As the chill of winter melts away and the air fills with the scent of blooming flowers, spring arrives with more than  just beautiful landscapes—it brings a fresh opportunity to revamp our health and fitness routines. This season of renewal and growth is the perfect time to rejuvenate your body and achieve your fitness goals. Whether you’re looking to shed winter weight, build strength, or simply boost your overall well-being, here are effective strategies to help you get more fit this spring.

1. Embrace the Outdoors

Spring weather offers an inviting environment for outdoor activities. Take advantage of the longer days and warmer  temperatures by spending more time outside. Here are some ideas:

-Running and Walking: Start a running or brisk walking routine in your local park or around your neighborhood. The sights and sounds of nature can motivate and energize you.

– Cycling: Dust off your bike and explore local trails. Cycling is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular fitness  while enjoying scenic views.

– Hiking: Discover nearby hiking trails. Hiking is not only a great workout, but it also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the season.

– Outdoor Fitness Classes: Look for local fitness classes that take place in parks or open spaces. Options may include yoga, boot camps, or group cycling classes.

2. Set Achievable Goals

As you embark on your fitness journey, setting clear and achievable goals can provide focus and motivation. Consider using the SMART criteria:

– Specific: Define what you want to achieve (e.g., “I want to run a 5K”).

– Measurable: Create metrics to track progress (e.g., “I’ll run twice a week and increase my distance by 10% each week”).

– Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic given your current fitness level (e.g., if you’re new to running, aim to complete a 5K walking event first).

– Relevant: Align your goals with something meaningful to you (e.g., improving heart health or boosting energy levels).

– Time-bound: Set a deadline (e.g., “I will complete a 5K in three months”).

3. Create a Balanced Routine

To prevent boredom and work different muscle groups, create a well-rounded fitness routine that includes:

– Cardiovascular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week. This can be broken down into manageable sessions (e.g., 30 minutes, five times a week).

– Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises at least twice a week. Use bodyweight exercises (like push-ups and squats) or resistance bands, or lift weights to build muscle.

– Flexibility and Balance: Don’t neglect stretching and balance work. Activities like yoga or Pilates can enhance flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and improve overall body awareness.

4. Focus on Nutrition

Getting fit isn’t just about exercise—it’s also about nutrition. As you increase your activity level, ensure you’re fueling your body with the right nutrients:

– Whole Foods: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals to support your fitness goals.

– Stay Hydrated: As temperatures rise, hydration becomes critical. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day and adjust based on your activity level.

– Meal Planning: Organize your meals to avoid unhealthy snacking. Planning ahead helps ensure you have nutritious options available, making it easier to stick to your goals.

5. Prioritize Recovery

Recovery is just as vital as the workouts themselves. Incorporate rest days into your routine to allow your body to heal and adapt. Consider the following for optimal recovery:

– Listen to Your Body: If you feel fatigued or experience pain, take a break. This will help prevent injuries and promote long-term consistency.

– Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep is essential for muscle recovery and overall wellbeing.

– Active Recovery: On rest days, engage in light activities like walking, gentle yoga, or swimming to keep the blood flowing without stressing your body.

6. Stay Motivated and Accountable

Motivation can wane over time, so surround yourself with support. Here are some ways to stay inspired:

– Workout Buddy: Find a friend or family member with similar fitness goals. Exercising together can make workouts more enjoyable and hold you accountable.

– Fitness Challenges: Sign up for local races, challenges, or fitness programs. The excitement of preparing for an event can keep you motivated.

Spring is a time of renewal and vitality, making it the perfect opportunity to enhance your fitness levels and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Schedule an appointment online with Dr Kevy Smith Minouge or Dr Matt Smith for advice and help getting started.

Dr Matt smith has been a chiropractor in Saratoga Springs for forty years, He and his daughter, Dr Kevy Smith Minogue practice at 50 Seward Street. Online appointments can be made at WWW.MySaratogaChiropractor.Com

Last month, Bloomberg News and the New York Post reported that New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposed lowering the New York State estate tax exemption to $750,000 from the current level of $7.35 million and increasing the estate tax rate to 50% from the current maximum rate of 16%.

This proposal was in a package of revenue-raising proposals shared by Mayor Mamdani’s staff with the New York Legislature, as part of the budget negotiations for the upcoming year.  At this stage, there has been no written copy of Mayor Mamdani’s proposal that has been publicly available.

This proposal, if accepted by the New York Legislature and signed by the Governor, would result in New York State likely having the highest estate taxes in the nation.  Here are a series of questions and answers to explore this potential policy change.

Why is Mayor Mamdani proposing this?

New York City faces a substantial budget gap next year, which is estimated to be at least $5 billion. This estate tax proposal is one of many proposals given to the New York Legislature by the Mayor’s office for consideration to close that budget gap.

What is the current estate tax exemption?

The current estate tax exemption in New York is $7,350,000.  Generally speaking, this means that you will only have to pay New York State estate taxes if the value of your estate is above $7,350,000.  The federal estate tax level is higher – it currently is set at $15,000,000.  The New York estate tax exemption amount has not been as low as the amount proposed by Mayor Mamdani for over 25 years.  In the years 2000 and 2001, the exemption amount was $675,000.  In the year 2002, it was raised to $1,000,000 and it has steadily increased since that time.

What is the estate tax rate? 

The current estate tax rate for New York ranges from about 3% to 16%, based on the value of the estate.  These rates only apply if the value of your estate is above the exemption amount, which is currently $7,350,000.  Mayor Mamdani’s proposal would increase the rate to 50%.  It is not clear from the publicly available information whether that would be the new top rate or if that would be an across-the-board flat rate.

What does this mean in real terms?

If this proposal were to be accepted by the New York Legislature and signed into law by the Governor, it would subject a significant number of New Yorkers to estate tax.  Depending on the changes, New Yorkers would face the possibility of having to sell assets owned by decedent family members in order to pay estate taxes.

Can you give an example?

If a New York resident owned a house worth $700,000, an investment account worth $400,000, and a business worth $500,000, then they would have a potential taxable estate of $1,600,000.  In a worst-case scenario, if a 50% flat tax rate were applied to their estate, the estate tax due would be $800,000.  In that case, there would be insufficient liquid funds (the $400,000 investment account) to pay the estate taxes.  As a result, the family members would face the prospect of having to sell the family home or business in order to pay the taxes.  This example does not take into account deductions and credits potentially available to the estate.

Have any legislators supported it?

At this time, no New York State legislators have come out and specifically endorsed this proposal.  In addition, Governor Kathy Hochul is not on the record supporting this proposed change in the New York estate tax.

What are the chances this will happen?

That is hard to say.  The proposal is a very significant change in the current law, which historically has not happened before.  Since it would be such a significant change, it makes sense to be aware of it and let your legislators know your opinion on the proposal.

Keeping up on changes in estate taxes can be challenging.  In order to minimize your tax burden and increase what you leave for your loved ones, you should consider contacting an experienced estate planning attorney or tax professional for advice.

Matthew J. Dorsey, Esq. is a shareholder with O’Connell and Aronowitz, 1 Court Street, Saratoga Springs, New York.  Over his twenty-nine years of practice, he has focused on the areas of elder law, estate planning, and estate administration.  Mr. Dorsey can be reached at (518) 584-5205, mdorsey@oalaw.com and www.oalaw.com.

We’ve all been there: you open a news app, see a headline about a trade war, a border conflict, or a sudden diplomatic breakdown, and your first instinct is to check your brokerage account. It’s a natural human reaction. When the world feels unstable, our “fight or flight” response kicks in, and in the investing world, “flight” usually means hitting the sell button.

But here’s the thing about geopolitical risk: it’s the one constant in an ever-changing world. If you waited for “total global peace” to start investing, you’d never put a single dollar to work. Managing your money in the face of international turmoil isn’t about predicting the next crisis; it’s about building a portfolio that can survive the ones you don’t see coming.

One of the biggest mistakes investors make is reacting to the noise rather than the signal. Geopolitical events are loud. They dominate the 24-hour news cycle and trigger immediate, often irrational, market swings.

However, history shows that while markets hate uncertainty, they are remarkably resilient. Often, the “shock” of a geopolitical event is priced in within days or weeks. If you sell during the initial panic, you’re usually locking in a loss just before the market begins to digest the news and recover.

You’ve heard it a thousand times, but diversification is your best defense against global instability. If you’re heavily invested in a single sector—say, tech companies that rely on a specific overseas manufacturing hub—a localized conflict could devastate your portfolio.

To mitigate geopolitical risk, look at:

• Geographic Spread: Don’t keep all your eggs in one country’s basket.

• Asset Classes: Invest across the spectrum of stocks and bonds.

When the geopolitical weather gets stormy, investors tend to flock to “quality.” These are companies with strong balance sheets, essential products (think healthcare or utilities), and the ability to pass on costs to consumers. A company that makes life-saving medication or provides electricity is much more likely to weather a diplomatic spat than a high-growth startup that relies on cheap, international venture capital.

Sometimes, the most sophisticated move you can make is to stay the course. If you have a long-term plan—say, 10 or 20 years until retirement—a two-week market dip caused by a foreign election is a blip on the radar.

Instead of trying to “time” the market based on the news, focus on time in the market. Review your risk tolerance when things are calm. If a 5% drop in your portfolio makes you lose sleep, you might be carrying too much risk regardless of what’s happening on the news.

Investing through geopolitical risk is less about being a political scientist and more about being a disciplined psychologist. By keeping a cool head, staying diversified, and focusing on quality, you can turn global uncertainty from a source of fear into just another part of the journey toward your financial goals.

Stephen Kyne, CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC in Saratoga Springs. 

Sterling Manor Financial, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor and does not provide tax or legal advice, nor is it a third-party administrator. Consult your advisor, attorney or accountant prior to implementing any strategies.

When we think of oil, most of us picture the numbers ticking upward at the gas pump. But in the grand machinery of the global economy, oil is less like a simple fuel and more like the blood in the veins of modern commerce. Whether you’re buying a head of lettuce or a high-tech laptop, its journey to you was paved with petroleum.

As we’ve seen in the past few weeks, the “price of a barrel” isn’t just a stat for Wall Street; it’s a pulse check for global stability.

The Middle East remains the heart of global oil production. However, it’s not just about the oil under the sand; it’s about the narrow stretches of water through which that oil must travel. The Strait of Hormuz, a tiny chokepoint between Oman and Iran, handles roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply.

When tensions flare—as they did recently with the military strikes involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran—the market doesn’t wait for a physical shortage to happen. It reacts to uncertainty. This is known as a “risk premium.” Traders start betting that supply might be cut off, which sends prices skyrocketing. In early March, we saw Brent crude leap toward $120 a barrel almost overnight simply because the world held its breath.

High oil prices act like an “invisible tax” on everyone. Here is how that spike at the source ripples through your life:

• The Grocery Bill: Farmers use diesel for tractors and petroleum-based fertilizers. Truckers need fuel to deliver the food. When oil goes up, the price of your morning avocado toast follows.

• The Amazon Effect: Shipping and logistics companies face massive fuel surcharges. To protect their profit margins, they pass those costs down to the consumer.

• The Inflation Headache: Central banks (like the Federal Reserve) watch oil closely. If energy costs stay high, it drives up overall inflation. To fight this, they might keep interest rates higher for longer, making your mortgage or car loan more expensive.

The true danger of Middle Eastern uncertainty isn’t just the price of a gallon of gas; it’s the paralysis of investment. When CEOs don’t know if energy costs will double next month, they hesitate to build new factories or hire more staff. This “wait-and-see” approach can slow down the entire global engine, leading to stagnation.

While the world is sprinting toward a “green” future, we aren’t there yet. For now, we are still tethered to the geopolitical winds of the Persian Gulf. A single drone over a refinery or a closed shipping lane can still dictate whether the global economy grows or grinds to a halt.

Stephen Kyne, CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC

Sterling Manor Financial, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor and does not provide tax or legal advice, nor is it a third-party administrator. Consult your attorney or accountant prior to implementing any tax or legal strategies.

What does this mean for your estate planning?

Beginning in June 2027, the execution of a Last Will and Testament may be completed electronically under New York law. Historically, the execution ceremony for a Will has taken place in an attorney’s office, with the client physically signing their Will in the presence of at least two witnesses.

The New York Electronic Wills Act, which became law late last year, expands on this process by allowing Wills to be signed and witnessed electronically, with the assistance of computers, smartphones, and other digital technology, provided specific statutory requirements are met.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about what this change may mean for you and your loved ones.

What is an Electronic Will? 

An Electronic Will is a Will executed in compliance with law using the assistance of computer technology. This includes electronic signatures, and witnesses who are electronically present through live video conferencing.

Who benefits from this new law? 

The ability to execute a Will electronically may particularly benefit individuals who do not currently have a Will because it is impractical or impossible to meet with an attorney in person. This includes individuals with limited mobility, those who live far from their attorney, or individuals who are temporarily located outside of New York.

Must an Electronic Will be signed on a computer? 

No. While an Electronic Will can be executed entirely online, it may also begin as a paper Will that the client signs, with computer technology used to complete other execution requirements.

Are Electronic Wills witnessed?

Yes. Whether the client signs a physical or electronic document, two disinterested witnesses must observe the client signing their Will, or the client must acknowledge their signature to the witnesses, in real time. The witnesses then have thirty days to attest to the client’s signature and sign their names at the end of the Electronic Will.

Are Electronic Wills notarized?

No. Like traditional paper Wills, the client’s signature on an Electronic Will is not required to be notarized. However, to complete self-proving documents that typically accompany a Will as proof of its proper execution, the client must complete an acknowledgment in the physical or electronic presence of a Notary Public. 

What technology is needed?

Generally, the client and witnesses will need a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or computer equipped with a camera and microphone, along with the ability to connect to the internet and access email.

Can an Electronic Will be signed outside of New York? 

Yes. An Electronic Will may be executed by an individual who is physically located outside of New York State at the time of signing.

How is the integrity of an Electronic Will preserved?

A true and complete electronic copy of an Electronic Will must be filed with the New York Unified Court System within thirty days of its execution together with audit trail data. The Electronic Will then remains in the court’s custody until it is withdrawn in accordance with the law. 

Must all Wills be filed with the court? 

No. Only Electronic Wills must be filed with the court. Filing a traditional paper Will that was signed by the client in the physical presence of two disinterested witnesses remains at the client’s discretion. 

Can Electronic Wills be revoked? 

Yes. An Electronic Will may be revoked at any time by executing a subsequent Will or separate writing that clearly indicates the client’s intent to revoke all or part of the Electronic Will. An Electronic Will may also be revoked by requesting that it be removed from the New York Unified Court System.

Can Electronic Wills be probated?

Yes. If properly executed in accordance with New York law, an Electronic Will has the same legal effect as a traditional paper Will and can be considered by a court for its admission to probate.

Is an attorney needed for an Electronic Will? 

No. However, as with traditional Wills, there are specific legal formalities that must be followed during the execution of an Electronic Will. If these formalities are not properly observed, the Electronic Will may later be found invalid during the estate administration process.

For this reason, having an experienced estate planning attorney supervise the execution of your Will, whether electronic or traditional, is highly recommended to ensure it complies with all statutory requirements.

Anna R. Myers Norton is an associate attorney with O’Connell and Aronowitz, One Court Street, Saratoga Springs, New York. Anna’s practice focuses on trust and estate law, including estate planning, estate administration, and guardianship.

In our modern digital age, many of us spend hours each day hunched over our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This habit can lead to a condition commonly known as “text neck,” characterized by neck pain, stiffness, and discomfort due to poor posture. As technology continues to play a significant role in our daily lives, it is essential to take proactive measures to prevent text neck. In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of text neck, its symptoms, and practical tips for avoiding this increasingly common issue.

Understanding Text Neck

Text neck is primarily caused by poor postural habits while using mobile devices. When we lower our heads to look at screens, the strain on our neck can be significant. The human head weighs an average of 10 to 12 pounds, and for every inch the head leans forward from an upright position, that weight on the neck increases significantly. Research suggests that the strain can increase to 20 to 30 pounds when the head is tilted at extreme angles. This excessive pressure can lead to pain, discomfort, and even long-term changes in spinal structure.

Symptoms of Text Neck

Individuals suffering from text neck may experience the following symptoms:

– Chronic neck pain

– Stiffness or tightness in the neck and shoulders

– Headaches

– Upper back pain

– Reduced range of motion in the neck

– Muscle spasms

– Numbness or tingling in the arms and hands

If you recognize these symptoms, it’s time to make some changes to your habits and routines.

Tips for Avoiding Text Neck

1. Maintain Proper Posture

When using your smartphone or tablet, try to hold the device at eye level. This positioning helps maintain the natural curve of your spine and reduces strain on your neck.

– Standing or Sitting: Stand or sit up straight, with shoulders back and relaxed. Your ears should be aligned with your shoulders, and your back should be straight.

– Changing Positions: Alternate between sitting and standing while using devices to change the posture and reduce strain.

2. Take Frequent Breaks

Adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages you to change your posture frequently.

3. Incorporate Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate tension and improve posture. Some effective exercises include:

– Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head towards one shoulder until you feel a comfortable stretch on the opposite side. Hold for 15-30 seconds and switch sides.

– Shoulder Shrugs: Raise your shoulders towards your ears, hold for a few seconds, and then release. Repeat 10 times.

– Chin Tucks: Bring your chin toward your chest and hold for a few seconds. This exercise helps strengthen neck muscles.

4. Adjust Your Workspace

If you’re working on a laptop or desktop, ensure that your screen is at eye level. Use adjustable chairs and desks if possible. Consider the following adjustments:

– Monitor Height: Your monitor should be at eye level, allowing you to look straight ahead. If necessary, raise your monitor with books or an adjustable stand.

– Keyboard Position: Keep your keyboard at a comfortable height to prevent straining your shoulders and wrists.

5. Limit Screen Time

While it’s often unavoidable to use electronic devices, consider minimizing screen time when possible. Make a conscious effort to engage in offline activities.

– Physical Activities: Engage in outdoor activities, exercise, or hobbies that don’t require screens.

6. Use Ergonomic Accessories

Investing in ergonomic devices, such as a wrist support or a phone holder, can significantly improve your posture while using technology.

7. Seek Professional Help if Necessary

If you experience persistent pain or symptoms related to text neck, consider consulting a healthcare professional. Smith Chiropractic can provide personalized exercises and recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

Preventing text neck requires conscious effort and awareness of your daily habits. By maintaining proper posture, taking regular breaks, engaging in corrective exercises, and being mindful of screen time, you can protect your neck and overall spinal health. Addressing these issues not only enhances your physical well-being but also promotes a more enjoyable and productive relationship with technology. Remember: a few small changes can lead to significant improvements in your health and comfort!

Dr Matt smith has been a chiropractor in Saratoga Springs for forty years, He and his daughter, Dr Kevy Smith Minouge practice at 50 Seward Street. Online appointments can be made at WWW.MySaratogaChiropractor.Com