Saratoga Today Newspaper January 14th 2011

Families TODAY pgs 12-19

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Volume 6 • Issue 2 SaratogaPublishing.com

Budget Deficit Hits Home

A DAY OF GIVING Saratoga County to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. with a day of community service

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY

New York is in financial crisis. A failing economy and a dwindling population have only compounded matters, and as the state falters local municipalities are left to face the fallout.

The state faces an outstanding debt of $56.6 billion, taxpayers are currently paying $6.1 billion in debt service from previous borrowing practices, and some project that

“When the state has dramatic budget gaps, it’s very likely to cut aid to school districts and municipalities.”

Robert Ward Deputy Director with the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government

the state’s deficit could reach as high as $60 billion in as little as five years if drastic measures aren’t taken, and taken now.

The numbers are staggering. This year New York State faces a projected budget deficit of $10 billion, and the numbers only get worse from there.

“It’s not just about this year. Next year, the problem goes to $14 billion. The year after, the deficit goes to $17 billion... You look at the chart, you look at the arrows and this is an

See Budget page 11

All members of the Saratoga community are invited to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this year by participating in a National Day of Community Service.

Jointly sponsored by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Committee (this year composed of members of the

NAACP, the Saratoga Peace Alliance, the Saratoga Religious Society of Friends, Temple Sinai, and the League of Women Voters) and the Saratoga Springs Public Library, a variety of activities are planned to take place on Monday, January 17 at the Library and other venues around town.

From 9 to 10 am in the Community

See A day page 5

Inside TODAY...

LOOK

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY

Starting next week, Saratoga County residents can enjoy the rare privilege of 24-hour live local news access.

Look TV, an independently owned and entirely local news station covering Saratoga, Washington and Warren counties, will debut this Tuesday, January 18 on Time Warner Cable Channel 508

Local TV Station Launches Tuesday

from its newest street-level studio on Division Street in Saratoga Springs.

Hood Communications (the local media company that owns and operates Look TV) has been serving the Glens Falls Community from Cable Channel 8 for the past five years, and is excited to be expanding its coverage.

With an established Saratoga presence, the digital station can now feature county news, weather,

See Look TV page 8

Police Blotter pg 3 Obituaries pg 6 City Charter reform pg 7 Education pg 10 Families TODAY pgs 12-19 Pulse pgs 22-25

10,000 copies distributed weekly • To Advertise Call • (518) 581-2480

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Friday, January 14, 2011

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TODAY

Justice White Sloan collects over 30,000 letters to Santa for Make-A-Wish Foundation fundrasier

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY

photo provided

Sloan deposits a letter to Santa into a special mailbox at Macy’s Department Store

Ten-year-old Justice White Sloan set out to beat her own mark set last year of 10,000 letters collected for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and its wish granting program, and the Greenwich native did just that. In total, Justice collected 31,430 letters addressed to Santa Claus this year during Macy’s Believe campaign, which ran from November 7 until Christmas Eve, December 24.

For each letter, Macy’s donated $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to $1 million in order to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

As an added bonus, Macy’s pledged to donate $2 for every letter dropped into one of its special Santa mailboxes located at their department stores on National Believe Day on December 10. On that day,

Justice and her family proudly dropped off the 10,440 letters she had collected up to that point to the Macy’s in Rotterdam Square. Sloan then took the remaining days to collect nearly 21,000 letters that would bring her total up past 31,000.

Justice’s own wish to travel to Walt Disney World Resort was granted by the Northeast New York Chapter when she was only fiveyears-old. For Justice, having her own wish granted was part of what motivated her to make a difference this past holiday season.

“What Justice did on December 10 was wonderful. It’s absolutely amazing that she was able to nearly triple the amount of letters she collected from December 10 to the end of the campaign. We are so proud of her,” said William C. Trigg, Chief Executive Officer of the Make-AWish Foundation of Northeast New York.

photo provided

Sloan carries a stack of letters on their way to Santa

photo provided

Justice and her family after delivering their letters to Macy's in Rotterdam Square

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BLOTTER

Friday, January 14, 2011

Edwin L. Logan, 41, of 40 S. Richardson Ave., Columbus, OH, pleaded guilty to a charge of firstdegree attempted promotion of prison contraband, a class-E felony. Logan was arrested in Milton on June 20 and has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail, concurrent with a previous sentence.

Nathan J. Bradbury, 25, of 177 Second St., Troy, pleaded guilty to a charge of fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-D felony. Bradbury was arrested in Saratoga Springs on July 25 and has been sentenced to one and a half years in State Prison and one year of post release supervision.

Matthew R. August, 21, of 6 Woodland Ct., Greenfield Center, pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree assault, a class-B felony. August was arrested in the Town of Greenfield on January 8, 2010. He was sentenced on January 7, 2011 to seven years in the State Prison and five years of post release supervision.

Dean F. Stevens, Jr., 48, of 324 Leonard St., Oneida, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony.

Stevens was arrested in Ballston Spa on October 19, 2009, and has been sentenced to five weekends in the Saratoga County Jail, five years of probation and ignition interlock.

Alex C. Buswell, 21, of 2129 Rowley Rd., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of fifth-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-E felony.

Buswell was arrested in Saratoga Springs on December 8, 2009, and has been sentenced to three months in the Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation.

Tyler Daly, 20, of 244 Lamplighter Acres, Ft. Edward, pleaded guilty to a charge of firstdegree sexual abuse, a class-D violent felony. Daly was arrested in Moreau on February 1 for incidents that occurred between July and August of 2009, and has been sentenced to three years of State Prison and ten years of post release supervision.

Jermaine N. Perez, 34, of 4416 Howe Ave., Bronx, pleaded guilty to a charge of fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Perez was arrested in Saratoga Springs on March 12 and has been sentenced to three and a half years in State Prison and three years of post release supervision.

Michael V. Mobilia, 26, of 2403 Heritage Way, Gansevoort, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree criminal possession of marijuana, a class-E felony. Mobilia was arrested in Saratoga Springs on March 22 for an incident that occurred on March 16. He was sentenced to five months in the Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation.

Reinaldo Torres, 47, of 126 Milton Ave., Apt. 3, Ballston Spa,

was resentenced by Judge Jerry J. Scarano to three to six years in State Prison on a conviction for second-degree criminal mischief, and one and a half to three years of State Prison on a conviction for third-degree attempted grand larceny, the sentences being concurrent with one another. Torres was originally sentenced on November 4 to deferred sentencing to participate in drug treatment court in the Saratoga County Court.

Henry J. Ostrander, 42, of 135 Saratoga Ave., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-D felony.

Ostrander was arrested in Ballston Spa on September 6 and has been sentenced to one year in the Saratoga County Jail and ignition interlock as a condition of discharge.

Jose Marte, 49, of Brookline Rd., Apt. F2, Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Marte was arrested in the Town of Ballston on September 1 and will return to court for sentencing on March 10.

Lee M. O'Dell, 50, of 325 West Ave., Saratoga Springs, pleaded

guilty to a charge of first-degree criminal contempt, a class-E felony. O'Dell was arrested on September 20, 2009 in Saratoga Springs and has been sentenced to time served.

Michael H. Wood, 37, of 19 Oldmsteadville Rd., Pottersville, pleaded guilty to a charge of failure to report an address change within ten days, a class-E felony.

Wood was arrested in Hadley on June 17, 2010, for an incident that occurred on July 22, 2009. He was sentenced to ten weekends in the Saratoga County Jail.

Kenneth A. Burt, 31, of 41 Arbor Ave., Mechanicville, pleaded guilty to a charge of failure to report an address change within ten days, a class-E felony. Burt was

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arrested in Malta on October 14 for an incident that occurred on August 7 and has been sentenced to 60 days in the Saratoga County Jail.

Bradley E. Lange, 36, of 74 South St., Apt. 2, Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Lange was arrested in Milton on August 28 and will return to court for sentencing on March 7.

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WEEK IN REVIEW Obama postpones visit to Schenectady

Snow Day! The heavy winter storm that charged through the Northeast Tuesday night, January 11, and continued until late Wednesday, January 12, brought school closings and up to a foot of snow in some parts of Saratoga County.

Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa and Burnt photo by MarkBolles.com Hills-Ballston Lake Page Darrow and Barney enjoy a snow school districts were stroll down Broadway on Wednesday, closed on Wednesday.

January 12.

County Water Authority sues GE Saratoga County Water Authority (SCWA) filed a federal lawsuit against General Electric Company last week, suing for $27 million in damages from the Hudson River dredging project. The authority claims it was forced to spend the $27 million on building a water treatment plant in Moreau to avoid possible

PCB contamination as a result of dredging at two downriver GE plants in Hudson Falls and Fort Edward.

Had SCWA been able to build its treatment plant closer to the county's population centers, the cost would have been significantly less. The lawsuit is just one more in a string of Saratoga County cases filed against GE.

Due to the recent events in Arizona, the White House is delaying President Obama's trip to the Capital Region. It was confirmed last week that President Obama was planning a trip to Schenectady to visit General Electric Company. A new date has not yet been set.

County businesses to return FAVOR to veterans Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency announced a new program called "Return the FAVOR," that will provide ID cards to discharged veterans to be used for discounts at local businesses. Through FAVOR, which stands for "Find and Assist Veterans of Record," veterans will be able to receive exclusive discounts and deals at participating businesses. The program is expected to begin within the next few months.

Apple Pharmacy to merge with Price Chopper Price Chopper announced on

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Friday, January 14, 2011

Monday, January 10, that it will be merging with Malta-based Apple Pharmacy, taking on all 15 of the family-owned business' employees.

To ensure no disruption in services, Price Chopper will operate its pharmacy inside the current Apple Pharmacy location (3 Hemphill Place, Suite 116) until the new Malta grocery store opens.

Saratoga County provides emergency notification services Saratoga County Supervisor, Matthew Veitch, announced on Tuesday, January 11, that residents are now able to add cellular phone numbers and e-mail addresses to the County's Emergency Notification Service.

The County's office of Emergency Services, Sheriff's Office, and each municipality within Saratoga County now has the ability to notify residents via mobile phone and e-mail in case of an emergency or other important community alerts. Residents' home phone numbers (landlines) have been automatically registered in the system and do not need to be entered during sign up.

To register for this service, visit www.hyper-reach.com/saratogasignup.html. A link to the sign up is also available on the Emergency Services page on the County's website: www.saratogacountyny.gov. For more information, contact the Office of Emergency Services at (518) 885-2243.

State of the City address is next weekend Saratoga Springs Mayor Scott Johnson announced that he will deliver the State of the City address next week. The event will take place on Sunday, January 23 at 1 pm in the Saratoga Springs City Center located at 522 Broadway.

Former employee embezzled $400,000 from HRCCU Jason J. LaPierre, 35, of Kingsbury, was charged with second-degree grand larceny and first-degree falsifying business records for allegedly embezzling $400,000 from Hudson

TODAY

River Community Credit Union.

LaPierre was arraigned in the Town of Moreau on Wednesday, January 12, and was scheduled to reappear in court before the end of the week. He worked at the Corinth credit union from 2006 until he was let go in December, 2010. The investigation of his offense is ongoing, and the stolen money had not been returned as of Thursday morning, January 13.

Giffords' Chief of Staff, Saratoga native, speaks on CNN Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords' Chief of Staff, Pia Carusone, who is a Saratoga native and former Blue Streak, was interviewed on CNN on Tuesday, January 11. Carusone spoke about Giffords, who remains hospitalized after she was shot in the head during a massacre on Saturday, January 8. The shooting occurred during a constituent event in Tucson, Arizona when Jared Lee Loughner, 22, allegedly opened fire, killing six people and wounding another 13, including Giffords whose state has reportedly improved. The democratic congresswoman opened her eyes on Wednesday for the first time since the horrific shooting. Gabe Zimmerman, one of Giffords' aides is among those killed in the shooting. Carusone has been working with Giffords for two years.

Saratoga National opens nightclub Saratoga National Golf Club and its onsite high-class restaurant, Prime announced the grand opening of its new night club on Thursday, January 13. Prime Live Ultra Lounge, described on the club's website as "Saratoga's swankiest winter hot spot," will feature live music Thursday through Saturday. The grand opening celebration started at 6 pm and featured a performance by Garland Nelson and Soul Session Trio. Saratoga National Golf Club and Prime is located at 458 Union Avenue (Route 9P) in Saratoga Springs. For more information call (518) 583-4653 or visit www.golfsaratoga.com/dining.

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A day of giving and service continued from Page 1 Room of the Library, individuals can sign up and join others to engage in work assisting community service organizations in our area in need of practical help. Local agencies will be offering volunteers the opportunity to spend several hours putting their hands to work painting, repairing, transporting, etc.

It is hoped that volunteers will return to the Library later to partici-

Unique Speaker at City Center A unique and prestigious speaker is scheduled to appear at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Friday, January 14 from 6:30 to 8 pm.

William G. “Jerry” Boykin – the founding member of Delta Force and US Army Special Forces commander who clashed with Muslim warlord Osman Atto in Somalia and was chronicled in the movie Black Hawk Down – will give a free presentation about courage, honor and faith under fire.

He will also sign copies of his 2008 autobiography, Never Surrender: A Soldier’s Journey to the Crossroads of Faith and Freedom, which provides fascinating insight into military tactics and life behind the scenes of Delta Force.

The event is sponsored by Capital District Youth for Christ (CDYFC). For tickets, call (518) 783-5332, or email dlenehan@cdyfc.org.

Shortly after graduating from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1970, Boykin joined the US Army as an infantry officer. In 1978 he was selected as one of the original members of the Army’s elite Special Operations unit, Delta Force.

Boykin served in Delta Force for more than a decade and par-

ticipated in nearly every highprofile counter-terrorism operation during that period, including the Iran hostage crisis, Sudan, Grenada, Panama, Waco and the Branch Davidians, Columbia, Somalia and the Balkans. He was later chosen as the commanding officer for Delta Force, and eventually selected to lead the Army’s Special Forces Command.

His military career also includes assignments in the Pentagon with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Office of The Secretary of Defense. Among his awards and decorations are the Defense Distinguished Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal and the Purple Heart.

Boykin, who retired from the army in 2007, is a sought after military commentator, who has appeared on CNN, MSNBC and FOX News.

The Farmville, VA resident currently splits his time between teaching courses on ethics and national security at nearby Hampden-Sydney College and addressing churches, conferences and college groups about the trials and triumphs that shaped his life.

pate in programs scheduled for the afternoon.

Those inspired by their morning volunteer activity or wanting to learn more about future volunteer opportunities in the Saratoga area can get information directly from a half dozen selected agencies heading tables in the Community Room beginning at 2:30 pm. From 3 until 4:30 pm a formal program will take place in the Community Room

including music, film and discussion. Mayor Scott Johnson will be in attendance with presenters Joanne Yepsen, Joe Bruchac, Kendall Jeter, and Bishop Arnold Byrd. The emphasis this year will be on Dr. King’s role in the War on Poverty and his advocacy for the poor and needy of all races and religions.

Children and teenagers will have specially designed programs to attend. From 2 to 2:45 pm the Library’s Children’s Room will be

featuring stories and crafts in celebration of the spirit of the day. From 3 to 4 pm in the Susman Room, teenagers will have the opportunity to participate in a moderated discussion on dealing with bullying based on the philosophy and principles of non-violence practiced by Dr. King.

Beverages and light snacks will be offered at the Library during the morning and afternoon sessions. For further information, please contact Rabbi Jonathan Rubenstein at (518) 584-8730, or at jrubenst@nycap.rr.com

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OBITUARIES

Saratoga County Deceased Veteren of the Month

The Zwijacz Family Saratoga County’s Monthly Program – Honor a Deceased Veteran – will cite five members of the Zwijacz family of the Town of Wilton for their military service to our country on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 2:30 pm at the County Supervisor’s meeting room at 24 McMaster Street in Ballston Spa. The public is welcome to the program and the reception that will follow.

Honorees:

Joseph Zwijacz Joseph, a US Army and Air Force veteran who served 20 years from 1940 to 1960 during WWII and the Korean War

Frank Zwijacz • Stanley Zwijacz Frank (left), also a 20-year career Navy veteran with service during WWII and the Korean War Stanley (right), served in the US Army during WWII from 1942 to 1945. He received the Purple Heart for combat wounds earning 6 battle stars for campaigns in the European Theater of Operations.

Brounislaus Zwijacz Brounislaus, was a WWII Army veteran serving from 1944 to 1946

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TODAY

Irene Marion Poliquin

Saratoga Springs – Irene Marion Poliquin of Jumel Place passed away Thursday morning, Jan. 6, 2011 at the Saratoga Hospital. She was 92.

Born on Oct. 5, 1918 in Mineville, NY, she was the daughter of the late Abraham and Delia (Buratti) Alfonsi and was a 1936 graduate of Cohoes High School. She also was a 1938 graduate of Albany Business College and was a state employee in Albany in the 1940’s. In 1958, she began teaching kindergarten at St. Clement’s School for five years and also had been employed by the Saratoga County Probation Department as a clerk in collections until the late 1970’s. Irene served as blood donor director for the American Red Cross until her retirement in 1981.

She was predeceased by her parents and her husband, the late Edward O. Poliquin, who died on

Jan. 28, 1970. She was also married to Augie Wurster from 1972 to 1986.

Irene traveled throughout her retirement completing 42 Elder hostels, a number of them with her grandchildren. She also took college courses, was a member of the Red Hat Society and the Heritage Garden Club.

Survivors include her son, Joseph Poliquin and his partner, Bekkie Wright of East Hartford, CT; a

daughter, Lisa Heck and her husband, Bradford Heck of Colesville, MD; three grandchildren, Derek Poliquin, Leda Carpenter and Grayson Heck and four great-grandchildren, Austin and Elijah Poliquin, Zoe and Leland Carpenter.

Relatives and friends gathered on Monday, Jan. 10, 2011 in Our Lady’s Chapel in the parish center of St. Clement’s Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated immediately after in St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Burial followed at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Waterford, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway (584-5373).

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home. com.

Henry H. Graebner Rexford – Henry H. Graebner of Coburg Village, formerly of Tobyhanna, PA and Stuart, FL, passed ay on Thursday, January 6, 2011 at the VA Hospital in Albany, NY. He was 90.

Henry is the beloved husband of Anita (Deringer) Graebner, having just celebrated their 68th anniversary.

He is the devoted father of Linda Schoeps, Phyllis Brundige and Joyce Gerlach. Survivors also include 6 grandchildren and 7 greatgrandchildren.

Henry was a retired U.S. Army Major having served

in Europe during World War II. Henry married Anita in 1942 in Queens, NY before being deployed overseas. After returning home they lived in St. Albans, NY before moving to Elmont, Long Island where they got great enjoyment raising their daughters. Henry worked for J. M. Huber in NYC as a Traffic Manager moving raw materials around the globe. Upon Huber’s relocation to New Jersey, they moved to Scotch Plains, NJ in 1970. At retirement they moved to Tobyhanna PA and later spent their winters at Sandpebble in Stuart, FL. Relatives and friends gathered in

his memory on Monday, Jan. 10, 2011 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. Funeral services followed at the funeral home.

Burial with military honors were held at the Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Henry’s name to the Albany VA Hospital, 113 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, Attention Voluntary Services.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.

J. Joseph Lynch

Theodore Zwijacz Theodore also served a 20-year hitch in the Air Force during the Korean and Vietnam Wars

These men are survived by brothers Rick; John – who served 20 years during WWII, Korea and Vietnam; Leon – with 7 years of service in the Air Force and Navy during the Korean War; and Laddie – with 20 years of service in the Air Force during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

These men are all the sons of Polish immigrants; together these brothers and survivors compiled an overall record of 112 years of military duty to our Nation. They truly are an All-American family.

Milton, NY – J. Joseph Lynch of Pinehollow Drive passed away Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 at his residence. He was 64.

Born on May 20, 1946 in Saratoga Springs, he was a son of the late John J. and Jean (Shippey) Lynch. A 1969 graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford, NJ, he received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and related coursework in accounting.

In 1969, he began working as a publicity assistant and eventual publicity director at Saratoga Harness in 1974 where he remained until 1983.

He was a former ticket room supervisor at Oaklawn Park thoroughbred racetrack in Arkansas for several years and in April of 1987 became program director at Saratoga Harness Racing, Inc. He also worked in the pari-mutuel department for the Capital District Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. as a specialist in pool manual transmission to various racetracks. He became an Operations Analyst for the NY State Racing and

Wagering Board OTB, responsible for the adherence to racing law and board rules by the Catskill OTB. This later was broadened to include New York City and western regional OTB’s. He was actively involved on an annual basis in writing and editing the SRWB’s annual and simulcast reports until June of 1995. Joe served as an on-air radio and television personality and announcer for OTB’s cable TV and radio station.

In 1997 he became assistant to the chief of racing operations for the State Racing and Wagering Board along with other duties with the executive staff, the Legal and Licensing Department and the Department of Audits and Investigations.

From August of 2000 to the present, he was responsible for the writing and presentation of many Board related items for the monthly Racing and Wagering Board agendas. He was also responsible for interaction with staff of all racetracks and regional OTB corporations in the state on a daily basis.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Patricia Lynch and his sister, Jayne Elizabeth Lynch.

Survivors include his brother, Thomas Lynch of Saratoga Springs; a step-brother, James J. (Diana) Shippey of Alexandria, Indiana and his close companion, Kathy Broadhead of Troy, NY. Relatives and friends may call from 10 to 11am Saturday at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373).

Funeral services will be conducted at 11am Saturday at the funeral home by the Rev. Neil Draves-Arpaia.

Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Avenue.

Memorials may be made to the National Museum of Racing, 191 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneral home.com.

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NEWS

Friday, January 14, 2011

obituaries

Charter change: many details still TBA

Caroline M. Mangona Saratoga Springs – Caroline M. Mangona, formerly of South Franklin Street, passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2011, at the Wesley Health Care Center.

She was 83.

Born on August 27, 1927 in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late Francisco and Maria (Onoforo) Mangona. A 1945 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, she retired from Saratoga Hospital after many years of service in the medical records department and was a devoted communicant of the Church of St. Peter all her life.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by three brothers, Carl, Nicholas and Anthony Mangona and two sisters, Rose DiBella and Frances Mangona.

Survivors include her sister-inlaw, Patricia Sullivan Mangona of Saratoga Springs; two nephews, Jerry Mangona of Wilton, and Joseph F. DiBella and his wife Marie of East Greenbush; three grandnieces, Alexandria and Juliann Mangona of Wilton and

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Angela Tobin and her husband Steve of East Greenbush; one grandnephew, Joseph L. DiBella and his wife Kelly of East Greenbush and several cousins.

Relatives and friends may call this morning from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 am in 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.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the doctors and staff at Wesley Health Care Center for the kindness and care extended to Caroline and any memorial donations may be made in her name to The Wesley Health Care Foundation, 131 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burke funeralhome.com.

- Court ruling advances Saratoga Citizen’s cause; but City to weigh options

by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY Late last week, a ruling that overturned a decision by Saratoga Springs Accounts Commissioner John Franck to decertify Saratoga Citizen’s petition for City Charter change was delivered by Supreme Court Judge Thomas Nolan.

This was the latest event in a long process that might lead to a ballot referendum on the future form of City government sometime this year.

However, with each step venturing further into what Franck called “a landmark case” involving moving from a Commissioner to a Councilmanager form of government, many details must still be clarified and settled before any actual vote takes place.

Speaking by phone, Commissioner Franck noted that his office has not formally received the ruling, but he expects to shortly. Once received, he said that he will certify the petition in his role of City Clerk, and transmit the certification to the other Commissioners. That will begin a 60-day period where the City Council will examine their options, which might involve anything from voting to place the initiative on the ballot to further legal appeals. Franck said that any further appeal would probably necessitate a discussion and vote at a Council meeting, because of the extra costs that would be involved.

He said he was skeptical that the cost of further appeals was justified.

Mayor Scott Johnson also could still appoint a Charter Review Commission that would trump the Saratoga Citizen initiative, but would have a tight deadline to

report back to the Council.

Meanwhile, a second ruling is pending regarding a challenge to another set of signatures submitted by Saratoga Citizen, which represented an extra five percent of the city electorate, and would automatically place the ballot issue before the public without Council approval.

Even if these signatures are eventually approved, the question is when would a vote take place?

Patrick Kane, one of the leaders of Saratoga Citizen, said that his group is “proceeding in anticipation” of the initiative being on a ballot this year and is advocating a special election in mid-May, which might coincide with a school budget vote.

“We’re continuing to move for-

Continued on Page 26

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Look TV to launch Tues. continued from Page 1 sports and entertainment programming, and broadcast all local town, city and county meetings without commercial interruptions or editorial comment. Every night at 5:30 pm, Look TV will broadcast live news dedicated to its region.

To celebrate its Saratoga debut, the station is featuring Mayor Scott Johnson as its first on-air guest, kicking off a nightly tradition of bringing local faces on screen.

“We want to reach out and connect with the community, and that’s something only a local station can do,” Jesse Jackson, Chief Creative Officer, said. “I think a lot of stations forget what it means to provide local news, but the cornerstone of our programming is the community: Providing people with what they want and need to watch is what we do.”

Look TV will also regularly air a

live cooking show, a program devoted to living and playing in the Adirondacks, a musical showcase of local talents (no cover bands allowed!), special features addressing age-specific issues, and a Saturday morning broadcast from area high school students.

And that’s not all.

Jackson said that he and his small creative team hope to keep adding “funky” and interesting features to the schedule, which is why community input will be more valuable than anything.

“If anyone has ideas for sponsorship, programming, underwriting, or anything else, we want to hear from them. This is their station,” Jackson said. “We’ll stop at nothing to benefit the community and accommodate our viewers.”

As a locally-focused, owned and operated station, the Look TV crew

has a vested interest in meeting their viewers’ wants and needs because they too are a part of the community.

“I live in Saratoga and, as a resident, I’m excited to cover things happening in my city. From City Council to Broadway, there’s always something going on in Saratoga and a lot of events and issues don’t get the coverage they deserve,” Dave Storey, V.P. of News and Programming, said.

Looking to develop new, groundbreaking methods of connecting with the people, organizations and busi-

nesses in its viewing area, Look TV has established a multi-faceted partnership with Saratoga TODAY Newspaper to better serve the community.

“We are very happy to partner with Look TV for their launch in Saratoga County,” said Saratoga TODAY publisher, Chad Beatty. “This will be a wonderfully symbiotic relationship of two independently owned and operated companies who share a passion for local news and information.”

“We couldn’t be more excited

TODAY

about bringing Look TV to Saratoga County,” Jackson said.

Be sure to tune into Time Warner Cable Channel on Tuesday, January 18 on 508 and find out what’s going on in your community. Until then, you can connect with the Look TV crew by visiting www.looktvonline.com or calling (518) 796-8000.

What Did You Do Today...to Make a Difference?

Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York is accepting nominations for its 2011 Women of Distinction Awards to be presented on May 19, 2011 at Saratoga National Golf Club.

The event will recognize women from Saratoga, southern Hamilton, Warren, Washington or Fulton counties who are role models for girls and other women, and have made a difference in their communities. The theme of the awards is “What Did You Do Today...to Make a Difference?”

It is not a requirement that the person being nominated is currently or has been a member of the Girl Scouts.

To submit a nomination, please choose one of the following categories: Distinguished Trailblazer: This

category honors a woman who has a proven track record of reaching ambitious or unconventional goals demonstrated by upward career mobility, steady growth and leadership skills.

Distinguished Lifetime Achievement: This category honors a woman who has inspired others throughout her life. She has always demonstrated steady growth and exhibited the qualities that others admire.

Distinguished Leader of Tomorrow (age 17-21): This award will be presented to a young woman who is/was a Girl Scout and has demonstrated outstanding leadership ability and has contributed to her school and community. She has spearheaded a project or program to improve quality of life.

Distinguished Personal Achievement: This award honors a

woman who lives her life in such a way to serve others, both through her career and through her volunteer activities.

Distinguished Community Leader: This award will be given to a woman who has demonstrated outstanding contributions over a period of time to her community.

She is a role model, community leader, mentor or has broken new ground. She is an agent for change who has made a measurable difference to those around her.

Nominations are due by Friday, January 21st, 2011. To request a nomination form, contact Debbie Erck at Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York at (518) 348-1413, ext.

402, by e-mail at derck@gsneny.org. Nomination forms are also available online at http://www.gsneny.org/.

SARATOGA

TODAY

BUSINESS

Friday, January 14, 2011

local business news Is your business prepared to face HR and benefits issues in 2011?

Saratoga Economic Development Corporation is hosting a free seminar on Tuesday, January 25 at the Holiday Inn in Saratoga Springs. The event will begin at 7:30 am with a full breakfast that will be followed by the seminar from 8:30 to 8:45 am.

As regulations and compliance becomes a greater challenge to manage, business owners are turning to PEO's as a possible solution to save their valuable time and resources.

At this breakfast seminar, you will learn about strategies and ideas to help you save money while you improve compliance, access valuable expertise, save time for your staff by allowing them to focus on growing your business. You will also learn about a wide range of cost effective benefits to help you attract and retain the people you need to help your business succeed.

To RSVP, contact Colleen Seidel by phone at (518) 587-0945 or by email at cseidel@saratogaedc.com by 1 pm on Monday, January 24.

Scott Varley Group announces new hire The Scott Varley Group at RealtyUSA of Saratoga Springs announced the addition of Kimberly Harbour, Licensed Real Estate Sales Person, to its professional residential sales team.

BCI Construction captures 2010 excellence award BCI Construction was recently awarded the 2010 Associated General Contractors (AGC) of New York State Safety Excellence Award. The award recognizes and honors AGC NYS members for having and implementing outstanding safety programs.

For an AGC NYS member to receive such an award they must have excellent safety programs that meet AGC's stringent minimum criteria, which exceeds industry standards, and demonstrate superior safety practices in the field. The Safety Excellence Award criteria include a company's five-year history, and incidence rates below the national average. This is the fourth time BCI has received this distinguished award, and they were presented with their AGC NYS Hard Hat Award at AGC's annual conference last month in Saratoga Springs.

Alumni Funding, LLC manager elected to Board of Mortgage Bankers Gisela Garver, manager of Alumni Funding, LLC, has been elected to

the Board of Mortgage Bankers of Northeast New York. Garver will be inducted during the annual Installation of Officers meeting on January 19, to be held at the Comfort Inn Suites in Clifton Park. Guest speaker for this event will be Dennis Brobston, President of the Saratoga County Economic Development Corporation.

Local pharmacist receives nutritional therapy certification Community Pharmacist, Michael Lenz of Fallon Wellness Pharmacy in Saratoga Springs, recently received his First Line Therapy certification.

Lenz became certified after completing a three-and-a-half day intensive program and examination through Metagenics' First Line Therapy Therapeutic Lifestyle Certification Program in New York City. A group of compounding pharmacists, medical doctors, chiropractors, and other medical professionals throughout the United States also took part.

The foundation of First Line Therapy is the science of Functional Medicine, which utilizes nutrition, lifestyle, exercise, environment, and other factors to address the underlying cause of chronic illness and help patients achieve optimal function and optimal health.

First Line Therapy is recognized by the US Department of Health as an important component in the treatment and management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure and obesity.

Fallon Wellness Pharmacy of Saratoga's staff regularly attends seminars and training courses, networking with colleagues and obtaining continuing training and education in nutritional science and functional medicine.

Michael Lenz is looking forward to working with area physicians and healthcare providers looking to implement First Line Therapy with their patients. Fallon Wellness Pharmacy of Saratoga is located at 472 Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs. Fallon Wellness Pharmacy also has a second location in Latham.

For more information on their services, please contact them at (518) 306-5343, ext 6.

Saratoga Specialties Company makes big moves Saratoga Specialties Company announced the completion of an important internal restructuring to

better position the company for rapid expansion, development and growth.

The company specifically targeted new product ideas, brought in new resources and developed detailed growth plans to greatly improve market presence, fortify the company's on-hand resources, advance product line expansion capabilities, and improve the overall customer service experience.

An integral part of the company's restructuring was the addition of two partners at the end of 2010: Richard Sheldon (partner and General Manager of Saratoga Strike Zone Bowling Center) and Joseph Stanislowsky (local businessman and owner of Stanski Transportation).

This month, Saratoga Specialties will be rolling out the first of its planned new products with several others already in development.

Saratoga Specialties Company has reintroduced the Moon Brand Original Saratoga Chips in a reproduction of the original packaging from 1853 found at the Saratoga Springs History Museum. Saratoga Chips are hand crafted in individual batches by gourmet artisans just as they were originally. Moon's Brand Original Saratoga Chips come in both a 9 oz. family size and a 1.5 oz. single serving. The company also offers a line of Original Saratoga Dip mixes to compliment their Saratoga Chip products.

For more information and an updated list of the company's nationwide retail locations, visit www.originalsaratogachips.com or contact Dan Jameson at danny@originalsaratogachips.com.

Saratoga Springs woman announces new organic cosmetic line A new and innovative brand of organic cosmetics has hit the Saratoga Springs scene with a whole bank of sexy shades.

Local businesswoman Aleah Home announced her new organic mineral cosmetic line, Dust Cosmetics, which offers the perfect collaboration of color and consciousness for the stylish and ecosavvy makeup diva.

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Home, founder and CEO of Dust Cosmetics, is a licensed esthetician and master makeup artist. She created the line with health in mind.

"Dust Cosmetics offers makeup that is actually good for your skin," she said. "Our products are easy to use and change how people feel, not only about their skin but their entire being."

She also explained that the company does not test products on animals.

Most of the production of Home's unique cosmetic line takes place in Saratoga Springs, and her product is carried in high-end boutiques and day spas throughout the area.

For more information about Dust Cosmetics, visit www.dust-cosmetics.com.

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EDUCATION

BOCES Students Build, Sell Modular Home

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY A modular home that was built by students at the BOCES Myers Center in Saratoga Springs sold for $29,000 this week.

The construction project/hands-on learning experience was made possible through a unique partnership between the WSWHE BOCES F. Donald Myers Education Center and the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club, which paid for the materials and benefited from the sale.

Randall Kehoe purchased the home and plans to lay it upon a foundation on his Schaghticoke property.

A group of 25 students in Art Erbe's two-year Construction Trades program built the threebedroom, 26x48 square foot home during their 2009-2010 school year as part of their hands-on curriculum.

Moving their classroom outdoors, the students engaged in the "real world" project, learning how to construct a home from the foundation up.

"We teach the students that the house is a system, that it is not just a box with studs and sticks -

there are heating, insulation, plumbing, and outdoor and indoor environments to consider," Erbe said, adding that energy efficient features are also an important component of his students' curriculum.

In building the home, the students were able to apply their classroom knowledge and learn valuable skills. They built the house and installed all of the necessary systems, completing their assignment in the "roughed-in stage."

"The phase we completed is called roughed-in: we insulated, wired and plumbed the stage, but didn't sheet rock for inspection purposes," Erbe said. "All of the framing, electric and plumbing systems were exposed."

The benefits of the partnership and project extend far beyond the Myers Center.

"The Rotary Club was able to take the proceeds and return them to the community; the homeowner that bought the place got a heck of a deal; and a lot of local businesses were able to take part by donating supplies," Erbe said.

"Many different people will benefit from a project like this."

According to Vic Cinquino, Rotary member and house com-

“Many different people will benefit from a project like this.”

Art Erbe Construction Trades instructor

mittee representative, the partners ran into a few bumps in the process.

Cinquino said the economy kept the finished one-story building on Myers Center campus longer than anticipated, and that having to wait for the approval of unexpected buyer permits was another obstacle.

But overall, Rotary was pleased with the outcome and would consider partnering again.

"The agreement with BOCES worked very, very well," he said.

"BOCES was terrific. We enjoyed working with them."

With last year's class project off the Myers Center campus, Erbe said his current students will be able to begin their own construction project in September 2011.

Erbe hopes to make the opportunity available to all of his Construction Trades classes, and wants to inform more students about what the industry has to offer. He also hopes to stimulate more interest among girls, who represent a very small percentage of Construction Trades students.

"Going through a program like this gives a student the foundation for a construction career after graduation, and skills to take with them for the rest of their lives. Even if they pursue a different career, they can always fall back on these skills for summertime work or a secondary income," Erbe said, explaining how his students are also wellprepared to fulfill the American Dream because someday they will use their abilities to work on and improve their own homes.

"These students will utilize their education, and there are a lot of opportunities out there for them to [do so]," Erbe said.

SARATOGA

Friday, January 14, 2011

TODAY

Classroom Corner "Day in the Life" webcast A "Day in the Life" of a 21st Century student is presented in a new webcast produced by the Ballston Spa Central School District in collaboration with Cisco Systems. The project gives an overview of how America's educational system, economies and related work force have evolved through the last two centuries, and also provides an opportunity to view new modes of collaboration and learning in a connected school community working to meet the needs of the 21st Century workforce.

Ninth grader Sarah VanAernem serves as a "tour guide" in the webcast as she describes the history and transformation of our country. Using local historical photographs, the webcast illustrates how people learned and worked in the early days in our country to the manufacturing societies of the 19th and 20th centuries. The final stage explores how modern education is the interconnected, digital and collaborative learning and work environments of today's global economy.

Sarah also guides the audience through her typical day at school in the STEP Education Center, which is focused on the acquisition of 21st Century skills in a collaborative and technology-rich educational environment.

The webcast is available on the district website at: www.bscsd.org.

SBA to award $2000 in cash scholarships Saratoga Builders Association, Inc. announced that its monetary commitment to local education has doubled.

The company will be awarding two $1000 scholarships in 2011, up from $500 each last year.

The awards are open to any high school senior in Saratoga County who is planning to pursue construction education at a two or four-year accredited college or university or to students who would like to purchase tools for employment in construction. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must demonstrate current or past involvement in the construction field, including classes taken in high school, to be eligible. Applicants must submit a high school transcript or list of construction classes taken and a short essay (less than 500 words) describing their interest in a construction industry career and what events led to this decision.

Applications must be postmarked on or before April 1, 2011. Only the first 30 completed applications will be accepted. Winners and their schools will be notified by May 1, 2011.

To receive an application, contact Barry Potoker, SBA Executive Director at (518) 366-0946 or bpotoker@nycap.rr.com.

Saratoga Springs teacher, coach to receive award The United States Tennis Association will present Rich Johns of Saratoga Springs the Virginia and Chuck Landis High School Coach of the Year Award at the Eastern Leadership Conference to be held on Saturday, January 29 at the Westchester Renaissance Hotel in White Plains. Johns is being recognized for his "exemplary leadership, enthusiasm, and team building skills he has exhibited" and continues to exhibit with his Act With Respect Always mission.

The former Saratoga Springs teacher continues to take the values of his Saratoga Tennis program to regions of the northeast. He is scheduled during the month of January to speak at various local schools, elementary to high school, Foothills Council and Colonial Council "youth summits" at Albany State and Siena College and at the State University at Potsdam's Student Leadership Conference.

For more information about Johns’Act with Respect Always campaign or to get involved, visit www.ActWithRespectAlways.com

Photo provided

Maple Ave students in Ms. Decker’s French class accept “Act with Respect Always” banner

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, January 14, 2011

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Budget woes roll downhill continued from Page 1 unsustainable rate of growth, and it has been for a long time,” said Governor Andrew Cuomo during his State of the State address.

Cuomo, in comparing New York’s revenue versus dollars spent at the state level, said the trend as of late has seen revenue grow at an almost anemic rate, only 3.5 percent, while spending has continued to grow at almost twice that, between 6 and 7 percent. When looking at these two lines together, the gap between the two only grows larger over time – in fact, people familiar with the chart refer to it as the “jaws chart,” calling upon the image of a wide-open shark’s mouth on the verge of swallowing up everything in its path.

The bad news for Saratoga County, not to mention the rest of New York: “The number one principle is that budget problems roll downhill.

When the state has dramatic budget gaps, it’s very likely to cut aid to school districts and municipalities,” said Robert Ward, the Deputy Director with the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government, which acts as the public policy think-tank for the State University at Albany. “More than half of the state’s budget is, effectively, transfers of payments for local services that are delivered at the school district, county or municipal level.” So as the state government desperately tries to reverse course and right itself, “the majority of the impact will be on the money that the state sends to other levels of government.

So they will have to essentially limit spending, or increase taxes to make up the difference.”

How did we get to this point?

How did such an unsustainable financial situation arise in our state government? The truth may be obvious, but none of this happened overnight. It took years and years – over two decades – of financial gimmicks and “one-shot” deals to bring us to this point, the most painfully slow-moving train wreck imaginable, allowed to occur through questionable accounting practices and shortsighted planning.

“I think you saw the example of when we purchased Attica prison, and then leased it out,” said Assemblyman James Tedisco, who represents the 110th Assembly District in Saratoga. Tedisco refers to what has become the poster child, even nationally speaking, of poor

financial decisions at a state level. In 1990, facing a $200 million budget gap, the state sold Attica to another state authority. But in order to continue using the facility, the state began paying to lease back the prison. While in the short-run New York closed their $200 million budget gap, to date the state has paid back over $344 million in rent and still owes another $222 million in principal interest. And that was back in 1990, back when the economy was still strong. Fast forward to 2011.

“You can’t kick the can down the road. If we don’t make these tough decisions, then we’re right back in the same situation we were before,” Tedisco said.

Local governments and school districts are traditionally the worst hit by these deficits at the state level.

The phenomena is known as costshifting, where the state government passes the cost off to the local governments, usually providing less dollars while still insisting that potentially costly state mandates still be met. Unfortunately for local municipalities, unlike the state government they have no one to send their budget problems to for deferring costs.

Except for, of course, the taxpayers.

To local officials around Saratoga County however, tax increases are not something most, if any, are seriously considering.

“We’re very much in sync with what [the governor] wants to do,” said New York State Senator Hugh Farley, representing the 44th Senate District in Saratoga County. “It’s to cut spending and not raise taxes.

We’re going to do that, and we’ve got to do it if New York State is going to remain fiscally sound.”

Cutting spending is just one way of helping to solve the problem, and there are several places where town and county governments would benefit the most from cuts.

“One of the biggest issues is the mandated pension contributions by employees,” said Arthur Johnson, Supervisor for the Town of Wilton.

“I think this year it went up in the neighborhood of about 40 percent, and I think it’s only going to increase given the state of the economy. But I think before making cuts to things like education and healthcare, [the state] needs to look at their own backyard first before looking to cut programs that affect the general public.”

Johnson here is referring to one of Governor Cuomo’s key components for financial recovery, when the governor talks of “right-sizing government.” Paul Sausville, Supervisor for the Town of Malta, is one who seems to be in agreement with the governor and his neighboring supervisor.

“We need to evaluate programs to make sure that they’re giving the people a fair return on their investment,” Sausville said. “We have to begin to evaluate every program and every regulation on the basis of cost and benefits, just as a business would.”

Business, Sausville believes, will be key to helping New York stem the tide, something that if handled correctly, could increase the state’s revenue without further burdening the taxpayers with increased tax rates.

“We’re lucky to have GlobalFoundries, and Saratoga County’s done a wonderful job of making those kinds of evaluations.

But that has to happen all across the state with new industry and new incentive programs, and there are ways of going about doing that that will produce an economic return,” Sausville said.

Saratoga County Supervisor Joanne Yepsen described attracting people and businesses to the area as part of a “domino effect,” where

simple steps taken toward long-term planning can help the county generate increased revenue without asking more from their taxpayer base. Of the 62 counties in the State of New York, it should be noted that Saratoga County is the only one not facing a deficit or outstanding debt, due in part to the following factors: “We have been blessed with two racetracks in this city, and in that Saratoga is a destination location.

And I think we’ve done a good job marketing our county, both to entice businesses as well as tourists,” Yepsen said. “And that’s a domino effect, because when you have a wonderful quality of life and other aspects you can offer, you entice people to want to live here. That gives you a tax base, and it also entices people to raise their families here and start their businesses here too. Everything effects one another.”

While Yepsen believes supporting large businesses like GlobalFoundries are certainly to the

region’s benefit, she hopes to see an increased effort geared toward bringing more small businesses to the area.

“We [need to] bring more businesses here, which means getting off the backs of small businesses, finding a fast-track way of approving plans and businesses and providing them with support,” Yepsen said.

The hope is that with less regulation and more support, these businesses will come to the area, create jobs for local workers, and as a byproduct, increase the revenue taken in by government through property, sales, and income tax – all while maintaining current rates.

“The question is, ‘how do you get to a sustainable balance in a highly politicized budget environment?’

That’s really what it boils down to,” said Ward from the Rockefeller Institute. If New York is to have any kind of competitive future, locally or nationally, then this answer will be key to deciding the fate of the state.

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SARATOGA

Friday, January 14, 2011

TODAY

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SENIORS

Upcoming Events for Local Seniors: Saratoga Seniors Center January Calendar The Senior Center of Saratoga Springs is offering $15 annual memberships to anyone age 50 and over. Members have access to computers, a billiard table, social activities, trips and fun programs that are either free or reasonably priced.

The center hosts monthly gourmet dinners, featuring local chefs, and hot lunch is served daily for $2 or $3. To join in on the fun or schedule a tour of the facility, which is located at 5 Williams Street in Saratoga Springs, call (518) 584-1621 or visit www.saratogaseniorcenter.org.

Upcoming events: - Karen McEachen, Skidmore College's museum educator, will be hosting a two-part program

inspired by the Tang Museum's abstract art show, The Jewel Thief.

A tour of the museum is scheduled on Thursday, January 20: participants will depart from the center at 10:30 am and return at 12:30 pm.

On Thursday, January 27, participants will work on a related art project at the center from 11 am to noon. The total cost is $5. Call the Senior Center at (518) 584-1621 to register.

- Free legal services are available to Saratoga County residents, age 60 and over, at the Senior Center on the first Thursday of every month.

Appointments are scheduled through Saratoga County Office for the Aging, the program sponsor, by calling (518) 884-4100.

- A free ceramics class is being held on Fridays from 10 am to noon throughout the month of January at

the center. Enjoy projects such as hand-built clay bowls and inscribed Indian vessels. No experience is necessary. Drop in to the Senior Center or call (518) 584-1621 to sign up.

- A slide show presentation about a nine-day trip through the Canadian Rockies will take place on Wednesday, January 19 at 1 pm.

The cost of the trip is $3,349 and early booking discounts will be given at the presentation.

- Lisa from Studio-Massage will be offering ten-minute massages for seniors at the Center on Thursday, January 27 from 10 am to noon. Treat yourself to this relaxing experience. The cost is $5.

Call (518) 584-1621 to schedule an appointment.

A.L.L. presents storyteller Betty Cassidy The Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs (A.L.L.) showcases Betty Cassidy presenting Portraits: Old and New in the next session of its free brown bag lunch and learn series on Wednesday, January 19.

Betty will share individual stories from the early Adirondacks and today's world.

The program begins at noon in Empire State College room 126 (the Rotunda) at 2 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs and will be cancelled if the City schools are closed.

Betty Cassidy started studying storytelling to enrich courses in speech and English, which she

taught at Adirondack Community College. Since retirement, she continues to explore more aspects of finding and telling different types of stories. She has performed for libraries, civic organizations, schools and family gatherings for both adult and children's audiences.

Her favorite stories are those which clearly relate to some part of our everyday lives.

The Academy is sponsored by Empire State College and affiliated with the Elderhostel Institute Network, and offers non-credit academic study groups for older learners as well as social and leadership opportunities. For further information or to receive the A.L.L. spring brochure, visit www.esc.edu/ALL, or call (518) 587-2100, ext. 2415.

New audiology practice opens in Wilton Audiologist Robin Solomon's practice Hearing Care Resources, LLC, is now open and accepting new patients at its Wilton location.

Solomon ran Saratoga Hospital's 'The Hearing Shop for more than 12 years. She made the decision to open her own office when the medical facility

closed its audiology department last year.

"I decided not to allow our community to be without vital hearing healthcare services," she explained. "I've committed my efforts to creating a brand-new, technologically advanced hearing care facility."

The new facility (located at 12 Mountain Ledge Drive, Suite # 2 in Wilton) is a diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology practice serving Saratoga Springs, Wilton and the surrounding area.

Hearing Care Resources, LLC, provides the following services: hearing test and diagnosis of adults and children using a large, fully-equipped sound booth; sales and fitting of digital hearing devices; hearing aid maintenance and repair, regardless of where the device was purchased; treatment of Tinnitus (ringing in the ears); and prompt and comprehensive reports to physicians.

The practice features the latest state-of-the-art technology to deliver high quality hearing care in a comfortable and private environment, offering a broad range of hearing aids and hearing assist devices available from major manufacturers.

A spacious suite accommodates this unique hearing care clinic,

and welcomes education for both patients and their loved ones who want to learn more about hearing impairment and adaptation. In a specially constructed acoustically 3D sound suite, family members can experience and better understand what sounds their hearing impaired loved one is missing, while patients can digitally program their hearing aids to provide assistance and amplification at the frequencies where hearing has been lost. A comprehensive lab for hearing aid repairs, exam rooms and testing suites is also available onsite.

According to Solomon, Hearing Care Resources, LLC, was designed "to offer a superb audiology practice to patients and their physicians."

For more information about this locally owned and operated hearing health care practice, visit www.hearingpro.com or call (518) 580-0080.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, January 14, 2011

Families TODAY

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

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Free Influenza Vaccine Clinic for Saratoga County Residents The Saratoga County Health office is offering a flu vaccine clinic for adults and children ages 9 and older on Monday, January 24, from 1 to 4 pm at 31 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs.

Those under nine years old can make an appointment by calling Public Health at (518) 584-7460 for an age-appropriate vaccine.

According to the New York State Department of Health Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, influenza is wide spread in New York State, with cases also being reported in Saratoga County.

Reminiscent of the flu, symptoms include fever, coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some cases may also include vomiting

and/or diarrhea, while others may experience respiratory symptoms without a fever.

The vaccine is being offered free of charge as part of an exercise drill through the Public Health's Emergency Preparedness Program.

Participants are asked to bring their New York State Drivers License to the clinic, as well as an immunization record for anyone 18 years of age or under. Appointments, which are required, can be made by calling the Public Health office at (518) 584-7460, or by signing up on their website at www.ehealthscheduling.com/saratoga.

To prevent the spread of influenza, Saratoga County Public Health reminds residents to: 1.) Get a yearly flu vaccine.

briefs Local author celebrates release of new health and wellness book

Skidmore professor seeks volunteers for health and performance study

Dr. Michael Wayne is celebrating the release of his new book, "The Low Density Lifestyle: The Secret to becoming FREE," with a book signing party to be held at Virgil's House on Saturday, January 15 beginning at 4 pm. The event is free to attend.

Dr. Wayne is a practitioner of Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and Integrative Medicine, and is also a member of the New York State acupuncture board. His new book is designed to act as a guide to help people live healthier, happier and more fulfilling and productive lives. The Low Density Lifestyle is a model for living that shows the reader how to experience and live in a more relaxed, less stressed, clear and focused manner.

Wayne is also the author of "Quantum-Integral Medicine: Towards a New Science of Healing and Human Potential," as well as the novel, "The Knuckleball From Hell."

His works have received national media attention, and have appeared in over 100 print publications, radio and TV talk shows. Publications and press include the Alternative Medicine, the New York Post, Hay House Radio, Positive Health, Wellbeing Journal, MyTekLife, and Acupuncture Today.

Virgil's House is located at 86 Henry St. in Saratoga Springs. All are welcome to attend the celebratory event.

Dr. Paul Arciero, Chair of the Health and Exercise Sciences Department at Skidmore College is recruiting interested volunteers for a 4 month Optimal Health and Performance Research Study he will be conducting at Skidmore College beginning the week of January 17 and concluding the beginning of May, 2011.

This study is a culmination of all the Optimal Health and Performance research Dr. Paul has done the past 25 years.

The study will closely monitor and supervise 30 participants with the following: 1. measurement of body composition (body fat, lean muscle mass and bone mineral density) 2. measurement of cardiovascular and muscular fitness 3. measurement of blood cholesterol, sugar (glucose), psychological mood state and feelings of hunger 4. supervision and close monitoring of 4 days of exercise per week to be performed at the Skidmore College Fitness Center 5. nutritional counseling on healthy eating and other healthy lifestyle strategies to promote optimal health and physical performance If you, or someone you know may be interested in volunteering to be a participant in this study, email Dr. Paul at parciero@skidmore.edu or call him at (518) 580-5366.

2.) Take everyday preventative measures to stop the spread of germs, such as: a.) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of tissue after use. b.) Wash your hands with soap and water. c.) Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. d.) Try to avoid close contact with sick people. e.) If sick with flu-like symptoms, rest at home for at least 24 hours after the fever has subsided, except when receiving medical care.

3.) Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.

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SARATOGA

Friday, January 14, 2011

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HEALTH

Tips for Injury Prevention while Snow Shoveling

by James Markwica, MS PT for Saratoga TODAY Here we go again! It happens every winter in the Northeast, snowfalls, usually leaving heavy piles of snow and ice to clear from sidewalks and driveways. Weather experts have predicted a colder than normal winter with heavier snowfalls in the northeast. Physical therapists and medical experts alike are concerned about reducing the number of injuries that may occur from shoveling snow.

The Good News: 15 minutes of snow shoveling is equivalent to Moderate Physical Activity according to the 1996 Surgeon General’s Report on Physical Activity and Health. Seemingly not a bad thing as we are urged to engage in about 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on a daily basis. If you are trying to lose weight or burn some calories, snow shoveling is extremely efficient and requires your whole body to participate. With proper pacing and lifting of appropriate loads, one can truly turn 15 to 30 minutes of shoveling into a fantastic workout.

The Bad News: In 2006, the US Consumer Products Safety Commission reported 31,000 people were treated in the hospital emergency rooms, MD offices, clinics or other medical settings for injuries that occurred while removing snow manually.

Snow shoveling is a repetitive

activity that can cause muscle strain to the lower back and shoulders, especially if a person is out of condition and does not lift properly, says Michael T. Cibulka, PT, MHS, OCS, president of American Physical Therapy Association’s Orthopaedic Section. In fact, back injuries due to snow shoveling can happen to anyone, not just older adults. People between the ages of 20 and 50 are generally more likely than older individuals to injure their backs because they may or may not be aware that they are out of condition.

Consider the following before you grab your shovel after a snowfall: • Warm-up! Before shoveling

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Pick up & Delivery 581-3809 87 Old Schuylerville Rd, Saratoga Springs, 12866

begins, take 10 minutes to warmup by walking or marching in place. Stretch out your arms and legs. Warm muscles work more efficiently and are less likely to be injured.

• Wear boots that have sufficient tread allowing you to maintain your grasp to the surface beneath you.

Sudden slips and loss of balance may lead to severe strains in the lower back.

• If possible, wait until the afternoon to shovel. Many disc injuries occur in the morning when there is increased fluid pressure in the disc.

• Lift smaller loads of snow, rather than heavy shovelfuls. Take care to bend your knees and lift with your legs rather than with your back.

• Use a shovel with a shaft that lets you keep your back straight while lifting. A short shaft will cause you to bend more to lift the load.

Using a shovel that’s too long makes the weight at the end heavier.

• It is important to avoid excessive twisting and forward bending.

Instead, you should bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible so you are lifting with your legs. Step in the direction in which you are throwing the snow to prevent the lower back from

twisting.

• Take frequent breaks when shoveling. Stand up straight and walk around periodically to extend the lower back. Standing extension exercises will help reverse the excessive forward bending that occurs while shoveling: stand straight and tall, place your hands toward the back of your hips and bend backwards slightly for several seconds. Repeat as often as needed.

• Listen to your body! Stop if you feel pain or are short of breath.

With proper precautions and the correct snow-shoveling technique, injuries to the shoulders and lower back can be avoided.

Remember, the physical demand from moderate physical activity increases for anyone with a history of heart attacks, heart disease, smokers and individuals who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Consult your family physician prior to engaging in such activity.

If you or someone you know has back pain, consult your physician and/or a licensed physical therapist.

Physical therapists, or PTs, have a unique body of knowledge that promotes optimal health and function through the application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct, and alleviate acute or prolonged spine and extremity pain.

James Markwica, MS PT is a New York State Licensed Physical Therapist at LaMarco Physical Therapy, 417 Geyser Road in Ballston Spa and 30 Gick Road in Saratoga Springs. For questions or follow-up, contact James at (518) 587-3256 or online at www.lamarcopt.com.

New Rebate Law takes effect The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is alerting consumers of a new law that provides important information about rebate offers made by manufacturers and retailers.

Taking effect January 1, the law requires any entity that offers rebates to conspicuously disclose to consumers the following information: - If the rebate will be issued in a form other than cash or a check, including but not limited to credit, credit towards a future purchase, gift certificate, gift card, general-use prepaid card, or any other form of compensation - If any additional fees related to the exercise or non-exercise of the rebate may apply This measure also requires any retailer advertising a rebate to clearly disclose if the rebate will be issued to the consumer in any form other than cash or a check.

In recent years, rebate offers have become an increasingly popular method for businesses to attract customers who appreciate the opportunity to save money.

However, manufacturers and retailers that offer rebates do not always make the terms clear to consumers at the point of sale. While consumers tend to assume that a rebate will be in the form of a check, some rebates are actually provided as a credit toward the purchase of another product. If the rebate is provided in the form of a pre-paid card to make the additional purchase, consumers can face undisclosed fees for activation, checking of balances and account maintenance for periods of inactivity.

For more information about rebate offers and other consumer topic, visit www.nyconsumer.gov or call CPB toll-free at 1-800697-1220.

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ORGANIZING TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY Disorganization looks different on everyone, but the effects are typically the same: added stress, frustration and anxiety, and, most importantly, wasted time.

Now is the time to set a goal and get yourself in gear.

January 2011 is Get Organized Month, a positive way to start off the New Year and encourage lifestyle improvements.

So why not make a change for the better?

It's amazing how just a little bit of organization can help you streamline and simplify your day-to-day activities and living spaces, help you prepare your paper system for tax season, and enhance your overall quality of life.

The most important aspect of goalplanning is setting yourself up for success. According to Jordana Turcotte, professional organizer, the only way to get organized is to outline a specific plan and stick to it.

"The resolution of just getting organized is very, very vague," Turcotte said. "If your goal is to be more organized, then do it, but you have to be more specific. Is it a certain room, is it your time management, activities schedule, or paper system?"

As the owner of Simply You: Organizing to Simplify Your Life, Turcotte knows how to help people, families and businesses create effective organizational systems that work.

With an engineering degree from RPI and a background in lean manufacturing, it's no surprise that Turcotte is very systematic in her approach to personal organization.

Prior to opening her own business, Turcotte dealt with lean manufacturing: reducing steps and waste and streamlining manufacturing processes.

As a professional organizer, she resolves similar problems but in a different context.

Turcotte works one-on-one with her clients to determine what does and does not work for them. The problem could be a disjointed system or a difficult dynamic between family members or coworkers; or there could be unnecessary steps in a process that make it tricky to follow.

"Organization means something different for everyone because everyone struggles with different things.

You may be organized at work but not at home, with your papers but not with your clothes," she explained.

Using a multi-step fine-tuned process, Turcotte works with her customers to help them achieve their

desired results and meet their goals.

The first step is to establish a goal, envision a plan and map it out.

"You always want to be thinking about that end result. If your goal is transforming a cluttered spare room into a home office, you should write out your plan and hang it up so it's always visible. Anytime you get distracted or paused, you can look at it and say 'yes - that's what I'm working toward,'' she said.

The next step is sorting, which Turcotte describes as both therapeutic and brainless. The goal is to sort and bunch similar items together, "like a kindergartner with blocks," to help the individual visualize what and how much stuff they're working with.

"For example, if we're organizing a kitchen, the first thing would be to sort all the pots and pans, utensils, dishes and serving platters," she said.

Once all the sorting is complete, Turcotte moves onto "purging." She and the client work through the gathered piles and purge anything that is broken, unused or unwanted.

"If an item doesn't fit one of these three categories, then you keep it," she

Photo provided

Before said. "It really puts things into perspective when you see a whole pile of pans and realize you only use one of them," she said.

The next step is assigning a home to everything that is going to stay in the room you're working on. Turcotte asks her customers to really think about where and when they use each item because that will determine where it should go.

"For example, pots and pans should be close to the stove. The prime real estate is what you want to reserve for the things you use on a day-to-day

Photo provided

After basis. If you use your serving platters once a year then they shouldn't even be in the kitchen," she said.

It's only after everything is in its assigned place that Turcotte recommends making any purchases on items like containers, shelving or furniture.

"My goal is always to repurpose something in the home to spend as little as possible. If someone wants to purchase something new, they should have something to use in the meantime," she said.

The final step takes the most

amount of time. It involves the day-today "shoring up" and maintenance that forces the individual to continuously evaluate the system.

"It's trial and error. No system is perfect, because it's always changing," she said. "You have to set up a system that's also in flux all the time, one that you're always tweaking to fit your daily needs."

For more information about Simply You, contact Jordana Turcotte at (518) 877-8162 or by visiting her website: www.simplyyouorganizing.com.

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PARENTING

Some things stay the same

Steve, Me, Thomas and Gabe - August 2007

Kate Towne Sherwin Saratoga SAHM Author’s note: I was looking back through some things I’d written when Thomas and Gabe were small, and I came across this story, which I thought would be fun to share. Last month I wrote about how time marches on and change happens whether I want it to or not, but this story is so similar to what’s still happening in our house that “Thomas” and “Gabe” could easily be swapped for “Johnny” and “Xave” and still be accurate.

Tonight was a funny night.

Steve worked late at the office, so I made dinner early for the boys and myself. I put on the Christmas music

Me, Thomas and Gabe - Winter 2006 and bee-bopped along to it while I was getting the food on the table.

Thomas didn’t seem to like my dancing, though, because he kept saying, “Mommy sit chair” and pointing to my chair.

Gabey was not happy about eating his rice cereal. He didn’t seem to care for it last night or tonight, so I made up a rhythmic little thing I say as

bring the spoon to his mouth that goes, “Num-uh-num-uh-num-uhnum-uh” and then, when it’s in his mouth, I say, “Delicious!” That usually makes him smile and smile and coo his cereal all down his chin. But by the end of his teaspoon-and-a-half of cereal he wasn’t even buying the num-uhs, and puked it all up all over his shirt. So I took his shirt off and he spent the last half of dinner with just his diaper on, and did he love it. He kept standing up on my lap with his little tum and his fat little legs bared — his fat little legs which would get all dimply every time he stood up straight — and he was squealing with delight at me and Thomas. Not to be outdone, Thomas started saying, “Dee-ishis” after every bite. He used to say “Eye-dishis” for delicious, but I guess now it’s “dee-ishis.”

After dinner, I put the mostly naked Gabe on a blanket for some tummy time, which I’m really bad at remembering to do — I think he’s had only two or three tummy time

sessions since he’s been born, and I’ve recently started worrying that he’ll never roll over because I never give him the chance.

I shouldn’t have worried, though, because I put him down and got right down on the floor with him, and watched as he rolled himself over onto his back like as if he’d been rolling over for weeks! He rolled left from his tummy to his back! So I ran to get the camcorder, put him back on his tummy, started rolling the tape ... and do you think he rolled over for me again? He did not. He got angry that he was back on his tummy and started to fuss, which turned into an angry screechy cry. So I turned him back over and rubbed his tummy and he cooed and giggled and flapped his arms and marched his legs.

All three of us went up to Thomas’ room for a little while after that. I took some videos of his new room and his new bed, and Thomas posed for me by various features, like the window, where he walked a little figurine on the sill, and the bin next to his bed with his horse pillow on it that Nannie made for him, which he laid his head on. Gabey lay mostly naked on the bed, covered with his blanket (which Thomas calls his “Bee,” since that’s what Thomas usually calls his own blanket), and flapped his arms a lot.

Speaking of Bee, yesterday and

today Thomas has been taking great pains to say blanket. Instead of saying, “Where’s Tommy’s Bee?” he’s been saying, “Where’s Tommy’s blanket?” I’m sorry to see Bee go ...

I’ll probably still call it that, which is a very annoying mother thing to do, isn’t it?

So then it was bedtime! Thomas talked to Dad (Steve) on the phone, and ended the conversation by saying, “I love you, night night,” which is what they say to each other before bed, and of course, it just melted my heart. My boys — all of them — are the loves of my life.

Kate Towne Sherwin is a stay-athome mom (SAHM) living in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Steve, and their sons Thomas (6), Gabriel (4), John Dominic (2), and Xavier (10 months). She can be reached at sksherwin @hotmail.com.

Where’s my forever home?

Sher is a Dilute Gray Tortoiseshell kitty. She’s a beautiful young adult female, very sweet but shy initially – she was found at a local hospital and is now looking for her forever home. For more information on Sher or other cats and dogs for adoption, please call (518) 428-2994 or online at www.hopeanimalrescue.org

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KIDS FOOD CLUB

Fat Free and Delicious…

by Jodie Fitz Saratoga TODAY The holidays have passed and I’m still over-stuffed, which in my mind equates to the fact that my kids are over-stuffed too! The continuous party that lasted the entire month of December needs to come to an end, and so, with the first grocery shop of 2011, I found my cart filled with healthier foods. I checked my list off – fruits, vegetables, healthy dairies, whole grains, lean proteins, and then I stood in the aisle and thought. You see, I believe parenting is kind of like governmental warfare (and I’m not negative about it at all), but I believe it should be filled with what I refer to as tactical maneuvers. I’m not always successful, but when I’m one step ahead with the planning, I tend to have victory and can raise my flag in pride vs. waving the white dish towel in surrender. So, as I stood thinking, my mind computed - YIKES! Friend coming over today, kids will want a treat… hmmmm… what can I serve that will fake them out, let them think I’m still serving up fun, but keep it on the healthier side of things? And, that’s when I

came up with the FAKE SHAKE idea and voila – it worked! So, from one parent to another, I’m sharing my Fake Shake tactical maneuver with you that got a double thumbs up from the counter. This milkshake replacement cut the fat and lowered the sugar and my flag reads; Score One for Mom in the kitchen!

Mint Chocolate Fake Shake 6 oz. fat free vanilla yogurt 6 oz. fat free milk 2 tablespoons fat free chocolate syrup

1/8 teaspoon mint extract 2 cups ice Add the yogurt, milk, chocolate syrup, mint extract and ice into a blender. Blend, serve and enjoy.

And some kids say ‘everything tastes better with a drink umbrella and a straw.’

Note: If you want the shake to be thicker, add another cup of ice.

letter to the editor The Saratoga County Children’s Committee would like to thank everyone who participated in The Empty Stocking Project 2010.

Overall, we were able to assist over 1000 children throughout the county with gifts of clothing, toys and basic necessities. Many thanks to our corporate sponsors including Saratoga Hospital, Quad Graphics, Adirondack Trust, Skidmore College, Palio Communications, Knolls Atomic Power Labs, Ballston Spa National Bank, Milton Terrace PTA, Saratoga Casino and Raceway and the US Navy Sailors @ S8G Prototype NPTU Ballston Spa. Special thanks also go to the Senior High group of the Presbyterian New England Congregational Church for using their hard earned money to shop for many needy children! As always, the Project was a resounding success due to the support, kindness and generosity of our community. To all our “friends” and sponsors, both seasoned and new, we give sincere thanks. The Committee wishes you all a very happy and healthy new year.

The Saratoga County Children’s Committee Staci Mannion and Danette Bishop, Empty Stocking Coordinators Kathy Kelly, Chairperson, Saratoga County Children’s Committee

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ANNE’S CORNER

Anne’s corner

FREE This page is dedicated to you, the families who live, work and play in our great region. It is your opportunity to boast about your kids, announce your engagement or tell people about your accomplishments.

SSHS food drive a success The Student Council at Saratoga Springs High School wrapped up a school-wide food drive last month where students and staff donated a huge collection of items for three local agencies. Student Council members delivered the items to the Shelters of Saratoga, the Franklin Community Center and the Saratoga office of the Salvation Army. This food drive helped many local families have a Merrier Christmas and Happier New Year!

Surprise!

A surprise 60th birthday party was thrown last month for Carol Ann Woolsey of Saratoga Springs at the Knights of Columbus on Rt. 29. Many friends, old and new, waited for Carol and Bud, her hubby, to arrive.

Their daughters Tamara and Tiffany, along with their dad, were able to pull off the event for about 100 people without a hitch!

Lions Club does their part for Christmas

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the

Tooth fairy club Take a look at this week’s new club member!

Alexander, age 6 The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:

659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010

On December 15th the Ballston Spa Lions Club celebrated Christmas with a special dinner provided by Panza’s Restaurant and Catering. In lieu of exchanging gifts, the members invited a local Marine, PFC Zack Milkewitz USMC, to join them for dinner. They then presented him with enough toys for the Marine Toys for Tots program to fill his SUV. Pictured are recipient PFC Zack Milkewitz, USMC and King Lion Bob Farrell.

Great job, everyone!

Donations for the Troops Carrie Jackson of Saratoga Springs and her neighbors in the Rowland’s Hollow development collected more than 250 items to be sent through the Yellow Ribbon organization to our troops overseas. Good job, everyone!

Thanks so much from Head Start!

Saratoga Springs High School students in a Child Development class taught by Family and Consumer Science teacher Beth Morris got a big “thank you” from Head Start preschoolers Dec. 22 during a holiday get-together. High school students from this class and a college-level Child Growth and Development class met with the Head Start students on a regular basis, where they put in action lesson plans they spent hours organizing and fine-tuning. High school students also raised more than $1,500 to purchase clothing for needy preschoolers, and received donations for the children from local stores, including the Shoe Depot and Treasures. The preschoolers showed up in comfy pajamas for the holiday get-together.

Send all of your LOCAL hometown people news to: SARATOGA TODAY • 5 Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 *Att. Anne or call: 581-2480 • Or email to: aproulx@saratogapublishing.com.

Don’t be left out…contact Anne today

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Ch-Ch-Changes – How to make longlasting healthy changes in the New Year Meghan D. Lemery LCSW-R As I was recently having dinner with a dear friend of mine who I hadn’t seen in months, I noticed her skin was bright and pink, her eyes clear, and she seemed to exude peace and confidence. “You look amazing, what is going on?” I asked her, anxious for her to pass on her beauty secret. “I’m dating a trainer and I now work out 4 days a week, YOU HAVE TO TRY IT!!!!”

Now, I love to break a good sweat, and my best friend and I have a ritual of power walking a few times a week together. This means we put on workout clothes and walk really fast up and down Broadway perusing the best buys. But the truth was, I was feeling a little unmotivated to do much of anything lately except inhale any carbohydrate within a one hundred mile radius. I definitely needed a skip in my step and wanted to increase my energy level. The cold and dark days of winter were definitely causing me to feel tired and unmotivated. The next day I called my pal’s new crush and begin the journey of “Training” (aka Pure Torture).

“Let’s start with legs,” my new coach said. Having been a fantastic field hockey player over 20 years ago, I was certain this would be easy. By the third squat thrust I felt my legs twitch, by the seventh I face-planted into the mat. I was certain my Maker was coming to get me out of this hell so I waited patiently with my face buried into the mat that smelled of stale sweat and testosterone. Trainer stands over me and yells, “Move it Lemery, this is not for sissies!! Get up!” I slowly lifted my head up and replied, “Excuse me Trainer, if we are going to work together I feel you need to speak respectfully to me. I am very uncomfortable with your tone of voice.” “Listen Chatty Kathy, talking about your feelings

won’t get you into your skinny jeans….now MOVE” GASP! He did not just go there!

After my “session” I crawled on my elbows to my car because I had lost all feeling in my legs. I then called my neighbor and asked if I could borrow her shower chair and walker for a few weeks. Luckily, she had an extra set of both and I was able to get around even if I could not sit without feeling like my legs would fall off.

The next day we did arms. After that session I tried to put my mascara on only to see my hand shake and twitch so bad that I could only manage to get half an eye covered.

This was getting ugly. Literally.

Day three I was certain we would do shoulders and back with bamboo shoots under my nails to burn extra calories. No matter how bad I wanted to fit into my skinny jeans this was SO NOT FUN!!!!!

Change, even good change is hard. Whether it’s the decision to exercise more, eat healthy, walk away from a toxic relationship, job, or kick a nasty habit, change is rarely easy – ESPECIALLY in the first few weeks. The best way to make lasting, healthy changes in your life is to do it slowly and consistently. Trying to change all at once can be overwhelming and stressful (refer to self-induced torture above).

When we first start out to make a change, we have motivation cheering us along on our new path. But when we really get into the work of pushing the change through, we can become disheartened. Having a plan of action is essential to seeing

any healthy change through.

Write it down: If your goal is to shed some pounds and firm up, put it on paper.

Writing your goals down helps you become focused and is a great reminder of what it is that you are working toward. Pick out a picture of something or someone that inspires you in staying on the path of healthy change. Post your goals and picture where you can see it every day. Visualize yourself looking and feeling healthy and strong.

Chill out: Making long-lasting healthy changes is a process. Recognize that the first few weeks are the toughest. During this phase make it a point to chill out and plan time for relaxation and rest. If we don’t take the time to refuel our bodies and rejuvenate our spirits, we can easily fall off the wagon. Make sure you go to bed at a decent hour and take the time you need to unwind and de-stress.

Support team: Have an emergency list of pals who know what your goals are.

When you need a pep talk, seek out your support team for encouragement. Know that you can’t do this alone, lean on loved ones for support and help when you feel yourself backsliding.

Know your limits: We all have bad days. If you are feeling discouraged about pushing your change through, recognize it and give yourself a pass to have a lousy day. When my buff pal called to tell me how proud she was that I was surviving boot camp with her new squeeze, I replied in Sybil-like

fashion, “Anything you say in this moment can and will be held against you.” That is code for I am having a bad day and will pick a fight with you to unleash my negative mojo. It’s okay to feel sorry for yourself when trying to meet your goals. Have a pity party, and then pick yourself up, dust off the negativity and keep going.

Be real: The truth of the matter is I am not a boot camp kind of girl.

Having someone push me to engage in activities that cause my muscles to twitch and contort is not exactly bliss. That being said, be real with yourself. If you are someone who loves a more mild type of exercise environment, take a yoga or dance class. Do something healthy that is fun and enjoyable, and be honest with yourself if your current plan of action is leaving you feeling discouraged or adding more stress to your life.

I now have a few weeks under my belt in pursuing my goal of health. While those first few weeks were torture, I definitely have more energy and feel more focused in my day. I don’t need a walker anymore but do keep the shower chair for bad days. Now I can actually do 10 squat thrusts without hyperventilating or face planting. I do realize, however, that I am someone who prefers napping and yoga to pumping iron in the gym. And

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while it’s great to have a coach cheer you along the path, I am definitely more suited for gentle guidance and encouragement. Realizing this has helped me to really take the time to think about the activities that make me feel restored and refreshed, rather than exhausted and moody.

Whatever change you want to make, have a plan in place and remember, change is a process!

YOU CAN DO IT! Call me if you want to borrow the walker or shower chair.

Wishing you strength and health today and always!

Ms. Lemery is a psychotherapist practicing in Queensbury and Saratoga Springs. She can be reached at meghanlemery@yahoo.com

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living Jan.

14 - Jan. 21 events Friday, January 14 Lt. Gen. (Ret) Jerry Boykin to speak Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway A founding member of the Delta Force who rose through the ranks to command all US Army Special Forces and was chronicled in the movie “Black Hawk Down,” will give a free presentation from 6:30 to 8 pm.

He will speak about courage, honor and faith under fire. To obtain free tickets for the event, sponsored by Capital District Youth for Christ (CDYFC), call (518) 783-5332, or email dlenehan@cdyfc.org.

Saturday, January 15 Saratoga Farmers’ Market Division St. School Saratoga’s premier market, featuring meats, local produce, eggs, soaps, seasonal items and more. From 9 am to 1 pm. For more information, call (518) 638-8530.

Book Signing Virgil’s House, 86 Henry St, Saratoga Springs Dr. Michael Wayne’s new health and wellness book, “The Low Density Lifestyle: The Secret to Becoming FREE,” will celebrate its release with a book signing/party beginning at 4 pm.

There is no admission charge for this event. For more information, call Virgil’s House at (518) 587-2949.

Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park’s Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe will be held from 7 to 9:30 pm at the Camp Saratoga parcel on Scout Road. The terrain is suitable for all levels and ages and includes a smaller 1 mile loop.

Snowshoes will be available on a first-come first-serve basis in the warming hut off of parking lot 1 for a fee of $3 per person for non-members, free for members of Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park. Parking will be directed by volunteers and people are asked not to park along Scout Road. This event is weather permitting, with the back-up date of Friday, February 11. For more information, call (518) 450-0321 or visit the website at www.wiltonpreserve.org.

Sunday, January 16 Rotary breakfast

Monday, January 17 Nature Walk Wilton Wildlife Preserve, Old Gick Rd off Rte. 50 Explore the beauty of the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park in this guided hike from 10 to 11 am. The program is free and open to the public ages 6 and up. Bring snowshoes or rent them from the office at 80 Scout Road for $3 per nonmember before the program.

Preregistration is appreciated; call (518) 450-0321, ext. 92 or email abrym@wiltonpreserve.org.

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St. From 2 to 2:45 pm, bring the children to hear a story and learn to make origami peace cranes.

Our Wonderful World Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St. From 10 am to noon. Free with Museum admission, pre-registration is required. Students will explore human diversity by exploring the music, dance, language and food of other cultures. This program is for ages 5 and up.

All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast at the Elks

Community Bingo

Live Animal Demonstration Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St. From 2 to 3 pm, join us to meet some scaly special guests in the Pet Vet exhibit! We’ll learn more about caring for these unusual pets from their owner, our educator Lindsay.

TODAY

tion, please call Mary Alice at (518) 884-2806 or visit our website: http://saratoga turftalkers.freetoasthost.biz.

Dessert and Coffee. Adults $9, seniors $8 and takeouts $10.

For information, call (518) 5844163.

Wednesday, January 19

Upcoming

A.L.L Lunch and Learn Empire State College, 2 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs Betty Cassidy presenting Portraits: Old and New in the free brown bag lunch and learn series. The program begins at noon in room 126 (the Rotunda) and will be cancelled if Saratoga Springs city schools are closed.

Peace Program for families K of C Bingo

Saratoga’s Racing City Rotary presents their monthly all-youcan-eat breakfast this morning from 8:30 to 11 am at the Senior Citizen’s Center at 5 Williams Street. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and children 5 to 12 years of age. Complete menu!

Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, 1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs.

Let us do the cooking this morning with a delicious breakfast from 8:30 to 11 am. Adults $7, seniors and military with ID $6, children (ages 5 to 12) $5, under 5 free, takeout $8.

Friday, January 14, 2011

The Knights of Columbus, Pine Road, Saratoga Community bingo each Wednesday at 7 pm. Doors open at 5 pm. Refreshments will be available. Call (518) 584-8547 for more information.

Thursday, January 20 Bingo

Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga.

An evening of fun for old and young, every Monday evening at 7 pm. Doors open at 4 pm.

Refreshments will be available.

(518) 584-2585

The Jewish Community Center of Saratoga Springs, 84 Weibel Avenue Doors open at 6 pm with the first game beginning at 7:15.

Pull tabs are on sale throughout the evening. The building is wheelchair accessible and has one floor that is non-smoking and another that is smoking.

Refreshments for sale and no outside food items are permitted in the building. For more information, call (518) 5842370.

Tuesday, January 18

Friday, January 21

Saratoga Turf Talkers Toastmasters

The Principessa Elena Society Dinner

From 12:30 to 1:30 pm, at Longfellow’s Inn, 500 Union Ave. Saratoga Turf Talkers practice communication and leadership skills, offer each other feedback and support, and have fun together. Our meetings are free and guests are welcome. For more informa-

13 Oak Street, Saratoga Springs Building fund-raising dinner on Friday, January 21, from 5 to 7 pm. The menu will offer Pasta Fagioli, Sausage, Peppers and Onions, Spaghetti and Meatballs with sauce, Rigatoni with Broccoli, Garlic and Oil, Tossed Salad, Bread, Butter,

Round Lake Library Night at the Phantoms Join the library for a night of hockey action on Friday, February 4 at 7:30 pm at the Glens Falls Civic Center. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for children. For tickets contact the library at (518) 899-2285 or Nate Mason at the Phantoms at (518) 480-3355.

Saratoga Contradance Saturday, January 22 Contras, squares, and couples dances from 8 to 11 pm, with beginners lesson at 7:30. All dances taught, newcomers welcome. No need to bring your own partner. Wear sneakers or other soft-soled shoes only, please. Adults $10, students $7, children under 15, $6. First Baptist Church, 45 Washington St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 885-4430 or visit www.danceflurry.org.

Frost Faire Get out of the house on January 22 for some family fun.

Come to the Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, for snow tubing on the “Big Hill,” a bonfire, hot refreshments, nature hikes and more. Visit www.nps.gov/sara for details or call (518) 664-9821, ext. 224.

Western Hoedown Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Dr. On Saturday, February 5 from 7 to 9 pm, come for old-time, traditional, easy-to-learn square dancing. Featuring Tim Wechgelaer on fiddle and Don Young, caller and guitarist. Children 8 and up with adults, teens and adults of all ages are encouraged to participate. $10 per person. Pre-registration required by January 29. Call the Malta Community Center at (518) 899-4411.

Send your calendar items to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before 5 pm on Monday for Friday publication.

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Friday, January 14, 2011

local briefs Faith on a Respirator January 30 Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church, 24 Circular Street, Saratoga Springs, from 12:30 to 2 pm. It’s easy to believe in God when things are going your way.

But when you or someone you love is suffering, it can be difficult to continue to have faith in a higher power – especially when things are not turning out the way you had prayed they would. Through readings of short vignettes from her book, They Live On: Saying Goodbye to Mom and Dad, Patricia Nugent will illustrate the universal cycle of invoking God’s help and railing against God during troubled times. And help us realize that we are not alone in our confusion during these difficult times. Please RSVP to (518) 584-6091.

Regent Street, 45 Kaydeross Ave. Join us to meet faculty, staff and parents. Tour our buildings and view displays of academic and artistic work.

Adult recreation The Ballston Spa Central School District Community Education Program is currently offering a variety of adult sports opportunities during the winter months. Pre-registration is required and fees are due at the beginning of each course. Those interested may register for courses by mail or in person at the Office of Community Resources, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm at the District Office, 70 Malta Avenue in Ballston Spa. Additional information regarding any of the courses may be obtained on the district website at www.bscsd.org or by calling (518) 884-7195, ext. 1329.

HMT classes Health study Dr. Paul Arciero, Chair of the Health and Exercise Sciences Department at Skidmore College is recruiting interested volunteers for a 4-month Optimal Health and Performance Research Study he will be conducting at Skidmore College beginning the week of January 17 and concluding the beginning of May 2011.

This study is a culmination of the Optimal Health and Performance research Dr. Paul has done the past 25 years. If you are interested in volunteering to be a participant in this study, please email Dr. Paul at parciero@skidmore.edu or call (518) 580-5366. The study will closely monitor and supervise 30 participants with the following: measurement of body composition (body fat, lean muscle mass and bone mineral density), cardiovascular and muscular fitness, blood cholesterol, sugar (glucose), psychological mood state and feelings of hunger, supervision and close monitoring of 4 days of exercise per week to be performed at the Skidmore College Fitness Center and nutritional counseling on healthy eating and other healthy lifestyle strategies to promote optimal health and physical performance.

The Waldorf School Open House On Saturday, Jan. 22 from 10 am to 2 pm at all locations: 62 York Avenue, 212 Lake Avenue, 122

Home Made Theater announces two new sessions of acting classes for children and teens ages 6 to 17 starting in January and running until March. All classes are held at the Spa Little Theater in the Saratoga Spa State Park. Registrations are accepted over the phone with a credit card, or by mail with check or credit card. Class size is limited to 12 students, and reservations are accepted in the order they are received.

Visit homemadetheater.org to obtain the Winter ‘11 class flyer and registration form; you can also join our email list to have class flyers emailed to you. Call (518) 587-4427 for further information.

21 Historian and retired curator at the NYS Museum, will give a PowerPoint presentation on his research of Saratoga County families. Meeting is free and open to the public. For information, call (518) 587-2978.

vention tourism in our area, how the new City Center will impact this and what we can look forward to in 2011. Reservations by January 18 are appreciated by calling (518) 584-3255. Cost is $15, $20 after reservation deadline.

Parkinson’s support group

Saratoga County Chamber Annual Dinner Thursday, January 27

The Parkinson’s Support Group of Saratoga will meet at Woodlawn Commons in Saratoga Springs on Monday, January 17 at 2 pm. This meeting is open to anyone with Parkinson’s disease, family members and friends. For more information, call Joyce Garlock at (518) 885-6427or Dorothy Clark at (518) 584-3894.

Snow Shoe rentals The Wilton Wildlife Preserve has snowshoes available for rental at the health office off the parking area in Camp Saratoga. Free for members, $3 for non-members. The dates and times of availability are January 22, February 5 and 19, and March 5 and 12, from 9 am to 2 pm.

Chamber of Commerce Third Thursday Breakfast Thursday, January 20 Held at the Hilton from 7:30 to 9 am, president of the Convention and Tourism Bureau, Todd Garofano will provide an update about con-

Saratoga Springs Public Library Community Room, 49 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs.

Please join us on January 22 from 10 am to noon for the 4th annual Saratoga Springs Area Preschool Fair. This event is a wonderful opportunity to gather information about area preschools and meet teachers and staff. For more information, please call (518) 587-2224 or email admissions@waldorfsaratoga.org.

Heritage Hunters Heritage Hunters of Saratoga County will meet on Saturday, January 15 at 1 pm at the Town of Saratoga Town Hall, corner of Rts. 4 and 29 in Schuylerville. John Scherer, Town of Clifton Park

Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org

Held at the City Center from 6 to 9:30 pm, this event is a thank you to Mike Munter, 2010 Board Chairman and a celebration of all our volunteers and members who continue to support the Chamber and the Community. The cost is $100. Reservation deadline is Thursday, January 20. Please call the Chamber to make your reservations, (518) 584-3255.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org

Chamber Red Cross Blood Drive, January 26

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org

Saratoga County Chamber’s Saratoga Young Professionals Network blood drive for the American Red Cross will be on Wednesday, January 26 from noon to 6 pm at The Wesley Community, 131 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs.

The blood drive is open to the public. Those interested in donating blood should call the Chamber at (518) 584-3255 to sign up for a time slot.

HELPING HANDS Organization

American Red Cross Mission

Preschool fair

upcoming town meetings

Since its founding in 1881 by visionary leader Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been the nation's premier emergency response organization.

As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguishes itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, always with the aim of preventing and relieving suffering. Today, in addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross offers compassionate services in five other areas: community services that help the needy; support and comfort for military members and their families; the collection, processing and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products; educational programs that promote health and safety; and international relief and development programs.

How to Help We are always looking for volunteers to help in various capacities; these include: • Disaster Action Team (DAT) Members: This team responds to local fires in the following counties: Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Hamilton and Southern Essex.

• Instructors: Teaching CPR/First Aid Courses to the community or businesses • Blood Mobile Volunteers: Registering blood donors, and working the canteen at blood mobile locations • Blood Donors: Donate blood at one of our many blood mobile locations

Contact We can be contacted at either our Glens Falls location at 74 Warren St., (518) 792-6545 or our Ballston Spa office (518) 584-2510.

Send your local briefs to Kim Beatty at kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 pm for Friday publication

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 1/20: Environmental Commission meeting, 7 pm

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 1/18: City Council meeting, 7 pm 1/19: Design Review Commission meeting, 7 pm Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 1/20: Town Board meeting, 7 pm Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 1/19: Planning Board meeting, 6:30 pm

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Friday, January 14, 2011

40th annual LARAC June Arts and Crafts Festival: call for artists The Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC) will be holding its 40th Annual June Fine Arts and Crafts Outdoor Festival on Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12 at Downtown Glens Falls City Park, between Ridge, Maple and Bay Streets. This Festival contains a juried fine arts and crafts show. This is the first major summer event in the area, drawing tens of thousands from the region. The festival features live music for all ages, children’s activities, and a food concession area.

Deadline for application submission is Friday, February 11. Local or regional artists should note that LARAC selects exhibitors based on their originality, quality, execution, presentation and overall fit with the LARAC festival as a community

TODAY

Local Gigs

event. We aim for an eclectic selection of fine art and craft mediums to be represented, included but not limited to: pottery, oil and watercolor painting, stained glass, photography, jewelry, custom cabinetry, metal work, wood carving, stoneware, specialty gourmet food items, rustic furniture and more.

Applications and a full listing of our policies and guidelines are available at www.larac.org. For more information or to request a mailed application, call Stacy Bissell at (518) 798-1144, ext. 5.

Send listings to entertainment@ saratogapublishing.com

SARATOGA

TODAY

PULSE

Friday, January 14, 2011

“Best World Music Guitar Player” Pierre Bensusan begins winter US tour at Caffé Lena Sunday Thirty-five years after the release of ‘Près de Paris’ launched the career for one of contemporary world music’s most extraordinary instrumental guitarists, Pierre Bensusan is still conquering the world on tour throughout Europe, Asia, Australia and North America.

The winner of Guitar Player Magazine’s Reader’s Choice Award as the “Best World Music Guitar Player” two years ago, Bensusan returns to Caffé Lena on Sunday, January 16 as the first stop on a 9-week US tour in support of his recently released album – ‘Vividly’ – a musical tour de force that reflects his gratitude towards his ability to reach audiences with his deeply intuitive approach to life and music and a signature ‘fingerstyle’ guitar technique which has won him fans worldwide as well as accolades from the industry for his recordings and live performances.

“As with every track on ‘Vividly’ and those I have recorded throughout my career,” Bensusan says, “I simply want to touch people through music and put them in the right place to better appreciate the beauty of life, even in times of strife. A lot of guitarists and guitar students like to focus on my technique, and I appreciate that, but I never set out to prove anything in that area. At heart, I am a storyteller who likes to take chances and surprise people. I work with tensions and con-

All Photos Provided

Pierre Bensusan; cover of ‘Vividly’ his lastest release

trasts, space movements and different arrangements of notes, but what’s most important is putting people in a frame of mind that allows them to take a step back from the day to day and feel better about their lives.”

Tickets for the show at Caffé Lena are $22 in advance or $24 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased on line at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/138344.

For more information, visit www.caffelena.org.

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Lindy Hop/Jazz Event to Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - First integrated dance club to also be commemorated The Saratoga Music Hall (3rd floor above City Hall on Broadway, Saratoga Springs) will feature a concert and dance event on Saturday, January 15 featuring live music, dancing and impromptu dance performances.

This event will focus on celebrating the historic Savoy Ballroom and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The event will feature the sounds of Sonny and Perley's Jive Five and is sponsored by the Saratoga SAVOY as part of its successful Diamond Dance series.

Lindy Hop is the original form of Swing dancing and is a fusion of different American dances. It emerged in the late 1920’s during what is sometimes called ‘the Harlem Renaissance.’As jazz music emerged as a dominant art form that integrates other forms of music, Lindy Hop emerged as a dance form that was open to absorbing and integrating many forms of dance.

"Lindy Hop was one of the signature dances from the old Savoy Ballroom. The Savoy pioneered diversity as the first integrated dance club. It was owned by a

Jewish man (Moe Gale) and managed by an African-American (Charles Buchanan). Its progressive and tolerant atmosphere created an environment that produced more new social dances than any other institution in the US,” said David Wolf, owner of the Saratoga SAVOY. Some of the swing and jazz legends the Savoy Ballroom featured included: musicians Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie and Benny Photos Provided Goodman, as well as Sonny and Perley's Jive Five will have the famed Lindy Hoppers music hall “Lindy Hopping” Saturday Frankie Manning, Shorty The SAVOY celebration will George Snowden, Norma Miller and begin at 7:30 pm with a swing dance Willa Mae. lesson by one of the area’s top Lindy "In many ways the Savoy instructors. Sonny and Perley's Jive Ballroom and its music was the first Five will take the stage and play institution that held the civil rights from 8-11:30 pm. ideals that Mr. King fought for. The Admission is $15 for the public. dance hall was the first integrated For more information, contact dance hall in the US - almost 40 the Saratoga SAVOY at years before the civil rights move- (518) 587- 5132 or visit ment,” explains Wolf. www.saratogasavoy.com.

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SARATOGA

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Friday, January 14, 2011

TODAY

Into the Woods Junior from Saratoga Children’s Theatre All Photos Provided

Gabrielle Vuillaume- Rapunzel , Lila Glansberg- Witch

Austin Campbell- Wolf, Egan MillsLittle Red Riding Hood, Izzy Cavotta- Granny

Devin Towne- Prince, Hope FriedmanCinderella

The Brothers Grimm “go Broadway” as Sondheim and Lapine offer up a cockeyed fairy tale where all your favorite characters – including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch meet and interact on their journeys.

With unforgettable roles, Into the Woods Junior showcases an ensemble of talented singers and actors from around the Saratoga Springs area. Into The Woods Junior is a funny and engaging way to get young people to think about the stories with which they’ve grown up and the ethical issues raised therein.

to allow each student to see themselves and improve with the help of Saratoga Children’s Theater’s professional staff members. All participants will take part in a mock audition during the final session. Personal feedback will be shared with all participants individually and in a Master Class setting.

The workshop will be held during Spring break, February 21-25 from 9 am to 3 pm each day. The workshop

‘Master your Audition’ intensive workshop during Spring break.

Saratoga Children’s Theater is also offering an intensive work-

shop limited to 12 students ages 10 and up who are involved in theatre and would like to improve their techniques to help them with their future auditions.

Do you have an audition coming up soon? Need help choosing the right song? Need help learning how to best perform it? Want to feel less nervous when you walk into the room? Learn how to do this and much, much more! Learn about EVERY step of the audition process and feel better about achieving your full potential while auditioning.

Improve your singing, acting and dancing audition skills through the personal attention of highly qualified teaching artists.

All participants will be videotaped

leader is Michael Lotano with special guest artist Owen Smith.

Tuition is $250. Phone (518) 580-

1782 to reserve a place.

For more information, visit www.saratogachildrenstheatre.org

St. Peters School 64 Hamilton Street,Saratoga Springs Shows: Thursday, January 20 and Friday, January 21 at 7 pm Saturday, January 22 at 2 and 7 pm Erika Hebert, Director Rob Spring, Musical Director Tickets: $10 adults, $5 children Phone (518) 580-1782 for reservations and information

Victorian tea party for kids at Brookside Museum Brookside Museum, home of the Saratoga County Historical Society, located at 6 Charlton Street in the historic Village of Ballston Spa, would like to invite local kids to a Victorian Tea Party during the Winter Recess on Thursday, February 24.

Sue McLane, the Victorian Lady, will guide the kids through a celebration of Victorian culture, learning about clothing, manners and pastimes. The children will also plan, prepare and enjoy a tea party. Games and craft activities will also be included.

Two sessions will be held on February 24, 10 am to 12 noon and 1 to 3 pm. The fee for the tea party is $7.50 per child and is designed for children ages 5 through 12. Pre-registration is required and is limited to 15 children in each session. Contact Linda by email to register at lgorham@brooksidemuseum.org.

Brookside Museum’s mission is to

inspire community memory by telling the story of Saratoga through engaging exhibits and interactive programs. For more information on Brookside, please visit www.brooksidemuseum.org or call (518) 885-4000.

SARATOGA

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Friday, January 14, 2011

25

winter programs Limón Dance Company master class and lecture The National Museum of Dance/School of the Arts located at 99 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs will be sponsoring the Limón Dance Company in the School of the Arts Studios on Saturday, January 15, with a master class/lecture by Limón Dance Company Artistic Director and former Limón principal, Carla Maxwell.

The Master Class will be held from 1 to 2:30 pm and the lecture will begin at 2:45 pm and run approximately 1 hour. The cost for the master class is $20 and includes the lecture, which will highlight the company’s repertory works in progress. Admittance to the lecture only is $5.

The National Museum of Dance/School of the Arts will also be hosting the Limón Dance Company rehearsals for the full repertoire to be performed at Skidmore College on Friday, January 28.

To reserve your space, call the Museum at (518) 584-2225, ext.

3001 or email: info@dancemuseum.org.

Children’s “For the love of dance” program The National Museum of Dance will host two 8-session children’s dance programs (“For the love of dance”) on Thursdays starting February 3 and continuing through March 31, from 11 am to 12 noon for 3 - 4 year olds and 1:30 to 2:30 pm for 4 - 5 year olds.

The dance program will be held in the Museum’s new Alfred Z. Solomon Children’s Wing. This children’s enrichment dance program has been uniquely designed and will be taught by Leslie Kettlewell. The program will include lots of playful things such as: • Amazing Crafts! Make your own fairy wings, magic wands, Chinese fans and African masks • Imaginative movement & play: Gallop like a sea horse, float like Winnie the Pooh and more

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET’S NEST

• Creative & traditional dances: Learn the Virginia Reel, Irish Jig and many others The cost per session is $120. A 40 percent discount will be given for additional children from the same family.

At the end of the session, a show will be presented for the parents.

Space is limited. Registration forms can be downloaded from the museum website or picked up at the museum offices.

Second Annual Antique Show

Winter

The Museum’s 2nd annual Winter Antique Show will take place on Friday, January 28 from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday, January 29 from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission to the show is $5 for the general public; museum members are admitted free of charge. Over 40 antique vendors will be exhibiting this year.

For more information on all programs at the National Museum of Dance, please visit the Museum’s website at www.dancemuseum.org or call Donna Skiff, museum director, at (518) 584-2225, ext. 3004.

All screenings are held at the Dee Sarno Theater in the Saratoga Arts Center, Broadway and Spring Street, Saratoga Springs. Visit www.saratogafilmforum.org or call 584-FILM. Tickets are $7 and $5 for members and students

The screen adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s mega-bestselling Millennium Trilogy comes to an end with this final installment (the original Swedish title Luftslottet som sprangdes translates as “The Air Castle That Was Blown Up”). Antiheroine Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace), shot in the head at the end of The Girl Who Played With Fire, lies in a Swedish hospital’s ICU in critical condition. Should she recover, she’ll need to be taken back to Stockholm to stand trial for three murders - murders that her friend, the journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist), is firmly convinced she is innocent of. Lisbeth will not only have to prove her innocence, but also identify and denounce corrupt members of the Swedish government and the health care system who have allowed her - and others like her--to suffer abuse and violence. It being Lisbeth, she will of course plot her own revenge against the man who tried to kill her, and the corrupt government institutions that very nearly destroyed her life.

Photo Provided

Children participating in the 2010 "For the Love of Dance" program

SARATOGA

FOOD VEAL ITALIA

Friday, January 14, 2011 TODAY SIXTH ANNUAL RESTAURANT WEEK BREAKS RECORDS!

26

A PERFECT MEAL FOR A SNOWY NIGHT

The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau ‘s sixth annual Saratoga Restaurant Week took place in Saratoga County from December 3 to 9, 2010 and proved to be a success!

As the holiday season approached, Saratoga Restaurant Week offered diners 3-course dinners for $18.19 and $9.09 lunch specials. The number of participating restaurants was 43, seven more than last year and a new Restaurant Week record!

stick-to-your-bones meal with a healthy kick. It also allows for great options depending on what's available and what your eating desires are (see below). Enjoy the snow and enjoy your time around the table even more.

Suzanne Voigt Farmers’Market Winter has arrived and the snow covers our ground making a white wonderland of our upstate town.

While we all love the beauty we also must deal with its down sides, one of which is getting cold and the need to come inside and have a hearty meal that warms us right to our toes.

Veal Italia is perfect for this task.

The recipe originates from the heart of the Italian Alps where snow is plentiful, veal is revered and good food is always not far away. It does call for the use of whole wheat pasta- I know many scorn the taste of whole wheat pasta while grudgingly admitting its healthy side-this recipe actually lends itself to the healthier whole wheat pasta so you can enjoy and be healthy! This is a

Ingredients 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 fresh medium carrots, diced 1/4 c diced celery ribs (approx 2 stalks) 1 yellow onion, diced 1 lb Brookside Farm ground veal 2 cups crushed fresh Sushan Hydroponic tomatoes (juice included) 1 lb whole wheat enriched pasta (I like to use fettucine style noodles) 1 cup tomato sauce 2 tbsp tomato paste 4 tbsp fresh basil from Sushan Hydroponics or 3 tsp dried 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp parsley 1/2 c low sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup chardonnay salt and pepper to taste

Directions 1. Heat oil in skillet over medium

heat. Add carrots, celery and onion and sauté until the vegetables soften.

2. Add the veal and cook until the meat is cooked through (color should be white). Stir throughout cooking time.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for couple of minutes before lowering temp to medium-low.

4. Start pasta cooking at this point according to package instructions in a separate large sauce pan.

5. Stir in the tomato sauce, paste, spices, broth and wine. and let simmer for around 15 minutes reducing the liquid content minimally. Add salt and pepper to taste and adjust seasonings to your taste.

Serve immediately over pasta.

(Note: Leftovers make a great easy second meal for another day).

Many options: This recipe lends itself to many variations. One option I like to do is add fresh chopped spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. It gives me that "green" I need on my plate and doesn't dirty another dish. Also, if veal is not your thing, (it has a very mild taste), you can certainly substitute another meat of your choice: beef, chicken or turkey or even shrimp or lobster. My vegetarian son does this meal with chicken broth, no meat, tofu and spinach and it’s excellent.

Charter change: many details still TBA Continued from Page 7

ward. It’s desirable to have the election (in May) so that the November 2011 election can be about electing the new Government’s representatives. Otherwise, people will be voting about the form of government and the Commissioners of the current government at the same time, and it would be unclear exactly what they would be electing.”

Commissioner Franck did not believe that a special election is the right way to go.

He noted that “in special elections, the participation level is historically much lower, and usually only the hard-core supporters tend to turn out,” which would tend to skew the results.

T h e n there is the issue of the cost

of a special election, which Franck estimated might cost between $20-30,000. Patrick Kane countered that if costs were the key issue “the last thing the City should consider is a Charter Review Commission. From a financial perspective, this would be much more costly than a special election.”

Judge Nolan’s ruling, in part, indicated that a ‘fiscal note’ on the costs of a transition to the Council-manager government was not required at the time the petition was submitted, but both Franck and Kane did agree that the economics and budget for changing the form of government and the savings under a new structure’s operation was the heart of the issue. “People may think that I’m automatically against this, but I’m a numbers person.” Franck said. “If they want my vote on the City Council, they (Saratoga Citizen) are going to have to show me where the savings are going to come from. Everything I

have seen so far about changing the form of government in other municipalities shows that the costs spike upward during the transition and during the short-term.”

Kane countered that Saratoga Citizen was “certainly going to continue to make public plenty of specific financial details” which will show anticipated efficiencies, and pointed out the upcoming re-launch of their website about March 1 “is part of the on-going education process that we have been at for three years. Savings are at the core of this effort.” Regarding further legal action, “We believe that we have operated under the process of accepted procedures, and now its time to let the public debate and decide the issue.” Kane said.

The one certainty that exists at this point is that there promises to be many more manuvers from both sides as the process plays out.

The Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau would like to thank all of the sponsors for their support and contributing to the success of Restaurant Week. A donation of $1,500 was made to the Franklin Community Center from proceeds from the event to help re-stock their food pantry which is often depleted over the holidays.

Diners who completed surveys were eligible to receive an extra bonus. First place winner of $250 worth of dining gift certificates was Mark Bauman, second place was Michael Hilton with $150 in certificates and third place was Maureen Flynn with $100 in certificates. Donating the dining gift certificates were Wishing Well Restaurant, Bookmakers at the Holiday Inn, Sushi Thai Garden, Gaffney’s, Jacob & Anthony’s American Grille, The Irish Times Restaurant, Maestro’s, Prime at Saratoga National Golf Club and Mouzon House.

Bureau President Todd Garofano elaborated, “This is a great event for Saratoga. We saw increased participation by restaurants throughout the county and their dining rooms were busy all week long. And for the first time, we had several of our lodging members participate by offering room rate specials which encouraged visitors from farther away to come experience Saratoga and its great restaurants, shops and attractions outside of our traditional racing season. We will look to continue to grow this event and bring business to our members year round.”

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, January 14, 2011

Words to know: paucity: n, smallness of number, or quantity.

Sudoku

PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES

27 “The best place to find a helping hand is at the end of your own arm.”

Crossword

See puzzle solution on page 30

Scrabblegram

See puzzle solution on page 30

ACROSS 1 Illustrative words 7 Burst 15 Casual top 16 Intimate meeting 17 Baroque composer Cavalieri 18 Apple delivery vehicle?

19 Lobbying gp. bigwig?

21 Great Seal symbol 22 Lab complaints 23 CD-__ 25 Hardy’s “Pure Woman” 26 “S” on an invitation 27 Label for many Elton John hits 29 Ready-to-mail item: Abbr.

31 Ristorante suffix 32 Pittypat, in “Gone With the Wind” 34 Aiming aid in some gun sights 38 Fourth-qtr. month 39 Trap for large reptiles?

41 Reveal, poetically 42 Glacial ridges 44 It parallels the radius 45 Radar’s rank: Abbr.

46 Fish-eating bird 48 Pollster’s query 49 Heartache 50 Homer Simpson’s mom 53 Chestnut horse 55 Cartoonist Walker 56 Nailing, as a test 58 Coalition celebration?

61 Court dispute over footwear?

63 Prepare for a break 64 Texas city on I-40 65 Colorless gas 66 With composure 67 “__ Waldo?”

DOWN 1 Make way

Top Video Rentals 1. Dinner for Schmucks 2. Inception 3. Salt 4. Case 39 5. The Last Exorcism Raising Hector

Swedish Proverb

See puzzle solutions on page 30

2 Dept. of the Navy component 3 Movie with style?

4 Black __ 5 Luyendyk of auto racing 6 Greek colonnade 7 Rival of Paris 8 Takes pieces from?

9 Workout target 10 Carry 11 Like some films 12 Compact item 13 Things with ltrs.

14 Hockey ploys 20 Pipe cleaner 24 Wrapped garment 27 Prefix with economics 28 Insertion point indicator 30 Biological bristles

Broom Hilda 6. Knight and Day 7. Easy A 8. The Other Guys 9. Resident Evil: Afterlife 10. Going the Distance

Animal Crackers

33 Mountain West Conf. team 35 Employee using a word processor?

36 Auspicious 37 Sends, obsolescently 40 Dallas suburb 43 Hyundai model 47 Cricket violation 50 Family nicknames 51 Carol opening 52 Battery acronym 54 Magnalium, e.g.

55 Papier-__ 57 Pluck 59 Captain’s underlings 60 Step on it 62 __ du Diable: former French penal colony

28

CLASSIFIED

SARATOGA

Friday, January 14, 2011

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ON-LINE Trainers Wanted! Do you want to work from home and have extra income? Flexible hours, FREE simple training & support provided. www.successful-action.com Driver- Steady Miles. NEW PAY PACKAGE! Single source dispatch.

Daily or Weekly Pay. Dry Van and Refrigerated. Great benefits. CDL-A, 6 months recent experience.

800-414-9569 www.driveknight.com

AUTOMOTIVE

MERCHANDISE LICORICE LOVERS- browse largest selection gourmet licorice in USA www.LicoriceInternational.com 1800- LICORICE. Guaranteed fresh. Fast delivery. Free Sample with order.

Enter code A1216 for $5 off thru 1-13-11 Take your child from crib to college with this fabulous bed unit with removable rails, mattress, drawers, and night stand. ALL Wood! Excellent condition!-$500.00 .

Call 518-306-4391 Mahogany Bed, full size Mint condition. $250 or best offer.

Call 383-3617

AUTOMOTIVE

ADOPT: Warm, very happily married couple will give your newborn a future full of love, security, support and opportunity.

Legal expenses paid.

Please call Laurel/ Adam: 1-877-543-9827

REAL ESTATE for rent WILTON McGregor Village Apts.

Winter Special...Now $725/month, 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.

A committed, financially secure couple seeks to adopt. Warm, caring home. Love to travel. Ready to provide a birth and happy future.

Expenses paid. Neil and Doak, 888-492-6273.

REAL ESTATE Commercial Space 170 S. Broadway Parking. 1,050 sq. ft.

Contact Jeff: 306-6781

TODAY

REAL ESTATE for rent

SARATOGA

TODAY

SPORTS

Friday, January 14, 2011

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 11-1

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 2-4

CORINTH $194,500 138 WELLS RD.

Coach K's mentor

GALWAY $649,900 2210 GALWAY RD

Just Listed. This 2 bdrm log home is nestled on 11 acres for ultimate privacy and enjoying the great outdoors.

Plenty of trails to enjoy nearby. Corinth School District and an easy ride to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping and entertainment. Dir: From Saratoga Springs take Route 9N towards Corinth, take a left on Wells Road.

Take Wells Road 1.2 miles to #138 on the right. Follow long Thomas driveway and bear right at fork.

J. Sheila Dorn Real Estate Cell: (518) 528-1314 Office (518) 863-4691

Gracious and cherished this 1790's Center Hall Colonial on the Historic Registry, minutes from Saratoga Racetrack, has all the charm of the old, combined with tasteful modern updates. Beautiful pastures of clover, perennial gardens, mature trees on 18+ acres in Galway.

Permitted B&B w/ a 7 stall horse barn & 3 bay carriage house. Gourmet kitchen, butlers' pantry, zoned heating, & all 6 BRs plumbed separately.

Gorgeous in-ground Gunite pool w/ bluestone patio for carefree entertaining. www.2210galwayroad.com Yvonne Matthews www.purdyrealty.com (518) 461-0771

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-3 SARATOGA $389,900 17 ASHLEIGH LA Top Line Custom Built Home, 2 years young.

Maple flrs/staircase, 9' ceilings, full basement, walk in closets, laundry room. Enjoy the cool nights by the fireplace. Open kitchen, corian, stainless steel walk in pantry. Shaker Style interior. Luxurious Master bath,double sink, 4' seated shower, 2 person heated whirlpool tub. 1.8 acres with treed backdrop. Plenty of space for storage and places to roam. Sunny & bright. Private setting, yet close to Saratoga!

Wendy Gilligan (518) 860-3109

$246,500 CLIFTON PARK 6 GREENRIDGE DR Move right into this perfectly maintained home.

All new windows, vinyl siding with insulation, pellet stove and 1 year old gas furnace make this home toasty warm and energy efficient during cold winter months. Central air will keep you cool during the summer. Many upgrades including new paint throughout,granite counters in the kitchen & baths, 1 yr old fridge and DW, above ground pool 4 yrs old. Short drive to shopping and exit 8 of I-87. Easy to show. Agent is related to seller.

Dennis Wheeler (518) 496-2660

Damian Fantauzzi In case you didn't know, Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke's famous men's basketball coach, played for Coach Bobby Knight at West Point from 1966 to 1969. From Chicago, Illinois, Coach K was recruited as a point guard by Knight, who was 24 years old and the youngest division I head basketball coach in the nation.

Coach Krzyzewski is currently closing in on becoming the all-time leader as the winningest men's basketball coach in NCAA history - an achievement which is currently held by the now retired Coach Knight. If the Blue Devils continue to play as well as they have been and Coach K stays healthy for the next 18 games, he will pass his mentor.

Where and how did all this start?

Mike Krzyzewski was the kind of athlete that Coach Knight looked to recruit for the basketball program at West Point. An Army athlete had to be in good academic standing, hardworking, focused, and willing to sacrifice his or her individualism to become a part of the US Military.

Along with the fully financed education and the required discipline that is

associated with military life came a five-year commitment of active duty after graduation. These parameters dictated by the system were not an easy sell to the prospective West Point athletic candidates. Coach K was the type of young man who understood what was meant by these.

After graduation, the captain of the basketball team fulfilled his five-year active duty requirement with three years of directing army athletic teams, and two years as the head basketball coach at the US Military Academy Prep School at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In 1974-75, the year after his active duty commitment, he became an assistant coach for his mentor, who then was the head coach at Indiana University. One year later he was recommended by Coach Knight for the position of head basketball coach at West Point, which he took from 1975 until 1980. In 1980 he moved over to Duke University, where Coach K started to write his own history.

The accomplishments of Mike Krzyzewski and Bob Knight are both amazing stories. The dedication of these two men - the mentoring teacher and his student - is a unique relationship that acts as a tribute to the coaching profession. The number one and number two winningest men's basketball coaches in NCAA history are soon to reverse roles, with Coach Knight's 902 career wins still at number one, but Coach Krzyzewski's current 882 win record quickly approaching his mentor's historic mark.

29

Skiing Around with Glenn Mottau Why ski?

My friends often ask me why I ski. Skiing has always been a part of my life. It has transcended athletic activity and is now more of a spiritual journey for me. I still love to challenge the double black diamonds, and I always anticipate the arrival of winter.

What is it about alpine skiing that makes my spirit soar? People who do not ski must wonder why those who do are so devoted to this winter pastime, for their focus is often directed at the negative perceptions of winter and skiing.

If they would but give it a try, becoming at least proficient enough to ski down gentle slopes from the summit, they too would understand.

Whether it's atop a small hill standing above a flat landscape or on a high summit surrounded by a crowd of tall peaks, there is a sense of grandeur as one draws in the world around and below. The ski slopes might be lined with hardwoods or evergreens, illuminated by sweet sunshine or quietly cloaked in swirling snow clouds, high above a lake or river cutting in irregular patterns through the landscape. Each ski day is special because each presents the ski slopes in a different way.

And then it's time to take off, moving at a rate one's skiing ability finds most comfortable. It's freedom at its best because the skier controls it. Pick a trail marked with a green circle for an easy ride and glide slowly, softly along the packed snow. Stop below a laden fir tree, savor the exhilaration of the crisp air and enjoy the view from another angle. Ready for some new challenges, select a slope designed as "more difficult" by the blue square on the map or trail sign. It's steeper now and maybe there are some bumps, a time to try long, graceful turns.

There's a playful feeling, almost like dancing, with an infinite variety of ways to enjoy each run.

Where it flattens on the run-out, let the skis run straighter, feel the clean, cool wind brush a hint of blush on the cheeks. The more daring, who move onto the black diamonds or must difficult trails, will face a test of skills that move the skier over frequent terrain changes and diverse snow conditions.

A new run mastered brings on an "I did it!" jubilation wreathed in a giant grin, no matter at what level of skiing the skier feels comfortable. This is alpine skiing, and there's no better feeling.

30

SARATOGA

SPORTS

Friday, January 14, 2011

TODAY

Community Sports Bulletin Adirondack Phantoms Partner with Double H Ranch The Adirondack Phantoms and the Double H Ranch are teaming up on Saturday, January 22 to raise money for the Double H Ranch, an organization founded by Charles R. Wood and Paul Newman, providing year-round programming for children and families dealing with life-threatening illnesses.

"This is part of our commitment to the community and teaming up with a local charity to help raise money for a great cause. We talked with different people in the community and were given Max Yurenda's name and the Double H Ranch. After meeting with Max and learning about the Double H Ranch, we have decided to team up with them this year to make a difference," said Rob Brooks, CoOwner of the Adirondack Phantoms.

The night will feature a commemorative jersey worn by the Phantoms during the game versus the Hamilton Bulldogs, made possible by New York Long Term Care Brokers (NYLTCB), headquartered in Clifton Park, NY. "Being a game sponsor for the Double H Ranch Night is a great way for my company to raise money for the Double H and at the same time gives the Double H children and families the chance to reunite for an evening full of fun and excitement. NYLTCB and the Double H family will be out in full force in support of the Phantoms as well as the organization." states Kevin Johnson, President, New York Long Term Care Brokers.

Show your support for the Double H Ranch by purchasing special group packages or by purchasing tickets on www.shopphantomshockey.com/tickets.html. For each ticket sold within these special packages, five dollars will go directly to the Double H Ranch. Local businesses will have an opportunity to show their support by taking advantage of these great fundraising opportunities.

"What better way to kick off the New Year than with the support of our local Glens Falls community as the Adirondack Phantoms Hockey Club supports our children and families through Double H Ranch Night with the Phantoms. Our children are particularly excited to be given this opportunity to cheer on the Phantoms, as cheering is a skill they have mastered during summer camp!" notes Max Yurenda, CEO/Executive Director of the Double H Ranch.

The mission of the Double H Ranch is to enrich the lives of families and children who are facing a life-threatening illness by providing them camp experiences that are memorable, exciting, fun, empowering, physically safe and medically sound. All programs are free and capture the magic of the Adirondacks.

Varsity Girls Basketball Schedule

Varsity Boys Basketball Schedule

Ballston Spa

Ballston Spa

1/11: vs. Shaker, 25-58 L 1/14: at Niskayuna, 7pm 1/21: at Colonie, 7pm

1/10: at Shaker, 54-76 L 1/14: vs. Niskayuna, 7pm 1/21: vs. Colonie, 7pm

Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake

Burnt Hills - Ballston Lake

1/11: vs. Saratoga Springs, 49-42 W 1/14: at Shaker, 7pm 1/21: at Avril Park, 7pm

1/11: at Saratoga Springs, 59-61 L 1/14: vs. Shaker, 7pm 1/21: vs. Avril Park, 7pm

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs

1/10: vs. Schenectady, 48-51 L 1/11: at Burnt Hills, 42-49 L 1/14: vs. Shenendehowa, 7pm

1/11: vs. Burnt Hills, 61-59 W 1/14: at Shenendehowa, 7pm 1/18: vs. Avril Park, 7pm

Schuylerville

Schuylerville

1/11: vs. Hoosic Valley, 19-46 L 1/14: at Cambridge, 7pm 1/18: at Stillwater, 6pm

1/14: vs. Cambridge, 6pm 1/19: vs. Stillwater, 7pm 1/21: at Hoosick Falls, 6pm

South Glens Falls

South Glens Falls

1/06: vs. Gloversville, 58-28 W 1/10: vs. Queensbury, 33-52 L 1/18: at Glens Falls, 7pm

1/08: at Gloversville, 50-49 W 1/11: at Queensbury, 72-68 W 1/14: vs. Johnstown, 7pm

Amateur boxing returns to Saratoga

photo provided

A mock-up of the commemorative jerseys to be worn by the Adirondack Phantoms on January 22.

Send your sports stories and briefs to Daniel Schechtman, Sports Editor at sports@saratoga publishing.com

puzzle solutions from pg. 27

On January 14, the Annual Saratoga Youth Boxing Show is back. Doors at the Holiday Inn on Broadway in Saratoga Springs open at 6 pm, with the first bell scheduled to ring at 7 pm.

The night will feature over 12 bouts with fighters ranging from ages 10 through 35. Several clubs from throughout the area are participating, including Albany, Schenectady, Vermont, and Canada.

Advanced tickets are on sale at the Mobil Station located at 80 West Avenue in Saratoga Springs. General admission is $10, ringside seating will run $20.

On the night of the fight, tickets will be sold at the door with general admission set at $15, ringside seating for $25.

Children 8 and under are half price at the door.

Winners will advance to Turning Stone Resort and Casino beginning on February 19 for the NYS Amateur Championship.

SARATOGA

TODAY

Friday, January 14, 2011

Spartans prevail over Streaks

by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY It’s been a difficult season for the Saratoga Springs and Burnt Hills Ballston Lake girls basketball teams.

But in a close match-up last Tuesday, January 11, Burnt Hills managed to pull ahead in the final quarter, outscoring Saratoga 17-9 to come out on top with a 48-42 win, the team’s

highest single-game point tally this season.

For the Saratoga girls, posting a 18 overall record, it was a dissapointing end to an otherwise strong outing.

Maria Allocco was the game’s high scorer for Burnt Hills, totalling 16 points for the game. Florie Comley rounded out the Burnt Hills offense with 10 points, with Katia Albanese close behind with 9.

photo by MarkBolles.com - Saratoga TODAY

The Spartans step up their defense as Saratoga tries to outmanuever them.

Heather Lewis led the scoring for Saratoga with 15 points, followed by Carly Towne with 12 and Emily Petruccion with 10.

For Saratoga, the season has been a frustrating one with the team desperatly trying to break a seven-game losing streak. While Saratoga has consistently started their games strong, typically taking the early lead, their play down the stretch has cost them some close games. Saratoga has lost their last three games by an average of only five points.

Meanwhile Burnt Hills, with an overall record of 3-6, registered their first win since December 21, although they too struggle to consistently rack up the points. Tuesday’s match-up was only the second outing this season where the team scored over 40 points in a game, the last time being the December 21 win against Columbia, when they scored 44 points.

As the second half of the season draws near, both teams look to reboot with a renewed sense of drive and purpose.

SPORTS

31

Saratoga reigns supreme in tournament championship The Saratoga Springs Pee Wee A hockey team are champions in the most dramatic fashion, having emerged victorious during the January 7-9 tournament at Wiebel Avenue Ice Rink last weekend. photo provided Saratoga faced off against The Saratoga Pee Wee A Team.

Bottom four other teams during Row: Goalies Lexi and Zoe Shannon; round-robin regular play, beating teams from Second Row: Robbie Rypkma, Garret Bethlehem and Lake Placid Brennan, Holly Meredith, Lilly Holmes, Sarah McCoy, Ryan Robens; Third Row: before losing to CBS from Coach Tom Paton, Eric Jess, Amy Whiteside, Vermont.

Maggie Conway, Nick Clayton, Mark In order to make the cham- Woodcock, Colin Payton, Head Coach Jeff pionship game, Saratoga Whiteside, Jeffrey Vukelic, Brody McCarthy needed to at least tie during (not pictured: Coach Bobby Holmes) their last game against Watertown, CT., to advance. With point of the game, claiming the tourthe tournament on the line, the team nament championship with a 4-3 came together and scored the tieing victory.

“This is a motley bunch of kids, goal with nine seconds left on the and they pulled off the big one,” clock.

The final game pitted Saratoga said team mother Tracy Shannon.

Congratulations to Saratoga on against CBS, their only registered loss during regular play. With just their outstanding victory!

2:33 left, Saratoga scored the final

Skiing Around with Glenn Mottau page 29

32

sports

Girls’Basketball page 31 Friday, January 14, 2011

Vol. 6 • Issue 2 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY