Your Hometowne June 2013

COMPLIMENTARYJUNE2013

Your Hometowne June Cover.qxd 5/30/13 11:41 AM Page 1

F r o m S c o t i a t o B a l l s t o n S p a , c o v e r i n g t h e R o u t e 5 0 C o r r i d o r2

F o 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 3

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

Photography – [email protected] – [email protected] or 883.3872

A message from There is a lot going on this June and July inYour Hometowne! The BH-BL Flag DayParade on June 13th, The Clifton Park ElksFlag day Parade is Friday June14th. TheFather’s Day Car Show in Scotia June 16th,Ballston 225 Celebration on July 13th. Ofcourse there will be concerts in FreedomPark, Scotia starting June 19th. WiswallPark in Ballston Spa will once again hold theMovies in the Park throughout the summer

along with Concerts in the Park Series 6-8pm Thursdays. Most ofthese events are advertised throughout the book in more detail.

Gardening time has had a slow start this year with the cool spring wehad. Don't get discouraged, the perennials know when it's safe to peaktheir heads and show off their flowers. I look forward to putting myannuals in as soon as I am finished with June's paper. Something aboutdigging in the dirt that calms me. I absolutely love flower gardening, itis my personal “time out”. When I pull in my driveway I see the fruitsof my labor and it makes me smile. Paul is the vegetable guy. He growsfresh herbs, tomatoes, zucchini, melons, garlic, several kinds of peppersand some of the best horseradish around. He has transformed ourvegetable garden into a work of art. In addition to traditional woodenraised beds he used a guide boat (looks like a huge canoe), a couple oldwheel barrels, and arranged them into a whimsical fun garden that isfunctional and looks great!

Now that we talked about the enjoyable stuff…

They're back! This year heralds the springtime emergence of billions ofso-called 17-year periodical cicadas. These passionate large bugs withtheir distinctive black bodies, buggy red eyes, and orange-veined wings,will appear along a roughly 900-mile stretch from northern Georgia toupstate New York.

For humans, it's a plague of biblical proportions, but for cicadas, it'sone giant singles bar. Here's what to expect with the lovefest. The airwill be filled with the eerie, cacophonous mating music from the malesthat has been measured as high as 100 decibels. It is expected that therewill be 1 billion bugs per square mile, yes 1 BILLION, that's not atypo. They are most active during the daytime and are attracted bynoises we humans make, like mowing the lawn. So while there isnothing you can do about their inevitable arrival; it would be wise tomow later at night so the love seekers don't mistake you for a potentialhot date. While they are quite disturbing to look at fortunately, cicadasdon't bite or sting so they're not harmful to pets. Cicadas generallyleave no lasting damage (except possibly to young trees and shrubs).When ingested, they can potentially result in some stomach upset indogs and cats, as the exoskeleton may be difficult to digest. The goodnews is once they are gone we will not see them again until 2030.

We will see you in July; have a wonderful beginning of the summer!And if you get invited at a family picnic remember-

“If you cannot get rid of the family skeleton, you may as well make itdance.” -George Bernard Shaw, Immaturity

ABOUT THE COVER...Local photographer Ken Rohling captured this beautiful shot of anAmerican Bald Eagle in flight in April 2013 right here in theCapital District. Capturing the essence of nature’s most powerfuland stunning creatures is not easy. Ken is a visionary. He hasincredible patience coupled with knowledge of the species he isphotographing that allows him to capture in a split second on acamera what most of us only hope to see in our mind’s eye. To seemore of his work or in his words, “Kendidit” check out hisfacebook page by searching for his name, Ken Rohling or visit hisweb page at http://ken-rohling.com.



399-9951745 Charlton Road, Charlton

www.charltontavern.com

Showrooms decorated withAmerican crafted hardwood and

upholstered furniture, select fromhundreds of fabrics.

Handmade decorative wreaths withdistinctive bow treatments.

Bridal Showers • Rehearsal DinnersIntimate Couture Weddings • Luncheons

Creative Seafood SpecialtiesEncompassing Fresh Veggies,

Savory Herbs and Delicious Handcrafted Sauces

for your Afternoon or Evening Dining Experience

Grilled, Rubbed, Sautéed

Let us indulge your Palate with our Culinary Expertise and Impeccable Tableside Service

in Our Timeless Atmosphere

Charlton VillageShop

Across from the Tavern Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm748 Charlton Road, Charlton 388-8452

The




Customized Retaining Walls • Walkways and PatiosLandscape Design and InstallationSprinkler Systems • Night LightingHydro-Seeding • Spring CleanupsLawn Maintenance • Renovation

Pro-Cut Landscaping has been sprucing up lawns for 25 years!Family owned - Kerby and Cindy Loukes


BEAT YOUR PLATEAU IN 5 STEPSIt happens to all of us at some point.

Your workouts are dialed in, and your body is rapidlybecoming leaner and more attractive and then it stops.You are doing everything exactly the same as beforeexcept your body no longer responds.

You, my friend, have hit a plateau. It's a frustratingplace to be parked, so read the following 5 steps to get your body back intoresults mode.

Step #1: Reduce Sugar. Inspect all of your food for added sugars andeliminate items that contain high calorie sweeteners. This means no sugar,corn syrup, honey or maple syrup. If you've already eliminated processedsugars from your diet, and have still hit a plateau, then it's time to dig alittle deeper by eliminating some of the natural sugars from your diet. Limityour intake of sweet fruits and eliminate dried fruits.

Step #2: Get More Sleep. We are supposed to get an average of eighthours of sleep each night. If you're not getting adequate amounts of rest,you're more likely to be hungry, overeat, and gain weight.

When you're tired, you don't feel like cooking a healthy meal, and you'remore likely to opt for fast (fattening) food. Then your lack of energy causesyou to skip your workouts. And to make matter worse, sleep deprivationcauses your metabolism to slow down, slowing or reversing your results.

Step #3: Drink Only Water. Sorry, but some of the changes aren't going tobe fun. If you're one of the millions hooked on soda, alcohol, or othersweetened beverages, then your plateau will stay locked in place until youreplace these drinks with water. Keep in mind that your brain often confusesthirst with hunger. So at the first sign of hunger, don't grab a snack orcalorie-filled drinks. Instead, grab a glass of water.

Step #4: Eat A Healthy Breakfast. But not just any breakfast. Yourplateau-breaking breakfast should be low in carbs and high in protein. Tryeggs, lean breakfast meats or a protein shake. Set your alarm 15 minutesearlier to give yourself time to eat breakfast

Step #5: Increase Exercise Intensity. It's time to start taking yourworkouts more seriously. No more going through the motions, it's all-out foryou. For most people, this is the most difficult lifestyle change of all, but thebenefits are enormous. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of intense exercise onmost days of the week. When exercise is a normal part of your everydayroutine, you're more likely to stick with it, and your body will becomeslimmer and more toned.

The quickest and most permanent way to beat that plateau is through acombination of healthy eating and consistent, challenging workouts.

I'm here to help you meet your fitness and weight loss goals.

You deserve that fit and attractive body-I can help you get it.

Call or email today and together we will overcome your fitness plateau.

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

F r o m S c o t i a t o B a l l s t o n S p a , c o v e r i n g t h e R o u t e 5 0 C o r r i d o r1 0

This month Ken addresses his used vehicles, where do they comefrom? How does he know they are worth the money and what isthe best way to purchase a solid used vehicle. Watching Ken's lotit's pretty obvious that he moves his share of reliable usedvehicles, from his estimation, he sells well over 100 cars a yearsand with that level of turnover, he needs to have some personalcomfort that once they leave the lot, they will not be back exceptfor routine maintenance, gas, oil changes and tires, Ken passesthat comfort on with a warrantee that is extremely fair andreasonable, it's 30 days or 1,000 miles, bumper to bumper.

When you do go to buy a vehicle from Ken's he has a standingoffer to accept anything you can drive in, trailer in or he will evenpick it up for you thereby giving you at minimum of $500 off astrade toward anything on his lot. If he doesn't have anything onthe lot that interests you, just ask! He will take the time to FINDwhat you're looking for as he has the ability to search and locateexactly what you want.

Once you leave with your new ride, Ken and his team will gothrough your old vehicle with a fine tooth comb. They will repairor replace parts as needed in order to bring it beyond NYSinspection standards, it must be up to Ken's standard before hewill put it out on the lot with his warrantee.

Another source for Ken is the car auction that offers vehicles thatthe large dealerships provide as a result of someone trading up

for a brand new car or truck. At these auctions Ken has theopportunity to inspect and bid on these vehicles using his years ofexperience as a guide as to how much it will take to get these upto his satisfaction for resale off his lot. Once he has negotiated hisbest offer Ken will truck the vehicle back to his shop and put it onthe lift for his team to begin the tedious task of giving a new lifeto a second hand vehicle, one that will provide the new ownerwith the satisfaction of knowing they have a reliable and safeinvestment.

Over the years of selling cars, he has been approached by many“financial” institutions to create a “BUY HERE PAY HERE” usedcar lot, however in order to do so, he would have to inflate thecost of doing business onto the customer, a cost he is not willingto incur, this is why you will see some amazingly fair prices atKen's Sunoco. To his way of thinking it's better for the consumerto arrange financing on their own so they understand the interestrate charged and are able to save money up front by not havingthat cost built into the base price he would have to ask in orderfor him to sell the vehicle and get what he needs out of it.

If you're looking for a reliable, safe and reasonably priced usedvehicle for yourself or your children as a great gift for college orthat summer job they need to get to, it will be the one theyremember, who doesn't remember their first car? stop by Ken'sSunoco and compare prices, you will be glad you did.

WRENCH TALKwith Ken Maynard

F o 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 1 1


We’re not your averagebike store anymore!

We’re not your averagebike store anymore!




REAL ESTATE CLOSINGON YOUR HOMEWhat happens at a closing? Frequently, thereare four parties involved in a closing. TheSeller, the Buyer, the Lender and Realtors areparties that usually participate in the closing.Each has a role to play.

The Seller is looking for money for their home. To get the money forthe home, the Seller must provide legal title to and physical possessionof the home. Before the closing, the Seller normally has allowedinspections and an appraisal of their home.The Buyer wants physical possession and legal title to the house. TheBuyer usually requires the inspection of the home. The Buyer alsoneeds title to review and help with the purchase of the home. Buyersmust also provide funds that usually come from a Lender who reviewthe legal title and appraisal of the home.The lender reviews whether the Buyer can pay back the loan, whetherthe Buyer will have legal right to the home and whether the house isworth enough to justify the loan.Realtors are frequently involved in real estate closings. In this part ofNew York State, realtors often complete a form contract that wasdeveloped by local attorneys and realtors. Realtors set dates forinspections, mortgage approval and closings.Buying and selling a home are both important events in your life.Attorneys should review the contract of sale and can draft the contractwhen needed. Attorneys should assist Buyers and Sellers at a closing.Attorneys can assist Buyers and Sellers with ensuring legal title existsto the home. Please contact me to assist with the sale or purchase ofa home. It will be my pleasure to help.

ANNUAL FLAG DAYCELEBRATION AT CLIFTON PARK ELKS LODGEThe Clifton Park Elks invite the public to attend theirannual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14, at theLodge located at 695 MacElroy Road in Ballston Lake.

The program begins at 6:30 PM sharp. This is a perfect event for theENTIRE family --- celebrate and honor our nation's colors and learnmore about the history of it all! Hot dogs, hamburgers, and salads willbe served to guests that attend our Flag Day program. Flag Day is anElks Tradition. Patriotism has characterized the Benevolent andProtective Order of Elks since the early days of the organization.Allegiance to the flag is a requirement of every member.

ELKS ANNUAL SOCCER SHOOT AT CLIFTON PARK COMMONSOn Saturday, June 15, youth soccer players are invited to test theirsoccer skills in competition with other local players. There are four agegroups (7 and under, 8 & 9, 10 & 11 and 12 & 13) with boys and girlscompeting separately for a total of 8 divisions (age as of August 1,2013). Trophies will be presented to winners of each division. Winners inthree older boys and girls age categories will be eligible to participatein the District Soccer Shoot this fall. The event will be held at the CliftonPark Commons soccer fields. Registration will be at the Clifton CommonSoccer Field Pavilion adjacent to the snack bar on the day of the event.Sponsored by the Clifton Park Elks Lodge.

Burnt Hills and Schenectady(518) 370-4645 • jfantauzzi@ecmlaw .com

Re-imagine your wardrobe.Re-love your clothes.Re-ward your wallet.

NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER CLOTHINGAND ACCESSORIES

Call today for an appointment 496.6231

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED RIGHT NEXT DOOR TOTHE DOUBLE M TACK STORE, ROUTE 67, BALLSTON SPA

Open Monday-Saturday 10-5 l Sunday 10-4

A Unique Consignment Boutique

Double M

WOMEN'S CLOTHING l HANDBAGS l JEWELRY

NOW OPEN!


Changing the way our economy operates starts with asingle person. It starts with you. I believe that realnational prosperity - even global prosperity - begins atthe local level and that by connecting entrepreneurswho are re-thinking their industries, funders who areinvesting in the local economy movement, and

network organizers who can mobilize on a broad scale, we can - and will -create a stronger, more resilient, and fair economy.On a recent Monday morning over coffee with a local entrepreneur, we goton the subject of Wendell Berry. I credit the poet Wendell Berry as the guruof the local economy movement, a man whose poems and essays are notonly useful for direct quotes on farming, community and economies ingrant applications, but also as meditations to start your day. On thisparticular day my work of deep localism to inspire business owners,government leaders and organizations to dig down to the root of theircommunities to find the meaning in their local economy touched a nervewith my friend. I was accused of being an “optimist.” GASP.Yes, I am an optimist.In these days of great change we must take action, in our own lives, ourwork, in the world, in whatever we do. If you don't, who's going to do itfor you? You never know where the idea will come from to start over, startnew, restart. Take action. Be the Change. Insert whatever mantra you needto get yourself motivated to make the world a better place for all of us.I'm a Localist. Localists take action. See if you can be one, too, with acouple of simple changes in your life, in your community, in your work, inyour business, in the places you visit, in the place you love to live:Buy Local -That means more than you think. Food, clothes, whatever youcan, although socks and underwear are not easy, I get it.Grow Local, Eat Local-Grow it yourself, pick it yourself, start a communitygarden, frequent the locally owned restaurants that support localproducers, shop at farmers' markets, go out of your way to support a localfood producer. Ask for locally made products you love at locally ownedplaces you shop. The more you demand, the more power you have as aconsumer. And know that you are helping to change the world, one tomatoat a time.Think it through and think Local First -Think: where can I get it? Do I reallyneed it if I can't get it locally? Can I ask a local business owner to get it forme so I won't have to go online? Ask yourself what you are doing to helpyour neighbor's business stay in business. And grow. Because localbusiness is the beating heart and soul of our communities.Be A Localist - Spread the word about why you are a Localist. Tellsomeone the importance of a dollar in your community and why yousupport Local First.

Juergen Klingenberg, Founder of Local Living Inwww.locallivingin.com

BE A LOCALIST,SUSTAIN YOUR COMMUNITY





June 29th • Noon-5pm • $20/person $30/coupleTJ's Flightline Pub • 20 Saratoga Road, Glenville

To make a donation or provide a raffle item please call

Your Hometowne at 265-1105or email [email protected]

or [email protected]

For those who do not know;Angie suffered a traumatic injury LaborDay weekend 2012. Unable to work since the injury; the mountingmedical bills and daily cost of living has become overwhelming. Angiehas paid it forward by helping the people in our community manytimes in the past, now it is OUR turn to pay it forward!

There will be a mini-ride in her honor for those who want to makesome noise! Signup at 11am at TJ's Flightline Pub, Kickstands up at 11:45!Stopping at The Bad Pig Saloon,The Sawmill Tavern and returning to TJ'sFlightline by 2pm. $20/person or $30/couple includes buffet upon return.

Want to Ride?

forward with courage. So long as mistsenvelop you, be still; be still until thesunlight pours through and dispels themists -- as it surely will.Then act withcourage.- Ponca Chief White Eagle (1800's to 1914)

When you are in doubt, bestill, and wait; when doubt nolonger exists for you, then go

LIVE MUSIC WITH FREE WHEELIN' • LIVE AUCTIONCHINESE AUCTION • 50/50 RAFFLE • FOOD & FUN!

Covered dishes are welcomed but not neccesary.


JAVITA COFFEE COMPANYWell it's month 3 and I am proud to say that notonly have I lost weight but I quit smoking over 2weeks ago and have not gained a single pound!Javita has changed my life in so many ways! I havetaken control of my eating habits with the help ofJavita but it goes so much deeper than that. Thefinancial gain and support from the company haschanged my entire outlook on life. I now haveenough income to allow me to be less stressed

which made quitting smoking so much easier. Myentire attitude has improved. Javita is not just a

weight loss product; it is a life changing tool. I have shared my successwith many of my friends and they are also realizing that it is a muchbigger picture than just weight loss. The roadmap to success that theJavita Company lays out for you makes it easy to stay on track. It isdesigned for busy people. It allows you to incorporate what you currentlydo for a living into the big picture. All you have to do is use the productand tell the people that you talk to everyday why you are changing beforetheir eyes. It's simple and it works! Here a snapshot of how…

HUGE OPPORTUNITY…HUGE POTENTIALHave you ever thought about owning your own business but didn't havethe startup capital, knowledge or expertise in critical specialties likecustomer service, shipping, inventory management, product development,accounting, software development or web design?

What if you could own your own business for as little as $99 - and wereprovided all of the knowledge and expertise so that all you had to do wasshare a product millions of people are already using every day?

We are giving you the opportunity to own your own business.This is aboutbuilding a long-term residual income by sharing a business opportunitywith people who are looking for a better way to earn income as well as abetter way to live. This is not about serving coffee or being a salesperson.

Our product is great-tasting gourmet instant coffee. Coffee is a HUGEmarket. Six hundred million cups are consumed in North Americaeveryday. Not to mention it's the second most consumed drink in theworld.

By joining Javita, we can help you take control of your future so that youcan decide:

• How much you earn• Where you work• When you work• With whom you work• And someday, if you work!

Please join us and get started today

THE COMPANYWe are Javita, a corporate team that has more than 100 years of direct-selling industry experience.

As company owners or senior executives in the industry, we have paid outover $600 million in distributor commissions. Our vision is to become thepremier coffee company in the direct selling industry. We have built andgrown successful global businesses-and Javita is next. Don't miss out ona chance to be part of the next huge success story. Give me a call or logon to my site.

Feelin' Good with Jaime Hill

If you would like to become a part of Javita's success please give me a call at 858-8786 or visit www.buyjavita.com/4health,

www.facebook.com/javita4health-Jaime Hill, changing lives one cup at a time!


After a win at Fonda SpeedwaySaturday, April 20th, theMortensen Motorsports RacingTeam, Your Hometownesponsored #1M was ready foraction again at their hometrack, the Track of ChampionsFonda Speedway on SaturdayApril, 27.During the warm-up sessionMark turned the secondquickest time of 19.913 butwith track managementbeginning the handicappingprocess that evening itplaced Mark last in his eightlap heat race. Mark made itup to the fifth position at the checkered flag placing him in ahandicapping position for the feature where he would start 16th.Mark did his best to move up through the field with the YourHometowne sponsored #1M and at the halfway point in the 20-lapevent he was sitting in the 10th position. He moved into the seventhposition with only three laps remaining and that is where he wouldfinish the event when the checkered flag waved.On Saturday, May 4 Mark set the fastest lap time in the 602 Sportsmandivision warm-up session with a lap of 20.289 sec. just as he has doneconsistently all season long to this point.Mark started eighth in the third qualifying heat race and finished in thethird position, placing him in a handicapping position for the featurewhere he would start 15th in the 20-lap event.

During the first five laps ofthe feature event Mark onlygained one spot to the 14thposition with the cautioncoming out at that point toclose up the field. On therestart, Mark made a greatmove to get by four cars upto the 10th spot and lapafter lap afterwards gainedpositions one by one.At the checkered flag tocomplete the event Mark gotby Ray Zemken for the fourthposition in a very excitingfinish to the event.

After a rain out on Saturday, May 11 another night of racing action wason the schedule for the Bonnie Mortensen owned #1M 602 Sportsmancar on Saturday, May 18 with her son Mark Mortensen starting seventhin qualifying heat race number three and finishing in the fourthposition placing him 15th on the starting grid for the 20-lap featureevent.With only one caution flag during the 20-lap main event it was difficultfor any drivers to make their way towards the front but Mark did thebest he could and after another car was disqualified which finished infront of Mark it moved him up to the 10th position which is the finishthat he was credited with at the drop of the checkered flag.After the event on Saturday, May 18 according to the official pointsstandings on the Fonda Speedway website Mark is currently tied forthe second spot with Rocky Warner with both of them having 190points while Ray Zemken leads the point standings with 192.

MORTENSEN MOTORSPORTS UPDATE

Photo courtesy of Bill McGaffin Photography


GiftCertificates

Available



Students in the Ballston SpaCentral School Districtdonated $46,843 duringthe past 6 years to localnon-profit organizationsthrough the annual PennyHarvest program. This year,students raised over $9,300in pennies and donated thefunds to 15 local non-profitorganizations during this

year’s Penny Harvest Celebration. Nearly 100 students were chosen asPenny Harvest leaders and were responsible for researching localcommunity issues and the non-profit organizations that address them.The Malta Avenue Elementary school students donated to 5 organizationsthat included The Saratoga County Animal Shelter ($500), Double H Ranch($500), The Giving Circle ($375), The Ronald McDonald House ($375) andKids R.O.C. ($400).The American Red Cross and the Saratoga County Animal Shelter each

received an $875 from Milton Terrace South Elementary. Milton TerraceNorth Elementary School donated to Saratoga Bridges ($1,000) and theSaratoga County Animal Shelter ($650). Wood Road Elementary Schoolchose three organizations that included Joseph’s Angels ($416), SaratogaWarhorse ($416) and The Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center($416).The Ballston Spa Middle School chose Jake’s Help from Heaven ($500),Gateway House of Peace ($250) and The Quest for Grace ($250). BallstonSpa High School students and Interact Executive Board members alsodonated $780 to the Domestic Violence & Rape Crisis Services of SaratogaCounty and $780 to the Shelters of Saratoga.Funding from long time district partner State Farm Insurance Companycontinues to make the annual Penny Harvest program a reality. Thank youto Penny Harvest ,Susan Douglas; Jolene Hansen, Melissa Birch, TracyManning, Kathy Constantine, Christina Bisceglia, Raina Liebert andKathryn O’Leary.For more information, please contact Coordinator of DevelopmentCourtney Lamport in the Office of District Advancement at 518-884-7195ext. 1369 or via email at [email protected]


What's on Your Wall? Have you thought of finding and hanging originalart work in your home? There are over 40 localartists, members of the Schenectady ArtAssociation (SAS) who would love to show yousome of their original work.

SAS was formed in 1967 to promote local artist infine art. The artists offer a variety of mediums;watercolor, oil, acrylic, pastels, collage and mixedmedia, ranging in styles from representational artto abstract.

You can find their work in various locations. InMay of this year, they held a juried show atNiskayuna Library. They currently display work atthe Eddy in Niskayuna, in July at Beverwyck, inAugust in the Moon and River Café inSchenectady and in Schenectady CommunityCollege. You will find many of the artists this fallat the outdoor Stockade Art Show, September 7.To see some of the artist's work and to find outwhere they are currently displaying, go to the SASwebsite at http://schenectadyartsociety.com/

If you know of an office building or a church thatwould be interested in hosting a local art show onyour walls, contact SAS Vice President, Laurel-LeLipski at [email protected] The artists do all thework of hanging paintings on the walls.

SAS is happy to welcome new members. If you arean artist who paints every day or only on Sundays,you might like the company and support of otherlocal artists. If you would like more informationabout becoming a member, you can contactGinger Hoeppner at [email protected] contact the SAS President, Deb Carpenter [email protected]

Their meeting site is the First Reformed Church ofSchenectady located at 8 North Church Street inthe Stockade. Member Meetings occur at 6:30 PMon the 2nd Thursday of the month. The businessmeetings are friendly and short and alwaysinclude an artist demonstration. Meetings occurin the months of September, October, January,February, March, and April. The months of Mayand November are reserved for our annual springand Fall shows.


COMMON EYE HEALTHMISCONCEPTIONSMisconceptions about health and disease areremarkably common. Thus, it should come as nosurprise that for something as important asvision and sight, medical myths seemparticularly difficult to dislodge. Here are someof the most common:Myth: Unless I feel pain or notice changes

in my vision, I don't need an eye exam.Fact: Most eye diseases, like glaucoma and age-related maculardegeneration (AMD), have no early warning signs or symptoms. By the timea change in vision is noticed, the damage can be irreversible. Regardless ofsymptoms, regular eye exams are essential in protecting sight.Myth: Computer screens ruin your eye sight.Fact: Spending long hours in front of a computer screen may cause eyes tofeel tired and strained for a variety of reasons, including the tendency toblink less frequently. But the good news is that computer screens are notresponsible for any permanent damage to vision.Myth: Vision loss is a normal part of aging.Fact: Most vision loss can be prevented as long as you catch eye diseasesearly and take steps to protect your vision. Staying active, eating healthyfoods and practicing other healthy habits will help protect your vision asyou age.Myth: Kids Don't Need Sunglasses.Fact: Because children spend significantly more time outdoors than mostadults, some experts say that up to half of a person's lifetime exposure toUV radiation can occur by age 18. Children's eyes are more susceptible toUV and HEV radiation than adult eyes because the lens inside a child's eyeis less capable of filtering these high-energy rays.Myth: Reading under dim light and sitting too close to the televisioncause eye damage.Fact: These behaviors can cause eye strain, but they do not cause damage.However, someone who is over age 60 does require three times more lightto read than a person in their 20's. As we get older and lose contrastsensitivity, light starts making a big difference. If you are having troublereading something, check the light.When it comes to eye health, it's important to know the facts to protectyour family's vision.

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

or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com


JUNE CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers can be found on page 33

ACROSS1. Thin strip5. Gash10. Store14. A landlocked African

republic

15. Urgency16. Piece of glass17. Gauntness19. Killer whale20. What we breathe21. Gloomy, in poetry

22. Comforter23. Wanderer25. Delete27. Directed28. Fiasco31. Assumed name34. Sarcasm35. Pair36. Grave37. Got up38. Inheritor39. Japanese sash40. Codeine source41. Margin42. Cranky44. Meadow45. Licoricelike flavor46. Harshly ironic or

sinister50. Terrace52. Ancestors54. Needlefish55. Way out56. Bias58. Blackthorn59. Muse of love poetry60. "Oh my!"61. Care for62. Man-made fiber63. Defrost

DOWN1. Besmirch2. Female demon3. Warning signal4. ___-tac-toe5. Distributed equally

6. Not earlier7. Largest continent8. Pantry9. Female chicken10. Wife or husband11. Reaper12. A single time13. Kind of moss18. Runs in neutral22. Monkees' singer Jones24. Tell all26. South African

monetary unit28. Anagram of "Tutor"29. Branchlet30. Bygone era31. At the peak of32. Part of the outer ear33. Simulated34. Travel plan37. Resorts38. A person who is in

charge40. Hodgepodge41. Vice ___43. Together44. Liniment46. Slogan47. Nimble48. Area of South Africa49. Secret meeting50. Annoyance51. Spindle53. By mouth56. A writing implement57. Flee


The coming weeks will be filled with weddings, summer parties, proms,and graduations, so I thought it'd be the perfect time to share some giftgiving ideas. I've just received a large assortment of recycled aluminumjewelry made in America: funky, rings, necklaces, bracelets and even scarfrings! I'm also carrying a fabulous line of all-natural soaps. Check out TheSpeckled Hen's facebook page for more ideas!

DECORATING TIPS FROMTHE SPECKLED HENEach month I share “Decorating Tips from TheSpeckled Hen” and introduce you to newways to decorate your home with primitives.Last month I shared some tricks and tips to

painting and distressing furniture. Now let's talk about another distressingtechnique…rusting tin!

Find a unique piece of tin décor for your project. Then pour apple cidervinegar into an all-metal container. Immerse the piece of tin, making sureit's completely covered. Leave it in the mixture for about 30 minutes, thenlift it out and stand it up on its edge to dry - do not wipe the vinegar off.The tin will rust as it is air drying (this could take 30 minutes to 4 hours,depending on the humidity). The longer you air dry, the more rusty it looks.When the tin is completely dry, it will turn a copper color with unevenstreaks and swirls - a beautiful primitive piece with the character and styleof a one-of-a-kind treasure!

For heavy rusting, measure 2 cups of bleach and 1 cup of apple cidervinegar - mix well (make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area oroutdoors). Immerse the tin into the solution. The tin must be completelycovered - it will start rusting immediately. After 2-3 minutes, lift the tin outof the solution and stand it on its edge to dry. Let it air dry completely, 1-3 hours or overnight. When it is completely dry, you can wipe some of therust off with a dry cloth. Fill you finished piece with flowers, dried fruit,cinnamon sticks or potpourri! Tie a country-style ribbon around it as thefinal touch!

I look forward to seeing you during your next visit to The Speckled Hen!

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

If you don't design your own life plan,

chances are you'll fall into someone else's plan.

And guess what they have planned for you?

Not much."



HELP ELDERLY LOVED ONESAVOID FINANCIAL ABUSEIt’s unfortunate, but true: The elderly population maybe the most vulnerable group in our society. In fact, inan effort to call attention to the problems of physical,emotional and financial abuse of the elderly, the UnitedNations has designated June 15 as World Elder AbuseAwareness Day. If you have older parents, or evengrandparents, can you do to anything to help prevent

them from being victimized, especially with regard to their finances?Actually, there’s a lot you can do. First and foremost, you need to maintaingood communications and a trusting relationship with your older familymembers. As long as these elements are present, you should feel free tomake the following suggestions:

• Increase awareness — When it comes to financial fraud and scams,many seniors think: “It can’t happen to me.” But the facts suggestotherwise: Some 20 percent of Americans over the age of 65 admit tohaving been victimized by financial swindles, according to a survey by thenon-profit Investor Protection Trust. Let your loved ones know that no onein their age group is immune to financial predators.

• Guard private information — Ask your parents or grandparents to notdivulge personal information over the phone. In fact, urge them to get callerID, if they don’t have it already, and tell them that if they don’t recognizethe number, don’t answer. Legitimate callers are more likely to leavemessages than scammers.

• Don’t send money. Exhort your parents or grandparents to never wiremoney to a random account — no exceptions.

• Ignore “limited-time offers” — Your loved ones should ignore callers,mailers or emails that demand they act immediately. These offers are oftenoverblown at best and may be fraudulent at worst.

• Don’t trust “no risk” offers — Financial offers that sound too good tobe true are likely just that — untrue. Legitimate investments carry bothpotential risks and rewards.

• Avoid “debt-settlement” claims — If your older loved ones have debtproblems, they may be especially susceptible to offers that claim to “clearup” all their debts. But there’s no quick fix to this problem and any callerwho claims otherwise is likely being deceitful. Encourage your parents orgrandparents to discuss their debt situation with an honest, professionaldebt counselor or a financial advisor.Here’s one more thing you can do to help your parents or grandparentsavoid financial fraud: If they don’t already work with a trusted, qualifiedfinancial professional, introduce them to one. If your parents have arelationship with such a professional, they will be less likely to listen to anyquestionable, unsolicited offers than if they were trying to manage theirfinances on their own. You’re in a good position to know how much helpyour elderly loved ones may need in terms of avoiding financial abuse. Sobe willing to do whatever it takes to help them enjoy their retirement yearscomfortably.Christopher Nyhan runs the Edward Jones office in Burnt Hills, NY.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your localEdward Jones Financial Advisor. Chris can be reached at

399-5087 or [email protected].



“The biggest difference between most blues concerts and the averagerock concert is that rock replaces the unblinking honesty of blues withbravado. Eric Burdon Sunday night at The Egg gave us both. He turned halfcentury old British Invasion hits with the Animals into four-color, 3-Djuggernaut performances with a crack seven-piece band. He combinedthat with original new songs from the best album of his career, 'Til YourRiver Runs Dry, sprinkled in some electric blues standards and stood nakedon the stage wearing well his 72 years of both soaring and crawling acrossthe world, equal parts rock star and has-been.Words like venerable and gravitas are not easily applied to aging rockers,especially British Invasion bands who served up refried American blues toa country that was ignoring artists like Nina Simone for pre-fab Phillypretty boys Fabian and Frankie Avalon in 1963, but when the Animalscovered her “Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood,” they touched a nerve inAmerica's youth. When Burdon covered it this time, the song indeed didhave gravitas, and the aging baby boomers in the crowd sat slack-jawedand propelled so far into Burdon's world that when he held themicrophone out, hardly anyone sang along until he bitch slapped them.“Wake up,” he ordered and the crowd snapped to attention and sangalong.Wearing dark glasses on a face so white, he looked like Claude Rainesplaying the Invisible Man in surgical gauze, Burdon stood naked frontinga band that at times approached orchestral in majesty: two percussionistsTony Braunagal and Willie Ingram, two guitarists Billy Watts and Slashlook alike Eric McFadden, bass player Terry Wilson, and bookended onstage by keyboardists Red Young and Teresa James. The gumbo was lightlyspiced with Latin flavors, charged with rock insistence and grooved withthe authority of a New Orleans funky Congo Square jam.

If you saw Burdon at Empire State Plaza in 2003 and 2007 you saw thescrapper, but you didn't see the man with a band that can match hisauthority and zest for life. This band Sunday night was well rehearsed, andready to match him and his rock scatting. “House of the Rising Sun,” “WeGotta Get Out of This Place” and “When I Was Young” took old Animalschestnuts into another dimension. “Before You Accuse Me” gives Claptona bar height he can only hope to reach for. And “Boom, Boom,” “CrawlingKing Snake” and “Bo Diddley Special” can stand head to head with theworks of the great postwar bluesmen Burdon idolizes.”When Don Wilcock writes something, I tend to read it with full knowledgethat his review or personal observation is calculated, honest and plays offhis lifetime of dedication to the musical arts with a knowledge andinsight that you just can't make up. Don, you're the best! Stay Tuned!

STAY TUNED with PAUL HILL

This month we had the pleasure of taking aride in a time machine at the EGG in Albanywith Eric Burdon of the Animals at the helm.I want to share the concert review written bymy friend and colleague Don Wilcock,renowned author of the acclaimed BuddyGuy Biography, Damn Right I got the Blues!

Reprinted with permission fromwww.nippetown.com

the area's entertainment website.

Answ

ers

from

Cro

ssw

ord

Puzz

le o

n pa

ge 2

8




Garafalo's, the taste people travel for! www.garofalosausage.comStop in and visit the 4th generation, serving QUALITY ITALIAN PRODUCTS since 1904.

STUFFED SAUSAGE PATTY

WHO WANTS A FREE T-SHIRT?!Participate in our

SAUSAGE QUEST 2013and fill up your "Quest Card"

by the end of this year,and you win a free shirt!

It's that easy.There are 12 different sausagesthat you must buy, you must getat least one pound of each and

then one of our store clerks will stamp your card! So whose ready for

Sausage Quest?!The 12 varieties are:

Sweet Italian • Hot ItalianFresh Kielbasa • Smoked Kielbasa

Chorizo • AndouilleChicken Pesto • Bratwurst

Breakfast SausageVeal SausageLamb Sausage

German Style Hot Dogs

Depending on how many people your serving,double that number and form patties of looseItalian sausage sweet or hot, made fresh atGarofalo's, Like Garry always said, “Hey!, it'sthe best sausage around!”

Place a thick slice of provolone cheese or anycheese you may prefer, always sliced fresh fromGarofalo's then top and press the edges to sealthe second patty- For the dedicated grillenthusiast, grill over hot coals of Humphrey'slump charcoal sold exclusively at Garofalo's

Top off your stuffed sausage with roasted redpeppers and finish with any of the PastaSauce's all available at Garofalo's You canplate the sausage as is or serve open face on athick slice of fresh Italian bread or in a roll

CHICKEN MICKEYSkinless boneless chicken breast sliced thinfrom Garofalo'sCombine “Mick's Mix”* with Olive oil andeither wine or balsamic vinegar, culinarywisdom suggests 2 parts oil to 1 partvinegar, however the best marinade (unlikethe best salad dressing) is about half oil andhalf acid or vinegar! Marinate the chicken ina sealed container or Ziploc bag for at leastan hour.Being that summer is upon us, it's a greattime to grill** this dish and top with slicedmild provolone and roasted red peppers andlettuce then serve on a fresh toastedCiabatta roll.*Micks Mix is our resident Chef Mickey'sherb blend. He blends fresh parsley, basil andoregano, available at Garofalo's along withmany other custom blends of herbs tocompliment any recipe**You can brush some of the marinade onthe chicken as it cooks, but be sure to stopadding uncooked marinade 3-5 minutesbefore cooking time ends for food safetyreasons.Discard any remaining marinade. You canplace it in a small saucepan and boil for 2-3minutes, then serve as a sauce for thechicken. Never serve uncooked marinade.

GRILLING SEASON IS HERE!

Use HUMPHREY's Charcoal for your

grilling needs.Nothing but the

best at Garofalo's!



Everyone has a right to be stupid.

Some just abuse the privilege.

Plus:Service, Repairs, Upgrades,

Replacement and:

Fully AutomaticGenerators

All PlumbingServices

Heating/Furnaces

Radon MitigationSystems

Air Conditioners

399-6808

Serving the Capital District North Area

for Over 30 Years

www.suburbanservicesgroup.com

$10 OFF ANY SERVICE WITH THIS ADCANNOT BE COMBINED


FBI WATCHING YOU?The latest Internet scam not only tries to scare youout of your money, but takes over your built inwebcam. The fake message with the FBI seal locksthe user's computer screen and claims the userillegally downloaded something. Then what

amounts to a ransom demands several hundred dollars to unlock yourcomputer and claims to help keep you from being charged with a crime.One of the latest versions also encrypts your personal files, which therepresently is no fix and you will lose all your pictures etc. So… Backup,backup, backup before this happens to you.HOW CAN I GET INFECTED WITH FBI VIRUS?This infection gets inside the system through security vulnerabilities foundwhen user visits infected websites or downloads infected files. Thesesecurity holes appear as soon as you forget to take care of your computer'ssecurity and don't use security software or don't update it. Of course, youmust always think about safe browsing and avoid suspicious downloadsthat are actively offered on the Internet right now. The biggest issue, whichis caused by this ransomware, is that similarly to its earlier versions, itcompletely blocks its victim's computer, 'locks' it and disables all theprograms found there. In order to 'unlock' the system, FBI virus shows itswarning and requires to pay the fine through MoneyPak. However, youmust have already understood that you must never pay this $100 fine if youdon't want to help for the scammers who are collecting these fines.It can also take over the cybercam that's connected to that computer andwill snap a picture of the individual that's using that computerIf you get a message from the so-called FBI cybercrime department, yourcomputer was probably infected with a ransomware virus likely fromclicking on an unfamiliar e-mail or sketchy website.Do not enter any credit card information!Some people have fallen for paying that fee and others have paid that feeand their computer unlocks, but the virus isn't gone. So don't pay that feeand take the computer to someone reputable that can clean it for you.Also, play it safe and place tape over your built in webcam when you're notusing it.

Is your computer running slow?SPECIAL! SPRING PC TUNE-UP $49!

Includes a registry and start-up clean-up, virus and malware scans,free anti-virus software and much more!

Please come and see us in the BH-BL Flag Day Parade, June 13th!!

Cheap Geek offers friendly, fast complete computer services.

We now repair broken screens on Tablets and Phones!

As always... Safe Computing!

Cheap Geek Computer ServicesMaggie Faltskog • 399-8886

Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day!


This month's Business in Focus is Stadium GolfClub and Banquet Facility, owned by brothersGreg and Gary Hennel. I first met Greg about13 years ago while riding my motorcycle on Rt5s out past Ft Plain, NY. Greg was also outriding that day and pulled alongside me and werode together for a half hour or so until we gotto Canajoharie where we stopped at an IrishPub and had lunch. We have been friends eversince.

I recently had a chance to chat with Greg abouthis and Gary's lifelong pursuit of the Americandream at Stadium Golf Club.

Paul: So give our readers who may not befamiliar with Stadium, an idea of what you offer.

Greg: Well Paul, we are first and foremost an18-hole public golf course serving members,open players, leagues, and outings. We also offera 22 stall all-grass driving range, PGA staffedpro-shop, bar and restaurant with patio seating,and a full service banquet facility capable ofserving up to 200 people.

Paul: What are some of the more commonevents that you hold in your banquet facility?

Greg: Wow! We do so many but I'll give it ashot. Weddings, Anniversary parties,Retirement parties, Baby showers, Bridalshowers, Rehearsal dinners, Golf outings, Promsand Formal dances, Religious celebrations,Sports banquets and any other event where youwant exceptional food and service. We even hada heavy metal band in there one Halloween!

Paul: Why do you think golf is so popular?

Greg: It has been said that golf is a game thatcan be played from the cradle to the grave andwe see that everyday. On any given day we maysee a 90 year old, an 8 year old and everythingin between. The game is played outdoors onbeautifully manicured turf, you don't have to begood to enjoy it, and unlike some sports, youcan play it your whole life. What's not to love?(laughs)

Paul: How long have you and Gary beeninvolved with the business?

Greg: We have been working here since we werekids. Our Grandfather bought the place in 1966and we have been building it up ever since.

Paul: My math says that's 47 years. That's a longtime for any business. To what do you attributeyour longevity?

Greg: That's an easy one. Gary and I have beenblessed with the best staff anyone could everwant. They are loyal, hardworking, andcommitted to our goal of providing exceptionalservices at reasonable prices. At the height of theseason we will have close to 50 people workinghere and they all strive for that common goal.

Paul: Who are some of your key people here?

Greg: Everyone is an important spoke in thewheel but I'll mention a few that have been withus the longest.

My wife Michele is our Restaurant/BanquetManager and has been here 25 years. She takesenormous pride in her work and tends to everydetail for every event we hold in our facility. Shemakes us look good.

Sean Gilmore has been our Head Chef for 17years. If you have ever had the pleasure of eatingany of his creations, you know how good he is.

Dave Cole is our Bar Manager and has beenhere for 21 years making people feelcomfortable at the bar with his charm and easy-going manner.

Cindy Carow is Michele's assistant and righthand. She has been here 10 years and brings ahigh level of professionalism to our foodserviceoperation.

John Souza is our Head Pro and has been herefor 12 years. He started as a starter/ranger andhas worked his way up to PGA pro.

Val Emerle is on the pro-shop staff and has beenhere for 13 years. Val heads up our JuniorProgram and has done a wonderful job with itfor many years.

Lisa Karbowski is our business manager and hasbeen with us for 13 years. She is truly the gluethat holds this place together. She was also theMaid of Honor in our wedding and herhusband was my best man.

The entire grounds crew deserves to bementioned because they get up every day beforethe sun comes up and work in the heat, cold,rain and shine day in and day out.

Paul: You seem very proud of the people youhave working for you.

Greg: Gary and I are very proud and blessed.You can't run a business of this size withoutquality people and we feel fortunate for eachand every one of our employees. We couldn't dowhat we do without them.

Paul: You have anything to add?

Greg: Yeah. When are we going back to thatIrish Pub? (laughs)


Great Father’sDay Present!

Come and Play orPick up a GiftCertificate!

Left to right:Gary, Michele and Greg


BRYANT REBATESARE BACK!!


4 4 F r o m S c o t i a t o B a l l s t o n S p a , c o v e r i n g t h e R o u t e 5 0 C o r r i d o r

12th Annual

FLAG DAY PARADEJoin us on

Thursday, June 13, 2013 at 7pmto Celebrate The Red White and Blue!

Local Merchants and Community Memberswill be Showing off Their Floats

and Exhibits While LocalMarching Bands, Emergency Responders

and Military Personal March for Old Glory at the BH-BL 12th Annual Flag

Day Parade on Rt 50 in Burnt Hills!

Meet Your Neighbors

Bring Your Family

Enjoy the Show

THE ROUTE 50MILE ROAD RACEThis one mile road race will be run

5 minutes before the parade directly downthe parade route. This event is presented by:Community Human Services and the Burnt

Hills-Ballston Lake Business andProfessional Association. For more information,

please contact CHS at (518) 399-4624.


518-399-8174 • [email protected]

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: [email protected]

Tuesday, June 4 Friends of the Library Meeting 9AM library community room.

Wednesday, June 13 The library will be closing at 5PM for the Flag DayParade.

Monday, June 17 Social Knitting Group 7-9 PM

Wednesday, June 26 The Annual Meeting of the Library Board of Trustees7 PM, 8 Miller Court, Burnt Hills, NY. This is a public meeting.

PHILOSOPHY EXPLORATIONSJoin retired philosophy professor Roberta Boss at the Town of BallstonCommunity Library for informal conversations about philosophy in our everyday lives. The sessions will focus on everyday questions that we face now,and "picking the brains" of ancient philosophers (and some classicnovelists) to see what they might have said if they lived today.We’ll meet from 12:30-2:30pm on Friday, June 6 & 20 in the librarycommunity room. Please register at the library or by calling 399-8174, ext 2.June 6 - Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous & June 20 - Body & Soul

COMPUTER CLASSESThere are a limited number of laptops for use during the sessions. Space islimited; register early in person or by calling us at 399-8174 ext 2.Common Computer Concepts Wednesday, June 5, 2-4 PM Searching the Internet Thursday, June 6, 5-7 PM Downloading Books with the iPad Tuesday, June 11, 2-3 PM Microsoft Excel 2010 Level 1 Wednesday, June 12, 2-4 PM Microsoft Excel 2010 Level 2 Thursday, June 13, 2-4 PMLAB Friday, June 14, 2-4 PMDownloading Books with the Kindle Tuesday, June 18, 2-3 PM

NYS SUMMER READING PROGRAM:DIG INTO READING AT YOUR LIBRARYThe Town of Ballston Community Library will be participating in “Dig IntoReading” as part of the 2013 Summer Reading at New York LibrariesProgram by offering free programs that include books, crafts and activitiesfor all children from babies to teens. Studies show that summer readinghelps with school success all year!This year all Summer Reading enrollment will be done online! Starting May1st, you may enroll your children and teens in our Summer Reading Programby visiting the Library Website or in person at the Library. If you would likehelp, please stop in any Thursday night during May or June, our staff wouldbe happy to guide you through the enrollment process. All children andteens must be enrolled in our Summer Reading Program to attend programs.Program registration and reading logs will begin on Saturday, June 22 at 10AM. Enroll in advance so your children and teens can get started rightaway! For the programs that require registration we ask that you chooseone program per week. Starting June 22 you may register for the programsin weeks one through three. Click on the summer reading tab athttp://toblibrary.sals.edu for more information.DIG INTO READING ELEMENTARY PROGRAMSWEEK 1: JUNE 24-JUNE 30Dragonfly Design Wednesday, June 26 at 1:30 PM. Grow-Grow-Grow theclass will make their own garden - starting from seeds. They will be able to

plant their garden outside if they like, for grades K-5 registration required.Read To Eli Wednesday, June 26 1:30-2:30 PM. Read to Eli, a certifiedtherapy dog who loves to listen to stories! For grades Pre-K & up! Morning Crafts Thursday, June 27 at 10:30 AM. A drop in crafts programled by VolunTeens! Grades K-5. Limited to the first twenty kids.Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club Friday, June 28 Session 1 at 1 PM,Session 2 at 2 PM, Session 3 at 3 PM Jodie Fitz, creator and personality ofthe Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club will be joining us for a little ediblesummer fun. She will spend time making snacks with the kids for a littletaste testing experiment. The recipes being planned will coincide with thesummer reading theme (copies will be available for take home). RegistrationRequired, parents must accompany kids 5 and under. Grades Pre-K-5.

WEEK 2: JULY 1-JULY 7Celebrate the 4th Monday, July 1 at 1:30 PM Join us for stories and gamesall about the 4th of July. Registration re-quired, for grades K-5.Read To Eli Monday, July 1 1:30 PM—2:30 PM. Read to Eli, a certifiedtherapy dog who loves to listen to stories! A program for the entire family! Dragonfly Design Wednesday, July 3 at 1:30 PM. Are there dinosaurs stillaround today...? Make a dinosaur AND a bird and learn what they have incommon. Registration required, for grades K-5.

DIG INTO READING TEEN PROGRAMSVolunTeens As part of our Summer Reading program, students enteringgrades 6-12 have the opportunity to be VolunTeens. VolunTeens spend 2hours each week at the library earning community service hours. EachVolunTeen must be entering grades 6-12 and can sign up for one time slot.Our program is 6 weeks long (June 24 - August 2) and you must be availablefor at least four of the six weeks. Instead of a time slot, you may choose tobe a substitute and fill in as needed. When you sign up please let us knowany days you will need to be absent this summer. We appreciate all thegood work done by VolunTeens each summer! The Summer Readingprogram could not happen without you. VoluntTeen Orientation and SignUp will be Tuesday, June 4 at 7 PM. This will be the first opportunity for signup. Spots are limited and will be given on a first come, first serve basis.

WEEK 1: JUNE 24-JUNE 29Teen Advisory Board Teen Advisory Board Thursday, June 27 at 1:30 PMJoin our TAB and choose the books we buy for the library! Also, wear yourpainting clothes, we’re going to decorate the book ends that hold up booksthroughout the library. For grades 6-12.

Intro to Improv Intro to Improv Thursday, June 27 at 6 PM Improv is shortfor improvisation, but long on building "thinking on your feet" andpresentation skills. If you are nervous about getting up in front of people,this workshop will help give you the confidence you need. Through activitiesand games you'll laugh, challenge yourself and exercise your brain! Afterthis workshop you may be ready for "Second City" or "Whose Line is itAnyway!" Registration required, for grades 6-12.

WEEK 2: JULY 1-JULY 7 Hobbit Hole Wednesday, July 3 at 4 PM. Create a Hobbit Hole! For grades6-12, registration required.


Mr. Ball's Town as it may well have been known was beginning to devel-op as a small rural community at the time it was made into a town inAlbany County, March 7, 1788.

For more than 20 years, the McDonald brothers had lived on Shanantaha,along the west side of the lake we now know as Ballston Lake. Theyprobably had contact only with Indians as the latter traversed through thearea during different seasons of the year. Those Indians were mostlylooking to hunt for the deer which lived here and upon which theydepended for food and other necessities. Michael, Nicholas and theirfamilies had good relations with those Mohawk Indians who moved aboutthe area.

Reverend Eliphalet Ball had come to the area in 1770 and brought withhim maybe 40 people to settle what seemed to them to be good farmland.Of course, it all had to be cleared which in itself was quite a job. And then,cabins had to be built, using the lumber cut from the land. Men andwomen alike worked continuously as their lives depended on it.

Most of those early settlers took part in some farming although many alsopursued other interests and occupations such as lawyers, storekeepers orblacksmiths. All of these people formed the backbone of the town wewere to become in the future.

The Ball homestead had been erected on what is today Route 50, north ofthe Charlton Road intersection. In the vicinity of the CharltonRoad/Middleline Road intersection would be constructed a small logchurch. It would be Ball's first church and the center of the newcommunity which would slowly grow up along the future “middlelineroad,” so named because it was the middle of the original KayaderosserosPatent by which these and other early settlers first purchased land in thisarea. Names of some of the church's early members, all residents of thetown, included White (his house is on current day Route 50); and Gordon(later a captured rebel leader and a friend of George Washington). Thechurch that still sits at the corner of Middleline and Charlton, although notthe same building, was Reverend Ball's church.

Other settlements existed along what we now call Lake Road where theClinton, Scribner and Kellogg families lived. Their houses survive to thisday. And there were homes along Hop City Road, where hops were grownby many people. In addition, the location of the Old Iron Spring, the firstspring discovered by Indians and early settlers, is marked on current dayFront Street in Ballston Spa today.

Further south, in what was to become known as “Burnt Hills,” anothercongregation was meeting in a barn and was destined to eventually buildthe church we now know as the Burnt Hills Baptist Church. Thus, therewere also people living in that area of the current Ballston as well.

The American Revolution brought out the best and the worst in people ofthe town. There were many divisions between people on the two sides,the Loyalists and the Patriots. There was a traitor, Joe Bettys, whoeventually was hanged for his crimes. There was a fort built to stave offthe British troops who were expected to arrive and capture the localrebels. At one point, there actually was a British invasion in which someresidents of the town were captured and, some time later, made a daringescape from the British prison in Boston to eventually find their way home.

Legend has it that the earliest settlers, the McDonald Brothers, andReverend Ball would one day meet and, after Ball gave the McDonalds aquantity of rum, he could then name this new place after himself: Mr.Ball's Town. Little did any of them know what would eventually becomeof the place we all now call Ballston, the place whose 225th birthday wecelebrate this year, “We are… because of what we were.”

Ballstown: 1788 Written by Rick Reynolds, Ballston Town Historian


Documents

Your Hometowne June 2013