Your Hometowne March Cover.qxd
3/1/14
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COMPLIMENTARY
MARCH 2014
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An Irish Blessing
May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light, may good luck pursue you each morning and night.
399-9951 745 Charlton Road, Charlton www.charltontavern.com Social networking at the Tavern couldn’t be easier with WIFI
Join us on Friday March 14th, Saturday the 15th & Sunday the 16th for Cozy Candlelight Dining at MALONEY’S IRISH TAVERN. Come back on Monday for our SAINT PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION! Our Holiday Festivities will commence at HIGH NOON with Celtic Fare and a raising of the Mug!
Lenten Dinner Specials thru Easter Bridal Showers • Retirement Gatherings • Intimate Couture Weddings
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
A message from Last month we had an editorial column from Sam Capuano - a column called Sam Speaks. Sam is a local professional journalist that has written for The Saratogian and The Ballston Journal in the past. Recently Sam has been writing a blog on-line to reach his faithful audience. I have been reading it on-line for a few months now because I have always been one of his fans and I thought, why not call him and see if he would be interested in contributing to Your Hometowne? In February he agreed to do a column about the Burnt Hills Lanes as the fire had just happened and he was feeling nostalgic about the loss of the Lanes which were a big part of his childhood. The feedback from our readers was incredibly positive. Sam has a way of connecting to his audience that cannot be taught, it is just there. I reached out to him and asked if he would consider being a part of YHT each month. I am happy to announce that he agreed! This month Sam is reminiscing about the Founders of the BH-BL football team. His blog address is below his column and he has a Facebook if you would like to interact with him. That leads me into the next part, this month’s Business in Focus is Your Hometowne. YHT has been in print for 5 years now so I thought it was time to give you a little history of how it got here. As you read the “biography” of sorts keep in mind that I wrote our Mission Statement before our first issue in 2009 and it has been the cornerstone of our business ever since.
To provide local business owners with an affordable and professional advertising medium that meets the needs of their business while providing the community a balance of local content and advertising that leaves them with a sense of connection to the community. We are proud and grateful to be part of your world. ~C Cheryll and Paul
“Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on values rather than personal gain.” - Author Unknown Comments and Input – Paul and Cheryll 280.5260 Advertising – yourhometowne@gmail.com or 265.1105 Photography – hometownephoto@gmail.com Design – kgarriso@nycap.rr.com or 883.3872
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
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EXPIRES APRIL 7, 2014
PICK UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
WRENCH TALK with Ken Maynard This year has been BRUTAL! Frigid cold, snow and ice, road salt, potholes and frost heaves put our vehicles to the test. While most new vehicles have “smart” computer systems that can alert us about this and that there can be some components that can make our vehicles unsafe if left unattended. Spring is the time to “thank” our hard-working vehicles for their great winter performance with a maintenance overhaul once the weather starts to turn warmer to prevent a domino effect of things going wrong. If you skip regular tune-ups, and something is wrong with your car, that one malfunction can affect many other parts of your car. Before you know it, you might have a hefty repair bill! If you plan to spend your spring and summer vacations on the road, it is always important to make sure your car will get you to where you want to go! A good way to ruin a vacation is to end up spending half of it waiting for your car to get out of an unfamiliar mechanic’s shop. If you would have used the place you know and trust at home before you left, you could have prevented this extra cost and delay of your vacation. Let Ken’s team Inspect and replace worn or cracked belts, as well as hoses that are blistered, brittle or too soft. Belts and hoses older than five years, even if they look intact, might need to be replaced. After a season of snow and ice it is advisable to inspect the brake system, including lines, hoses, parking brake and brake
fluid for proper level. Something as simple as a brake pad change early on can help put an end to any worries about brake safety and save you from digging deeper into your wallet later on. If you have an unusual noise, a quick Inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, broken supports or hangers could solve the problem. Deep potholes aren't friendly to shocks and struts. An inspection to determine wear or leaks can alleviate bigger issues down the road. Also having your wheels properly aligned after a season of tough conditions can help keep you out of trouble with prematurely worn tires. On a personal note, don't be embarrassed to drop your vehicle off to be serviced because someone wrote “Wash Me” in the dirt on your back window or If the inside of your car looks more like a college dorm room , It could be time for some spring cleaning - for your car. It is your baby, after all. A car that is routinely washed and waxed can add years to the life of the paint and body. Hanging a pine tree air freshener from the rear view mirror won't cut it. A clean, cared for interior will help maintain your car's value, and make the ride more pleasant for your passengers. Take Pride in your Ride - but leave the repairs to the guys who know what they are doing - Your Hometowne Team at Ken’s Sunoco.
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DECORATING TIPS FROM THE SPECKLED HEN Welcome to The Speckled Hen’s monthly article, where I introduce you to new ways to decorate your home with primitives. After a month of being closed, I’m ready to reopen on March 8th and start The Speckled Hen’s 3rd year! Over the past month, I’ve spent time reorganizing and searching for new treasures. I met some great vendors at the gift show and can’t wait to show you all their wonderful products. Some of my favorite décor items are the tin lighting fixtures. The quality of these pieces is extraordinary! The company I purchase my tin items from has been a family owned and operated business since its inception, in 1974. They take great pride in their work - and it shows! They are the designers and innovators of each and every piece of lighting. From table lamps, decorative accessories, sconces and floor lamps; each is more beautiful and unique than the next! Using only simple tools, each part is cut, shaped and soldered to form a replica for early lighting - all by hand. The aged finish is a grey/black color that resembles antique tinware. To accompany the tinware, I’ve also filled the shop with electric lighting pieces, wax candle holders and lots of great spring décor! I can’t wait to see you during your next visit, remember I reopen March 8th. Maureen Culver • 369.8771 38 Saratoga Road, Scotia• thespeckledhen38@gmail.com
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TRASH TALK Just got off the phone with Punxsutawney Phyllis, the somewhat lesser known but equally precise with prognosticating Pennsylvanian groundhog. Good news and bad news. The bad news is that she woke up today and just sees shadows everywhere, which apparently means 6 more months of winter. Sorry, but maybe now would be a good time to go grab a pallet of ice melt at Home Depot. Got to get that girl some rose colored corrective lenses! Good news? Well, I did just save a bunch of money on car insurance, but even better, this means YOU now have plenty of time to start getting ready for SPRING CLEAN UP before the sun comes back! What a relief, instead of being stuck outside getting actual fresh air, you can instead breathe your own fresh air into some long neglected but necessary projects. Like I always say, “air on the side of caution”. Ok, I just made that up, but I will be saying it daily moving forward. Ideas for making the process easier: 1. Separate unwanted items into 4 groups: household garbage, useful items to donate like clothing, recyclables (scrap metal, electronics, glass, plastic, paper) and junk (broken stuff, old furniture, wood, etc.). 2. Start with one room like the kitchen which will go fast and provide instant satisfaction. 3. Make easy decisions-If you’re not using something, get rid of it. Don’t plan for years down the road when you “might” need it-trust me, when you finally get around to using (fill in the blank) it will be inevitable it was broken the whole time or you are missing half the pieces. 4. Let go of sentimentality. I am not going to throw away my wedding album even though I have only looked at it once in 12 years, but maybe the Smithsonian would be interested in your National Geographic collection. Probably not. Ditto the toys in the garage only the squirrels play with, since your kids are in college now. Goodbye! We can help.Scrapster is family owned local business which provides a NO COST scrap metal and appliance pick up and removal service. We also offer LOW COST junk removal and clean outs. Everything is properly recycled, disposed of or donated. We are convenient, reliable, insured, and we do all the work. Give us a call today at (518) 505-5055 orvisit our website at www.Scrapster.com Vincent Coppola, Owner of Scrapster Scrap Metal Removal/Recycling Service
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HELP WANTED
TOWN OF BALLSTON BOOKKEEPING The Town of Ballston is seeking temporary, possibly permanent part time assistance to help the auditing firm with two years' worth of corrections/updates in order to audit the Town's books for the 2012 and 2013 calendar years. While the exact scope of these responsibilities is still being determined, it has become clear that we will require assistance over and above the daily functions performed by the Town bookkeeper. It is highly preferred, though not necessarily required, that applicants have municipal bookkeeping experience although otherwise-qualified applicants may also be considered. Anyone interested in consideration should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the attention of the Town Supervisor, Patrick Ziegler at the Ballston Town Hall, 323 Charlton Rd., Ballston Spa, NY 12020.
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
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SAM SPEAKS... BY SAM CAPUANO
THE FOUNDERS OF BURNT HILLS FOOTBALL For my first column looking back at different times and places in the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake area, I thought I'd start with how a tradition which continues to this day, Burnt Hills football excellence, began, by taking a look at its founders. In 1954, Spartan Athletic Director Jack Rentz decided it was time to field a football team. The current high school structure was being built, and the central school district, which had been around since 1915 was starting to grow. For his first head coach, Rentz looked a bit north, where Murry O'Neil had quickly built a great program at South Glens Falls. He had a couple of league championships in just a few years. O'Neil had room for one assistant, and for that he selected Ed Dempsey. The choices proved to be good ones, as the pair would coach the Spartans for the next 30 years. Both are members of the Burnt Hills Athletic Association Hall of Fame. They had almost immediate success, winning the Saratoga County League Championship in their second year, and they would enjoy a half dozen or so other league championships. Many of these were won in the Suburban Council (which they joined in 1967), prior to the current system of having school size determine opponents. In other words, the Spartans were often knocking heads against schools twice as large. And winning. The sight of a nervous O'Neil, hands on knees, watching his team, was a fixture for anyone familiar with Section II football in the second half of the 20th Century. As was seeing Dempsey viewing his players control the line of scrimmage. I had the good fortune to play for the legendary pair, from 1979-81. All the coaches for whom I played during that time are sure to bring back fond memories to locals. The Freshman coach was the very capable Dick Agar. His assistant, Ed Ronca, would go on to succeed O'Neal at the Varsity level in 1985. My JV coach was Steve “Reno” Richardson, who was the quarterback on perhaps O'Neil and Dempsey's finest team, in 1969. That squad carried the No. 6 ranking in New York State, and was led by Eric Torkelson. Tork later played for the Green Bay Packers. Every summer during pre-season practices, we would take a break and be treated to films of that historic team. O'Neil frequently would bellow, “Don't cheat your body!” as he worked us hard. Dempsey commanded respect as well. He spoke sometimes in a staccato manner as he drove home a point. Never once did any of his charges face an opponent who had worked harder. The games were played on crisp autumn Saturday afternoons, not cold Friday nights. “When the good Lord invented high school football,” O'Neal once told us, “He said it shall be played on Saturday afternoons.” The enemies in those days were Shen and Scotia. O'Neil particularly got primed during Scotia week:. “On my heart,” he confessed, “I have a sign which says, 'Beat Scotia'.” In my Senior year, we handed a powerful Scotia squad its only loss of the season, on a late touchdown via a bootleg. The newspapers heaped praise for that “brilliant play call.” The coaches cackled, knowing full well the “brilliant play” was QB Carl Snavely missing the handoff, and having no other alternative but to run the other way so as to avoid being pummeled. It just so happened he reached the endzone untouched. Hey, to last in the same place for 30 years, one needs a little luck now and then. Just last week I bumped into them having dinner together in Malta, as I occasionally do. It's tough to break a winning duo. See you next month, in the mean time you can catch up with my blogs at http://samspeaks21.blogspot.com
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THE RITE OF SPRING The Rite of Spring is a ballet and orchestral work by Igor Stravinsky. It was written for the 1913 ballet season. The original choreography was by Vaslav Nijinsky. When first performed at the Theatre des Champs-Elysees on May 29, 1913, the avant-garde nature of the music and choreography caused a near riot in the audience. Audiences were not ready for its raw, primal, athletic, emotional, modern dance depiction. Modern Dance was being born! The concept behind The Rite of Spring suggested various primitive rituals celebrating the advent of Spring where a young girl is chosen as a sacrificial victim and dances herself to death. After its tumultuous debut the ballet was not performed again until the 1920s when a version choreographed by Leonide Massine replaced Nijinsky's original. Massine was the forerunner of many innovative productions directed by the world's leading ballet-masters, which gained the work worldwide acceptance. The Rite was first shown in the United States in April 1930 when Massine's version was performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra with modern dance pioneer Martha Graham dancing the role of the chosen one. In the 1980s, Nijinsky's original choreography was reconstructed by the Joffrey Ballet. It is estimated that since its premiere, the ballet has been the subject of at least 150 productions, many of which have become classics and have been performed worldwide to rave reviews. In 1975 Pina Bausch caused a stir with her stark depiction, danced on a dirt covered stage. Part of this dance appears in the movie Pina. It is breathtaking! This June the Martha Graham dance company will be dancing their version of The Rite of Spring at The Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Dana Wojcik is the very talented dancer teacher/choreographer who works with me and teaches all of my teenage classes. Last year Dana choreographed her own version of The Rite of Spring for our oldest, most accomplished dance class level. It is professional stage worthy and truly exquisite. You may view the dance in its entirety on my website www.ginnymartindance.com. Happy Spring! Ginny Martin • Modern Dance with Ginny Martin 518-399-5802 • www.ginnymartindance.com www.danceclassathome.com
“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” - Margaret Atwood
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HOW WILL SOCIAL SECURITY FIT INTO YOUR RETIREMENT INCOME STRATEGY?
Only married people understand you can be miserable and happy at the same time. - Chris Rock
DRINK, SHARE, SUCCEED.
Call at 858-8786 or visit www.myjavita.com/4health, -Jaime Hill, changing lives one cup at a time!
Have you given much thought to collecting Social Security? The answer probably depends on how old you are - but whatever your age, you’ll want to consider the best way of incorporating Social Security benefits into your retirement income strategy. Of course, if you have several decades to go until you retire, you might be wondering if Social Security will even be there for you at all. The basic issue is that the Social Security system is experiencing a sharply declining worker-tobeneficiary ratio. In plain English, this means that fewer workers are contributing to Social Security while the huge baby boom generation is retiring and taking money out. Still, Social Security has enough money to pay full retirement benefits to every eligible American until 2038, according to the Congressional Budget Office. After that point, benefits would have to be reduced unless changes are made to the Social Security system. And several changes have indeed been proposed. Given that we do have nearly 25 years until benefit cuts may need to be made, it seems reasonable that some type of solution could be reached to put Social Security back on solid ground. In any case, when thinking about your retirement income, you need to focus on those things that you can control - such as when to start taking Social Security and how you can supplement your Social Security benefits. Depending on when you were born, your “full” retirement age, as far as collecting Social Security benefits, is likely either 66 or 67. You can start getting your checks as early as 62, but if you do, your monthly payments could be reduced by as much as 30% - and this reduction is permanent. Consequently, if you can support your lifestyle from other sources of income - such as earnings from employment and withdrawals from your IRA and 401(k) - you may want to postpone taking Social Security until you reach your full retirement age. In fact, you can get even bigger monthly checks if you delay taking your benefits beyond your full retirement age, although your payments will “max out” once you reach 70. Keep in mind, though, that other factors, such as your anticipated longevity, should also enter into your calculations in considering when to take Social Security. As mentioned above, your retirement income may also include withdrawals from retirement accounts, such as an IRA and a 401(k), along with other investments, such as a fixed annuity. And these other accounts are quite important, because Social Security provides, on average, only about 40% of retirement income for the average 65-yearold today. Consequently, in the years and decades before you retire, contribute as much as you can possibly afford to these other accounts. Given the advances in medical care and the greater awareness of healthy lifestyles, people are living longer than ever - which means you could spend two, or even three, decades in retirement. To enjoy those years fully, you’ll need adequate income. By planning ahead, you can determine how best to fit Social Security into your retirement income strategy. Every move you make to help “secure” your retirement can pay off for you in the long run. Christopher Nyhan runs the Edward Jones office in Burnt Hills, NY. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Chris can be reached at 399-5087 or chris.nyhan@edwardjones.com.
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SPRING IS IN THE AIR… For most us, the start of spring is welcomed by thoughts of warmer weather, beautiful flowers and picnics in the park. But, for the 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies, the early signs of spring more closely resemble sneezing, coughing and itchy, watery eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis, also called "allergic rhino conjunctivitis," is the most common allergic eye disorder. The condition is usually seasonal and is associated with hay fever. The main cause is pollens, although indoor allergens such as dust mites, molds, and dander from household pets may affect the eyes year-round. Typical complaints include itching, redness, tearing, burning, watery discharge, and eyelid swelling. Rubbing itchy eyes is a natural response. However, rubbing usually worsens the allergic reaction due to the physical impact on the mast cells, which causes them to release more mediators of the immune response. Translation: Do not rub your eyes! To effectively treat and relieve the symptoms caused by eye allergies, patients should see their optometrist. In most cases, allergyrelated conjunctivitis can be soothed with prescription or over-the-counter eye drops depending on the patient and his or her medical history. While eye allergies can affect anyone, the spring can be particularly hard on contact lens wearers. Extended wear time and infrequent lens replacement are two of the main reasons contact lens wearers face more severe symptoms. We recommend contact lens wearers consider the following to make the spring season more comfortable: • Reduce contact lens wearing time when possible. • Talk to your optometrist about changing your cleaning method or using daily disposable contact lenses. • Use eye drops as prescribed by a doctor of optometry. While eye allergies can be a nuisance and affect job performance, leisure and sporting activities, symptoms of allergies can be curtailed and prevented by following these recommendations: • Don't touch or rub your eyes. • Wash hands often with soap and water. • Wash bed linens and pillowcases in hot water and detergent to reduce allergens. • Avoid sharing, and in some cases, wearing eye makeup. • Never share contact lenses or contact lens cases with someone else. Beyond discussing allergy relief with your optometrist, the AOA also recommends adults age 60 and under have a comprehensive eye exam every two years. Adults over age 60 should have eye exams annually. For more information contact Kristen Cameron, Burnt Hills Optical, 793 Rt. 50 Burnt Hills, 399-6130 or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com
$5 OFF Every $25 Spent! Not to be combined with any other discounts. Must present this coupon. Expires 3/31/14
HUGE WINTER CLEARANCE! Re-imagine your wardrobe. Re-love your clothes. Re-ward your wallet.
Double M
A Unique Consignment Boutique
WOMEN'S CLOTHING l HANDBAGS l JEWELRY
ACCEPTING SPRING CONSIGNORS NOW! CONVENIENTLY LOCATED RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO THE DOUBLE M TACK STORE, ROUTE 67, BALLSTON SPA
518.885.9543 • Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5
A successful man is one-who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him. - David Brinkley
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
The Freedom Z is designed for commercial and large estate use. Learn more about the outstanding features of the Freedom Z and how it can save you time while delivering professional results.
Let the experts at All Seasons help you find the power equipment to fit your needs! Celebrating 45 years of grooming the Capital District!
The Cheetah is the fastest cat in the Scag zero-turn rider lineup with speeds up to 16 mph! An Operator Suspension System delivers a smooth ride while cutting grass with either a 61" or 72" cutter deck. Your choice of air-cooled engine options up to 34hp.
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MARCH CROSSWORD PUZZLE
16. Midday 17. Contemptuous look 18. 1 1 1 1 19. Fecal matter of animals 20. Affection 22. Auspices
DOWN 1. Outlay 2. Solitary 3. Ends a prayer
4. Hurried 5. Termagant 6. Men of great strength 7. Kitchen set 8. Poems 9. Not greater 10. Unvanquished 11. French for "Red" 12. Classical Greek 13. Anxiety 21. Cite 25. Central points 26. Piecrust ingredient 27. Away from the wind 28. Widespread 29. Astounded 34. Sickens 36. What a person is called 37. Ear-related 38. Roman emperor 40. Beasts of burden 42. Gather 45. Indignation 48. Interwoven branches 51. Lose consciousness 52. He plays a role 53. Odd-numbered page 55. Tucks away 58. Greeting at sea 59. Brother of Jacob 60. 53 in Roman numerals 61. Not right 62. Backside
Answers can be found on page 30
ACROSS 1. Elegance 6. False god 10. Murres 14. Dynamism 15. Go on horseback
23. Toward sunset 24. Outcome 26. Magma 30. Hale 31. Caviar 32. "Oh my!" 33. Biblical garden 35. Religious law 39. Repair 41. Provoke 43. Treat for drug dependence 44. Essence 46. Arab chieftain 47. Not used 49. Utilize 50. A style of design 51. Fine wheat meal 54. Orange pekoe 56. Cards with 1 symbol 57. A lively whirling Italian dance 63. Skin irritation 64. Not this 65. Willow 66. Memo 67. Balcony section 68. Homeless children 69. Stepped 70. Visual organs 71. Hotel offering
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Since 1904 the Garofalo Family Has Been Privileged To Provide Our Honored Muffulettas 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar 2 Garlic cloves, peeled and minced 1 teaspoon fresh dried Oregano from Garofalo's 1/3 cup Olive Oil- flavors available at Garofalo's 10 large pitted green Olives from Garofalo's chopped 1/3 cup pitted, chopped Kalamata Olives from Garofalo's 1/4 cup chopped roasted Red Bell Peppers from Garofalo's Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 (1lb) round bread loaf (about 7” in diameter and 3” high) 4 ounces thinly sliced Garofalo's Ham 4 ounces thinly sliced Mortadella from Garofalo's 4 ounces thinly sliced Salami from Garofalo's 4 ounces sliced Provolone from Garofalo's 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced 1/2 ounces Arugula Leaves Whisk the first 3 ingredients in a large bowl to blend. Gradually blend in the oil. Stir in the olives and roasted peppers. Season the vinaigrette, to taste, with salt and pepper. Cut the top 1” of the bread loaf. Set the top aside. Hollow out the bottom and top halves of the bread. Spread some of the olive and roasted pepper mix over the bread bottom and cut side of the bread top. Layer the meats and cheeses in the bread bottom. Top with the onions, then the arugula. Spread the remaining olive and roasted pepper mix on top of the sandwich and carefully cover with the bread top. You have a choice here, cut the bread into wedges and serve immediately or you can wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator a day before serving to marry the flavors.
Garofalo's, the taste people travel for! Stop in and visit the 4th generation, serving QUALITY ITALIAN PRODUCTS since 1904. www.garofalosausage.com
Customers The Very Best.
OUR SIGNATURE ITALIAN SAUSAGE Hot or Sweet; Rope style or Patties Meatballs and Bragoiles Kielbasa, Chorizo, Andouille, Bratwurst, Daisy Hams & Thick Sliced Bacon CUSTOM CUT BEEF Filet Mignon Rib eye steaks choice NY Strip Steaks choice PORK Pork Chops Center Cut Bone in or Stuffed Pork Tenderloins* POULTRY Skinless boneless Chicken breasts Chicken Cutlets or Stuffed Chicken Breasts* COLD CUTS Featuring Battistoni Salami, Capicola, Soppresata & Abruzzi *Our own bread crumb and sausage stuffing Don't forget the Homemade Stuffed Cherry Peppers or Freshly Grated Parmesan to complement our large Selection of Pasta & Casa Visco Sauces. A variety of Olive Oils as well as blocks of Sharp Provolone, Fontinella, Asiago, Extra Sharp Canadian Cheddar, Smoked Cheddar, Danish Blue Cheese, Pecorino Romano and Parmesan Reggianito.
Black &Tan Pork with Spicy Ale Coleslaw 1 12-ounce bottle pale ale (preferably Bass) 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 pounds pork tenderloin from Garofalo's For the Glaze: 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil available in flavors at Garofalo's 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced available fresh at Garofalo's 1 12-ounce bottle stout beer (preferably Guinness) 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 cup honey 1 teaspoon minced peeled ginger 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch For the Slaw: 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons honey 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon minced peeled ginger 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded 2 medium bell peppers (red, orange and/or yellow), thinly sliced 2 carrots, cut into matchsticks or shredded 1 large sweet onion, quartered and thinly sliced Combine the pale ale, five-spice powder, cayenne, salt and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Reserve 1/4 cup. Add the pork to the bag and mix well. Refrigerate 26 hours. Whisk the soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger in a large bowl. Whisk in the reserved 1/4 cup marinade. Add cabbage, bell peppers, carrots and onion and toss. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until golden. Add 1 Tbsp each stout and brown sugar and cook 4 min. Add all but 2 Tbsps of remaining stout, honey, remaining 3/4 cup plus 3 Tbsp brown sugar and ginger. Bring to a boil over med-high heat, stirring, then lower to med and simmer until reduced by half. Whisk the remaining 2 Tbsp stout and cornstarch in a bowl; slowly stir into the glaze, boil 2 min. Remove from the heat and let cool. Preheat the oven to 375o. Remove pork from the marinade, bake 35-45 min. Remove and let rest 5 min.Slice the pork and serve with the slaw. Drizzle both the pork and slaw with the glaze.
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SPRING TIME, REAL ESTATE MARKET, AND WEDDING RINGS… How’s that for a lead in? Our winter was a harsh one for sure but the time of year we’ve all been waiting for is here! March 20 is the first day of SPRING! It may not feel like it, or smell like it, or even look like it to you; but the calendar says it and I believe it…spring is definitely in the air! Buyers began coming out of hibernation in full force right after the February school break and thus the ‘spring real estate thaw’ has begun! YOU were one of THOSE people (whether buying or selling) who were waiting jump into the real estate market in the Spring, weren’t you? Statistically speaking NOW is a great time to both buy and sell a house. Interest rates are still attractive and economists say they should remain lower than their long term average for a while (but are expected to rise slightly later in 2014). The area’s inventory is still fairly close to the current demand. The market has stabilized meaning it is not over inflated nor is it in the proverbial toilet. According to the New York State Association of Realtors CEO, Duncan MacKenzie sellers statewide are averaging 95% of their list price! This is all GREAT news for both buyers and sellers! Now, I could go on and on with national and statewide statistics and you could get bored, lose focus, and stop reading BUT (you are still wondering what this has to do with wedding rings) I really, really like it when I know you’ve read, enjoyed, and take something away from reading my column. So let me just ask YOU a few questions instead. As a seller: Is selling your house and getting pretty close to your asking price your goal? As a buyer: Is getting the right home at the right price while taking advantage of (still) historically low mortgage interest rates your goal? Warren Buffet stated "All things considered, the third-best investment I ever made was the purchase of my home…”. Here’s the good part, he went on to say "The two best investments were wedding rings." WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR??? Call me TODAY for your no obligation conversation - I look forward to it! Margaret Phillips, CBR, Broker 518.701.1657 • margaret@oldeorchardrealestate.com www.oldeorchardrealestate.com
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UPDATING YOUR ESTATE PLAN What affects does a divorce have on your Wills and Advance Directives, Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney forms? When a person becomes divorced, then the appointment as an Executor and beneficiary in a Will by the former spouse is voided, brought to an end. A divorce also ends any appointment as an agent under both the Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney forms. Frequently, people list multiple persons on a Health Care Proxy and sometimes multiple agents on the Power of Attorney Forms. You should act promptly to update your Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney Forms so that your choices are followed. Without updated Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy Forms, your family could need to seek Court authority to assist you if you become incapacitated. Fortunately, almost every hospital and most doctor’s offices have Health Care Proxy forms available. You also may need to update your Wills, especially if you did not name an alternate executor and/or beneficiaries other than your former spouse in your Will. Even if you have alternates named, it is a good idea to redraft your Will. If a need arises to update your Will, Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney Forms, please feel free to contact me. It would be my pleasure to help you.
Burnt Hills and Schenectady (518) 370-4645 • jfantauzzi@ecmlaw.com
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
We have been publishing Your Hometowne for 5 years now. You have welcomed us into your home, your lives and shared some very private moments with us. When Paul and I started this journey in 2009 we had no idea it would be so personal. Why did we decide to start publishing YHT? My career started at The Saratogian in 1992. Nancy Meyer, the Advertising Manager took a shot on me, hired me fresh out of college with no experience. Within a year Nancy and our Ad Director, Madge McElroy were hired by the Times Union. With their backing, I too was hired by the TU. One day Nancy called me into her office and told me she was leaving the TU. She had a great offer from a company in NYC in a different industry and was going for it. While I was happy for her, I was also sad. She was my mentor, my friend. I relied on her for her solid judgment and ability to keep me motivated. I watched as she packed her office thinking; I can't believe she is doing this. Less than a year later she came back to the TU. I went to her office to welcome her back. She said this to me - Cheryll, there is something about the newspaper business. Once you are in it you have ink in your blood, it becomes your passion. Fast forward 15 years. Paul is getting ready to retire from GE after 42 years. I am working in another industry. Paul was a Black Belt at GE, his job was quality assurance, evaluating statistical analysis of the process and procedure's at the Schenectady Campus. But what he liked best was his role as a customer tour guide to the numerous potential buyers of the Turbines and Generators that GE fabricates. Meeting, greeting and guiding guests through the plant, with the manufacturing knowledge to engage these clients, this role was a fit; Paul is a people person. In 2009, by chance I met a man who owned a paper Bethlehem, John Guestella. John loved what he did. Now I am re-playing Nancy's statement in my head, you have ink in your blood. I missed working at the paper. Within 2 weeks of meeting John I was convinced I needed to return to the print world, I had ink in my blood. With Paul's retirement on the horizon I knew we produce a community paper as a team. Together we took the plunge! We got our business license in September '09 and our first paper was 3 weeks later. We were ecstatic, like little kids - we made a whole $32 after expenses. Since then we have printed a
paper every single month without fail. Karen Garrison, owner of Centerline Design joined our team the following year and took the design of YHT to the next level. We began adding new features, a recipe page from Garafolo's, Racing news from Mortensen Motorsports, expert columns, a monthly inspirational column from Pattie Rakvica. With the help of Amy Aldrich (State Farm) and her very talented daughter, Hailey, we started our Hometowne Talent feature. Hailey has since performed in theater at a professional level. I know one day I will be able to say, yup I scooped her! Our Hometowne Hero feature has connected us to people who have touched our hearts forever. Our most recent addition, Sam Speaks is a contribution from Sam Capuano. Born and raised in Burnt Hills, Sam is able to connect with our community. Sam's strong writing skills and fondness for this area is a perfect fit for YHT! We are thrilled to have him on-board. We take what we do to heart. We feel responsible for our community, our neighbors, our business owners, and our commerce. YHT had changed us, in a good way. The common thread of everything we do is to keep it local. To keep you informed of the good stuff. It's alright here!
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DO THIS TO SLIM DOWN For ages you've been eating healthy and exercising, and yet still haven't met your fat loss goal. What's the deal? This is a quandary that all dedicated fat-lossseekers find themselves facing, sooner or later. Why won't the weight come off? You are doing everything you can think of to make it happen. It's time to come face-to-face with an ugly truth about yourself... and until you do you'll always be stuck in this place where healthy eating and exercise do not get you that amazing body you want. There's one simple thing standing between you and a slimmed down, amazingly fit body. And here it is...You eat too many calories. That's it. Solve this problem and your dream body will quickly and easily become reality. Wait, don't give me the excuse that, "I only eat healthy calories." That's great, but even healthy calories add up to extra pounds when we let them go unchecked. Do you know how many calories you eat each day? If you're not sure, don't worry. You're about to learn the one fat loss tool that will change everything for you. First we need to get to the bottom of how many calories you're eating each day. Yes, even those healthy calories. Before you start whining, let me explain. Food journaling doesn't involved lugging around a journal, writing down each food item throughout the day then looking everything up at the end of the day to manually tally calories like it used to. These days food journaling has gone digital, and tracking your calories only takes seconds of your time. DO THIS TO SLIM DOWN Here's what I need you to do: #1: Download a food journal application to your smart phone. At the touch of your fingers you'll be able to look up food items and instantly see your running calorie tally. #2: Meet with your doctor to find a daily calorie count that will allow for safe weight loss and then diligently maintain that number. Eat healthy, fresh foods and when you decide to indulge, make sure to do so within your target calorie range. #3: Meet with me for a consistent and challenging exercise routine. My exercise programs are specifically crafted to get you into amazing shape as quickly as possible. These three, simple steps will give you structure and clarity that you need when it comes to making food choices and will quickly result in pounds lost and goals achieved. Once your goal weight is met, your target calorie range will be adjusted for maintenance. I'd love to hear from you. Call or email today to get started. 424-7878 or email gina@precisefitnessandtraining.com to get started today with a free consultation.
518-399-8174 • kdeangelo@sals.edu
LIBRARY MINI GOLF WAS MARVELOUS! Many thanks to the Businesses, Friends, Volunteers and Golfers for making it great! And thank you to Your Hometowne! MANY THANKS TO THE BALLSTON SPA NATIONAL BANK STAFF for nominating the Town of Ballston Community Library to receive a $500 donation from Ballston Spa National Bank! - The Staff & Trustees of the Town of Ballston Community Library Tuesday 3/4 7pm - Friends of the Town of Ballston Community Library Monthly Meeting - If you are interested in being more involved in your community and the library now is your chance. Looking for officers! Monday 3/10 7pm - Library Book Club - Join us for our discussion on our chosen book. Wednesday 3/26 7pm - Board Meeting - Open to the Public! Come join us! March Computer Classes 3/11 Common Computer Concepts 3/11 Picasa 3/11 Microsoft Word Level I 3/11 Microsoft Excel Level I 3/13 Introduction to the iPad 3/18 Introduction to the iPad 3/20 Intro To Windows 8 3/25 Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 Level 1 3/25 Microsoft Excel 2010 Level II 3/25 Microsoft Access Level I 3/25 Google and the Internet 3/27 Introduction to Facebook
1:30pm-3pm 12pm-1:30pm 3:30pm-5pm 5pm-6:30pm 11am-1pm 6am-8pm 11am-1pm 1:30pm-3pm 3:30pm-5pm 5pm-6:30pm 12pm-1:30pm 11am-1pm
Check out our classes in more detail at http://toblibrary.sals.edu/index.php/calendar/ or register for classes by phone, in person or online at http://toblibrary.sals.edu/index.php/about-2/program-course-registration/ (Adult Programs) and Youth Services at http://toblibrary.sals.edu/index.php/youth-services/
ELEMENTARY PROGRAMS 2,3,4 Book Club - Wednesday 4/19 4pm - Where kids in grades 2,3 & 4 can enjoy a theme book club with Legos! Each month enjoy reading different books of the same genre or theme, do a craft and play with Legos. Friends are welcome! *Registration Required Scribbles and Tales - Wednesday 4/19 4pm - Listen to stories and do crafts! This is an inclusive program for children of all levels of ability in grades K-1. Please sign up in advance. DATES AND TIMES FOR ALL OUR YOUTH SERVICES ARE ONLINE! See our list of regularly scheduled youth programs such as: Baby Bookworms, Family Story Time, Preschool Story Time and Art & Movement as well as our programs for Teens: Reading Club and VolunTeens! HOURS: M-Th 10AM-8PM / Fri 10AM-5PM / Sat 10AM-2PM ONLINE http://catalog.sals.edu or http://toblibrary.sals.edu YOUTH SERVICES http://toby.sals.edu • E-mail: rdarling@sals.edu
From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
MARCH IN BETWEEN As the blanket of snow seems to melt away into the earth, new soil is exposed and it seems as though our world is in transition. March is that month that lays right in between. Some days are filled with sunshine, giving way to the hope of warmer weather ahead. And some, remind us that winter may just hang on a bit longer. With each passing day we brush off the cabin fever that felt like an eternity of blustery cold weather slapping you in the face. To wake up to 50 degree days that get you thinking of Spring. We start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We think of those April showers that will replace the big snowflakes that turn in circles in our back yard. Looking forward to a light jacket rather than multiple layers of fleece and fur.
53 MAPLE AVE • SCOTIA www.animalprotective.org
On the 20th of this month at precisely 4:57pm an amazing event occurs. I say amazing, as you may not think of it that way yourself. Here are the facts and they may just change your mind; When the Earths equator passes the center of the sun - the whole axis of the Earth in neither towards or away from the sun. Producing an equal day and equal night. Creating an Equinox. This only occurring twice a year (again in September, so watch out). Now, I know this may not sound very exciting really, but if you lived closer to the equator you would not experience it at all. A lot of variances need to come into play here. The sun has to be a certain size, the angle has to be just so. Subsolar points need to move northward and has only 30 seconds to do so or it runs into the Septembers equinox... axis, alignment, Oh MY! I know, this sounds like a lot of garble to most of us. It is a truly amazing event that happens literally before our eyes and yet we don't even see it. The Earth does not rubble or sway. No big lightning strikes. It all must come together and it does, quietly and twice each year. It makes me think... here we are in between the seasons, sitting quietly waiting. Take this time to reflect and reminisce about the good times all bundled up, snowshoeing or skiing. Sipping hot cocoa in front of the woodstove. Take a deep breath and look forward, plan and maybe even add a thing or two to your bucket list. Look forward to planting a garden or simply being able to go for a walk outside without winter boots on. Enjoy the solace of an equally long day and night because tomorrow it will all begin again. As always, I wish you peace, joy and a very pleasant March in between. Pattie Rakvica • idriveaware@gmail.com
Answers from Crossword Puzzle on page 22
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CLOUD COMPUTING Modern computing in the age of the Internet is quite a strange, remarkable thing. As you sit hunched over your laptop at home watching a YouTube video or using a search engine, you’re actually plugging into the collective power of thousands of computers that serve all this information to you from far-away rooms distributed around the world. It’s almost like having a massive supercomputer at your beck and call, thanks to the Internet. This phenomenon is what we typically refer to as cloud computing. We now read the news, listen to music, shop, watch TV shows and store our files on the web. Nearly every museum, bank, and government office has a website. The end result? We spend less time in lines or on the phone, as these websites allow us to do things like pay bills and make reservations. The movement of many of our daily tasks online enables us to live more fully in the real world. Cloud computing offers other benefits as well. Not too long ago, many of us worried about losing our documents, photos and files if something bad happened to our computers, like a virus or a hardware malfunction. Today, our data is migrating beyond the boundaries of our personal computers. Instead, we’re moving our data online into “the cloud”. If you upload your photos, store critical files online and use a web-based email service like AOL, Gmail or Yahoo Mail, an 18-wheel truck could run over your laptop and all your data would still safely reside on the web, accessible from any Internet-connected computer, anywhere in the world. DIAGNOSIS.................................$25 VIRUS REMOVAL..........................$75 BACK-UPS..................................$50 VIRUS REMOVAL INCLUDES A REFORMAT, FREE ANTI-VIRUS AND MALWARE PROGRAMS! As always... Safe Computing! Cheap Geek Computer Services • Maggie Faltskog • 399-8886
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
TA L E N T Photos courtesy of Chris Jones
The Burnt Hills Oratorio Society (BHOS) is a volunteer chorus composed of 60 to 90 singers from communities across the Greater Capital Region. On March 16th BHOS will present The Revelations of Divine Love (Metaphors from Sea and Sky) by an inspired young American composer, Carson Cooman. Mr. Cooman's beautiful music exemplifies the best of contemporary choral writing. It is a haunting and beautiful piece that interweaves the scenery of Nantucket Island with the words of the medieval mystic, Julian of Norwich. Written for a university chorus in London, Revelations has been performed internationally, but BHOS's upcoming concert is the American Northeast premiere. BHOS has invited Mr. Cooman to discuss his work with the audience prior to the performance. Ticket holders will have the opportunity to learn about the oratorio from the composer himself.
Founded in 1970 by the late Glenn E. Soellner, BHOS proudly presents two major concerts annually that achieve high musical standards. Featuring local soloists and orchestral players, these concerts tap into the tremendous reservoir of artistic talent residing in our area. BHOS's mission is to be faithful to the musical vision of each composer. The chorus members represent all age groups and vocations. Under the enthusiastic artistic direction of Susan Hermance Fedak, BHOS mounts choral performances that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Ms. Fedak grew up in Schenectady and graduated from Hope College with a degree in vocal performance. Now a resident of Albany, she is in demand as a mezzo soprano soloist, vocal teacher, and conductor in the Northeast. Fedak took over the BHOS baton in September 2012, when former Artistic Director, Rand Reeves, stepped down from the podium after directing the choir for 22 years. BHOS continually seeks new singers. Participating in a large choir is a chance to blend voices and enjoy community in a way that is often lacking in today's culture. Membership in the group is open to all singers without audition. Rehearsals are every Tuesday night at the Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake High School. BHOS is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, achieving its level of excellence with the support of its community friends and neighbors. It has recently enjoyed grant support from the Saratoga Program for Arts Funding through the New York State Council on the Arts. Visit the choir's website (www.BHOS.us) or call (518) 416-4060 for more information about the choir, including how to join, what is planned for the future, and how to make donations. The best way to learn about Burnt Hills Oratorio Society is to attend its March 16th concert. The performance is scheduled for 3:00 PM, at the Arthur B. Zankel Music Center's Helen Filene Ladd Concert Hall, Skidmore College. Saratoga Springs. Tickets are $20 ($10 for students) and can be purchased on the choir's website (www.BHOS.us), via BrownPaperTickets.com, or at the door on the day of the performance. Mr. Cooman's preconcert program begins at 2:00 PM and is included in the price of the ticket. Please plan to attend the concert, support your local community chorus, and meet the composer!
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Gift Certificates Available
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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor
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