Local First Twin Bridges Edition 040623

Amity Reformed Church Rummage Sale

VISCHER FERRYAmity Reformed Church located at 335 Riverview Road, Vischer Ferry will hold their annual Spring Rummage Sale on Fri, April 14 and Sat, April 15. Among the items for sale will be slightly used and new women’s and men’s clothing, shoes, clothing for all ages. A large assortment of purses, accessories, scarves and jewelry. Baby clothes and children’s clothing for all ages along with baby items and toys. Household items including dishes, glassware, cookware and kitchen utensils. Blankets, curtains and variety of home decor, pictures, wall hangings and frames. There will be a cafe lunch served both days along with the sale of home made baked cookies and breads. The sale will be held on Friday, April 14 open at 9am to 2pm and open on Saturday 9am to 2pm. The Boy Scout troop will hold a bottle drive on Saturday 9am to Noon. For further information please call 518 371-8237

Grief Hope and Healing Program

HALFMOON - 7 Weeks, Church of the Resurrection, begins April 14th at 6pm . Halfmoon Town Hall - Registration required. Please visit crsaratoga.org to contact us for more information.

After knife fight, eyeglass store looks to more security

Two arrests were made after fracas, suspects remain in custody

By RICK KARLIN

COLONIE — Shoppers strolling through Colonie Center in recent weeks may have noticed that one of the mall’s retailers, the LensCrafters eyeglass and contact lens store, has had its metal security gate down.

A security guard was posted inside the store to let customers in and out.

That gate is expected to be lifted Monday, three months after a knife fight erupted right outside the store, which is on the mall’s second level.

No one in the store was talking about the gates when a reporter asked, and an email to LensCrafters corporate office wasn’t returned in time for deadline.

Colonie Center representatives also did not elaborate on the measure, which appeared to be the only spot in the mall showing outward signs of heightened security.

“It is our policy not to disclose information regarding specific security measures implemented. We do however employ a robust security team that patrols the interior and exterior

of the property 24/7,” a mall spokesperson said in a prepared statement.

Police believe the security step stemmed from a fight at the end of December that led to one injury and the arrest of two 18-year-old men who remain in the Albany County jail.

“That’s just a choice they made,” Colonie Police spokesman Lt. Daniel Belles said of the decision at LensCrafters to keep the gate lowered during store hours.

“The employees were pretty shaken up by it,” he said of the fight, adding the store was using “an abundance of caution.”

The two suspects have been charged with second-degree attempted murder and first-degree attempted assault.

Police said they “were actively involved” in assaulting a third victim with a large combat-style knife. The victim suffered a hand wound. Officers said they also found an imitation handgun at the home of one of the suspects.

Belles said the flight was between people who knew each other and ended up facing off in the mall when they crossed paths.

While malls and retailers nationwide have several security measures they can take, keeping the gates closed is an unusual tactic, said David Levenberg, a Florida-based mall security consultant.

Jewelry stores in high crime areas, for example, may have locked doors through which customers need to buzzed in by someone in the store.

Gates, which at first glance could make a store look like it was closed, are not a good long term tactic, he said. “That’s obviously not sustainable,” he said.

Levenberg, like Belle, said the employees were probably frightened by the December fight and they asked the company to let them close the gates.

Gas-less building mandate coming

Hochul, Legislature agree it’s time to shift to electricity for home heating, cooking

By RICK KARLIN COLONIE — Cocca’s

Appliances has been selling a lot of gas stoves lately and it’s not due to a sale or marketing promotion.

Instead, customers want the stoves because they believe such devices may be banned in the near future.

“They are replacing their gas ranges before the deadline,” store owner Frank Cocca said of the customers purchasing stoves from his appliance store.

Also selling briskly are gas fireplace inserts, said Karen Arpino, executive director at Northeast Hearth Patio & BBQ Association, a trade group for such appliances. “All of our dealers have had a run on gas.”

That fear, though, is only partly justified — for now.

As early as 2025, new homes in New York maybe built without gas or oil heat, relying instead on new forms of electric-driven heating systems.

Eliminating gas stoves in new homes, though, may come later. But those who already have gas hookups will likely be able to keep using their stoves for a while.

The pending mandate for electrically heated homes may be the first palpable change that New Yorkers will see as the state’s 2019 landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act starts to take effect.

The CLCPA, as it’s known, sets ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions, or greenhouse gases that are

fueling climate change.

This year, elected officials as well as regulators in state agencies are finalizing the rules and guidelines for these reductions, including a phaseout of gas for heating and then cooking.

As of press time, Gov. Kathy Hochul and lawmakers were still negotiating over the 2023-24 state budget. It was due Saturday but could be late due to disagreements on issues including income taxes and court reform. But it’s clear that some kind of a ban on natural gas heating will likely be codified this year.

While primarily a financial document, New York’s budgets are also loaded with policy initiatives like gas phaseouts.

Unlike issues such as income taxes or court reforms all three parties agree that it is time to start removing gas from the energy grid. That doesn’t mean all gas heating boilers, furnaces, stoves and other appliances will instantly be obsolete, however.

Gas for the near future will continue to flow through existing pipelines. Stoves and boilers will still cook food and heat people’s homes. The key difference is for new homes and buildings going forward that will not have gas heat.

The change represents a win for a broad coalition of climate activists who have made the electrification of buildings a priority this year.

With buildings, ranging from homes to offices, accounting for about a third of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions, the move is seen as one of the quickest ways to reduce carbon when it comes to energy use.

“The most important thing is to get this done,” said Patrick McLellan, policy director for the New York State League of Conservation Voters, part of the broad coalition that has pushed for the gas ban.

The three proposals from the governor, Assembly and Senate offer a menu of choices for phasing in the ban.

Hochul’s proposal calls for the ban starting with houses or apartments up to three stories. That would start in 2025. Then in 2028, the ban for gas hookups in buildings above three stories would begin.

The Senate and Assembly proposals would

start the ban with buildings below seven stories – which is similar to a gas heat ban already in place in New York City.

The Assembly’s bill would start the ban on smaller buildings in 2026 and in 2029 for larger buildings. The Senate ban would begin in 2025 for smaller buildings and 2029 for the bigger ones.

Activists note that the legislation is in contrast to last year, when members of the Assembly balked at instituting an electrification mandate.

But this year, with all three parties on board, it seems like the only thing that remains to be resolved are the details of when and for what size building.

“There’s been a shift in the conference since last year,” Mc-Clellan said of the Assembly. Environmentalists say cutting gas use has become more doable in light of new technologies such as heat exchangers for cooling and heating buildings. These devices exploit the difference in temperature between the interior and exterior of a building to create heat energy. Some heat exchangers rely on tapping the heat from below ground where the temperature remains at approximately 50 degrees year-round.

This change hasn’t come without a fight.

The prospect of a gas phaseout has prompted a steady stream of polls, surveys and studies from both the gas industry and environmentalists, each armed with data backing up their arguments.

Environmentalists have recently pointed to studies about the health impacts of gas stoves, including one suggesting that almost 19 percent of New York’s childhood asthma cases could theoretically be prevented by not using cooking devices.

On the other side, the pro-gas New Yorkers for Affordable Energy recently commissioned a poll that found 87 percent of those questioned said they were concerned about the costs consumers will have to absorb by moving away from heating with natural gas, propane or oil.

Please see GAS 6

Saratoga County’s 1898 Leadership Battle

Submitted by

David Wickerham

March 29, 2023

Dave Wickerham has had a long-term interest in the political history of Saratoga County. He served as an employee of Saratoga County for more than 33 years, including 25 years as County Administrator

The recent battle for Speaker of the United States House of Representatives left many astounded that it took so many votes to reach a conclusion. However, Saratoga County once went through a situation that makes the House of Representatives battle look like very small potatoes. It must be noted that Saratoga County was a bastion for the Republican Party since its inception in 1856, and generally voted for the Whig Party before that. The situation changed in 1898, although it is unknown what spurred the change. It could have been the Financial Panic of 18933 or the Spanish American War or some much more local issue that is lost to the minds of the modern citizen.

The makeup of the County was different in 1898. Neither Saratoga Springs nor Mechanicville had been chartered as cities. Saratoga Springs was still a Town and Mechanicville was just a railroad head included in the Boundaries of Halfmoon and Stillwater. Thus, there were just 20 Towns in the County, and since the advent of weighted voting was still 75 years away, each supervisor would cast one vote at meetings of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors.

This became a problem in 1898 when the voters

elected 10 Republicans and 10 Democrats to the Board. Republicans represented Clifton Park, Corinth, Day, Greenfield, Hadley, Halfmoon, Moreau, Northumberland, Saratoga Springs, and Wilton. Democrats held the Town Supervisor positions in Charlton, Ballston, Edinburg, Galway, Malta, Milton, Providence, Saratoga, Stillwater, and Waterford. The scene was set for an epic struggle for leadership.

The Organizational Meeting was set for 4:00 pm on Monday, November 14, 1898. The meeting began innocently enough with the Clerk of the Board calling the roll and asking each Supervisor to state his choice for Chairman.

Ten Supervisors voted for Walter Cavert, D-Charlton and ten voted for George Jackson, R – Moreau. The Clerk took 38 more votes, but there was no change in the outcome. Finally, on the motion of Frank Hathorn, the meeting was adjourned until the next day.

The Board was called to order the next day at 10:00 am. J Howard Arnold moved that the voting be done by written ballots. I assume he intended to free Supervisors from being strongarmed by their respective parties. However, the clerk called the roll for several more ballots , but after 53 votes, the chamber remained deadlocked.

When the Board reconvened on Wednesday, November 16, it seemed like Groundhog Day. Seven more votes were taken with no change. In the afternoon, Frank Hathorn tried to break the impasse by proposing that each party name one member to a special committee to confer and propose a plan of organization. The resolution was blocked by the Democrats. Finally, after the 102nd fruitless

vote they adjourned for the day .

On Thursday, they took just one vote, the 103rd, with the results again tied ten to ten. After four hours of arguing, they all agreed to establish a 4 man committee. George Valentine and William Donnelly represented the Democrats while Clarence Griffin and Frank Hathorn were selected by the Republicans. The next morning they reported that they were still deadlocked and the Democrats argued that they had the right to reorganize the Board since they had actually received more votes than the Republicans in the last election. The Republicans, of course rejected the assertion. At 1:30, there appeared to be a breakthrough with a compromise offered by Frank Hathorn. The terms were as follows:

Democrats to appoint the Chair and Republicans to appoint the Clerk to the Board

Parties were to split appointments of the Jail Physician and County

Home physician

The Chair and memberships of Standing Committees divided equally Official printing to be divided equally between the parties

It looked like the stalemate might be resolved before the weekend and a four-man committee was established with instructions that they report back to the Board that afternoon with a final Resolution. However, after asking twice for more time, the Board finally agreed to give them the evening to work out the details and adjourned to Saturday morning. If the devil is in the details, this devil was exceedingly strong. While there was general agreement on most of the issues, negotiations broke down

over the makeup of the standing committees, and both sides accused the other of bad faith bargaining. After some testy personal exchanges, they took more fruitless votes and after the 110th unsuccessful vote, they adjourned to Monday, November 21.

At the beginning of the 2nd week of this marathon struggle, the Democrats put forth a long resolution to explain why they were unwilling to accept Supervisor Hathorn’s proposal for organization and also would not accept his offer to give the terms offered to them to the Republicans. The resolution also offered more than a few personal attacks, and was obviously rejected by the Republican members of the Boarrd. The positions of the two sides hardened and the rest of the session was taken up with more unsuccessful 10-10 votes through ballot 155. They met daily through Saturday November 26, continuing the unsuccessful run of votes through ballot 360.

Saratoga County Supervisors 1898

Democratic Chairman of the Board.

In all, the Board of Supervisors had deliberated for two weeks, worked through the Thanksgiving holiday, and taken 361 votes before even getting to one piece of the people’s business. The Board stayed in session for another 20 days, finally adjourning for the year on December 23.

Finally, on November 28, the Democrats revisited Supervisor Hathorn’s proposal of November 18, and decided they could accept it, provided the Chair of the Board had the full power to act in the performance of his duties. The long nightmare was ended, and Walter Cavert of Charlton was unanimously elected as the first

“Food Glorious Food”

LATHAM - Join Colonie Senior Service Center’s staff, visiting chef, foodies, and local food producers for a monthly book club and practicum all about food entitled “Food Glorious Food.” We will explore the serious side of food, how it’s produced, the economics and politics behind it, and the responsibility we have as consumers. This reading and discussion program will also entail some hands-on opportunities. Registration is FREE but will be limited. The group will meet the last Thursday of the month at 11 am in the community room at King Thiel Senior Community, 17 Elks Lane in Latham. We ask that participants plan on attending all

The Democrats attained an actual majority in 1899 and kept it for a couple of years. With the advent of the 20th century, Republicans recaptured a majority and have held it ever since. Thus, there have been no repeats of the crazy organization battle of 1898. This story is based on the official proceedings of the Board of Supervisors. What really happened behind closed doors is lost in the mists of time, but one can only imagine the horse trading that actually went on!

scheduled sessions; April 27, May 25, and June 29.

Books Chosen for this Program are as follows:

-The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food by Dan Barber

-Diet Cults: The Surprising Fallacy at the Core of Nutrition Fads and a Guide to Healthy Eating for the Rest of Us by Matt Fitzgerald

-In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan

-Diet for a Small Planet by Frances Moore Lappe

-How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health by Marion Nestle

This program is made possible with funding from Humanities New York. To register, please call Diane 518-459-2857 ext 305.

“Step By Step” Event, Sponsored by Hope for a Woman’s Heart

LAKE GEORGE - All women are invited to attend an all day “Step by Step” springtime event, sponsored by Hope For A Woman’s Heart, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Lake George from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th.

Participating activities will include: Dance numbers with husband and wife team Aaron & Christy Coulson; the Glorious Praise Dancers group; music by singer Danielle Hoag and a floral arrangement demonstration by Gina Whalen. Raffles and vendor shopping will also be available.

Featured speakers Jillian Pelkey and Christy Coulson will give inspirational messages of Hope.

Ticket cost is $60.00 per person ($50 with group of 10 or more). A Continental breakfast and Buffet lunch is inclusive. Registration and shopping begins at 8:30 a.m.For more information, visit the website at https://urldefense. com/v3/__http://www. h4awh.com__;!!Ivohdkk!nNqe06551wLigoTp7fJcf_jq-INvxaG4BwXiXEQibs5Mr28ZdEQz3Ztcl0CgQyB2MJMsAGV3YbkqfMgdrg21a1wijg$ or call Debbie Geer, President of HFAWH, at 518-796-2895. * Reservation deadline is Friday, April 21. Hope For A Woman’s Heart is a non-profit organization.

Boght Ladies Auxiliary Annual Garage Sale

COHOES - IndoorsRain or Shine • 8 Preston Drive, Cohoes, NY 12047 • May 13, 2023 8am to 2pm Rent a table

Southern Saratoga

Art Society

SARATOGA COUNTY - The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Commons Ct., Tel. #: 518-383-1343 and SSAS will be hosting an exhibit in the Gallery during the months of April and May featuring seven photographers and members of SSAS. Artists include Cheryl Jenks, Rebecca Jenkins, Denise Kornak, Meda Rigatti, Brian Skanes, Anup Sood and Bill Staudinger. The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Tel.#: 518-664-4646 and SSAS will host a Student Art Show featuring students from Mechanicville High School. A reception will be held for students, families and friends on Wednesday, April 19th at 6:30 p.m. Please visit these venues and support the arts in Southern Saratoga county. For further information about SSAS visit our website: southernsaratogaartist.com or check us out on facebook.

Alplaus UMC

Holy Week Schedule

ALPLAUS - Holy Week

Services at Alplaus UMC, 1 Brookside Pl, Alplaus 12008.

Good Friday - 4/7 at 7pm - Is a somber Christian Holiday, remembering the day that Jesus was crucified. Some believe that the term “Good Friday” came from “God’s Friday”; others believe that only in the light of Easter can we call the tragedy of Friday “good”. Both understandings may have some truth to them. This year, we will honor the day with music, prayer and scripture.

Easter Sunday - 4/9 at 8am - This will be a

American Red Cross Blood Drive

LOUDONVILLE -

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 510 Albany Shaker Road Loudonville will be having an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday, April 12th from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Walk ins are welcome if there is an available appointment when the person arrives. Any questions or to sign up contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-GiveLife or go to the American Red Cross web site.

Afternoon Tea on the Titanic at Delmar Reformed Church

DELMAR - All are invited to an Afternoon Tea on the Titanic featuring Phyllis Chapman as “the Unsinkable Molly Brown”. Enjoy a delicious selection of tea sandwiches and fancy treats.

The tea takes place on Saturday April 22 at 1 p.m. at the Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Avenue, Delmar. Reservations are requested by April 7 as seating is limited to 60 people. The cost is $25 per person. Call Barbara at 518-439-4351 or email bbcastle08@gmail.com for info or to RSVP.

All funds raised support the work of the Bethlehem Historical Association and its Cedar Hill Schoolhouse Museum.

Diocesan

Charismatic Prayer Monthly Meeting

LOUDONVILLE - 4th

Saturday of each month

Christ Our Light RC Church, Parish Hall

1 Maria Drive, Loudonvil-

leTime: 11:00am SHARP!

Until: 12:30pm April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, Aug. 26, 2023

Check us out on: www.AlbanyCCR.org

shorter, simpler service celebrating the resurrection outside (weather permitting). The 30min service will include music, scripture and communion.

Pancake Breakfast8:30am – After the early Easter service we will have the opportunity to share a hot meal: pancakes, scrambled eggs, breakfast sausages, and beverages. Please contact the church office by April 2nd to RSVP by calling the church office, 518-3996000 and leave a message with the number of people attending this meal, so we can plan accordingly.

Easter Sunday10:15am - This will be a “traditional” 50-60 min Easter celebration in the sanctuary: Scripture, music, and flowers help us to celebrate and remember the first Easter morning and rejoice with how that wonder still speaks to us today!

Selkirk Fire Dept.

Station No. 1

Auxiliary Fish Fry

Take-Out Dinner

SELKIRK - On Friday, April 7th of 2023, the Selkirk Fire Company No.

1 Auxiliary will be hosting their Annual Fish Fry Take Out dinners. The monies raised from these dinners help us to provide food and gifts for families in our community during the holidays, as well as provide food for our firefighters during fire and rescue emergencies. I n addition, we offer a scholarship to an (RCS) Ravena, Coeymans, and Selkirk graduating senior. 126 Maple Avenue, Selkirk, NY 4:30 - 7 P.M.

$12.00

Dinner Includes: Fish Fry, French Fries,

Coleslaw & Dessert

$5.00 New England

Clam Chowder

$5.00 Extra piece of fish

Enter to win some awesome raffle prizes!!

Shenendehowa

Neighbors

Connecting

Annual Meeting

HALFMOON - The Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting Annual Meeting will be held on Wed, April 12 from 1 to 3 pm at St. Mary’s Church, Church Hill Rd. Halfmoon. Interested members of the community are invited to attend along with SNC members. There will be election of officers, annual reports, and approval of the annual budget. Light refreshments will be served.

Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting is a nonprofit organization connecting people 55 and older to their neighbors and their community. SNC sponsors monthly educational and social programs, many of which are open to the public.

Latham-Colonie

Columbiettes April

Breakfast Buffet

LATHAM - The Latham-Colonie Columbiettes are hosting a Breakfast Buffet on Sunday, April 16th, 2023 from 8:30 am to 11:30 am at the Latham-Colonie 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, Banan-

Clifton Park Center Baptist Church

Good Friday Children’s Program

CLIFTON PARK - Clifton Park Center Baptist Church will be offering a Good Friday Children’s Program on Friday, April 7, from 10 am-12 (noon) for children 4-12 years old. The program will include songs, crafts, Bible story time, games, trivia and snack time (pre-packaged snacks). Limited space is available. Please call the church if you have any questions (518) 371-6023. Registration and medical forms are needed (no walk ins) and can be picked up at the church’s office (9 am-1:30 pm M-F). Clifton Park Center Baptist Church is located at 713 Clifton Park Center Rd. in Clifton Park, NY 12065

as and Hot Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate.

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

Jubilate Singers and Orchestra will Perform their 20th and Final Concert Called

“God is Love” at Bethlehem Lutheran Church

DELMAR - Jubilate Singers and Orchestra will perform their 20th and Final concert called “God is Love” on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 85 Elm Ave, Delmar NY. Admission is free but seating is limited. Call to reserve your seats at 518-4394328. For more information visit: https://www. blcdelmar.com/event-calendar/2023/4/16/jubilatesingers-and-orchestragod-is-love

Defensive Driving Classes at the Beltrone Living Center

ALBANY - Roger Dames, CSSC’s Driver Fitness Coordinator, will conduct Defensive Driving Classes on the following dates:

-Saturday, April 8, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM

-Friday, April 21, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM

Classes will be held at The Beltrone Living Center, located at 6 Winners Circle in Albany, NY. Cost of the class is $25 per person due before the day of the class. To reserve your seat, call (518)459-2857 ext 340.

The Collaborative Methodist Ministries of Troy Present

“No Greater Love” an Easter Cantata by Lloyd Larson.

LATHAM - Celebrate

Easter with six area United Methodist Church Choirs as they join together to offer this wonderful Cantata as a free gift to our community. Saturday April 8th at 4:00pm at Calvary United Methodist Church; 15 Ridge Place Latham NY 12110. There will be a Free will offering to support the regional food bank, and small reception following the performance. For more information contact: centerbrunswickumc@ gmail.com

Schenectady Sons of Italy

Fish Fry

ROTTERDAM - Again this year the Schenectady

Sons of Italy will offer a Drive-Thru Fish Fry on Good Friday, April 7 from 3:30 to 6 PM at their location at 2984 Hamburg Street in Rotterdam. The dinner will consist of fried haddock, roll, pasta salad and dessert, a nice way to enjoy a simple pleasant meal without the effort.

Cost is $15 PP. Please pre-order by April 5 by calling 518 355-7500 and leaving a message or online at osialodge321.com

Latham-Colonie

Knights of Columbus

Spaghetti and Meatball Dinner

LATHAM - On Saturday, April 22nd 2023, the Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus along with Steve and Jude Chiera are hosting a Spaghetti and

Meatball Dinner at the Latham-Colonie Knights of Columbus Council, 328 Troy Schenectady Road. Serving from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Dine In and Take Out options are available!

Menu; Tossed Salad, Italian Bread, Spaghetti and Meatballs and Dessert.

Reservations

518 892 3750 or 518 783 0572, $15 pp

CCR-Healing Liturgy

LOUDONVILLE

Christ Our Light RC Church, 1 Maria Dr.,Loudonville, NY

Date: Wednesday, April 12th, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm Prayer and Praise 7:30 pm Liturgy, Healing Prayer to follow. Presider: Fr. Marty Fisher

There will be individual prayer teams available after Mass.

For more information about the Charismatic Renewal - Check out the website: AlbanyCCR.org

Latham-Colonie

Columbiettes

Spring

Flea Market

LATHAM - Latham Colonie Columbiettes, 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, N.Y. 12110, are hosting their Spring Flea Market on Sat., May 20th, 2023 from 9 am to 3:30 pm! Rain or Shine!

Vendor Space available both Indoor and Outdoor, Undercover and Outdoor Areas for your own popup displays

For pricing information klmajer@outlook.com or www.lathamcoloniekofc. com/dinners&events.

Tricks to Trim Your Utility Bill

A rapid rise in the cost of living will undoubtedly prove to be one of the major stories of 2022. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, energy prices rose by 41.6 percent in the 12-month period that ended in June 2022, marking the highest 12-month increase since April 1980. The significant spike in energy costs is somewhat misleading, as the BLS considers motor fuel prices, which

rose more than 60 percent in the 12-month period ending in June 2022, part of the energy category. However, during that same period, electricity prices rose by nearly 14 percent while natural gas prices increased by 38 percent. Both of those increases were more significant than the more publicized rise in food prices, which rose by right around 10 percent.

Families need to eat and many professionals now must return to in-person work after years of pandemic-related remote working, which means they must confront higher fuel costs. That leaves little room to save money in those areas. However, there are ways for families to reduce home energy costs without adversely affecting their quality of life.

• Run appliances during off-peak hours. According to the United States Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the best time to use appliances in a home is when overall electricity use is low. Though this time changes depending on the season and can vary based on geography, the DOE and the EPA both note that after 9 p.m. and before 9 a.m. are generally the off-peak hours in most areas.

• Strategically use your shades and blinds. The energy providers at ConEd estimate that about 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows. Strategic use of curtains, shades and blinds can keep heat out on hot days, thus allowing homeowners to turn the thermostat up on their air conditioning units in summer. Opening curtains, blinds and shades on winter mornings and afternoons will allow more sunlight in, allowing homeowners to control heating costs more effectively.

• Reorganize your refrigerator. There are plenty of contradictory strategies regarding how best to store foods in a refrigerator so the unit consumes as little energy as possible while still keeping foods fresh and chilled. But various energy providers, including ConEd, recommend that consumers avoid packing a fridge too tightly. By allowing cold air to circulate within the refrigerator, the refrigerator won’t need to work as hard, and thus consume as much energy, to keep foods cool. It’s important to note that the opposite should govern how the freezer is packed. Packing frozen items tightly in the freezer will help the refrigerator work a little less hard.

• Turn off the lights. Estimates from the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicate that electricity for lighting accounts for around 10 percent of electricity consumption in homes. A concerted effort to turn off lights in rooms that aren’t being used can help consumers save money.

Rising utility bills are compelling millions of people to seek ways to trim their energy consumption. Thankfully, there are many ways to do that without upsetting daily routines.

Options to Finance Home Improvements

Renovating a home is a great way to impart personality indoors and out. Improvements can make spaces more livable and address safety issues. Home renovations often take residents’ lifestyles into account, and changes can be customized to accommodate a growing family or an empty nest.

No matter the job, home improvements tend to be costly. According to the financial resource SoFi, on average, the cost to renovate or remodel a whole house runs between $10 and $60 per square foot. Certain rooms demand a higher cost, with a kitchen or bathroom remodel costing around $100 to $250 per square foot due to electrical and plumbing needs. Figuring out how to pay for the improvement project is as essential to the planning process as picking out materials and contractors.

The following are some financial considerations and financing options for homeowners looking to renovate their properties.

• Consider if the investment is worth it. Remodeling magazine routinely assesses common improvements and how much homeowners can expect to recoup on the investment in its annual “Cost v. Value” report. In 2022, a homeowner spending $4,000 on a garage door replacement recouped 93.3 percent of the investment, whereas adding a midrange bathroom at $63,000 would only offer a 51.8 percent return. Homeowners must decide if they want to go forward with the project if they’re likely to get just a $33,000 return when they choose to sell the home later on.

or she can borrow more. This is a good idea for recurring or long-term home improvements.

• Try a home equity loan. Home equity loans use the home as collateral like a HELOC. The home equity loan is an installment loan for a fixed amount on a fixed monthly schedule for a set term. These are sometimes called second mortgages.

• No- or low-interest credit card. Smaller projects can be financed using credit cards. Many will offer introductory rates with no interest for a few months. This is generally only preferable if a person can pay off the balance before interest is charged.

These are the primary ways to finance home improvement projects when costs exceed available cash on hand.

• Refinance the home mortgage. Homeowners can use a cash-out mortgage refinance as a way to access thousands of dollars for a remodel. This taps into a home’s equity. Keep in mind that the mortgage will then be a new mortgage at the current interest rate and an outstanding balance higher than what was the current one. Typically 20 percent equity in the home is needed to refinance.

• Take out a personal loan. For those who do not want to refinance, a personal loan or home improvement loan can be good for midsized projects, according to American Express. Personal loans for home renovations typically require no collateral and one’s credit score determines the interest rate.

• Utilize a home equity line of credit. A HELOC is a form of revolving credit, like a credit card. Homeowners borrow against the credit line granted with the home being the collateral. As a person pays down what is owed, he

REAL ESTATE / HOUSE OF THE WEEK

776 Riverview Road, Rexford

YThis contemporary Rexford home, built in 1985, contains 5,200 square feet of living space. ou’ll find a postcard-perfect scene from most any window in this week’s seven-bedroom, fourbathroom contemporary home. Set on the banks of the Mohawk River with panoramic views, the home’s 3-acre preserve-like property features a mix of hard and soft landscaping, a gazebo, waterfall and private hiking trails. Nature’s palette extends inside the home’s 5,200 square feet of living space that features light hardwood floors, a large kitchen lined with sage-green cabinetry and an extended dining area that looks out to the river. There’s also plenty to see from the expansive third-floor family room that boasts a cathedral ceiling and exposed

beams. There is an HOA fee of $54 a month, which covers use of common areas and maintenance of nearby trails near the river. List price: $1,200,000. Taxes: $19,837. Reach out to Jean Maloney, broker and owner of 21st Century Properties at 518-378-5478 or co-listing agent Jamie Gervais, 518-817-7531.

Anthony M. Gucciardo

GAS

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Switching from boilers and furnaces to electric-powered heat exchangers, does come with a price tag.

“It’s certainly going to add to the cost,” said Luke Michaels, principal in the Michaels Group a well-known Capital Region home builder.

Driving up the cost of newly built homes, which Michaels offers, will increase the cost of cheaper pre-owned houses, due to simple supply and demand. And that could squeeze new buyers out of an already tough market.

HOROSCOPE

Week Of April 9, 2023

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, your emotions may cloud your judgement in the days to come. It’s better to seek the advice of a third party who can guide you without the added drama.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Messages from the universe could come across as confusing or vague, Taurus. You might need someone with cosmic intuition to help you sort out what is going on.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

A stagnant energy has been surrounding you lately, Gemini. Fortunately, you are able to brush that away soon enough and feel rejuvenated.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, if you haven’t devoted enough time lately to taking care of yourself you might awaken this week with a foggy head. Take care of yourself.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Responsibilities could have you feeling overburdened, Leo. The trick is to ask others to lighten your load. There are bound to be several volunteers willing to lend a hand.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, try not to compare yourself to others this week.

Everyone is unique, with his or her own strengths and weaknesses. An unfair comparison could dampen your spirits.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You might find it challenging to articulate your feelings to a romantic partner, Libra. If you stumble over saying the words, why not write them down, instead?

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Sometimes your pragmatic side gets into a tussle with your optimism, Scorpio.

Being a realist doesn’t have to mean you give up hope. There are many things that can go your way.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, while you may feel like sleeping the week away, awaken to the possibilities before you. Numerous opportunities await, so answer the door when they knock.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

It is alright to feel uncertain about what the heart wants, Capricorn. Not everyone has things all figured out. Ponder your likes and dislikes to determine your path.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, messy work and small mistakes can sabotage all of your hard work thus far.

Buckle down and focus on the details. Have someone check that everything is perfect.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

People around you may be more temperamental than usual, Pisces. Avoid offering any unsolicited advice until things quiet down.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 9 Kristen Stewart, Actress (33)

APRIL 10 Mandy Moore, Singer (39)

APRIL 11 Alessandra Ambrosio, Model (42)

APRIL 12

Saoirse Ronan, Actress (29)

APRIL 13 Allison Williams, Actress (35)

APRIL 14 Chris Wood, Actor (35)

APRIL 15 Luis Fonsi, Singer (45)

“At the end of the day the price and the monthly mortgage payment are the most important things to home buyers,” Michaels said.As well as heat exchangers, new gas-less stoves are coming online.

Among those induction cook-top stoves that rely on magnetism to rapidly heat food in a metal pot or pan.

While similar to traditional electric ranges in their baking and broiling capacities, these stoves can rapidly and efficiently heat up items on the cooktop.

The prospect of a gas stove phaseout has been particularly sensitive, though.

And it has prompted rhetoric suggestive of the national Democrat vs Republican debate over gun control.

On the national and state level, Republicans, and the gas industry, have evoked images of a government that is coming to take away peoples’ stoves, like their guns.

Democrats, and the green energy lobby, point to the urgency of climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions with new electric appliances.

“Our state is in a crime and economic free fall and she’s waging war on appliances,” western New York Republican Congressman and former state party chairman Nick Langworthy said earlier this year, amid news that the Governor’s mansion, where Hochul resides, is equipped

Newtonville UMC Garage Sale

NEWTONVILLE - Newtonville United Methodist Church, located on the corner of Maxwell Rd and Rt 9 (near Siena College), will have a garage sale on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 8:30 - 1:30. Early birds may pay $5 to come in at 8 o’clock. At 1:30 we will have a bag sale

with gas stoves.

“One of the myths is that your gas stove will be ripped from your kitchen. This is a total lie,” remarked Jessica Azulay, program director at the Alliance for a Green Economy.

“It’s become a culture war,” said Albany Democratic Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy, a supporter of electrification.

To be sure, there could be technical glitches in the transition.

Frank Cocca said that, currently, lots of induction stoves are on back order due to scarcity of parts.

A key component of such stoves, he explained is made largely by one company in Sweden.

And the gas phaseout will allow for exceptions. Hospitals and restaurants, for example, may still be able to use gas stoves going forward. Gas might also remain in residential backup generators that are hooked up to gas lines.

But the phaseout has already started in some municipalities, specifically Ithaca, New York City, and Beacon which have already enacted laws calling for the phaseout of gas.

costing $5 per bag. Among the items that will be available for sale are: appliances, furniture, garden tools, holiday decorations, jewelry, household tools, housewares, linens, toys, plants and books. Baked goods will be available by the cafe which will be serving hotdogs and chili. We will begin to accept donations on Monday, April 10. Donated items may be left downstairs just inside the fellowship hall. All donations must be clean and in good repair. We will NOT accept clothing, CD’s or DVD’s, nuts, bolts, screws, hardware, craft items nor encyclopedias. We appreciate your support.

Myasthenia Gravis Support Group

We know it’s not a subject people talk much about but we’re interested in where you read obituaries. We’re asking you to take a quick survey to let us know and we’ll reward you for your time. Go to advertisercrw.com/obitsurvey and fill out the 5 questions about if you’d like to see obituaries in the pages of your weekly newspaper.

LATHAM - Announcing an ongoing support group for individuals suffering from Myasthenia Gravis. Meetings are held on the second Saturday of each month at 11:00 AM at the Latham Fire Department , 226 Old Loudon Rd, Latham NY12110. Participation is free and is open to patients and/or their caregivers. Before attending, please call David Newkirk at (518) 725-7187 or (518) 251-2695 or Bill Van Dyne at (518) 281-6968 for more information

SHANNON FROMMA

HOUSE OF THE WEEK

“So, where do you read your obituaries?”

Marchers Wanted! Colonie Memorial Day Parade and Celebration

COLONIE - The Town of Colonie will be holding the annual Memorial Day Parade on Thursday May 25th at the Colonie Mohawk River Park. The Parade Planning committee is looking for additional marching groups to participate in the parade, including local businesses, youth organizations, fire departments, church groups, etc.

If interested in participating, please contact planning committee chairman Fox Rifenberg-Stempel, at frifenbergstempel@outlook.com”

Clifton Park Community

Chorus Welcomes

New Members

CLIFTON PARK - The Clifton Park Community Chorus (sponsored by the Town of Clifton Park)is rehearsing for its Spring 2023 Concert. All voice ranges are invited (Sections are Soprano,Alto,Tenor and Bass). Rehearsals are at the Clifton Park Senior Center every Sunday evening from 7pm-9pm. New members are welcome at any time. Music selections for the Spring include popular, folk and classical choral four part harmony. There will be at least four concerts yearly with possible special events added. No auditions or memorization is required…and it’s a FUN group…everyone is welcomed!

For further information contact David Rossi, Director at drossi20@aol. com or 518-779-5061

Food Bank Distribution

Calendar Reminder from the Colonie Senior Services Center

COLONIE - On the 2nd Tuesday of each month, Colonie Senior Service Centers makes food items like produce, staples, and frozen meats from The Regional Food Bank available from 11:30 to 12:30 pm during our congregate meal service. Those who are in need are welcome to participate. Please bring your own reusable grocery bag. As the area’s largest provider of senior programs and serices, CSSC Inc, recognizes recent inflationary impact on food costs on those seniors who would appreciate some assistance. For additional information or questions, please call Diane at 518-459-2857 ext 305.

Clifton Park Senior Community Center

CLIFTON PARK - 6

Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park, NY 12065 • 518-383-1343

Membership to the Center is available to anyone 50+ for ONLY $20 for all of 2023!

MONDAYS:

Game Room Activities (darts, billiards, & ping pong), Tap Dance, Jazz Dance, Chair Yoga, Clogging, Discussion Group, Rummikub, Ukulele, Quilting Group, Soulful Line Dancing, Healthy

Bones

TUESDAYS:

Exercise to Tape, Game Room Activities (darts, billiards, & ping pong), Yoga, Dice Games, 5 Crowns, Duplicate Bridge Group, Qi-Gong and Tai Chi, Scrabble, Hand and Foot Cards, Ping Pong

WEDNESDAYS:

Exercise to Tape, Game Room Activities (darts, billiards, & ping pong), Investment Group, Ukulele Group, Dice Games, Intermediate Bridge, Bowling, Beginner Mahjong, Poker, Knitting and Crocheting, Healthy Bones

THURSDAYS:

Exercise to Tape, Game Room Activities (darts, billiards, & ping pong), Chorus, Rummikub, Yoga, Mixed-Media Watercolors & Acrylics, Pinochle, Ping Pong, Mahjong

FRIDAYS:

Tap Dance, Ballet, Orchestra, Big Band, Woodcarving, Game Room Activities (darts, billiards, & ping pong), Dominoes, Jewelry Making Class, Bingo, 5 Crowns, Canasta, Latin Line Dancing, Healthy Bones

TRIPS:

Thursday, April 13th: Jersey Tenors, Four Course Italian Luncheon and a Show: Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, CT

Tuesday, May 9th: Elvis Tribute starring Gene DiNapoli, Four Course Luncheon and a Show: Villa Roma, Callicoon, NY Wednesday, September 13th: Resort World, Live Gaming, Buffet, an amazing show: Mamma Mia, Monticello, NY

Advanced Registration

Required FREE

Senior Center Fashion

Show: Sunday, April 23 from 12:00pm-4:00pm: Open to the Community, all are welcome! There will

be an amazing luncheon with Spring Fashion, Silent Auctions, Door Prizes and More! Enjoy an afternoon out with new and old friends. Don’t miss out, get your tickets today at the Senior Center. Located at the Vista at Van Patten Golf Course! Sponsored by Boscov’s and Glennpeter Jewelers.

Defensive Driving Course sponsored by Armand Canestraro and the Empire Safety Council: Monday, May 8 from 9:00am-4:00pm: $31/ person payable to Armand Canestraro. Please arrive 10 minutes early for registration and bring a pen, your drivers license, and lunch (or sign up for our daily lunch program!)

Advanced, in person, check only

Registration

Required!

Our Daily Lunch Program (12:00pm Noon) is ongoing. Call for details.

Senior Express -Transportation for Clifton Park Senior Residents –518-371-4444 Saratoga County Office for the Aging - Home Delivered Meals – 518-3634020 or 518-363-4033

Periodic Activities: call or go online to view our newsletter at https://cliftonpark.org/services/senior-services/senior-center.html

Capital Region

Speech Contest

Winners Advance to Division Competition

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Toastmasters International is pleased to announce Linda Salzer of Cambridge and member of Clifton-Park Halfmoon Toastmasters Club; James Brooks of Ballston Spa and member of the KAPL Toastmasters Club; David Kolman of Niskayuna and member of GE Schenectady Speakers Club; Lele Luan of Clifton Park and member of Clifton-Park Halfmoon Toastmasters Club as the Capital Region’s finalists for Toastmaster International’s Area speech contests.

Salzar stepped out of her comfort zone at the Area 53 International Speech Contest delivering her speech “The Perfect Weekend Ribbon” describing how, as she trained her dog for competition, she learned lessons for her own life. Brooks wowed

the assembled crowd at the Area 54 Tall Tales Speech Contest with a story of how replacing an appliance was less convenient than expected, and surprisingly painful. Brooks’ speech “Clean Your Room!” served as an amusing warning about replacing an oven and lessons we can draw to our daily lives. Kolman’s Area 54’s International speech “Don’t Let the World Pass You By” described how a favorite music album can be a dear friend during carefree and careworn days, and everything in between. Luan’s Area 53’s Tall Tales Speech “Lost on Journey” recanted his experience of airline travel with strange layovers and help from an unexpected source.

All Area contestants will be advancing to the Division E Contest with sights on competing at the Toastmasters International District 53 Conference to be held in Springfield, MA on May 6, 2023.

The Toastmasters International Speech contest began over 85 years ago and is the world’s largest speech contest, involving over 30,000 participants from over 140 countries. Advancing from club to area, then division and district, it culminates in the World Championship of Public Speaking held annually at the Toastmasters International Convention. This year’s International Convention will be held in Nassau, Bahamas August 16-19 in a hybrid format.

Toastmasters International (TI) is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide net-

work of clubs and grooms club members into qualified speech contestants. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization’s membership is approximately 280,000 in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.

Several Clubs across the Capital Region meet in person, online, or in a hybrid fashion. Guests are always welcome to experience a meeting and see what Toastmasters is about. Visit Toastmasters. org and select “Find a Club” to find a Club that best suits your needs.

Zen Practice Day at Surrey-Williamson Inn, Skidmore College - April 15th

SARATOGA - Spend a day practicing Zen with visiting Zen teachers Roshi Robert E. Kennedy, Sensei Amy Yee and Sensei Russ Michel. The day will include sitting meditation, walking meditation, chanting, teacher talks, lunch, and Q & A. No experience necessary; all are welcome. Full day participation only please, 9 am to 4 pm. The $20 registration fee includes lunch and tea breaks. There is a strict space limit, so if interested, register soon. Questions? Email Holley Hodgins, hhodgins@skidmore.edu

Sponsored by the Skidmore College Office of Religious and Spiritual Life. To Register click on this link and choose “Create an account and register.”

https://reg.learningstream.com/reg/event_ page.aspx?ek=0010-000501ad575296ae4f50ba0991d120cb8416

Stillwater Comic Con is Coming to the Community Center

STILLWATER - Calling all Superheroes, Villains, Mutants, and the like!

Stillwater Comic Con is coming to the community center at 19 Palmer Street Saturday, April 15th from 11am-3pm. Put your cape on and join in the fun! FREE family friendly event brought to you by the Friends of the Stillwater Library. For more information email StillwaterNYComicCon@ gmail.com

Veteran Walkathon

COLONIE - On Saturday, April 29th, at Cook Park in the Village of Colonie, the 17th annual Veteran walkathon will be held with registration starting at 11:00am and Walk starting at noon

from the Sharon Drive Pavilion. All donations will go to the homeless veteran programs at the NYS VA Medical Centers and to non-profit Honor Flight Hub Network of NY, providing trips to veterans to the memorials built in their honor in Washington, DC at no cost to them. You can call Judy Benner at 518-869-8668 or Dave Bishop at 518-590-6483 with any questions. This Walk is sponsored by the Albany County Sons of the American Legion and the Albany County Auxiliary. Collie, Sheltie Walk at the Crossings Park

COLONIE - Collies and Shelties as well as their owners are welcome to join in a weekly walk at The Crossings Park at 11 a.m. Sundays in Colonie. The walk begins at the first parking lot on the right off of Albany Shaker Road. Participants welcome newcomers. For information, contact Terry Brown at (518) 785-1117 or soldierttb@gmail.com.