tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50472228431000146822024-02-19T09:15:04.494-08:00Save AldenWho are we and what is our mission?
Our mission statement is to BE VOCAL AND BUY LOCAL, by educating and encouraging everyone to buy from local independent merchants! If you would also like to help Save Smalltown USA (ALDEN), we encourage you to please write to us with your comments and questions. Please check this blog frequently for updates.
Please contact us at Save_Alden@Yahoo.com.
This blog is run by Alden Residents for Responsible Growth.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-41629320799036670372009-09-12T04:46:00.000-07:002009-09-12T04:47:15.262-07:00DOWNSIZING DEBATE; IMPORTANT FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VOTEThere have been many questions raised about whether the downsizing of our Town Board is in the best interest of our community. In our continuing efforts to be informed taxpayers, Alden Residents for Responsible Growth took your questions and went to the people with the answers - Supervisor Ronald Smith, the Board of Elections, and Kevin Gaughan’s website. Here are facts and figures we received.<br /><br /> The structure of our town government remains as it has since becoming a first class town in the mid 1960’s. The Town Board is comprised of an elected Supervisor and four elected Councilman positions; all of these offices are part time positions.<br /><br /> Over the past decade, the town tax has remained relatively stable, in fact, the general town tax and general lighting tax are less today than they were in the year 2000. The Highway tax has increased the greatest amount largely due to increase in fuel and road salt costs over the past few years.<br /> <br />Question: How much does each council member get paid?<br /> The maximum cost is $23,038. This includes salary, optional health insurance (which they also contribute toward) and New York State mandated retirement coverage. The Supervisor and three out of the four council members did not take their raise for 2009. One member does not take the health insurance and three do not participate in the retirement system.<br /> <br />Question: What are the responsibilities of the two council positions that could be eliminated if we vote to downsize (beside attending meetings)?<br /> Deputy Supervisor, NEST representative, refuse/recycling, building maintenance, capital improvements, sewers, contract/purchasing, disaster coordinator, senior citizens liason, finance and audit, environmental commission, Historical Society liason, cemeteries committee.<br /> <br />Question: Who will perform these duties if we downsize?<br /> In a community such as Alden, the elimination of two Council positions will have a direct impact on the delivery of services. These duties may either be curtailed, transferred to a full time Town Supervisor, other Council members, existing staff, or necessitate the hiring of additional staff or outside contractors since there are only five full time positions at the Town Hall. Any of these options would reduce or eliminate any potential cost savings. It is also conceivable that the downsizing proposal, would result in tax increases as service delivery responsibilities are transferred to other providers.<br /> <br />Question: Do they receive benefits after they leave office?<br /> No, the town does not offer paid, lifetime insurance or sick time buyout. <br /> <br />Question: Why was Tuesday, September 29 chosen instead of Primary Day?<br /> Under Town Law, the Town was required to schedule a referendum vote no later than 75 days after the filing of the petition. According to the Erie County Board of Elections, only voters participating in an organized Party Primary Election are permitted in the polling place. <br /> <br />Question: Is the Town Board restricting our voice by only having one polling place?<br /> The added expense for this vote, was not figured into this years budget. They are trying to keep the cost to a minimum. Taxpayers will lose two voices if the downsizing occurs.<br /> <br />Question: Will downsizing reduce my property taxes?<br /> Perhaps. The elimination of two members, with service reductions, would represent a tax savings for the average property owner of $18.00 per year. The average residential assessment in the Town of Alden is $72,300, which represents a full market value of $141,700. If additional staff is needed, or a full time supervisor (currently part time) to maintain service delivery, any tax savings would be lost.<br /> <br />Question: Would the Supervisor position remain part time? <br /> It may have to go to full time to take on some of the responsibilities of the Councilmen (which would require a larger salary). <br /> <br />Question: Will downsizing create jobs? <br /> Yes, the Town Board would have to hire people to do the work of the two eliminated Council people and/or divide up the responsibilities between the remaining two. With added responsibilities, comes added pay. <br /> <br />Question: When would the downsizing take effect?<br /> January 2012. There wouldn’t be any Town Council members on the ballot in November 2011.<br /> <br />Question: With a three member board, what would constitute a majority? <br /> A majority would be two out of three members. Two individuals will decide Town tax levies, laws, programs, projects, and raises. Under the Open Meeting Law, anytime a majority of a Board is present, a public meeting is constituted and the public must be notified. Any meeting with staff where two Board members were present, would constitute a public event and a vote could be taken. <br /> <br />Question: Will downsizing increase citizens voices within our Town government?<br /> Citizens are always encouraged to take an active roll in their government. Town residents (both volunteer and paid) are currently serving on the planning board, zoning board of appeal, master plan committee, and ethics committee. It’s up to each citizen to get more involved.<br /> <br />Question: Didn’t the Town Board already vote to downsize the Board?<br /> They downsized the planning board from seven members to five; not the Town Board. This reduction will save the taxpayers $1,432.00 per year.<br /> <br />Question: Are there other ways the Town can save money?<br /> Yes. A few examples: revised fire protection contract, revised highway arbitration proceedings, revised health insurance program, reduction in number of take home vehicles, and town planning board size reduction has saved the taxpayers $50,185.00 over the last few years. The Town, Village, and School work together as much as possible. One central fueling station allows for bulk purchases, which reduces costs. The Village and Town recently received a NY State Government Efficiency Grant to study ways to save all residents tax dollars.<br /> <br />Question: Is the downsizing idea being proposed to the Federal, State, and County governments?<br /> You could contact your representatives to find out. They are listed in the government section of the phone book.<br /> <br /> We hope this information has been helpful. Please remember to vote on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm at the Town Hall, 3311 Wende Rd. Absentee ballots are available at the Town Hall. Every vote counts!Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-46416156105546157862009-03-13T07:25:00.000-07:002009-03-13T07:38:23.830-07:00Report on Meet the Candidates NightOn Wed, March 11 ARRG sponsored Meet the Candidates Night for the three open positions for Village Trustee. There are five people running for these positions.<br />The evening was in a Question and Answer format with each candidate given equal time to answer each question. Each candidate seemed sincere and thoughtful, with a true and honest desire to help the community, and a love for their village.<br /><br />Topics discussed included <br />a) making the Village a walkable community<br />b) the Town & Village Master Plans and working together<br />c) communication with local businesses, Chamber of Commerce<br />d) speed limits<br />e) sidewalk repair<br />f) sign restrictions<br /><br /><br />There were only a few citizens in attendence, and most of them were town residents, not village. So what do we assume from this?<br /><br />a) That nearly everyone in the Village is perfectly happy with the way everything is being taken care of? We suppose that could be a GOOD thing.<br /><br />b) Or that no one cares? That would be a BAD thing.<br /><br />Remember to get out and vote on Wed, March 18. If you are a village resident, and you don't vote...shame on you! Voting for local government is probably the most<br />important voting you can do.<br /><br /><br />We hope to have a video of the Candidates Night on our weblog soon, and/or www.aldenwatchdog.com <br /><br />Just because you're in a booth, doesn't mean you should be voting in the dark.<br />It's important to know who you are voting for.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-71604150030408148992009-03-13T07:21:00.000-07:002009-03-13T07:25:38.186-07:00Update on Tractor SupplyTheir soft opening has been re-scheduled for June 27. Before they can start preparing the store to suit their needs, and receive supplies, the building<br />management(Redstone) must first, by NYS Law remove the asbestos. So let's<br />hope Redstone gets moving soon!<br /><br />If all goes as planned you should start to see some action there around<br />mid-May.<br /><br />TS will again have a job fair in Alden, but if in the meantime you'd like to<br />get in your application, you can go on-line www.tractorsupply.com or visit any<br />other local store (Batavia, Lockport, Geneseo, Springville).Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-75698682509073282562009-03-10T07:32:00.001-07:002009-03-10T07:32:33.574-07:00PERSON OF THE YEARThe Alden Chamber of Commerce is again this year looking for nominations for Person of the Year, to be honored in May. Someone has suggested that Dr Lebowitz who is retiring after his 50 years of service in Alden. We encourage you to contact the Chamber at 937-6177 and ask for an nomination application whetherit be for Dr Lebowitz or anyone else.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-51255992651718967122009-03-10T07:31:00.001-07:002009-03-10T07:31:59.770-07:00REMINDER: MEET THE CANDIDATES NIGHT (for Village Trustee)WED, MARCH 11 7PM-9PM AT THE ACTS BEACON CAFE There are five people running for three open positions on the Village Board,with elections to be held on March 18. Whether you live in the town or thevillage, who the decision makers are in the Village is important to everyone! The evening will consist of timed question and answer format, and we encourageeveryone to come with their inquiries to the prospective candidates. There is no admission fee, no rsvp required.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-72956405443298912132009-02-28T05:56:00.000-08:002009-02-28T06:02:50.681-08:00ANOTHER LAND DEVELOPMENT USE WORKSHOP.The Monroe County Department of Planning and Development Land Use Decision-Making Training Program is designed especially for new and returning municipal board members; each workshop earns members of planning boards and zoning boards of appeals 2.5 credit hours.<br /><br />Although this is in Monroe County, it is open to members of other areas in NYS.<br /><br />Click to link NY Planning Federation for valuable information <br />www.nypf.org <br /><br />Workshops (registration is $25 per workshop)<br /><br />1. Thursday, March 5: Introduction to Planning and Zoning<br /><br />2. Thursday, March 12: Introduction of the NYS Environmental Quality Review Act<br /><br />3. Thursday, March 19: Introduction to Land Use Law, Part 1<br /><br />4. Monday, March 23: Healthy Ways – A Holistic Approach to Community Design<br /><br />5. Thursday, April 2: Introduction to Land Use Law, Part 2<br /><br />6. Tuesday, April 7: Transportation Considerations<br /><br />7. Monday, April 13: Reviewing Site Plans<br /><br />8. Thursday, May 7: Retail Planning for Sustainable Development<br /><br /> <br /><br />Dinner and registration begin at 5:30 and the workshops run from 6-8:30 pm. For more information, please contact Kathy Mahns at 585-753-2038.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-64724900713433871742009-02-28T05:15:00.000-08:002009-02-28T05:17:47.795-08:00Add'l info re water district proposalFurther to report listed earlier regarding water district controversy:<br /><br /><br />From Bob Wohglemuth:<br /><br />"Looks like the Town has included schools, fire companies, cemeteries, churches, gas line company, etc assessments in the calculations. If they are unable to charge the tax exempt properties this would make cost higher to individuals."Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-62656384943647442192009-02-27T10:45:00.000-08:002009-02-27T10:56:09.208-08:00ARRG MEMBERS ATTEND WORKSHOP ON LAND PRESERVATIONSeveral ARRG members attended the Workshop sponsored by the American Farmland Trust, WNY Land Conservancy and Cornell Cooperative Extension on Feb 24 in East Aurora, where the subject to Development Rights was explained in detail. <br /><br />This workshop was designed for farmers, community leaders, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, appraisers and anyone with an interest in farmland protection. It provided a comprehensive review of the process for creating successful Purchase of Development Rights projects and programs in our community. Scheduled program leaders were Patricia Szarpa, Diane Held and Jason Engel.<br /><br />The group were recipients of many supporting materials which we can share with any interested parties. The group was educated on the importance of saving prime farmland, since it is dissappearing at an alarming rate. (NO FARMS-NO FOOD) <br /><br />There were no Town of Alden officials, planners, grant writers, attorneys or appraisers in attendence.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-62304007858443192072009-02-27T10:43:00.000-08:002009-02-27T10:44:29.168-08:00POINTS TO PONDER, ALTERNATIVES, RE PROPOSED WATER DISTRICT, Submitted by Eric ChaffeeDear Neighbors,<br /> I've written and printed this item for you as an aid in helping you consider some approaches to solving water issues which have worked for me. This article is also on hand at the Alden Library, and online at www.AldenWatchDog.com under WD#5, and at a Yahoo discussion group hosted by AldenWatchDog:<br />http://groups.yahoo.com/group/aldenwatchdog/ . ~eric. Here goes:<br /><br /> The first rule of country living is BE SURE YOU HAVE RELIABLE WATER, BEFORE YOU LOCATE. If you've already moved in, and don't have reliable water, all is not lost. There are some easy and relatively inexpensive things that can be done to improve your water situation without having to call upon government to deliver an inferior product to your home, taken from the seriously contaminated Lake Erie. (Government will tell you it is wholesome, but common sense will tell you it is filled with industrial wastes and nastiness. Are you aware that sewage treatment plants routinely discharge excess untreated sewage mingled with storm surge directly into the Great Lakes whenever there is flooding?)<br /><br /> The first questions to ask will help define the problem. (It can't be solved until it is understood.) What are the issues at my site? From there, various basic low-tech approaches can be deployed.<br /><br />MINERALS. I have no respect for "softeners" and will not discuss them here. There are other, simpler ways to reduce hardness, or mineral content from water. Two powerful approaches include various uses of activated charcoal, and magnets.<br /><br /> When I moved to Alden, our farmhouse had terribly stinky water that stained everything red or black. My wife wouldn't do laundry at home. (We learned later that we did not have adequate supply, either.)<br /><br /> My brother used to sell softeners for one of the leading firms. Rather than calling the softener people I researched some facts with Cornell and Rodale. (This is when I acquired my aversion to softeners, which I had never liked, as the feel in the shower was too slippery.) I learned that charcoal is an excellent mineral and flavor/odor corrector. But later I learned it is also a poor sediment filter. I hired Bill and Pete Blair of Blair's Hardware and Plumbing in Townline to install some hardware for me. (The firm is now run by Bill's family.)<br /><br /> The Blairs put in a large charcoal filter which stands about 4 feet tall. And they installed a backwash timer which flushes the charcoal filter in reverse, into my septic system every third day. Before they installed the system, which includes an 80-gallon holding tank, I bought some very powerful ceramic ring (disk) magnets with one-inch holes in them from Edmund Scientific. They are coated with epoxy paint. When the Blairs came to install the tank, I had them put the supply line to the tank through the donut holes of the magnets to form a very powerful magnetic field at the entrance to the tank.<br /><br /> They also installed a chlorinator. I no longer use this device, as about a year later I learned that chlorine is a very nasty chemical which forms some very unhealthy compounds from the dead corpses of all those little critters it kills. (Erie County Water Authority always uses chlorine because they know there is mucho ugly bacteria in the lake.) But good bacteria is necessary to keep your gut cleaned out properly. Waging chemical warfare against all bacteria is not wise. I trust the water locked into the rocks for thousands of years, more than I care for the water flushed into the lake last week. I no longer use my chlorinator. I disconnected it in 1990.<br /><br /> When I learned that a charcoal filter would eventually clog because it isn't a good sediment filter, I cut a 9-inch sediment filter into the system ahead of the charcoal filter. It uses a 5-micron polypropylene bobbin to remove junk that would otherwise clog the big charcoal filter, and sediment would also adversely affect my domestic hotwater heater. I change these 9-inch filters 4 times per year, by holiday: Groundhog Day, Mothers Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day. They're not expensive. Be sure not to use cotton filters, as they will provide a rotting medium for bacteria to feed on, and breed. The best filter housing will be clear plastic, so you can see the condition of the bobbin.<br /><br /> The water here at the outdoor spigot still comes out that famous Alden black, but indoors it is clear and odorless and very nice. We have no problem with laundry. I've never had to change the charcoal filter. My AquaStar tankless water heater has been running flawlessly for nearly ten years. I had gone through several tanks before I gave up on that approach, and went tankless. But I also quit using a hot water tank to conserve energy, and I'm able to take an unlimited shower with the tankless system. It uses propane, and only comes on when we call for hot water. Very sensible.) I did burn out a well pump once, during drought, because it kept calling for water that wasn't there. I will discuss that next.<br /><br />SUPPLY. All water comes from the heavens. (Doesn't everything?) If you are having supply problems, this should be an obvious fact. But it took me 19 years to wake up. Periodically, we have a dry summer, and prior to my awakening, we had always run out . Our area gets over 3 feet of precipitation per year. When rain is scarce, we shouldn't waste what we get. I finally realized this, and did something easy and basic to capture the rain before it ran off. Simply stated, I ran the downspout through an underground pvc pipe, over near the shallow well. Next, I dug a pit near the well, but NOT directly into the well. (As I'm on a gravel farm, I didn't need to add gravel to the pit, but this should be done, if needed, to allow the flow from your roof to absorb all of the water into the ground during heavy rain.) Then I took a bag of harwood charcoal and "activated" it. This means that I pulverized it, and put the entire 25-pound bag into the pit. This will captivate any rainborn contaminates and sequester them in the charcoal while they deteriorate, rather than allowing them to leach quickly into your well. Carbon is an amazing compound in this regard. Its capacity to purify is huge.<br /><br /> You would be amazed at how much water you can capture off a roof. A calculation can be done to figure out how many gallons can be recovered for each downspout. Even though we had an extremely dry summer two years ago, we did not run out of water that year, which was the first time during such a dry spell since we moved here! I credit the downspout with recharging the well. (This approach may meet with differing results depending on the depth of your well. Water has a mind of its own, and it heeds substrata and gravity out of sight.)<br /><br /> If your well is deep, a cistern could be joined to a downspout. Such a device could be made of plastic or concrete, and buried. It can become a supplement to your well, or it could become the sole source of your water. One woman I shared this with was squeamish, as she said "birds poop on my roof." Well, dear lady, do seagulls respect your water supply over Lake Erie? Industry doesn't either! Remember, water from the sky has been distilled. Yes, it picks up some chemicals and junk as it falls; but it is a much cleaner source than the lake.<br /><br /> I have several wells at home. But the best well is shallow. It was dug by hand by real men over a hundred years ago, and lined with large river rocks. The well is about 15 feet deep, and about 3-4 feet in diameter. I've actually crawled down into the well to replace a foot valve, with the guidance of my friend Gordon Glauser, of Alden -- another plumber who is very knowledgeable about country water. He stayed above ground to be sure I could get out of the well again. (I didn't know Gordon when I first moved here.) He showed me how to replace the valve, and helped me improve my plumbing skills.<br /><br /> Gordon also taught me about having the proper shut-off valve on a well pump. An earlier plumber, before we moved here, had put the wrong switch on our well pump. It didn't have a low-water trip switch, as well-pumps should. So when we were away, the backwash came on by timer, and continued to call for water when the level was low. The result was that the pump ran, and ran, until it fried. So I bought an irrigation-style pump which keeps a pocket of water always inside to cool the motor. This way it can't burn out, even if the right switch were to fail to trip.<br /><br /> Another approach to supply issues is to consider drilling a wider well. A 12-inch well, instead of the usual 6-inch well, usually will yield much more water. Bill Frey at Frey Well Drilling, or Ken Frey at Reserve Gas, both in Alden, are experts with substantial experience in these matters. A new well will cost significantly less than paying $1000 per year for 35 years. If your current well is not keeping up with your demands, consider an expanded hole, or maybe some fracking. My cousin in Orchard Park had Frey frak his well, and now has a very adequate supply. (It didn't happen the next day, but it did get good results. He wondered if he would have to move, the water was so scarce. Now he's happy.)<br /><br /> While I am not a professional plumber, I do have substantial hands-on experience with supply issues. I care about my neighbors, and am willing to help any who are struggling with water issues. I can share my experience and even some of my time. However, I would rather not share $1000 per year of my retirement income to deliver tainted water to my neighbors via Erie County Water Authority. (Did you know that a manager at ECWA ordered scientists to cover up the discovery of e-coli bacteria at a school! I have the clipping from Buffalo News in my file.) Really folks, there is a better solution to our water situation in Alden than forcing everybody to spend over $10,500,000 to drink a bad product. Remember: when an area imports too much water everyday from the lake, dumping it into the septic system in their backyards, drainage problems ensue, and sewer districts come next, with huge costs attached.<br /><br />I care too much for my neighbors, and I can't afford to pay, to see you go this route. But I'm very willing to help you solve your water challenges, now that I've solved my own. So, please don't do anything hasty about the new water district. Call me. I would be glad to help you.<br /><br />Sincerely, Eric Chaffee, Cayuga Creek Road, Alden NY 937-9995Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-19179503915957654262009-02-21T06:24:00.000-08:002009-02-21T06:53:50.448-08:00FIRST TRACTOR SUPPLY....WHO'S NEXT???As you already know, Tractor Supply is confirmed to open in the Alden Village Plaza soon. And when it gets here, please visit it often, and tell the manager how glad you are that they are here!<br /><br />But ARRG isn't sitting on it's laurels (where are laurels, anyway?). We immediately contacted several other stores, who we had contacted over a year ago, and informed them of Tractor Supply's positive attitude toward Alden, and encouraged them to take a second look at us.<br /><br />Here's where you come in....if you know of other stores that you'd like to see help fill the plaza, please get the address of their headquarters and contact us with the information. <br /><br />A special thanks to the SCOUTS committee of the ARRG who volunteered their time several months ago preparing a marketing kit to encourage new businesses to come to our area. Obviously it worked!Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-1366685104818066842009-02-21T06:16:00.000-08:002009-02-27T10:58:55.525-08:00MEET THE CANDIDATES NIGHT -FOR VILLAGE TRUSTEEThere are three open positions for Village Trustee at this year's upcoming election, on March 18,<br />and there are five people running for these positions. ARRG again this year, will host a Meet the Candidates Night, currently scheduled for Wednesday March 11 (revised) at 7pm. This event is another scheduled activity of community service hosted by ARRG. There will be an organized question and answer period, where all applicants will be given fair and equal opportunity to respond to questions fielded by the community. <br /><br />Don't go to the voting booth again this year without a clear understanding of who you are voting for. Think about what's important to you, and come to the meeting, and ask your questions! You should be getting what your taxes dollars are paying for!<br /><br />Any questions? Just contact us. <br /><br />Running for office are (in alphabetical order) Al Farrell, Mike Manicki, Ted Mezydlo, Mike Retzlaff, Dan WarmusSave Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-19244998139928579022009-02-21T06:14:00.000-08:002009-02-21T06:16:03.579-08:00TRIVIA NIGHT-FRIDAY FEB 27 7:30PMACTS (on Church St) will be hosting a Trivia Night on Fri, Feb 27 at 7:30pm. Admission is $1.<br />See the Alden Advertiser or contact ACTS 937-7881 for more information.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-60430407132953746822009-02-21T06:12:00.000-08:002009-02-21T06:14:37.690-08:00FARMLAND PROTECTION WORKSHOPAmerican Farmland Trust, WNY Land Conservancy and Cornell Cooperative Extension are presenting a Purchase of Development Rights Workshop on February 24, 7-9pm in the Farm and Home Center, 2nd Floor, 21 S. Grove St., East Aurora. <br /><br />Reservations need to be made at 716-687-1225 or email <a onclick="onClickUnsafeLink(event);" href="mailto:pszarpa@wnylc.org">pszarpa@wnylc.org</a> <br /><br />Light refreshments will be served. This workshop is designed for farmers, community leaders, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, appraisers and anyone with an interest in farmland protection. This workshop provides a comprehensive review of the process for creating successful Purchase of Development Rights projects and programs in your community. Scheduled program leaders are Patricia Szarpa, Diane Held and Jason Engel.<br /><br />ps Will any of Alden's community leaders, grant writers, town planners, town attorneys, attend???Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-69942340113211916792009-02-21T05:58:00.000-08:002009-02-21T06:08:19.429-08:00WINNERS OF ARRG BASKETS FROM WINTERFEST<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-NHfoHAQDVCboFlI6axGdPC5TwHffkKnFPid73U7CPqlAg3umq_Jm_oE-QCTh4DYFop9aWXj8_L8Lnsrv3bK2yIIXE8dScdtm460qLwtxeJ3QU86y-zlFCiv1edr_r2SowfNpPe7tA/s1600-h/arrg+basket+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305251389732597330" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq-NHfoHAQDVCboFlI6axGdPC5TwHffkKnFPid73U7CPqlAg3umq_Jm_oE-QCTh4DYFop9aWXj8_L8Lnsrv3bK2yIIXE8dScdtm460qLwtxeJ3QU86y-zlFCiv1edr_r2SowfNpPe7tA/s200/arrg+basket+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3lr6c6CldGmLR7hj_ex4Hq4C_QvaOjKutmD8HSl0BmWjaIeYiPNQNOi74wTl-MBDjMYh44n4MybntgsQnPS5rpbhsFyj5IL5G-L9picjmBiBBmYTcu7nSiBARaWeqSfRVnTdWTD7v5Q/s1600-h/arrg+basket+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305251384424590658" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3lr6c6CldGmLR7hj_ex4Hq4C_QvaOjKutmD8HSl0BmWjaIeYiPNQNOi74wTl-MBDjMYh44n4MybntgsQnPS5rpbhsFyj5IL5G-L9picjmBiBBmYTcu7nSiBARaWeqSfRVnTdWTD7v5Q/s200/arrg+basket+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdFd-BCmZMty4Tv3DMoPRHE-pYG94pxdqn4zQ9a6dc8-OzTQdH45U1LpXZ1uyJkGowP7XpgGHhtB4Tv-FTafYl5t5jnJC0H6HtdNR7WOldNd8d9KEkyRohYoahdspCAvcHPNLfpiK0w/s1600-h/WinterSentinals+2.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Thanks to the generous donations from many ARRG members and friends, the ARRG was able to sponsor FOUR baskets at last weekend's Alden Winterfest. All proceeds go toward the funding of next year's winterfest. Two of the four baskets are shown in the photos below. Congratulations to the winners, and THANKS to the donors!</div><br /><br /><div>Winners: Annie McCoy, Nicole Czelusta, Millie Wisniewski, Laura Loehr</div><br /></div></div>Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-88773254461281104962009-01-31T13:25:00.000-08:002009-01-31T13:39:11.007-08:00TRACTOR SUPPLY ACCEPTING JOB APPLICATIONSRepresentatives from Tractor Supply will be at the Village Hall, on Broadway on Monday, and Tuesday, Feb 2 and 3 from 8am-4pm accepting employment applications. There will be part time and full time positions available in all departments. Stop by and welcome Tractor Supply to the neighborhood! Their website is <a href="http://www.tractorsupply.com/">http://www.tractorsupply.com/</a>. They expect to open in a few months after some minor repairs and adjustments are made to the plaza. WELCOME!!Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-70800125475170803712009-01-31T13:24:00.000-08:002009-01-31T13:30:43.207-08:00ARRG BASKET AT WINTERFEST RAFFLEARRG is again this year participating in the popular basket raffle during Alden's Winterfest on February 13 and 14. Stop by the Village Hall and make your choices! Last year there were about 50 baskets, were several hundred dollars! The prize winners of each basket will be announced at the Snowball Dance on Saturday night, and you don't have to be present to win.<br /><br />ARRG has received some donations from members already, but we're always glad to accept more items. ARRG members, Clarissa Harison has donated 2 hr maximum in home feng shui/geomancy evaluation (to evaluate the health and vitality of the home and land) which is a $100 value) and Tammy Sigurdson has donated a professional decorated cake. Please contact us ASAP if you have something to contribute. Gift certificates, samples of your products, etc<br />are all great gift ideas. Proceeds raised from the baskets are used to fund other community events and projects. Contact us at save_alden@yahoo.com.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-68973207945835342792009-01-31T12:00:00.000-08:002009-01-31T13:38:28.160-08:00CHAINSAW ARTIST AT WINTERFEST<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghx02hb1cxP5YLJ_jvgepP2dAPSFEddTigy-1ObPzt6KbcqytPJb7Jory9ogp3h_PhZQj-QpSzD5gbcqiVTHN3dEh-pv72Ok6IsAs8cRqoySnodbYgtXyjWXh_YtW2kVqE3CCwMGvMWg/s1600-h/bear+no+2+3+complete.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297574224638372850" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghx02hb1cxP5YLJ_jvgepP2dAPSFEddTigy-1ObPzt6KbcqytPJb7Jory9ogp3h_PhZQj-QpSzD5gbcqiVTHN3dEh-pv72Ok6IsAs8cRqoySnodbYgtXyjWXh_YtW2kVqE3CCwMGvMWg/s200/bear+no+2+3+complete.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>One of the attractions at Alden's Winterfest will be a chainsaw carving demonstration (weather permitting) from 12pm-3pm behind the Community Center in the Village Park by ARRG member Ross Miller.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-13402608900896931402009-01-17T07:39:00.000-08:002009-01-17T08:36:37.933-08:00TRACTOR SUPPLYHere is the latest on the Tractor Supply issue (in the former Ames Plaza) as confirmed to us by the Village Building Inspector. He has received the request for building permit, and is reviewing the request and checking it to see that it meets with the village code. It goes to the Village Planning Board for review and they make a recommendation to the Village Board as to whether or not to approve this project. The next Planning Board Meeting is next week Wednesday January 21 at 7:30pm at the Village Hall. (Where they may or my not have questions, or requests that go back to Tractor Supply before making their decision.)<br /><br /><strong>We all know that everything must be done to ensure that this project goes forward, and in a timely fashion. We all know the importance of revitalizing the old Ames Plaza ESPECIALLY now in these terrible economic times. </strong><br /><br />We need you to do several things (AT LEAST one of them)and do them very quickly! Please try to attend the Planning Board meeting. Although the public is not expected to be allowed to speak at the meeting (unless invited), just your attendence sends a message. You can also always speak to the members either before or after the meeting. Or you can all them prior. Planning Board members are:<br />David Metz (Chair), Susan DeWitt (Vice Chair), Charles Airey, Douglas Henry, Noel Harris, and Paul Werner<br /><br /><br />We encourage you to also do the same at any of the regularly scheduled Village Board meetings (after all, the decision is ultimately theirs to make). There is "business from the floor" on the agenda at every meeting, and we encourage you to make it a point at the time to express your support of this project.<br /><br />Visit the Village website at www.erie.gov/village_alden for more information, including the names of the Village Trustees. You can contact ALL of them!<br /><br />If you are unable to attend either of these, or IN ADDITION, please write a letter addressed to Mayor Richard Kegler expressing your sincere support of this project, sighting the importance of working together with Tractor Supply, and that this could open the door to additional businesses in this plaza.<br /><br /><strong>We proven how power a large influx of letters can be...prove it again!!!</strong><br /><br />A few issues that need to be solved is the limited parking that will now occur, due to the fact that Tractor Supply has applied to put some of their produce outside in a fenced in area, and the issue of snow removal, which was usually stored in the area where the enclosure is scheduled to be. The ARRG has volunteered that each member will visit the plaza once a week in the winter, and put a shovelful or two in the trunks of their cars or backs of their trucks and haul it home, if needed.<br /><br />We encourage you to send us your comments about the proposed project and share your thoughts with others!Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-56317439713939816742009-01-17T07:29:00.000-08:002009-01-17T07:38:41.252-08:00KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK"You guys are doing a wonderful job, please keep up the good work!!!!!!!! We need you - some of us are unable for whatever reason to do what you are doing, so thanks a MILLION for filling in for us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! <br /><br />(Feel free to post, if you want..) Thanks, Nancy"<br /><br /><br />MODERATOR RESPONSE; THANKS NANCY! Comments like yours are very much appreciated. The core group and a few other very dedicated members are still spending several hours of their lives continuing to be involved in order to be aware of what's happening. All of us help in many different ways. Some help with their time, and/or expertise, others with monetary funds. Example: Our post office box costs $100 a year. To distribute a mailing to our members when there is an important town meeting costs approximately $250. Soooooo, if ever anyone wants to know how they can help, we're always very glad to accept your support, no matter what it is.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-80230609566481798832009-01-14T06:35:00.000-08:002009-01-14T06:37:38.157-08:00WE SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES & MERCHANTSHave you got a business, or a sideline, or a hobby?<br />Just let us know, and we'll tell the others.<br />Our mission statement is to support local businesses, merchants, etc.<br /><br />Examples:<br />If you do sewing in your home for others, you make your own maple syrup,<br />you do snow plowing, you do chainsaw carving, etc.<br /><br />Also, if you're looking for something, let us know and we'll put the word out.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-43750278564585710212009-01-14T06:31:00.001-08:002009-01-14T06:33:43.561-08:00TAKE CONTROL OF THE VILLAGE!There are three positions on the Village Board that are expiring in March 2009.<br /><br />What better way to steer the future of the village of Alden into the direction you'd like to see it go, than to be one of the decision makers. Qualifications are that you are a village resident, at least 18 years old. You do not need to be a property owner.<br /><br />Just visit Betty Kegler (Village Clerk) now, to obtain a petition. Let us know if you're throwing your hat into the ring, and we'll share the good news with our members.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-62298963553845765892009-01-14T06:27:00.000-08:002009-01-14T06:31:07.243-08:00Public Hearing on Windmill Law, Tues, Jan 20Please plan to attend the Town Hall on Wende Rd on Tues, Jan 20 at 7pm.<br />Public hearing on the Windmill Law.<br />For a complete review of the proposed law as it is now,<br />visit www.aldenwatchdog.com<br /><br />This could quite possibly be your last chance.<br />There have been many changes to the proposed law already,<br />and unless you have any comments otherwise, it's most likely to be passed as is.<br /><br />If you think that government has taken too much control over the little guy,<br />then this just might be another example.<br /><br />The proposed law begins with "to promote windmill energy", yet preceeds<br />to include numerous regulations. <br /><br />We encourage you to attend, state your opinion (either pro or con)Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-65247610261861748982009-01-14T06:24:00.000-08:002009-01-14T06:27:07.074-08:00Winterfest, Fri Feb 13,14Check out the Alden Advertiser, and www.aldenwinterfest.com for details on all of the exciting activities and events that will be happening. Even if you hate the cold, please plan to attend at least ONE event. Come and see the results of what happens when you SAVE ALDEN! It's events like this that make Alden what it is...Smalltown USA.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-47956270495039763252008-12-02T21:24:00.000-08:002008-12-02T21:27:54.694-08:002nd Masterplan Public Input MeetingHere is our video of the second public input meeting .<br />You will most likely need to pause the video <br />once it starts for several minutes to allow <br />it to "buffer" (or download ahead)to allow <br />smooth playback. If you are having trouble <br />viewing this video please contact us at <br />save_alden@yahoo.com<br /><br /><embed id="VideoPlayback" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=8903126709246839611&hl=en&fs=true" style="width:400px;height:326px" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"> </embed>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5047222843100014682.post-4509652093862516482008-11-22T12:01:00.000-08:002008-12-07T09:48:39.221-08:00CHRISTMAS IDEAS WITH ALDEN MERCHANTS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNcwH3w1t4PTXtr42xTGEH1BAb_ItRhgU1OCFqBJBaIuFAj0hrQUivWum35MuX0JkAAOngplDyuejvkMVa_gV4oGOneEppiMNqsREp_ZCbCIauYnWYV659i5PgdxtBd3w7SQMXe0NZA/s1600-h/deli+gift+baskets.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNcwH3w1t4PTXtr42xTGEH1BAb_ItRhgU1OCFqBJBaIuFAj0hrQUivWum35MuX0JkAAOngplDyuejvkMVa_gV4oGOneEppiMNqsREp_ZCbCIauYnWYV659i5PgdxtBd3w7SQMXe0NZA/s200/deli+gift+baskets.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277106531918752482" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTfA1skdg4pf02HRzonwxOR3oXcNCDsnffPKENCkt_w-PpEOH3qOm32nKlk9L3CBWGpLV1bBVRYKoz_go-RxQVGywLiZZSu70A-3FVnfBEx9CQQn_ULCEparXuVFyIQzoG-rWCedPavg/s1600-h/Pharmacy+Winter+.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTfA1skdg4pf02HRzonwxOR3oXcNCDsnffPKENCkt_w-PpEOH3qOm32nKlk9L3CBWGpLV1bBVRYKoz_go-RxQVGywLiZZSu70A-3FVnfBEx9CQQn_ULCEparXuVFyIQzoG-rWCedPavg/s320/Pharmacy+Winter+.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271542644637756642" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYHX43YYc8XKuHiVESrqOonU5spTdmkodvlqqf0AB7h2fXG0rZJchJ3sJjhuQTtXTF1_mNSCx7e5NK6LTM84TPI019nMb_ONU-JgMje5aev8tWMSu7v6Oq8hMXtY5jJsxt_VQc8R01A/s1600-h/Pharmacy+shirt.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYHX43YYc8XKuHiVESrqOonU5spTdmkodvlqqf0AB7h2fXG0rZJchJ3sJjhuQTtXTF1_mNSCx7e5NK6LTM84TPI019nMb_ONU-JgMje5aev8tWMSu7v6Oq8hMXtY5jJsxt_VQc8R01A/s320/Pharmacy+shirt.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271542640142688306" /></a><br />With the Holiday Season approaching, and the economy the way it is, it's more important than ever to save gas, time, and money by shopping with Alden's local merchants. Anybody who ever said that there is "no place to shop in Alden" wasn't looking very hard. There are over 100 independently owned businesses in Alden, and they are all depending on you! Why not make it a goal to do all of your Christmas shopping this season in Alden? Here are some examples of some unique gifts available right here in your home town. If you are a merchant and would like us to add an interesting product of yours to this sight, just let us know.<br /><br />The Alden Pharmacy has some terrific "Alden" tee shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, and coffee mugs. And as a bonus, the shirts were made in the USA!<br /><br />Added The Village Deli also wants you to know that they are selling a variety of gift baskets, all made from local Buffalo products.Save Aldenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00904595987302313587noreply@blogger.com0