Your Hometowne January 2013

COMPLIMENTARY

JANUARY 2012

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

For Advertising Info: 265.1105

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yourhometowne@gmail.com

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w w w. y o u r- h o m e t o w n e. c o m

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399-9951

745 Charlton Road, Charlton

www.charltontavern.com

Fireside Entertainment Sunday Evenings Social networking at the Tavern couldn’t be easier with WIFI

Bridal Showers • Rehearsal Dinners • Intimate Couture Weddings

Dinner & A Show

NOW THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! The Galway Little Theater and the Charlton Tavern proudly present an evening of laughter and great food with

NEIL SIMON’S “THE LAST OF THE RED HOT LOVERS” Monday January 14th and Tuesday January 15th • 6pm Call 882-9630 or 882-9854 for Tickets and the Charlton Tavern at 399-9951 for the menu

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

A message from 2013 - Earth l Mayans 0 As anticipated we made it past the apocalypse that captured the imagination of the Doomsayers.

Here we are in January 2013 and we still need to go to work, pay our bills and make the ends meet. The good news is that hard work does pay off. So whether you are looking for advancement in your current position or trying to run a business you better roll up your sleeves and get busy. Nobody is going to do it for you.

As Your Hometowne enters the 4th year of publication we take solace in the fact that despite our own personal monthly deadline apocalypse, we always make it to print with the same enthusiasm as an NFL playoff team. Sure there are a few flags thrown, some fouls and even a few sacks. But without that constant push from inside ourselves to do better, we would not be where we are today. We see that same mindset with all successful business owners we have come to know. You have to be willing to take chances and endure a few battle scars to be an entrepreneur. As we enter the New Year, expect some positive changes in YHT. We have extended our reach into Ballston Spa and look forward to partnering with the BSpa merchants and the people that live there. With the influx of new people from across the country to work at Global Foundries and the companies that have developed around them; our communities need to work together more than ever to ensure that we grow AND maintain the quality of life that we have become accustomed to.

Paul and I wrote this Mission Statement before we printed our first issue: To publish and distribute quality community newspapers which inform, enlighten and entertain readers; while meeting the changing needs of local businesses. To promote the interests of the communities we serve in a positive light. We have never wavered from our core principles and I believe that is why we have been successful. It worked for us because our statement embraced change: “The Only Thing That Is Constant Is Change ” - Heraclitus One of the changes we have made that you may not have noticed is that we were awarded a Registered Trademark from the US Patent and Trademark office. For us it and validated our efforts and also protected us from another person using the Your Hometowne name to print a publication.

We now include a new page called Your Hometowne Talent that will run monthly to acknowledge some of the amazingly talented people and youngsters we have in our communities. Come In, We're Local is another welcome addition the paper. It serves two purposes, it enlightens, you the reader to the people that own the business on our community and meets the needs of these local merchants by giving them a way to connect with you on a more personal level. www.Your-Hometowne.com was given a much needed facelift by our colleague Juergen Klingenberg, owner of Hound Dog Graphics of Ballston Spa in late fall. The site is interactive and has all the back issues there so if you missed something you can look it up. We welcome your suggestions and hope you will join our Facebook page so we can stay in touch between our printed issues.

“Love your family despite their flaws, no one member is perfect but together they are Awesome! “ - Oprah Winfrey.

Comments and Input – Paul and Cheryll 280.5260 Advertising – yourhometowne@gmail.com or 265.1105 Photography – hometownephoto@gmail.com Design – kgarriso@nycap.rr.com or 883.3872

ABOUT THE COVER...

Thank you to Donna and Pete Martin of Village Photo located in Ballston Spa for our cover shot. It’s the southern view of the Kayaderosseras Creek from the bridge on Ralph Street in Ballston Spa. Village Photo, LLC 104 Milton Ave. Ballston Spa, 885-0396

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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WHY SUPPORTING 'BUY LOCAL' CAMPAIGNS IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOU THINK By now, residents of Downtown Saratoga Springs have figured out that their trendy new coffee shop, at the corner of Broadway and Washington is still a typical Starbucks. With a fresh new look, flowers, beans ground to order, and a "help yourself" to our new convenient seating choices - of course- the store hopes to pass for a another locally owned café just down the street (Uncommon Grounds).

Starbucks' "unbranding" initiative is just one sign of the growing influence of the "buy local" movement-a longtime New Urbanist dream that has finally started to become a reality in the past couple years.

Shoppers such as Dave and Maggie of Ballston Spa, have taken to heart the movement's pleas to buy within their town, or at least within their community, before searching elsewhere. The couple bought their wedding rings at Scotia Jewelers, a fixture on Route 50. They won't eat at chain restaurants. Maggie is shopping for a home security system, and only locally owned companies need apply. Ballston Spa is still a small town, she says: "If one store closes, everybody knows it. It's kind of a doomsday feel."

As the owner of a small business who caters to those small business around our region, seeing boarded-up downtown buildings due to the recession and competition from big box giants peddling tainted goods from China, we seen the impact on our clientele. And like many of you, we are ready to dig in our heels and take back our communities. We started by launching our own community “buy local” program in early 2010.

About 130 cities or regions now host "buy local" groups, representing about 30,000 businesses, up from 41 in 2006. We believe that in order for such a community program to really work, it takes a partnership between the locally owned businesses and the local community. Using the reskinning of

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Starbucks in Saratoga as an example, we see that even as chain stores try to promote themselves as "local,".

The 10% Shift --- It doesn't take much to shift the tide in the right direction.

The 10% Shift asks shoppers to shift 10% of their purchases to local stores; Campaigns such as “Move Your Money” wants you to move your bank account from a national outfit to a local bank or credit union. The rationale: Smaller banks usually are more supportive of small businesses, don't pay huge bonuses, and didn't get taxpayer-funded bailouts.

In March 2011, when retailing blogger Cinda Baxter asked readers to choose three local businesses and to spend $50 at each, she received more than 350 e-mails that first weekend. Her 3/50 Project now has about 93,350 Facebook fans, and more than 565,000 people have visited its site.

Advocates admit it's tough to quantify the impact of local purchases.

Just think. If every family in Saratoga County spent just $10 a month with a locally-owned, independent business instead of a national chain, over $4,334,021* would be directly returned to the local community. That means better schools, better roads, more support for police, fire and rescue departments and stronger local economies.

How do you start? Request your FREE Buy Local card from Local Living In (www.locallivingin.com), then browse the website for the local business that will reward you with deals and discounts each time present the card at their store. If your favorite local retailer is not part of the program yet, let us know, and we'll reach out to them and educate them on the benefits of partnering with their local community.

Think & Buy Local - Keep our community strong!

By Juergen Klingenberg, owner of Hound Dog Graphics and founder of Local Living In, a Ballston Spa based merchant driven consumer rewards program. *Based on Civic Economics Andersonville Study of Retail Economics: When you spend $100 at an independent business, $68 returns to the local economy versus $43 when spent with a national chain. Based on U.S. Census projection of 115 million households.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Gift Certificates Available

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NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS New Year's resolutions are a chance to look back on what we wish we could have improved on in the past and pledge to change our bad habits going into a fresh new year.

Why not spend this year focusing on improving the health and well-being of your vision?

Many people often assume that because their vision is stable, their eyes are healthy. However, this is not always the case. Regular eye examinations not only help to protect your vision and help prevent future problems, but can also help to uncover evidence of many different diseases, including diabetes and hypertension.

Eye exams are not the only way in which you should be taking care of your vision in the upcoming new year. Here are several simple steps that will help ensure that your eyes and your vision health stay strong in 2013, and beyond.

CONTACT CARE If you wear contact lenses, it is important to follow necessary steps when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your contacts. For instance, follow the FDA recommended replacement schedule when it comes time to change your lenses out. Also, make a resolution to use only the recommended disinfection solution, and to change your contact case every three months to make sure that you are keeping your lenses clean.

VISION AND ELECTRONICS The amount of time that we spend in front of television and computer screens may not permanently damage our vision, but it can take a significant toll on your productivity and work performance. Eyes can become dry, irritated and red when they are in front of a screen for too long.

Therefore, be sure to follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20second break and look at something 20 feet away. This will help to make sure that your eyes stay healthy and hydrated.

SUN PROTECTION It is no secret that UV rays can be very damaging to our vision and eye health. Therefore, why not invest in a protective pair of prescription sunglasses this year so that you can prevent exposure to the dangerous sunlight when you are outside.

When it comes to our vision, preventative maintenance and regular eye exams can go a long way towards keeping your eyes healthy all year long.

If you have any questions about these tips or any other eye care issue, you can always ask us on our Facebook page. We promise a prompt response and would be happy to help you ensure the health and well-being of your vision.

For more information contact Kristen Cameron, Burnt Hills Optical, 793 Rt. 50 Burnt Hills, 399-6130 or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

INVESTMENT MISTAKES TO WATCH FOR AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF LIFE As an investor, how can you avoid making mistakes?

It’s not always easy, because investing can be full of potential pitfalls. But if you know what the most common mistakes are at different stages of an investor’s life, you may have a better chance of avoiding these costly errors.

Let’s take a look at some investment mistakes you’ll want to avoid when you’re young, when you’re in mid-career, when you’re nearing retirement and when you’ve just retired.

Mistake when you’re young: Investing too conservatively (or not at all) - If you’re just entering the working world, you may not have a lot of money with which to invest. First, don’t wait until your income grows. Putting away even a small amount each month can prove quite helpful. Second, don’t make the mistake of investing primarily in short-term vehicles, like CD's. These may preserve your principal in the short term, but they offer little in the way of growth potential. Instead, position your portfolio for growth. Of course, stock prices will always fluctuate, but you potentially have decades to overcome these short-term declines. Since this money is for retirement, your focus should be on the long term. It’s nearly impossible to reach long-term goals with short-term, highly conservative investments.

Mistake when you’re in mid-career: Putting insufficient funds into your retirement accounts - At this stage of your life, your earning power may well have increased substantially. As a result, you should have more money available to invest for the future. You may now be able to “max out” on your IRA and still boost your contributions to your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as your 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b). These retirement accounts offer tax advantages that you may not receive in ordinary savings and investment accounts. Try to put more money into these retirement accounts every time your salary goes up.

Mistake when you’re nearing retirement: Not having balance in your investment portfolio - When they’re within just a few years of retirement, some people may go to extremes, either investing too aggressively to try to make up for lost time or too conservatively in an attempt to avoid potential declines. Both these strategies could be risky. So as you near retirement, seek to balance your portfolio. This could mean shifting some of your investment dollars into fixed-income vehicles to provide for your current income needs while still owning stocks that provide the growth potential to help keep up with inflation in your retirement years.

Mistake when you’ve just retired: Failing to determine an appropriate withdrawal rate - Upon reaching retirement, you will need to carefully manage the money you’ve accumulated in your IRA, 401(k) and all other investment accounts. Obviously, your chief concern is outliving your money, so you’ll need to determine how much you can withdraw each year. To arrive at this figure, take into account your current age, your projected longevity, the amount of money you’ve saved and the estimated rate of return you’re getting from your investments. This type of calculation is complex, so you may want to consult with a financial professional.

By avoiding these errors, you can help ensure that, at each stage of your life, you’re doing what you can to keep making progress toward your financial goals.

Christopher Nyhan runs the Edward Jones office in Burnt Hills, NY. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Chris can be reached at 399-5087 or chris.nyhan@edwardjones.com.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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“The challenge is not just to build a company that can endure; but to build one that is worthy of enduring.�

- Jim Collins

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Mother Mother Nature Nature Always Always Gets Gets Even; Even; Be Be Ready.

Ready.

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FROM THE SPECKLED HEN “Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, leave the rest to God” - Ronald Regan Over the past few months I've been sharing “Decorating Tips from The Speckled Hen”, but this month I'd like to do something different. I want to share a message with you, one to bring into the New Year.

Live simply.

The primate décor at the Speckled Hen represents the values, lifestyle and outlook of a simpler time. This year let's celebrate this simple lifestyle. Take the opportunity to reconnect with what's important - family, friends, spirit, passions, hobbies and yourself. Often we lament the fact that we don't have enough time to relax, to connect, to just be. So let's not waste this time of year, make it count.

Whether you are already living a simpler, less distracted, less cluttered, more meaningful life, or are ready for a change, find the inspiration you need to discover happiness in the simplicity of love, life and family. I'll be taking the month of February to reconnect and recharge - so the Speckled Hen will be closed. Also, during the month of January I will be closed on Sundays.

Happy New Year to you and your family!

Maureen Culver, The Speckled Hen 369.8771 • 38 Saratoga Road, Scotia thespeckledhen38@gmail.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

YOUR REAL ESTATE AND THE FISCAL CLIFF We know that federal legislation can be confusing and verbose, so we wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the important aspects of H.R.8 ("The Fiscal Cliff Bill") and how they affect your real estate. Instead of reinventing the wheel, we decided to share a piece of this recent National Association of Realtors® news brief, feeling that we could not do a better job of being so clear and concise: "On January 1[, 2013] both the Senate and House passed H.R. 8, legislation to avert the “fiscal cliff.” The bill will be signed shortly by President Barack Obama.

Below are a summary of real estate related provisions in the bill.

REAL ESTATE TAX EXTENDERS - Mortgage Cancellation Relief is extended for one year to January 1, 2014.

- Deduction for Mortgage Insurance Premiums for filers making below $110,000 is extended through 2013 and made retroactive to cover 2012.

- Leasehold Improvements: 15 year straight-line cost recovery for qualified leasehold improvements on commercial properties is extended through 2013 and made retroactive to cover 2012.

- Energy Efficiency Tax Credit: The 10% tax credit (up to $500) for homeowners for energy improvements to existing homes is extended through 2013 and made retroactive to cover 2012[...]

CAPITAL GAINS Capital Gains rate stays at 15% for those at the top rate of $400,000 individual and $450,000 joint return. After that, any gains above those amounts will be taxed at 20%. The $250/$500k exclusion for the sale of a principal residence remains in place.

ESTATE TAX The first $5 million dollars in individual estates and $10 million for family estates are now exempted from the estate tax. After that, the rate will be 40%, up from 35%. The exemption amounts are indexed for inflation." Source: http://www.realtoractioncenter.com If any of Our Hometowne readers have any questions about these extensions, changes, or repeals, please don't hesitate to contact your favorite Bliss Properties of NY agent or your tax advisor. We love helping Our Hometowne find real estate Bliss!

Pamela Bliss, Broker Certified International Property Specialist Senior Real Estate Specialist pamela@blisspropertiesofny.com 518-331-8710 Victoria Romeo, Agent Certified Buyer Representative First-Time Homebuyer/Seller Specialist tori@blisspropertiesofny.com 518-788-8865

“Success is a lousy teacher.

It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.”

- Bill Gates

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

JANUARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

18. Twin sister of Ares 19. Gloat 20. Companionship 22. Small island 23. Schnozzola 24. Tough going 26. Colorful salamander 30. By means of

DOWN 1. To cast aside (archaic) 2. Type of sword 3. Gangster's gal 4. False god 5. Mortise and _____ joint 6. Rewards

7. Simpleton 8. 57 in Roman numerals 9. Dictator 10. Not oriental 11. Handbag 12. African virus 13. Handrail post 21. Interlaced 25. Back 26. Memo 27. Black, in poetry 28. Cried 29. Typographer 34. Forte 36. A measuring instrument 37. Gull-like bird 38. Adolescent 40. Weightlifters pump this 42. Grownup 45. Short-tailed furry-footed rodent 48. Quell 51. Small islands 52. Hangman's knot 53. Pilotless plane 55. Dutch pottery city 58. A female domestic 59. Govern 60. Computer symbol 61. Backside 62. In order to prevent Answers can be found on page 25

ACROSS 1. To yield or submit 6. Hairless 10. Not closed 14. Any animal with no feet 15. Not pre-recorded 16. Square block 17. Criminal

31. T 32. Comply with 33. Terminates 35. Anxiety 39. A flavorful addition 41. Consume 43. Go in 44. Sleigh 46. Chills and fever 47. Mayday 49. Euro forerunner 50. Low-fat 51. Set in from the margin 54. Gentle 56. Classify 57. Extraneous 63. Plunder 64. Be unsuccessful 65. Ill-gotten gains 66. Feudal worker 67. Fluff 68. Clean between teeth 69. Clairvoyant 70. Jittery 71. Basic belief

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A WILL? A Will permits you to communicate your wishes. You may have personal items you wish to pass on to certain family members.

Additional assets will need to be divided amongst people you care about and who need help. If you are married and have children, then the children may get some of the assets under New York State law if you do not have a Will.

Your Will allows you a chance to decide who is in charge of managing your Estate. This person is called an Executor or Executrix. If you have young children, you should name a guardian for the children and their property. Guardians are persons who can take children until they turn 18. Trustees can help manage assets past the age of 18, if needed.

Many parents wish to have any money that might pass to their children held beyond the age of 18. Your assets not only include assets such as bank accounts but also the proceeds from insurance policies. A Trust can be used to hold your assets for the care, education and health of your children. Such a Trust will be able to protect those assets for children's needs. The Trust is protected from creditors.

You should meet with an attorney to review your finances, health and your wishes to care for your family. An attorney who understands various areas of planning can tell you what issues you need to address.

(518) 370-4645 • jfantauzzi@ecmlaw .com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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NEW YEAR - NEW YOU What are you going to do differently in 2013? Are you going to reduce your stress level? Are you going to improve your diet? Are you going to take exercise more seriously? Or will you allow the next 365 days to pass by without changing a thing? If you haven't put any thought into it, then do so now. The fact is that you will age and change in 2013, and next year on 12-31-13 you will be slightly (or dramatically) different than you are today. The cool thing about a New Year is that it gives us the opportunity to reflect over our life, to acknowledge where we are and where we want to be headed.

If you would like to be headed in the direction of improved health, lowered weight and increased strength, then here are 17 suggested changes for you to apply in 2013: 1) Exercise 2 more hours each week than you did in 2012.

2) Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

3) Sign up for one of my time-tested fitness programs.

4) Stop drinking and eating artificial sweeteners.

5) Use heavier dumbbells.

6) Eat less bread, or even eliminate gluten from your diet.

7) Train for a 5K, 10K or a marathon.

8) Eliminate corn syrup from your diet.

9) Exercise at least 4 times each week.

10) Eat healthy, simple dinners at home.

11) Do not eat fast food.

12) Drink less caffeine.

13) Eat more protein and fiber.

14) Drink water throughout your whole day.

15) Do not eat packaged snack foods.

16) Stop drinking alcohol 17) Contact me for motivation and support.

Now come up with a few of your own. I know there are some ideas that popped into your mind while you were reading my list. Take a minute to jot those down.

Step back and re-examine the list. Which of these changes are you going to make your own? I certainly don't expect you to make all of these changes – though the more you do, the greater your transformation will be. Remember, I'm here to offer you the instruction, support and motivation you need to make 2013 the year of your dramatic transformation.

Wishing you great health and happiness this year.

424-7878 or email gina@precisefitnessandtraining.com to get started today with a free consultation.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Meet Lizzie Fish; a spunky, driven, and talented BH-BL freshman, whose love for performing is contagious. The youngest of four children, Lizzie has never been one to shy away from a crowd. In fact, from the time she could walk and talk she has always desired to be the center of attention! Everything from cheerleading routines to recently learned songs have been performed in the Fish family's living room, which has always been the launching pad for her newly debuted material.

Dressed in a hot pink jumpsuit, Lizzie's first public performance came at the age of five years old, when she performed a rendition of Shania Twain's, “Man, I Feel Like a Woman” in the Steven's Elementary Variety Show. As she walked off the stage, it was evident that her love of performing would not soon go away. At 14, she has performed in a variety of District talent shows, and is thrilled to have been a part of both “The Wizard of Oz” and “Annie, Jr.” during her time at O'Rourke Middle School. In between homework and practices, Lizzie can often be found performing at open mic nights throughout the Capital Region, singing the National Anthem at district events, or teaching herself guitar and piano.

Those who know Lizzie are familiar with the unique relationship that she shares with her older brother, AJ, who has Down Syndrome and Autism. At just 53 weeks apart, their bond is indescribable. In 2011 and 2012, Lizzie was presented with the opportunity to perform with a live band at “WildWoodstock”, a musical fundraiser benefiting Wildwood School, where AJ attends. Her heartfelt performances of Bruno Mars', “Just The Way You Are” and Taylor Swift's, “Mean” left not a dry eye in the audience.

Lizzie frequently says that these performances have been her most meaningful performances to date, and she hopes to be a part of the event for many years to come.

Lizzie's talents stretch well beyond the stage. Her dedication to her schoolwork has earned her the High Honor Roll throughout middle school and into high school.

Additionally, she is a member of the JV Cheerleading team, and represented the BH-BL community this past November in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade, and she would like to thank all of the Burnt Hills businesses and individuals who supported her with donations and over 5000 bottles and cans that were recycled!

As 2013 begins, she looks forward to many more performances. Next up is an acoustic set with her guitar at Proctor's Robb Alley on January 12, “Music For A Reason”, presented by The Autism Initiative. She also hopes to be a part of the Center for Disabilities Telethon later this month.

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HOW TO KEEP SAFE ON FACEBOOK Facebook is the fastest growing social networking site in the world today.

But sharing information has lots of risks. Anyone can get valuable information and private photos from your profile -- ultimately getting you in big trouble. You can keep your misfortunes down to a minimum by following these steps.

Set the security settings on your profile to "Only my friends."

Always monitor pictures that other people put of you and tag you on.

Don't hesitate for a second to "un-tag" yourself from pictures that you do not approve of. Simply click "remove tag" next to the name in the list of people in the picture.

Avoid putting your phone number, mailing address, children's or pet's names in your profile. People often use words such as pet's names or numbers as passwords, so it is not recommended to publish them on-line.

Never post information regarding an upcoming vacation or trip as your status.

Change your password every so often.

Be careful who you friend.

Block anyone that seems to threaten or harass you.

You don't need to take roses or hearts or anything else someone sends you if you have to allow and give permission for them!

Lastly, but most importantly; Before clicking on a link from Facebook, always remember to check the address bar, which should always display:"www.facebook.com/ and nothing else like "www.facebook33.tk" or "www.facebook1.php", etc. which is a giveaway of a phisher. It can steal your e-mail and password, as well as post spam links to your friends' walls.

Until next time....safe computing!

Cheap Geek Computer Services • Maggie Faltskog • 399-8886

Answers from Crossword Puzzle on page 20

“If you don't get everything you want, think of the things you don't get that you don't want.”

- Oscar Wilde

518-399-8174 • kdeangelo@sals.edu

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES The January meeting of the library board of trustees will be held at 7PM on Wednesday, January 30. These meetings are open to the public.

COMPUTER CLASS SCHEDULE Classes are free unless otherwise noted. For a small printing fee, handouts may be available for patrons to retain for future reference. Registration is required and space is limited.

1/11 2-4PM Google and the Internet 1/14 12-2PM File Management 1/14 4-6PM Microsoft Word Level 1 1/16 4-6PM Microsoft Excel 2010 Level 2 1/17 6-8PM Introduction to Computers for Absolute Beginners 1/18 2-4PM Facebook 1/22 7-8PM e-Reader Play Time with Karen DeAngelo 1/23 2-4PM I-Can (I-Pad, I-Phone, I-Pod) 1/23 4-6PM Microsoft Word Level 2 1/24 6-8PM Computer LAB LIBRARY PROGRAMS Book Club - The library book club meets on the second Monday of each month at 7PM in the library community room. The January meeting will be on January 14th and the book we will be discussing is Every Last Cuckoo, by Kate Maloy.

Knitting Social Group - 7-9PM Tuesday, January 28, in the library community room. Only knitting help is reliably available. No registration needed.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS Baby Bookworms Tues 9:30AM/Fri 9:30AM Share simple stories, songs and finger plays, as well as activities using music and movement. Designed as a shared library experience for children birth to 23 months with an adult caregiver. Registration is required and siblings are welcome.

Family Story Time Wed 10:30AM/Fri 10:30AM Join us while we read books, sing, do finger plays and movement activities to promote early literacy. Then stay & play! This program is designed for children ages 2-3, accompanied by a caregiver. This is a drop in program and siblings are welcome.

Preschool Story Time Wednesdays 1:30PM/Thursdays 9:30AM We’ll read books, use flannel boards, songs and movement activities. Each week we’ll do a craft. For children ages 3-5 accompanied by a caregiver. Registration is required and siblings are welcome.

Art & Movement Tues10:30AM Explore your world through movement and creative activities. For children ages 2-5, accompanied by a caregiver. This is a drop in program and siblings are welcome.

ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS Scribbles & Tales 1/9 & 2/13 4PM Listen to stories and do crafts! Program for children in Grades K-3. Please sign up in advance.

2, 3, 4 Book Club 1/17 & 2/7 4PM A theme book club for kids in Grades 24. We play with Legos while we talk about books! Please sign up.

Creative Crafts 1/31 1:30PM We’ll provide the materials, you bring the imagination. Express yourself and create anything you’d like. For grades 1- 5, please sign up.

TWEEN & TEEN PROGRAMS 5th & 6th Grade Book Club 1/18 & 2/8 4PM Read great books and do crafts! Sign up and pick up a copy of the next book at the front desk. For grades 5 & 6.

Teen Advisory Board 1/25 3PM Join our TAB and choose the books we buy for the teen section of the library! Have a snack & help us decorate the Teen Space for our upcoming Mini Golf event! For grades 6-12, please sign up.

HOURS M-Th 10AM-8PM / Fri 10AM-5PM / Sat 10AM-2PM ONLINE http://catalog.sals.edu or http://toblibrary.sals.edu YOUTH SERVICES http://toby.sals.edu • E-mail: rdarling@sals.edu

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

AND SO IT BEGINS......

280-3307• 220 Vley Road • Scotia Owner, Paul Minick, has been designing extraordinary kitchens for the past 37 years. Having collaborated with many talented builders, remodelers, architects and decorators, Paul has a wide range of knowledge to help you achieve your dream kitchen.

Being a Capital Region native, he chose to open his design studio in Scotia, NY. Currently he works with his son, Jesse, a graduate of The College of Saint Rose and his daughter in-law, Stephanie Minick, a graduate of Plattsburgh State. Both have software expertise in 20-20 Design and Pro-Kitchen Design, the two leading kitchen and bath planning programs in the interior design industry. These programs allow customers to preview the final product before ordering.

The Minicks believe the key to great kitchen design comes from interpreting the customers’ vision and designing efficiently to meet their needs. A new kitchen is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your family. The kitchen is not just about making delicious meals, it is the heart of your home where family and friends tend to congregate and wonderful memories are made.

With cabinetry by Candlelight, Showplace, Homecrest and Wolf, Minick Kitchen Design offers a wide range of designs from sleek and modern to classic and traditional, with price points to meet every budget. Minick Kitchen Design is a member of the Schenectady Chamber of Commerce.

They are located at 220 Vley Road in Scotia, NY. Regular operating hours are 8:00-4:30 daily, Thursday 8:00-8:00 and Saturday 9:00-1:00. To schedule an appointment please call 280-3307.

It is not that we wish the year gone. We will take with it our experiences, our adventures and all that we have learned. Sometimes in the moment, you find it hard to see that you are moving forward. The days roll by, we work and we play. Not realizing that as each day passes, we become new. We may still go to the same job, or visit the same people and the same cafe week after week. But with each moment we are learning and with that we may act differently and maybe even think a bit differently as well.

As I look back over the past year, a deep breath escapes and I say to myself, "wow... did all that really happen?" I felt the ocean on my feet for the first time in years. I rode a bike faster than ever before. I climbed a rock wall and saw the twin towers being rebuilt, as they loomed over a small tree, "The Survivor Tree".

Reminding me, reminding all of us, that we are survivors, even in its simplest terms. I feel that I have survived the past year, quite well actually. Having my moments of not wanting or knowing even how to be me. Gradually, I moved forward, day by day, learning to become new again. I do not know what minute, hour or day it actually happened. Thinking back, the sand at my feet, allowed me to venture out and do something new. Riding my new bike as fast as I can down Charlton Road allowed me to feel free.

Climbing that tall, tall rock wall, with my boy as my safety line, offered to me the realization that there was always someone watching my back. And seeing those towers reaching towards the sky again, reminded me that we are resilient and strong, that I am resilient and strong. It helped me see that we can be torn down and yet be built back up again, slowly and over time with many hands to help.

These simple moments are our stepping stones, our learning blocks. They help us find our way and give us strength - maybe in the oddest of ways. They are however, ours. Sometimes we seek out adventure and new experiences and sometimes they just find us. I have learned a lot. Do I know it all, no, of course not. I have a whole new year ahead of me to learn and find out more. More of who I am and who I chose to be. I am looking forward to all 365 days of it no matter how it comes about.

And so it begins... your 365 of adventure, new experiences and learning to be a better you. Enjoy it! I wish you peace, joy and a very Happy New Year!

Pattie Rakvica idriveaware@gmail.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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PAUL LEVIKER'S BEEF STEW (Head butcher & food aficionado at Garofalo's) 2 lbs Garofalo's Beef Chuck roast cubed 1 inch pieces 2 lbs small white potatoes 1/2 lb baby carrots 1 onion chopped 28 oz can crushed tomatoes from Garofalo's 1 qt beef stock salt and pepper to taste flour for coating beef Olive oil from Garofalo's to brown beef in In a large heavy bottom stock pot sauté onion in oil. Coat beef in flour and brown in the same pot. Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer (on low) for 2 to 3 hours. Alternately a crock pot could be used to ensure stew does not burn.

Stew is ready when meat and carrots are tender. Serves 4.

Garafalo's, the taste people travel for!

Stop in and visit the 4th generation, serving QUALITY ITALIAN PRODUCTS since 1904. www.garofalosausage.com

A 3.5 oz serving of the super trim pork shoulder is 220 calories. 1 link of sausage is approx 3-4 oz. This means 1 serving of Garofalo's sausage is 220 calories for there is nothing added to it other than pork. No added fillers and no preservatives.

I had also wanted to mention (for I am asked often) that there is no sugar, no gluten added and no MSG. OUR SIGNATURE ITALIAN SAUSAGE SINCE 1904 Hot or Sweet; Rope style or Patties Meatballs and Bragoiles, Kielbasa, Chorizo, Andouille, Bratwurst, Daisy Hams & Thick Sliced Bacon CUSTOM CUT BEEF Filet Mignon, Rib Eye Steaks choice NY Strip Steaks choice PORK Pork Chops Center Cut Bone in or Stuffed* Pork Tenderloins POULTRY Skinless boneless Chicken Breasts Chicken Cutlets or Stuffed Chicken Breasts* COLD CUTS Featuring BattistoniSalami, Capicola, Soppresata & Abruzzi *Our own bread crumb and sausage stuffing Don't forget the Homemade Stuffed Cherry Peppers or Freshly Grated Parmesan to complement our large Selection of Pasta & Casa Visco Sauces.

A variety of Olive Oils as well as blocks of Sharp Provolone, Fontinella, Asiago, Extra Sharp Canadian Cheddar, Smoked Cheddar, Danish Blue Cheese, Pecorino Romano and Parmesan Reggianito.

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BRAISED BEEF SHORT RIBS Serve this hearty winter dish over mashed potatoes.

1.1 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1/4 cup) 8 (2 1/2-ounce) beef short ribs, trimmed by Garofalo's expert butcher shop 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 10 whole black peppercorns 3/4 cup diced onion 1/3 cup diced celery 1/3 cup diced carrot 1/4 cup chopped leek 1 garlic clove, minced 3 fresh thyme sprigs 2 bay leaves 1/4 cup veal demi-glace 3/4 cup hot water 1/2 cup dry red wine Thyme sprigs (optional) Preheat oven to 350°.Weigh or lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Place flour in a shallow dish. Sprinkle beef evenly on all sides with salt and pepper; dredge in flour. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add oil to pan, and swirl to coat. Add beef to pan; sauté for 8 minutes, turning to brown on all sides. Remove beef from pan. Add diced onion, diced celery, diced carrot, and chopped leek to pan; sauté 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute, stirring frequently. Place peppercorns, 3 thyme sprigs, and bay leaves on a double layer of cheesecloth. Gather edges of cheesecloth together; tie securely. Place herb and spice bundle in pan; return beef to pan. Dissolve demi-glace in 3/4 cup hot water, stirring well. Add demi-glace mixture and wine to pan; bring to a boil. Cover and bake at 350° for 2 1/2 hours or until beef is fork tender. Remove beef from pan; strain cooking liquid through a finemesh sieve over a bowl. Discard solids. Serve cooking liquid with beef. Garnish with thyme sprigs, if desired.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

STAY TUNED with Paul Hill

As a rule, Cheryll and I try to run neutral with politics in our publication and keep our focus on small business owners. Our passion is to help them succeed.

However; with 2013 unfolding before us, the recent threat of tumbling over a “Fiscal Cliff', the unpredictable economy and the spending cuts that lurk on the national level; it's a pretty scary stuff when you think about it.

That said, I would like to take a moment to reiterate a message we get from local business people constantly. Remember, these merchants are the absolute backbone and significant tax contributors to the county's they do business in. And when they take the time to talk to us about their day to day fears in a business climate that is as unpredictable as our weather, we believe it's our duty to share it.

When we opened our tax bill this year, there was a cover sheet that itemized New York State Unfunded Mandates, or better said Federal or State created programs that are required to be operated by lower level government. And to quote the letter it goes on to say, ”In New York State, most of these mandates are not accompanied

by State money to pay for them or are partially paid for. Because County government relies upon property taxes to operate, expensive State mandates become expensive property taxes on local taxpayers” In Saratoga County alone our UNFUNDED Mandates total a whopping $63,837,520. That's quite the chunk of change to pony up. As homeowners we see our taxes rise steadily and cringe when the bill comes in the mail.

But if you really want to cringe but take a peek at a Business Owners tax bill and trust me you will have a new respect for our local entrepreneurs that are running small businesses.

Beyond the expected Property Tax, School Tax & Water Tax, the unfunded mandates include Medicaid, Pensions, Community Collages, Early Intervention & Pre School, Social Services, Probation, Legal Defense and Public Health Early Intervention fee's PLUS these folks must bear New York State Insurance, unemployment insurance, compensation insurance and in some cases health insurance for their employees and more.

What we as consumers tend to forget is the impact of business closures and how it hurts the community. It doesn't take many businesses to fold before everyone suffers the consequences, and as homeowners we get to pick up the tab. Thankfully there are a few organizations such as AMIBA , the American Independent Business Alliance whose sole function is to educate and advocate for small business owners through buy local campaigns. I will take the liberty of paraphrasing some of their views.

“When asked to name our favorite restaurant, cafe, or shop, it's typically a unique local business. Those businesses define our sense of place, but we often forget their survival depends on our patronage. Local

owners, typically having invested much of their life savings in their businesses have a natural interest in the community's long-term health.

Community-based businesses are essential to charitable endeavors; their owners frequently serve on local boards and support numerous causes. The overall impacts are clear: locallyowned businesses play a key role in our community that chains rarely do.

In the smallest towns, bustling cities, and everything in between, more citizens lament losing a sense of community and local character meanwhile, national chains and online mega-stores continue gaining market share and pushing independent businesses to the margins in many sectors. This trend is considered symptomatic of our loss of community orientation, but could it also be a primary cause? And what are the economic costs to our communities as absentee-owned corporations displace locally-owned businesses?

Of course, we usually choose to do business where we perceive the best value for our time and money. But in an age where we're bombarded with thousands of corporate advertisements daily, perceptions may differ widely from reality. The unrelenting emphasis on cheapness above all other values leads many people to overlook the values independent businesses provide us, both personally and in our communities. Local officials often fall for the seductions and political appeal of national chains and may even use public funds or tax rebates to lure them. They're baited with promises of jobs and tax revenue, but they often fail to consider the greater losses that occur when the local business base is undermined.

A chain “superstore” may boast of creating 300 new jobs, but numerous studies indicate they displace as many jobs as they create. And when communities like Barnstable, Mass. studied the fiscal impact of chains, they concluded such development actually costs more taxpayer dollars to support in safety and services than the community would reap. In other words, when new big box chains come to town, expect to pay more taxes soon.

But what about all the new sales tax revenue those chains bring? That, too, is largely illusory. Unless an area is growing rapidly, retail spending (especially for mass-produced items found at the chains) is a relatively fixed pie of money. For example, the most thorough study of Wal-Mart's impact on existing retailers (by Dr. Kenneth Stone of Iowa State University) found that 84% of Wal-Mart's sales simply shifted dollars away from existing local (including some chains) retailers.”

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS and thank the proprietors for staying the course in these uncertain times- Let your Legislators know how you feel by VOTING. Get involved in your community and we will all see many HAPPY NEW YEARS to come in Your Hometowne. Stay Tuned.

For more information on AMIBA go to http://www.amiba.net/

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$50 OFF

Purchase of $500 or more

$100 OFF Purchase of $1,000 or more

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are for.”

- John Shedd

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Evergreen Adult Day Services began independently in Ballston Spa in 1983. The Wesley Community acquired Evergreen in October of 1997 and it was part of The Wesley Community campus until June of 2010 when it moved back to its original hometown, Ballston Spa. Its new location at 357 Milton Avenue is easily accessible from many surrounding townships and able to serve more clients who can benefit from the program. Endorsed by the Saratoga County Office for Aging, Evergreen Adult Day Services is designed to provide a friendly and supervised setting for seniors.

The day begins at 8:00am offering seniors a wide variety of activities, a nutritional noon meal, snacks, socialization, personal care and community outings. The seniors visit farms, picnic at the Saratoga county state park, have ice cream outings and scenic rides around Saratoga Lake.

“This is such a great program and we're happy we decided to move back to the community where it all began,” said Diana Martin, program manager of Wesley Evergreen Adult Day Services. “The location offers convenient access for many of our clients and caregivers, providing a home away from home with minimal travel and inconvenience.” The location is easily accessible to a wide range of seniors in Saratoga County and is located in close proximity to the expanding Malta area and the Global Foundries facility.

For those interested in the program, Evergreen Adult Day Services not only offers a welcoming environment for seniors, but also provides caregivers much-needed opportunities to work, get some rest or tend to other obligations.

“Caring for a senior family member or loved one can create a level of stress unmatched by most endeavors,” Martin said. “The Evergreen program allows caregivers the chance to take a deep breath and address their daily commitments while knowing their loved one is in good hands.”

Endorsed by the Saratoga County Office for Aging, Evergreen Adult Day Services is designed to provide a friendly and supervised setting for seniors. Daily activities include interactive games, cooking, movies, gardening, visits from nursery school students, therapeutic activities and chair exercizes.

Wesley Evergreen Adult Day Services is open to seniors Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The schedule is flexible and options include one to five days per week and casual attendance. Evergreen offers a sliding scale fee based on monthly income.

For more information, visit www.wesleyhealth.com. Call 518691-1443 to secure a free trial day.

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