Local First Twin Bridges Edition 121522

Alplaus UMC Christmas Services

A LPLAUS - Blue Christmas Service will be held this year on Tuesday, 12/20 at 7pm Sometimes folks think of this service as one for those who grieve at Christmastime. It is, but it is more than that too. This evening service lets us reflect on the depth and power of what we need and long for in the anticipation of Christmas. This is also a service for those who wish to pause and reflect on how we may be separated from loved ones at this time - separated by physical or emotional distance or separated by death. I hope to gather with you to worship God at this service in this beautiful season of Advent. Blessings! Pastor Kristi

Christmas Eve Service is Saturday 12/24 at 7pm . This year we are keeping it simple and traditional: Christmas Carols and Candles. As always, all are welcome.

Christmas Day is on 12/25, a Sunday! Yes, we will gather to worship on Christmas morning at our usual time (10:15am). This will be an informal day to gather together to celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Yes, you can wear your Pajamas if you want to. No, we will not have Coffee Hour that day, but you are welcome to bring your cinnamon rolls (or something similar) with your coffee into the sanctuary.

(The Church building is handicapped accessible, with a ground level entry and an elevator to the Sanctuary)

Alplaus UMC, 1 Brookside Place, Alplaus 12008

Woodworker goes from DIY wine racks to Capital Region business

Brian Seitz turned his creative hobby into Urban Industrial Design

By TAYLOR RAO

Prior to buying his first house, Brian Seitz had never made a piece of furniture. At the time, his dog was his roommate, he had a steady career, and he was unimpressed with the selection and quality of the pieces he shopped for at local, big box retailers.

Rather than eat and sleep on the floor, he bought a couple of saws, collected wood from a lumber mill and got to work in his one-car garage, starting in 2016. With no woodworking experience and a little inspiration from online, in time he created what’s now known as Urban Industrial Design, a custom furniture company and wood supplier in Albany.

“I researched the type of furniture I was looking for and found other people creating it and selling it on Etsy,” Seitz said. “And I totally thought I could do that myself.”

Seitz was right. He picked up on the skills quickly, building wine racks, entertainment stands and a coffee table for his new place. When he showcased his work on social media, he received requests from friends and family to build something similar for them.

“I was already really enjoying everything I was doing, but then it clicked that this could become a business of mine,” Seitz said.

Shortly after that realization, Seitz was laid off from his senior-level position at a solar company and decided it was time to pursue his newfound passion full time. He spent six more months in his garage, getting by selling a table or two per month, and then upgraded his space from around 200 square feet to 1,200 until April 2018, allowing him to take on more projects and scale the business.

From there, Seitz’s custom furniture busi-

ness continued to thrive via word of mouth. He picked up a number of residential clients — the mainstay of the business still today — as well as commercial clients looking for custom woodwork for bars, restaurants or office spaces. Seitz built up his resumé with custom projects at Druthers Brewing in Schenectady and Cantina in Saratoga Springs.

He also upgraded his workshop again – to a 5,000 square foot professional shop, their current location (though not for much longer) –a long way from his first garage setup.

“While friends and family are initially your biggest supporters, you eventually will run out of those types of leads,” said Seitz, who also attracts new clients from his Instagram page that has accumulated more than 15,000 followers. “What we offer is a truly custom, collaborative experience where homeowners can work with us to execute their vision.”

One of UID’s primary offerings is the creation of custom, residential dining room tables for as well as custom conference tables for businesses. Both furniture pieces are conversation starters, Seitz says, and many of his clients enjoy being part of the process. Seitz likes to ask upfront how much involvement they would like to have – from helping to select the materials to receiving project updates along the way.

“It’s an oddly satisfying process to watch,” said Seitz, crediting the visual part of the process to his loyal and growing social media following. “Some people like to watch these slabs of wood be made flat and straight, and see them run through machines and get joined together to create the tables.”

Dining tables start at an entry level cost of $1,950 and can work up to $10,000 based on the size and scale, Seitz says. Average production

ranges from six to eight weeks, with a whiteglove delivery service offered for the finished product. Conference room tables begin around $3,500, while custom commercial projects could go up to $100,000 if a client’s vision and budget allows.

When Bryan Gonyeau of Guilderland was in search of a custom dining room table, he had trouble finding a place that would accommodate the size he needed. Through a friend, he connected with Seitz and quickly got going on what he calls a “forever piece” of furniture for his home.

“The shop can do just about anything you could want, and they were super open during the design process,” said Gonyeau, who opted for a black walnut table with gray resin poured through the middle. “We were looking for something different and hadn’t splurged on anything big for our home yet. It’s functional but also an art piece.”

As Seitz’s projects continue to expand, so does his team and his business offerings. He currently employs nine people both full-and part-time. In the new year, UID will relocate once more, into a 10,000 square foot building outfitted exactly to Seitz’s liking and to fit the many functions of the operation, from milling and drying the wood, to manufacturing the tables and meeting on-site with clients.

“I purchased a piece of land and put up a new construction building designed to house us as the only tenant,” said Seitz. “It made sense financially and will allow us to operate and grow under one roof.”

Part of the space, slated to open in Schenect-

Holiday gift ideas for the outdoors enthusiast

GILLIAN SCOTT OUTDOORS

Outdoors writer Gillian Scott snags just a corner of a puffy blanket from a blanket hog on a mountain summit. Though it’s not an essential, Scott finds herself regularly bringing it on trips when the temperature drops. Herb Terns / Times Union archive

It seems like retailers are always offering newer and better outdoors gear: more breathable jackets, more packable sleeping bags, lighter weight doodads. We have all the basics — boots, sweaters, etc., and are not particularly married to any brand — but there are a few less common items we use often enough that they’ve made it onto our list of favorite things.

A Nexcare Gentle Paper Tape: Over the years and the miles, I’ve learned a thing or two about my feet. The big one

is that for any hike more than five miles, I need to wrap my “ring” toes (next to the pinky toes) to prevent painful blisters from forming on the undersides. Band-aids don’t stay on and regular medical tape can be too stiff. But the super thin and flexible Gentle Paper Tape from Nexcare works like a charm. I like the ¾-inch width, but it also comes in a 1-inch width (about $4.29 for 10 yards).

A Hand and toe warmers: Available in a variety of brands and easy to find everywhere from hardware stores, sporting goods stores and sometimes even discount stores like Marshalls, hand and toe warmers are a cheap and easy way to keep your extremities warm on frigid winter days. (About $10 for a pack of 10).

A EMS X-Static Sock Liners: Again with the feet. Form-fitting sock

liners help prevent blisters by wicking moisture away from your skin and by preventing rubbing. Liners come in a variety of materials, from silk to wool to nylon. The X-Static Sock Liners from EMS are made of polypropylene and nylon and are the only ones I really like. They’re super thin, which means they won’t radically change the fit of your shoes ($14).

A Nite Ize Slaplit Rechargeable LED Slap Wrap: For those days our urban outdoors activities bleed over into nighttime, we like to light ourselves up like Christmas trees to make sure we’re visible to motorists. These “slap wraps” are easy to put on and off (but don’t come loose), are rechargeable, and have both glow and flash modes ($19.99).

A Niterider Lumina Bike Light: As far as we can figure, we bought our first Lumina close to

10 years ago. Since then, we’ve added two more to our collection. These rechargeable bike lights come with brightnesses ranging from 650 to 2500 lumens. They’re waterproof, durable, easy to slide on and off the handlebar mounts and have doubled as flashlights both in and out of the house.

(In fact, between these and headlamps, we don’t bother with regular flashlights anymore). The price increases with the lumens ($75-$250); our brightest is a 1200, which has met all of our night-riding needs.

A Rumpl Puffy Blanket: We absolutely did not need a synthetic puffy blanket to bring along on day hikes. And yet, now that we have one, I find myself strapping it to my pack on nearly every outing as soon as the temperatures dip. The “original” puffy is by Rumpl ($99) and is weather- and

stain-resistant and comes in a bunch of fun patterns, but other companies sell similar versions. When we stop for lunch or a snack, I pull out the Rumpl and we squabble over who is hogging a bigger piece — me or our 12-year-old.

WILL WALDRON / TIMES UNION

Brian Seitz, owner of Urban Industrial Design, in his Albany County workshop. The local woodworking company is known for their tables/ desks/furniture, but also teach classes. They will soon move into a larger space in Schenectady. Please

HERB TERNS / TIMES UNION ARCHIVE

Panniers help travelers on long-distance bike trips — like this one on the Petit Train du Nord in Quebec — lug more gear.

Capital District Fly Fisher Present an Introductory Fly Tying Class

CLIFTON PARK - Intro to Fly Tying (Ages 13 and up) First session covers materials, tools, safety and hands-on instruction on knots used in fly tying. Students MUST have their own tying tools, which will be covered at the first session, and have 2 weeks to obtain needed tools. By the end of the 8 sessions, each student should have all the skills needed to embark on a life-long hobby of fly tying. Date: Jan 11, 25, Feb 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8, 22, (March 29 for weather date)

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Site: Locust Lane Clubhouse - 5 Locust Lane, Clifton Park Fee: $85 Registration is online through Town of Clifton Park. You do not have to be a resident to enroll.

Instructor: Members of Capital District Fly Fishers

Contact: Tom Passarelli tpassare@yahoo.com (518)-765-3389

Evan Lubin evan.Lubin@gmail.com

Chanukah

Celebration at

Colonie Center

COLONIE - Colonie Chabad will be hosting their 5th Annual Chanukah Celebration at Colonie Center, Center Court

(in front of Boscov’s) on Wed., Dec. 21st at 5pm, There will be live music by Mel Wigler and accompaniment, latkes and delicious treats, and a grand menorah lighting along with other chanukah fun for all ages.Bruce Bowey a family entertainer who delights audiences with a blend of magic tricks, ventriloquism and balloon twisting will be performing. Contact Rabbi Mordechai Rubin at chaicentercolonie@gmail.com or call 518.368.7886 to RSVP. No charge. Sponsors Welcome! “On Chanukah we celebrate the victory of good over evil & light over darkness. This age-old universal message has never been more relevant than in our current reality.”, says Rabbi Mordechai. Happy Chanukah!

Community-Wide Chanukah Celebration Returns at 2nd Annual Chanukah on Jay Celebration

ALBANY - Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York (JFNENY), Capital Chabad and more than 20 local Jewish partners will host a community wide Chanukah event -Chanukah on Jay! The free event will be held on the first night of Chanukah -- Sunday, December 18, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. -- on Jay St. in Schenectady in front of City Hall.

The entire community is invited to collectively ignite the first night of Chanukah with a grand menorah lighting, Jewish music and dance, delicious holiday-themed foods, crafts and games, and much more! Activities for children of all ages and adults will be held throughout the day! Free on-street and nearby parking lots and garages are available for the event. The most convenient parking is at 422 Liberty St. and 128 Clinton St.

Those who are attending the event can also participate in the first ever Shine A Light Creative Arts Gallery at Chanukah on Jay.

The Capital Region Jewish community is vibrant and committed to being strong and united to dispel darkness around them as antisemitic acts continue to rise. This year’s Shine A Light Creative Arts Galley will focus on this theme.

Entries to the Shine A Light Creative Arts Gallery will include an essay/ story/poem contest (in 500 words or less, write about what Shine A Light on Antisemitism means to you) or through a picture of your family keeping the flame of Judaism alive. All submissions are due by December 1. By submitting an entry participants agree to have their name and entry publicized on social media, at the event and in print.

For more information or to register for the event and contests, visit www. chanukahonjay.com.

Waterford Knights of Columbus Breakfast Buffet and Omelet Station

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: Sun., Jan. 8th, 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)

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.

Empty Stocking Project Begins

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Published Every Thursday Distributed Weekly To 180,000 Homes

Latham-Colonie Columbiettes are Hosting a Breakfast Buffet

The

LATHAM - Sunday, January 8th, 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, Bananas and Hot Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate. *$12 Adults, $6 Children (5-10) and under 5 Free! www.lathamcoloniekofc. com/dinners&events

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

SARATOGA COUNTY - The Saratoga County Children’s Committee is a nonprofit organization that helps children and families in Saratoga County. The Empty Stocking Project provides holiday gifts and necessities to about 900 children and teens each year. Generous people and organizations sponsor a child by purchasing gifts from the child’s “wish list”.

If you are willing to sponsor a child or for more information please call Kathy Kelly at 399-6629 or go to our website www. saratogachildrenscommittee.org. Cash donations are always appreciated and may be sent to The Saratoga County Children’s Committee, P.O. Box 1254, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

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.

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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.

St. George’s

Episcopal Church Christmas Sing-Along

CLIFTON PARKFriday, Dec. 16, 2022, 6:30pm, St. George’s Episcopal Church, 912 Route 146, Clifton Park, NY in Hatlee Hall

As we prepare for Christmas, join our St. George’s families as we sing Christmas carols and songs, hear the story of St. Nicholas, and enjoy some hot cocoa and treats! Bring your friends, extended family and neighbors! All are welcome.

Friendship Singers Concerts

SLINGERLANDS / DELMAR - Join the Friendship Singers of Delmar as we welcome the Christmas season with two public concerts—one at the Presbyterian Church of Slingerlands 2010 New Scotland Road, on December 14, 2022 at 7 pm, and the other at the Delmar Reformed Church, 386 Delaware Avenue, on December 21 at 7 pm . With our director Marie Liddle and our accompanist Peg Dorgan, we are presenting a mixed program of sing-along and traditional music with a twist, and some surprises. It’s a joy to be back singing, and we’d like to share it with you!

Southern Saratoga Art Society

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- Artists and members of SSAS are exhibiting throughout the area. The Town of Clifton Park Lobby, 1 Town Hall Plaza, Tel.#: 518-371-6651, Ext. 240, will feature artist

Faith Weldon during the months of November and December, 2022.

The Clifton Park Senior Community Center Gallery, 6 Clifton Common Ct., Tel.#:518-383-1343, will be hosting members of SSAS in a show called “Seasons”, which showcases the elegance of Spring, the passion of Summer, the subtlety of Autumn and the harshness of Winter during the months of November and December, 2022.

The Mechanicville Library, 190 N. Main Street, Tel.#:518-664-4646, will feature artist, Karen Zimmer for the months of November and December, 2022. Visit these venues and enjoy the artwork of these various artists. For more information about SSAS visit our website: southernsaratogaartist. com or check us out on Facebook.

To Love A Child Announces Annual December Angel Match $15,000 Challenge

CAPITAL DISTRICT

- To Love A Child, Inc., a local 501(c)3 nonprofit organization announces its Annual Angel Match $15,000 Challenge. This event kicks off on Giving Tuesday November 30th and will extend thru December 31st.

Two anonymous “angels” have pledged to match every donation during the month of December up to a $15,000 total. Donations assist people suffering from abject poverty—those deprived of basic human needs; including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health care, shelter, and education.

Donations will be used to support local families in our community as well as programs and projects in Haiti and Zimbabwe.

To Love A Child invites you to make a difference in a child’s life. Your help and generosity are greatly needed this year to support our vision and mission in helping impoverished children. Over the past 13 years we continue to change lives through our journeys and your support.

Donations can be made on PayPal by visiting the website www.toloveachild. net or by mailing a check to: To Love A Child Inc., PO Box 165, Clifton Park, NY 12065

Your support and generosity is greatly appreciated.

St. Luke’s

On The Hill Presents Its Holiday Service Schedule:

MECHANICVILLE -

· December 18 - 3:00 p.m.

Blue Christmas service

• Christmas Eve - 4:00 and 9:00 p.m. services

• Christmas Day9:00 a.m. service

• New Year’s Eve4:00 p.m. service

New Year’s Day9:00 a.m. service

All are welcome!

40 McBride Road (off Pruyn Hill Road, Halfmoon Halfmoon/Mechanicville, NY 12118 518-664-4834; slonthehill@gmail.com\Closing

Closing The Vischer Ferry Cemetery for Winter

VISCHER FERRY - The Winter will soon be upon the area and it is time for the Winter closing of the

church cemetery. The Vischer Ferry Cemetery adjacent to Amity Reformed Church, 335 Riverview Road, Vischer Ferry will be Closing its roadways on or about December 15th. The roadways into and exit from the cemetery will not be accessible for the coming season.

Clifton Park Jewish Women’s Circle Will Host a Chanukah Party

CLIFTON PARK - The party will be just for the ladies “Friends, Fondant and Cookie Decorating!” At 7 pm on Monday, December 19th at Clifton Park Chabad. No affiliation on membership necessary to join for this fun Chanukah evening. Chanukah Refreshments will be served. No artistic skills required!! RSVP at cliftonparkchabad.com, or contact Leah at 5184950779cliftonparkchabad@gmail.com

ºBuilding on Love” and Waterford Lions Fundraiser

WATERFORD - The Waterford Lions Club is participating in the Trees of Hope Raffle and is raffling off a decorated Christmas tree that includes two $250 gift certificates - one to Target and one to Walmart. Tickets are 5 for $20 or individual tickets are $4 each. There will be 2 chances to win. You could win our Lions family Christmas tree or you could win the Grand prize tree that has $250 in NYS lottery tickets and $250 in gift cards. The drawing is slated for Friday, December 16th, live on the Building on Love FaceBook page.

Tickets can be purchased from the Waterford Lion’s Club by contacting either Lion Florence Brisee at (518)209-8073 or Lion Philip Fusco at (518)930-8662. Tickets for our Lion’s Tree can also be purchased on the Building on Love website www.buildingonlove.org and click Events, Trees of Hope. Make your Christmas brighter with a chance to win and help the Waterford Lion’s Club continue their good work of assisting families in need, helping people with sight and vision issues and other community services.

17th Annual Community Chanukah Hakhel Celebration

CLIFTON PARK - The community is invited to celebrate the fourth night of Chanukah at 5 pm on Wednesday, December 21st with a car menorah parade and grand Chanukah celebration at Clifton Common- Senior Center. There will be Music, Food, Crafts, a Grand Menorah Lighting and Entertainment for all ages!

The event is free; RSVP is at cliftonparkchabad.com Sponsorships available! Seeking volunteers to help make this event an amazing success! To help

sponsor, volunteer or for more info, contact Leah at cliftonparkchabad@gmail. com

Community Evening Service at St. John’s Episcopal Church

COHOES – A Community Evening Service of Advent Scripture Readings and Christmas Carols will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 405 Vliet Blvd.

A reception will follow in the Church Hall.

St. John’s Episcopal Church, Cohoes; Grace Church, Waterford, and Trinity Church, Lansingburgh are co-sponsoring the service.

A special offering will be received to encourage the ministries of the Episcopal Diocese of Albany’s Christ the King Center in Greenwich.

All Saints Episcopal Church Christmas Eve and Christmas Services

ROUND LAKE - 3 Simpson Avenue, Round lake Candelight Christmas Eve Service 7pm Christmas Day Service 10am

*Both services ~ holy eucharist - All are welcome!

credit report before deciding if you are a risk or a safe bet

for a mortgage. So it makes sense to check your credit report prior to speaking with a lender. The Federal Trade Commission says everyone can get one free credit report a year from each of the three credit reporting bureaus.

If you split it up, you can get a credit report every four months so you are aware of anything that may adversely affect your ability to get a mortgage loan. A credit (FICO) score that’s too low may disqualify you from a mortgage. Each lender sets its own thresholds when they price and approve loans, but the higher your credit score, the better.

• Improve credit standing. One way to improve your status in the eyes of lenders is to pay down credit card balances to reduce your credit utilization ratio. A high utilization occurs when there is a high balance in relation to the credit limit, says Business Insider. Also, it may be wise to avoid any credit inquiries through new credit card applications for several months before applying for a loan, as these inquiries can affect your score.

• Be realistic about what you can afford. Do your homework and determine your target interest rate and monthly payment as well as what down payment you can afford. It will help you research potential lenders and provide an idea of what may be offered to you.

• Pay bills on time. Paying bills promptly not only helps you avoid late fees, but also positively affects your credit. The financial resource The Mortgage Reports urges diligence when paying rent, as late rent payments can bar you from getting a mortgage. Lenders look at rent history as the biggest indicator of whether you’ll make mortgage payments on time.

These are some of the ways to make a prospective home buyer look better in the eyes of mortgage lenders. Individuals can speak with financial professionals about what else they can do to improve the possibility of securing mortgages at the best rates possible.

The past few months have been difficult for our members and community, especially during such an important time of year.

You can take comfort in knowing that CDPHP® has arrived at a contract agreement with St. Peter’s Health Partners. As a local, non-profit health plan founded by doctors, we care deeply for you and worked tirelessly to ensure there was no disruption in care.

Choosing the right health plan is one of the most important decisions you must make. Our team is standing by to help answer any questions you may have and help you enroll in the best plan at the best price.

Award winning coverage. Generous extras. Deep roots in our community.

Shop for plans now at plans.cdphp.com or call 1-888-248-6522. There is still time.

Right off the entrance to the H.L. Bradt Elementary School, this home — built in 1956 — still has a lot of “new” to it, including fresh appliances in the kitchen, a central air system in the basement and walkout deck off the kitchen/ dining area. There’s a showstopper in the living room, in the gas fireplace surrounded by stone, making up much of the wall. Two-car garage, Mohonasen schools.

Town of Clifton Park Receives

Two William G. Pomeroy Foundation Grant Awards

CLIFTON PARK - The Town of Clifton Park is filled throughout, with a life of history to preserve and cherish. This Fall, the Historic Preservation Commission applied for two grants from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, which provides funding for plaques or markers to recognize properties on the National Register of Historic Places, the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation.

The Town of Clifton Park Historic Preservation Commission is proud to announce it has recently been awarded two separate grants from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. These grants have been used to fund the purchase of historic plaques, one at the Grooms Tavern Complex, opened in 1825, located at 290 Sugar Hill Road in Rexford, and another at the Mohawk Valley Grange (built-in 1896) located next door at 274 Sugar Hill Road. Both the Tavern and the Grange are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Grooms Tavern Complex consists of the Tavern, a

HOROSCOPE

Week Of December 18, 2022

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Don’t fret, Aries. No news is good news while you’re waiting around to hear about something important. Give it a few more days and your waiting time will be over.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

If you are thinking about changing careers, you probably should wait until the holidays are over. No one’s mind is on the job these days, so waiting is the wiser move.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Consider all sides of a situation before you offer your opinion, Gemini. This way you have the facts and will not inadvertently alienate someone.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

When someone turns to you for help, you do not hesitate to do all that you can, Cancer. Just be sure you do not to overwork yourself. Take on only what you can manage.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

You’ve bitten off quite a lot lately, Leo. Fortunately, you have a good support system that can help you out when you need a helping hand. Rely on them as much as necessary.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Take a few days to sit back and rest and recharge. It will afford you an opportunity to plan for the future, as this may be a period of unrest for you.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You’ve been placed in a new role and you’re loving every minute of it, Libra. Enjoy the moments while they last. This may be what you’re meant to do.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you might want to take it easy and stick close to

home for the time being. You need to regroup and focus anew. You can do that more easily without distractions.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, your to-do list might be growing longer, but tackle one thing at a time rather than getting overwhelmed. Reach out to a loved one for assistance.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Success is within reach, Capricorn. Do not be surprised if others are a bit jealous of your accomplishments and want to pull you down. Ignore the naysayers.

AQUARIUS –

Jan 21/Feb 18

You have a plan but others are not falling in line right now, Aquarius. It may take time before others come around to your way of thinking. Be a little more patient.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 It’s a fine balance between work and play right now for you, Pisces. You’re tempted to forego all responsibilities, but that wouldn’t be smart.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

DECEMBER 18

Brad Pitt, Actor (59)

DECEMBER 19

Alyssa Milano, Actress (50)

DECEMBER 20 Jojo, Singer (32)

DECEMBER 21

Emmanuel Macron, Politician (45)

DECEMBER 22

Meghan Trainor, Singer (29)

DECEMBER 23

Finn Wolfhard, Actor (20)

DECEMBER 24

Louis Tomlinson, Singer (31)

wagon and blacksmith shop, and a frame privy. It is a 2-story timber-framed gable-roofed building in a Greek Revival architectural style. The first Town of Clifton Park Board meeting was held there in 1828. The Grange building is of late Victorian architectural style. The use of the building was to meet the agricultural, economic, and social needs of farmers. These two properties align with the William G. Pomeroy Foundation’s key initiative to help communities throughout the country, like Clifton Park, celebrate local history by funding plaques and roadside markers.

The Historic Preservation Commission presented letters of recognition and plaques from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation to the Clifton Park Town Board on Monday, December 5, 2022. The picture below is at the Town Board Meeting with Supervisor Philip Barrett, Members of the Town Board, Town Historian John Scherer, and Historic Preservation Commission Members Maureen O’Connor and Linda Seymore.

Hispanic and International Ministry at Clifton Park Center Baptist Church

CLIFTON PARK - Clifton Park Center Baptist Church offers an outreach program for Hispanics and Internationals in the area. It is a time of fellowship and Bible Study on Mondays @ 7:00pm. It is offered in English and in Spanish. The church is located at 713 Clifton Park Center Road in Clifton Park, NY. Please contact Rev. Damaris Cami-Staples at (518)371-6023 if you have any questions.

LIBRARY EVENTS

WATERFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

WATERFORD - The Capital Roots Food Pantry at the Waterford Library will NOT be receiving deliveries of food for several weeks due to construction at Capital Roots HQ in Troy. Please call after December 1st for updated information.

The Waterford Public Library will be closed on Thursday November 24 and Friday November 25 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. We will reopen for regular service hours at 10am on Saturday November 26.

The Waterford Public Library will be holding a Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 17th from 12-2pm. We will have holiday music, refreshments and Gingerbread House crafts for the children. Represen-

The following programs will be offered during the week of December 19-25 2022. More details for each program can be found at www.cphlibrary.org or by calling 518-371-8622.

Please Note: The Library will be closed December 24, 25 and 26 in observance of Christmas.

Upcoming Events at the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library

Family Story Time

Monday, December 19 and Thursday, December 22 at 10 am

Nurture your child's love of reading with sto-

ries, songs, and other fun activities. For all ages, with an adult. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Positivity Post-Its Tuesday, December 20-23

Spread joy and kindness for the New Year in the Teen Place! Stop by and write a positive message on a Post-it, then stick it to our window! For grades 6-12. 518-371-8622. www.

cphlibrary.org

ZOOM: Winter Solstice Meditation Wednesday, December 21 at 4 pm

The Winter Solstice is

Mother Teresa’s Thrift Shop

MECHANICVILLE

tatives from the Friends of the Library will be available to answer questions about joining the Friends of the Library. Please plan to join us!

The Friends of the Waterford Library will be meeting monthly at 6pm at the library on the 3rd Monday of the month. Anyone interested in helping the Friends with their efforts to support the library are welcome to attend these meetings.

The library has a Notary Public on staff who is available on Wednesdays from 12-5pm and Saturdays from 10am-2pm. Please call in advance to make an appointment.

The Farm2Libraries program through Capital

the longest, darkest night of the year. Let go of the darkness and invite the light of new hope and possibility in the next year. Presented by Susan Meyer. Registration required. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org Holiday Scavenger Hunt through December 23

Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the Children's Desk, then search for holiday symbols in the Children's Library. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org

Roots NY remains on pause as they complete construction at their facility. We anticipate the program resuming in early 2023. Please feel free to call the library at 518237-0891 for updates.

The Waterford Library will be closed Dec 24-26 for the Christmas Holiday and Jan 1-2 for New Years Otherwise we will be operating regular service hours, weather permitting. Those hours remain Mon-Wed 10am-5pm, Tue-Thur, 10am-6pm, and Fri-Sat 10am-2pm. • http://waterfordlibrary.net • 518-237-0891

SARAH BUCK Marketing & Data Analyst

CLIFTON PARK/HALFMOON PUBLIC LIBRARY

- Mother Teresa’s Thrift Store, 52 William Street, Mechanicville, will be opened on Saturdays for the month of December from 10 - 2. December 3, 10, 17. Hours each week for the month of December will be Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10 - 2. Stop in for some great bargains. New inventory arrives everyday! Donations always welcome.

“Going custom every single time takes a while, and introducing a small furniture line will make it easier to streamline the building process and add new clientele.”

While his woodworking skill set has reached a mastery level with years of practice and experience, Seitz has developed an interest in sharing his self-taught knowledge with others. On the UID website, people can purchase tickets for a number of different classes where they can learn alongside him to create a custom furniture piece of their own.

“We intend to do quite a few of these classes in the new building,” said Seitz. “Now that we have the space to do it, we want to get people involved and provide an opportunity for me to share what I’ve learned. I’ve found a lot of joy in teaching others.”

Seitz didn’t quite know what he was building when he first started off in his one-car garage in 2016. What started as a personal desire for unique, quality furniture

THE CENTER at Colonie Senior Service Centers Announces an Open House

COLONIE - The Open House is January 13 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. THE CENTER is a place for individuals 55 years of age or older to learn, grow, exercise and be creative. Best of all, it’s a place to have fun! We are so excited about these offerings, in celebration of the New Year and of all things new and exciting. Please note, $20 membership is due in January.

Come and mingle, meet instructors and learn about THE CENTER at CSSC. At our January Open House, there will be information about wellness and fitness classes, artistic and creative events and club happenings, too. The open house is a great chance to see where classes are held and tour our building. Start your journey in staying active, connected and healthy in 2023!

There will also be music, crafts, snacks and fun. Free for all. Call 518-459-2857 x 327 or cbarrett@coloniesenior.org.

Colonie Senior Service Centers Announces 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.

for his own home has turned into not only a lifelong skill, but a fulfilling business.

“I used to tag all of my products and started with 50 tags, labeling them UID 01, 02, 03…and it took me a while to get through that first set of tags,” Seitz said. “But I still have my wine rack, tag 001, in my basement today.”

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.

Al-anon/Alateen Meetings

CLIFTON PARK - Alateen is for young adults (10-18) whose lives are being affected by someone’s drinking. A new group is forming at St. Edward the Confessor 569 Clifton Park Ctr Rd, 4 pm each Sunday. The meetings are a time for sharing with other young people and learning that they are not alone.

Friendships are formed and life becomes manageable. A reminder that Al-anon continues to meet at the same time and location on Sunday.

There is also an Al-anon meeting each Wednesday, 6 pm at St. Mary’s Church, Crescent, 86 Church Hill Road. Any questions may be directed to: cmc.afg.123@gmail.com

A Bike panniers: My husband and I have a regular debate going over whose bike panniers are better. I’m deeply attached to my Ortlieb Back Roller Urban Bike Panniers ($140 each), while Herb loves his Axiom Monsoon Panniers ($230-$260 for a pair), made from reclaimed fishnet polyester. The Ortliebs are slightly bigger and have a sturdy clip system that keeps them firmly on a bike rack. The panniers felt frivolous when I first splurged on them, but I’ve found them to be one of those pieces of gear that once you have, you use often. They’re easy to throw on the bike for rides both long and short — whether we’re stowing snacks and extra layers for a day trip, or several changes of clothes for a longer excursion — and are vastly more comfortable than wearing a backpack. Panniers made bikepacking possible for us, and it’s an activity we’ve grown to love.

gvscott.gvs@gmail.com

Cohoes Rotary to Donate Portion of Ornament Sale Proceeds to Support Students and the Arts

COHOES - In 2004 The Rotary Club of Cohoes started a collectible series of Christmas ornaments featuring historic landmarks in the City of Cohoes. This year’s ornament depicts the 1968 Cohoes High School. A portion of the proceeds for the sale of the 2022 ornament will go to support the Cohoes Friends of the Arts Booster Club. The purpose of the Arts Boosters is to serve and support the students and promote activities of the Cohoes School District Arts Programs. The arts programs include visual arts, fashion design, building design, graphic design, writing, performance, theater, chorus, band, and music.

Following are previous ornament designs in the series: 2004-the Cohoes Falls; 2005-the Harmony Mills; 2006the Cohoes Music Hall; 2007-the Cohoes Mastodon; 2008-Cohoes City Hall; 2009-the Half Moon; 2010-Silliman Memorial Church; 2011-the Van Schaick Mansion; 2012-Keveny Memorial Academy; 2013-Cohoes High School (dedicated in 1921); 2014-Cohoes Library; 2015-the former Cohoes Movie Theatre; 2016-Carlson’s Ice Rink; 2017-Erie Canal Locks; 2018 Cohoes Armory; 2019-Matton Shipyard; 2020-Cohoes 150th Anniversary logo; 2021-St. Agnes Church. This year’s design is the Cohoes High School built in 1968. Coffee mugs with the Cohoes High School design are also available for purchase.

Cost for ornaments is $20. Mugs are $10. To purchase ornaments or mugs go to http://www.rotaryclubofcohoes.org for further information. Ornaments and mugs are also available for purchase at Marra’s Pharmacy, 217 Remsen Street, Cohoes.

Jonesville United Methodist Church Food Pantry

CLIFTON PARK - The Jonesville United Methodist Church Food Pantry is open each Friday from 9am-12 noon and serves residents of Burnt Hills/ Ballston Lake and Shenendehowa school districts.We are located at 963 Main Street, Jonesville,518-877-7380.

WILL WALDRON / TIMES UNION

Wood detailing at the Schenectady Druthers location, done by UID Woodworks.