Your Hometowne August 2012

COMPLIMENTARY

AUGUST 2012

THIS MONTH’S BUSINESS IN FOCUS

PRECISION AUTO Cover Photo Courtesy of Roy Ryan

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

For Advertising Info: 265.1105

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yourhometowne@gmail.com

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w w w. y o u r- h o m e t o w n e. c o m

Customized Retaining Walls • Walkways and Patios Landscape Design and Installation Sprinkler Systems • Night Lighting Hydro-Seeding • Spring Cleanups Lawn Maintenance • Renovation

Pro-Cut Landscaping has been sprucing up lawns for 25 years!

Family owned - Kerby and Cindy Loukes

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

A message from

THE ANATOMY OF A COMMUNITY EVENT Behind the Scenes at Glenville's Oktoberfest

Saturday, September 29, 2012 marks the third annual Glenville Oktoberfest. We all know it's a great community and family event but did you ever wonder how it all happens? Months of hard work come together and like Christmas morning or a bride's wedding day, in the blink of an eye, the event that runs from 12 - 9 pm is over.

“Well, I wish I could describe something glamorous but it's really just a handful of hardworking community-minded people that plan for months.

Closer to the event, scores of volunteers come together and pick up our slack and make the event run smoothly,” described committee chair David Hennel. “The first year, we stood back in awe. How could just a few of us produce an event that drew nearly 5,000 people? We're still not sure quite how we pulled it off but now it's second nature. We've grown into a great team.”

The sultry days of August are upon us.

I'm happy to say it's not just Saratoga that is getting the economic boost from Race fans! Ballston Spa has done a really good job sprucing up the Village and marketing themselves to the tourist by being active with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and being a part of Saratoga.com. Just walk around the Ballston Spa and you will find a variety of restaurants, wonderful little shops, day spas and the “Hometowne” feel of a bustling village with something for everyone.

Burnt Hills is experiencing growth as well. Burnt Hills Music has relocated from the Dollar General Plaza. Rick and his crew of music teachers and his stock of instruments is now located right next door to the Burnt Hills Café. Back to school is right around the corner, a perfect time to get your children interested in something more than the internet! A new shop called Organic Glo Skin Boutique & Spa has opened on the corner of Rt 50 and Lakehill Rd (around the corner from Terry's Floors). Rumor has it the old Jan's Roadhouse is going to be a Coffee Shop with light fare and a cozy atmosphere. I took a peek inside and they have done a wonderful job with the building. I can't wait to see them open! The Millstone is going to be The Pig and Whistle; a Tavern and Restaurant. It's great to see people investing into our community and putting new faces on what were once empty buildings.

“Last year we had some challenges with the weather but this year we've been assured that it's going to be a beautiful day,” promised Town of Glenville Director of Operations Jamie MacFarland. “The setting at Richmor Aviation is perfect for this event. The hangar is a great biergarten, there's plenty for kids to do, great food and all sorts of music. Each year Oktoberfest just gets better and better.”

Not to be outdone, Glenville has certainly turned the corner! The new Target is nearly complete; Glenridge Rd construction is in full swing, widening the two railroad underpasses to accommodate two 11-foot travel lanes and six-foot shoulders on each side. The bridge carrying Glenridge Road over the Alplaus Kill will be replaced. This will enhance the opportunity for an anticipated influx of shoppers headed from the Rexford area that would normally be going to Clifton Park or Niskayuna to spend their money. So spruce up your stores Glenville merchants; because there is going to be a whole new crowd of perspective customers coming your way!

“This year, we're taking it over the top. There will be more activities, more music, more food, more fun and more people,” explained Glenville Business and Professionals Association President James Valachovic. “The participation of the community and the businesses created a strong message that this type of event is desired in Glenville. A tremendous amount of work goes into this event but it's a labor of love for all of us. I'll add…we're all a little crazy too!”

Paul and I have experienced a great increase in our business as well.

We have embraced the Ballston Spa community into our paper so we can better serve the residents and business owners of the Rt 50 Corridor. We now mail over 3,000 papers into Ballston Spa bringing our total mailed circulation to 13,000. We joke that we are trying our best to keep the USPS in the black, single handedly!

The inaugural event in 2010 garnered significant support in sponsorships from local business allowing event admission to be free. Last year that tradition not only continued but sponsorship increased. Those interested in participating as a vendor, supporting the event through sponsorship or keeping abreast of added activities can find information on the web page www.glenvilleoktoberfest.com. To sponsor this high profile event contact Sheryl Lauria at slauria@nycap.rr.com.

We hope you enjoy August in this beautiful area we live in. Spend time outside, spend your money locally and we will catch up with you in September!

Every other week for six months, a dozen or so unlikely event planners sit around a table at the Glenville Senior Center and plot out a course of action, identify sponsors, troubleshoot and hash out the vendors needed to provide a well-rounded, fun-for-all day.

“The Oktoberfest far exceeded anything we anticipated as a committee,” explained committee member, Town Councilman and Solid Surface Craftsman Owner Alan Boulant. “It was a wonderful opportunity for our local businesses to connect with the residents of Glenville and the greater Capital Region as a whole. But behind the scenes we're toting garbage, parking cars, directing people and keeping things running smooth. It's a long day and worth every minute!”

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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Mon-Fri 7-9:30pm Sat 8-9:30pm • Sun 11-9:30pm

STOP IN FOR BREAKFAST! YOUR CHOICE: Bacon, Ham, Sausage or Steak and Egg with cheese or a Western with cheese on a toasted hard roll - ONLY $3.49 Omelettes • French Toast • Pancakes • Hash Browns Homefries • Muffins • Bagels • Donuts and MORE!

Join us after the track as we celebrate the Magic of the Sea Every Evening with Fresh and Savory Seafood Creations from Chef Paul Persico.

Marlin • Swordfish • Snapper • Clams • Ahi Tuna • Calamari (as available by market) Bridal Showers • Rehearsal Dinners • Intimate Couture Weddings

399-9951 • 745 Charlton Road, Charlton • www.charltontavern.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

2009 2012 2002 1989 2003 2010 1989 1987

14' Starcraft Side Console w/25hp 4-Stroke Merc/Trolling Motor/Trailer New Venture 5900lb Aluminum Trailer 9.9ML Mercury 4-Stroke 32' Carver Aft Cabin w/ Twin 5.7 Mercs. Very Clean 19' Triumph w/ 135 Saltwater Mer. Fish Ready!!

16' New Duranautic Tiller w/25hp Merc. Trailer 25' Sunray w/ A/C, Generator and Aft Cabin 31' Sivlerton F/B, Newer 318 Chryslers, Full Bridge Enclosure

$6,495 $2,695 $1,295 $19,995 $8,995 $5,995 $4,995 $6,995

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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PUT TIME - AND TAX-ADVANTAGED INVESTMENTS - ON YOUR SIDE If you're relatively young, and you've been investing only a few years, you possess an asset that is invaluable and cannot be replaced: time. And the more time you spend contributing to tax-advantaged investments, the better off you may be.

As an investor, time is your ally. Simply put, the more time you give to your growth-oriented investments, the greater their growth potential.

And when you're investing in tax-advantaged vehicles, time becomes an even more critical component of investment success, especially when you are young and have several decades ahead of you before you retire.

Suppose, for example, that you put $200 per month into an investment on which you paid taxes every year. If you earned a hypothetical 7% return on this investment, you'd end up with about $324,000 after 40 years. But if you put that same $200 per month into a tax-deferred investment, such as a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA), and you earned that same 7% return, you'd wind up with about $513,000 after 40 years. Of course, once you starting taking withdrawals, presumably when you're retired, you'll have to pay taxes on your earnings, so your after-tax accumulation would be about $385,000, assuming you were in the 25% tax bracket. However, by the time you retire, you may be in a lower bracket. Plus, you have some control over how much you withdraw each year, so you may be able to affect the taxes you'll pay. Furthermore, depending on your income level, your contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax-deductible in the years in which you make the contributions. (Keep in mind that this hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent a specific investment or investment strategy.)

While tax deferral is obviously a nice feature for an investment, tax-free may be even better. If you meet the income requirements, you might want to consider investing in a Roth IRA, which provides tax-free earnings withdrawals, provided you've held your account for at least five years and you don't start taking withdrawals until you're at least age 59_. This means that, in the above example, you'd have accumulated that same $513,000 - but you won't have to pay taxes on your withdrawals.

When it comes to building resources for retirement, it's almost impossible to save and invest “too much.” So take full advantage of both time and tax-advantaged investments. By putting these investments to work for you, and by keeping them at work, you'll be putting time on your side as you work toward your financial goals.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Christopher Nyhan runs the Edward Jones office in Burnt Hills, NY. He can be reached at 399-5087 or chris.nyhan@edwardjones.com.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

KEEP YOUR CHILDREN'S EYESIGHT SHARP Vision is more than just the ability to see clearly, or having 20/20 eyesight. It is also the ability to understand and respond to what is seen. Basic visual skills include the ability to focus the eyes, use both eyes together as a team, and move them effectively. Other visual perceptual skills include: • recognition (the ability to tell the difference between letters like "b" and "d"), • comprehension (to "picture" in our mind what is happening in a story we are reading), and • retention (to be able to recall details of what we read).

The military salute is a motion that evolved from medieval times, when knights in armor raised their visors to reveal their identity.

Every child needs to have the following vision skills for effective reading and learning: • Visual acuity - the ability to see clearly in the distance for viewing the chalkboard, at an intermediate distance for the computer, and up close for reading a book.

• Eye Focusing - the ability to quickly and accurately maintain clear vision as the distance from objects change, such as when looking from the chalkboard to a paper on the desk and back. Eye focusing allows the child to easily maintain clear vision over time like when reading a book or writing a report.

• Eye tracking - the ability to keep the eyes on target when looking from one object to another, moving the eyes along a printed page, or following a moving object like a thrown ball.

• Eye teaming - the ability to coordinate and use both eyes together when moving the eyes along a printed page, and to be able to judge distances and see depth for class work and sports.

• Eye-hand coordination - the ability to use visual information to monitor and direct the hands when drawing a picture or trying to hit a ball.

• Visual perception - the ability to organize images on a printed page into letters, words and ideas and to understand and remember what is read.

While many children pass their school's standard vision screening, standard screening is designed to check only for distance vision. These screenings DO NOT check to see if a child can coordinate both eyes as a team, track print consistently across a written page, sustain eye focus across a written page, or adjust focus when looking from near to far-all necessary components of effective learning. If any of these visual skills are lacking or not functioning properly, a child will have to work harder. This can lead to headaches, fatigue and other eyestrain problems. Parents and teachers need to be alert for symptoms that may indicate a child has a vision problem.

For more information contact Kristen Cameron, Burnt Hills Optical 793 Rt. 50 Burnt Hills, 399-6130 or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com Summer Hours: May 25th-August 10th Monday 10-6 Tuesday 10-6 Wednesday 10-8 Thursday 10-6 Friday 10-3

Fo r A d v e r t i s i n g I n f o : 2 6 5 . 1 1 0 5 • y o u r h o m e t o w n e @ g m a i l . c o m • w w w. y o u r- h o m e t o w n e. c o m

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

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MAPLEWOOD MANOR Saratoga County's Hidden Gem

Maplewood Manor is Saratoga County's public nursing home. It houses and provides care to our county's most vulnerable residents. Most of the residents residing in the manor have lived and paid taxes in Saratoga County their entire lives. They paved the way for this generation.

Maplewood Manor houses people of all age groups including veterans, residents with disabilities and residents with no families to care for them.

Maplewood Manor has proudly served the citizens of the county for over thirty years. The New York State Department of Health has rated Maplewood Manor's care as being better than 95% of all residential healthcare facilities in New York State.

The mission of Maplewood Manor employees is to provide quality care in a loving, comfortable and compassionate environment for our elderly. The employees often provide services off duty such as picnics, car rides or just a walk. Many Maplewood Manor employees have been employed at Maplewood Manor over ten years, some as many as 30 years, giving residents continuity of care with very little turn over in staff.

The activity department provides activities to all residents of the facility and their families as well as all of the seniors in the towns, villages and cities of Saratoga County. The activities department provides music programs, holiday gatherings, bingo and a huge yearly “Country Festival” to name just a few. Much of these programs are funded through staff bake sales, fund raisers and donations.

Currently, Maplewood Manor is running a deficit and not receiving the necessary reimbursement from Medicaid/Medicare. Counties such as Fulton and Washington sold their facilities to rid the expense while others such as Albany and Schenectady are building new facilities so that their reimbursement is higher making it possible to continue to provide the care needed to take care of their lifetime residents. Albany and Schenectady County make their elderly residents a priority in their county.

This is an important year in Saratoga County as the CSEA union contract expires December 31, 2012. Meetings between the CSEA and the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors have already begun with negotiations being discussed. Maplewood Manor employees made many concessions in the last contract and are once again prepared to make more concessions in the upcoming contract. The employees are willing to help save the facility from being sold by making concessions in the upcoming contract with hope of a commitment from the county to keep it publicly operated. The Saratoga County supervisors provide excellent oversight ensuring that Maplewood Manor residents receive the quality care that they deserve.

It would be great to see Saratoga County rebuild the facility. It could offer services such as rehabilitation and therapy services, adult daycare and short term respite stays. These services could generate the necessary funds needed to “close the gap” between what the facility is reimbursed and the actual cost. Services such as adult daycare and short term respite stays are services that will soon be sought out.

If we always do what we have always done, we will always have the same result. Times have changed and we need to change direction and provide the services needed in todays and tomorrows growing elderly population.

Saratoga County needs to work with the employees of Maplewood Manor and together we can all have a facility that runs very efficiently while still providing the great quality care.

- Courtesy of Pamela Almy

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

THE DECK IS OPEN-

JOIN US FOR FROZEN DRINKS!

DAILY SPECIALS ON GREAT FOOD FRIDAYS: DRAFTS ARE 2 FOR 1 & $1 OFF ALL OTHER DRINKS FROM 4-6!

885-6861 15 Prospect Street Ballston Spa

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We are the Hometowne Community Interactive Bulletin Board...

Please share your events, accomplishments and whatever you know is happening on the Rt 50 Corridor!

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

ARE YOU GETTING RIPPED OFF BY A CONTRACTOR? As a retired Colonie police officer and a reputable business owner, I feel compelled to try to inform people on how to identify a less than honest contractor.

It continues to happen, even though contractor scams have been exposed in the local news.

Keep in mind, some of these people are con artists, they play on your emotions and pressure you to commit to give them your money. They may “con”vince you to feel sorry for them, intimidate you, and/or give you an offer that you have to accept quickly to get this great “deal”.

Some are desperate people and are in desperate need of your money. They may be good people, but they end up promising you the world and don't fulfill these promises. They end up cutting corners to put more money in their pocket and you don't realize this until long after you have paid them. Or, once they get a decent chunk of your money, they just don't show up to do or finish the work.

Others get in over their head, either due to a lack of experience or they missed something at the time of the estimate. But rather than explain this to the customer and try to work something out, they become desperate and do what desperate people do… desperate acts.

WARNING SIGNS The contractor is using low budget soliciting methods. This may be an inexpensive ad, someone arriving on your property unannounced, cheap flyers on your door or mailbox or signs placed along the road where they have not done a job.

The offer from the contractor seems to be a great deal. Remember, you do get what you pay for. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

The contractor offers you a today only price.

This is a pressure tactic and you should wonder why this person is pressuring you.

A lack of specific written information for the work that will be done. The work should be explained in detail, with a step by step process. You want this to compare apples to apples between contractors.

There is a lack of a legitimate business name on any paperwork or advertising. You want this to check out the business for any past complaints.

There is a lack of a legitimate business location, not a post office box. You want to see an actual street address. You will need this in case you need to pursue any legal action against the business. If you do have to pursue any legal action, you will most likely have to do this where the business is located. Be wary of someone from out of town. Verify the business name and

address with the phone book listing or internet search.

The contractor can't provide insurance information. Every contractor with insurance at least knows the name of their insurance carrier and agent's name/location. This information can be easily verified with a phone call to the agent.

Simply call the agent, tell them who you are dealing with and the work they are proposing to do. Most agents will verify this over the phone and your insurance company will be glad you did, especially if someone gets hurt on your property and/or causes property damage, due to the work being done and the contractor isn't insured.

The contractor is operating with only a cell phone for a contact phone number. Cell phone numbers are easily changed and taken out of service, plus cell numbers don't help to verify where a contractor truly operates.

The contractor refuses to provide personal identification. If you are unsure about a contractor, ask to see their driver's license. If they do provide identification, be sure to look at their picture on the license, compare that picture to their face to make sure it is in fact their license.

Also, be sure to look at their address to see if it makes sense with their business information.

Beware if the address is from out of the area or they give you some excuse as to why they don't have a license.

The contractor's vehicle doesn't match with what they are offering. If they are proposing to do work which requires a specific type of vehicle, for example a truck, but they are not driving that type of vehicle, ask them what they will use to do the work. Beware of a vehicle with out of state plates. Also, keep in mind that vehicle license plates can easily be stolen and switched from another vehicle.

A deposit is required to start the work. This may be acceptable if it is for a large project and the deposit is a small part of the total cost. If the deposit is for a significant amount of the total cost this should raise a red flag. You need to ask yourself why doesn't this person have the financial backing to do the work without a deposit? If the deposit is to cover the materials, then see if you can pay the supplier of the materials, when the materials arrive at your location. Again, you would want to ask yourself, why doesn't this person have any credit with their supplier?

The payments are to be made by check to an individual, or cash. This is a sign that the

person does not have a legitimate bank account in the business name. Also, if you do this, you may not have any recourse against the business.

The contractor doesn't have an established reputation at stake. If this is the case, what do they have to risk if you are not satisfied with the work? (Especially, after they have been paid.)

The contractor can't provide references. You should ask for references from recent work and work from some time ago in your area. Keep in mind that references can be staged through friends and relatives. Don't rely on pictures either, pictures can hide flaws in the work, plus who knows if they are showing you pictures of work they actually did.

You can't verify the contractor's complaint history with the Better Business Bureau. If a contractor has an established business he should have some type of rating with the BBB. If the rating is less than an A, look to see why. In all fairness, sometimes a contractor may have a complaint against them and not know about it.

Or it has been resolved and not reported to the BBB. The BBB is also a good source for other agencies that can assist you, depending on your location and the type of work being done.

The contractor has a negative history with the state attorney general. If the business is from out of state, be sure to check with that state also.

These warning signs should be used only as a guide. Don't make your decision on a single sign alone. Chances are, if you go by this guide you will come across as an informed person, a less than honest contractor will most likely get scared off and move on to someone else. Remember too, if you are getting a bad feeling from someone, go with that feeling and call your local police. The police would rather get a call from you, even if you are wrong or there isn't much they can do. It is better to hear from you sooner, rather than after that person has moved on and ripped off one of your neighbors. Plus, if this person is legitimate, they wouldn't mind talking to the police anyway. Also, try not to let this person know you are calling the police. It works much better if they are surprised.

What this all comes down to is the single question, “Can I trust this person to give me what I am paying for?” This is especially important in the pavement business, because there are many ways to cut corners without your knowledge.

Phil Trifaro, owner of 783-SEAL, Smith's Paving and Sealing • 518-783-SEAL (7325) • www.783seal.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

AUGUST CROSSWORD PUZZLE

16. Whip 17. Broad valley 18. Container 20. Result 22. _______ nor 23. Nigerian tribesman

DOWN 1. Cocoyam 2. Boyfriend 3. It holds up trousers 4. Sample 5. Stocky coarse-furred burrowing rodent 6. Away from the wind 7. Varnish ingredient 8. Ends a prayer

9. Lasso 10. Gladden 11. Russian country house 12. Small islands 13. Not here 19. Name of a book 21. Comply with 25. Tibia 26. Bygone era 27. Debatable 28. Museum piece 29. ___ alia 30. Expletive 31. Genus of macaws 34. Decorative case 35. Fluff 36. Heavy cart 38. A large vase 39. Pitchman 41. Diacritical mark 42. Japanese wrestling 44. Erase 45. Bundle 46. Daring 47. Avoid 48. Slander 51. The products of human creativity 52. Tale 53. Stigma 54. Rabbit 55. Arab chieftain 56. Carpenter's groove 58. Prefix meaning "Modern"

Answers can be found on page 26

ACROSS 1. Wanes 5. Of the cheekbone 10. Modify 14. Very intense 15. San Antonio fort

24. Make fun of 25. Proportionate 32. Nonsense 33. Habituate 34. A late time of life 37. Weightlifters pump this 38. Extreme 39. Blend 40. Mesh 41. Attempts 42. Steam bath 43. Disbelief 45. Aroma 49. An uncle 50. Day off 53. Splashed 57. Joyful enthusiasm 59. Mother 60. Assistant 61. Delicacy 62. Dry 63. Sense 64. A loud sleeping sound 65. Roman emperor

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MORTENSEN MOTORSPORTS UPDATE FOR JULY 2012 Mark fought an ill handling race car all feature long, falling back to the 10th position by lap eight of the event before he started to pass some cars to get up farther towards the front. At the conclusion of the event Mark had to settle for a 8th place finish and lost the point lead in the process.

On Saturday, July 14 at the Fonda Speedway Mark started 4th in qualifying heat race number 2 and finished 2nd in the event placing him in the 3rd row in the starting lineup for the 20-lap 602 Sportsman feature event in the 6th position.

Mark was man handling an ill handling race car for the entire 20-lap distance and with the race going caution free as well it was hard to advance his position in the field. At the checkered flag he gained one position from where he started for a 5th place finish and kept his 2nd place points position, 8 points behind the leader.

On Saturday, July 21 after a week of very hard work by the Mortensen Motorsports family; Mark the driver, Brett the crew chief, and Bob who is Mark and Brett's father there were high hopes that the ill handling Your Hometowne sponsored #1M would be much improved over July's performance.

Thanks to the help of Matt Hearn who is the crew chief of legendary Modified racer Brett Hearn and the son of Bobby Hearn who is the fabricator of the Teo Pro Car chassis which Mark uses, the car was much improved over recent weeks and set second quickest time in the early hot lap session!

A thank you goes out to Robert Bublak as well as he was in the pit area on Saturday lending his advice to the Mortensen crew to try to make the #1M car handle better.

Mark started 4th in qualifying heat race number one and won the event as he pulled away from the rest of the field after taking the lead, putting him 7th in the starting lineup for the 20-lap 602 Sportsman feature event.

Mark gained 2 positions in the first 2 laps of the event and by lap 3 was sitting in the 4th position with John McAuliffe just ahead. Mark battled with McAuliffe until lap 12 when he was finally able to clear him for the 3rd position but lost 1 position in the closing laps to finish the event in the 4th spot.

With the 4th place finish Mark is now 10 points out of 1st place in the point standings with only 3 weeks of racing left consisting of 4 racing events because of double features to be held on August 18 to determine the 2012 Track Champion in the division.

Car owner Bonnie Mortensen would like to thank her driver Mark, the crew of the #1M, the family and friends who come to the track every week to cheer Mark on, and last but certainly not least all of the sponsors on the car because without their help racing would not be possible.

Keep an eye on updates in Your Hometowne as the Mortensen Motorsports car #1M will possibly be making its first ever appearance at the "Moody Mile" in Syracuse this October to participate in the 602 Sportsman events during Super DIRT Week at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.

A reminder that new "Mark Wear" has arrived in various items including tshirts, sweatshirts (hoodies), and hats. To order yours by contact Bonnie at 518-882-7011 or by e-mail at rszczerb@nycap.rr.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Starting at $24,995

Starting at $11,995

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BOTHERSOME BELLY FAT So you want to get rid of some belly fat. And you can't help but be on the lookout for that magical exercise that will give you flat abs once-and-for-all. I'm sorry to burst your bubble of hope.. But all the ab crunches in the world won't make a dent in your muffin top, as long as you continue with your unhealthy lifestyle. This isn't a cutting edge discovery. In fact, by now it's common knowledge that spot reduction is a myth. And yet, time after time, I'm asked to reveal the exercise, or exercise machine, that gets rid of stomach fat. There is no such magical exercise. The magic is found in altering your diet and exercise routine to promote fat loss from your overall body, including - but not limited to - your midsection. Here's how to really get rid of that belly fat: FLAT BELLY TIP #1: Cut Out Processed Foods You know how Disneyland has the FastPass tickets that allow you to cut to the front of the ride lines? Consider processed foods as a FastPass ticket to belly fat. I wouldn't be surprised if future studies show that the over-processing, chemical additives and high fructose corn syrup that are pumped into processed food specifically adds fat around your belly. If you want to lose pounds then stay away from sugars, sodas, chemically altered fats, processed, packaged, fried and preserved foods.

FLAT BELLY TIP #2: Eat Fresh, Whole Foods Once you've cut the garbage out of your diet, fill in the void with fresh foods such as: Green veggies, Whole fruit ,Lean, high quality meat, Colorful veggies, Whole grains, in moderation While these foods may seem boring at first, stick with it long enough and you'll grow to love the unadulterated flavor of real food. Eating a diet filled with the foods listed above will give your body all the nutrients it needs to shed pounds and lean out.

FLAT BELLY TIP #3: A Consistent, Challenging Exercise Program The absolute best way to fight the battle of the muffin top is with a consistent, challenging exercise program. Consistent: You should exercise 3-5 times each week. Challenging: If you want to see results then keep your body guessing with new exercises and varied intensity.

My exercise programs are specifically crafted to get you into the best shape of your life. I'd love to hear from you. Call or email today to get started.

Call 424-7878 or email gina@precisefitnessandtraining.com to get started today with a free consultation.

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518-399-8174 • kdeangelo@sals.edu COMPUTER CLASSES Classes are free unless otherwise noted. For a small printing fee, handouts may be available. Registration is required and space is limited. To register, or for more information, please stop by or call the library at 518-399-8174 ext 2.

Wednesday, August 8th • 3-5pm Microsoft EXCEL Level 3 Wednesday ,August 8th • 5-7pm Microsoft WORD Level 2 Thursday, August 9th • 6-8pm File Management Monday, August 13th • 4-6pm Microsoft ACCESS Level 1 Tuesday, August 14th • 2-4pm Introduction to Computers for ABSOLUTE Beginners Tuesday, August 14th • 4-6pm Microsoft EXCEL Level 1 Tuesday, August 14th • 6-8pm Microsoft EXCEL Level 2 Wednesday, August 15th • 4-6pm Microsoft ACCESS Level 2 Thursday, August 16th • 2-4pm Computer Lab Thursday, August 16th • 4-6pm Computer Lab MUSIC WITH MISS MONA Tuesdays at 10:30am, August 7, 14, 21, and 28 – For children of all ages with a caregiver. No registration needed.

NYS ADULT SUMMER READING PROGRAM You’re never too old to read! Our NYS Adult Summer Reading Program is “Between the Covers.” Pick up a Bingo Card and get a coupon for a free book from the book sale, copies, or $ off a fine for each Bingo you get. Ends August 31.

HISTORIAN IN RESIDENCE Drop in between 6:30 and 8pm on Wednesday, August 15 and chat with Town of Ballston Historian Rick Reynolds about town history.

COMMUNITY YOGA Community Yoga with Judy Rightmyer - open to all levels. Bring a yoga mat, cushion or pillow. Mondays, July 16-August 27 from 7-8:30PM. No class on August 13.

LIBRARY BOOK CLUB The Library Book Club is discussing The Dovekeepers, by Alice Hoffman at 7 PM on Monday, August 13.

E-READER PLAY TIME Explore different e-readers (we have a Nook, a Kindle, and an iPad you can try), share tips and tricks with each other, and learn to download books from the library's Overdrive website. This is an informal sharing session. Please bring yours if you have one. August 7, 7-8PM

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

I GOT THE SNEAKERS AND THEY GOT MY BACK! If you remember, I wrote about being independent last month. How I seemed to be ok with taking a few steps forward. I had in my mind that I was ready. I even stepped out and forward, shaking and trembling and yet still took a step. To only realize that maybe it may have been too much too soon. If you know me, you will know for sure I did not go running back into my house, slamming the door to never venture out again. That is not my nature. I did however come to terms with the fact that I needed a lot more help than I thought. I needed someone to catch me and I needed someone to give me a push. It was a blow to my ego, to my person, to who I thought I was. I had thought I was stronger than that. I thought I was more independent than I was at this time in my life. As a few days passed and my pity party was coming to an end, I pulled up my boot straps (ok, I slipped on my sneakers) and headed out to be part of this world again. I was amazed as to how many of my friends would greet me and pat me on the back telling me it was going to be ok. They would stop at the desk at the Y to simply say they were thinking of me, or ask how I was. Some held me as I cried and some came by just to say hi. Many would check in by email, or by text. A few words of encouragement go a long way with me. When I was in need, my friends and family lined up on Route 50 day after day to support me and my son in our efforts to find our dog. They wrote me notes on Facebook to say they were sorry and to let me know, I wasn't alone. No matter how it came about I knew they had my back.

I felt stronger in just knowing that. I had always known they would be there, but the outpouring of support reminded me that I wasn't alone and that I had many to catch me if I fall and many more to give me a little push when I needed it.

As my confidence continues to grow and my independence follows, I know that I don't have to step out alone. And when I want to go forward, but seem to be lacking the nerve to do it - they will be there as well, to gently shove me in the right direction. I know now that I am not in this alone. I have learned that it is ok to need your friends and family. That's what they are there for! So if you see me standing in my door way - hesitating a bit, stop over and give me a little push.

I will be thankful that you did.

My sincere thank you to all of you that help me go on each day.

Thanks for the push and thanks for helping me up when I am down.

I gotta go now, lacing up my sneakers, I have lots of things to do. I will, however, take a moment to look behind me and be thankful that you’re there!

As always, I wish you peace, joy, many friends and a good pair sneakers!

Pattie Rakvica • idriveaware@gmail.com

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Breakfast Wrap

Kabobs!

Honey Glazed Chicken

For one breakfast wrap: 1 flour tortilla 2 eggs 2 slices American cheese 1 breakfast sausage patty or 2 links uncased from Garofalo's 2 thick slices of Garofalo's Canadian Bacon cubed Crumble breakfast sausage into fry pan and cook till almost done (5 minutes). Set aside while scrambling and cooking eggs. When eggs almost done add cubed Canadian bacon and breakfast sausage. Top with cheese. Cover fry pan with lid. Lay flour tortilla on top of lid and let the heat warm it (about 2 minutes.) Assembling your breakfast wrap is easy. Place warmed tortilla on large plate and place egg and meat mixture in center. Tuck up ends and fold in sides. Serve immediately.

Kabobs are lots of fun and kids like to help make them. Plus it gets kids to eat veggies.

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes BEFORE threading ingredients to ensure they don't burn. Kabobs with raw meat take approx. 12 to 15 minutes grill time turning often. Kabobs made with smoked sausages cook faster.

Have you ever tried threading small pieces of hot or sweet link sausage on a skewer with a (piece of) green or red bell pepper and Vidalia onion? I have with spectacular results! Using bite size chunks ensures all ingredients cook evenly.

For variation try using a smoked sausage such as Garofalo's smoked chorizo or andouille on a kabob. Alternate the sausage with a faster cooking veggie like a cherry tomato and/or mushroom so all ingredients are done at the same time.

1/4 cup honey 2 tbsp. frozen orange juice concentrate 1 tsp. grated orange zest 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. salt 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves from Garofalo's 1 tbsp. roll butter from Garofalo's 1/2 tsp. vegetable oil Parsley or scallions, optional Preheat grill to med-high. Grill the sausage, turning frequently On a grilling platter, coat the fennel and olive oil and a generous sprinkling of Mediterranean seasoning and start cooking when sausage has started to brown nicely on all sides. Fennel should not be overcooked and is perfect when still crunchy but slightly browned and sizzling in the oil then add Spinach to finish along with cherry tomatoes sautéing gently to warm.

Plate with crusty Italian bread or roll A Perfect summer dish for the grill!

OUR SIGNATURE ITALIAN SAUSAGE SINCE 1904 Hot or Sweet; Rope style or Patties CUSTOM CUT BEEF: Filet Mignon, Rib Eye Steaks Choice, NY Strip Steaks Choice PORK: Pork Chops Center Cut Bone in or Stuffed, Pork Tenderloins, Pulled Pork, Smoked Ribs POULTRY: Skinless boneless Chicken breasts, Chicken Cutlets or Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Garafalo's, the taste people travel for!

www.garofalosausage.com

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

GEEK TIP OF THE MONTH

Answers from Crossword Puzzle on page 20

In ancient times, strangers shook hands to show that they were unarmed

Q: Sometimes I get an email that has a link that I need to go to. Most of the time all I have to do is click on the link and it takes me to the page.

Then there are the times that I must type in the huge address into my address bar. I always make a mistake and have to do it over and over again to get it right. Is there another way to put this link in the address bar besides typing it in?

A: YES!! You need to copy and paste the link. To copy something that you want to put somewhere else, place the curser (blinking line) at the beginning of the text. Left click and hold the button down, drag the curser over the text you want to copy. It will then be highlighted. Then let go. Now carefully place the curser (arrow) on the highlighted text and right click once. An options box will appear. Left click “copy”. Now place the curser in the address box and right click again and left click “paste” in the options box. The address will appear exactly as it was written. There always seems to be confusion on right click left click issues. Remember, right click only gives you options and it’s the left click that does the job! Kinda like thunder and lightning.

Q: I have a laptop PC that gets pretty hot when I’m using it on my lap.

What can I do to fix this problem?

A: Laptops, especially older ones, are notorious for getting hot. You can purchase a cooler pad that works relatively well by placing the laptop on top of them. You should avoid using it on your lap if you have a blanket on, such as in bed. A better solution would be to buy a bed tray, place a cooling pad on it and then the laptop. Overheating will destroy the laptop eventually and cause annoying repeated shut offs when the temp rises. Newer laptops seem to be running cooler depending on the maker.

Tip: Need to read or write a word document but can’t afford to purchase Microsoft office? Then you need the free “ Open Office Program” put out by Sun Microsystems. It can be found at openoffice.org. Why is it free? Sun and Microsoft apparently had a parting of the ways a few years back and ba- da- bing… a free multipurpose office suite program that includes excel, powerpoint, and more.

Cheap Geek offers Complete Computer Sales and Service.

Remember to check our prices first for new or used computer sales and repairs. We are a Dell Authorized Reseller. Prices starting at $399 for Dell desktops with a 1 year warranty!

As always, Safe computing until next time.

Cheap Geek Computer Services Maggie Faltskog • 399-8886

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Mother Mother Nature Nature Always Always Gets Gets Even; Even; Be Be Ready.

Ready.

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

STAY TUNED with Paul Hill Last summer we introduced you to our neighborhood cowgirl Brittany Ryan, who at the age of 13 began competing in NYS high school rodeo and barrel racing competitions. This is an apropos update, given the interest in horses at Saratoga. Horses are a year round passion for many in this area and Brittany has loved them since she could walk down to the field across from our house and feed the horses fresh grass and apples.

On a borrowed horse named “Rocket” Brittany's passion ignited. After several wins with amazing dedication, her parents Roy and Danielle took the “plunge” into ownership and bought Brittany her own horse. Being the amazing kid she is, Brittany insisted that she contribute half of the cost. She dug into her personal savings and all the winnings that were socked away for her own dream come true, to own a horse of her own.

Since the new addition to the Ryan family, everything has fallen into place as she continues to improve with every race.

There is a subtle back-story and piece to the puzzle that needs to be mentioned, it seems her new horse named “Annie” was born on the exact same day as Brittany and you guessed it that same year as wellclearly they are a match made in heaven. The two become one plying the course, with Brittany guiding her mount who safely carries her through some pretty dicey maneuvers.

In the High School rodeo program, Brittany and Annie compete in three events; Pole Bending, Barrel Racing and Goat Tying. To date they have racked up 15 wins and 7 second place finishes, earning the buckle for NYS Reserve Barrel Racing Champion. Of these wins 10 were won in the Pole Bending competition, an event that Annie had to learn from Brittany. Her parents, Roy and Danielle Ryan proudly remark that watching them on the field is both beautiful and graceful, “They perform so smooth, effortlessly weaving through the poles” they clearly enjoy every moment of the run.

With the High School season last ended, Brittany began competing at Double M placing first, second and third in the three races she has run.

When not racing an event Brittany is glued to the action watching every move, soaking up the technique and nuances required to stay on top of the game always willing to give 110% regardless of the temperature, arena or horse she rides.

A decision was reached by Brittany to bring Annie into team roping and / or break away roping, a new challenge for both horse and rider. Brittany will need to master the art of roping, proper swing and timing is paramount this event as she breaks out of a stall, tracking a calf on the run. This event takes stamina, steady nerves and an amazing amount of time and dedication to the sport. Her extended family at NYSHRA is helping her learn these new skills and at home Brittany's dog Scout, a large bloodhound with an apparent tolerance to being treated like a roping dummy provides a great practice target for her rope toss.

As we mentioned in the previous article, all this fun and games comes at an academic price. In order to be able to compete she must maintain not only her parent's expectations in her studies, the sport itself requires her grades be monitored. Brittany maintained a 94.5 grade average throughout middle school and is proud member of the National Honor Society. Brittany shows no indication of slowing down her study ethic or her scholastic endeavors outside the rodeo environment. An avid sports enthusiast Brittany competes in Softball, Basketball and Field Hockey.

The Ryan family wishes to acknowledge the valuable assistance given Brittany by her instructor/ Mentor Jennifer and Cory Romriell who continue to help her improve her technique and skills as well offer support at all of her events. Brittany's current sponsors are “R” Quarter Horses, Carmine

Nastri Rope Horses as well as our neighbors Mike and Mary Gildea who proudly keep our neighborhood horse friendly; with their own two rescue horses Black Jack and Sassafras.

Keep an eye out for Brittany and her parents as they canvass Burnt Hills soliciting sponsorship for the 2012-2013 NYSHSRA season; a great organization that builds character through the sport of rodeo, YOUR HOMETOWNE will be sure to be onboard please help with what you can!

STAY TUNED http://www.nyshsra.com/NYSHSRAWebpage/index.html

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NEW MENU! Everything is Fresh and Made to Order Stop in after the track! The patio is open with full service on Friday nights - Buy a pitcher of beer and get a selected appetizer at 1/2 price!

Dinner Special • Feed 4 for $19.99 Large Salad • 1 Dozen Wings/Regular or Boneless PLUS an 8 Cut Cheese Pizza

Build Your Own Pasta Dish starting at $9.99 Friday Fish Specials • Weekly Dinner Specials BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • FULL SERVICE BAR CATERING • PRIVATE PARTIES

377-2041

216 Mohawk Avenue, Scotia 12302 • Mon-Sat 7am-9pm Closed on Sunday, Breakfast to return in September

Word of mouth. It is a great way to advertise, unless you want to sell your business or home; then your realtor will pay for the advertising to create word of mouth to help sell your dream.

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Since the young age of 15 yrs old Rick Alkinburgh was fascinated with working on cars, trucks, and bicycles, pretty much anything mechanical. After high school Rick spent 5 years as a SEABEE in the US Naval Construction Force. That is where he honed his skills as a Construction Mechanic.

Construction Mechanics repair and

Lori knew Rick had the skills and determination to be his own boss. She encouraged him to take a chance on his dream and in 1990 they opened up Precision Auto Repair in Ballston Spa. It was a 1 bay repair shop, he had 1 employee, worked long hours and it paid off. The business outgrew the location quickly and in 1995 they found their

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Precision Auto has been able to keep in pace with today's cars and technology. That did not come easily, Rick is continually educating and training his staff and upgrading his equipment to keep up with the changing times. Working on all makes and models doing all mechanical repairs; they are an AAA approved auto repair center as well as a NAPA auto care center.

Most of the staff is ASE certified with 2 Master Techs on staff for all your needs.

Always striving for fast professional service; Rick refuses to cut corners keeping in mind that you need to do it right the first time or you will be doing it again.

True to the community since his days back in the Navy, Rich gives back by helping the schools and other local causes. In 2009 a local school contacted us asked Rick for help to get kids interested in the after prom party at school to keep them safe. Thinking what can he could do to help bolster the turnout he decided to donate a jeep as a giveaway prize; needless to say the turnout was amazing! To help keep the community safe Rick has opened his doors on more than 1 occasion for local fire departments for training.

maintain heavy construction and automotive equipment including, buses, dump trucks, bulldozers, rollers, cranes, backhoes, pile drivers, and tactical vehicles. The environment he worked in was much like an automotive shop. Knowing he always wanted to come back to his roots in ScotiaGlenville Rick started thinking about opening an automotive shop in his hometown. Rick returned home in 1985 and soon met his wife to be wife, Lori Sarges.

new and current home at 12 Sacandaga Rd Scotia, formally the Village Auto Service.

With help from family and friends their dream became a reality. After a couple months of clean-up and upgrades they opened on October 1, 1995, as Precision Auto Repair Inc. They had 3 employees 8 bays and 2 lifts.

Now they have 9 employees, 8 bays and 6 lifts with over 5500 customers in their system.

Rick's motto is “if you focus on customer service and satisfaction people will continue to do business with you and refer you to their friends”. It seems to have worked!

Rick and Lori are living the American Dream. They own their own business, have raised a family in their own hometown and truly enjoy what they do. They like helping people and still get that good feeling when their customers remain loyal and refer their friends and family. The motto they stood by back in Ballston Spa has carried through…Precision Auto, "Where Satisfied Customers Send Their Friends”

Mon-Wed 8-6 • Thurs 8-8 • Fri 8-5

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From Scotia to Ballston Spa, covering the Route 50 Corridor

Air Conditioning Plus: Service, Repairs, Upgrades, Replacement and:

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399-6808 www.suburbanservicesgroup.com

Fully Automatic Generators All Plumbing Services

Heating Radon Mitigation Systems

$10 OFF ANY SERVICE WITH THIS AD CANNOT BE COMBINED

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