Twin Bridges Edition | Thursday, January 27, 2022
Community rallies for fire victim Eric Allen, a longtime Coeymans Landing Marina employee, was severely burned in explosion ByLINE: PETE DEMOLA
Circulo opening a new location
Health group, “future of Medicaid,” will have its first Capital Region site ByLINE: KATHLEEN MOORE
CLIFTON PARK - A new health group calling itself "the future of Medicaid" is opening its first location in the Capital Region. Circulo Health Group will open a medical center at 1714 Route 9, Clifton Park, in April. Other sites are also expected to open later this year, each with space for studio-type workouts, such as yoga, barre, and aerobics. Circulo Health Group says it provides primary care, including mental health care, in a new way. Rather than treating medical issues as they occur, Circulo plans to focus on patients' long-term health by connecting them with a team of professionals. They will explicitly address "social determinants of health," which include safe places to live, access to nutritious food and education. The company describes its services as "world-class healthcare for America's most vulnerable." In addition, Circulo announced the acquisition of Huddle Health, a startup launched last year in Slingerlands. Dr. Jacob Reider, who founded Huddle Health and Alliance for Better Health, will lead the Clifton Park site as a general manager for Circulo. "I am excited to join the team at Circulo Health to create the best possible services for Capital Region residents. We share the Please see CIRCULO 6
RAVENA - Eric Allen is the type of guy who would help anyone -even the birds. After Allen struck up a friendship with a swan at Coeymans Landing Marina, he built a boom that allowed him to lower food down to "Hudson" on the waterfront. Allen is the kind of guy that will do anything for anyone, said Tracey Douglas, Allen's friend. "The boating community is a tight community," Douglas said. "It's a family on the river and he's a big part of the family." Allen's friends and colleagues gathered at Rail to River Brewing in the village of Ravena on Sunday to swap stories, exchange updates and pass the bucket, one of multiple fundraisers designed to aid the longtime worker who was badly burned last week after a fuel tank exploded as he was welding at Coeymans Landing Marina. Allen, 56, is receiving treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, including reconstructive surgery, wrote his father, Carl Allen, on social media. The Latham resident will be sedated for the next two weeks as he undergoes surgery, Carl Allen wrote, "then unknown months in the hospital." Law enforcement officials have not released the name of the victim from the Thursday fire, but there is a strong online fundraising presence and outpouring of support for Eric Allen, whose family previously owned the marina before nearby Port of Coeymans owner Carver Companies took it over.
The event at Rail to River Brewing Sunday joined several online fundraisers to benefit Allen and his family, including a GoFundMe campaign that generated nearly $64,000 by midday Sunday, surpassing the goal of $50,000. "That shows you how well-liked he is," said Joe Costello, president of Coeymans Marine Landing Service, a separate business at the marina, Please see FUNDRAISE 6
Mosques welcome Aghan refugees Local consortium assists with housing and other necessities ByLINE: AZRA HAQQIE
Five local mosques and Islamic centers formed a consortium in summer to help Afghan refugees as they arrive in the Capital Region. The Islamic Center of the Capital District and the Al-Hidaya center, both in Colonie, Masjid As-Salaam in Albany, Masjid Nabawi in Schenectady and Al-Arqam Center in Clifton Park banded together to help "the brothers and sisters who need our help the most right now." A member of each mosque is on the committee, which sought donations and volunteers and sprang into action to help. They have been working both independently and with the United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants in Albany. The committee has raised funds to provide temporary housing to families and to cover their rent. The USCRI pays
apartment rent for three months. Al-Hidaya Center of Latham has taken the lead on the settlement project with Uzma Popal of Latham helming a donation center and thrift shop on Route 2. It stocks clothing, household goods, some furniture and baby items. Popal said 10 new refugee families came to the thrift shop to pick up items. "They had no place to stay. USCRI put them up in a hotel for a couple of days," Popal said. The USCRI is looking for temporary housing for incoming refugees. "Even if people can can open their houses for a week, it will be a huge help," Popal said. "We need volunteers to sort donations, which keep piling up, thanks to generous donors." The donation center is open limited hours two days a week. The refugees began coming into the Capital
PHOTOS BY PAUL BUCKOWSKI / TIMES UNION
Uzma Popal, left, director of the Muslim Soup Kitchen Project, and Sumaiya Nasir, a volunteer with MSKP, organize some of the infant/children's items at the Al-Hidaya Donation Center that the Muslim Soup Kitchen Project also runs in Latham.
Region in September and the influx snowballed with the withdrawal of U.S. troops and airlifting of Afghans. Popal said 304 refugees have arrived in the area since September. Refugees arrive at short notice, sometimes only two to four days, leaving host families and organizers scrambling to arrange
housing, clothing, food, baby items and other necessities. "Recently a refugee who had arrived here four months ago needed $100 toward rent," Popal said. The committee was able to help and hopes to have enough funds to help out others in similar situations.
Cleanup set at old Colonie plant site State DEC targets Adirondack Steel land in $5.9M job ByLINE: MASSARAH MIKATI
COLONIE - The former Adirondack Steel site is set to undergo a cleanup to help protect public health and the environment, according to state officials. The Department of Environmental Conservation said work at the site on Watervliet-Shaker Road will include excavation and disposal of ground that is contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyl, or PCBs, collecting and analyzing samples of the grounds and water for contaminants and bringing in clean fill to replace what is excavated. The site was determined to represent a significant threat to public
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PETE DEMOLA / TIMES UNION
Tracey and Steven Douglas, owners of Rail to River Brewing in Ravena, are among the community members raising funds for Eric Allen of Latham who was severely burned on Jan. 20 after a fuel tank exploded at Coeymans Landing Marina.
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Area residents of many faiths have come forward to help. "Our friend Barbara Dworkin, community activist from Niskayuna, has been collecting furniture. She has rounded up volunteer drivers and pickup trucks and has delivered the items to the Please see REFUGEES 6
TIMES UNION ARCHIVE
The former Adirondack Steel Casting Co. site on Watervliet-Shaker Road in Colonie will be cleaned up, DEC officials say.
health and the environment. Cleanup, which starts this month, is expected to last eight months and will cost more than $5.9 million. After the cleanup, DEC will conduct a health and safety plan, as well as a Community Air Monitoring Plan, to control long-term environmental protection of the area and its residents. The mill closed in the 1980s.
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PAGE 2 | JANUARY 27, 2022
Volunteers are Needed to Help Adults and Children in Rensselaer & Albany County TROY - Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County (LVORC) welcomes all kinds of volunteers, from tutors to administrative helpers and event planners. As a volunteer you can develop new skills, make friends, and see how your efforts make a difference in Rensselaer County and Albany County. Would you like to help someone to read, write, or speak and understand English? We can train you. To find out more about tutoring and other ways to help, join us for a Volunteer Opportunities Information Session from 12:00-1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 1st via Zoom. Contact mhellerlvorc@aol.com or call 518 244-4650 to reserve a space. https://www.lvorc.org
THE CENTER at Colonie Senior Service Centers March Classes and Events COLONIE - 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! Prices are listed as member and not-yetmember. Vaccinations and masks required for all participants. Registration required for all events. Membership is $20/calendar year. For information, call 518-459-2857 x 327 or email cbarrett@colonieseniors.org. Catalog can be found at www.colonieseniors.org. Exercise: Boot Kickin’ Line Dancing, Feb. 7 – March 28, 1 p.m., $40/$50
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
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 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 Tai Chi, Monday at 10:30 and Tuesday at 2 p.m., Call for price Yoga for Mobility, Thursday at 10 a.m., Call for price Tap Dancing, Various levels, Thursday, 11:15, Call for price Yoga for Crafty Hands, Feb. 18, 1 p.m., $7/$15 Arts & Music: Drumming 101, Feb. 25, March 4, March 18, $45/$55 Beginning Collage, Feb. 17, Feb. 24, March 3, $40/$50 Explosion books, Feb. 1, Free for members Rubber Stamping Art, Feb. 8, $10 for members Embroidery, Feb. 15, Feb. 22, $29/$39 Money Roses, Feb. 9, $10/$15 Watercolor Workshop, Feb. 9, Feb. 16, $30/$40 Trips: Bus leaves from the
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
Applications Available for The Hawley Foundation for Children Community Grants 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 Beltrone Living Center Honest Weight Food Tasting, Feb. 9, $5/$10 Music at Noon, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Feb. 8, $5/$10 Turning Stone Casino, Feb. 2, $50/$60 Opalka gallery, Feb. 3, $5/$10 Snowshoeing at Grafton Lake, Feb. 11, $15/$25 Tang Museum Tour, Feb. 17, $5/$10 Maple Syrup Tour, Feb. 28, $10/$15
The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s Winter Lecture Series 2021-2022 WATERFORD - The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s Annual Winter Lecture Series is kicking off its series at the Van
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 basis who are in financial need and reside in Saratoga County.
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!
on Friday, February 11, from 4 PM to 6PM, in The Beltrone Living Center’s Lakeview Room for a FREE Valentines concert. Local band “Hands of Time” will entertain attendees to music symbolic of love and Valentine’s Day. Bring your dancing shoes and sweet tooth as there will be free refreshments. Fabulous prizes will be awarded to those in attendance who are the most appropriately dressed for the holiday. So pull out your reds, pinks, and anything with a heart on it. All in attendance MUST provide proof of vaccination to enter. Masks will also be REQUIRED throughout the event. If you have any questions or concerns, you can call Louis at (518)459-2857 ext. 340.
FREE Valentines Community Concert COLONIE - Join Colonie Senior Service Centers
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.
Bridge at THE CENTER
COLONIE - Come play with a friendly group. Tuesdays at 12:30. 518459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@ colonieseniors.org
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 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 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.
JANUARY 27, 2022 | PAGE 3
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
AROUND YOUR COMMUNITY Capital Region Social Happenings January Event and Concert Series CAPITAL DISTRICT - https://www.facebook. com/CapitalRegionSocial - CapRegSocialHappenings@gmail.com. Check out the following events that are held at 435 New Karner Road (Hanover Square Building) at “Hill” door entrance. Open to the public. Inside seating is limited. Plenty of free parking. Handicap accessible. CDC & COVID compliant. At this time, masks required on everyone. Be prepared to show your vaccination card as well as provide your phone number for contact tracing if required. Call 518-4526883 for more information. Friday Night – January 28 at 7 pm: The Back Porch Players will perform music that we all enjoy. Maybe even some sing-alongs. Performance starts at 7 pm. Sunday Night – January 30 at 7 pm: We’re kicking off our first dance of the year with a great DJ. Put on your dancing shoes and be prepare to strut your stuff on the dance floor. Music requests taken. Only $6.
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.
Waterford Seniors Activities and Presentations for February 2022 WATERFORD - 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. 518-235-8500.
Suggested donation of $3, and registration and reservations are required. Call 518-459-2857 x 303. Menus Are Subject To Change January 27 - Scalloped Potatoes w/ Ham January 28 - Pasta Fagioli w/ Sausage January 31 - Apricot Chicken February 1 - Philly Cheesesteak February 2 - Beef Stew February 3 - Baked Cod February 4 - Baked Parm Chicken Sandwich Suggested contribution of $3 for lunch and $3 for entertainment.
Dining with Diabetes Presented by Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County CAPITAL DISTRICT - Mondays, January 31, February 7 and 28th at 6:30pm - Virtual Program via Zoom Adults with type 2 diabetes (or those who are at risk of type 2 diabetes) and their family members, caregivers, and support persons are invited to participate in Dining with Diabetes. This free virtual program will help you learn the skills needed to promote good health while living with diabetes. Dining with Diabetes is an Extension program taught locally by Karen Roberts Mort, MS of Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County. Participants will learn how to read the new food labels, count carbohydrates and plan meals using the Plate Method. There will also be time to discuss ways to stay motivated to eat healthy and stay active during the current health crisis.
This class offers opportunities to connect with others who are dealing with diabetes. Healthy recipes, cooking techniques and even ideas for making healthier choices at restaurants and grocery stores will be shared with the group. A Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist has been invited to attend one of the sessions. Please register here : https://cornell.zoom.us/ meeting/register/tJErfygqD4jH9f5xxKk0 V3Il8E0bFtmCbCc in order to get the Zoom link for the series. For help with registering or any questions, contact Karen from CCE Albany at kem18@cornell.edu or leave a message at 518-765-3552.
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: 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
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.
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: 518-557-2284.
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
Johnsonville Thrift Shop
Please send your news and photos to bulletinboard@crwnewspapers.com. Please include contact information. NY 12303 beginning at 11:30am and ending at approximately 1:30pm. Please be prompt. IMPORTANT: If you are planning on attending the luncheon, please wear your mask and bring with you your Proof of Vaccination card - required by the Elks Lodge. Your reservation is necessary no later than February 3 and cancellations a must. Please call Nancy (518) 320-2649 for reservation. On the menu this month is Roast Beef/ Mashed Potato dinner with an alternative choice of Grilled Chicken Salad. The cost is $17.00 inclusive (cash only). Our Speaker this month is Cathy Hopper from Broadalbin, NY who will speak on “Your Past Does Not Have to Determine Your Future”. As for our Feature, Joe Lisella, Executive Director of the Animal Protective Foundation in Scotia will speak on the new and existing programs at the Shelter. Our Music will be Joe Kriss who will entertain us with singing Frank Sinatra tunes. All are welcome bring a friend!!
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.
Saratoga Area Retired Teachers Meeting SARATOGA COUNTY - Saratoga Area Retired Teachers will meet on Tuesday, February 1, at noon at Longfellows Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue (Rte. 9P), Saratoga Springs. For membership information, call 518-587-5356.
Charismatic Mass and Healing Service LOUDONVILLE Healing Service to be held at the conclusion of Mass on February 9th, 2022. 7:00pm Prayer and Praise, 7:30pm Holy Mass - Music by Joyful Heart, Presider: Fr. Dan McHale - Location: Christ Our Light, RC Church, 1 Maria Dr., Loudonville, NY
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St. Mary’s Church, Waterford, Food Pantry WATERFORD - The Food Pantry of St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Sixth and Broad Streets in Waterford, is open and accepting new Waterford clients. To register, or for more information, contact Lynda at 518-237-8826. Returning clients should continue to contact the Rectory at 518-237-3131 on Monday mornings to sign up for the Tuesday distribution. The Food Pantry is staffed by volunteers of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Mary’s Church. The Pantry looks forward to seeing returning clients and to meeting new ones.
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PAGE 4 | JANUARY 27, 2022
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
OPINION
Is America Heading for a Systems Collapse? Victor Davis Hanson Tribune Content Agency In modern times, as in ancient Rome, several nations have suffered a “systems collapse.” The term describes the sudden inability of once-prosperous populations to continue with what had ensured the good life as they knew it. Abruptly, the population cannot buy, or even find, once plentiful necessities. They feel their streets are unsafe. Laws go unenforced or are enforced inequitably. Every day things stop working. The government turns from reliable to capricious if not hostile. Consider contemporary Venezuela. By 2010, the once well-off oil-exporting country was mired in a self-created mess. Food became scarce, crime ubiquitous. Radical socialism, nationalization, corruption, jailing opponents, and the destruction of constitutional norms were the culprits. Between 2009 and 2016, a once relatively stable Greece nearly became a Third World country. So did Great Britain in its socialist days of the 1970s. Joe Biden’s young presidency may already be leading the United States into a similar meltdown. Hard Left “woke” ideology has all but obliterated the idea of a border. Millions of impoverished foreigners are entering the United States illegally - and during a pandemic without either COVID-19 tests or vaccinations. The health bureaucracies have lost credibility as official communiques on masks, herd and acquired immunity, vaccinations, and comorbidities apparently change and adjust to perceived political realities. After decades of improving race relations, America is regressing into a pre-modern tribal society. Crime soars. Inflation roars. Meritocracy is libeled and so we are governed more by ideology and tribe. The soaring prices of the stuff of life - fuel, food, housing, health care, transportation are strangling the middle class. Millions stay home, content to be paid by the state not to work. Supply shortages and empty shelves are the new norm. Nineteenth-century-style train robberies are back. So is 1970s urban violence, replete with looting, carjackings, and random murdering of the innocent. After the Afghanistan debacle, we have returned to the dark days following defeat in Vietnam, when U.S. deterrence abroad was likewise shattered, and global terrorism and instability were the norms abroad. Who could have believed a year ago that America would now beg Saudi Arabia and Russia to pump more oil - as we pulled our own oil leases, and canceled pipelines and oil fields? Our path to systems collapse is not due to an earthquake, climate change, a nuclear war, or even the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, most of our maladies are self-inflicted. They are the direct result of woke ideologies that are both cruel and antithetical to traditional American pragmatism. Hard-Left district attorneys in our major
Photography Saves an Alcoholic’s Life JONESVILLE - Michael Blanchard is a renowned photographer, author and philanthropist who reveals that the disease of alcoholism (Alcohol Use Disorder) has no prejudice. All those who have found recovery or are struggling with addiction, their families and members of our churches and community with faith or of none are invited February 16, 2022 7:00 PM to the Jonesville United Methodist Church 963 Main Street, Clifton Park, NY to hear Michael Blanchard share with his remarkable journey from addiction to recovery. He will share his heartfelt story by his words enhanced by his
How an Enduring Myth About Voter Turnout Distorts Our Politics
cities refuse to charge thousands of arrested criminals - relying instead on bankrupt social justice theories. Law enforcement has been arbitrarily defunded and libeled. Police deterrence is lost, so looters, vandals, thieves, and murderers more freely prey on the public. “Modern monetary theory” deludes ideologues that printing trillions of dollars can enrich the public, even as the ensuing inflation is making people poorer. “Critical race theory” absurdly dictates that current “good” racism can correct the effects of past bad racism. A once tolerant, multiracial nation is resembling the factionalism of the former Yugoslavia. The culprit again is a callous woke ideology that posits little value for individuals, prioritizing only the so-called collective agenda. Woke’s trademark is “equity,” or a forced equality of result. Practically, we are becoming a comic-book version of victims and victimizers, with woke opportunists playacting as our superheroes. Strangest in 2021 was the systematic attack on our ancient institutions, as we scapegoated our ancestors for our own incompetencies. The woke have waged a veritable war against the 233-year-old Electoral College and the right of states to set their own balloting laws in national elections, the 180-yearold filibuster, the 150-year-old nine-person Supreme Court, and the 60-year-old, 50-state union. The U.S. military, Department of Justice, FBI, CIA, Center for Disease Control, and National Institutes of Health until recently were revered. Their top echelons were staffed by career professionals mostly immune to the politics of the day. Not now. These bureaus and agencies are losing public confidence and support. Citizens fear rather than respect Washington grandees who have weaponized politics ahead of public service. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, Attorney General Merrick Garland, former FBI heads like James Comey and Andrew McCabe, retired CIA director John Brennan, and Anthony Fauci head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases - have all politicalized and vastly exceeded their professional purviews. They sounded off in public fora as if they were elected legislators up for reelection. Some lied under oath. Others demonized critics. Most sought to become media darlings. This governmental freefall is overseen by a tragically bewildered, petulant, and incompetent president. In his confusion, an increasingly unpopular President Joe Biden seems to believe his divisive chaos is working, belittling his political opponents as racist Confederate rebels. As we head into the 2022 midterm elections, who will stop our descent into collective poverty, division, and self-inflicted madness?
awe-inspiring photography. Michael will be available for interviews the day of the event. Through his words and inspirational photography, it will become obvious how powerful the disease of addiction is and why recovery is often said to be a miracle. After Michael speaks, there will be dessert in the church Fellowship Hall, with time for Q & A’s with Michael himself. JUMC’s STAHL Ministry sponsors speakers for the public as a way to celebrate recovery. Thru STAHL’s education series the hope is to eliminate the stigma associated with people who have Alcohol or Substance Use Disorders and, by association the stigma also felt by
families and friends of an alcoholic or addict. The Jonesville United Methodist Church, its Pastor Youngjae Jee and the congregation are committed to removing the stigma of addiction through the development of the STAHL Ministry. (Stigma Takes Away Life and Hope). JUMC’s Alcoholism & Addiction Family Recovery Resource Center provides information and hope to families and friends who love an individual struggling with Alcohol or a Substance Use Disorder. In addition, we recognize, respect and celebrate the courage of the recovery community estimated to be 2.5 million. The heart wrenching and inspiring recovery stories from addicts and their
Jonah Goldberg, Tribune Content Agency
I have long opposed making voting mandatory, an idea that pops up every few years. I still don’t like the idea. But it’s become more attractive, at least as a thought experiment. The arguments against compelling people to vote -- as Australia and a handful of other countries do -- run from the constitutional (it’s coerced speech) to the cultural (this is America, dagnabbit) to the practical and the partisan. Historically, the practical case is that it’s the wrong solution chasing a nonexistent problem. Proponents of mandatory voting think that low voter turnout is a sign of civic decay and democratic entropy. This view, no doubt accurate or at least plausible for some people, misses the fact that for many other Americans not voting is a sign of general satisfaction. We had record-breaking turnout in 2020. Raise your hand if think that was proof that America’s civic and democratic commitments are stronger than ever. More importantly, if voting is virtuous, its virtue -- like all virtue -- derives from it being voluntary. Compelled virtue is an oxymoron. Partisanship enters the equation because both parties subscribe to an enduring myth: that increased voter turnout automatically favors the Democrats. Thus, if everyone were forced to vote -- many opponents and proponents believe -- some imagined reserve army of leftwing voters would swamp the polls. This belief plays a significant role among those who want to make voting easier and those who want to make it harder. The problem: It’s not true. Yes, of course, turning out more of your own voters is how you win elections, but if everybody voted it’s unlikely that one party would always benefit more than the other. As Daron Shaw and John R. Petrocik demonstrate in their book “The Turnout Myth,” “there is no systematic or consistent partisan bias to turnout.” The recent Virginia governor’s race saw huge turnout, and the Republicans routed the Democrats. Partisan Democrats have all sorts of high-minded and sincere reasons for making casting ballots easier for Black voters in particular and disadvantaged communities in general. But on a practical level, the fact that they think these voters will disproportionately vote Democratic drives many of their policy preferences. Partisan Republicans discount the high-minded arguments and focus on the Democratic advantage they see in such efforts. Meanwhile, Democrats assume any concern with fraud or voter integrity is a ruse for disenfranchising voters. Republicans tend also to suffer from a weird cognitive dissonance. They fear that if everyone voted, the GOP would lose; they’ve also convinced themselves that Democrats only win by “importing” voters (i.e., immigrants) and through fraud. Each party believes -- without evidence -- that they have the people on their side and that if elections were run “right,” they’d be the majority party. For Democrats this means curtailing “big money” in elections and, lately, federalizing election rules to combat voter suppression. For Republicans, it means catering to Donald Trump’s conspiracy theories and psephological rantings. More broadly, both parties ignore the closeness of their victories and act as if they have mandates to behave like they have super-majorities supporting them. They then devote their energies to pandering both rhetorically and in terms of policy to the slender slice of the electorate that is their base. The incentive to appeal to the vast middle is shockingly weak even though politicians, such as Virginia governor Glenn Youngkin last year or Joe Biden in 2020, owe their victories to the persuadable middle. The incentives for pandering to the hyper-partisans are all too familiar: the pernicious effect of our primary system, self-sorting polarization, an ideologically skewed media ecosystem, and the ease of raising small donations from partisan super-fans. President Biden’s seriously tone-deaf speech on voting rights and Sen. Ted Cruz’s capitulation to Tucker Carlson’s January 6 fantasies are recent examples of this perverse dynamic. And that’s what appeals to me about mandatory voting. If everybody voted -- even just once -- it just might dispel the myth that either party speaks for some untapped silent majority. The incentive to drive up the base turnout would evaporate. Low voter turnout -- which benefits incumbents and their special interest allies -- would not skew election results. Candidates, elected officials and big donors alike would ignore electoral majorities at their peril. I still oppose this solution, but at least the case for mandatory voting is no longer a solution in pursuit of a problem. Even as a thought experiment, it helps illuminate the real problems we face.
families are the antidote to the unfair stigma associated with the disease of addiction. Phyllis Mullaney Chair STAHL Ministry, 757-6461879 cell - pam31ny@aol. com .
Albany-Tula Alliance Seeks Entries for 2022 Multimedia Contest CAPITAL DISTRICT The Albany-Tula Alliance is seeking Capital Region students from high school to first-year college to enter a multimedia contest on the importance of discerning fact from fiction. For the past quarter-century, the Albany-Tula Alliance has been a cooperative sister city
initiative between New York’s Capital Region and the Tula Region in Russia. Through the years there have been many cultural, educational, scientific and business exchanges between the two. Even though government relations remain strained the friends of the Alliance continue to work together as citizen diplomats. The annual Essay Contest is asking students to submit a creative response to the prompt: “How can you form an unbiased opinion of another culture without being able to travel there?” Students can submit their responses in dozens of different forms from a poem to podcast, from a sculpture to a collage, from an essay to a song or video.
The deadline for registration and essay submission is Friday, February 28, 2022. The participant of the winning essay will win $1,000, second prize is $750, and third prize is $500. For complete rules and detailed information on the Albany-Tula Alliance Essay Contest visit www. albanytula.org/contest.
Bingo! at THE CENTER COLONIE - Have fun and win cash. Wednesdays at 1 p.m.No registration required. (With Viola!). 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org
JANUARY 27, 2022 | PAGE 5
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
HOME SOLUTIONS Cash-out vs. change term mortgage refinancing Mortgage refinancing has long been a valuable option for homeowners looking to save money. Refinancing has become an especially enticing option since the onset of the pandemic, as mortgage interest ranks have sunk to historic lows. Despite that, a recent survey from Bankrate found that 74 percent of homeowners who have had the same mortgage since before the pandemic have not refinanced. Homeowners who haven’t yet refinanced but are considering doing so can consider two types of mortgage refinancing options. • Cash-out: According to the mortgage experts at MortgageCalculator.org, a cash-out mortgage extracts equity from a home. Homeowners in the United States have more than $6 trillion in untapped home equity, and that can be used to pay for various expenses, including home improvements, tuition and medical costs. The
financial experts at Nerd Wallet note that a cash-out refinance works by replacing an existing mortgage with a new home loan for more money than homeowners owe on their homes. The difference is then given to the homeowners in cash, which they can use for the aforementioned expenses or other costs, including paying down high-interest debts. Lower interest rates typically entice homeowners to refinance, but if homeowners are solely looking for lower rates, then a cash-out refinance is probably not the best option. • Change term: Also known as a rate-and-term refinance, a change term is a refinance characterized by shifting to a lower interest rate. Homeowners also may refinance utilizing a change term to shift from an adjustable rate mortgage to a fixed-rate loan. Change term refinancing also is popular for homeowners who want to switch from the standard 30-year fixed rate to a 15-year fixed rate. This can shorten the term of the loan, saving homeowners a lot of money in interest over
the 15-year period. However, homeowners should note that switching from a 30-year to a 15-year loan will lead to higher monthly payments. This switch might be most suitable to individuals earning significantly higher salaries than they were at the start of their initial mortgages and/or homeowners whose cost of living has recently decreased due to certain changes, such as children graduating from college. Homeowners also may consider change term mortgages to lower their monthly payments. In such instances, they simply swap out an existing 30-year mortgage for a new 30-year mortgage with a lower interest rate. That can save money up front, but homeowners should calculate the long-term interest costs of switching to a new 30-year mortgage. The lower monthly payments might be tempting, but homeowners may ultimately pay more in interest over the life of both loans by switching to a new 30-year mortgage.
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match the look of the original windows, including winThe decision to replace windows often comes down to aesthetics and necessity. Drafty windows can reduce dow material and the divided light pattern (the number SERVICES energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC systems to of panes in each window) with the original windows. Expires 2/1/22 work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The harder 6. Think about soundproofing, too. When upgrading the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will pay in windows, also think about how certain windows can canFree Estimates SERVICING SARATOGA COUNTY energy costs. cel out noises and make homes more soundproof. Some Old windows also may be points of entry for water and insects. Despite the importance of windows, Money mag- windows can help reduce outdoor distractions like leaf allthingstreeservice.com blowers or lawn mowers. azine advises that new windows make up only a fraction 7. Proper installation is of the home’s total exterior “envelope,” resulting in only key to longevity. Replaceabout 5 to 15 percent of total energy savings. ment windows are only But there are still plenty of reasons to invest in new Local First windows. as good as their installa1. Vinyl or aluminum may be best. Lumber is farmed tion in many cases. Poor OFFER rather quickly today and solid wood products may not installation and orders of stand up to elements as well as wood used a half-century standard rather than cusago. To avoid rot, vinyl windows often are an affordable tom sized windows could and durable choice. Homeowners also have the option result in poor fitting and of wood windows with aluminum cladding, which are seals. Homeowners should long-lasting. carefully vet and review 2. Moisture problems indicate windows need to be window replacement conreplaced. Condensation that shows up as fogging betractors to find the best tween double-pane windows or on the inside of windows indicates that the windows are starting to fail. If installprofessionals for the job. ing a vapor barrier in the basement or crawl space, ventilating properly when showering or cooking, or MONEY DOWN using a dehumidifier indoors does not remedy the INTEREST Serving the Capital Region for 25 Years * situation, it might be time PAYMENTS to replace windows. t 3. Windows add curb • Water Softeners appeal. Beyond function• Sulfur & Iron Stains ality, replacement windows immediately update • Reverse Osmosis the look of the home and can improve curb appeal • Chemical Free Systems WARM UP TO THE IDEA OF WINTER WINDOW REPLACEMENT since they are one of the • Well Pumps most prominent features Summer and fall have come and gone, and now you think you’re stuck on the exterior of a home. • Pressure Tanks with your drafty windows for yet another winter, right? Think again! If a house needs an update, replacing windows and • General Plumbing We’ve all heard it...the ominous cry of, “winter is coming.” can be a quick and affordAnd sure, you probably were planning on researching replacing your windows able update. 4. Consider other this year, but nice weather, vacation plans, other household projects, and, well, energy-efficient uplife got in the way. Spring turned to summer turned to fall, and here you are, grades. Sometimes older still stuck with your old windows. windows can be salvaged, especially if they are not So you’ll have to wait until next year, right? Because, as the Byrds once famously damaged and only modcrooned… “to everything there is a season, a time to every purpose”…and erately drafty. Replacing window replacement season is over, right? panes, sash cords, weather stripping, and even glazing Don’t suffer another cold, harsh winter with low quality windows. 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What’s the Big Deal with Sports Betting? CAPITAL DISTRICT - Mobile Sports Betting was legalized in New York State last year, and the regulators have been approved to launch as early as this weekend, Saturday January 8, 2022. Access and availability to gambling outlets continue to increase across New York State. For many, gambling is a form of entertainment and causes little to no harm. But there is another side to gambling that often is not discussed. Problem gambling and gambling disorder affect upwards of 8 million Americans every year (National Council on Problem Gambling). While most who choose to gamble are
able to do it responsibly, it is important to understand the risks associated. When there is an increase in access and availability to something, the risk of developing a problem also increases. The New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) simply defines problem gambling as anytime gambling causes problems in your life. Problem gambling can cause personal, family, relationship, and/or career issues. These can include arguments over money and time spent gambling with loved ones, missing deadlines and being distracted at work, or feeling depressed or anxious because of one’s gambling. With the launch of mobile sports betting, bettors will have access to wager
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There are endless amounts of bets that can be made in a 24-hour period, expanding from simply betting on the outcome of a game to also include ingame bets, point-spreads, the over/under, parlay bets, futures, and many more (The Game Day). Recent research has estimated that 6-9% of young people and young adults experience problems related to gambling -- a higher rate than among adults (National Center for Responsible Gaming). A concern with mobile sports betting and the technology utilized is that it engages a younger generation of bettors, including individuals who may have never gambled before or at traditional venues for
gambling. The potentially endless access to gambling in the palm of a young person’s hand could quickly escalate to be problematic for them and their loved ones. Unlike substance use disorder, the warning signs of problem gambling and gambling disorder do not always present themselves in a physical way. It is often referred to as the hidden addiction. Warning signs include: • Gambling to escape or avoid worries, frustrations, or disappointments • Neglecting other responsibilities to concentrate on gambling activities • Increasing amounts of money bet in an effort to win back losses • Gambling with money
needed for necessary expenses, such as groceries, bills, or medication • Borrowing or relying on others to get out of debt • Feeling desperate, depressed, or having suicidal ideations because of gambling There is help available for anyone impacted by problem gambling. Problem Gambling Resource Centers (PGRCs) are located in every county and borough across New York State. PGRCs are designed to provide information and access to support to anyone seeking help as a result of problematic gambling. This includes help for the individual betting, for their loved ones who are impacted, as well as community partners seeking to provide support.
For more information on your local PGRC, please visit https://nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/
Knitting at THE CENTER COLONIE - Knit one, purl one, chat! A friendly group, choose either time or both. Mondays 10 a.m. and Friday 1 p.m. 518459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@ colonieseniors.org
Open Studio Time at THE CENTER COLONIE - Come work in our beautiful Art Studio. Bring whatever project you’re working on and be creative in a supportive environment. Tuesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. 518459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@ colonieseniors.org
PAGE 6 | JANUARY 27, 2022
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FUNDRAISE CONTINUED FROM 1
who said he was 100 feet away from Allen when the tank exploded. A co-worker, Joe Gessner, saved Allen's life by using a fire extinguisher to quell the flames before leading him out a back door to safety, Costello said. Allen was alert and conscious when he was rescued, Costello said. The explosion occurred in a maintenance shed, sending a plume of black smoke over the area. The conflagration instantly coated everything within the blast radius in oil, which led to tendrils of flame creeping across the parking lot. Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained in the building. Several large boats outside the marina were spared, as was Yanni's Too, a popular restaurant adjacent to the marina that is closed for the season. The maintenance building was a total loss, including five boats, Costello said. Allen is a longtime worker at the marina, continuing to work at the site after his family sold the facility. "We'll try to hold the fort down until he gets back," Costello said. "And nobody can do it like he does." Charlie Hite recalled conducting surveying work for the Allen family when they owned the facility. He spent several days with Eric, who took his crews out into the water. "He's a super-nice guy," Hite said. "I was really hoping it wasn't him."
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donation center or directly to apartments. She will also get volunteers to fund raise," Popal said. Families are not all coming in together. "One family member may be in the area but the rest of the family may be in process," Popal said. "The ones who just came have nothing in place. We have been able to provide food and basic necessities." Someone follows up to see how the families are settling in. Mentors have signed up to help for one or two years. Language can be a barrier for incoming refugees. "Our volunteers speak Urdu and Farsi and can help them" navigate the process and fill out forms, Popal said. Amirah ElTahir of Albany is a refugee committee member. Originally from Sudan, she has three grown children. A representative from the As-Salaam Mosque in Albany, ElTahir said about 100 refugees have received social service packages. "Some are still being put up in hotels. Volunteers are cooking two meals a day for them. We deliver that to Al-Hidayah and a volunteer driver delivers the meals to the hotel where the refugees are staying." Another group doesn't have social services so volunteers deliver groceries to them, ElTahir said. The community provides money for items, including chicken or beef from halal meat shops. Other families have been given apartments. "We need volunteers to take them to the doctor for appointments. They got COVID-19 vaccines in Texas before being sent here." Most of the refugees are in Albany and Watervliet, ElTahir said. "The first wave of people arriving four or five years ago was from Afghan villages, many of whom did not know even their own language. The new arrivals are from cities and are mostly educated people. Many know English. They are ready to work but they don't have legal status yet. Cleaning hotels, whatever jobs they get, they are ready to take," said ElTahir. There are a lot of children. Many are not yet enrolled in school because they don't have immunization papers. "We are thinking of having teachers teach the children at their homes. But they have to get into an apartment first." Some children are enrolled in Islamic studies in As-Salam, said ElTahir. "There are so many of them. I worry people will get tired of helping them," said ElTahir.
Walking Club at THE CENTER COLONIE - Join us for fresh air, friendship and great exercise. Meet in the Lakeview Dining Room. Tuesdays at 10 a.m. 518-459-2857 x 327, cbarrett@colonieseniors.org
Friends of the Clifton ParkHalfmoon Library Scholarships CLIFTON PARK - The Friends of the Clifton Park-Halfmoon 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, the Shenendehowa High School East Counseling 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.
New York State Commission for the Blind CAPITAL DISTRICT - The New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) provides free vocational rehabilitation and other services to legally blind New York State residents, including children, adults, and older adults. NYSCB assists participants in achieving economic self-sufficiency and full integration into society. Call toll-free (866) 871-3000 or visit our website: visionloss.ny.gov
CIRCULO CONTINUED FROM 1
common goal of making better health (and not just more care) a priority for the people we serve," he said in a statement. "We are adaptable to the people and are making sure that the most vulnerable populations have the same health care options as those in the most affluent populations." Anyone can become a patient at the facility, not just those who have Medicaid.
HOROSCOPE Week Of January 30, 2022 ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 It is time to slow down a little, Aries. Even you cannot keep up a hectic pace for very long. Invest time in relaxing pursuits like yoga or reading to unwind your brain. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you may feel it necessary to prove your point at all costs. Stubbornness will get you nowhere right now. Listen to what others have to say. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 There are two sides to every story, Gemini. It is best not to attach yourself to one version of the tale just yet. Hear everyone out and then come to an informed conclusion. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 There is no time like the present to turn over a new leaf, Cancer. Think about the areas of your life that can use some improvement and focus on the steps to get there this week. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Someone from the past comes back into your life and you will not know how to react, Leo. First assess what this person wants and how you left off years ago. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, it might be time to accept the help or advice that someone is offering to you. You don’t always have to forge new paths to prove your worth. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, if you are thinking about making a major lifestyle change in the near future, start fleshing out the plans this week. Gather feedback from the ones you love. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, past mistakes provide opportunities to
learn. Continue to forge a new path. Recognize that others have made mistakes and can provide support. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 A big idea is blooming, but you need to get a handle on how you can finance this endeavor, Sagittarius. It may be worth seeking investors. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 It is time to mend fences that were broken a few years ago, Capricorn. Holding on to past issues will not prove fruitful. Sit down and work through your issues. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 You certainly catch more flies with honey than vinegar, Aquarius. Focus on being warm and welcoming in conversation and your points will be well-received. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Something regarding your health may be on your mind, Pisces. Schedule an annual physical and discuss your concerns. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 31 Justin Timberlake, Singer (41) FEBRUARY 1 Harry Styles, Singer (28) FEBRUARY 2 Duane Chapman, Reality Star 69) FEBRUARY 3 Isla, Fisher, Actress (46) FEBRUARY 4 Hunter Biden, Lawyer (52) FEBRUARY 5 Darren Criss, Actor (35) FEBRUARY 6 Rick Astley, Singer (56)
HOUSE OF THE WEEK 25 Miller Avenue, Brunswick
Clockwise from Top: A view of the living room; one of four bedrooms; the bathroom.
PHOTOS BY ROB KRISTEL
The home at 25 Miller Ave., Brunswick, has 1,624 square feet of living space.
T
he first owners of this week’s house chose it from a Sears catalogue. The home is one of the company’s famous mail-order houses and it was called the Crescent, promoted as a design for “folks who like a touch of individuality.” The Crescent was available in a couple floor plans, but the defining flair is a “neat” front porch supported by two sets of twin columns. Assembled in 1931, the house has 1,624 square feet of living space, four bedrooms (two on the first floor, two on the second floor) and LEIGH one bathroom. There’s an HORNBECK in-ground pool, a finished HOUSE OF room in the basement, a THE WEEK one-car garage and a fenced yard. Averill Park schools. Taxes: $4,097. List price: $259,999. Contact listing agent Tamara DeMartino with Venture Realty Partners at 518-649-5910.
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
The ktchen; in-ground pool; and office space.
JANUARY 27, 2022 | PAGE 7
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
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New Scotland Historical Assoc. Program “Colonial to Craft Brew” Program VOOHEESVILLE New Scotland Historical Association’s February Program: “Colonial to Craft Brew: The Local Story of Beer” on Sunday, February 2, 2022, at 2:00 pm Michael Diana of the Schenectady Historical Society will relate the fascinating and colorful story of brewing in the Capital District, tracing its history from its colonial beginnings to the recent resurgence of craft brewing. Sponsored by the New Scotland Historical Association, this program will be presented at the Wyman Osterhout Community Center, 7 The Old Road., Voorheesville (New Salem) 12186. The program is free and open to the public as is NSHA’s museum which will be open a half hour before the program. Please see the Calendar on the NSHA website for details. www.newscotlandhistoricalassociation.org. Please be aware that the Town of New Scotland requires attendees to wear masks.
Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Breakfast SCHUYLERVILLE The February Breakfast will be on February 13th from 8:00-11:00 at 123 NY-32, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Adults $10 and Children $5.
St. Matthew & St. Paul’s L utheran 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!
6 hr. Live Defensive Driving Saturday February 12th 9am3pm. Best WesternHotel/Clifton Park. $35 Call: (518) 784-5009
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.
FREE Valentines Community Concert
CLEANOUTS-JUNK REMOVAL Cellars - Attics - Yards Basements - Garages Real Estate Cleanouts - etc. No charge for TV’s w/ paid job. Always recycle. No job too small or large! Please call Dennis (518) 466-3116 C.L. HOME IMPROVEMENTS Taking care of all your window and remodeling needs. Neat & dependable. Fully ins. Free est. Rich (518) 528-7173 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 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 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
COLONIE - Join Colonie Senior Service Centers on Friday February 11, from 4 PM to 6PM, in The Beltrone Living Center’s Lakeview Room for a FREE Valentines concert. Local band “Hands of Time” will entertain attendees to music symbolic of love and Valentine’s Day. Bring your dancing shoes and sweet tooth as there will be free refresh-
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 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! GLASS/SCREEN REPAIR Broken glass, torn screens repaired. Home repairs. Makes house calls. (518) 203-8595 HOUSECLEANING SERVICES Apts, Homes, Comm. Reliable, honest, Ins. Call Rose Cleaning Services (518) 496-4241 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. MOBILE HAIR SERVICES House calls. NYS Licensed. 25+yrs. exp. For people in NEED. Calls only 518-698-5575 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
ments. Fabulous prizes will be awarded to those in attendance who are the most appropriately dressed for the holiday. So pull out your reds, pinks, and anything with a heart on it. All in attendance MUST provide proof of vaccination to enter. Masks will also be REQUIRED throughout the event. If you have any questions or concerns, you can call Louis at (518)459-2857 ext. 340.
EMPLOYMENT URBAN WIND AND WEATHER MODELING DATA SCIENTIST TruWeather Solutions, Inc. seeks Urban Wind and Weather Modeling Data Scientist in Albany, NY to develop scientfc cpbilities for new weather forecstng prdcts for Unmanned Aircraft System ops. Requirements: PhD (or for. equiv) in Atmospheric Sci, Environ Sci, Meteorology, or rel field; and MS (or for. equiv) in Fluid Dynamics, Mech Eng, or a rel field; plus 2 yrs exp performing: running simulations using WRF model for UASops; run CFD models for winds modeling; & use statistical scores for model evaluation. Req 16% domestic & intl travel. 50% remote work option; must reside w/in normal commuting distance. Send Resume To kayla.fenimore@truweathersolutions.com.
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PAGE 8 | JANUARY 27, 2022
Eating for Heart Health 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.
Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting CLIFTON PARK Please join Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting as Rev Immanuel van Tonder, pastor of the Christ
Community Reformed Church, presents a virtual program on Mindfulness on Wednesday, February 1st at 1:30 via Zoom. Mindfulness makes us aware of unique capabilities we already have. These empowering counter-intuitive coping skills open a treasure chest of resources enabling us to live with and even thrive in times of pain, aging, unease, frustrations, and the pandemic. Mindful presence connects us with an undercurrent of life leading to deep fulfillment. To register and receive a link to the Zoom program, go to the website of Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting (snc.clubexpress.com). If requested enter your name and email. Registration will be limited. Please do not share the Zoom link when you receive it. Shenendehowa Neighbors Connecting is a Village serving residents of the Shenendehowa School District.Villages are membership based organizations that help older adults age in their own homes by connecting them to neighbors, educational/social programs and community services. more about tutoring and other ways to help, join us for a Volunteer Opportunities Information Session from 12:00-1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 1st via Zoom. Contact mhellerlvorc@aol.com or call 518 244-4650 to reserve a space. https://www.lvorc. org
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.
St. Michael’s Church Penny Social COHOES - St. Michael’s Church, Page Ave. in Cohoes will be hosting their Annual Penny Social on Sunday, March 6th. Doors open at 11:30am
with games starting at 2:00pm. Admission is free. Under NYS law you must be 18 to play. There will be food, desserts and beverages available. The church hall is handicapped accessible. Come and have a fun afternoon. For further information, please call Maria at 518 782-1203 or Michelle at 5 18 235-3292.
LIBRARY EVENTS 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. Monday, January 31 at 7pm: Wine Down Monday - 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!
Upcoming Events at the Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library CLIFTON PARK - National Puzzle Day - Saturday, January 29 - Stop by the Children’s Library to enjoy some puzzles or pick up puzzle crafts to go. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org HYBRID: Libby’s Here! The New Face of OverDrive - Saturday, January 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 ZOOM: Family Story Time Live! Monday, January 31 & Thursday, February 3 at 10 am Join us as we go live from the Children’s Library! We’ll share new stories, songs, and rhymes with your child. This program uses the ZOOM live-streaming platform. Registration required. 518371-8622. www.cphlibrary. org The Year of the Tiger: Celebrate Chinese New Year! Wednesday, February 2 Come to the Children’s Library to grab a bag of supplies to make crafts at home in celebration of Chinese New Year and The Year of the Tiger. While supplies last. 518-3718622. www.cphlibrary.org HYBRID: Journaling for Adults Wednesday, February 2 at 6:30 pm Whether it’s in a notebook, blog, or sketchpad, journaling can help you lead a whole and fulfilling life, as well as be a way to keep track of goals, your life activities, and dreams. Attend in person at the Library, or from home on WebEx. Registration is
required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org Documentary Film Series: Love, Gilda (2018) Thursday, February 3 at 6:30 pm Never-before-seen footage and journal entries form the narrative spine of the documentary, allowing Gilda Radner to tell her own story; through the laughter and sometimes the tears. Masks will be required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org First Friday Lecture: Shaker Architecture & Design Friday, February 4 at 10:30 am Join us in for a virtual presentation by Hancock Shaker Village, a landmark destination of 750 acres, 20 historic Shaker buildings, and over 22,000 Shaker artifacts. Attend in-person at the Library or from home on ZOOM. Registration is required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org Wizard of Oz Scavenger Hunt Throughout the month of February Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the Ask Desk or upstairs in the Children’s Library, then search for Wizard of Oz costumes throughout the Library. All ages are welcome to participate! 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org
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CAPITAL DISTRICT - The IRS is experiencing massive backlogs because of the Covid-19 pandemic. It may take 9-12 months for your return to be processed and to receive your refund if you physically mail your return to the IRS. However, you can generally expect to receive your refund in three to four weeks if you electronically file the return. You can electronically file your 2021 return starting Monday, January 24, 2022. The IRS’s “Free File” Program may be able to help. Free File partners will e-file your return for free. This year, you can e-file with Free File if your adjusted gross income is $73,000 or less. Links to these free tax preparation and e-filing services are available at www.irs.gov/ freefile Free tax assistance is also available in many communities. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program provide free tax preparation and e-filing services. Locations can be found at www.irs.gov/vita or from your local United Way. The AARP Tax Aide Program also provides free tax preparation. VITA, TCE, and Tax Aide each have different eligibility requirements. If you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), you also qualify for free tax help by IRStrained volunteers. You may qualify for the EITC even if you’re single and have no children. EITC eligibility can be complicated. Check if you qualify at www.irs.gov/eitcassistant In addition to e-filing,
you will usually receive your refund faster if you ask for the payment to be directly deposited into your bank account. If you have questions about e-filing, refunds or other income tax issues, the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York’s Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) may be able to help. The Clinic’s services are free of charge. You can call the LASNNY Legal Line at (833) 628-0087 and ask for our LITC. The Clinic does not generally provide tax preparation services.
RS
Free Tax Help is Available and Can Help You Get Your Refund Faster
LOCAL FIRST | TWIN BRIDGES
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LEARN MORE & APPLY TODAY! 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.