Local First Saratoga North Edition 030923

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park Accepting Entries for Annual Earth Day Essay Contest

WILTON - Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is hosting their Annual Earth Day Essay Contest. Each year, Wilton Preserve offers an essay contest in celebration of Earth Day and the environmental movement. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, brings environmental awareness to the forefront. This day promotes increased environmental consciousness, community participation, and protection of the planet worldwide. The mission of the Wilton Preserve includes environmental education as a priority, and engaging youth in the environmental conversation is of the utmost importance. The Earth Day Essay Contest gives children of all ages the opportunity to research and engage in the climate conversation and actively seek out solutions to protect the future resources of this planet and to bring their thoughts and solutions to the climate crisis.

The theme for 2023 from EarthDay.org is Invest in Our Planet! This year’s theme is asking people to think about how overcoming climate change is within reach if citizens work together to commit to action and invest in the planet and

Party switch in Spa City

GOP members who ran on WFP line have jumped to Conservative party

By WENDY LIBERATORE

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Some of the same city and county candidates who party-hopped from the Republican and Independence parties to run on the Working Families Party line in 2021 have changed their party affiliation again.

Former WFP candidates, who were unendorsed by the party — Samantha Guerra, David Labate, Gabriel O’Brien, Donald Reeder and Maxwell Rosenbaum — have moved over to the Conservative Party.

They are five out of 26 from Saratoga County who have now parted ways with what is traditionally the most left-leaning party to join the most right-leaning.

The Times Union was unable to reach the candidates who made the recent move. However, Thomas Sartin, a retired Saratoga Springs police officer who led what the WFP considered a takeover in 2021, also made the switch from the WFP to the Conservatives. On Monday, when asked if he was behind this second wave of change, he said little.

“It’s not anyone’s business,” Sartin said. “I don’t tell people what to do.”

Saratoga County Conservative Party Chair David Buchyn said he doesn’t know what’s going on, but is happy to welcome the new members to the ranks of the party.

“We have gained 131 new members since this past November,” Buchyn said in a text message. “Some of these new members are first-time registered voters. Others have come from other parties.”

Buchyn said he also noticed that many of his new members came from the WFP.

“It is unusual to see even one left-wing extremist WFP member join the Conservative Party, let alone over 20 within a short period of time,” he said.

The 2021 infiltration of GOP members into the WFP was an issue statewide, including in Rensselaer County.

There, former GOP members jumped to WFP, doubling the party’s size to roughly 2,000 enrollees. In Saratoga County, the WFP enrollment grew by 30 percent with 124 new members, 73 coming from the Republican Party and the rest from the now-defunct Independence

Party, bringing its total up to 583 in 2021. With the recent changes, the Saratoga County Conservative Party’s enrollment has grown to 3,242 members.

It is unclear if the Conservatives are headed for a similar takeover, especially since the party is often aligned with the GOP. Yet in the 2022 election, Republicans and Conservatives came to blows over two candidates for state Supreme Court in the fourth district. Republicans backed Richard Kupferman and Chris Obstarczyk. The Conservatives rejected Kupferman and Obstarczyk and chose to back two Democrats, a move the Saratoga Springs GOP on Facebook said scandalized the nomination process. (The Nov. 4 post has since been removed.) Kupferman won, but Obstarczyk lost.

Prior to his failed bid, Obstarczyk was the chair of the city’s Republican Committee. He held that position in 2021 when his party members exited to join the WFP. At the time, he said he had nothing to do with the exodus. He said the same on Monday when asked about the former GOP/WFP members who have hopped to the Conservative Party.

“I have no idea,” Obstarzcyk said. “I’m a registered Republican.”

The new members could impact the Conservative line if they carry petitions for candidates. Buchyn said that petitioners only need 12 signatures to end up on his ballot line. As per state law, candidates need to collect signatures from 5 percent of registered voters from their party in the jurisdiction in which they seek to run for office.

Collecting signatures was how the former Republican members easily took over the WFP, even though none of the candidates who were former Republicans were interviewed or endorsed by WFP membership.

Still, the former Republicans were able to impact the WFP primary process by securing wins for their favored candidates and knocking those endorsed by the WFP off the party’s ballot line in the general elections. The WFP and Democrats joined together at an October news conference to urge all voters to reject candidates on their own WFP line and vote for Democrats. Joe Seeman, a WFP volunteer who makes the endorsements, told voters “they are phony candidates.”

“They are lying and scamming to grab power right here in Saratoga Springs,” Seeman said at the time.

On Monday, Seeman said that he’s happy that those with Republican ideologies have departed.

“It was an invasion,” Seeman said. “They don’t align with the Working Families Party values. We are happy to let the phonies go.”

Farmworkers’ substandard housing decried

Undocumented laborers often vulnerable if they speak about conditions

By WENDY LIBERATORE

Ask Aliana Varvaloucas what her colleagues have seen in the homes of the dairy farmworkers she represents and she will say “broken everything.”

The managing attorney for the Legal Aid Society’s Farm Worker Law Project ticks off a list of damage, decay and vermin that compromise human health and safety: broken windows, doors, floors, walls, stoves, water heaters, heaters, roofs, cabinets; slanted floors, sewage in showers and going into the ground around the housing; soft wet spongy floors, no locks on doors or windows; flies and bugs, broken steps; rooms with no windows, wall-to-wall rugs that haven’t been cleaned in years, filthy furniture, bed bugs, mosquitoes, skunks living under housing, rodents, mice and rats.

While many who aid farmworkers find the conditions shocking, she said workers rarely complain about their employer-provided living accommodations in aging mobile homes and farmhouses or, in some cases, dormitories in the barns. If they do speak up, the workers could be fired and then evicted. And without work or a place to live, they may be deported, as advocates estimate 90 percent are from outside the U.S. and a vast majority of those are undocumented. There seems to be no easy answer for workers whose bosses are also

their landlords. The problem is exacerbated by a lack of oversight for dairy worker housing due to limitations in existing law — something advocates are pushing to change.

“There are six different farmworker statutes on housing and none of them apply to dairy housing,” said Varvaloucas who works out of New Paltz. “Dairy farmworkers fall through the cracks. There is a massive loophole in the law.”

There is some effort to create oversight for housing — both in Albany and Washington. The New York Farm Bureau is asking Gov. Kathy Hochul to restore $400,000 to its budget to hire an inspector for all types of farm-provided housing for workers. And in Washington, lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act, which would move year-round dairy workers out of the undocumented shadows and into the H-2A visa program, which requires the state Department of Health to inspect worker housing.

Advocates like Varvaloucas say those measures are just the start of a necessary overhaul for dairy farmworkers, who are isolated on the vast stretches of the state’s rural landscape. Ideally, she would like to see overall immigration reform, but for now, she and other advocates for farmworkers would like, at the very least, to have the state require inspections of all employer-provided housing.

“Inspections aren’t perfect and there are bad conditions at H-2A camps, too,” Varvaloucas said. “But at least with those camps there is a visit, there is some sort of third-party authority overseeing things.”

Of course, not all farms offer dilapidated, unsafe or unsanitary housing for their workers. Immigrant advocates admit that some farm owners welcome workers with adequate housing. Among them is one Saratoga County farmer who has been identified by county social workers as maintaining worker apartments as “well as his own home.”

He spoke to the Times Union recently, asking to remain anonymous to shield his workers, who are undocumented, from being deported. He said providing decent and safe housing is a good investment.

“They are good people,” he said. “It’s worth it. They are a big value to us.”

Terry Diggory, with the Saratoga Immigration Coalition, agreed. He said these workers are specialized in the care of animals.

“What the farmers really value is the people who already have that experience and can supervise a herd,” said Dig-gory, who frequently drives workers to appointments and on errands. “They take care of the medical problems that show up, identify diseases, attend at birthing of calves, there is a whole range of things that the workers need to be a specialist in.”

They also have to milk the herd two or three times a day.

On the one Saratoga County farm, the workers care, feed and milk the herd of more than 1,000 cows. That dairy man is in full support of the bill in Washington to bring these year-round workers into the seasonal or migrant worker H-2A program. That program allows workers to travel from their country to work during a limited time period, for example, during an apple orchard harvest or over a summer at a hotel in Lake George. Dairy farms, as year-round operations, aren’t allowed to participate.

“The country needs the help,” the farmer said. “We are anxious to get the help. We can’t find it locally. … I’d loved to convince the government to do something that was easy to follow and effective. Right now, there is no program available to us.”

But Emma Kreyche, director of advocacy for the Worker Justice Center of New York which operates in 33 counties, says the act creates a new problem. It will force the worker to be tied to one farm. If they leave or are

Please see HOUSING 6

Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Rotary Club, Camp Stomping Ground & Immersion Pt

Host: 4 Seasons 4k Fun Run Events

BURNT HILLS - The second installment of the new fun run series, the 4 Season 4K, will take place on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 10:00 am at Camp Stomping Ground (3430 Boyhaven Rd, Middle Grove NY). Community members, families and pets of all ages and abilities are welcome to run, walk or dance through the trails of Camp Stomping Ground.

Megan James, owner of Immersion PT & coach of Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake cross country & track teams, designed the fun run series as a way to inspire new runners, and foster appreciation for our natural spaces in a fun, family-friendly environment. “It will be spring in upstate New York, so we are hoping for a muddy run to kick off the season!” says James.

Laura Kriegel, Executive Director of Camp Stomping Ground, is excited to welcome the local community to the property to highlight the rehabilitation work that has been done at camp since 2020, including the recently-completed renovation of the 1830’s farmhouse. “Camp is all about gathering and building community. We are looking forward to hosting this event and sharing this beautiful space with the local community,” says Kriegel.

Proceeds from the events will go to BH-BL Rotary Club, which supports many other local organizations and events, including Camp Stomping Ground, and Immersion PT’s “Team Teen” programming for young female athletes.

The new trail will tour through Camp Stomping Ground’s infrastructure, existing trails and the neighboring NYS Forest. Participants should note that trail runs in some areas are ungroomed so caution and surefootedness are advised. The spring run will also highlight maple syrup-based creations for post-run snacking, local maple syrup for sale, and non-traditional prizes, including one for the muddiest runner & the person who brings the “biggest squad” to the run. There will be no time-based, age-group or overall placing awards at any of the events in this series.

Tickets to the event can be purchased through: https:// campstompingground.org/4s4k

Note: In the event of extreme weather or extenuating circumstances, the race will be postponed to Saturday, April 8 at 10:00am. Updates will be posted on our registration page.

Friends of the Kayaderosseras 19th Annual Meeting

BALLSTON SPA - All are welcome to hear and see this important presentation showcasing the reality of how the Kayaderosseras is being cared for, what projects are on the horizon, and who will be leading the charge. Come to the historic Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa on Monday, March 13 at 7pm for this public presentation. Snacks, refreshments, speakers, 2023 calendar, awards, and new merchandise display. For more information visit our Instagram page @friendsofthekaydeross or our website www.kayadeross.org

Town of Charlton Registered Republicans and Conservatives - Please Help!

CHARLTON - Your signatures are needed to get Republican and Conservative candidates on the ballot for November 2023. Signed petitions must be filed by April 6th, so we need your help now.

To help our candidates, we are having a petition drive-thru or stop-in get-together on Saturday, March 11,2023 from 11am - 2pm at the Red School House, 2009 Maple Avenue in Charlton. Candidates up for election will be there to get your signatures on their petitions.

For more information, contact Teddi Smith, Charlton Republican Committee at 518 588-6465 or email at tea7077@aol.com.

HOPE (non-profit) Dog and Cat Adoption Event this Saturday at Wilton Mall

SARATOGA - Event: Cat and Dog Adoption Clinic

Date: Saturday, March 11th 2023 - 11am to 2pm

Location: H.O.P.E. Adoption Center, Wilton Mall at Saratoga, 3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs NY

Come meet the many adoptable pets of H.O.P.E. Saturday, February 11th from 11am-2pm at the H.O.P.E. Adoption Center located at the Wilton Mall.

You can start the adoption process today by filling out an adoption application online at hopeanimalrescue.org/ forms. Website: https://hopeanimalrescue.org

Fish Creek Rod & Gun Club Monthly Breakfast

SCHUYLERVILLESunday March 12, 2023

8:00 – 11:00, 123 SR 32 Schuylerville, NY

$10 Adults $5 Children Choose from: Pancakes, regular, buckwheat, apple cinnamon and blueberry or French Toast. Eggs to order, homefries, bacon or sausage, toast, coffee and orange juice.

Galway Lion’s Club Community Breakfast

HAGAMAN - Saturday March 11th from 7 - 11 AM at Bob’s Trees Ski Lodge, 1227 W Galway Rd, Hagaman, NY. $11 for Adults, $6 for Children 10 and under.

French Toast Bake, pancakes, scrambled eggs, home fried potatoes, ham and sausage with beverages included. Most are gluten free and take outs are available. More info at www.galwaylionsclubNY. org

GriefShare Seminar and Support Group at South Glens Falls UMC

SOUTH GLENS FALLS

- GriefShare seminars and support groups are meant to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone.

A Grief Share group will begin Tuesday, March 14th at South Glens Falls United Methodist Church. We will meet on Tuesday flexible times available The group is for anyone who has lost a loved one and is grieving. We will meet for 13 weeks Call Roberta at # 518-338-3152

Spring Gardening Programs and More at the Scott T.

Johnson

Recreation Center

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department is pleased to announce a variety of Enrichment classes in partnership with BeTa Community Programs this spring. One night and 6 week sessions will be available. Prepare for spring gardening with classes led by Robin Ambrosino, Master Gardener, grower, forager, arranger, and lifelong plant enthusiast. Classes will include Landscaping with Flowers 101, Make a Succulent Planter, Create a Fairy House and Celebrating Spring Wreath Workshops. The first, Landscaping with Flowers 101 kicked off Thursday, February 9th.

In addition to gardening, bee keeping and Spanish Language and Culture programs will also be offered. Visit SaratogaRec.com/Enrichment for details and registration. Questions? Please email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org or call 518-587-3550 ext 2300.

Knights of Columbus

Lenten Fish Fry

SARATOGA - Knights of Columbus Council #246 will once again be hosting Fish Fry Friday each Friday throughout Lent, 2/24 through 4/7, 5:00-7:00 pm. However, the event will resume with advance call-in of orders on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between the hours of 12:00 noon and 3:00, beginning on Wednesday, 2/22. The menu will include Fried or Baked Haddock ($15) or Fried Clam Strips ($12),

The Wilton Food Pantry’s 9th Empty Bowls Fundraiser

WILTON - This event will take place on Sunday, April 2, 2023 from 1-4 pm at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge on Route 9.

The event is a simple chili lunch with live music and a silent auction. Guests choose a beautiful bowl, handcrafted by Skidmore College Ceramic Arts students. The bowl is filled with chili or soup and bread. Guests bid on silent auction items from local businesses while listening to the music of John Kribs and his bluegrass ensemble, Adrenaline Pumpkin. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased at www. wiltonfoodpantry.org. For dessert, enjoy $1 ice cream sundaes featuring Sundaes Best hot fudge toppings. Join us for a fun afternoon of good food and good music for a good cause.

Charlton Freehold Church Spring Festival

CHARLTON - Saturday, May 6, 10am-3pm at Charlton Freehold, 768 Charlton Rd. Charlton NY. Come see what local Crafters and Vendors will be offering for your purchase pleasure. For more info or to apply: office@ charltonfreehold.org or call 518-399-4831.

each with French Fries, Cole Slaw, Tartar Sauce, and Cocktail Sauce; Macaroni and Cheese ($5); New England Clam Chowder (pint - $7/quart - $13); Single Order o French Fries ($3); and Dessert ($2 - when available). Call 518-584-8547 to place your order or for more information. A set number of orders will be scheduled for pickup at 5:00 and at intervals of every 15 minutes thereafter until sold out, so make sure to schedule early. As always, thank you for your support and helping us to continue our good works in the community.

50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 518-584-8547

Malta Ridge UMC

Free Lunch

MALTA - The Malta Ridge United Methodist Church will hold a Free Lunch on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at the Church located at 729 Malta Avenue Extension, in Malta Ridge. A soup and sandwich lunch will be served at no charge from 11:30am to 1:30pm. All are welcome. For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

Diabetes Classes

BALLSTON SPADining with Diabetes, a program for people with diabetes or prediabetes and their family members, is being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Saratoga County. Thursdays, March 9, 16, 23, 30 at 1 pm at 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY. Fee: $20, financial assistance available upon request. To register call 518-885-8995.

Presented by Diane Whitten, MS, Nutrition Educator. Participants will learn how to fit carbohydrates into a healthy menu, effectively use food labels, plan menus, and adopt other healthy habits to help manage diabetes through healthy eating. Recipe ideas, demonstrations and samples provided. For program details email Diane at dwhitten@ cornell.edu.

Fish Creek Rod & Gun Club Fish

Fry Friday Eat-In or Take Out

SCHUYLERVILLE -

The Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Friday night Fish Fry will be back for 2023. Fish Fry will start January 13 and run through April 7th We will be serving from 4:00pthm till 7:00pm. Various menu items are available From fried fish to chicken nuggets with French fries, Cole slaw and chowder also available. 518-695-3917

The Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church

Hosts a Corned Beef Dinner

SARATOGA - 175 5th Avenue • Saturday, March 11 from 4:306:00pm. Cost: Free will donation. Come join us!

Saratoga Irish Family Festival

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Ancient Order of Hibernians will hold the Saratoga Irish Family Festival from 1 to 6:30 pm on Sat. March 11th at the Saratoga -Wilton Elks, 1 Elk Lane.(Rte 9 North from Rte 50) The event

Friendly Sons of St. Patrick 71st Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Springs chapter of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with their 71st annual dinner on March 17th, 2023 at the Holiday Inn on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, New York. The group is a fraternal organization that meets once each year on St. Patrick’s Day to honor the patron saint of Ireland and to raise money for local Catholic charitable organizations. The 2023 officers for the dinner are President Steve Sherwin, Vice President Mike D’Arcy, Treasurer Ryan Dennis, Secretary Patrick Fleming and Past President and Keeper of the Shillelagh Mark Phillips.

Many cities throughout the country have chapters of the society, including Albany and Troy. One of the first chapters of the society was founded in post-revolutionary war New York City by Irish~ American Daniel McCormick. The purpose of the society was to help impoverished and displaced immigrants who had arrived in New York in the wake of the British evacuation. The first meeting of the New York City chapter was held in 1784 at Cape’s Tavern.

The Philadelphia Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is believed to be the first chapter of the society, and was founded in 1771.

will feature music,dancing, and raffles .Admission is a $10 donation at the door, children under 12 are free. Light fare will be available for an additional price. For information visit wwwsaratogaaoh.com/.

Burnt HillsBallston Lake Women’s Club

Program

Announcement

BURNT HILLS - The March 13th meeting of the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Women’s Club will meet at the BH-BL Methodist Church at noon. A light lunch will be served. Members of the public are invited. The program will be about the 109th Air National Guard Airlift Wing.

Ballston Spa

Elks 2619

Breakfast Buffet

BALLSTON SPA - Ballston Spa Elks Lodge #2619, 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa, will host an All You Can Eat Breakfast on Sunday, March 12 , from 8 to 11 pm. Enjoy Pancakes and Sausage, French Toast, Eggs made to order, world famous Omelets, Home Fries, Toast, Coffee, and Juice. Adults $9 Seniors $8 Kids $5. Join us on the 2nd Sunday of each month. Proceeds support Elks Charities.

New York State Approved Defensive Driving Class

SARATOGA - On Saturday March 11th, 2023 from 9 AM to 3 PM there will be a New York State approved Defensive Driving Class. Save 10% on your base auto insurance for the next three years & receive up to 4 points off

your driving record according to New York State Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines.

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs New York 12866

Fee: $35.00 per person. Bring a friend fee is $30 each

Portion of fee goes to Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church.

Registration is required and can be made by calling Ray Frankoski @518-286-3788

AS we are social distancing, a mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

Ballston Area Seniors Monthly Dance

BALLSTON SPA - On Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The dance will be at the Milton Community Center 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa, NY 12020

The dance is open to the public and ample free parking. There will be an entrance fee of $ 5.00. Snack and refreshment will be provided.

Dance to the music of the Old Time Country Band.For more information or inclement weather call 518-430-7029

Charlton Freehold Church

Rummage Sale and Chowder Fest

CHARLTON - Saturday, March 18, 10am-2pm at Charlton Freehold Church, 768 Charlton Rd., Charlton NY. Rummage Sale: Clean out your garage or attic and rent a table and space for $15. For info call 518-399-2873 /

email: office@charltonfreehhold.org Chowder

Fest: There is nothing like a hot cup of chowder to warm you on a cold day. Stop and take home delicious chowder prepared in our own kitchen - there will be a variety of chowders from which to choose.

Saratoga – Wilton

Elks Lodge 161

Presents a Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner for Curbside Pick Up

SARATOGA / WILTON - Wednesday, March 15 2023 - 4:30-6:00pm Call Monday And Tuesday Between 10amNoon To Place An Order 518-584-2585

Corned Beef , Potatoes, Cabbage, Carrots, Roll Dinner For 2 $30.00 (Cash Only)

The Old Stone Church Curb Side Pickup Chicken and Biscuit Dinner

BALLSTON SPA - The Old Stone Church is having its curb side pickup only chicken and biscuit dinner on Saturday, March 25th from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Dinners Include Chicken and Biscuit with Green Beans, Carrots, Peas, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce and a choice of a slice of pumpkin, apple, or fudge pecan pie all for $12.00. To reserve your dinner call 518-522-4482 or 518-583-1002. Be sure to include the number of dinners, your choice of pie and time of pick up. For more information call Ann @ 518-885-4034. We look Forward to seeing you there. Old Stone Church, 159 Stone Church Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020518-583-1002

Chili SaleSt.

Soup ‘n

Andrew’s Church

SCOTIA - St. Andrew’s Church in Scotia is getting ready for our annual SOUP SALE! This year, we are combining SOUP and CHILI into one event.

St. Andrew’s Church, 50 Sacandaga Rd. ScotiaSaturday, March 11, 11-2

Save the hour your losing tomorrow for Daylight Savings, by not cooking today! $5 /pint.

How To Create More Privacy On Your Property

An inviting backyard can serve as a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a long day at the office or an exhausting day spent transporting kids to and fro, it’s hard to resist the allure of a peaceful outdoor space in which to unwind.

Privacy is a key component of any backyard oasis. Some homes may be so remote that privacy isn’t an issue.

But many suburban homeowners recognize they might need to tweak their landscapes if they hope to create a private oasis outside.

Fencing or planting?

Most homeowners looking to create more privacy on their property will have to choose between fencing and

planting. Fencing provides immediate privacy because, once it’s installed, no one can see into the yard. Fencing also doesn’t require watering or other immediate upkeep, which will be necessary when planting to ensure tree roots can establish themselves.

But planting has its benefits as well. Planting for privacy is essentially creating a living fence that can grow over time and provide even more privacy as trees reach maturity. Plants also tend to be less costly than fencing. The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and $4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though it’s unlikely they will cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more maintenance and will potentially need to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for generations.

Planting

Homeowners who choose to plant for privacy will next have to decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating a living fence. A number of varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s important that homeowners consult with a landscape architect prior to choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties. During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.

• Leyland cypress: The Arbor Day Foundation® notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries, likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60’-70’ and can spread as wide as 25’. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.

• Green Giant Arborvitae: There are different varieties of the arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fast-growing option for privacy planters. The Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet at maturity, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.

• Eastern White Pine: The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height and its potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like it for its resemblance to a Christmas tree, and in fact it is widely used for that purpose. The privacy provided by the eastern white pine is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties.

Whether it’s fencing or planting, homeowners have many options to consider as they seek to create more privacy on their properties.

The

Capital District Humanist Society

Presents: For The Birds: Identification, Observation, and Protection

CAPITAL DISTRICT - Birdwatching – or birding - is enjoyed by people of all ages and walks of life. Carol Quantock will talk about: basic identification tips, useful field guides and apps, quality birding equipment, nests and nesting, habitat, migration, birds as pollinators, preventing window collisions and protecting birds from predators.

Carol Quantock is an environmental advocate who

Malta Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe

Announces Auditions for

‘The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree’

MALTA - produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Services; directed by Elyse Young.

Auditions are by appointment only- Sunday March 26 and Monday March 27. ‘The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree’, a swashbuckling musical comedy set in the late 1800s aboard the merchant ship “Kayla May”, will be performed Saturday June 17 and Sunday June 18 on

has been an active birder for over 40 years. She is the vice president of the Audubon Society of the Capital Region, and editor of the ASCR newsletter, Wingbeats. She is currently enrolled in a comprehensive bird biology course at the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology. She is also a Cornell Cooperative Extension Master Gardener.

Ms. Quantock has a BA degree in geography and urban/regional planning from SUNY Albany, and a Graduate Management Certificate from Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations. She recently retired as Secretary to the Superintendent of Schools, Scotia-Glenville CSD.

This program will take place online, via Zoom, on

the Malta Community Center Stage. Over 26 speaking and/or singing solo roles are available for kids, teens and adults. An additional 10-12 ensemble roles will also be cast. Contact: Elyse Young, Artistic Director, theater@ malta-town.com or (518) 899-4411 x305 for an audition appointment or additional information.

Christ the Savior Church Pieroghi Sale

BALLSTON LAKE - Christ the Savior Church, 349 Eastline Rd., Ballston Lake is having a pieroghi sale on Tuesday, March 14th .. As usual we will have potato/ cheese, sauerkraut, and farmer’s cheese pieroghis. All

HOUSE OF THE WEEK

224 Lark Street, Albany

LThe 2,064-square-foot home, located in Center Square, was built in 1870 and recently renovated. ocated in one of Albany’s most historic communities, this townhome has a lot to offer, including soaring ceilings, exposed brick, a stained-glass skylight, oversized windows, period moldings, income potential and easy access to all of the city of Albany’s best amenities.

The recently renovated Center Square home was built in 1870 and refreshed inside and out. It still ex-udes its historic grandeur with modern updates, including stainless steel appliances, refinished hard-wood floors and upgraded bathrooms.

The 2,064-square-foot home is split into two distinct living spaces, a three-bedroom one-bath townhome and a separate one-bedroom, one-bath garden apartment with a private entrance. A rear deck and small, fenced-in backyard offers seclusion in one of

n If you have seen or own a particularly interesting home for sale to feature, send the address to sfromma@timesunion.com

Sunday, March 12th, 2023 at 1 PM DST. Please note: Clocks get turned AHEAD one hour Saturday night. Current paid CDHS members will automatically receive an invite to the meeting via email.

ANY ONE WHO IS NOT A CURRENT PAID MEMBER of CDHS CAN ATTEND. Send an email request to: CDHS.Albany@gmail.com. Please send the request several days prior. Or log onto our Meetup page: https:// www.meetup.com/Capital-District-Humanist-Society/ then click on JOIN, then click on ATTEND, and use the RSVP function, and the link will be available.

To learn more about us, please go to www.humanistsociety.net

pierogi orders are now $12/dz.. Please call 518-3630001. P/U will be from 11:30-12:30 p.m. Limited quantity of stuffed clams may be available as well.

Knights Of Columbus 246 Host Bingo

SARATOGA - KOC Hall, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, every Wednesday evening. The doors open at 4:30, the kitchen window (which is staffed by the Catholic Daughters) opens at 5:30, games go on sale at 6:00, and the first game starts at 7:00. Every week, there is $1,500 in guaranteed prize money. Join us for an evening out and help to support our activities within the community.

The home maintains its historic grandeur while incorporating modern updates, including, clockwise from below, stainless steel appliances, refinished hardwood floors, and upgraded bathrooms.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT KRISTEL / PRODUCTION HOUSE STUDIOS

fired, they not only lose their home, but will be deported.

“As a worker’s rights organization, we are categorically opposed to the expansion of the H-2A program, not because we have anything against the H-2A workers but because the H-2A program is historically rife with labor abuses,” she said. “It is true H-2A housing is more closely regulated. But for an employer to say if we have access to the visa program, we will improve our housing is just very backwards. It’s a very problematic solution to what is really a problem that could be solved through greater improved regulation on state level and oversight in worker housing more broadly.”

This is an important issue in rural areas throughout the state, which, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is one of the nation’s top five dairy producers. The state Farm Bureau estimates there are more than 3,600 dairy farms that produce 15 billion pounds of milk from 625,000 cows each year. The Farm Bureau estimates that nearly 26,000 laborers work 150 or more days on farms, including dairy farms. A breakout figure for dairy farm laborers was not available.

A 2019 study on New York dairy farmworkers from Kreyche’s Workers Justice Center noted that 97 percent of dairy farmworkers live in farm-provided homes. Of those surveyed, 58 percent reported bug or insect infestations in their homes, 48 percent said they had no locks on their doors, 32 percent said they had holes in their walls or floors and another 32 percent complained of poor ventilation.

Among other recommendations, the report called on the state to “ensure that all farmworkers live in safe and dignified housing.”

“Dairy housing must meet all housing requirements and should provide safe, sanitary housing regardless of immigration status,” Steve Ammerman, spokesman for the Farm Bureau said in an email. “Local code enforcement and departments of health have jurisdiction and can be called in if there is a complaint. If there is a problem, New York Farm Bureau encourages a worker to notify proper authorities. The same goes for worker justice organizations. They cannot make allegations without reporting them to authorities. If they fail to do so, I would question why.” Kreyche said dairy farmwork-

CONTEST

CONTINUED FROM 1

the collective human future. Climate change mitigation, restoration, and adaption require the will and voice of united people to make the changes the planet needs.

A panel of judges from Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park will review the essays and select winners in lower elementary, upper elementary, middle school, and high school levels to receive a cash prize and recognition for their innovative ideas. Other essays are recognized by runner up and judges’ choice categories. High School entries must be no longer than 650 words; Middle School entries must be no longer than 500 words; Elementary School entries must be at least 10 sentences. Accompanying illustrations are also encouraged. The contest winner from each of the categories will receive a $50 cash prize!

The

ers don’t even want their advocates to report the conditions because they fear punishment.

“I visited a farm not far from Albany, where workers were housed in basically a cesspool without proper sewage,” Kreyche said. “There was a broken window, exposed wiring and electricity running through extension cords. None of this is legal. ... Your remedy is to call the local building inspector. But, the problem is, what is the outcome? First, you have to feel supported or empowered, empowered enough that you will not have to worry about what will happen.”

Even supportive farmers find that their workers are reluctant to report a problem with the housing.

“They are not good at telling me what is wrong, so I have to go through and check the house every so often,” the Saratoga County farmer said.

He recalls a time when the heat wasn’t working in the apartment for one of his workers.

“I asked how long was this the case and they looked at you like they didn’t want to admit it or bother me,” he said. “We have to keep track of everything.”

That is one of the recommendations from Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Science’s Farmworker Program’s report, “Creating Positive Workplaces: A Guidebook for Dairy Producers.” It suggests a monthly inspection that includes a 27-item checklist that includes ensuring the stove works, the cabinets aren’t broken and the toilet doesn’t need repair. It also includes making sure there are enough beds for workers, locks on doors, heat and electric.

“Good housing contributes to worker satisfaction and greater productivity on the farm,” the guidebook notes. “Some farmers place a high priority on providing good-quality housing, while others find housing to be a necessary but challenging aspect of farm management. This situation can create challenges for those that own the housing as well as the occupants. Given that dairy farmers typically provide housing to their employees, it is important to have clear housing expectations for standards of care, maintenance, visitors and security issues.”

Cornell is also training inspectors who will visit farms and collect data on housing in a “non-subjective, non-regulatory” way.

Still, Varvaloucas said the power dynamic between the worker and the farmer keeps the workers vulnerable.“Even with an anonymous complaint, it can be easy for an employer to figure out who called a lawyer or local

The deadline for entries is Friday, April 21. Winners will be announced in May and prizes will be awarded at the Annual Wildlife Festival on Sunday, June 4th. Submissions may be mailed to Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 80 Scout Road, Wilton, NY 12831 or emailed to info@wiltonpreserve.org by the deadline. Please include the student’s name, the name of the school, the student’s grade, and the teacher’s name. Make sure that there is an email and a phone number with each student’s entry.

For more information, please call the Preserve & Park office at 518-450-0321 or via email at info@wiltonpreserve.org. For up-to-date trail conditions or program information, please visit the Preserve & Park’s website at www.wiltonpreserve.org The Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park is a non-profit organization that conserves ecological systems and natural settings while providing opportunities for environmental education and outdoor recreation.

Thymly Herb Garden Group Will Hold its Monthly Meeting

BALLSTON SPA - Monday, March 20th, beginning at 10:00 AM. The meetings are at the 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. If the Ballston Spa School District has a delay or closes that day, then we will not meet. Our presenter will be Liz Kormos. Learn how to extend your growing space and season! Liz will demonstrate how to successfully hang squash, cucumbers and other veggies. She’ll share hints and secrets on raised beds. Following the presentation, there will be refreshments, a meeting and an Herb of the Month talk by a member. Dues for the year to join the Thymly Herb Group are $20.00. New members are always welcome. Please RSVP with questions or to let us know you will be joining us. thymlyherbmail@gmail. com

code enforcement,” Varvaloucas said. “This is why annual inspections would be so helpful. They take the burden off the worker to come forward because now there is a third-party enforcement agency that lays eyes on the housing at regular intervals. If housing is up to code, owners should not have any problem passing inspection.”

“There are six different farmworker statutes on housing and none of them apply to dairy housing. Dairy farmworkers fall through the cracks. There is a massive loophole in the law.”

— Aliana Varvaloucas, managing attorney for the Legal Aid Society’s Farm Worker Law Project

HOROSCOPE

Week Of March 12, 2023

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

So many things are moving your way, Aries. As the week progresses, your energy level could rise and you will get much more done. Leave time for meaningful encounters.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, connect with nature this week. Go hiking at a national park or visit a zoo and take in the exotic animals.

Fresh outdoor air is just what you need.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, this week marks a new cycle for you. This means you should focus your energy on your ideas and try to narrow down prospects as much as possible.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You may need a little inspiration to get moving this week, Cancer. While it’s alright to take it easy on Monday or Tuesday, by Wednesday you need to shake away what’s holding you back.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Your brain is filled with many thoughts, Leo. With so much buzzing around in your head, it may be challenging to focus. Consult with a friend to help you out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, enjoy the calm while you can because later in the week the pace may become frenzied. Emotions may run high as everyone is rushing around.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

People are drawn to you more so than usual, Libra. All this newfound attention may feel a little overwhelming. Find some quiet time to ground yourself and refocus.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you have many ideas

for the future, but you need to get moving. Is something or someone holding you back? Have an honest conversation about what you need.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Exercise caution when you speak about other people at work, Sagittarius. Not everyone will share your views and you need to work peacefully with others.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

You may want to remain in an easygoing state, Capricorn, but others are not letting you just hang around. You need to get some things accomplished this week.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

You may be feeling like you are moving a little slow, Aquarius. But if you write down all you have gotten done, then you’re likely to discover you’ve been quite busy.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Be on the lookout for a catalyst that can put you on the path for big changes, Pisces. You can use some fresh inspiration. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 12 Mitt Romney, Politician (76)

MARCH 13 Coco Gauff, Athlete (19)

MARCH 14 Simone Biles, Gymnast (26)

MARCH 15 Kellan Lutz, Actor (38)

MARCH 16 Alexandra Daddario, Actress (37)

MARCH 17 Rob Lowe, Actor (59)

MARCH 18

Lily Collins, Actress (34)

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