SLINGERLANDS — Mark T. Bryant of Bryant Asset Management in Slingerlands, gathered with a group of financial advisors invited to participate in Commonwealth Financial Network’s Chairman’s Retreat, in January at the Mandarin Oriental in Miami, Florida.

The Chairman’s Retreat is Commonwealth’s highest level of recognition.

Five of us were driving to a meeting when Pat swerved wildly to avoid hitting an animal that was crossing the road. As we all readjusted ourselves, we collectively (and individually) berated her for endangering us all.

On Monday, Feb. 2, we woke up to 16-inches of snow that fell overnight. BKW was closed and my daughter, Marcia Pangburn, dropped her daughter, Kyra Swan, off at my house before going to work.

GUILDERLAND — Boniface Church at 5148 Western Ave. in Guilderland is observing Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday.

A Shrove Tuesday service and pancake dinner will be held on Feb. 17 at 6 p.m.

An Ash Wednesday Holy Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes will be on Feb. 18 at 7 a.m., 12:05 p.m., and 7 p.m.

RAVENA — The Grace United Methodist Church at 16 Hillcrest Drive in Ravena is having a huge mid-winter book sale, with over 33,000 titles, as well as a mini rummage sale on several dates at the end of February.

Just this past week, the church received a donation of another 1,500 books, due to a business closing.

To the Editor:

Rensselaerville is a tiny village with a big heart. Three weeks ago, an 1814 historic home was fully involved in one of the worst fires the village has experienced.

"We’re reaching into the metaphorical couch cushions, looking for change,” said the school superintendent of proposed cuts, after years of cutting, in next year's $93 million budget.