dark overcast gray, but that did not detract from the beauty of ice-adorned archways we walked through.

We could hear the peals of laughter – not just from children. Everyone was delighted with the attraction.

Founder Brent Christensen first designed and built the ice castles in his front yard, much to his six kids’ surprise. They’d just moved from California to Utah and the cold months were long and monotonous. From what I understand, this icy enterprise drew people from all over the neighborhood.

I mean, my dad was great at dreaming things up to keep five stir-crazy daughters busy during the winter months, but even he’d admit this guy had him beat, hands-down.

Using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists, we were blown away by the LED-lit sculptures, water fountains, frozen thrones, and ice-carved tunnels kids could slide through. Ice Castles even built a fire-pit where families gathered to warm up hands and rosy-cheeks.

We met a couple of female workers who walk through the property with shovels, ice-picks, and rakes, cleaning up areas that hundreds of visitors wander through each day. The women were super friendly and spoke with us, sharing how much they love working through the colder months.

“Everywhere we turn, there are smiling faces, people taking pictures, having fun, and forgetting that it’s freezing outside. Many of them tell us about their childhood memories – playing in the snow where they grew up.

They’re happy to pass on some joy to their kids.”

Outside, off in the corner, we were excited to see a horse-drawn sleigh.

We’d bought our tickets for the ride months ago. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been on one. We climbed in with others, bundling ourselves in blankets. Sleighbells rang as we enjoyed our leisurely tour through the backwoods of the property. The ride added to the magic of the day; afterward, we sighed in contentment as we walked back to the car.

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I smiled, remembering one of my favorite fairytale heroines growing up – Snow White.

She would have loved it here. At that moment, I could almost hear her lilting voice tell us, “You’re never too old to be young.”

Visiting other Ice Castles across the country – in Colorado, Utah, and Wisconsin are on my bucket list for sure. After a trip to New Hampshire, perhaps you’ll add them to yours as well.

For more information and updates regarding the pandemic and any travel restrictions, please visit their website: IceCastles.com/new-hampshire I know you’ll enjoy it as much as we did!

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SARATOGA With Kids WRITTEN BY GINNY SMITH PHOTO BY HEATHER BOHM TALLMAN

I

’m happy to introduce my new column, Saratoga With Kids, which will be a space to talk about what makes Saratoga a great place to raise kids, good things happening in our community, and what we can look forward to each season. I’m a mom to three wonderful kids who are 8, 6, and 2.

My husband and I moved our family to Saratoga Springs before our oldest son started preschool. We found a neighborhood that we love and a preschool that not only provided our children with an excellent early childhood education, but also gave us a community of friends who welcomed us to our new hometown.

Once we settled in, we made a point to explore all that Saratoga has to offer. Fortunately, there is no shortage of activities for families to enjoy in our area. We attended events, enrolled in kids’ programs, ate at local restaurants, and spent time in the parks. We loved experiencing all of Saratoga’s culture and community. With encouragement from friends who knew about my enthusiasm for finding meaningful things to do with my kids, I began sharing our adventures on my Instagram account @saratogawithkids.

We quickly discovered that in addition to a beautiful city with plentiful green spaces, a walkable downtown with unique shops, wonderful local restaurants, fascinating history, vibrant cultural offerings, and fun events, what truly sets Saratoga apart is the community. Strangers greet each other with a smile. Our local businesses enthusiastically support nonprofit organizations.

Our nonprofit organizations tirelessly care for the needs in our

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community. If anyone in the community needs support, Saratogians rally behind the cause. The warmth and friendliness of this great city has become my favorite part about living here.

Saratoga parents create a village of friends and neighbors, which is invaluable when raising young children. I’ve had countless experiences of other parents coming up to help me when it looked like I could use a hand. One particularly memorable time, another mom came up and tied my shoe in the library children’s room because she was afraid that I would trip while wearing my daughter in the infant carrier. Once I realized that this type of kindness is the normal way of life in Saratoga, I began to graciously accept help that people offered, and in turn, offered my help to others.

As the winter unfolds ahead of us with many of our beloved annual Saratoga events canceled this season, the quieter calendar will create an opportunity to continue building our community and make it even stronger—supporting our small businesses, eating at our local restaurants, donating to our nonprofits, and being a virtual village for each other. Please let us know what you’re looking forward to doing with your kids this winter, what you love about living in Saratoga, and how the Saratoga community has impacted you. You can share by tagging @saratogawithkids and @saratogafamily or by using #saratogawithkids. You can also email me at saratogawithkids@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Holiday Desserts from Friends and Family of Saratoga TODAY

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Colleen’s Apple Crisp This is my most loved, most used, most cherished recipe from my bff of 35 years, Colleen Glassman (Can you see how used the page is?!). -enjoy!

I keep my “special” recipes in a journal that I’ve had since my high school graduation. (It’s amazing it’s still together, but the rubber band helps!!)

-Submitted by Chris Vallone Bushee INGREDIENTS:

5 Thinly sliced apples. sprinkled with cinnamon Mix together: ¾ Cup Flour 2 t. Cinnamon ½ Cup Sugar ½ Cup Brown Sugar ¼ t. Salt DIRECTIONS:

• Fold in ½ Cup Old Fashioned Oats to the above mix and layer over apples.

• Bake at 350 and check after 25 minutes for desired “crunch”

These are DIVINE and a nice additive to any adult cookie tray! It takes a bit more work than a traditional cookie, but it is worth the trouble! And of course ...my recipe has a little holiday hootch in it! - Submitted by Colleen Coleman INGREDIENTS:

2 Cups Vanilla Wafers 2 Cups chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans 2 Cups Confectioners’ Sugar 4 Tbsp powdered cocoa 3 Tbsp Corn Syrup ½ Cup of your favorite Rum Mix and chill (covered) until firm, about 1 hour.

DIRECTIONS: • Taking one quarter of the mix

at a time from the fridge, roll into small balls and place on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

• Continue to roll out the mix in the same fashion until all the rum balls are done.

ALTERNATIVES DIPS:

Holiday Rum Balls

Roll in nuts: chop an appropriate amount of nuts needed to roll your Rum Balls. Roll in the nuts after you have formed the balls but prior to refrigerating a second time so the nuts stick.

Chocolate covered: Melt an appropriate amount of chocolate (I prefer baking chocolate over chocolate chips) for the number of Rum Balls you will be dipping. For every 1/2 cup of chocolate, add 1/8 tsp Crisco shortening to thin the chocolate for dipping. I love to use a mini crock pot to melt my chocolate. Be sure to have these rum balls chilled prior to dipping so they hold firm in the heat of the chocolate dip! Take each Rum Ball on a fork and dip into the chocolate. Allow the access to drip off then place in a paper cup and chill!

• Refrigerate again, then place in small paper cups to serve.

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Chocolate Croissant Maple Mousse Sandwiches with a Pretzel Chocolate Dust I love baking! Pie mostly. Even at my wedding, we had pie rather than cake. I'm always trying to find that elusive crust for a pie, and wanted to see if a croissant could work, and have a great light crust for holiday baking.

I started trying to make a crust, but the pie sized ones always eluded me. So, the size of an ice cream sandwich seemed to work much better. I also found that when the puff pastry puffed up, I could separate it horizontally like a biscuit...but what do you fill it with?

If you put a Mascarpone mousse in the freezer, it ends up light, like a really light ice cream with a gentle maple flavor (don't put too much maple syrup in because it can change the chemistry of the mousse and make it a soup!).

The great thing about this dessert is that you can put it in the freezer and enjoy at your leisure!

Submitted by Alan Edstrom, Aka: The Great Edstrombolli : ))

FILLING INGREDIENTS:

8 ounces Marscapone cheese 1-1/2 Cups Heavy Cream 1-1/4 Cups Sugar 2 Teaspoons vanilla Pinch salt ¼ cup maple syrup DIRECTIONS:

•Whip the cream in a cold bowl until there are medium peaks • Put the whipped cream in a separate bowl • Mix the Marscapone, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt together.

• Fold the whipped cream into the Marscapone mixture until it is thick and fluffy.

• Put the mousse in a plastic container and chill in the freezer.

CHOCOLATE AND PRETZEL TOPPING

½ Cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips ½ Cup Hard Pretzels • Chop pretzels and Chocolate Chips into a light dust

CROISSANT DOUGH INGREDIENTS:

1-ounce fresh yeast 3 1/2 cups unbleached flour 1/4 cup white sugar 2 teaspoons salt 1 cup milk 3 sticks chilled unsalted butter cut into slices ¼ Cup Cocoa 2 tablespoons flour, for dusting 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk DIRECTIONS:

• Mix yeast in ¼ cup of lightly sugared warm water, cover and let rise.

• Mix flour, sugar, salt the yeast mixture and the milk with a dough hook until you get a soft moist dough.

• Put the dough in a bowl, cover with a towel and let rise for one hour.

• Empty the dough onto a flour covered countertop and roll out into a rectangle 10” x 10” and ½” thick.

• Spread the butter in the center third and fold the outside thirds of the dough over the buttered center third.

• Roll out into a 10” x 10” rectangle ½” thick. Fold into thirds.

• Wrap in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

• Remove from refrigerator and place dough on a floured countertop. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

• Roll out into a 10” x 15” x ½” rectangle.

Fold into thirds.

• Wrap in plastic wrap again and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

• Remove from refrigerator and place dough on a floured countertop.

• Roll out into a 10” x 15” x ½” rectangle.

Fold into thirds. * *Repeat this 3X • Using a 3” round cookie cutter, cut dough and place on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.

• Brush the circles with an egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.

• Cover the cookie sheets with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes.

Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees.

• Remove the towel from the cookie sheets and place the cookie sheets in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the croissant circles rise to about 2” high into light, fluffy layers.

• Take the cookie sheets out of the oven and let the croissants cool.

• Split each croissant to a top and base and spoon the maple mousse onto the croissant base.

• Sprinkle the mousse with the pretzel/ chocolate topping.

• Put the croissant lid on the chocolate sandwich. FREEZE AND EAT!!!!!

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Carrot Cake

I have been using this recipe since the early ‘80s. I used to belong to a group called the “Home Bureau.” Once a month a group of ladies gathered to do a project, usually a craft. We would take turns bringing dessert. One of the women brought a carrot cake and we all wanted the recipe, so she shared it with the group. I have been making it every year since. I even have a Christmas Tree cake pan that I use for the holidays.

-Submitted by Cindy Durfey

Grease pan(s) with butter and dust with flour. Either 13x9x2 or two 8” pans.

MIX:

4 Eggs (beaten) 1 ½ Cups of Vegetable Oil 2 Cups Sugar 2 tsp. Baking Soda 2 tsp. Cinnamon 1 tsp. Salt 3 cups of Raw Carrots (grated) ¾ cups Walnuts (optional) 2 cups Flour DIRECTIONS:

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:

1 8 oz. Cream Cheese (softened at room temp.)

1 Stick of butter or margarine (softened at room temp) 1 Box of confectioner sugar 1 tsp of Vanilla Cream together. Add a tsp or two of milk if you need it when mixing.

Pour into pan(s). Bake at 350 degrees. 13x9x2 for 45 – 60 mins.

Two 8” pans 25-30 mins. Test with a toothpick, it should come out clean.

Magic Mint Cookies Submitted by Ginny Franzen

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 c. butter (1 1/2 sticks) 1 1/2 c. firmly packed brown sugar 2 Tbs. water 12 oz. semisweet chocolate chips 2 eggs 2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt Andes mints, wrappers off, one for each cookie DIRECTIONS:

• Heat butter, sugar, and water in a heavy saucepan until butter is melted. Remove from heat. Add chocolate chips and stir until all are melted.

• Pour this chocolate mixture into a mixing bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.

• With electric mixer at medium speed, beat in eggs, one at a time. On low speed, add flour, baking soda and salt. Mix well.

• Cover and refrigerate dough for at least one hour.

• Roll teaspoons of dough into balls (about 70 cookies) and place 2” apart on cookie sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes.

• When cookies come out of the oven, immediately put an Andes mint on top of each one. Mints will melt in a minute and when they do, swirl each with the back of a teaspoon for “icing”. Let cool and enjoy!!

(Note: The balls of dough may be baked or frozen for baking at a later time. Place on freezer-proof dish or cookie sheet and freeze.

Then store in plastic bag and pull out dough balls as needed!)

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Joanne’s Peanut Butter Cookies I found this old recipe book from the late 1950s.

Joanne (Greenwood) Byron is my older sister.

It was a collection of recipes the Greenfield Girl Scout Troop assembled for their mothers. The recipes were typed out and then glued into these notebooks and given to their mothers on Mother’s Day. I’m fairly certain these are the peanut butter cookies my mother made for years.

-Submitted by John Greenwood CREAM:

½ cup Nucoa (margarine) ½ cup Skippy Peanut Butter ½ cup white sugar ½ cup brown sugar ADD:

1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla Sift over above mixture: 1 ½ cups sifted flour ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon soda Blend thoroughly. Form into 1” balls, place on baking sheet and press flat with a fork.

Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes.

Yield: 3 dozen cookies.

The Healthiest Dessert You Will Ever Have!

Submitted by Barbara Garro, a great scratch cook who thinks of applesauce as the perfect “dessert”!

When I peel the apples (for making apple sauce), I spiral peel, so they are one long peel. Each peel then goes in the crock pot with the diced (or shredded) apples (the peels have so much flavor!).

When the apple sauce is finished and passes your taste test, just remove the peels, and enjoy!

Short-bread Thumbprint Tarts

I make them year-round, but especially at Christmas, makes me feel close to my mom. - Submitted by Theresa St. John INGREDIENTS:

1 cup butter 2/3 cup sugar ½ cup jam (for centers) ½ tsp. almond or vanilla extract.

DIRECTIONS:

Cream butter & sugar, beat in extract, blend in flour and cover & refrigerate for 1 hour. Roll into 1” balls, place on ungreased cookie sheet. Make thumb print and add jam (my favorite is apricot).

Bake 350 degrees for 14 – 18 minutes. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Blackberry Cobbler

-Submitted by April March

Serves 8.

INGREDIENTS:

Cooking spray 4 cups blackberries ¼ cup sugar substitute and ½ cup sugar substitute, divided use ¼ cup water Juice from 1 medium lime 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder 1/16 teaspoon salt 1 ¼ cups fat-free milk ¼ cup canola or corn oil ¼ cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Lightly spray a 13x9x2 inch baking pan with cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, gently stir together the berries, ¼ cup sugar substitute, the water, lime juice, and ginger. Let the berry mixture stand for at least 15 minutes so the juices can accumulate.

3. In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, salt and the remaining ½ cup sugar substitute.

4. In a large bowl mix together, milk, oil, yogurt, and vanilla.

5. Add the flour mixture to the milk mixture, stirring just until no flour is visible. Do not overmix.

6. Pour the batter into the baking pan. Using a spatula, spread the batter in the pan. (The batter doesn’t have to touch the edge of the pan; it will spread while baking.) top with the berry mixture.

7. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center

Grandma Boarman's Jam Cake INGREDIENTS:

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cup sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 1 cup butter milk 1 cup blackberry jam 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp all spice 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 salt 1/2 tsp ground cloves 3 eggs (slightly beaten)

Submitted by Geno Boarman

MOM’S CARAMEL FROSTING

1 1/2 cups sugar 3/4 cup margarine 3/4 milk 1/2 lb or 28 caramels Put sugar, margarine, and milk on a medium heat, bringing to a boil, stirring until it comes to a softball stage. * *To test for the softball stage, take a small portion of the hot liquid and put into a small heat resistant bowl with

water and a piece of ice. When the hot liquid hits the cold water, it should immediately form a soft toffee stage.

Once you achieve this, turn off the heat and stir in the unwrapped caramels. Stir and drizzle the frosting over the cooled cake. Don't be afraid to pour the caramel frosting in the center of the cake. If all goes well it should form a soft fudge like consistency.

*optional 1 cup chopped pecans (reserve a few to decorate the cake) Recommended: A Bundt pan DIRECTIONS:

• Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder and spices in a mixing bowl.

• Mix oil and sugar. Mix buttermilk and eggs in the oil/sugar mixture.

• Gradually blend dry and wet ingredients, until everything is moist (do not beat) • Bake 30-35 minutes 58 | SARATOGA FAMILY | CHRISTMAS 2020

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Holiday Song Book

60 Santa Claus is Coming to Town 61 Frosty the Snowman 62 Up on the Rooftop 63 Here Comes Santa Claus

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Santa Claus is Coming to Town You better watch out You better not cry Better not pout I’m telling you why

He sees you When you’re sleeping He knows when you’re awake He knows if you’ve Been bad or good Santa Claus is coming to town So be good for goodness sake!

He’s making a list And checking it twice; Gonna find out Who’s naughty and nice

O! You better watch out!

You better not cry Better not pout I’m telling you why

Santa Claus is coming to town

Santa Claus is coming to town Santa Claus is coming to town

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Frosty the Snowman Frosty the snowman Was a jolly happy soul With a corncob pipe And a button nose.

And two eyes made out of coal Frosty the snowman Is a fairy tale, they say, He was made of snow but The children know How he came to life one day There must have been some magic in that old silk hat they found, For when they placed it on his head he began to dance around.

O, Frosty the snowman

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Was alive as he could be, And the children say he Could laugh and play just The same as you and me Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Look at Frosty go Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow Down to the village With a broomstick in his hand, Running here and there, All around the square saying Catch me if you can.

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Up on the Rooftop Up on the rooftop, Reindeer pause Out jumps good ol’ Santa Claus Down through the chimney With lots of toys All for the little ones, Christmas joys Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Up on the rooftop, Click, Click, Click Down through the chimney With good Saint Nick First comes the stocking of little Nell Oh, dear Santa, fill it well Give her a dolly that laughs and cries One that will open and shut her eyes

Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Up on the rooftop, Click, Click, Click Down through the chimney With good Saint Nick Next comes the stocking of little Will Oh, just see what a glorious fill Here is a hammer and lots of tacks Also a ball and a whip that cracks Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn’t go?

Up on the rooftop, Click, Click, Click Down through the chimney With good Saint Nick

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS from our family to yours!

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Here Comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Right down Santa Claus Lane Right down Santa Claus Lane Vixen and Blitzen And all his reindeer Pullin’ on the reins

He’s got a bag that’s filled with toys For boys and girls again.

Bells are ringin’ Children singin’ All is merry and bright

Hear those sleigh bells jingle jangle, Oh what a beautiful sight So jump in bed And cover your head ‘Cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

So hang your stockings And say your prayers, ‘Cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

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Laughing Matters

BY JOEL GOODMAN

for Jest ealth the H it... of

In the days before “Google” and “Zoom” became verbs, we at The HUMOR Project were delighted to receive 50,000 calls and letters a year from folks around the world interested in the positive, healthy power of humor. Since then, we have received thousands of emails containing humorous goodies that we include in our free Laughing Matters e-mail newsletter (you can subscribe at HumorProject.com).

The coronavirus pandemonium pandemic is not fun or funny… but if we are to keep our balance, perspective,

I am not adding this year to my age, because I did not use it.

Lockdown can only go 4 ways: You'll come out a monk, a hunk, a chunk or a drunk. Choose wisely!

sanity, and humanity, we need humor now more than ever.

We need to tickle stress before it tackles us.

At Thanksgiving and as the ho-ho-holidays approach, we are thankful that we can give the gift of humor to ourselves… and to our family, friends, and co-workers. In order to transform serious stress of the omnipresent COVID-19 into laughing matters, we need to spread the fundemic of laughter.

Here are 19 invitations to help you laugh in the face of COVID-19. Thanks to Barbara Glaser, Ken Ingram, and Eric Ruby, M.D., for passing along their comic vision vaccinations… that are safe AND effective right now!

In 20 years when kids ask about the 2020 toilet paper shortage, I'm telling them we had to drag our butts across the lawn... in the snow... uphill... both ways!

Pretty wild how we used to eat cake after someone had blown on it... ah, the good old days...

Happy Birthday!

If you use a rotary dial phone... you are in the high-risk group!

Romance novels written during COVID-19 will be like... "And then she slowly slipped her mask down, revealing her warm red lips, and her blushed face. As their eyes met, he gently removed her gloves...."

I asked a 6-year-old if he understands why there is no school.

He said, "Yes, because they are out of toilet paper."

Corona precautions: I went to the bathroom at a restaurant. I washed my hands. Opened the door with my elbow. Raised the toilet seat with my foot. I switched on the water faucet with a tissue.

Opened the bathroom door to leave with my elbow... and when I returned to my table, I realized... I forgot to pull up my pants!!!

Wearing a mask inside your home is now highly recommended.

Not so much to prevent COVID-19, but to stop eating.

Does anyone know if we can take showers yet or should we just keep washing our hands?

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So, let me get this straight, there is no cure for a virus that can be killed by sanitizer and hand soap?

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Sign in front of a store:

Kinda starting to understand why pets try to run out of the house when the door opens.

I just did a big load The spread of COVID-19 is based of pajamas so I would on two factors: have enough clean (1) How dense the population is and work clothes for 2) How dense the population is. the week.

Is it too early to put up the Christmas tree yet? I have run out of things to do.

I miss the days when we were terrified of Romaine lettuce.

I'm having a bad hair year.

Remember when you were little and all your underwear had the days of the week on them? Those would be helpful right now.

Readers, feel free to email your comic visions to Joel@HumorProject.com so that we can share them in the future. Laughter is a healthy way to add years to your life‌ and life to your years!

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meet our

Cover Boy!

Photos by Mallory Cail Portraiture

Hi, I'm Levi

I'm four years old now, but I was just a little kid last year when we took those pictures.

Mom tells me you wanted to know what I’ve been up to…

Well, Superwhy is my favorite cartoon, but I've also been spotted watching Spiderman and The Grinch.

When I'm not playing Minecraft, building castles with my Magna-tiles or playing with my stuffies, you can find me in the kitchen, trying to sneak some ice cream!

My favorite flavor is coffee, but cookie dough is a pretty close second!

I'm the youngest of three boys, and it's a good thing I'm so cute because someone has to smile for all these pictures!

My school is a cool place to go make friends, but between you and me, I'm not a big fan of learning my ABCs and 123s. Besides, a famous photographer (who goes by the name of Mom) once told me I'm so cute, I could model for a living instead of going to school.

At least that's the way I heard it!!

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