Local First Saratoga North Edition 042723

Local Gone with the Wind Film Expert to Appear at Northshire Bookstore

SARATOGA - Gone

With the Wind film expert Pauline Bartel will participate in a multi-author book signing event at Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, on Saturday, April 29, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event celebrates Independent Bookstore Day.

She will sign copies of Gone With the Wind: 1939 Day by Day (Lyons Press, $19.95). Her new book chronicles the production, premieres, and reception of the iconic film from January 1, 1939 to December 31, 1939. Engaging, daily, behind-the-scenes entries provide a snapshot of what was happening on and off the set.

According to Bartel: “Fans will enjoy following the drama and intrigue of Gone With the Wind’s production on each event’s exact date, especially in 2023 when the calendar matches the days of the 1939 calendar.” This link provides further information about this event: https://www. northshire.com/event/ northshire-saratoga-celebrate-independent-bookstore-day-multi-author-signing-event

BLM leader pleads not guilty

Lexis Figuereo pledges to continue speaking out against injustice in Spa City

By PAUL NELSON

SARATOGA SPRINGS

— The head of the city’s Black Lives Matter group on Monday vowed to keep up the fight minutes after pleading not guilty in court to two minor offenses, one of them a violation, in connection with his alleged disruptive behavior earlier this month at a City Council meeting.

After being arraigned, Lexis Figuereo made his remarks on the steps of City Hall with his attorney Mark Mishler by his side and supporters around him.

He talked about how city officials also previously issued a summons for disorderly conduct to his sister, Chandler Hickenbottom, for allegedly shutting down a gathering of City Council about a month ago. Figuereo was charged under similar circumstances with the same violation plus a misdemeanor obstruction of governmental administration charge. Bridgette Barr was also charged for allegedly halting the same council meeting.

Public Safety Commissioner James Montagnino previously said the charges were filed through Saratoga Springs police after Figuereo allegedly took the microphone from someone speaking during the public comment period at the April 4 City Council meeting, and Barr allegedly approached council members and took Montagnino’s microphone.

“I do speak very loudly, very passionately, because it’s dear to my heart. This is about my community, this is about making changes for my community, it’s not about me personally, it’s about community, it’s about my children, it’s about my grandchildren having a better life in Saratoga Springs,” Figuereo told the crowd, many holding up protest signs and

wearing red #SaragotaBLM T-shirts. “As we see, people like to talk about our tactics, when we talk quiet nothing happens. When we hit the streets and talk loud, changes happen, and when changes happen, there’s always resistance from the public safety commissioners.”

Figuereo pointed to the creation of a local civilian police review board, city legislation on no knock warrants and other recommendations from the state mandated police reforms that BLM activists have successfully advocated for.

He chided Montagnino “for going against everything that we’re trying to build with the City Council.”

Figuereo called for the charges against him to be dropped, questioning why he’s being charged again “with the same exact thing” in 2021 when those charges were ultimately dismissed.

“Our words are not violence,” he added.

In court, Mishler pleaded not guilty on Figuereo’s behalf before Judge Constantine DeStefano, who released him pending a May 8 court appearance. Afterward, the attorney said he expects the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office will request a special prosecutor in Figuereo’s case, ostensibly because of a conflict of interest.

Mishler is also representing Hickenbottom. The charge was requested by Montagnino in response to the public comment period during a Feb. 7 council meeting, in which Hickenbottom allegedly had a debate with city officials that reportedly went beyond her allotted two minutes.

The court was notified she would not be in court because of a physical injury.

Mishler told the court the special prosecutor from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office has proposed what’s known in legalese as an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal — meaning Hickenbottom would have to stay out of trouble for six months and

the violation of disorderly conduct would be dismissed.

Outside court, Mishler called for the district attorney’s office to drop the charges because it’s groundless and a violation of Hickenbottom’s First Amendment rights.

The attorney said she is considering the deal, but argued that his client’s right to a speedy trial was violated because the prosecutor failed to turn over key pieces of discovery evidence, chiefly police body worn camera footage, in a timely manner.

“We are not going to be deterred, we’re not

Please see BLM 4

Region has pickleball deficit

Popularity of sport outpaces available courts

By ABIGAIL RUBEL

It was 2018. The tennis courts in Queensbury’s Jenkins Park were sitting mostly idle. Meanwhile, there was a clamoring for infrastructure on an up-and-coming sport that could take up a fourth of the space.

To the community leaders, the decision was an easy one: Goodbye, tennis courts. Hello, pickleball. Pickleball, which resembles a cross between tennis and table tennis, has shot up in popularity over the past few years. There were 4.8 million players in the U.S. in

2021 — 1.6 percent of the population — up from 2.8 million in 2016, according to a Sports and Fitness Industry Association report.

The Capital Region is squarely in the blast zone of the pickleball explosion.

Cathleen Crowley

Den-beaux started Pickle-ball518.com in November and by February, her newsletter had more than 1,000 subscribers. She also founded a Novice Club to introduce people who are new to the sport to each other, and 70 people signed up in two weeks. The Albany Capital Center held its first Classic Pickleball Tournament in January with over 150 participants.

But as the number of pickleball players grows, the availability of court time shrinks.

“Since I started playing probably 10 years ago it has just multiplied tremendously, and unfortunately the area’s not really keeping up with it, because we don’t have courts,” said Gina Family, a local pickleball instructor.

“Since I started playing probably 10 years ago it

has just multiplied tremendously, and, unfortunately, the area’s not really keeping up with it, because we don’t have courts.”

“ Gina Family, local pickleball instructor

Though the pandemic may have accelerated the sport’s growth in some areas because it’s beginner-friendly and can be played outdoors, Family said she’s been seeing consistent growth in the Capital Region, more linear than exponential.

Like tennis, pickleball can be played in a singles or doubles configuration in an area on a court approximately one-fourth the size of a tennis court. Instead of a strung racket, pickleball uses a solid paddle to hit the ball, much like life-sized ping pong. The appeal of pickleball is that it’s easy to learn, can be played by anyone old enough to hold the paddle and has a robust social aspect.

“I have never met a rude pickleball player,” said Stacey Mulinio, who started playing pickleball four years ago with a group at the Cohoes Community Center. “They

took me in, and it was like a little family. … And then I started expanding and finding different venues and different groups of people, and it’s just been wonderful.

“It’s one of those sports that you can play when you’re little and you can keep playing as you age,” Crowley Denbeaux said.

Over 70 percent of casual pickleballers (those who play one to seven times per year) are under 44, according to SFIA’s 2022 report. Among core participants, who play eight or more times a year, that drops to 38.5 percent; 32.7

percent of core pickle-ballers are 65 or older.

Half of core players — 50.3 percent — have incomes of more than $100,000 per year, with 43.1 percent of casual players falling into that bracket. Just 17.7 percent of core players and 26.1 percent of casual players make less than $50,000 per year.

Pickleball is also a largely white sport. Nearly 70 percent of casual players and over 80 percent of core players are white, per the SFIA report. Among all pickle-ballers, 7.3 per-

Please see COURTS 4

LORI VAN BUREN / TIMES UNION

Stacey Mulinio, left, and pickleball partner Becky Kern play at Jason Morris Judo Center on April 3 in Scotia.

JIM FRANCO / TIMES UNION Saratoga Black Lives Matter leader Lexis Figuereo speaks during a news conference in front of City Hall on Jan. 31 in Saratoga Springs.

Nature of Perseverance

Artworks by Kendra Farstad

SARATOGA - Please join us in welcoming Kendra Farstad to Spring Street Gallery from April 28th through June 23rd, 2023.

A fine artist and muralist, Farstad had been inspired to work this February through Creative February, an art movement begun by local artist Takeyce Walter. Creative February calls on artists to challenge themselves to develop artwork daily throughout the month of February. These creative endeavors range from drawing, sculpture and jewelry to poetry and performance art. Farstad’s work focuses on the use of oil paints on canvas and panel, taking inspiration from the landscapes that surround her.

During the months of April, May, and June when the snow melts and the flowers start to peek out of the ground, Spring Street Gallery is happy to share the work that Farstad has created during her February creative venture. The opening reception will take place on Friday, April 28 from 5 - 7 pm. The gallery will also host an artist talk on Thursday, May 4 at 7 pm.

Farstad received a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art and a Masters Degree in Anthropology from The University at Albany. She lives in upstate New York with her daughter and dog Fionn.

A portion of the proceeds from the sales of this exhibit will benefit RISE Housing and Support Services, a human service agency that has been serving people in Saratoga and the surrounding counties since 1978. RISE programs provide safe, healthy hous-

ing and support services to people with mental health concerns, substance use, and other life challenges.

Spring Street Gallery is located at 110 Spring Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Alplaus UMC

Looking for Unique Vendors and Artisans for a Flea Market/Craft Sale

ALPLAUS – At the Alplaus UMC, 1 Brookside Place, Alplaus NY 12008 on Saturday, June 3rd 2023, from 9am to 3pm.

We are accepting a wide variety of crafters, vendors, or do your own yard sale. Outdoor spaces - 10’ X 10” for $25 includes a lawn space and advertising with restrooms available.

To receive a church property use agreement, and pay to reserve your space please contact Lisa Beretz by call/text or email at: 518-330-9277 or LLBeretz@gmail.com. All spaces will be reserved when paid in full with a signed property use agreement, and on a first come first served basis.

Ballston Spa House & Garden Club

Pre-Order Geranium & Plant Sale

BALLSTON SPA - Ballston Spa House & Garden Club (BSH&GC) is holding their 13th Annual Geranium & Plant Sale through Friday, May 12th, 2023

Geraniums, ‘Wave’ petunias and green sweet potato vines are for sale. The sale benefits BSH&G Club youth programs, high school scholarships and the beautification of public gardens in the Village of Ballston Spa, including the Garden of Learning, the Pink Garden at the Library, Iron Spring Garden and the Tedisco Trail Garden.

Geraniums offered are red, purple, pink and salmon. Wave petunias are red, purple, pink and white. Green sweet potato vines are also for sale. All plants for sale are in 4 1⁄2 inch pots and are sold for $5.00 each. Order forms for the sale can be found at our Facebook page, various businesses around town, and are available by calling Jayne 518-309-3771 or Barb 518-309-3208 during business hours.

Orders with checks must be turned into Jayne Schmidt, 39 Cave Path, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 by Friday May 12th. If you have any questions call Jayne or Barb.

Pick up of your order is on Thursday, May 18th after 1 PM at 66 Fredrick St., Ballston Spa, NY.

The BSH&G Club is a member of the Federation of Garden Clubs of New York State. New members are always welcome.

Academy for Lifelong Learning Saratoga Region Seeking New Members

SARATOGA - The Academy for Lifelong Learning is rebounding after COVID restrictions and is currently looking for new members. Aimed at the region’s retired and semi-retired population, educational and social activities are offered on weekdays. If you have the time and enjoy being active and motivated, the Academy has programs for you. Join and meet like-minded people for five-week, non-credit course sessions offered in the spring, fall, and winter. Social activities and special interest groups are offered all year long.

For registration information and form, go to www.allsaratoga.org or contact the Academy at jeff@allsaratoga.org

or (518) 290-6988. The Academy’s second spring session courses begin the week of May 15. Course topics include science, current events, writing, literature, history, community, art, business, food, society, nature, music, and language.

Sponsored by Prestwick Chase at Saratoga, A.L.L. was founded in 1992. It is an independent, self-funded nonprofit membership organization providing social activities and non-credit academic programs provided by volunteer instructors. If you’d like to offer a course or presentation, please contact us. For more information or to view the recent course brochure, go to www.allsaratoga.org.

8th Annual Antique Outboard Motor Swap Meet

BURNT HILLS - The 8th Annual Swap Meet of the Chapter will be held again this year at the Schrader and Company Offices. The event is planned for April 29, 2023 and will be held on the property of the Schrader and Company in Burnt Hills, New York. Attendees come from throughout the Northeast as well as local members and the general public is welcome to attend at no cost. There is no admission fee and no fee to display/buy/sell/trade.

The day is planned to begin at 9:00 AM as a casual open air event that is expected to last until 2:00 pm. The event includes the buying, selling and trading of antique and classic outboard motors, boats and related items from attendees/vendors. Additional vendors are welcome at no cost. The general public is welcome. There will be food available for a donation for morning coffee and donuts and lunch at noontime.

The swap meet is held in an Antiques Roadshow type atmosphere and interested parties can get parts, advice and resources for their old outboard motors and boats, as well as an outlet to bring their motors to put them in the hands of a collector who can restore it. There will be judging of motors in several categories.

The Chapter, organized in March of 2005 has experienced growth over the last 18 years.

For further news of the Mohawk Hudson Chapter of the AOMCI, please visit our website: http:// mglen2.wix.com/mohawkhudsonchapter#.

Simpson UMC Famous Brown Bread & Bake Sale

ROCK CITY FALLS

- Spring has sprung and our kitchen is, once again, steaming up just in time for Mothers’ Day! Simpson United Methodist Church is having our semi-annual Brown Bread & Bake Sale. Cost will be $8 per loaf. Call 518-885-4794 to place your order. Pick-up dates: Friday, May 12 between 4 pm and 6 pm and Saturday, May 13 between 9 am and 2 pm. Our address is 1089 Rock City Road, Rock City Falls, NY. Bake sale on Saturday. Please leave your name, telephone number and the number loaves you would like to reserve; and if possible, let us know if you will be picking up on Friday or Saturday. A representative from Simpson will call back to confirm your order. Thank you.

Galway Lion’s Club Pig Roast

GALWAY - Friday, May 12th, 3-6 PM (or until sold out) at Dockstader Field, Route 147, Galway. $14 Reserved or $15 Drive-up.

*RSVP to Lion Holly: 518-882-6516

League of Women Voters of NY Will Present “The Story of Plastic”

CAPITAL DISTRICT -

The Capital District Chapters (Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga & Schenectady ) of the League of Women Voters of New York will present “The Story of Plastic” on Tues., May 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm via Zoom.

This documentary reveals the ugly truth behind plastic pollution and the false solution of plastic recycling. It explains how we got to our current global plastic pollution crisis and how the oil and gas industry has successfully manipulated the narrative around it. The Story of Plastic is a life changing, Emmy winning film depicting one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues.

Join David Sayer at 8:00 for questions and answers following the film. David is a Community Manager for the Beyond Plastics Virtual Group, a national grassroots organization begun by the President and Founder of Beyond Plastics, Judith Enck .

Please register in advance for this virtual meeting: https://tinyurl. com/StoryOfPlasticFilm.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Zoom meeting. If you have already seen the documentary, feel free to join the Q & A at the end.

Christ’s Cupboard Food Pantry

BALLSTON SPAChrist’s Cupboard Food Pantry, located at the First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa, 202 Milton Ave, has expanded our service hours. We are now open every Tuesday morning from 9-11am and every Thursday afternoon from 4:30-6:00pm.

Sundaes Best Hot Fudge Sauce

Factory – Mother’s Day Open House

GANSEVOORT - Sundaes Best Hot Fudge Sauce will host an open house and pop-up shop at their manufacturing facility on Saturday, April 29 from 10am to 2pm. Celebrating 22 years in business, owner Katie Camarro and friends will be on hand with product displays and gift ideas for Mom and family. Sundaes Best Hot Fudge Sauce kitchen is located in Gansevoort at 23 Northern Pines Rd, 12831, 1st floor, Bldg. 2, across from Saratoga Restaurant Supply. www.sundaesbest. com, (518) 584-4036.

Elks Ladies

Auxiliary

Monthly Indoor

Craft & Garage Sale

SARATOGA - On Sunday, April 30th , from 11-3 pm the popular

Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will take place at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club off Maple Avenue on Elks Lane. Admission is free with over 40 vendors; parking is great, bargains galore, and lunch, We offer Mother’s Day Shopping with necklace sets, earrings, body lotions, clothing, as well as household items knitted and crocheted gifts, hand-made items, clothing, Fingerprinting,, pet supplies, food treats and just about anything you can imagine may be found here. New vendors sign up every month.

Snow or rain, the sales go on and it is a fun activity the entire family can enjoy.

The Briggs Cemetery

Annual Meeting

BALLSTON - The annual meeting of the Briggs Cemetery will be held at 11 a.m. on April 29, 2023, at the cemetery located on Brookline Road, Town of Ballston. A business meeting and election of officers and trustees will be held. All lot owners and interested persons are invited to attend. The spring cleanup will start at 9 a.m. prior to the meeting. For more information email briggscemetery@yahoo. com.

Pet Adoptathon

Kick-Off Party

GLENS FALLS - Dog, cat & bunny adoptions!

Food, Fun & games, auction baskets and live music!

Adirondack Region of North Shore Animal League America. 115 Maple Street, Glens Falls, Deborah Oligny - North Country Initiative Director - Phone: 518-409-8105 ext 108 - Email: debbieo@ animalleague.org

Sat. May 6th 11am-4pm

Fish Creek Rod & Gun Club

Monthly Breakfast

SCHUYLERVILLE -

Sunday May 14, 2023

8:00 – 11:00 • 123 SR 32

Schuylerville, NY

$10 Adults $5 Children

Bring your Mom - ALL MOTHERS ½ PRICE FOR MOTHER’S DAY

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

Come browse, visit, eat, or just get out of the house with a friend. All proceeds go to our local charities. All markets are held the fourth Sunday of each month: except November, December, May, June, July, and August. Next sale dates will be: September 24th and October 22, 2023. An 8 foot table and chairs are just $15. Call Debbie at (518) 885-6506 or email dozolins@nycap. rr.com for information or to sign up for a table(s).

The Malta Sunrise Rotary Club

All You Can Eat

Pancake Breakfast

MALTA - The Malta Sunrise Rotary Club will be having an ALL YOU CAN EAT Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, 4/30, 8am-11:30am, at Malta Ridge Volunteer Firehouse, Hearn Rd.(Rt. 9 really). Menu will include pancakes, link sausage, scrambled eggs, coffee, orange juice, milk. Adults

$7.00, Children ages 6-12

$3.00, Children under 6 Free. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Malta Sunrise Rotary Club Scholarship Fund and a portion will be donated to the Malta Ridge Volunteer Fire Company.

John Curtis Revolutionary Patriot Grave Marking

MILTON - The Saratoga Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the John Curtis Ancestors announce the grave marking of the John Curtis on Sunday, April 30th at 2:00 pm at the South Milton Cemetery, 926 Goode Road, Milton, NY.

John Curtis joined his patriotic service in 1776 in Fairfield, CT as part of the 4th Continental Regiment under the command of Lt. Col Icabod Crane and served as a private at the Battle of Brooklyn Heights. He moved to New York in 1795 and purchased a farm.

The Saratoga Chapters Daughters of the American Revolution and the Town of Milton are honored to recognize this Revolutionary War Patriot.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War.

Today’s DAR is dynamic and diverse, with over 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters in the United States and abroad. DAR members annually provide millions of hours of volunteer service to their local communities across the country and world. DAR chapters participate in projects to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Over one million members have joined the organization since its founding in 1890.

If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, contact saratogadaughters1143@ gmail.com.

Saratoga – Wilton Elks Lodge 161

Hosts a Salisbury Steak Dinner for Curbside Pick Up

SARATOGA - Wednesday May 3, 2023; 4:30-6:00 pm

Call Monday Or Tuesday Between 10am-Noon

To Place An Order - 518584-2585

Salisbury Steak, Mushroom Burgundy Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Vegetable, Salad, Roll $15.00 Per Dinner (Cash Only)

Volunteers Sought for Ballston Lake Clean Up Day

BALLSTON LAKEThe Annual Ballston Lake Clean Up Day is set for Saturday, May 6. Volunteers are welcome to join in by showing up at the Ballston Lake Fire Department, on Route 146-A at 8 AM to pick up their road assignments.

The project involves doing a clean sweep of winter trash on local roadways in the hamlet of Ballston Lake and its environs. The Burnt Hills Ballston Lake Business & Professional Association, the Ballston Lake Improvement Association and the Town of Ballston sponsor the spring clean-up of accumulated roadside debris. Scores of local residents, businesspeople, town authorities and local organizations including scout troops, confirmation classes and students in need of community service projects show up to volunteer. The annual event dates back to the mid-1970s. The Town of Ballston parks a large truck at the Ballston Lake Fire Department and at the Outlet Road Parking lot for volunteers to deposit their bags when they have finished their assignments.

Participants are urged to wear closed-toed shoes and gloves may bring garden tools like rakes and grabbers. Volunteers can pick up their street

assignments and receive free tee shirts, coupons for Stewart’s cones, and donuts donated by Lakeside Farm and FoCasle Farm. Vinyl gloves and trash bags will be provided. Hours are from 8 AM through 10 AM at the Ballston Lake Fire House on May 6. Further Information may be found at www. ballstonlake.org.

Charlton Freehold Church

Spring Festival

CHARLTON - The Charlton Freehold Presbyterian Church, 768 Charlton Rd., Charlton NY, will hold it’s first Spring Festival with Crafters and Vendors on Saturday, May 6, 10am-3pm. In addition to visiting an array of items offered by crafters, vendors, and bakers, adoptable dogs from the Saratoga County Animal Shelter will also be present to anyone looking to give a loving pet a furever home!

Scotia UMC Annual Rummage Sale

SCOTIA - This year Scotia United Methodist,

201 N. Ten Broeck St., Scotia will be holding their annual RUMMAGE SALE on Friday, May 5, 9am – 3pm & Saturday, May 6, 9am – NOON; (Bag Sale begins @ NOON on SATURDAY!) Wheelchair accessible. Food available for purchase on both days. For questions or directions, please contact the church office on 518-372-9575.

The Saratoga Area

Retired Educators

Monthly Luncheon Meeting

SARATOGA - The Saratoga Area Retired Educators monthly luncheon meeting will be held on Monday, May 8 at noon in the Win Room of the Holiday Inn, 232 Broadway Saratoga Springs. All area retired K-12 public, parochial, private, BOCES teachers and other school related personnel are welcome. For further information, call 518-584-1192.

REAL ESTATE / HOUSE OF THE WEEK

KThe main home on the Kings Creek Farm property was built in 1869. ings Creek Farm features a gorgeously updated farmhouse, guest home, gardens and barns all bundled on a bucolic 20-acre piece of property bound by Kings Creek in the town of Wright.

Built in 1869, the parcel’s main home offers four bedrooms and two-anda-half bathrooms. The

Colonial’s spacious modern kitchen showcases soapstone countertops, radiant-heated tile floors, walk-in pantry, woodstove and lofty ceilings with exposed wood beams. The adjacent 2,700 square foot barn/four-car garage is sliced into several rooms and serves as an extension of the main home with a fitness space, sauna and artist’s studio. The Honey House – the property’s second house

currently rented to long term tenants – was built in 1920 and offers roughly 1,000 square feet of secluded space, including two bedrooms, one bathroom and an updated kitchen. Solar panels (owned, not leased) cover nearly all of the main house’s electricity usage. A livestock pasture, Christmas tree farm and wide open meadow are just a few more of this property’s many features. List price: $989,000. Taxes: $11,126 (combined for two parcels). Contact Brian Brosen, licensed associate broker with The Capital Team at eXp Realty, at 518-669-2633 or brian@thecapitalteam.com.

Anthony M. Gucciardo

BLM

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going to be fear-mongered, they can bring up charge after charge after charge, we’re going to keep going,” Figuereo said. “For the people who tell us to be more like MLK, this is exactly what MLK did, he never backed down.”

Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim has said other officials were not consulted on the charges against Figuereo and Barr, and he worries pursuing such prosecutions could be a waste of taxpayer dollars — as other past charges against the activists were ultimately dismissed.

COURTS CONTINUED FROM 1

cent are African American/Black, 4.7 percent are Asian American and 13.5 percent are Hispanic. As more and more people pick up pickleball, cities and towns are trying to keep up with the demand. Guilderland is constructing four courts that will be finished in June. Saratoga Springs added 10 courts in 2020, but even that isn’t sufficient to keep up with the sport’s popularity.

“There’s a heavy demand for the courts,” recreation

director John Hirliman said. The city is exploring adding more should there be an opportunity, though Hirliman said there are no specific plans at the moment.

In Queensbury, the cost to transform the two tennis courts in Jenkins-ville Park into eight pickleball courts was about $35,000 to $40,000, much less expensive than turning those courts into another kind of athletic field, according to parks and recreation director Steve Lovering.

“There were way more pickleball players playing than tennis (players), so once we saw that it was an easy tranCONTINUED ON 5

SHANNON FROMMA HOUSE OF THE WEEK

F.E. PALMA CONSTRUCTION Pole Barns,

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CONTINUED FROM 4

sition to make,” Lovering said.

Most courts — 57 percent, according to Pickle-ball518. com — are publicly owned and nearly all of those are outdoors. It can be difficult to get playing time if you’re not a resident of the town or city.

For winter pickleballers, options are even more limited. There are a handful of public indoor courts, including at Saratoga Springs Recreation Center and Malta Community Center, that charge nominal fees. Privately owned options include Impact Athletic and Sportime Schenectady, which are slightly more expensive.

None of those courts, however, are dedicated to pickleball. Most have pickleball lines and nets set up on basketball courts. The shine from the wood floor makes it difficult to see the ball, and the multitude of lines can be confusing, especially for less experienced players.

“The lighting is huge,” Mulinio said.

The Jason Morris Judo Center in Scotia, which converted one of its rooms to a pickleball court during the pandemic, is the only dedicated indoor pickleball court in the area.

Soon, that won’t be the case. Two local projects, Legacy Pickleball in Malta and True Pickleball in Latham, are looking to take advantage of the sport’s popularity.

“We noticed that there was no outlet to play true pickleball in the area, so we started down this path to bring this idea to life,” Jon Foshee of True Pickleball said.

True Pickleball, expected to open in May, will have six indoor courts available. Ground will break on Legacy in May; the facility will have seven indoor and eight outdoor courts.

Court fees at both will be more expensive than any of the currently available options, with costs in the $40 to $50 range.

“This will give folks the ability to play like they were playing on outdoor courts inside, and the weather doesn’t affect it, it’s not too hot, it’s not raining, it’s ideal conditions,” Michael Xirinachs of Legacy Pickleball said.

He was inspired to open a dedicated pickleball facility during his first winter after picking up the sport.

“Being competitive, I didn’t want my skillset to change because now I’m adjusting everything I’ve done for six or seven months outside, it doesn’t correlate to the indoor game, and I was like, this is crazy,” Xirinachs said. It seems unlikely that pickleball’s popularity will wane anytime soon.

“I still think we’re in the early adopter stage. I still think there’s a lot more growth ahead,” Crowley Denbeaux said.

Ballston Spa Elks May Breakfast

BALLSTON SPA - Breakfast Buffet- Ballston Spa Elks

Lodge #2619, 10 Hamilton Street, Ballston Spa, will host Mother’s Day Breakfast on Sunday, May 14, 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.

NF Northeast Presents:

Steps2Cure NF Capital District

SCHENECTADY - Neurofibromatosis (NF) Northeast presents Steps2Cure NF Capital District, taking place at Schenectady Central Park on Sunday, May 7, 2023, and featuring Operation Safe Child administered by the Albany Sheriff’s Department, music by DJ Debonair, face painting by Miss Stacey, refreshments, raffles, and more!

NF Northeast is proud to bring Steps2Cure Capital District to Schenectady for the first year, after operating out of Albany, NY for nearly a decade! Steps2Cure NF Capital District will help to raise much needed funds and awareness for Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in or on the body at any time. NF affects 3 times as many people as cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, Tay-Sachs, and muscular dystrophy combined yet is not commonly known.

Cerebral Palsy Fundraiser

SARATOGA / WILTON - Come join us Saturday, May 13th, from 6-10PM at the Saratoga/Wilton Elk’s Lodge. “Celebrate Mom” with a free carnation to the first 100 Mom’s, donated by Dehn’s Flowers. We are raising awareness and funds for the Cerebral Palsy Association of NY State. We have “Amazing Mom” themed raffle baskets and a BBQ buffet. Dinner will include chicken, macaroni salad, coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread. There will be a cash bar and yummy desserts too. Dance to the beat of our favorite quartet Betsy and the ByeGons. Cost is $25 per person. For reservations call Judy at 518-5875568 by May 9. Give MOM a night to remember.

HOROSCOPE

Week Of April 30, 2023

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, even though you have been making great progress, you have some more work ahead of you this week. Overcome any distractions that get in your way.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, you may want to avoid crowds this week. Use this opportunity to enjoy some quiet, alone time to recharge. There will be time for socialization in the weeks ahead.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You may be called in as a mediator this week, Gemini. It may be challenging to remain impartial, as you are friendly with both people involved. Tread carefully.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, there are a few decisions that you will need to make in the days to come and they are not to be taken lightly. Give each ample time and consider all angles.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

An opportunity all but falls into your lap, Leo. Make sure you jump on this because opportunity may not knock again. The benefits are too big to pass up.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

There is not much more help you can lend to a situation, Virgo. This week you may have to accept that you have simply done all that you could do. Move on and focus on the future.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Expect some strange things to happen to you this week, Libra. The unexpected could be the breath of fresh air you need, especially if your schedule has been stagnant.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, assist a loved one as

To register, please visit nfnortheast.org and navigate to the Steps2Cure NF Capital District event page. There you will find the registration link. The registration fee is $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 6 -17, and free for children ages 5 and under. All registered participants will receive a Steps2Cure NF bandana, fundraising tips, and support.

Steps2Cure NF Capital District (formally Albany) has been operating with the help of dedicated local volunteers, who started the event over 10 years ago. Last year, Steps2Cure Albany brought together over 100 members of the greater Albany, NY community and raised over $12,000. This year, we have set a goal of $14,000!

NF Northeast is a register 501(C)(3) organization headquartered in Burlington, MA. NF Northeast is proud to support a nine-state region that includes MA, NY, PA, NJ, CT, VT, NH, ME, and RI. At NF Northeast we seek to bring hope to those affected by neurofibromatosis and allied disorders.

Adirondack Fiddlers

New Style and Old Tyme Fiddling

SCHUYLERVILLE - Sunday May 7th 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. American Legion Hall, Clancy St. Schuylerville, NY All fiddlers and musicians young and old and Public welcome. Round and square dancing. Food AvailableFor more information call (518) 274-681

EMPLOYMENT

much as you can this week. You may need to be a devoted caregiver or a listening ear. Whatever the case, handle it with undivided attention.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a deep focus on health may compel you to get around to making some changes you’ve been planning. Embrace this newfound resolve.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, allow others to take the lead when a project ends up coming across your desk. You could learn something from the expertise of others if you emulate their actions.

AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you have left no stone unturned in a situation that involves relocation. Now it is just a matter of wait and see. Give it a few weeks, then move on.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, others have very positive things to say about you, especially during the course of the next few days. Relish in their attention.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 30

Dianna Agron, Actress (37)

MAY 1

Jamie Dornan, Actor (41)

MAY 2

Dwayne Johnson, Actor (51)

MAY 3

Cheryl Burke, Dancer (39)

MAY 4

Lance Bass, Singer (44)

MAY 5 Adele, Singer (35)

MAY 6 George Clooney, Actor (62)

Legal Assistants

Legal Assistants/ Paralegals

Voted a Top Workplace for 2021, O'Connor, O'Connor, Bresee & First, PC is looking for support staff to join our growing firm. We're looking for a Legal Assistant with 3+ years of experience in the field of premises liability for a self-insured company

Voted a Top Wor kplace for 2021, O’Connor, O’Connor, Bresee & First, PC is looking for suppor t staff to join our growing fir m. We re looking for Legal Assistants/Paralegals with 2+ years of exper ience in the fields of personal injur y defense medical malpractice defense and civil litigation.

Duties include processing mail; prepar ing pleadings/ discover y responses; prepar ing exper t review packages; prepar ing repor ts to clients; telephone contact with clients; scheduling and keeping track of impor tant deadlines The successful candidate must have excellent communication, t yping and proofreading skills and be able to wor k independently but also wor k as par t of a team.

Must have some litigation exper ience, including NYSECF filing Salar y commensurate with exper ience

Duties include processing mail; transcription; preparing pleadings/discovery responses; preparing expert review packages; preparing reports to clients; telephone contact with clients; scheduling and keeping track of important deadlines; processing medical authorizations and tracking medical records The successful candidate must have excellent communication, typing and proofreading skills and be able to work independently but also work as part of a team. Salary commensurate with experience.

We offer an excellent benefit package including fully paid health insurance.

Send resume to colello@oobf.com or fax to 518-465-0015

The Role of Nature in Home Design in the Years Ahead

Outdoor living spaces were prioritized during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when public gatherings were greatly limited and individuals were urged to stay home as much as possible. Such demands have had a ripple effect on various industries, including home design. According to a survey conducted by the New Home Trends Institute in collaboration with Pro Builder, 58 percent of the more than 300 residential architects, designers and design-minded builders who participated said connection to the outdoors/nature will be an important influence on their design choices in the years to come. In addition, 45 percent of respondents indicated increased attention will be afforded to outdoor entertaining spaces.

So what might the outdoor spaces of homes built in the not-so-distant future look like? Respondents to the survey anticipated a growing demand for various built-in outdoor features, including: • Firepits or fireplaces • Outdoor kitchens • Gazebos or pergolas • Pools • Spas or hot tubs

Though trends and consumer demands are ever-shifting, architects and designers are anticipating that future homeowners will want more developed outdoor living spaces and greater access to nature, which is something current homeowners can keep in mind when renovating their properties.