Adaptive Sports Foundation and Windham Mountain to Host 5th Annual ASF Awareness Day

WINDHAM – The Adaptive Sports Foundation and Windham Mountain are teaming up to host the Fifth Annual ASF Awareness Day on Saturday, January 14, which will include festivities celebrating the foundation all day, highlighted by a free concert by The Nerds that evening. 

 

The ASF will have a tent at the Windham base lodge from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., where skiers, snowboarders and passersby can learn about the organization’s mission, how to get involved and donate. The tent will also have games for people to play and will have raffle prizes and giveaways. At 10 a.m., the ASF Race Team will compete in the ASF Awareness Day race, with the award ceremony for the participants occurring at 2 p.m.

 

After the day of skiing ends, the ASF and Windham Mountain will hold a concert at SEASONS featuring rock ‘n’ roll cover band The Nerds at 4:30 p.m. General admission to the show is free.

 

During the band’s first set break at 5:30 p.m., the ASF will conduct a very special torchlight parade down Windham Mountain’s trail Whiteway as a tribute to the memory of former Chairman of the ASF Board of Trustees Harvey Silverman. Silverman, the foundation’s first-ever chairman, played an integral part in building the Adaptive Sports Foundation from a small winter program based out of a room in the Windham base lodge to what it is today; a year-round service for the disabled community that operates out of its own slope-side lodge. Silverman passed away in the summer of 2022. 

 

After the torchlight parade, Windham Mountain will put on a fireworks show before The Nerds hit the stage again to perform until 7 p.m. For more information about this day of celebrating the athletic abilities of the ASF’s adaptive athletes, visit www.adaptivesportsfoundation.org/awareness-day-2023.

 

The Adaptive Sports Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides profound and life changing experiences for children and adults with physical disabilities, cognitive disabilities and chronic illnesses through outdoor physical activity, education, support and community. For more information about the ASF, visit adaptivesportsfoundation.org. 

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Audubon to Lead Member Trip to View Local Bald Eagles

[Oneonta, NY- REGIONAL] Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society (DOAS) will be leading a field trip to view wintering Bald Eagles around the Delaware County rivers and reservoirs on Saturday, January 14, 2023.  Eagles concentrate around open water in the region to feed, and recent trips have turned up 20+ birds.  Other raptors and waterfowl are usually sighted also.  We will stop at a local restaurant for lunch for interested participants. This trip is limited to DOAS members, and pre-registration is required at the DOAS website (form is linked below and includes the option to join). Memberships will also be available on the day of the trip. Register at https://doas.us/events/eagle-viewing-trip-for-doas-members/ The trip will leave the Dietz St. parking lot across from the YMCA in Oneonta at 7:30 a.m. Participants can also be met en-route in Delhi and Walton. Carpoolers: Please be prepared to follow COVID protocols while ride sharing based on driver and passenger preferences. Return to Oneonta will be mid to late afternoon. For further information, contact Andy Mason, (607) 652-2162, AndyMason@earthling.net.

Bald Eagle, Photo by Rick Bunting.

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Two Bassett Leaders Selected as Becker's Rising Stars in Healthcare

Cooperstown, N.Y. – Bassett Healthcare Network announced today that two of its leaders have been recognized as Rising Stars in Healthcare by Becker’s Hospital Review, the respected industry publication.

“Congratulations to both Deanna Charles and Henry Knoop on being included in this exceptional group of health care professionals,” said Dr. Tommy Ibrahim, President & CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network. “We are very proud that not one, but two Bassett leaders are recognized as Rising Stars in Healthcare for their deep dedication to patient care and their outstanding performance.”

Deanna Charles is Senior Vice President, Chief Ambulatory and Transformation Officer at Bassett Healthcare Network. She is a member of Bassett’s executive leadership team and is responsible for all ambulatory and outpatient operations. She heads strategic planning to support continuous growth and development to advance quality care and the patient experience.

“I am truly humbled and honored to be recognized as a Becker's Rising Star. Over these last five years, I have found Bassett to be more than just an employer, it's a family. It is a privilege to work alongside my colleagues, peers, and friends each and every day,” said Ms. Charles. “I look forward to continuing our mission to improve the health of our patients and well-being of our communities in the new year.”

Henry Knoop IV, PA, is Chief Advanced Practice Officer and Associate Chief Clinical Officer, one of Bassett's highest clinical roles. He has been instrumental in Bassett’s rapid telemedicine advancements during the pandemic – and now virtual medicine’s continued evolution – to better serve its patients.

“I am really proud of the work we are doing here at Bassett with a focus on our rural community and patients. It is very exciting to help shine a spotlight on our incredible team and everything we have accomplished during an unprecedented time in healthcare. In my role as Associate Chief Clinical Officer, I look forward to continuing to advance the care delivered at Bassett through our quality, access, and patient experience initiatives,” said Mr. Knoop. 

"Emerging leaders in healthcare are focused on accessibility, affordability and boosting the patient experience. They are an impressive group of enthusiastic and inspiring individuals with big goals to shape the future of healthcare delivery. Becker's is proud to recognize the rising stars in healthcare, focused on leaders with a diverse background from across the industry who are 40 years old or younger. We accepted nominations for this list and selected members based on their quick ascent within their organizations and drive to improve patient care," states Becker’s.

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CCE Directors to Meet Jan 25th

January 25, 2023, at 6:30pm

 

 

The Board of Directors of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County will meet at the Hamden office at 6:30 p.m.

 

 

“Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by calling Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County at 607-865-6531 by January 19th, 2023 to ensure sufficient time to make arrangements. Requests received after this date will be met when possible.”

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Gardening: Choose Your Own Adventure

Gardening: Choose Your Own Adventure

In the dark days of January, gardeners sometimes find themselves overwhelmed by dazzling seed catalogs and online offerings. Everything looks wonderful and it is hard to decide what to pick or what to plant. Join Otsego Master Gardener, Francine Stayter, on Saturday, January 21, at 10 a.m., for Gardening: How to Choose Your Own Adventure, a hybrid workshop in-person at the CCE Education Center in Cooperstown, or virtually via Zoom.

Cornell has many resources that can help you make decisions that suit your garden to give you the right plants for the right place. In this workshop, Ms. Stayter will discuss how to use some of these resources, from selecting from seed catalogs, to seed starting, to planting your 2023 garden, that will help you choose your best gardening adventure.

This workshop is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required by Wednesday, January 18th. To register and for more information, go to https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/Gardening-Adventure_243 or call 607-547-2536 x0.

Otsego Master Gardener Volunteers have been specially trained and certified by Cornell University Extension with a mission to provide education on a broad range of horticultural topics and practices based on university research and recommendations.

Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities. Accommodations for persons with special needs may be requested by contacting Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties prior to a program.

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MURDER MYSTERY DINNER THEATER PRODUCTION SCHEDULED AT PAUL NIGRA CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS

Gloversville, NY – The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts is hosting an original Murder Mystery Dinner Theater production, “A Roaring Rubout or Who Plugged the Palooka?” on Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The production, written by Roberta Esposito, includes a storyline that takes place during the Roaring 20s and features performers from the Esposito-led Foothills Family Productions. 

Tickets are $55 per person and attendees are encouraged to put on a flapper dress, zoot suit, or throw on a boa or fedora to join the fun at this interactive experience.  Price of ticket includes dinner and the show, with dinner prepared by Chef Wally Hart.  Members of the Nigra Arts Center receive a 20% discount on tickets.  Reservations are required and there will be a cash bar available. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite or by calling the Nigra Arts Center at (518) 661-9932.

Because of the nature of the production’s storyline and performances, seating will be assigned. If there are seating requests please indicate that upon registration. If attendees have any dietary restrictions it is requested that the Arts Center be apprised of this at least one week prior to the performances. The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts is located at 2736 State Highway 30, Gloversville, NY. 

 

About the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts:
The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts is a beautiful, year-round arts center open to the public. It houses premium art venues, hosts fun family events and provides educational opportunities for persons of all ages and levels of ability. The Nigra Arts Center also offers exceptional spaces for private parties or business events. The Nigra Arts Center was founded in 2015 by The Arc Lexington, an accredited, award-winning provider of disability services. For more information, visit www.pncreativeartscenter.org.

 

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Bushel presents its January Community Film Pick: Summer of Soul

Bushel presents its January Community Film Pick: Summer of Soul

DELHI—As part of its Community Film Picks series, Bushel is excited to heat things up with a screening of Summer of Soul (2021), directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. The film will be shown on Friday, January 20, 7 pm. Doors open at 6:45 pm; screening begins at 7pm, followed by a DJ set 9–10:30 pm with Darwin Marcus Johnson. This program is free to attend. Masks are optional but encouraged; please remain home if you are feeling ill. 

Summer of Soul is the acclaimed filmmaking debut of Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. This powerful and transporting documentary is part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture, and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just one hundred miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park). The footage was largely forgotten, until now. Summer of Soul shines a light on the importance of history to our spiritual well-being and stands as a testament to the healing power of music during times of unrest, both past and present. The feature includes concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension, and more. Summer of Soul premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award.

Bushel thanks Christina Hunt Wood for her film pick! Wood is a visual artist and Bushel collective member. She describes herself as a “local gal and opinionated sugar plum” who loves to hike, bike, and run.

Community Film Picks is a once-a-month film night at Bushel taking place on third Fridays at 7 pm. Bushel invites the community to propose films for future screenings. For information please email: info@bushelcollective.org. Upcoming: Latcho Drom on February 17, 2023, picked by Jonathan Kane.

BUSHEL is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, volunteer-led, mixed-use space dedicated to art, agriculture, ecology, and action. It is located at 106 Main Street in Delhi. For more information, go to www.bushelcollective.org.

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Financial Wellness Programs for Businesses

If you’re a small business owner, chances are that at least some of your workforce is stressed and distracted by worries about money, making them more frazzled and less productive on the job. Studies show that 73% of Americans say their finances are the number one cause of stress in their life.1 And for those who are employed, nearly half say that personal financial issues create distractions at work.2

These statistics could paint a worrisome picture of the mental health of your employee population. They could also impact your company’s bottom line. Each year, employers lose an average of $1,900 per employee in lost productivity due to financial stress.2 This helps explain why more and more employers are making financial wellness programs available as a workplace benefit.

Financial wellness is mutually beneficial for both employees and employers. Such programs can improve your company’s fiscal health while boosting your employees’ productivity and engagement. Let’s take a closer look at employee financial wellness programs and the benefits they can bring to both employees and employer.

What is an employee financial wellness program? 

Employee financial wellness programs are programs that help employees better manage their finances and reduce financial worries. As such, they contribute to a better overall financial wellbeing for employees.

When it comes to employee financial wellness, employers can implement a variety of different programs and offerings. Some focus solely on financial education, while others layer employer matching, financial assistance, and other opportunities into the equation. 

Educational-focused programs, for example, may provide employees with financial workshops about homeownership, retirement savings, budgeting, or debt management. Employer matching programs may involve matching a certain percentage of retirement contributions employees make to their 401(k) or to student loans. And other types of financial assistance could include tuition assistance, medical bill negotiation, or financial planning subsidies.

The key to a successful financial wellness program is first determining the specific needs of your employees so that you can more accurately meet those needs. Different workforces will have different financial situations and necessitate different programs.

Why is it important for employers? 

In a recent survey, nearly 70 percent of employers say they recognize the value in offering financial wellness programs to make them more competitive in hiring and retaining employees.3 If you haven’t explored a financial wellness program for your employees, you may want to consider how adding one could benefit your organization. Doing so may provide:

• The potential to enhance workplace satisfaction as your employees gain greater confidence about their financial direction in life. 

• Improved productivity among employees who are no longer overwhelmed with concerns about their financial situation

• Better retention of employees, who find enhanced gratification from work that they are confident is fulfilling their financial needs

• The potential that employees who carry less stress about their financial well-being will enjoy greater health, resulting in fewer medical issues and reduced health care costs. 

Financial wellness programs should be looked at as an attractive add-on to your company’s total compensation plan.  

Plans can be structured to suit the needs of your business. Reach out to your financial advisor. Ameriprise Financial and other firms have programs that can be designed to benefit your employees.

1 2021 CreditWise National Get Smart About Credit survey. 

2 2020 PWC Employee Financial Wellness survey.

3 MassMutual Financial Wellness Trend Study, Feb. 2020.

###

Michael D. Lanuto, CRPC®, AWMA® is a Financial Advisor with S.M. Miller & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. in Albany, NY.  He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 7 years. To contact him: 518-949-2039; 4 Atrium Drive, Ste 200, Albany, NY, 12205; Michael.Lanuto@ampf.com; https://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/michael.lanuto/lp/request-contact/3/. 

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Snowshoeing at Landis Sunday!

SECOND SUNDAY SNOWSHOE

JANUARY 8

1:00 - 3:00 PM

Meet at the Barn

(This would be a fun last-minute gift ...)

If you have joined us for Sec­ond Sun­day Snow­shoe, you will be look­ing for­ward to the new sea­son. If you haven’t yet par­tic­i­pat­ed, we invite you to join us from 1:00 - 3:00 for a fun event. If there is no snow, the event lead­ers will take par­tic­i­pants on a win­ter hike, and every­one ends up back at the Farm House for hot cocoa and good conversation.

We'll be back for Sec­ond Sun­day Snow­shoe on Feb­ru­ary 12 and March 12. (the March event will feature Fred "the Tree Man" Breglia, our executive director, who will provide instruction in dormant tree identification during the event!)

January instructor: Susan Strangia, volunteer coordinator

February instructor: George Steele, nature educator

March instructor: Fred Breglia, executive director

Registration: Mem­bers: $5 or mem­ber fam­i­ly $15; Non-mem­bers: $15, non-mem­ber fam­i­ly $25.

Call 518−875−6935 or email info@​landisarboretum.​org for more infor­ma­tion or to reg­is­ter. You can also reg­is­ter online using Pay­Pal (small admin­is­tra­tive fee).

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Elmo's Speed & Supply-Chassis Seminar

( ALBANY, N.Y.)- In an effort to help racers improve their off track maintenance program, which will hopefully translate into improved on track performance, Elmo's Speed & Supply of Burnt Hills, N.Y. will host a North East-Chassis Seminar on Saturday, February 25th. at the Polish Community Center located at 225 Washington Avenue, Extension in Albany, N.Y. 12205.

 Chris Reckner of Elmo's Speed & Supply has lined up a full day of presentations by some of the top manufacturers in auto racing, thus offering anyone interested the opportunity to gain more knowledge geared toward the North East-Dirt Modified.

  With a format of How to Keep it Simple & Tune for Success,Topics to be discussed include Basic Maintenance, Tire and Wheel preparation/ maintenance, Braking for success, Understanding exhaust for performance, Basic shock functions, Basic spring functions, Tuning your shock/ spring package. And a question & answer session.

 Guest speakers are tentatively scheduled from Bicknell Racing Products, Fox Shocks, Swift Springs, Wilwood Brakes, Gale Force Suspension, Henry's Headers & Exhaust, and Jam Performance.

  A light breakfast is included and also lunch. Space is limited, so reserve your ticket now. Registration fee is $120 per-person or a 5 person package for $500. For those wishing to stay overnight, reduced lodging rates are available.

 Door prizes will include Keizer Wheels, Swift Spring 4 pack, Complete Henry's Crate Exhaust, Mad Skins outer body kit, Complete set of Jam Performance/ Fox steel shocks, and more.

 To reserve a spot. Please call or text 518-429-4746, E-mail creckner17@gmail.com, or message their facebook page.

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Missing Davenport Man Found

From the New York State Police:

Update: Mr. Sikora has been located.  He is safe.  Troopers searched for Sikora daily after receiving a report on December 26 to check on his welfare.  Troopers searched his home and the area surrounding it, local stores, hospitals and with relatives and friends.  Thanks to the public for any assistance and tips you gave us!  

 

Original release: New York State Police at Oneonta is asking for the public’s assistance with a missing person. 

Theodore W. Sikora, age 78 of Davenport, NY has not had any contact with his friends or family in over two weeks.  Sikora was last seen on December 23, 2022 at a local gas station.  Sikora does not have a cell phone.  Troopers have checked with relatives, friends and local hospitals but have not been able to locate Mr. Sikora.  

Anyone with information is asked to contact New York State Police at (607)561-7400, case 11214954. 

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Bassett Healthcare Network Welcomes First Baby of 2023

Cooperstown, N.Y. – Bassett Healthcare Network’s Birthing Center in Cooperstown welcomed the first baby of 2023 at 3:15 a.m. on January 2. Ezra was born to parents Calvin and Sarah Hardy of Jordanville. Their little boy weighs 8 pounds and is 21 inches long. Ezra has two older siblings – a brother, Oliver (5), and a sister, Leah (3). Calvin and Sarah are thrilled about the arrival of their baby boy. “We thought Ezra would make his appearance in 2022,” said Sarah. “But we’re so happy he decided to arrive in the New Year – we can’t believe he is officially the first baby of 2023 at Bassett! We’re very excited to move into the New Year with a bigger family.” In 2022, 975 babies were born at Bassett Medical Center’s Birthing Center.

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Schoharie Library News December 29, 2022

518-295-7127 www.schoharielibrary.org 

Schoharie Library Hours: MTF 11am-6pm, Wed. 5-8pm, Thurs. 12pm-7pm, and Sat. 10am-2pm 

The Schoharie Library will be closed Monday, January 2. Happy New Year!

Teen Thursday: Every Thursday 5-7pm. Come hang out in our Teen Room - socialize, create in our Makerspace,  play board games, code with our Dash Robot,  share book recommendations, and much more!! Ages 13 - Young Adult Welcome!  No registration required.

Storytime with Yvonne: Fridays at 10am. Stories, songs, fun activities! 

Writing Club (Virtual): Mondays at 6:30pm. https://bit.ly/SchoharieLibraryPrograms 

Virtual UFO Club: Thursday, January 12, 10am. Work on projects and chat on Zoom. Signup: https://bit.ly/SchoharieLibraryPrograms

Middle Grade Book Group: January 9 & 23, 4:15-5pm: Children grades 3rd - 6th are welcome to join us. Refreshments, track reading to earn prizes.Sign up today at https://bit.ly/MGBookGroupSHO.  

Board of Trustees Meeting: Wednesday, January 11, 7pm. 

Story Celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Monday, January 16, 3pm.

Open Craft Buffet: Monday, January 16, 3:30-5:30pm. Stop by and use our materials to create something fun!

Knitcetera at the Library: Tuesday, January 24, 10:30am-noon. Embroider, sew, knit, anything goes!

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TOWN OF CONESVILLE PUBLIC NOTICE 2023 ORGANIZATION MEETING

In addition to any other business that may come before it, the Conesville Town Board will hold its annual Organization Meeting on January 4, 2023, at 7:00 pm at the Conesville Town Hall, 1306 State Route 990V, Conesville, NY. 

By order of the Conesville Town Board

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SUNY Cobleskill Fighting Tiger Weekly Recap

SUNY Cobleskill women’s basketball team member Emily Satterday, Latham, N.Y., Shaker High School, is currently ranked third in the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Individual Statistical National Rankings in double/doubles with eight, and 15th in rebounds per game with 12.5. The first-year center/forward is currently averaging 10.8 points and 12.5 rebounds per game in 13 appearances this season for the Fighting Tigers who are currently 7-6 overall while leading the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Western Division with a 3-0 record versus league opponents.  

Fighting Tiger men’s junior distance runner Nick Logan, Queensbury, N.Y., Queensbury High School, is currently ranked sixth in the NCAA Division III Men’s Indoor Track & Field Individual National Rankings in the Mile Run with a time of 4:18.35.  

The SUNY Cobleskill men’s basketball team’s junior center Markel Jenkins, Elmira, N.Y., Elmira High School/Corning Community College, is currently ranked 41st overall in the NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Individual Statistical National Rankings in rebounding averaging 9.8 rebounds per game in 12 appearances this season. The junior center is averaging 10.3 points and 9.8 rebounds for the Fighting Tigers who are currently 10-2 overall and lead the North Atlantic Conference (NAC) Western Division with a 3-0 record in league action.     

UPCOMING HOME CONTESTS: 

Men’s Basketball vs. Russell Sage 1/3, Maine-Farmington 1/13, Northern Vermont-Johnson 1/14 

Women’s Basketball vs.  Maine-Farmington 1/13, Northern Vermont-Johnson 1/14 

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Gardening Tip of the Week by Bob Beyfuss

Happy New Year! 

     I hope you had a nice Holiday(s) and that Santa Claus brought you all the cool stuff you were hoping for! If not, I suggest you treat yourself to a gift or two, or three, to celebrate surviving another year! The day, or even the week after Xmas is often a great time to get a bargain on some beautiful gift plants. Poinsettias will look great for weeks as long as you don’t overwater them or cut off the colorful bracts. If they become infested with white fly, which look a lot like flying confetti, you might consider trashing them before these insects move onto other houseplants. Don’t feel guilty about this euthanasia, because next winter a whole new crop will be grown for you to enjoy! 

     If you did receive a new chainsaw, electric or gas powered, I suggest you buy yourself a helmet with a face shield and built in hearing protection. In a previous column, a few weeks ago, I said that a helmet was not necessary unless you are felling trees, but I was reminded by a reader that helmets with face shields can protect you from a chain “kick back” injury to your face, regardless of where you are cutting up wood. There are no “minor” injuries from being hit by a running chainsaw. Modern chainsaw technology has reduced the incidence of chain “kick-backs” a great deal, but they are still possible. Chainsaws can also pick up smaller pieces of wood and throw them at you as well, much faster than you can react. The helmet offers face, ear and head protection in one easy step and takes only seconds to put on. Don’t forget the chaps either. It takes me less than 30 seconds to put on my chaps and that is time well spent.    

     For those of you enjoying a lovely gift plant, remember that the trick to keeping all of your houseplants healthy all winter, is to be careful not to overwater them.  Like us humans, houseplants don’t usually thrive during the dark months and plants that are not actively growing rarely need to be watered. Allow the soil surface to dry out to a depth of several inches before watering. Don’t apply any fertilizer at all during winter.  Adding some supplemental Grow Lights will help to keep African Violets and all their relatives (Achimenes, the lipstick plant,  Aeschynanthus, the flame violet, the Cape primrose or Streptocarpus, the goldfish plant or Nematanthus and the florist gloxinia and other sinningias,  happier than a drafty windowsill. Xmas cactus that bloom profusely on one side, but not the other, are doing so in response to cold temperatures near a window. Turn the plants frequently to insure a more uniform display. If the Xmas or Thanksgiving cactus does not bloom at all, find a place with night temperatures in the 50’s to trigger flowering.  

     I will be entering the New Year with less hair on my head, but more hair in my ears, on my neck and back. I have more belly in front, as my formerly manly chest and shoulders have descended, the victims of time and gravity that no one can escape. I have less money in the bank, but I am more satisfied with what I have. There is surely less time left in my hourglass, but I am more aware of this fact. I  lost a couple of old friends in 2022, but made some new ones, as well. 2022 was a very good year for me mentally, as I was able to resume my pre-Covid lifestyle and make several road trips to Appalachia and Wisconsin. 

    As usual, I have some gardening resolutions that I may or may not achieve in 2023. After last year’s disastrous garden failure, I don’t think I can possible do as badly as I did. I resolve to ignore the urge to buy and use chemicals, especially herbicides, as much as I usually do. I will grow only 8 full size tomato plants, plus a couple of cherry types. I will not grow sweet corn, hot peppers, or any other vegetable I don’t really enjoy. Fewer winter squash, more cucumbers, no turnips, the same quantity of green beans (10 plants total), more beets, my old onion favorite, (Sweet Sandwich), fewer leeks (a dozen is plenty!), perhaps some red cabbage or Chinese cabbage, and maybe a few potatoes, if there is no evidence of voles.   

    For all you Dear readers, I ask that you all resolve to not be so easily offended in 2023, by the nightly news, your partners, (who really do love you, even if it does not seem that way, all the time), bad drivers, inconsiderate drivers, traffic lights, politics, rude people and idiots on Facebook!

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Whittling Away - The New Year

By Dick Brooks

     Already a new year is knocking on the door, seems like just yesterday we were saying goodbye to 2021 and 2023 is already here.  I remember as a small child how the years crept by, each one wonderful, but lasting for what seemed forever.  Now it's kind of like watching a freight train roar by, each car that you momentarily glimpse before it disappears down the track representing a year.

     A new year brings around again new resolutions to be made.  The mental strain gets stressful for me.  There aren't many resolutions left that I haven't already made and broken.  Oh, sure there are the standard ones, the ones that you make every year, the ones that last maybe a month or so before you stash them away for next January so you can pull them out, dust them off and recycle them again but they're not very creative.  The most popular one of them has to be the promise to lose weight.  Talk about a doomed resolution, you make the resolution in good faith and you stick to it faithfully until you look around on New Year's Day.  Left-over turkey, turkey has no calories, so what can a sandwich for lunch hurt--Wonder Bread and Miracle Whip help make it a little more interesting, turkey being kind of dry by itself.  Then there's the matter of all those cookies, cakes and candies that all your loving friends and relatives gifted you with.  Aunt Bertha would be heartbroken if you didn't finish off her holiday cookies that she worked so hard on and after all, it's only once a year.

     The afternoon brings the Bowl games, fifty three straight hours of football games, football games everywhere.  The Home and Garden Channel even has "The Decorator Bowl".  Nobody actually plays football, but they redecorate the stadium, do ornamental plantings in the end zones and redesign the cheer leader's outfits.  They are called Bowl games because of the bowls of chips and dip that are consumed in massive quantities along with a bunch of adult beverages.  Weight loss dies a quick and relatively painless death--don't feel too sorry though, like the Phoenix, it will be reborn with the coming of the next New Year.

     This year I'm going to keep every resolution I make.  I'm an adult, I can do this.  It just means being more thoughtful and realizing my personal commitment level.

I therefore resolve that in the new year, 2023 to be exact, I will:  1.  Not purchase or wear any purple silken jockey shorts.  2.   Forego pedicures.  3.  Eat nothing made from the flesh of the Great Blue Whale.  4.  Enter no national beauty contests.  5.  Stop sucking on my toes in public.

     I know I can stick to these and 2023 will find me a more fulfilled individual.  If you find you need help with your resolutions, I'd be happy to help, it's not as hard as you may think. 

      Happy New Year from our house to yours!

     Thought for the week--The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers. --Dave Barry

     Until next week, may you and yours be happy and well.

        whittle12124@yahoo.com  

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Cobleskill Library News

The Staff, Trustees and Friends of The Community Library wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year. The Library will be closed December 31 for the New Year holiday.  

 

Tuesday, January 3 and 17 at 6pm Adult Gaming Group: Adult Gamers interested in role-playing games, card and board games are invited to gather at the library for fun and games with other game fans. 

 

Thursday, January 5 the Library will open at 12:30. Staff and Trustees are meeting with the engineers regarding the library renovation and expansion. 

 

Friday, January 6 at noon Fan Favorites Book Club. Join us on the first Friday of every month for our casual conversation about the books, tv series, and movies we love. No assigned readings, just a chance to meet people, talk about things you love, and perhaps pick up a few suggestions on things that will become your new favorite obsession. 

 

Friday, January 6 and 20 at 4pm Paws for Reading Stop by the library to read to our favorite therapy dog, Nico! Nico loves to meet patrons of all ages, but he especially enjoys hearing kids practice their reading. Open to all ages. No registration necessary. 

 

Tuesday, January 10 and 24 at 6:00 pm The Short Fiction Workshop: This monthly writing workshop for teens and adults features writing prompts, exercises, and moderated feedback sessions where authors working on short fiction can practice their craft, develop new skills, and get constructive input from other writers. 

 

Tuesday, January 10 at 6:00pm Do you love anime and manga? Or maybe you're curious about these Japanese stories but aren't sure how to get started? Check out our Anime Club for teens! We meet once a month to watch anime episodes, eat snacks, and try Japanese-inspired crafts. Open to 6th-12th graders (ages 11-18). No registration required. 

 

Wednesday, January 11 Using the Libby App at noon Did you get a new phone, tablet, or computer for the holidays? Want to learn how to use it to access thousands of free ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines? Join Library Director Kim Zimmer for this free lunchtime presentation showing how to use the free Libby app to access digital content made available through your library. 

 

Thursday, January 12 at 1pm Library Board of Trustees monthly meeting. The Trustees meet upstairs in the Community Room and meetings are open to the public. 

 

Thursday, January 12 All Ages Craft Buffet 4-5:30pm. All ages are invited to join us for open craft time at The Community Library. We'll have tables full of craft supplies available for participants to use, along with plenty of snacks and beverages. Whether you want to do some coloring or painting or paper crafts or knitting or whatever, you're welcome to join us for some relaxing, creative time. Come let your imagination inspire you to create whatever you choose! 

Saturday, January 14 the Library will be closed in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. 

Thursday, January 19 at 5:30 pm Teen Advisory Board Help us make the Community Library a better place for teens! Join our new Teen Advisory Board and help the library choose new teen books, plan programs, and make our teen zone a fun space for teen patrons. Snacks provided. Open to 8th-12th graders (ages 13-18). For more information, email clittle@mvls.info. 

Thursday, January 19 at 6:00pm Beyond Books: Tools & Resources for Book Lovers Join Adult Services Librarian Don LaPlant for this program highlighting a range of tools and resources for bibliophiles. Learn about apps, websites, podcasts, and publications that help you keep track of your reading, find new recommendations, and read and share book reviews. We'll also cover hidden features in the library's catalog that make it easier to find your next favorite book. 

 

The Award-Winning Trivia Night@ the Library! returns January 26 at 6:30 pm.  If you would like to be a 2023 sponsor please contact the Library. Special thanks to The Friends of The Community Library for sponsoring the snack table. 

 

Saturday, January 28 at 10am Build and Play Saturday Stop by the library anytime between 10:00 and 1:00 for some free build time! We will have lots of dfferent building sets, from simple wood blocks to LEGO, Magnatiles, and Goldie Blox. There's something for every age and skill level. 

 

Wednesdays weekly StoryTime at 10:30 with Miss. Courtney is for children ages birth to 5 and their caregiver featuring stories, songs and fun activities.  

 

Want to learn a new skill, enhance your hobby skills, or try something new? Watch classes online, anytime from anywhere, just log in to Creativebug with your Community Library card and the last four digits of your phone number to get started. Once you create an account you can save your progress and save your favorite videos. The Library’s landing page https://www.creativebug.com/lib/communitylibrary 

Overdrive App users take note, the app will be discontinued this month. Overdrive is focusing on the Libby App which makes it very easy to borrow from the extensive collection of ebooks, audiobooks and magazines.  All you need is your device, the Libby App and your Library card. If you need assistance please stop in and staff will lend a hand. A lunchtime presentation will take place on January 11 at noon on using the Libby App.  

 

The following museum passes are available for check out with your library card. The Adirondack Experience, The Empire Pass, The Iroquois Museum, and MiSci. Each pass has specific access and one pass can be checked out for 7 days but they can’t be used for special events at these locations. Please check each location for specific requirements prior to visiting. 

 

You can also checkout games with your Library card. Visit the second floor near the teen area to see what we have. A special thanks to Games A Plunder for their support of this collection. 

 

Tuesdays join your neighbors and make new friends during the Tuesday Knitters group! You can find them in the program room at 1pm. Bring your own supplies and learn something new while you chat, listen or just get in your zone. 

 

The Library continues to offer curbside pickup.  

 

A reminder that our weather closures will be posted on TV and our facebook and webpage. If Cobleskill-Richmondville School District is closed the library will automatically move to a delayed opening at noon unless it is determined unsafe for staff to travel and then the Library will close. 

 

To receive Library News by email signup here https://mailchi.mp/287db1f866ef/news Follow us on social media for library news, event information, volunteer opportunities, new book announcements and more! It is easy to find age-appropriate programs on the event calendar visit https://communitylibrary.mvls.info/ 

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Town of Prattsville Organizational Meeting Notice

Please take notice, the Town Board of the Town of Prattsville will hold an organization meeting and anything else that may come before the Board at the Town Hall, 14517 main street, Prattsville NY on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at 7:00pm. The public is welcome to attend.

By order of the Town Board

Kathleen Sherman

Town Clerk

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Take Steps to Save On 2022 Income Taxes Before the Year Runs Out

As 2022 winds down, it’s a good time to assess whether there are opportunities to trim this year’s tax bill. Waiting until you begin to work on your tax return in early 2023 will be too late to save in most cases. So, if you’re interested in potentially saving on taxes, you should plan now, before 2022 comes to an end. Consider if any of these actions make sense for you.

Manage your deductions

Wondering if you should itemize your deductions? For 2022, the standard deduction for a single person is $12,950, and for a married couple filing a joint return is $25,900. If your deductible expenses1 (such as mortgage interest, state and local income or sales taxes and property taxes) don’t exceed that amount, claiming the standard deduction may be best for you. For many people, this can be a close call – you might itemize one year and claim the standard deduction the next. To the extent possible, you may consider consolidating deductible expenses in one year to itemize and then claiming the standard deduction in the future. 

Make timely investment decisions

Buying and selling investment decisions shouldn’t be based on tax considerations alone. If you own mutual funds in taxable accounts, you may receive a capital gain dividend before year’s end, which will be subject to tax. You may want to avoid buying into a mutual fund late in the year if it is on the verge of making a sizable capital gain payout. By doing so, you pick up a quick tax liability when the gain is paid, without benefiting from the previous performance that generated the gain. 

While no one likes investment losses, you may be able to use them to generate a positive result: a lower tax bill for a given calendar year. The U.S. tax code requires that losses first offset gains of the same type. For example, short-term losses will first offset short-term gains. Because of the higher tax rate for short-term gains, focusing on short-term losses can have a more substantial effect on your tax savings than long-term losses – especially if you are in a higher federal tax bracket. If you didn’t have capital gains this year, you can use up to $3,000 in capital losses to reduce ordinary income. You can carry over any remaining net capital loss to future tax years until you use the loss.

Maximize retirement plan contributions 

Boosting pre-tax contributions to your workplace retirement plan may reduce current taxable income while helping you build savings for the future. How much it may impact your current taxable income is based on your current tax rate and your filing status. 

Take full advantage of charitable contributions

In 2022 only, an individual who doesn’t itemize deductions for the tax year may deduct charitable contributions of up to $300 ($600 for a married couple filing a joint return). To be eligible, contributions must be made in cash to certain charitable organizations but not to donor-advised funds or certain private foundations. 

Seek guidance

If you are seeking to implement these or other significant tax-saving strategies, be sure to check with your financial and tax advisors for confirmation that the measures you are implementing are the most appropriate for you.

1 Subject to any applicable limitations. 

###

Michael D. Lanuto, CRPC®, AWMA® is a Financial Advisor with S.M. Miller & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. in Albany, NY.  He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 7 years. To contact him: 518-949-2039; 4 Atrium Drive, Ste 200, Albany, NY, 12205; Michael.Lanuto@ampf.com; https://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/michael.lanuto/lp/request-contact/3/. 

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Investment products are not federally or FDIC-insured, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

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