Your Hometowne February 2012

COMPLIMENTARYFEBRUARY

2012

THIS MONTH’S BUSINESS IN FOCUS

RUGGIERO’S, A Family in BusinessTHIS MONTH’S BUSINESS IN FOCUS

RUGGIERO’S, A Family in Business

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Intimate February Evenings with candlelight dinners on the 11th, Valentine’s day the 14th, and 25th

Reservations SuggestedEvenings with Bobby VanDetta 12th, 19th, and 26th from 4-7pm

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

Lenten Dinner Specials beginning Friday February 24th

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Winter - according to Wikipedia,“Meteorological winter is the method ofmeasuring the winter season used bymeteorologists based on sensible weatherpatterns for record keeping purposes”, hereinlies the problem, there is no sensible weatherpattern to record. To date this one goes downas one of the lamest winters in memory, and itis affecting the business climate (no punintended) across the board. Take for instance the people who DEPENDon snow; i.e. GOLDSTOCKS, they sell Ski's and everything related towinter sports; ALL SEASONS, who sell and maintain snow blowers alongwith Snowmobiles. Landscapers who plow during the winter for income,even tourism is affected. No snow, no reason to come to the Adirondacks.

Our local economy has taken more meteorological hit's than we deserve in the past 12 months. We suffered record breaking heat in July, nearlydelaying the opening of the track. Hurricane Irene at the end of Augustwhich ended the boating and summer tourism season just before LaborDay weekend and left so many people without homes and/or jobs. Nowthe “non- winter”. The Capital District and surrounding communitieshave felt Mother Nature's wrath. But through it all we survive andpersevere, because that's who we are. Weather aside, businesses areinvesting, check out our back page, the Ruggiero family has dug in for the long haul by reinventing themselves into uncharted waters, read theirstory in this month's feature business. New businesses are popping upacross the area; Motorcycle Helmets & Jackets opened in Ballston Spa,The Wonder Room in Burnt Hills. While Wendy Nails isn't brand newthey hung on after the fire that closed their shop for nearly 2 months. This is the stuff Your Hometowne is made of.

Even from the corporate world investment in our community continues to grow. Target has invested in a property that will provide jobs and amarketplace for our community and beyond; as it will surely bring people from neighboring towns to shop. The domino effect of investingback is immeasurable yet tangible; you see it as you drive down the road.Yes, a few have not made it. The closing of Friendly's took us all bysurprise, especially those who lost their jobs with no notice. Butunderstand that was part of a larger plan, Friendly's closed 62 restaurantssince filing Chapter 11 in October. But my feet on the street (me) knowthe building will not be empty for long. Inquires are coming in frommany local business people who know that location is prime in thisgrowing economy.

We all have a little less money than we did a couple years ago. Our buying patterns have changed. Across the nation Buying Local is beingsupported by So-Lo-Mo (Social Local Mobile) technology such as goTown which allows people to use their smart phones to find the bestdeals in their area. goTown is a mobile app that uses the GPS in yourphone to find local businesses, eateries and services. With a simple touchyou can call them, get a map to get there and use a coupon right off your phone once you arrive. If you haven't loaded goTown app on your smart phone yet you are missing out on a lot of deals right here in the Capital District. Buying Local has gone high tech. Don't be left behind, the app is free and the deals are from local businesses that are trying to make it easy for you save money whileshopping in YourHometowne.

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

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

A message from

WHAT OUR EXPERTS ARE SAYING...Amy Aldrich, State Farm Insurance - Use Your Refund Wisely Burnt Hills Optical - Proper Care of EyeglassesCheap Geek - Basic Search Help Using GoogleChris Nyhan, Edward Jones - Investors can learn much from SuperBowl TeamsDr. Roy Oyangen, DMD - Brighten Your SmileLocust Grove Designs - Setting the Stage to Sell Your HomePrecise Fitness - You are not a Stupid Person. Not by any Means

ABOUT THE COVER...Mommy’s Valentine!We couldn’t resist using this photo of Paul James Hill Jr. The photo was professionally done by Kristen Bordonaro of Schenectady. Kristen is a Mom of 3 who specializes inNewborn, Children and Family photography. To see more about her visit www.sophiasabellaphotography.com


USE YOUR REFUND WISELYSo your 1040 is filed and you are now anxiouslywaiting for your refund. What do you plan on doingwith it? Go on that longawaited cruise, get a newset of golf clubs or buy that widescreen TV you’vehad your eye on? There are so many ways you couldspend your refund, but there are other alternativesto consider.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, over 75 percent of Americantaxpayers received a federal tax refund, with the average around$2,500. It’s what you do with your refund now that may create a betterfinancial future for you and your family.Instead of spending your refund this year, consider contributing to anIndividual Retirement Account (IRA), setting up a college savings fundfor a child, or paying down credit card debt. These options will helpimprove your financial situation. First on your list of priorities might bepaying down any high-interest credit card debts you have incurred. Bypaying only the minimum each month, you may be paying just theinterest (or less) on the debt and little or nothing towards the principal.Paying down the debt can help free up additional money for otherimportant financial needs.If debt is not a problem, your tax refund could provide you an excellentopportunity to contribute to an existing IRA or establish a new one. Forthe 2011 tax year, you can contribute up to $5,000 to an IRA. If you are50 years or older by December 31, 2011, you can add an additional$1,000 to the account. Making a tax-deductible contribution to atraditional IRA is an option if you are not participating in an employer-sponsored retirement plan or, if you are participating, your AdjustedGross Income falls within eligibility guidelines.A Roth IRA may be a better choice, if you are eligible to contribute.Contributions to a Roth IRA are not tax deductible. However, qualifieddistributions are received free from federal income tax.Your refund could also be used to contribute to your child's collegesavings. There are simple and affordable options you can take advantageof today, including taxadvantaged savings vehicles, to help you reachyour college savings goal.One thing to remember after you’ve decided the fate of this year’srefund: the check you received is not a windfall but the return of aninterest-free loan you provided the government. Regardless of thepleasure you may get from receiving a large check each tax year,adjusting the amount withheld by the government to reduce the amountof future refunds may be an appropriate course. You might not get arefund in April, but there may be more money in each paycheck tocontribute to a savings account or IRA or pay down debt throughout theyear.Take some time to consider your options before making the downpayment on that big purchase. The earlier you start saving for yourfuture, the more you may have during your retirement.If you have questions about these options and others, you owe it toyourself to contact a financial services professional that you know andtrust. Your financial future may depend on it.

Amy M. Aldrich123 Saratoga Road Glenville, NY 12302

518-384-2692www.amyaldrichagency.com

BOWLING TOURNAMENT

Come bowl for the benefit of the YOUR HOMETOWNEsponsored1M MORTENSEN MOTORSPORTS RACING TEAM.

Saturday, February 25th, 2012Rolling Greens Lanes

217 Mohawk Avenue, Scotia1PM REGISTRATION • 2PM BOWLING STARTS$12 per person (includes 3 games & shoes)

$75 Gift Certificate to Turf Tavern will be awarded to the winning Pair50/50 Raffle and many other raffles prizes

Contact Bonnie Mortensen at 882-7011

“Love is friendship set on fire."- Jeremy Taylor

INVESTORS CAN LEARN MUCHFROM SUPER BOWL TEAMS It's Super Bowl time again and whether you're a fan ofthe Giants, the Patriots, or not a fan at all, you canprobably learn something from these Super Bowlteams that you can apply to investing. What mightthese lessons be? Take a look:

Pick players carefully. Super Bowl teams don't usually get there out of luck;they've made it in part because they have carefully chosen their players.Andto potentially achieve success as an investor, you, too, need carefully chosen“players” - investments that are chosen for your individual situation.

Choose a diversified mix of players. Not only do these teams have goodplayers, but they have good ones at many different positions. A team madeup of only the best quarterbacks in the league would find themselves witha pretty lousy defensive line! As an investor, you should own a variety ofinvestments with different capabilities - such as stocks for growth andbonds for income - and your various investments should complement, ratherthan duplicate, one another. Strive to build a diversified portfolio containinginvestments appropriate for you situation, such as stocks, bonds,government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) and other vehicles.Although diversification by itself can't guarantee a profit or protect againstloss, it may help reduce the effects of market volatility.

Follow a “game plan.” Super Bowl teams are skilled at creating gameplans designed to maximize their own strengths and exploit theiropponents' weaknesses. When you invest, you also can benefit from a gameplan - a strategy to help you work toward your goals. This strategy mayincorporate several elements, such as taking full advantage of yourIndividual Retirement Account (IRA) and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, pursuing new investment opportunities as theyarise and reviewing your portfolio regularly to make sure it's stillappropriate for your needs.

Stay dedicated to your goals. Virtually all Super Bowl teams have had toovercome obstacles, such as injuries, bad weather and a tough schedule. Butthrough persistence and a constant devotion to their ultimate goal, theypersevere. As an investor, you'll face some challenges, too, such as politicaland economic turmoil that can upset the financial markets. But if you owna diversified mix of quality investments and follow a long-term strategythat's tailored to your objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance, you cankeep moving forward, despite the “bumps in the road” that all investorsface.

Get good coaching. Super Bowl teams typically are well-coached, withdisciplined head coaches and innovative offensive and defensivecoordinators. When you're trying to achieve many financial goals - such asa comfortable retirement, control over your investment taxes and a legacyto leave to your family - you, too, can benefit from strong “coaching.” Asyour “head coach,” you might choose a financial professional - someonewho can help you identify your goals and recommend an appropriateinvestment strategy to help you work toward them. And your financialprofessional can coordinate activities with your other “coaches,” such asyour tax and legal advisors.

Unless you're a professional football player, you won't ever experience whatit's like to play in the Super Bowl. However, achieving your financial goalscan be a fairly big event in your life - and to help work toward that point,you can take a few tips from the teams that have made it to the Big Game.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Christopher Nyhan runs the Edward Jones office in Burnt Hills, NY. He can be reached at 399-5087 or [email protected].


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PROPER CARE OFEYEGLASSESGiven the cost of eyeglasses and the amountof time for which most people keep aprescription pair, it's important to care forthem properly. Here are a few tips on takingcare of both the lenses and the frames.

Use an eyeglass lens cleaner. When you getnew glasses, we send you home with a complimentary bottle. This liquid isspecially formulated for eyeglass care and is different from windex andother, more harsh household cleaners - so don't substitute.

Use a micro-fiber cloth specifically designed for eyeglasses. When thecloth is not in use, keep it in a case. A cloth that lies out collecting dust willonly rub those little particles on your lenses. To care for your lenses with thecloth, you need to care for the cloth too. We cringe when we see some ofthe things people use to dry their lenses - jackets, paper towels, woolsweaters, bath towels, tissues, even toilet paper! The surfaces of theseitems are too harsh for eyeglass lenses. Even if you have had your lensesspecially coated to prevent scratching, there is no such thing as 100%scratch-free lenses. If you use paper towels to dry your lenses every day fora year, they'll end up scratched.

Use a hard-cover glasses case. To protect your spectacles, always putthem in a case when they are not being used. Never put them in yourpocket or in a handbag unless they have first been placed in a case, to avoidscratching the lenses or bending the frames.

Always hold the frame by both the temples when putting on andremoving your spectacles. Never hold with one temple only, as this willincrease the likelihood of the frame being misaligned or the hinge beingloosened, and could also result in damaging your lenses or deteriorate theframe material. The number one reason we see glasses getting out ofalignment (besides your husband, wife or grandchildren sitting on them) isnot using 2 hands to put them on and off.

Get occasional adjustments. Frames are likely to get loose from regularwear. In order to prevent slippage (and worse, "fall-offage”), just stop bythe place you bought them and ask for a quick adjustment.

With proper cleaning and care, eyeglasses should last several years. Just afew minutes each day to clean and examine them will be worth the effortto prolong the life of your glasses.

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

or visit www.burnthillsoptical.com. NEW MENU!Everything is Fresh and Made to Order

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YOU ARE NOT A STUPID PERSON.NOT BY ANY MEANS.You probably exercise regularly. You watch what youeat. You keep up-to-date on the latest health concerns.The following 5 Stupid Things are frequently committedby health conscious people. Once you break these bad

habits, you'll find that achieving your weight loss goals just became a wholelot easier.

1. You're Dehydrated• When was the last time that you actually drank 8 glasses of water in

a day? • Dehydration occurs when more fluid leaves your body than is taken in.

Symptoms include: fatigue, irritability, headaches, nausea, rapid heartrate.

• Dehydration also slows your metabolism, which hinders weight loss.

2. You Eat Out Too Often• Research suggests that most people eat out one out of every 4 meals

and snacks.• Restaurant food is designed to do one thing: to taste good. In order to

increase eating pleasure, each item is loaded with fat, salt and sugar.• Even when you order 'healthy' items, you're still taking in more

calories and fat grams than you would if you had prepared the itemat home.

3. You're Sleep Deprived• In Gallup Poll surveys, 56% of the adult population reported that

drowsiness is a problem in the daytime.• Healthy adults require 7-8 hours of sleep each night.• A lack of sleep negatively affects your immune system, your nervous

system, and interferes with healthy hormone release and cellularrepairs.

4. You're Stressed Out• I don't have to tell you that we are living in a fast-paced world and

that most of us have stress levels that are through the roof. But whatyou might not realize is that your stress levels are making you fat.

• Stress creates an increase in the hormone cortisol, and chronic stresscreates a chronic increase in cortisol. This is a problem because isslows your metabolism, leads to cravings and is linked to greater levels of abdominal fat storage.

• Stress causes you to eat emotionally, and your raised cortisol levelscause that food to be stored as fat.

5. You're on Exercise Autopilot• You do the same thing each and every time you exercise. Same

machines, same pace, same duration.• A plateau occurs when your body adapts to your routine and weight

loss stops.• You don't have to increase the amount of time that you spend

exercising in order to see quicker, faster results. It's all aboutchallenging your body.

Would you like to know without a shadow of a doubt that you are going tolose weight in the coming months?

It's so simple. Call or email today to get started on a program that willimprove your health and well being, and will get you amazing results.

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


Did You Know?Originally the word Valentine meant the person whose name was picked from a box to be chosen

as your sweetheart up until the 1500's. Then around 1533, it meant the folded piece of paper with the sweetheart's name on it. By 1610 it became the gift given to this

special someone and by 1824 it became a poem, letter or verse given to a sweetheart.

Did You Know?Although Valentine's Day is celebrated on

February 14th, it originates from the Romancelebration called Lupercalia, which was heldon February 15th and was a fertility festival.



Perfect for decks, steps, sidewalks • Lightweight and easy to use •Powerful performance throwing snow up to 30 feet

Eco-friendly so no gas or oil and virtually maintenance free

Electric Power Snowblowers & Shovels

1800 Power Curve® (38381) Powerful, lightweight electric-poweredsnowblower, clears an 18” wide path and throws the snow up to 30 feet.Power Shovel (38361) Perfect for Decks and Sidewalks. Compact,lightweight, weighing just 13lbs it has the power to throw snow up to 20 feet while cutting a 12” wide path.


Plus:Service, Repairs, Upgrades,

Replacement and:

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Air Conditioning

Radon MitigationSystems

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399-6808

Serving the Capital District North Area

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$10 OFF ANY SERVICE WITH THIS ADCANNOT BE COMBINED


6 week Creative Movement Samplerfor 3 1/2, 4 & 5 year olds

begins March 10thGrange Hall, Pashley Rd, E. Glenville

Tues. 10am, Thurs. 1pm, Sat. 8:15am or 12:30pm

A very special Valentine for your child!

Dancing with Ginny Martin is a unique, creative experienceunlike anything else. A master at sparking a youngster's

enjoyment of movement through wonderful story, Ginny offers a dance wonderland not to be missed!

Parents all over the capital district consider Ginny an impeccable role model for their children

as well as an incomparable dance magician.

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“Lucky is the man who is the first love of a woman, but luckier is the woman

who is the last love of a man."- Anonymous

Andouille and Chicken Creole Pasta

OUR SIGNATURE ITALIAN SAUSAGE SINCE 1904

Hot or Sweet; Rope style or PattiesMeatballs and Bragoiles

Kielbasa, Chorizo,Andouille, Bratwurst, Daisy Hams

& Thick Sliced Bacon

CUSTOM CUT BEEFFilet Mignon

Rib eye steaks choiceNY Strip Steaks choice

PORKPork Chops Center Cut Bone in or Stuffed*

Pork Tenderloins

POULTRYSkinless boneless Chicken breasts

Chicken Cutlets or Stuffed Chicken Breasts*

COLD CUTS Featuring Battistoni

Salami, Capicola, Soppresata& Abruzzi

*Our own bread crumb and sausage stuffing

Don't forget the Homemade StuffedCherry Peppers or Freshly Grated Parmesan

to complement our large Selection of Pasta & Casa Visco Sauces.

A variety of Olive Oils as well as blocks of Sharp Provolone, Fontinella, Asiago,

Extra Sharp Canadian Cheddar, SmokedCheddar, Danish Blue Cheese, Pecorino

Romano and Parmesan Reggianito.

2 tablespoons olive oil1/2 pound Garofalo's Andouille sausage, sliced in rounds 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cutinto strips3 tablespoons Creole seasoning1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced4 green onions, chopped1 (14.5oz) can (reduced sodium) chicken broth1 cup milk2 teaspoons lemon pepper2 teaspoons garlic powder1/4 cup cornstarch1/2 cup cold water1 (16oz) package linguine pasta

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Cook andouille and chicken with the Creole seasoning until the meat is about halfway done.Add the mushrooms, green onion, green pepperand red pepper. Saute over medium heat until the mushrooms begin to shrink, about 10 minutes.Stir in the chicken broth and milk,season with lemon pepper and garlic powder,and reduce the heat to medium-low. (Now is agood time to start boiling water for the pasta.)Mix together the cornstarch and cold water untildissolved. Stir into the skillet. Cook, stirring gently, until the sauce returns to a boil. Boil forone minute, then remove from heat and set aside. Serve hot over cooked pasta.Place pasta in a large pot of lightly salted water. Boil for 8 to 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. Drain.

Garofalo's Offers a WideVariety of Meat Specialties

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

www.garofalosausage.com

Italian Sausage and Peppers

6 links Garofalo's sweet Italian sausage (about 1 1/2 lbs)2 tablespoons olive oil1 yellow onion, sliced4 cloves garlic, minced1 large red bell pepper, sliced1 green bell pepper, sliced1 teaspoon dried basil1 teaspoon dried oregano1/4 cup white wine or water if you prefer

Place the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, and brown on all sides. Remove from skillet, and slice.Heat oil in the skillet. Stir in the yellow onion and garlic, and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Mix in red bell pepper and green bell pepper. Season with basil, and oregano. Stir in white wine.Continue to cook and stir until peppers and onions are tender.Return sausage slices to skillet with the vegetables. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes, or until sausage is heated through.Enjoy!

In honor of Fat Tuesday we offer this SPICY dish!



FEBRUARY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

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28

ACROSS1.Extent5. A person who is owned10. Unwanted email14. Novice15. An area of Great Britain16. Rabbit17. Outrageous19. Charity

20. Ambition21. Blatant22. Garbage23. Student25. Map within a map27. Snake-like fish28. Enjoyable31. Aquatic mammal34. Small trout-like fish

35. Ghost's cry36. Mangle37. Ancient philosopher38. Cause surfeit through excess39. Mistake40. Make fun of41. Nerds42. Having no intelligible meaning44. Cover45. Canvas shelters46. A young hare50. Cantillate52. Picture54. Wood chopping tool55. Steals56. Nonsectarian58. Competent59. Lustrous fabric60. A small wooded hollow61. "Comes and ____"62. Beg63. The products of human

creativity

DOWN1.Pilfer2. Sprite3. Fragrance4. Neither ___5. Turn on a pivot6. Not earlier7. Winglike

8. Air out9. Eastern Standard Time10. Stock certificates11. Acceptable to the taste12. Not legs13. Netting18. Silly mistake22. Russian emperor24. Bobbin26. Roman emperor28. Stage29. Cozy corner30. Playthings31. Portent32. Tropical tuber33. Record player34. Music genre37. Confined38. Formally surrender40. Canvas dwelling41. Donated43. Detects44. Fable46. Female demon47. Formula 1 driver48. Glorify49. Informs50. Outcropping51. Vagabond53. Speechless56. Clairvoyant's gift57. Actress Lupino


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Tony Ruggiero worked in the Deli businesswhen he was 14 yrs old, so after 11 years withthe Price Chopper Corporation together withhis wife Ida, a dressmaker by trade, thedecision to go into the pizza/ deli businessmade sense. They took the leap of faith withthe understanding that this venture was goingto be a family affair.

On February 13th 1989, Tony and Ida set upshop in Socha Plaza on Rt 50 in Glenvillealong with their oldest son Joe, daughter Ginaand son TJ, each stepping up after school and on weekends whiletheir youngest son Johnny, while way too young to work taggedalong to help just the same. Ruggiero's Pizza and Deli was born.

As with many successful ventures, the idea to grow became realityin 2000 when TJ, now out of school along with Joe, Johnny andGina took the Ruggiero name into Guilderland and openedanother business located at 3905 Carman Rd. Modeled after theGlenville store they extended the line of food and catering thatestablished them so well in Glenville. By this time, everyone whocould, filled in at both locations when needed, after all this is afamily business.

One might think that having two successful businesses in twodifferent locations might be enough to handle for this family ofsix. Think again- Literally born into the business, Johnny was ofage and able to be at either location along with Gina, TJ and Joe,who also runs his own pizza/food concession at local venues in thesummer. TJ heard that there was a Glenville property up for sale,The Flight Line on Route 50, some may remember it as Peter'sWagon Wheel or the Tailwinds back in the day over its halfcentury existence as a bar in Glenville. In 2008 the deal wasclosed, TJ Ruggiero had his own property to manage and build

upon; TJ's Flightline Pub. After an extensiveremodeling complete with the area's onlycement bar, the Flightline Pub opened as anupscale place to meet friends or clients, enjoylunch or dinner and relax in a friendly andcomfortable atmosphere.

Not one to shy away from opportunities, TJsaw the chance to improve upon what turnedout to be a great place for everyone, youngand old. He took the challenge of a hugeremodeling project that was started in 2011

and is being completed as you read this.

A bright new façade designed with local builder Eric Bessarab,Mohawk Heat and various sub contractors, the project reveals aseamless new footprint into a room that extended the formerfoundation. All this went on while the business ran as usual,meaning that the family helps out as needed.

We could wrap this biography up if it weren't for the fact that asof this issue Johnny and Joe teamed up to manage and run SiverHills Restaurant and Banquet House as J &J Ruggiero's cateringat Pinehaven Country Club. Opening this spring, their CulinaryArt Institute Chefs will preside over an extensive custom menuand offer skilled event planning in house at the club located at1151 Siver Road Guilderland, NY or your location for your nextparty, luncheon, wedding, shower or family affair.

For over 23 years, the Ruggiero family has worked hard to besuccessful and it shows! So as Tony and Ida mark their 40thwedding anniversary on Feb 5th, Cheryll and I along with YOURHOMETOWNE wish Tony, Ida, Joe, Gina, TJ and Johnnycontinued prosperity and sincere congratulations' on makingYOUR HOMETOWNE a better place to live and enjoy life,proving once again that hard work equals success.

SUCCESS IN BUSINESS

TAKES WORK - just ask the Ruggiero's

See our

ad on the

back cover!

A FAMILY IN BUSINESS


Scotia native Alan Payette (pictured right) has been playing seriousguitar for as long as I can remember.

Though it wasn't always so; Alan picked up the violin at the age of13 as did many musical students, there just weren't any guitars inthe school orchestra back then.

All that changed after the Beatles landed in the USA and appearedon the Ed Sullivan show. Alan along with a lot kids his age decidedto pick up a guitar and it didn't take long before he joined a groupin 8th grade called "The Invators"; and so the story begins.

Once in high school, Alan formed his own group named “AirborneProjection" only to regroup with fellow students as" Stumpy andThe Hard Rockers" lead by keyboardist/vocalist Ed Collins. I'mconvinced that coming up with band names is an art unto itself.

During this time frame Eric Clapton was the buzzword as Creambecame the first “Super Group” while Leslie West and Mountainaired alongside Jimi Hendrix, it was a guitar player's heaven. By thetime Alan was getting ready to graduate high school, he and Eddiejoined a local bar band called "Apricot Brandy" appearing at localbars where he actually got paid! The hook was set and Alan neverlooked back, he knew where he was going and was getting there instyle!

In 1970 he connected with yet another Scotia grad, a guitaristnamed Mark Ernst, (there is a whole “nuther” story in and of itselfwith Mark) Bassist Gary Butts and Drummer Gary Grimaldi who hada band called "Eros". They were taking their big hair show on theroad to the California bay area where they toured around LosAngeles, San Jose and up to Lake Tahoe, recording and writingsongs.

During this period Alan had a myriad of formative experiences in lifeand musically as well. Eventually they returned to NY playing covertunes and originals on the New England/ Canada club circuit. Iwould venture to say that a great moment for them was opening upat the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for the J Geils band andwatching it all fall apart rather quickly when J Geils played anextremely short set, setting off a major riot. Feeling they were

cheated by the band all hell broke loose; as they say “film at 11”;it made national news.

In 1982 he decided to form his own trio, a power band named“Triffid” playing a mix of covers and originals with Dan Farnach onBass and Joe Von Stetina on drums. It was during this period thathe did a lot of writing, and recording, while opening for major labelartists at popular local venues.

These were very exciting times as Alan and his band enjoyed thehonor of opening for the likes of the late Gary Moore, Dokken andWarrant, one particular high point was opening for RichieBlackmores Rainbow at the Palace Theater.

After the 80's hair/ metal era, Alan returned to his roots in the bluesforming the Big Block Blues Band in 1993, then adding a hornsection to capture the Mike Bloomfield “Electric Flag” style as theAlan Payette Band, while working with the rock band “Wolfgang'who recorded original blues/ rock songs written by Alan.

These days' Alan owns and runs Payette's Music Traders in Scotiaand fronts the extremely popular 80's fueled trio "Rattail Jimmy".If you haven't seen him in action, you're missing quite the show.Stay Tuned!

STAY TUNED with Paul Hill


BASIC SEARCH HELP USING GOOGLESearch is simple, just type whatever comes tomind in the search box, hit Enter or click theSearch button, and Google will search the webfor content that's relevant to your search.Most of the time, you'll find exactly what you're

looking for with just a basic query (the word or phrase you search for).However, the following tips can help you make the most of your searches.SOME BASIC FACTSEvery word matters. Generally, all the words you put in the query will beused.

Search is always case insensitive. A search for “new york times” is thesame as a search for “New York Times”.

Generally, punctuation is ignored, including @#$%^&*()=+[]\ andother special characters.Keep it simple. If you're looking for a particular company, just enter itsname, or as much of its name as you can recall. If you're looking for aparticular concept, place, or product, start with its name. If you're lookingfor a pizza restaurant, just enter pizza and the name of your town or yourzip code. Simple is good.A search engine is not a human, it is a program that matches the wordsyou give to pages on the web. Use the words that are most likely toappear on the page. For example, instead of saying ”my head hurts”,say “headache”, because that's the term a medical page will use.Describe what you need with as few terms as possible. The goal ofeach word in a query is to focus it further. Since all words are used, eachadditional word limits the results. If you limit too much, you will miss alot of useful information. The main advantage to starting with fewerkeywords is that, if you don't get what you need, the results will likelygive you a good indication of what additional words are needed to refineyour results on the next search. For example, “ weather miami” is asimple way to find the weather and it is likely to give better results thanthe longer “ weather report for Miami florida”.Choose descriptive words. The more unique the word is the more likelyyou are to get relevant results. Words that are not very descriptive, like'document,' 'website,' 'company,' or 'info,' are usually not needed. Keepin mind, however, that even if the word has the correct meaning but it isnot the one most people use, it may not match the pages you need. Forexample, “cartoon ringtones” is more descriptive and specific than“cartoon sounds”.Search engines put the answers at your fingertips!

As always... safe computing!

Cheap Geek Computer ServicesMaggie Faltskog • 399-8886

Be sure to check our prices on Dell Laptops and desktops first.Our in stock, Dell laptops start at $299 and desktops at $399.And our used, reconditioned PC's from $100.


SETTING THE STAGE TO SELL YOUR HOMEYou've seen them - the photos of homes for sale andwe think, “Who would sell their house looking likethat?” It's hard to imagine - especially in this market- anyone trying to sell their home without doing a topto bottom makeover; but unfortunately, it happens all

the time. According to RESA, professionally staged homes sell 67% fasterthan homes that are not staged (181 days vs. 60 days). When youconsider the costs that you will incur maintaining and paying for yourhome over 6 months, you cannot afford NOT to stage your home.There are lots of ways to update and refresh without breaking the bank.If you are selling your home this year, you will sell faster it if you followmy easy steps.

Even in this market, you can sell your home if you take the time to preparebefore you put it on the market. Don't know where to start or don't havethe time? Sign up for my Home Staging class through the BHBLContinuing Education Program 2/9 at 6:30pm or contact me through mywebsite: www.locustgrovedesigns.com.Happy selling!

Locust Grove Designs • Dawn DiLorenzo • 222-9551

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1. Do you research. Ask your realtor for some activeproperties that are in better condition than yours. Becompletely honest - you're trying to sell your home, don't staytoo attached to the ivy border you stenciled in 1980. Buyerswant current, updated, neutral homes.2. Determined which areas need the most work, usuallykitchens and bathrooms, and set a budget. Kitchens andbathrooms have a high return on investment and can often bethe key to a sale without dramatically lowering your sale price.3. Clean everything (this is the most overlooked area). Don'tforget drawers and closets -buyers will look there. Do a top tobottom clean in every room. Clear out clutter or excessfurnishings. Too much furniture will make a room look smallerand conversely, too little furniture will make it difficult for thebuyer to imagine how they would use a room.4. Freshen up with paint, especially if your colors are datedor paint is really worn. Keep it simple by painting every roomthe same neutral color.5. Freshen up the outside. Remove dead plants, take downthose cute little flags and wind chimes, and clear everythingthat doesn't belong from porches and patios.


FEBRUARY SCHEDULE

518-399-8174 E-mail: [email protected]

LIBRARY HOURS: Monday -Thursday 10AM - 8PMFriday 10AM - 5PM • Saturday 10AM - 2PM • Closed Sunday

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

YOUTH SERVICES http://toby.sals.edu • E-mail: [email protected]

LIBRARY MINI GOLFThe Friends of the Library is hosting a Library Mini Golf event on February24th & 25th. This will be a chance for families and friends to come out andplay together! Our event will include 18 holes of golf, a bake sale and amini book sale!We are looking for sponsors to help bring this event to the CommunityLibrary. Families or businesses interested in supporting the library canmake a $100 tax deductible donation and sponsor a hole or tee! Allsponsors will have their logos displayed at the library and all logos will beon the golf score cards. Sponsors will have the opportunity to decoratetheir hole for the event. Our sponsorship form is available online.For more information please email Rebecca Darling [email protected].//toblibrary.sals.edu for more information or call thelibrary at 399-8174 ext. 2 to sign up.COMPUTER CLASSES FEBRUARY 2012The Town of Ballston Community Library offers various computer classesand we are pleased to announce New and Enhanced Classes for 2012.Classes are free unless otherwise noted. For a small printing fee, handoutsmay be available for patrons to retain for future reference. Registration isrequired and space is limited. To register, please stop by or call the libraryat 518-399-8174. ext 2.Monday, February 6th 6pm to 8pm Microsoft WORD Level 1Thursday, February 9th 6pm to 8pm Microsoft EXCEL Level 1Thursday, February 16th 6pm to 8pm Microsoft EXCEL Level 2Monday, February 27th 10:30am to 12:30pm Email for BeginnersWednesday, February 29th 1pm to 3pm Computer Lab

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH PERSONAL WINE CELLAR

Personal Wine Cellar marks the latest, and soon-to-be greatest chapter inour family's great legacy in Wine & Liquor sales. With nearly a decade ofservice in wine and spirit sales, Brian L. Craig finally sees his dream ofopening his own store realized.

Together with his son-in-law Ernie, his daughter Lyssa, and his son Jurian,their 20+ years in the liquor service industry bring not only knowledge of awide range of products, but a warm and friendly atmosphere to shop, chat,or sample.

This marks the end of a 2-plus year search to find the perfect location, andthe beginning of the longer journey of taking a simple store and turning itinto something wonderful. The mission is not to stock it with our favoritewines and spirits, but to fill it to the brim with your favorites. To truly makethis, YOUR Personal Wine Cellar.

PWC offers wine and/or spirits tastings nearly every week, usually on Fridayevening or Saturday afternoon. You can always check the calendar on thePWC website (www.pwcglenville.com/tasting_calendar.html) for the exacttimes and products that are being tasted, or find PWC on Facebook or onTwitter @399WINE, or just call the store at 399-WINE (399-9463)

Personal Wine Cellar is open 9am to 9pm Monday-Saturday, 12-6pmSunday, and is conveniently located right next to Price Chopper (and astones-throw from Hannaford) on Rt. 50. Why make your wine and liquorshopping a destination? Shop where you already shop.

"Not the biggest... just the best."


365 DAYS OF OPPORTUNITY!It seems like I turned my head for just a second,blinked and BAM!!! It's the New Year already. Anew start for new beginnings...

It's 2012 and I am still here! Wahoo, who would havethought that little ol' me would still be writing thiscolumn. It seems as though I have a few fans out

there. Some even say they turn to the back cover first, flip a few pagesand read my article then enjoy the rest of the newspaper. I have beenhere awhile now and as you can see I have come a long way. I think justknowing that each New Year, I get 365 more chances to make it betterkeeps me going. My "Bucket List", as you know is pretty worn. As I copythe lines on to a new crisp piece of paper, I realize that I didn't doeverything on it. As I held it out in front of me, it kind of made me feelsad. I had hoped to accomplish so much and yet, there were many linesthat were not crossed off. A loud "humph" came from my lips. In thatmoment I had thought that I had done so much more. I tried to smoothout the crinkled up paper and read what I had done. Hoping it wouldhelp me feel better. No matter how small the accomplishments were,they were mine after all. The more I thought about the past year, Irealized that my bucket list was important but the actual living in the day,the moment and the right now was truly my greatest goals. My son flewa plane for the first time, he graduated from Encampment over thesummer, and he grew like 8 feet over night and is now a Staff Sergeantin Civil Air Patrol (CAP). I have been working more and more and glad tocall my clients friends. I have also realized that one person can make adifference and it's not just something you go around saying. I havelearned that you inspire by doing, not by telling. I have learned that youneed to encourage others out of love and support and not by beingdemanding. I have learned that being a good mom consists of listeningmore and judging less. I have learned to be a better friend, all the time,not just some of the time.

As I fold up the list up and place in its secret compartment, I smile andknow that I have another year, another 365 days to work on it. As thisyear comes to a close again, sooner than expected, I will revisit the list.Knowing full well, not all the items on the list will have a check marknext to them, but I will have treasured all the moments in between.

Now you've got 365 days of opportunity, what are you going to do withit? Set some goals to be better and do better. Add a few things on that"bucket list" of yours and definitely remember to live each moment,enjoy the right now and always look forward to more!

As always, I wish you peace, joy and 365 days of opportunity! Now goget 'em!

Pattie Rakvica • [email protected]

Your Hometowne February 2012

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Transcript of Your Hometowne February 2012