Get Off Your APP & Go - Issue #2 by Creativity Unleashed

Hello, and welcome to our 2nd Edition of “Get Off Your APP & Go!”

It went well last year and I think everyone enjoyed it, so we are going to continue printing this magazine with the catchy name.

As you may notice this issue is out a bit later than we had anticipated. In April, my dad, Joseph Sinicropi, had a set-back when his bile-duct cancer returned with a vengeance. He had made it 3 1/2 years after surgery and every scan had come back good, until it didn’t. We spent many weeks back and forth between St. Peter’s hospital and home. Then, Dad chose to go to Mountain Valley Hospice in Gloversville. He died the way he lived, “His Way”. He was an incredible person and a fantastic father and family man. We understand that not everyone gets to say goodbye the way we did, and for that we are grateful. While we spent as much time together as we could, the magazine had to be put on the back burner.

Thank you to everyone for their understanding and we think you will agree, it came out pretty good and it’s still summer! This one’s for you Daddy!

As far as the content, just like last year, the places to Go! are only suggestions. It’s all info you can find online or on Facebook if you need more details. After you choose a place to go, put those electronics down and enjoy the summer sun, your family and friends. As we all know the summer is short around here! Of course, you may have to use your phone just a bit to get directions or information before you Go!. We are so lucky to have such amazing businesses in our cities and towns. These owners and managers are most likely your friends and neighbors. Check out all of our advertisers while you are out and about. Because of them, we are able to print this magazine, and area pets are able to be noticed on these pages as well. (we couldn’t forget our furry friends}

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

~ Linda & Mike

Look through the magazine for pets in need of adoption and scan the QR codes on pages 44 & 45 to see all the pets available at area shelters/rescues.

If anyone has suggestions for the next issue, please feel free to email me at linda@creativityunleashed.org or call me at (518) 842-6532 (leave message).

We sincerely appreciate all of the help that was given to us by our photographer Bill Trojan, and all of the wonderful article writers and contributors in this issue.

Check us out on

ATTENTION VETERANS:

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

Local man has been compiling books to honor our area Veterans

Mission

We Provide Transportation to the STRATTON VETERANS

Assistance in filing claims for:

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

If you would like more info please contact Director (518) 736-5651

www.va.gov

Compensation ★ Vocational Rehabiliation

What could be more patriotic than honoring the very people who have given us the ability to live freely in our country?

GI Loans ★ Burial Benefits ★ Grave Markers ★ Education Benefits ★ Property Tax Exemptions ★ Widow/Dependent Benefits

Anthony Ferraro does just that by keeping local Veteran information in binders he has been compiling since 2005. Anthony has been a member of the Gloversville community his entire life. He worked in sales at Nelson Jones Ford starting in 1961, then he owned Ferraro-Weis Ford in Northville, NY in the 1970’s. After that he worked for the Terry Morris dealership in Burnt Hills, NY in the Chrysler Division as the used car manager. He is a member of the Gloversville Senior Center and it is there that he keeps the binders in a beautiful case decked out with patriotic items. It is evident when speaking to Anthony that he has much appreciation, as we do as well, for those who have served in all branches of the United States Military.

If you would like information please contact:

Executive Director: Brenda Rava Email: brava@co.montgomery.ny.us

Director/Veterans’ Service Officer: Randy Weaver

Email: rweaver2@co.montgomery.ny.us

518-853-8152 • Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30am to 4:00pm

www.veterans.ny.gov

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

Name of Veteran

Address

Branch of Service

Time and Place of Service

Any interesting story to tell?

Photo in Uniform?

Contact Form for all USA Veterans ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE

Mail or Take this form to the Gloversville Senior Center

We Salute Our Veterans

Phone (518) 725-0923

53 Church St., Gloversville, NY 12078 or call Anthony Ferraro at (518) 736-1828 or (518) 495-5963

GLOVERSVILLE SENIOR CENTER

ALL THAT GAVE SOME SOME THAT GAVE ALL.

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

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

On the page in book #1 titled “We Salute Our Veterans” is this quote and wording... All gave some And some gave all We Salute you all God Bless you and God Bless America

Thank you for your service!

Would you like to contibute to the book Anthony has been working on to honor area Veterans? If so, he can be reached at the Senior Center at this number: (518) 725-0923 misses your call he will get back to you as soon as he can. Check out the Gloversville Senior Center’s Facebook page to keep up with all that is going on there and to see open hours.

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

PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Program

The Program is named to honor the memory of an Iraqi war hero from Mount Sinai, NY. The Joseph P.Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Project is a peer-to-peer program for Veterans facing the challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

"Your

GET INVOLVED

Volunteer opportunities

Social activities for Veterans and/or family members

INTERVENTION

Transition from Military to Civilian Life

Crisis intervention

RESOURCES GET SUPPORT

Animal-assisted Supports (e.g, canine, equine) "Warm Line" Telephone Support

Transportation services and linkage to community resources

Regular group meetings for Veterans and /or family members

Physical activities (e.g., hiking, running, kayaking)

Outreach/Education activities

Individual mentorship/support for veterans

Individual mentorship/support for family members of Veterans

Libraries

Boating

Services

2024 Events

SUNSET FESTIVALS

Sponsored by Lanzi Family Restaurants Saturdays in July & August • On the MVGO

Something new every Saturday on the MVGO before and after Riverlink Concert Series. Fireworks, Superheros, Sand Art, Buskers, Wishfest, and much more! All concerts are put on by the Amsterdam Waterfront Foundation and their participating sponsors. Special events before and after concerts are sponsored by Lanzi Family Restaurants Authentic Italian Cuisine.

AMSTERDAM X-SQUAD

WATER SKI SHOW - 7/20 & 7/27

Tribes Hill Heritage Center

360 Mohawk Drive, P.O. Box 377, Tribes Hill, NY 12177 (GPS Fonda, NY 12068) (518) 921-8107

Our Goals

Photo Credit: Sue Photography

Focus on Photography

To keep things interesting in photography land, I approach a location as if I am going to tell a story with my images. I look for historical signage for background information on the subject. I photograph street/town signs for location information. I shoot details that support the uniqueness of the location. And it never ceases to amaze me that something will pop up to make the shoot extra special. For instance, I found an almost jewel like bronze plaque on the fully restored ALCO #5 locomotive which now powers the trains down the track on the Saratoga, Corinth and Hudson Railway in Corinth, NY. The rivets, the colors, the historic description all check off my boxes for “story photo!” Start shooting with a story location in mind, and perhaps you’ll be able to make an excellent gift photobook down the road! Keep your eyes wide open for your story detail images!

Until next time... “Stay Focused!”

Sue Clark M.Ed.

Member: Saratoga Arts

Schenectady Photographic Society

Freelance, Portrait, Fine Arts Photographer

Go!

for great to

Caroga Lake Summer 2024 Entertainment!

CAROGA ARTS COLLECTIVE ANNOUNCES 2024 CAROGA LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL PROGRAMMING

The 13th Annual Caroga Lake Music Festival will welcome over 150 world-class artists to the Southern Adirondacks for a season of concerts, community events, and music education offerings

CAROGA LAKE, NY (April 11, 2024) - Caroga Arts Collective today announced the lineup for Caroga Lake Music Festival (CLMF)’s 2024 summer season. This season, Caroga Arts will bring more than 150 artists from around the world to Caroga for 40 events spanning genres from funk, rock, pop to jazz, americana, classical and even comedy -- including notable artists Cory Wong, Sawyer Fredericks, Eddie Barbash, Alex Moﬀat, Henhouse Prowlers, and rising superstar Eddie Benjamin. In addition, over 100 Resident Artists from 24 states and 5 countries will be in residence across six weeks and perform major orchestral pieces like Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Copland’s Appalachian Spring, as well as prominent solo and chamber works.

“Each summer, it’s a joy to bring artists, audiences and communities together for concerts, events and memories along the lake. It’s hard to believe we started this 13 seasons ago when we were only teenagers and now those same artists are going on to win the Grammys, playing in Carnegie Hall and touring across the world. CLMF resides at the core of Caroga Arts mission to reimagine the Adirondack Experience through the power of the arts,” said Kyle Barrett Price, Founder, Executive and Artistic Director of the Caroga Arts Collective. “By showcasing a diverse group of artists ranging across genres, generations, and geographies, we are conﬁdent this year’s lineup features something for everyone.”

Performing at CLMF for the ﬁrst time this year are ‘80s rock band Generation Radio (featuring former members of Chicago, Rascal Flatts, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), Americana/country group The Mallett Brothers Band, and jazz vocalist Shayna Steele.

Other highlights will include:

• “Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue at 100,” performed by Caroga Arts Ensemble and conducted by Grammy winner David Alan Miller, with Kevin Cole on piano

• The return of the free Kids Carousel Concert series including a performance of Louie the Loon, back by popular demand

• Bridging art forms together, CLMF will feature special performances by The Queen’s Cartoonists and collaborations with Running Wild Media and Utica Dance

• Multi-instrumentalist and musical prodigy Eddie Benjamin, who toured with superstar Justin Bieber, collaborates with Caroga Arts Ensemble

• “Tribute Night: Eagles meets AC/DC,” with Live Wire AC/DC Tribute and Epic Eagles

Photo credit: Paul Valovic

Reimagining the Adirondack Experience through the power of arts

The majority of CLMF concerts will once again be held at Sherman’s Park, the historic and much-loved former amusement park in Caroga Lake, NY. With a lakeside pavilion and classic dance hall, Sherman’s Park is an idyllic backdrop for the season’s performances and community events. Caroga Arts is proud to welcome concert goers of all ages to ride the George and Ruth Abdella Carousel before every CLMF concert at Sherman’s Park. Throughout the season, CLMF resident artists will also perform at partnering venues and festivals across the region as part of CLMF on Tour performances.

In Fall of 2023, Caroga Arts launched the String Project & Arts Collaborative Education (SPACE) program in Wheelerville and Johnstown schools. This groundbreaking initiative aims to deliver accessible music lessons and mentorship opportunities to students in schools where the oﬀerings are not otherwise provided in their music programs. This summer marks another milestone for Caroga Arts as they introduce the SPACE Summer Camp, previously recognized as the CLMF Lessons & Ensemble Program. The camp is designed to continue the momentum of providing individual and small group lessons throughout the summer, oﬀering students the opportunity to learn from the esteemed Resident Artists.

“We are thrilled to provide returning and new engaging workshops for all ages and levels through the SPACE Summer Camp. Each summer, our education programs have proven to be a rewarding experience for all involved -- the Resident Artist instructors, our community of music students, and all attendees of our annual showcase,” said Stephanie Price-Wong, Caroga Arts’ Director of Education and Community Engagement. “As we expand arts education oﬀerings to support our youngest students to our senior amateur musicians, the summer program remains a beloved tradition that allows us to build on our year-round resources and provide opportunities for musicians of all ages to hone their musical talents.”

Discounted Season Passes are now available for purchase (as of 4/11/24) and tickets for individual performances will go on sale April 26, 2024.

All Caroga Arts presented events are FREE for children and students age 17 and below, excluding fundraising events. To learn more about Caroga Arts and reserve tickets, please visit https://carogaarts.org/.

ABOUT CAROGA ARTS

The mission of Caroga Arts Collective is to reimagine the Adirondack experience through the power of the arts. Founded in 2012, Caroga Arts presents over 50 performances and community events each year, welcoming more than 150 artists from around the world to the Southern Adirondacks. Caroga Arts focuses on revitalizing the region through community outreach, partnerships with local businesses and non-proﬁt organizations, and arts education programming for youth and adults. A 501(c)(3) not-for-proﬁt, Caroga Arts is proud to call lakeside Sherman’s Park - the beloved former amusement park in Caroga Lake, NY - its home. Learn more: https:// carogaarts.org

Go!ride the carousel

Photo credit: Paul Valovic

2024 SEASON

Fri. Jul 5 7:30 PM

Wed. Jul 17 7:00 PM

Fri. Jul 19 7:00 PM

CLMF Resident Artists: Symphonic Sparks! A Fourth of July Concert & Fireworks

Sat. Jul 6 5:00 PM Red, White, Blues & Bluegrass; The Mallett Brothers Band; Quinn Sullivan; Geoff Saunders & The Nashville Bluegrass Buddies

CLMF Resident Artists: Carousel Music Box; An immersive experience with Caroga Arts & Utica Dance

CLMF on Tour: Caroga Chapel Caroga Arts Ensemble performs the Holberg Suite

Sun. Jul 21 3:00 PM

CLMF on Tour: Sacandaga Valley Arts Network

Wed. Jul 24 7:00 PM The Queen’s Cartoonists Music from cartoons and animation, Live and synchronized to the big screen!

Thurs. Jul 25 7:00 PM CLMF on Tour: Cooperstown Summer Music Festival

Fri. Jul 26 7:00 PM

Sat. Jul 20 5:00 PM Caroga Arts Gala: A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Cara Samantha & The Highline Band

CLMF Resident Artists: American Journeys; A Musical Landscape of American composers, Tommy Mesa, cello

Sun. Jul 28 6:00 PM CLMF on Tour: Caroga Museum

Wed. Jul 31 7:00 PM Cory Wong & the Wongnotes with Caroga Arts Ensemble

Sat. Jul 27 7:00 PM Generation Radio Super Group featuring Jay Demarcus (Rascal Flatts) and Jason Scheff (Chicago)

Tue. Jul 30 7:00 PM An Evening with Cory Wong & Strings - A special acoustic performance and conversation

Thurs. Aug 1 7:00 PM CLMF on Tour: A Musical Exhibition at Arkell; Pre-Concert with Lucy Durkin, Art History Professor at Eastman School of Music

Fri. Aug 2 7:00 PM CLMF Resident Artists: Metamorphosis: Where Nature meets Music; Immersive Visuals from Running Wild Media

Sat. Aug 3 11:00 AM Kids Carousel Concert: Meet the Instruments! Featuring members of WindSync with CLMF Resident Artists

Sat. Aug 3 2:00 PM SAUNDERSFEST Henhouse Prowlers, Saunders Family Band and more!

Sun. Aug 4 1:00 PM CLMF on Tour: Peck Lake Marina

Sun. Aug 4 6:00 PM Rich Saunders’ Songwriter Circle with Caroga Arts Ensemble Rich Saunders, Belle-Skinner and more!

Mon. Aug 5 6:30 PM CLMF on Tour: St. Johnsville Summer Concert Series

Wed. Aug 7 7:00 PM Shayna Steele and Caroga Arts Ensemble

Thurs. Aug 8 6:00 PM CLMF on Tour: Johnstown Midsummer Concert Series

Fri. Aug 9 7:00 PM Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue at 100 - Caroga Arts Ensemble; David Alan Miller, conductor; Kevin Cole, piano

Sat. Aug 10 11:00 AM Caroga Cornhole Classic In Partnership with West Caroga Lake Association

Sat. Aug 10 7:00 PM Eddie Benjamin with Caroga Arts Ensemble

Sun. Aug 11 9:00 AM 6th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Sun. Aug 11 6:00 PM CLMF on Tour: The Barge Concert at Canada Lake

Wed. Aug 14 7:00 PM CLMF Resident Artists: An Evening of Encores (Part I)

Thurs. Aug 15 6:00 PM CLMF on Tour: Lorenzo State Historic Site

Thurs. Aug 15 7:00 PM CLMF on Tour: An Evening of Encores (Part II)

Fri. Aug 16 7:00 PM CLMF Resident Artists: Festival Finale: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony Fabiola Kim, violin; Nate West, bass

Sat. Aug 17 11:00 AM Kids Carousel Concert: Louie the Loon!

Sat. Aug 17 7:00 PM A Night at the Symphony with Eddie Barbash

Sun. Aug 18 3:00 PM CLMF Resident Artists: Festival Finale: Beethoven’s Fifth - Fabiola Kim, violin; Nate West, bass

Sat. Aug 31 11:00 AM Kids Carousel Concert: Live Raptors! Herkimer’s own Deb Saltis & Falcon Heart Rescue

Fri. Sep 13 7:00 PM CLMF on Tour: A Musical Exhibition - Kyle Price, solo cello

Sat. Aug 31 7:00 PM Tribute Night: Eagles meets AC/DC - Live Wire AC/DC Tribute; Epic Eagles

Sat. Sep 14 1:00 PM 10th Annual Woofstock: Peace, Love & Drool Sawyer Fredericks, Sean Rowe, Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra,Girl Blue, Insolent Willies, Cleenstreet

Reserve your seat today at

This is not a complete area list - there are many more choices for hiking, biking and walking trails in the area. You may HAVE to use your phone or computer to ﬁnd them, but then make sure you GO!

Vroman’s Nose Hiking Trail

264 Mill Valley Rd., Middleburgh, NY 12122

considered a MODERATE trail

A prominent landmark located on private property in Schoharie County. It is one of NY State’s most popular hiking destinations with spectacular views on the top of steep cliffs. A little under two miles, this hike can be enjoyed by all members of your family.

Erie Canalway Trail

Canajoharie To Amsterdam • 22 Miles

Paved, Dog Friendly, for bicyclists and walkers of all abilities. Passes by woodlands, farmlands, wetlands with river views. Starting at a trailhead parking area on the west side of Canajoharie. The segment ends at a trail head parking area on the southside of Amsterdam at the intersection of Bridge St and Erie St. Visitor services can be found in Canajoharie, Amsterdam and Fultonville. Public parking is available at the Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. www.empiretrail.ny.gov

Mohawk Gateway Overlook

1 Bridge St., Amsterdam, NY

Dedicated on August 31st, 2016 by New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathleen Hochul, accompanied by Congressman Paul Tonko (the main proponent of the project), the bridge was the culmination of over a decade of planning, funding, design, and construction. The MVGO bridge is open from Spring until the ﬁrst snowfall in the Winter.

Hale Creek Field Station

182 Steele Ave. Ext., Gloversville, NY 12078 (518) 773-7318 • Find out more on www.dec.ny.gov

The site has 2 miles of hiking trails through deep woods. Open Daily from dawn to dusk, there is staff on site Mon.-Fri. during normal business hours. This is a carry in - carry out facility.

FJ & G Rail Trail

This paved landscape trail is open for bicycling, jogging, rollerblading, and walking. The Rail Trail is accessible in many locations with parking and restrooms available. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

To ﬁnd out more about the trail and where to access it, call Fulton County Chamber of Commerce (518) 725-0641 • www.44lakes.com

Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

129 Schoharie Street, Fort Hunter, NY 12069 General info (518) 829-7516

Visitor Center exhibit traces the history of the Erie Canal

Strawberry Fields Nature Preserve

118 Acres of protected property open to the public

2.5 mile trail goes through farm ﬁelds provide many places for hikers to stop and admire. Amazing valley views! 240 Cranes Hollow Rd., Amsterdam

Nine Corner Lake

considered an EASY trail

St. Rt. 29A, West of St. Rt. 10, Town of Caroga, NY 12032

Wintergreen Park - Canajoharie,

Wintergreen Park has a dramatic gorge, beautiful waterfalls, nature trails, and picnic areas.

Auriesville Pilgrimage Lunch Area

136 Shrine Road, Fultonville, NY 12072

Nice quiet area between the old Erie Canal locks and the Mohawk River. Picnic area with grass and paved trails nearby. (518) 853-3939

Peck Hill State Forest

Includes Willie Marsh Nature Trail

220 Willie Road, Gloversville, NY 12078

considered an EASY trail

16.23 Miles of unmarked, multi-purpose and snowmobile trails

The 1.47 Willie Marsh Nature Trail explores a beautiful wetland habitat and is accessible for people of all abilities.

You can get a trail guide and maps at the head of the trail. (518) 863-4545 • www.dec.ny.gov

Are you as excited for summer as I am?

There is so much to do in the Southern Adirondacks and the surrounding area. One of my favorite things to do is to go hiking. I love being in the woods. There are so many things to see and smell. If your pups love adventure as much as I do then let’s get them out into the woods! Before you go, though, check with your vet and be sure your pup is up to it, especially if your pup is young. Little pups’ bones need to grow and be sturdy before they have a lot of exercise. Don’t forget to get that pooch chipped and keep the information updated. Mama got mine as soon as I came to live with her. We haven’t needed to use it but if you need it and don’t have it that will be too late.

dogs,

Hey Peoples! It’s Me, Charles Bradley Brown

You want to be sure that your dog is up to date on all their shots and meds, too. There are bad bugs out there. When I was homeless I didn’t have meds so when Miss Penny from Dally’s Hope for Paws found me I had TWENTY FIVE ticks on me. That is a lot. It took a few months to show up, but I came down with Lyme disease. It is not fun. You don’t want your pup to have it, believe me. (The only good thing about it was that Mama gave me my meds in peanut butter treats. I like peanut butter treats.)

Think you are ready to hit the trails with your four-legged best friend? Well, make sure that trail you are going on allows dogs, ﬁrst. Some don’t. And we want to be sure that the trails that do won’t change their minds because of bad peoples who don’t train their dogs right. So plan on clean-up bags and leashes. Leashes are VERY important. There could be other dogs, who might be scared or aggressive around your dog, people who might be scared of dogs, things to chase in the woods, and just all kinds of trouble to get into. So please keep your dogs leashed, no matter how good their recall training has been.

Start with small hikes ﬁrst. There are some nice trails that are part of Saratoga PLAN (https://saratogaplan.org/) that are shorter and easy but still out in the woods. One of my favorites is LeVine Preserve in Providence. You can take your dog on the main trail to start, then one of the side trails, (which are a little more up and down), the next time to see how they do.

Dogs can carry their own back pack. This is good if you are going on a long hike, or are going camping for a few nights. Be sure your dog is used to the pack before setting out. Let them wear it around the house, empty, then put a few things in it so they get used to the weight. A doggy ﬁrst aid kit is a good idea, too. You never know what will happen out there. Remember that there can be bad bugs in the lakes and streams, so your dog should have it’s own water to drink and have had special shots for Leptospirosis just in case. It is hard to keep pooches from drinking out of streams or ponds. If your dogs start having a boo-boo belly or just don’t seem to feel okay after a hike please get them to your vet immediately.

Hiking isn’t just for dogs! Mama’s friend, Miss Taylor, has a Bengal cat, Appa, who loves to hike. Miss Taylor knew Appa would need lots of exercise and that Bengals can be trained to walk on a leash. So she tried out leashes and harnesses until she found the perfect one. Then she started training him to be on the leash at home. Once he was comfortable with that Appa started taking short walks on the leash. He loved it. Now he goes hiking and kayaking. Miss Taylor has a special cat backpack for when Appa gets tired. Appa is a very lucky cat who even has his own Instagram page! Check him out at @appathebengalcat

What if the worst happens and your dog bolts after something and gets lost? Don’t chase after them if you are in an area you don’t know. You might get lost, too. A lot of us dogs can ﬁnd our way back if you leave your jacket or another piece of your clothing where you lost them. We are really good at smelling things! If they don’t come back within a day there is still hope. There are special people with special ﬂying things called “drones” that can look for lost dogs. On Facebook there is a gentleman, Mr Chad, who owns North Country Drone Search & Recovery. He has a special drone with thermal infrared imaging that can pick up the warmth of an animal and locate it. He has found a lot of lost dogs. If you are in an area where he doesn’t work he can recommend someone for you. Mama says she feels better just knowing Mr Chad could help if he was needed. You might want to follow him on Facebook, he has done a lot of great rescues. Even if you never need him, just seeing the rescues will warm your heart. Don’t let all this scare you, get out on the trail with your pup or your cat and enjoy the woods. It’s in our DNA, it will make us so happy! Need to know about some other fun trails? Just message me on Facebook or stop in to Broadalbin Christian Bookstore, where I am the greeter. I’d love to see you. Bring treats.

~ Charles Bradley Brown

Yes, I have my own business card!

Appa Photos Credit: Taylor LaCasse

*Charles photos copyright Linda E. Eastman - used with permission.

Do you have a daughter between 2nd grade and 11th grade? Would you like to see her gain confidence, develop new skills, and create long-lasting friendships while also growing in their personal faith in Jesus Christ? Camp Cedarbrook in the Adirondacks offers all this in a rustic overnight camp environment in Corinth, NY. Established in 1965, Camp Cedarbrook offers lessons in archery, riflery, hiking, canoeing, swimming, sailing, outdoor skills, crafts, drama, horsemanship, and so much more. A typical day begins with personal devotions, contains the girls chosen activities as well as a rest time, and ends with an evening program. Our kitchen staff serves wonderful camp meals and special diets are cheerfully accommodated. For more information please check out the camp website at https://www.campcedarbrook.org/, email the camp at office@campcedarbrook.org, or call 518-608-6800

Go!

find the music that speaks to your heart! We have so many talented musicians in our area!

The Amsterdam Waterfront Foundation 2024 Riverlink Park Summer Concert Series

FREE LIVE CONCERTS EVERY SATURDAY DURING JULY & AUGUST!

July 3rd - Big Sky Country

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band and the Gloversville Civic Band

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band and the Gloversville Civic Band are composed of musicians, including professionals, teachers and music loving people who come together and perform free outdoor concerts during the summertime for their communities.

The Gloversville Civic Band starts their Summer Concert season on July 10th with Tom Gerbino, Conductor

Tom Gerbino, is a retired music teacher Concert Dates for this year are July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7 and 14 and are held at the Trail Station Park, except for the last concert on 8/14 which is scheduled inside at Lexington Center. If it rains, they will be at the Lexington facility next to Littauer Hospital in Gloversville. All concerts start at 7:00pm. Audience should bring chairs and/or blankets for seating.

The concerts are FREE

Support and Donations can be sent to: Gloversville Citizens’ Band, PO Box 984, Gloversville, NY 12078

Their Talent and Passion Bring Joy to So Many!

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band begins its 117th year on July 12th and will present 6 concerts this season!

The first concert will be on Friday, July 12, 2024 at 7:00 pm at the Charles Jenner Bandstand on E. Main St. in Johnstown. The season continues with each concert starting at 7:00pm for the rest of July on the 19th and 26th, skipping August 2 (ANNUAL Block Party), continuing on August 9, 16 and 23. (Rain place is St. John’s Episcopal Church next door to the park) Our conductor this year is Noel Wing, retired music teacher, and professional musician. We invite you to come hear our fabulous band. It’s a great evening! Be sure to bring a chair! Because we are funded solely on donations from our supporters, we pass a bucket at each concert to help us defray the costs of presenting these concerts!

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Have you been thinking about getting away?

Whether it’s for the day or longer...

Let’s GO!

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

Hello

all.

Let me introduce myself properly. Sue Clark is my name. A M.Ed. degree explains my style - a combination educator, storyteller and fine arts photographer. I’m also a car enthusiast, a twin, a writer and a wanderer. That’s the short list. I find many “out of the way” places through my wanderings... and record said wanderings/ discoveries with my trusty camera beside me, whether that be my Canon DSLR or cell phone camera. Believe it or not... the advances in cell phone camera picture quality simply blow me away nowadays, so I find myself using the cell phone camera more often than not.

I start my “Let’s Go!” column with the name of the local destination, post hours and contact information, give a little history about the destination, and include some photos. BTW... it’s always good to call ahead to any travel destination to confirm hours of operation.

Yes. Linda said I would not get rich producing this column... yet. OK then. I’ll be doing it for the fame. BTW, I’m not a historian by profession. My writing style is more like a storyteller/educator/entertainer. So pour yourself a glass of your choice, and come along for the ride. We all could use new places to visit that won’t break the bank.

The Museum of Prints and Printmaking

Destination: Lake Luzerne, NY in the Southern Adirondacks.

150 Barrett Street, Schenectady, NY 12305 • (518) 449-4756 info@pcaprint.org • www.pcaprint.org

In keeping with this columns theme of short trips that are easy on the wallet ... how about a gem of an art museum that has free admission and ﬁve gallery rooms of old master to contemporary print art, just waiting for you to discover! The Museum of Prints and Printmaking, which houses the decades old Print Club of Albany, is located at 150 Barrett Street in Schenectady. Doors open the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month from 4-7 pm. Many prints are on display from the permanent collection by internationally famous master print artists. You can just visit, or... become a member. Becoming a member has numerous beneﬁts including receiving an exclusive commissioned presentation print designed and printed in a very limited edition by that years chosen artist.

Continued from page 18

Let’s GO!

A new print artist is commissioned every year to make a new print. This years artist is Deann L. Prosia. Her Amsterdam print is simply fabulous and a must see!

*Special tours can be arranged for school groups, senior citizen groups, art clubs, and others. So, if you love art, come on down and spend some time with a very unique museum, right down the road!

Safe Driving! ~ Sue

Sue’s favorite quote: “NOT ALL THOSE WHO WANDER ARE LOST.”

Support Local Farms!

Area

There are so many wonderful courses

At the age of eighteen, I had a plan - I wanted to become a veterinarian. It had always been a lifelong aspiration of mine, having its roots in the four year old version of myself who was always clutching my oversized Rottweiler cuddly toy and orienting everything in my life to the animal kingdom.

farms are such a wonderful asset to our communities.

Below, Nakiska Vaughan of Westmeadow Farm in Canajoharie talks about managing her family farm...

Go to the Westmeadow Farm Facebook page to see Nakiska’s Live Feeds about daily farm life!

By eighteen, I had completed my college degree in Veterinary Technology, passed the Veterinary Technology National Exam (VTNE), and was ready to finish out my Bachelor’s Degree to fulfill the veterinary school requirements. Working in small animal clinical practice however, changed my view on what I thought I wanted. I, like many others, initially wanted to become a veterinarian to help animals; to use science and the latest medical advancements to better improve the lives of those closest to us. I became disillusioned with some aspects of the veterinary field that I was experiencing, and thus came to the conclusion that small animal clinical practice was not going to be the right path for my life. I decided to look into the research aspect of the veterinary field instead, to be at the cutting edge of the industry and to give my overactive mind something to focus on.

In the fall of 2019, I applied for and got accepted to a competitive internship to study bottlenose dolphins oﬀ the coast of Spain. Needless to say, I was elated, ready to write a full thesis on a research topic of my choosing, and I began planning for the summer of 2020 when this internship was due to be completed. Well, today, we all know how this story ends. Covid blocked me from ever attending this internship, which at the time really wounded me, but now looking back, this event happening only further subscribed me to the theory that everything happens for a reason.

We are a family owned, run, and operated business. Our family, made up of 5, includes Tom (bottom middle), his wife Patricia (bottom right), oldest son Braenaan (top middle), middle child Nakiska (top right), and youngest son Torin

We also employ some amazing members of the local community at our creamery, farm, and retail store, to help us achieve our goals.

February of 2020 was the ﬁrst time that a milking goat ever stepped onto Westmeadow Farm ground. Before then, it had always been Jersey and Angus cows. As it so happened, my father needed help to establish this brand new program, and I now needed somewhere to complete an internship in this strange new world of masks and restrictions. Two became one. I got permission from my college to do a small scale research study of our new goat program to complete my degree, and my father received the knowledge and beneﬁt that I could bring from my previous veterinary technician training.

When I ﬁrst came to the farm, I had next to no experience of ‘farm life’. Although my life was full of animal experience, from chickens, sheep, dogs, cats, pocket pets, and rehabilitated wildlife, farming itself was something that was only ever talked about as “the good old days” on my great-grandfather’s crop farm back home in Ireland. He used to grow malting barley and sell it to Jameson distillery, the renowned Irish whiskey company. Little did I know at the time that my life would be forever altered as I embarked on this journey, clutching a one-way ticket to ultimately ﬁnd my passion.

Cont’d next page...

(top left).

My initial role was as Animal Health, Nutrition, and Reproduction Manager, for both the cow and goat herds. I had never worked with cows before coming to the farm; had never operated tractor implements; had no experience with managing nutrition for a production herd, let alone two herds at once. It made for late nights with my nose in my college textbooks, reading material in order to apply better farming practices; building relationships with nutritionists, veterinarians, other farmers; equipment operation practice, in tractors and skid steers alike - and a monstrous dose of patience. As a recovering perfectionist, this journey molded me into a brand new version of myself that previously, I could only dream of becoming. Today, four years later, I now operate the entire farm myself, from herd management, to crop operations, to managing our farm team, and so much more. I also host tours for school and college groups to visit our farm, as well as hosting monthly events at our creamery in Johnstown for people to snuggle with some of our baby goats for a while. My brain is always munching on new ideas - bringing agriculture back into peoples’ lives being always at the forefront of my mind. I have started to share more of our farm’s journey and story on social media when I can so that it can also be enjoyed from the comfort of one’s home. Farming helps all of us, in one way or another, and it’s important for its story to be easily accessible to those who don’t have the same opportunities that I do.

Farming is the most ambivalent thing I have ever been a part of. The bad days are some of the most challenging, humanity-testing experiences, and all the while, the good days are a slice of heaven on earth, incomparable to anything else. I feel humbled by the opportunity to care for the land, the animals, and the people I work with. Nothing beats the sweet smell of freshly mowed hay, the sight of newborn goats standing up for the ﬁrst time, the proud moment as the goat you raised from birth becomes a mother herself; it truly is its own realm of what life can oﬀer.

I feel compelled to share the hidden gem behind what farming life is. So many people crave a deeper meaning, the desire to leave screens and the fast life behind, this strange feeling of missing something. With farming receiving such a negative light in recent years, between climate concerns, alternative products to cow’s milk on the market, the animal ethics question, along with others, it becomes ever more important to shine the light on how farming helps you, us, the people - as well as the very real, raw, human and animal stories behind every farm you drive by.

Westmeadow is a 100% owned and operated family business, with both of my parents and two brothers being involved at our creamery and then myself at the farm. There is a story right there. The six hundred goats that rely on myself and our farm team of three also have their own stories to tell. Our team at the creamery and store, the same. So many tales that are just waiting to be told. Stories that people can connect to, that share common threads to bind all of us, no matter our walks of life. And that’s what this world needs right now. Unity. Love. Care. Compassion. Hope. Simplicity. A chance to breathe, stop and smell the roses, as that age-old mantra begs of us. I want to provide opportunities for our children and future generations to come, to be connected to something greater than the rat race. Life beckons, and farming can help to answer that call.

TASTY FREEZE

Go! to the beach

Here are a few boat launches and campgrounds to check out this summer...

Northampton Beach Campground

328 Houseman St., Mayﬁeld, NY 12117 (518) 863-6000

Summer Season Open Daily 10am - 8pm

Broadalbin State Boat Launch

County Highway 110, Broadalbin, NY 12025

Contact: NYS DEC | (518) 402-8920

Northville State Boat Launch

State Rt. 30, adjacent to Bridge St., Northville, NY 12134

Contact: DEC | 518-402-8920

YEARS in business

Dog Beach Beach Road, Lake George, NY 12845 A place for dogs to swim, dogs must be leashed.

Moreau Lake State Park 605 Old Saratoga Rd., Gansevoort, NY (518) 793-0511

Caroga Lake State Campground & Day Use Area 3043 State Highway 29A, Caroga Lake, NY 12078

Contact: (518) 835-4241 or 1-800-456-CAMP

Million Dollar Beach

Beach Road, Lake George, NY 12845

518-668-3352

Public boat inspection station, boat wash, and boat launch For more information check out www.dec.ny.gov

TNT BOAT TOPS

Well it’s 60 years in business for TNT BOAT TOPS this year...yes, my dad started TNT Boat tops back on March 4th 1964. We specialize in Custom Boat Canvas and Upholstery Services for your boat, Mooring Covers, Biminy Tops, Bow and Cockpit Covers and Custom Upholstery Services as well as many other Boat related sewing services. With 60 years of Quality Custom Fabrication on your boat over the many years, We are your source for all types of Custom Covers, Tops and Custom Upholstery work.

Located in Mayﬁeld, NY at Cranberry Cove Marina on the Sacandaga Lake...We are your Hometown Canvas and Upholstery Service dealer keeping your boat looking great and dry with Sunbrella & Top Gunn Materials.

Stop by or call 518 587-5487 for a Free estimate!

”Our Specialty Is Custom Work since 1964”

~ Anthony Zielinski, TNT BOAT TOPS

PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Blanca

Beautiful Blanca is a bit shy at first, but she’s a very affectionate girl. At 2 years old Blanca is old enough not to climb the curtains, but young enough to still be quite playful. This petite lady must be the only cat. She’ll be great with older cat savvy children.

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Blanca

Daddy

She

Good to Know

In 2024: If you are operating any other type of motorized boat, you will need a safety certiﬁcate if you were born January 1, 1978 or later. Starting in 2025, all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, will be required to have a safety certiﬁcate.

• Any certiﬁcate issued prior to 2000 is only acceptable if you have a copy of it and it was issued when you were under 18. Any certiﬁcate issued after 2000, regardless of age, is acceptable.

• If you are visiting NYS you can use a certiﬁcate issued in another state as long as the course was approved by the National Association of Boating Law Administrators. Look for the NASBLA logo on your certiﬁcate.

• In 2024, if you were born January 1, 1978 or later, you will need a certiﬁcate before you can legally operate a boat. Starting in 2025, everyone, regardless of age, will need a certiﬁcate before they can legally operate their boat.

• Your original boater safety certiﬁcate must be on board your boat, not a copy. If you lost your certiﬁcate you can apply for a replacement online at: https://www.ilostmycard.com

PADDLE THE DAY AWAY WITH VISIT MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Join us as we explore another portion of the Mohawk! Kayaks, canoes, & stand-up paddle boards are all invited to launch from the St. Johnsville Municipal Marina Launch at 1 Marina Drive, St. Johnsville, NY 13452 & travel east along the Mohawk River, through Locks 14 and 15

8:00 a.m. - Check in at St. Johnsville Municipal Marina Launch

9:15 a.m. - Safety Meeting

9:30 a.m. - Launch from the St. Johnsville Marina

12:00 p.m. - Kayakers arrive at the Canajoharie Riverfront Park

12:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Lunch for all registered participants

A limited number of rentals are available from Upstate Kayak Rentals.

54 Bridge Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010 visitmontgomerycountyny.com tourism@co.montgomery.ny.us

to the restaurants and advertisers who make these mats possible.

You It’s Our 12th Year!

Mike & Linda Palmieri

NY 12072

There is nothing more inspiring than a local business, who pushes through and comes up with idea after idea to guide their business through an ever changing economy.

Hummingbird Hills Car Show & 14th Anniversary Celebration Sat., August 17th | 11am - 3pm See Facebook Event for details 442

Ken and Kimm Schick own a beautiful piece of countryside in Montgomery County, where they started Hummingbird Hills Winery from. They have held fundraisers at their winery, car shows, painting classes, crafts, built a trail for trucks, four wheelers and walkers. They hold the most unique special events and each time you visit, you can taste some of the delicious wine they work so hard to produce and bring some home with you!

At Alfie’s Rescue we Thrive on giving the gift of LOVE back to pet owners. We are a small group of volunteers that have come together to make sure your four-legged family members get back home safe when lost.

Thanks to the team at Alfie’s Rescue - Jill, Kathy, Monica and Jen, this girl was safely found and returned to her owner. READ the story on Facebook!

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

Jen Atchinson

518-222-6219

jmound36@hotmail.com

Alfie’s rescue is based out of South Glens Falls, NY.

Find out more about Alfie’s Rescue and donate on Facebook

all of our upcoming Special Events on Facebook

Clareese

Bessie

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Gabby (518) 875-6919 • Email: service@hummingbirdhillswinery.com

Clareese can start off shy but she soon warms up to the attention. She chirps and purrs when she is happy, she loves her toys and naps.

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Clareese

Hi, my name is Bessie and I am adorable. I am looking for a quiet home with older respectful children, teens and/or adults. I am not a fan of other animals or being restrained so I am looking for a family that will treat me like the royalty that I am.

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Bessie Gabby

One and a half year old Gabby is a playful little lovebug! She really enjoys head scritches and back rubs. Gabby has no room in her heart for anyone but her people, so she must be the only pet! She’s great with older, cat savvy children.

Go! Join A Club

MISSION STATEMENT

Encouragement of rifle and pistol shooting, clay target shooting and archery, among the residents of our community, with a view toward a better knowledge on the part of citizens, of the safe handling and proper care of firearms as well as improved marksmanship.

To propagate, protect and aid in the distribution of fish and game. To aid in reforestation and the prevention of forest fires.

To work for the enactment of sound conservation measures, to promote the observance of measures, and to oppose all measures detrimental to sound conservation.

To instruct our junior members in the proper handling of firearms, and the true meaning of sportsmanship.

To support sound legislation pertaining to ownership and use of firearms, and oppose restrictive legislation which may be detrimental to the interest of this club in accordance with our 2nd amendment rights to keep and bear arms, as per the Constitution of the United States of America.

There are so many different ones on the area to choose from. What do you enjoy doing? Get involved! Make some new friends. Try something new!

Featured Club

419 Johnson Ave. Ext., Johnstown, New York 12095 518) 762-4033

Read our Mission Statement to see how we got started and what you will find at our club. There is so much more to talk about, so if you have questions on how how to join or use our facilities, please call (518) 762-4033

The Pine Tree Rifle Club was established in 1937 by local riflemen who wanted a place to gather and shoot. The first meeting was held at the home of Robert C. Kilmer of Johnstown, NY and for the next couple of years all of the meetings were held at the homes of the PTRC members.

From the start the PTRC was more than just another rod and gun club. The founding fathers expressed this in the club’s Mission Statement that has remained the club’s focus for more than 75 years.

With the founding fathers having left the club with a strong foundation to build on, the club has grown in recent years not only in membership but also in the diversity of activities offered to its members.

There is a clubhouse with a banquet hall, lounge and bar and a full kitchen. There is an indoor smallbore rifle and pistol range which is also used for indoor archery. A second clubhouse (which is the original clubhouse built in 1940) is at the club’s skeet and trap range area. The rifle range is a modern 200 yard range with 42 covered benchrest firings points, safety lights, range master station and range office. The club’s 3D archery range is considered one of the best in NYS. 3D archery is scheduled for the second Sunday of the month from May thru September.

Activities at the PRTC include:

• Trap and Skeet Shooting • Small Bore Rifle Team

• Rimfire Benchrest League • 3D Archery • Pistol Shooting

Several seminars are held each year to teach members shooting skills. The club offers NYS Hunter Safety certification, as well as NYS Archery Hunting and Trapping Certification, reloading seminars, and NRA rifle and pistol instruction.

The club is not just for men, there is a NRA Women on Target Program which provides safe and informative introduction to the shooting sports for ladies as well.

Throughout the year, the club has Annual Chicken Barbecues, Steak Bakes and Club Night Suppers. The club also holds an annual motorcycle ride that raises funds for the beneﬁt of the Fulton County Sheriﬀ ’s Department K9 Unit. (Look for photos of the event on Facebook).

The Pine Tree Rifle Club is a member of the NRA, New York State Rifle and Pistol Association and International Benchrest Shooters Association. We continue to be firm in our support of the US Constitution and the Second Amendment.

Our newest life member. On March 13th, 2024 at our general membership meeting we honored Barbara Tautznik. She has been a major asset setting up “Women on Target” and worked the K-9 ride for many years.

We welcome the public for Skeet & Trap

- Open all year round to the public 25 clay targets for $5: 3D Archery is also available (on the second Sunday of the month) for members and non-members. We are open 6 days a week from May - Sept. for recreational shooting (Wednesdays are down days) since 1937. For members only, we have 8 indoor shooting lanes for pistols & 22 cal ﬁrearms (No Magnums). We also have a 50 yd. outdoor ﬁring range.

in becoming a

At this time there are 50 open spots for new members please contact us with questions on how to apply for membership. or email our Membership Chair, Joe Meek at jmeekptrc@gmail.com

more information and to see all events go to the PTRC website at: www.pinetreeriﬂeclub.com

Are you a serious collector of antiques, just dabble in it for your own enjoyment or somewhere in between?

Cheryl

Crispin talks about

Vintage Treasures

Cheryl Crispin

Cheryl has booths called “Cheryl’s She Shed” in Broadalbin and Ballston Spa

We are so lucky to live in an area where there are many wonderful antique shops to lose ourselves in on a dreary day or treasure hunt for something specific! The wonderful thing about buying antiques is that not only does it remind us of our past, our mother or grandmother, our childhood or our home town, but in today’s economy it’s very economical as well. Not only was furniture made so much better years ago but it is less expensive than the stuff made now, lasts longer and you don’t have to put it together! Also with those that are more environmentally conscientious, it’s saves our landfills from filling up with unwanted furniture. It’s a win/ win situation!

I began my journey years ago. I worked in corporate America for 35 years and when I unexpectedly found myself laid oﬀ I wasn’t sure what direction to turn. I started rescuing furniture that people had left at the end of their driveways for the dump to pick up. I refurbished it and sold it. Then my neighbor started to take me to estate sales and I was hooked! I didn’t even realize that I had a love for all things vintage.

I currently have 2 antique booths and love every minute of it!

I have one at Waverly Square Antiques at 19 Low St., Ballston Spa and one in the Broadalbin Antique Mall at 15 W. Main St. in Broadalbin. Both booths are under the name of “Cheryl’s She Shed”.

We have 3 full floors packed full with over 60 vendors. There’s something for everyone with prices ranges from $1 on up. There are so many different styles and items to choose from you might even find your own inner love for vintage and antique items.

I Promise you won’t be disappointed!!

Broadalbin Antique Mall

Go!make

I service the entire Capital

and

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

me today and let’s embark on a

Creativity Unleashed

Creativity Unleashed started in 2012 with placemats featuring shelter pets in need of adoption. Many area restaurants use our placemats, which are supported by local advertisers, and give shelter pets another chance to be noticed and adopted. In 2015, we began publishing our Crazy About Pets magazine, which features heartfelt stories and important information about pets. In this magazine we highlight many local shelters and rescues with photos and bios of their adoptable animals. In 2022, we began publishing a community magazine called We Call This HOME. Inside each issue is a Crazy About Pets magazine as well. Recently we have added information for and about area Veterans, who have our utmost respect. The Veterans pages will continue in our future magazines.

In addition, for the summer months, we will be publishing a yearly magazine called Get Off Your APP & Go! This publication serves as a great way to get the word out about all there is to do in our area in the summer months. There are shelter pets featured throughout this magazine as well.

We are truly grateful to all of the restaurants who use our placemats daily, the businesses who advertise on them and to all of the advertisers and contributors in our magazines.

If you are interested in contributing a story of interest or advertising in our magazines or on our placemats, please call us at (518) 842-6532 or email: linda@creativityunleashed.org

“Beretta”

Photo Credit: Amber Delli Veneri

I am sweet and quiet girl. I like attention from people, especially a nice scratch under the chin. I get along well with other cats, so if you already have a friend at home, that will be just ﬁne! I am about 4 years old and came to the MCSPCA on 5/12/24. Would you like to stop by and visit with me? Thank you and I hope to see you soon!

Meet Nancy Whiting of Broadalbin, NY

High School alumni reunions have had so much meaning for the graduates since their beginning. Gathering together again, sharing memories, triumphs, supporting each other through life's ups and downs is a special time.

for over 30 years!

Volunteer

vol-uhn-teer | noun

1. A person who selﬂessly dedicates their time, skills and energy to others or a cause without expecting a reward or payment.

In the early 1990s the Broadalbin Class of 1948 was looking at their next alumni meeting and thinking towards the future to their 50th reunion. As they discussed upcoming plans, it was mentioned that it would be nice to meet with other classes. Many had friends and family who had graduated several years before them. Being a smaller school district there were not a lot of class members for each year. The decision was made to create an alumni group for all classes celebrating their 50th year or more and to bring them all together. The agreement made, the next question was “who should head the committee to do this? ”There was only one answer – Nancy Whiting, class of 1948.

2. One who plays a role in creating positive change in their communities and beyond.

Just a few lines that describe Nancy Whiting

Nancy was already experienced with organizing her own classes reunions and she gladly took on the task of contacting alumni from the 30's and 40's to create this new alumni group. Working closely with the school district Nancy was able to contact many, if not most, of the alumni from each class. She arranged for the luncheons to be held each August, originally at the White Holland House, then the Perthsire. The luncheons are now held at the Broadalbin Perth High School.

Much of the work is done behind the scenes. Address lists are kept of each class. Notes are made of those who have passed each year so they can be remembered at the next meeting. Letters are sent out inviting each alumni to the next luncheon. The school district works closely with Nancy, assisting with printing the labels for these invitations. Approximately 750 – 800 letters are sent out each June to those from all the classes celebrating their 50th year or beyond. The RSVPs are sent back to Nancy and she coordinates with the school to arrange for a beautiful and meaningful afternoon.

Having done this for over 30 years, Nancy is also assisted by current committee members Carol Carpenter Carelli, Cheryl Lafferty, David Deuel, Yvonne Van Genderon, Audrey Cudmore, Paula Phillips, Joan Harris, Verlene Tierney, Nardia Giaconia and Janet Ward.

Thank you to Linda E. Eastman for submitting this article

Do you know of a Volunteer who you feel deserves to be recognized for what they do? We would love to hear from you for a future magazine article.

Let’s Talk!

Please call Linda at (518) 369-3016 or email me at: linda@creativityunleashed.org

Since these alumni luncheons were first started they have only had to be canceled twice, in 2020 and 2021 because of COVID. In 2023 over 200 were in attendance. In addition to the luncheon the alumni are also given a tour of the high school building so they can see the changes over t he years. Nancy and the other committee members are very appreciated by everyone who attends the reunions.

Nancy Whiting, of Broadalbin, NY

Nancy Whiting with Steve Tomlinson

Let’s talk about my friends...

Hi Peoples, it’s me, Charles Bradley Brown. Did you know that every year over 6.5 million dogs, cats, and other pets ﬁnd themselves homeless and in a rescue or a shelter? That is just how many ﬁnd their way into a shelter. Many, many more live on the streets, surviving as best they can. Just 3 years ago I was running and looking for a family. I’m one of the lucky ones, I found my Mama and I am safe now. Because I know what it is like to be homeless, I want to ask you to think about helping the others that haven’t been so blessed. There are lots

of good dogs and cats in shelters and in rescues that need loving homes. Look through this magazine and see if there is a new family member just waiting for you to ﬁnd them. If you are one of those who has all the pets you can take in your house there are still ways to help. Shelters and rescues always need volunteers. Aren’t sure about committing to a pet full time? You can always foster one (or two, or more). However you help, you are needed, and maybe, just maybe, you need the love of a new dog or cat as much as they need yours!

Charles Bradley Brown of Broadalbin, NY (that’s me with Mama, at the store!)

Come visit me at 16 North Main St., Broadalbin, NY 12020 (bring treats)

Crazy About Magazine was started in 2015 to bring as many adoptable pets in the area out in front of as many pairs of eyes as possible. By doing this, we felt they would have an even better chance of being adopted. We then listened and watched for great story ideas that may help sway people to adopt or may bring back great memories of a favorite pet. So many have willingly told their heartwarming stories and allowed us to share them on our pages. The magazine is supported by local businesses. There is a win-win here because they get their business noticed while helping shelter pets ﬁnd homes. The next few pages contain QR codes that will allow you to see all the animals that are currently available for adoption at some of our area shelters/rescues. The workers and volunteers at these shelters and rescues love animals and understand the connection that they have with their humans.

Please consider attending fundraisers that support shelters & rescues, as many depend on donations. If you cannot adopt, but would like to volunteer, please reach out!

Charlie says Turn the page, get clicking on those QR codes and look at the photos. Better yet, call for a meet and greet and psst...fill out an application first so you will be all set when you find your forever friend (or two) Getting a new pet is a great thing to do in the summer! (or any other season).

Psst...did you read my Hiking article on page 15?

Dog Love

Humans who love dogs can be tagged as a diﬀerent breed. They stand at the cusp of an ocean. Reach inward and open their hearts. Allow the waves to come, to crash, aware that the tide will recede. The sun will set sooner. Night will come.

But when it does, stars will shine down in a million pieces, unleashing sparkling remnants of a journey well-lived. Once upon a dog, I gave my heart and my soul grew richer for it.

Angie Weiland-Crosby

“Until

~ Anatole France

Call or email the rescue, they can help match you up with the perfect pet for your home. Also, putting in an adoption application first will get the process going, as all rescues/shelters work hard to make the right match.

Have you ever considered Fostering? There is such a great need for fosters in our area. Every pet that is being fostered in a home opens up a spot for another pet who needs the help. Area rescue/shelter workers, volunteers & foster moms and dads are 24/7 caregivers to these dogs/cats and they have our utmost gratitude for what they do.

The Pretty Paw Lounge was founded in August of 2023, after two years of planning and extensive buildout. The owner, Rachel Anne, traveled the country visiting local rescues & cat cafés from Miami to Los Angeles and everywhere in between. After 10 years of volunteering with a local rescue in upstate New York, she felt the time was right to bring the concept to New York, as the closest cat café was downstate, over 3 hours away. The idea of The Pretty Paw Lounge wasn’t well received by town officials and local planning boards, nor potential locations and landlords. After several doors shutting in her face, Rachel decided to buy a building, to bring her one step closer to making the dream of a cat café in upstate a reality.

Fast forward to 2022, coming out of a global pandemic, the build out began. While spending every day on site of the future cat cafe, Rachel was rescuing cats, pulling shelter cats from euthanasia risk, handling their veterinary expenses and getting them adopted independently. Rachel planned, designed and developed all aspects of the building, the cafe, the resident cats and the partnership with a local non profit. Everything from decor to paint color to lighting fixtures was hand picked and designed with passion and purpose.

A partnership was proposed to local nonprofit Kitten Angels out of Mayfield, New York. All cats at the café are provided by Kitten Angels, where they arrive fully vetted, vaccinated and healthy. A majority of the cats are saved from shelters, survivors of cruelty, owner surrender situations, or cats found outside faced with the adversity of a life on the streets. The cat café is an open environment with a cat lounge that can accommodate up to 20 cats at a time, for the public to visit, interact with, and of course, apply to adopt. The café is divided into two sections, with the cats safely housed in a giant playroom off of the main café. The main café features dozens of local vendors and bakers, showcasing the talent and creativity of the capital region. From hand poured soy candles, to hand stitched pet blankets, a variety of cakes, cookies and even a locally sourced lavender lemonade made and bottled in upstate New York with lavender bulbs from a small family farm. The gift shop features cat products of all kinds, both practical and novelty, but all supporting a common theme; locally sourced and made with love.

Throughout the first ten months of it’s opening, the cafe has had 103 adoptions! All adoption fees go to nonprofit partner Kitten Angels. The cat café makes its revenue through vendor items, food and beverage sales, and the booking of private parties at the lounge. Since its opening the Pretty Paw Lounge has hosted a dozen birthday parties, two surprise parties, a graduation, and several kids paint parties. The café also works with local gyms and fitness centers offering wellness classes and kitten yoga sessions which have been a huge success within the community.

Rachel has plans to expand the lounge and further the buildout in the immediate future, allowing a larger space to help more cats, as well as expand the café’s offerings. The lounge has a staff of 6, and the team works around the clock seven days a week, administering medicines, feeding and cleaning extensively to keep the cats safe and healthy. What started as a passion project has quickly evolved into a team effort and an outpouring of support from the community. The lounge is grateful for their guests and the wonderful donations of food, litter, blankets and toys they receive regularly, helping to keep all 020 residents kittens, cats and even a nursing mom, well cared for day and night. Rachel and team are approaching their one year anniversary of the grand opening, on August 4th. A community garage sale, bake sale and vendor fair is set for the weekend of August 3 & 4. If you haven’t yet visited a cat café, put the Pretty Paw Lounge in your plans for this summer. From 3 month old kittens to 15 year old seniors, the lounge has the purrrfect pet for everyone. If you’re not in the market to adopt, grabbing a cookie and a cuddle is still on the table. All guests are welcomed warmly and encouraged to visit and enjoy the company of these adorable kitties, grab a selfie and leave the stress of every day at the door.

The Pretty Paw Lounge is located at 370

Clara was rescued after being dumped outside with her kittens. Clara is a young, beautiful cat, only a kitten herself! Her babies have been adopted, she is now spayed and able to be a kitten herself. She would love to be the queen of the castle and be the only pet.

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Clara

Esther is a beautiful girl with extra toes, and a sweet personality. She does have a sensitive tummy so she needs a special food. A quiet home without dogs will be best for her.

Contact kittenangels.org for more information about Esther

She is 5 years old, she has lots of energy and loves to go for multiple walks a day! She is strong on a leash but behaves well.She will sit so pretty for her treats, and loves her people. She is very athletic, likes to show it off....and does great with agility.Unfortunately, Chloe does need to be the only animal in the home and with older children. She loves to burry her bones, and sleep on soft blankets. Please be her person...

Scrat is a very friendly, young Border Collie mix. He was a stray dog, and unclaimed. Scrat is good w/other dogs and ignores the office kitties, but probably would try to herd them once he feels comfortable in his new home. He’s a happy dog and LOVES attention in spite of being thrown away. He will be a great family pet! Scrat will need exercise and seems fine with kids.

If you are ready to embark on a wild and wonderful adventure with a girl who’s full of spunk and sparkle, look no further! Our happy-golucky love bug is here to turn your world upside down in the best possible way!

For families that are not in a place to adopt, fostering is a wonderful alternative that makes a significant and lifesaving impact on both the dog and those who welcome them into their homes.With shelters often overwhelmed by the number of animals in need, fostering provides a vital lifeline for dogs awaiting adoption. When you take in a foster dog, you are not just helping that one dog, you are freeing up a space, allowing them to care for another animal in need.

Shelter dogs frequently come from difficult and unknown backgrounds, oftentimes carrying trauma from their past experiences of abandonment, abuse, or neglect. These experiences may make it difficult for them to adjust to a new and unfamiliar environment such as a busy shelter. In-home fostering offers these dogs a chance to let their guard down in the comfort of a loving, stable, and quiet home.

Fostering provides an opportunity to make a direct and meaningful difference in an animal’s life, offering love, care, and stability during a critical transitional period. Please consider opening your heart and home to a shelter dog in need. It’s a decision that can transform lives - both theirs and yours.

As a foster family you will have absolutely no out of pocket expenses. Anything your foster dog may need during their time with you is completely covered including food, vet bills, training and more! You will also have support from our incredible team of volunteers that will help you every step of the way!

Photo credit: Christine Rulison Photography

children really enjoyed having Gabe to read to this year and the staff loved having him there too. If you did not get a chance to read his story, check out pages 21, 22 & 23 of our third edition of “We Call This HOME” magazine. You can find a link on our Facebook page @wecallthishomemagazine or you can go to www.creativityunleashed.org and look for that issue under the publications tab.

Gabe worked hard this year. He worked two full days and three half days with his mom, Music Teacher, Ann Trojan. He also worked at the After School Program, Read with Me. The kids and staff really enjoyed the love and comfort he gave them. He listened to over 300 scholars read this year!

L to R: Ann and Gabe at school, New York State Assemblyman Robert Smullen recognizing Ann and Gabe

Jake is a 7 year old neutered big ‘ol Tabby boy. He takes a little bit to warm up to new people, but once he does he is a great pal! Jake has lived with another cat before. He came in when his owner was moving and couldn’t keep him.

She’s a sweet, silly, little Hound mix. She’s also an EXPERT Snuggler both with her foster siblings and with her humans. Pearlita loves to play with other dogs, typically she’s more comfortable meeting dogs smaller than her. Pearlita loves kids and people. She rides well in the car. She’s still growing, her mama was a purebred coonhound.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Woody is all ears and ready to hear all your secrets. Are you keeping a secret that you want to adopt him? Woody is 2 years old. He came in a stray and was never claimed. He is very friendly, loves to fetch and play with his toys. Woody weighs 65 pounds and may be able to live with kitties. We are sorry that someone failed him but happy he will get a new start with a loyal family.

Terry Bushey

2 year old Princess is a Terrier mix. She is shy around new people at ﬁrst, but once she gets to know you, she will warm up and be your best friend forever! Princess likes getting outside for walks and playing with her toys. After that she would love to relax on the couch with you!

Don’t you want to adopt a princess?

in collaboration

Find Pearl and Terry at many fundraisers and events in the area. Buy the books there or on Amazon. Check Facebook for a list of where they will be this summer!

Terry Bushey ﬁnds inspiration to write from her own sweet Pit Bull, Pearl and has been involved in the betterment of dog and animal treatment for years through animal law classes, therapy dog training, reading, and rescue dog groups.

When she is not writing children’s books, Terry enjoys bike riding, dog walking, training, and of course, playing with dogs. Working to get petitions signed for improved care in factory farms is something that is dear to her. Terry likes to ﬁght for the underdogs who have no voice, such as mistreated and neglected animals.

By sharing Pearl’s story, Terry hopes that readers learn not to judge people - or animals - by how they look, to stand up to bullies, and to be brave and strong. She is married and lives in Schenectady, New York. Terry has three children and two dogs: Pearl, a Pit Bull and Kira, a German Shepherd. Her beloved dog Sandy, who was the co-star in her books, passed away last year. Sandy will forever be in her heart. Pearl’s journey was Terry’s ﬁrst children’s book.

Terry Bushey, Author, with her dog, Pearl

The Garden Bug

The Pooch Parlor

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

Professional Grooming for Small Breeds

“We Paws To Please”

Tina Novak, Certiﬁed Dog Groomer & Author

61 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 581-5100

Email: Info@friendsofthemilitarymuseum.com

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-4pm • Closed Sunday

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

If you're looking to meet the furry love of your life, give H.A.L.O. a call (315) 985-3738. Kitten season has begun, and we have taken in many! Now we’re in need of forever homes for them. We also need fosters so we can help more kittens we will no doubt be getting.

Mason was found alone in a mason jar in the pouring rain. Heartbreaking isn’t it! Squeaker was brought in by a concerned community member and Apricot and Arnold were found alone and starving. They are all currently in foster needing 24/7 care, but we are taking applications for pre-adoption. So far this year we've taken in 38 kitties and 35 kitties have been adopted. We hope you will consider H.A.L.O. for the next love of your life - or maybe two! Pictured below: Mason, Squeaker, Apricot and Arnold by Victoria and Natalie

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

Scan QR code on page 44 to see more pets from H.A.L.O.

It’s that time of year again, car show season! When I asked one driver, what draws you to a car show? James Short, owner of the Fast ’n Fat Fleet replied, the cause, the delight and smiles on the faces of spectators. For some it brings back memories of years that are gone while others are Amazed at the beauty of the vehicle in front of them. Friends, entertainment, the challenge of possible winning a trophy, that too. But to drive your own show vehicle, It’s a connection, it’s an Image of who you are, whether you’re sporty, classic, vintage, unique, or hopped up. It’s a thrill, adrenaline, it‘s a feeling of coolness or the best of the best accomplishment.

James continues to show and also supplies some of these drivers with the best food and kettle Corn at some of our car shows.

For me, I love to drive fast, the faster the better, but yet I love me some antique oldies as well that I own and drive.

No matter what the reason, in the end, the drivers are a special group of people that are attending these type of shows that beneﬁt their community and beyond.

Next two pages - upcoming Car Shows in our area...

~ Renee Hohensheldt

Renee and Jim holding their 2 trophies - Fast ‘n Fat Trucks

James Short, Trophy winner, with his 1967 Chevy ProStreet Camaro

Car Shows to

(Fridays) July 19th, August 16th, September 20th

Sir William Johnson Volunteer Fire Department

102 County Highway 131, Johnstown, NY 12095 5pm - 8pm • Contact: Art Rumrill at (518) 774-0781

Sunday, July 20th - Empty Pockets Ranch

5172 State Route 145, Cobleskill, NY (607) 766-5381

Saturday, July 27th - Sherman’s Park Car Show

114 East Shore Road West, Caroga Lake, NY 10am - 2pm

Saturday, July 27th - Johnstown Nostalgia Day

Sir William Johnson Park, 79 W. Main St., Johnstown, NY 12095 10am- 4pm

Saturday, August 3rd - Montenaro Farm 2842 County Hwy. 107 Amsterdam, NY 12010 8am - 5pm

(Fridays) August 9th, September 13th

Happy Days are Car Show Fridays

4470 State Highway 30, Amsterdam 5pm - 8pm • Contact: Renee at (518) 774-4187

Sunday, August 18th

Johnstown Moose 1185 2nd Annual Car Show 109 S. Comrie Ave., Johnstown, NY 12095 11am - 3pm • (518) 762-4224

Sunday, Sept 8th - 5th Annual Fly the Flag Cruise-In Car & Bike Show (Beneﬁt for Tunnel to Towers) 81 Briggs St., Johnstown, NY (518) 775-0695

Saturday, September 14th - Wings & Wheels To beneﬁt PGA HOPE & PGA REACH

Fox Run Golf Club (see more on page 53) 109 Alban Hills Lane, Johnstown, NY 12095 (518) 762-3717 • 10am - 2pm

Sunday, September 15th

911 Calling of the Names Car Show (In support of our families who have lost loved ones due to 911) Town of Florida Veterans Memorial Park 214 Fort Hunter Rd., Amsterdam, NY 11am - 3pm • Donation $10 Contact: Renee at (518) 774-4187

Saturday, August 10th

Gloversville Senior Center Car Show

53 Church St., Gloversville, NY 10am - 2pm • Contact: Renee at (518) 774-4187

Sunday, August 11th

Summer’s Best Ice Cream Car Show

24 Briggs St., Johnstown, NY 10am - 2pm

Saturday, September 21st

Fall Harvest Canal Street Station Car Show 2100 Western Turnpike, Duanesburg, NY 10am - 2pm

Saturday, October 5th

The Local Dining & Spirits 2nd Annual Car Show 132 S. Main St., Northville, NY (car show parking on main drag) 12pm - 4pm • Contact: Renee at (518) 774-4187

PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Area’s Largest Car Show!

WINGS & WHEELS FOR VETERANS

FOX RUN GOLF CLUB

109 Alban Hills Lane, Johnstown, NY 12095

Proceeds to benefit:

Cars of all vintage, motorcycles and trucks are welcome.

Trophies awarded by a panel of judges. Registration 8:30-9:45 a.m. with show beginning at 10 a.m. Cut off for entry and judging is 11:30 a.m. Judging starts at Noon or soon after. Trophies award ceremony at 1:30 p.m.

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the ﬂagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The program introduces the game of golf through a developmental 6-8 week curriculum, led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. All programs are funded by PGA REACH and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost of programming is free to all Veterans. PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which enables direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy.

www.pgareach.org/services/military

Vehicle Registration/Entry Fee: $10 Spectators Entry: Free Donations appreciated for PGA HOPE

This car show and fun-ﬁlled all-day event for Veterans will be one of the biggest regional shows in 2024. The facilities of both the Fox Run Golf Club and the Fulton County Airport will be utilized to hold a plethora of show cars, trucks, motorcycles, airplanes and helicopters.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Visit Parkhurst Field & History Museum

Parkhurst will be hosting championship tournaments this July and August featuring teams from as far away as Long Island.

When you visit our museum located under the grandstand, you will walk through the history of Parkhurst from 1906 to the present.

Half of the museum is dedicated to pre-Little League memorabilia and the other half is dedicated to local Little League history with over 150 photos of little league teams and trophies from this area over the past 70 years.

Parkhurst Field, located in Gloversville, NY opened in 1906 as A, J&G Park. It was built by the local railroad company and hosted baseball legends such as Honus Wagner, Cy Young and Moonlight Doc Graham.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

New York State Baseball Hall of Fame!

Rene M. LeRoux, Founder and Executive Director, New York State Baseball Hall of Fame

The NYS Baseball Hall of Fame induction class of 2024 will be headlined by Buck Showalter, Jesse Barﬁeld and Don Mattingly.

The New York State Baseball Hall of Fame, with its inaugural class inducted in 2011, is designed to honor former players, coaches, umpires and ambassadors of the game of baseball from the Empire State. The Hall of Fame is divided into three geographic areas: Upstate, Downstate and Western New York. Western New York includes Buﬀalo, Syracuse, Rochester and Utica. Downstate includes New York City, Long Island and points north to Kingston. Upstate goes from Kingston to Canada.

Mattingly is currently the bench coach for the Toronto Blue Jays. Nicknamed “Donnie Baseball”, he spent his entire 14-year MLB playing career with the New York Yankees, where he was a fan favorite and team captain. He is a six time All Star and nine time gold glove award winner. In 1997, the Yankees retired his number and he later managed the Los Angeles Dodgers for ﬁve years and the Miami Marlins for seven years.

Work Ready ESL + Job Training

Develop English language and job skills to become a

Teacher’s Aide

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

Instruction will include:

· English communication skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing

· Employability skills

· Occupational training

· Job search skills

· Basic technology & online resources

· English immersion instruction

· 40 hours of instruction

Earn a certificate upon successful completion!

· Share it with employers

· Be valued as a bilingual employee Call today for more information 518-736-4340 or 518-212-6120

Upper Level of United Presbyterian Church 25 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

Clases de inglés de formación laboral

Regístrese para las clases de habilidades aborales en inglés para convertirte en un

Ayudante de Maestro

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

La instrucción incluirá:

· Habilidades de comunicación en inglés: Escuchar, hablar, leer y escribir

· Habilidades de empleabilidad

· Formación ocupacional

· Habilidades de búsqueda de empleo

· Tecnología básica y recursos en línea

· Instrucción de inmersión en inglés

· 40 horas de instrucción ¡Obtén un certificado al completarlo con éxito!

· Compártelo con los empleadores

· Ser valorado como un empleado bilingüe Llame hoy para obtener más información. 518-736-4340 or 518-212-6120