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Volume 7 • Issue 11 saratogatodaynewspaper.com
Saratoga in Sync
SLASHED Public Schools Prepare for Huge Cuts in 2012-2013 by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY
Photo Provided
See Skating page 6
SARATOGA COUNTY – If it seems difficult now, just wait until next year. And the year after that. And the year after that. Rising costs, decreasing state aid and new restrictions that limit revenue are just a few of the challenges that local public schools face as they draft their 2012-2013 preliminary budgets. As schools
struggle to close multimillion dollar budget gaps, the first year under New York State’s new property tax cap legislation is just the beginning, with many predicting that it only gets harder from here. “The tax levy cap will affect Schuylerville and many school districts this year and in years to come, as we will be forced to cut staffing, reduce programs and eliminate services for our students,” said Kim Smithgall, spokesperson for the
“Keep Moving Forward” by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY BALLSTON SPA – For most of us, learning to drive is a particular rite of passage during our teenage years. The excitement of receiving a learner’s permit from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is second only to passing your official road test. For Ben Ekland of Juniper Lane in Ballston Spa, passing the permit exam was
the culmination of three years of hard work and preparation. Though Ben has his challenges, his determination and positive attitude should serve to remind us all what we’re capable of when we put our minds to it. The month of March is recognized as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). Officially proclaimed in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan,
See Saratoga page 8
Schuylerville Central School District. Schuylerville is not alone in its struggle to budget for the coming year under the new tax levy legislation, a law passed in June of 2011 that is commonly referred to as the two percent property tax cap. That title may be misleading – as Christy Multer, a representative for Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake schools put it,
See Tax page 9
Inside TODAY... Obituaries pg 5 Wilton YMCA pg 7 Business pgs 10-11 “BEST OF” the Saratoga Region pgs 16-17
photo by Deborah Neary, PhotoAndGraphic.com
Pulse
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Ben Ekland celebrates passing his learner’s permit exam.
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Ballston Spa High School’s “Thoroughly Modern” Musical Actors and actresses from Ballston Spa High School tackled the stage adaptation of the 1967 Julie Andrews and Mary Tyler Moore movie “Thoroughly Modern Millie” for their 2012 production. The cast was looking sharp in costume during a special dress rehearsal that our cameras were lucky enough to snap. “Millie” is the story of a small-town girl who moves to New York City in 1922, determined to marry for money instead of love. The show will run for one weekend only, and begins March 30 at 7 p.m. at the Ballston Spa High School auditorium. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors the day of the show.
Photos provided by MarkBolles.com
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police report Peter J. Coffman, 34, of 306 Cabin Dr., Gansevoort, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, a class-E felony. Coffman was arrested December 27 in Wilton for an incident that occurred November 22 and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing May 7. Alexander P. Gayheart, 22, of 37 Ash St., Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-E felony. Gayheart was arrested January 23 in Saratoga Springs and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing May 11. Lawrence Knight, aka “Bobby,” 45, of 289 Ontario St., Apt. 3E, Cohoes, has been charged with multiple offenses including eight counts of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-B felony; eight counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-B felony; and eight counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor. Knight was arrested in Halfmoon for incidents occurring August 16 and 21, and September 7, 8, 14 and 22, and was scheduled for arraignment March 9. Patrick P. Nadeau, 48, of 906 County Rte. 77, Greenwich, was resentenced March 9 by Judge Jerry Scarano to one to three years in state prison with probation terminated. Nadeau was originally convicted March 5, 2009, of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he was sentenced to time served and five years of probation to
include drug treatment court. Ashley J. James, 28, of 154D Eastwood Dr., Halfmoon, has been charged with multiple offenses including two counts of aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle, a class-E felony; and two counts of driving while intoxicated, a class-A misdemeanor. James was arrested September 9 in Halfmoon and is expected to return to court at a later date. Kim J. Hein, 37, of 16 Meehan Rd., Mechanicville, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Hein was arrested November 4 in Mechanicville and was sentenced to five days in Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and ignition interlock device. Cory M. Briscoe, 37, of 71 Hamilton St., Apt. 22, Saratoga Springs, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a classE felony. Briscoe was arrested July 13 in Saratoga Springs and was sentenced to five years of probation to include drug treatment court. Brad A. Bova, 33, address unknown, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-B felony. Bova was arrested in Saratoga Springs for incidents that occurred April 6 and 12 and was sentenced to five years in state prison and three years of post release supervision. Terry L. Germain, 44, of 13 6th St., Corinth, was resentenced February 28 by Judge Jerry Scarano to two to six years in state prison with credit for time served and pro-
bation terminated. Germain was originally convicted March 4, 2010, of driving while intoxicated, a classD felony, for which he was sentenced to time served and five years of probation to include drug treatment court. Zulfiqar A. Zulfi, aka “Rodger,” 45, of 1 Jamison Drive, Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of fifth-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-E felony. Zulfi was arrested November 13 in Malta for incidents that occurred September 1, November 3 and November 13 and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing May 11. Bernard J. Compo, 70, 34 G, Meyer Rd., Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Compo was arrested December 11 in Halfmoon and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing May 8. Azizi J. Smith, 34, 1252 State Route 29, Greenwich, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree grand larceny, a class-E felony. Smith was arrested December 20 in Saratoga Springs for an incident that occurred May 28 and was sentenced to one and a half to three years in state prison.
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Joshua B. Sousie, 26, 412 Lower Main St., Hudson Falls, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted burglary, a class-B felony. Sousie was arrested October 11 in Moreau for an incident that occurred October 8 and was sentenced to five years of probation.
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WEEK IN REVIEW
Glens Falls Man Convicted of Murder FORT EDWARD – A Washington county jury took all of two hours in their March 8 deliberations before returning with a guilty verdict in the murder trial of Matthew Slocum. Slocum, 24, faces 75 years in prison after he was convicted of murdering his mother, stepfather and stepbrother, and then setting the house ablaze. The nine-day trial saw Slocum attempt to deflect the blame onto his exgirlfriend, Loretta Colgrove. Slocum had previously admitted guilt while in police custody in the weeks following the July 17 attack. No motive for the killings was ever presented during the court proceedings. Colgrove testified that she was present during the shootings and fled with him following the shootings. It was later revealed that Slocum had used their infant child to convince Colgrove to leave with him. After testifying on his own behalf March 7, Slocum says he set the blaze so that no one would see what had happened to his mother, despite continuing to blame Colgrove for the actual murders. The news came as bittersweet to the
gathered family members of the victims at the courthouse who acknowledged it can’t bring their loved ones back, but felt that justice was served. Slocum is currently being held in Washington County Jail while he awaits sentencing. Jury members left through a side door and were not available for comment following the reading of the verdict.
Wife of Former Milton Supervisor Sentenced to Five Years Probation MILTON - The wife of a former Saratoga County supervisor was sentenced to five years probation for stealing close to $30,000 from an elderly woman. Deborah Thompson, 63, was ordered at her March 13 sentencing at Saratoga County Court to pay back $29,364 to a woman who had appointed Thompson her financial guardian. The Milton woman pleaded guilty to third-degree attempted larceny in August in exchange for no jail time. Thompson wrote checks to herself from the account of a resident of Maplewood Manor. She ultimately used the money for meals, tickets to the Great Escape, and trips to Turning Stone and Foxwoods casinos according to Fulton County District Attorney
Louise Sira. Presiding Judge Karen Drago had ordered Thompson to pay $10,000 in restitution costs by March 13, which she fulfilled. Thompson must now pay $2,152 in back taxes to the Department of Tax and finance, and the remaining $19,000 balance taken from the woman over the next five years. Thompson is the spouse of former Milton Town Supervisor Frank Thompson. The court order requires Thompson to make minimum monthly payments of $338. Former Supervisor Thompson was investigated, but eventually cleared of any charges.
Senator Roy McDonald Begins Re-Election Campaign SARATOGA SPRINGS Despite recently catching some heat from his own political party after voting last year in favor of gay marriage, Senator Roy McDonald (R-Saratoga) has received the backing of the New York State Independence party. This assures McDonald a spot on the general election ballot for this coming November, regardless if he loses a Republican primary vote should he face one. The Wilton Republican Committee recently voted to endorse
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Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin (R-Melrose) in a potential Republican primary to challenge McDonald. McLaughlin has not said whether he will run. State Independence Party Chairman Frank MacKay supported McDonald, and acknowledged he’s made “tough stands and tough votes” during his term as senator, and that the decision to endorse him was made very easily. McDonald will be seeking his third two-year term as a state senator, and plans to continue his advocacy for veterans, the disabled, and the middle class. New York election laws allow candidates to run on multiple party lines and combine the total number of votes recieved on a single line.
Fire Companies Identify New Location for Joint Fire Station in Malta MALTA – After plans for a proposed joint fire station on Dunning Street in Malta fell through, the Malta Ridge Volunteer Fire Company and the Round Lake Hose Company No. 1 have agreed to continue efforts to locate a joint fire station in the downtown area of Malta. Property located at the Parade Ground Village area on Hemphill Place will be considered instead of the Dunning Street location. Studies suggest that a joint fire station will save taxpayers nearly $4 million over the next 10 years by consolidating the existing four fire stations into three. Consolidation will also eliminate duplication, reduce fire protection expense, and improve response
TODAY
time to areas where it’s needed most. The new location should also alleviate concerns from residents at the Luther Forest development over traffic and noise that plagued the Dunning Street proposal. Preliminary review of this location indicates that it may have the features and characteristics that the fire companies are seeking for in a shared station operation.
State Officials Take Next Step in Legalizing Casino Gambling ALBANY – Governor Andrew Cuomo has been pushing to legalize casino gambling in New York, and another big step has been taken in his quest to do so. A deal was reached to amend the state’s constitution in a late night closeddoor meeting between the governor’s administration and both Democratic and Republican majority leaders. In order to legalize casino gambling, the amendment must be approved by two separately elected sessions of congress, which could be obtained this year and next year. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver projected a maximum total of seven new casinos, but said the where, when, and how would not be determined until 2013. The late night meeting also resulted in New York State doubling its current DNA database, in hopes of catching more criminals and setting the wrongfully convicted free. The Senate’s Republican and Assembly’s Democratic majority all confirmed the deals being struck, and only needed to work out the remaining smaller details.
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OBITUARIES
Theresa M. Place Saratoga Springs, NY - Theresa M. Place, 85, passed away Thursday, March 8, 2012. Born May 23, 1926, in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late Frederick Martell and Grace Adinolfi Martell Dominick. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her beloved husband of 30 years, Richard N. Place, and her son, John R. Place. Survivors include her daughter, Barbara Place Hunter; grandsons, Richard Longo Jr., David and Christopher Place; and two great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, March 12, 2012. Burial will be in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., Saratoga Springs. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, (518) 5845373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Leon E. Briggs Sr. Saratoga Springs, NY- Leon E. Briggs Sr., 85, passed away March 11, 2012. Leon was born May 18, 1926, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Edmund and Blanche Bunting Briggs. Leon married Jennie Cassetta and they had three wonderful children together. Leon was predeceased by his daughter, Ruth Briggs Waicosky and sister, Violetta Wade. Leon is survived by his loving wife, Jennie Cassetta Briggs; children, Mia and Leon “Sonny” (Lee Kelpy) Briggs Jr.; grandchildren, Alexandria Waicosky and Zachary Houston; son-in-law, Thomas Waicosky Jr.; brohter-in-law, Carmen (Linda) Cassetta; nieces, Felicia (John) Messina and Stacey (Patrick) VandenBerg; nephew, Charles
“Buster” Brown; and a host of great-nieces, nephews and friends.. A funeral service will be held to celebrate Leon's life Friday, March 16, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-4844. Burial will follow the service at Gerald B.H. Solomon National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville. Friends and family are invited to the Saratoga Wilton Elks Lodge #161 for further fellowship and lunch following the burial. Online remembrances may be made at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.
Saratoga County Deceased Veteran of the Month
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Dolores A. Gyarmathy Porter Corners, NY- Dolores A. Gyarmathy, 81, passed away Sunday, March 11, 2012. Born April 1, 1930, in Manhattan, NY, she was the daughter of the late Wilfred Sage and Lilly Rodgers Sage. In addition to her parents, Dolores was predeceased by her husband, John. Survivors include her sons, Michael J. (Marion) and Stephen J. (Renee); and four grandchildren, Michael, Joseph, Jordon and
Stephen Gyarmathy. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Thursday, March 15, 2012. Memorial Donations can be made in Dolores’ memory to Mary’s Haven, 35 New St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Arrangements under the direction of Tunison Funeral Home, 105 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances can be made at www.tunisonfuneralhome.com.
Anna V. Heekin Saratoga Springs, NY – Anna V. Heekin, 91, passed away Monday, March 12, 2012. Born May 28, 1920, in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late John E. and Louise Marie Kuhn Heekin. In addition to her parents, Anna is predeceased by two sisters, Kathryn and Mary; and close family friend, Joe McGirr. Survivors include her dear friends and caregivers, Anne Boyar and Dottie (John) Hunter; close family friends, George Wilson, Jr. and Robert Wilson Sr.; and several
cousins. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, March 16, 2012, at The Church of St. Peter, 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave., Saratoga Springs. Donations may be made in Anna’s memory to the charity of one's choice. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Sergeant Carl J. Giamelli Sr. David Donald Hollar The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency has named Carl J. Giamelli Sr. the March 2012 Deceased Veteran of the Month. Giamelli will be honored Tuesday, March 20 during a public ceremony. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. at 40 McMaster St., Ballston Spa, and is followed by a reception. Sergeant Giamelli was enlisted in the United States Marines from 1941-1945 and was attached to the 1st Marine Division. He served during World War II, seeing combat at Guadalcanal and Cape Gloucester, and was honorably discharged October 17, 1945, after receiving four battle stars. After leaving the Army, Giamelli worked for St. Mary’s Parish, Waterford, for 68 years and was a member of the Italian American Veterans, the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Giamelli is survived by his children, Carl Jr. Giamelli, Frank Giamelli and Mary Comitale.
To view the full-text version of the obituaries printed on this page, visit the archive section of SaratogaTodayNewspaper.com. It is the policy of Saratoga TODAY to publish obituaries as a service to our readers. Please send your obituaries to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com.
Saratoga Springs, NY - David Donald Hollar, 88, died Saturday, March 10, 2012. Mr. Hollar was born in Muskegon, Michigan. David was predeceased by his wife, Evonne Marie O’Leary, and daughter, Laurie Hollar Schmidt. Survivors include his daughter, Candace (Charles) Hollar Wait; grandchildren, Charles Valentine Wait Jr., Christopher David Wait and Alexandra Dallas Wait. There will be no public
calling hours and burial will be at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Wesley Health Care Center, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
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Skating In Sync by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY When you consider a synchronized sport, most of us think of swimming or diving. The Saratoga Synchronized Skating Program at the Weibel Avenue Ice Rink would like to offer you the chance to see a different side of figure skating. The Weibel Rink is the home to four synchronized figure skating teams, with skill levels ranging from beginners up to adults. The Saratoga-based club is hosting an event on March 18 called “Dancing through the Years,” from 2-6 p.m. The event will offer skating fans a chance to see the club’s synchronized skating teams in action, as well as many other performers involved with different disciplines of skating. “You’ll see a little of everything in figure skating,” said the program’s director Melissa Williams. “All four levels will have a performance, there will be solos, some couples routines, and ice dancing performances as well.” Synchronized figure skating works a bit like synchronized swimming. The teams are identically dressed, and the group tries to move as one, or in a specific
A Breath of Fresh Air
Chad Beatty Publisher
photo provided
The Saratoga Springs Sychronized Skating Program’s Intermediate Team
rhythm. The judges look for consistency and synchronicity when considering their scores. Two of the four teams that practice at Weibel Avenue Ice Rink recently competed in the Wallace Synchronized Classic in Fitchburg, Mass. The beginner team, comprised mainly of girls ages 6-10, finished in second place, and the pre-juvenile team, made up of girls
11-12, finished in third for their division. While their results are encouraging, Williams stresses the importance of good sportsmanship and belief in one’s self and others as fundamental principles of the team. “The keyword for this program is ‘believe,’” said Williams. “If you believe in yourself and believe in your teammates, you can make your goals happen.” Perhaps you’re not quite ready to consider skating for a synchronized team, but you would like more help simply moving around on the ice. The ice rink’s LearnTo-Skate program could be your best option. The program has been run by Shawna Barber for the last five years and offers the basics in ice skating. The program is ideal if your child would like to figure skate or play hockey. “Learn-To-Skate works as a bridge program to private lessons or different club teams as the skaters begin to improve,” said Barber. If you’re interested in perhaps joining the club after their March 18 exhibition at Weibel Avenue Rink, tryouts are scheduled for April 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Clifton Park Arena. For more information about the club, visit www.saratogasynchro.info.
TODAY
The summer of 2012 is just around the corner and it promises to be a good one. I imagine many of you are already busy making plans for a fun-filled season of family activities and weekend getaways. Saratoga is definitely the 'summer place to be' and the Adirondack region offers something for everyone. But before you plan away every day, I have an idea for you that could reap rewards for years to come. No, not financial rewards...even better. I am talking about the Fresh Air Fund. If you haven't heard of the program, it brings inner-city children of all age groups (from different areas of NY City) to stay with host families for 7-14 days. Last year my family became a host family and we look forward to doing it again this year and for years to come. From the moment little Xavier arrived in Saratoga Springs, he became a part of our extended family. Xavier, or X-Man as I called him, was a 7-year-old bundle of energy who loved everything outdoors. He was amazed at frogs and bugs and lizards and fireflies and...you get the point. He turned out to be a good little tennis player but an even better Lego-builder. At one point during his stay I thought he was part fish because he spent so much time in the water. Looking back, I think his greatest moment was steering a boat on the great Sacandaga Lake. He was like a tiny sea commander racing his ship through the vast ocean with a smile that stretched from ear to ear. I don't think he made it to full throttle, but to him we were the fastest boat on the lake. Our funniest meal was our attempt at an "authentic" homemade
Spanish dinner, compete with red beans and rice. By the look on his face I don't think we did a great job, but he was very polite anyway. I am happy to say that we have stayed in touch with Xavier throughout the fall and winter, and when we had the big storms last year, the little guy called us to see if we were OK! I already knew the program was worth it, but that solidified it. Are you still wondering if the Fresh Air Fund is for you? Picture the look on a child's face the first time they see a horse while tailgating at Saratoga Polo, or the first time they swim at Million Dollar Beach in Lake George. Can you imagine hiking to the peak of Hadley Mountain with someone who never left their borough of the Bronx? Whatever your summer interests are, chances are a Fresh Air Fund child would love to share them with you. So are you willing to go outside your comfort zone for a week to put a smile on a little face? Are you ready to help create summer memories and make a new friend? If so, then the Fresh Air Fund is for you. I would recommend you get in touch with them soon to allow time for background checks and planning, etc. For more information on you can host a Fresh Air Fund child, visit www.freshair.org or call 1-800-3670003.
Tips For Fresh Air Fund Parents: • Start the process earlier rather later • Have a big sign ready with your child's name on it for the pick-up • Take lots of pictures.
Where to bring your guest: (give them a taste of our region’s great outdoors!) • Saratoga Spa State Park • Victoria or Peerless Pool in Spa State Park • Saratoga Lake • Lake George • Saratoga Race Course • Saratoga Auto Museum • Saratoga National Historical Park • Moreau State Park • Petrified Sea Gardens • Your Backyard
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Expansion Coming to Wilton ‘Y’ by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY WILTON – The Saratoga Regional YMCA’s board of directors has voted to approve a $7.5 million renovation to their Wilton branch that will increase the facility’s size by 35,000 square feet. Groundbreaking on the project is expected to begin soon, and is scheduled to be complete by the fall. “What I’m excited about with this project is how the response to the Saratoga Springs branch’s expansion has been so positive, and how the demands on that branch have really caused this next phase to happen,” said Jim Letts, CEO of Saratoga Regional YMCA. New additions to the Wilton location will include an 8,100 square-foot fitness area, a new year-round gymnastics facility and new locker rooms. The new Wilton fitness center will be bigger than the fitness center at the main branch on West Avenue in Saratoga Springs, which is 7,500 square feet. The current gymnastics area at the Wilton branch closes for the summer months between June and August. Staying open year round bodes well for the facility’s chances of hosting gymnastic events in the future, and the expansion should serve to provide more adequate seating for anyone attending. Areas designed for both before and after school programs to be offered were also approved for the expansion. The programs will both be brand new to the Wilton branch. “There’s a half day program currently, but because of the new space we’re able to expand to full before and after school programs here,” said Letts. With the expansion, the Wilton branch will surpass the main Saratoga Springs facility in total size. The current gymnastics facility will be increased by almost 2000 square feet, from 5,600 to 7,500. The expansion also includes plans for a modi-
Get Involved with the Saratoga Regional YMCA Vote for Saratoga Regional YMCA Today! The Saratoga Regional YMCA has been selected to participate in the LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project, an online voting campaign that is designed to bring proven cancer support programs to communities across the United States. Finalists will receive tools and resources from the Lance Armstrong Foundation to serve people living with cancer. Voting ends March 23 at 6 p.m. For more information about the LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project and to vote, visit www.vote.livestrong.org. For more information about the Saratoga Regional YMCA, visit www.saratogaregionalymca.org.
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fied basketball court/fitness area, with areas specifically for yoga or cycling. “A lot of the folks at the Saratoga Springs branch come all the way from Wilton. This should alleviate a lot of pressure from that branch as the demand increases,” said Letts With staff at the Wilton branch expecting a new influx of gym patrons, considerations for the facility’s parking were also considered. The existing parking lot will be expanded by 187 more spaces. “The demand on the fitness end has forced us to really bring about a state-of-the-art fitness center for Wilton,” explained Letts. “You have to build for that moment at 5 o’clock at night when everybody wants to work out.” The Saratoga Regional YMCA’s board of directors voted to approve the proposal at their March 8 meeting. This is the second phase in a proposed three phase initiative to improve the location at 20 Old Gick
Road in Wilton. Phase one was the addition of four new tennis courts. The new courts allowed the branch to host its first United States Tennis Association-affiliated event on March 10. The completion of the second phase will also free up the space needed for two additional tennis courts in the existing building, bringing the total number of courts to 10. The third phase, which calls for the construction of the final two tennis courts, has not been projected or approved by the board of directors. The plans call for a new building to be constructed adjacent to the existing one. A breezeway will connect both facilities. The Saratoga Regional YMCA serves over 25,000 members, and has branch locations in Malta, Corinth, Saratoga Springs, Greenwich and Wilton. For more information, visit their website www.saratogaregionalymca.org.
Saratoga Regional YMCA Scholarship Award The Saratoga Regional YMCA has a $2,500 scholarship available to students within its service area. To be eligible for the tuition assistance scholarship, students must be enrolled at Springfield College for the Fall 2012 semester and must be pursuing the YMCA Professional Studies Program with a YMCA Minor. Participation in the YMCA Club is required. The scholarship can be renewed annually with a qualifying grade point average. The winner of the scholarship may be eligible for matching funds from Springfield College. Applications may be obtained at www.saratogaregionalymca.org or at any branch. Deadline for submission is Monday, April 30. Contact Cassandra Latour at (518) 583-9622, ext. 127, for more information.
Want to Help the Y? There is an infinite variety of volunteer opportunities available at the YMCA! How about becoming an arts & crafts aid? Or maybe helping with micro soccer or basketball? You could be a greeter, welcoming members at the front desk, or perhaps you can be part of the facility improvement team. Build long-lasting relationships while sharing your time and talents with others at the YMCA. Together we can build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. For more information, contact Cassi Latour, at (518) 583-9622, ext. 127.
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Saratoga Bridges Lends a Helping Hand continued from Page 1 DDAM hopes to honor the men and women who have made a difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Saratoga Bridges, a nonprofit community organization, has been providing support to these individuals and their families for over 55 years. As one of the largest nonprofit organizations in Saratoga County, Saratoga Bridges is committed to helping disabled individuals achieve their goals and aspirations. For Ben, that goal was finally realized in the form of a learner’s permit. The 26-year-old Price Chopper employee had been studying for the exam and practicing his driving since 2009. He took the test at the Wilton Mall branch of the DMV and passed. His personal motto of “keep moving forward,” seems ever appropriate for his recent accomplishment. Ben’s Ballston Spa residence is one of several homes that Saratoga Bridges owns in the area designed to allow the individuals they serve to achieve a level of independence they might not otherwise have a chance at. One of Ben’s primary study partners for the permit test was Matthew Reed, a staff member from Saratoga Bridges working at the Juniper Avenue location. “We actually went through the book that you get at the DMV,” said Reed. “We practiced the questions
and went through the chapters one at a time, over and over again.” According to Reed, there have been a few individuals to share the same goal as Ben, but Ben has been the first to pass the exam. Ben’s goal of a learner’s permit was just as much a statement of his independence as it was a reason for him to drive. “I want to learn to drive so if I have to go to work, or somewhere else I want to go, I can go,” said Ben. Though there’s no timetable for Ben’s road test, his attitude suggests he’s likely to stay the course and take as much time as he needs before signing up for a road test. Ben knows there’s still a lot of work to be done, but with the help of Saratoga Bridges, his prospects are as bright as they could possibly be. “Anyone is capable of doing anything they choose to do; it’s just a matter of getting in that right frame of mind and Ben wanted to get his permit so he could be more independent,” said Reed. “What we do is try to provide as much support as [these individuals] need, to make them feel and be as independent as they can.” Ben moved into the Juniper Lane house in 2008, after completing a certificate plan at Skidmore College. His mother, Donna, had been looking into different organizations for her son before choosing
“Anyone is capable of doing anything they choose to do; it’s just a matter of getting in that right frame of mind... ” Matthew Reed Staff Member at Saratoga Bridges
Saratoga Bridges. “We felt the Bridges had quality homes, quality staff, and they really focused on what [Ben] wants,” said Donna. “This whole program is designed for them to take the reins and become independent, and he’s been doing great.” As if passing his permit exam wasn’t enough, Ben’s already focused on what’s next. Ever goaloriented, his plans for this summer include learning to barbeque, as well as help out with some of the yard work around the house. For the future, he has his mind set on something a little more significant. “My main goal is to have my own apartment and live on my own without staff being around all the time,” said Ben.
TODAY
New York State Military Museum Completes 27th Division Unit History Project SARATOGA SPRINGS – When 28,969 New York National Guard Soldiers mobilized in the fall of 1940 as the United States prepared for war, clerks filled out six-byfour inch cards on each man. Now, thanks to a team of 15 volunteers, those records – listing name, serial number, home and unit (and later annotated with handwritten notes on whether or not the soldier was killed or wounded) – are available online from the New York State Military Museum. "I'll bet you that we are the only state that has such an item on the web," said retired Army Col. John Kennedy, one of the volunteers who turned the index card information into digital data. Kennedy, a World War II veteran, spent a year keying the information on the cards into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets with several other volunteers. The digital information is now available on the museum's website and can be downloaded and searched. “The museum put this information online so it can be used by people researching their family history or the history of World War II and New York's role in it,” said Jim Gandy, the assistant librarian and archivist at the museum. "Not only can you research a specific individual, but you can also research who enlisted from what town, where men in the New York National Guard were born, or
the average age of the men enlisting. We indexed most data points on the cards including date, city, state and country of birth, ID number, hometown, unit and rank, as well as enlistment and separation dates," Gandy explained. In September 1940, a few months after France was overrun and defeated by the German Army and the British were fighting for survival in the air, the United States had an army of 269,000 men. The German Army, meanwhile, had 2.5 million. President Franklin D. Roosevelt convinced Congress to call up the 300,000 men in the National Guard for a year to double the size of the nation's army and prepare for any German threat. On October 15, 1940, the 28,969 members of the New York National Guard, including the entire 27th Division, reported to their armories to begin processing for a year of active duty. This is the data now available on the museum’s website. When 90-year-old Kennedy entered the data from 6,500 soldiers, the task brought back memories of his own World War II service. A Cohoes native, he joined the Army Reserve in 1940, transferred to the New York National Guard in 1941, and went to war in Europe in 1944 with the 8th Infantry Division. He recognized the names of many of the 108 Soldiers on the list who cited Cohoes as their hometown because he had grown up with them, Kennedy said. Kennedy, who now lives in Florida and served in the Army Reserve and Army National Guard until retiring in 1981, volunteered to help with Gandy's project because he has made World War II history, specifically the role of New York's units, his hobby. The museum's next web project is to create an index of the battles New York's Civil War Regiments fought in, Gandy said. The online database will make it easier for historians to determine which regiments fought in which battles and the losses that were sustained in each fight. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the museum at (518) 581-5100. The index card database can be found on the museum’s website at: http://dmna.ny.gov/historic/regh ist/wwii/infantry/27thInfDiv/27thI nfDivFed/27thInfDiv_Fed.htm.
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TODAY
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Friday, March 16, 2012
Tax Cap Presents New Challenges for School Budgets continued from Page 1 “The two percent tax cap is not that simple – it’s anything but two percent.” Instead, the law dictates schools use a complicated, eight-step formula to calculate how much they can increase their tax levy. In some cases, the calculated figure works out to over three percent. In others, the formula actually results in a negative number – as seems to be the case for the Ballston Spa Central School District, whose tax levy will decrease next year by .3 percent due to a proposed settlement with GlobalFoundries. (While the town
of Malta approved the settlement early last week, several other parties, including the town of Stillwater, as well as the Ballston Spa and Stillwater central school districts still need to approve the agreement.) Regardless of how the numbers work out, the law undoubtedly places limits on the amount of revenue districts can collect from property taxes. Meanwhile, costs for health care and pensions continue to climb and state aid distributed to many districts continues to fall. All things considered, the new legislation leaves schools with few options but to start cutting staff and pro-
grams, or (for the lucky districts) to draw heavily from reserve funds until their remaining balance is next to nothing. “Over the last several years, we’ve reduced our staff by about 46.5 people through attrition,” said Kurt Jaeger, assistant superintendent for business at the Saratoga Springs City School District. This year, in order to close a $2.1 million budget gap in the $109.5 million preliminary budget, Jaeger indicated another 14 to 15 teaching positions will also be cut through attrition. On top of that, the district will be pulling a significant amount from its reserve fund so it can con-
State Nears Redistricting Agreement by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY ALBANY – The New York State Senate and Assembly have moved one step closer to drawing new district lines for the state following an early morning procedure that brings the plan to a vote Thursday, March 15. New York is required by law to reduce the number of districts from 27 to 25 in accordance with the 2010 census results. Although several plans have been put on the table, one drawn by U.S. Magistrate Judge Roanne Mann could drastically change who represents Saratoga County. The process, a battle between the legislature, governor and courts, must still go through the approval of both the Senate and Assembly, as well as avoid Governor Cuomo’s threatened veto
before it is made official. Still, if one version of the plan, put forth by Mann, is to carry the day, Saratoga County would lose Chris Gibson as the representative for the 20th district entirely. Instead, Rep. Paul Tonko would likely represent much of Saratoga County, including the city of Saratoga Springs. “Congressman Gibson remains focused on serving the constituents of the 20th Congressional District,” said Stephanie Valle, spokesperson for the congressman. “Certainly, we don’t want to lose any part of our current district, but we recognize there may have to be some measure of change.” However, the magistrate’s plan is far from a sure thing. State government had until Thursday to come up with and approve their own redistricting plan. While the legislature did move their plan forward during the early hours of Thursday morning, as of press time it remains to be
seen whether the governor will sign off. “The Congressional district lines are not yet finalized and the process continues to play itself out,” said Rep. Paul Tonko. “I anxiously await the conclusion of this process – a conclusion that I hope embraces fair districts and enables the voters of our area to be certain which district they will be a part of.” Governor Cuomo has threatened to veto the redistricting lines if he believes they are heavily partisan or unfair. The governor had pushed for an independent council to draw the lines during his campaign, but recently his language has softened, indicating he may approve the lines drawn by the legislature in exchange for a constitutional amendment that changes how the process is handled after the 2020 census.
tinue to deliver expected services. “We’re probably looking at drawing $4.5 million per year from our reserve fund over the next four years,” said Jaeger, an amount that will leave the district’s reserves with, “not an awful lot,” he admitted. For Schuylerville, whose preliminary budget of $30.4 million is faced with a $1.22 million gap, drawing heavily from a reserve fund to avoid layoffs is not so simple. “At this point in time, a total of 28 staff members, including administrators, teachers and support staff, have received layoff notices,” said Smithgall. At Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake, approximately two positions are being considered for a possible layoff to help close a $2 million gap in the $57.0 preliminary budget. While Ballston Spa may be able to avoid layoffs this year, the school has cut 50.25 full time employees over the last three years. With a preliminary budget of $76.4 million, the district still has a $1.1 million gap to fill. “The impact of GlobalFoundries will be positive this year, but we
will have a deficit going forward,” said Stuart Williams, spokesperson for the Ballston Spa Central School District. “Basically, [it’s going to] get harder every year due to the mandates and requirements imposed on school districts.” Despite promises of unfunded mandate relief from Governor Andrew Cuomo earlier in the year, legislation has yet to pass through Albany that would make it so. Meanwhile, state aid for many districts will actually decrease for the following year, as it has for the last several years. “If you compare what the [Saratoga Springs] district received in state aid in 2008-2009 compared to the governor’s proposal for this year, we’re down by about $5 million,” said Jaeger. “So state aid is going down, the levy has a limit placed on our revenue – it’s very difficult. Where do you develop the other revenue from?” “This year is tough, granted,” added Jaeger. “Everybody’s got it tough. But you keep compounding that out into the future and you look at how the numbers are trending and you see some significant challenges in our future.”
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SARATOGA
BUSINESS
Friday, March 16, 2012
TODAY
Clean, Classy and Conscientious Stone Industries offers unique product and exceptional service by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – Charles and Richard Marriot are enjoying their 15th year in business. As the co-owners of Stone Industries, a septic service and portable sanitation solutions company located at 4305 Route 50, they admit their specialty is far from glamorous. But since their family bought the company in 1997, the Marriots have expanded all offerings, added new divisions, and fine-tuned their customer service plan to treat all customers like royalty. “It’s [based] on a complete and total dedication to customer service,” Richard said. The company has grown over the past 15 years to include four divisions: portable toilets, restroom trailers, septic installation and repair and wastewater services. With each product comes an exceptional level of customer service, which both Charles and Richard admit is often overlooked in their field. “It’s not an industry that tends to be glamorous, and some [companies] use that as an excuse not to supply the best quality experience, but we make it as pleasant as possible,” Richard said. The company now uses a new micro camera technology to detect and resolve septic system line issues without having to tear up a homeowner’s lawn. In addition, Stone Industries has almost doubled its portable toilet services with extras like hand-sanitation stations, portable showers, high-end commodes, and, of course, the line of luxury restroom trailers that was introduced last year. All of these products and services reflect the
Photos by MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
Charles and Richard Marriot, co-owners of Stone Industries Marriots’ desire to exceed their customers’ expectations. The business operates year-round, but spring is an especially busy season. As the warmer weather arrives and the ground softens, homeowners are getting ready to service their septic systems. As Charles explained, it’s an important aspect of spring cleaning. On the other end, spring is also the season for securing restroom trailer rentals for events in the summer and fall. Stone Industries supplies temporary sanitation solutions for nonprofit events, fundraiser galas, highend outdoor weddings, and other events that are planned with a severe attention to detail. For the Marriot family, customer service is always paramount, and it is especially so when working on an occasion like a wedding “It’s the bride’s – the couple’s – special day,” Richard said. “We take that very seriously. It sounds kind of funny [because] we are the bathroom guys, but it makes a big difference.”
Stone Industries definitely goes the extra mile with their restroom trailers. Available in four styles, restroom trailers are not unlike proper bathrooms. They offer fresh running water – which means real flushing toilets, air conditioning, vanities and glass-bowl sinks. “Walking into a [restroom] trailer is like walking into a proper bathroom,” Charles added. From septic systems to portable toilets and restroom trailers, the Marriots take their job very seriously and so does their staff. “Everyone is very conscientious,” Richard said. It seems that at Stone Industries being “conscientious” is the true key to success. For more information about Stone Industries, visit www.stoneindustries.com or call (518) 584-1048.
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TODAY
BUSINESS
Friday, March 16, 2012
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Local Companies Welcome Employees, Celebrate Growth Saratoga Casino and Raceway Hires Director of Player Development SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Casino and Raceway is thrilled to announce that Leah Gregori has joined its team as the new director of player development. She was previously employed as a director of player development at Sands Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. In her new role, Gregori works closely with the marketing team to manage relationships with players, develop plans to promote the casino’s Player Extras Club, and implement programs and events to reward Diamond and Platinum guests. Leah also oversees the host team and Players Club.
FingerPaint Welcomes New Staff Members SARATOGA SPRINGS– FingerPaint Marketing is pleased to announce the addition of Nicole Pitaniello and Leah Lanci to the company’s growing team. Nicole Pitaniello joins FingerPaint’s account service team. Previously, she worked for Albany Medical Center in Albany, where she was the assistant vice president for communications. She is a graduate of SUNY Potsdam and earned her master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Emerson College. Leah Lanci joins FingerPaint on
the project management team. She brings extensive experience in client relations and project management from her roles at Reduced Fat Design and Palio. Lanci is active in several nonprofit organizations, including Saratoga Hospital’s Nurse Scholarship Committee. She received her BA in mass communications from the University of Massachusetts.
Scott Varley Adds New Agent to Growing Team SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Scott Varley Group of RealtyUSA, based at 28 Division Street in Saratoga Springs, recently announced that Randy J. Brown has joined its growing professional sales team as a licensed real estate agent. Brown brings 12 years of experience in the real estate industry. His primary focus is residential sales. Brown is not only a seasoned real estate veteran; he is also a United States Army veteran. The Gansevoort resident retired from the armed forces after 20 years of service. “We are honored to have Randy join our team of professional real estate agents,” said Scott Varley, president of The Scott Varley Group. “He has extensive experience within the residential real estate industry and has the talent and dedication to help people experience the American dream of homeownership.”
Pinnacle Realty Hosts Grand Re-Opening, Welcomes New Agents SARATOGA SPRINGS – Pinnacle Realty will celebrate its return to Saratoga Springs with a grand re-opening at 70 Lake Ave. on March 16 from 4-6:30 p.m. The event will also commemorate the addition of four new team members. Agents Lori Ross, Peggy Gray and Margaret Zingerman have come on board, in addition to Anthony Calarco, who joins the Pinnacle Realty team as the Saratoga office manager.
"I am very fortunate to have teamed up with these three great agents that bring an unprecedented level of service to their clients and my company,” said owner and broker Bruce McClellan. “With our agent additions, Lori, Peggy and Margaret, and Anthony, our new office manager, Pinnacle Realty Saratoga is ready to set the bar for superior service in the Greater Capital District area.” The local real estate group, which has its home office at 2575 Route 9 in
Malta, is thrilled to be operating in Saratoga Springs once again. McClellan announced the re-opening in early January. Join Pinnacle Realty on Friday for a St. Patrick’s Day-themed toast to their new team members and the new Saratoga office. Light fare and refreshments will be served. For more information about Pinnacle Realty Saratoga, call (518) 580-9300 or visit www.thepinnaclepost.com.
Through this partnership, Look Women TIES to Host Mini- Women’s History Month, this event tables viewers in Saratoga, Warren and promotional TV feature also will Tradeshow and Luncheon SARATOGA SPRINGS – Women Ties will host a special mini-business tradeshow, networking and educational event for women entrepreneurs Tuesday, March 20 from 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m at the Inn at Saratoga (231 Broadway). The goal of Women TIES is to help women entrepreneurs expand their local, state and regional marketplace in New York. The event will feature a special program with Melissa O’Reilly, founder and CEO of Schenectadybased Shush Shoes. She will share the five sales strategies that propelled her to a successful entrepreneurial career. In honor of March as
so women entrepreneurs can showcase and sell a limited amount of products or service certificates. The cost to participate is $30 per person, which includes lunch. Tradeshow table reservations should be submitted by March 18, and can be made online at www.womenties.com or by calling (315) 7084288.
Look TV Participates in Real World Media Lab SARATOGA SPRINGS – Look TV, an independently owned and operated local television station, announced this week a partnership with New York City-based Horizon Media for a real world media lab.
Washington counties will have the unique opportunity to see shows from networks like the History Channel and new commercials from Geico before anyone else. Horizon Media will take advantage of Look TV’s unique regional audience to test programming and marketing concepts and even interact with consumers through cell phone or landline polls and focus groups. The term “real world media lab” applies to the real audience that will offer feedback. For more information about Look TV, visit www.looktvonline.com.
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SARATOGA
RELIGION
Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623; acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m. Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave., S. Glens Falls 793-3755, AdirondackFM@ nycap.rr.com; www.adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, pastoral minister Services: 10:30 a.m. Sunday The Alliance Church 257 Rowland St., Ballston Spa 885-6524 Services: Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St., Schuylerville 695-6069 Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6081 Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m., coffee served at 9:45 a.m. Bacon Hill Reformed Church 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent Services: Worship service 10 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. All are welcome. Handicapped accessible Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694; usbnc.org. Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa 885-7312; ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship Service, 10:30 a.m. Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave. 885-6886 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Bethesda Episcopal Church 41 Washington St., Saratoga Springs 584-5980 Services: Sunday 6:30, 8 & 10 a.m. Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146 371-6611; cliftonparkchurch ofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7654; ccrc-cpny.org. Services: Sundays 10 a.m. Christ Episcopal Church Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m. Congregation Shaara Tfille 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370; saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 9:30 a.m., Monday & Thursday 7:30 a.m., third Friday
each month 7:30 p.m. Handicapped Accessible Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave. 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m. Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street 654-2521; cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Cornerstone Community Church Malta Commons 899-7001; mycornerstonechurch.org Associate Pastor Paul Shepherd Services: Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9 Round Lake 877-8506, ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Weekday Masses: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. Eastern Orthodox - Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100; xcsavior@yahoo.com. Services: Sunday: 9:15 a.m. First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs 45 Washington St. 584-6301 Services: Sunday: 11 a.m. First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave. (Rt. 50) 885-8361; fbcballstonspa.org Services: 10:15 a.m. First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St. 885-5583 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m. Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; Bible Study: Thursday 6:30 p.m. Grace Brethren Church 137 W. Milton Rd., Ballston Spa 587-0649 Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Handicapped accessible. Grace Community Church of Malta Services: Wednesday 7:30 p.m.-Good Times Restaurant, Lake Rd., 2nd Floor; Friday 7:30 p.m.-Saratoga Chapel, Eastline & Lake Rds.; Sunday 10 a.m.-Comfort Suites, Clifton Park Greater Grace Community Church 43 Round Lake Rd. Ballston Lake (Malta Mall) 899-7777; .ggcc-malta.org Pastor David Moore Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Rd., Mechanicville 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Hope Church 206 Greenfield Ave., Ballston Spa 885-7442 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.
Friday, March 16, 2012 Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St., Clifton Park 877-7332 Services: Sunday 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs 584-9112 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484; livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m. Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave., Ext. 581-0210 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Middle Grove United Methodist Church 581-2973 Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Handicapped accessible New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Rd., Saratoga Springs 580-1810; newlifeinsaratoga.org. Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.-noon Childcare is available at all services. NorthStar Church Shenendehowa High School West Auditorium, Clifton Park 371-2811; northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Old Saratoga Reformed Church 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformed church.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Handicapped accessible. Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Rd., Ballston Spa 583-1002 Services: Sunday: 9 a.m. Adult Sunday School; 10:30 a.m. Service; 11:45 a.m. Coffee & Fellowship in Living Stone Hall; Wednesday: noon potluck luncheon; 1 p.m. choir rehearsal; 2 p.m. Bible Study Group Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 584-6091; pnecc.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Quaker Springs United Methodist Church 466 Route 32 South 695-3101; qsumc.com Pastor Jim Knapp
Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Handicapped accessible. River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd. Malta Cmns., Ste. 3, Malta 881-1505; riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 Services: Eucharistic Celebrations: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 & 11:30 a.m. St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs Contact: 584-6122. Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. & 5 p.m.
TODAY
Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga United Methodist Church Henning Rd., Saratoga Springs 584-3720; saratogaumc.com. Services: Sunday 9 & 10:45 a.m. Handicapped accessible. Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs 882-9384;saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11:30 a.m. Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 7:45, 9 & 10:45 a.m.; Acts II Contempory 10:45 a.m.
St. George's Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351; stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m.
Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Rd., Rock City Falls 885-4794 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.
St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; rcda.org/churches/ St.JosephsChurch Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m. Handicapped accessible
Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St., Saratoga Springs 584-3122 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.
St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church 167 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-7411; stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon. Handicapped accessible St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; rcda.org/churches/ St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-0904 Services: Saturday 5 p.m. with Holy Communion. Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. with Holy Communion. St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta 583-4153 Services: Sunday mornings 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Rd., Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456; saratogaabundantlife.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 526-0773; saratora@aol.com; saratogachabad.com Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71,
Temple Sinai 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 Services: Friday 8 p.m. Handicapped accessible The Salvation Army Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-1640; Mail-P.O. Box 652 Captain Aaron A. Boone, Sr. Captain Amber S. Boone Commanding Officers/Ministers Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m.; Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Rd., Gansevoort 584-9107; tumcwilton.com Rev. Gail Falsetti-Pastor Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway 584-1555; saratoga-uu.org Services: 10 a.m. Religious education and nursery care at the 10 a.m. service each Sunday. Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave. 453-3603: Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Rd. 882-9874; westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Rd, Wilton 583-2736; wiltonbaptist@gmail.com; wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday Service 11 a.m.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, March 16, 2012
Benefit Spaghetti Dinner and Raffle American Legion Post 70, West Ave., Saratoga Springs A spaghetti dinner and raffle sponsored by the American Legion Post 70 and Operation Adopt a Soldier is taking place Saturday, March 24, from 4-7 p.m. Proceeds from the dinner will benefit Freddy Ruiz and family. Freddy’s son suffers from cardiomyopathy, or an enlarged heart, and is on the transplant list. The cost is $10 per person and the menu includes salad, spaghetti, rolls, desserts and an assortment of beverages. Tickets can be purchased in advance from Post 70 by contacting Cliff at (518) 587-8010 or Terri at (518) 2324526. If you are interested in donating funds directly or donating items to be raffled off, contact Cliff to make arrangements.
Have a Laugh and Give some H.O.P.E. How does one enjoy a night of comedic theater and help homeless pets? It's easy! H.O.P.E. (Homes for Orphaned Pets Exist) is selling tickets for an April 20, 8 p.m. showing of Neil Simon’s hilarious comedy “Rumors.” The show is at the Home Made Theater in the Saratoga Spa State Park. Tickets can be purchased for $26 each before April 1; $13 from the sale of each ticket goes to support the animals of H.O.P.E. Call (518) 428-2994 to order your tickets or mail a check to HOPE, P.O. Box 2497 Wilton, NY 12831 and your tickets will be mailed to you. For more information about H.O.P.E., visit www.hopeanimalrescue.org.
HELPING HANDS
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York to Host Wishful Evening Gala The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York is holding its Silver Anniversary A Wishful Evening Gala on March 31, at the Hall of Springs in Saratoga Springs. The gala is a celebration of 25 years of serving the region by granting the wishes of more than 1,200 children with life-threatening medical conditions. Proceeds from this event will help fund the 100 wishes to be granted this coming year. The Silver Anniversary Gala will include “wish” children sharing their stories, musical entertainment with The Accents band and both silent and live auctions. Auction items include unique packages that make wishes come true for the auction winners. Tickets for the black tie event are $160 each and may be purchased by mail through the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York office, One Mustang Drive, Cohoes, NY 12047. You can also call the office at (518) 782-4673 for more information or sponsorship opportunities, or email neny@neny.wish.org. Online registration is available at www.neny.wish.org. The 2011 Gala was attended by nearly 300 people and raised more than $125,000 to grant wishes to local children with life-threatening medical conditions
Upcoming Blood Drives Ballston Lions Club
Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd., Ballston Spa Saturday, March 17, from 8 a.m.noon * Daily raffle for a $50 Red Cross voucher!
American Legion Post 1450 275 Grooms Rd., Clifton Park Wednesday, March 21, from 1-6 p.m. * Daily raffle for a $50 Red Cross voucher!
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Franklin Community Center’s Food Pantry Shelves are Bare! The food pantry at Franklin Community Center has served over 100 people in the past week alone. The pantry’s shelves are in need of some help. Can your spring spirit help keep them stocked? Items needed include: tuna, soups, instant mashed potatoes, cereal, instant oatmeal, rice, noodle side dishes, spaghetti sauce, pork-n-beans, peanut butter and jelly, other non-perishable products. The center’s after school program, Project Lift, is also getting low on snacks for the kids! Individually-wrapped, non-perishable snacks are ideal, (items like pretzels, fruit gummies, trail mixes) but the kids would love special treats like string cheese, fresh fruit, celery and peanut butter as well! All items can be dropped off at the center, 10 Franklin St., Saratoga Springs, Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
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SARATOGA
EDUCATION
Sweethearts and Heroes: A New Approach to AntiBullying Efforts SCHUYLERVILLE - The word “sweetheart” certainly has a different meaning than it did in the 1600s when the term was used to describe someone who was a “harasser of the weak,” or a bully. The opportunities to engage in bullying behaviors have changed as well—especially with new technologies like texting and social media. Even with these changes, the effects of bullying still resound with negative impact on today’s children, teens and even adults…and the impacts are more serious than ever before. To help combat the effects, schools throughout the nation have taken a leading role in the anti-bullying efforts. In fact, over the last several years, Schuylerville Central School District has substantially increased its programming in this area and continues this trend as it offers the program “Sweethearts and Heroes” Friday, March 16 for students in grades 5-12. Sweethearts and Heroes approaches anti-bullying efforts from a different perspective—that of the bystanders. The program is also distinctive because its presenters are a six-foot-three, 260-pound mixed martial arts competitor (Jason Spector) and a former college wrestler (Tom Murphy). The duo uses mixed martial arts video clips as a hook to draw in students to hear their message. Then they reach out to the students and show them how they can be heroes during bullying incidents rather than bystanders. Spector and Murphy suggest actions can be adjusted depending on students’ personalities—from just walking away from bullying behavior to showing disapproval to comforting the victim. Two presentations of Sweethearts and Heroes will take place March 16 in the Schuylerville Jr.-Sr. High School auditorium—one at 10 a.m. for grades 5-8 and another at 12:30 p.m. for grades 9-12. For more information on this event, call Schuylerville Jr.-Sr. High School Assistant Principal Heather Culnan at (518) 695-3255, ext. 2265.
Friday, March 16, 2012
TODAY
Galaway Students Embark on
Odyssey of the Mind
photo provided
(L to R): Division I’s Hannah Thompson, Quinn Sakala, Lindsey Zawisa, Michael Sowle, Julia Holbrook, Cori Hardcastle and Christian Hines
by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY
Augustine Classical Academy Tackles Shakespeare MECHANICVILLE - Augustine Classical Academy, located at 52 William Street in Mechanicville, will perform “The Winter's Tale” by William Shakespeare Friday, March 23 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 24 at 2 p.m. In this lesser-known drama, the master bard weaves a tale of a king who allows jealousy to rule his heart, resulting in tragic betrayal, grief and ultimatley the fall of his entire kingdom. Tickets are $5 for adults and can be purchased by contacting admin@augustineca.org or by calling the school at (518) 541-2089. Tickets will also be available at the door.
GALWAY – Forty-seven students from Galway Central Schools joined forces to tackle problems big and small, employing imaginative and creative solutions to travel one step further in the international competition, Odyssey of the Mind. Students from Galway were divided into seven separate teams, five of which took home a first, second or third-place finish. Two of the teams, those who earned first place honors, will advance to the state competition at Binghamton University Saturday, March 31. Galway’s Division I team, made up of students in grades K-5, took
photo provided
(L to R): Division II’s Jacob Ernst, Luke Burgess, Kenny Denison (standing behind), Jose Diaz, Sara LaRocca, Tim Webb-Horvath and Jacob Thompson home first for their creative solution on the “Odyssey Angels” problem. For this challenge, students were asked to create and present a performance that turned a negative situation into a positive one. During the challenge, one teammate was not allowed to speak, while another was granted a special “team-created power.” Galway’s Division II team, made up of students in grades 6-8, also took home first place for their handling of the category, “Weird Science.” The Division II students presented a performance about a team of scientists traveling to a
strange location and uncovering a mysterious phenomenon. “The [Odyssey of the Mind] relies on students' creativity, adaptability and teamwork,” said Sharon Maenz, coach of Galway’s Division II team. “It is also a great way for smaller schools that may have fewer resources to compete on an even playing field with their larger ones.” In total, approximately 450 students participated in the annual event, coordinated by the Gifted and Talented program at WSWHE BOCES.
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Friday, March 16, 2012
Summer Camp Directory This Week’s Spotlight Skidmore Skidmore College offers a variety of programs for children of all ages during the summer months. Camp Northwoods, Skidmore’s day camp for children entering grades one through six, offers an exciting program of sports, cultural arts, nature study and relaxed play. The goal is to provide a variety of fun activities that happily challenge the imagination, intellect, and body. The camp's home base is Falstaff's Pavilion on the Skidmore College campus, but campers frequent the Williamson Sports Center, Schick Art Gallery, Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery, and Zankel Music Center. The daily enrichment activities led by the qualified staff are supplemented by weekly field trips to recreational and historical sites and visits by special guests. Children will also enjoy arts and crafts, ceramics, games, hiking and daily swim time. One and twoweek sessions are available from June 25-August 10. Skidmore College also offers a wide array of Sports Camps from June through August for children of all ages. Choose from baseball, lacrosse, swimming, basketball, tennis, soccer, volleyball and field hockey. Children learn the concept of teamwork while acquiring the necessary skills for his or her sport of choice. Adults, novice or experienced, can participate in a rowing program offered throughout the spring, summer and fall at the Boat House located on beautiful Fish Creek. All other programs are held on the Skidmore Campus at the Sports and Recreation Center and/or the adjacent fields. For more information or to register online, visit www.skidmore.edu/summer or call the office of the Dean of Special Programs at (518) 580-5596.
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Friday, March 16, 2012
TODAY
If being ambitious makes me the “b”word, please capitalize the “B”
Gayle LaSalle I’m the Boss of Me s I get older, and hopefully wiser, I tend to become more of a rebel. The one way to get me to do some-
A
thing is to tell me I can’t. I wish I could say I’ve always been this way, but that’s not so. It’ a trait I’ve developed along the way, likely because I’ve had to take risks, and I’ve found that much of the time I am successful when I do. Until recently, I didn’t think of myself as ambitious. I had always thought of myself as someone who survives and just gets the job done. I don’t like to do the same thing for too long, so I’m always open for a new task, challenge or project. The more things I do the more I realize what I enjoy doing. For several years, my profession provided me with many opportunities to try new things, and I did the best I could to find new challenges within that
“I don’t only think of myself, and I struggle to understand why the word ambitious, particularly in terms of women, is still so often seen that way.”
setting. Again, I didn’t put the tag of ambition on this behavior. That is, until a man I worked with, said to me “You’re so ambitious.” Now, this was not in any way meant to be a compliment. It was clearly a negative judgment. We had the same job title. He seemed to be content to just do his job, while that wasn’t enough for me. At the time, I wasn’t sure how to respond to this, and to be honest, I didn’t think about it too much.
However, not soon after that comment, I made the decision to have a home built. I can’t tell you how many people, male and female, tried to convince me that this was too ambitious for a woman who is a single mother and not at all wealthy. No matter how much research I’d done, these people had me questioning myself. But then something happened – I’m not quite sure where it came from, but I’m sure glad it did. For the first time I can truly remember, I become totally rebellious and decided “I’ll show them.” And I did! I still live in that house. I love my house for many reasons, but one of them is that it was the gateway to my overt ambition and my pride in the same. Completing my house, and proving those people wrong, has given me the strength to do other things that require ambition. I’ve since left that job, as I realized the kind of ambition I’m now proud of was not valued, especially in women. I’m working in a job where my ambition is more accepted and, if nothing else, I have more independence. More importantly, I’ve started my own business. If my ambition serves me well, in a few years I’ll be working for myself completely. I’ve also joined
women’s business groups that support and encourage my ambition. I choose to surround myself with believers. Don’t get me wrong: I still care for people. I’m kind to my friends and business associates, and I’m all for helping others in their pursuits. I don’t only think of myself, and I struggle to understand why the word ambitious, particularly in terms of women, is still so often seen that way. The dictionary gives the following definitions for ambition: 1. An ardent desire for rank, fame,or power 2. Desire to achieve a particular end I choose to define myself by the second definition, but it seems many people use only the first. A discussion of gender and this topic could easily be another complete article. Most importantly, I like my ambition. I’ll defend it to anyone. And if someone wants to equate being ambitious with being a b****, then I ask please, please capitalize the “B” - because I’ll take it as a compliment. Gayle LaSalle is a motivational speaker, author and corporate trainer. For more information about her work or to contact her, visit www.gaylelasalle.com
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FOOD
Friday, March 16, 2012
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Perfect for a St. Patrick’s Day Gathering
Suzanne Voigt Farmers’ Market I doubt there is a soul in America who doesn’t know St. Patrick’s Day is Saturday. Somehow this holiday has become an American celebration that includes all nationalities, not just those with Irish in their blood, perhaps it is because it includes family, food, drink and laughter that we love it so. After all, those four things are pretty good
things to celebrate! OK, it can go to excess, but so can lots of other, less good things, too. So this Saturday, I encourage you to celebrate with a pint at the bar, if you must, but be sure to go home, laugh hard with your family and enjoy a feast that is easy on the cook, desired by the kids, loved by the adults and is grown by your local farmers. Here is a great recipe to fill your St. Patrick’s Day needs: Ham and Kohlrabi Casserole. While not Irish, it has a hint of it. We use kohlrabi in place of our faithful Irish vegetables, cabbage and potato, which are depleted in number this year due to the massive flooding of our farmers’ fields by storms Irene and Lee. I think the Irish know enough about crop failures to heartily cheer for the hardiness of the kohlrabi. Kohlrabi
is a wonderful root-like vegetable that is funny in looks with its tough outer skin, but so sweet and delicious inside. It’s like the geode of the farm field. The tough outer skin helped it survive our storms, so it’s readily available now at our farmers’ market. Plus, it tastes absolutely delicious with ham! I end with this toast: Here is to the Irish man’s day and may we all celebrate, eat and be merry with him. Ham and Kohlrabi Casserole (for a gathering of 6) Ingredients • 4 tbsp unsalted butter • 4 kohlrabi, peeled and diced (the larger variety from Pleasant Valley farm) • 12 oz ham, diced thick (M&A Farm ham is especially good as
The Bamboo Steamer!
John Reardon Compliments to the Chef Hello my foodie friends! Let’s steam up some windows today! I mean steam our food with a bamboo steamer. The town I was born in is famous for steaming everything from vegetables to cheeseburgers and, oh, maybe some windows too. If you have not heard about this secret to healthy cooking, then please read on. “Accentuate the natural flavor of foods. Retain nutrients and vitamins while cooking with less fat or oil.” – Helen Chen Helen Chen makes great bamboo steamers that are: •Handmade of 100 percent natural bamboo • Ideal for vegetables, seafood, meats and fruits • Perfect for cooking, reheating and serving your favorite dim sum • Strong and durable • Recipes and instructions included • Tightly constructed and woven to trap steam for quick and efficient cooking
• Bamboo absorbs condensation so no water will drip back onto the food • Steaming preserves minerals and vitamins in foods • Healthy, low-fat cooking method Unlike wood, bamboo is a grass, so it’s a renewable and sustainable resource. How steamers work: A bamboo steamer is designed to sit over another pot containing boiling water (specially designed steaming rings make it easy to steam on 11" or 13" diameter stockpots). As the water boils, the steam enters the steamer through the open slats in the bottom and is contained in the steamer by the lid. The bamboo steamer absorbs any condensation, keeping water from dripping back onto the food. When heated, it forms a hot container and, with the cover in place, can keep food warm for up to half an hour. The bamboo steamer is also an attractive serving piece and may be brought right to the table. Foods that are steamed require little or no added oils or fats, and they retain vitamins and minerals and cook quickly and evenly. Tips for steaming the Asian way: When steaming dry foods such as breads and dim sum, line the bottom of the steamer tier with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Parchment rounds that are 9.5"do the job easily. However, for foods that are seasoned such as seafood, meats and tofu, steam them in a heat-proof shallow dish (such as a Pyrex pie
plate) to catch the flavorful and nutritious juices. The dish should be about 1 inch smaller than the diameter of the steamer and the food should not touch the inside of the lid to allow steam to circulate freely around the food for even cooking. The added benefit of using a dish is that the bamboo steamer stays clean. Use specially designed Plate Retriever Tongs for added safety. Caring for Your Bamboo Steamer: Before using for the first time, rinse the bamboo steamer and lid with cold water. After each use, wash steamer with hot water and a brush, if necessary. Do not use soaps or detergents- bamboo may absorb fragrance and impart unwanted flavors to foods. Allow steamer to thoroughly air dry before storing in a well-ventilated place. Wow, how did you do? I know if you are under 24 you probably left me at hello! Steaming food is delicious, and if you ever get a chance to have a real steamed cheeseburger with steamed cheddar cheese (sometimes even the bun steamed) you will never go back to fried. Some people even put a big old slice of fresh onion on it – but don’t wear your onion goggles over the steamer because your vision will become blurred. I bet you can even try steaming your corned beef and cabbage this weekend! Remember, “Life Happens in your Kitchen” Take Care, John
they have it procured low in salt) • 3 tbsp fresh chopped parsley from Sushan Hydroponic Farm • 4 farm fresh egg yolks • 1½ cups half-and-half from Battenkill Creamery • 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour • Pinch of ground nutmeg • Freshly ground black pepper Method Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large skillet, melt the butter on medium heat. Add the diced kohlrabi and gently cook for 8-10 minutes.
Beat the egg yolk, and whisk in the half-and-half, flour, nutmeg and pepper until well combined. Place half of the cooked kohlrabi on the bottom of an oven-proof casserole dish. Layer on the diced ham and parsley. Top with the remaining kohlrabi. Pour the sauce ingredients over the kohlrabi and ham. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned on top. Serve immediately.
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upcoming town meetings
Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 3/21: Jenkins Park Advisory Board, 7:30 p.m. Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 3/19: Town Board, 6:30 p.m. 3/20: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 3/22: Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 3/19: Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. 3/20: City Council, 7 p.m. 3/21: Design Review Commission, 7 p.m. 3/22: Gateway Action Program of Saratoga, 7 p.m. Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 3/19: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY www.stillwaterny.org 3/19: Planning Board, 7 p.m. Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 3/21: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. 3/22: Zoning Board, 7 p.m. Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St., # 1 Ballston Spa, NY (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov 3/20: Board meeting, 4 p.m.
Send your local briefs to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication
Friday, March 16, 2012
L A LOC fs e i r b
Girls Softball Travel League is Looking for a Catcher Adirondack Xtreme 16U Girls Travel Softball is looking for a catcher. Will consider a strong 14U looking to move up. If interested, call (518) 587-2839.
Prescribed Fire Program at Saratoga National Historical Park With favorable weather conditions in place, certified wildland firefighters at Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, in conjunction with DEC Forest Rangers, will undertake prescribed burning of approximately 75 acres on the Battlefield in mid and late March 2012. The Battlefield’s grounds will remain open to pedestrian use during the prescribed fires. It is not anticipated that the prescribed fires will interfere with visitor use and enjoyment. If you have any questions about prescribed fires at Saratoga National Historical Park or park events, contact the park’s visitor center at (518) 664-9821, ext. 2985.
Grant awarded in Local’s Name National Brain Tumor Society recently awarded a research grant in the name of Saratoga Springs resident Billy Grey. This grant is funded through a Chair of Research named for Billy Grey, who lost his fight with glioblastoma mulitforme on July 13, 2001, just before his 13th birthday. The Billy Grey Research Grant was awarded to Markus Bredel, MD, PhD, of the University of Alabama, Birmingham. Dr. Bredel is leading a team that will focus on personalizing treatments for patients with brain tumors.
Saratoga Rowing Association’s Silent Auction Celebration Saratoga Rowing Association is holding a silent auction April 19 at 6 p.m. featuring Longfellows' lavish hors d' oeuvres and chef's tables; music by Mike Perkins; and special guest appearances. Tickets are $40 and available online at www.saratogarowing.com/silent-auction. If you or someone you know has an item or service to donate to the auction, contact Karen at klazar1@nycap.rr.com.
Saratoga Center for the Family New Programs 359 Ballston Ave. • Teen Healing Together Thursdays, March 22- May 24, 10 sessions, 4:30-5:30 p.m. A group for Teens ages 13-17 who have experienced the trauma of sexual abuse. The Healing Together program offers a safe and nurturing environment where group members with similar experiences are brought together for an opportunity to feel less isolated, become educated on the impacts and
dynamics of trauma, learn ways to express their feelings and cope with the impact of trauma, strengthen self-esteem, and ultimately foster a sense of belonging and hope. • Parenting Classes Mondays, starting March 19, 8 sessions, 5:30-7 p.m., $20 registration fee The program is designed to meet the needs of parents/caregivers who want to improve their parenting skills, develop child-rearing knowledge and learn and practice the skills needed to raise healthy, happy children. • Women’s Healing Together Thursdays, March 22- May 24, 10 sessions, 6-7 p.m. A group for women, ages 18 plus, who have experienced trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse, violence, accident, death of a loved one, or other stressful life events. For more information or to make a referral for any of these programs, call (518) 587-8008.
Upstate Equine Medical Center Castration Clinic Upstate Equine Medical Center, 362 Rugg Rd., Schuylerville A one-day equine castration clinic with a discounted charge of $100/horse is taking place March 21. The purpose of the clinic is to facilitate re-homing or adoption. This program is open to rescue horses and horses that must be castrated in order to find them a new adoptive home and will be limited to 24 horses. Horses must be nominated by their owners. All applications will be evaluated individually based upon need and use of the horse. The owners will be informed if they are selected for the program and an appointment time will be assigned to them. Call (518) 695-3744 with any questions or to request a nomination form. A nomination form must be submitted for a horse to be considered for the program. Completed and signed nomination forms must be submitted in advance via email to UpstateEquine@aol.com or they can be mailed to the clinic.
Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Bow Course Route 32, Victory Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club will teach a bow course Friday, April 13 from 6:30-9 p.m.and on Saturday 14 April from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Age requirement is 12 years and up. Contact Jeff Everts at (518) 664-8731 for registration and information.
After The Fire Meeting Eagle Matt Lee Firehouse, Washington St., Ballston Spa After The Fire's monthly meeting will be Tuesday, March 27 at 7 p.m. New members are always needed. Attend a meeting, find out about the organization, and see how you can help your neighbors in need. If you plan on attending a meeting, it is advised that you call ahead to assure that there are no changes in meeting locations, dates or times. Call (518) 435-4571 for more information or to RSVP, or visit www.afterthefire.org.
Import/Export Seminar Hyatt, 20 State Farm Place, Malta This class on March 22 provides a "back to
basics" review to assist with the fundamentals of international trade. If you are a traffic manager, purchasing manager, shipping and receiving personnel, compliance officer, sales manager, logistics manager, CFO or anyone wanting a better understanding of the international supply chain, this is the class for you! Attend one or both of the sessions. Import 101 will take place from 9 a.m.noon and Export 101 will run from 1-4 p.m. A small lunch will be served between noon– 1 p.m. courtesy of Mainfreight. Registration is free. To register, email Tracy Zayac at tracy.zayac@mainfreightusa.com or call (518) 857-1341.
St. Mary’s School’s FullDay PreK 40 Thompson St., Ballston Spa St. Mary’s School Ballston Spa has decided to open a second full-day Pre-K class for the 2012-2013 school year! Sixteen spots are available in this highly desirable program. Before and after care is available from 7 a.m.6 p.m., faith-based academic curriculum, daily hot lunch offerings, inclusion in our library, technology, music, and PE classes. Enrollment is currently taking place for all grades, Pre-K through fifth. Find out more by dropping in on any Wednesday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; by calling (518) 885-7300 for a personal tour; or by visiting www.smsbspa.org.
New York’s Maple Weekend New York State will celebrate its 17th annual Maple Weekend March 17-18 and March 2425 at more than 140 locations across the state. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day, maple syrup producers invite the public to learn about the syrup-making process. At this free-admission event, organized by the New York State Maple Producers Association visitors will also have the opportunity to taste and purchase maple products. In conjunction with Maple Weekend, several locations will host all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts and a variety of other family-oriented activities. For more information, visit www.nysmaple.com or www.mapleweekend.com.
Freihofer’s Run for Women Second Annual Training Challenge Capital Region women eager to get in shape, make new friends and participate in the 34th annual Freihofer’s Run for Women on Saturday, June 2, in downtown Albany are invited to take part in the Freihofer’s Training Challenge set to begin Monday, March 19 at The Crossings of Colonie. The 10-week training program offers a beginner’s portion for those new to running and an intermediate course for those who completed last year's challenge or want a more advanced workout. For more information or to register, visit www.freihofersrun.com or call (518) 273-5552.
10-Mile March for Parental Rights A “March in March” for parental rights is taking place March 24 at 9 a.m. Beginning at the regional office of children and family services in Rensselaer and ending at Senator Roy
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McDonald’s district office in Troy. Participants are asked to meet at 8:30 a.m. An inclement weather date has been set for Saturday, April 7. Petitions will be dropped off at Senator Roy McDonald's office regarding parental rights. This march is also to bring awareness to the shortcomings of Child Protective Services and Family Court. All activists are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Fathers 4 Justice’s president, Jack Frost, at fr33j6ck@yahoo.com.
Malta’s Spotlighter’s Theater Troupe Auditions Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe is producing “Wagon Wheels West” with performances slated for June 8 and 10. Auditions are scheduled for March 25 and 26, and are by appointment only. For additional information, contact Elyse Young, at (518) 899-4411, ext.305 or at theater@malta-town.org
Charrette & Form-Bases Zoning Code in Malta The Town of Malta’s 2011 Downtown Plan recommended that the town develop a formbased code for the downtown area. The town wants to create an attractive mixed-use neighborhood centered on an integrated multi-modal transportation network, with an improved and inviting pedestrian and bicycling environment. The town would like to accomplish this vision by developing a formbased code to implement “complete streets” principles, and an official map of future street locations, along with an update to current design standards. The town has scheduled a public participation charrette to help refine the details of the 2011 Downtown Plan in order to complete the new form-based zoning. A charrette is an intensive planning session where citizens, planners and other technical professionals collaborate. The Charrette Week: March 24 – March 28 at the Malta Community Center - Saturday, Mar 24: Public Workshop - 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. On Saturday morning a session will be held to help refine the vision of the Downtown Plan. This workshop will be the best opportunity for public input. - Sunday, Mar 25-Tuesday, Mar 27: Open Design Studio – 9 a.m. -8 pm. Throughout the week, a design studio will be set up at the center. Information gathered at the public workshop will be analyzed, initial ideas refined, concepts tested, and work started on the form-based code. - Monday, Mar 26: Open House - 6-8 p.m. The open house provides an informal opportunity to see how the work is evolving, provide critical input, and ensure that solutions are responding to public input. - Wednesday, Mar 27: Final Presentation - 6:30 p.m. Initial form-based code and complete street concepts for the downtown will be presented to the general public. A question and answer session will follow the presentation.
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Friday, March 16, 2012
living
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events Friday, March 16 All-You-Can-Eat Dinner 13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs The Principessa Elena Society will have its monthly fundraising allyou-can-eat dinner from 5-7 p.m. Seniors $8, adults $9, children 5-12 $5 and takeouts $10. For information, call (518) 584-4163.
Glorious Art by Women of the 18th Century Saratoga National Historical Park, Route 4, Stillwater A free month-long display showcasing a variety of 18th-century women artists, highlighted in 10 copy photographs of portrait and allegorical artworks painted and drawn by 18th-century women. For more information, contact (518) 664-9821, ext. 224 or check our visit www.nps.gov/sara.
Saturday, March 17 Heritage Hunters Meeting Saratoga Town Hall, Rt. 4, Schuylerville Heritage Hunters of Saratoga County will meet at 1 p.m. Program speaker will be Chuck D’Imperio discussing his book “Great Graves of Upstate New York.” The public is welcome. For information, call (518) 587-2978.
Ballston Spa Indoor Farmers’ Market 50 West High St., Cornell Cooperative Extension Auditorium The market will take place from 9
a.m.-noon. This month we are featuring products for your Easter holiday plans. For information, visit www.ballston.org or call (518) 8852772.
Sunday, March 18 Elks’ Breakfast Buffet 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs Let the Saratoga-Wilton Elks serve you a buffet breakfast from 8:30-11 a.m. Adults $7, seniors/military with ID $6, children 5-12 $5, under 5 free, takeouts $8.
Saratoga Reads “Books & Brunch” and Panel Discussion Enjoy a great meal and help support Saratoga Reads and its community programs, as well as the Henrietta Lacks Foundation. The brunch takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Sperry’s Restaurant (30 ½ Caroline St.). A panel discussion from 2-4 p.m. will follow across the street at the Saratoga Springs Public Library (49 Henry St.) The panel discussion is titled, “What’s Race Got to do With It? Medical Ethics, Race-Based Treatment, and the Legacy of Henrietta Lacks.” Refreshments will follow.
Monday, March 19 Breakfast Club for NOOK Barnes & Noble, 3029 Route 50, Saratoga Springs Get the most out of your NOOK! Beginning at 10 a.m., learn about NOOK essentials and how to customize the device to make it uniquely yours. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and even tell you how to download a Free Friday NOOK Book!
Wednesday, March 21 A.L.L. Presents the Apple Tree Readers Crandall Library, Glens Falls At 11 a.m. the Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) at
Saratoga Springs will showcase several members who have been published in the organization’s journal “The Apple Tree.” Ted Alderson, Margaret French, Carol Gregson, Dan Kelliher and Nancy Kimball will entertain the audience with readings from their original works. A short information session about the academy’s quality educational program for older adults and its spring term will be included in the program. This special event is free and open to the public.
WSWHE BOCES Open House F. Donald Myers Education Center 5 Henning Rd., Saratoga Springs Are you interested in upgrading your skills, changing careers, retraining, or joining the workforce? High school students, adults and veterans are encouraged to come and explore the career and tech programs available at WSWHE BOCES to help jump-start their career! Program demonstrations will run from 6-8 p.m. with members of business and industry.
Thursday, March 22 “Get Low,” Brown Bag Lunch and Discussion 110 Spring St., Gallery, Saratoga Springs Join members of the Saratoga Vital Aging Network (SVAN) at noon for a movie and brownbag lunch. “Get Low” is inspired by the true story of Tennessee recluse Felix "Bush" Breazeale, who planned his funeral while he was still alive. The movie stars Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, Sissy Spacek and Lucas Black. Admission is free and a drink and dessert will be provided.
Human Rights Lecture Skidmore College, Gannett Auditorium, Palamountain Hall Julianne Cartwright Traylor, a 1968 Skidmore College graduate, will return to the campus to present the college’s 28th annual F. William Harder Lecture, titled “Perspectives on Human Rights and Corporate Accountability.” Free and open to the public, the talk will begin at 5:15 p.m.
FAB 8 Neighborhood Meeting 400 Stone Break Road Extension, Malta A meeting will take place from 6-7 p.m. and is open to anyone in the community. Representatives from GlobalFoundaries will provide updates on the Fab 8 project and answer questions. Refreshments will be served. All visitors much check in at the visitor’s desk in the main lobby. Fab 8 Neighborhood Meetings are held quarterly as an opportunity for the company to meet with neighbors, provide updates on the company and the project, and answer questions from community stakeholders
Friday & Saturday Augustine Classical Academy Shakespeare Drama Augustine Classical Academy, 52 William St., Mechanicville “A Winter's Tale” by William Shakespeare will be performed Friday, March 23 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 24 at 2 p.m. In this lesser-known drama, the master bard weaves a tale of jealousy, betrayal and grief. Tickets are $5 for adults and can be purchased at the door, or ahead of time by calling (518) 541-2089.
Ballston Spa’s Springtime Antiques Extravaganza Daisy Dry Goods, Ballston Spa Antique Center and Rosie Bloom Again are hosting an antiques extravaganza Friday, March 23 through Sunday, March 25. All three shops will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day of the event. Free refreshments will be served. There will be newly-arrived merchandise, discounts on select items, and free drawings for gift certificates. Hundreds of one-of-akind treasures are just waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the bargains, treats and excitement all weekend long.
Friday, March 23
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Opening Reception & Gallery Talk Schick Art Gallery, Skidmore College Artists participating in the “Selected Group Exhibition of Drawings by Contemporary Artists” exhibit will host a gallery talk beginning at 5 p.m. An opening reception will follow at 6 p.m. For more information, call (518) 5805049.
Upcoming Elks Auxiliary Annual Victorian Tea 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Ladies Auxiliary will hold their annual Victorian Tea on Saturday, March 24 from 1-4 p.m. A $10 donation at the door includes finger foods, soup, desserts and a chance at the many raffles and door prizes. Ladies of all ages, don your Easter bonnet or racing hat to sip tea and savor friendships. All money raised will benefit the Community Service Scholarship Fund. For more information, call Corinne at (518) 5843468.
Saratoga Contradance First Baptist Church, 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs On Saturday, March 24 enjoy contras, squares and couples dances from 8-11 p.m., with beginner lesson at 7:30. All dances taught and newcomers are welcome. Wear sneakers or other soft-soled shoes only, please. Adults $10, students $7, children under 15, $6. For more information, call (518) 885-4430 or visit www.danceflurry.org.
A Taste of Ballston Spa HVCC Tec Smart Campus, 345 Hermes Rd., Malta The Taste of Ballston Spa is an annual event showcasing local restaurants while raising money for the foundation’s mission of educational enrichment. On Monday, March 26, from 6-8 p.m. enjoy an evening of food and friendship with delicious samples of dishes from each of the restaurant sponsors. Register and purchase tickets at www.BallstonSpaEducationFounda tion.com.
Send your calendar items to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com before 5 p.m. on Monday for Friday publication.
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Saratoga Celebrates St. Patty’s Day SARATOGA COUNTY - It’s a big music weekend for those looking to get out and enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day festivities across Saratoga County. Check out the Bently’s, the Irish Times, the Parting Glass, Dango’s, JP Bruno’s, The Local or The Mill for live music all day, or one of the other many fine Saratoga County establishments listed to the right. Enjoy, and may the luck of the Irish be with you!
Friday, March 16, 2012
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Local Gigs Week of 3/16-3/17 Friday, 3.16: •Tim Olsen Quart, 9 pm @ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759
•Mike LaPoint, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060
•Vibratones, 9 pm @ bentley’s - 899.4300
•David Francey with Craig Werth, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022
•Ubunto @ gaffney’s - 587.7359
•Who’s Your Paddy, 8:30 pm @ irish times - 583.0003
•Forgetting Mikey, 6 pm @ jp bruno’s - 745.1180
•Marcus Duo, 9 pm @ the mill - 899.5253
•The McKrells, 9 pm @ the parting glass - 583.1916
•Just Nate, 7:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563
•High Peaks Band, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066
•Justin Joyner, 6 pm @ saratoga winery - 584.9463
•Jason Marsalis Vibes Band, 7 & 9:30 pm @ van dyck - 348.7999
•The Refrigerators, 8 pm @ vapor - 581.5772
•Tony Jenkins Jazz Trip, 8:30 pm @ wallabee’s jazz bar - 792.8282
Saturday, 3.17: •John Savage Quart., 9 pm
Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com
•Bluz House Rockers, 5 pm •Funk Evolution, 9 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022
•Acoustic Circus @ gaffney’s - 587.7359
•GRAVITY, 8 pm @ the ice house - 581.7846
•Midnight Rodeo, 6 pm •Soul Session Trio, 9 pm @ the inn at saratoga - 583.1890
•Black Abbey, noon •Plum Muffinz, 6 pm •DJ’s Vinyl Tap, 9:30 pm @ irish times - 583.0003
•Mike LaPoint, 1:30 pm •Off the Hook, 6 pm •Street Talk, 10:30 pm @ jp bruno’s - 745.1180
•Jeff Walton, noon •Tim Wechgelaer & Larry • Clyman, 8 pm @ the local - 682.2772
•Dan Sherwin, 4 pm •Jeff Strange, 9 pm @ the mill - 899.5253
•Live Irish Music (feat. The McKrells), all day @ the parting glass - 583.1916
•George Giroux, 6:30 pm @ primelive ultra lounge - 583.4563
•The Fighting 86's, 9 pm @ putnam den - 584.8066
•Two Planets Away, 9 pm @ wallabee’s jazz bar - 792.8282
@ 9 maple avenue - 587.7759
•Cabin 3, 9 pm @ bailey’s - 583.6060
•Bernie Branch, noon •Jeff Strange, 5 pm •Black Abbey, 9 pm @ bentley’s - 899.4300
•The Whippersnappers, 8 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022
•Funk Evolution, 1 pm @ dango’s - 587.2022
Open Mics: •Tue. w/Pete Pashoukos @ gaffney’s - 587.7359
•Wed. Open Mic @ putnam den - 584.8066
•Thur. Open Mic, 7 pm @ caffè lena - 583.0022
•Thur. Open Mic, 10 pm @ circus café - 583.1106
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Friday, March 16, 2012
David Francey a MustSee for Folk Music Fans Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter to Perform at Caffè Lena Friday, March 16 by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - David Francey is a rare kind of performer - a singer-songwriter with a humble yet commanding stage presence, at times serious and introspective while disarmingly humorous and witty; his captivating stories and songs poetic, extremely personal, and yet straight forward, true and often times instantly relatable. He’s the kind of performer who actively engages the audience with personal stories about his songs and his past, speaking regularly about his wife, Beth, his time as a construction worker in Toronto and his small, day-to-day experiences that make an audience feel connected and familiar. With over nine full length albums of material to draw from, folk music fans looking for some pre- St. Patrick’s Day entertainment are encouraged to head over to Caffè Lena this Friday, March 16 to see the award-winning Francey for themselves. The show begins at 8 p.m., with tickets going for $20 at the door. Francey, a native of Scotland who relocated to Canada early in his youth, broke out onto the music scene in 1999 with his first record, “Torn Screen Door.” Driven by acoustic guitar and a few strategically-placed strings, it’s Francey’s own voice that really sells his debut album. Nowhere is this clearer than on the title track, where Francey’s a cappella song about an abandoned farmhouse lost in the Canadian landscape is whimsical and simply haunting. Since his first album, Francey has picked up three Juno awards (the Canadian equivalent to the Grammys); Best Singer in the
photo provided
David Francey Contemporary category at the 2007 Canadian Folk Music Awards; first prize at the ninth annual USA Songwriting Competition; the overall grand prize winner at the 2010 Seventh Annual International Acoustic Music Awards; and has been nominated for another two Juno Awards in 2012 for Best Roots and Traditional Album for his record, “Late Edition,” and Best Music DVD of the Year for “Burning Bright.” Francey comes to Caffè Lena with long-time accompanist Craig Werth by his side, featuring stripped down acoustic versions of his songs in this famously intimate setting. For folk music fans the show is simply a must - but even for those less familiar with the genre, Francey performances have a lot to offer and rarely disappoint. For more information about the show, visit www.caffelena.org. To learn more about David Francey or to sample his music, visit www.davidfrancey.com.
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Home Made Theater 2012 Spring Benefit SARATOGA SPRINGS - Home Made Theater (HMT), the resident theater company of Saratoga Springs, will host their Annual Spring Benefit Saturday, March 31 at the Spa Little Theater in the Spa State Park. Film and television actor Marcus Dean Fuller will take on a demanding duo role for the evening as master of ceremonies and auctioneer. The evening will include culinary jewels from Black Diamond Caterers, silent and live auctions, a sneak peek at HMT’s upcoming production of Neil Simon’s “Rumors,” and a chance to groove to the sounds of The Garland Nelson Ensemble. The fundraiser begins at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a silent auction. Bid on fantastic dinners at fine area restaurants, massages and other spa treatments, hotel stays and tickets to various area events and attractions. During this time, you can also strike a pose in a photo booth from Saratoga Photobooth Company. Honorary chairs for the event are Christel and Colin MacLean with underwriting support from Drs. Natalie Adler and Gregory Pinto, Circus Cafe, Emily Farnham Mastrianni, Helen and Guy Mastrion and Sperry’s Restaurant. Tickets to Home Made Theater’s spring benefit are $70 per person. To receive a benefit invitation, call HMT at (518) 587-4427. Reservations are limited and must be made no later then March 23. To view an invitation, visit www.homemadetheater.org/special_events.php.
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TODAY
Don McLean to Perform at SaratogaArtsFest SARATOGA SPRINGS SaratogaArtsFest has announced this year’s lineup will include singer-songwriter Don McLean, whose 1971 hit “American Pie” has become a popular music classic. McLean will perform at 8 p.m. on Friday, June 8, in the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College as part of the four-day ArtsFest, June 7-10. Tickets to the McLean performance go on sale March 20. Admission is priced at $50, or only $10 with a SaratogaArtsFest ARTSPASS. The ARTSPASS admission package is available through March 31 at a discounted price of $30. Visit SaratogaArtsFest.org to purchase an ARTSPASS and a discounted admission ticket to Don McLean. Tickets to the concert can be purchased for $50 directly through the box office at the Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College. "SaratogaArtsFest participants have an opportunity to enjoy Don McLean's music in an intimate setting at an affordable price, and to explore the many arts offerings in and around Saratoga Springs, both during the festival and throughout the year after," said Mary Ellen O’Loughlin, executive director of SaratogaArtsFest.
by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY
photo provided
Don McLean Although McLean recently denied a long-held rumor that his hit song, “American Pie,” was written locally in Saratoga Springs, McLean does indeed have local ties to the region. In 1968, McLean turned down a scholarship to attend Columbia University Graduate School, instead deciding to become a resident singer at the famed local music venu, Caffè Lena. Though best known for “American Pie,” McLean is a prolific songwriter whose hits include “Vincent,” “And I Love You So,”
“Castles in the Air,” and “Crying.” (a song written by Roy Orbison). He continues to draw large audiences during his many tours in the United States and Europe. SaratogaArtsFest is a four-day celebration of the arts in and around Saratoga Springs. The festival programming includes dance, film, literary art, music, theater and visual arts. The ArtsFest kicks off the summer by presenting the talents of local, regional and national artists during this citywide event held each June.
SARATOGA SPRINGS Think your chili is the hottest stuff this side of the Hudson? Put your money where your mouth is at the seventh annual Chili CookOff and Carnival Friday, March 23 at the Saratoga Springs YMCA. Enter your chili for $10 by calling the YMCA at (518) 583-9622, or visit the branch in person at 290 West Ave. in Saratoga Springs. Contestants will also be granted 10 tasting-tickets to scope out the competition. You do not have to be a YMCA member to participate. “We have a contest for the Best Dressed Chef,” said Patti Laudicina, the school-age and scholarship director at the Saratoga Springs YMCA. “We also have our Golden Pepper Award, which goes to the best chili of the evening. And then we have some smaller prizes that go to the Best Red Chili or the Best White Chili,” she added. Not so comfortable in the kitchen, but still comfortable enough as a chili connoisseur
passing judgment on someone else’s concoction? Adults can purchase four chili-tasting tickets for $5, and cast their ballot for their favorite chili of the evening. Additional chili-tasting tickets are available at $1 per tasting. Kids 13 and under can purchase tickets for $2, which also include one ballot and three carnival tickets. “In addition to the chili tasting, we have a carnival in the gym with all kinds of bounce houses and games and prizes,” said Laudicina. Additional tickets for the carnival can be purchased at $5 for 10 tickets. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Saratoga Regional YMCA’s annual scholarship campaign, “We Build People.” “People can apply for a scholarship for memberships or programs at the Y, based on family income and how many people are in their family,” said Laudicina. “We give anywhere from 10 percent to 90 percent off our membership through the scholarships.” For more information, visit www.saratogaregionalymca.org/n ews_special.php.
Fun, Fabulous & Feminine at the Life Stylized Center on Broadway SARATOGA SPRINGS - Sierra J. Sullivan, one of the senior partners and coach leaders of the Life Stylized Center on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, is facilitating a two-and-a-half-day experience for women called “Fun, Fabulous & Feminine” to be held Friday -
Sunday, March 23-25. Sullivan was the principle architect of last year’s successful Woman’s Fest in Saratoga Springs, which recognized the centennial of International Woman’s Day, celebrated every year on March 8. Fun, Fabulous & Feminine is a joyous celebration of how women are being empowered to positively change the world. This gathering is designed to reignite self-awareness and self-esteem, to help women focus on personal transformation, and to reinforce each attendee’s selfworth and ultimately their self-confidence. To reserve your space, visit www.FunFabFem.com
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Friday, March 16, 2012
American String Quartet to Perform March 24 at Skidmore College SARATOGA SPRINGS The American String Quartet, internationally recognized as one of the world’s finest quartets, will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 24, at the Arthur Zankel Music Center on the Skidmore College campus, as part of the college’s annual String Festival. The American String Quartet has spent decades honing the luxurious sound for which it is famous. Quartet members include Peter Winograd (violin), Laurie Carney (violin), Daniel Avshalomov (viola) and Wolfram Koessel (cello). The group celebrated its 35th anniversary in the 20102011 season and in its years of touring, has performed in all 50 states and appeared in the most important concert halls worldwide. The quartet’s presentations of the complete quartets of Beethoven, Schubert, Bartók and Mozart have won widespread critical acclaim, and its MusicMasters Complete Mozart String Quartets, performed on a matched quartet set of instruments by Stradivarius, are widely considered to have set the standard for this repertoire. Formed when its original members were students at the Juilliard School, the American String Quartet’s career began with the group winning both the Coleman Competition and the Naumburg Award in the same year. Individually, the members devote additional time outside the quartet’s active performance and teaching schedule to hold solo appearances, recitals and master classes. The March 24 concert will include Franz Joseph Haydn’s Quartet in G Major, Op. 77, No. 1. Many of the motifs in this piece, of folk-song extraction and endowed with great directness of expression
Night At The Brewseum photo provided
and simplicity of means, are treated with Haydn’s own sophisticated, learned compositional approach. Béla Bartók’s String Quartet No. 6 was written during World War II, and it is not difficult to hear some of the anguish Bartók must have suffered as it became clear that he would have to flee his beloved Hungary. One piece of musical evidence of his despair is the linear progression of the four movements in his work—each one is slower than its predecessor—that finally ends in a mood of bleak resignation. Maurice Ravel’s String Quartet in F Major is perfectly crafted; its structure is lean, and each instrument is given lovely things to say in registers that flatter it, and the music’s suave sensuality charms listeners from start to finish. Admission for the March 24 American String Quartet performance at Zankel Music Center is $12 adults, $7 seniors and $3 for Skidmore students, faculty and staff. For advance reservations, visit www.skidmore.edu/zankel or call the Zankel box office (518) 5808381 for more information. The Zankel Music Center is wheelchair accessible and offers listening devices for the hearing
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impaired. For more information, please visit www.skidmore.edu/zankel.
Craft Beers and Military Gear Beer and Wine Tasting Event at the New York State Military Museum SARATOGA SPRINGS The Saratoga Springs Lions Club and the Friends of the New York State Military Museum will be co-hosting a “Night at the Brewseum: Craft Beers and Military Gear” Friday, March 30 from 6 - 9 p.m. at the New York State Military Museum at 61 Lake Avenue in Saratoga Springs. The event will feature craft beers from across the region, bycourtesy Daniel of Schechtman Saratoga Eagle Sales andTODAY Service, wine from Saratoga local wineries, food courtesy of Maestro’s and
entertainment. Tickets are on sale to the public for $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Tickets are $20 in advance or at the door for active duty military personnel. Non-drinkers can purchase tickets for $10. Tickets can be purchased on the Lions Club website at www.saratogalions.com, at the New York Military Museum store or from any Lions member. For more information on the event, contact Jim Edwards at (518) 212-7752 or visit the Saratoga Lions website.
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Community Corner
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Celebrate 60 Years
The Saratoga Springs chapter of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is celebrating their 60th anniversary! 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. In 2011, this chapter made $5,500 in contributions to various Catholic charities. 2012 officers pictured are from left: President James Mitchell, Vice President C. Michael Ingersoll, Treasurer Dr. Stephen R. Foley, and Secretary Gerard Zabala.
The Saratoga Springs chapter was formed in 1953 and its initial meeting was held in the Rose Room at the Worden Inn and was attended by over 50 people:
Ballston Spa High School Students Display Photos Several Ballston Spa High School students will have their photographs on display at Brookside Museum Friday, March 2 through April 27, 2012. This project was inspired by Susan Masto, a photography teacher at the Ballston Spa High School, who challenged her students to photograph One of the photos on display by Linda Danison. Ballston Spa.
SARATOGA
Friday, March 16, 2012
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Wedding Announcement
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Krone are pleased to announce the marriage of their son, Joseph Krone, to Ly My Phuong February 16, 2012, at a small chapel in Middletown, DE. The Reverend Lorraine Rozanski officiated. The bride is the daughter of Pham My Phoung and Ly Minh Hai of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The groom is the son of James and Linda Krone of Clermont, Florida. He is the grandson of the late Charles and Ada More of Saratoga Springs and the nephew of Laurie (More) Feldhaus of Saratoga Springs. After a local reception the couple took a trip to Pennsylvania. The bride is a graduate of Ho Chi Minh University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. The groom is a graduate of the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor of Science in business. He is currently the Global Events Manager for Battlefront Miniatures. They currently live in Newark, Delaware.
the
Tooth fairy club
Take a look at this week’s new club members
Local Students Named to Castleton’s Academic Lists Nicole Valastro of Gansevoort was named to Castleton State College’s president’s list for the spring semester. To qualify for this honor, Nicole maintained full-time status and a semester grade point average of 4.0. Kerry Boyod of Ballston Lake and Megean St. John of Greenwich were named to Castleton State College’s dean’s list for the spring semester. To qualify, Kerry and Megean maintained full-time status and grade point averages of 3.5.
Lillirose
Saratoga Springs Educators Featured in NYSUT Publication Amy Elsworth, a third-grade teacher at the Lake Avenue Elementary School, and Dr. Colleen Carroll, the Saratoga Springs City School District’s director for assessment and staff development, have collaborated on an article for the April issue of "Educator's Voice," a publication of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT). They will also present at NYSUT's annual national conference, "A Celebration of Teaching and Learning," to be held in March in New York City.
Eliza
Calvin Turns 1! Calvin Quinn Ordon is turning 1 year old on March 17, 2012, St. Patrick's Day. He is the son of Jessica and Jason Ordon of Ballston Spa; the grandson of Nancy and Charlie Quinn of Wilton and Maryann and Gary Ordon of Saratoga Springs; and the great-grandson of Lena and Henry Zullo and Marian and Charles Quinn all of Troy. Happy first birthday, Calvin!
Maegan The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:
659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010
SARATOGA
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Friday, March 16, 2012
Sudoku
PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES Crossword
27 If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over? John Wooden
Words to know: malapropism: n, an act or habit of misusing words ridiculously, especially by the confusion of words that are similar in sound. See puzzle solutions on page 29
ACROSS
See puzzle solution on page 29
Scrabblegram
See puzzle solution on page 29
1 Storage spot 5 10-Down's request: Abbr. 10 State along the Sea of Cortez 14 Overhead projector? 15 Control __ 16 Sensory stimulant 17 Some Monopoly props. 18 Long look 19 Iris locale 20 *Hail 23 Club with very little loft 24 William of __, known for his "razor" maxim 27 Bouquet __ 28 *Tar 32 "You rang?" 34 Dos Passos trilogy 35 Some map nos. 36 [not my mistake] 39 *Tin 42 Lunch, say 43 Norsk Folkemuseum setting 45 Sashimi choice 46 Shelf-filling ref. work 48 *Poe 51 "The best is __ be": Browning 55 Fractious 56 Had a slice of humble pie 58 What you need to get the starred clues to fit their answers 62 Shell occupant 64 Handled 65 Pilate's "Behold!" 66 Typesetting unit 67 Paper fan feature 68 Unité politique 69 Envelope abbr. 70 Sturdy fabric 71 Est. and Lat., once DOWN 1 Seasoned salt? 2 Plaza de la Revolución locale 3 Hit that sends the game to extra innings, e.g. 4 Predetermined outcome 5 "__ Easy": Buddy Holly classic 6 Like many aunts 7 Actor McGregor 8 Dorm hoops ball 9 Lineage display 10 Imposer of a drunk's comeuppance 11 Champion 12 Break fluid? 13 First name in Fighting Irish history 21 Northeastern natives
Movie Review
Gasoline Alley
47 Official proclamations 49 Mitt Romney's alma mater: Abbr. 50 Livestock marker 52 Developers' acquisitions 53 RV follower 54 Nocturnal newborns 57 CD alternative 59 Baker's qtys. 60 Healthy 61 Decorative jug 62 Returns pro 63 Aflame
Project X
Did you spend your entire high school career as someone with few friends who will more than likely be forgotten by the student body moments after graduating? What could you do to change that? Thomas (played by Thomas Mann) is turning 17 and his parents are leaving town. His parents (played by relative unknowns Peter Mackenzie and Caitlin Dullany) fully expect him to throw a party in their absence and simply ask that it be kept under control. Still, his friends Costa (played by Oliver Cooper) and JB (played by Jonathan Daniel Brown) believe that they can bring into being an epic gathering that will elevate their friend and themselves to legendary status simply through social networking and word of mouth. Unsure of what to expect, they encounter a former classmate who recently graduated and invite him only to discover he’s already planning to attend. And, every step of the way, Kirby (played by Kirby Bliss Blanton) is telling Thomas that Costa’s party is a bad idea. Kirby is apparently Thomas’s only female friend. Even though Blanton is quite attractive, Thomas entertains numerous fantasies regarding Alexis (another student played by Alexis Knapp) who has no idea he’s alive. The title is terribly unoriginal, but it was initially intended to be a placeholder until it started to generate interest. Whether that was in any way related to the 1968 science fiction film of the same name or the 1987 comedyscience fiction-thriller starring Matthew Broderick, I can’t say. I will say that I and many others in the theater
At The Movies With Trey Roohan
22 Theater ticket word 25 Quarter 26 Computer game set on an island 29 Inventive cubist? 30 Pac-12's Beavers 31 Seat of Texas's McLennan County 33 Coal-rich region 36 Woefully out of shape 37 Ferry destination 38 Someone to admire 40 Question of identity 41 Worked (up) 44 Empire partitioned by the Treaty of Lausanne
laughed out loud numerous times throughout the film. Some have called this film irresponsible and say it sets a bad example for high school students. Then again, a film that sets a good example would probably depict a party where no alcohol or drugs are consumed, no cigarettes are smoked, and everyone returned home and went to bed at a decent hour after, of course, helping to clean up. Would ANYBODY see that? I wouldn’t. It’s not revolutionary and there are no profound life lessons, but it is unmistakably a good time. (6.6/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.
Broom Hilda
Animal Crackers
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CLASSIFIED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
MERCHANDISE The Katrina Trask Cooperative Nursery School in Saratoga Springs, NY will be holding its Spring children’s consignment sale on March 30 and 31st, 2012. American Legion, 34 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs Hours: Friday, March 30, 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. Half-Price sale: Saturday, March 31, 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Items for sale include: Children’s Spring/Summer clothing (sizes infant to size 12) Kids’ gear (car seats, strollers, high chairs, etc.) Furniture (cribs, toddler beds, changing tables, etc.) Kids sports equipment, trikes/bikes and small play equipment. Toys, puzzles and games. Kids’ books and DVDs Maternity and nursing wear. For more information: Email to ktconsignmentsale@yahoo.com or visit www.ktnurseryschool.org. Katrina Trask Cooperative Nursery School is a non-profit organization located at 24 Circular Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. 518-584-8968.
HELP WANTED
AVIATION MAINTENANCE /AVIONICS Graduate in 14 Months. FAA Approved; Financial aid if qualified.Job placement assistance. Call National Aviation Academy Today! 800-292-3228 or NAA.edu Driver- Up to $.42/mile plus $.02/mile safety bonus. Daily Pay. Weekly Hometime. Van and Refreigerated. CDL-A, 3 months recent esperience required 800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com
SARATOGA
Friday, March 16, 2012
FOR RENT
FOR THOSE WHO CARE 2 BDRM, 2 BATH SMALL & QUIET MOBILE HOME PARK SARATOGA SCHUYLERVILLE STILLWATER $600 - 850+. CALL 237-1500
Cushman Turtle Stool, original tag. Child's table, maple refinished. Godui framed prints, original 1869. Picnic table w/seperate benches. Antique Gypsy Black Kettle. Liberty Blue Dishes. All mint condition. Make offers. 383-3617
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$899,900
WILTON McGregor Village Apts. WINTER SPECIAL - 1ST MONTH FREE 2 bdrm, 1 bath. Cats only. (A/C avail) 518-886-8013 All 1st flr. units includes features for persons w/disabilities required by the Fair Housing Act. Now $775/month,
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SARATOGA SPRINGS 219 CRESCENT AVE Saratoga Springs, in town, Craftsman style, 5 yr. old custom home. Just off Nelson Ave, close to flat track, zoned for horses. Easy walk to state park or downtown. Spectacular custom millwork, stainless & granite kitchen, fabulous 1st floor master suite, tile & granite baths, hardwood floors & tile throughout. Large, open great room with stone fireplace. Beautiful front porch w/stone columns. In-law suite above garage. Sharon Byrne (518) 527-4914 sbyrne@realtyusa.com
JUST LISTED
NORTHUMBERLAND 205 LITTLE OAKS TER. $209,900
SERVICES
SERVICES
Business Service Directory cleaning
Clean As A Whistle Professional Residential Cleaning From our shining customer service, to your sparkling clean home, you can count on Clean As A Whistle! Reliable. Insured. Bonded 518-894-4476
decorating ELEGANT INTERIORS Custom painting and wallpapering. Residential/ light commercial. Faux finishes. Custom Molding. Free estimates fully insured/ ref. Evenings & weekend schedules avail. When attention to detail matters. Greg Perreault (518)366-5743
small engine repair Adirondack Equipment Repair Snowblowers, Chain Saws, Lawn Equipment. Pick up & Delivery 581-3809 87 Old Schuylerville Rd, Saratoga Springs, 12866
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REAL ESTATE
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Super cute contemporary that has been well maintained by the original owner - the pride of ownership shines through. Layout includes a first floor master, open floor plan with a vaulted ceiling, large closets, two spacious bedrooms upstairs and a loft. Full walkout basement allows for expansion of living areas. Enjoy the outdoors on the deck or covered patio. Chandelier excluded. This house is waiting for you! Jennifer R Johnson (518) 588-1392 • jennj@kw.com
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Friday, March 16, 2012
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Community Sports Bulletin New York State High School Boys’ Basketball Championships Are Here! FRIDAY- MARCH 16, 2012, DAY SESSION 10 a.m. Class D semifinal: (5) Batavia-Notre Dame vs. (3) Sackets Harbor 11:45 a.m. Class D semifinal: (10) Madrid-Washington vs. (9) Livingston Manor 1:30 p.m. Class C semifinal: (6) OTC Middle College vs. (3) Cooperstown EVENING SESSION 5 p.m Class C semifinal: (2)Mechanicville vs. Tuckahoe (1) 6:45 p.m. Class B semifinal: (3) Bishop Luden vs. (6) Olean 8:30 p.m. Class B semifinal: (2) Watervliet vs. (9) John S. Burke Catholic SATURDAY – MARCH 17, 2012, DAY SESSION 9 a.m. Class A semifinal: (11) Harborfields vs. (5) Bishop Kearney 10:45 a.m. Class A semifinal: (3) Jamesville-Dewitt vs (1) Tappan Zee
Young Motocross Rider Takes Honors at MSC
12:30 p.m. Class AA semifinal: (8) Baldwinville vs. (5) Aquinas Inst. 2:15 p.m. Class AA semifinal: (2) Christian Brothers vs. (1) Mt. Vernon EVENING SESSION 5:30 p.m. – Class D final 7:15 p.m. – Class C final 9 p.m. – Class B final SUNDAY MARCH 18, 2012, DAY SESSION 1:30 p.m. – Class A final 3:15 p.m. – Class AA final
Puzzle Solutions from p.27 Send your sports stories or briefs to Andrew Marshall, Sports Editor at amarshall@saratoga publishing.com
GLENS FALLS – High school basketball fans look forward to it all year, and once again it’s time for the New York State Public High School Athletic Association basketball championships at the Glens Falls Civic Center. The action tips off bright and early March 16, with the first game scheduled for a 10 a.m. start. From there, games will be played all weekend long, with day and evening sessions on March 16-17, and a single day session on March 18. The first championship game is scheduled for the evening session March 17 and will be for the Class D title. Varsity squads from all corners of New York State will be making the journey to Glens Falls in hopes of returning as state champion. On the boys’ side, locally featured teams include Christian Brothers Academy, Mechanicville and Watervliet. Each day or evening session costs $10 a ticket, and tickets are available at the Glens Falls Civic Center Box Office. For more information, visit www.nysbasketball.net.
Maple Avenue middle schooler and motocross rider Jared Cordero placed second in the Junior Mini Class and third in the 65cc class at the Metropolitan Sports Committee championships held February 26. Jared is an avid racer and began competing in honor of his late friend Connor LaFrance. With such a promising finish at his young age, we don’t think it will be very long before he brings home the gold medal. Congratulations, Jared!
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“Manning” up for Player Safety
Blue Streaks Hockey Ousted in Semifinals of NYS Championship by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY UTICA – The whirlwind season of the Saratoga Springs varsity ice hockey team has come to an end. The Blue Streaks were eliminated from the New York State championship tournament during their semifinal matchup against the Section V representative Pittsford Panthers March 10. This is the third year in a row the team has fell short of its championship aspirations, though the team lost in the finals the previous two seasons. Tyler Bullard scored for Saratoga with just over a minute left to tie the game at 2-2 and eventually force overtime. The extra period wouldn’t even last a minute, as Pittsford’s Max Kaufman would score just 42 seconds in to send Saratoga to its tournament exit. Bullard had been down on the ice just a few minutes before his goal, after he took a hit in front of the Pittsford net. He would be down for about six minutes before shaking it off and resuming play. The Blue Streaks had luck on their side in the early going, when in the first period a centering pass
from Pittsford’s Matt Klingbeil deflected off one of his own defenders and into their net. Saratoga’s Joe Chiaravalle was credited with the goal to give the team a 1-0 lead. Pittsford would make up for their own-goal gaffe in the second period, as forward Max Kaufman would break loose on a power play. He would score an impressive goal after he faked goaltender Ryan Bourgeois out of position to tie the game. The third period invited a bit of controversy into the equation, when Bourgeois would lose his stick with 16 minutes to go in regulation. He would be without the stick for over 30 seconds before the team could get him a replacement, and eventually the team drew a penalty as another player slid the stick back to Bourgeois with his stick. The rules state the player is not allowed to return the stick to the goaltender with a swipe of his stick. In order to legally return the stick, the player must pick up the stick with his hands and bring it to the goaltender. Though it was the correct call, the confusion over the penalty left some players frustrated over whether Pittsford had intentionally moved the stick out to the blue line and away from Bourgeois. The resulting power play would lead to Pittsford’s second goal of the game. After just over a minute
TODAY
into their man-advantage, Taylor Howard knocked the puck into the net after a flurry of action in front of Bourgeois. This gave the Panthers a 2-1 lead early in the third period. The two teams were evenly matched throughout, with Saratoga holding a slight 20-17 advantage in shots on goal. Bourgeois would finish the game with 15 saves, and his Pittsford counterpart Luke Loveys would finish with 18. Blue Streaks head coach Dave Torres would pull Bourgeois from the net at the end of regulation to get a 6-on-5 advantage during the final stretch. The gamble paid off, as Bullard’s goal would force overtime. Kaufman would make sure they didn’t stay tied for long, once again breaking loose down the ice and scoring his second goal of the contest less than a minute into overtime. It was the second overtime game played that afternoon in Utica, as top ranked Suffern from Section I would need all of regulation, four 7.5 minute overtimes, and finally a 2-0 shootout victory to put away Section III’s West Genesee in a game played before Saratoga’s. Suffern would go on to defeat Pittsford 3-2 to win the state’s championship March 11. It was a come from behind victory, as Pittsford would hold a two-goal lead before Suffern stormed back for the win and championship.
Damian Fantauzzi Were the Colts wise to let Peyton Manning walk away? The answer to that question may come back to haunt the Indianapolis Colts in the near future. While he has been medically cleared to participate in an NFL game, we haven’t seen him throw yet. I do think that Mr. Manning will be back in the saddle. Wherever he ends up, I believe he will ultimately be as effective as he was with the Colts. Just recently John Madden came up with the colossal idea that there needs to be more protection for the quarterbacks of the NFL. He justified it with the comparison to the penalty of “roughing the kicker.” I agree with Madden’s proposal of more protection for one of the most vulnerable position on the gridiron. Peyton’s neck problems came from high tackles that were around his head after throwing a pass or being sacked during games. There needs to be a penalty for any tackle that occurs above the shoulder pads with exceptions of running backs that come through a hole in the offensive line. They are already low and expecting to be hit. Football has been labeled as being a violent game, which may be an unfair assessment. However, it is a game of contact and aggression and that can sometimes result in violent plays. The majority of those situations mostly come with
some sort of punishment such as fouls, penalties, yellow cards or ejection from the game. We need more civility in sports; this isn’t some Roman Colosseum, where entertainment came in a form where the victor lived and the loser died. We don’t really have that mentality, do we? In the 21st century, which is supposedly a modern time of civility, the gladiators of our sports world need more protection so we can enjoy watching their skillful performances and stop sensationalizing violence in sports. Aggressive play is going to occur in all sports, but it’s not necessary to play with the intent to injure the opponent. Injuries are going to happen and sometimes there is no control from preventing them from happening. It’s the unnecessary aggressive play during an event that can be curtailed with more enforced penalties, like ejection from a game. In the NBA, there is a rule that a player can’t touch a referee. Yet, a swinging elbow is sometimes judged as incidental contact and is considered part of the game. Tell that to my nose, which was broken twice by “incidental” contact. One time I was pretty sure it wasn’t so incidental. In most sports, there needs to be more protection by establishing more consequences for unnecessary roughness.This way the fans can have more time to enjoy the abilities of our revered superstars. I hope that Peyton gets back on the horse and makes the Indianapolis Colts regret letting go of the man who brought them back to relevancy. Athletes like him should have the opportunity for longevity in their careers.
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Spa Catholic Saints Getting Ready for 2012 Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – Though it’s only the middle of March, the unseasonably warm weather has a lot of people thinking spring. As the calendar moves closer to the eventual arrival of the vernal equinox, so too begins the countdown to every baseball fan hearing their two favorite words, “opening day.” Area high school baseball fans know that when you’re talking about teams to be reckoned with, the conversation begins with the Saratoga Central Catholic Saints. The purple and gold clad Saints boast some impressive records over their last five seasons. They have won three consecutive Section II championships, and four in their last five years. Their record over the last five years stands at a sparkling 110-19, which averages out to 22 wins and 4 losses a season. They are the defending back-to-back northeast regional champions. One of their most famous alumni is pitcher Tim Stauffer, who was the opening day starter for the San Diego Padres in 2011. The program has a strong tradition, which ultimately leads to heightened expectations. Manager Phonse Lambert knows this year’s squad isn’t as heralded as years past, but he feels they can rise to the occasion. “We go into every game feeling that we have a chance to win, and our goals and expectations are no different from year to year,” said Lambert during the team’s March 12 practice. “We graduated a ton of kids last year, and those kids really left their mark. This is a new group right here and hopefully they’ll leave their own mark on Saratoga Catholic Baseball. “ Graduation took a heavy toll on the school’s pitching staff, losing Billy McDonough and Dylan Anderson. While Lambert doesn’t anticipate a fall off from their great run over the last five years, he acknowledges this season is an adjustment period. The first order of business is to determine a rotation of pitchers heading into the season. “We have a couple kids we
think are going to stand out,” said Lambert. “This may be a team where we pitch by committee and try to sew it together. Right now we don’t have a clear-cut number one pitcher, so these guys are just going to have to prove themselves.” One Spa Catholic player who will be sure to turn heads is junior Matt Boyark. The pitcher has the uncanny ability to pitch with both his right and left arms, though his left arm seems to yield faster throws. The game of baseball is no stranger to the notion of a switch hitter, but a switch pitcher? It’s true. After throwing for about 10 minutes off the mound with his left arm, Boyark switched gloves and began throwing crisp strikes with his right arm. It shouldn’t take a baseball fan to be impressed with athleticism like that. The team’s season won’t officially kick off until April 14, in an away game against FondaFultonville. In the meantime, the team is hoping to take advantage of the nice weather and begin practicing outside. Just in case the weather takes a turn for the worse, the team is making their annual trip to Disney’s Wide World of Sports for an abbreviated spring training of sorts. This is the eighth season the team has made the trip to Florida. “Chemistry on a baseball team is huge,” said Lambert. “They’ll be living together for seven days, so it’s a good chance for them to bond and get
Saratoga Central Catholic Saints Upcoming Schedule 4/4-4/10 – Disney Wide World of Sports 4/14 - @ Fonda-Fultonville, 11 a.m. 4/14 – vs. Corinth, 7 p.m. 4/16 – vs. Sharon Springs, 4:30 p.m. 4/18 - @ Berne-Knox, 4:30 p.m.
Photo by MarkBolles.com
by Andrew Marshall
DUAL THREAT - Spa Catholic’s Matt Boyark throws a pitch with his left arm during practice on March 12. Boyark would later switch gloves and begin throwing equally impressive pitches with his right arm, something that could spell bad news for opponent’s lineups this season. ready for the season.” While public schools have the benefit of a larger sample size from which to select their best baseball players, Lambert does-
n’t see being a coach at a private school as a disadvantage. “There are very strict transfer policies in Section II and New York high school athletics, so the
notion that we go out and shop is false. I think kids come to Saratoga Catholic for a good education, and a very competitive baseball program.”
Blue Streaks pg 30
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Cordero pg 29 Friday, March 16, 2012
Vol. 7 • Issue 11 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY
Photos by MarkBolles.com