Your Hometowne December 2014

COMPLIMENTARY DECEMBER 2014

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To show our appreciationto our customers...

we will deduct the amount equalto the sales tax from all purchases!

DECEMBER SALE

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Handcrafted Berry Holiday Wreaths and Mantle TrimmingsCozy Rooms full of American Made Sofas,

Chairs & Wood FurnitureCountry-Style Curtains & Rugs Woven Table Linens

Lamps, Lighting, Shades... ALL AT AMAZING PRICES!

on the afternoons of December 6th & 7th and 13th &14 in the tavern!

Holiday Hours: Tue-Wed-Fri-Sat 11-5pm • Thurs-11-6pm • Sun -12-3pm

Social networking at the Tavern couldn’t be easier with WIFI

399-9951745 Charlton Road, Charltonwww.charltontavern.com


745 Charlton Road, Charlton

Relax with Bobby Van Detta Sundays 5-8pm

Have you been Good?Santa will be making a tableside appearance...






We do the laundry for you... Wash‘N Fold Service!


Comments and Input – Paul and Cheryll 280.5260Advertising – [email protected] or 265.1105

[email protected] or 265.1104Design – [email protected] or 883.3872

A message from

The holiday season has officially started,Thanksgiving is behind us and Christmas isonly weeks away. This is when many of us tryto do way too much and lose track of the funthat we are supposed to be having. It is theholidays after all! And so the stress begins…but you can lesson it for yourself.

Remember you are 1 person.There may be pressure to be everything to everyone. Rememberthat you're only one person and can only accomplish certainthings. Sometimes self-care is the best thing you can do - otherswill benefit when you're stress- free. Take your dog out for awalk, take time out to listen to your favorite music or read a newbook. All of us need some time to recharge our batteries - byslowing down you will actually have more energy to accomplishyour goals. Keep your goals realistic, you may not be able todecorate your entire house in a day. It's OK. The people whocare about you would much rather sit and enjoy your companythan to see you for 5 minutes in a perfectly decorated house. Practice staying in the moment.When you are with family and friends stay with them. Mentally.

Don't play with your cell phone or drift off into thoughts ofwhat you need to do in an hour. Cherish your time with them. Don't spend money that you don't have. If you are on a tight budget then come up with ways to giftthat doesn't break the bank. Be honest with your family, youcannot give to everyone. Make family rules and stick by them,especially if you have a large or blended family. Our rule is webuy for the grand children and each couple gets 1 gift for thehouse. Trust me, your kids will appreciate it because it takespressure off of them as well. If that is still too much give them a card with a gift certificate for 4 hours of your time. You couldbabysit or help reorganize a room, time is more valuable thananything you can out a ribbon on. Shop local and save.When you are buying remember our local shops have a hugevariety of gifts under $20. I love to give spices, I buy them atBasic Foods- Eileen has jars you can fill and label, print out anice recipe you know they will enjoy to use the spices you aregiving and viola, you have a thoughtful useful gift to give your favorite cook. Locally made Adirondack Candles are priced way below their competition and have a huge variety of smells. As you peruse through this issue you will see over 100 locally owned and operated businesses. Each and everyone of them is paying taxes and keeping the lights on in YourHometowne. Give them the gift of your business. Notice the beauty in the small things. Beauty can be as simple as watching your pet stretching lazily bythe fireplace. Beauty can be found in the eyes of a senior citizenas they tell you stories of their youth, or a grandchild teeteringover to you grinning ear to ear. You need to slow down to seethese things. Take care of you. It is the best present you can give to those wholove you, they need you to be happy and so do you. Have a wonderful Holiday Season,Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!~Cheryll, Paul, Karen, Randy and Al

The wreath in the picture adorned theentryway of the Jone-Shorey house thatstood at 54 Lakehill Rd. Built in 1793 byEbenezer Jones, the homestead remainedin the family for over 200 years. The structure no longer remains butthanks to Rich Lannon we can lookback in time at the door that greeted

generations of a family in Burnt Hills. Rich Lannon, owner of Watersong Gallery captures life’sgreatest moments with his lens. Visit his site atphotographybyrichlannon.com to see his work. Richphotographs weddings, candid family shots and nature. He canbe reached at 399.6325

About the Cover

1 0 l Yo u r H o m e t o w n e l D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 y o u r h o m e t o w n e @ g m a i l . c o m l 5 1 8 . 2 6 5 . 1 1 0 5

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SIGHT IS A PRECIOUS GIFTThink about all the things you're doing today.How many of those things are dependent onyour eyesight?

We often take our ability to see for granted.Over 100 million light-receptive cells in our eyeswork together to give us images of the worldaround us. Our eyesight is second only to our

brain function in terms of complexity. Although modern science has foundways to transplant hearts, kidneys, and skin, we can't yet transplant eyes.The optic nerve is just too sensitive and complex to reconstruct.

There is a common misconception that if a person sees well, their eyes mustbe healthy. In fact, many serious, sight-threatening eye diseases, such asglaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and retinaldetachment may actually have no early warning symptoms. Fortunately,optometrists have the skills to detect many of these eye conditions in theirearly stages. Protect your eye health with regular eye exams.

We appreciate that you allow us to be your lifelong partner in doingthat. We are grateful for the honor and opportunity to serve you,and your family, neighbors and friends.

Imagine if you could help a child read. An adult succeed in his job. A seniormaintain her independence.

In just about any dresser drawer, one can find a pair of eyeglasses that areno longer being used. That same pair of eyeglasses can change anotherperson's life. If you have used eyeglasses you no longer need, you candonate them now.

For the month of December when you donate a pair of old glasses to theLions club through our office, we will give you a $25 voucher towards thepurchase of a new pair*.

(Lions accept prescription and reading glasses, sunglasses and plastic andmetal frames. Children's glasses are especially needed)

As you go about your life today, think about how things would be differentwithout your vision. Would you be able to do the same things? How doesvision enrich your life? Make sure that you cherish your eyesight. Come infor regular eye exams and keep your prescription updated,

Thank you for trusting us to take care of your vision.

*(Maximum 2 vouchers per person)

For more information contact Kristen Cameron,Burnt Hills Optical, 793 Rt. 50 Burnt Hills, 399-6130

or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com


DECORATING TIPSFROM THE SPECKLED HENWelcome to The Speckled Hen's monthlyarticle, where I introduce you to new projectsand fun ways to decorate your home. Thismonth I have a simple project for you - clove

oranges. A traditional holiday décor and they smell great!

During your next trip to the grocery store, buy some oranges and a can ofcloves. You can find whole cloves in the spices aisle. When you get home,spread the cloves out in a dish so you can pick out the best pieces. Take oneof your fresh oranges and push the clove into it. If you are having a hardtime poking through the peel, use a small nail to poke holes in the orangeand then insert the clove. If you are feeling creative, make a pattern. If not,place them randomly all over the orange.Once you've completed a few oranges, place them in a bowl with pine andberries. You're done! And good news - they won't mold because the cloveshelp preserve the orange as it dries. So enjoy - there's nothing quite like thesmell of clove oranges for the holidays!“Men's Night” will be on Wednesday, December 17 this year. It's always afun night and a great chance for some last minute shopping. I'll be openuntil 8 PM with beverages and snacks - I hope to see you there! I am wishing you all a peaceful and joyous holiday!

Maureen Culver • 369.877138 Saratoga Road, Scotia • [email protected]



CHARITABLE GIVINGPAYS OFF...FOR EVERYONEAmericans are pretty generous — in fact, 83% ofus donated money to charitable organizationslast year, according to a Gallup survey. And nowthat we’re entering the holiday season,charitable giving well may be on your mind. Yourkey motivation for making charitable gifts, of

course, is to help those organizations whose work is meaningful toyou. However, by supporting these groups, you can also make lifeless “taxing” for yourself.

Specifically, by making charitable contributions, you may be able toreceive some valuable tax breaks. To claim a deduction, though, youneed to itemize your taxes, and you need to make sure that theorganization you’re supporting is qualified, from a tax-deductibilitystandpoint. If you’re unsure whether a group is qualified, just ask tosee its letter from the IRS. (Many organizations now post theseletters on their websites.)Here’s how the charitable tax deductionworks: If you give $200 to a qualified charity, and you’re in the 25%tax bracket, you can deduct $200, with a tax benefit of $50, whenyou file your 2014 taxes. Consequently, the net “cost” of yourdonation is just $150 ($200 minus the $50 tax savings).Of course,you are not confined to making cash gifts. In fact, if you donatecertain types of noncash assets, you may be able to increase yourtax benefits. Suppose you give $1,000 worth of stock in ABCCompany to a charitable group. If you’re in the 25% bracket, you’llbe able to deduct $250 when you file your taxes. And by donatingthe ABC stock, you can avoid paying the capital gains taxes thatwould be due if you had eventually sold the stock yourself.Keep inmind that if you want to deduct your contributions for the 2014 taxyear, you’ll need to make your gifts by Dec. 31. One more reminder:Retain your paperwork. If you made gifts totaling over $250 to anysingle charity — or noncash contributions of any items worth over$500 — the IRS requires written acknowledgments for yourcontributions.If you want to take a longer-term approach tocharitable giving, while incorporating your gifts in planning for yourestate, you might want to consider establishing a charitableremainder trust. Under this arrangement, you’d place some assets,such as stocks or real estate, into a trust, which could then use theseassets to pay you a lifetime income stream. When you establish thetrust, you may be able to receive an immediate tax deduction basedon the charitable group’s “remainder interest” — the amount thecharity is likely to ultimately receive. (This figure is determined by anIRS formula.) Upon your death, the trust would relinquish theremaining assets to the charitable organization you’ve named. Thistype of trust can be complex, so to create one, you’ll need to workwith your tax and legal advisors.While the tax benefits associatedwith charitable giving are significant, they should not, ultimately,drive your gifting decisions. You should also consider the effect yourgift will have on the other areas of your estate considerations — somake sure you communicate your plans to your family members.Inany case, though, be as generous as you can this holiday season andin the years to come. Your generosity will be a rewarding experience— for everyone.

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 [email protected].


WHAT IS YOURUNDERSTANDINGOF KARMA?Let's talk about karma coming from afear-based perspective versus a lovedbased perspective. Sometimes theperspective or lens we choose to lookthrough can drastically change how we

feel about something. It can also effect how we relate to and apply aconcept to our life.

A fear-based perspective of karma often looks and feels negative. We'veall heard the old adage; “You reap what you sow” or “Karma is a B****”This approach implies that you are judged for your actions, that karma isa consequence. This is how many of us are conditioned to think. Whilekarma is like the natural law of cause and effect, we don't have to remainbound by the chains of negative karma.

From a love-based perspective, karma is a gift. It provides opportunitiesfor our soul's growth. This perspective of karma also lends itself well tocreating more light and peace for you and for the world, as we know it.The more good you practice towards yourself and towards others, moregood will be the result. The caveat here however, is that you mustmanage your expectations in the process. Meaning, when we dosomething good we should do so simply because we wanted to, notbecause we have the expectation of getting something in return.Harboring this type of expectation means you are doing the deed for self-serving purposes, not because you wanted to do something good forsomeone or something else.

This time of year things can get quite busy and stressful. Bad weather,family gatherings, heavy traffic, overly busy parking lots, crowded stores,long lines, etc. It's a wonderful time to be a beacon of light to thosearound you. Come from a place of love when dealing with your Self andwith others. Good deeds can be as simple as holding the door open forsomeone whose hands are full, letting someone go ahead of you in thatbusy parking lot, if you can, assist a charity, family or person in need. Dothese things because you want to, because you know your small actionsare creating positive ripples in the universe we all share. When you'refeeling stress, frustration or negativity look for the lesson in thatmoment. Not to sound too cliché, but find the silver lining. In everymoment there is something to be thankful for, a small or maybe largechance to grow. Holding on to stress, anger or negativity is damaging toyour Self. Be kind to your Self, try and find a way to change yourperspective. Work on letting go of these negative emotions instead ofkeeping them in or transmitting them to others. In the moments when itseems the most challenging to do so are usually the best opportunitiesto create big change.

STUDIO NEWS• Please join us at our Open House on December 13th from 1-4pm!

There will be door prizes, snacks, tea, and a FREE - All Levels yogaclass from 4-5:15pm.

• For the month of December we will be taking donations for Thingsof My Very Own, Inc. They are a non-profit organization that assistschildren in crisis situations.

• Visit our website www.lilanandayoga.com for more information.

Jennifer L. Venditti, CYT • Lilananda Yoga www.lilanandayoga.com

470.5240 • 585 Saratoga Road • Glenville


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SAM SPEAKS...BY SAM CAPUANO

OF GROCERIES, NAMECHANGES AND GHETTOSWhat's in a name? Or, perhaps, is it Image isEverything?Both of these phrases rattled around my brain thisweek when I read the stories of the Golub

Corporation's ambitious plans to re-brand their Price ChopperSupermarkets as Market 32.And, by ambitious I mean they are pouring $300 million into the change,which they are predicting will take upwards of eight to nine years to complete.The question is, why? This isn't the Golub's first change. They got theirstart in the 1932 (hence the Market 32 name, by the way), with the PubliceService Market, soon to be called Central Market. Then in the 1970's theydecided to change things around and introduce the Price Chopper name.I can remember those original stores, with the logo of a hatchetsmashing through a Liberty Head silver dollar. That was until some folkswith far too much time on their hands decided such an image wasdemeaning towards women, and forced them to change to the current,headless coin with just stars around the circumference.When I moved to the BH-BL area in 1975, the Price Chopper name was stillvery new to most. It was and is one of the main places around here forfolks to buy their groceries from their East Glenville locations for decades.But, of course there were other choices during this time as well. Perhapsthe biggest competition to our Price Chopper in those days, and for manyyears, was the Grand Union in Burnt Hills. This survived for decades, untilthe corporation ran into financial trouble, and this store, along withsimilar sized ones in Ballston Spa and Saratoga (which had two)amongst others closed for good in the early part of this century.Interestingly enough, none of these closed stores were replaced by othergrocers. Not for lack of trying. I remember Ballston Spa Mayor JohnRomano actively looking for another supermarket when Grand Unionclosed, and all chains, including Price Chopper declined. This wasn't toolong after another name from the past, IGA, shut its doors on Low Street inBallston Spa (it was replaced by Manna's and now serves as Augie'sRestaurant home), leaving the village without a major spot to buygroceries.So, how do you fill a boarded up Grand Union? Well, there is a DollarGeneral on the Burnt Hills location, Ocean State Job Lot in Ballston Spa,Empire State College on the Saratoga West Avenue site, and a new hotelgoing up on Congress Street in Saratoga (after Off Broadway Theatre &Grill was there was for years.)Old habits die hard, however. It is not uncommon for those in the BH-BLto describe the strip mall now anchored by Dollar General as the GrandUnion plaza. Laugh at me if you want, but use that term to someoneolder than 40, and they'll know what you're talking about.There were other places as well. Not that far from the East Glenville PriceChopper was the Albany Public Market, a place my mom frequented. TheAlbany Public chain was later bought out by Weis Markets and manylocations, like this one was closed. This particular structure remainedvacant for quite a while after, and thus was also quite an eyesore.As were many Price Choppers, by the way. When I lived in Albany two oftheir stores in the capital city picked up the unfortunate “GhettoChopper” nickname due to their run down condition, as did the one onRailroad Place in Saratoga Springs. That latter location saw the wreckingball a few years ago, replaced by a shiny new Bow Tie movie theater.And, the Golubs then built a newer, upscale Price Chopper a few doorsdown. A win win.It is perhaps this model which they will be looking at as they switch over toMarket 32. Let's see if their customers are willing to take to the switch as well.

See you next month, in the mean time you can catch upwith my blogs at http://samspeaks21.blogspot.com




YOUR HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDEIt's here - whether you're ready or not. Just look atthe seasonal shelves in your favorite store.Retailers like to call it 'holiday season' but let's bemore accurate.Weight Gain season begins now and runs straight

through New Year's.The next month will bring ample opportunity for you to expand yourwaistline. Of course the choice is yours.Now is your opportunity to plan for the weeks ahead. Once thecraziness begins, you'll be too busy to put a plan into action.So let's take this moment of clarity, this calm before the storm, tooutline a two-part plan that will save your waist from unwantedholiday inches.

PART ONE: YOUR EXERCISE PLAN.Exercise is the first thing people cut when they get busy, and theholiday season is notorious for empty gyms. This year do somethingdifferent-obligate yourself to exercise. Promising to yourself won't doit, you need to promise to others so that you won't drop the ball.

• Sign up to work with a fitness expert - This is the perfectsolution for consistent, challenging and effective workouts. I'll

give you the attention and assistance that you need to power through the holidays in better shape than ever - talk about motivating!

• Join a class - You won't be as effective exercising on your own during the busy holiday season, so join a class for accountability.

• Get a serious exercise buddy - Some friends can be an awesome help while others end up pulling you down. When looking for anexercise buddy consider the following questions:

• - Do they share your fitness goals?• - Are they fairly encouraging?• - Do they give up easily? • - Are they at your fitness level?

PART TWO: YOUR DIET PLAN.The holidays offer ample opportunities to indulge, so you need tohammer down some guidelines before hitting that buffet line. I'mnot saying that you shouldn't indulge in any seasonal treats, butuse moderation.Don't bring edible treats to the office or to parties. You know that theleftovers will come home and you'll end up eating far more than yourshare. This year do everyone a favor by not gifting fattening treats.When faced with a buffet line, load your plate first with greens,vegetables and lean meats before breads and heavier foods. Alsodrink water with your meal and keep alcoholic beverages to a 2-drink maximum.Beware of holiday drinks - most are brimming with calories. Hotdrinks from coffee shops, cocktails at parties and creamy eggnog areall very enjoyable and all filled with empty calories.Everywhere you go during the holiday season brings you face-to-facewith a plate of sweets. To avoid being a bore but without addinginches to your waist, try the one treat rule. Each time you're in asocial situation that involves sweets just eat half of one, and enjoyyour treat slowly.If you approach the holidays with the mindset of, 'I deserve to indulgeand I shouldn't have to exercise' then you'll enter 2015 a few poundsheavier, a little less healthy, and with lower energy than ever before.I'm here to help - call or reply to this email to set up a fitnessconsultation with me. I'd love to show you how to transform yourbody over the weeks to come.

Call 424-7878 or email [email protected] Get started today with a free consultation.


ADVERTISE WITH US.Get your ad copy in by the 15th of each month

and get a discount.

Call 265.1105 or email [email protected] past issues at your-hometowne.com

Burnt Hills and Schenectady(518) 370-4645 • [email protected]

JOHN A. FANTAUZZI is a partner in the law firm ofEnglert, Coffey, McHugh & Fantauzzi, LLP located inSchenectady, New York where he has practiced law sinceMay of 1996. John received his Juris Doctorate and Masterof Public Policy from the College of William and Mary in1995 and was a member of William & Mary's National Trial

Court Team. John also graduated Magna Cum Laude from Siena Collegewith a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

Englert, Coffey, McHugh & Fantauzzi, LLP is a full service law firm. John'sareas of practice include Real Estate, Estate & Elder Law Planning, EstateAdministration, Traffic Violations and Civil Litigation.

John is a member of the Real Estate Committee and chaired the EstatePlanning and Elder Law Committee for 5 years of the Schenectady CountyBar Association. He also is a member of the Saratoga County BarAssociation, New York State Bar Association and the Federalist Society.

John has been a Hearing Officer for the Surrogate Decision MakingCommittee that reviews proposed medical treatment for disabled personssince 2003.

John has spoken before various groups on the subject of Estate Planning.John is a member of the Burnt Hills Ballston Lake Business ProfessionalAssociation, Glenville Knights of Columbus and the Rotary and was avolunteer with the Saratoga County Youth Board from 2006-2010.

John will be writing articles on estate planning and administration, realestate and other areas of law. You can reach John by phone at (518) 370-4645, fax at (518) 374-5422 or e-mail at jfantauzzi @ecmlaw.com. John isavailable to meet clients in Burnt Hills and in Schenectady.


TRASH TALKHappy Holidays to Everyone! Aspecial note of thanks andgratitude to all of our new and

existing customers! 2014 was a really great year for our company withmany new and lasting friendships created…this is why we do what wedo and it is our goal on every pick up. I also want to express myappreciation to all the local Our Towne and Your Home Townepublishers, whose tireless dedication to putting out these excellentpublications really helps local businesses grow and prosper. Thank-youall!

Our company is Scrapster, LLC, the Capital Region's premierClean Out, Junk Removal and Scrap Metal/Appliance Removaland Recycling service. We are a local family owned business andcater to both residential and business customers within a 50 mileradius around Albany, NY. We are fully insured, convenient, andreliable and always provide top Quality work. Everything is properlyrecycled, disposed of or donated.

I started in 2010 with one truck (a Ford Ranger… one step above ashopping cart) and my driveway doubling as a storage depot (see Wife= not happy). Today I have several employees, 4 trucks and 10,000square feet of warehouse recycling operations. This year we passed the1.5 million pound mark in processed scrap metal and our everexpanding clean out, furniture and junk removal services are reallytaking off. Look for us to keep growing this year THANKS TO YOU!

Scrapster is an official New York State DEC approved location forbusiness or personal computer and electronics recycling. We are fullyEPA608 certified for Freon (refrigerant) recovery and removal fromrefrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers and coolers. Weare doing our part to help protect the environment both now and forthe future.

A competitor once asked was I “…still going down into basements?”The answer is and always will be: YES! “Don't Worry, We Can Take It!”isn't just our company slogan, it is the back bone of what we do. Largeor small, easy or difficult…we try to go where others won't, to takeout the things they can't, anytime we have to, to get the job doneright… safely, correctly and on time.

Please call us at (518) 505-5055. We'll remove the items fromexactly where they are located-you don't need to do a thing. PleaseLike Us on Facebook and visit our website at www.scrapster.com formore information, specials & coupons, recycling information, or toschedule an appointment.

Vincent Coppola, Owner of Scrapster Scrap Metal Removal/Recycling Service

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” -Oscar Wilde

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!“It's the most wonderful time of the year” to sellyour house and to buy one too! No, I am NOTkidding, it's true. If you remember, I said this samethis last year! The inventory is low right, now. It'sbeen a good year for both resale and newconstruction. Buyers who are out shopping areserious. It's cold outside, no one goes out browsing.

WANT TO SELL? Here's a few things to think about.

In many cases homes show better during winter months. It is easy tocreate a 'homey feel' in the winter because you spend a lot of timehome during the winter. Nothing seems homier than walking in towonderful smells coming from the kitchen - think cookies! If you havea fireplace, light a nice fire, aside from creating warmth, it can give awhole house a cozier and relaxed feeling - think ambience. Holidaydecorations make your home feel festive and happy as long as you arecareful not to hide your homes best features with too many. When itcomes to decorations - think simple. You want your potential buyers tobe able to come in and get emotionally attached to a home, and beable to envision their family in the space. Be sure not to cover yourhomes best features, if you have exceptional woodwork or an openstaircase don't overdo the garland, you want potential buyers to seeyour home's best features!

Think savings- historically, mortgage rates dip a bit in December andJanuary. Lenders, attorneys, title companies, home inspectors etc…arenot as busy as they may be during other times of the year. Additionallymany people take time off during the holiday season. Not only doSERIOUS potential buyers have more time for “house hunting”, they'regetting a good deal on their mortgage and have the ability to closequicker creating a financial win/win for everybody in the game.

If you're really not ready to put your house on the market now, then atleast start planning. If you're considering upgrading your appliancesor fixtures before selling, there are some pretty amazing deals on theseitems right now. Don't delay, go save yourself a few hundred dollarsand buy them now! If you're putting off selling until you 'getorganized' - the time is right now! You're going into your storageareas to dig out your holiday decorations anyway, get some plasticstorage boxes (they are on sale everywhere now) and organize the restof your stuff while you are there. This will make storage areas appearneat, organized and larger

Whether you are considering buying, selling, or both and whateverstage you may be at, I'd like the opportunity to work with you towardthat goal. It's never too early to give me a call for your 'no obligationconversation'. As a professional Realtor, I will work with you fromprequel or staging to closing and everything in between. Give me a call@ 399-2100, I look forward to it!

Margaret Phillips, CBR, Broker/Owner518.701.1657 • [email protected]

www.oldeorchardrealestate.com


LOOKING TO HIRE! A responsible adult willing to cook, plate and possibly serve

Breakfast, Lunch, Pizza and other items on our menu.Some experience is preferred but not necessary.

Wages based on experience. Available hours are flexible.Please apply in person.



On Friday, November 7th, a very special WomenHelping Women event took place at PreciseFitness & Training. The fitness center was filledwith vendors from Scotia/Glenville to Burnt Hillsand beyond. The theme of the event was toprovide offerings, presentations, and informationfor women about businesses in the area thatfocus on balancing the mind andbody. In addition, all proceeds weredonated to the Guardian House, ahome for female veterans who donot have a home of their own.Begun in 2008, The GuardianHouse Program is a historical homein Ballston Spa that houses up toeleven female veterans who do nothave a home of their own - FemaleVeterans who have served ourcountry so bravely. This programrepresents a unique resource forfemale veterans after their return to the UnitedStates during their recovery and re-buildingtheir lives.The event was a win-win-win for all involved.Participants were presented with information,

samples, tastings, presentations, drawings,raffles, coffee and tea, fruit and cheese andcrackers! Vendors were able to display goodsand services and share their expertise abouttheir business. And, finally, the Guardian Housereceived over $1,000 from this first WomenHelping Women event.

The list of vendors includes AmyAldrich Agency, Eileen's Basic Foods,Kellman Karate, Lilananda Yoga(pictured left), Making Faces, MaryKay, Natures Healthiest OrganicFlavor Sparkling Spring Water, allOrgano Coffee, The Balanced Root,Vitality Health Center, Young LivingEssential Oils, and Zerona Laser Body Contouring. Your Hometownedonated all of the print adspromoting the event. Also present atthe event was an employee of the

Guardian House and one of the female veteranresidents of the Guardian House, who alsoenjoyed the evening of presentations andvendor offerings.

The first of several presentations started off withDenise Podbleiski from Making Faces, whotalked about Optimal Skin Health, followed byJennifer Venditti of Lilananda Yoga presentingthe effectiveness of yoga and stress reductionwhile Jamie Snyder (Young Living Essential Oils)discussed the benefits of Massage and oil. Theparticipants also had an opportunity to learnsome self defense and defensive tactics fromSensi Kellman (Kellman Karate) and GlenvillePolice Officer Nethaway. And if all of this wasnot enough, there were more presentationsmade by Dr Tim Maggs on 'Making Tomorrow a Better Day,” and Amy Aldrich on the financial wellness for women. The evening ofpresentations was brought to an end with TamiAdams as she gave a very inspirational speechabout paving your path to success.There were also numerous raffle prizes for theevent. These were donated by Agape Eye Care,Charlton Tavern, Eileen's Basic Foods, LilanandaYoga, Making Faces, Precise Fitness & Training,Schrader and Co., Silpada by Marie Tripoli,Vitality Health Center, and Young LivingEssential Oils.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL BUSINESSES AND RAISES MONEY FOR THE GUARDIAN HOUSE

FRUIT OF THE SPIRITANNUAL HOLIDAY BENEFIT

PRECISE FITNESS • 424-7878 • 809 ROUTE 50 BURNT HILLS • [email protected]

Providing Holiday Gifts, Food and Necessitiesto over 60 Families right here in Schenectady County!

Saturday December 13th ••• 7-10 pm Featuring Music by the

PRO TONESSilent Auction, Awesome Music

& a Rockin’ Good Time!


PORKPork Chops Center Cut Bone in or

Stuffed Pork Tenderloins*

POULTRYSkinless boneless Chicken breasts

Chicken Cutlets or Stuffed Chicken Breasts*

SIGNATURE ITALIAN SAUSAGE Hot or Sweet; Rope style or Patties

Meatballs and BragoilesKielbasa, Chorizo, Andouille, Bratwurst,

Daisy Hams & Thick Sliced Bacon

CUSTOM CUT BEEFFilet Mignon, Rib Eye Steaks Choice

NY Strip Steaks Choice

COLD CUTS Featuring Battistoni

Salami, Capicola, Soppresata& Abruzzi

*Our own bread crumb and sausagestuffing

Looking for Fish for your traditional Christmas Eve Feast? Pre Order your Fish from us!

Garafalo's, the taste people travel for!

Stop in and visit the 4th generation,serving QUALITY ITALIAN PRODUCTS

since 1904.www.garofalosausage.com

Sausage Bread withRoasted Red Peppers

Why fuss?Garofalo's will do all your prep and stuff a boneless center cut pork loin roast with their famous sausage

stuffing for your Holiday meal!

We will provide you the perfect roast that will

serve from 2 to 20. Call us or stop by for details.

1 lb Garafalo's Italian Sausage loose (uncased)(1 pound) loaf frozen white bread dough, thawed4 ounces cream cheese, softened2 cloves garlic, minced1 (7 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, well drainedand sliced - available at Garafalo's1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced available at Garafalo's2 cups Garafalo's shredded mozzarella cheese 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

In a skillet, brown sausage until no longer pink;drain. On a lightly floured surface, roll breaddough to a 16-inch x 12-inch rectangle. Transferdough to a greased baking sheet. Combine creamcheese and garlic, spread lengthwise over centerthird of dough. Top with the sausage, peppers,olives and cheese. Fold dough over filling,pinching seam to seal. Make slits across top of dough every 2 inches. Brush lightly with waterand sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake at 400°F for20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing.

1 1/4 lb Garafalo's Italian sweet sausage loose (uncased)1 cup buttermilk baking mix11 ounces shredded cheese, either Cheddar orFontanilla preferably available FRESH atGarafalo's

Preheat oven to 250°F. Preheat oven to 375°F.Mix all ingredients and form into 1 inch balls.Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Enjoy! Makes 2 dozen.

Simple Sausage Cheese BallAppetizers

Since 1904 the Garofalo FamilyHas Been Privileged To Provide OurHonored Customers The Very Best.

From Our Family to Yours,We Wish You

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMASAND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!



HOME SWEET HOMEYour home is one of your largest assets so don'tassume you have the coverage you need withoutreally being sure as this could cost you thousands ofdollars. Homeowners Insurance provides you with alot of options to match your unique needs, butsometimes all that choice can be confusing. It'simportant to understand that not all HomeownersInsurance policies carry the same coverages.

If you own a home you need the protection of a Homeowners Insurancepolicy. A well-written Homeowners Insurance policy will pay to replace anyof your personal property (your contents) and your Dwelling (your house)that are destroyed in a fire orother disaster. This policy willalso be your first line ofdefense against a lawsuit fromsomeone injured at your home.

The cost of this coverage isdetermined by many ratingfactors. The quality of thecoverage, however, isdetermined by the quality ofthe insurer (the insurancecompany) and what coverages(endorsements) you have.

GUARANTEEDREPLACEMENT

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

GUARANTEED replacement is acoverage that guarantees thatin the event of a loss yourhome will be replaced.GUARANTEED replacementcoverage is very different fromreplacement coverage. Thisspecific wording will be listednext to the dwelling amount onyour insurance declarationspage. Please take a look at yourpolicy and remember thatreplacement cost is NOT,GUARANTEED replacementcost. Most insurancecompanies have changed theirproducts and/or coveragessignificantly and have removedthe GUARANTEE replacementcoverage. There are less than a handful of companies that will still offer thisGUARANTEED replacement homeowners insurance coverage in New York.My staff and I are available to do a review of your insurance and explainthe coverages to you.

Guaranteed Replacement Homeowners Insurance is a coverage that canensure you are able to replace your home in case of an unexpected event.What would happen if your home and your prized possession had justburned to the ground and you lost everything?

You might be expecting that your out-of-pocket cost will be your policydeductible of $1,000, however your Insurance Company has advised thatyour actual out-of-pocket expense will be $125,000 plus your $1,000deductible because you have replacement cost and NOT GuaranteedReplacement on Dwelling.

How did this happen?

Your Dwelling amount coverage limit on your policy is $250,000 but theactual incurred cost of your loss is $375,000.

Do you want to avoid this situation for your family?

Let Lighthouse Insurance Agency help you. We represent one of the lastcompanies in New York that provides the guaranteed replacementcoverage on homes. If your policy has a dwelling amount of $250,000 andthere is a loss, your home may cost $350,000 or more to rebuild. Withguaranteed replacement, you will receive $350,000 or the actual cost torebuild your home and get you back to where you were before your loss!Your policy deductible most likely will be waived as well!

From a business standpoint I am sure you can see why most of the majorinsurance companies have removed the GUARANTEED replacement cost

coverage from theirpolicies. With an unknowndollar amount to be paidout the insurance companycannot charge youpremium on this, they canonly charge you premiumon the dwelling amountlisted on your policy.

There are so many thingsthat happen in this worldthat you have no controlover, for example the costof lumber and the cost oflabor ect. The only thingyou can be sure of is whatinsurance coverage youhave. I have had fourclients with losses thatneeded to use thisGUARANTEED replacementcost coverage. In each ofthese cases they receivedmore than $200,000 overthe listed dwelling amountcoverage on theirdeclarations page. Thissaved them from having togo and get a loan for anadditional $200,000.

Please contact us todayand let's make sure thatyour largest asset, yourhome, is properlyprotected. We would neverwant you to incur a

financial hardship simply because you thought all Homeowners Insurancecoverages were equal.

There is no place like Home Sweet Home so together let's make sure youhave the coverage you deserve. Wishing all of you a very happy and safeholiday! - Jen Longtin

See more at: WWW.LIGHTHOUSEINSAGENCY.COM

OBSERVING DANCE CLASSESI've heard all of the reasons why most dance schools donot have an open observation policy, allowing parentsto observe class all the time if they wish. Unless classspace is limited, parental observation of class has lotsof benefits.Being a former elementary school teacher, I havealways believed that parents need to know what's

going on in the classroom. And, yes, even when I taught elementary schoolthe parents of my students knew they were welcome in my classroom atany time. If a teacher is prepared, confident and sure of what is happeningin her classroom, wanting parents to be aware of that is a natural thing. Inthe dance business world, it's the best form of advertisement.My only rule for parents who observe class is that they do so quietly,without talking to each other once class begins, so that we have arespectful audience for the dancers. I understand the argument that somestudents might be distracted by observers. It's true, but when they learnnot to be distracted by observers it's a very powerful thing. As dancers welearn to be focused and ignore external distraction if it occurs. I tell dancersthat if the president of the United States walked into the room, I wouldn'tknow, because I am so focused on the dance activity that is happening.The argument that shy students are intimidated by observers is also a validargument. However, when the most shy student experiences observersover time, and is allowed to step onto the dance floor when they feel ready,enticed by many creative dance options, all of a sudden that shy studenthas conquered a fear that further empowers them to succeed. It's excitingto watch youngsters make that step.My dance parents comment all the time on how relaxed and happy mystudents are as they observe them on stage at our dance shows everySpring. That's because my dancers are used to observers and they learn totune them out in order to focus on making their dance more important. Indoing so they make their dance a gift to all who observe.

Ginny Martin • Modern Dance with Ginny Martin518-399-5802 • www.ginnymartindance.com

www.danceclassathome.com

“God created war so thatAmericans would learn geography.”

-Mark Twain


53 MAPLE AVE • SCOTIAwww.animalprotective.org

Girl talk is an international non-profit peer-to-peermentoring program where high school girls mentor

middle school girls to help them deal with the issuesthey face during their formative early teenage years.

The group is to help young teenaged girls buildself-esteem and develop leadership skills.

This program is open to any girls in grades 6-12 in any school district.

Please join us every Wednesday at 6:15 at theBurnt Hills United Methodist Church. Please contactErin @ [email protected] for more information.


DECEMBER CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 34

ACROSS1. Gustos6. Not fully closed10. Cushions or mats14. Submarine15. Barbershop emblem

16. ___ vera17. France's longest river18. Multicolored19. Anagram of "Ties"20. Made without yeast22. Care for

23. A man's skirt24. Power26. A set of garments30. Completely31. Apprehend32. Annul33. Puts down35. Cadge39. Hairdresser41. Perfectly43. Anagram of "Doles"44. Border46. 500 sheets47. Regulation (abbrev.)49. Writing liquid50. Not up51. Convulse54. Hurried56. Warmth57. Avatar63. Hindu princess64. Orange pekoe65. Style66. Therefore67. Canvas dwelling68. Positive pole69. Biblical garden70. Probabilities71. Snouts

DOWN1. Bantu language2. Black, in poetry3. Dirt4. Container weight5. Cut of meat

6. Court of appeals7. Collectively8. Away from the wind9. Blush10. Composition board11. Change12. Accomplishing13. Squalid21. Ampules25. What a person

is called26. Figure (out)27. "Do ___ others..."28. Bucolic29. Permissiveness34. Guideposts36. Margarine37. Talon38. Song of praise40. Midmonth date42. Faked out an

opponent45. Break up48. A poor city district51. Half of six52. Listened to53. Cooktop55. Sofa58. A fitting reward

(archaic)59. Not stereo60. Prima donna problems61. Naked62. T T T T


PRESCHOOLERSTuesdays, Dec 2nd, 9th, & 16th - 10:30AM - Music Medley Join us for a family style sing along led by our favorite musicianMiss Terri! This 30 minute sing-along is for preschoolers of all ages.This is a drop in program and siblings, parents, grandparents andfriends are welcome!

ELEMENTARYThursday, Dec 4th - 4PM - Brown Bag Book ClubA brand new book club! In December we're discussing AndrewLost. For grades 1-2. *Registration required, please pick up acopy of the book at the circulation desk.Thursday, Dec 18th - 4PM - Booking Through Fiction BookClubA fiction book club just for kids in Grades 3 & 4. In Decemberwe're discussing How To Train Your Dragon. For grades 3-4.*Registration required, please pick up a copy of the book at thecirculation desk.

TWEENS AND TEENSFriday, Dec 12th - 4PM - Book Buzz Book Club A Book Club for kids who love to read and do crafts! In Decemberwe're discussing The Julian Chapter. For grades 5-7. *Registrationrequired, please pick up a copy of the book at the circulation desk.

ADULT SERVICES/COMPUTER CLASSESWednesday, Dec 10th - 6PM - Apps for allLooking for app ideas? Learn how to locate and download apps.Share and learn about new apps and how to use them. Feel free toshare, ask questions or simply observe. Bring your mobile device;tablet and/or smartphone and app store account login information.*Registration RequiredThursday, Dec 11th - 11AM - Microsoft Word 2010 Overview Introduction to the basics of creating and manipulating simpledocuments: cut/copy/paste, spelling correction, formatting, fontsand more! *Requires mastery of basic mouse navigation.Thursday, Dec 18th - 11AM - Microsoft PowerPoint 2010Overview An introduction to POWERPOINT presentation graphics softwareprogram. Create a basic slide presentation including sound andspecial effects. *Requires mastery of basic word processing skills.Tuesday, Dec 30th - 6PM - OverDrive for TabletsDid you get a new tablet as a present? Want to borrow librarybooks on your tablet? Come learn how to install OverDrive to yourtablet to borrow e-books and e-audiobooks from the library!*Registration Required

ADDITIONAL CLASSES AVAILABLE! VISIT US ONLINE!

Christmas Eve (December 24th) - closing EARLY at 2PMChristmas Day (December 25th) -Library CLOSED

New Year's Eve (December 31st) - closing EARLY at 2PMNew Year's Day (January 1st, 2015) - Library CLOSED

ONLINE http://catalog.sals.edu or http://toblibrary.sals.edu

YOUTH SERVICES http://toby.sals.edu

EMAIL [email protected]

518-399-8174 • [email protected]

HOURS: M-Th 10AM-8PM / Fri 10AM-5PM / Sat 10AM-2PM




DID YOU KNOW?During your lifetime, you'll eat about

60,000 pounds of food,

that's the weight of about 6 elephants!

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOKA LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS...Jack Frost is nipping at your nose. Chestnutsroasting on an open fire as Mel Torme singsyuletide carols.The tree stands tall. The angel, now tattered, isstill cheery and bright. The soft glow of the redand green lights fill the room and I find myself

dreaming of a white Christmas. As I looked outside the treetops glisten.I wait, hoping to hear sleigh bells in the snow. The moon on the newfallen blanket gave a luster to all the objects below.I return to put the last string of popcorn around the tree. My feet areup and I am enjoying the warmth of the wood stove as the flames danceto Bing Crosby in the background. I am feeling quite holly and jolly. Imade my list and checked it twice now it is time for a cup of cheer. Thecandy cane colored santa mug holds a nice stiff cup of hot cocoa withextra marshmallows. My eyes glancing at each ornament and theirspecial placement. I lean my head back, drifting off with visions ofsugar plums and wondering if reindeer really do know how to fly?I heard a clatter and sprang from the couch. Threw the shade open tosee what it was all about. It appeared to my wondering eye, a little manand a sleigh with eight tiny reindeer. I knew it was St. Nick. Thankfully,I was good for goodness sake. He sparkled and twinkled. I thoughthow merry. His cheeks like roses and his nose like a cherry. He laughedand laughed and jiggled and wiggled. As he spoke not a word andwinked his eye, he turned and was gone. I rubbed my eyes and thoughtto myself..."yes, reindeer can fly." As I made my way back to the couchand my cocoa, I heard in the distance a faint jingle. Sleigh bells and acheery jolly voice saying "all is calm and all is bright, Happy Christmasto all and to all a goodnight!"I have written this column for six years now and with each I end it withthe same closing.As always I wish you peace, joy and I hope you have yourself a verymerry little Christmas!

Pattie Rakvica • [email protected]


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Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Festival of Trees

FridayDecember 5thNoon - 5pm

SaturdayDecember 6th

10:00am - 4pm

SundayDecember 7thNoon - 4pm

Ballston Town Hall,323 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa

Bloodmobile Saturday 10am - 2pm

Musical entertainmentall three days!

Businesses and

organizations are

invited to enter

a decorated tree.

Call399-1362 or399-5990

FACT.The first Harley Davidson motorcycle

was built in 1903,

and used a tomato can for a carburetor.






“Be careful about reading health books.You may die of a misprint.” -Mark Twain



• Fully Insured• Free Estimates

GET CLEANED UP FOR FALLAND THE HOLIDAYS!

SAVE $80$20 off your first 2 cleanings

$40 off your 3rd cleaningExpires 12/31/14. For Residential or Commercial Services


The most affectionate creature in the worldis a wet dog.

-Ambrose Bierce


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