Local First Twin Bridges Edition 012623

Colonie Senior Service Centers

January’s Healthy and Local Cooking Class

COLONIE - Each month

Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc (CSSC) offers a cooking demonstration highlighting “the best of local” for seniors (55+). As the area’s largest nonprofit senior organization, CSSC offers a wide array of senior programs and services including educational, and health and wellness opportunities.

Join Award Winning

Chef Aneesa Waheed, owner of Tara Kitchen, on Tuesday, January 31, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon to learn from an area expert about why Moroccan cuisine is so special. The class will take place at CSSC’s King Thiel Senior Community, 17 Elks Lane in Latham.

Moroccan cuisine is the cuisine of Morocco, fueled by interactions and exchanges with many cultures and nations over the centuries. Moroccan cuisine is a mix of Arab, Berber, Andalusi, and Mediterranean cuisines, with minimal European and sub-Saharan influences. For nearly a decade, Tara Kitchen has served Moroccan food that is for everyone. It’s worldly but accessible comfort food packed with flavor. Vibrant, not fiery, it is seasoned with spices that reflect Morocco’s history as a cultural crossroad.

There is a $5 charge to attend, and prior registration is required. Space is limited. For further information or to register, please call Diane at 518-459-2857 ext. 305.

TSA airport screeners to get raise to almost $60K, benefits

By RICK KARLIN

COLONIE — Transportation Security Administration officials are hoping that a recent pay raise for security screeners will expand the applicant pool at Albany International and other airports.

Thanks to an increase in the recently passed federal budget, full-time screeners who come on board in July can earn $58,563 in two years, plus retirement, 401k-style match and health care benefits — a 28 percent increase from starting compensation.

“We want to hire as many as we can get,” said Bart Johnson, the former State Police colonel who now heads the TSA in New York outside of New York City.

People hired this winter would be ready to work for the busy summer travel season, said Johnson.

At Albany International Airport, informational recruitment tables will be inside the terminal on the ground floor near the information desk every Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The TSA is also participating in SUNY Schenectady College and Career Outreach Center and the Department of Labor’s annual job fair slated for Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The job fair is located in the arcade area on the first floor of Center City, 433 State St., Schenectady.

TSA jobs can be full- or part-time. Getting started entails a four-week training program at the airport as well as two weeks at a law enforcement training center in Georgia.

After that, there is on-the-job training with a mentor, leading to certification after about five or six months.

Starting salary is $37,753 annually for individuals hired before July.

With pay rising to almost $60,000 after two years, TSA is hoping to attract more screeners.

That will increase a month later in Albany to $38,650.

Once a TSA officer has been working at Albany for one year beyond July 1, 2023, the annual salary jumps to $47,878 and after two years from their hire date it escalates again to $58,563 per year.

Another plus: Officers can also apply to other federal security jobs from the TSA, such as those at the Customs and Border Protection agency.

But what about upstate’s population drop?

ALBANY — The first step toward fixing a problem involves acknowledging it and talking about it openly. So we should be glad that Gov. Kathy Hochul is willing to highlight New York’s population outflow. Unlike the previous governor, Hochul isn’t ignoring the decline or blaming it on the weather. In her recent State of the State address, the governor identified the drop as a problem government needs to address, an alarm we can’t ignore. She’s right.

Newly released census estimates say New York for the second year in a row has led the nation in population losses — both in total number and as a percentage of the existing population.

Largely due to departures for other states, New York registered a total population drop of about 524,000 residents over just two years. That’s a staggering number. Of course, population declines are hardly a new phenomenon for much of upstate New York, where decreases are a decades-long story. What seems new in recent years, from what the census has said, is that the population in downstate areas significantly fell while some upstate areas registered surprising (albeit slight) gains.

The trend can be blamed somewhat on the pandemic and working-from-home trends, along with decreasing numbers of newcomers from other countries. Hochul is pointing to another culprit: Astronomical housing costs.

The argument is counterintuitive, perhaps, since a falling population should open up housing. Still, there’s no denying that the downstate housing market is bonkers expensive.

And so, the governor is proposing to target the bewildering tangle of zoning regulations that make it exceedingly difficult to build housing. Hochul is betting that doing so will unleash developers to build her goal of 800,000 homes over the next decade and hoping that an increase in supply will reduce demand and therefore costs.

Economics 101, in other words.

“When there’s not sufficient housing for people at all income levels, they struggle. If things get bad enough, they leave in search of opportunity elsewhere,” the governor said in her State of the State address, later adding that

“people want to live here but local decisions to limit growth mean they cannot.”

The governor may deserve credit for courage here, because she seems ready to dance on a political third rail. After all, that tangle of zoning regulations exists in no small part because it is popular with affluent homeowners (otherwise known as frequent voters) who see increasing population density as a threat to property values. Any state attempt to override local zoning will be fiercely resisted.

Check out last year’s battle over “accessory dwelling units,” otherwise known as granny flats that could be built in garages or attics. Stiff opposition from suburban lawmakers, including Democrats, killed the proposal derided as the end of single-family zoning and suburbia as we know it.

Hochul is right, though, that much more housing is needed downstate — particularly in the so-called “missing middle” of the market — and the same is true of expensive upstate locales such as Saratoga Springs. But that isn’t the case in much of the rest of New York, where housing costs aren’t to blame for outflows that led 39 counties to lose population from 2010 to 2020.

In fact, some upstate metro areas, Rochester and Buffalo included, already rank among the most affordable housing markets in the country.

The problem in swaths of upstate (if not the Capital Region) is a lagging economy caused, in part, by an incredibly cumbersome tax and regulatory environment that stifles investment. And as noted by Justin Wilcox of Upstate United, a nonpartisan group focused on improving the region’s economy, Hochul isn’t offering fixes to those problems.

The governor’s “deeply disappointing” proposals, Wilcox said, “don’t meet the magnitude of New York’s population decline.” He’s right.

But let me address the argument I hear when I write about population decline, the one claiming the efflux is actually for the greater good. It’s a point of view positing that growth isn’t sustainable and that fewer people means less traffic, reduced carbon emissions and, as

In her recent State of the

Hochul said the outflow of New Yorkers

Gov.

the Empire State is a problem that government needs to address.

letter writer James Close of Mechanicville put it “room to breathe without jostling shoulder to shoulder with the teeming masses.”

I’m not unsympathetic to the argument and certainly wouldn’t want to be included in the all-growth-is-good camp.

But we shouldn’t forget that depopulation means wealthier New Yorkers (the ones with choices) are departing and leaving a poorer, increasingly needy population behind. It means fewer people to pay for existing infrastructure, adding to the tax burden of those who stay. It suggests, too, that the economy is not providing jobs that help give meaning and purpose to our lives. The population outflow divides families and weakens communities. It means grandparents who live far from their children and grandchildren and old friends who lose touch. It may deepen social isolation, causing more depression and addiction. It can lead to vacant storefronts, boarded-up houses and towns that are just ... sad.

More than anything, the departure of large numbers of New Yorkers signifies failure. We shouldn’t accept failure.

cchurchill@- timesunion.com A 518-454-5442 A @chris_churchill

Salad Shoppe crew prepping new pizzeria

By MELISSA MANNO

CLIFTON PARK — The former owners of the popular Halfmoon Sandwich and Salad Shoppe, which closed last summer after a 15-year run, are preparing to head a new business venture, Bella Lucia Pizzeria, set to open in next month.

The pizzeria, located at 1218 Route 146 in Clifton Park, will offer an Italian American-inspired menu that includes soup, salads, wings, calzones, hot and cold sandwiches, pasta, chicken dinners and an array of specialty and customizable pizza pies.

“We’re superexcited to start this new endeavor, this new chapter of our life, and we are so appreciative of all

Please see PIZZA 4

TIMES UNION ARCHIVE

WILL WALDRON / TIMES UNION

State address,

Kathy

from

munity

are Required for this program. Call 518-459-2857 Ext 303 for Reservations. Friday, February 3rd at 12:00 Noon: Come listen to vocalist Carla Page and enjoy lunch with the community! Lunch served will be a Garlic Herb Baked Cod w/Orzo Salad, Beet Carrot Salad, Sweet Potato Mash, juice and a cookie. Monday, February 20th

Colonie VFW

AuxiliarySoup ‘N’ Sandwich Lunch

COLONIE - Robert L. Weininger Memorial VFW Post 8692 Auxiliary will hold a drive-thru pickup Soup and Sandwich Lunch on Sunday, February 5th, from 11:30am until 1:30pm. Grilled chicken on a roll, lettuce and mayo on the side, minestrone soup with crackers, clementine and dessert. $14 per meal. For reservations (required), call Maryellen at 518-785-3301 or 518-2105774. Located at 140 VFW Drive in Colonie (Albany NY 12205 for your GPS).

“stART with Art in 2023”

ALBANY - Celebrate the beginning of a new year with local artists in the first show/sale of 2023.

at 5:00pm: Come enjoy a “Cabin Fever Cookout” and a lively performance by the Musicats Duo! They will play a tasteful blend of the Great American Songbook and Latin songs that includes jazz, blues, funk, swing, and Calypso musical styles! Tuesday, February 21st at 12:00 Noon: Come hear Dr. Rhiannon Claus of Capital District Family Chiropractic (topic TBD) and eat lunch with the community. Lunch served will be Goulash, Garlic Bread, Green Salad, Fruit & a Cookie.

2/1 Chicken Cordon Bleu

2/2 Spaghetti & Meatballs

2/3 Special Lunch Garlic Herb Baked Cod

2/6 Pasta Fagioli with Sausage

2/7 Oven Baked Fish Sandwich

2/8 Cornflake Chicken

Works in a wide variety of subjects, techniques and mediums.

Opens January 6. New gallery hours MTW 12-6, Th&Fr 12-8, Sat 10-3 or by appointment. Closed Sundays. Exhibit ends January 31

ART ASSOCIATES GALLERY 21 Railroad Avenue, Albany 12205. 518-459-1307

Art Exhibit Reception in the Gallery Hallway of The Beltrone Living Center

The Jewish Women’s Circle Will Host “Plant

N Sip:

Tu Bshvat Edition”

CLIFTON PARK - The Jewish Women’s Circle will host “Plant N Sip: Tu Bshvat Edition” at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 5th at Clifton Park Chabad, 495 Moe Road. Participants will get to pick a

2/9 Beef Tips over Egg Noodles

2/10 Cheese

Tortellini Soup + ½ Roast Beef Sandwich

2/13 Lunch Pulled Pork Sandwich

2/14 Chicken Pesto Lasagna

2/15 Salmon Cakes

2/16 Spinach Frittata

2/17 Chicken Cacciatore

2/20 Shrimp Scampi

2/20 Dinner “Cabin Fever Cookout”

2/21 Lunch & Learn Goulash

2/22 Cream of Broccoli Soup + ½ Turkey Sandwich

2/23 Margherita Pizza

2/24 Sausage, Peppers + Onions Sandwich

2/27 Chicken Bacon Mac & Cheese

2/28 Meatloaf + Mashed Potatoes

decorative glass dish, succulents of their choice and beautiful crystals to make a unique terrarium to grace their home or workplace! Refreshments will include Kosher wines and other delicacies of our Holy land. A discussion about the deeper meaning of Tu B’Shvat and its connection and relevance to us today will follow, as we celebrate the New year for trees together in style!

The fee for the event is $15, with sponsorships available.

The Jewish Women’s Circle is a place to Connect. Recharge. Rejuvenate. Feed your mind. Nourish your soul. Bring a friend!

To RSVP visit www. cliftonparkchabad.com and for more information, contact Leah at 518-495-0779.

Breakfast Buffet and Omelet Station Waterford Knights of Columbus

WATERFORD - Buffet featuring our famous Omelet Station, Eggs cooked to order, Pancakes (Plain or Blueberry), French toast, Sausage, Bacon, Seasoned Home Fries, Toast, coffee, tea, orange and apple juices.

Take a chance to win the 50/50 drawing.

Each paid breakfast enters you to win a free breakfast!

WHEN: Sunday, Feb., 5th, 2023, 8:00am–11:00am

Every 1st Sunday of the Month

WHERE: K of C Hall, 76 Grace Street, Waterford waterfordkofc.org or call 518-237-9330

$12.00 adult - $6.00 children (Children under 4 free)

Jerusalem Reformed Church Soup Supper

FEURA BUSH - Jerusalem Reformed Church in Feura Bush, NY is having a Soup Supper on Saturday, February 11, 2023 from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Variety of homemade soups, hot turkey sandwiches, with homemade turkey dressing, and hot ham and cheese sandwiches. And homemade desserts. No reservations needed. Free will donations accepted.

Latham Colonie Columbiettes

February Breakfast Buffet

LATHAM - The Latham-Colonie Columbiettes are hosting a Breakfast Buffet on Sunday, February 12th, 2023 from 8:30 am to 11:30 am at the Latham-Colonie

Looking for Baseball Umpires

CAPITAL DISTRICTCapital District Baseball Umpires Association is looking for new members for the 2023 season. Training classes are now forming. Please call Bob Umholtz at 518-986-5987 or go to cdbua.com for more information.

Grief Share Ministry

DELMAR - Bethlehem Lutheran Church is providing a 13-week grief ministry beginning February 13th from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 85 Elm Ave, Delmar NY. There is no cost or fee. Register at bit.ly/blcgriefshare or call Deacon Melissa at (518) 439-4328 for more information.

Knights of Columbus Council, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110.

Menu includes; Scrambled Eggs, an Omelet Station, Home Fries, Corned Beef Hash, Bacon and Sausage, Pancakes and French Toast served w/ Warm syrup, A Variety of Cereals and Juices, Bananas and Hot Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate.

$12 Adults, $6 Children (5-10) and under 5 Free! www.lathamcoloniekofc.com/dinners&events

Bingo at THE CENTER

COLONIE - Play Bingo in the Lakeview Dining Room with Viola. Each card is $1, raffle tickets also available each week. Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m. Please call Caroline Barrett at 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org

The Largest-Circulation Print Newspaper in New York’s Capital Region

Published Every Thursday Distributed Weekly To 180,000 Homes

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Jennifer Morrell 518-454-5513 jmorrell@timesunion.com

DESIGN DEPARTMENT

Roberta Mullins Rick Mullins

CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT

Margaret Bunkoff 518-454-5503 Margaret.bunkoff@ timesunion.com classifieds@ crwnewspapers.com Fax: 518-454-5542

DISPLAY AD DEADLINE: Thursday 4:00pm

CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 1:00pm Twin Bridges Edition Monday 1:00pm Saratoga North Edition The Advertiser

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The majority of the ads in this publication were created by and are the sole property of Local First and cannot be reproduced without express permission from the publisher.

CASA - Raise Your Voice Singing Contest

SCHENECTADY - Calling All Singers! Raise Your Voice Singing Competition, sponsored by CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Abused and Neglected Children) will be held on June 29th, 2023. Auditions for Teens and Young Adults ages 13-24 will take place on May 2nd and 3rd, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church, 603 State Street, Schenectady. Compete in one of two categories: Show Tunes, Theatre, Opera OR Rock, Pop, Country, solo or duo performers. No Profanity.

Top 25 finalists will perform at Proctors for the chance to become the winner! Cash prize and trophy for the First and Second Place Winners in each category!

To schedule an audition please call the Center for Community Justice at 518-346-1281 Ext 330 or 518-709-6288 or email rvaughn@theccj.org

Capital Region

Veterans Memorial (CRVM) Fundraiser

SCHENECTADY - We are having a Fundraiser at the Waters Edge Lighthouse, 2 Freemans Bridge Road, Schenectady on January 28th 4-5 Silent Auction and Cash Bar. 5PM Buffet Dinner Seafood Stuff Sole, Chicken Parm, Potatoes, Fruit and Toss Salad, Coffee and Dessert. 50/50, Small presentation and Silent Auction winners. $40pp; all proceeds to benefit the CRVM. Please visit our website at:

Capitalregionveteransmemorial.org

To purchase tickets and honor our Veterans and their families. Please email: thecrvm@gmail. com

If you have any questions or would like to donate an item for our Silent Auction.

The Waterford Library to Host an Art Exhibit from St. Mary’s School

WATERFORD - The Waterford Library will be hosting a an art exhibit, featuring the artwork from St. Mary’s School students from Wednesday January 11 through Wednesday January 25th in our children’s room.

Deliveries of fresh produce from Capital Roots will resume on January 10th. Our new delivery day will be Tuesdays. Please call the library for more information at 518-2370891.

The Waterford Public Library will be closed in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday on Monday January 16th.

The Waterford Library offers a weekly storytime for children and families on Fridays at 10:30am. For more information about it and other child enrichment activities at the library, please contact Liz Albanetti.

The Capital District Genealogical Society of New York Announces its Monthly Presentation

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Topic: Genealogical Resources at the New York

State Military Museum When: Saturday, January 28, 2023 Time: 1:00 - 2:30 PMWhere: Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jim Gandy graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa with a Master of Library and Information Science in 1999. He has worked at the NYS Military Museum since 2002.

Presentation: Jim will be giving a quick survey of the different resources available to genealogists at the NYS Military Museum. Museum resources start from the early-to-mid 19th century all the way up to World War II.

Registration: FREE https://www.capitaldistrictgenealogicalsociety. org/event_registration

CCR-Announcement: Diocesan Charismatic Prayer Meeting

LOUDONVILLE -

Where: Christ Our Light RC Church, Parish Hall 1 Maria Dr.,Loudonville, NY Date: Saturday, Jan 28th 2023 (continuing on the 4th Saturday each month until Aug. 26, 2023) Time: 11:00am SHARP until 12:30pm For more information about the Charismatic Renewal Check out the website: WWW.AlbanyCCR.org

American Legion Breakfasts

Back in January

DELMAR - American Legion - Blanchard Post 1040 - 16 W. Poplar Drive Delmar NY

Sons of the American Legion Monthly Breakfast Buffet- all you can eat** Adults $12, Children $6 (under 12)

Enjoy our extensive buffet which includes omelet stations, breakfast sandwiches, eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes, pancakes, and more. Includes beverages (coffee, tea, juices) Proceeds used to fund our various projects and programs that directly support our Veterans.

January 29, 2023 from 9 to 12-noon (and February 26th and March 26th)

Thank you for your support to the Veterans - we look forward to seeing you! *elevator and ADA restrooms on site

Shaker Road Loudonville Fire Department is Hosting an All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser

COLONIE - Sunday, January 29th 7am-Noon. Includes Pancakes, French Toast, Scrambled Eggs, Toast, Sausage and Bacon. $13 Adults, $12 Seniors, Children 5-12 $6 and Children 4 and Under Free. Discount for Military available with ID. Come and have a great breakfast and support our fire department. 550 Albany Shaker Rd. 518-458-1352

January Senior Soup Potluck Lunch at St. Mary’s Church in Crescent

CRESCENT - SeniorsYou are invited to a Soup Potluck lunch in the parish hall at St. Mary’s Church, Crescent on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 1:00 PM. This will be a great opportunity for a much needed break during long winter days. Taste some hot soups while enjoying

fellowship with other senior parishioners and community members. Interested In coming, but unable to bring a soup to share? That’s ok!! Your presence is the important part of the day.

You must register by January 24th for this event so we know how much soup to have. If you would like to make a soup or bring bread, please let us know when you register by contacting Jeanne Gracon at smcare@nycap.rr.com or 518-371-9632 ext. 11.

Colonie Chabad Presents A Brand New Course: Book Smart: Course Through Judaism’s Most Important Titles, and the Authors Who Inscribed Them

COLONIE - “We will course through Judaism’s most important titles, and the authors who inscribed them! A panoramic overview of 3000 years of Jewish learning, this course introduces you to the works that earned us the title “The People of The Book””, said Rabbi Mordechai Rubin of Colonie Chabad, who will offer a new 6-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), titled: Book Smart

“You will experience the different genres that shape Jewish life, including Tanach, Midrash, Talmud, Halachah, Philosophy, Kabbalah, Musar, Chasidism, and meet the influential personalities who drove thirty centuries of Jewish scholarship. Whether you’re meeting these texts for the first time or as a seasoned

scholar, this course will inform and enrich all your Jewish learning”, said Rubin.

The Course will run 6 Mondays at 7pm, starting on Jan. 30th, earlybird by Jan 17th & scholarship opportunities still available. The first class is free to join & comes with an in person dinner. The course will be offered in-person as well as over Zoom. Sign-in information will be provided upon enrollment. Enroll online: myjli.com/learn/ colonie. Details may be obtained by calling 518368-7886 or by e-mailing: chaicentercolonie@gmail. com

The Sisterhood/ Men’s Club Partnership of Congregation Beth Shalom is Sponsoring a Program on Financial Planning, Investments, Insurance and Tax Preparation

CLIFTON PARK - It will be held at 10:00 am on Sunday, January 29, 2023 at the synagogue, 688 Clifton Park Center Road in Clifton Park.

A speaker from Marshall Associates Financial Professionals will present the talk, discussing such topics as financial goals, risk tolerance, diversifying portfolios and preparing for major life events, particularly in light of changes in the past few years.

Refreshments will be served. The program is open to the public. RSVP to Jackie at (518)371-0608 or email her at congregationbethshalomcp@gmail. com.

Renowned Pianist

Fisher to Join Schenectady Symphony Orchestra at Proctors

SCHENECTADY - The Schenectady Symphony Orchestra returns to the MainStage at Proctors at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 29 with internationally renowned pianist Philip Edward Fisher in Mozart’s “Piano Concerto in D Minor,” along with Rossini’s “Overture to the Barber of Seville,” Salieri’s Sinfonia in D Major and Brahms “Variations on a Theme by Haydn.”

Fisher’s first accompaniment with SSO was during their 20-21 virtual concert season in which he was featured in the “Back to Basics” program.

When asked about what audiences can expect from this upcoming concert, Fisher said “This is a wonderful program and, although it is centered around the ‘great classicists,’ the audience will get a true taste of the move towards romanticism and the way in which each of these great composers influenced the music that would follow them.”

Tickets are on sale now, and are available through the Box Office at Proctors, in person or via phone at 518-3466204. Box office hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tickets are also available online at www.proctors.org. Groups of 10 or more can get their tickets by calling 518-382-3884, ext. 139.

Art Exhibit Reception in the Gallery Hallway of the Beltrone Living Center

COLONIE - The award-winning nature photography of Scott Stoner and Denise Hackert-Stoner of Naturelogues has been widely exhibited, and has appeared in publications such as birdwatching, national wildlife, New York State conservationist, and many others.

Denise and Scott donated many of the photos for the new visitor center at the Five Rivers Enviornmental Educational Center, and are long-time judges for the Albany Pine Bush’s annual photo contest.

Scott is retired after a 31-year career with the NYS Department of Enviornmental Conservation. Denise is an ordained priest in the Association of Romain Catholic Women Priests.

Through their small local business, Naturelogues, Denise and Scott offer natural history slide programs and nature photography workshops for adults and children as well as sales of their nature photography and note cards. To see more of their work, please visit them at natureloges.com.

American Legion Post 1450 Donates to Local Charities

HALFMOON - American Legion Mohawk Post 1450 Commander John Lepine is proud to announce that the Post has again made its annual Christmas donations of over $13,500 to local charities and non-profit organizations in December.

Contributions totaling over $8000 were made to help support local family and youth oriented organizations such as The Saratoga Center for the Family, Regional Food Bank, CAPTAIN Youth and Family Services, Makea-Wish Foundation, Community Hospice, Double H Ranch and due to increasing need, St. Edward’s Church Food Pantry, Shenendehowa Helping Hands and other Food Pantries.

Additionally, the Post helped support our veterans by donating over $5000 to Stratton V.A. Hospital’s Adaptive Sports Program and Veterans’ Holiday Committee, The National Honor Guard, and the Homeless Men’s and Women’s Veterans Facilities in Ballston Spa.

The donations were made possible through membership support, Bell Jar, Monday Night Bingo and other fundraising activities during the year, and we sincerely thank all who continue to support these activities.

In addition to these December gifts, approximately $8000 in ongoing contributions were made throughout the year in support of the local community.

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. Post 1450 is one of the largest in membership in New York State. For information on joining please call the Post at 371-4463.

Hudson-Mohawk Regional EMS Council 2023 Public Meeting Schedule

ALBANY - 24 Madison Ave. Extension, Suite 1 Albany, NY 12203 - *all meetings start at 6pm

2/27/23 • 3/27/23

4/24/23 • 5/22/23

6/26/23 • 9/25/23

10/23/23 • 11/27/23 • December TBA

Updates, schedule changes, and remote options will be posted on the website: remo-ems.com

Penny Social at St. Michael’s Church

COHOES - St. Michael’s Church, Page Ave. in Cohoes will be hosting their Annual Penny Social on Sunday, March 5th. Doors open at 10:30am, tickets can be purchased starting at 11:00am and the games will start at 1:00pm. PLEASE NOTE THE TIME CHANGES FROM PRIOR YEARS. Admission is free. Under NYS law you must be 18 to play. There will be food, desserts and beverages available. The church hall is handicapped accessible. Come and have a fun afternoon. For further information, please call Maria at 518 782-1203 or Michelle at 518 235-3292.

Helping Everyone Live Well with Parkinson’s

Do you or your loved one have Parkinson’s Disease? Do you live or work in the Upstate NY, Greater Capital Region?

Did you know there is so much you can do to Live Well with Parkinson’s?

Did you know recent clinical studies have shown that a good personal wellness program, including exercise, good nutrition, and an overall healthy lifestyle, can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease and improve the way you feel?

Make today the day you gain control of your life and Live Well with Parkinson’s!

Join us today by signing up for our newsletter Start learning about local and online exercise and wellness programs, resources, and information, all geared toward people with Parkinson’s disease and their Care Partners.

There is no charge to use the Help for Parkinson’s service. Feel free to contact us at info@helpforpd.org or 518-350-7399

** Help for Parkinson’s is a locally based 501(c)(3) charity solely focused on helping improve the lives of folks dealing with Parkinson’s Disease.

Philip Edward

threeand-a-half bathrooms, a commanding stone fireplace in the living room and a spacious kitchen taking up part of its 3,030 square feet. Outside the main house is an inground pool with hot tub and a slide built into the landscaping, a guest house, and a firepit. All set on 2.62 acres. Wynantskill schools. Listing price: $999,999. Taxes: $15,501.

the support that the community and our customers and our staff have shown to us over the last six months or so. It’s been quite humbling,” said Melissa Craine, who owned the former sandwich shop alongside partner Sean Lee.

The pair closed the sandwich shop, located at 1613 Route 9, in August 2022 after its lease expired and they were unable to come to a monetary agreement with the

property owner to purchase the standalone building. Just months before the business closed, Craine and Lee purchased the property where Bella Lucia Pizzeria is now located and announced plans to open a restaurant there.

“We were down to one business location again and we had a great run at the sandwich shop with the business and the community, it was an amazing experience,” Craine said. “With everything that transpired and the purchase of this new building, it just led us to this new pathway in life where we can roll out a new concept, a new menu and a new style of restaurant.”

HOROSCOPE

Week Of January 29, 2023

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, it’s important to focus on progress and not necessarily on money that can be made. See what you can learn along the path you choose.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

You have high hopes that your efforts will be well received this week, Taurus.

Before you move full speed ahead, run your ideas by a trusted group of confidantes.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You don’t learn by getting things right all of the time, Gemini. A few mistakes along the way provide an opportunity to grow and figure out new ways to do the job.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, distractions seemingly abound this week and your head isn’t in the game. While you can get away with a few oversights here and there, too many can be problematic.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, someone in your life is looking for a pep talk and you are just the person to provide one. Listen to the problem at hand and offer this person some solid solutions.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you could be at a crossroads in your life. You are pondering many different scenarios, and now is the time to solidify plans for the next few weeks.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

If you made a career change recently, you may be discovering that the payoff isn’t quite what you expected. Fulfillment is essential, so give some thought to new pursuits.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it is not like you to feel adrift, but that could be the situation right now. Latch on to one activity or person that brings you joy. Focus on the positives in life.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, family members want to spend more time with you, so plan for the extra company. Have a few extra snacks on hand and make sure the house is orderly.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Your tendency to want to tackle things all on your own could have you pushing others away, Capricorn. Accept others’ willingness to pitch in.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, there has been a lot on your plate and many thoughts swimming through your mind. A quick getaway could be what is needed this month.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you have a few offers on the table, but could be having trouble narrowing down your preference. Bring in a third party to help.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 29

José Abreu, Athlete (36)

JANUARY 30

Christian Bale, Actor (49)

JANUARY 31

Justin Timberlake, Singer (42)

FEBRUARY 1

Harry Styles, Singer (29)

FEBRUARY 2

Gerard Piqué, Athlete (36)

FEBRUARY 3

Warwick Davis, Actor (53)

FEBRUARY 4

Natalie Imbruglia, Singer (48)

The new business was announced in a Facebook post last September, accompanied by a comment section full of excited customers who were dismayed by the closure of the sandwich shop, which was a perennial favorite among voters in the Times Union’s annual Best of the Capital Region contest.

Bella Lucia is taking over the space that once housed Mama’s Pizzeria and was slated to be the home of Stromboli’s Pizza & Grill, which never opened due to the pandemic. As such, little had to be done to prepare the building for its new purpose. The turnkey business, which seats a maximum of 70 guests, is set to open on Feb. 1 pending town permit approvals.

Craine said they are also planning on rolling out a catering menu after the restaurant’s opening with options similar to those offered by the sandwich shop, like chicken and pasta entrees, and party heroes sold in 2- to 6-foot lengths.

“Everything we do, we like to make from scratch. We use quality ingredients and we like to put our hearts into it,” Craine said.

Bella Lucia Pizzeria hours of operation are slated to be 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. It will be closed on Mondays.

Recruiting AmeriCorps Volunteers 55+

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Community Caregivers has partnered with AmeriCorps Seniors and is actively recruiting volunteers who are 55+ join a national volunteer movement and help their neighbors.

Our volunteers provide support, at no charge, to older adults and individuals who need help to live safely and independently in their own homes. There are several flexible opportunities available such as grocery shopping and transportation. We currently serve Albany and Rensselaer counties.

For those that meet the income guidelines, there is even a modest stipend available.

If your organization currently utilizes volunteers and would like to find out how we can partner or if you’re interested and have questions, please send us a note at americorps@communitycaregivers.org .

Also, Visit Community Caregivers at www.communitycaregivers.org.

The former owners of the popular Halfmoon Sandwich and Salad Shoppe are opening Bella Lucia’s Pizzeria next month. The Sandwich and Salad Shoppe closed this summer after a 15-year run at a Route 9 site. Courtesy of Melissa Craine

CLIFTON PARK/ HALFMOON PUBLIC LIBRARY

CLIFTON PARK - The following programs will be ofered during the week of January 30-February 5, 2023. More details for each program can be found at www.cphlibrary.org or by calling 518-371-8622.

Upcoming Events at the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library

Are You YETI to Read?

Clifton Park, NY –through March 17

Join our 2023 Winter Reading Challenge for All Ages! Read through the winter months for a chance to win prizes. Stop by the Library to pick up a challenge card or booklet-there’s one for children, teens, and adults.

Family Story Time Clifton Park, NY –Monday, January 30 and Thursday, February 2 at 10 am

Nurture your child’s love of reading with stories, songs, and other fun activities. For all ages with an adult. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Make Your Own Snow Globes – Monday, January 30 at 4 pm

Come to the Library and create your own winter snow globe! For grades 3-5. 518-371-8622. www.

cphlibrary.org

Coding with Scratch Jr

Clifton Park, NY –Wednesday, February 1 at 4 pm Dive into ScratchJr in this three-week class and learn how to make more complex programs with characters, games, and advanced features. Bring an iPad with ScratchJr loaded, or use one of ours. The course will be held February 1, 8, and 15. For grade 2. Registration required. 518-371-8622.

www.cphlibrary.org

Teen Video Games Night

Clifton Park, NY –Thursday, February 2

• Grades 6-8: 5:30-6:30 pm • Grades 9-12: 7-7:55 pm Relax, hangout, and play Nintendo Switch with your friends! Gaming equipment will be provided. 518-371-8622. www. cphlibrary.org

A Bridge to Justice: The Life of Franklin H.

Williams Clifton Park, NY –Thursday, February 2 at 6 pm

Author John Caher will join us for a discussion of lawyer and civil rights activist Franklin H. Williams’ life and legacy and a viewing of the award-winning 30-minute PBS documentary of the same name. Caher, co –author of a book on Williams and primary writer of the documentary, will explore the impact of this “hidden figure” civil rights attorney inappropriately relegated to the footnotes of history. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.

org First Friday: Using DNA Tools to Solve Family Mysteries Clifton Park, NY – Friday, February 3 at 10:30 am

Professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty will guide attendees through using DNA test results, give suggestions for useful online resources, and share her personal family stories in adoption research. . 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.

org Build a Fort After Hours!

Clifton Park, NY – Friday, February 3 at 6 pm Build a fort in the Library! We will read stories

and build forts in the stacks. Bring your own fort making supplies: blankets, sheets, pillows, flashlights, etc. The Library will provide tape, clothespins, and books. All families are welcome; parents must stay for this program. Registration required. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary.

org Poetry Workshop: The Creative Fire of Folklore Clifton Park, NY – Saturday, February 4 and 11 at 11 am

Published poet Susan Comninos will discuss and employ techniques for incorporating elements of your community’s folklore into identity-based poems that can function as your “origin stories.” Come prepared to try your hand at techniques for folding family sayings, stories, and more into poetry that’s at once individual and universal. Susan Comninos’s poetry has appeared in the Harvard Review Online, Prairie Schooner, and North American Review, among others and she has taught writing at several universities. This event is funded in part by Poets & Writers with public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the

New York State Legislature. 518-371-8622. www. cphlibrary.org Teen Art Café Clifton Park, NY – Saturday, February 4 at 2 pm Drop in and use our art supplies to create a masterpiece of your own design. For grades 6-12. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org Pokemon Scavenger Hunt Clifton Park, NY – all month

Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet in the Children’s Library during the month of February then have fun searching for hidden pictures of Pokemon figures. The pictures will change weekly. For ages 3-14. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org

Writer’s Workshop at THE CENTER

COLONIE - Come practice the art of writing in a friendly and supportive environment. In the Library at The Beltrone Living Center. First and Third Tuesday of each month, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please call Caroline Barrett at 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org

The New York Capital District

Christian Women’s Connection is Sponsoring a “Galentine Luncheon –Celebrating Our Friendships”

SCHENECTADY - The luncheon is on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at the Guilderland Elks Lodge, 3867 Rte. 146 (Carman Road) in Schenectady, NY 12303 beginning at 11:30am and ending at approximately 1:30pm. Please be prompt.

Your reservation is necessary no later than February 9 and cancellations a must. Please call Nancy (518) 320-2649 or Mae (518) 895-8977 for reservations. On the menu this month is a Roast Beef Dinner and Cherry Pie with an alternative choice of Grilled Chicken Salad. The cost is $17.00 inclusive (cash only).

Our Speaker this month is Tracy Medline from Hanover, Conn. who will speak on “Power of Choices – Life, Loss and Liability”. As for our Feature, Steve Caporizzo, News 10’s Chief Meteorologist and host of Pet Connection will join us. Joe Kriss will entertain us with singing Frank Sinatra tunes.

All are welcome - bring a friend!!

How To Create More Privacy On Your Property

An inviting backyard can serve as a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a long day at the office or an exhausting day spent transporting kids to and fro, it’s hard to resist the allure of a peaceful outdoor space in which to unwind.

Privacy is a key component of any backyard oasis. Some homes may be so remote that privacy isn’t an issue. But many suburban homeowners recognize they might need to tweak their landscapes if they hope to create a private oasis outside.

Fencing or planting?

Most homeowners looking to create more privacy on their property will have to choose between fencing and planting. Fencing provides immediate privacy because, once it’s installed, no one can see into the yard. Fencing also doesn’t require watering or other immediate upkeep, which will be necessary when planting to ensure tree roots can establish themselves.

But planting has its benefits as well. Planting for privacy is essentially creating a living fence that can grow over time and provide even more privacy as trees reach maturity. Plants also tend to be less costly than fencing. The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and $4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though it’s unlikely they will cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more mainte-

The Rise In All-Electric Homes

nance and will potentially need to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for generations.

Planting

Homeowners who choose to plant for privacy will next have to decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating a living fence. A number of varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s important that homeowners consult with a landscape architect prior to choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties. During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.

• Leyland cypress: The Arbor Day Foundation® notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries, likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60’-70’ and can spread as wide as 25’. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.

• Green Giant Arborvitae: There are different varieties of the arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fast-growing option for privacy planters. The Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet at maturity, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.

• Eastern White Pine: The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height

When asked to think of modern homes, many people might think of minimalism, neutral colors, open concept floor plans, and large windows without treatments. While each of those features are components of modern homes, just what qualifies as “modern” is ever-changing and often a reflection of what buyers are looking for. And lately, many buyers are looking for all-electric homes.

A 2015 study by the U.S. Energy Information Administration found that the number of all-electric homes had increased over the previous decade. In fact, the EIA study found that 25 percent of homes in the United States used only electricity. All-electric homes are generally considered more environmentally friendly because they lessen homeowners’ carbon footprint by reducing their need for fossil fuels like natural gas. Electric heat pumps, induction stoves and electric fireplaces are just some of the technologies that can be found in all-electric homes.

Though the design style of all-electric homes needn’t be modern, there’s no denying that the growing popularity of such homes makes them an option for homeowners with modern sensibilities.

and its potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like it for its resemblance to a Christmas tree, and in fact it is widely used for that purpose. The privacy provided by the eastern white pine is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties.

Whether it’s fencing or planting, homeowners have many options to consider as they seek to create more privacy on their properties.