We Call This HOME magazine Second Edition

We Call This HOME

AMSTERDAM • JOHNSTOWN • GLOVERSVILLE and surrounding areas

Welcome to the second edition of “We Call This HOME”. This one was a work of the heart for sure. It took much longer than we had anticipated. We would like to thank everyone for your patience, as we learn and grow with this new magazine. We appreciate the help and support of our advertisers and contributors, who have made this possible.

We hope this publication becomes a vehicle through which business owners can get the word out about what they have to offer, while we showcase the many positive things going on around us.

Also, in this issue, we have included a full edition of “Crazy About Pets” Magazine! This is our 9th edition and it features many local shelters. Each shelter page has some of the pets they have available for adoption with a QR code included so you can scan and see all pets available. Each shelter page is sponsored by a local advertiser and we thank them for that, as the more sponsors we get, the more pages we can print. We have remembered a few wonderful dogs, Pilot and Hunter who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in 2022. Losing a beloved pet is never easy and it may help to talk about it with a professional and others who have loved and lost. We have included a bereavement article in case you would like to join one of the groups offered. The pet magazine begins on page 45!

We want to send out a huge thank you to all of our family, friends and business owners who believe in and support what we do. Some of them have been right with us every step of the way. Our placemats have been adorning tables in many area restaurants for 11 years and we look forward to many more years of helping shelter pets get noticed and adopted. There would never be enough pages to include all the good that can be found here. There are so many great clubs, events and progress being made in all of our communites. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed with stories for this issue and look forward to the next one! If you have ideas for the next issue, don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know.

Bill Trojan is a photographer, photojournalist and educator who believes in the power of education and photography. He began his journey in photography as a teenager by taking photographs at family events, and now dreams of continuing his journey in photography throughout the community he lives in. His biggest accomplishments to date have been educating area high school students and documenting local and national events through the medium of photography. Bill has had the opportunity of photographing many U.S. Presidents, rock stars, major national events, breaking news stories as well as local sports and concerts.

Mike and I also want to thank Bill Trojan from WATPHOTO, our staff photographer, for sharing so many of his beautiful photos for this magazine, and for all the help and advice he continues to give us.

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We LOVE what we do and we are so grateful to live in and around communities full of amazing people.

Bill Trojan grew up in Massapequa and Deer Park, Long Island, NY and presently resides in Gloversville. Bill participates in all things photography, local car shows and music concerts and events. For almost two decades Bill was the Photography Editor and Senior Photographer for the Leader-Herald Newspaper in Fulton County. Bill has also taught high school students Art, Photography and U.S. Government and History in area schools. Bill is presently the owner of WATPHOTO Photography Services in Gloversville and the Chief Photographer for “We Call This HOME” Magazine. Bill is happily married for 19 years to musician, music educator and certified dog trainer Ann Trojan.

To get in touch with Bill Trojan email him at WATPHOTO@gmail.com

“Home is the nicest word there is.”

– Laura Ingalls Wilder

Mike & Linda Palmieri

Bringing Communities and Local Businesses Together “On the Canals”

The New York State Canal System, which has been in continuous operation since 1825, is longer than any other constructed transportation system on the North American continent, and includes the Erie Canal, Champlain Canal, Oswego Canal, and Cayuga-Seneca Canal, connecting the Hudson River to Lake Champlain, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie via the Niagara River.

In 2020, the New York Power Authority (NYPA), as the managing authority of the New York State Canal Corporation, committed $300 million to revitalize the Canal system as a tourism and recreation destination while simultaneously boosting economic development and improving the resiliency of canalside communities – and securing the future of this world-class engineering marvel to operate as both a waterway and travel destination for the next 200 years.

As part of this initiative, the Canal Corporation developed “On the Canals,” a free, seasonal excursion program offering free unique opportunities to experience the outdoors on the canal waterways and the adjoining Empire State Trail.

Now in its third year, “On the Canals,” continues to grow and thrive, bringing communities and local businesses together along the canal for a variety of recreation and educational opportunities, including kayaking, cycling, boat tours, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and more.

The last season of the “On the Canals” program offered new, accessible kayaking and biking excursions and outdoor painting sessions with local artist Gail Talmadge for the first time, expanding the number of outings and locations for excursions, and attracting more than 12,000 visitors from across New York and beyond to communities along the banks of the Canal system.

NYPA and the Canal Corporation continue to offer a variety of activities for New Yorkers to enjoy the astonishing beauty and history of the Erie Canal. For more information on this program, and to check out the 2023 winter excursions, which include winter snowshoe hikes and folk painting, visit... canals.ny.gov/onthecanals/

Gail was born and raised in Amsterdam, and although has lived in other parts of the country she has always come back home. Gail has a bachelor’s degree from Empire State College in Sustainable Design, and a master’s degree in art education from the University of Florida.

Gail has been an active member of the community and a founding member of Creative Connections.

Gail has been creating art since childhood and regained her passion in the 90’s when she started painting furniture and accessories, she currently sells on many online sites as well as turning her art into products and selling those products online sites like Zazzle, Society 6, Fine Art America and more.

Gail has owned, and operated Taste & Paint, a traveling art business for the past 9 years, and recently started teaching En plein air painting classes (painting outdoors). sponsored by the NYPA On the Canals program and the NYS Canal Corporation along the Erie Canal Corridor. In 2022, she taught over 300 students in 3 months, teaching over 50 classes in that time. Gail currently lives with her two cats Piper, and Mo Mini, and her dog, Chloe. She has two grown children Rebecca and Dillon and a grandson Julien.

Her hobbies include painting, gardening, and spending time with her family and friends and enjoys walking in nature and taking Chloe for rides in the car

Photo Credit: Larry Venus

Gail Talmadge Art Instructor & Business Owner Meet

CDTA Started Bus Routes for Montgomery County, NY in 2022

Routes interconnect Montgomery County and provide service to Albany

The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) service began on Sunday, August 28, 2022 and features four routes of transit service that provide Montgomery County with a fortified route system, connecting communities and boosting economic opportunities. According to CDTA CEO Carm Basile, “These four routes will provide increased mobility for people living in the community and connect them with the rest of the Capital Region. The routes will transform the quality of life for residents in Montgomery County. We are thankful to be working with elected leaders and community partners in Montgomery County to provide better access for everyone.”

Montgomery County route network:

• Route #600 (Neighborhood Belt Line) will serve Amsterdam neighborhoods via Church Street, Clizbe Avenue, Guy Park Avenue, Division Street and Route 30. This route will run Monday - Friday 6:15 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday 8:45 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• Route #601 (South Side and Route 30) will serve South Amsterdam and Route 30 via Bridge Street, Market Street and

Wallins Corner Road. This route will run Monday – Friday 6:15 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:15 p.m.

• Route #602 (Amsterdam to Schenectady) will connect Amsterdam to Schenectady via Guy Park Avenue, Division Street, East Main Street and the Mohawk Turnpike (Route 5). This route will run Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• Route #560 (Thruway Xpress) will connect Montgomery County to Albany via I-90. This route will run Monday - Friday. Morning trips will be 6:15 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Afternoon trips will be 12:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Evening trips will be 3:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

BEGINNING SUNDAY, AUGUST 28

* Info taken from: https://www.cdta.org/news/service-details-announced

28 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 842-1080

Nicole Hemsley, Director AMSlib@mvls.info

Hours: Mon. & Thurs. 10am-7pm; Tues. & Wed. 10am - 5pm Friday 10am - 3pm • Saturday 10am - 1pm; Sunday - Closed

The mission of the Amsterdam Free Library is to inspire lifelong learning, advance knowledge, and strengthen our Greater Amsterdam Community.

Did you know that regular library visits lead to more reading, and research shows that the amount of time spent reading is directly related to academic success. Reading is also an excellent way to unwind and distract yourself from the pressures and stressors of everyday life.

Borrow as many items as your heart desires, peruse them at your leisure, and return them when you’re done to get a whole new set! In addition to our large collection of physical materials (books, audiobooks, movies, DVDs, and now board games for the whole family) we also have a large electronic collection available to patrons. Using the Overdrive or Libby apps, patrons can download and enjoy materials from the comfort (and safety) of their own homes.

You do need to have a library card to access library resources, so be sure you have one. If not, stop by today to get one - library cards are free of charge, all you need is a photo ID and a piece of mail showing your current mailing address.

Public computers and free Wi-Fi are also provided to our patrons free of charge. Access a wide variety of online databases (including magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias, almanacs, science resources, etc.) as well as word processing, social media, and other computer programs. Parents are responsible for monitoring their child’s use of library computers, as the internet is not regulated and may expose them to inappropriate or inaccurate materials.

Need the internet at home? No problem! Wi-Fi hot spots are also available to borrow for free for home use with your library card!

Have any questions about the library?

Visit our website: www.amsterdamlibrary.com, follow us on Facebook to nd out about upcoming events, or call 518-842-1080.

NICOLE HEMSLEY Director, Amsteram Free Library

You may occasionally hear someone say that libraries are outdated and that physical copies of printed books will be dead soon. Well, we are here to tell you that is far from the truth. More than just storage spaces for books, libraries have transformed into important community hubs that serve as centers of learning, professional development, healthcare, and truth.

Libraries have become centers for the movements that support women, immigrants, people of color, the LGBTQ community, and those facing religious persecution. They are free public spaces that allow everyone to feel safe and to find opportunity.

1) Free educational resource for everyone.

Public libraries provide safe, accessible, and 100% free educational resources for every member of the community. At the library, it doesn’t matter what you do or how much money you make, because every resource there is free of charge. This includes books and other materials, internet access, educational and entertainment programs, and professional training opportunities.

Individuals and families, no matter their socioeconomic status, can count on their libraries to provide them with the resources they need to succeed and the answers to important questions they can’t otherwise find. Librarians help patrons not only find their next reading selection, but also answer questions about computer and internet training, job applications and resume writing, government forms, and much more. And all of it is free.

2) Libraries are safe refuges for underserved populations. Libraries offer a safe and free refuge but also, they offer support to those in need. Each day when they open their doors, they become learning centers and employment centers for the most underserved population.

3) They help boost local economies.

While they are free, libraries play a key role in financially strengthening the local community. Providing a work space for telecommuters, supplying free internet access for people looking for employment opportunities, and offering help with job searches and interview training are just a few of the many ways libraries help build their local community.

4) Libraries help connect communities.

More than a community center, town hall, or public park ever could, libraries connect their communities in a way that benefits everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun story time, an immigrant in need of language resources, an unemployed individual searching for job help, or a community member who needs help on with government forms, you can all go to one place: the library. At the library communities come together to learn, share, and celebrate where they live, who they are, and what they want to become.

Libraries truly are remarkable places, and in today’s world, we need them now more than ever. Find out how you can support your local library and get to work protecting one of our most important public institutions.

So Much To Do In Amsterdam!

Mark Your Calendars 2023 Events

A Taste of Amsterdam - 2/6 - 2/13

*8am-8pm - WIDE ARRAY OF SPECIALS AT AMSTERDAM RESTAURANTS offered at $18.85 because Amsterdam was established in 1885

7th ANNUAL ST. PADDY’S DAY PUB FEST - 3/18

Sponsored by: Jackson Hewitt - *1-8PM

PICK UP PUNCH CARDS AND MAP AT ANY PARTICIPATING LOCATION • Free Trolleys - giveaways

HEALTHY LIVING

Activities taking place throughout the Spring, Summer and Fall Watch Facebook for Details

EARTH DAY CLEANUP - 4/22

Sponsored by: Purtell Realty 8:30am-1pm • City Wide

3rd Annual WINGFEST - 4/22

Sponsored by: The Rockton House 1-6pm

9th Annual SPRING FLING FESTIVAL - 5/20

Sponsored by: The Sentinel of Amsterdam 11am - 5pm • Downtown Main Street

SUNSET FESTIVALS

Sponsored by: Lanzi Family Restaurants

Saturdays in July & August • On the MVGO

INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL - 7/3

7-10pm • Riverlink Park

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT - 8/1

Sponsored by: Berkshire Farms • 5-8pm • Veteran’s Park

RIVERFEST - 8/5

Sponsored by: Sticker Mule • 1-9pm • Riverlink Park

SUMMER CAMP - 7/5 - 8/11 8am-3pm • ALL DAY CAMP!

LEARN TO SWIM - July Dates and Times TBA

Sponsored by: MC Public Health Department

City Pool - Veteran’s Park

LATINO AMERICANO FEST - 8/12

Sponsored by: Centro Civico • Riverlink Park

MOVIES IN THE PARK

July & August

ITALIA FEST - 9/9

Sponsored by: River Ridge Living Center 11am-9pm • Bridge Street

COMMISSIONERS CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

Date: TBA

Amsterdam, Municipal Golf Course FARMERS MARKET

Dates TBA

By the Mohawk River and MVGO

HALLOWEEN PARADE - 10/28

1pm Starting on Evelyn Avenue in Amsterdam

OPERATION BUNDLE UP

Underwritten by: MVP Health Care

AMSTERDAM’S ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL - 11/24 4pm - 6pm • MVGO

AMSTERDAM MILITARY BANNER PROGRAM

Year Round

Banners may be sponsored by businesses or individuals

For more information on these events: Like us on Facebook at City of Amsterdam Tourism, Marketing & Recreation Follow us on Instagram - City of Amsterdam Tourism Marketing & Rec or call us at: (518) 841-4307

Assemblyman

ANGELO SANTABARBARA

Assembly District 111

Representing Albany, Montgomery & Schenectady Counties

2550 Riverfront Center

Amsterdam, NY 12010

518-843-0227

433 State Street, Center City

Schenectady, NY 12305

518-382-2941

Inclusive playgrounds give every child a chance to play

Many of us have memories from our childhood of going to our favorite local playground, but for some children, these recreational activities can be out of reach. As greater awareness of physical and mental disabilities spreads throughout our communities, we’re seeing more playgrounds become more inclusive for all abilities. As the father of a son with autism, I know how important these opportunities to play are for children with disabilities.

With that said, this past August I hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to announce the rst sensoryfriendly, all-inclusive playground in the City of Amsterdam. As your state representative, I secured the state funding needed for this project that will be located at the Barkley School in the Greater Amsterdam School District. Providing kids with enriching forms of play is vital to developing their motor, social and emotional skills, cognitive abilities and strength. While the new playground in Amsterdam will provide a safe place for children with disabilities to play, it also fosters acceptance and empathy in kids. Every child should have a welcoming space to play where they feel accepted and respected.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) helps ensure that those with disabilities can access public accommodations, such as playgrounds. However, incorporating inclusive design elements can truly open the space to everyone. ADA regulations primarily address pathways and surfacing used at these sites, which is why spreading awareness about sensory-friendly and inclusive designs is vital to create more accessible spaces.

Inclusive playgrounds are di erent from other outdoor areas because they o er children with and without disabilities opportunities to engage with features at the site. Some bene ts of inclusive play are encouraging engagement between kids with di erent capabilities, fostering friendships and understanding between peers, and physical and mental exercises on safe and comfortable equipment.

As a longtime advocate for the disabled community, I’ve passed numerous laws and secured important funding while serving our community in the state Assembly. However, fostering relationships within our communities is also crucial to put accessibility into action. Like our milestone project with Ellis Hospital in Schenectady that created the state’s rst sensory-friendly emergency room to better support patients with autism and other developmental disabilities.

As your Assemblyman, I’ll continue advocating for the disabled community and serving as their voice at our State Capitol. If you have concerns or ideas for your community, I want to hear from you. I always look forward to hearing about how we can make our communities stronger and more inclusive. Call me at 518-366-2136 or send me an email at: santabarbaraforassembly2022@ gmail.com - my team and I look forward to hearing from you.

Greater Amsterdam School District Superintendent Richard Ruberti, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara and Mayor Michael Cinquanti break ground for the new all-inclusive sensory friendly playground at Barkley Elementary School.

(518) 212-2256

Located on the Southside of Amsterdam: 1 Port Jackson Square. Fourth Generation Lanzi Family 100+ years in business.

Immerse yourself in Neapolitan Wood Fired Pizza, Homemade Pasta & Daily Chef Features Including Steak, Seafood & Modern Italian Plates.

Save room for our scratch made desserts, espresso & of course Limoncello to finish!

Catering/Events Available info on our website: www.lorenzosssouthside.com

Gift Cards Available Online or At The Restaurant.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram & Facebook page to see our weekly features & behind the scenes content ! Hours

1 Port Jackson Square, Amsterdam, NY 12010

“Come in as a guest and leave as a friend.”

Our Mission

The Walter Elwood Museum is a gateway to learning using the past to illuminate the present. Utilizing the stories and artifacts of local experience, we examine history and culture in all its dimensions. We offer access to information through educational programs, unique collections and creative activities to enrich our understanding of ourselves and each other.

Free Admission

Open Mon.-Fri. 10am-4pm

Call for weekend or evening appts.

Visit our gift shop with books about Amsterdam by Local Authors, Children’s Toys and More…check online for photos or stop in.

518-843-5151

Walter Elwood Museum

Gift Shop

Our Gift Shop is filled with unique items and historical books. Stop in and check it out! Here are a few books you can purchase in our gift shop...

100 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

Exhibits include Local Artists Room • Vintage Children’s Toy Room • Military Room Carpet City History • Animal Room

American Locomotive • Company History Exhibit Native American • Conference Room Research Library

Many Items have been donated as well, see our website for a list of those items.

These are just a few that we have available.

• Teachers Assistants

• Teacher Aides

• Bus Drivers

Benefits included: Health & Dental Insurance, Retirement Plan, Employees Assistance Program, Work schedule follows the school calendar

If you are interested, send your resume to: HR@GASD.ORG

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Fire

fdgloversville@yahoo.com

Police Department 518-773-4514

Water Department 518-773-4520

clinart@gloversvillewater.com

For water quality questions please call the Water Filtration Plant at 518-773-4586

Mayor

vdesantis@cityofgloversville.com

City Assessor 518-773-4550

assrofficejoni@cityofgloversville.com

City Clerk 518-773-4542

cityclerk@cityofgloversville.com

Deputy City Clerk 518-773-4545

depclerk@cityofgloversville.com

Department of Public Works 518-773-4556

dpwaa@cityofgloversville.com

Mobility/Transit Manager 518-773-4522

bwarren@cityofgloversville.com

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

Valerie Acklin, Library Director gpl@mvls.info

Since 1880, the Gloversville Public Library has provided library services to the community of Gloversville and while the mission of access to information and recreation has not changed, delivery certainly has evolved over time.

The Library still maintains a robust collection of ction and non ction books for children, teens and adults, but the collection also includes electronic materials available through Overdrive and Libby. DVDs are very popular and folks can also check out a Roku stick with access to Crackle, Filmrise, HappyKidsTV, PBS & PBS Kids, Pluto TV, and Vudu.

New collections added to the shelves include an updated Graphic Novel collection, Seed collection, board games, and the Memory Lane Collection which targets people living with dementia and other memory-impacting conditions as well as their families and caregivers.

The Youth Services department has wonderful interactive kits for families and teachers. Another recent addition, with something for all ages is the Library of Things collection that includes a telescope, bird watching kit, Chromebook, pop up canopy and folding table.

The Library’s Local History Room has been a treasured community resource that was boxed up when the Library began renovations in 2017. Now the Library is excited to announce the opening of the new and larger local history room on April 2, 2022. Sta , volunteers, and outside professionals used the intervening time to evaluate all the resources available and carefully curate a collection that will be more meaningful and easier to access. The Early Literacy Center is a new addition as well. The mission of the ELC is to engage the patrons ages 0-5 in ways that will help them connect with the library and build their verbal, social, and pre-reading skills. Weekly storytimes have been moved into this inviting space and reception of the community has been extremely positive.

Programming is also a big part of the Library’s service to the community. Adults enjoy exercise classes, literature programs, arts & crafts workshops, and lectures on a variety of topics. As a member of the Library, patrons can also have access to resources beyond the walls of the building. The challenges of the pandemic forced the Library to o er o -site and online programs, many of which are still o ered in this format. Resources such as WiFi in the Library’s parking lot, databases with medical information and homework support, and Start with Science kits, available in partnership with the Mohawk Valley Library System, can be borrowed by schools and daycares. Not every community member is able to open a standard library account and to meet the needs to these patrons the library has introduced a Core Library Card. Materials that can be checked out are more limited, but all of the Library’s on-site and online services are available.

To learn more about all of the collections, programs and services available, visit the Library at 58 East Fulton Street, Gloversville, NY 12078 or at www.gloversvillelibrary.org.

Excavation • Demo Earth Recycling

Recycling yard is up and running! We take tree stumps, unwanted concrete, rock, topsoil, common fill and more! Driveway Repairs/installs

Septic Repairs/installs

New and/or existing site development etc. Large or small construction projectswe have you covered.

166 Elmwood Ave Ext., Gloversville, NY 12078

(518) 774-4238

Kyle Kimball, Owner

One Church Street is a community center in Johnstown, NY that sponsors the NOAH (Needy or Alone and Hungry) Free Community Meal and the Interfaith Council Food Pantry located at 26 N. Market St., across from One Church Street. Our mission is to continue to be a vital resource by nourishing our community in body, mind and spirit.

We were able to serve so many of our neighbors in 2022--over 2327 households at the Interfaith Council Food Pantry received enough food to serve over 140,000 meals (households can contain up to ten people), and our NOAH program served approximately 5,000 hot, homemade meals to our community on Sundays. Nourishing our community - our mission and our passion.

The NOAH program serves a hot, nutritious, free meal every Sunday to every person who wishes to attend. No questions are asked. This program has operated for the past 30 years, and serves nearly 500 meals each month.

We are now serving NOAH in person, restaurant style AND take out, in the church basement while we construct our new dining room and pantry next door at One Church Street.

Check our Facebook page for all of the progress being made on our new dining room and elevator!

The roots of One Church Street go deep into our community. Our iconic building – which is located at One Church Street in Johnstown, New York – once served as a YMCA, a post office and a center for health and information in the community. Go to our website to learn more about our plans: www.onechurchstreet.org You can be a part of this transformation of both our building and our community.

We have raised $1.9 million so far, and only need $380,000 to meet our goal and complete our project!!!

“Your contribution, whether you have ideas to share, time or a financial donation, will be remembered for generations to come.”

To find out more about donating or volunteering please call (518) 762-9210 or email: info@onechurchstreet.org

Your Library: a gathering place where you can learn, grow and enjoy,

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

An amazing Project is in the works!

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.

Archibald “Moonlight” Graham, also known as “Doc” Graham, was immortalized in the 1989 Kevin Costner movie “Field of Dreams”.

The field is the only remaining baseball diamond in America that was played on by “Doc” Graham in 1907. Generations of Volunteers have led Parkhurst Field to where it is today.

“Historic Parkhurst Field re-built as a destination for travel baseball teams will bring thousands of people each summer to the area, can be the centerpiece of an economic revitalization of the region and creates a jewel on Harrison Street, the gateway to downtown Gloversville,” says David Karpinski, Executive Director of the foundation.

This project has been in the making for 10 years now. David Karpinski, who played Little League on the field as a young boy, is on the board of directors of the Parkhurst Field Foundation. While they considered ways to raise money to keep up the infrastructure and help with league expenses, a rich history was uncovered that will surely be of interest for generations to come.

After much research and studying hand drawn maps, they decided to dig where they thought the original footings for the original Grandstand in 1906 may have been. The location that they pinpointed was only 6 inches from where the original pillars were laid in 1905, so they were able to recover the 1ft x 2ft pillars still intact. Because the new Grandstand is built in front of where they were found, they are going to place them on a walkway around the back of the Grandstand for tourist to admire. Homeplate is located exactly in the same spot as the original homeplate was. Work being done on the field, has gotten a lift from donations given by local companies, including Stewart’s Shops, a grant from Fulton County and privately raised funds. As work progresses on the park, David Karpinski says the plan is to invite 15 to 20 teams per week during the summer, which would equate to 300 families staying nearby each week to watch their children play and $1.8 million in annual economic impact for the region.

The Parkhurst Foundation was able to obtain permission to use the Field of Dreams logo from Universal as part of their fundraising efforts. This project will preserve a piece of history for generations, encourage young people to join the Little League, and bring many families to the area when it is used for Travel games.

The field will be used for the months of April-May-June to play baseball and then will be opened up for the next 10 weeks for tourism to raise money with the hope that eventually the locals will able to play for free. Interest in the history of the field will help promote the area as well, which will benefit businesses and residents too.

For more info or to donate to the Parkhurst Field Capital Campaign, follow Parkhurst Field on Facebook, visit parkhurstfield.com or email dave@parkhurstfield.org

Grand Re-Opening - April 29, 2023 on Opening Day of Gloversville Little League

Photo Credit: WATPHOTO

Watch our Facebook Page for Updates!

Original Footings uncovered and removed for future placemat on the walkway behind the new Grandstand.

Drone view of the trusses going up for the Grandstand roof. Artifacts and remnants that were found in the excavation of the pillars from the original field will be on display at the Parkhurst Field Museum which will eventually be located under the Grandstand.

“When complete, this will be a major economic draw for Gloversville and Fulton County”

A $2.5M BASEBALL COLLECTION WAS DONATED TO PARKHURST FIELD FOUNDATION FOR PERMANENT DISPLAY AT FUTURE NEW YORK STATE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME*

Stanley Harry Silver, 87, pictured below, with his wife, Patti of Beverly Hills and the Parkhurst Field Foundation have entered into an agreement to have one of the most storied private baseball collections in America donated upon his passing to be on permanent display at the future NYS Baseball Hall of Fame in Gloversville, NY. The collection includes over one thousand autographed baseballs dating back to the late 1800’s and almost every World Series program and All-Star program dating back to 1903.

Stanley’s father, Harry Silver, was an avid collector and Stanley attended games from the age of six. His love and passion for baseball started when his father came home from a hard day of work to play catch with him, in an alley next to their apartment. Harry’s enjoyment for baseball was an influence on Stanley, which led to a baseball scholarship to the University of Colorado.

The collection has every Hall of Fame player from the 1880’s, and early 1900’s... along with every Hall of Fame player from that period on. Each item has been appraised and documented for their authenticity.

In addition to the autographed baseballs, the collection includes one hundred and thirty-four All-Star, and World Series programs. The World Series programs start in 1903 to present and are only missing two from a complete set. The All-Star programs span 1933 to present. The programs will be sent immediately and display cases designed and built to present each one for future visitors to the park and Hall of Fame.

“I chose the Parkhurst Field Foundation as the recipient of my collection to be displayed at the NYS Baseball Hall of Fame, as I wanted it shared and seen by children and their families so they may be able to experience learning the great history of baseball together,” explained Mr. Silver. “The rich one hundred year history of Parkhurst Field inspired me as it features many Hall of Fame players and common baseball history that aligns with my collection. I was impressed by their incredible story and plan to share it as a destination for families for generations to come.”

David Karpinski, Executive Director of the Parkhurst Field Foundation, added “We are honored to be the chosen future home of this incredible collection. Mr. Silver and his father spent a lifetime building it together, which speaks to the special bond they had over the game of baseball. The thousands of families who come to Gloversville to play on our historic grounds will be able to experience one of the most comprehensive collections of baseballs and programs, learn the rich history of baseball in the region and celebrate all the inductees of the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame, making this one of the most unique baseball destinations in the country.”

The Amsterdam Waterfront Foundation has announced plans for the 2023 Riverlink Park Summer Concert Series

Concerts Begin7PMAt

- Abraham Lincoln

Seniors in our communities are such an important part of the fabric of our lives. They carry with them so much knowledge of times past and so much ingenuity to pass on to future generations. There are many organizations seniors can reach out to get help if they need it. Check out the next four pages of senior centers/organizations. Consider joining one if you are not already a member!

If your senior organization would like to be included in our magazine please reach out to:

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

*Information taken with permission from Facebook post on Parkhurst Field Facebook pg. Nov.

Consider a health care proxy and power of attorney

Do you have a will?

If you are like most people, you really don’t think much about estate planning until you have children. Once children are born, many parents begin to think about what would happen if they were to pass away while the children were young. This often leads to the acknowledgement that they should put something in place, or consult with an attorney about drafting a will, but many people just don’t make the time to do it.

There are a few misconceptions I have heard in my years of practice about wills. Some people think that if they die without one, the state will get everything. That’s not the case, unless you have no heirs as de ned by the New York State Estates Powers and Trusts Law section 4-1.1. Very few people I have met are unable to identify a living relative as distant as what we would think of as a second cousin who could inherit before the state would be entitled.

A will is an important thing to have for a number of reasons. If you are married and have children, and die without a will, your spouse will receive the rst $50,000 in assets, and the remainder will be shared evenly between your spouse and children. If your children are minors, or you have children with someone other than your spouse, this can be problematic for a number of reasons. If you are unmarried and you die without a will, your children will inherit everything, which is simple if your child is twenty ve, but requires more court intervention if your child is ve at the time of your death. And if you are unmarried, but in a committed relationship, your partner has no right to inherit from your estate—so a will is critical in the event you wish to provide for him or her.

As you can imagine there are many important things that you need to consider when you are about to create a will. If you have children who are young, you should be thinking about who you would like to take care of them if you pass away while they are minors. This is designating a guardian to care for your children should you pass away and there is no other surviving parent. Similarly, if your children are minors, they need someone to manage the assets that you leave to them. Many people prefer to name a trustee to manage the money left to children who is di erent from the guardian, just to add some oversight to the money management.

And if you have children, they are able to inherit money outright at the age of 18. Often, parents have concerns about an 18 year old inheriting a bulk sum. Parents often choose to have a trustee hold the funds until the bene ciary reaches 21, 23, 25, or some other benchmark such as college graduation, or some choose to pay a percentage at certain ages, just to ensure the money is not wasted.

53 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, NY 12010

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am - 2pm (518) 842-3815

Incorporated in 1986, the Inman Center offers programs and services that allow seniors in the area to maintain community engagement while living healthy, active and more independent lifestyles.

Our programs include:

Total Fitness (Mondays and Fridays)

Rise-N-Shine (Tuesdays and Fridays)

Muscle Up (Tuesdays)

Hiking (every other Friday morning)

Deep Stretch (Wednesday morning)

Zumba (Thursday morning)

Bocce • Wii Bowling

Pinochle (Thursday afternoon)

Bridge

Mah Jong (Tuesday afternoon)

Tai Chi (Monday mornings)

Pilates (Fridays)

Scrabble and Bridge (Tuesdays)

In addition we offer: Licensed BINGO (with cash prizes) Wednesdays at 1:45pm

Oil Painting Classes, Defensive Driving Course

AARP Income Tax preparation and e-Filing, Low Cost Lunches

Wednesdays 11-1pm

Mary Jo Wells, Executive Director inmancenter@biznycap.rr.com

Our Events include Holiday Parties and More

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

Your will is your opportunity to control the distribution of your assets in the event of your death. It allows you to make speci c gifts to charity, friends or relatives, provide for your children and/or signi cant other. If you don’t have one in place, you should consider consulting with an attorney to make sure your family is protected in the event of your death.

Do you have a health care proxy? This is a document that allows someone other than you to make health care decisions in the event you cannot make them yourself. It is often accompanied by a living will, that expresses your wishes about end of life care so your health care agent knows what decisions you would like him or her to make.

Do you have a power of attorney? A power of attorney is a document that authorizes the person of your choosing to act on your behalf for any legal purpose you designate (except health care decisions). A power of attorney is a powerful document, that can assist you with many things—however, the decision to grant this authority requires serious consideration. You should discuss this document at length with your attorney to decide whether it is the right time to create this document.

Bethany Schumann-McGhee has offices at 207 Wallins Corners Road, Suite 104, Amsterdam, New York 12010. She may be reached at 518-842-4228

Horace J. Inman Senior Center

“Stop

Senior

The Shirley J. Luck

A welcoming place that provides older adults oppportunities to socialize, exercise, learn something and have fun. Donations to the center help support the events and activities that bring people together at the Shirley J. Luck Senior Center.

Bingo

3rd Tuesday of every month. $1.OO Refreshments served after the games.

Exercise Class or Thursday fun!

Schedule

Schedule

Monday 9am - Light Stretch; 10am Mah Jongg; 10:30am Line Dancing; 12pm Men’s Pool; 1pm Cards; 1pm Knitting/Crochet; 1pm Bridge Club

Tuesday 10am Head to Toe; 11:30am Hybrid Yoga; 12:30pm Men’s Pool; 1pm Bridge; 6pm Chair Caning

Wednesday 9am Light Stretch; 12pm Men’s Pool; 1pm Cards; 4:15pm Computer Tutor (call for dates)

Thursday 9:30am Painting Class; 10am Head to Toe: 11:30am Hybrid Yoga; 12:30pm Men’s Pool; 1pm 50+ Events; 1pm Mah Jongg: 3pm Cards; 4pm TOPS

$$$$$ Costs for Classes $$$$$ (paid in 1 month sessions)

Light Stretch $12 Members/$20 Non-Members

Head to Toe $12 Members/$20 Non-Members

Friday 10am Mah Jongg; 12:00 Men’s Pool Check

Hybrid Yoga $20 Members/$25 Non-Members

Painting $12 Members/$20 Non-Members

Line Dancing $10 Members/$20 Non-Member

Chair Caning $5 Members/$10 Non-Members

Johnstown Historical Society

Montgomery County Office for Aging, Inc.

518-762-2777

List

Services:

The Johnstown Historical society is a group of people concerned with preserving the history of the City of Johnstown. It is a not-for-profit organization that runs and maintains the Johnstown Historical Museum and the Drumm House. If you would like to visit the museum contact Noel Levee at (518) 705-7440 or come by and ring the bell!

The Johnstown Historical Society was formed when it’s first slate of officers were elected and installed on May 30th, 1892. It was started by 11 civic-minded citizens who were concerned that relics and old documents were being dumped instead of preserved.

It’s current location at 17 North William Street was purchased by the Society in 1959 with funds from an anonymous donor. This building currently houses the Museum, Archives and Library.

Page managed by Bill Trojan Owner/Photographer of WATPHOTO

OFFICE The Fulton County FOR AGING

Vital information for vital generations

2023 is the agency’s 45th birthday

Services Offered:

• Adult/Nursing Homes

• Advocacy

• Caregiver Support

• Earned Income Credit

• Eldercare Locator

• Expanded In-Home Services for the Elderly Program (EISEP)

• Employment Entitlement Counseling

• Flood Clean-Up Tips

• Fulton County Public Health Services

• Happy Days Adult Daycare

• HEAP

• Health & Wellness

• Hospice

• Human Services Directory

• Information & Assistance NY CONNECTS

• Insurance Counseling

• Legal Services

• Long Term Care Insurance & Education

• Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

• Nutrition for Seniors

• Outreach

• Real Property Tax Exemptions

• Respite

• Senior Clubs

• Council of Senior Clubs and Centers

• Senior Newsletter

• Special Needs Registry

• Tax Credit Assistance IT-214

• Transportation

• Veterans Services

• Volunteer Opportunities

19 North William St., Johnstown, NY 12095 (518) 736-5650 Fax: (518) 762-0698 www.fcofa.org

Andrea Fettinger, BA, MEd, Director

Email:fcofa@fultoncountyny.org

We have evolved from a 2 person office in the lower level of the county building to a full service organization at 19 N. William Street in Johnstown.

“The Fulton County Office for Aging is funded by: The Older Americans Act, The County of Fulton, The State Office for Aging, Participant Contributions, Private, State, Federal (add) Grants, and Community Contributions”

OFA offers support through classes, home visits, phone calls, meetings and discussion groups.

Programs & Services for 2023

We will be able to provide limited rides to out of county Medical appoints

We will slowly re-open our lunch sites around the county

We will be able to assist with some durable medical goods that are not covered by health insurance

We will continue our Powerful Tools for Caregivers Class

We will be providing Nutrition Education sessions at the lunch sites

We will return to monthly visits to all the Senior Clubs in the county

Struggling with care giving duties and trying to juggle all your responsibilities?

Sometimes it helps to talk things out, be heard and know that you are not alone. Our Caregiver Discussion Group is a place where you can do just that. It is so important to also take care of yourself. Also, located conveniently within the OFA office, is our Caregiver Resource Center. You can view videos or dvds, use the internet to research diagnoses or other care options, a lending library with a myriad of books, magazines and brochures on many topics such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s, Bereavements, Baby Boomer issues, and Health and Wellness materials. All are welcome!

Transportation, door-to-door wheelchair accessible services countywide for those 60 years of age and older, rides to and from medical appointments (as far as Amsterdam), rides to and from Social Adult Day Care, to and from Dining Sites and Senior Centers, to visit friends/relatives at local nursing homes, to the bank, market, and post office. All available from Fulton County Office for Aging in collaboration with Fulmont Community Action Agency.

The Fulton Co. Office for Aging is in need of some fabulous volunteers to deliver meals in Fulton County! Volunteers can work once a week, every day, or whenever it fits their schedules!

• Hands on training is provided.

• Mileage reimbursement available.

• Volunteering for this program is very rewarding.

• Volunteers might be the only people the meals’ recipients see in a day!

• Home Delivered Meals help individuals remain in their own homes with dignity and independence.

When you have questions about Long Term Service & Supportsuch as, OFA home care, Medicaid services, information about nursing homes, adult homes, medical day care, social adult day care, need assistance with paperwork, need legal help, planning for the future for all ages - please call the Fulton Co. Office for Aging/NYConnects at 518-736-5650

• Volunteering is FUN! Call 518-736-5650 for more information! (800) 342-9871 • (518) 736-5650

The transportation runs Monday through Friday and serves most areas in Fulton County.

HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST - SOME OF OUR COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRIES

Catholic Charities of Fulton & Montgomery Counties

1 Kimball St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

(518) 842-4202 ext. 3152

Food Pantry hours: Monday 9-12noon; Wednesday 12noon-3pm; Thursday 1-4pm

Please register if you would like to go to the food panty: We need a photo ID for each adult in the household, birth certificate or insurance card (with birth date) for each child between 0-17yrs., proof of Montgomery County residency and proof of household income dated in the last 30 days. Montgomery County Residents Only for Food Pantry

ALSO:

Mass food distribution April - October in the parking lot at 1 Kimball Street on the first and third Thursday of each month. It is a drive thru and starts at 9:30 - 11am or until food runs out.

Fulton or Montgomery County Residents Welcome to Attend.

Fulmont Community Action Agency

Besides the Food Pantry, Fulmont Community Action Agency also helps with emergency clothing, job searches, resume building, personal and household items, VITA tax returns, coats for kids, holiday baskets, eviction prevention, utility/food assistance, gas cards, school supplies and community referrals.

53 Church Street Gloversville, NY 12078 (518) 725-7110

(Photo ID and Proof of Income for past 30 days, Proof of Address)

Mon-Fri 8:30-4 (Hrs. Change in July/August) (Closed 12-12:30 for lunch)

200 Canal Street Fort Plain, NY 13333 (518) 993-3230

(Photo ID and Proof of Income for past 30 days, Proof of Address)

Mon-Fri 8:30-4 (Hrs. Change in July/August) (Closed 12-1 for lunch)

The AMEN Place Soup Kitchen

ALL

105 Guy Park Ave., Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 843-2636

Food Distribution Tuesdays 10am-2pm

Trinity Lutheran Church

42 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 842-6691

(For Paper/Hygiene Products/etc.)

Distributed every 1st Tuesday of the month 6-7pm until November

Gloversville First Free Methodist Church

33 Bleeker Street (Center of Hope) Gloversville, NY 12078 (518) 752-5270

Tues. 4:00-6:00pm • Wed. 9:00-11:00am

Closed 2nd Week of the Month

1200 Riverfront Center Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 842-0790

Mon-Fri 8:30-4

(Closed 12-12:30 for lunch)

20 Park St. Room 206 Fonda, NY 12068 (518) 853-8351

Please note: This may not be a complete area list. Call to verify times/days, etc.

Mayfield Central Presbyterian Church

22 North Main Street, Mayfield, NY 12117 (518) 661-6566

Every Other Tuesday Starting Jan 3rd, 2022 12:00pm-3:00pm

Mayfield Residents only • Proof ID and Address

Centro Civico

a Division of Ibero

(Photo ID and Proof of Income for past 30 days, Proof of Address)

Mon-Fri 8:30-4

(Hrs. Change in July/August) (Closed 12-12:30 for lunch)

143-145 East Main St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 (518) 842-3762

Watch for food distribution events on our Facebook page.

Also See: Noah Community Dinner Info on Page 15

If you would like to donate to one of these Food Pantries, please reach out to them.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY AND ARCHIVES

Park St., Fonda, New York, 12068

If you would like to visit the Montgomery Department of History and Archives, an appointment is required. Please go to our website at www.co.montgomery.ny.us to do so. If you cannot make an appointment online please call (518) 853-8186

Please be advised, we will be closed to the public due to minor renovation beginning January 3rd, 2023. We will still be able to provide research requests via scanning or mail. Please call before stopping in, in case our completion dates have been changed.

When Montgomery County moved its county seat from Johnstown to Fonda in 1836, the transition was marked with the construction of the impressive Greek Revival edifice, known to many today as the Old Courthouse. Adorned with Ionic columns and topped with a gold-leafed dome, the building has seen numerous changes over the past 185 years. Many various trials occurred within these walls including two murder cases ending with executions in the courtyard and an 1839 libel suit involving James Fenimore Cooper.

Despite the removal of the court proceedings in 1892, activities continued to be held in the Old Courthouse. From the funeral of a Revolutionary War soldier, to the services of the Reformed Church, to the meetings for social organizations, to political functions and office space for county departments, the building has never been vacant.

After a series of transitions, the Old Court House continues to retain its magnificence. Fortunate for genealogists and historians alike, the building has been home to the Montgomery County Department of History & Archives since 1934. As the department’s collection grows, so too does the number of individuals amazed at the history of the building in which they sit.

*Information from Facebook post 9/8/22

(518) 736-2100

Mayor Amy Praught (518) 736-4012 apraught@cityofjohnstown.ny.gov

City Clerk Carrie Allen (518) 736-4011 callen@cityofjohnstown.ny.gov

Police Station

Non- Emergency (518) 736-4021

Bruce Heberer (518) 736-4079

Historian

Noel Levee (518) 762-7419 nclevee@nycap.rr.com

Engineer/DPW

Chris Vose (518) 736-4014 cvose@cityofjohnstown.ny.gov

City Assessor

Tina Dimitriadis (518) 736-4015 assessor@cityofjohnstown.ny.gov

For more information on city departments, go to the City of Johnstown website (shown above)

There is a lock box and application forms outside the front doors of City Hall. After hours, you can drop off payments, or anything that does not require personal assistance.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

SHOP+EAT+PLAY

Downtown Johnstown

Follow Facebook.com/downtownjohnstownbpa for all things downtown Johnstown

2023 Scheduled Events

* Johnstown Historical Society Path Thru History - June 17th

* Toying Around Block Party - June 24th

* Harry Potter’s Birthday Festival - July 29th

* Mid-Summer Concert Series - July & August Watch for more on our Facebook Page

If you are planning an event and would like it listed in the BPA Events Calendar or on their Facebook Page, please email all pertinent information to DowntownjohnstownBPA@gmail.com

Erica Wing, Director ewing@mvls.info

The mission of the Johnstown Public Library is to meet the community’s educational and recreational informational needs, with excellent customer service, in a welcoming environment.

How to get a Library Card:

License or photo identification with current address is required to obtain a library card. Two pieces of mail from your current address can be substituted. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to obtain a library card.

Library cards from any member library of the Mohawk Valley Library System (MVLS) or Saratoga Adirondack Library System (SALS) are accepted here. You can borrow Ebooks, (for computer, Kindle, Nook, iPad and manymoredevices),audiobooks&emagazines withalibrarycard.

Book Bundles are Available for Adults and Kids.

Book bundles are hand-picked collections of books based around a topic of your interest.

The options are endless!

Interested in an adult book bundle?

Contact Lori at lalbanese@mvls.info

For children’s book bundles, contact Valerie at vrogers@mvls.info

Giving

The Library gratefully accepts donations and memorial tributes.  Funds received as memorial donations are used to purchase books for the library’s collection, unless otherwise speci ed, with a bookplate acknowledging the donation placed inside.  Donations to the library’s Endowment Fund or Capital Fund are also greatly appreciated.

Donations are accepted in cash or check form and can be made payable to Johnstown Public Library.  They can be mailed to the Library at: 38 South Market Street, Johnstown, NY 12095 or brought directly to the Library’s front desk.  You can also donate online.

Services Available

• Black and White Photocopying, $.25/page

• Black and White Printing from Library Computers, $.10/page

• Fax, $1.75 for 1 page and $1.00/page for all additional pages

• Free Wi-Fi

The Johnstown Public Library is a tax-exempt public charity as described in section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and is a local government agency that exists exclusively for public purposes.

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan, WATPHOTO

Jessica Henry McClements, Downtown Johnstown Business & Professional Association President downtownjohnstownbpa@gmail.com

There are many reasons to have a home inspection done.

1) Pre-Listing Inspections

This is great way to pre-qualify your house before you put it on the market. Avoid last minute costs due to unforeseen major defects.

2) Annual Maintenance Inspections

Chad Agerter

Home Inspection Expert

Chad has lived in the Great Sacandaga Lake area for most of his life. He grew up in Mayfield, NY. In 2020 he completed an Associates’ degree program in construction technology. He received his home inspection license in 2021. He and his family have lived in Broadalbin since 2017. In 2018 he decided to go out on his own and start a business. He attended CATS Home Inspection School, and Sacandaga Home Inspections was born. It was started to serve the people who call the Adirondacks and the surrounding areas home. Chad knows that buying a home, especially a first home, is a significant moment in ones life and can be quite overwhelming. Sacandaga Home Inspections will guide you through the home inspection and give you a report to help you make a sound decision on moving forward with your purchase.

License # 16000112510 to go out on his own and start a started to serve the people who call quite Home Inspections will guide you moving forward with your purchase.

See ad on page 27

Your home needs a tune-up just like your car. Nothing is worse than having a major defect pop up and costing you a significant amount of money.

3) Home Inspections

This is the core service offered by Sacandaga Home Inspections. The inspection is broken down into systems. Each system is thoroughly looked at during the inspection process. These include the roof, attic (if applicable), the basement/foundation, and even the grading of the property. Ancillary Services are also Offered

• Radon Testing

• Wood Destroying Insect Inspection

• Water Quality Testing

• Well Flow Testing

• And other services

To learn more or to schedule a service call Sacandaga Home Inspections (518) 866-6331 or Email: chagerter@gmail.com

www.sacandagahomeinspections.com

There are many financial considerations when buying a home and the ability to obtain credit is one of them. Here, Jessica Brate, a Licensed Loan Originator at Homestead Funding explains the importance of..

If you are looking to borrow money for a car, credit card or a home, your credit score will determine the rates you will pay. Thus it is important to know your credit score and understand what factors are used to determine it.  The three major credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax and Experian) all have their own "credit scoring models".  Each model weighs various factors differently- some put more emphasis on your payment history and others look more closely at balances or available credit. The scores that 90% of banks use for mortgage lending are generally FICO scores (there a many versions of FICO scores as well).  Consumers can't obtain those scores for free and are often provided with their score from a credit card or online service. Those scores are usually based on the Vantage score (developed by FICO's competitor) and since different data points are considered with that model, the score you will see is likely higher than the scores lenders see.  Most lenders select your middle score for rates and  lending eligibility.  Scores for mortgage credit reports can range from 300-850, but you are likely to be denied credit if your score is below 600.  A score in the mid-600's is considered fair, scores in the 680-739 range are good and scores over 740 are considered top tier.  Interest rates and mortgage insurance costs are tiered so the higher your score, the lower the rate.

Not only do you have many different credit scores, your scores are ever-changing. Each creditor submits data to the bureaus just one time per month.  So what is on a given report is a snapshot of the data available on the date it was obtained.  It can take a full month to see a debt you paid off get updated on your report.  The balance you owe on credit cards vs. the limit is called your "utilization ratio" which makes up 30% of your FICO score.  If you have a card with a $2500 limit and a balance of $2300 your score will be much lower than if you only owe $800 on the same card.  Derogatory items like late payments, collection accounts, etc. also have significant impact on your score (they account for up to 35% of the FICO score).  The recency of opening new account(s) and the number of creditor inquiries you have will also influence your score.

It can feel like the credit scoring system is a bit mysterious because there is no exact number of points that are gained or lost for specific events.  The same event will impact all consumers differently depending on their overall history.  For example, a person who had a 680 score and a very limited credit history and only 2 active accounts could lose 40 points for having a 30-day late payment.  Yet a person who has a 770 score, a 20 year long history and 10 active accounts might only lose 20 points for a 30-day late payment.  When a derogatory event such as a late payment or collection account is reported, just making that payment will not erase that from your history or undo the damage to your score.  The only thing that will help your score climb back up from a derogatory event is time.  Making all future payments on time payments and maintaining a low utilization ratio will help your score recover more quickly.   A late payment from the last month or two will have more negative impact on your score in the immediate future then it will have in 9 or 12 months.

Credit reporting is not a perfect system, but it is the best way for lenders to assess the risk of extending credit so it is very important that you periodically check your history for errors and know your score. If an error shows up on your report you can dispute it through one or all of the bureaus.  Making sure you maintain a strong credit score in the 700’s will ensure you have the ability to borrow money when you need to and don’t have to pay higher rates.

You can obtain a free copy of your report with your Experian, Equifax and TransUnion data once per year from www.annualcreditreport.com

Sacandaga Home Inspections

Chad M Agerter, Owner/Operator • License No. 16000112510 P.O. Box 29, Caroga Lake, NY 12032 Email: chagerter@gmail.com

518-866-6331

www.sacandagahomeinspections.com

For many of us, it can be very confusing when we get ready to sell our home. What matters the most? What steps should we take to best prepare? Here, Robert Gordon, NYS Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker at Inglenook Realty, Inc. has some answers.

6 items to consider to "bullet proof" your listing when placing your home for sale

If you've read any blog post about preparing your home for sale or watched a recent episode of your favorite HGTV show, you've probably heard that pricing, decluttering, cleaning, and depersonalizing are the most important things you can do when preparing your home for sale.  While this is undeniably true, there are several things you may not be aware of that; if addressed before you list; could save you time, aggravation, and potentially even your closing.

1.  Complete a walk through with an experienced Real Estate Professional - Hire an experienced *Realtor to come do a preliminary walk through and make recommendations where your money would be best spent on improvements. Don't take their advice personally.  You may love full wall murals which is personalized decorating, but it may not be something that's appealing to 99% of your potential buyers.  To have the best opportunity to sell, the home needs to appeal to the majority of the market rather than a speci c buyer.

2.  Consider having a pre-listing structural inspection - A large percentage of the homes that fail to sell were actually previously under contract to be sold, only to have their sale fall apart due to an inspection or appraisal condition issue.  By having a pre-listing inspection, you can address the issues up front that may prevent your sale from occurring down the line.  Important items to look for include health hazards such as mold in the attic or basement and asbestos, electrical and plumbing issues, and foundation issues.  Many problems are minor and can be taken care of by the homeowner; things like uncovered junction boxes, cracked windows, hand rails, and pressure relief valves on water heaters.  The larger issues you should have completed by a professional that can certify in writing that the issue has been addressed.

Two

1525

3.  Get your home Government Loan ready -  In the market area of Fulton & Montgomery counties in the last 12 months as of the date of this writing, roughly 29% or just under 1 out of 3 of the homes that sold were sold under a Government loan.  To make sure those buyers have an opportunity at purchasing your property, be sure to prepare your home to be sold under their loan terms.  Scrape and paint areas of peeling paint both inside and outside of the home including outbuildings.  If you have country property, know and mark the location and the distance between your septic and well.  Dig out your paperwork for age, depth, and gallons per minute if you can nd it.  Add that missing extension pipe to your water heaters pressure relief valve. Make sure you have handrails on all steps and any potential safety hazards have been addressed.  That raised patio block may seem insigni cant to you and to the buyer, but the fact that it's a tripping hazard could cause you problems down the line if you get a tough bank appraiser.

4.  Test your well for contaminates & have your septic checked - If you have well water, bring a sample of water in to test for Coliform, e-coli, Nitrite, Nitrate, and Lead.  Coliform is the most common bacteria found on an inspection and if discovered you can then take appropriate steps to remediate.  By inspecting and pumping your septic up front, you can address any potential issues with broken covers and ba es as well as clogged leach lines before the buyer has it inspected.

5.  Find and update your abstract of title - While in some areas of the region it can be a buyer expense to update the abstract, in much of our market area it is a typical seller expense to update. If you are able to nd the abstract it can save you money in title/legal fees and if you update it up front it can save you time in the end.  You will be looking for a roughly 11 x 14 packet and inside will be a stack of deeds which is the history and chain of ownership on your property.  Make sure any liens against the property are paid...i.e. you forgot to pay the plumber and they placed a mechanic’s lien on your home, and any back taxes.

6.  Sell the home “Certi ed Pre-Owned” - I’m sure you have seen the car commercials that say to buy their cars that are warrantied and have gone through a multi-point inspection.  You can do the same thing with your home.  Pre-inspect it and repair the issues, have it appraised up front by an independent third party, and sell it with a home warranty to cover the major mechanicals and systems within the home for the potential buyer.

The best home, in the best condition, and for the right price will usually result in an o er rst.  But, by completing the six items above you can almost assure yourself that you will close rst & with the least hassle.

If you have questions or would like to talk about getting your home ready to list, call Bob Gordon at (518) 852-4408 - Cell

Have you been thinking about getting away?

Whether it’s for the day or longer...

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

Destination: Tribes Hill Heritage Center

Hello all.

Let me introduce myself properly. Sue Clark is my name. An M.Ed. degree explains my stylea combination of 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. Editor/owner, Linda Palmieri and I discussed taking on a travel column about my local wanderings in the Palmieris new adventure, this magazine! Done!

I’ll start my new “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’m doing it for the fame. I’m not a historian by profession. My writing style will be 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.

WHERE:

360

If you enjoy learning about Native American history and enjoy viewing native artifacts from tribes across the USA, then the Tribes Hill Heritage Center (THHC) is your destination. Founder Marjorie Ann Dancing Wind Heacock and Co-founder Terrie Robbins have created a beautiful showplace set inside an old church to display an outstanding collection of Native American artifacts and crafts which you will see nowhere else.

As a retired award winning educator, Marjorie Ann Dancing Wind Heacock can easily walk you through the extensive collections on both floors. When you are through, you’ll be able to share your new knowledge with others. Easily.

I myself love looking at old school silver and turquoise jewelry. The THHC houses one of the finest collections around in these parts, bar none. Then there is the rare pottery, rugs, baskets, bead craft, bear skin and ... so much more. Dance shared that she and her husband traveled all over the USA and collected rare pieces of Native American craft for many years. Sadly her husband has passed on and is certainly missed. He wanted her to continue with their dream

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Continued from page 30

of opening a show place for their collection. Dance has not only been able to secure and stabilize a building in Tribes Hill, NY to house their collection and art work of others, THHC had since been granted non profit status. Dance hopes to host classes for families and schools in the near future.

Current indigenous art made by many artists can be purchased at THHC. Lorraine Steffen’s exquisite feather work was on display during my visit. She is known as a Master feather-smith. The photos I provided will give a hint of Lorraine’s exquisite featherwork, and that of other artists work presented at THHC. Stop in and be prepared to be mesmerized by the collection of beauty that is the Tribes Hill Heritage Center.

So... until the next edition... “It’s right down the road! ~ Mustang Sue Sue’s

By Sue Clark. M.Ed. (AKA Mustang Sue)

These Dogs & Cats are each waiting to join their very own family!*

These

Contact the shelter/rescue if you would like to meet one. Click on the QR codes for other dogs/cats available for adoption. See pet section that starts on page 45 for more.

Contact the shelter/rescue if you would like to meet one. Click on the QR codes for other dogs/cats available for adoption. See pet section that starts on page 45 for more.

* Please note that some or all of these dogs/cats may have been adopted while this magazine was being printed, but for sure there will be one that is perfect for your family.

* Please note that some or all of these dogs/cats may have been adopted while this magazine was being printed, but for sure there will be one that is perfect for your family.

Stratton

Stratton

Watson

Watson

8 year old beagle mix. I love to play fetch. Although I’m 8 I still have lots of energy, I’ve hiked 20+ miles with my human. I like staying near my human. I need a home with no other animals but that’s ok because I’m sure to fill your heart!

8 year old beagle mix. I love to play fetch. Although I’m 8 I still have lots of energy, I’ve hiked 20+ miles with my human. I like staying near my human.

I need a home with no other animals but that’s ok because I’m sure to fill your heart!

I would really love a fenced in yard so I can run and play!

I would really love a fenced in yard so I can run and play!

Nomi

Nomi

Nomi is an adult femaie, short hair Tabby. Her vaccinations are up to date and she is spayed. She is good with cats and children, has a beautiful meow and will surely be a nice addition to any family.

Nomi is an adult femaie, short hair Tabby. Her vaccinations are up to date and she is spayed. She is good with cats and children, has a beautiful meow and will surely be a nice addition to any family.

Diesel

Diesel

Diesel is a 3-4 year old mixed breed. He is super happy, and loves to be with people. He has lived with young children and absolutely loves kids! He does have separation anxiety, so a home where someone is almost always present would be best for him. He knows basic commands. He will need a home with NO other animals.

Diesel is a 3-4 year old mixed breed. He is super happy, and loves to be with people. He has lived with young children and absolutely loves kids! He does have separation anxiety, so a home where someone is almost always present would be best for him. He knows basic commands. He will need a home with NO other animals.

Amanda

Amanda

Amanda is 8 years old. She is full of personality and does ‘talk’ to tell you what she wants. She absolutely loves to be in your lap and snuggle. If she can’t be in her humans lap then she’ll be snuggled up with other dogs. She will need to go to a home that has a fur sibling for her.

Amanda is 8 years old. She is full of personality and does ‘talk’ to tell you what she wants. She absolutely loves to be in your lap and snuggle. If she can’t be in her humans lap then she’ll be snuggled up with other dogs. She will need to go to a home that has a fur sibling for her.

Moyn

Moyn

A 12 year old domestic short hair, Moyn is so ready to find his forever home. Moyn was surrendered due to the health of his previous owner. Moyn is very affectionate and sweet. He loves getting his head scratches and cuddling with his stuffed animals. He is very relaxed and would make a great lap cat.

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at H.O.P.E.

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at H.O.P.E.

H.O.P.E. Animal Rescue (Homes For Orphaned Pets Exist)

H.O.P.E. Animal Rescue

(Homes For Orphaned Pets Exist)

(518) 428-2994

(518) 428-2994

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at H.A.L.O. H.A.L.O. (Helping Animals Live Organization)

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

2 year old Watson is extremely sweet and friendly. He came in as a stray. He walks well on a leash, and seems housebroken. He is good with other dogs with a proper introduction. Watson did come in with a bad infection and now it’s all cleaned up. When he sees people he does that adorable wiggle wag because he loves people so much!

2 year old Watson is extremely sweet and friendly. He came in as a stray. He walks well on a leash, and seems housebroken. He is good with other dogs with a proper introduction. Watson did come in with a bad infection and now it’s all cleaned up. When he sees people he does that adorable wiggle wag because he loves people so much!

Red

Red

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Herk Humane

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Herk Humane

Herkimer County Humane Society

A 12 year old domestic short hair, Moyn is so ready to find his forever home. Moyn was surrendered due to the health of his previous owner. Moyn is very affectionate and sweet. He loves getting his head scratches and cuddling with his stuffed animals. He is very relaxed and would make a great lap cat.

615 Albany St., Little Falls, NY 13365 (315) 985-3738

(Helping Animals Live Organization)

615 Albany St., Little Falls, NY 13365 (315) 985-3738

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at ASSV

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at ASSV

The Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, Inc.

304 Howes Cave Rd., Howes Cave, NY 12092 (518) 296-8390

304 Howes Cave Rd., Howes Cave, NY 12092 (518) 296-8390

Hello there my name is Red! I am a shy boy looking for my new person to bring me out of my shell. A nice quiet home where I can grow my confidence will suit me fine! If you’d like to know more info or want to visit me, come by APF or call and ask about me!

Hello there my name is Red! I am a shy boy looking for my new person to bring me out of my shell. A nice quiet home where I can grow my confidence will suit me fine! If you’d like to know more info or want to visit me, come by APF or call and ask about me!

Thor

Thor

5 year old Thor’s tale is a sad one. His family moved and dumped him on the streets for years! He was rescued by a small rescue who turned to us for help, as Thor had medical needs to take care of. He needs a quieter home with no kids as he wants to feel safe. Thor is also FIV+, but can live with other cats.

5 year old Thor’s tale is a sad one. His family moved and dumped him on the streets for years! He was rescued by a small rescue who turned to us for help, as Thor had medical needs to take care of. He needs a quieter home with no kids as he wants to feel safe. Thor is also FIV+, but can live with other cats.

Earl

Earl

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at MMR

Mountain Rottie Rescue

Mountain Rottie Rescue

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at MMR P.O. Box 350, Clifton Park, NY 12065 Mountainappl@yahoo.com

P.O. Box 350, Clifton Park, NY 12065 Mountainappl@yahoo.com

4.5 year old Earl loves consistency in his daily routines. He needs a bit of time to warm up to new situations and people. He would do best with sturdy humans who aren’t easily knocked over. (He likes laps too!) Earl is looking for a home where he can be the only dog. Can best be described as a sophistacted goofball!

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at CGHS on Facebook

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at CGHS on Facebook

Columbia Greene Humane Society

111 Humane Society Rd., Hudson, NY 12534 518-828-7709

111 Humane Society Rd., Hudson, NY 12534 518-828-7709

Ben

Ben is 7 years old and is looking for a forever home. Ben would do best with a single woman, no children, no small animals, a fenced in yard, and may do well with another dog. He is protective of his territory. He is very calm indoors and will need to get comfortable with his new person first with some home visits.

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

Herkimer County Humane Society

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

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at A.P.F.

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at A.P.F.

Animal Protective Foundation

53 Maple Ave. Glenville, NY 12302 (518) 374-3944

Animal Protective Foundation

53 Maple Ave. Glenville, NY 12302 (518) 374-3944

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Animal Lovers

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Animal Lovers

Animal Lovers

P.O. Box 6246 ALbany, NY 12206-0426 (518) 348-3903

Animal Lovers

P.O. Box 6246 ALbany, NY 12206-0426 (518) 348-3903

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Upstate Underdog Rescue

Scan Here to See Pets Available for Adoption at Upstate Underdog Rescue

4.5 year old Earl loves consistency in his daily routines. He needs a bit of time to warm up to new situations and people. He would do best with sturdy humans who aren’t easily knocked over. (He likes laps too!) Earl is looking for a home where he can be the only dog. Can best be described as a sophistacted goofball! upstateunderdogrescue@ gmail.com

Upstate Underdog Rescue

Upstate Underdog Rescue

upstateunderdogrescue@ gmail.com

Scan Here to See Pets Available at Dog House Adoptions/ Pawsome Pups Persevere Dog House Adoptions/ Pawsome Pups Persevere

Scan Here to See Pets Available at Dog House Adoptions/ Pawsome Pups Persevere Dog House Adoptions/ Pawsome Pups Persevere

Ben is 7 years old and is looking for a forever home. Ben would do best with a single woman, no children, no small animals, a fenced in yard, and may do well with another dog. He is protective of his territory. He is very calm indoors and will need to get comfortable with his new person first with some home visits.

FInd us on Facebook pawsomepupspersevere@ yahoo.com

Columbia Greene Humane Society FInd us on Facebook pawsomepupspersevere@ yahoo.com

Dogs & Cats are each waiting to join their very own family!*

The Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, Inc.

Our Mission

The mission of the Fulton County Historical Society is to acquire, preserve and promote the history of Fulton County, NY and to convey the significance to the public with tours, exhibits, programs, and research.

Our Vision

The Fulton County Historical Society and Museum will be a vibrant history center and museum engaging the community and its residents in supporting and investing in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Fulton County’s past.

Check Facebook or the Website to find out more about our 2023 Special Exhibits

Fulton County Historical Society programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

Sat., Feb 25, 2023 • 10:30am

Magical Magnetic Trains! Presented by miSci

Sat., Feb. 18, 2023 • 5:30pm

VanWyckes Chocolate Haus

Presentation & Investigation with Agent Paranormal

Sat., March 11th,

Opening Day - Sat. June 3rd • 12 - 4

Open for the Season on June 3rd

Open: Sat. and Sun. 12 - 4pm in June Thurs. through Sun. 12 - 4pm from June 31 through Labor Day

Sat. and Sun. 12 - 4pm through Columbus Day

518-725-2203

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band and

the Gloversville Civic Band

Their Talent and Passion Bring Joy to So Many!

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.

Both bands were formed at the turn of the 20th century: The Johnstown Citizens’ Band recently ended its 114th year of existence and the Gloversville Civic Band has been performing since the late 1890s. The musicians in both bands are made up of music teachers, and a few professional musicians, along with a number of other members who may have not majored in music, but who have loved playing since high school and have opted to continue their love of music by joining and performing in one or both of these wonderfully talented groups. Many of them give private lessons and perform in a variety of venues in the area. Currently, the Conductor and President of the Johnstown Citizens’ Band is Noel Wing, a retired music educator. Tom Gerbino, another retired music teacher, conducts the Gloversville Civic Band. Both have an extensive history of teaching and conducting in the public school systems and have participated in professional musical endeavors in their communities. They also are responsible for selecting the music for each concert and recruiting the musicians.

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band has only 35-37 members because the band shell cannot hold more people! As older members pass on, the band encourages younger musicians to join. Age is not a deterrent, however. The ability to sight-read is more important than the age of the musician. The Gloversville Civic Band is a little larger and they welcome student musicians to perform with the band upon the recommendation of their band teacher.

Carol Carelli (Vice President and Secretary of the Johnstown band, and member of both bands) stated, “There are no auditions for either band. However, since we only rehearse for 45-60 minutes before the concert, the musicians must be able to sight-read the music well…that means they need to be able to play the music perfectly….or close to perfectly, the first time. Most of our rehearsals are for stops and starts, tempo changes, and solos, etc. We don’t have the pleasure of practicing the music before the concert….we just show up and PLAY! The Johnstown band generally does not play for other functions, although we have had some “extra” concerts over the years for community celebrations…in the early years of the band, they performed at many community functions, but the bands then were much smaller!”

There are many musicians who play in both bands. The members used to come from the local communities, but as it got more difficult to fill the spots, they have reached out farther in the area to get the musicians….mostly by word of mouth or the recommendation of the local HS teachers. The Johnstown Citizens’ Band has a 5-member board, which is responsible for the organization of the band, fundraising activities, hiring musicians, purchase of music and musical equipment and any other activity necessary to keep the group performing. As a non-profit organization, the Johnstown Citizens’ Band relies on donations from local businesses and individual patrons to support our concerts. Donations can be mailed to: Carol Carelli, Fundraising Chairperson, 113 Laurel Drive, Amsterdam, NY 12010.

The Gloversville Citizens Band, Inc. produces the Summer Band Concerts in the Park, performed by the Gloversville Civic Band. The Gloversville Civic Band started their 2022 season on July 6th and played 6 concerts on Wednesdays for the public until mid-August. These outdoor concerts have been a tradition for many decades. In 2021 and 2022 the venue for the concerts was the Trail Station Park on West Fulton Street. The Lexington Campus on East State Street in Gloversville has offered their space for concerts in the case of inclement weather and the last concert. The organization promotes traditional, classical, and popular music for public enjoyment. The 2023 season will probably have 6 concerts, every Wednesday, starting at 7 PM. The concerts are free and open to the public. Both venues are handicapped accessible and have ample parking for the audience and musicians. Audience members must bring their own lawn chairs to both locations.

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NOTE: Information contained on these pages was taken, with permission, from a writing about the history of the Johnstown Citizens’ Band. The article was called, “AND THE BAND PLAYED ON”, by Dorothy Jenner Dopp. Other information in this story was provided by Carol Carelli, Vice President and secretary of the Johnstown Citizens’ Band and Diane Perrella, Board of Directors, Gloversville Citizens Band, Inc. Copy and photos were also provided by Tom and Janet Gerbino, of the Gloversville Civic Band. A huge thank you to Samantha Hall-Saladino from the Fulton County Historical Society for her research and input for this article, and to Norm Clo, Mark Batty and Craig Brookins for their personal stories about family in the two bands.

The Gloversville Civic Band, sponsored by the organization, receives all its funding from local businesses and individual donors. Recognition is noted in our terrifically printed Program for the summer band season! Prior to 2022, grant money awarded from the Saratoga Council on the Arts betwen 2018-2021 helped support the summer series. Our group continues to present 6 varied music programs each summer with Tom Gerbino, Conductor. These themes include “Tribute to America”, “Baseball”, “Big Band Favorites” etc. Each concert features local ‘legends’ and a musical quiz. We are especially grateful to the wonderful support received from the Board, Public, Advertisers, DPW and the Media. We are proud to state that our concerts are “family friendly”. The three-person Board of Directors of the Gloversville Citizens Band, Inc., does all the public outreach, fundraising and organizing of the concerts.

If anyone is interested in donating or volunteering, call 518-725-8286 or 518-775-3830. Donations are gladly accepted and can be mailed to: Gloversville Citizens’ Band, Inc. PO Box 984, Gloversville, NY 12078.

History of the Bands

The Johnstown Citizens’ Band has a long history in the community beginning in the 1870s. Robert Bedford, onetime Johnstown historian, noted that the Johnstown Cornet Band gave a series of open concerts in the Court House Park, right across the street from the current venue. The band was still in existence until 1897 when the name was changed to Johnstown City Band. In the mid-1890s another band, Johnstown Military Band and the City band combined to form the Johnstown Citizens’ Band. At the same time, there was also a Gloversville Military Band.

In 1908 reorganization of the groups took place with the first-known actual business meeting held in January of 1910. Many members of the band participated for decades. The first Conductor was Herbert W.L. Jenner. Mr. Jenner was at the helm until 1938 when he turned over the conductor position to his son, Charles E. Jenner, when he became ill. He died in 1941 and Charles became the official conductor. Charles E. Jenner conducted the band until 1976, when he passed away conducting a concert at the Willing Helper’s Home in Johnstown. At that time, he had been affiliated with the band for 60 years. In August, 1976, a Bicentennial Concert was dedicated to Mr. Jenner. It was always Charlie’s dream to play in a bandshell, and in 1979 a contract to build the bandshell commenced. The band has played there every summer since its completion. After Mr. Jenner’s death, James Hughston, an elementary music teacher and member of the band, conducted the group from 1977-1979. In 1979 Joseph Walsh, another member of the band, took over and led the band until 2008, when Douglas Dougherty, a HS music teacher conducted until he retired in 2019. After a 2-year year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, Noel Wing, the current director, led the band for the 2022 season.

The Gloversville Civic Band has a long history, beginning in the early 1810s.

The first band in Gloversville was led by Ephraim Kelly Eaton. Born in 1814, Eaton came from a musical family and played a number of instruments. At 16, his father sent him off to become a shoemaker. However, it was his cousin, a clerk in his father’s store, who started his musical education. In 1834, when he was 20, he traveled to Boston after he heard of an opportunity to play in a band abord the US Frigate Constitution for a cruise to the Mediterranean.

He returned to the US in the spring of 1835 and eventually settled in Gloversville. After joining a circus band in 1838, Eaton returned to the area and became a member of the Cook’s Band in Albany and in 1842, he joined the Schenectady Brass Band.

In 1844, Eaton left the area again to join Lent’s Circus with the Schenectady Brass Band. In 1861, he organized a band for the USS Sabine (at the beginning of the Civil War). In the years following 1862-64, a number of men tried to field a band, including Steve Moore, Ed Fox, Jason Morris, Jim Hosmer, Servy Fallis, Matt Fallis, Thad DeRose, Hick Kasson, Curley Graff, Bob Hyman, Bill Ruff Washburn, Mack Comrie and Jon Van Vechten, who were the principal windjammers of the village. The war brought out a lot of fifes and drummers, noisily howling day and night.

The band kept rehearsing and continued to increase in size so during the campaign of President Grant, the Gloversville Cornet Band was favorably known throughout the state. On January 5, 1874 the following officers were elected: President: W. A. Kasson; secretary, R.B. Hyman; manager, A.J. Kasson; musical director, Ben Dale. Mr. Dale was offered a position as the head of a band in Philadelphia, shortly thereafter, and C. W. Swart was elected leader.

Around 1879, Mr. A.K. Kasson, a local businessman and benefactor in Gloversville, looked upon the band as a good business proposition and asked Mr. Ned Clapp, a talented cornetist and leader, to take charge of the band. Mr. Clapp brought several trained musicians with him and reorganized the name of the Gloversville Reed and Cornet Band. Unfortunately, Mr. Clapp left Gloversville in 1883 for Pittsfield and took nearly all the musicians with him.

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The Batty Brothers band Circa 1912

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan - WATPHOTO

History of the Bands

In 1884, a band was organized consisting of the remaining members of the Clapp band and others, under the leadership of Mr. George Maxfield. In December, 1885 another band was organized by Fred W. Bridges, which later became the Citizens Corps Band. After Bridges left, J.J. Wilkins took over the group. In October, 1892 Mr. Ned Clapp returned to Gloversville and organized the Gloversville Military Band, which absorbed the old band in the spring of 1893. Once more, Mr. Clapp established a wonderful record as a concert band. Sadly, again he left at the end of the summer of 1893 and returned to Pittsfield.

The difficulties of keeping a band together were enormous. During the summer of 1897 a few men solicited businesses for assistance in providing a rehearsal space and uniforms. They were able to secure a Musicians’ Room in Hotel Elk on Fremont Street with a full set of uniforms. Mr. A.C. Fleming was elected leader and conductor and in May, 1899, they joined the Concordia Club and moved the headquarters to their club house on West Fulton Street.

On October 29, 1898, Mr. E.J. Lucas was elected leader and manager. The Gloversville Military Band rehearsed there weekly for the next 5 years. On January 14, 1904, Mr. Lucas resigned and turned the baton over to Mr. W.H.L Jenner, who conducted the group for the next 4 years. In July 1908, Mr. Jenner resigned to take over the leadership of the Johnstown NY band and Mr. F. J. Batty was elected to take his place. Mr. Batty continued to lead the Gloversville Band for 30 years. He felt that community bands were an integral part of the community and felt that the group should receive community and financial support. The Batty family was very involved in music, particularly in Gloversville. The names of Stan Batty, Syd Batty and Orville Batty are familiar in Gloversville’s musical history. Stan Batty, son of F.J. Batty conducted the band well into the 1970s when Milton Brookins took the baton. Both of his sons were also members of the organization. When Milt Brookins retired, Norm Clo, long-time band director at Gloversville High School directed the band until his retirement in 2011. Josh Thompson was named Associate Conductor and Tom Gerbino was named Principal Conductor in 2011. Tom Gerbino continues to conduct the Gloversville Civic Band to this day.

Both Gloversville and Johnstown have rich histories of music in their communities. Music is something that spans generations and is timeless…both old and young love listening and playing in such wonderful groups. Summertime is a perfect season to enjoy the sounds….why don’t you join us on a Wednesday and/or Friday evening when we play in 2023? The concerts are FREE, too!! We would love to have you as a part of our audience. Remember to bring your chairs!

Bill Trojan, Photographer/Owner of WATPHOTO, has been photographing both bands for years, and his wife, Ann, who is a music teacher, is also a member of both bands. Bill also live streams the concerts for all to enjoy, Check out both groups on their FACEBOOK pages for more information and photos from the summer concerts.

The Gloversville Band performing in 1953 at Melchoir Park

be found at the Fulton County Museum and the Fulton County Historical Society

Hamilton-Fulton County Boces

Offers Positive Choices For Adult Learners

Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery (HFM) BOCES is proud to announce that two adult learners were recently honored as Outstanding Adult Learners by the New York State Association of Continuing and Community Education. Selena Howard and Desiree Santana passed the high school equivalency exam and earned equivalency diplomas from the New York State Education Department. After earning her high school equivalency diploma, Selena earned her Certified Nurse’s Aide certificate, enrolled in the Registered Nursing Program at Fulton-Montgomery Community College and began working for St. Mary’s Hospital. Desiree earned her Paralegal Studies Certificate at Herkimer Community College. She is working as a paralegal with the Albany Law School and studying for her Associates in Arts in Psychology at HCCC.

Many adults who return to school have to overcome a lack of confidence. This is especially true for people who left high school before graduation and for those with limited English language skills. Fortunately, programs for adult learners are available in our region without cost to the participants. Tuition costs are covered by grants from the federal government and aid from NYS government.

Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES provides several options for adult learners in the community, located at the Amsterdam and Gloversville Literacy Zones, and in local correctional facilities. Courses include GED preparation and English as a Second Language. All courses focus on helping job seekers develop the skills they need to get and keep a job, as well as advance their skills for the workforce. A workforce readiness program specifically geared to English language learners is available to those who need to develop language and academic skills to prepare for success in training programs. ELLs learn the language skills and workforce attributes that are desired in healthcare and carpentry. These projects are created cooperatively with Lexington ARC and the North Atlantic Regional Carpenters Union. All students develop computer and digital literacy skills.

A key component for all programs is student support in the form of case management and referrals to supportive agencies that help students manage the challenges that may interfere with attendance. Returning to school as an adult can be intimidating. Some potential students have forgotten the skills they developed in school. Others did not develop advanced skills in school. Many adult students work non-traditional shifts that interfere with classroom participation. Attendance is further complicated by family and community obligations, personal health concerns and transportation woes.

In order to serve adult learners, HFM BOCES provides opportunities for distance education for both GED and ESL programs. Each option is supported by an online learning component that allows students to use a computer or tablet to participate in lessons. They can study at any time, in any place and at their own pace. Participants attend some initial programming in person, then transition to online programs. If a student is not technologically savvy, they can use printed books to engage in studies. Distance education students can attend class with a teacher for up to 3 hours if they need additional support. For learners who have taken and passed one or more section of the GED or TASC exams, there is a Fast Track option that will allow them to study only the topics they need to pass the remaining subtests. A Fast Track Math option is available for those only needing to pass math. In-person classes are also available for people who want to interact with a teacher and other students.

Individuals who want more information can call the Adult Literacy and Corrections Education Department at 518-736-4340. Readers are encouraged to follow the Amsterdam and Gloversville Literacy Zones on Facebook to learn more about opportunities in the community that support our students.

Laurie Bargstedt, Administrative Coordinator Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES Adult Literacy & Corrections Education

Desiree Santana

Selena Howard

Amparo Holquin holds the flag... new citizen!

The Henry D. Ross 111 Safety Map app called SEND IT - HDR111 was released on Feb. 18th, 2019 by the Henry D. Ross 111 Memorial Fund, Inc. Henry loved the Adirondacks and was tragically killed in a snowmobile accident on the Sacandaga Lake in 2016. In Henry’s honor and with the goal of helping others to be safe while having fun, the Henry D Ross 111 Memorial Fund , Inc. was able to launch this app with fundraising efforts and the support of the local community.

Parents, Maria and Henry (nicknamed “Beaver”) Ross along with family and friends of their late son, have turned their personal tragedy into a mission to help others stay safe. This app allows mobile phone users to alert others of hazards that might otherwise be hard to spot. Besides telling riders where there may be safety hazards, it also alerts them to where ideal conditions exist giving them a much better way to stay safe while enjoying recreational activities on the lake or in other situations.

You can download the app on Android and Apple devices for Free…. by searching for “Send it HDR 111 App” or click the QR Code to download

If

111

Search online for snowmobile clubs in Fulton and Montgomery County or visit: membership.nysnowmobiler.com/clubs you can search by State and County

Here

Montgomery County

Charlton Snowmobile Club • Forest Preserve Users, Inc.

Frontier Sno Riders, Inc. • Ful-Mont Snow Travelers, Inc.

Town of Florida Snowmobile Club

Fulton County

Bleecker Snow Rovers, Inc. • Charlton Snowmobile Club

Ful-Mont Snow Travelers , Inc. • Nick Stoner Trailers

Oppenheim Trail Blazers • Royal Mountain Moonlighters

Snowdrifters of Stratford, Inc.

Southern Adirondack Snowmobile Assoc., Inc.

*This may not be a complete list. If you know of other clubs in our area, please reach out and let us know, so we can list them in future issues.

Remember to sign up for a Snowmobile Safety Course!

Henry (Nickname “Beaver”) and Maria Ross at the 2019 launching party for their “Send it - HDR111” app in honor of their late son Henry D. Ross

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan - WATPHOTO

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan - WATPHOTO

Sample of how the app appears on your mobile device

Taken with permission from the Henry D. Ross 111 Memorial Fund, Inc. Facebook page.

Conditions Change Fast - Don’t Rely On The Past!

The Great Sacandaga Lake is a reservoir created by damming the Sacandaga River with the primary purpose of flood control. Water levels change which in turn changes conditions. This can happen in a few hours so what you have experienced on the way out may be very different on the way back.

Lakes are not free of obstructions since ice heaves, slush pockets or frozen mounds from ice fishing can be encountered unexpectedly and can change within hours.

Ice heave: a fracture in the ice that leaves the surface uneven, can form in a matter of hours and can be hidden by snow.

The cause of the most snowmobile accidents and fatalities is SAD. Combining speed, alcohol and darkness is extremely dangerous especially on an ever-changing surface.

Speed. Speeding does not allow you the time needed to observe and react to obstacles such as rocks, debris, open water, ice shanties or ice heaves.

Alcohol. Alcohol affects your balance, coordination and reaction time. There will be times where you may only have a few seconds to react. Operating a snowmobile while intoxicated can lead to severe injuries or death.

Dark. Accidents often occur at night because you can easily overdrive your snowmobiles headlight since it only illuminates about 200 feet in front of you. Slow down at night to make your future bright.

Oak Mountain

Fun for the whole family, located in the beautiful Adirondacks. Affordable skiing, snowboarding, tubing, more. 141 Novosel Way, Speculator, NY (518) 548-3606

Email: info@oakmountainski.com

Amsterdam Ice Rink

Sponsored by Alpin Haus Fun for all ages • Open from Sunrise until 9pm No Skate Rentals Available Veteran’s Park - Locust Ave. Amsterdam, NY 12010

Royal Mountain

A Friendly, Small Town Experience, for large scale outdoor fun. Check out the website for Snow Drag Races, a Cardboard Sled Derby and more. 3072 NY Route 10, Caroga Lake, NY 12302 Or call (518) 835-6445

Email: info@royalmountainskiarea.com

RoyalMountain.com

oakmountainski.com

Did you learn to ski at Oak Mountain? They will be gathering photos to share weekly through the 2022-2023 ski season. Please message or email photos to info@oakmountainski.com

Maple Ski Ridge

We are a small family owned business that focuses on big family fun. Ski/Snowboard locally with us! 2725 Mariaville Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 381-4700

Email: mapleskiridge@msn.com mapleskiridge.com

Events from weddings to parties can be hosted at Maple Ski Ridge. For more information email: events@mapleskiridge.com

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan - WATPHOTO

Right: A young skier after completing his ski lessons at Maple Ski Ridge

Fulton and Montgomery Counties are rich in history and full of wonderful people who make this a great place to live and raise families. This page full of photos taken where “We Call This HOME” comes to you compliments of Bill Trojan -

Photographer/Owner at WATPHOTO Professional Photography Services

If you would like to contact Bill, Call (518) 369-8866

Email: watphoto@gmail.com or message him on Facebook

(See Bill’s Bio on inside cover, WATPHOTO ad on pg. 39 and BILLY T ON THE STREET on pg. 20 )

The attendees at the Bacon Brothers Concert at Sherman’s Amusement Park in Caroga Lake this past Summer. The iconic Sherman’s Ferris Wheel is seen in the background.

The shoreline of the frozen Great Sacandaga Reservoir at Wally’s Driftwood Park on Vandenburgh Point in Gloversville in 2022

The Bacon Brothers concert was held on 7/30/22. The first of 13 full moon in 2023, the Wolf Moon, as seen from Gloversville on Jan. 6.

Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher and former B-P High School graduate Matt Gage signs a baseball for Jeff Trojan recently at a Meet and Greet at the Gloversville Moose Club.

Dogs Maddie (white) and Golden Retriever Gabe pose for a photo at their home in Gloversville.

Actor and musician Kevin Bacon performs with his brother Michael and his band at Sherman’s this Summer. (see above and below)

A horse-drawn wagon participated in the Northville Christmas Parade this past Christmas season.

This issue is a bit different than the first eight Crazy About Pets issues. In our first issue of We Call This HOME magazine, we published local shelters and rescue pages. This time around, we are actually putting an entire pet magazine, complete with it’s own cover right inside the We Call This HOME magazine. You will find stories and adoptable pets on the next 17 pages. We are in awe of the 24/7 love and care given to our area homeless pets by the many staff and volunteers involved. The pets featured here on these next pages and the ones on page 34 of this magazine are all patiently waiting for their forever person or family to find them. It is with great hope as we publish their faces and bios that they have either already been adopted while this was in print or that someone will see them, go visit, fall in love and then the magic of a forever home will happen. There is a QR code on each page so you can go to the websites or adoption pages for each shelter and look at all the animals who are there. There have been a few great losses this year and we have featured a few pages to honor those dogs here. We personally know of many more as well and our hearts go out to all of you. If you need help to get over the loss of a pet check out page 50 where we talk about the animal bereavement group. This may be something you may want to consider if you are having a hard time with loss of a beloved pet. Having pets is a huge commitment and every minute we get with a dog/cat that loves us is time well spent. If you cannot adopt, but would like to help in some other way, you can surely contact a shelter or rescue, start volunteering, attend a fundraiser, or donate an item from their wishlists. We hope you enjoy this “issue” of Crazy About Pets magazine.

Thank you for reading it!

Linda and Mike Palmieri

Lorrie and Phil Venneman have been involved in Animal Rescue for years. Lorrie was one of the original Board Members who brought the Regional Animal Shelter (now the Fulton County Regional SPCA) to Gloversville. They have adopted and fostered countless pets over the years, had heartache as they have passed on, but also lots of good times. At one time Lorrie had fostered a French Masti named Max. There was a beautiful bond there but the courts gave Max back to the original owners. When the Stratford 22 situation came up where 22 French Masti s were found without food or water, Lorrie felt destined to adopt one of them in his honor. Lola was adopted by Phil and Lorrie and has been a wonderful addition to their home. She is always there with the other dogs/cats to welcome them home. She gives lots of hugs and kisses. Lola was a great sister to her brother Winston (shown below with Phil and Mersh). She looked after him as he got older - he was her best friend. When he passed, Lorrie and Phil were looking for a new friend for her to love and found Dottie. Dottie is a blind and deaf Cocker Spaniel and Lola has taught her so much - she watches over Dottie every day. Phil and Lorrie tell Lola and Dottie that Winston sent her to help heal Lola’s heart. All of Phil and Lorrie’s beloved pets are living the life every dog/cat deserves to live.

If you would like to read the story about the Stratford 22 French Masti s you can do so in our Crazy About Pets magazine issue #5 starting on page 20. While there, read all of our past issues! There are some wonderful stories and great information that may be of interest.

Lorrie with Lola

Brownie - our inspiration

Training

Crissy Castelluccio, ABCDT Christina VanValkenburgh, ABCDT

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

AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Class

$150/6 Sessions: Students in this class are under 6 months of age and will work on basic training with their human guardians to get the best possible start while the puppy is still young.

Advanced Puppy Class

$150/ 6 Sessions: Students in this class have already taken the S.T.A.R Puppy Class and are ready for the next step!

Beginner Class

$150/6 Sessions: Students in this class are over 6 months of age.

Intermediate Class

$150/6 Sessions: Students in this class must have completed the previous classes or are approved by our trainer.

New Classes Coming

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

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

Fulton County Regional

Fulton County Regional

Fulton County Regional SPCA

117 W. Fulton Street, Gloversville, NY 12078 518-725-5956

Beagle/Lab Mix • Neutered Male

Enrolled in our PAWSitivity Program learning skill & is ready for adoption!

SPCA

SPCA - Gloversville,

- Gloversville, NY

NY

Fulton County Regional SPCA is a 100% volunteer-run, donation-funded organization originally founded as Regional Animal Shelter in 2002.

What We Do

Reunite - stray dogs with their families. Rescue - animals from bad situations. Adopt dogs - into new, loving homes. Spay & Neuter to decrease the number of unwanted animals. Educate the public and dog owners on animal health, training, and awareness.

Celebrating 10 Years!

Adopting from Regional SPCA is an easy process which will help you find the dog or cat that is perfect for you and your family.

OUR ADOPTION PROCESS HAS CHANGED

The first step is to fill out an online application. Only after an application is accepted will we make an appointment for you and your family to come meet the animal(s) you are interested in adopting. Applications can be found at https://fcrspca.org/adopt

We are currently open by appt. only

If you would like to donate to the shelter, our biggest need is money!

100% of your donation goes toward the care and well-being of the dogs!

See our entire wish list on our website at fcrspca.org

Currently we are in short supply of canned dog food, Purina One brand. Thank you!

TOMMY

2 Years Old Lab Mix • Neutered Male Ready for a second chance in life! Was in rough shape but doing well. Loves to give smooches and get treats!

* Note: some or all of these pets may have been adopted since this was printed

Ultimately, we will still be constructing, funding, operating, and maintaining a new animal shelter with an on-site spay-neuter clinic in our community to best serve the animals in the region. There is still a dire need for help in the stray and unwanted animal population. It is our goal to provide immediate shelter and care for any and all homeless or abused animals and shelter them until such time as they are redeemed to their owners, adopted into new families. We intend to provide services 24 hours a day, 7 days a-week, and respond to the public and municipalities that we serve. Also, by actively seeking grants and funding, we hope to help reduce the stray animal population to zero by participating in any spay/neuter programs available and to actively promote education, training, and public awareness. The new shelter will have space for education classes and the facilities for on-site low cost spay/neuter, rabies, and microchip clinics.

~ Thank

You

Phil’s Truck & Auto Repair for Sponsoring the Fulton County Regional SPCA ~

Every Dog Deserves To Be Well Loved!

Pilot AKA “The Dog Father” was well loved by so many at the Fulton County Regional SPCA, in Gloversville,

It is with the saddest of hearts that we need to let our friends know that on July 26th our boy Pilot crossed over the Rainbow Bridge at the age of 13 or 14. Pipi fell suddenly ill and it was discovered that a tumor had ruptured and he was bleeding internally. We had a matter of hours to accept and prepare for something no animal lover is ever prepared to accept. Pi was sent to run free being held by the many people who loved him and with the only Veterinarian he ever allowed to touch him, Dr. William Chester.

Pilot was known by many names: Pi, Pipi, Pi-man, Pitters, Pit-Pit, Pitter-man, and the Dogfather. Pilot was not just an ordinary shelter dog, nope he was an extraordinary shelter dog. He could be impossible and stubborn- when Pi didn’t want to do something, it wasn’t going to happen. But when Pipi wanted to do something, it most certainly was happening! Pi liked who he liked and hated who he didn’t, he was allergic to everything on this earth, and wasn’t a big fan of other animals or bicycles and people walking down HIS rail trail (how dare they!).

Pilot demanded his chariot rides daily by his dutiful servants, and don’t even think of buying him the wrong kind of chicken nuggets! But when Pilot loved you, he loved you with every hair on his body. Many people felt bad for Pi because he spent 8+ years at the shelter. But for Pitters, it was the best home he ever knew! Pilot was treated horribly by his prior owners. They knew he was at the shelter but never came for him. Dr. Chester found the whole side of his body full of buckshot when doing an x-ray. So life at the shelter for Pi, was actually a treat! Several volunteers tried to take Pilot home with them, but that stubborn boy didn’t want to stay and requested his Uber driver return him to his safe place.

Pilot taught us many lessons over the years and even though he is gone he continues to teach us. The lessons I will treasure from my sweet boy are: Take the time to watch the world go by. Spend that extra minute laying in the sunshine. Set boundaries! Love with your whole self. And no matter how bad something was before, there are people out there to help you and show you love.

Pitters, you are missed every second of every day by us all. Regional will never be the same without you but your legacy will live on forever. We know you are there with us, watching (and judging) and letting the other dogs know they are safe now and everything will be okay. You have changed us all Pitters, for the better. And we thank you for allowing Regional to be your home and allowing us to be your family for so long. WE are the lucky ones my sweet boy. Until we meet again my friend, fly high.

Written by Renee Earl, Fulton County Regional SPCA President

Pilot had his very own butler - volunteer Mike Scaringe, who (among other volunteers) would take him out on excursions, which Pilot thoroughly enjoyed. They were the best of friends and Mike kept everyone updated on the trips they took together through his Facebook posts. They will surely put a smile on your face.

From a FACEBOOK post on April 26, 2016 - written by Mike...

While we look out at the gloomy day and feel somehow gray, Pilot the Pit Bull somehow thinks it’s really sunshine. The small favors, like a car ride to a drive-thru with a buddy, puts a smile on Pilot’s face. And brings a smile to the fortunate person with him.

From a FACEBOOK post on February 12th, 2017 - written by Mike...

Pilot needed to pick up a few things at Benson’s this morning before the big snowfall. I told him it’s not like we live in the mountains and can’t get down to civilization for a week. So Pi says, “Well, how come you city people run to the market and buy all the milk and bread in the store whenever you hear there may be like 2 inches of snow?” Pilot always leaves me without a good answer.

As sad as everyone at FCRSPCA is over the loss of their buddy, Pilot, they are grateful for the years spent with this special boy!

where he called home for 8+ years.

This beautiful message was posted by fellow volunteer and friend Dana on Mike’s wall after Pilot passed on.

Pilot - out for a day in Caroga Lake.

When we adopt our beloved pet we rarely think of the fact that we will most likely outlive them. So many of us have a hard time knowing how to handle the emotions that surround us when a beloved pet dies.

Thankfully there are ways we can remember our pets and groups in the area that are designed to help us get through it with others facing the same loss. The pain NEVER goes away, but knowing that others care and understand makes a big difference in helping to get through it. People try and deal with pet loss in many different ways. Placing that love in your heart in a place of “adopting again” is not for everyone. Sometimes you need a place to go to help sort out how you feel.

Animal Protective Foundation hosts a free Pet Bereavement Support Group every third Wednesday of the month from 6-7pm via zoom. A link can be found on animalprotectivefoundation.org. Additional sessions are hosted the first Wednesday of each month through the Mohawk Humane Society. For questions email: customercare@mohawkhumane.org A link can be found to join in on mohawkhumane.org. Both zoom meetings are led by Estelle Giles-Monroe, MSW, LCSWR

These group sessions are made possible by a generous local sponsorship from Roger Blankfein, DVM of In The Comfort of Home, a house call pet euthanasia service and shelter support staff. For more information about the groups call the APF at (518) 374-3944, ext. 101 or Mohawk Hudson Humane Society at (518) 434-8128 ext. 206 Estelle also offers individual talk therapy support as well.

To contact Estelle - email: cdbhemail.com or 518-785-7283 ext 406.

IN HONOR OF ONE AMAZING DOG!

Hunter Brown - may he Rest in Peace

Because Char Brown and family know how much you all loved coming to the Garden Bug and being greeted by Hunter, we asked for permission to share the Facebook post that appeared on The Garden Bug’s page on August 8th, 2022

It is said with a heavy heart, that on Monday, August 8th, we sadly had to say our last goodbyes to the most loving, gentle, happy, and sweetest soul, Hunter Brown. We are heartbroken and a little lost trying to accept that he is not here with us day to day in the gift shop or greenhouse, getting endless hugs, kisses, snuggles and belly rubs, the never ending amounts of treats, and enjoying the love from his babies, the grand kids. With that being said, we find comfort that he is at peace, and no longer going through the hard times that comes with old age. He brought us so many wonderful memories that we will reminisce on forever. He lived a long, happy, healthy, and the best life any dog could have ever imagined. He was most definitely happy, and we were definitely spoiled with having him as a part of our family.

For those who showed Hunter some extra love throughout the years with treats, hugs and kisses, just know that it meant the world to him. He loved you all.

If any dog could live forever, he most certainly deserved to. 14 years was just not long enough for a dog so perfect. Although he is no longer with us, he will always be a part of us.

We loved him so much, and always will.

The pain IS real and there is help available to you

You don’t have to go through a pet loss alone. Please reach out if you need help and support.

All are welcome to join in, reservations are not required.

CHLOE

I have been at the shelter since 10/2/21!

Female

I am currently the longest resident at Estherville. Can you help me find my forever home?

I am a 4-year-old pit/mix, and I weigh 52lbs. Due to never being socialized as a puppy it can take me a little bit to trust you. Once I get to know you, I am the sweetest love bug! I would do best in a home with no other dogs or cats. I am very energetic and love to run, and jump. As a result, I need a home that is active, and has the ability to work with me!

The days just keep going by with no one to call my own and it makes me sad!

LAB MIX - Male

I am 3 years old and looking for a home with no children. Good w/other dogs, on anxiety meds. I need a patient home because of my quirks but can be very sweet and loyal eventually.

Male

7 years old and looking for a forever home with Murphy! I am very sweet and love attention. I would be the perfect addition to your home, come meet me!

Female

I am 10 years young and a very sweet girl who is patiently waiting for my forever home. Can you help me? I am bonded with Baby Bear.

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

100

Our Mission Statement - All of the animals at Estherville are survivors. Some are survivors of abuse and neglect; some are survivors of cancer or other medical ailments; some are survivors of the ill-perceived judgment of others because of their breed or past action. Like all survivors they don’t want pity or sympathy, they only want to be loved and to give TONS of unconditional love in return.

We are open 7 days a week!

DOG ADOPTIONS

CAT ADOPTIONS

Our Wish List Includes items for cats, dogs, livestock and misc. supplies. Please check out our Donation Page on our website

I am a 1 year old Pittie Mix, and I was found as a stray. I cannot be in a home w/other dogs, as I am not a fan of sharing my toys or food w/other animals.

I have a lovable and playful nature.

Cell/Text: (518) 365-5137

Kgordon@inglenookrealtyinc.com

I am a full-time dedicated Real Estate professional and I take my job very seriously. I understand that buying and selling Real Estate can be a life changing event for many of my clients. I consider your business and your time to be an honor and a privilege. I will always strive to exceed your expectations!

www.inglenookrealtyinc.com

Male

I am about 11 years old and can be a bit timid until I get used to you. I would love a quiet home with no children or dogs! A friendly feline friend would be nice. Can you give this old guy a chance?

Male

I am about 1yr old and looking forward to finding a loving and stable home to call my own! I had a pretty rough start in my life. If you have the time and patience to love me you will find a lovable goofball hidden behind my initial shyness.

Female

I am a 9-year-old border collie mix. Don’t let my age fool you, I am still very active! I would do best in a home with no other animals or children. I am a very smart girl.

Male

I am a 4 year old Boxer Mix. I happen to be very intelligent as I have had lots of training. I will need a person who uses that training in my daily life. I tend to bond to one person and respond better to men. No children.

Edna-Ann and her father Henry (Pop) Klare started the shelter under the name “The Animal Shelter”. After a few bumps in the road initially, on January 21, 1954, Estherville received its first charter under the legal name of Estherville, the Alberta and Winonica Memorial Animal Shelter, Inc. Estherville is named after three of Edna-Ann’s childhood dogs.

Male

Spud is a love bug! He loves to play with anything and everything. He is a lap cat for sure. He will make himself comfortable if you are sitting down.

Female

Ceeta has come a long way in foster care. She started out fearful of everything but now she will seek you out for attention. She will be happiest in a quiet home as loud noises frighten her.

Female

Callie is still learning what being an indoor cat looks like and will be happiest with a family who understands that she wants love on her own terms. She is curious and she enjoys exploring.

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

We are a non-profit organization dedicated to rescue of abandoned & orphaned kittens, pregnant cats, mama cats & their kittens through foster care. So many kittens are in need of a loving home.

501(c)3

Our fosters help us rescue all these amazing kittens and

donations help us feed, spay/neuter, vaccinate and get veterinary care, and save so many more.

~ Thank You Junell Realty, LLC. for sponsoring Kitten Angels ~

Lyle and Leroy are a bonded pair. Lyle is a little friendlier and always has his cute ittle tongue sticking out. Leroy is more cautious but warms up with time and love. He really relies on Lyle and the two often snuggle together.

Lyle & Leroy are approx. 1 year and 3 mos. old and are neutered, have had all age appropriate vaccinations, tested negative for FeLV and FIV, and are litter trained.

Jax (black) and Ryder (orange) had a very rough start in life and are going to need some work. They were born in the wild to a mother that we think was a house cat at one time. Because she is semi-feral they have learned from her to be cautious around humans. They are very playful and love treats. Jax likes to sit on his foster mother’s feet while she is reading. Ryder is a little more shy around people but is the explorer of the two. You never know where you will find him! They are bonded and need to be adopted together.

Mary Lee De Luca Jaworski has a heart of Gold for the feral kitties who find their way to her home. With help from Kitten Angels of Mayfield, NY and Amsterdam Kitten Adoptions, Inc. she has gotten many spayed and neutered and gotten help finding them homes as well. Mary Lee and her husband Mike foster the cats in their garage which is all set up to give them the best home before they find their forever families. Even though they have a three car garage, Mike can’t use it to park in because the cats take up the entire space. The garage is heated and even though this comes with a huge cost, she just cannot say no to those kitties who would otherwise freeze out in the elements all winter. When a cat is taken in from the cold, she also has them tested for Feline Leukemia and Aids. She says if she ever wins the lottery she will open up a huge cat sanctuary!

The rescued kitties even have a catio where they can go outside during the spring and summer and hang out on trees and shelves that have been put up. Even though Mary Lee takes in some of the kitties she says there are many more out there who need help.

In September, Mary Lee put up a Facebook post asking for help making cat houses for the winter from styrofoam coolers. Kathleen Gordon, NYS Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner at Inglenook Realty, Inc. got in touch with Mary Lee to offer help building some cat houses. Along with her husband, Realtor Jeffrey Gordon and Realtor Mary Calabrese of Inglenook Realty, Inc. they used some styrofoam coolers that were donated by a veterinarian’s office, and straw, donated by the Arnold Farm in Charlton and delivered to their houses by Preston Arnold. As you can see by the photo below they were able to build many to help the cats stay warm this winter.

If there is anyone who would be able to volunteer to help Mary Lee clean the cat room three times a week, she would truly appreciate it.

Also, donations of kitty litter, dry kitty food and canned pate are always appreciated. Mary Lee says the feral cats are not fussy! The feral cat population is overwhelming in our area, but with folks like Mary Lee and all of the other rescuers who are willing to step up and help out, at least some of them are being fed, spayed and neutered and kept warm.

If you would like to help, please reach out to Mary Lee De Luca Jaworski by emailing her at: maryjaws2014@gmail.com

Winter Reminder:

If you are providing shelters for community cats, please remember to use only STRAW! NEVER place towels, blankets, cat beds, or any other cloth like materials in your shelters. These materials can get wet or absorb moisture from the air and freeze, which can lead to the cat freezing to death overnight while sleeping.

Kitties find love, warmth, food and safety when they need it most: in the arms of a rescuer and a community that cares.

Mary Lee De Luca Jaworski shown here with her beloved rescue cat Tanner (T.T.), who passed away in 2021

Tanner having fun like only cats can!

A rescued kitty who needed to be bottle fed and has since been taken into foster.

One of the many who has found refuge when it was needed the most.

NYS Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, Mary Calabrese standing with the cat houses she helped build with Kathleen and Jeffrey Gordon of Inglenook Realty, Inc.

Mary Lee and her husband Mike have transformed their garage into a sanctuary of sorts for feral cats, helping them with spay/neuter as well while keeping them warm and fed.

Male

I am 9 mos. old and a friendly and energetic boy! I like getting outside for walks, and would love a large yard to run in. I like playing with my toys and would do best in an active home.

Female

I am 2 years old - a sweet and energetic girl. I love getting outside to explore and go for walks. I also like playing with my toys, and would love a home with a large yard .

BUTTERSCOTCH

Male

I am 4 years old and a special kitty, I am FIV pos. but luckily I am a lover, not a fighter. I am a friendly and affectionate boy. I love attention from people. I also enjoy scratches behind the ears.

Female

I am 2 years old and a very sweet and loving girl! I love people! I also like getting outside for walks and playing with my toys. I am an energetic girl and would do best in an active home!

Female

I am a sweet and loving girl. I love 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!

For over a 100 years dogs and cats in Amsterdam have gotten plenty of love from the wonderful staff and volunteers at the Montgomery County SPCA as they await their forever families.

The MCSPCA cares for unwanted, abused, abandoned and neglected animals, including hoarding situations. While they provide sanctuary for companion animals, their work goes far beyond simply housing, feeding and loving these creatures.

842-8050 • www.MC-SPCA.org

Email: info@mc-spca.org

Go

The MCSPCA’s programs and services include a low cost feline spay and neuter program, a foster care network, food for your pet, micro chipping for your pet, investigating cruelty and neglect complaints, housing animals from cruelty and neglect investigations, animal legislation advocacy, education and more. Got Barn Cat – The MCSPCA will provide fully vetted feral cats to those who have a barn for their shelter and will feed the cats. We at the MCSPCA are proud of the di erence we make in the lives of both the animals and theindividuals to whom we provide assistance.

• Serious adopters by appointment ONLY. Arrangements can be done by email or calling the shelter.

• Surrenders and Redemptions are by appointment ONLY. Thank you for your understanding. Staff will still be here daily to care for the animals.

ADIRONDACK EXPRESS LUBE

MIKU

PUMPKIN TURKEY LOVE GORDIE

Male - Senior

I am a quiet and independent boy. I may seem a little shy at first, but I do like attention from people, especially a nice scratch behind the ears! I would love a calm and quiet home where I can relax in the sunshine.

Female

I am a very friendly and affectionate girl! I love attention from people and playing with my toys. I get along just fine with other cats, so if you already have a friend at home, that will be great!

Male

I am 2 Year old friendly and energetic boy! I love to explore and go for walks. I like playing with my toys and would do best in an active home. I would love a large yard!

Female

I am 5 years old and may seem shy at first, but after being given some attention, I do warm up, and I enjoy attention very much! I would do best in a quiet home where I can get lots of TLC and really come out of my shell.

Male

I am a 6 mo. old friendly and energetic boy! I love to play with my toys and get outside for walks. I would do well in an active home, and I would make a great hiking partner as well! I get along with other dogs my size.

The New Animal Shelter is coming!

Ground was broken on October 18th on the Neena Rao Family Animal Care & Adoption Center. From the beginning, the project was envisioned to update the current facility (Montgomery County SPCA) which is 65+ years old.

The expansion will accommodate program expansion in the following areas:

• Humane Education • Low-cost spaying and neutering services

• Sheltering • Community volunteer opportunities

2021 was a record year for adoptions at MCSPCA - proving the need for this new facility

Says Mike Buckley, Executive Director of the Montgomery County SPCA, “As of today, we are on target to move into our new building on or about June 1st.  The roof is on and the windows are being installed this week.  Once that occurs, the real work inside begins with placement of kennels, framing, etc.  We are incredibly excited about not only this building, but also the increase in programs we will be able to do inside of this building.”

A rendition of the proposed new shelter.

Dr. Govind Rao and his wife, Jyothi Rao have made a $500,000 commitment in support of the Dream of a Bright Future Campaign. The gift was made in memory of the Raos’ daughter, Neena.

“We are grateful to the Rao family for their commitment to our organization as well their tireless philanthropic support of our greater community,” Jan Zumbolo, president of the Board of Directors of the Montgomery County SPCA, said in a news release. The MC-SPCA is grateful for all of the ongoing community support and looks forward to all the good that the new building will bring.

Female

This poor girl was abandoned on the streets and her teeth have suffered due to poor nutrition. She will get the care she needs and hopefully a great forever home.

Male

6 months old with an Old Man Face but don’t let this old man face fool you... he’s still very much a kitten that loves to be petted and play the day away! He is a little shy but will warm up quickly.

EDDIE SUNDAY

Female

This absolute sweetheart, 6 month old kitten is soooo ready for her forever home! Will you be her forever please?

Please contact this shelter for more information on these pets* and/or on other pets available for adoption * Note:

Amsterdam Kitten Adoption, Inc.

Hagaman, New York 12086

(518) 265-2842 Gina Kline

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets

Certificate #RR120

PEPE LE PEW

Male

Pepe has made great strides with his foster mom. Once a hissing, scared kitten and now loves to be pet and rubs up against her. Seems bonded to his sibling Ninja. Will need continued patience.

Female

This pretty girl is looking for a patient home with owners willing to give her a little time to warm up to her. Wet food is the way to her heart.

Female

Found on a Sunday morning, skinny and needing help, hence her name. She has warmed up and likes to sit on her foster mom’s lap. Being the only kitty is best.

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

Thanks to generous donations and support from our community we have been able to assist over 3,200 kitties since we started. We have also been able to expand our community outreach programs to help more owned animals with surgery and supplies.

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

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

Female

A little shy but warms up quickly. Would love a home with another younger cat or kitten. She really is a sweet girl.

BLACKE STRIPES MICKEY

Male

Very playful, loves toys and other cats. Very much a kitten at heart. Would love a home with a younger cat or kitten to play with. Does not love being held but loves to be petted

Female

Stripes is a beauty. Just look at her stripes. She is friendly and looking for her forever home.

Male

Mickey is a beautiful, soft and gentle little tiger. He has such a unique coat and these glowing eyes that will capture your attention. Once you have his heart he loves pets and scratches.

MARVIN and CAYENNE

They must be adopted together.

Marvin came in as a stray and is 8 years old. He loves people and tolerates dogs. He has an upper respiratory issue. This is a chronic condition that does not require further treatment at this time. He doesn’t like other kitties, except for Cayenne.

Cayenne came in as an older feral kitten.

It was love at first sight for these two. She is beautiful but does not want human attention. She tolerates dogs but will not allow handling by people. This may change over time.

If you want to receive an Adoption Application, email ddougherty64@icloud.com

These two boys are 10 year old brothers

These guys came to us with some dental issues which were quickly tended to and now between the two of them they have a grand total of about 8 teeth. They would really like a place to spend the second half of their lives together if possible. They are very sweet and do well with other animals and children. They are neutered, vaccinated, and FIV/FeLv negative.

437 Nine Mile Tree Rd., Gloversville, NY 12078

518-725-0115

The shelter serves the surrounding communities in many ways:

By providing shelter, food, water, medical care, safety to stray, homeless and unwanted cats and dogs. Helps families find lost pets, teaches about kindness and safety regarding pets, provides an aggressive Spay/Neuter Program for low income families in Fulton County, helps Seniors with their Pet Food Bank, provides work study opportunities for students, and advocates for Animal Law at the State and Federal levels.

Male cats can be neutered on our site on Mondays and Fridays. Call for appt.

Our onsite fees are as follows:

$50 - neutering

$75 - neutering, and shots (rabies & distemper)

$100 - neutering, shots & Fiv/Felv Tests

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

Muttly Krew Kutz

CAN

YOU HELP?

During a storm recently a tree fell on our office building and it will need to be rebuilt. This building houses our office, one open cat room as well as our nursery. Thankfully all staff, volunteers, and animals made it out safely. While we rebuild, or greatest needs are storage totes and monetary donations. A shed has been purchased to store items in while the rebuilding takes place. This will be a difficult transition and due to our limited space we may not be able to do intakes for the foreseeable future.

We thank you for your support while we adjust to this new normal. Watch for updates on our Facebook page.

If you would like to help out...

Our PayPal address is Jabmhs@yahoo.com or donations can be sent to 437 Nine Mile Tree Rd. Gloversville, NY 12078

The Brennan Humane Society provides a tangible example of humane ethics and compassion for all living creatures.

JABMHS Cat Neutering

“The Adventures of LayLa the Lovable Dog: The Story of Rescuing Her Owners” is the creation of published author Stacey A. DeLaney, a loving wife and career educator who began her career as a teacher for the deaf and hard of hearing. She knows American Sign Language and uses many hand signals with LayLa. DeLaney then became a high school principal. After retiring from public education, she carried on her passion for teaching and learning by teaching college students. She especially loves to share her love for learning and reading with her grandchildren.

DeLaney shares, “The Adventures of LayLa the Lovable Dog” is inspired by the real-life story of LayLa. While LayLa was in fact rescued from upsetting circumstances, LayLa really rescued her owners by filling them with great love, great joy, and devoted companionship. LayLa is truly lovable. LayLa is particularly attached to the author! LayLa follows Stacey everywhere and loves to go on adventures with her. LayLa is indeed one of God’s beloved creatures!” Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Stacey A. DeLaney’s new book will delight and entertain as readers get to know a spunky pup known as LayLa. DeLaney shares in hopes of encouraging others to adopt animals in need and to celebrate the joy LayLa brings to all who meet her.

Consumers can purchase “The Adventures of LayLa the Lovable Dog: The Story of Rescuing Her Owners” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

Stacey is dedicating 10% of her book royalties to Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter, a place near and dear to her heart as a no-kill shelter and a haven for animals who may otherwise not have had a chance. Stacey is currently being trained as a volunteer for the shelter.

Watch for book signing events on Facebook!

RESTAURANTS THAT ARE USING THE SHELTER PLACEMATS

Percy is the sweetest of men! He is about 8 years old and LOVES people. He is a huge ham. He is good with other cats and has lived with dogs.

Senior - Female

Boxer Mix - Female

Male

Trixie is a great senior girl looking for a home all of her own. She is a sweet girl with so much love to give. And senior or not, this 11 to 13 year old girl is still playful!

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

Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter

133 Hilltop Road, Sprakers, NY 12166 518-673-5670

Please

All would-be adoptive families are carefully screened before being allowed to take home any pet. In this way, each adopted animal is assured of a good and loving home.

If you would like to make a donation to our shelter please send it to the address above.

SCAN

Check

Sandy is one and needs a family who will fall in love with her. Good with some dogs but no cats. Older kids are suggested. Sandy LOVES to play and go for walks.

Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter operates a No-Kill “quality of life” shelter, and the devoted workers are committed to making sure that each and every animal in their care has exactly that.

Our Surgical Site is up and running. If you have an animal that needs to be spayed or neutered, please call us at 518-673-5670 to be put on our list. Every animal must have a valid rabies certificate. No animal accepted at the clinic without full payment of fees prior to surgery. Call for fees or go to our website.

A Huge Thank You to Dr. Linda Kolnick for her part in making this clinic possible! Rabies and DHPP shots are available at the clinic.

or go to: www.AyresAnimalShelter.org

Fergus is about 9 mos old and is pretty scared but has warmed up to his shelter family. It takes him time to warm up to new people but he will make the best pal. SHRIMP

Male

Shrimp is great with other cats and is about 9 months old. Shrimp is a huge ham! He’s sweet, silly, a little reserved at first, but a purring machine once he warms up!

Male

She is 2 to 4 years old. She is a silly compact girl who loves to play and is even good with some dogs! She loves people and going on adventures.

Male

Basil is a super cute, big ol fluffy boy! He came in very scared of peoplebut boy has he grown out of that! He is about 9 months old. He can be rough playing with other cats but good to them too.

Australian Shepherd - Male

He is 10 mos. old and unsure of new people but learning that they love him. He is very smart, will make a great hiking or cuddle buddy. Good with cats.

Male

He was abandoned by his owners and misses having a home. The sweetest male cat here at the sanctuary. A gentle spirit who soaks up any love he gets. ~

We are run completely with

We are currently closed for intake as we work on socializing the feral kitties in our care who will hopefully one day themselves find a home and be happier with the human presence.

Male

Came in as a stray crying and starving. He is a quiet calm soul who waits his turn for pets. He deserves love and a happy ending. Adapts well to changes.

Spay/neuter transport will resume early March. Please contact us for more information.

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

We are run completely with volunteers. Unfortunately we have very limited space for intake and most often no space, but our volunteers are still here to assist you in any

Donations can be mailed to:

PO Box 344, Gloversville, New York 12078 or to Paypal under MLAUTMAN@NYCAP.RR.COM - please put a memo that your donation is to TCSIC or something specific like a particular surgery.

People helping people help feral, stray, and owned cats (and some other beaked and furred critters too)

“Where your pets are in good hands”

He is 25 lbs. and about a year old. He really loves his peoplegle. His best friend should be a female dog, but he would be fine on his own as well.

Female

She is a friendly girl, very playful and smart, gentle.

He is very curious, playful, smart and funny. Loves kisses, gets along with other dogs, cats and children.

Male

He is a sweet little youngster at 5 mos. Perfect little family dog, won’t grow much more. Loves to snuggle!

Female

Playful, smart and loves kisses

Good with other dogs, cats and children. He is just a great little man.

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

Besides the paypal account above, you can also donate to Dally’s Hope 4 Paws Rescue by shopping through Amazon Smile and choosing this rescue. Every donation is very much appreciated!

TINY

adopted into a loving home last August. Living his best life!

Also answers to: The Noble Lord Charlemagne

Back in May of 2021 a scared, hungry dog was spotted loose on Lepper Rd. With help from some wonderful people, including Penny Ross who trapped him, he was taken in and vetted. He got adopted by his wonderful Mama in Broadalbin and now has his very own Facebook Page. Check it out!

Keep up with all of his adventures on Facebook @CharlesBradleyBrown

PSST...Charles’ Mama is also a foster for Kitten Angels. There are a pair of bonded kitties coming soon - Sheila and Dottie. They lost their human and they are very sad. He will keep them company but please check them out.

Pott Hound Mix

Jack Russell Terrier Mix

Terrier Mix

Mixed Breed Young Male

Terrier Mix • Male

Charles Bradley Brown

10 Shih Tzus began a long journey in June of 2022 when they were rescued from horrific conditions at the hands of their owners in the town of Ephratah. It was heartbreaking and infuriating to all involved in the rescue and subsequent care of these dogs.

Each of the dogs were discovered to be heavily matted to the point where they were barely able to move, caked in urine and feces, and their heads were barely distinguishable from their tails. Allegedly, food and water were sparse. Several of the dogs appeared to have resorted to eating wood chips that were observed on the camper floor just to sate their hunger. Unfortunately a veterinary analysis revealed intestinal parasites that were robbing their tiny bodies of what little nutrition they had access to. They were found to be suffering from chronic skin, ear, and eye infections.  Even after all of this, they proved to be incredibly resilient and incredibly grateful for the love and affection of the volunteers who are cared for them and now to each of their new owners who have committed to loving them for life.

Many had to learn to walk without their legs and body being bound by matting and they all slowly gained weight and strength. The Fulton County Regional SPCA invested many funds to their care and Regional’s volunteers worked tirelessly to provide the tender loving care they had been deprived of for so long while the criminal case and investigation was going on.

Today, the East Road 10 have all been adopted and are living their best lives with their new families as you can see from the beautiful adoption photos!

The Fulton County SPCA would like to thank everyone who helped bring about a happy ending to a terrible story. They especially would like to thank their law enforcement partners, the Fulton County Sheriff’s office, their compassionate and talented veterinary teams, their amazing attorney Jonathan Schopf, the fiercely dedicated and hardworking Regional Volunteers and Fosters, and community members who donated supplies and money to help with the cost of their medical care. They are grateful to the compassionate people who offered to adopt them and finally, the people who have opened their hearts and homes to give them their forever families they so deserve.

Info from: FCRSPCA.org - June 13, 2022

As an adopter, you must:

Be 21 years of age or older and have identification showing present address.

Be willing and able to invest the time and money required to provide proper care for the animal. The estimated annual cost to care for a healthy pet is over $600.00.

Be prepared to pay an adoption fee of $250.00 for dogs and $325 for puppies (6 months and under), and $125 for cats. Adoption fees are non-refundable.

Consent to reference checks (veterinary and personal) and home visits.

If you have any questions about adopting a pet, please call (518) 725-5956

Complete an application and sign required contracts upon acceptance of application. Two-week foster-to-adopt (aka trial adoption) options are strongly encouraged before finalizing an adoption.

Understand that, if for any reason contractual obligations are not met, ownership of the animal will revert to Fulton County Regional SPCA. If for any reason the pet has to be “given up,” it is to be returned to Fulton County Regional SPCA.

Submission of any application is not a guarantee of being approved to adopt any animal.

After a terrible beginning, these dogs have all found loving families

Located at the Kinney Insurance Company at 5243 Rt. 147, Galway, New York 12074 (518) 843-1537 and (518) 882-2171

Tina graduated from the New York School of Dog Grooming in New York City. She has had her business for 33 years. Tina was a freelance writer for the Amsterdam Recorder writing the “Doggie Bag” column which, in 2008, was published into a book by the UPS Store in Amsterdam. She has also published “To Love and Be Loved” in 2021. As of the summer of 2021, she is a survivor of Covid Pneumonia after being on a ventilator for 17 days. While concentrating on her health and recovery, she still continues to keep her business open and happily grooming her Pooch Parlor Family.

A Few Words of Advice about Fostering a Pet

As a foster parent we need to teach our foster pets about love and manners! To be a successful foster parent you will need to have much compassion, patience and understanding for the pet. If you are a foster parent, you will need to make sure that the pets are always leashed or in a travel carrier when they are taken outdoors. When transporting a pet some become scared by noises and new surroundings. You don’t want them to run away from you or worse yet to get hit by a car.

When you first introduce them to your household be sure to have a quiet place set up for them.

The shelter staff can assist you by giving you his favorite blankets and bedding to take home if possible. Having a crate available to your cat/dog at home can prove to be a “safe place” for him or her to go into when they feel unsure of their new surroundings or want to be alone.

If you are fostering a pet during the busy holiday season you may want to provide a quiet space for the pet. Too much noise and activity will be going on in the home and the both of you may need a quiet space to retreat to. Don’t forget to have extra blankets and/or outdoor gear for your foster pet during the colder months when taking them outside.

Socializing the foster pet is also very important and can be fun. But remember to keep your introductions short, as not to stress out the pet too much. Socializing is one goal that will be very helpful to achieve as it will be easier when the pet moves on to his/her forever family. Ask shelter staff to assist in the best way to socialize the pet in your care.

Even if you cannot achieve every goal you set for yourself and your foster, he/she is still going to benefit from being in a loving home while waiting for a forever family to adopt him/her.

Eventually you may find that you have become attached to the pet and end up adopting him/her. They call this “foster fail”, but it most certainly is never failure when a pet is assured of a happy, loving life.

Our mission:

Fostering a pet is a big commitment and takes a dedicated person to follow through until that pet is adopted into the perfect home. Please continue to foster if you can, it is a true gift to be able to do so and much needed!

By Tina Novak

Stop by the shop or call Tina to pick up a copy of her latest book!

“To Love and Be Loved”

Do you wish you could adopt but the situation is not right to competely take it on yourself? If that is the case perhaps you may consider “Pet Sharing” with someone you trust to be an equally great pet parent as yourself. This makes going away on vacation, vet expenses & grooming more affordable as it shared by both parties. Please consider this option as it can allow you to adopt that foster pet you fell in love with and thought you could not afford to keep. Of course, adopting a pet still must always be approved by shelter staff.

By:TinaNovak

MEET ADOPTABLE DAISY...

Daisy is a 2 yr. old, 95 lb. Great Dane. If we could choose Daisy’s dream home, it would be with a couple that does not have children or other pets, lives in a rural setting, and is just looking for a companion to show them all the love. People can make Daisy nervous from her past trauma, so she prefers a quiet home. Daisy is so dedicated to her people - once she warms up to you she is such a love bug! Daisy loves to snuggle but can also keep herself occupied with toys or a bone. She is spayed, vaccinated, housebroken and crate trained. If you live within a 90 mile radius of Mechanicville, New York, please contact us!

Tina Novak, owner of The Pooch Parlor

Photo Credit: Bill Trojan/WATPHOTO

Dogs & Humans Learn How to Shine~