OUR TOWNE COMPREHENSIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF SUCCESS IN CASTLETON! ANOTHER LOCAL BUSINESS THRIVES IN OUR TOWNE!
Your Hometown community resource
Winter Issue 2014
OUR TOWNE SOUTHERN RENSSELAER & NORTHERN COLUMBIA COUNTIES
“WINTER ISSUE” 2014 Dear Our Towne Readers, Happy New Year! Ok, now that the holidays are over, can we fast-forward to Spring? Pleeasse? I am not a big fan of Winter... Anyone who knows me, knows that I would rather be in the South during the Winter. And yes, I have at least 20 more years before I can retire! This “Winter Issue” covers mid-January & February events around town. It is my only combination issue of the year and is introducing you to many new Our Towne writers & advertisers. I want to welcome Steve Farina, who is writing “What it’s Worth?” Steve has provided me with a wealth of knowledge regarding some of my own treasures. He has impressed me with his knowledge and experience. I am positive you will find value in his Expert Column, as well. He will available to answer your questions about antiques, collectibles & vintage treasures. I think we all have something in our possession that we wonder, “How much is it REALLY worth?” I also want to welcome a new community to Our Towne. Sound strange? Well, I am referring to Grace Fellowship Church; who will be opening their doors in mid-February. It has been a long process, building the Greenbush campus on Troy Road. Lead Pastor, Greg Ballard, is thrilled to be leading this community & can’t wait to meet the special people in the Our Towne communities. I hope you have a wonderful Winter, and please e-mail me your community events. My goal is promote small business & connect the community! Please contact me if you would like to become a part of the Our Towne FamilyStay Well. Stay Warm. Thank you for reading Our Towne Magazine! Jennifer Felts
Contributors DR. PATRICK BERGMANN DARYL BART MILLER YOUNG D.RPH PATRICK CIRAULO DR. JOE LAPINSKI
STEVE FARINA PAUL SLEASMAN KENNETH P. LANE NICOLE HENDERSON
Owner/Publisher/ Editor/ Sales/Design
Jennifer Felts 518-380-1279 www.ourtownerensco.com felts66@yahoo.com OUR TOWNE’S MISSION: OUR TOWNE
SEEKS TO CONNECT LOCAL BUSINESSES
TO LOCAL CONSUMERS BY HIGHLIGHTING THE BEST OF WHAT
SOUTHERN RENSSELAER
COLUMBIA COUNTIES
AND
NORTHERN
HAVE TO OFFER.
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COPIES MAILED TO HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN: SCHODACK, CASTLETON, NASSAU, VALATIE, KINDERHOOK, WEST SAND LAKE, AVERILL PARK, EAST GREENBUSH, RENSSELAER & NORTH GREENBUSH.
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ΎΎTHE OUR TOWNE SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON... COMPREHENSIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY SOLUTIONS, P.L.L.C.
What some of Deb’s patients are saying about their experience at Comprehensive Physical Therapy: “Personal, professional & compassionate: I am thrilled to have found Deb Ciprioni’s practice. My needs are personally addressed and I feel motivated to continue with my self-care. Thank you!” ~Beth J, Patient “If it wasn’t for Deb Ciprioni and her team, I wouldn’t be able to move my arm. They are always pleasant and professional. I give them 5 stars!” ~David B, Patient “After trying a number of different Physical Therapists in the Capital District, I am so glad to have found Comprehensive Physical Therapy in Schodack- thanks to an article I saw in Our Towne Magazine. Deb Ciprioni is a very hands on PT and continues to adjust her approach in each session. She is not only creative and adaptive in the treatments, but is also great at explaining what and why she is doing the work. I highly recommend Debbie to anyone needing physical therapy. You won’t be disappointed. “ ~Betsy S, NYS Massage Therapist & Patient
81 Miller Road, Suite 400 Castleton, NY 12033 Phone: 518-915-1452 Fax: 518-729-3181
Deb Ciprioni, owner of Comprehensive Physical Therapy Solutions, P.L.L.C., is very proud to be celebrating her one year anniversary! Congratulations to you from Our Towne! If you don’t already know about Comprehensive Physical Therapy Solutions, read on... and remember this name, just in case you are ever in need of a Physical Therapist! Comprehensive Physical Therapy Solutions, P.L.L.C., is a privately owned and operated Physical Therapy practice in Castleton. Deborah A. Ciprioni, P.T. is the sole proprietor and Physical Therapist who grew up in East Greenbush. She ϐ her family for her success. Deb says that Comprehensive Physical Therapy Solutions is a “family business.” Her supportive husband, Jay, does the bookkeeping and supports her with every aspect of running the business. Her 14 year old son, Jeremy, will pitch in and help with the cleaning and laundry duties that come with owning your own Physical Therapy practice. She beams with pride over the success ϐ ǡ Ǩ Deb has been practicing Physical Therapy for 25 years in the Capital District. She opened her own practice because she wanted to be able to spend more time Ǥ ϐ ǡ ǡ ϐ Ǩ Dz ǡ it because I can give my patients what they deserve. Personal attention and time.” The best part about owning her own business is that she “can spend as much time with each patient as needed.” And she does! If someone needs 15 minutes or an hour, that is what she will give them. And she is excited to do so. When she ϐ ʹͶ ǡ ǯ had patients scheduled every 15 minutes. Over the years, the push was to see more patients, in less time. This was not her professional philosophy, so she decided to open her own practice. With her lower overhead, she is now able to give her patients the time and attention that is necessary to help them achieve their individual goals. She is now able to work for herself in the community that she calls home. “I embrace the opportunity to connect personally with each of my patients. I want to help them achieve their goals whether it be returning to golf or gardening Ǥ ϐ motivates them, and utilize that as part of the therapy process. It is all about meeting the patient’s goals and I truly believe that the only way a Physical Therapist can do that is to get to know each patient as an individual.” She believes that everyone has different needs and expectations and deserves individual customized care. That is what the patient receives when they come to Comprehensive Physical Therapy Solutions, P.L.L.C. Deb has acquired extensive continuing education in orthopedic rehabilitation, kinesiotaping and manual therapy. She provides customized Physical Therapy, including treatment for back pain, neck pain, post surgical rehabilitation, general orthopedic rehabilitation, Sports Therapy, balance disorders, stroke rehabilitation and fall prevention. In addition to the “traditional modalities” such as electrical stimulation and US, Comprehensive Physical Therapy offers Infrared Light Therapy, Thermostim Therapy and advanced Traction/Decompression Therapy. Deb also continue’s to update her Advanced Manual Therapy skills through continuing education to stay current on the latest techniques and research. Once you have completed your formal Physical Therapy goals with Deb, patients have the option of transitioning to Top Form, Inc., who provide sports medicine and personal strength and conditioning services. Top Form, Inc is ǯ ϐ Ǥ In 2014, Our Towne Magazine is excited to welcome Deb & Tricia Gerkman from Top Form,
Ǥǡ Ƭ ϐ Ǥ will be providing our readers with some great advice and education on preventing personal injury Ƭ ϐ Ǥ
comprehensive-physical.com Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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OUR TOWNE WELCOMES GRACE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH BY JENNIFER
FELTS
Under founding and Senior Pastor Dr. Rex Keener, Grace Fellowship marked its 20-year anniversary this past March. Currently, the local, non-denominational, Christian church has locations in Latham and Halfmoon, with an average combined weekly attendance of nearly 3,000 people. In early 2014, Grace Fellowship’s Greenbush and Saratoga campuses will be added to the roster and officially open their doors to the community. Our Towne welcomes Grace Fellowship Church to East Greenbush, located at 73 Troy Road (Route 4), in East Greenbush. Grace Fellowship is a multisite church, meaning, one church that meets in multiple locations. During a typical weekend service, you’ll experience live worship music, prayer and ceremonies like communion that are specific to your campus, while the weekly sermon is captured via HD video, delivered to your campus, and integrated into your weekend service. In addition, the character of many core ministries like small groups, Kids’ Celebration, and global missions are the same at each campus. While they meet in many places, each of the locations is unified in our mission, vision, and values. Each campus contributes their unique personality to the overall identity of our church. That’s how congregations at multiple sites all come together to make Grace Fellowship. With messages broadcast via Hi-Def large movie screens and a small café, Grace Fellowship is a modern and truly different church experience. Even with that said, Grace Fellowship is an experience that “provides a balance between grace and truth.” Greg Ballard, Lead Pastor at the Greenbush Campus, shared with me that they want members to leave the worship experience feeling educated, inspired and hopeful. Grace Fellowship is about the whole experience, and the whole person. Greg Ballard says, “We want you to be comfortable here—knowing you will be welcomed and accepted.” Grace Fellowship is extremely community focused and is excited to build their Greenbush Campus community. Volunteering in the community, serving any group or person in need and building family relationships is of utmost importance. They build community by working in small groups where needed, giving back to the larger community. Greg points out, “We don’t just want to serve the community, we want to create opportunities for the community to serve as well.” The meeting space is extremely impressive and massive. As Greg gave me a tour of the church and the various rooms; I was speechless (this rarely happens). If someone considers attending a weekend experience, here Greg Ballard shares that they will experience...
•A welcoming and cozy atmosphere with a fresh approach to faith. •A fun and interactive children's program for any child birth through middle school. •Live music and teaching via state of the art high-def technology •Friendly people to assist guests in navigating our space and answering questions. •A Christian community in which to develop spiritual disciplines and grow your faith. •Opportunities to work with neighbors—to enrich and serve our community.
Look for Greg Ballard’s column this year in Our Towne. It is sure to be informative & inspirational! Welcome!
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HRS CONSTRUCTION “GETTING THE JOB DONE RIGHT”
WE PRIDE OURSELVES IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Happy New Year to all of you from all of us at HRS Construction! With 2014 now here, you probably have upcoming home projects in mind for the New Year. Many times when customers call, the first thing they ask is, “When can you start my project?” This question is usually asked before we even have a chance to meet with the perspective customer to look at the project. We usually reply, “that will depend on many factors”. We then explain the circumstances that can and usually do affect a start date. To name a few: the scheduling of the first meeting, reviewing the scope of work, availability of specified materials, scheduling architects, and so on. First meeting: The first meeting would need to be scheduled to review the project. Depending on the customer’s availability and the type of work being looked at, that could be anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. For example, if we are estimating a few replacement windows, which should only take about a half an hour to look at, the initial appointment would most likely be scheduled within a few days. On the other hand, looking at a major renovation may take up to a few hours. This block of time may require more notice. Here at HRS Construction, we try to schedule our sales appointments as soon as possible. Scope: The clarity of your expectations, specifications, and plans will also affect the start of your project. If we are looking at a major renovation for your home, let’s say a kitchen, addition, bathroom remodel, etc., starting from scratch may take a bit longer than if you had drawings and/or a complete scope of work. HRS will be more than happy to work with you whether your project is still an idea in your head or whether you have had plans drawn up. Materials: In today’s remodeling market there are hundreds, if not thousands of choices in materials. The choices in materials you make for your home improvement project will affect your start time. Manufactures and suppliers stock a small portion of these products. In addition, an “in stock” item is not always necessarily in stock. Suppliers have been decreasing their on hand quantities of stock materials. A few examples of how materials may affect your start date are: builder’s grade cabinets may be available in two weeks, whereas custom cabinets may take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive. Custom made replacement windows which will normally take 2 to 3 weeks to arrive, may take 3 to 4 weeks to come in during the peak seasons. A basic pressure treated deck is constructed of materials that are readily available, whereas some manufactured decking and railing materials may take weeks to arrive. In addition to the above items, the weather, our prior booked work, and building code approvals, are some additional items that may affect your start date. Don’t wait until May to call us if you are looking to enjoy your new deck on Memorial Day. If you want your new custom kitchen completed by the 2014 holidays, plan for it by late summer. It is never too early to get a quote on your project. When you are thinking of doing a home improvement, whether it is a few windows, a new entry door or a major renovation, the time to call HRS Construction, Inc. is now. Let’s start planning your home project today!
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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518-265-6097
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Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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Melvin Roads American Legion Post 1231 200 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush 518-462-7006
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Proceeds support this Veterans Organization
Parent’s Night Out
January 24th plus Special January Session ơȼΎ2014 ƜȳɄȳȺȽȾΎƱȽɃɀΎ Child’s: ƫɂɀȳȼȵɂȶ FOCUS ƛȽȼ˛Ȳȳȼȱȳ ƚȯȺȯȼȱȳ Flexibility ƫȳȺȴ˹ƛȽȼɂɀȽȺ ƜȳɂȳɀȻȷȼȯɂȷȽȼ
E-mail or call for details!
Register for Session #3 February 3-April 12 Sign Up Today! February Break Special Events
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Stay Active this Winter with KJ’s
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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By Nassau Veterinary Clinic, PLLC
TREATING PAIN AND PROMOTING HEALING – THE LASER WAY! Nassau Veterinary Clinic is excited to offer Companion Laser Therapy for our clients. Laser therapy is a non-invasive, pain-free, surgeryfree, drug-free treatment that can be used in a variety of situations as well as complimenting traditional treatment protocols. It is used to help your pet recover from injury, wounds, surgery or to manage age-related aches and pains. What is it? While it may sound like science-fiction, laser therapy is based in science. It uses non-thermal light photons to promote healing. The injured cells absorb the light and are stimulated, increasing circulation, reducing inflammation and pain, and accelerating the healing process. How long does it take to work? For acute conditions, it’s not unusual for you to see signs of improvement within hours of the first treatment and some pets may experience almost immediate pain relief. With more chronic conditions like arthritis, it may take several weeks of treatments to see improvements. Laser therapy’s full benefit is achieved through a series of treatments. Plus through the cumulative results, prescription medications may also be reduced. What happens during the treatment? One of our laser-therapy certified veterinarians or technicians will use a small handheld device to guide the photon light as it gently passes over the target area for several minutes. That’s it. For most patients, the treatment may take from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on what is being treated and the size of the pet. It’s painless and does not require anesthesia or sedation. Depending on the location of the treatment area, your pet may sit, stand or lie down. How many treatments will my pet need? The treatment plan depends on your pet’s particular condition. Lasting, meaningful results are usually achieved through a series of treatments. One of our veterinarians can determine the best treatment plan, tailored specifically for your pet’s needs. Is it safe? In a word, yes. The laser is used at a safe dose for your pet. Our specially certified veterinarians and technicians follow safety precautions to protect the eyes of the patient as well as ourselves. Your pet may be wearing cool-looking protective goggles! What are some conditions that benefit from laser therapy? •Treating arthritis, degenerative joint disease or hip dysplasia •General pain management for sprains, strains and stiffness •Post-surgery for pain-relief and to promote healing •Skin problems, such as hot spots, lick granulomas, infections •Dental procedures •Fractures, wounds, bites, abrasions, burns and lesions •Ear infections How do I know if my pet will benefit from laser therapy? Come in and talk to us. Any of our veterinarians can tell you if laser therapy is the right treatment and discuss with you the benefits for your pet. By Dr. Beth Ann Shane
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Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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The Y. - So Much More.
Everyone knows us as four letters: Y-M-C-A. Yet, from A to Z, the Y brings communities so much more. -There is exercise, but there is also education through our academic enrichment programs. -There’s Cardio, but there is also community volunteerism to improve our neighborhoods. -We give swim lessons, but we also give scholarships and financial assistance to those who need it most. Through our annual campaign, the Capital District YMCA is able to serve a growing and diverse population. Your support helps address critical health and social issues impacting our community.
Youth Development Summer learning loss Water Safety Achievers program
Healthy living
Social Responsibility
Healthy Living Center Diabetes Prevention Peddle For Parkinson’s
Circle of Champs Program Child Abuse Training Youth in Government LiveStrong at the YMCA
Where does your annual campaign donation go to?
Over 14,073 Scholarships were given out last year for child care, camp, youth and teen programing and family well being. If you are interested in helping to support the community please go to:
www.cdymca.org to make your donation today
Patrick Ciraulo Capital District YMCA District Executive Director Greenbush Area Branch 518-477-2570 e-mail pciraulo@cdymca.org http://www.cdymca.org
Kid’s Book Review
wanted:
By Diana Felts Castleton Elementary School 5th Grade
CHILDREN AGES 8 & UP TO WRITE A BOOK REVIEW FOR OUR TOWNE MAGAZINE. EACH MONTH I WILL PUBLISH A BOOK REVIEW AS A WAY TO ENCOURAGE OUR SMALLEST READERS & WRITERS! BOOK REVEIWS WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE ORDER RECEIVED.
I read the book Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan. This is the third book in the series. This book is about a half-blood (half human and half God) named Percy Jackson. Percy is the son of Poseidon, God of the Sea. His best friend, Annabeth, is the daughter of Athena, Goddess of Wisdom and Battle Strategy. Annabeth is being told to hold the Sky. Percy is told a prophecy, by the Oracle, that is only meant for a demi-God of the “big three” Gods which are Zeus, Poseidon and Hades. I would recommend this book because it is an action packed adventure. This book would be great for grades 5-9. You should read Percy Jackson & The Lightening Thief and Percy Jackson Sea of Monsters first so you can understand the story. This book was awesome and I could not wait to see what was going to happen next. I recommend this book because it is very exciting.
1. YOUR NAME, AGE, & TOWN OR SCHOOL. 2. NAME OF THE BOOK & AUTHOR 3. SUMMARY OF BOOK & WHY YOU WOULD RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ANOTHER YOUNG READER. 250 WORDS OR LESS PLEASE.
ONE BOOK REVIEW PER WRITER. PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR PHONE NUMBER (OR E-MAIL) AND ADDRESS, SO I CAN MAIL YOU THE GIFT CERTIFICATE EVERY PUBLISHED CRITIC WILL RECEIVE A $10.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO GOOD BUY BOOKS IN EAST GREENBUSH.
SEND BOOK REVIEWS TO:
OUR TOWNE MAGAZINE JENNIFER FELTS 3 LYNCH AVE, CASTLETON, NY 12033
A GOOD ACCOUNTANT CAN HELP YOU HAVE A PROFITABLE 2014! By Tom Kubiak, EA If you are a small business owner, likely you are accustomed to wearing many hats of responsibility. In addition to providing services for your customers, you also have to handle all the other tasks necessary to help your business continue to run as smoothly as possible. More often than not small business owners lose track of how their business is doing financially until the tax time when they are rushing to get everything together to file their tax return. I have often told small business owners that they do not make money balancing their check book; meaning that the time they spend trying to keep their accounts up to date is time that they are not being paid for. Additionally they often struggle to get accurate information from their records throughout the year so they can determine how much money they are really making. In addition, I feel that working with a good accountant will help a business owner make better decisions throughout the year. As a result, the owner can focus his or her attention on their business and it's profitability. For example, we suggest using Quickbooks Online accounting software, a simple to use package that is very affordable. It can be configured to automatically pull in transactions from your bank account and therefore produce accurate reports that are up-to-date. As a Quickbooks Advanced ProAdvisor, I can help you configure the software to be most useful for you, and if you want we can even keep it up to date and reconciled. Many business owners are scared to hire an accountant because they are concerned about the cost. Our clients will tell you that our services are priced in such a way that even very small businesses can utilize our services. We have often seen new clients pay less for monthly accounting and payroll services than they were paying for payroll services alone through Paychex or ADP. Additionally, our policy is such that if you are our client we do not charge for consultations or advice – we are happy to help in any way we can. Feel free to call us and schedule a time for a free consultation about how we can help your business to be more profitable in 2014.
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Where YOU can donate blood in the Our Towne Communities! •Monday, 1/13 (1-6pm) - American Legion Post 1489, Banquet Hall, Main Avenue, Wynantskill* •Wednesday, 1/15 (1-7pm) - St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6 Sylvester Street, Kinderhook* •Thursday, 1/16 (1-6pm) - Parish Hall at St. Mary’s Church, 26 Church Street, Nassau* •Friday, 1/24 (10am-3pm) - Columbia Room of Evergreen Commons, 1070 Luther Road, East Greenbush* •Monday, 2/3 (1:30-6:30pm) - Rensselaer Elks, 683 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush •Friday, 2/14 (9am-2pm) - SUNY East Campus School of Public Health, sponsored by Questar III, 1 University Place, Rensselaer •Monday, 2/24 (1-6pm) - Kinderhook Elks Lodge 2530, Route 9H, Kinderhook, WALK-INS WELCOME! •Wednesday, 2/26 (8:30am-1:30pm) - Maple Hill High School, 1216 Maple Hill Road, Castleton, WALK-INS WELCOME! •Thursday, 2/27 (1-6pm) - East Schodack Fire Company, 3071 Route 150, East Schodack, WALK-INS WELCOME! •Friday, 2/28 (1-6pm) - Averill Park Church of the Covenant, 3055 Route 43, Averill Park, WALK-INS WELCOME!
January is Blood Donor Awareness month, and it's there to call attention to one of the most vital, life-saving things you can do with your time--donate blood. And while the prick of a needle may be unpleasant, the minor discomfort is a small price to pay for saving one, two, or even three people's lives in one sitting. The importance of giving blood cannot be understated. The American Red Cross notes that there is no substitution for real blood. As advanced as medicine is today with the production of synthetic limbs and organs, our scientists cannot produce artificial blood. That means the only way to supply cancer, trauma, surgical, and sick patients with the blood they need to survive is by relying on donations from people like you and me. While most are familiar with whole blood donation, some may not know that you can donate red cells, platelets, or plasma alone. Each of these blood components has its own benefits in the donation process. Red cell donors may be able to do a double donation in one sitting as long as they meet certain criteria. Platelet donation can help as many as three people. Plasma is the only blood component where people with AB type blood can be universal donors. Donations for all of these are done with the help of a machine that filters the blood of the specific donation type then returns the remaining blood components to you. Each of these types has their own unique eligibility requirements and is not handled at all blood drives, so check with the Red Cross website before attempting a donation. Whole blood donation is a bit more straightforward. No machines are required. The Red Cross's eligibility requirements for donors are that you be 17 years or older (16 years old with parental consent form), 110 pounds or greater, and healthy. All donors need to go through a short, initial screening process as well. Giving blood is literally one of the easiest ways you can pay it forward. It costs you nothing, is completely safe, and is guaranteed to change and even save lives. You never know, one day you may be the recipient of someone else's goodwill, if you haven't been already. There are several blood drives going on in our area in the upcoming months, most of which require an appointment unless otherwise specified. If you have any questions, wish to schedule a donation, or want to coordinate your own blood drive, you can contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-REDCROSS or visit their website at http://www.redcrossblood.org.
*All presenting donors get a voucher for a free pound of Dunkin Donuts coffee. Check back with Rensselaer County online (http://rensco.com/ events.asp) or the American Red Cross (http://redcrossblood.org) for updates on local places where you can donate. Nicole is a freelance writer who lives in the town of Schodack with her husband and twin boys. She holds a BA in English with a writing concentration and a MA in secondary English education, both of which have fueled her love of writing in all of its forms. Nicole can be reached at NLHenderson18@gmail.com.
Word of Mouth By Joseph R. Lapinski, D.D.S.
Start the Year off Right with a few words of THANKS! I like to take a moment and THANK my topnotch Staff, by name, for a year of Excellent Service – to me and to our Wonderful Patients, both old & new. I have a profession I really love and I’m especially fortunate to have such fabulous support. First, my Office Manager is my wife, Daryl. We’ve worked together for more than 13 years & YES, we’re still married. Everything runs a little smoother because she’s paying attention to the details (like when my article is due for Our Towne), keeps my website & review pages current, the business side of things & human resource needs covered, and our equipment & technology cutting edge. Thank you. Karen, Cindy & Kristin make up my great Administrative team. They’re the first people you speak to, the first smiles you see & the last “see you next time� in my office. Together, they have over 30 years of experience. They do it all: scheduling, billing, insurance & maintaining the friendly feeling in my office. Thank You. Kathy & Rhea are my fantastic chairside Dental Assistants. They work side by side with me on all procedures, every day, all day long. They listen to my jokes & stories and make the patients comfortable. They handle the orders, lab work & hold the office to our superior standards of sterilization and infection control. Thank You. My licensed Dental Hygienists are Lisa, Laura & Jason. Together they maintain your dental health & implement periodontal therapies. They give out prizes to kids & make recommendations to keep you smiling & your teeth healthy for a lifetime. They love what they do and it shows with their loyal following. Thank You. Patients: I am so thankful for your continued confidence. Our office continues to grow through your kind referrals and support. You made 2013 the best year ever in our 17 years. We are all excited for 2014! We wish everyone a Happy & Healthy New Year. Please continue to ask your questions, visit us on the web www.LapinskiDental.com, Like us on Facebook & we look forward to seeing your smile or meeting you for the first time in 2014!
DrJoe@LapinskiDental.com
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When I Grow Up by Daryl Bart
I have a younger sister – much younger – like 26 years younger. She’s in college now. Her journey – albeit only 2 years in, has been a tumultuous one. She did great in high school and got into most of the schools she applied. She shuffled off to Buffalo, had great grades but couldn’t get a foot hold in the social scene and she couldn’t get Binghamton out of her brain. So she transferred then realized she wants to change majors. Life is so confusing. Growing up today is no easy task – there is pressure to succeed, to know answers, to pick a career, to not get into too much debt, but to be a free spirit and not get into trouble. This whole process is not unfamiliar to me. I literally had 5 – yes, 5 different majors in college and still managed to finish in 4 years. But as I faced the world back then as a newly minted “grown up” I found I had to keep re-inventing myself to apply for jobs. “Hi, I am a Communication Major” doesn’t really get the job like I’m an accountant or a biologist. It was a tricky identifying a career path. Plus, at 21, I wasn’t all that confident. I didn’t know my worth or what I really wanted. I just knew I had to pay my share of the rent and go to Ft. Lauderdale for Spring Break. So, I did what every self assured grown up would do - went to Grad school. This launched me onto a curvy path with a series of jobs that started to shape my skills. I had equal amounts of ups & downs, experienced the joys of being hired and the disappointment of being fired. There were temp agencies, part time gigs, restaurant jobs, you name it. At each subsequent milestone & moment in time, I had a vision of what I would be when I grew up. It started thinking I’d be like Melanie Griffith in Working Girl – commuting to a city wearing sneakers & shoulder pads, standing out to higher-ups with great ideas and getting the guy in the end. Then I aspired to be like Ally McBeal – a stylish, urban professional with kooky co-workers, a killer wardrobe, & have martinis every night. Then I thought I might own a restaurant with such finesse and I’d be the second coming of Martha Stewart.
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Life kept happening. I got a job with NY State, I got married, kids, a house. I joined the family business and tried to keep up with the imaginary guidelines of suburban life like whether I should have granite counter-tops or an SUV or how many travel sports my kids should participate in and what color Christmas lights I should use outside my house or if I should eat carbs. A few months ago I joined a facebook group for health/ wellness to keep me accountable. The group consisted of virtual strangers so the moderator asked us all to introduce ourselves with a short bio and to write out our goals for the year. Hi – I’m Daryl, 45, mother of 2 amazing kids (most of the time), wife to 1, I manage a dental office, I volunteer for the Y, I raise money for our schools that cut sports & arts funding (tragic). I’m an unlikely sports mom, a fitness enthusiast, full of ideas, an optimist and an aspiring writer. I love reading, writing and travel and think, no, know, that I’m a great friend. I’m direct, evolving and ready to be the best me, lose a few and tone up.” I read this to my sister and she laughed – but I wanted her to see that even though I gave her all sorts of sisterly advice about her future: switch your major, travel abroad, don’t listen to dad, do well in school, get a summer job lined up – that growing up happens in stages and never really ends. After she left with a swirling head and a hug, I realized that I spent decades stressed out that I “wasn’t” anything specific. I also realized that I’m the sum of my own curvy equation…college + resume + life experiences + goals = ME. I am what I want to be when I grow up. I’m defined by ambiguity –jack of all trades. I’m a Renaissance Woman! But don’t hold me to that!
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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Thank you to Discovery Place Learning Center, LLC for Sponsoring the Kids Page!
Discovery Place Learning Center, LLC Teaching children their way every day!
WINTER JOKES Q: How do Eskimos make their beds? A: With sheets of ice and blankets of snow. Q: Why donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mountains get cold in the winter? A: They wear snowcaps. Q: What did the snowman say to the customer? A: Have an ice day! Q: What do you call a slow skier? A: A slopepoke! Q: Why did the farmer wear one boot to town? A: Because he heard there would be a 50% chance of snow! Q: Where does a polarbear keep its money? A: In a snow bank! Q: What do you call a snowman in the desert? A: A puddle! Q: How does an eskimo stick his house together? A: With igloo! Q: What is a snowmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite breakfast? A: Frosted Flakes!
Your Hometown Pharmacist Miller Young, Pharm.D. RPh. Young’s Pharmacy & General Store, LLC
5 Bonus Benefits of Exercise
For as long as you can remember, you've been hearing about the benefits of exercise: Weight control, chronic disease management, stronger muscles and bones, to name a few. But the list of exercise benefits just keeps getting longer. If you could package it in a pill, you might have a multi-million dollar product! Maybe these less touted benefits will offer the motivation you need to make exercise a regular part of your daily routine. 1. Improve your immune system. Seem like you catch every bug in the book? Maybe exercise can help. Researchers are finding that as little as 30- to 45-minute brisk walks five times a week can greatly boost your immune system. It does this by increasing the levels of natural killer cells that fight off infections such as colds or the flu. 2. Influence aging. Early research indicates that exercise may partly reverse the aging process caused by stress. How do we know this? Shorter telomeres are a sign of aging, and researchers have found that exercise lengthens them. Telomere is a fancy name for the strands of DNA at the tips of chromosomes. 3. Enhance your mood. You may already know that exercise can improve self-confidence, distract you from negative thoughts, and help you feel fitter. Increasing body temperature may have a calming effect. Exercise also releases brain chemicals that may relieve tension and ease depression and anxiety. Some studies have even shown that exercise may be as effective as an antidepressant. 4. Boost your brain. Exercise increases growth factors in the brain, which help the brain make new brain cells and new connections between them. This may enhance memory, attention, and concentration, helping with learning. Some studies have even begun to show a link between exercise and grades on math and reading tests. But the benefits aren't limited to kids in school. Exercise may also greatly reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, a form of dementia. 5. Sleep better. A recent poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation uncovered some interesting connections to exercise. Those who exercised—no matter what time of day—reported better sleep than those who didn't, even when they slept the same length of time. Sedentary people were also about twice as likely to be sleepy during the day and were more likely to have sleep apnea, a disorder that interrupts breathing while you're asleep. So how much do you need to reap benefits like these? Experts recommend getting at least two hours and 30 minutes each week of moderately intense aerobic activity or one hour and 15 minutes weekly of vigorous aerobic exercise. It's best to combine this with muscle strengthening two times a week. But remember: short stretches of physical activity throughout the day can bring many of the same advantages as a structured gym workout. If you're not sure where to begin, I may be able to help. Before you start a new routine, it's also best to have a talk with your doc. I can be reached at 518-6743663.
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David M.Wojeski, CPA Matthew S. Lindemann, CPA, CFE Angela F. Colvin, CPA Thomas J. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell, CPA
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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s It Worth
By Steve Farina Q. I have my father's collection of Hess Trucks from the late 1970's through the early 1990's. What kind of value do they have? A. Early Hess Trucks (the first was 1964) have substantial value depending on condition, presence of the original box and funnel. (the '64 and '65 which was identical, could be filled with water and pumped through the truck's hoses). These trucks carry value because of the fact they were sold as toys and were played with, used, and used up. Depending on completeness and condition in today's market they are worth $400 to $850. A few other highlights of valuable Hess Trucks are not trucks at all. It was a ship. An oil tanker to be exact. These were played with in soapy tubs and decals slid off and small parts such as masts and detail items were lost to the drain gods. Also these like all Hess Vehicles had battery operated lights. You can guess what the battery compartments looked like after being wet with then acid batteries left in them. Starting in the early 1980's Hess Vehicles were starting to be sold as collectibles and not so much toys. For the most part, they were purchased by the millions, and never removed from they're boxes. For this reason, they're values are very low. In most cases, lower then the original purchase price. Q. Due to my family relocating years ago, I have been left with my older brothers 1968 Chevrolet Camaro. It looks to be in pretty good shape, although on flat tires and about 2 inches of dust and "presents" the Barn Swallows left. It hasn't been touched since the early 1980's. Is this something that should be restored or just cleaned up? A. Don't do either. A few years ago, the trend was to restore a car (especially a muscle car) and often times it would look better then new due to advancements in paint and body shop techniques. We call that over-restored. The factory never lined up door to fender seams perfectly or made every bolt head face the exact same direction. They were made quickly and cheaply. Today the trend is towards "survivor cars". These wear the coat of paint (no matter how worn) they were supplied with at the factory. Believe it or not, many people (myself among them) do not want the 30 plus years of dust and poop removed from them. These are not just cars, but time capsules which have many stories and memories to tell. In the case of your '68, I would carefully use a floor jack and try to get air into the tires with the weight of the car off them. I would then have a competent mechanic with a love of old cars come over and change all fluids and battery. If you would like to drive the car on a limited basis, have all safety items checked out and replaced as necessary without disturbing the aged cosmetics of the car in or out. There is an old saying that a car can be restored over and over, but is only original once. Steve Farina has been a local antique dealer specializing in toys for the past 25 years. He collects, appraises & sells toys, vintage automobiles and advertising pieces. If you have a question that you would like answered in this column, or would like a personal consultation contact Steve at: 518-265-9182 or chevysaf36@aol.com
JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2014 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Sunday, January 19
The Friends of the Kinderhook Memorial Library will be sponsoring the second program in the two-part series designed to educate the public about Lyme disease. On Sunday January 19th from 4-6pm, the Library will host a panel discussion on Lyme disease with a question and answer period to follow. Participants on the panel will include: Dr. Ananthakrishnan Ramani, the head of Columbia County Lyme Disease Task Force; Holly Ahern, Microbiologist and Associate Professor of Microbiology at SUNY Adirondack; Rick Burstell, Program Educator, Columbia-Greene Cornell Cooperative Extension Services; and William Shwarz, a patient advocate with Lyme disease. All those with questions about Lyme disease, or those who experience with the disease are encouraged to attend. This program is free and open to the public. The Kinderhook Memorial Library serves the Towns of Kinderhook and Stuyvesant. The library is located at 18 Hudson Street, Kinderhook, NY. The Friends of the Library provide significant materials, programs and direct financial support to the Library. For more information about the Friends of the Library please visit the Kinderhook Memorial Library website: http:// www.oklibrary.org
Saturday, January 25 29th Annual Winter Festival on Saturday, January 25th from 10-4 at Grafton Lakes State Park. Fun for the whole family, with kids games in the snow, sleigh rides and Polar Plunge at the beach. Live birds of prey, hot food, face painting and more available inside in our warming areas. Plus our Ice Fishing Contest starts at 5am, and has three top prize categories awarding $300 each! For more information, please call Liz at 279-1155.
Saturday, January 25 The Sons of The American Legion will be hosting Johnny Rabb and The Jailhouse Rockers with special guests performing all your Elvis favorites 7:30-11:30 p.m. Jan. 25 at The American Legion, 111 Main Ave., Wynantskill. Advance tickets are available for $10 prior to Jan. 11; $12 after. Limited seating is available with a reserved table of eight. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Guests are welcome to bring food/snacks. For information, call Bill at 441-0013.
Sunday, January 26 The Castleton - Schodack Kiwanis Club will be selling chicken barbecue dinners on Sunday, January 26, to raise monies for its community service programs. The cost of the dinners is $9.00, and the dinners may be picked up from 12:00 noon to 5:00 P.M. at the Castleton Volunteer Fire Company in Castleton. For more information or to order the dinners, call 732-2225. Walk-ins are welcomed.
Wednesday, January 29
Eddy Hawthorne Ridge will be hosting a downsizing seminar given by Michelle Kavanaugh of Organize Senior Moves on 01/29/14 at 1pm in the Sterling Center at Eddy Hawthorne Ridge, it is a free event, light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to Stephanie Landry at 518-279-5504 or Stephanie.Landry@sphp.com
Hudson Valley Community College Open for the 2013-14 season. The 18,000 square-foot rink, located in the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s McDonough Sports Complex, offers recreational skating from 4 to 6:15 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and from noon to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission rates are $2 for children under 12 years old and $3 for adults. There is a $1 per person discount for a group of ten or more with advance notice. The skating season runs through Sunday, March 9, 2014. Snacks and beverages are available from vending machines or you may bring your own. Free parking is available in front of the complex. Outside instructors provide evening and weekend lessons for all ages. For more information, call (518) 629-4850 or go to www. hvcc.edu/facilities/ice.html.
FREE 2013 INCOME TAX PREPARATION The AARP Taxaide Program will prepare 2013 Federal and NYS personal income tax returns for taxpayers with low to moderate income, with special attention but not limited to those 60 and older. The service is free and confidential and is provided by IRS certified volunteers. Appointments are available at: the East Greenbush Community Library, 10 Community Way, East Greenbush, NY call 477-7476 ext 0 or go to www.eastgreenbushlibrary.org to sign up OR Circles of Mercy, 11 Washington Street, Rensselaer, NY call 462-0899
The Anchor in Castleton The Anchor would like to remind people that The Anchor Food Pantry is also a Thrift store. We have gently used clothes, houseware items, boots/shoes, blankets,sheets and many knickknacks and assorted goods. All proceeds benefit the food pantry. The Anchor is now located behind The Riverside Nursing and Rehab Ctr. on Rt J in the Village of Castleton in the Sisters of the Resurrection Convent. We are open Monday evening 6-8pm, Tues. & Thurs. from 9am-2pm. and the first Saturday of the month from 11am-2pm. If you have trouble finding us, you can call us at 7321204.
To AdverĆ&#x;se or List a Community Event Contact Jennifer Felts at 518-380-1279 OR felts66@yahoo.com
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
21
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Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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Januar y & Februar y Happenings East Greenbush Community Librar y www.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ ww w.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ 477-7476 Events for Adults: All programs are free and open to the public. Due to limited space, registration is required for all programs, concerts & movies. Call 4777476 or visit our webpage and use our online registration. Adult Winter Reading Program: Go for the Gold The 2014 Adult Winter Reading will run from January 2 – February 27. Stop by the library to pick up your reading game card. Read up to 8 books in various categories on the game card to receive raffle tickets and a surprise for completing the whole card. Finale will be on held on February 27th.
JANUARY: Greenbush Historical Society presents Ulysses S. Grant Reenactment Sunday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m. The Greenbush Historical Society hosts Steve Trimm as Ulysses S. Grant. Mr. Trimm will portray Grant as he was in early 1885 – penniless and dying of cancer, but determined to live long enough to finish his memoirs. As he writes, Grant can’t help but reflect on the lessons that a long and eventful life have taught him. Mr. Trimm has been a tour guide and educator at Grant Cottage State Historic Site, located in Wilton, for 7 years. American Red Cross Blood Drive Monday, January 6 at 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. You don’t need a special reason to give blood. Call the reference desk at 477-7476 to schedule your donation or go to www.redcrossblood. org; 1-800-Red-Cross. Greenbush Garden Club presents Composting Tuesday, January 7 at 6:30 p.m. John Robert Sherwood, a Master Gardener for Rensselaer County Cooperative Extension, will present a program on composting. Sonnets: Mostly Shakespeare Thursdays, January 9, 16, and 23 at 7:00 p.m. This series of discussions will look at the sonnet, with emphasis on those by Shakespeare. Moderated by retired Columbia High English teacher Kevin McCann. Limit of 15 participants. Signing up for the first session registers you for the entire series. Take a Stroll Down Memory Lane with “Young@Heart” – Bob Marcello & Rebecca Kunuria Sunday, January 12 at 2:00 p.m. Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of musical entertainment. Bob Marcello and Rebecca Kunuria will bring you the most popular songs from the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s – Fly Me to the Moon, Stardust, Love Me Tender, That’s Amore . . . . AARP Smart Driver Course (new title and new fees) Monday, January 13 at 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please register early as classes are limited to the first 35 adults. The class cost is $20.00 per person for materials for AARP members. Please bring your card to the class. Non-members will be charged $25.00. Payment will be taken the day of the class by check made out to AARP. Please bring a bagged lunch.
How Energy Therapy Can Help You: Thinking Outside the Box Tuesday, January 14 at 7:00 p.m. Richard Sahr, a Healing Touch Certified Practitioner, will explain how Energy Therapy works and give a demonstration. Energy Therapy (ET) is being used in many hospitals, including Albany Medical Center. Energy Therapy addresses health issues not only physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Paddlesports America Monday, January 20 AND 27 at 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. This 2-week course, taught by John Ravas from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, is designed to address the unique safety needs of canoeists and kayakers. Topics covered include knowing, understanding and safe operation of your boat, pre-departure preparations, the legal boating requirements, and what to do in an emergency. There will be a $10 materials fee, payable by cash or check the first evening. Home Buyer’s Seminar Saturday, January 25 at 11:30 a.m. Join Kim Orlando from Homestead Funding and Jolene Morris from RealtyUSA for information on what you need to know when buying, selling, or financing a home in 2014. REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 4
FREE MONTHLY MOVIES: Wednesday, January 29 at 5:30 pm The Lone Ranger
FEBRUARY: Greenbush Garden Club presents Fairy Houses Tuesday, February 4 at 6:30 p.m. Some believe that fairies are keepers of our gardens. Perhaps they’ll reveal themselves if you build them a fairy house! Denise Maurer, a Master Gardener of Rensselaer County Cooperative Extension will show you “how to,” using all natural materials. Frederic Church and the Hudson River School Sunday, February 9 at 2:00 p.m. Curators from Olana, Frederic Church’s gorgeous home overlooking the Hudson River, will provide this illustrated lecture on Frederic Church, one of the premier American landscape painters, and the Hudson River School, the first truly American style of landscape painting. REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 19. Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine Monday, February 10 at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Amy Cole, ND, will explain what a naturopathic doctor is and how naturopathic modalities may help you feel your best. Get informed about this unique approach to wellness. REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 20.
Januar y & Februar y Happenings East Greenbush Community Librar y www.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ ww w.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ 477-7476
Music of the 17th and 18th Centuries for Baroque Flute and Theorbo/English guitar Sunday, February 2 at 2:00 p.m. This annual classical music concert, which will include classical baroque and European dance/folk music, will feature Flutist Yvonne Chavez Hansbrough, Professor of music at the College of Saint Rose, and Andy Rutherford on theorbo (bass lute)/English guitar. REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 12. First Time Home Buyer’s Seminar Tuesday, February 25 at 7:00 p.m. Mike Rankin, a mortgage consultant from Right Trac Financial Group, will help you understand your credit report, down payments and closing costs, working with a real estate agent, interest rates, and other important factors. REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 4. NEW Book Discussion for Professional Women Wednesday, January 8: 7:00 p.m. As a complement to the Rensselaer Chamber’s Tech Valley Series for Em-powering Women, join us for a lively discussion of the book Women Who Don’t Wait in Line by Reshma Saujani. The next book and meeting to be determined by the group. Registration recommended. All are welcome!
FREE MONTHLY MOVIES: Wednesday, February 26 at 6:30 pm The Butler
EVENTS FOR CHILDREN: FAMILY STORYTIMES NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED Thursdays @ 10:00 am OR 11:00 am OR 6:30 pm Runs: January 9 – February 13 Saturdays @ 11:00 am Runs: January 11 – February 22 This all-ages program includes books, songs, rhymes, puppets, flannel stories, and a coloring sheet or simple craft.
January Fun! Minecraft IRL (ages 8+) Spotlight Players Staged Readings Monday, January 20 @ 2:00 pm Sunday, January 26 at 2:00 pm Join us for Minecraft In Real Life @ the Library! We will be doing The Importance of Being by Brendan Mack (local playwright, Minecraft activities and crafts, a scavenger hunt, and more! graduate of Columbia HS). The Importance of Being follows a small non-profit theater trying to Registration required; sign-up begins on Monday, January 13. stay afloat despite terrible material the company has been forced to perform. A new opportunity may offer a solution, but at what Splat the Cat! (ages 4-8) cost? Based loosely on Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Thursday, January 23 @ 4:30 pm Ernest. Directed by Michael A. McDermott. REGISTRATION BEGINS Join us for fun crafts and activities based on the Splat the Cat JANUARY 5. books by Rob Scotton. Sunday, February 23 at 2:00 pm Gods of Carnage by Yasmina Reza Two pairs of parents, one of whose children has hurt the other at a public park, meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. However, as the evening goes on, the parents become increasingly childish, resulting in the evening devolving into chaos. Directed by Erin Giacomino. REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 2.
EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS Resume/Cover Letter Clinic Thursday, January 16, 5:30 am – 8:30 pm Tuesday, February 11, 5:30-8:30 pm Make a one-on-one 20-minute appointment to have your resume or cover letter reviewed by an expert. Visit or call the Reference Desk for an appointment. Only one appointment per person per session; you may attend more than one session. A draft resume or cover letter is required. How to Use the Internet in Your Job Search Wednesday, January 15, 2:30-3:30 In this workshop, a career professional from Rensselaer County One-Stop will show you how to: use the internet to do a job search, create an e-mail address to use for your job search, and fill out online job applications.
Take Your Child to the Library Day! February 1, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Visit the library for our 2nd annual Take Your Child to the Library Day! Drop in anytime, 11am - 3pm for the following fun activities: LEGO Building! – Our huge collection of LEGOS will be out for kids to play and build with all day long. Make & Take Crafts – Create simple crafts to take home. SPECIAL PROGRAMS INCLUDE: 11:00 am – Family Storytime with Miss Molly 2:00 pm – Parachute Play with Miss Rose – drop-in for fun with the parachute! 12:00 – 2:00 pm – Balloon Sculptures w/ Rowdy the Clown There will be cake and refreshments as well. Sign your child up for their first library card and they will receive a special goody bag.
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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Januar y & Februar y Happenings East Greenbush Community Librar y www.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ ww w.eastgreenbushlibrary.com~ 477-7476
~February Break Week~ ALL BREAK WEEK PROGRAMS REQUIRE REGISTRATION.
Events for Teens:
East Greenbush/Schodack residents can begin registering on Monday, February 10. Non-residents may begin signing up on Friday, February 14.
TAG & Jr. Friends (Teen Advisory Group) Tuesdays, January 7 and February 4 @ 3:30 pm Discuss and plan teen programming, collection development, and volunteer opportunities. Teen area decorations and policies will also be discussed. Plus, you get FOOD as payment when the meeting is over.
Shape it! Clay Pictures (ages 5+) Tuesday, February 18 @ 11:00 am Design your own two-dimensional picture using a rainbow of color with the Scotia-Glenville Children’s Museum.
“Board” Senseless Tuesdays, January 14 and February 11 @ 3:30 pm Join us for an afternoon of fun with card and board games!
Local Wildlife (ages 5+) Wednesday, February 19 @ 2:00 pm Join Beth Bidwell from Wild Things Environmental Education and meet some of the animals that call your backyard their home. Almost any acre of ground in New York is host to a wide variety of animals -- hawks, falcons, owls, turtles, and snakes are all your neighbors. Come to the library and get to know them!
BYOB Book Club Tuesdays @ 3:30 pm January 21 abd February 25 Bring Your Own Book – or at least be ready to talk about it as we discuss what we’ve been reading lately!
Play at the Library Thursday, February 20: 10:00 am – noon Drop-in and play at the library! Toddlers and preschoolers can play with the library’s rice table, blocks, puzzles, and other toys. Caregivers must remain in room with children.
FREE Practice SAT January 11, 10:30 am - 3:00 pm Take advantage of this free practice test, provided by KAPLAN, so you will know what to expect on the day of the real test! Get a complete analysis of your results and learn some strategies to improve your score. Register by calling 1-800-KAP-TEST or at kaptest.com/practicetest
Family Movie Night Thursday, February 20 @ 7:00 pm Free popcorn and movie! Movie to be announced.
Un-Valentine’s Day Party February 14 @ 3:30 pm Join us for an afternoon of fun & food without all of the sentimental junk!
Maple Sugaring (ages 5+) Friday, February 21 @ 11:00 am It doesn’t matter how old you are, everyone loves the taste of maple syrup. But why does a tree taste so sweet? Environmental educator Anita Sanchez will teach children how trees work, why sugar is so important, and give them a taste of real maple syrup.
SAVE THE DATE for the next Friends Trivia Night at the Library Wednesday, February 5, 2014 Doors Open at 6:30 pm; Games start at 7:00 pm Preregistration & All Friends of the Library: $5.00/person, At the Door: $10.00/person
THE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETS ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 AT 7:30 PM AND TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 AT 7:30 PM
THE FRIENDS ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 AT 6:30 PM. EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND.
Did you know that 20% of Our Towne is DONATED back to the Community for promotion of events?
Our Towne ~ Connecting the Community
MARKET REVIEW AND OUTLOOK
Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Center Squareâ&#x20AC;??
By Kenneth P. Lane
Investments
The U.S. equity markets closed out 2013 with extremely impressive and broad based gains, the international developed markets saw more muted gains, and emerging markets look likely to end the year slightly in the negative. Continuing positive economic news helped drive equity performance here in the U.S. The unemployment rate and initial unemployment claims continue to trend slowly downward, the manufacturing sector seems to be improving, and personal incomes, savings rates and retail sales are all up. All these factors indicate the favorable economic trends should be sustainable.
Estate & Trust Services
Insurance
Taxation
Wealth Protection Strategic Business
Planning
College Planning
Retirement Planning
Center Square Asset Management, Inc. Local, Independent and Family Owned
Kenneth P. Lane, MBA President
Deborah L. Lane, CFP,CLU VicePresident
1651 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack Plaza, Castleton
While the economic fundamentals are improving, some 518-477-5468 t XXX DFOUFSTRVBSFBTTFU DPN caution is warranted. The strong stock performance in 2013 4FDVSJUJFT BOE "EWJTPSZ 4FSWJDFT PÄ&#x152;FSFE UISPVHI $PNNPOXFBMUI 'JOBODJBM /FUXPSL ÂĽ .FNCFS '*/3" 4*1$ B 3FHJTUFSFE *OWFTUNFOU is encouraging, but it has pushed stock valuations to relatively "EWJTPS 'JYFE JOTVSBODF QSPEVDUT BOE TFSWJDFT PÄ&#x152;FSFE CZ $FOUFS 4RVBSF "TTFU .BOBHFNFOU JT TFQBSBUF BOE VOSFMBUFE UP $PNNPOXFBMUI high levels. The 3rd quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figure was recently revised up to a healthy 4.1%, but that figure was aided by a large buildup in inventories. Should subsequent quarterly growth numbers start to trend back down we could see a pullback in equities, especially now that bonds look a bit more attractive. The best course of action after a healthy run-up in stocks may be to rebalance your portfolio to help lock in some profits. In contrast to the stock market, bonds generally suffered through a very tough year in 2013. In May the Federal Reserve surprised the market by indicating they may begin to wind down their bond buying program sooner than expected. The announcement caused interest rates to jump and bond prices to drop. For municipal bonds, the downturn was compounded by the bankruptcy filing in Detroit and headlines about ongoing fiscal difficulties in places like Chicago and Puerto Rico. Going forward, we are still urging clients to maintain a cautious stance with their taxable bond holdings, favoring shorter maturity bonds and perhaps allocating a small percentage to bank loans and junk bonds to add yield while keeping interest rate risk to a minimum. For municipal bonds the jump in interest rates and negative headlines drove prices down and yields higher, but the market fundamentals are strong. In addition, in 2014 a host of new taxes will kick in, primarily on higher income individuals. Many investors will be looking for ways to reduce their income tax exposure, and municipal bonds can potentially offer an obvious avenue to do that. With more buyers coming in and a minimum of new bonds being issued, I believe the stage is set for a nice rally in municipal bonds sometime in 2014. After a year where there was a wide divergence in the performance of various types of investments, I feel that now is perhaps a good time to lock in gains and take advantage of buying opportunities. If you are interested in scheduling a portfolio review, feel free to call Ken & Deb at 518-477-5468 or 1-800-630-9313. High yield/junk bonds invest substantially in lower-rated bonds and are issued by companies without long track records of sales and earnings or by those with questionable credit strength. There is a greater possibility that adverse changes in the economy or poor performance by the issuers of these bonds may affect the ability to pay principal and interest. High-yield bonds involve substantial risks, tend to be more volatile, and, therefore, may not be suitable for all investors. Municipal bonds are federally tax-free but may be subject to state and local taxes, and interest income may be subject to federal alternative minimum tax (AMT). The purchase of bonds is subject to availability and market conditions. There is an inverse relationship between the price of bonds and the yield: when price goes up, yield goes down, and vice versa. Market risk is a consideration if sold or redeemed prior to maturity. Some bonds have call features that may affect income. Investments are subject to risk, including the loss of principal. Because investment return and principal value fluctuate, shares may be worth more or less than their original value. Some investments are not suitable for all investors, and there is no guarantee that any investing goal will be met. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Talk to your financial advisor before making any investing decisions. Security and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial NetworkÂŽ, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed Insurance products and services offered by Center Square Asset management is separate and unrelated to Commonwealth. Center Square Asset Management is located at 1651 Columbia Tpk., Schodack Plaza, Castleton, NY 12033. We can be reached at 518-477-5468 or 800-630-9313.
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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ON-GOING EVENTS AROUND OUR TOWNE TUESDAY
Troy Savings Music Hall Music at Noon.: Since 1988, on the second Tuesday of each month, the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall’s free Music at Noon concert series has presented exceptional regional musicians with a diverse mix of musical styles. The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Music at Noon schedule November 12- Janice Nimetz\Classical Piano December 10 - Halderberg Madrigal Singers January 14, 2014- Elinor Frey\Voices of the Violoncello February 11, 2014-Frederic Hellwitz-Classical Guitar March 11, 2014-Gordon & Noyes\Trumpet & Guitary, Jazz Standards and more. April 8, 2014-Michael Century-Piano and Accordion May 13, 2013-Findlay Cockrell For additional information, please call 518-273-0038. T.O.P.S. TAKING OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY: LOW COST, SELF-HELP SUPPORT GROUP FOR WEIGHT LOSS. MEETING EVERY TUESDAY AT THE RENSSELAER LIBRARY AT 676 EAST STREET. WEIGH IN AT 5:45 & MEETING FROM 6:00-7:00. CAFE THEO -- ST. PAUL’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 1583 CARNEY ROAD, CASTLETON . CAFE THEO IS AN INFORMAL GATHERING OF PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE WHO SEEK AN UNDERSTANDING ABOUT THE BIG QUESTIONS IN LIFE. WE ENGAGE IN CONVERSATION ON MORAL, PHILOSOPHICAL, AND SPIRITUAL TOPICS. SOME RECENT TOPICS DISCUSSED INCLUDE REVENGE/MERCY, NATURE OF THE SOUL, AND SYMBOLISM. WE WELCOME ALL POINTS OF VIEW AND RELIGIOUS PERSPECTIVE, AND OUR COMMON GROUND HONORS FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE IN RESPECTFUL CONVERSATION. WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US FOR AN EVENING OF ENGAGING DISCUSSION, MUSIC, AND A PERIOD OF REFLECTION. REFRESHMENTS ARE PROVIDED. WE MEET EVERY 1ST AND 3RD TUESDAY AT 6:30 P.M. AT ST. PAUL’S METHODIST CHURCH, CASTLETON. O’KENNY’S SUMMER CRUISE IN CAR SHOW WITH LIVE MUSIC, AWESOME CARS AND GREAT FOOD. EVERY 1ST & 3RD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH. 5:30-8:30 AT 3321 ROUTE 9 VALATIE CALL 518-784-2491 FOR DETAILS
WEDNESDAY THE COMMUNITY SENIORS OF CLINTON HEIGHTS MEETS THE FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT THE COMMUNITY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF CLINTON HEIGHTS. WE ARE LOCATED NEXT TO EAST GREENBUSH TOWN HALL AT 221 COLUMBIA TURNPIKE IN THE TOWN OF EAST GREENBUSH. THE ENTRANCE IS LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE CHURCH AND IT IS HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE. YOU CAN PARK IN LOT OFF SOUTHERN AVE. OR IN PARKING LOT NEXT TO CHURCH ON THE WEST SIDE. WE MEET FROM 11:30 AM TO 2:00 PM. BRING YOUR LUNCH AND JOIN WITH THE GROUP IN PLAYING GAMES AND HAVING DISCUSSIONS OR BRING SOME NEW IDEAS TO THE GROUP. COFFEE AND TEA ARE PROVIDED.IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, CALL ARLENE ( OZZIE) SHELDON AT 518-733-0380, PRESIDENT. MELVIN ROADS POST BINGO IS WEDNESDAY EVENINGS BEGINNING AT 7:30PM. DOORS OPEN AT 5:30PM. $2,300 IN PRIZES PLUS CASINOS
FRIDAYS CASTLETON LIBRARY,TEEN GAME NIGHT, CASTLETON PUBLIC LIBRARY, 85 SOUTH MAIN ST, 6:30 TO 8:30 PM, FREE. REFRESHMENTS, MOVIES. 518 732-0879.
FIRST FRIDAY FREE REIKI...FREE REIKI ON THE 1ST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH FROM 6:00 – 6:45 PM AT VENTURE INWARD, 568 COLUMBIA TURNPIKE, #16 VANDENHOUTEN SQUARE (BACK ENTRANCE), EAST GREENBUSH. REIKI IS A JAPANESE TECHNIQUE FOR STRESS REDUCTION AND RELAXATION THAT ALSO PROMOTES HEALING. IT IS ADMINISTERED BY “LAYING ON HANDS” AND IS BASED ON THE IDEA. 518-477-6566 WWW.VENTURE-INWARDCENTER.COM
SATURDAYS PIZZA AND WING NIGHT IS BACK ! PIZZA NIGHTS ARE HELD ON THE 3RD SATURDAY EACH MONTH SEPT. THRU MAY PACK UP THE FAMILY AND JOIN US FOR THE BEST (AND THE ORIGINAL) FIREHOUSE PIZZA AROUND. EAT IN OR TAKE OUT. CHODACK VALLEY VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.1553 SCHODACK VALLEY RD. CASTLETON NY 12033. 477-4215 FAMILY STORY TIME, E. GREENBUSH COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 10 COMMUNITY WAY, 11 AM. STORIES, SONGS, CRAFTS; ALL AGES. 518 477-7476
SUNDAYS ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST, THE CASTLETON FIRE HOUSE, LOCATED AT 11 GREEN AVENUE IN CASTLETON WILL BE HOSTING AN ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH FROM 8AM TILL NOON (EXCEPT FOR OCTOBER). 2012 DATES ARE OCTOBER 14TH, NOVEMBER 4TH AND DECEMBER 2ND; 2013 DATES ARE JANUARY 6TH, FEBRUARY 3RD, MARCH 3RD, APRIL 7TH AND MAY 5TH. COST IS $7/ADULTS, $6/SENIORS AND $5/CHILDREN AGES 5 TO 11. PHONE 7324342. FREE SPAGHETTI DINNERS AT THE BLOOMING GROVE REFORMED CHURCH OFF ROUTE 4 IN DEFREESTVILLE. EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH (EXCEPT DECEMBER) FROM 1:00 TO 3:00 P.M. OPEN TO ALL AREA COMMUNITIES. ALL ARE WELCOME. COME AND ENJOY PASTA WITH A CHOICE OF PLAIN OR MEAT SAUCE, FRESH TOSSED SALAD, BREAD, DESSERT AND A BEVERAGE.
Simply Clean Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
Residential and Commercial Quality Service at Affordable Prices Fully Insured Senior Discounts 15 years servicing the community David S. Troy, Owner/Operator 1010 Pine Street, Rensselaer, NY
518-479-4176
Did you know that Our Towne Magazine MAILS over 14,500 copies into homes & businesses in Southern Rensselaer & Northern Columbia Counties? Another 1,500 copies are place around town!
Contact Jennifer Felts to find out about how Our Towne can help grow your business!
518-380-1279 felts66@yahoo.com www.ourtownerensco.com Legal Notice for Election Positions to be filled at the March 18, 2014 Election Village of Castleton The Board of Trustees designates the following offices vacant at the end of the current official year, to be filled at the Village election to be held on March 18, 2014, for the following terms: •Mayor - Two Years •Trustee - Two Years • Trustee - Two Years • Village Justice - Four Years For more information: 85 S Main St Castleton-On-Hudson, NY, 12033 (518) 732-2211
Puurfect Kitty of the Month...
Meet Elf! I’m a 1 year old, calico female kitty named Elf. I’m small for my age and it looks like I’ll stay that way! I’m a young, frisky kitty that loves to play and romp. I seek attention and would love for you to pet and play with me. I’m very easy going and will make a great companion for you alone or a whole family. I also get along well with other kitties, too! Now I’m considered a special-needs girl because I was born with only one kidney. The vet says I’m getting along fine with just one, as some people do. I hope despite that, you would consider giving me a forever home. Would you please give this sweet kitty a chance? I’ll pay you back in love and purrs! As with all Purrfect Companion kitties, Elf is up-to-date on routine shots, house trained and neutered or spayed. For more information on Elf, please contact the following Purrfect Companions’ representative: Maryann at 3312221 or at kitties.purrfectcompanions@yahoo.com. Please use this phone number only for adoption purposes! Purrfect Companions is a non-profit, all volunteer rescue organization. We are always looking for good volunteers to help with the kitties or assist at our adoption clinics. If you’d like to donate a little time to these worthy animals, please give us a call at 463-8709. Our adoption clinics are held 12:30-4:00 most Sundays and the second Saturday of the month at Pet Supplies Plus, 1235 Western Ave in University Plaza, Albany NY. Stop by and see some of our other kitties! We may have one that is just “PURRFECT” for you!
Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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Step Up For the Best in a Fitness Class By Barbara Neiman, M.S. and Certified Aerobics Instructor Did you know that Step Aerobics is alive and well in our local area? This high intensity, low impact workout has all the benefits of a high impact, fast paced aerobics class without putting stress on joints and muscles. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an effective one hour workout that improves cardio-vascular fitness, muscle strength, endurance and flexibility. I have been an aerobics instructor for the past 25 years, 20 of those years devoted to the teaching of Jackiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s StrongStepâ&#x201E;˘ developed by Jacki Sorensen who has been the recipient of numerous national Lifetime Achievement awards for creating exemplary fitness programs. As a 12 year breast cancer survivor, I have reaped the benefits of working out on a regular basis. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to invite those who want to fulfill their New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolution to become fit and strong to join my classes. Here are some comments from a few of my regular participants: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most important reason that I love Barbara's Step class goes beyond all the obvious physical benefits that result from exercising. It is because I truly believe that we have a lot of power over our future health and wellbeing. I want to enjoy life by being the best and strongest version of myself!â&#x20AC;? Elena G. Schodack â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some days, when I have a stressful day at work, I would normally go home and think about it all night, often timesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; even losing sleep. Going to Step Class after a work day changes my state of mind, removes the stress of the day and replaces it with happiness and wellbeing, mental and physicalâ&#x20AC;? . Karen K. East Greenbush â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been a participant in Jacki Sorensenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fitness classes for over 30 years. The benefit of these classes for my body and mind has been essential to my overall great health. I attribute my positive wellbeing to having incorporated these classes into my weekly routine.â&#x20AC;? Cathy S. East Greenbush
featuring 1 hour total body workout designed to improve FDUGLR Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV PXVFOH VWUHQJWK DQG Ă H[LELOLW\ Do you want to look better, feel great, and have fun? This is the program for you! New Students: $40 for 6 weeks OR pay $6 per class at the door Classes in East Greenbush & Schodack
Call Barbara @ 477-9580 for more information
FREE PC Cleaning
With Any Other Work
$35 Value
New Year, New Chapter? The Spinney at Pond View
Are you 55 and older and starting to question how many more driveways you want to shovel, leaves you want to rake or home projects you want to tackle? But you don’t want to live in an apartment building where you have no privacy? Well, you are not alone. The Spinney at Pond View was created with the idea that active, older adults want to continue to live independently, but on a smaller scale. Their motto is “Home to a New Generation,” and they have nailed it! The builders took the best features of apartments, condominiums and homes and merged them to meet the needs of the 55 and older population. And without the obligations & responsibilities that come with home ownership, their residents are feeling free to enjoy life. This concept of creating a single family traditional home model, with the front porch and private back deck space has found success here in Castleton. The Spinney at Pond View is a Private Age-Qualified Community, consisting of cottages that provide many more amenities than your average apartment. This Active Adult Community provides each cottage with a private driveway and garage with automatic garage-door opener, just to name a few. They have the benefit of one floor living, 24 hour emergency maintenance, central air, personal washer & dryer, private driveway and garage (just to name a few!). This allows you to just pull into your private garage space and enter into your home. The residents have the benefit of living in a community that allows them to live an independent life around their peers. What makes this Community different is that a Recreational Coordinator provides a full calendar of events that includes activities, workshops and services. There is a spacious and beautiful Welcome Center that includes a large kitchen, movie screen, pool table, library and gym. This is a common social area that often hosts programs from AARP, and fitness classes such as Zumba & Tai Chi. This Thanksgiving a group of residents got together and volunteered at The Equinox for Thanksgiving. If this idea excites you, call The Spinney at Pond View to get a tour of the model home and find out how your life can pleasantly change for the better in 2014! The Spinney at Pond View is conveniently located off of I-90, Exit 10. Take Miller Road to Pond View. Call 518-479-0800 and find out why the Spinney has become Home to a New Generation, right here in Our Towne!
A Different “55 & Better” Active Adult Rental Community What our residents are saying:
"We were ready to simplify our lives, not to give up our independence and privacy".
Discover the Difference!
Visit our Model: M-F 9-5; Sat 11-4; Sun 11-3 Our Towne Rensselaer County ~ Jennifer Felts~518-380-1279
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OUR TOWNE
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID ALBANY, NY PERMIT #808
Rensselaer & Columbia Counties Community Resource
To Advertise Call Jennifer Felts at 380-1279
518-689-0266
2006 Ford F350 Crew Cab Lariat FX4 Offroad, with a Clean AutoCheck, 6.0L V8, White with Gray Leather Interior, 92K miles, Turbo Diesel, 20" Alloy wheels, Power Sunroof, 6-foot Bed, Running Boards, Tow Package, Parking Distance Control, Adjustable Pedals, 6-disc CD Changer, Stereo Controls on the Wheel, 4x4. $25,997
2007 Chevrolet Silverado Regular Cab 2500HD LT, 6.0L V8, One Owner, Red with Gray Interior, 8-foot Bed, Tow Package, 4x4, Keyless Entry, Power Windows, Locks Mirrors.
$17,997
2008 Chevrolet Silverado Extended Cab 2500 HD, Duramax Diesel, Gray with Gray Interior, ONE OWNER Clean AutoCheck FULLY SERVICED, 82K miles, 8.5 foot Fisher Minute Mount 2 Xtreme V Plow, Allison Transmission, 6-Foot Bed, Tow Package, 4x4, Keyless Entry, PowerWindows, Locks & Mirrors. $31,997
Your tax return makes a great down payment!
2010 Ford F350 Dump Truck. 6.4L V8 Powerstroke Diesel, this One Owner Clean AutoCheck Dump Truck is ready for work, comes equipped with AC, Airbags, Power Steering, 4x4. $34, 997
2008 Dodge Ram Quad Cab 2500 Big Horn 6.7L Cummins with a Clean AutoCheck Gray with Gray Interior, 69K miles, Running Tubes, Tow Package, 6-foot Bed, Keyless Entry, Power Windows, Locks & Mirrors. $32,997
2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Regular Cab ST HD, 5.7L V8 Hemi, One Owner Clean Auto Check, White with Gray Interior, 36K miles, 8-foot Bed, 8-foot Plow, Fisher Salter, Tow Package, 4x4. $17,997
www.michaelsautoplaza.com