Local First Twin Bridges Edition 012022

Twin Bridges Edition | Thursday, January 20, 2022

Mac-n-Cheese Bowl is a go ByLINE: STEVE BARNES

Toll Gate Ice Cream set to make a return Store moving to new location, with the original building set to receive “face-lift” and new tenant ByLINE: LARRY RULISON

BETHLEHEM - The Toll Gate Ice Cream restaurant is coming back to life later this year -- in an existing and newly redesigned building just a few steps from the Albany County Rail Trail.

The original Toll Gate building will remain and get a slight "face-lift," along with a new tenant, members of the business group that owns the property said -- news that should please local residents who wanted the older building, with its retro-look, preserved.

Toll Gate was operated for decades by Robert N. Zautner, Sr. until his death in 2012. His family had kept the restaurant open until around 2017 when Zautner's son got ill.

The Zautner family, which remains a partner in the business, has submitted plans to the town of Bethlehem to rehab a building behind the original one to create a new ice cream shop that will be easily accessible to people using the rail trail, as well as auto traffic.

Toll Gate is an institution in the town and a centerpiece building of Slingerlands, the historic hamlet just outside Delmar.

The plans for the rehab of the building by the rail trail were done with "very broad strokes" and will be likely updated after community input, the partnership that owns the properties said in a statement given to the Times Please see ICE CREAM 6

COHOES - Tickets are now on sale for the 12th timesunion.com/ Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl, scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 26.

After years of being held indoors at the Siena College athletic complex, the event was reimagined for 2022 as a outdoor festival, taking place along a blocked-off Remsen Street. A fundraiser for the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, the Macn-Cheese Bowl was canceled by the pandemic shutdown in 2020 a few days before it was to have been held, and it was conducted in a drive-thru format in 2021. It has raised more than $400,000 for the food bank since its 2010 launch.

In Cohoes, there will be up to 30 restaurants and other providers offering samples of macaroni and cheese. Veteran participants

returning this year include Valente's Restaurant of Watervliet and the multilocation Druthers Brewing, both frequent winners of prizes from judges and the public. Among the newcomers are Innovo Kitchen of Latham and McGreivey's of Waterford, and there will be a strong contingent representing Cohoes, among them Bye-i Brewing, Cafe Con Mel, Donnie Magoos, Pit Pit and Teta Marie's.

At least six breweries are expected to offer tasting stations for their beer as well.

The amateur competitions, with categories for adult and kid cooks, will be back again this year.

Tickets -- available now, online only, at regionalfoodbank.net -- have a tiered pricing structure: $25 for the first 300 sold for macn-cheese samples, $45 with beer included for the first 200 sold; the next 1,400 tickets are $30 and

PROVIDED PHOTO

The 12th annual timesunion.com/Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl to benefit the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York will be held March 26 in Cohoes.

$50, or $10 for kids ages 5 to 12. The reservation form includes a line for children younger than 5; their admission is free, but organizers request they be included to help gauge potential crowd size.

Tickets are good for one sample per tasting station, and attendees will receive a card to be punched or stamped in exchange for each sample. Although tickets are Please see BARNES 6

Volunteers sought to fill field with flags DUTY CALLS

ByLINE: TERRY BROWN

A group of patriotic people have a colorful dream of a field filled with ways to honor our nation's heroes.

They envision filling a field with more than 1,000 American flags Memorial Day weekend as a patriotic tribute to our nation's heroes and commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for our nation.

The Field of Honor will be in place for public viewing next Memorial Day weekend, May 27 to 30. Details for a dedication ceremony and program will be announced soon.

The flags will be displayed on the football field at Hoosic Valley Central School in Schaghticoke to remind everyone of the debt we owe veterans and military servicemen and servicewomen, according to Marylou Pudiak-Town, project co-chairwoman.

Lauren Van Buren of Schaghticoke, co-chairwoman, Russ Greenman of Rensselaer, fund-

raiser chairman, and Nancy O'Donnell of Schaghticoke, program chairwoman, are helping Pudiak-Town.

"We Americans have been blessed with citizens who answered the call to serve in the military to protect our freedoms," Pudiak-Town says. "Although we have the parades, fireworks and solemn services to show our appreciation of veterans, more can and should be done."

"Basically there will be rolls and rolls of flag," O'Donnell said. "Each flag will be dedicated to a veteran that belongs to someone's family."

The organizers also hope their project will help unify the community, O'Donnell said.

"We hope to get a lot of people including youths, organizations, businesses and others involved in the project as a way to enhance unity," she said. "We are also hopeful the project creates an awareness of what veterans have done for us."

"The United States flag is the great symbol of our unity, as it symbolizes our storied history,

COLONIAL FLAG FOUNDATION

A volunteer places an American flag in a field.

traditions and aspirations as fellow citizens," says a Colonials Flag Foundation spokesman.

The Stars and Stripes display will be made possible by donations and sponsorships.

Each flag may be sponsored to honor individual veterans or military personnel.

The public is invited to purchase a flag at $40 each. The purchaser of each flag can identify a veteran or service member. A tag is placed on each flag that honors and includes a trib-

Ambassadors needed now more than ever ByLINE: PAUL GRONDAHL

COLONIE - Albany International Airport is seeking ambassadors after a lengthy pandemic shutdown and lingering concerns over COVID-19 ground the robust volunteer program to a halt.

Established in 1995 and once numbering 160 ambassadors, Albany's version was one of the longest-tenured and most active of any airport of its size in the country.

After the coronavirus disruption, the total of airport ambassadors stands at just 52. Many shifts, particularly in the morning, go unfilled as airport volume rises -- to

about 80 percent of 4,250 average daily travelers before the pandemic.

"Our ambassador program dropped down to zero and we're slowly building it up again," said Helen Chadderdon, director of the ambassador program since 1998. "We have a lot of seniors who were concerned about COVID. They took a pause and they're beginning to return."

The surge in the omicron variant further depleted the ranks. "Several people told me they were taking more weeks off until this blows over," she said.

Few are more dedicated than Betty Nash and Paul Cooney.

"I just love it. I enjoy helping people," said Nash, 84, of Colonie, a retired medical records technician who joined in 2013. She has logged the most ambassador volunteer hours, more than 7,100.

"We like helping out and we're dedicated to making sure travelers have a good experience at our airport," said Cooney, 86, of Menands, a retired Albany County engineer. He is the only active ambassador who remains from the inaugural class of 30 in 1995.

Nash, Cooney and their colleagues were honored in December at an annual holiday party at the Desmond

Please see DUTY CALLS 8

PAUL GRONDAHL / TIMES UNION

Paul Cooney, 86, of Menands, is the only remaining ambassador from the first class of 1995 at Albany International Airport.

Hotel. "Our ambassadors are the public face of the airport," said Phil Calderone, airport CEO, who presents ambassador lapel pins to mark years of service. "They embody our ideals of providing a friendly, comfortable and relaxed travel experience."

With their burgundy blazers and friendly smiles, the ambassadors, who are mostly retirees, soothe travelers' anxieties and answer a wide range of airport questions -from where's the nearest bathroom to what gate does my Please see GRONDAHL 8

I BUY HOUSES!! CASH!! TAX TIME AGAIN Any Price, Area or Condition Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council FormerlyFormerly Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council

the most important partner Formerly Saratoga County Economic Opportunity YouYou are are the most important partner in your Councilin your child’s We’re here to help you Youeducation! are the We’re most important in child’s your child’s here to partner help you You are the education! most important partner in your education! child’s education!

We’re here to help you child ready forchild kindergarten while getget youryour child ready for kindergarten while We’re here to help you get your ready for kindergarten get your support child ready for kindergarten while providing for the whole family. providing supportsupport for thefor whole family. while providing support for the whole providing the whole family. family.

You may qualify for Head Start! We provide free early learning You may for Head Start! provide free early learning families programs You mayqualify qualify for Head Start!

WeWe provide free to early learning You may qualify for Head Start!

We provide free early learning programs including preschool classes income-eligible programs including preschool to income-eligible families programs including preschool toclasses income-eligible with children ages 3-5. families including preschool classes toclasses income-eligible with children ages 3-5.families with children ages 3-5. with children ages 3-5.

LEARN MORE APPLY TODAY! LEARN &&APPLY TODAY! LEARN MORE &MORE APPLY TODAY! 518-288-3206 lifeworksaction.org 518-288-3206 || lifeworksaction.org 518-288-3206 | lifeworksaction.org Some programs have income guidelines. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Some programs have income guidelines. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Some programs have income guidelines. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

FAST, FAIR OFFERS

R&D REHAB, LLC P.O. Box 1831, Albany NY 12201 518-441-6376 • rdrehabllc@aol.com

Our Prices Average Half of Our Competitors with all the same products and services.

• Individual Taxes • Pre-Paid Visa Card • Audit Protection Plus • Bookkeeping • Audit Representation Services • Estates and Trusts • All States

DeLorenzo & Associates, Inc.

• Partnership Returns • FREE Fee Collect • Payroll Services • Corporations

Nancy H. DeLorenzo, EA Tax & Accounting 23 Young Road, Middle Grove, NY 12850

nancydelorenzoea@gmail.com

NEW CLIENT COUPON

$50.00 OFF

(518) 581-0163 • www.delorenzoassociates.com

12 Lynch Ave | Castleton-on-Hudson

16 Victoria Ave | Brunswick

PAGE 2 | JANUARY 20, 2022

Montanez grows into new role ByLINE: JAMES ALLEN

Kaleigh Montanez is a junior guard for the Shenendehowa girls' basketball team.

After serving as a reserve in her first varsity season, Montanez is averaging 14.7 points per game in her first season starting for the Plainsmen (9-1 overall, 6-0 Suburban Council).

Shenendehowa, ranked No. 2 in the Class AA state rankings, returns to action Tuesday at No. 30 ranked Shaker.

Q: The team split two games in Syracuse over the weekend. How do you feel the team played overall and how was the experience?

A: It was a really good experience for our team. Both teams that we played this weekend (Bishop Kearney and Cicero-North Syracuse) were really good and we came ready to compete. Unfortunately, the first day (Saturday), we lost the first game (to Bishop Kearney). That was our first loss of the season and I think it really humbled us. It showed us that we could fight through adversity and we showed by winning the second day against a really good team.

Q: Was it disappointing to have the lead in the first half against Bishop Kearney, only to see them produce a huge second half to get the win?

A: Of course it was a little disappointing. I think our team needed that, to have

an eye-opener, to see that we are up there but we have things to work on.

Q: You've had a number of strong outings this season and two good ones in Syracuse. How do you feel like you are playing right now?

A: I feel like I am playing well. This season, getting further into it, I feel like I have caught a flow and become consistent. I think the season has been good for me so far.

Q: You have been hitting your outside shot well, including making five 3-pointers against Bishop Kearney. Is your perimeter getting where you want it to be?

A: Yeah. I worked over the summer a lot on just shooting more and becoming a better shooter. I feel that I have. The work in the summer has paid off. I have brought those skills into the season.

Q: You knew coming into the season you would have more responsibility on the team. What did you expect?

A: Last year, we had a really good starting five that were all seniors. Being the sixth man off the bench, I knew I would have to step up more this year. Watching the seniors play last year was a really good experience to see what I needed to do.

They set good examples.

Q: It is hard to believe we're starting the second half of the season. Having the sectionals and state tournaments back again has to be something your team is

645 Albany-Shaker Road Albany, NY 12211

The Largest-Circulation Print newspaper in New York’s Capital Region Published Every Thursday Distributed Weekly To 180,000 Homes

JAMES FRANCO / SPECIAL TO THE TIMES UNION

Kaleigh Montanez is averaging 14.7 points per game starting for the Plainsmen.

looking forward to, correct?

A: We are so ready for sectionals. There are some really good teams out there and we're ready for the competition.

Q: Who are some the top teams in the Suburban Council?

A: Well, of the teams we've played so far, probably Averill Park and Colonie. Those were two huge games we were looking forward to and we came out with the wins in both of them. That was a very good thing for us. Next week, Shaker and Columbia will be tough games for us.

basis who are in financial need and reside in Saratoga Applications Available for The Hawley Foundation for Children Community Grants County.

Eating for Heart Health and Camp Awards SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Hawley Foundation for Children is accepting funding requests for its Community Grants and Camp Awards. Local organizations that assist youth in our community and best realize the Foundation’s mission of promoting the health, welfare and education of children in Saratoga County are invited to apply no later than March 1, 2022, at HawleyFoundation.org.

Funding criteria includes but is not limited to: Organizations must serve disadvantaged children in Saratoga County Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) non-profit status Programs to be funded must demonstrate the ability and commitment to benefit, enhance and enrich the quality of life and well-being of children Applicants will be notified in early April and funds distributed at an Award Ceremony in May. For more information, please contact info@hawleyfoundation.org.

In 2021, The Hawley Foundation awarded over $150,000 to the Saratoga County community towards Community Grants, Camp Awards, College Grants to high school seniors who are college-bound or vocational-oriented, as well as returning college students, and as discretionary funds to assist children on a case-by-case

THE

SARATOGA COUNTY - Eating for Heart HealthCornell Cooperative Extension Saratoga County is offering a series of three programs on Eating for Heart Health in February, Heart Health Month. Tuesdays February 1, 8 and 15 from 12:00-12:30 via Zoom. Contact Diane Whitten at dwhitten@cornell.edu for the registration link, or go to the CCE website, www.ccesaratoga.org, for upcoming events, or call 518-885-8995.

Register once to attend all three. No charge. The programs will cover topics including fats and cholesterol, sodium and the DASH diet, the Mediterranean diet and other healthy eating plans. Scan this QR Code with your smart phone camera to register.

Friends of the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library Scholarships

CLIFTON PARK - The Friends of the Clifton ParkHalfmoon Library will be awarding two scholarships of $1,000 each to graduating seniors who will attend a two- or four-year college or university in the fall of 2022. Scholarship recipients must be Shenendehowa High School students and/or residents of the Library tax district who attend another public or private high school, or are home schooled.

Applications will be available in early January and may be obtained from: the FOL website at friendsofcphlibrary.org, Independent Insurance Agency the Shenendehowa High School East Counseling Since 1955 Center, or the Welcome Desk at the Library.

Please note that applications MUST be received in the library by March 11, 2022, and MAY NOT be faxed or transmitted electronically.

For more information, please contact Michele at michelegorab@gmail.com.

Connors Agency, LLC An

Kevin Connors

• Personal • Homeowners & Renters • Commercial Property / Business Liability • Life Insurance • Auto Insurance • Motorcycle & Boat Insurance

664-7307

Fax 664-2650

40 N. Central Avenue, Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.connorsgroup.com QUIT SMOKING

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

Attention Shenendehowa Parents of Rising Kindergartners CLIFTON PARK - Children born on or before December 1, 2017 are eligible for Kindergarten starting September 2022. Registration is done online, and will be ongoing through January and February.

Please go to the website www.shenet.org/registration for instructions and a link to the online application.

If you have not received a Kindergarten registration packet in the mail, please contact the

Registrar at KorzAnn@ shenschools.org or 518881-0662 to have a packet mailed to you.

If you do not have computer access at home, or if you need to provide documents to be copied, drop-in sessions are available at the District Office, 5 Chelsea Pl, Clifton Park, 12065 on the following dates: Thursday Jan 20, 4:30 to 5:30 PM Monday Jan 24, 4:30 to 5:30 PM Wednesday Jan 26, 4:30 to 5:30 PM Friday Jan 28, 4:30 to 5:30 PM Tuesday Feb 1, 4:30 to 5:30 PM Thursday Feb 3, 4:30 to 5:30 PM

Widow-Widowers Group CAPITAL DISTRICT Did you know.... There is an active Widow-Widowers group that meets each Friday for lunch. We are actively looking to recruit more widowers to balance out our group. If you are a widower, please consider joining us. We are a fun group. Call Pat: 518-5572284.

January Dining Events for Seniors at CSSC COLONIE - Join us for a hot meal at The Beltrone Living Center Monday – Friday at noon. This program is funded in part by the Albany County Dept. for Aging, NYS Office for the Aging, Administration for Community Living, Town of Colonie and participant contributions.

This program is an equal opportunity provider.

Suggested donation of $3, and registration and reservations are required. Call 518-459-2857 x 303. Menus Are Subject To Change January 20 – Chicken Marsala January 21 – Meat Lasagna January 24 – Macaroni & Cheese January 25 – Shepherd’s Pie January 26 – Stuffed Pepper January 27 – Scalloped

WE’RE OPEN Mabel Cheng, MD & Nicole Lemanski, MD Trusted Eye Physicians & Surgeons Since 1999 SPECIALIZING IN • LASIK & PRK • Laser cataract surgery • Corneal diseases • Macular degeneration Diabetic retinopathy, Dry Eye & Glaucoma

FEATURING: On-site optical shop ACCEPTING: New patients of all ages & most insurances Dr. Mabel Cheng Comprehensive Eye Physician 25 years practice in the Capital District.

T: 518-782-7777 Dr. Nicole Lemanski Comprehensive Cornea Specialist F: 518-782-4913

3140 Troy Schenectady Road, Niskayuna NY 12309

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

DISPLAY ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Heidi Gaschel 518-965-1714 Heidi.gaschel@theadvertiser.us

DESIGN DEPARTMENT Roberta Mullins Laurie Phelps Rick Mullins

CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT Margaret Bunkoff 518-454-5503 classifieds@ crwnewspapers.com Fax: 518-454-5542

DISPLAY AD DEADLINE: Friday 4:00pm CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 2:00pm Twin Bridges Edition Monday 4:00pm Saratoga North Edition The Advertiser Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The majority of the ads in this publication were created by and are the sole property of Local First and cannot be reproduced without express permission from the publisher.

Potatoes w/ Ham January 28 – Pasta Fagioli w/ Sausage January 31 – Apricot Chicken Suggested contribution of $3 for lunch and $3 for entertainment.

Special Events: Lunch and Learn on Thursday, January 20 at noon: Psychic Medium and Ghost Rescuer Michele Lyons Polito will be here to talk all things paranormal. Michele is a Colonie native who works locally connecting with spirit, working with ghost investigation groups, and is also a bagpiper. Lunch will be chicken Marsala, rice pilaf, green beans and sherbet.

Community Caregivers Presents Lunch Time Chats CAPITAL DISTRICT - Friday, Jan. 21, Topic: Travel to Hawaii Tuesday, Jan. 25, Topic: Baking and You! Speaker: To be announced.

Friday, Jan 28, Topic: Foods around the World All are welcome!

Our Lunch Time Chat program is open to all.

Each call has an interesting program that includes an opportunity todiscuss the topic. Chats are most Tuesdays and Fridays, always at 1 PM Simply dial-in to hear about a variety ofinteresting topics! It’s free and easy to join!

Community Caregivers Office: 518-456-2898. Chat Number: 518-992-6661.

Simply call 518-992-6661 OR You can contact us and we will can set it up for us to dial you!

Community Caregivers is a non-profit agency supported by community donations, and grants fromthe Albany County Department for Aging, the NYS Department of Health and Office for the Aging & the U.S. Administration on Aging.

JANUARY 20, 2022 | PAGE 3

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

COLONIE - The Art Associates Gallery Inc. is open to the public featuring artwork by members of the Colonie Art League. (www.colonieartleague. com). The Gallery is located at 21 Railroad Ave., Albany, NY 12205 (518459-1307). Through Monday, January 31, 2022.

Gallery Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays – 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Thursdays - 12:00

B’nai Sholom and Delmar Presbyterian Plan Food Drive To Benefit “Little Free Food Pantries” ALBANY - B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation in Albany and Delmar Presbyterian Church in Delmar are teaming up once again to collect non-perishable food to stock “Little Free Food Pantries” in Albany and Schenectady.

The two institutions, partner congregations in Family Promise of the Capital Region, will welcome delivery of food items Sunday, January 23, noon-2 p.m., at B’nai Sholom, 420 Whitehall Road, Albany, and at Delmar Presbyte-

SARATOGA/WILTON - On Sunday, January 23rd, from 11-3 pm the popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club on Elks Lane will hold their monthly. Admission is free with over 40 vendors; parking is great, bargains galore, and lunch, We offer household items, sports equipment, hand-made items, clothing, fabrics, food treats, body lotions, and just about anything you can imagine may be found here. New vendors are signing up every month.

Snow or rain, the sales go on and it is a fun activity

CAPITAL DISTRICT Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 1:00pm - Online Zoom Meeting. CDGS meetings are presently held on Zoom. Registration is free and will open to the public on 16 June 2021. See www.CapitalDistrictGenealogicalSociety.org under All Makes or Models - Antique or New meetings and events. There Servicing The Capital District For Over 40 Years is a 100-person limit.

• GRANDFATHER • WALL Topic: Family Search: The Other 70% by Jill • MANTEL • CUCKOO Morelli. You put the given Call 518-745-5916 and surname into the fields FREE Estimates, Pick-Up & Delivery provided by FamilySearch. www.upstatenewyorkclockrepair.com You perhaps add a year and AVOID PROBLEMS - LUBE ANNUALLY place of birth. You click the search button. Did you know-you are reaching less Indoor Opening Day Sat. May 22! than 30% of the collection?

It’s time to access that othFlea Market Shopeven up to 75 vendors selling er 70%! You may not January antiques, art, clothing, collectibles, 22! know what you are missing.

Indoor Flea Market 75+ vendors selling antiques, furniture, hand crafted items, jewelry, The key is to conduct Shop 75+ vendors clothing, collectibles, Malta Drive-In tools, toys andart, more at the nostalgic atatMalta Affrim’s SportsDrive-in Complex for antiques, art, furniture, hand crafted items, Malta Drive-in!

27852381 Rt.9,Route Malta9

CLOCK REPAIR SERVICE

Join Us Saturday, June 19th!

CASH FOR clothing, collectibles, jewelry, tools, toys and CARS AND TRUCKS Modified setup and social distancing coins, crafts, furniture, more at the nostalgic

guidelines in effect.

Face masks jewelry, records, tools, We Buy Junk/Unwanted Cars and Trucks Drive-in! required. See Malta website for details.

toys and more at 00 * Snack Bar open for breakfast, lunch.

Affrim’s Sports No Title. No Problem. On-site Parking Remainingin2021 dates: Malta.

Prompt, Courteous and Professional for a change of pace 7/17, 8/21, Hours: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm 9/11 & 10/2

Up to $500

Plus

*(Market Price)

Please Call R.C.’s

Signup for the Monthly Indoor Craft & Garage Sale

2785 Rt. 9, Malta Malta, NY For information, visit

maltaflea.com

Vendor Space256-4409 Avilable or call (518)

maltaflea.com 256-4409 For(518) information, visit maltaflea.com Hours: 9am - 3:30pm • Free Admission Entry Fee: $2 7:30am per car load - 3:30pm Snack Bar • On-Site ATM or call (518) 256-4409 Entry Fee: $2 per car load

518-683-9285Additional Show Dates: 6/19, 7/17, More Flea Market Dates:8/21, 2/19,9/11 3/19&& 10/2 4/16

Free Towing • Open 24/7

Relax and unwind. You never know what you will find!

Seeking Tax Assistance Volunteers CAPITAL DISTRICT TaxAide, the free income tax assistance program sponsored by the AARP Foundation and the IRS, is seeking volunteers for

New York State Arms Collectors Association, Inc. Albany Gun Show™ CAPITAL DISTRICT - January 22-23, 2022.

Empire State Plaza Convention Center, Albany, N.Y. 450 Tables. Open To The Public. Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm. Sunday 9:00am-3:00pm.Daily Admission $8.00 Per Person. Children under 12 free - Must be accompanied

by Adult• Senior Citizens $6.00.

St. Matthew & St. Paul’s Lutheran Church ALBANY - 1500 Western Ave., Albany, NY 12203 (across from Stuyvesant Plaza). (518) 464-2648.

Join us every Sunday for worship at 10:00am followed by adult Bible study at 11:20am. Children are welcome in worship and Sunday School at 11:20am.

Coffee and snacks provided each week. All are welcome!

EST OF T B 2 U NIO N

PI

ES

YE

AR

AN N IV

E

N

January 2022 Meeting for the Capital District Genealogical Society

GANSEVOORT - Saturday, January 22nd, 10am-2pm. Have you ever wondered how to ice fish? Come to Moreau to get a beginner lesson and maybe even reel up a fish. Equipment provided.

Registration is required.

Please call 518-917-2174.

Stop at the office to pay for the event, $1 per child, then head down to the warming hut. Warming hut will be open with hot cocoa. This is weather dependent. If there isn’t enough ice we will cancel.

CAPITAL DISTRICT Sunday, January 23 at 6 p.m. Join us for a spiritual book discussion. All are welcome whether or not they’ve read. This month’s book is The Power of Intention: How to Co-Create Your World Your Way

by Wayne Dyer Hosted on Zoom by Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures. Call or use the Contact us form at www.newthoughtnewyork.org for Meeting ID and discussion questions.

For more information, visit our meetup.com group, Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures or call (518) 366-9918.

CLIFTON PARK - The Shenendehowa Rowing Annual Dinner & Silent Auction is scheduled for Saturday, March 5th, 2022 at the Terrace, Lighthouse Restaurant in Glenville.

Promote your business or organization and become an auction item sponsor. More than 200 individuals are invited to this fundraising event.

Your auction item will help the team move forward in achieving our mission of promoting the growth and prosperity of the sport of rowing through the support of local regattas on the Mohawk River, ongoing training, community service events and competition opportunities for middle and high schoolaged rowers.

The First National Bank of Scotia is a proud sponsor of this year’s silent auction. Call Shen Rowing at 518-331-7023 if you have an item or wish to sponsor this event. Auction items received by February 1, 2022 will be included in our virtual and in-person auction during February and March of 2022.

“Magic on the Mohawk” is the theme for this incredible event celebrating all that this river has to offer for capital region rowers, boating enthusiasts and local businesses. Shenendehowa Rowing provides junior and master-level rowing programs all yearlong on the Mohawk River.

AR Y

GANSEVOORT - Friday January 21st, 9:30am Join an environmental educator on a ride along the Hudson River looking for eagles. We will drive over to different pull offs along Spier Falls road to stop and look for Bald Eagles.

We will drive to a couple different locations then get out of our vehicles to look around for Bald Eagles.

Please bring binoculars if you have them. Sighting is not guaranteed. Please call to make reservations at 518-917-2174. Cost is $5 for adults and $1 for children.

Meet and pay at the park office.

Kid’s Ice Fishing at Moreau Lake State Park

ConsciousnessRaising Book Discussion

Rowing’s Dinner & Silent Auction

the coming tax season.

TaxAide volunteers answer questions, prepare and file returns for low to moderate income taxpayers and seniors from February 1 to April 15 at various sites in the Capital District.

Volunteers typically participate one day per week, with flexible schedules to accommodate volunteer availability. No experience is required, but computer experience is helpful for tax counseling. Volunteers who do not wish to prepare returns are also needed to greet taxpayers and confirm appointments.

Training is provided for all positions. Volunteers may be reimbursed for a moderate level of necessary travel expenses.

For more information on how you can join our team in Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties contact Communications Coordinator [your name], [your phone number or] at [your email address]. For further information, visit www.nytaxaide.org

TA L R EG I

O

Eagle Watch at Moreau Lake State Park

WATERFORD - A caucus of Democratic voters in the Village of Waterford, NY, will be held on Friday, January 21, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. at the Waterford VFW, 93 3rd Street, Waterford, NY. The purpose of the caucus is to nominate and vote for Democratic candidates for one Mayor and four Trustee positions on the Village Board. Each position is for a four-year term. Names of candidates will appear on the March 15, 2022 election ballot.

The caucus is open to all registered Democratic voters who reside in the Village. Other members of the public may attend to watch the proceedings.

For further information about the caucus, please contact the presiding officer, Democratic Village Chairperson Barbara Turpin at waterfordnydemocrats@gmail. com or by telephone at 518.858.7650.

the entire family enjoys.

Come browse, visit, eat, or just get out of the house with a friend. All proceeds go to our local charities.

Next sale dates are January 23, and February 27, 2022.

An 8 foot table and chairs are just $15; call Linda at (518) 289-5470 for information or to sign up for a table(s). Masks should be worn by everyone per NYS Guidelines.

RS

CAPITAL DISTRICT - https://www.facebook. com/CapitalRegionSocial - CapRegSocialHappenings@gmail.com. Friday Night Events at 7 pm – Picnic at noon at 435 New Karner Road (Hanover Square Building) at “Hill” door entrance. Open to the public. Inside seating is limited. $12 pp and that includes beverages and snacks. Plenty of free parking. Handicap accessible.

CDC & COVID compliant.

Masks required on everyone. Be prepared to show your vaccination card as well as provide your phone number for contact tracing.

Our inside seating is limited. Call 518-452-6883 for more information.

Friday Night – January 21 at 7:00 pm: Special Event: Going on the Cheap!

Fashion and Food!!! Wear an outfit that you assembled from a thrift store for no more than $10 and show us your creation. In addition bring a dish to share that you prepared for no more than $2. This will be a fun night for everyone attending. Only $5 for all. If you decide not to participate in Fashion or Food then it’s $10 for the pleasure of watching the rest of us! Prizes.

Waterford Democratic Caucus

rian, 585 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

Suggested non-perishable items to donate include rice and instant rice meals, beans, pasta and sauce, peanut butter, canned chicken and meat, canned soups and stews, instant oatmeal and other foods that can withstand outdoor temperatures (no diapers or paper goods).

The two congregations will help stock the little pantries established in Albany by OpenWorld Relief and one placed in Schenectady by Bellevue Reformed Church. The pantries are set in neighborhoods with increasing numbers of families who are experiencing food insecurity and provide free 24-hour access to those in need.

Through an Interfaith Hospitality Network of congregations and dedicated, trained volunteers, Family Promise of the Capital Region provides shelter, food and assistance to children and their families who have lost their housing due to a variety of reasons, such as loss of job, reduction of working hours or rising rents.

HE

January 2022 Show at Art Associates Gallery Inc.

Capital Region Social Happenings December Event and Concert Series

locational searches. We will look at three traditional search strategies and three that will access those elusive image-only documents. It’s a little tougher but armed with the techniques you will learn, the search is easier and the reward is much greater!

CA

WATERFORD - Monday: Texas Hold’em 10am1pm. New activity starting on January 24, 2022 Sewing Is Fun 1pm-3pm.

Please sign up at Center.

Tuesday: Weekly Bingo 1pm-4pm. Senior Business meeting and Monthly Birthday Party celebrated 3rd Tuesday of the month prior to Bingo.

Wednesday: Grocery Bus to/from Hannaford for Waterford Seniors. Walking Group (weather permitting), 10:30am-12pm either at Sugarloaf Pond or Village Towpath.

Thursday: Drop In Center 1pm-3pm including Crafts and games.

Friday: Texas Hold’em 10am-1pm. Watercolor Class with Diane Steele 1pm-3pm. Cost is 10.00 per class.

We provide Medical Transportation to and from appointments for Waterford Seniors. We have trips, Holiday parties and special presentations planned now and throughout the year.

On January 25, 2022, please join us for a special presentation entitled, “Do You Know What Advanced Directive Is?” Lori Clune, LMSW of St. Peter’s Health Partners will discuss why it is important to have Advanced Directives in place, and how to begin the process. Booklets with forms enclosed will be provided to participants. Please call Center at 518-235-8500 to sign up for presentation.

Upcoming Events: February is Heart Health Month, as the focus is on good eating habits, exercise and laughter to name a few. We have some great activities planned to celebrate the Healthy Heart. We will kick start the month on Tuesday February 1st here at the Center with providing a Heart Healthy breakfast, with whole grain breads, proteins and fresh fruits including antioxidant-rich berries. There will be a sign-up sheet at the Center.

Following week on Tuesday, February 8th at 11:30 am, we will welcome Storyteller, Kate Dudding from Storytellers of the Capital District. She will tell light hearted stories, folk lures, and many jokes.

There will be of course Valentine’s Day for those chocolate lovers; sign-up and bring in something with chocolate in it for all participants to share!

Monthly Birthday Party will be February 15th too!

Stay tuned, we are in the process of developing more programs. Any questions please feel free to call our Center.

pm to 8:00 pm; Saturdays: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Sales: Accept check or cash only.

Following NYS Covid 19 guidelines, the Gallery can host up to 25 people at one time. Guests must wear masks.

TI M

Waterford Seniors Activities and Presentations for January and February 2022

202

AROUND YOUR COMMUNITY

Please send your news and photos to bulletinboard@crwnewspapers.com.

Please include contact information.

NOMINATE THE BEST OF THE CAPITAL REGION 0 0 0 1 $ N I W D L U O C U O Y ★ NOMINATIONS END FEB 4 ★ NOMINATE TODAY! timesunion.com/bestof2022

PAGE 4 | JANUARY 20, 2022

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

OPINION Just Meeting With Putin Is A Concession - The US Should Be Wary Of Giving More Jonah Goldberg, Tribune Content Agency

On Monday, Russian president-for-life Vladimir Putin explained that the "peacekeeper" paratroopers he sent to Kazakhstan to help quash civil unrest were part of his larger policy of preventing "color revolutions" in former Soviet-bloc countries.

Putin made his remarks at a meeting of the Collective Security Treaty Organization, which the New York Times described as "a body equivalent to NATO that includes six countries from the former Soviet Union."

I bring this up not to indulge in media criticism but to point out how easy it is to fall for Russian propaganda and the logic of false equivalence when discussing relations with Russia and authoritarian regimes generally. Yes, CSTO is, like NATO, a military alliance, but the similarities end there. Commitment to democratic principles is a membership requirement for NATO. None of CSTO's members -Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan -- are democracies. Armenia comes closest; Freedom House designates it a "semi-consolidated authoritarian regime" with a "Democracy Score" of 33 out of 100. The rest are "consolidated authoritarian regimes."

In short, CSTO is a dictators' club in which authoritarians agree to protect each another's grip on power, including from internal threats from their own people. NATO doesn't send troops into member countries to prop up failed autocrats.

CSTO is also a tool for Putin to rebuild the lost empire of the Soviet Union.

Putin uses another tool toward the same end: military force, or the threat of it. That's what he's doing to Ukraine. Putin has deployed about 100,000 troops on the Ukrainian border in preparation for what could be yet another invasion of Russia's neighbor. The U.S. and Russia are in Geneva this week to figure out a diplomatic exit from the crisis Putin has created.

The mere fact that the U.S. is meeting with Putin to discuss a diplomatic solution is a concession. He loves superpower summits like this because they buttress his government's propaganda about Russia's prestige. The fact that Ukraine itself has largely been sidelined in these talks is also a gift to Putin, because it bolsters his claim that a great power like Russia needn't consult with -- never mind recognize the sovereignty of -- the little countries it wants to bully.

None of this is to say that the U.S.

Beaver Lodge Walk and Talk at Moreau Lake State Park

GANSEVOORT Wednesday, January 26th, 10am. Together we will visit our Back Pond beaver lodge, a short walk from the nature center, and view the beavers’ interesting abode. After, we will warm up in the Nature Center to discuss all things beaver. Kids of all ages will learn something new about our furry friends.

Reservations are required at 518-917-2174. Cost is $1 per child. Pay at the office and meet at the Nature Center.

Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs Offering 18, 5-week Courses this Winter SARATOGA SPRINGS The Academy for Lifelong Learning is offering its second winter term sponsored by Prestwick Chase with ten education-

shouldn't try to talk Putin out of invading Ukraine. But it does inform what the U.S. should say.

Putin's case for invading Ukraine is based on his nostalgia for the Soviet Union and Russian imperialism generally.

Ukraine once belonged to Russia, and if Russia can't have it back -- still an "if" in Putin's mind -- it should at least be able to dictate Ukraine's destiny and alliances.

Putin subscribes to the myth-- promoted by Russian state propaganda -- that America and the West promised not to expand NATO during the negotiations over German reunification and other agreements in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet Union. No such assurances were made, but the United States, the United Kingdom and Russia did agree to the Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances. In 1994, in exchange for Ukraine voluntarily giving up Soviet nuclear weapons on its soil -- then the third-largest arsenal in the world -- signatories agreed to defend Ukraine's territorial integrity and security. Putin declared that agreement null and void when Ukrainians elected a government that wasn't a vassal to Putin.

Putin's appetite is bigger than just Ukraine. According to draft treaties released by Russia, Putin wants a sphere of influence where smaller nations along its "near abroad" would have to defer to Russia's priorities. They would be barred from ever joining NATO, and countries that joined NATO after 1997 would be barred from hosting or training with NATO troops or military assets.

These demands are almost surely a nonstarter, and rightly so. Giving into them would undermine NATO, reward military blackmail and leave our Eastern European allies vulnerable to a regime that has already established it is willing to invade neighbors for its own aggrandizement -- most recently in the 2014 military seizure of Crimea from Ukraine.

But Putin is a master of asking for the whole store so he can settle for a shopping cart full of free goodies. And it sounds like the White House is considering concessions, including delaying military assistance to Ukraine.

The political temptation to appease Putin -- just a little -- is understandable.

The last thing Biden needs is yet another international crisis, never mind a war. But one thing is certain: Any concessions to Putin will be little more than down payments on more down the road.

al courses through Zoom as well as eight, in-person, outdoor and classroom offerings. Topics include Introduction to Classical Music, Global Literature, Italian Language, Music, 20th Century Local History, Snowshoeing & Hiking, American Revolution, Journal Writing, Drug Development & the FDA, Mah Jongg, Cooking, Painting, Writing from prompts, Ancient Game of Go, Intro to Taoism, Six Wives of Henry VIII, and much more. Wherever you are this winter, you can Zoom Academy classes.

Brochures are available by request. Email jeff. shinaman@esc.edu or call (518) 587-2100 x2390 or go to www.esc.edu/all. Registrations will be accepted right up until the start of classes the week of January 24. Some classes will sell out so sign up soon. Membership is $75 and goes through June 30, 2022. Five-week classes are $50 each. A spring term is also planned to

start in mid-April.

Upcoming Events at the Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library CLIFTON PARK ZOOM: Music & Motion - Friday, January 21 at 10 am - Enjoy a variety of music, dancing, and other interactive movement activities to share with your child. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org MakerSTEM to Go: Constellation Viewer Monday, January 24 - Take home supplies to design and create your own constellation viewer.

Pick up supplies in the Children’s Library, while supplies last. For grades 2-5. 518-371-8622. www. cphlibrary.org ZOOM: Family Story Time Live! - Monday, January 24 & Thursday, January 27 at 10 am Join us as we go live from the Children’s Library! We’ll share new stories, songs,

The Bob Saget I Remember S.E. Cupp, Tribune Content Agency

The year was 2005, and I was a 20-something living in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. As such, feeling hip and somewhat subversive, my friends and I looked for hip and somewhat subversive things to do. (Key word: somewhat. We all had real jobs.)

When we'd heard that AMC theaters had banned a new movie, "The Aristocrats," from its 3,500+ theaters, seeing it went straight to the top of our to-do list.

It was a new documentary from Penn Jillette and Paul Provenza, in which scores of all-star comedians told their version of the same joke about a new fictitious act, always ending with the punchline: "It's called...'The Aristocrats!'"

It featured the heaviest of comedy hitters: Whoopi Goldberg, George Carlin, Chris Rock, Robin Williams, Jon Stewart, Sarah Silverman...and then there was Bob Saget.

In 2005, remember, Saget had been out of the spotlight for some time. He'd been immortalized to all of America as the guy who played Danny Tanner, the dad from "Full House," and then the squeaky clean host of "America's Funniest Home Videos," the quintessential non-offensive, wholesome presence in all of our living rooms.

So, I'll never forget watching him deliver seven of the most filthy, perverse, stomach-churning, indeed offensive minutes I'd ever seen on film while presenting his take on "The Aristocrats." We left the theater sore from laughter but also stunned

by Saget's surprising star-turn.

It was a whole new Saget to us, one we very much appreciated. It seemed as though his comedian friends were well aware of this odd dichotomy Saget lived in, where his television roles utterly belied his raunchy blue stand-up roots and his dark humor.

Later, perhaps because of his appearance in "The Aristocrats," he was able to dabble in both worlds, playing a satirical version of himself on "Entourage," writing the book "Dirty Daddy," and taking the kind of sitcom roles that made him famous -- the voice on "How I Met Your Mother," "Surviving Suburbia" and "Fuller House."

A decade after seeing Saget in "The Aristocrats," I was asked to participate in a roast of famed political consultant James Carville at The Kennedy Center. Known for being a filthy joke teller himself, Carville was going to be affectionately pilloried by the likes of Jeff Ross, Jim Norton, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, and several politicos like Paul Begala, Tucker Carlson, Carville's wife Mary Matalin, and, unimaginably, me.

The roast master was none other than Bob Saget.

When the night arrived, I headed backstage, my husband John in tow, to go over the jokes I was to deliver with the writers, themselves an all-star cast of comedy writers who made me even more nervous than I already was.

I winced at the off-color content they wanted me to perform -- jokes no one would expect from a young, female, conservative commentator. But I also knew it was genuinely funny stuff that, if I could get through it, would land some big laughs. I steeled my nerves, sighed in relief that I hadn't invited my parents or my boss, and prepared for the show.

"Who let you in here?" I heard from the doorway of my dressing room.

It was Saget. He warmly introduced himself to my husband and me, and could immediately sense my nervousness. "Don't worry, nothing you say will be worse than what we're going to say." He gave me a hearty pat on the back and a reassuring smile, and we were off.

I delivered my lines unflinchingly, and took my share of off-color commentary as well. At one point, Saget joked that he would have hit on me before the show if my husband hadn't been such a "c--k block," a joke he'd obviously come up with on the spot.

The night was memorable, to say the least, not just because of the stars on that stage, but because I still can't believe how many filthy jokes were told -- at the Kennedy Center, home of the Washington National Opera and the National Symphony Orchestra.

After the show, we all gathered backstage for drinks. Bob came over to John and me to make sure we were okay with his jokes. Of course we were, and then he gushed about his new girlfriend, a food blogger from Chicago named Kelly. He was utterly in love, he said. He'd go on to marry Kelly Rizzo in 2018.

And now, I'm heartbroken for Kelly, as well the adult children he leaves behind after his unexpected death at just 65. Saget was full of surprises, and I can't help but think he had so many more to share with us.

But I'm lucky. I'll always have that strange and sort of wonderful hour or so on stage, where Bob Saget and I told dirty jokes together. Talk about surprising.

and rhymes with your child. This program uses the ZOOM live-streaming platform. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org Library Board of Trustees Meeting - Monday, January 24 at 7:15 pm - The Library Board will hold their monthly meeting by video conference and can be viewed at: youtube.com/user/cphpubliclibrary.

Knit Club - Thursday, January 27 at 10 am - Interested in meeting other hand-crafters and having time to just sit down and knit? Crocheters, quilters, and needle workers are also welcome! Teens 14+ welcome. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org National Puzzle Day Saturday, January 29 - Stop by the Children’s Library to enjoy some puzzles or pick up puzzle crafts to go. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org HYBRID: Libby’s Here!

The New Face of OverDrive - Saturday, Janu-

ary 29 at 10 am - Learn to navigate OverDrive’s new Libby app. Access ebooks, audiobooks, and digital magazines on your personal device. Attend in person at the Library, or from home on ZOOM. 518-3718622. www.cphlibrary.org

The Mechanicville District Public Library MECHANICVILLE -190 N. Main St. Mechanicville, NY 12118 . 518664-4646. meclib.sals. edu - As the weather turns colder, take advantage of our E-Books, music and movies from home. Visit our website for more info!

Registration for all programs is available on our website.

Wednesday, January 26 at 5-7:30pm: Open House Gaming and Meetup - All Ages - Bring your own device or use ours, play chess, meet up with friends, or meet new ones!

Monday, January 31 at 7pm: Wine Down Mon-

day - January Book Club : The Midnight Library by Matt Haig is available on Hoopla. Register for our book club to receive a hard copy. Be sure to visit Del’s for your discounted wine pairings!

Red Oak Ridge Hike at Moreau Lake State Park GANSEVOORT - Tuesday, January 25th,11am.

Join an environmental educator on an interpretive led hike along the Red Oak Ridge trail. This trail traverses half way up the mountain range and connects to the Western Ridge trail. From there we will go over to Mud Pond and make our way back up to the office. This is a moderate hike at about 4+ miles round trip. Please call 518-917-2174 to make a reservation. We will meet and pay, $5 for adults and $1 for children, at the park office.

JANUARY 20, 2022 | PAGE 5

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

HOME SOLUTIONS Pros and cons to open-concept homes Open-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. An open-concept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 84 percent of new single-family homes have fully or partially open layouts.

While they may seem like a new trend, open floor plans are anything but. Early American homes featured open, often one- or two-room units built around the central kitchen/ hearth.

This maximized warmth and functionality.

Homes evolved as incomes grew, and soon homes had several smaller rooms with specialized functions.

What’s old has become new again. However, before diving head first into a new home purchase or a big renovation to realize an open-concept dream, consider the pros and cons of this type of setup to determine if it’s really right for you.

Advantages of open floor plans Open floor plans facilitate the flow of natural light throughout a space and can promote air flow, helping to reduce warm or cool pockets of air in otherwise closedoff rooms.

Open homes make socializing easier, even when people are doing different things. While someone is cooking dinner in the kitchen, he or she can still interact with someone else playing video games in the family room or paying bills in the home office. Entertaining also is easier, as mingling with guests is much more convenient when walls are not getting in the way.

A smaller home can feel much larger if it employs an open concept. The square footage is not divided into smaller quarters, which sometimes are rooms (such as formal dining rooms) that are only used a few times per year. This eliminates underused spaces and opens up sight lines in the layout.

The value of real estate has risen dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prospective buyers may prefer an open-concept plan because it can help them minimize building costs.

Disadvantages of open floor plans Open layouts are not for everyone. The same sense of space that occurs when walls are taken down may make rooms feel cavernous and less cozy, particularly in homes with ample square footage. In addition, privacy can be hard to come by when all rooms feed into one another.

When the kitchen is not separate from the family room space, that makes it easy for noise to compromise the area’s comfort levels. There is no hiding from noise in an open floor plan, as sounds from voices, television shows and appliances tend to echo and blend together. And if the home is a single-story layout, those noises from the main living areas also may carry to adjacent bedrooms.

Smoke and smells are another thing to consider. When something on the stove spills over, a small range hood will not be practical for clearing smoke from a large space. Though the aroma of freshly cooked food is enticing, it can make it hard for cooks to keep guests out of the kitchen.

Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them.

Did you know?

Certain home improvement projects are more complex than others. Projects that involve working with gas lines are among the most complicated and risky undertakings, and even seasoned do-it-yourselfers are urged to leave such tasks to certified professionals. According to Angi, the average cost to move a gas line is between $15 and $25 per linear foot, and homeowners can expect to pay an additional $1 to $10 per linear foot for pipe materials. A natural gas plumber can install, extend and repair natural gas lines and ensure that the project is completed

safely, on time and within homeowners’ budgets. Angi notes that the average cost to move a gas line is between $250 and $750 for the whole project. However, if a buried line must be excavated, that cost could run into the thousands of dollars.

Specializing In:

ALL PHASES OF INTERIOR PAINTING Great For Moving In/Out NEW CARPENTRY AND REMODELING DIVISION

• Interior Painting and Finish Work • High Ceilings and Foyer Work • Kitchen Cabinetry Refinishing • Drywall, Sheet Rock and Tape Work • Popcorn and Wall Paper Removal • Military and Senior Discounts Available

New Office/Warehouse: 747 Pierce Rd., Clifton Park

200 Off

$

Platform Lifts

Residential Elevators

Stair Lifts

the purchase of any new stair lift

SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • BUYBACKS

• FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY EAZYLIFT ALBANY, LLC.

ALL ORDERS OVER $1500

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OPN HOMES LLC

518-7-PAINT-0

Visit our display center & see which lift is right for you.

EXPERIENCE COUNTS

888-558-5438

$100 OFF

Celebrating 16 Years in Business

(518-772-4680)

Visit us at ... www.propainters.org

HEALTHY LIVING

20 Years of professional services brought to your home with our Home Visit Program.

• Office Exams • Exceptional Eye Care • Distinctive Eyewear and Frames

EDWARD BERGER, OD 2 Middlesex Road East Greenbush

(518) 486-8989 www.uptownoptometryny.com

We Offer: Botox, MicroBotox, Hair Removal, Microneedling with RF, Cellulite, Body Sculpting, Butt Lift, PRP for Hair and Facial rejuvenation, Laser Photofacial, Spider Veins Pigment & Redness treatment, Acne, Scars, EXCEED microneedling Vaginal Rejuvenation, O-shot HydraFacial, Aquagold, Peels, Dermablading, Prejuvenation Medical grade Skin Care NEW! • Plasma/Fibroblast pen for wrinkles • Lip Fillers

20% OFF for New Clients CALL FOR FREE CONSULT

Dr. Padma Sripada 2500 Pond View, Ste 202 • Castleton, NY 12033 DR. PADMA SRIPADA Board certified, serving this community for 21 years.

CDPHP top doctors awardee 2018 and 2019, solo practice with 4.7/5 star rating, with a reputation for compassionate listening and treating patients with a holistic approach.

Call for a FREE Consultation 518-391-2889 Being Controlled or Hurt by your Partner?

You are not alone. You deserve a respectful relationship. FREE Counseling, Legal, Police and Safe shelter help is available for you and children.

Anyone can call the 24/7 Equinox Hotline #518.432.7865, or Chat at https://www.resourceconnect.com/equinoxdv/chat.

Your life may change.

PAGE 6 | JANUARY 20, 2022

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

ICE CREAM CONTINUED FROM 1

Union on Friday. The ice cream will still be made in the basement of the original building, using the original recipes.

"We need to fast-track this project to capture the upcoming season," the group, known as Zautner Toll Gate Enterprises said. "The reason for moving to the back is to better utilize the foot traffic on the rail trail and keep outdoor seating away from (Route 85). We aren't tearing down the brick building in the front, just a little lipstick."

The plans were submitted to the town's Development Planning Committee, which is meeting Jan. 20. The plans including raising the roof of the building in the back and adding 400 square feet of new indoor space and outdoor seating that will face the rail trail.

time amateurs were able to participate in the Mac-nCheese Bowl, will be invited to defend her title. Allegra Edelman of Colonie, who was chosen the best home cook in 2018 and again in 2019, as a two-time winner is ineligible to compete this year but may return in 2023.

Details for applying for the amateur competitions will be announced early next month.

Tasting stations are not yet fully claimed. Interested restaurants or other providers, who are expected to bring at least 2,000 samples of mac-n-cheese, should contact Kyleigh Cherry, the food bank's coordinator of special events, for details: kyleighc@regionalfoodbank.net.

Sponsors provide pasta and cheese; participants are responsible for any remaining ingredients they wish to use. sbarnes@timesunion.com518-454-5489@TablehoppingFacebook: SteveBarnesFoodCritic

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s Winter Lecture Series 2021-2022

PAUL BUCKOWSKI / TIMES UNION

A view of the former Toll Gate Ice Cream shop on Dec. 26 in Bethlehem. The building will get a face-lift and a new ice cream shop will open behind it.

BARNES CONTINUED FROM 1

officially listed as being for one person, organizers said it would be permissible for two or more people to share a ticket if they are daunted by the prospect of eating 30 mac-n-cheeses solo. Tickets sold through the beginning of March will be mailed, with pickup options available at the food bank, a Cohoes location and on Remsen Street during the festival. If tickets do not sell out in advance, as they are projected to, same-day sales will be offered.

Samples from mac-n-cheese and beer stations will not be available on an a-la-carte basis, but people without tasting tickets are welcome to attend to stroll the street, visiting restaurants and shops that will have Mac-n-Cheese Bowl-related specials and promotions.

Additionally, local food purveyors will will be selling and sampling their products in booths set up along Remsen Street. Free entertainment will be provided, including by students of Playhouse Stage Company, now headquartered at Cohoes Music Hall on Remsen Street.

Prizes for tasting stations will be awarded based on voting by judges and attendees.

Two amateur competitions will return: 10 home cooks and up to 10 kid cooks (ages 8 to 13) will bring their versions of mac-n-cheese for tasting by judges. Chloe Sink of Albany, who won the kid-cooks category in 2019, the last

WATERFORD - The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s Annual Winter Lecture Series is kicking off its series at the Van Schaick Island Country Club and you’re invited! Join us for 3 great presentations on local history by local historians: February 8, 7pm - Troy in the Civil War. Presented

by Michael Barrett.

March 8, 7pm - “Hessians” in the American Revolutionary War. Presented by Eric Schnitzer.

Dinner is available for separate purchase at the Van Schaick Island Country Club (201 Continental Ave, Cohoes NY). Reservations are highly recommended..

Admission to the lecture: $6 nonmembers $5 members.

We look forward to seeing you there! Thank you for your support!

Defensive Driving Classes at Colonie Senior Service Centers COLONIE - Colonie Senior Service Centers is offering many Defensive Driving classes in the months of January and February. Roger Dames, CSSC’s Driver Fitness Coordinator will conduct Defensive Driving Classes on the following dates: Thursday, February 10, 2022, from 9 am to 3:30 pm and Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 9 am to 3:30 pm. Classes will be held at The Beltrone Living Center, 6 Winners Circle, Albany, NY. Cost is $25 per person, due as a prepayment before the day of the class. To reserve your seat, call (518)459-2857, ext. 303.

Al-Anon Meetings CLIFTON PARK/HALFMOON - If you are affected by a person’s drinking, Al-anon can help restore your sanity.

We as a group, come together to share our experience, strength and hope and discover ways to live a happier life. The Wednesday meeting will be moving to Zoom at 6pm for the winter. Reach out to cmc.afg.123@ gmail.com for any questions or to get the Zoom meeting sign in information. At this time the Sunday 4pm meeting at St. Edwards Church on Clifton Park Ctr Road is still an in-person meeting.

Johnsonville Thrift Shop JOHNSONVILLE - The Johnsonville Methodist Church Thrift Shop, located at 22 Bridge St., Johnsonville, NY 12094, is open 9-12 every Wednesday and the first Saturday of each month. Closed on holidays. Look for our sign at the corner of Route 67 and Route 111. We have a great selection of adult and children’s clothing, boots, shoes, coats, purses, special occasion and career clothing, jewelry, toys, linens, household and decorative items. Our well-organized book room has over 1,000 books available.

HOROSCOPE

Week Of January 23, 2022 ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Your affection for someone could affect your impression of a certain situation, Aries.

You need to take a step back or remove yourself from the situation.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Someone in a position of authority may want to invest in your future, Taurus. Even though you may be flattered by the interest, you have to weigh all of your options.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 You may learn something about a person if you’re willing to get involved in deep conversation, Gemini. Have a talk with someone you’re eager to get to know.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, a heavy load at work is manageable. Challenges keep you engaged and you thrive on the pressure. Enjoy the responsibility and all that comes with it.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Sometimes you need to put passion ahead of stability, Leo. That means explore all possibilities when it comes to relationships. You may connect with someone unexpected.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you may be able to move through chores and other things on your to-do list quite quickly this week. That opens up opportunities for some rest and relaxation.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a chance to take a leadership role in your community is on the horizon.

Take advantage of this unique opportunity and give it your all.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, this week you may be pulled in two directions, but it’s nothing you haven’t

handled in the past. Look to trusted confidantes for advice and even a little help, if necessary.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, find some time to delve into your passions.

Figure out what piques your interests and pursue it with your customary energy.

Others will admire your enthusiasm.

CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20 Getting romance off the ground this week may seem like climbing Mount Everest, Capricorn. Mixed messages may cloud the waters. Keep finding a way to connect.

AQUARIUS Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, think about what you can bring to the table at work, and then promote your strengths to the higher-ups.

They may be slow to come around but you’ll catch their attention.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, if you are feeling overworked, you may have to ask others to pitch in and take on a bigger share of the tasks at hand.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 23 Doutzen Kroes, Model (37) JANUARY 24 Matthew Lillard, Actor (52) JANUARY 25 Lil Mosey, Rapper (20) JANUARY 26 Wayne Gretzky, Athlete (61) JANUARY 27 Noah Schnacky, Singer (25) JANUARY 28 Joey Fatone, Singer (45) JANUARY 29 Adam Lambert, Singer (40)

HOUSE OF THE WEEK 30 Brookline Road, Ballston

Clockwise from Top: The living room; one of two and a half bathrooms.

PHOTOS BY KRISTI B PHOTOGRAPHY

The Arts and Crafts-style home was built in 1906.

T

his week’s house is a Craftsman style home built in 1906 on a 3.8acre lot. It has a deep porch, a characteristic of this style, wide eaves and central second-floor dormer.

The home has three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. It has 1,780 square feet of living space, a fireplace and a separate garage with a work shop inside. The large kitchen has a window over the sink. There’s a counter for seating, eating and watching meals get made as well as a formal LEIGH dining room. Additional HORNBECK highlights include a deck HOUSE OF off the back and bilco THE WEEK doors to the basement.

Ballston Spa schools. Taxes: $5,686.

List price: $299,900. Contact listing agent Christopher Iwinski of Coldwell Banker Prime Properties at 518-669-0265. n If

you have seen or own a particularly interesting home for sale to feature, send the address to lhornbeck@timesunion.com

n To

see more House of the week photos, go to Leigh Hornbeck’s Places & Spaces blog at http://blog.timesunion.com/realestate

One of three bedrooms; the den with wood-burning fireplace; the dining room; the kitchen.

JANUARY 20, 2022 | PAGE 7

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

GENERAL NOTICES

FULL TIME FULL TIME PHYSICAL THERAPIST For out patient setting. Full benefits including medical and dental.

Starting salary is $75000 per year. Salary could increase according to years of experience. New grads are welcome to apply.

Fax your resume to: (845) 428-7023 or email it to: Info@americanmedicalstaff.com

PART TIME Help Wanted Looking for student or older to assist senior. Variety of miscellaneous jobs. Reliable, handy and references needed. (518) 977-3686

MISC. MERCHANDISE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES TRAIN ON LINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-516-1375.

(M-F 8am-6pm ET)

MERCHANDISE GENERAC GENERATORS Prepare for the unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator. Request your FREE quote! 855-972-3529. FREE 7 year extended warranty. A $695 value! Limited time offer. Call for details. Special financing available.

Subject to credit approval. *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer.

Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

WANTED TO BUY Antiques, vinyl records, comic books, old signs, instruments, toys, coins, pocket watches, fish lures & more 518-801-4673

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-570-0887 DIRECTV for $69.99/mo for 12 months with CHOICE Package.

Watch your favorite live sports, news & entertainment anywhere.

One year of HBO Max FREE. Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.) Call for more details! (some restrictions apply) Call 1-866-731-3285

DISH Network. $59.99 for 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet, $19.99/mo. (where available.)

Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE Voice Remote. FREE HD DVR. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices. Call today! 1-866-713-1595

MISC. MERCHANDISE

MISC. AUTOMOTIVE

Attention: Oxygen Users! Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills! Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 855-839-1738

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted.

Free pickup. Call for details.

1-855-587-1166

NOVENA PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail) Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God. Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth! I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to answer me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x).

Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine.

The person must say this prayer 3 consecutive days, after 3 days the request will be granted. This prayer must be published after the favor is granted. R.M.R.

AARON CONSTRUCTION Specializing in all phases of home remodeling & repairs.

Snow plowing. Fully insured.

518-857-8354 or 518-371-1519 ACCOUNTING & PAYROLL Siena Grad. 25+ yrs. exp. No job too small. (518) 475-8782. www.accountingdave.com

ALWAYS BEST PAINTING Int/ext. painting. Plaster & sheet- rock, wallpaper, wood staining and refinishing. 25 yrs exp. free est. Ins. Hire a Craftsman. (518) 424-5812 APPLIANCE REPAIR Washers, dryers, fridge, ranges, etc. Prompt, guaranteed repairs.

Mike Horowitz (518) 477-8378 $$CA$H$$ FOR JUNK CARS $100-$1000. FREE PICKUP (518) 914-8633 CASH FOR METAL/CARS We buy farm equip., metal, cars.

We have the equip. to take care of big jobs. Highest prices paid. Demolition. Towing & transport avail.

Part of the proceeds go to the veterans. (518) 339-3369 CHEAPER THAN DUMPSTERS Old appliances and furniture REMOVED FROM YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS. Small or Large jobs. CLEANOUTS. Call Bill the Junkman at (518) 256-6124.

Credit cards accepted.

DIVORCE $389.00 - Uncontested Make Divorce Easy – only 1 Signature, Inc. poor person app. Info: (518) 274-0380 DUMPSTER RENTALS 12yd. & 14yd. available. Call Ray at N & R Tree and Property Services (518) 573-1133 EXCAVATION, TRUCKING, STONE & TOPSOIL Water diversion, driveways, brush hog, land clearing, oil tank removals, septics, grading, digging, lawns, pool fill-ins, site prep. Part of the proceeds go to the veterans.

(518) 339-3369 FAST FIX HEATING and PLUMBING LLC 24 hr. service, fully ins. 26 yrs. exp. Installs/ replacements, tuneups, trouble shooting. Fixing all your heating & plumbing needs. (518) 256-1346 F.E. PALMA CONSTRUCTION Building, Remodeling, Renovations. Since 1985. Free est. Ins. o518-627-4344 c518-257-2880 Firewood/ Cooking Wood Exit 15N.com Lou "The Wood Guy" Rt. 50, Wilton. 24/7

COMPUTER ISSUES? FREE DIAGNOSIS BY GEEKS ON SITE! Virus Removal Data Recovery! 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE, In-home repair/On-line solutions. $20 OFF ANY SERVICE! 855-385-4814

FRIDHOLM PAINTING Interior painting - 1 or multi-room projects. Popcorn & Cathedral ceilings. 2-story foyers & wallpaper removal. Make your appt. for your free est. for your 2021 ext. projects. Call us @ (518) 330-9507 or visit us at www.FridholmPainting.com.

We Love What We Do! HOUSECLEANING SERVICES Apts, Homes, Comm. Reliable, honest, Ins. Call Rose Cleaning Services (518) 496-4241

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait!

Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1855-434-9221 www.dental50plus. com/44 #6258

JUNK REMOVAL & DEMO Oil tanks, hot tubs, pools, sheds, barns, houses, fence & retaining wall removal, yard cleanup. Res./comm. clean out & organize. Fully equipped to handle any job. (518) 339-8710.

Part of the proceeds go to the veterans.

C.L. HOME IMPROVEMENTS Taking care of all your window and remodeling needs. Neat & dependable. Fully ins. Free est.

Rich (518) 528-7173

Never Pay For Covered Home Repairs Again! Complete Care Home Warranty COVERS ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE Months! 844-649-4766 ODD JOBS Cleaning and housework.

Low cost. High quality.

Call Jesse (518) 506-5479 or jessesample08@yahoo.com PAINTER, VACCINATED 32yrs exp. Custom colors.

Small jobs or new drywall. Free est. 518-203-7166 or 618-8051 PJ’S CONSTRUCTION Windows, doors, remodeling, roof repair, small jobs. Quality work for quality price. Ins. (518) 527-3067 P.W. PAINTING All phases of painting & staining.

Your int/ext painting residential specialist. Excellent workmanship.

Great prices & reas. rates. Free est., fully ins., ref’s. (518) 396-0898 THE RELIABLE HANDYMAN A perfectionist. No job too small. All phases of home repair. Free est. I will show up!

Call Joe (518) 261-0265 TREE, SHRUB, STUMP SRVC Bucket, crane, chipper, stump removal. Small jobs to mega.

Trucking avail. We sell wood.

Part of the proceeds go to the veterans. (518) 339-3369 TREE & STUMP REMOVAL Brush hogging available. Free Estimates. Fully insured. Call Ray at N & R Tree and Property Services (518) 573-1133 UNSEASONED FIREWOOD 7 (+/-) cord load, cut, split & delivered. $1260. Call for area discount.

Smaller loads avail. 518-692-2109

UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS Adult Community. Minimum 55 years old. Mohican Hill Apts, Ballston Spa. Spacious 1 BR. Washer, dryer hkups. Low heat costs. Fully sanitized. $795. No pets. (518) 885-4232

EMPLOYMENT Supply Chain & Purchasing Supervisor (Albany, NY) Plans and manages logistical functions including shipping and warehouse operations.

Requirements: Bachelors in Business Administration or related and 1 year experience coordinating logistical activities or related.

Mail resume to: HR, Sark Wire Corp.

120 Industrial Park Rd., Albany, NY 12206

Looking to Hire?

We Can Help!

DIRECT MAILED TO 180,000 WEEKLY To place an ad in our paper contact: Jennifer Morrell • 518-526-6330 jmorrell@timesunion.com Heidi Gaschel • 518-965-1714 Heidi.gaschel@theadvertiser.us

Nursing Positions We have been specializing in providing Private Duty Nursing for both Pediatric and Adult clients for over 35 years in the Capital District and surrounding counties.

We have open positions for

Full-Time and Part-Time RNs And LPNs to join our Pediatric team. We have clinically strong and experienced nursing admin staff that work together with you and the client.

Hours are flexible depending on client needs and your availability.

No weekend commitments, but they are available. All shifts and flexible times are needed. Call our office to speak to our staff about opportunities.

EARN EXTRA CASH! BECOME A TIMES UNION CARRIER

★ $500 STAY-ON BONUS! ★ $250 PAID AFTER 30 DAYS AND AFTER 60 DAYS

CONTACT US TODAY! TIMESUNION.COM/CARRIERS OR (518) 454-5689

We Offer: Up to $35 per hour. $500 New Hire Sign-On Bonus!

Weekly pay, referral bonuses, health/dental insurance, Aflac supplemental insurance, direct deposit, generous paid vacation/sick time and 401k retirement.

www.accucarehhs.com

518-449-1142

Send Resume: acurry@accucareny.com 87 Washington St. • Rensselaer

PAGE 8 | JANUARY 20, 2022

LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES

DUTY CALLS

GRONDAHL

CONTINUED FROM 1

CONTINUED FROM 1

ute to that individual.

Flags and company sponsorships can be purchased online at www.healingfield.org/event/schaghticokeny22 or by mail by check payable to Field of Honor, put Schaghticoke, N.Y., in memo line, and send to Colonial Flag Foundation, 9362 S. 3090 West, Sandy, UT 84070.

Donations are also encouraged. For information, contact Marilou Pudiak-Town at (518) 423-5281 or mopudiak@ nycap.rr.com. Donations for company sponsorship packages are $5,000 for gold package, $2,500 for silver, and $1,000 for bronze.

Volunteers will be needed to mount 3-by-5 foot flags on 7½-foot poles and perform other tasks. If interested in volunteering, contact Pudiak-Town at (518) 423-5281.

In-kind services are also needed for preparation and operating the event that will require portable lighting, a sound system, stage, tents, food for volunteers and more.

Proceeds will benefit the Capital Region Patriot Flight, a nonprofit Honor Flight organization that flies World War II through Vietnam War veterans on a one-day free excursion from the Albany International Airport to Washington, D.C. The veterans visit war memorials, historic sites and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Patriot Flight flies between 50 and 100 World War II through Vietnam War veterans and their guardians on Southwest Airlines flights.

"Donations, no matter how small, are integral in determining the success of this event," said Pudiak-Town.

"We hope to send 100 veterans to Washington, D.C. next fall. In-kind and financial donations also will help us reach that goal. Any monetary amount will help prepare the field for the event and send veterans to Washington."

Between noon and 4 p.m. on May 30, flag purchasers can pick up and take their flags home.

The Field of Honor is a nonprofit Colonial Flag Foundation event. The foundation helps groups raise funds for worthy causes. Last year, the foundation posted more than 80,000 flags.

flight depart from?

For newcomers to the Capital Region, airport ambassadors make a vital first impression.

Cooney, who possesses a dry wit, has become a master at reading a passenger's mood, and responding accordingly.

"I'm generally outgoing and friendly and I can tell immediately if the person is someone I can kid with or not," he said. "Some people don't want any small talk and I give them just the facts."

The program's origin story stems from the early 1990s, when an Albany airport board member flew to the Fort Lauderdale Airport and was impressed by the hospitality of its ambassadors.

Soon, an airport ambassadors program took root in Albany. Their work was critical during the upheaval of a two-year new terminal construction and renovation, completed in 1998.

Ambassadors serve as sort of human way finders, leading tours and providing directions, helpful facts and the most up-to-date airport information.

Nash is a familiar presence at the busiest corridor of the airport, in front of the federal Transportation Security Administration security checkpoint line. She patrols the perimeter of the serpentine queue, making sure passengers are ready to be screened by a TSA agent.

"I'll make sure they have their ID and boarding pass and let them know they can put everything else away," she said. "I've gotten pretty good at helping people find their ticket on their cellphone."

Helping alleviate flying anxiety is a common theme.

"People can be really nervous, especially if it's their first time flying," said Nash, a widow and mother of two daughters, who works four-hour shifts Wednesday and Thursday, beginning at 8 a.m. She worked more than 480 hours in 2021, the most of any ambassador.

"Betty is friendly, kind, efficient and dedicated," Chadderdon said. "The passengers love her."

The hardest shifts to fill are the predawn hours, often the busiest time at the airport.

Chadderdon had an ambassador working the 4 a.m. to 7 a.m. shift, but he is sidelined with knee surgery and she has not yet found a replacement.

New ambassadors, who commit to a weekly shift of two to four hours, receive training and orientation alongside a seasoned ambassador like Cooney.

"If they like to help others, it's easy to train them," said Cooney, who was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1957 while studying engineering at Union College. He served as an Army instructor at Fort Benning, Ga., later earned his engineering degree at Union and was a licensed engineer and land surveyor.

After retiring in 1992, he grew bored. He read a brief item in the Times Union mentioning the new ambassador program, applied and joined the first class 27 years ago.

"Helen said I have to stick around for 30 years," he said. "I don't see why not."

Cooney has been around so long he already wore out one of his size 42 long burgundy blazers.

"I was looking kind of crummy after 23 years, so they replaced it," Cooney said.

In addition to a free uniform, ambassadors get free

Aid hospital programs Jewish War Veterans Capital District Council members didn't let COVID-19 derail their efforts to donate hundreds of dollars to the Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Albany Post 105 and Schenectady Post 106 donated $720 to programs and services coordinated by the Stratton VA Volunteer Services.

"This really makes a huge difference for us," said Michael Fitzpatrick, volunteer services manager, after the donation was made on Christmas Eve. "Just having you come out today to show your support helps us. We really appreciate it."

Jewish War Veterans members Rich Dolins, Harian Harrison, Paul Zonderman, Richard Goldenberg, Bill Jaffe, Post 105 Commander Fred Altman, and Post 106 Commander Gene Altman presented the funds to Fitzpatrick.

News of your troops and units can be sent to Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Times Union, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or brownt@timesunion.com.

parking in a covered garage.

"That's such a big improvement," Nash said. "When I started, we parked outside and I remember having to clean off my car every time it snowed."

As part of the airport's recent rebranding campaign, which included a new logo and website and "Going Places" motto, the ambassadors are getting a makeover.

Burgundy blazers will be replaced by sky blue blazers, sky blue vests and navy slacks to complement the color scheme of the new logo and airport signage. Women will be issued a navy scarf and men will get navy ties.

"Will they be clip-on ties?" Cooney joked. He had gotten used to open-collar shirts and is skeptical of the sky blue hue.

"We'll get used to it. We'll look nice," Nash said.

Nash and Cooney have no plans to hang up their official ambassador's name tags anytime soon. One of their former colleagues kept going beyond her 90th birthday.

"I'm a people person and I need the camaraderie," Cooney said.

"As long as I'm healthy, I'll be there," Nash said.

Anyone interested in becoming an airport ambassador can contact Chadderdon at hchadderdon@albanyairport.com or 518-242-2231.

Paul Grondahl is director of the New York State Writers Institute at the University at Albany and a former Times Union reporter. He can be reached at grondahlpaul@ gmail.com

Need Food Assistance in Waterford, NY? Waterford Food Pantries are Open!

WATERFORD - Waterford Food Pantries are open to serve Waterford residents & others in emergency. Service is by appointment to ensure guest safety. Call today to make your appointment.

Faith’s Food Pantry, Grace Episcopal Church - Call 518-237-7370. 34 Third Street, Waterford, NY 12188; Open Friday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Living Hope United Methodist Church Food Pantry - Call 518-233-0238. 126 Middletown Rd, Waterford, NY 12188; Open Fri 10–11:30 a.m., 1st Thurs 5:30-7 p.m.

St Mary’s / St Vincent DePaul Society Food Pantry - Call 518-237-3131. 119 Broad Street, Waterford, NY 12188; Open Tuesday 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Waterford Food Pantries are Equal Opportunity Providers

For

Display Advertising Contact:

Heidi Gaschel Account Executive

(C) 518-965-1714

Heidi.gaschel@theadvertiser.us

RS AGAIN NEVER CLEAN YOUR GUTTEerous icicles or worry about dang

PROBLEM

THROUGH DEC 31ST

Formerly Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council

SOLUTION

We are a community of neighbors helping neighbors build bright and stable futures!

We are a community of • Energy Services • Immigrant Services neighbors helping • Family Services • Early Childhood Education • Food Programs • Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) neighbors build bright and 518-288-3206 stable| lifeworksaction.org futures!

SERVING EASTERN NY SINCE 1973 We’ve installed over 14,000 gutter jobs locally

We’ll install Gutter Helmet® and Helmet Heat® so you’ll never have to climb up a shaky ladder again to clean your gutters or worry about dangerous icicles.

• Rain goes in, leaves & debris stay out • Installs on new or existing gutters • Helmet Heat melts damaging ice and snow during winter • Lifetime Guarantee

Melt away your winter blues, with Helmet Heat by Gutter Helmet® • Melts ice in gutters and downspouts to keep water flowing • Helps reduce ice damage to your home • Installs neatly under new or existing Gutter Helmet® • Energy efficient and easy to use

CALL FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

FOUR SEASON PROTECTION

Some programs have income guidelines. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

LAST CHANCE TO GET 2021 PRICES!

FREE GUTTERS

*

WITH GUTTER HELMET PURCHASE PLUS

20% OFF

HELMET HEAT* AND

NO MONEY DOWN NO PAYMENTS NO INTEREST FOR 12 MONTHSt

(518)881-1066 AlbanyGutterHelmet.com

110 Rotterdam Corporate Park, Schenectady, NY

* Void where prohibited by law. Promotions may not be combined or used with prior purchases. Customer will receive 1 foot of 5-inch k-style gutter free, for every 1 foot of new Gutter Helmet purchased. The new Gutter Helmet purchased must be installed on the free gutters. Promotion to be applied by sales representative at time of contract execution with 75 foot minimum purchase. Available at time of initial visit only. Expires 1/31/2022. (t) No Money Down, No Interest, No Payments applies if the balance is paid in full within 12 months. Gutter Helmet of Eastern NY [GH] is neither a broker nor a lender. Financing is provided by 3rd party lenders unaffiliated with GH, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender, all subject to credit requirements, approval and satisfactory completion of finance documents. Finance terms advertised are estimates only. GH does not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing other than providing customers an introduction to lenders interested in financing GH customers.GH is not responsible for typos. ©2022 Gutter Helmet of Eastern NY

• Energy Services • Family Services • Food Programs Formerly Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council • Immigrant Services We areChildhood a communityEducation of neighbors helping • Early neighbors build bright and stable futures!

• Woman, Infants, and Children (WIC) • Energy Services • Family Services • Food Programs

• Immigrant Services • Early Childhood Education • Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

518-288-3206 | lifeworksaction.org Some programs have income guidelines. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.