Simply...
Fall 2017 Complimentary
SARATOGA
™
THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE
FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE, SEE PAGES 1-76
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Simply...
SARATOGA
™
THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE
Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty General Manager Robin Mitchell Creative Director & Managing Editor Chris Vallone Bushee Graphic Designer Samantha Simek Advertising Designer Morgan Rook Advertising Sales Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Contributing Writers Cecily Bailey Samantha Bosshart Peter Bowden Jenna Burger Nancy Castillo Alice Corey Jodie Fitz Marcie Fraser Geraldine Freedman Meghan Lemery Fritz Carol Godette Megan Harrington Dennis G. Hogan Charlie Kuenzel Megin Potter Jordana Turcotte Maureen Werther
Photographers
Cecily Bailey Blackburn Portrait Design Andy Camp Alice Corey Greg Cuda Brian Haynes Lauren Hull John Seymour Mike Brown Imagenation Doug Mitchell PhotoAndGraphic.com Randall Perry Photography Samantha Simek The George Bolster Collection Tracey Buyce Photography
Published by
Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 | fax: (518) 581-2487
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Simply Saratoga is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2017, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper
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CONTRIBUTORS SAMANTHA BOSSHART Samantha Bosshart joined the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation in 2008. As Executive Director, she advocates for the preservation of the unique architecture and rich heritage of Saratoga Springs. Samantha previously worked at Historic Albany Foundation and Galveston Historical Foundation. Samantha completed her coursework for a Master of Arts in Historic Preservation Planning from Cornell University and received a Bachelor of Arts in History from Indiana University.
PETER BOWDEN Peter has been the region's go-to garden guy for over 35 years. His knack for practical and concise explanations has served him well during his 20-year tenure as WRGB’s garden guy. He is an artist and avid photographer whose images have appeared in textbooks, magazines and travel guides. Peter lives with his wife, Sharon and their pets in an old house in the country.
JENNA BURGER Jenna Burger is a local Interior Designer, Blogger, Bargain Hunter, and avid DIYer who strives to inspire and empower others with her high-end look for less design approach. She shares daily inspiration and DIY projects on her blog, and delivers smart, stylish, and sophisticated design solutions to fit the needs and visions for each client’s space. Visit Jenna at www.jennaburger.com
NANCY CASTILLO Nancy is a co-owner of our local Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop, located off Exit 15 of the Northway. She writes The Zen Birdfeeder blog and has had her writing and photography published in BirdWatcher’s Digest and Watching Backyard Birds. You can occasionally hear her answering questions about birds on the WAMC VoxPop call-in program. Nancy and her spouse enjoy watching birds at their feeders from their log home west of Saratoga.
JODIE FITZ Jodie Fitz is a wife, working mother of three and the creator of the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club. She released two cookbooks in 2015; The Chaotic Kitchen; a collection of recipes to help make the lives of busy families just a little bit easier when it comes to mealtime & Cooking Up Fun; designed to get kids taste testing & experimenting with foods.
MARCIE FRASER Marcie Fraser, fitness and nutrition exert is now a doctor! Marcie has obtained her doctorate in Public Health. She has expanded her career and is available for motivational seminars for corporations. Marcie teaches companies how to improve morale, increase productivity and decrease sick time. Marcie provides stress management through cognitive awareness, nutrition and exercise, she is considered by many clients the Food and Exercise Therapist. Email Marcie at marce459@aol.com
GERALDINE FREEDMAN Geraldine Freedman is a freelance writer and a former freelance flutist, who worked for several years in New York City. She's been in the area for almost twenty years first moving to Saratoga Springs, which reminded her of NYC's West Village. These days she lives in Ballston Spa with her two cats.
CAROL GODETTE Born and raised in Saratoga Springs, Carol Godette’s fascination with neighborhood stores began at age 11 when she frequented Rowland’s. A passionate educator, Godette taught elementary school in the Saratoga School District for 31 years. Carol is a co-owner of the local Ben & Jerry’s franchise. Godette and her husband live in her childhood home where they raised their two children. She welcomes your comments and stories/photos on neighborhood stores via email: saratoganeighborhoodstores@gmail.com
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MEGAN HARRINGTON Megan is a freelance writer who has written for a variety of publications including national magazines, local newspapers, and websites. When she’s not writing, she enjoys training for marathons and coaching fellow runners. After spending the previous seven years in New York City, Megan and her husband recently relocated to the Village of Cambridge and are loving their new community at the base of the Adirondacks.
DENNIS G. HOGAN Dennis G. Hogan was born in New York City and his story is a common one: his dad took him to Saratoga Race Course as a boy and he’s returned every year since. He is a writer and photographer with an appreciation for Thoroughbreds. He has previously written for ThoroFan and is a regular contributor to Equicurean Magazine. He lives in Westchester County, NY.
CHARLIE KUENZEL Charlie Kuenzel is a native Saratogian who spent 36 years as a Science educator in the Saratoga School District before retiring 6 years ago. Charlie, along with Dave Patterson are the co-owners of Saratoga Tours LLC who for the past 16 years have educated and entertained thousands of visitors to the city with stories to tell the exciting history of our great city.
MEGHAN LEMERY FRITZ Meghan is a native of the Glens Falls Saratoga region. Her passion is to provide her clients and readers with the tools necessary to live a life grounded in peace and emotional well-being. She is an author and writer for various publications in Upstate NY and State College, PA. She is also the co-host for a monthly radio segment focused on how to improve relationships. She currently resides in State College, PA where she enjoys spending time with her husband and son.
MEGIN POTTER Megin is an expressive writer and artist with work published in books, newspapers, corporate communications and online. A resident of the region for over 20 years, she continues to discover anew the interesting people, places and products it has to offer. As a mother to her active young son, she is inspired to explore even more.
JORDANA TURCOTTE Jordana Turcotte is a lifelong New Yorker and a Saratoga County resident since graduating from RPI. After staying at home for a bit with her children (now 10 and 8), she decided on the “rest of her life job” as Professional Organizer. Starting Simply You in 2008 fulfills a passion for organizing. When she isn’t organizing, you’ll find her volunteering at her kids’ school, being Mommy chauffeur or hanging out with her two rescue dogs.
MAUREEN WERTHER Maureen Werther is the owner of WriteForYou, a professional freelance writing service specializing in business writing, web and blog content, and creative non-fiction. Her articles, essays and white papers appear on the pages of businesses on the web and around the globe. She is also a regular contributor to numerous newspapers, magazines and journals throughout the Capital Region. She is the author of a soon to be published book, “Them That Has, Gets,” the story of historical 1790’s estate in Schroon Lake and the colorful history of its owners. Currently, she is working on a memoir detailing her roller-coaster adventures as owner of Pie ala Moe, a gourmet pie and tart company she started in 2008, in the midst of the recession.
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Complete Coverage!
pages 1-76
Cover info on
page 184
.
THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE
A Good Read
Fashion
Home & Garden
78
113
114 Architecturally Speaking
78 Henry Street Taproom bar food for adults
Tour Saratoga Springs’ first turnkey property for sale!
82 Preserving Saratoga
122 Working with a designer -
A West Side charmer gets a grand new life
on a budget? Yes, it can be done!
86 Artist Spotlight
134 Photographer Greg Cuda…
Brian Haynes shows us why Saratoga Springs is called the “City in the Country”
A new way of looking at old things
101
90 Sustainable Saratoga
wants you to plant a tree
92 Meet… Florence Andresen
founder of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation & the first female president of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club.
94 Jake’s Help From Heaven
Turning Tragedy into Hope
96 Meghan Lemery
Gives great advice
98 A Saratoga Family The Billoks
100 Dr. Marcie Fraser Helps us Reset
History
101 Two local fashion designers
you must meet! 106 Fall wardrobe inspiration from…
Alpine Sport Shop, Caroline & Main, Lucia, Violets and Spoken
136 If you’d rather hunt, than shop You’re going to love meeting Rob Machado.
175
138 Jordana Turcotte… Smart storage
174 Post Time Memories
140 Jodi Fitz cooks…
176 Charlie Kuenzel looks back on…
142 Birdwatching
178 Rarely Seen Photos…
143 Monarch Butterflies
180 Fifth in Carol Godette’s series
ideas, for inside and out.
Perfect picnic food for Fall Road Trips! With Nancy Castillo Cecily Bailey explains… Why we’re seeing fewer
144 Gardening
With Dennis G. Hogan Saratoga’s Mineral Water
From The George S. Bolster Collection
about Mom & Pop Retail Shops… Mac Finn’s Drug Company
With Peter Bowden
147 Food Trucks
So much more than just cool vehicles!
152 Fall for Autumn’s glory
Fun, festivals and road trips!
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GET SOCIAL WITH US!
#SaratogaSOH
Visit 18 new homes!
SHOWCASE OF HOMES TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome and Showcase Committee Members 22 Schedule of Events and Ticket Information 24 Driving Directions and Map 27-29
Showcase Builders and Homes Subcontractors and Suppliers Showcase Sponsors
31-65 66-72 76
SHOWCASE BUILDERS AND HOMES 1 Marini Homes Linden Woods 2 Herbinger Homes Maple Forest 3 Heritage Custom Builders Timber Creek Preserve 4 Abele Homes Cedar Pointe 5 Heritage Custom Builders Mourningkill Meadows 6 Pigliavento Builders Fair Oaks Estates
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31 33 35 37 39 41
7 Belmonte Builders 43 City Square 8 Bonacio Construction 45 The Spencer 9 Witt Construction 47 563 North Broadway 10 Bonacio Construction 49 Pine Brook Landing 11 RJ Taylor Builders 51 Eastridge 12 Bella Home Builders 53 Rolling Green Executive Estates
13 Bella Home Builders 55 Rolling Green Executive Estates 14 McPadden Builders 57 Craw Farm 15 Whitbeck Construction 59 180 West River Road 16 Saratoga Builders 61 Burgoyne Estates 17 La Femme Home Builders 63 Heights at Brown Road 18 Bella Home Builders 65 7 Cedar Bluff Court FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 21
GET SOCIAL WITH US!
#SaratogaSOH
WELCOME
to the 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes, now celebrating 22 years of exceptional homes! This spectacular annual event is the area’s premiere new home tour, one of the most wonderful traditions in the fabric of our fall season. On behalf of the Saratoga Builders Association and the Showcase Committee, I’d like to thank all the corporate and media sponsors for their generous support. Special thanks to all our amazing and talented builders for their commitment to this popular, long running show. Applause to the countless volunteers who staff the homes to help provide for a truly enjoyable experience. Lastly, we are so very grateful for the tremendous public support through ticket sales each and every year. We are especially excited and proud to present 18 new homes in Saratoga County from 14 award-winning builders for your enjoyment over three weekends. As always, you’ll see the most innovative products, beautiful décor, creative interior design, professional craftsmanship and impeccable construction of each of these magnificent homes, inviting you through their doors. Best of all, the proceeds from this event go back into our community. The Saratoga Builders Association has now contributed over ONE MILLION DOLLARS to our local charities from this community event, and this year will be no different. Proceeds from this year’s Showcase of Homes will benefit two local worthwhile organizations: Rebuilding Together, Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. Both of these groups help give back to the community through improving the homes and lives of those in need. Many families in our area would never realize their dreams of home ownership or improvement of their living conditions without the efforts of these two incredible organizations. Please take a moment to explore the pages of this official guide for lots of useful information on each builder and their homes, details about the event and to see what’s waiting for you this year at the 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes. Where else can you visit 18 brand new homes over three beautiful autumn weekends for just $20? See you on the tour . . . and thank you for your continued support! BARRY POTOKER Executive Director, Saratoga Builders Association saratogabuilders.org • saratogashowcaseofhomes.com
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TICKET INFORMATION ON PAGE 24. SHOWCASE JUDGES Janet Besheer (Equitas Realty) Joel Jackoski (Designers' Studio) Mark Johnson (Degraff Bloom Custom Builders) Katelyn Koury (The LA Group) Nick Lobosco (C.T. Male Associates) Peter Loyola (CLA Site) Ann Marie Parker (ASID) Dot Peyron (Amedore Homes) Julie Maleski Putzel (JMP Interiors) Wayne Samascott (Malta Development) Dan Snyder (Chestwood Kitchens) Eric Williams (MJ Engineering and Land Surveying, P.C.)
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SHOWCASE OF HOMES COMMITTEE DREW AIELLO
Homestead Funding
TAMMY DICARA
Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties
FRAN DINGEMAN
Network Saratoga
MARCI FILA
Tri-city Rentals
MARK HOGAN
Saratoga National Bank & Trust
MICHELLE LARKIN
Rebuilding Together Saratoga County
LISA LICATA
Co-Chair & Julie & Co. Realty
YVONNE MANSO
Pallette Stone
BARRY POTOKER
Co-Chair & Executive Director, SBA
WAYNE SAMASCOTT
Malta Development
BETH SMITH
Beth Smith Realty
PAM STOTT
Curtis Lumber
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FREE
Every ticket holder receives a complimentary shoe tote bag at the first home visited.
DATES FOR UPCOMING EVENTS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
2017 Showcase of Homes Realtor and Judges Tour
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
2017 Showcase of Homes Awards Presentation Celebration & Dinner at Vapor in the Saratoga Casino Hotel
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16–17 22nd Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23–24 22nd Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 – OCTOBER 1
22nd Annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
IF YOU BUILD IT... THEY WILL COME!
PRIZE DRAWINGS GRAND PRIZE - A $3,000 VALUE!
LADIES WEEKEND RETREAT & GETAWAY! Includes a stay for 2 nights for 4 people in a luxurious penthouse loft suite, dinner & wine tasting at Fish for 4, welcome cheese & meat platter, breakfast for 4 one morning and a special ladies night out make-up application and blow outs for 4 with special upgraded services for full spa appointments.
All ticket holders are eligible to vote for the People’s Choice Award with the ballot on the ticket. You will be automatically entered into our drawing for these prizes:
3RD PLACE PRIZE - A $700 VALUE!
Six hours of door-to-door limo service of a 10-passenger vehicle with complimentary Champagne.
4TH PLACE PRIZE - A $500 VALUE!
Overnight stay for 2 at the Saratoga Casino Hotel, dinner at Morton's ($200 gift certificate) plus $100 spending cash.
2ND PLACE PRIZE WIN $1000 IN
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GIFT CERTIFICATES
Burger Fi Chic Underneath Curtis Lumber Dehn's Flowers Dunham's Bay Resort (overnight stay & dinner) Embrace the Race Feigenbaums Habitat for Humanity Hatties Restaurant Holiday Inn Saratoga (overnight stay & dinner) Impressions of Saratoga
Lake Ridge Restaurant Longfellows Restaurant Northshire Bookstore Publik House Rebuilding Together Saratoga Robert James Salon Saratoga Olive Oil Saratoga Strike Zone Saratoga Sundress Spoken Boutique Spring Street Deli The Great Escape Room and more!
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TICKET INFORMATION 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes
$20.00 each
Tickets are available at: Adirondack Trust, Trustco Bank, Saratoga National Bank branch locations, Curtis Lumber stores in Ballston Spa & Queensbury, Realty USA in Clifton Park, Bonacio Construction and Roohan Realty in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are always conveniently available at the door of any showcase home during the tour hours of 11 AM – 5 PM and online at www.SaratogaShowcaseofHomes.com
We look forward to seeing you at the “If You Build It, They Will Come” Showcase of Homes this fall!
Over the past 21 years, this community event has contributed over one million dollars to our two local charities. Proceeds from the Showcase of Homes benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County www.rebuildingtogethersaratoga.org and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties www.glensfallshabitat.org. For more details on the 2017 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event, please visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Follow us on FACEBOOK and our BLOG for all the updates!
Showcase of Homes Proceeds benefit:
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READY TO GO? DIRECTIONS ON PAGE 28-29.
Visit our mobile-friendly website to view the interactive map and scenic house-to-house directions. SaratogaShowcaseOfHomes.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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.com caseof homes saratogashow
1 MARINI HOMES Linden Woods, 6 Linden Park Drive, Halfmoon, NY I-87 to Exit 8. East on Crescent Road towards Route 9 for ½ mile, left onto Dunsbach Road. Drive ½ mile and turn left onto Linden Park Drive, showcase home will be on the right. 2 HERBINGER HOMES Maple Forest, 13 Maple Forest Drive, Ballston Lake, NY I-87 to Exit 11. West on Round Lake Road to traffic light, left onto Eastline Road, left onto Maple Forest Drive. Showcase home in cul-de-sac. 3 HERITAGE CUSTOM BUILDERES Timber Creek, 52 Cypress Street, Ballston Lake, NY I-87 to Exit 11, West onto Round Lake Road for 1.8 miles. Left onto Ironwood Street in Timber Creek Preserve, left at stop sign onto Cypress Street. The Showcase home is on the left. 4 ABELE BUILDERS Cedar Point, 11 Copper Ridge Drive, Malta, NY Take Exit 12 off I-87 and head East on Route 67 through the roundabouts to Route 9. Head South on Route 9 for approximately 1 mile and turn left into Cedar Pointe development. The showcase home is on the left. 5 HERITAGE CUSTOM BUILDERS Mourningkill Meadows, 3 Mohican Pass, Ballston Spa, NY Off I-87 at Exit 12 West on Route 67 for 2.5 miles, left onto Brookline Road, at
2017 Showcase of Homes
DIRECTIONS
intersection take a left onto Route 50, turn right onto Mourningkill Road, left onto Independence Trail, right onto America Way, showcase home is on the left on the corner of Mohican Pass and America Way. 6 PIGLIAVENTO BUILDERS Fair Oaks Estates, 61 Huntington Way, Milton, NY I-87 to exit 13N, follow US-9 North toward Saratoga Springs, left onto Avenue of The Pines (Spa State Park). Go straight thru the light, continue on Geyser Road, right onto Stone Church Road and a left to Huntington Way. Showcase home is on the right. 7 BELMONTE BUILDERS City Square, 108A Division Street, Saratoga Springs, NY I-87 to Exit 14, keep right at fork and merge onto Union Avenue. Turn right on Circular Street, left onto Spring Street, Right onto Broadway, left onto Division Street. Go approximately 1000 feet and showcase home will be on the left. 8 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION The Spencer, 55 Phila Street, Unit 301, Saratoga Springs, NY I-87 to Exit 13N, follow Route 9 into downtown Saratoga Springs, right onto Phila Street. The Spencer is on the corner of Phila and Henry Street. 9 WITT CONSTRUCTION (Renovation/Rental) 563 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY I-87 to Exit 15 onto Route 50 South toward Saratoga Springs, right onto Rock Street, left
onto North Broadway. Carriage House is on the right behind Witt Construction Office. 10 BONACIO CONSTRUCTION Pine Brook Landing, 2 Rose Terrace, Saratoga Springs, NY Northbound: I-87 to Exit 15, right onto Route 50, right on Weibel Avenue, left onto Louden Road. Pine Brook Landing will be about 2 miles on the left and after the Ingersoll Road intersection. Southbound: I-87 to Exit 15, left onto Route 50, right on Weibel Avenue, left onto Louden Road. Pine Brook Landing will be about 2 miles on the left and after the Ingersoll Road intersection. 11 RJ TAYLOR BUILDERS Eastridge, 3 Eastridge Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY I-87 to Exit 15, East on Route 50, right on Weibel Avenue, left on Louden road, drive ½ mile past Ingersol Road and take a left onto Eastridge Drive. 12 BELLA HOME BUILDERS Rolling Green Executive Estates, 3 Rolling Green, Wilton, NY From downtown Saratoga Springs or I-87 to Exit 15 of the Northway go North on Route 50 to Edie Road and turn left, then turn left onto Rolling Green Drive. From the north take Exit 16, turn left onto Ballard Road and a right onto Edie Road and a right onto Rolling Green Drive. 13 BELLA HOME BUILDERS Rolling Green Executive Estates, 20 Rolling Green, Wilton, NY From downtown Saratoga Springs or I-87 to Exit 15 of the Northway go North on
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Route 50 to Edie Road and turn left, then turn left onto Rolling Green Drive. From the north take Exit 16, turn left onto Ballard Road and a right onto Edie Road and a right onto Rolling Green Drive. 14 MCPADDEN BUILDERS Craw Farm, 11 Conklin Court, Wilton, NY I-87 to Exit 16, left on Ballard Road, left on Traver Road, Craw Farm is 1 mile down on the right. 15 WHITBECK CONSTRUCTION 180 West River Road, Schuylerville, NY I-87 to Exit 14, left on Route 9P South, left on Gilbert Road to the end. Take a right onto Route 29 east, left on Grange Hall Road, straight through intersection of Route 32 on to West River Road. 16 SARATOGA BUILDERS Burgoyne Estates, 15 Anthony Lane, Saratoga Springs, NY I-87 to Exit 14, left on Route 9P South, left on Gilbert Road to the end. Take a right onto Route 29 East, drive 5 miles and take a right on Bryant’s Bridge Road, right on Burgoyne to a left on Anthony Lane. 17 LA FEMME HOME BUILDERS Heights at Brown Road, 64 Brown Road, Saratoga, NY I-87 to Exit 14, left onto Route 9P South/ Union Avenue, pass Saratoga National Golf Course, continue over the bridge staying on Route 9P, left onto Brown Road. 18 BELLA HOME BUILDERS 7 Cedar Bluff Court, Stillwater, NY I-87 to Exit 14, left onto Route 9P South/ Union Avenue, pass Saratoga National Golf Course, continue over bridge staying on Route 9P, turn left onto Cedar Bluff Court. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Marini Homes, LLC
1
Bob Marini Jr. MARINI HOMES
LINDEN WOODS 6 LINDEN PARK DRIVE, HALFMOON 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 3,155 SQ. FT. All new for 2017, Marini Homes is proud to introduce The Trilogy collection. Trilogy Collection homes feature open floor plans and unique features such as 3 car garages, covered outdoor living spaces, 8’ tall entry doors–all standard! Homes are also available with the EVO suite option, which creates a suite within the home including it’s own bedroom, full bathroom, kitchenette, and private entrance.
HOME FEATURES: EVO Suite Covered outdoor living space Oversized kitchen island with seating Standard 3 car garage Loft area/ gameroom
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: 95% efficient two-stage convertible multi-speed gas furnace Tankless hot water heater Sealed duct joints eliminate air leakage
ARCHITECT: Bassenian Lagoni Architects REALTOR:
Marini Homes – Liz Marini & Sue Dawkins
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Marini Homes – Monika Ohl
is a fourth generation family owned and operated business, building quality homes throughout the Capital Region for over 70 years. With over 3,000 built, discover why they have been trusted since 1947. For this year's Showcase of Homes, they will be featuring one of their all new Trilogy collection homes in Linden Woods located in Halfmoon. MARINIHOMES.COM 518.869.1200
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Marini Homes – Monika Ohl
LANDSCAPE:
Marini Homes – Jeremy Beacher
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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Herbinger Homes
2
Darren Herbinger
MAPLE FOREST 13 MAPLE FOREST DRIVE, BALLSTON LAKE 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,499 SQ. FT. The Staffordshire is a custom 2,499 sq/ft home on .25 acre lot in a cul-de-sac and backed to preserved land. This two story home includes 3 spacious bedrooms upstairs with two custom bathrooms. The 9' first floor ceilings and large Anderson windows allow plentiful sunshine throughout the first floor living area. Mudroom with brick floor in a herringbone pattern with custom moldings and bench.
HOME FEATURES:
REALTOR:
Custom moldings and built-in bench mudroom Brick floor in herringbone pattern Craftsman barn doors opening to the walk-in pantry Schrock kitchen cabinets to ceiling with glass doors
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Thermal Enclosure System Air sealing, quality insulation and high-performance windows Water Management System that help to protect roofs, foundations and walls from water damage High-efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems Energy-efficient lighting and appliances
Realty USA – Jennifer Fortune
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Jennifer Fortune
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Builder's Kitchens – Rich Adams Jr.
LANDSCAPE:
Craig's Mowing & Landscaping – Craig Monroe
WITH TWENTY YEARS IN
the remodeling business, Herbinger Homes is a trusted name in new home construction with his 16 lot distinct subdivision, Maple Forest, located off of Longkill Road. The Staffordshire, a private Custom home, highlights his expertise in building unique floor plans. The house is full of amenities such as Silent floor systems, Schrock kitchen cabinets with maintenance free quartz countertops, energy efficient Anderson windows and LED lighted stairwells. HERBINGERHOMES.COM 518.373.8905
LIN. BREAKFAST 11'-5"x10'-0"
KITCHEN 12'-5"x14'-0"
L-DRY
12'-0"x12'-6"
MASTER BEDROOM 14'-1"x18'-2"
MUD
GREAT ROOM 17'-2"x18'-0"
BEDROOM #3
M. BATH
GARAGE 22'-0"x22'-0"
CL.
W.I.C. TRAY CLG.
DN
PAN.
DN
UP
CL. PDR.
CL. LIN.
FOYER DINING 13'-11"x17'-2"
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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W.I.C.
POCKET OFFICE 5'-10"x8'-6"
BATH
BEDROOM #2 13'-1"x11'-3"
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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3 Heritage Custom Builders
Geoffrey Brooks IN THE EARLY 1950'S,
TIMBER CREEK PRESERVE 52 CYPRESS STREET, BALLSTON LAKE 3+ BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,030 SQ. FT. The Hearthwood is a townhouse, designed for families who do most of their living in the family room and kitchen area. The Master Suite is located on the 1st floor, making this model popular with "Empty nesters," as well as the Mom and Dad who seek maximum privacy after a long day. The first floor is complete with Dining Area, Powder Room and Laundry. There are two additional bedrooms with an upstairs Loft area that can be converted into a 4th bedroom. There is one full bath upstairs. This home has 2.5 Bathrooms. The basement is spacious and ready for finishing.
HOME FEATURES: Master Suite located on first floor Loft/ Bonus Area on 2nd floor can be converted to additional Bedroom
REALTOR: Realty USA INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Classic Interiors – Lynn Ricci
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
BROOKSHERITAGE.COM 518.348.0931
Bellevue Builders Supply – Mark Gates LANDSCAPE: Landscaping by Hansen, LLC
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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Arthur J. Brooks began a business relationship by remodeling and restoring homes. Along with his wife Laurie and daughter Deborah; a truly family-based, quality-oriented building company was started. Geoffrey C. Brooks continues his family’s tradition of building custom homes in the Capital District. Heritage Custom Builders, LLC has been built upon a tradition of quality, a dedication to excellence and commitment to fine detail.
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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Abele Homes, LLC
4
Chris Abele & Dan Lill Jr. ABELE BUILDERS
CEDAR POINTE 11 COPPER RIDGE DRIVE, MALTA 4 BEDROOMS, 2 FULL & 2 HALF BATHROOMS, 3,119 SQ. FT. The Chestnut Hill is a two-story colonial plan with 4 bedrooms, 2 full and 2 half baths and a partially finished basement. The first floor boasts a large great room, stone fireplace with a contemporary flare and long ribbon flame, a well-lit morning room for informal dining, as well as a formal dining room and home office. The kitchen has an oversized island with gorgeous quartzite countertops and Schrock cabinetry. Upstairs, there are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, laundry room with a sink, as well as an alcove area with a desk. Recessed lighting, specialty wrought iron rails, custom built-in's and designer lighting give this home an outstanding appeal.
HOME FEATURES: Oversized kitchen island with specialty lighting and quartzite countertops Upstairs alcove desk area tailored for children’s use Morning room filled with natural light Bonus living space in basement Master bedroom abundant light, oversized walk-in closet and spa-like master bath suite
BUILDING DESIGN: Jonathan Bunker REALTOR: Keller Williams – Danielle Enos INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Rosemary Richardson
was started in 1984 by Chris Abele. Prior to beginning Abele Builders, he worked in landscape contracting and site development. Abele Builders has grown into a premier builder in the Capital Region with both a residential and commercial division. Abele Builders works to provide our homeowners with value by creating well-designed communities and homes that stand the test of time. Our portfolio includes Sheldon Hills, Bradford Pointe and Glen Meadows. ABELEBUILDERS.COM 518.373.9613 EXT. 135
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM: Builder's Kitchens LANDSCAPE: Kulak's Nursery & Landscaping
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: LED ceiling disk lights for energy efficiency R21 Wall Insulation R38 Ceiling Insulation R12 Garage Door
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5 Heritage Custom Builders
Geoffrey Brooks IN THE EARLY 1950'S,
MOURNINGKILL MEADOWS 3 MOHICAN PASS, BALLSTON SPA 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,450 SQ. FT. The Hazel is a single-family two-story home, with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a master on the second floor. The first floor has a large kitchen and breakfast area, and is completed with family room, dining room and living room. The second floor features 4 bedrooms with 2nd floor laundry. The master suite has a huge walk-in closet, and is completed with a master bath with soaking tub and double vanity. Full basement and stamped concrete patio.
HOME FEATURES: 2nd Floor Master Suite with a Huge Walk-In Closet Full Basement Stamped Concrete Patio
REALTOR: Realty USA INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Classic Interiors – Lynn Ricci
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Bellevue Builders Supply – Mark Gates
LANDSCAPE:
Landscaping by Hansen, LLC – Jeff Hansen
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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Arthur J. Brooks began a business relationship by remodeling and restoring homes. Along with his wife Laurie and daughter Deborah; a truly family-based, quality-oriented building company was started. Geoffrey C. Brooks continues his family’s tradition of building custom homes in the Capital District. Heritage Custom Builders, LLC has been built upon a tradition of quality, a dedication to excellence and commitment to fine detail. BROOKSHERITAGE.COM 518.348.0931
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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Pigliavento Builders
6
Ed Pigliavento PIGLIAVENTO BUILDERS IS
FAIR OAKS ESTATES 61 HUNTINGTON WAY, MILTON 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,285 SQ. FT. The Hemlock is a lovely two-story Colonial home designed for the growing family. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by an open spacious layout adorned with elegant hardwood flooring and a cozy den. The home boasts a modern clean look with a taste of natural rustic elements. The formal Dining Room with tray ceiling, marble-surround gas fireplace in the Great Room and grand Kitchen make it ideal to entertain guests. The Master Suite, with tray ceiling, resides privately on the upper level to one side of the home with the three guest bedrooms and full partitioned bath with double vanity sinks on the opposite end of the home.
HOME FEATURES: Engineered wood floors 9 ft. first floor ceilings Trayed ceilings in dining room and master bedroom Open living area with gas fireplace & marble surround the Family Room Granite kitchen and bathroom countertops
a family-owned and operated homebuilder that has been building quality homes for over 30 years. We specialize in all types of residential construction. Our highly talented team of craftsmen work together to insure a positive building experience. We will build on our lot or land owned by the customer and will work with our plans or yours. Our goal is to create your dream home from design to finish; from our family to yours. PIGLIAVENTOBUILDERS.COM 518.356.4550
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: High-efficiency heating & cooling systems Energy-efficient lighting and appliances Simonton award-winning windows
REALTOR: Sterling Homes Real Estate – Kerry Loiselle & Dave DiCara INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
2B Design – Michele Ahl
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Bellevue Builders – Craig Pallone
LANDSCAPE:
High Country Hardscapes – Kyle Zeh
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Belmonte Builders
7
Peter Belmonte FOUNDED IN 1977,
CITY SQUARE 108A DIVISION STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS 2 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 3,356 SQ. FT. In Downtown Saratoga Springs, less than 1,000 feet from Broadway and on the western edge of Franklin Square, City Square is an urban community being built on the site of the former Ellsworth Ice Cream Dairy. Only 25 townhomes and 14 condominiums will be available in this rare in-city offering. Expect something special at City Square. The 3,356 sq ft townhome is expandable in a variety of ways and features a luxurious owner’s suite as well as guest suite, library, gourmet kitchen, full basement, and attached garage.
HOME FEATURES:
Belmonte is one of the largest home builders in the area. Our mission is to identify the individual needs and lifestyle of our customer and build a “Home As Individual As You Are”. Come visit a Belmonte home to see the flow of the floor plan, the quality of the fixtures, the integrity of construction, and the loving attention to detail. These qualities are the building blocks which our success stands on today. BELMONTEBUILDERS.COM 518.371.1000
Unique period appropriate Victorian exterior Theatre with adjoining game room Brick wall in dining space and library Owners suite with sitting area and large bonus space Under 1,000 feet from Broadway!
REALTOR: Realty USA – Sharon Byrne INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Liberty Design Group – Chris Kwarta
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Builder's Kitchens – Michelle Bucciero LANDSCAPE: Peak Environmental – Terry Hubbard
17' - 9" x 18' - 1"
20' - 0" x 16' - 2"
1
BASEMENT ARTWORK 1/4" = 1'-0"
BASEMENT
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2
F I R S T F L O O R ARTWORK 1/4" = 1'-0"
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
3
S E C O N D F L O O R ARTWORK 1/4" = 1'-0"
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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8
Bonacio Construction
Sonny Bonacio AS AN AWARD-WINNING
THE SPENCER 55 PHILA STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS 2 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 1,488 SQ. FT. Live the Urban Lifestyle in the newest condominium project built by Award Winning builder Bonacio Construction. This urban oasis boasts 9 ft ceilings, custom lighting, DCS Stainless Steel Appliances, granite countertops and balconies. 2 parking spaces included (car lift). Steps away from your front door, enjoy a show at historic Caffe Lena or stroll to downtown!
HOME FEATURES: Beautiful Windows Open Floor Plan Corner Unit Great Terrace Space Amazing in town walkability to all Saratoga has to offer
REALTOR: Julie & Co. Realty, LLC – Julie A. Bonacio, Broker/Owner INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
23rd and Fourth – Janet Longe & Jamie Davies
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Curtis Lumber – Michael Bannon
builder of residential and commercial structures since 1988, Bonacio Construction has worked on projects large and small and both grand and modest. Inside every structure you will discover the hallmarks of the Bonacio approach: value, integrity, and attention to detail. Our team approach including our in-house audiovisual division, plumbing and HVAC division, metal shop and design team bring out the best in all our buildings. Bonacio Construction brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in all that we do. In each of the layouts, you will find character and the high-quality finishes synonymous with Bonacio Construction. Make The Spencer your new residence! BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007
LANDSCAPE:
ML Site Development – Mike Lucarelli
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9
Witt Construction
John Witt WITT CONSTRUCTION, INC.
563 NORTH BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, 1,600 SQ. FT. (RENOVATION/ RENTAL) Historic Saratoga Springs Carriage House originally constructed in 1934. Must-see twobedroom, two full-bathroom apartment with loft area and open floor plan. The living room connects to a second floor porch overlooking Broadway. This rental unit offers many signature Witt details, including gas fireplace, built-in cabinetry, in-wall speakers, and garage bay with storage closet.
HOME FEATURES: Historic Saratoga Springs Carriage House, originally built in 1934 Unique downtown Saratoga Springs rental experience Located on historic North Broadway
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Blown in cellulose 5.8 KW Solar array Smart home automation allows you to monitor heat, front door, overhead door, interior & exterior lighting, etc. remotely
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
23rd & Fourth – Jamie Davies & Reilly Burke
builds award-winning homes known for striking designs, energy efficiency, beautiful settings and enduring value.
Founded in 1987, Witt's extensive portfolio features exceptional custom and classic homes in and around historic Saratoga Springs and the Capital Region. The company is recognized by the industry and clients as the eminent custom homebuilder in Saratoga Springs, celebrating the space and uniqueness of every home. Witt Construction is widely respected for its commitment to uncompromising craftsmanship and inspired elegance. WITTCONSTRUCTION.COM 518.587.4113
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Witt Construction, Inc. – John Witt/Dave DeNofio
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10
Bonacio Construction
Dave Trojanski BONACIO CONSTRUCTION
Front Elevation James Fahy Design Associates PINE BROOK LANDING 2 ROSE TERRACE, SARATOGA SPRINGS
Lot 2 Rose Terrace Bonacio Construction Inc. Saratoga Springs, NY
20-2390-2 A16-149
Architecture & Engineering P.C. Rochester, NY
3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,390 SQ. FT. The updated but traditional features of this custom home are ideal for young or established families alike. Extra attention to detail is displayed foremost in the Great Room with the builtins tied in to the custom fireplace mantel. The oversized Designer Series slider door in the Dinette brings the outdoors in, lending natural light thoughout the first level open floorplan. Enter the Study for beautiful floor-to-ceiling built-ins and window surround. Your eyes are drawn to the ceiling in the Dining Room that boasts a flat coffer effect. Beautiful wrought iron balusters ascend to the second level from the two-story foyer. In the secondary bedrooms, the shiplap and wainscot wall details personalize each space. The generously sized Master Suite boasts an oversized walk-in closet and private bath, with custom tiled shower and floor inlay. This home is comfortably sized at 2,390 square feet... let us customize it for you!
HOME FEATURES:
BUILDING DESIGN:
Pursuing National Green Building Standard Gold Level Certification Custom Built-Ins and Ceiling Feature First Level Open Floor Plan with Private Study Wainscot and Shiplap Wall Details in Secondary Bedrooms Walk-Out Basement
James Fahy Design Associates
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:
Sunshine Landscaping – Rich Mullnow
REALTOR:
Coldwell Banker Prime Properties – Dan Gaba
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Finishing Touches Home Decor – Shelly Walker
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Curtis Lumber – Jay Legere
LANDSCAPE:
is a privately owned and operated construction and real estate development firm that has been in business for over 28 years. We have an established team of over 100 professionals and artisans with vertically integrated ownership of multiple subcontractor specialties. Dave Trojanski joined the team to enable us to refocus and transform the existing home building division. Dave and the entire team share a commitment to fundamental principles that have made them stand out. Quality construction, commitment to exceptional customer service, and relationships built on integrity are the building blocks that have shaped their vision and driven their success. BONACIO.COM 518.584.9007
National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Land Development and Lot Design Multiple Practices NGBS Resource Efficiency Multiple Practices NGBS Energy Efficiency Multiple Practices NGBS Water Conservation Multiple Practices NGBS Indoor Air Quality Multiple Practices NGBS Homeowner Maintenance Manual and Training Practices FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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11
RJ Taylor Builders
Ron Taylor RJ TAYLOR BUILDERS, INC.
EASTRIDGE 3 EASTRIDGE DRIVE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHROOMS, 3,500 SQ. FT. The Franklin is a charming provincial home with 4 Bedrooms and 4 ½ Baths. Nestled on over an acre of wooded land minutes from downtown Saratoga. This home has an open and spacious layout with most of the living space on the 1st floor. The distinct custom kitchen boasts a wood hood, an additional wall oven, and a large functional island with seating. The family room is spacious with a gas fireplace and vaulted ceiling overlooking a great-for-entertaining screened porch. The elegant Dining Room has a trayed ceiling and feature wall. The study is located off the foyer with glass doors and built ins. The 4th bedroom is located upstairs with a full bath creating a nice guest suite. This home dazzles an elegant Master suite on the main floor that has a sitting area, and large master closets with custom shelving. In addition there is a separately attached 3rd car garage, and finished basement with ¾ Bath.
HOME FEATURES: Custom Kitchen Custom Millwork/Trim Spacious Screen Porch Interior design Separate Attached 3rd car garage 1.7 acre lot
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Insulation HVAC Appliances
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REALTOR:
Realty USA – Colleen Guarino
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Saratoga Signatures – Nancy Smith
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Zarillo's Custom Design Kitchens – Dawn Zarillo
LANDSCAPE:
Saratoga Construction Management – Beau Milo
is a family owned and operated award winning custom home builder. We pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our hands-on approach to the building process gives comfort to our clients, and we guide them every step of the way to create a custom residence that reflects their individual style. Our distinct homes are designed in house to provide a functional interior layout to accommodate all lifestyles from young professionals and families to empty nesters. With our innovative designs and use of superior products RJ Taylor is well known in the industry for quality and has earned a suitable reputation in the capital region and an abundance of knowledge building over the last 40 years. RJTAYLORBUILDERS.COM 518.885.6729
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Bella Home Builders
12
David DePaulo BELLA HOME BUILDERS
ROLLING GREEN EXECUTIVE ESTATES 3 ROLLING GREEN DRIVE, WILTON 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 2,469 SQ. FT. This unique home has a solid timber, curved front porch with granite stone. The family room has a 17 ft. vaulted ceiling with a granite fireplace. The custom designed kitchen, that opens to the family room makes for a great gathering area. The first floor master has a cathedral ceiling with solid wood beams. There is custom woodwork throughout the house from the built-in entertainment center to the 7 ½" baseboards. Bella has once again done the signature "unique, themed bedroom" which this year follows a "Skiing in the Adirondacks" theme. The second floor balcony overlooks the family room and has custom wrought iron balusters. This home is situated on an acre plus, in the wonderful subdivision of Rolling Greens.
HOME FEATURES: Solid timber framed Front porch Custom Built Entertainment Center Wrought Iron Balusters 5" Natural Hickory Hardwood floors Ski Themed Kids Bedroom
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES
REALTOR: Select Sothebys International – Gerry Magoolaghan INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
The Furniture House – Emily DiSiena
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Builder's Kitchens – Andy Nolan
LANDSCAPE:
GSL Landscaping & Nursery – Matt Baker
Andersen efficient windows Energy efficient appliances 96% efficient furnace
36"
CL.
W.I.C. LIN.
DN
WOOD CAPPED HALF WALL
BEDROOM #3 13'-9"x11'-8"
CL. BATH 36"
MASTER BEDROOM
BEDROOM #2 11'-7"x16'-8"
15'-1"x18'-0" CATHEDRAL CLG.
BEDROOM #4 11'-7"x13'-2"
KITCHEN 11'-9"x12'-0" FAMILY ROOM 16'-0"x12'-0"
LINE OF FLAT CLG.
11'-1"x14'-0" BREAKFAST
LINE OF FLOOR ABOVE
CL.
W.I.C.
DN
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
LAUNDRY CL.
MUD PAN.
PDR. BUILT-IN
LIN.
72"
FOYER
M. BATH
STUDY 11'-7"x11'-3"
UP
GARAGE 21'-7"x19'-8"
W.I.C.
LINE OF 8'-0" CLG.
is an award-winning, family owned, custom home company that specializes in designing and building homes in the Capital region and surrounding areas. For over 20 years, founder Dave DePaulo and his team have set the standard for building one-of-a-kind custom homes for individual clients. Dave DePaulo believes every client should have the information they need to make smart, informative decisions about the type of home they want to build for their family. Dave works with each client to establish expectations from the initial consultation and continues the company's commitment to strong communication, excellence in customer service, and attention to details. Bella Home Builders offers a full array of services every homebuilder needs to completely design, build and furnish their luxury custom home. A full team of design coordinators, interior/exterior designers, client coordinators, project managers and quality control coordinators are available to work with each homeowner, to customize their home to compliment their unique lifestyle and needs. BELLAHOMEBUILDERSINC.COM 518.583.1833
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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Bella Home Builders
David DePaulo
ROLLING GREEN EXECUTIVE ESTATES 20 ROLLING GREEN DRIVE, WILTON 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 3,620 SQ. FT. This traditional Colonial is nicely situated on a 2 acre wooded lot, in the wonderful subdivision of "Rolling Green." From the relaxing sunroom to the open foyer this house is custom throughout. A coffered ceiling in the sunroom, custom built-ins in the family room and mud room and a relaxing window seat are just a few examples of the beautiful millwork in this warm home. A gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets and granite counter tops along with the open floor plan, make family living and entertaining fun. The tiled "Doggie Shower" is perfect for keeping the family pets clean. The landscaping is plush and features a built in swimming pool and hardscaping. The colorful bushes and plants along with the privacy of the lot make for a great personal oasis!!
HOME FEATURES:
BUILDING DESIGN: Dreamscapes Unlimited REALTOR: Select Sothebys International –
Doggie Shower Custom Bench Seats & Built-ins throughout Gerry Magoolaghan INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM: Coffered Ceiling DiSiena Furniture – Michael Zappone Sunroom
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES
Builder's Kitchens – Andy Nolan
Anderson Energy Efficient Windows 96% Efficient Furnace Energy Efficient Appliance
GSL Landscaping & Nursery – Matt Baker
LANDSCAPE:
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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BELLA HOME BUILDERS
is an award-winning, family owned, custom home company that specializes in designing and building homes in the Capital region and surrounding areas. For over 20 years, founder Dave DePaulo and his team have set the standard for building one-of-a-kind custom homes for individual clients. Dave DePaulo believes every client should have the information they need to make smart, informative decisions about the type of home they want to build for their family. Dave works with each client to establish expectations from the initial consultation and continues the company's commitment to strong communication, excellence in customer service, and attention to details. Bella Home Builders offers a full array of services every homebuilder needs to completely design, build and furnish their luxury custom home. A full team of design coordinators, interior/exterior designers, client coordinators, project managers and quality control coordinators are available to work with each homeowner to customize their home to compliment their unique lifestyle and needs. BELLAHOMEBUILDERSINC.COM 518.583.1833
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McPadden Builders
Matt McPadden MCPADDEN BUILDERS, LLC
CRAW FARM 11 CONKLIN COURT, WILTON 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, 1,856 SQ. FT. McPadden Builders' 2017 Showcase entry represents one level living at its best. Features of the 1,856 square foot Cherry Model include three bedrooms, two full tile baths, nine foot ceilings and a gas fireplace with a custom mantle. As we have come to expect, McPadden does not disappoint when it comes to those special touches. This home boasts a front porch with stone column, hand-scraped hardwood floors, exceptional Crystal kitchen cabinetry, custom tile work in the baths, laundry room designed for superior function, designer lighting package, coffered ceiling in living room, beautiful crown molding and exterior standing seam metal accents. It all adds up to another exceptional home by Matt McPadden and his team.
HOME FEATURES: Custom built-in cabinetry Nine foot ceilings Coffered ceiling, crown molding Efficient Laundry Room- built-ins, sink, cabinetry, ironing center and folding clothes counter Egress window in basement Tile shower with niche and seat Stone column on front porch
REALTOR:
Roohan Realty – Valerie Thompson
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Bennington Design Team – Andrea Chenier
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
is a residential construction company focused on delivering a high quality product, on time and with a personal touch. Matt McPadden and his company are currently building in five Saratoga County developments including Craw Farm, Huckleberry Finn Estates, Wyndham Way, The Elms at Saratoga, and Ridgeview Estates. Matt and his team also welcomes the opportunity to build custom homes on individual home sites. MCPADDENBUILDERS.COM (518) 583-6097
Curtis Lumber – Heather Bodnaryk
LANDSCAPE:
Brookside Nursery – Ian Murray
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: Lennox 95% AFUE Furnace R-40 Beno-therm cellulose attic insulation system Low expandable foam all windows/doors and penetrations Heat Ventilator System to allow airtight home to breathe properly
Craw Farm
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Attention to Detail is What Makes a Great Builder K E N D R A E S T A T E S ONLY 2 LOTS LEFT!
Lots Available in Niskayuna, Halfmoon and New Subdivision Coming to Saratoga Springs Contact us for more details.
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD SOLD
Kendra Estates is located off Crescent Road in Clifton Park. 8 private treed lots range from 1 acre to 2.3 acres. Award Winning Shenendehowa Schools; OKTE Elementary School and Acadia Middle School. All Public Ttilities, Starting at $399,900. Taking lot deposits now. Only 2 lots left. Contact us for details.
Natalie Caruso Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Keller Williams Capital District C: 518-380-0442 NatalieCaruso@kw.com
Call for appointment; Office: 518-478-8596
sales@carusohomebuilders.com • Anthony@carusohomebuilders.com
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Whitbeck Construction
Matthew & Jason Whitbeck FRONT ELEVATION 07-20-2017
WHITBECK CONSTRUCTION
Whitbeckwas founded in 2005 by two brothers, Matthew and Residence 180 WEST RIVER ROAD, SCHUYLERVILLE Jason Whitbeck. They offer 4 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS, 2,500 SQ. FT. professional, integral and This 2,500 sq ft home was built with the utmost efficiency in mind. The naturally convecting experienced general contracting floor-plan utilizes the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the ground floor, to heat and cool and sub-contracting direct to the home through the energy recover ventilator system and ductless mini splits. The four-story homeowners and businesses. floor plan includes a sunroom, walk out basement with outside shower, and walk in loft. There Their specialties lie in custom are many unique touches in this home created from locally sourced reclaimed timber. exterior sustainability, HOME FEATURES: residential remodeling and general contracting. They have Open staircase Locally sourced reclaimed timber educated others in the industry Walk in loft for numerous years on exterior Walk out basement with outside shower sustainability given the climate changes in the northeast. ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ This expertise has led them to GREEN TECHNOLOGY: develop uniquely designed and Naturally convecting floor plan efficient homes inspired by the Super insulated cold wall/ cold roof systems. Energy recover ventilator Loft
Open to Bedroom 2
Open to Bedroom 1
Open to Below
LOFT FLOOR PLAN
Ductless mini splits
07-20-2017
Whitbeck Residence
ARCHITECT:
LOFT FLOOR PLAN
Butler Rowland Mays Architects
WHITBECKCONSTRUCTION.COM 518.226.0017
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Whitbeck Construction
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Master Bedroom Master Bath
Curtis Lumber – Nicole Stack
LANDSCAPE:
Whitbeck Construction
Family Room
Closet
Walk-In Closet
Bedroom 2
Walk-In Closet
Dining Room
Sunroom
Bathroom
Coats
Linen Bedroom 1
Laundry
Foyer
Hall
Powder Room
Window Seat
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
Kitchen
07-20-2017
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
Whitbeck Residence
07-20-2017
Whitbeck Residence
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
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SECOND FLOOR PLAN
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Saratoga Builders
16
Sam Palazzole & Dan Barber SARATOGA BUILDERS
is an award winning, custom home builder that builds homes of the highest quality and energy efficiency to satisfy the needs of every new home buyer. They will build custom homes using their own plans or the customer's plans. They will build on their own lots or on land owned by the customer.
BURGOYNE ESTATES 15 ANTHONY LANE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 3 BEDROOMS, 3.5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHROOMS, 2,500 SQ. FT. This 2017 Showcase of Homes is a one of a kind custom home offering a first floor master suite, open floor plan, 2 en suites on the 2nd floor, and a 2 acre lot. The home includes hardwood floors, granite countertops, Kohler fixtures, Pella windows, gas fireplace, and much more.
HOME FEATURES:
REALTOR: Keller Williams – Christine Marchesiello DRAWINGS PLOTTED ON 11X17 PAPER ARE ½ SCALE FROM WHAT IS NOTED INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
Gourmet Kitchen Hardwood Floors Granite Countertops
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Builder's Kitchens – Nikki Stelling LANDSCAPE: Blue Spruce Nursery – Robert Daly
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY: NOOK
Proudly Designed For:
14' - 7"
NOOK 13'-9"x10'-4"
MASTER BEADROOM
14' - 7"
2' - 1"
5"
SECOND FLOOR PLAN 1/4" = 1'-0"
GARAGE 22'-0"x24'-0"
6' - 0"
2' - 6 1/2"
6' - 0"
6' - 0"
SECOND FLOOR PLAN 1/4" = 1'-0"
LIN.
CL.
Drawn By:
SUITE #2
14'-4"x12-0" 14' - 4"
6' - 0"
BATH
SUITE #2 14'-4"x12-0" 14' - 4"
2' -LIN. 1"
M. BATH
12' - 0"
5' - 6"
5' - 6"
BATH
12' - 0"
5' - 2"
Scale: Date:
DN
4' - 2"
2' - 0"
4' - 2" 5' - 2"
DN 8/19/13
2' - 1"
3' - 3 1/2"
2' - 0"
LIN.
M. BATH 9/6/2016 12:44:19 PM D:\Revit\Projects\Saratoga Builders\THE BREEDERS CUP\SAM-SPEC\SAM-SPEC IV.rvt
3' - 3 1/2"
GUARD RAIL @ 36"
CL.
7' - 8 1/2"
W.I.C.
LIN.
DN
2' - 1"
6' - 1"
6' - 2"
7' - 8 1/2"
3' - 11 1/2"
12' - 8"
4' - 1 1/4"
DEN
12'-1"x12'-1"
DN
12'-1"x12'-1"
CL.
CL.
3' - 2"
6' - 6 1/4"
W.I.C.
6' - 2"
2' - 6 1/2"
LDRY
CL. w w w. s a r a t oga bu ild ers.co m
DEN
CL.
UP
OPT. VAN OR LINEN
518-587-2666
CL.
LDRY
6' - 1"
12' - 8"
PAN.
3' - 2" 3' - 11 1/2"
6' - 6 1/4"
PAN.
OPT. VAN OR LINEN
DN
PWDR
PWDR
4' - 1 1/4"
UP
ARTWORK
GUARD RAIL @ 36"
3' - 2"
KITCHEN 14'-1"x15'-2" DN
CL.
1007 Elizabeth Street Mechanicville, N.Y. 12118
KITCHEN 14'-1"x15'-2"
13' - 10"
SUITE #3 12'-3"x14'-11"
3' - 2"
DESIGN & DRAFTING SERVICES
14'-7"x15'-6"
22'-5" x 15'-8"
14' - 11"
15' - 6 1/2"
MASTER BEADROOM FAMILY ROOM
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
SUITE #3 12'-3"x14'-11"
A SOLID BUILD
14'-7"x15'-6"
14' - 11"
13' - 10"
15' - 6 1/2"
FAMILY ROOM 22'-5" x 15'-8"
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
TOZIER RESIDENCE Smith Road Town of Halfmoon
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Highest Energy Star 13'-9"x10'-4" rating with a 50% reduction in energy costs Energy Star Appliances including the Refrigerator, Stove, Dishwasher, Microwave and HVAC System
GARAGE 22'-0"x24'-0"
SARATOGABUILDERS.COM 518.587.2666
Saratoga Signature – Nancy Smith
5"
HEATED AREA CALCULATIONS FIRST FLOOR HEATED SECOND FLOOR HEATED Grand total
FIRST FLOOR PLAN 1/4" = 1'-0"
1864 SF 637 SF 2501 SF
ENGINEERING APPRO
DRAWING NUMBE
A-17
DRAWINGS PLOTTED ON 11X17 PAPER ARE ½ SCALE FROM WHAT IS NOTED
HEATED AREA CALCULATIONS FIRST FLOOR HEATED SECOND FLOOR HEATED Grand total
1864 SF 637 SF 2501 SF
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 61
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FENIMORE ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC. Fenimore Private Client Group & FAM Funds famfunds.com 62 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
17 La Femme Home Builders
Lisa Breen LA FEMME HOME BUILDERS
HEIGHTS AT BROWN ROAD 64 BROWN ROAD, TOWN OF SARATOGA 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, 2,800 SQ. FT. This barn inspired home was designed to compliment its beautiful surroundings with the use of natural and reclaimed materials and offer lake and mountain views from nearly every room. This bright and sunny open concept floor plan is abundant with our signature custom millwork and built-in finish details. This home features a gourmet kitchen with soapstone and marble counters, a walk-in pantry and an artful use of mixed materials. You will feel at home in this comfortable family room with soaring ceilings, reclaimed barn beams, custom designed fireplace mantle, window seats and built-in cabinetry. You can unwind and relax in the luxurious master suite with vaulted ceilings, custom shower and vintage claw foot soaking tub or kick back and watch the sunset from one of the two covered porches. Welcome to the Heights at Brown Road... what a great place to call home.
HOME FEATURES: Custom built-in cabinetry, signature handcrafted millwork and molding details Specialty milled shiplap walls and wide plank rustic oak flooring Reclaimed barn beams, bard wood & chestnut shelving Handcrafted wood and butcher block counter tops Natural stone veneer, bluestone porches and timber frame accents
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES/ GREEN TECHNOLOGY:
REALTOR:
Keller Williams Capital District
INTERIOR DESIGN:
La Femme Home Builders, LLC
INTERIOR DESIGN:
Silverwood Home & Galleries – Chelsea Silver & Charlene Wood
KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM:
Curtis Lumber – Heather Bodnaryk
LANDSCAPE:
Brookside Nursery – Ian Murray
Pella architectural series windows with advanced low e glass High efficiency gas furnace with Nest energy saving technology Rubio Monocoat 100% natural oil wood floor finish
offers a unique and refreshing approach to home building, from a woman’s point of view. As a second generation home builder, its owner and founder, Lisa Breen, in collaboration with the area’s finest and talented craftsmen in their field, has created a company to design and build custom homes with a strong emphasis on quality, attention to detail and unique design. Since 2001, Lisa Breen has been a leader in the real estate industry building, renovating, and selling homes in the Saratoga County market. After fifteen years and raising two beautiful children, Lisa merged her talents and passion for building into one company, La Femme Home Builders. Lisa Breen is a member of the Capital Region Builders Association, Saratoga County Builders Association and Professional Women in Building Northeastern New York. LAFEMMEHOMEBUILDERS.COM 518.321.1535
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 63
64 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
18
Bella Home Builders
David DePaulo BELLA HOME BUILDERS
7 CEDAR BLUFF COURT, STILLWATER 3 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, 4,160 SQ. FT. This custom designed and built two level home overlooks Saratoga Lake. The wonderful timber framed Douglas Fir porch is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful views and wonderful sunsets. This home has soaring 20 ft ceilings with solid beams. The three fireplaces are from floor to ceiling with authentic granite and custom built ins. The walk out first level features a generous custom, one-of-a-kind bar and entertainment area. You will also find a grotto type wine cellar with an arched entry. Solid granite boulders are used throughout the landscaping, along with an in-ground swimming pool, nicely finished off with hardscaping and plantings.
HOME FEATURES:
UP
BUILT INS
DW
BUILT INS
STORAGE 18-0 x 15-10 LINEN
BAR AREA 24-8 x 16-2
UP
ELEVATED BAR BUILT INS
BEDROOM #2 16-11 x 13-6
BANQUETTE
UP
WINE CELLAR
LOWER FOYER
COVERED PATIO
13-4 x 7-4
(BARREL CEILING)
REC ROOM
(BARREL CEILING)
BUILT INS
22-10 x 15-0
EXERCISE ROOM
18-0 x 10-0
COVERED PATIO 26-0 x 8-0
12-6 x 14-5
CALIFORNIA KITCHEN
Spray foam insulation 96% efficient furnace Energy efficient windows
23-0 x 12-0
16-3 x 13-7
GAS FP
ENERGY EFFICIENCIES:
UNHEATED STORAGE
BEDROOM #3
BUILT INS
Douglas Fir timber frame covered deck Grado Wine Cellar Professional Bar & Entertainment Center Custom built ins and solid beam work throughout Three fireplaces
GARDEN LEVEL 2,060 SQ.FT.
DESIGNER: Engineering America Co. – Tonya Yasenchak, PE INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM:
11-1 x 11-8
SCREENED PORCH
W
UP
23-0 x 12-0
D
MUD PORCH LANDING
3 CAR GARAGE
BUILT INS
34-8 x 34-10
PANTRY
KITCHEN & DINING
MUDROOM
UP
24-8 x 15-9
DN
MASTER SUITE 17-6 x 15-1
BUILT INS
Bennington Furniture – Andrea Chenier KITCHEN DESIGN FIRM: Zarrillo's Custom Design Kitchens – Dawn Zarrillo LANDSCAPE: Sunnyhill Landscape Innovations – Kevin Rogner
DN
LAUNDRY
WALK IN CLOSET
BUILT INS
18-0 x 10-0
FOYER
(BARREL CEILING)
BUILT INS
BUILT INS
COVERED DECK
BUILT IN
DN
GREAT ROOM
22-6 x 15-0
COVERED DECK 26-0 x 8-0
COVERED PORCH (BARREL CEILING)
PATIO SIDEWALK
HOME OFFICE 13-1 x 14-5
CUPOLA
MAIN LEVEL 2,163 SQ.FT.
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
is an award-winning, family owned, custom home company that specializes in designing and building homes in the Capital region and surrounding areas. For over 20 years, founder Dave DePaulo and his team have set the standard for building one-of-a-kind custom homes for individual clients. Dave DePaulo believes every client should have the information they need to make smart, informative decisions about the type of home they want to build for their family. Dave works with each client to establish expectations from the initial consultation and continues the company's commitment to strong communication, excellence in customer service, and attention to details. Bella Home Builders offers a full array of services every homebuilder needs to completely design, build and furnish their luxury custom home. A full team of design coordinators, interior/exterior designers, client coordinators, project managers and quality control coordinators are available to work with each homeowner to customize their home to compliment their unique lifestyle and needs. BELLAHOMEBUILDERSINC.COM 518.583.1833
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 65
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66 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
RUSTIC BLEND
ABELE BUILDERS, INC. 84 Lumber AW Hamel Stairs Best Tile Builder’s Kitchens Curtis Lumber David Louis Flooring Coverings Environmental Design Partnership, LLP JJ Krug Associates Kulak Landscaping Lill Overhead Doors Marcella’s Appliances Precision Glass and Aluminum Rainbow Sprinklers RG Haldeman Electric Richard E Bartlett Inc. Security Supply Snyder Painting BELLA HOME BUILDERS, INC. – 3 ROLLING GREEN Adirondack Naturals Albany Marble/ Hudson Valley Tile Albany Mechanical AJ Masonry Best Fire & Hearth Patio Bonded Concrete Builder's Kitchens Inc Capital District Stairs Curtis Lumber D & T Electric Floor Master/ Carpet One GSL Landscaping & Nursery saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Hamilton Plumbing J.B. Asphalt Paving Legacy Timber Frames Inc. Marcella's Appliances North Valley Construction PLP Development Precision Glass & Aluminum Inc Randall Perry Photography Rosick Well Drilling Saratoga Custom Cabinetry Saratoga Masonry Security Supply Specialized Sheet Metal Equip Thompson Flooring The Tile Man William J. O'Rourke Inc. Wolberg Electric
Thompson Flooring The Tile Man William J. O'Rourke Inc. Wolberg Electric BELLA HOME BUILDERS, INC. – 7 CEDAR BLUFF AJ Masonry Albany Marble/Hudson
Albany Mechanical Andy’s Plumbing AW Hamel Stairs Best Fire Hearth & Patio
BELLA HOME BUILDERS, INC. – 20 ROLLING GREEN Albany Marble/ Hudson Valley Tile Albany Mechanical Andy's Plumbing AJ Masonry Best Fire Hearth & Patio Bonded Concrete Builder's Kitchens Inc. Capital District Stairs Curtis Lumber D & T Electric Floor Master/ Carpet One GSL Landscaping & Nursery Hamilton Plumbing J.B. Asphalt Paving Legacy Timber Frames Inc. Marcella's Appliances North Valley Construction PLP Development Precision Glass & Aluminum Inc Randall Perry Photography Rosick Well Drilling Saratoga Custom Cabinetry Saratoga Masonry Security Supply Specialized Sheet Metal Equip saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 67
Continued from page 67... Bonded Concrete Builder’s Kitchens Capital District Stairs Curtis Lumber D & T Electric Floor Master/Carpet One Hamilton Plumbing J.B. Asphalt Paving Marcella’s Appliances North Valley Construction PLP Development Rosick Well Drilling Saratoga Masonry Security Supply Specialized Sheet Metal Equip Valley Mosaic Tile William J. O’Rourke Inc. Wolberg Electric Zarrillo’s Custom Kitchens BELMONTE BUILDERS ABC Supply Adirondack Precision Cut Stone AW Hamel Stairs Best Fire Best Tile BLD Contracting Builder’s Kitchens C & S Siding Crawford Door & Window Curtis Lumber Floor Source Lill Overhead Door Marcella’s Appliance Center Pediletto Electric Perfect Painting Precision Glass The Tile Man BONACIO CONSTRUCTION – 2 ROSE TERRACE Albany Mechanical Services 68 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
AW Hamel Stairs Best Fire, Inc. Capital Plumbing & Heating Crawford Doors & Windows Curtis Lumber Erie Materials Empire State Tile, LLC ITZ Security Inc. John D Marcella’s Appliances Lill Overhead Doors Security Supply Sheft Electric, LLC Town & Country Painting BONACIO CONSTRUCTION – THE SPENCER ACW Family Builders AJS Masonry Albany Mechanical Allerdice Glass & Door Allerdice/True Value Architectural Glass & Mirror B & B Plumbing & Heating Best Tile-Saratoga Bonacio Metal Shop C and D Painting LLC California Closets Central NY Electrical Co. Commercial Paving Crawford Window & Door Curtis Lumber Co. DeBrino Dyer Works Ed Herrington, Inc. European Stucco Freeberns Trim Works Holland Property Management John D Marcella JWC Custom Home Builder The Mantel Shoppe McKenzie Drywall, Inc. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
ML Site Development Northeast Commercial Interior Northeast Spray Foam Northwoods Concrete OHD – GF Peak Environmental Concepts Pinnacle Roofing Precision Glass Saratoga Fireplace & Stove Schindler Elevator Sherman Tile Signature Cabinet Group SRI Fire Sprinkler HERBINGER HOMES 84 Lumber Absolute Tile
Adirondack Overhead Door Adirondack Paving Appolo Heating AW Hamel Ballston Lake Gutters, LLC Best Tile Boel Electric Builders Kitchen Clifton Park Glass Craig’s Mowing & Landscaping Davidson Plumbing Earl B Feiden Fresh Kote Prosource Flooring
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 69
Tice Electrical Contractors VP Supply Corp.
Continued from page 69... Saratoga Window Designs, LLC Security Supply The Stone Shop Zilver Linings HERITAGE CUSTOM BUILDERS, LLC Bellevue Builders Supply Geovanny Marble & Granite, LLC John D Marcella Appliances Clifton Park Glass Security Supply Wolberg Electric LA FEMME HOME BDB Paving Beacon Supply Best Fire Hearth and Patio Brookside Nursery Chippewa Stone Curtis Lumber Dacosta Excavating Dyerworks GNH Lumber Habitat ReStore Hart Alarm System James Hardie Building Products JFL Construction J&R Propane Leise Well Drilling Little Falls Lumber Northern Hardwoods Pella Crawford Windows & Doors Precision Glass 70 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
Ross Concrete Schaldone Custom Carpentry Security Supply Shiloh Murray Carpentry Silverwood Home & Gallery Smero Construction Snyders Drywall Storied Boards TISA, LLC Vanguilder & Associates Winslow Painting Witz Roofing Wolberg Electric MARINI HOMES, LLC 84 Lumber Co. ABC Supply Co. Albany Mechanical Services Audio Obsessions AW Hamel Stairs Bellevue Builders Supply Best Fire, Inc. BLD Contracting Corp. Builder’s Kitchens, Inc. Building Specialty Carpet Master Cranesville Block Co. Creative Stone Design Earl B. Feiden, Inc. EH Laire & Sons, LLC Gentiles Inc. Hart Alarm Systems Heroth Siding, LLC Northeast Seamless Northway Residential Precision Glass Robert Marini Builders Saccocio’s Overhead Doors
MCPADDEN BUILDERS, LLC Allerdice Glass Appolo Heating AW Hamel Stairs Bennington Furniture Best Tile BLD Contracting Corp Bonded Concrete Bradt Flooring Company Brookside Nursery Brown and Brown Care Clean Complete Construction Concrete Technologies Curtis Lumber Energy Guard Insulation Flooring America Granite and Marble Works Hamilton Plumbing Jim Cox, Attorney JM Laurent, Contractor Lill Overhead Doors M & R Drywall Marcella’s Appliance Center Northeast Seamless Gutters Pallette Concrete Powers Construction Precision Glass Rainbow Lawn Sprinklers Roohan Realty Ross Concrete RWC Insurance Saratoga National Bank Security Supply Sheridan Painting The Night Stone Mason The Tile Man Thompson and Fleming Surveying saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 71
Continued from page 70... Tim McLaughlin, Architect VR Electric W.J. Morris Excavating Wolberg Electrical PIGLIAVENTO BUILDERS 518 Contracting Services ABC Supply Co. Inc. Adams Heating & Cooling Bellevue Builders Bennett Stair Co. Carpet Master Carpet One Floor & Home Curtis Lumber DS DiGesare Plumbing & Heating High Country Hardscapes Installed Building Products, LLC JD Drywall, LLC Lill Overhead Doors Lucio DiCarlo Marcella’s Appliance Center Midline Construction NSE Electrical P.A. Weakley, LLC SHE Electric Co. United Building & Remodeling RJ TAYLOR BUILDERS ABC Supply Alside Supply Appolo Heating, Inc. Bellevue Builders Best Tile
72 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
Bonded Concrete Capital Stone Albany Carpet Master Carpet One Clifton Park Glass Erie Supply Lill Overhead Doors Precision Glass and Aluminum Saratoga Signatures Security Plumbing and Heating Supply Wolberg Electric Supply Wood Pro Zarrillo Kitchens Saratoga Builders ABC Supply Appolo Heating, Inc. Best Fire, Hearth & Patio Builder’s Kitchens, Inc. Crawford Doors & Windows Curtis Lumber Earl B. Feiden, Inc. Floormaster Carpet One Granite and Marble P.J. Baker Electrical Contractor, Inc. Precision Glass Saratoga Signature Interiors Security Plumbing & Heating Supply WHITBECK CONSTRUCTION Allerdice Curtis Lumber Capital Supply F.W. Web Security Supply Sherwin Williams Specialized Sheet Metal Stonebridge Steel Trustco Bank Wayfair Bed & Bath
WITT CONSTRUCTION, INC. ABC Supply Adirondack A/V Advanced Spray Foam, Inc. AHR Industries BCS Construction Best Fire Best Tile Brady’s Hardwood Floors County Waste Crawford Door & Window Creekeside Graphics, Inc. Curtis Lumber D D Dyer Works Construction Feidens Appliance Floormaster Glens Falls Overhead Door Jeff Arnold, Inc. Jim Trackey Kasselman Solar Legacy Timberframes Lance Plumbing Olde School Woodworking Precision Glass & Aluminum Premiere Roof Solutions Security Supply Snyder’s Drywall Steve Herman Stone Industries Whitbeck Construction WoodTrac Closets Wolberg Electrical Supply
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Why is
Liz always
on our Fall Cover? WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER COVERS SHOT BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY
I
n the 16 years Liz Bishop has lived in Saratoga Springs, she has only missed the annual Showcase of Homes once. That’s a pretty good record, and Liz proudly calls herself the event’s most loyal attendee. So, when I asked Saratoga TODAY’s Creative Director / Managing Editor, Chris Vallone Bushee, “Why is Liz always on the cover of the “Showcase” magazine issue, she said, “People ask me that all the time – let’s tell them!”
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 73
Reserve Your Ad Space
TODAY
518.581.2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com (This issue deadlines on October 6, 2017)
“I’ve been asking that same question myself for years,” Liz responds with a goodnatured laugh. The well-known CBS 6 news anchor and local celeb has a passion for design and architecture, and she also loves the philanthropic side of the annual event. Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity have been the recipients of the proceeds from the Showcase of Homes, with more than ONE MILLION DOLLARS raised, for these worthy causes. Liz moved to Saratoga Springs from Albany in 2000, taking a one-year lease on a small apartment to see if she liked the city enough to buy a home here. “After six months, I’d already made up my mind and I put my house in Loudonville on the market.” The first time Liz attended a Showcase of Homes, she fell in love with the different architectural designs, the décor, as well as the entire concept of generating funds to help others achieve their dreams of home ownership. She calls the Showcase a “yearly adventure,” where she can meet builders, architects and interior designers and get fabulous ideas for her own home, as well as connect with other members of the community. “Last year, one of the homes had a beautiful gray and white marble tile in the kitchen and bath. I was just crazy for it!” That tile is now in her own bathroom. Liz says the builders and designers are very generous with their time and ideas when she sees them on the tour, and she encourages other visitors to the Showcase to ask questions about where they can find the materials and furnishings that went into the creation of each home. As a seasoned veteran of the Showcase – and the emcee of its awards dinner for the fifth year in a row – Liz has a specific routine she follows during the three weekends of the event. “I usually take a big group of friends with me on Day One, and we go through as many homes as we can comfortably get
74 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Will you be in the 2018 issue of to. Then, I do the rest of the tour on my own,” she says, adding that this routine gives her the opportunity to meet and talk to so many people. It also gives her time to carefully go through each home. As the emcee, Liz feels that it’s important to have a good working knowledge of the features and details that make each home so unique.
Saratoga BRIDE?
To have your wedding business considered for a feature, contact Chris Bushee at 518.518.2480 x201 or cbushee@saratogapublishing.com
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com SaratogaBride.com
“I also vote each year for the People’s Choice awards,” she says. “I like to see how close I was in my own voting to the judges who select the winners in each category.” Barry Potoker, executive director of the Saratoga Builder’s Association and co-chair of the Showcase of Homes, says that Liz is just a “natural fit.” “Liz has been attending the Showcase for years, and she has such a passion for homes and architectural design. She – and CBS 6 Albany – do an excellent job of helping to promote the event as sponsors,” says Potoker, adding that Liz makes the perfect emcee for the awards dinner. “The builders all know and love her, and they’re so happy to have her here each year.” What really makes the whole event so rewarding for Liz – and for so many others who work tirelessly to put this event together – are the beneficiaries of the three-week event. Last year’s record $70,000 in event tickets is an indication of the level of popularity for the Showcase, as well as the dedication to two such worthy organizations in our region. “How nice is it that, for $20, you can get three weekends of great entertainment, and donate to two wonderful causes,” says Liz.
See you at the Showcase, Liz! SS
For behind the scenes & information about this year's cover shoot see page 184.
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 75
7
IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT!
GOLD NAIL SPONSORS
SARATOGA THE PEOPLE • THE PLACES • THE LIFESTYLE
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S I LV E R S P I K E S P O N S O R S
BRONZE HAMMER SPONSORS
GRANITE KEYSTONE SPONSORS 55+ Living Guide Advantage Press AJ Signs Berkshire HomeStyle Boise Cascade Builder’s Kitchens Burns Management Erie Materials Fast SIgns HomeBridge Financial Services
Kitchens by Zarrilo Nemer Auto Group Parksite Premiere Transportation RealtyUSA Saratoga Casino Hotel Saratoga.com Security Supply Sherman Tile Associates The Chronicle Toga Tours Weyerhaeuser
S T O N E F O U N D AT I O N S P O N S O R S 23rd and Fourth A W Hamel Stair Mfg ABC Supply Co. Advanced Spray Foam Allerdice Building Supply Andersen Windows Appolo Heating Ballston Spa National Bank BDB Paving Best Tile C.T. Male Associates CLA Site D.S DiGesare Plumbing and Heating
Dunham’s Bay Resort Holiday Inn Saratoga Huber Engineered Woods JEM Woodworking & Cabinets Kodiak Construction M J Engineering & Land Surveying Malta Development Marshall & Sterling Merillat Cabinetry Morris Excavating New York State Parks Overhead Doors of Glens Falls Owens Corning Phinney Design
Pietrosanto Insurance Posie Peddler Precision Glass & Aluminum Prime at Saratoga National Saratoga’s Best Saratogian Siewert Equipment Slocum Publishing Universal Forest Products Van Veghten Construction W.J. Morris Excavating Wolberg Lighting Design & Electrical Supply
SHOWCASE PROCEEDS B E N E F I T: 76 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
From The Editor As always... Saratoga TODAY is honored to be the official magazine media sponsor for the Saratoga Builders’ Association’s Showcase of Homes! I love working on this issue… From seeing the floorplans, getting a sneak peek inside the showcase homes and hanging out with Liz Bishop (!!) this is probably my favorite issue to build!! Knowing this is undoubtedly the source for renovating / building / décor ideas in Saratoga County, I added a ton of great swoon-worthy content in the back of the magazine too! You can see how much fun we had doing the cover shoot with Liz on page 184, and if you’ve ever wondered why Liz is always on our fall cover… see page 73. Whether you’re a self-professed “American Picker” like me and love to stumble upon the perfect (waiting to be restored!) item while antiquing on a Saturday morning, or prefer a simple, Zen-like modern look, we have ideas galore for your dwelling with an expanded H&G section …in addition to almost 80 pages upfront of Showcase of Homes coverage! As you know, we have our weekly paper, Saratoga TODAY, to cover the news of the area. I get to cover the fun stuff and introduce you to some interesting people in the process. Last fall I had the pleasure of listening to Florence Andresen speak and knew I had to bring her to the pages of Simply Saratoga Magazine, meet her on page 92. I met photographer Greg Cuda last spring and just fell in love with how he was preserving our American Iron, as in the old rusted vehicles that have been left abandoned in area fields. Page 134.
At the Electric City Couture show in July I met two designers from our area and I just love what they’re making – they’ll be kicking off our fashion section for this issue - check them out on page 101. Since Food Trucks were everywhere this past year, I just had to include them! Page 147. With the slower pace and cooler weather, I’m already thinking about all the “traditional” fun stuff that autumn brings… and some of these events are date sensitive, so flip to our Save the Date section first (page 152) - and mark your calendars – you don’t want to miss a thing this Fall!
136
134
I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as I enjoyed putting it together and please keep those comments coming. If you know of people living interesting lives, living in amazing houses and doing awesome things, contact me cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com or (518) 581-2480 x201 I have to close with a big THANK YOU to all of our advertisers, without them, Saratoga TODAY couldn’t continue to offer these beautiful publications free of charge to the thousands that read them each month–please mention us by name when visiting these businesses. Enjoy the mag!
147 90
Chris
Chris Vallone Bushee Creative Director/ Managing Editor cBushee@SaratogaPublishing.com (518) 581-2480 ext.201 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
154
In Print & Online.
Photo by Brian Haynes. For more of his work see page 86.
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FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 77
HENRY STREET TAPROOM 86 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
"Summer Glovin"
Farm Toast
78 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
Pan-Roasted Radishes
Soba Noodle Salad saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Sophisticated Pub Fare with a Flare Ryan and Sonja McFadden talked about opening their own taproom and restaurant for a couple of years before the perfect space became available on Henry Street. The couple were living in Philadelphia, where Ryan practiced law and Sonja taught kindergarten. But they shared a passion for great food, cheeses, and great brews. As their knowledge and expertise in food and beer grew, they started to look seriously for the right venue. Sonja is a graduate of Skidmore and the couple liked the vibe of Saratoga. They began looking downtown and keeping their eyes open for the right opportunity. When the space on Henry Street became available, the couple pounced on it. That was five years ago.
WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS BY BLACKBURN PORTRAIT DESIGN
Today, Henry Street Taproom is a popular haunt for east side residents, out of towners, and people who want to venture off Broadway to see what other treasures are tucked away on the cozy little side streets and alleys. Although Ryan and Sonja now have two toddlers to keep them busier than ever, they continue to be heavily involved in all aspects of the operation. And the locals appreciate it. Stephanie Piccolo, who has been on the staff at Henry Street since they opened, says they have had “regulars” since Day One. And for good reason. Chef Matt Weekes, a graduate of the SCCC culinary program, began at Henry Street Taproom as sous chef and quickly moved up to the position of head chef. In the process, Weekes has elevated pub fare to a new level of sophistication, flavor and flare, while adhering to what he calls “good solid foundational cooking.”
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Paired with that solid foundation is the thirst-quenching assortment of beers, ales and, of course, signature cocktails created by bar manager, Andras (Drew) Janik, another culinary grad and a well-known and well-respected face in the Saratoga restaurant scene. The team from Saratoga Today who were on hand recently to sample some fine fare and libation included our creative director, Chris Vallone Bushee, and photographer Susan Blackburn. It was a perfect early summer day and the doors of Henry Street were wide open, reminding us of open-air pubs that line the streets of Dublin or Kerry. After meeting Ryan, Chef Weekes and members of the staff, we started off by sampling three of the featured seasonal cocktails Drew and his staff created. The first libation on the list was a modern take on an old bar favorite – the “Taproom Sidecar.” This traditional cognac-based drink was livened up by the addition of blood orange liqueur and Remy Martin VSOP. We proceeded to sample some “Summer Glovin,” consisting of a delightful combination of house cider, infused with a blueberry-flavored simple syrup, and a zesty lemon peel. We finished off our taste fest with “Uncle Razz’s Fresh Lemonade,” a refreshing and brilliantly-flavored fresh-squeezed lemonade, with a raspberry-basil puree and Tito’s vodka. Yum! While sipping on cocktails, we were treated to an eclectic assortment of small plates – which appear on the menu as “snacks.” A summery green gazpacho, made with a base of cucumbers and oregano, with Greek yogurt, pistachio, mint and – of course, the kicker – jalapeno, all pureed together, resulted in a creamy and refreshing summertime soup with a nice bite at the finish.
Ryan & Sonja McFadden with Baby Tague (Molly not pictured)
Also on our menu for the afternoon was Farm Toast – a “must have” for lovers of deep, earthyflavored local Chanterelle and oyster mushrooms, blended with the most amazingly creamy fresh ricotta atop house-made sourdough. The pan-roasted radishes were another example of fresh from the garden local produce, artfully combined with miso butter and pan-roasted to create a creamy, buttery freshness that re-defines “comfort food.” Our “Simply... the best!” turned out to be the Soba Noodle Salad – a six-minute egg, combined with the nuttiness and earthy flavor of noodles with ginger scallion sauce, pickled shitakes and spicy peanuts. For purveyors of more traditional pub food, Henry Street Taproom aims to please all palates. Their menu also includes some standard favorites, such as fried fish and chicken sandwiches, a juicy Taproom burger with Adirondack cheddar, bacon, caramelized onion, pickles and their own special sauce. For lovers of cheese and charcuterie, there is a separate menu devoted entirely to cheeses, meats
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Stefanie Piccolo
and sausages from as nearby as Cohoes and Thurman, NY to places as distant as Italy, Spain and Holland. Somehow, we managed to finish off our cocktails and realized that we wouldn’t be doing honors to Henry Street Taproom if we failed to sample a “flight” of IPAs, ales, and stouts on tap. Henry Street boasts 16 of the best craft beers and ciders from around the world. On this day, we sipped away on a lighter IPA, with notes of citrus, a Lambic with a rich, sour-sweet and fruity flavor, as well as a smooth Belgian and a decadent Imperial Stout by Evil Twin, with a big cocoa flavor for those who want to have their cake – or cocoa – and drink it too!
Shayn Foley Drew Janik
And speaking of cake, our trio was treated to a simply amazing lemon blueberry bread pudding, using their signature house-made Pullman bread and lemon curd, with a decadent buttermilk icing. The perfect end to an idyllic afternoon on Henry Street! Henry Street Taproom is currently open weekdays from 4 p.m.-12 a.m. weekdays and Noon-12 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Ryan and Sonja have also expanded into the vacant space next door, which will give the taproom an additional 1,200 square feet of space, an open-air patio with a wood-burning fireplace, and a shuffleboard table. Ryan and Sonja plan to have the new space open in the next month and they are excited to offer seating for larger parties and private events. They also have plans to open for brunch on the weekends in the coming year. SS For more information about Henry Street Taproom, visit their website at HenryStreetTaproom.com and be sure to like them on Facebook, facebook.com/henrystreettaproom
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124 Grand Avenue After
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One of the stable buildings showing the covered walking ring, 124loft. Grand Avenue Before the rounded corners, and the wall ladder to the hay ©Samantha Bosshart
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RESULTS: 124 GRAND AVENUE WRITTEN BY SAMANTHA BOSSHART PHOTOS PROVIDED
AFTER SPENDING “eleventy-seven bazillion dollars and far too many months,” Mark and Keirsa Chappell are celebrating the rehabilitation of 124 Grand Avenue. The Chappells were looking to invest in a rental property. Upon viewing 124 Grand Avenue, they fell in love with the fireplace, the beautiful woodwork, and its quirky spaces including the back staircase and purchased the house in December 2014. The circa 1838 Greek Revival house was built by Judiah Ellsworth, a prominent attorney and developer who owned a considerable amount of land on the west side of Saratoga Springs. It remained in the Ellsworth family until 1851. William H. Fleeman, a flour dealer in Brooklyn who owned $5,000 in real estate, purchased the property in 1851. George W. Fuller, a baggage master who also had significant real estate holdings and lived with his wife at 17 Franklin Street, acquired the property five years later. Both Fleeman and Fuller rented the property to others. In 1861, Catherine L. Mitchell, the wife of Caleb Mitchell, purchased the house. They owned it until 1886, but only resided in the house between 1877 and 1879. Caleb Mitchell along with his brother opened the Glen Mitchell Hotel in 1863. Caleb and his brother operated the hotel until 1886 when it was lost to foreclosure. Following the closing of the hotel, Mitchell served as president of the Village of saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Saratoga Springs and operated one of Saratoga’s “most notorious gambling rooms” according to Nelly Bly’s exposé “Our Wickedest Summer Resort.” Following Senator Edgar T. Brackett passing legislation that limited legal gambling in Saratoga Springs to only Richard Canfield’s high society Saratoga Club, Mitchell’s gambling establishment was closed. On January 29, 1902 he purchased a gun to “shoot cats.” Later that day he barged into Senator Brackett’s office and upon failing to find the Senator he killed himself. In 1884, 124 Grand Avenue was sold at public auction. James M. Marvin, U.S. Congressman and proprietor of the United States Hotel who resided with his family at 3 Franklin Square, purchased the property and rented it to others until 1899 when he sold it. After an exchange of property owners, Thomas and Mary Foster purchased the property in 1904. Thomas, a carpenter and caretaker for Skidmore College, lived in the house with Mary and their three daughters. It remained in the Foster family until 1952. Alfred Hastey, who resided at 120 Grand Avenue, purchased 124 Grand Avenue and converted it into a boarding house named Grace Cottage. In 1971, Hastey sold 124 Grand Avenue to Frank and Elaine Thompson of Brooklyn, NY. Following Frank’s passing, Ellen Brooks, his step-daughter who also lived in Brooklyn, owned the property. The property fell into disrepair over the years and was listed on the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation’s “Ten to Save” list in 2010. While Ellen Brooks made minor repairs, the property needed much more. The Chappells knew that repairs would be necessary, but the project became increasingly more complicated than initially 84 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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thought. In order to get necessary financing to rehabilitate the house, the Chappells had to first install a heating system since the house had none. As they delved into repairs, they found that when it rained water ran down the inside of the clapboard siding, requiring the roof to be replaced. When removing the damaged plaster walls they uncovered unsafe electrical wiring which required the entire house to be rewired. A rear addition needed structural repairs and the side porch needed to be reconstructed. They found the chimney behind the fireplace that they loved so much crumbling. While discouraged at times and often having friends and family question their sanity and commitment to the project, Mark and Keirsa persevered. “Nothing was plumb. There were odd angles that added challenges,” stated Mark. Rather than simply remove everything and start all over, they insisted on keeping as much of the original fabric of the building as possible. They took great care to replicate the woodwork and restore the historic windows of the primary facade. “The character of the house would not be the same if the windows were replaced - the wavy glass with its imperfections adds to the charm,” according to Keirsa. She lovingly removed paint and stained each baluster. “You could see that they were hand-carved as each one is slightly different,” Keirsa said. While rebuilding the chimney a decorative damper was uncovered. Tim Smith of Actual Chimney Specialist told the Chappells that he had never seen anything like it. The Chappells mounted it above the fireplace. Original chimney bricks were salvaged and used for the exterior chimney. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
During the rehabilitation they uncovered beams that still retained tree bark, hand-hewn studs, and miscellaneous items such as a baby shoe, a 1916 newspaper with an article approving the switch from gas to electric street lights, and coins. Salvaged pieces of the hand-hewn studs that were damaged and needed to be replaced were incorporated into shelving and windows seats in the kitchen. Before closing up the walls in the living room, the Chappells left their own piece of history for someone to uncover a hundred years from now when the next rehabilitation is undertaken. With a bit of humor, the plaque states, “Mark and Keirsa Chappell spent eleventy-seven bazillion dollars and far too many months (and $53 for this plaque) renovating this house, 2014-2016.” They both laughingly admit that putting 2016 for the completion date was a bit optimistic as they just finished it in July 2017, only seven months late. Thanks to the Chappells’ hard work the house will not be listed on any endangered list for many years to come! The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation recognized their efforts this year with a Preservation Recognition Award. SS Founded in 1977, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is a private, not-for-profit organization that promotes preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs. To learn more or to become a member, please visit www.saratogapreservation.org.
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Artist Spotlight: Brian Haynes WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY BRIAN HAYNES
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By circumstance, after some sacrifices, and with a little bit of luck, you may find a few things in this life worth pursuing.
When Brian Haynes was 18 years old, his brother gave him his first 35 mm camera. When he married his wife Joann, he was welcomed into the world of wedding photography, which he continued with for 26 years.
“It’s the best of times and I can capture it without them knowing I’m there. When I’m searching through the hundreds of photos I’ve taken, I see it and it hits me,” he said, snapping his fingers. “I get excited and know, that’s the one,” said Haynes. Maintaining a grueling schedule that involved early morning and late night editing while also holding down a full-time job, Haynes persisted
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because it afforded him the opportunity to pursue his passion and because people kept asking for him, he said. “That’s what I consider an honor, or award. They would say, ‘He told the story of my day’. The pictures were of something that tugged at my heart, as well as at their heart,” said Haynes. Also known for his senior portraits, four years ago, Haynes began to focus more of his time on photographing scenic vistas and cascading waterfalls. “I like trying to capture the beauty. Each one has its own personality. Each is a little different,” he said. In fall, the whites and blues of the water contrast brilliantly against the oranges and reds of the leaves, he added. It is not just photographing these naturally moving masterpieces that intrigues Haynes however, but the hunt for them, as well. Distinguished with the honor of being one of the Adirondack Balloon Festival’s official photographers, Haynes preferred to keep his exploring, and his feet, on the ground until last year when he finally took a flight in one of the hot air balloons.
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I’m always looking for an angle that hasn’t been seen or tried – to please myself, more than anyone else. Then I can say, ‘This has every element I was looking for.’” 88 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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“I did it, but not without hesitating many, many times. It was really good, though. As long as I didn’t look straight down, I was fine. I spent most of the time shooting so I didn’t have time to get scared.” Whether photographing popular events, special occasions, or scenery, Haynes is always trying to approach his subject matter from a new perspective. “I’m always looking for an angle that hasn’t been seen or tried – to please myself, more than anyone else. Then I can say, ‘This has every element I was looking for.’” A huge fan of Westerns, John Wayne, and the cowboy lifestyle, Haynes is currently working on a book of photography illustrating the cowboys that have existed here in New York State. Using digital effects to create dramatic depth within his images, he wants to delve into the story of these intriguing trail hands. “New York has had a heritage of cowboys long before they went out west. Back then, Ohio was as far west as you could go. My goal is to dig into this as far as I can.” SS For more information go to haynesphotography.zenfolio.com
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sustainable
SARATOGA WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALICE COREY
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n a beautiful sun filled day in early Spring, a group of environmentally minded people gathered to the strumming guitar of Russ Pittenger to plant trees all over the city of Saratoga. The directions on how to plant the trees were sung and repeated in a chorus by all the volunteers. It was festive, light and great fun! Families, girl scout troops, couples and individuals made up the group of people eager to dig their shovels into the dirt and add value to our city by adding 35 shade trees during Tree Toga 6 organized by Sustainable Saratoga.
Sustainable Saratoga was formed in 2008 by Mayor Joanne Yepsen and Amy Stock and has since blossomed into a multifaceted organization with multiple project areas urban forestry being just one. Tom Denny, the Chair of Sustainable Saratoga's Urban Forestry Project said, “When Sustainable Saratoga first got involved, in 2011, to produce a tree inventory for the city and to work closely with them on the city’s first-ever urban forest master plan, the city’s trees were in decline. Many mature trees were reaching the end of their lives, the city had cut its tree planting budget to the lowest level of this century, the city was mostly planting invasive species, tree wells in the commercial heart of the city were being paved over, and the design trend for large construction projects was either to plant no trees or just little decorative trees rather than hard-working shade trees”. “The planting of large shade trees provides economic, environmental, health and aesthetic benefits” said Denny. When thinking of urban infrastructure many people do not think of trees being an integral part of the plan. Denny stressed the role trees play for us here in the city of Saratoga… “Large-growing shade trees work hard for us. Money we invest in trees is paid back many times over. Trees enhance commercial and retail profitability, reduce our carbon footprint and provide numerous other benefits to the environment and our health, increase real estate values, save us money in terms of energy and storm water management, and add beauty to our streets. Without doubt, they are one of the most cost-effective pieces of our urban infrastructure.” I set out, with my 3 young girls, to plant a tree with a group of Girl Scouts near the playground by Skidmore. The kids were so excited to dig into the earth and plant the tree according to the instructions they sung earlier. We had a wonderful opportunity to be planting with a girl scout troop 90 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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which made it a girl-strong team. As Tom Denny said, “The planting days have offered Saratogians of all ages a chance to take ownership of the trees. With each Tree Toga event, more and more volunteers show up, looking to create memories, to be part of an engaged tree community, to have fun in a great family-friendly activity, and to develop a personal bond to “their” tree. We hear from so many of the volunteers (who also include waterers!) that they regularly check on the well-being of the tree they planted. For decades to come, people will look back on the plantings they did and take pride from the impact that they and their fellow Sustainable Saratoga volunteers had on this great city”. My girls and I are already looking forward to the next event. We hope to see you and your family there.
how you can help!!! This fall, on the morning of October 7th, the first Saturday in October, Sustainable Saratoga will plant it’s 200th tree. You can start signing up for Tree Toga 7 in September. Beyond that Tom Denny said, “Our biggest challenge, believe it or not, is finding good planting sites. It is a huge help if homeowners or renters volunteer to host a street tree at their house. Email us at any time at trees@sustainablesaratoga.org.” SS
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MEET... FLORENCE ANDRESEN As founder of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation and the first female president of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club – this amazing woman has raised over $1.5 million for student scholarships over the years.
Florence Andresen and Dave Patterson, Saratoga Springs Rotarians. The club's motto is "Service Above Self" which Florence exemplifies!
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During an undervalued time for women, Florence Andresen was a radical thinker who commanded respect.
Born in the 1930s, her generation operated under a set of “father-knows-best” values. Andresen was told early-on that she’d never be allowed to become a lawyer like she hoped.
“Before breaking the glass ceiling became a political statement, for women there were three choices for careers – teaching, nursing, or secretarial – and these choices did not encourage women to pursue administrative positions. I made the most of the cards I was dealt,” she said. As unrest circulated, Andresen was determined to be among those cracking the ceiling – by advancing education. A Skidmore College graduate, in 1957 she went on to be one of the few women in Hofstra University’s school administration graduate program. Thanks in a large part to the encouragement from mentor and advocate Dr. Robert Finley, Andresen was the first woman to serve as principal of Glen Cove High School on Long Island in 1977. Addressing the issue of racial unrest, she travelled the country observing educational programs. From these connections between the school, students, and parents, she
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designed programs that dramatically improved retention rates, reduced racism, embraced respect and integrity in the high school. “I did it all with humor. Humor is like Alka-Seltzer, it settles the stomach, it calms everything,” she said. In 1984, Andresen was named one of North America’s Top 100 Educators by The Executive Educator magazine. Two years later, she advanced on to the position of Superintendent of Schools, becoming one of the first females to hold the title in New York State. “We’ve progressed a great deal in many areas, but it’s just a few drops in a great bucket of water. We need women in the critical places
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where laws are made. We need to change our view of what women can do outside the home – and men need to encourage women who work in the world of business, education, and volunteerism. It is a sorry statistic that only 16 women in Forbes 500 are CEOs of companies,” said Andresen. Recognized with numerous accolades before retiring, in 1991 Andresen moved back to Saratoga Springs. By chairing a board of education committee, she addressed the school district’s budget with the view to save taxpayers money. She was also elected to the school board, a three-year term. Andresen became a founder of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation in 1998, and the first female president of the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club in 1996-1997. As Vice President of the Rotary’s Education Foundation, she’s raised more than $1.5 million for student scholarships.
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It is amazing how the Saratoga Springs Rotary Education Foundation went from awarding $50 savings bonds to over $50,000 per year to students in the Saratoga Springs School District and is a testimony to Florence’s passion and drive toward the field of education. To those of us who know Florence, we are not at all surprised she achieved this goal in such a relatively short period of time. We would not be where we are today without her, and we appreciate all she does for the Foundation.
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GREG GRIECO, PRESIDENT SARATOGA SPRINGS ROTARY EDUCATION FOUNDATION
“The cost of college today, particularly private colleges, can be a financial burden for most parents. The annual brunch at the City Center each October since 2000 has been embraced and supported so generously by Saratogians that the Scholarship Foundation has been able, for 10 years, to offer fifty thousand dollars to 14 qualified students planning to attend two or four year colleges,” she said. Integral to establishing Skidmore’s Alumni Memorial Garden and transforming their Palamountain Scholarship Benefit from a luncheon into the lavish evening affair it is today, Andresen received Skidmore’s Lifetime Service Award in June. The advice Andresen would give to her great-niece Jacqueline Baumann, who will be studying law in two years and has been involved in politics, is the same that she’d give to anyone. “You can’t change the world, but you can improve the area in which you live. That’s what I did. Make it better than it was. If each of us did that, it would be a magic moment. Stand up and fight for the little guy. Also, do something every day that makes someone else - and you - happy,” said Andresen. Her happy thing for that day? Responding to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s letter of congratulations, upon her receiving the Lifetime Service Award from Skidmore in June. SS
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Turning Tragedy into Hope: Jake’s Help from Heaven
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A mere 15 months separated Brian and Heather Straughter’s two sons, Ethan and Jake. The family lived in Boston, but Heather – who is an only child and comes from the Capital Region – began to experience that familiar desire to raise her children closer to her family. When Jake was just two months old, they returned to Saratoga.
to stop at the hospital in Springfield, where they stabilized Jake so he could make the rest of the trip. Things got worse there, however, when Jake suffered a severe reaction to the medication he was given. A full day later, he was flown from Springfield to Boston Children’s Hospital. The Straughters spent the next 117 days in the hospital with their son.
During the next four and a half years, Jake worked hard to regain some of the achievements he had made, with his family fighting right alongside him. He managed to eat by mouth and take small assisted steps, using a lite gate. Despite his tremendous strength, courage and spirit, Jake passed away suddenly and tragically on December 8, 2010.
Both Jake and Ethan were healthy and vibrant boys, and Jake wasted no time in trying to keep up with his big brother. Ethan adored having a little brother around to copy him and teach him the rough and tumble ways of boyhood.
“They never really quite figured out what it was that Jake had. And there was never an official diagnosis which explained what happened with the seizures and loss of milestones at 8 months. While he fell under the category of epilepsy, cerebral palsy, osteopenia (among others) when he died, none of these diagnoses were the cause of death or explained his illness. We (and his medical team) considered him undiagnosed at the time of his death,” said Heather.
Even though Jake was ill, his sudden death was still devastating. In the difficult days following Jake’s death, the family talked about the many lessons they learned on their journey.
So, it was a real surprise when, at eight months old, Jake experienced a seizure in the middle of the night. Other than his hand, which would not stop pulsing, Jake was acting normally and Heather hesitated a moment before making the decision to get medical help. It was 2 a.m. and she didn’t want to call her pediatrician. Instead, she brought Jake to the Emergency Room at Saratoga Hospital. “Unfortunately, there were no pediatric neurologists on staff at Saratoga Hospital at that time, which resulted in a delay in treatment. However, it quickly became apparent that the pulsing hand was more than a muscle spasm and the Straughters were taken by ambulance to Boston Children’s Hospital. Their trip was further delayed when Jake’s condition began to worsen. They were forced 94 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
Jake’s illness took the Straughter family on a new journey – one they never expected to take, and one that has created unexpected heartbreak as well as joy. After the Straughters brought Jake home, Heather devoted herself full-time to caring for her son. All the developmental milestones Jake achieved in his first eight months were erased by this awful and unexpected disease. Heather’s background as a special needs teacher involved advocating for the children under her care. Now, she became a ferocious and determined advocate for her own son.
“While the odds of having a severely ill child are so small, we still knew that there must be so many families out there who couldn’t put their jobs on hold like we were able to, to spend 117 days with Jake in the hospital,” said Heather. “We were so fortunate to be able to be there for every step of Jake’s journey,” she added. It was very soon after Jake’s untimely death that Brian and Heather decided to start their own foundation to help medically fragile, special-needs individuals and their families. On March 17, 2011, Jake’s Help from Heaven was incorporated as a 501c3 and a board of directors was formed. One of the lessons the Straughters learned during their time caring for Jake was the difference between equipment deemed “medically necessary” and equipment considered “medically convenient.” saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Heather provided an excellent example. “Insurance only covers the purchase of one feeding system or one wheelchair every five years. If you have a seven-year old trying to fit into a wheelchair that you bought when he was two, it’s going to make a big difference.” In addition to providing equipment and supplies to families in need, Jake’s Help from Heaven also reimburses families for medical travel, hotels and food when they must travel for treatment. The Foundation helps families within a 100mile radius of Saratoga, and the Straughters personally deliver equipment to each family chosen to receive help. The Board of Directors receives approximately 50 applications each quarter and, in 2016, they surpassed their goal, donating $127,000
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in equipment and reimbursements. Heather said they come from “a place of saying yes,” and will make awards to families who can demonstrate their need. She also said they have discussed widening their geographical reach; however, she feels the Saratoga Springs community has been so generous and it is important to be able to say the donations made, go toward helping people right here, in the community. When I asked Heather how Ethan – now age 12 – is doing, she replied, “We have a wonderful and very compassionate son.” Jake’s Help from Heaven holds three fundraisers throughout the year, which are posted on their Facebook page. They also accept donations online at their website: www.jakeshelpfrom heaven.org. SS
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Photo Captions
1. Ethan cheering Jake on as he does therapy 2. Ethan's artwork used for Jake's Help From Heaven logo 3. About a month before Jake died, coming home from the hospital after a broken femur. 4. Heather and Brian at the 7th Annual Family Fun Day 5. Heather and Ethan at a recent spring delivery 6. Brian and Ethan building an adaptive swing set
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HEALTHY
DATING HABITS FOR YOUR TEEN MEGHAN LEMERY FRITZ LCSW-R Meghan Fritz is a psychotherapist practicing in State College, PA. for more information: Email meghanlemery@yahoo.com
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ne of the most important things to avoid is shame. For example, “You are way too young to date, not happening, forget about it.” While your teen may be too young to date, a response like this shuts down a healthy dialogue and does nothing to develop a level of trust between the parent and child.
If your child confides in you that they have an interest in someone and you immediately shut them down they will learn from your response to keep secrets from you and they will avoid sharing with you. Once your teen has a crush on someone have a relaxed discussion about what qualities they admire about that person. Responding, “Oh she’s so cute” does not promote an opportunity for your child to think deeper about the qualities they admire in another person. If your teen has an interest in someone you do not approve of, before you shut them down, try to stay calm and dig a little deeper. Ask them what they like about that person. Help them develop emotional depth in this area and ask open ended questions to promote a conversation, not a lecture. Normalize the feelings of attraction for other people. Discuss that feeling attracted to another person emotionally and physically is a part of being human and very normal. You can also let them know that while this is a normal part of development, it’s not the time to have serious, intense romantic relationships.
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It’s not uncommon when your teenager starts the junior high years for them to begin to talk about dating. How parents navigate this rite of passage into young adulthood sets the stage for helping your teen develop a solid self-worth and healthy dating habits.
This is a time to have fun, learn more about who you are, your gifts and talents and to pay attention what qualities you find attractive in other people. The worst thing you can do is shut down the conversation all together by making dating seem like an uncomfortable, shameful feeling that is embarrassing. Be careful to acknowledge your own adolescent experience as you help your teen through this time. If you had horrible experiences dating or your parents were not open or trustworthy work on being the parent you needed and wanted. There is no magic age when you may give your teen the green light to begin dating. However, teaching them to be comfortable with their peers and encouraging them to develop their own identity is something you can work on at any age. Likewise, if you see intense relationships beginning to develop that make you feel uncomfortable and raise your intuition, calmly discuss your concerns with your teen and set boundaries around how they spend time with others. We all remember the houses that you could go to and hang out and there was no supervision and the parents seemed more like best friends. While you want to promote an open trusting relationship with your teen, you don’t want to create a dynamic where they don’t respect you or your boundaries. If you are a single parent and dating, remember your teen is watching. Don’t
expect them to have good dating habits if you keep introducing them to new people frequently. Keep your adult time private and separate until you are confident you will have a monogamous, committed relationship that has a future. Do be vulnerable with your teen about the challenges you faced as an adolescent. Sharing your experience can help you deepen the bond with your teen and give them greater insight into why you set the boundaries the way you do. The parenting journey is not about being perfect, it’s about being perfectly present. As humans, we all want to feel heard, validated and supported. When you are a present parent you are providing your child with the space to talk openly and safely without shame and embarrassment. Even if you are not sure how to respond, it’s okay to let your teen know, “I’m not sure how I want to respond to you, but give me some time to get my thoughts together and I will get back to you.” This shows them how to have a discussion and how to be vulnerable instead of responding with strong reactions that shut down dialogue. At the end of the day a great motto to always remember is to be the parent you wanted and needed. That can help keep you present and aware. Remember, it’s not about being perfect, but perfectly present.
YOU ARE WORTH IT!
SS
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Saratoga Families...
The Billok Family WRITTEN BY MEGAN HARRINGTON PHOTOS PROVIDED
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The Billok family’s energy and love of community makes them an asset to our city and we can’t wait for you to meet them! Mike, a 1996 graduate of the Naval Academy, first moved the family to the area in the early 2000s. For two years he worked as an instructor at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit in Ballston Spa. The family rented a home near Congress Park and immediately fell in love with Saratoga Springs. Mike says, “Our first time driving down Broadway was just incredible.” The family eventually moved to Washington D.C. area for Mike’s next duty station, but kept returning upstate to visit friends. Mike began attending law school at night, and eventually left the Navy and practiced in D.C. for several years, during which time he says, “The thought occurred to us to move to Saratoga. Since Navy duty gives you limited choices, it was the first time we could really decide where to live.” The family moved back to the area in 2010 and Mike began working as an attorney for Bond, Schoeneck, & King. Mike currently focuses on Labor and Employment law and serves as the co-chair of his firm’s cybersecurity and data privacy practice. In addition to his legal work, Mike is the Board President for the Adult & Senior Center of Saratoga Springs, serves on the Board of the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, and is active in the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce.
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Mike and his children Madison, Grace, and Sam (plus the family dog, Emily!) currently live on Nelson Avenue, which is delightfully close to one of their favorite spots in town – the Shake Shack stand at the track! Madison, 18, is a recent graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and is now a student at the Massachusetts College of Art in Boston. Grace, 16, is a junior at Saratoga Springs High School and loves the arts – from drama, to chorus, to playing the saxophone. Sam, who is nearly 13, just began 7th grade and keeps busy with Tae Kwon Do classes. You might not guess that the family recently dealt with tragedy, but it’s something Mike says they are more comfortable talking about. Just 3 years ago, Mike’s wife Kim was diagnosed with cancer and sadly passed away in January 2015. Mike says, “It was very difficult, but we just focus on trying to do the best we can each day.” He continues, “I’m so proud of the kids – they’ve done great considering everything they have gone through and continue to do great.” The family has experienced more than their share of grief, but they work hard not to let it hold them back. Beyond school and work, the Billoks stay very active, taking advantage of everything the Spa City has to offer. Saratoga has been fortunate to count the Billoks as residents – not once, but twice! SS
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HELP!
No matter how much I exercise or how little I eat,
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. MARCIE FRASER
I don't lose weight!
Frustrated because you’re exercising and eating right but the scale won’t budge? There are many reasons why the scale doesn’t move and a few reasons have nothing to do with calories. Body weight fluctuates on a daily basis and is often caused by water retention. Eating a salty meal, the day before you weigh-in causes the body to retain water and adds to the perils of weight gain. Traveling, whether auto or plane, can cause constipation and once again impact the scale. Ever wonder why arthritic conditions worsen when a storm comes in? A high-pressure system can increase fluid retention around the joints causing pain, and keep in mind, certain medications can also increase water retention. While the scale doesn’t budge for some people because of water retention, other people struggle with the scale for obvious reasons. There are those who aren’t successful because they eat too much and exercise too little, but there is another group of people whose weight loss stalls even though they are doing everything right; getting plenty of exercise and eating right! It’s sooooo frustrating! What’s happening? Complacency. Over time when you eat a certain diet or have a consistent exercise regime - your body adjusts, becomes efficient and doesn’t require as much energy (calories) to perform. As your body grows accustomed to your diet and exercise program, your metabolism coasts along and doesn’t burn as many calories. What’s the solution? DO a Reset. A Reset means drastically changing your diet and exercise program to jump start your digestive system and metabolic rate. The Reset for your diet will take three days, the Reset for your exercise regime will take two weeks. Let’s start with what you are eating.
Resetting your digestive system
Resetting your diet means re-directing your digestive system by introducing an entirely unique menu with different categories of food. Before you begin you must commit to kicking out sugar, white carbs and booze, remember it’s for only 3 days. Because you are not eating a lot of fat you will feel hungry but that’s the point. The food you eat each day is unlimited. In three days your body will feel entirely different. You will have more energy and you will lose weight. If you are not happy with the weight loss, wait a week and repeat the challenge. This three-day challenge will change the way your body digests food; this Reset basically cleans you out without having to do a cleanse.
Eating Plan DAY 1: Eat only veggies (avoid starchy veggies like potatoes, corn, peas) DAY 2: Eat only fruit DAY 3: Eat only lean protein (chicken, fish, turkey) DAY 4: Return back to a lean diet *Each day you MUST drink at least 60 ounces of water with ½ teaspoon of lemon (it can be warmed up like tea)
Resetting your metabolic rate
Resetting the metabolic rate with exercise is different for everyone. For an exercise Reset there are two components: duration (how many minutes you exercise) and speed.
When my clients need a reset I focus on cardio. In order to burn fat, your body has to get into a fat burning zone which means two things must happen 1) you have to feel out of breath and (2) you must feel your muscles burn. You must challenge your body with new moves and new muscle groups. If you don’t swim, begin. If you bike try jogging or walking. If you walk on flat terrain, find some hills to challenge yourself. Change the speed and duration of your exercise. For example, if you exercise 45 minutes cut it down to 30 minutes but speed it up! Interval training can wake up your metabolic rate. For one minute speed up your workout, then then take it down for a minute and repeat it. The goal is to be out of breath and engage the muscles until you feel them burn. The inconsistency of interval training keeps the body working hard to recover, your heart rate will stay high burning more fat for energy. If you are an advanced exerciser challenge yourself with the two most effective fat burning exercises of all, jumping rope or stair stepping (bleachers). When I was competing for the body building championship title of Miss New York I needed to lose two pounds to make weight. I jumped rope for 10 minutes twice a day, in four days I made weight. Once you have changed your workout for two weeks return to your previous workout. Remember your body is very efficient and will adapt to new moves rather quickly which, means it will burn fewer calories to perform. For ultimate results and successful weight loss vary your workouts every two weeks; keep your body challenged so you can keep burning the fat! GOOD LUCK!
SS
**** Be sure to get you doctors approval before you start any exercise or new meal plan.
* Check with your doctor before you try this eating plan.
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hen people think of fashion designers, they usually think New York City or Paris. But in the Capital Region where the fashion industry is still in its infancy, two designers are finding ways to get their ideas seen. Marjolaine Arsenault of Marjolaine’s Touch of North Creek and Megan Kluball of Clifton Park were featured in a recent Electric City Couture Show in Albany held at the New York State Museum. WRITTEN BY GERALDINE FREEDMAN PHOTOS BY DOUG MITCHELL saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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“This was only the second fashion show I’ve done,” Arsenault said. “Usually I do eight national craft shows a year. I’ve been doing that for seven years. But it’s difficult to do wholesale because it’s too labor intensive.” For each show, Arsenault usually has to create 50 different pieces. Unlike most designers who work with bought fabric and a sewing machine, however, Arsenault creates her own fabric. She does nuno felting. Nuno means cloth in Japanese and felting is done by applying water to wool, which shrinks the fiber. “It’s a labor of love,” she said. Arsenault combines wool roving with hand dyed silk or silk chiffon by layering the two fibers into panels of grids, sometimes up to three layers depending on the type of garment she wants to make. Each layer is watered along with some olive oil soap because working the fibers is hard on her hands. Then she wraps the various panels around plastic swimming noodles. As the fibers are worked they fuse together and shrink to create a cloth that Arsenault can fashion into a dress, coat or shawl and all with no seams. Only buttons are sewed on. The technique of nuno felting is unique and was created in the 1990s by Polly Sterling, a textile artist in Australia. Arsenault learned how from Robin Blakney-Carlson of Luckystone Feltworks Studio in Glens Falls, who is Sterling’s sister. “I also took a workshop with Polly in New York State at a retreat,” Arsenault said. Until she took Blakney-Carlson’s class, however, Arsenault had not considered becoming a fashion designer. A native of Montreal, she had received an undergraduate degree in graphic design from Concordia University in Canada and had her own advertising agency for 12 years. In 1984 she moved to the North Country and fifteen years ago sold her ad agency. “I followed my inspiration into gardening and trained with horticulturists and landscape designers and then started my own business – Garden Spirit,” she said. “But I felt something else was calling and took a year to decide what my next journey would be. Landscaping had become too physical.” By then Arsenault was living in North Creek and met weekly with a women’s craft circle, who all made hats. That did not excite her much, she said, but she became intrigued
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This is Marjolaine
when one of them showed her a nuno felted scarf. “It was love at first sight,” she said. “Its tactile quality, the colors, the wool and silk together – a light bulb went off.” As she contemplated a new direction, Arsenault realized it was almost like coming home. Her mother had been in the fashion industry and had had her own studio and sewed all her own garments. Her grandmother was a furrier and seamstress. Both had been big inspirations for her, she said. “Three months after my Mom died, I created my first garment,” Arsenault said. But could she make a living?
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A local potter offered her a space in his shop and that summer she sold so much she knew she had the makings of a career. But selling locally has prooven difficult, she said. Part of the problem is that it can take up to three days just to make a garment and although her garments are almost unisex in size, her inventory is limited. They’re also expensive not only for being labor intensive, but for the cost of her supplies: silk comes from California, wool from Oregon and silk roving from Australia. Arsenault has also found that selling online isn’t productive, which is why the craft shows have prooven successful and why she was willing to give a fashion show a try. People see what she calls her “clothing as sculpture” and once they feel the smooth texture and the garment’s light weight, the harmonic flow of the colors, and the playful versatility of her pieces – some can be worn four different ways, they buy. She’s received awards for her work from Florida and Chicago shows. Some local shops do sell her shawls, including echo print silk chiffon scarfs that she created for Albany International Airport’s Departure Gallery and at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts.
To contact Marjolaine visit her website www.marjolainestouch.com or call (528) 251-4317.
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This is Megan
Kluball, however, had never considered entering a fashion show especially since most shows require designers who have a track record. “But when I saw her clothes I was impressed by her level of craftsmanship which is was excellent,” said Corey Aldrich, the producer and founder of Electric City Couture. Kluball’s pieces are not only sewn by her, they have a message. “I do screen printing on white muslin trying to pull everything fashionable out of structure and by using text in red or black,” she said. Previously, she’d made little day dresses in playfully patterned cottons, but became interested in the concept of why people wear clothes. She decided to use short phrases like “I am human,” “I am naked,” “I am confident” that can be fun to wear or they give the wearer a different sense of themselves or they are conversation pieces. “It’s all part of the skin I get to choose and our identity with clothes,” Kluball said. “Fashion is fluid. It’s like creating a language.”
“I’ve had a huge passion for fashion, to manipulate clothes to make myself feel better,” she said. “My mom helped me to read patterns. I used to use commercial ones but now I make my own.” Kluball attended Hudson Valley Community College for three years and learned painting, drawing and sewing before attending Maine College of Art as a fashion designer. “But it was not a good fit for me, so in the fall I’m going to Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City,” she said. Attending FIT will be an eye-opener, she said, especially into the world of high fashion. “It’s a craft now, but I’m not sure how far I want to go into it,” she said. “FIT only saw slides of my work, but even now I’m constantly making stuff just to get ideas out of my head. I’m also thinking of using other colors in my text.”
This is the eighth year Aldrich has been curating his fashion shows and each has a theme.
“I like the art side of fashion and we use that as a platform for presentation. Kluball has always sewn and both her Designers are selected from a 3-hour mother and grandmother encouraged radius of the Capital Region,” he said. her even as a little girl to make clothes for her dolls or stuffed animals, she said. “We have from three to ten designers
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at each show and everything they make is designed and produced within this region.” Aldrich himself doesn’t have a background in fashion, he said, but in addition to a strong business background he has studied classical and jazz guitar and has a passion for working with the arts. Some shows have included garment commissions or live music. “There are several aspects to fashion from designer to pattern maker or sewer,” he said. “We’re trying use the shows to support a regional fashion economy. Each show also has a popup shop that is a direct to the customer retail sales platform.” While his next show is not until spring 2018, Aldrich said the recent show resulted in a collaboration with the Upstate Alliance for the Creative Economy to create the Fashion Upstate Initiative for experienced and aspiring industry professionals. The Initiative is also working with Mission Accomplished Transition Services, which runs Fashion Edition, which provides career, education and coaching programs for aspiring designers. Tours of local design businesses are also to be scheduled … stay tuned! SS
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Alpine Sport Shop Hard-Goods Sales Associate Alex Norton is wearing: Marmot: Luster Hoody Pistil: Vagabond Backpack Pistil: Soho Hat Krimson Klover: Conifer Tunic Crystal Snowflake Necklace & Earrings Kuhl: Mova Skinny Pant
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Enjoy Fall nights in Saratoga in this Shaker Mock-Neck Tulip Sleeve by 525 America.
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Featuring the Gabby Ghillie Stud Sandal by Frye.
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While playing corn hole at the Lake Local Katherine (on the left) is wearing: Joules: Right as Rain Coast Waterproof Jacket $140 Joules: Kirsten Jersey Tunic $70 Joules: Molly Welly Mid-height Rain Boot $70 Joy Susan: Navy Polka Dot Scarf $19 Bonnie (on the right) is wearing: Joules: Larkhill Print Padded Vest $90 Joules: Laurel Long Line Shirt $85 Joules: Trinity Slim Fit Polo $63 Joules: Monroe Super Skinny Jeans $100 Joules: Wellibob Rain Boots $65
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Shop Fall dresses, cozy sweaters and winter accessories at Lucia this season. Model is wearing ASTR Dress.
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Randall Perry Photography
H&G Flip the page, for the rest of the house!
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Architec Randall Perry Photography
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cturally SPEAKING
Follow us as we explore some of Saratoga's unique spaces...
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WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY
Turnkey Availability Park House on State Street Offers, Luxury, Serenity, and Effortless ‘Turnkey’ Living
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The Park House, at 116 State Street, has laid claim to the distinction as the first “turnkey” property in Saratoga Springs. Truman Lifestyle Design, a subsidiary of the Truman Group of Chicago, originally purchased the property on State Street with another objective in mind, but recognized the potential for something innovative. Truman’s sister company, Coffeepot Stables, brings partners into town each year during the Thoroughbred racing season; they wanted a place to stay and loved the in-town location. Instead, the Truman team saw a market for their Turn-Key concept in Saratoga. They executed a painstaking tear-down and rebuild, culminating in the current property offering. Annette Bacola, managing partner of the Park House project, said that Truman Lifestyle Design has been successful in building and selling select multi-million-dollar turnkey homes in various parts of the country. But, she said the concept is a new one in this region.
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Randall Perry Photography
Randall Perry Photography
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The home is truly turnkey in every sense of the word. Approaching the residence, the first thing you notice is the park-like setting with two long benches situated in a small garden on either side of the Herringbone Brussels pathway. The unmistakably “Zen” feel of the place strikes you before you even enter the house. As you walk the path to the covered entrance, the hand-chiseled, locally quarried Corinthian Granite reflects the cool calm of the place. I ring the doorbell – part of the Smart House System. It includes a whole-house telephone, room intercom and door intercom, which allows the homeowner to pick up the phone from any room in the house and welcome their guests before they even open the front door. Annette appears a few moments later and leads me into the foyer, with rift-sawn Red Oak floors and brass inlays. She leads me into a gathering/family room with pale gray sofas facing one another in front of a two-story stone and granite fireplace that echoes the granite in the front entry. The stone from the fireplace is picked up again on the counters of the nearby gourmet kitchen. Throughout the house, the muted natural shades of gray and beige provide a welcoming palette that is complimented by gorgeous rugs and artwork on the European wallcoverings. The kitchen appliances include an eight-burner Wolf range, Thermidor refrigerator and wine cooler, and Bosch dishwashers. The nearby butler pantry has custom mill-worked cabinetry – as does the entire house – and a hammered nickel bar sink. “The house is all about gracious form meeting function,” explained Annette, showing me the cleverly-designed cabinets, and the built-ins in each of the five full bathrooms in the house. The walk-in china closet in the dining room serves the dual function of allowing the homeowner to display decorative china, without detracting from the living space in the room. The lighting fixtures are, in themselves, beautifully designed pieces of art and add a contemporary flair to the calm tranquility of the space. The home has four bedroom suites, with a Master Suite on the second floor, as well as a complete guest suite on the first floor that could also be a first floor Master. There are also three laundry areas, dressing areas, a yoga/exercise room, a first-floor office, a second-floor library and a second-floor office/den that could easily be converted to a nursery. Everything is designed for comfort and efficiency, with large windows and skylights throughout the home. The ecologically-friendly construction materials include non-toxic insulation, window blinds and wall coverings.
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Randall Perry Photography Randall Perry Photography
The outdoor living space offers multiple seating areas and a “Chef’s Pergola” for dining and entertaining. “We brought in Moonscape, an exterior lighting company from Chicago who designed and installed the system called ‘Moonlighting,’” said Annette. Their proprietary lighting system provides down-lighting, aesthetic up-lighting, as well as tree-top lighting (all installed 40' up!) Moonlighting lends the soft feel of natural ambient lighting without being harsh or intrusive. The entire property is fenced in and the spacious back yard would be a perfect place for children and pets to play safely. Annette has left nothing to chance with Park House. From the meticulously landscaped front entry to top of the line furnishings and accessories, hand-tooled one-of-a-kind millwork, brushed nickel fixtures, and 360-degree security cameras throughout the property, there is truly nothing left to do except unpack your toothbrush and make yourself at home. For more information about Park House, visit www.ParkHouseSaratoga.com SS
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Yes, you can…
Work with a designer… on a budget!
WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY
W
hen visitors first pull into The Landings, a small cluster of townhomes, built by longtime local builders, Tom and Bruce Boghosian, located in the town of Milton, they’re probably reminded of traditional/contemporary style homes that probably also have traditional/contemporary style interiors.
Not Lisa Joyce’s home. The first thing that catches your eye are the glittering modern light fixtures in the entry foyer and further along in the living, dining and kitchen areas. While the space is small, you feel as if you are in a very chic, very spacious area, with ample room for family and friends to meet and enjoy sophisticated relaxation. When Lisa Joyce down-sized from 3,500 to 1,350 square feet, she really had no idea how it was going to turn out. The recently divorced writer, Ironman triathlete and mother of two, thought it would be a real challenge to create a comfortable living and work space that would meet her needs and the needs of her two teenagers. She had already purchased a townhome at The Landings when she happened upon Julie Maleski-Putzel’s work at last year’s Showcase of Homes. JMP Interiors had done the interior design of a home built by Herbinger Homes and Lisa was drawn to the clean, modern lines of the dining room on display in the Showcase home. Lisa had never worked with a designer before and Julie was offering a complimentary one-hour consultation. She thought, “Why not?” and made an appointment for Julie to see her new living space. Lisa has very definite taste in decorating and the clean, modern industrial look was the design she had used in her larger home. In fact, she already had a lot of pieces that Julie used to put Lisa’s new décor together, like the smart red Tolix “knockoff ” chair at her sleek dining table. She is also a writer, who has worked from home for the past 25 years. It was crucial that Julie design a space that would be conducive to Lisa’s work, but not spill over into the family’s living and entertaining space. Lisa likes calm, quiet colors and she stays away from patterns and florals. “When I started working with Julie, she asked me to rate myself – on a scale from 1 to 10, how ‘girlie” I am,” says Lisa, adding that she gave herself a “2.” saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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The "Diva Lounge"
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In the Eastern-style meditation area: Artwork by Alex Valentine Bench by Bill Coffey, of Wm. Coffey Studio & Gallery
Lisa was also impatient for everything to happen at once. “I wanted it all done right away,” she recalls. But, Julie told her that they should let it “evolve.” Slowly but steadily, Julie began creating living spaces for Lisa and her kids. Lisa adds that she has had total input since Day One and has been very happy with the way Julie works within Lisa’s budget and tastes. “She doesn’t impose her own style on her clients. When I’m out shopping, I take pictures of things I like and send them to her. And, she tells me ‘yay or nay,” says Lisa. It was really important for Lisa to display a set of framed travel posters that she had collected on trips from all over the world. “I would’ve found some nails and just stuck them on the wall,” says Lisa, smiling. Julie meticulously planned where each framed poster would be displayed, to maximize their impact on the overall look of the space. The colors in the posters perfectly complement the red “Tolix” chair and the nearby seating nook with two tweedy burnt orange armchairs – who would’ve thought you could put red and burnt orange in the same space and end up with such a glamourous yet inviting feel? The nearby glass mini-bar is something Lisa has always wanted. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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“We found that at Home Goods” she says smiling. Julie calls that area of the room the “diva lounge,” a name that suits the space to a tee. Whatever furnishings that did not come from Lisa’s former home were bought mostly in places like Ikea, CB2, Home Goods and West Elm. The living room curtains came from Home Goods and the rods – which look like a million bucks – were picked up at Target. In all, the downstairs space has four separate seating areas, something you would think
impossible in a 700 square-foot space. Lisa’s upstairs bedroom is also her workspace. Again, Julie has cleverly laid out the furniture and accessories to give a feel of two carefully delineated areas – without chopping the space in half or making it appear cramped. Because Lisa appreciates and works best surrounded by clean lines and muted colors, the bedroom and office are very crisp and simple. Julie and Lisa still have a few projects before Lisa will feel like her home is finished. Julie just installed an eastern-style meditation area in an upstairs nook, inspired by the time Lisa’s
daughter, Alex, spent in Japan. “We wanted to create a space to highlight the significant amount of time Alex spent there,” says Julie. The next project Lisa wants to tackle is the downstairs powder room, and she is eager to work with Julie again to put the finishing touches on her new home. Suffice it to say that Lisa is thrilled with the style and functionality of her new, smaller space, and she says that it is freeing to downsize and simplify her life. SS
Randall Perry Photography
Meet homeowner, Lisa Joyce ... and designer, Julie from JMP Interiors
To learn more about Julie see page 130.
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Transitioning the Home WRITTEN BY JENNA BURGER
from Summer to Fall
A
side from my favorite Fall things like wearing oversized cable knit sweaters, going apple picking, and Sunday football with the family, I love transitioning to this new season with the changing over of blankets from light linens to heavy wools, and the swapping out of pillows from bright hues of yellow to deeper plums & emerald. Even though I am not completely ready to say goodbye to the long, warm days of Summer, Fall has a special place in my heart. Autumn is like no other when the days turn crisp and the leaves reflect the hues of colorful candy corn. Whether you love the look of warm, rich hues all year round or simply adore the Fall and want design inspiration for making a few seasonal changes, there are simple, easy, and affordable ways for transitioning the home from Summer to Fall.
First step in updating your home for Fall…
There’s no need to redo an entire room just to get the look and feel for the new season. Start off by shopping your home. Gather some of your favorite accessories from the various rooms of your home and move them around. It’s wonderful how something old can take on a new life once it has a different home. If you don’t have a strong supply of accessories and décor, local stores like Homegoods, Hobby Lobby, and Target are ideal for finding inexpensive, in-trend items with high-style that are perfect for seasonal layering alongside your everyday staples.
Color & Pattern
Shades of chocolate, mustard, and gray paired with navy and plum, will create a gorgeous deep and rich palette ideal for Autumn. Other colors to incorporate for the changing season that will instantly transition a space are shades of cream, oranges, browns, and berries. No matter the backdrop color palette of your home, Fall colors will bring a cozy, inviting feel for the warmer months to come. As you swap out your tank tops for cardigans, do the same with your decor. Adorn your sofa with a textured throw in a classic plaid pattern and add wool or cashmere blankets to the beds. Swapping out pillows with seasonal colors and patterns is the easiest way to get the instant Fall feeling.
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Smells
Transitioning seasons isn’t solely about décor. The most inexpensive way to change from one season to the next is to incorporate a different fragrance. Lavender is lovely, but through candles or an essential oil diffuser, this is the time of year to transition to a scent that has more of a warmer, muskier aroma that evokes the feeling of Fall. On their own or mixed together, try vanilla, cinnamon, clove, sandalwood, and/or orange. Another idea for enveloping the home with autumn air is to create your own stove-top potpourri. In a large pot filled with water; add orange slices, along with cinnamon sticks, cloves, cranberries, and vanilla. Bring the water to a boil, reduce to a simmer and let the potpourri fill your home with the most amazing smell.
Natural Elements
Featuring natural elements throughout the home is quintessential Fall. Keep the additions minimal, but decorating with décor from the outdoors will create a warm, festive feeling. Ideal for the season are apples, branches, leaves, pinecones, acorns, and of course pumpkins. Try a simple arrangement of white pumpkins in a textured basket on the coffee table or a colorful, striking tablescape filled with Fall favorites.
Pretty Porch
The exterior entry of the home sets the stage for the homes’ interior. Small or large, adding a few seasonal items to the outside will bring a welcome feeling to your entry. From a collection of varying sized pumpkins flanking the front door to cornstalks on pillars, a little goes a long way. Mums and haybales are also favorites to decorate with. And don’t forget about adorning the door with a seasonal wreath. As the calendar turns to another month, the days continue to get shorter and the nights cooler. It can be a bittersweet time of year as Summer comes to an end. Once again though, it’s the time of year to slowdown and embrace the beauty that surrounds us… Fall! SS
For more Fall decorating ideas and DIY projects, visit me at www.JennaBurger.com
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Sponsored Content
Meet Interior Designer of
B
Julie Maleski Putzel
JMP Interiors
WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS BY BLACKBURN PORTRAIT DESIGN
y the time Julie Maleski Putzel and her family moved into their 150+ year old home in the quaint little village of Jonesville, she was already an Award Winning Interior Designer. Originally from rural Pennsylvania, Julie-who also happens to be a competitive beach volleyball player-was working in Boston, MA. In fact, one of her most visible commercial projects there was the Interior Design of every major beauty salon along the famed Newbury St. in Boston.
Julie, whose company is called "JMP Interiors", calls herself a "true" Interior Designer. The average consumer may think that a decorator and an Interior Designer are one in the same-very wrong. "I have spent a great deal of time and investment in my education and had to pass highly difficult and technical national exams," says Julie. 130  |  SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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With Julie, it is so much more than window treatments, fabric swatches and accessories-although that is also a big part of what she does so well. It's also about having a deep understanding of scale, codes and regulations surrounding building design and remodeling. And the space. The space must make sense for the client. In the 16 years that she has been working, Julie developed a list of clients from Cape Cod to Connecticut, from Maine to Florida. The relative newcomer to our area has already made a big impression with her 2016 Interior Design in the Showcase of Homes. This year, she was asked to be a judge for the premiere builder event. In the meantime, Julie's own home is gradually being transformed into a space that reflects her own unique and eclectic style, while remaining true to the "old bones" of the house. "We specifically wanted to buy an older home when we were looking in this area. I love the weird little niches and quirks in old homes that you just don't have in a new home." After moving in on Halloween just this past year, Julie and her husband have been busy updating the home to accommodate their tastes. Aside from working with Certa Pro painters and Colorize Inc for their main floor paint and Wolberg Lighting for new light fixtures, Julie has added authentic hurricane lanterns that hang from rustic pegs on the walls of the dining area, in pleasing contrast to the scrolled trestle based dining table. Upon entering the room, one's eye is immediately drawn to a spectacularly open chandelier, one of the many new additions Julie has added. Julie has an obvious talent for blending themes, styles, shapes and colors in imaginative ways that are both bold yet understated. She says she is "big on balance", using a combination of color, shapes, and textures to create a harmonious living environment. But she is anything but a "cookie cutter" designer. She also loves to find furnishings that won't break the bank. And, while she has had clients who've ordered one-of-a-kind leather from half way around the world, she gets a huge amount of enjoyment and satisfaction from finding furniture that is stylish, incredibly well-made, and affordable. Julie finds a lot of great furnishings at Ruby & Quiri in Johnstown and she says they have great pricing and a wonderful variety of styles. The stunning horse hide chairs in her fireplace room are gorgeous examples of Ruby & Quiri's lines, as is the dining room furniture. Julie always asks her clients to show her images of styles they like as well as styles they do not like. "If they're open and up front with me, I can create their perfect interior faster and more efficiently." JMP Interiors has been featured on the popular Houzz. com, and her awards and accolades include "Best of Houzz 2017", Saratoga Showcase of Homes 2016 Interior Designer, Featured Interior Designer in February/March 518Life 2017, Boston Interior Design Award-winner, and many other magazine and newspaper features. Find out more about her and view even more samples of her work at Houzz.com or visit her JMP Interiors Facebook page. SS
See more of Julie's work on page 122! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Sponsored Content
Meet Interior Designer
Chris Kwarta of
Liberty Design Group
WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTO BY BLACKBURN PORTRAIT DESIGN
F
or Chris Kwarta, owner of Liberty Design Group, it’s all about being hands-on, developing relationships with her clients and – above all – listening to them.
Chris, who is a native of Albany, has been in the interior design business for 22 years. She received her degree from the Sage Colleges and gained valuable experience as a Designer for Moose Creek LTD and Sutton’s Furniture, before becoming a co-owner of East Elm Interiors and recently moving on to create her own business. She began Liberty Design Group in June 2014 and has since started working closely with Belmonte Builders, handling all the material selections for Belmonte clients, in addition to managing her own ever-growing list of private clients.
“In the design field, no two days are alike and no two clients are alike,” says Chris. Because of that, Chris understands how crucial it is to approach each project with a fresh eye and open mind. “I firmly believe that each space needs to reflect the client’s taste, needs, and wants,” says Chris, adding that the space must also have the functionality the client desires. It is also very important for Chris that her clients know they will be working directly with her. “Being hand- on in all aspects of each project is important for communication, relationships, meeting deadlines and expectations. A lot of people don’t really know what they want. By actively listening to them – and, in the process, also learning what they don’t like – I can be more successful in giving them what they want.” Chris also talks about the importance of synergy and the need to establish a cohesive rapport with her clients.
but in the end, it’s all in the customer’s hands.” If the trust and rapport aren’t there, then It’s not going to be a successful client/designer partnership, says Chris. Chris doesn’t have any one room or area of a home that is her favorite to design. For Chris, remodeling projects are one of her favorite things to do. She loves the challenge of transforming a space – or an entire home – and turn it into a client’s dreamhouse. “There are so many different elements involved with a remodeling projects.” Chris creates the design, does the drafting and works closely with contractors to figure out the technical pieces of the project. For her, it’s a “soup to nuts” project, and she is involved from the initial layout all the way to putting the final decorating touches on the space. For more information about Liberty Design Group, visit their website at www.libertydesigngroup.com. SS
“You can have all the credentials and experience in the world,
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American Iron WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY GREG CUDA
“I’ve always loved rust...
The fascination for old things never left me,” said Greg Cuda. He watched the decline of his hometown, Amsterdam, when the carpet industry left. The oncecherished buildings fell into disrepair, and the items within them, discarded. Cuda moved to Saratoga 26 years ago and found a similar story. Industrial relics of a bygone era displayed their disjointed faces from their parking spots in overgrown fields. The joyful parks that
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once were brimming with exuberance were now deserted and desolate.
been saved. It’s very sad when they start to come down…”
Just a couple of years ago Cuda started taking pictures of these mostly forgotten places, shooting in themed series, and using contemporary digital photographic techniques to give the viewer the impression that they too are there, seeing what he is.
Skulking around abandoned places wasn’t called “urban exploring” when Cuda first started doing it a quarter-century ago, and it still comes with inherent dangers.
In his work as Associate Executive Director of Saratoga Bridges, Batten Kill Water Shed Alliance Board Chairman, and past president of the Clearwater Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Cuda presents a positive outlook promoting conservation and stewardship. With his photography of ruin and rust, he tries to communicate something different - a combination of awe and remorse. “There’s a window where it’s really beautiful – it’s started to decay, but is still identifiable. I’ve got to capture it right away -or it’s lost. I think, it was so grand, or it should’ve
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“I’m pretty cautious, I have to be,” said Cuda. Once popular places such as Murphy’s Golf Range and the Catskill Game Farm, and even lively places including the Saratoga Race Course, are transformed by the reflection of light captured by Cuda’s camera. He often shoots during that time of day when the imagination transforms the rustling of a curious bird into the clattering of a vengeful ghost.
coast including at Sohn Fine Art Gallery in Lenox, Mass., Kellwood Contemporary Art in Baton Rouge, and the Providence Center for Photographic Arts. Intangible Roots, a group exhibition featuring artwork by Greg Cuda, Kevin Cieplensky, and Andrew Dines runs September 15 - November 4, 2017 at The Arts Center, 320 Broadway, in Saratoga Springs. SS
“When it’s cloudy, dusk, or dark – that’s when it gets interesting. I shoot at the edge of light to get a little bit of mystery,” said Cuda. Cuda’s photographs, which range in price up to $500, have been shown in galleries all along the east
©PhotoAndGraphic.com
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Our Love
(and Hunt!) for the
Patina WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS BY BLACKBURN PORTRAIT DESIGN
As a child, Rob Machado and his brother helped out in his father’s small antique store, fiddling around with the record players and military helmets. “I kinda got the bug again in my late 30s with old gas station signs. When I started collecting those, people started asking me what else I could find,” he said.
Rusty Gold
Age, in and of itself, doesn’t automatically equal value, Machado said. “It’s all in the trends. My best-sellers are the primitive handmade stuff I pull out of old barns and basements. Stuff that was made out of necessity, but now can be repurposed,” he said. Crates can be constructed into compartmentalized shelving systems. He’s attached metal cow waterer bowls with brackets to a discarded industrial light pole to create combination bird feeder / bird baths. Oddball metal scraps and leftovers form 3 ft. rusty sunflowers, or form hanging crescent moon ornaments when attached to a chain. 136 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
“Some things work, and some things don’t. You never know what people will like. Everybody wants something different,” said Machado.
Faking It
When it comes to caring for an item that has achieved that perfect balance created by age, the question becomes, “How do I keep it this way?” “It’s a hard thing to decide to do because it can take away from the look of it,” confides Machado. The scars left on a piece as it ages are what gives antiques their value. “You see it all the time. People think something looks dirty and grimy, or it has all this old, original paint on it, so they strip it down, but by doing that it just lost any antique value that it had.”
But, he has suggestions… “When putting something outside, exposed to the elements, a clear finish keeps the rusty look but also protects it
from the elements,” Machado advises, suggesting a clear coat polyurethane or spray-on. While high gloss will offer more protection, a low-gloss variety will maintain the weathered look of the piece. Metal well pumps can be painted to prevent the original (but poisonous) lead paint from leeching into the ground when displayed outdoors. Sometimes, for an item to be complete, it just needs a bit of missing hardware replaced. Instead of dealing with the anguish of searching for a matching set, Machado ages new bolts to make them look old. His magic formula is a mixture of apple cider vinegar, salt, and hydrogen peroxide. “I can take a brand-new piece of metal and make it look like it’s 200 years old in just two hours.” Even when handling modern furniture, Machado said he does the least amount of work to it that’s necessary for it to function, because someday, it too, will become an antique. SS saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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WRITTEN BY JORDANA TURCOTTE
Smart Storage
I
I am sure you have never heard someone say, “I can’t wait to buy that thing so I can let it get ruined.” Things cost money, some much more than others. With every decision to buy an item should be the decision of where you will put it. Where is the best place to optimize its life? Do I have a spot for it? Before getting into storage, I wouldn’t be doing my job as a professional organizer if I didn’t put the disclaimer out there to first decide if the item is needed. If so, and it is a replacement, make sure you let go of the previous item as soon as possible. This in itself solves the storage issue – one for one. If not, can anything go, even if not related, to free up space? If things continually come in and nothing goes out, storage will forever be an issue. One in, one out rule really helps. So, some things can be decided within seconds; the new shirt goes in the drawer. Done. But what about the riding mower? The patio set? The second Christmas tree? Proper storage means that the item will last and stay in better condition or working order longer. When something costs a substantial amount of money, taking care of it protects the investment. Let’s talk about smart storage. Exposure to moisture isn’t good for any electrical device – it can fail to work or rust. So, back to my riding mower example – proper storage is a shed or the garage. Summer items like your patio furniture, Adirondack chairs, planters, and more are fine outdoors in warmer months and weather, but winter weather can lead to cracks, eroding the finish and other damage. Proper storage of these items is also a shed or garage. But
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elevated off the ground and covered with a thick tarp tied around them can also work. These measures ensure long years of use. Indoors, be mindful of the conditions you have – is your basement dry? If not, off season clothing, furniture and paper and photo keepsakes should not be down there. You will have mildew and loss of items altogether. Critters? Be careful with overflow pantry items. The attic also seems like great storage but it gets really hot. Heat isn’t good for photos or media items. Attics can have critters as well. If your basement or attic aren't ideal, you are left with finding space in your main living areas and closets. Making use of under the bed storage containers (soft or hard) can keep things away but safe. Free standing clothing racks can help as well. Adding shelves in creative places like the sides of closets, an empty alcove, stairwells and more can give you prime real estate in the proper conditions. There are also numerous specialized storage solutions for almost anything – need purse storage? I can’t even list all the options. Pinterest is a great resource to visually see options for storage. For each new item coming in, it needs to be stored. If you don’t decide, it will become clutter. If you routinely purge, storage of almost any new item is solved quickly. It is when, over the years, items accumulate, less goes out than comes in that finding a home that is appropriate for the item can get challenging. If you go into the purchase knowing you have a spot or will be buying the spot (for example getting that shed too), your purchase will last! SS
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ENTERTAINING Made Easy!
HI, I’M JODIE FITZ! I’m so excited to be sharing some of our family favorites with the readers of Simply Saratoga magazine! I have spent the last six years traveling in SIX (!) states cooking with kids & families…I can relate to the BUSY COOK : ) As my recipe collection continues to grow, I am starting to share some of the recipes that you will find at our house for meals… Enjoyed by both family… and friends! I am always experimenting & creating tasty bites, finding the simplest way to do it & love sharing great flavor and time saving finds along the way.
BLUEBERRY GRANOLA BITES Ingredients • 6 oz. slivered almonds
• 3 tablespoons flaxseed
• 5 oz. blueberry Craisins
• 3 tablespoons honey
• ½ cup pitted dates
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• Non-stick cooking spray
• ¼ cup sunflower seeds, salted
Directions 1. Coat an 8×8 glass dish with a heavy coat of non-stick cooking spray. 2. Add the almonds, blueberry Craisins, pitted dates, rolled oats, sunflower seeds, flaxseed, honey and vanilla extract into a food processor. Mix the ingredients together thoroughly by using the pulsating feature. 3. Pour the mixture into the pre-coated glass dish. Using a spoon, press the mixture tightly into the dish evenly and tightly. Place the glass dish into the refrigerator and let set for one hour. Cut the recipe into equal sized bars. Using a spatula, remove each bar from the pan and place them in an airtight storage container with waxed paper in between layers for storing.
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CHICKEN SALADS RAISIN POPPY CHICKEN SALAD • 2 1/2 lbs. cooked chicken • 3/4 cup raisins • 2 oz. sliced almonds • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery • 1 cup Lite Poppy Seed Dressing 1. Cut the chicken into small pieces. 2. Add the raisins, almonds, chicken and celery into a bowl and toss it together.
3. Add the poppy seed dressing and stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
BUFFALO CHICKEN SALAD • 2 lbs. cooked chicken • 3 T Frank’s red-hot sauce • ¼ cup finely chopped celery • 2 T finely chopped onion • ½ cup – 1 cup mayonnaise • ½ tsp. onion powder • 1/8 tsp. black pepper
CURRY CHICKEN SALAD
SO GOOD
1. Cut the chicken into small pieces. 2. Add the hot-sauce, celery, onion, mayonnaise, onion powder & black pepper together in a bowl. 3. Mix the ingredients together.
• 2 lbs. cooked chicken • ¾ cup Craisins® • ½ cup – 1 cup mayonnaise • ¼ cup finely chopped celery • 2 T finely chopped onion • 1 tablespoon curry powder • ½ tsp. onion powder • 1/8 tsp. black pepper
1. Cut the chicken into small pieces.
2. Add the Craisins®,
mayonnaise, celery, onion, curry powder, onion powder & black powder into a bowl. 3. Stir the ingredients together.
MY REGULAR CHICKEN SALAD MIX COOKED CHICKEN
• 2 1/2 lbs. grilled chicken • 2 tablespoons finely chopped Vidalia onions • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder • 1/2 tsp. onion powder, salt & pepper to season • Cains Mayonnaise (add enough mayo for the texture desired).
GRILL IT
1. Slice the chicken in
half lengthwise. 2. Pound the chicken. 3. Season the pieces with salt and pepper and either grill it or broil it until it is fully cooked.
1. Buy chicken breast on the
BAKE IT
bone. 2. Put it into a Dutch oven with one sweet onion sliced thinly. 3. Add ¼ cup of water to the bottom, cover & bake at 400 degrees for one hour and 15 minutes.
SERVE IT Serve it in an avocado, a wrap, lettuce or on your favorite bread and/or rolls.
You can always catch what’s going on in our lives at www.jodiefitz.com and www.facebook.com/jodiefitzcooks, or check out my new cook books - available on my website! saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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ATTENTION GRABBING GOLDFINCHES Sometimes a bird species just seems to dominate the month. Birds that seem to be everywhere you look, with lots of them around exhibiting a high level of activity that captures your attention and your heart. Last month it was the hummingbirds. This month, it's the goldfinches. Over the last month, the number of American Goldfinches on this earth has increased as fledglings emerged from nests. Young goldfinches are demanding little things, like most young birds are, calling for mom or dad's attention (I think it sounds like they're saying "feed me! feed me!"), quivering their wings (for added drama), hoping and begging for some regurgitated food (yummy!) Birdfeeders are filled with goldfinches jockeying for position on one the coveted perches. Goldfinches are what I call "sitters" - birds that park themselves on a feeder perch and eat seed after seed after seed. (Unlike "take-out birds" like chickadees that grab a seed out of a feeder and fly off to a nearby perch to consume it). Goldfinch looking for a perch ©Nancy Castillo
Birdwatching with Nancy Castillo
Right now, goldfinches in our yard are going through a half a tube of niger seed and about a cup or two of No-Mess NM daily. The No-Mess is like lazyman's (or lazybird's) lobster all seed, no shell, no filler, and less energy use for the birds, less clean-up and no messes or waste for you. Goldfinches are frequent visitors at the birdbath too, especially baths with moving water. I leave standing the few coneflowers that haven't been destroyed by chipmunks so that the goldfinches can enjoy the seed heads. Goldfinches will eat from coneflower seed heads and sunflower heads well into the winter months so leave them standing if you can. Goldfinches will start their molt in September. When this process is complete weeks later, they will have an entirely new set of feathers. The bright yellow of the male will be gone and both males and females will be drab and olive-colored. Their beak and legs will also become dark. This total molt process takes a lot of energy for a bird, so it takes place after the demands of the breeding season are done. To meet these high energy needs, goldfinches can be especially active at birdfeeders during molt.
Busy birdfeeder ©Nancy Castillo Goldfinch male feeding young ©Nancy Castillo
I'm enjoying the heightened goldfinch activity and their sweet little flight calls. It sounds like they're singing "potato-chip, potato-chip" as they cross the yard with their undulating flight. Goldfinch activity may drop off and become rather sporadic throughout the winter months, but my feeders will be ready with fresh seed to keep them coming!
Q. DO ALL BIRDS MIGRATE? A. Migration is the seasonal movement of birds, typically
northward in the spring from their wintering grounds and southward in the fall from breeding grounds. Not all bird species migrate, but many do.
Among our most familiar birds that do not migrate are cardinals, titmice, chickadees, nuthatches, jays, goldfinches, many of our woodpeckers (downy, hairy, red-bellied, and pileated) as well as many owl species, Carolina wren, and mockingbirds. Some of the birds that do not migrate when food supplies are adequate are robins and bluebirds - don't be surprised to see these birds all year long. Some of our most beloved yard birds migrate to our area in the spring and depart in late summer/fall. They include Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, hummingbirds, Indigo Buntings, catbirds, orioles, and chipping sparrows. SS 142 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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Monarchs With its distinct orange, black and white wings, the Monarch butterfly may be the most widely recognized of all American butterflies. While beautiful, this coloring actually sends a warning to predators that the Monarch is foul tasting and poisonous.
caterpillar stage, Monarchs must eat exclusively on Milkweed plants. These wildflowers – the botanical name is Asclepia - contain glycoside toxins that are harmless to the Monarch but poisonous to its predators. During the adult stage, these butterflies feed on many flower nectars.
According to the National Wildlife Federation, the Monarch butterfly A not-for-profit organization, Monarch population has decreased by 90 Watch, based at the University of percent in recent decades. We still see Kansas, focuses on this butterfly and Monarchs, but their appearance has its changing habitat. To address the become less common. The reasons threat to Monarchs in summer months, are twofold: The species is losing its Monarch Watch initiated a nationwide wintering habitat in Mexico and, north landscape restoration program called of the border, losing a major source of “Bring Back The Monarchs.” the Monarch’s diet, the Milkweed plant. The program aims to restore 20 Monarch butterflies are the only insect Milkweed species that are needed that migrates annually to a warmer by Monarch caterpillars for food. climate in Mexico, 2,500 miles away. Monarch Watch also encourages Exactly why the Monarchs follow planting nectar-producing native this path is a mystery. But it is known flowers that support adult Monarchs that Monarchs evolved to migrate as and other pollinators. Once proper opposed to hibernate. habit gardens have been established, there is a chance that the location can North and south of the border, land become a productive butterfly and development and management practices have depleted the Monarch’s pollinator corridor. In turn, this helps all butterflies and other insects that limited habitats. In addition, Milkweed pollinate flowers, vegetables and fruits. is often seen as a weed or a pest and has been destroyed by land developers and gardeners alike.
Monarchs, like all other species, change their diet as they develop. In order to lay eggs during the saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
The organization also registers specific ‘Monarch Waystation Habitats.” There are about 500 of these stations in New York State with 31 in Albany, Saratoga, Washington and Rensselaer Counties combined. Check out the
WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY CECILY BAILEY Waystation at Healthy Living Market in the Wilton Mall. It is a butterfly environment in an urban setting. Also, the entrance to Saratoga Spa State Park On Route 9 in Saratoga Springs offers an impressive entrance planting that attracts butterflies, pollinators and hummingbirds. The site includes much-needed Milkweed. Other Waystations are located on private property, farms, businesses or institutions that have dedicated space (anywhere from 200 to more than 5,000 square feet) for this purpose. For more information on this project go to MonachWatch.org or Monarch Waystation Registry. Other locations that provide appropriate habitat are not on the official registry, but can be found at nature preserves and household plantings, even in places in your community. If you are interested in attracting butterflies of all kinds to your garden, consider Milkweed, Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, Blue Porter Weed, Zinnia, Butterfly Bush, Cosmos, Allium, Bee Balm (Monarda), Liatris, Verbena , Goldenrod, Chokecherry, or Aster. These are a mixture of perennials and annuals for our area. For other options, check with your local Butterfly Society or the North American Butterfly Society. SS
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Gardening WITH
PETER BOWDEN
Gardeners are well aware of how close we are to the end of our season. The seasonal progression of flowers on display is moving into the final stages. Hardy mums have arrived at the garden center; the pumpkins won’t be far behind. While I enjoy these last warm days of autumn, I can’t help mourning them a little. Even as we enjoy the grand finale of this season, there are things we need to do, to get our lawns and gardens ready for the winter ahead.
moist for quick germination. After it sprouts, an application of a starter lawn food will hasten root growth. September is also the best time to apply weed killer to the lawn. Even though you may have killed the dandelions and other weeds in spring, seeds have been blowing in all summer and growing. A quick shot of weed killer will rid your lawn of these tiny weeds quickly so you won’t have to worry about them in spring.
LET YOUR ROSES RELAX During September, stop deadheading and feeding the roses. It is time to let our roses wind down for the season and we must stop stimulating them with plant food. Let the last of the flowers stay on the roses and produce seeds or rose hips. This is what they’ve been trying to accomplish all summer, and it is time to let them so they can go into dormancy.
LAST OF THE LAWN CARE September is an important time for lawn care as well, and the first couple of weeks are the best time for starting a lawn from seed. There’s plenty of warmth left to get grass seed to sprout quickly and enough time for them to establish a root system before winter. The days are shorter so keeping the grass seed moist is easier than in summer. Make sure to choose the right seed blend and don’t over apply it…one seed per square inch is all that’s necessary. Covering the seeded area with a light layer of straw will help keep the seed
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inbound plants with an insecticide to kill any insects they might have picked up. My favorite for this job is insecticidal soap which kills insects on contact. Doing this outside while the weather is still warm gives us a chance to be very thorough without making a mess inside and smelling up the house. I also like to put some systemic insecticide into the soil of inbound houseplant. Systemic insecticides are drawn up into the plant through the roots and are pumped out through the stems and leaves until it permeates the entire plant and kills any insects that might have escaped the spraying.
PLANTING BULBS FOR SPRING FLOWERS
BRINGING IN YOUR HOUSEPLANTS
Late September and October is the time for planting bulbs. Daffodils, tulips and all the Dutch bulbs we love in spring must have 8 weeks of chilling to stimulate them into their next flowering and growth cycle. This chilling causes an enzyme change within the bulb. Without it, the bulb won’t be ready to grow in spring. This is another case where timing is everything. Make sure your planting area is sunny and well drained. The rule of thumb for planting bulbs is to dig the hole three times as deep as the bulb is tall. Bulbs are most impressive when mass planted. I consider 5 bulbs to be a minimum group. Be sure to water your bulbs well, right after planting. This initial soaking let’s them know that they are in the ground and it’s time to grow some roots. Roots start growing right away. Those roots will help anchor the bulbs in the soil so frost won’t heave them upward.
We can expect our first fall frost in late September so it will soon be time to move any houseplants that spent the summer outside back inside for the winter. Before we do though, we’ll want to take some precautions to make sure they haven’t picked up any pests during their summer vacation. If we bring a plant indoors with even a couple of aphids on it, it can become a big problem in a small amount of time. The first step is to thoroughly spray your saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
WRAPPING THINGS UP FOR WINTER Once the foliage season has come and gone, it is time to prepare our landscape for winter. Remember that dehydration is the greatest threat to landscape plantings. The cold arctic wind that blows from the north and west is the worst culprit. Rhododendron, Holly, Laurel, and other broadleaf evergreens are in the worst danger of being damaged. Constructing burlap windbreaks is a good way to protect them. Drive hardwood stakes about a foot into the ground and staple burlap to them, leaving the top open. Construct your windbreak so it protects plants from the harsh prevailing winds that blow from the north and west.
In the depths of winter, both deer and mice will strip the bark off of young trees. If the damage is severe enough, the tree or shrub will die. Paper tree wrap allows you to wrap the trunk right down to the soil so the critters will never be tempted to take a bite. It can be removed in spring once the snow has melted and the critters have other food sources.
With a few simple steps this fall, we can ensure that our lawns and gardens emerge from winter unscathed and improved for another grand growing season.
THANKS FOR THE READ.
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Food Truck Frenzy WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
F
ood trucks are putting a twist on finer dining. No longer limited to hot dogs, greasy fried foods, and simple snacks, these mobile kitchens are serving up a variety of unique dishes, drinks, and a bit of entertainment, to crowds of hungry fans all over the region – even in the “off-season”.
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Photo by Tracey Buyce Photography
Classic Crust Mobile Catering 518.265.6724 | ClassicCrust.com
it,” she said. Julie and her husband, Greg, found the shell of their mobile kitchen in Charleston, S.C. and the front of the 1946 Chevrolet Classic truck that supports it in Alabama.
cucumbers filled with smoked salmon and cream cheese, salads, and desserts ensure each event, from backyard parties to gorgeous barn weddings, will be one-of-a-kind.
The rustic, down-home aspects of this vintage vehicle’s design are balanced out with upper-crust accents to create its unique style. Outfitted with a Mugnani wood-fired oven, three beer taps made from railroad ties, reclaimed wood siding, custom-made tin tables, and a brightly lit pizza sign on top, when this truck pulls up, you know you’re about to get a taste of the good life.
“Nothing on the menu has to be set in stone. Everyone has a different vision and that makes it more special and fun,” said Julie.
“Every single new party we go to, people are blown away. From the colors of the truck, to the beer taps, to the wood-fired oven, that’s always the reaction right away when we get there,” said Julie.
Delightful surprises are a big part of what makes Classic Crust Mobile Catering so special. They first started three years ago when Julie Carioto was just thinking of how to put her culinary arts training to use after spending 17 years as a stayat-home mom – and have continued ever since. “When we saw it, something just clicked. We absolutely fell in love with it and we just went for 148 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
Then there’s the wondrous variety of pizzas to enjoy. The barbeque pulled pork pizza topped with coleslaw and Sriracha Aioli, and the pear pizza made with a combination of brie and mozzarella cheeses, fresh thyme and a drizzle of honey, are just a couple of the sensational selections on their fully-customizable menu. “They sound different, look different, and people go crazy for them,” she said. Appetizers such as goat cheese-stuffed dates wrapped in maple-smoked bacon and
What she loves the most however, are the people, she said. They have surprised her in some spectacular ways. “The best part is the people I’ve met. They are really amazing. Before, my world was a little bit smaller,” she said. There was the Emmy award-winning producer who experienced her food locally and offered to ship both her family and her truck all the way out to the West Coast for a special event. Then there was the unexpected gift commercial from Ethan Zohn, winner of Survivor Africa, and his beautiful bride Lisa Heywood, owner of Lisa Heywood Interiors NY. Now, what has been a family adventure from the beginning gets to include more people than she ever imagined. “I’m really in a happy spot right now,” she said. Classic Crust Mobile Catering operates from April to October.
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BarStream Events
bar and lounge in their completely re-invented 1966 Airstream Safari trailer.
518.350.7227 | BarstreamEvents.com
“When I think of traveling through the U.S., Airstream is the first thing that comes to mind,” said Lombard. It took the duo a year and a half to completely renovate the previously gutted trailer. They learned how to set-up the water, electricity, and even which polishes to use mostly with the help of online videos and forums, he said. An eye-catching marketing tool, the nostalgic trailer now has a glistening exterior ideally suited as a brand ambassador for magnetic vinyl signage, while the sleek polished aluminum interior provides a sophisticated VIP lounge and photo booth. “People are shocked when we tell them it’s a 1966; they can’t believe how we got it to look. Seeing the before and after, it is amazing,” said Lombard. Hitting the streets is one of the most appealing aspects of operating BarStream Events said co-owner Adam Lombard. Working with childhood friend Ben Diedrick, the mobile bar business launched in May. “We get to experience new places, new people, and get to see how different people live,” said Lombard.
He has been working in the food service business for nearly two decades at Saratoga staples including PJ’s Bar-B-QSA, Longfellows Restaurant and Lily & the Rose. Diedrich joined the Peace Corps after college, indulging his travel bug with eight weeks of backpacking through Europe. Their combined experiences led to the creation of a memorable
Featuring innovative multi-zone refrigeration and ten taps, they have the capability to serve kegged beer and wine, cocktails, customized frozen drinks, as well as hot beverages. By researching local breweries, distributors, and what’s popular in each area, (after the busy fall wedding season) they hope to spend their first winter season in the warm climate of the American Southwest.
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Deliciously Different Specialty Items, Inc. 518.681.1926 DeliciouslyDifferentSpecialtyItems.com As an extension of their full-service catering, last year Robin Smith and her husband Mark launched “The Bar Car”, a quaint renovated vintage towable trailer. “We wanted to add that kind of feel – something that is trendy and different but is still in keeping with our style. This elevates our business. It doesn’t change our business,” said Robin. From tasty appetizers such as French toast roll-ups, and chicken wrapped with pancetta served with honey mustard, to fortifying salads including their popular spinach salad with goat cheese, strawberries, pecans and homemade croutons, to entrees such as their chicken with artichokes and plum tomatoes, Deliciously Different is redefining our expectations. “We serve things that are going to get people excited. Food that is just yummy and delicious,” said Robin. By combining the simple home cooking she learned from her mother, with the techniques she adapted from years of experience with a “wildly successful” catering company, Robin keeps her hands in the menu selections while also managing the rapid growth of her business. Delivering good, farm-fresh food made with local ingredients to all kinds of events year-
Airstream Catering Co. 716.397.8338 | AirstreamCateringCo.com
round, it’s often the corporate and charity events that can be the most rewarding, she said.
worked in the spirit of fundraising by striving to create delightful and memorable dishes.
On the coldest day of December last year, they served hot chocolate and collected Toys for Tots while providing a photo booth for guests to bring home a Christmas card-worthy souvenir.
“One thing we love about this business is putting in that extra flare to bring more people to fundraisers next time. We enjoy that - and the compliments are heaped upon us at the end of the day. There were a lot of hugs at the end of the night. We were so thankful. We both stood there in awe. It was really great,” she said.
At the 3rd Annual Aim Services Croquet on the Green tournament and garden party that helps fund services for people with disabilities; her team
No matter how you roll, the retro-cool Airstream Catering Co. can serve up crowdpleasing classic foods with a contemporary flair. A collaboration between Saratoga’s Cantina Restaurant owners Jeff and Heath Ames, restaurant manager Ashley Freeman, and chef Nick Cook, they can create unforgettable farmto-table dishes for your next party or event. “We love building custom menus and putting a modern, upscale spin on the classics,” said Freeman. Popular menu items include everything from prosciutto wrapped blue cheese pear bites, devil eggs, and BLT biscuits, to miniature meatloaves served with truffle mashed potatoes, and spicy ahi tuna tacos served with avocado and habanero salsa.
‘70s, so it’s a cool talking point,” said Freeman. For the team, creating and serving the food from an Airstream has been easier than learning how to drive it. Towing the 23-foot trailer filled with 3,000 tons of restaurant equipment and figuring out how to pull into small spaces proved quite the challenge, at first, said Freeman. Now, when they encounter steep hills or tiny driveways, often they can park nearby, and make it work. “Every event you learn how to go with the flow, but it’s fun,” she said. Weekday meal drop-offs is a unique service that Airstream Catering Co. offers in the off-season to residents living within five miles of downtown Saratoga Springs. There is no minimum order required for deliveries.
“We love working with clients, designing menus and being there the day of; everyone’s just so happy, and it’s just great,” said Freeman. Serving from a refurbished Airstream trailer that had many lives before its current one (including as a pop-up lingerie shop in Manhattan) is an added attraction for event guests. “People remember their dad driving the family around in their Airstream from the ‘60s and 150 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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Fitzy’s Fork in the Road 518.879.1407 facebook.com/FitzysForkInTheRoad
After 30 years spent working in fine dining restaurants such as Siro’s and Saratoga’s Hall of Springs, Scott Fitzgerald wanted to relax a bit.
“We do all kinds of different things or I would go stir crazy. It’s all made from scratch and on the healthier side,” he said.
“There are all kinds of really good foods that normally you wouldn’t get off a food truck but served with the casualness of a food truck. There’s kind-of a sense of people’s laidbackness when you pull up and plug into their garage,” he said.
Sensitive to those with special dietary considerations, includes offering gluten-free and vegan dishes when requested, has earned him many of his repeat customers and wordof-mouth recommendations, he said.
Serving staple menu items such as spinach artichoke dip, pulled pork, and quesadillas, Fitzgerald said he changes the menu up on a regular basis and also prepares some “off-thewall” dishes including duck sliders or turkey with brie and chutney.
Pies on Wheels
518.798.0000 | PiesOnWheels.com
“I’m never going to make it,” Fitzgerald recalls saying when trying to maneuver the brutal Devil’s Kitchen Hill Climb to Hunter Mountain for a 4th of July celebration. With a 600-foot drop on one side of him and a 45-degree angle ahead, he persevered and was rewarded with extremely happy party-goers
added a second smaller truck and a Wing Wagon equipped with a 10’ Churrasco grill. “It’s a special piece of equipment so we can make anything under the sun. It can get very exotic in addition to pizza,” said David. While their selection of artisan wood-fired pizzas served up with locally-sourced fresh toppings are the stars of the show, a large menu of antipasti, salads, and entrées is also available. These include a flavorful paella, David’s personal favorite, and salmon roasted on a cedar plank and rubbed with grainy mustard that is also beautiful, he said. “Our biggest challenge is also the most rewarding which is keeping up with demand,” said David.
When David and Cristina Britton developed the plans for their first mobile wood-fired pizza truck, they were met with some skepticism. The first hurdle was driving and transforming the dilapidated International truck up from South Carolina. Outfitting it with the largest available commercial open-air oven in 2009, they were so successful that in 2014, Pies on Wheels
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With a resume that includes the Saratoga Polo and Catering Company and appearances on Food Network’s Dinner: Impossible, David continues to try out innovative ways to keep the food business exciting. One of the selected chefs at the 100th Anniversary of Perona Farms in Andover, N.J., he built another trailer covered with sod and herbs especially for the July event. “It was really, really interesting and different. It’s a really neat addition to our fleet,” he said.
and a fireworks show. “When they see what you do – it’s fun. They get really excited and we feed off that too,” said Fitzgerald. Running the food truck has also allowed Fitzgerald to spend more time with his family. His grandchildren selected the company name and his wife Kathy is the business manager. They sell their own line of hot sauces and humorous t-shirts, as well. In the summer months, at lunchtime Fitzy’s can often be found at the Saratoga Technology Energy Park, 107 Hermes Road in Malta, and other large professional establishments, but the bulk of their business comes from catering clientele.
In addition to being under contract at Saratoga Race Course, other festivals, and private parties have kept Pies on Wheels so busy they haven’t had the time to park as a street vendor, which is what people typically think of food trucks doing, said David. Operating under a franchise discipline allows this family-owned business to interact with large crowds of customers while maximizing their season, which runs from April to October. “It’s a passion opportunity. We’re considering selling with it, along with everything that makes this truck what it is, so that customers can find the same things in the next one,” said David. In his “kitchen laboratory” located within The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls, David is cooking up a new line of Agro-Dulce bottled sauces in flavors such as rosemary garlic and mango coconut. “Pies on Wheels is a blast and this is an exciting chapter for our company. It’s a creative visual process that gets intensified in the brewing. I wanna get in and push the pedal to get it all bundled into one really cool product,” he said. SS
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Fall into Autumn's Glory
Photo by John Seymour
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Road Trips to… Prospect Point Cottages, Blue Mountain Lake Silver Spruce Inn, Schroon Lake Hotel Saranac, Saranac Lake Become a 12ster Blondes vs Brunettes… Football?! Fall Fundraisers Feast of the Fields Saratoga Springs’ International Film Festival Lake George Jazz Festival Art in the Park ScaryToga’s Harvest Moon Festival Southern ADK Fiber Fest The American Music Festival of the Lake World’s Largest Garage Sale Color Me Rad Taste of North Country Food Festival The Way We Were Car Show Great Pumpkin Challenge Malta Family Fun Festival Boo 2 You Festival Leaf Peeping Leaf Peeping …from the water! ADK Balloon Festival Open Mic Night Saratoga Fall Festival Ghosts in the Yaddo Gardens TOUR Pumpkin Festivals Road Trips to… Prospect Point Cottages, Blue Mountain Lake Silver Spruce Inn, Schroon Lake Hotel Saranac, Saranac Lake Become a 12ster Blondes vs Brunettes… Football?! Fall Fundraisers Feast of the Fields Saratoga Springs’ International Film Festival Lake George Jazz Festival Art in the Park ScaryToga’s Harvest Moon Festival Southern ADK Fiber Fest The American Music Festival of the Lake World’s Largest Garage Sale Color Me Rad Taste of North Country Food Festival The Way We Were Car Show Great Pumpkin Challenge Malta Family Fun Festival Boo 2 You Festival Leaf Peeping Leaf Peeping …from the water! ADK Balloon Festival Open Mic Night Saratoga Fall Festival Ghosts in the Yaddo Gardens TOUR Pumpkin Festivals Road Trips to… Prospect Point Cottages, Blue Mountain Lake Silver Spruce Inn, Schroon Lake Hotel Saranac, Saranac Lake FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 153
It's Like
Coming Home
O
WRITTEN BY PAUL OESTREICHER PHOTOS PROVIDED
ur parents first pulled into Blue Mountain Lake in August of 1955, on a trip celebrating their first wedding anniversary. They discovered it by accident; while seeking a refuge from hay fever, they learned that Blue Mountain Lake had the lowest pollen count in NY State, and set their compass north. As fate would have it, they stayed at Prospect Point. They couldn’t believe the magic and beauty of the place. Year after year they returned, eventually bringing us kids with them when we came into the picture. But as the years passed, the Point fell into disrepair. Some of the cottage walls began to separate, and a sapling grew through one of the porches. All but five cottages were shut down, and in the end, all of Prospect Point was closed. The place was put up for sale and threatened with development.
Fearing what might happen, our parents purchased the property. It wasn’t a business decision, and they knew it. They also knew that our family had no idea how to run a cottage colony, fix the plumbing or insulate a roof. Equally sobering, the former owner had lost the guest list, so we wondered how potential guests would even hear about us, way up in the Adirondacks. Our neighbor, Bob Curry, is an incredible carpenter, and with his team restoring the cottages, we set up a webpage on the nascent internet, crossed our fingers and hoped for the best. We all but cheered when the first email arrived. Someone actually found our page - and wanted to stay with us! After that the word quickly spread that Prospect Point had reopened its doors, and soon emails began pouring in and guests began to arrive. A lot has changed since those days. Fireplaces 154 | SIMPLY SARATOGA
lend magic to a number of cottages, and nearly all feature cathedral ceilings and skylights. Handmade oil paintings and Native American artifacts grace the walls; naturallyshed antler chandeliers hang from the ceilings. During fall and winter there’s almost always a fire roaring in our library/ community room, where guests can tickle the ivories on our vintage 19th-century Steinway, play a round of pool, or pick a book from the shelves and curl up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. A flock of ducks and chickens ensures that kids from the city get to experience these creatures outside of a supermarket, and guests are encouraged to clip from the herb gardens for their salads and cooking. Then, of course, there’s our famous Adirondack Brunch: Each morning from October through mid-June guests enjoy a wonderful all-you-can eat gourmet breakfast in our library, augmented with herbs and vegetables from our gardens. We’re different from other cottage colonies in other ways as well: Some of our cottages have entrance ramps, broad hallways, and wide bathroom doors. All have sturdy bathroom grips. These features – surely unusual among Adirondack Cottage resorts – were added by our parents to make Prospect Point more welcoming to the elderly and to those in wheelchairs. At the time, we were told that we were exempt from government wheelchair requirements, that these amenities were not necessary in a northwoods cottage colony, and that we were unlikely to ever recover the costs associated with including such features. Our parents – our mother in particular, passionately argued that it didn’t matter if we were compelled to include wheelchair accessible features or not; that it was the right thing to do, and that everyone should have
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a chance to enjoy a vacation in a lakeside cottage in the country, no matter their age or able-bodied status. Although the layout of the cottages permitted us to bring only Moose Lodge fully up to code as wheelchair accessible, our mother repeatedly urged our contractors to render as many cottages as humanly possible “wheelchair friendly”, with access ramps and other features. Of all the amenities, we’ve added since purchasing Prospect Point, my siblings and I have never been more proud of our parents than for this. They are goodhearted people who want everyone to feel welcome, wanted, and at home. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll be the ones who’ll appreciate their thoughtfulness as we grow older. Summer at Prospect Point is a time of bonfires, uproarious weekly talent shows, ice cream socials, children's tea parties and other zany goings on. Of course, everything is casual and people are free to do as much
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or as little as they please. They can hike in the forest or enjoy a paddle in one of our canoes or kayaks on beautiful Blue Mountain Lake, or just sit with a book by the water’s edge. There’s a magic in that too. In the cooler months, guests can try gliding through the wintry forest on our snowshoes, build igloos or sleigh ride down the hill to the beach. Generally, a quieter time at Prospect Point, winter is also perfect for couples who are eager to experience the romance of life in a beautiful woodsy cottage with a fire crackling and a glass of wine or hot chocolate in hand. We feel we're in the memory business, helping people to gain memories that hopefully – like ours – will last a lifetime. I can’t tell you how moved we are over the heartfelt letters we receive, many of them handwritten, thanking our parents for saving this place and preserving a little bit of heaven for their families to enjoy. That’s
worth everything to us. It makes me smile to think that 62 years after first pulling into these cottages as a young couple, our parents’ love affair with Prospect Point (and with each other) is still growing, still strong. They never dreamed that one day they would become stewards of the beautiful place they fell in love with that summer so long ago, or have the privilege of sharing it with others who love it as they do. None of us dreamed that we’d be in a business where many of our guests would come to be among our dearest friends, and where we’d get to see so many of them return each year - some bringing new families of their own. Nor could we have imagined the privilege of introducing new families to this place and getting to meet so many wonderful people. Sometimes the whole venture feels like a dream, like an extended family reunion. Surely that’s the best job in the world! SS
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A Renowned Schroon Lake Inn
Now Has its Own Book
I
WRITTEN BY MAUREEN WERTHER PHOTOS PROVIDED
first met Phyllis Rogers, owner of the lovely Silver Spruce Inn, located just north of the village of Schroon, in the early summer of 2016. Phyllis and her late husband purchased the property more than 50 years ago and she has operated the beautiful old home continuously for the last 30 years. During that time, her curiosity about the home led her to learn all about the wealthy and eccentric woman who was the home’s most famous – or perhaps notorious – owner. When Phyllis approached me with an idea to write a book about the Inn, I jumped at the opportunity. The book, “Them That Has... The Story of a 1790’s Adirondack House and the People Who Made it Famous,” was published in May 2017 and is now part of the rich history and lore surrounding the Silver Spruce Inn.
When Sallie Miller Smith discovered the quaintly beautiful village of Schroon Lake and surrounding forests and streams back in the 1920s, the uber-wealthy brass-industry heiress from Waterbury, CT wasted no time scooping up land and homes in and around the Adirondack region. One of the most well-known of those homes is today known as the Silver Spruce Inn, a sprawling, 9,100 square foot country estate situated on NYS Route 9, alongside the fast-flowing Schroon River.
The Silver Spruce wasn’t always the stately, six-bedroom five-bath Inn that now greets guests from across the country from Spring to Fall. The home was originally built in the 1790s by early settlers to the Adirondacks, and its saltbox-style post and beam 156 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
construction served as both a home, a gathering place, and even a wayside inn during the next 100 or so years. When Sallie bought the property in 1926, just a few years before the Crash and the onset of Prohibition, it was in a serious state of disrepair. And it was only about 1,700 square feet. The deed on the property states that Sallie purchased it from the estate of one Lewis Thomson and his widow, Phebe Thomson for “$100. & Other.” While it is unclear what “Other” refers to, it is clear that, even in the mid-1920s, Sallie got a bargain. Despite the home’s miserable state of disrepair and neglect, it sat on about 12 acres of prime property – rolling land and forest, with abundant nearby springs and the rushing waters of the Schroon River just steps from the front door. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Sallie was not the kind of person to let something like a little renovation stand in her way of building the Adirondack vacation home she envisioned. As a devoted “angler,” the house and land were the perfect location for her. The river was, literally, just steps away, brimming with landlocked salmon, trout, bass and other game fish. The hills and valleys were perfect for horseback riding. She named her newest vacation home “The Tavern,” for reasons that will soon become obvious. Sallie wasted no time on renovations and expansion. Hiring all local men, she began construction of the addition, which included a 40 x 60 dining area, two enormous living rooms and six bedrooms, each, save one, with its own full bath containing spacious soaking tub and shower, toilet, sink and bidet. The home went from a modest post-revolutionary war house to the popular country estate it is today. To ensure an adequate supply of water for a house of such proportions, Sallie accessed two reservoirs, tapping into the fresh springs in the area. Hiring the best engineers from Waterbury, Sallie shipped in nearly a mile of brass piping that ran from the two twenty square-foot reservoirs down to the Tavern below. The price tag for this plumbing was about $40,000, well over a million in today’s money. By the time construction was complete, the interior walls were made entirely of tongue and groove three quarter-inch western cedar. There were 65 windows, six wood-burning fireplaces and, of course, each bathroom had its own corkscrew permanently installed on the walls to ensure they didn’t “disappear.” After all, everyone needs a corkscrew in their bath, don’t they?
1926 house before renovation by Sallie Miller Smith.
and even a fake bookcase that opened to a narrow passageway. Local legend has it that there was a tunnel connecting the passageway to a guest house that she had built across the road. As the story goes, Sallie had it dug to escape any “revenuers” who might decide to call on her little “speakeasy.” Of course, there had been similar rumors and stories 80 years earlier about a tunnel that was used by abolitionists to help runaway slaves escape to points north. While there is no evidence of the existence of a tunnel for either purpose, the passageway was a handy little spot to duck into, should any uninvited guests show up at one of her many well-known parties. But,
while it was, indeed, Prohibition, and local law enforcement was kept busy with the many “rum-runners” travelling back and forth from the Canadian border, it is far more likely that Sallie built the passageway as an efficient way to reach the house’s extensive piping and wiring systems. Sallie’s planning didn’t end with huge fireplaces and “secret” passageways. Sallie wanted to make sure she was prepared for the impending Prohibition, and she purchased the entire contents of three liquor stores in Waterbury in anticipation of the new law. She kept her stock in her family’s mansion in Waterbury and had prodigious quantities of “spirits” sent to The Tavern at Schroon Lake.
Another centerpiece of the house was the famous “five Santa fireplace” located in the enormous dining room. Strategically placed above it was a small hand-carved wooden plaque, inscribed with the words, “Them That Has, Gits,” after a song that was released in 1929 and remained popular throughout the next two decades. The song talks about how the rich just get richer and the poor stay poor. Sallie was very fond of both the song and the saying, and she had it engraved on a plaque and hung above the hearth of the large fireplace. In addition to the spacious sleeping and living quarters, Sallie also had her own “lounge” area built below ground level. It contained another huge fireplace, along with solid wood shelving
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Visitors on a tour of The Tavern will uncover some very clever hiding places for the many liquor and champagne bottles that were stashed in hidden shelving along the staircase leading to the “lounge.” There were also hiding places in the cavernous attic and basement areas, as well as falsebottomed closets and shelving in the bedrooms and living areas. The staircase leading down into the lounge was built with five-inch risers, a much shorter height than standard risers. However, it made the stairs much more manageable to navigate after having a few drinks at the bar below. One of the locals, who worked as bartender for Sallie’s many parties, recalled seeing one of the ladies take a tumble down the stairs, only to get right back up, dust herself off and saunter over to the bar to “freshen up” her spilled drink. Winston Churchill slept here…or maybe just stopped by for champagne and oysters. The huge fireplace located in the subterranean lounge served multiple purposes for guests. With a hearth set on the floor, it resembles something that would be found in a medieval hall. Looking at it and the cavernous subterranean room it occupies, you can just imagine pheasants and other game slowly roasting over a pit of glowing embers, as ladies and lords toast their good fortunes with brimming steins full of mead. However, it wasn’t game that was usually prepared in the fireplace or mead being poured into flute glasses. A regular feature of Sallie and Margaret’s many gatherings were oysters, brought up on a regular basis from Long Island and roasted over the open fire, accompanied by the finest of champagnes. Sallie’s chauffeur, Robert Vander Walker, who lived until age 96 and was a wealth of information to Phyllis, insisted that, on at least one occasion, Winston Churchill was a guest at these gay festivities, where the champagne and oysters flowed, and jazz and big band sounds wafted across the cavernous space. While it is nearly impossible to Confirm Churchill’s attendance at one of Sallie’s parties, it is not out of the realm of possibility that he could have been there. Historical records place Churchill in the area on three separate occasions. Given Sallie’s wealth and wide range of well-known and influential friends, it is possible that the chauffeur’s recollections were more than just the confused re-imaginings of a 96-year-old man. While life is not quite as wild today at the Silver Spruce as it was when Sallie owned 158 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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the sprawling mansion, it continues to be a wonderful destination for people eager to visit the Adirondacks and enjoy all the region has to offer. Visitors flock there for the hiking, fishing, swimming and boating and summers at Silver Spruce will find guests wandering around the property or sitting and relaxing outside by the beautiful gardens that Phyllis has created and tends to carefully year after year. While guests are enjoying all that the Adirondacks have to offer, they can also purchase a copy of “Them That Has” at Phyliss’ quaint front desk. Stories of Sallie and her escapades are just one of the compelling reasons to make Silver Spruce a must-see destination on your travels through the Adirondack State Park. SS Maureen Werther is a local writer and author, who lives in the village of Ballston Spa. Her book, “Them That Has…The Story of a 1790’s Adirondack House and the People Who Made it Famous,” is available at The Book House in Stuyvesant Plaza and at The Silver Spruce Inn. People can also contact Maureen Werther at canwewriteforyou@gmail.com to order a copy of the book.
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A Grand
Adventure WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTOS PROVIDED
BREATHE IN the beautiful grand hotel experience at the last remaining art deco era hotel in Saranac Lake. An architectural delight, the richly rejuvenated guest rooms at Hotel Saranac have been reimagined to include modern amenities, seducing visitors into a roaring romance that has already lured so many to fall in love with the Adirondack Park – New York’s largest natural playground.
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Ninety years ago, when the hotel first opened, the exuberance of a changing role for women in society combined with the thrills of technological progress to create glamourous new opportunities for adventurers and health seekers in Saranac Lake. Today, this is again possible. “Not everyone wants the camp experience. Here, all you have to take is a suitcase and then you can enjoy the surroundings,”
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said Jean Knobloch, owner of JNK Home Enterprises. The Glens Falls-based contracting company has been working with others, including owner Fred Roedel III’s ROK Builders, for two years on the restoration of Hotel Saranac. The dilapidated structure has had many lives and owners, but was recently known as “Hot Sara” because those were the only letters still aglow on the iconic sign atop the six-story brick building. Finally replaced last year, the new sign was a beacon of progress to those in the community that maintaining the character of the unforgettable spaces within this iconic masterpiece had taken precedence. “It’s been an amazing journey. We feel honored and grateful to build our name, but also to be part of such a historic event,” said Jean. Working with the guidance of Landmark Consulting’s historical advisor Kimberly Alvarez, intricate oak herringbone flooring in the grand ballroom and private dining room was hand-scraped, as were many of the cherry wall panels. “My skills and background involve coordinating and expediting different projects and multiple tradesmen. I need to be fully coordinated at strategically preserving the foundation of the property,” said Kevin Knobloch, JNK Home Enterprise’s Director of Operations.
as “the arcade”. The expansive space allows visitors to walk from Main Street to Academy Street, visit the gift shop, relax at the Ampersand Salon & Spa, or eat at the Campfire Adirondack Grill & Bar. Outside, the front portico’s limestone has been preserved, framing the spacious seating options on the front terrace above. Throughout the hotel, the plaster ceilings were painstakingly patched and historic crown moldings hide modern wiring requirements while seamlessly matching existing woodwork. A total of 321 doors, many made of maple with walnut inlay, were preserved, as well. “It was very labor intensive to bring it back to where it is today. The woodwork was not refinished, but restored,” said Kevin. In 2014, Hotel Saranac became part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, a line of legendary hotels distinguished throughout the world. A grand re-opening is planned for Fall of 2017. Hotel Saranac has already begun accepting reservations for December 2017 and beyond, said General Manager Michael Salyers. For more information call (518) 891-6900, or visit facebook.com/HotelSaranac or hotelsaranac.com SS
Fabulous 14th Century-inspired terrazzo flooring spreads across the Grand Hall Bar and the length of the hotel’s decadent lobby, known
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" "
NOT EVERYONE WANTS THE CAMP
EXPERIENCE. HERE, ALL YOU HAVE TO TAKE IS A SUITCASE AND THEN YOU CAN ENJOY THE SURROUNDINGS
Campfire Adirondack Grill & Bar
➢ "The Arcade"
Restoring the ← beams by hand. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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12
The view from the top of Cat
12
& up to
peaks in the Lake George region, nearly
40
9,000'
miles of trails, of elevation gain.
STER
NO TIME FOR ALL 46? START HERE!
START CHECKING THEM OFF TODAY
WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY SAMANTHA SIMEK
Me & Kuni at th e top of Cat Mo untain
From the top of Thomas, we can see Cat in the distance - where we hiked to next!
1. Black
2. Erebus
My fiance ni Andrew with Ku
3. Sleeping Beauty 4. Buck
5. Five Mile
ALL 12 PEAKS are within the Lake George Wild Forest
7. Thomas
(You can even include your pet’s name on your certificate!)
6. Huckleberry 8. Brown 9. Cat
10. Fifth Peak
(Meaning magnificent views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains!)
$10 registration fee gets you a certificate, your 12ster number and a patch.
There are different challenge levels: • Become a 12ster at your own pace • Do them all in a 24-hour period to become an ULTRA 12ster •
Complete them during the winter months to become a WINTER 12ster
11. French Point 12. First Peak
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Although it was cloudy, we had a great time AND still had great views of Lake George!! Two down, ten to go! €
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Your business was not in this issue?! Don't let that happen again. Call TODAY
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com 518.581.2480
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ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION BLONDES VS. BRUNETTES®
PHOTOS BY ANDY CAMP
Participants Tackle Alzheimer’s by Raising Awareness and Funds ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 at Skidmore College’s Wachenheim Field in Saratoga Springs, the Alzheimer’s Association Blondes vs. Brunettes® Saratoga will hold their 7th annual flag football game. Gates open at 4pm, followed by pre-game festivities and kick-off at 5 PM. The two teams, divided based on the age-old rivalry between blondes and brunettes, aim to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease among a new generation. Funds raised will benefit the care, support, advocacy and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. According to the Alzheimer's Association 2017 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures, almost two-thirds of American’s with Alzheimer’s disease are women. A volunteer event driven by young women, the first Blondes vs. Brunettes game was held in Washington D.C. in 2005. Since its inception, Blondes vs. Brunettes has expanded to more than 35 cities, including Boston, Buffalo, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul and New York. Together, Blondes vs. Brunettes have raised more than $5 million in an effort to tackle Alzheimer’s disease. Locally, Blondes vs. Brunettes Saratoga has raised over $350,000 over the last six years. Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth leading cause of death. More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and this number is estimated to grow to as many as 16 million by year 2050. In New York alone, there are nearly 400,000 people living with Alzheimer’s and over 1 million caregivers. “This is my fifth year of being involved with BvB Saratoga. I spent 3 years as a player and am in my second year as chair of the committee. Being part of BvB Saratoga is a way for me to give back to the community and raise money and awareness for a disease (Alzheimer’s) that is impacting so many families across the country,” says Blondes vs. Brunettes Chair, Kim Lourinia. “I am so proud of our committee, players, coaches, and volunteers who spend so much time giving back through fundraising, planning activities, and preparing for Game Day which ultimately brings us that much closer to creating a world without Alzheimer’s.” “I am so grateful to the Blondes and Brunettes for their dedication and commitment. Not only do they practice hard and engage in an exciting game of football, they raise much needed awareness by engaging a younger generation in our fight against Alzheimer’s,” says Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York’s Executive Director and CEO, Elizabeth Smith-Boivin. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease or Blondes vs. Brunettes, go to alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
SS
Alzheimer’s Association® The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org® or call 800.272.3900.
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Prime at Saratoga National, September 21 5:30-9:00 pm
S
aratoga PLAN will be holding the 12th annual Feast of the Fields fundraiser at the Saratoga National Golf Course on September 21, 2017. It is an event that promises to be a fun-filled, delicious evening featuring top chefs from area restaurants preparing small plates from homegrown ingredients harvested by local farms, along with enticing products and drinks from local producers. A silent auction filled with items and experiences from local businesses and artisans will round out the night. The theme for this year is squash – a classic fall staple!
Our featured chefs for the evening include returners like Daniel Chessare from the Merry Monk, Gordon Sacks of Nine Miles East Farm, Vivian Brammer from Prime, at Saratoga National, Leah Stein of Leah’s Cakery, and Thomas Gulbrandsen from The Courtyard Marriott. New faces will include Marc Plessis from the Blue Hen, Julia Sanzen of Farmers Hardware, Nickolas Karoly from Salt & Char, and the students of the Adirondack Community College Culinary Program led by Mathew Bolton will also have tasting stations this year. We encourage guests to attend and get to know their local farmers and where their food comes from. Feast of the Fields is an opportunity for the public to get to know your local farms and all they do for our community while learning more about why buying and eating locally makes sense. Thomas Gulbrandsen of the Courtyard Marriott says one of his reasons for participating in Feast is, “I love being able to showcase some of our local farms and farmers to a large group of people that might not otherwise be aware of some of the wonderful local products and people that this area has to offer.” Some of our featured farms this year include Anderson Acres located in West Charlton, NY., Arnolds Farm Fresh Produce of West Charlton, NY., Featherbed Lane Farm located in Ballston, NY., and King Brothers Dairy located in Schuylerville, NY. Saratoga PLAN is a nonprofit land trust that works to preserve the rural character, natural habitats and scenic beauty of Saratoga County so that these irreplaceable assets are accessible to all and survive for future generations. PLAN helps landowners conserve farmland, woodlands and natural habitats. PLAN connects people to nature through an extensive trail network, including 10 public nature preserves open for hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and kayaking. Saratoga PLAN helps communities create plans that balance growth with conservation to sustain the Saratoga Region as a great place to live, work, visit, play and farm. PLAN facilitates community-based conservation by partnering with municipalities to help them accomplish their community’s conservation goals. For more information, call 518-587-5554, or visit www.saratogaplan.org. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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9/15 - 9/17 2ND ANNUAL SARATOGA SPRINGS
International Film Festival
September - October 2017
This inaugural festival is an opportunity for the area to participate in a showcase of independent films. More information can be found at www.withoutabox.com
Compiled by Kylie Heusel photos by John Seymour
Lake George
9/16 - 9/17
Jazz Festival
A weekend of free performances by talented jazz musicians. Enjoy the soulful music while picnicking on the lawn of Shepard Park or listen from the water. www.lakegeorge.com 19TH ANNUAL
Art in the Park
9/16
Artists from the Saratoga and Capital Region will be displaying and selling ceramics, drawings, paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture, printmaking, and works in other media. Events at Congress Park in Saratoga Springs will include local music, delicious food, Best-in-Show prizes, and Kidz Art Zone. www.saratoga-arts.org
9/22 - 9/23 2ND ANNUAL SCARYTOGA
Harvest Moon Festival
Held at Saratoga Winery, experience and take part in real paranormal investigations, group and private psychic readings, horse drawn ghost tours, poolside seances, and more. Tickets and more information about the event and Scarytoga itself can be found at www.scarytoga.com
9/23 - 9/24 SOUTHERN ADIRONDACK Fiber Festival Celebrate the 9th Annual Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival located at the Washington Fairgrounds in Greenwich. Both experts and beginners will love walking the grounds, visiting demos and workshops, and eating festival foods. Purchase finished products, patterns and kits, handmade soaps, fleece, yarn, and skein. Enter the Photo Contest and raffle for prizes.
THE AMERICAN MUSIC
Festival for the Lake
9/23 - 9/24
The original, and still #1, rock music festival in Lake George features 5 bands 'Saturday Rocks' and 4 on 'Sunday Jams.' ww.festivalforthelake.com 168  |  SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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17TH ANNUAL
Great Pumpkin Challenge
10/14
A great community event with 2,000 walkers, riders and runners participating in a benefit for Saratoga Bridges. The race begins at the Saratoga Spa State Park Columbia Pavilion and continues throughout the scenic and historic state park. There is no day of registration and the event takes place rain or shine. www.saratogabridges.org
Malta Family Fun Festival
9/30 - 10/1 World’s Largest Garage Sale Find everything from antiques, hard-to-find items, old toys, new toys, hats, hardware, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, dollar items and more. Stretching for miles, the sale starts South of Lake George and continues north of Warrensburg into the Adirondacks. www.warrensburggaragesale.com
Color Me Rad
10/21
Held at the Malta Community Center the afternoon will include "Halloween Safety Show" presented by magician, Joey DiDonna, a children's Halloween Parade with Trick or Treat Fun, and the opportunity for the family to carve a pumpkin together. Registration for this event is required by Wednesday, October 18. www.maltaparksrec.com
BOO 2 YOU FESTIVAL
10/28
Spend the afternoon with spooky dancers and costumed characters at the Downtown Glens Falls Halloween block party! Play games on Glen Street, Trick or Treat at the downtown storefronts, and settle in with your loot for the screening of Hocus Pocus at the Wood Theater at 4PM. www.glensfallscollaborative.com
10/1
Saratoga State Park's 5k benefiting Special Olympics New York sends its runners through RAD color stations that leave you covered in powders of pink, yellow, green, blue, and violet. www.colormerad.com
Taste of North Country
10/1
FOOD FESTIVAL
Sample selections from the North Country's best restaurants! Located in Glens Falls City Park, enjoy food from some 40 restaurants, live music, and children's activities. The event benefiting Glen's Falls Kiwanis Club takes place rain or shine! Tickets cost $5 or they’re free if you’re under the age of 18. www.glensfallstaste.com
THE WAY WE WERE CAR SHOW Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association and the Saratoga Automobile Museum present the 15th annual show of cars. Enjoy live music, food and family activities at Front Street, Downtown Ballston Spa, NY. Free for spectators. Rain date: October 15. www.ballston.org saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Leaf Peeping From the Water LAKE GEORGE SHORELINE
Visit www.LakeGeorgeShoreline.com for more information.
THE LAKE GEORGE STEAMBOAT COMPANY
To learn more or to reserve a ticket call (518) 668-5777 or visit www.LakeGeorgeSteamboat.com.
MOWKAWK MAIDEN CRUISES
Visit www.ChamplainCanalTours.com for more details or call (518) 695-5496 for reservations and information.
ADIRONDACK CRUISE AND CHARTER COMPANY
To book your cruise visit www.adkcruise.com or call (518) 956-2626. FALL 2017 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | 169
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 4:30PM – 6:30PM
Photo by Lauren Hull
Crandall Park, Glens Falls, NY. Opening Night launch with up to 20 balloons.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, GATES OPEN AT 3PM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury, NY Up to 80 balloons, ZONTA Craft Fair, live music, food vendors and more.
Balloon Festival
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER, 23 5AM – 10AM, 5PM – 8PM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport, Queensbury, NY. Big Balloon Breakfast, food vendors, ZONTA craft fair and launch of up to 100 balloons. Lighting up the night at 8:00 p.m.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 5AM – 10AM Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport Queensbury, NY. Big Balloon Breakfast, food vendors and ZONTA craft fair. Launch of up to 100 balloons.
2PM – 5PM Crandall Park, Glens Falls, NY. Launch of up to 20 balloons at live music, food vendors and more. 170 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
All events are weather permitted. Please no dogs or drones!
Rock Your world at a Local
open mic night
like Karleigh MacMillan! WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER PHOTO BY PHOTOANDGRAPHIC.COM More people suffer from stage fright than are afraid of spiders, the dark, or even death. Confidence comes with the doing, however. Area open mic nights are helping people overcome their fears with regular opportunities to practice performing in public. “When I sing alone I shake really bad. I get really bad nerves,” said 15-year-old Karleigh MacMillan. A 10th grader at Saratoga Springs High School, MacMillan has always been a singer, said her mother Nikki MacMillan. “Pretty much since the child could speak, she would sing,” said Nikki. Karleigh began training with a vocal coach when she was eight years old, joined the school chorus in third grade, and is a participant in the New York State School Music Association performances. This experience, while helpful, does shield her from the risks and the responsibilities that come with singing solo. “When I sing with the entire chorus, if I forget one part of it, you won’t hear it,” said Karleigh. Stepping up on stage to sing an entire song all by herself was still terrifying for her, at first. Then Nikki started signing Karleigh up for open mic nights at Saratoga hot spots including Gaffney’s Restaurant and The Parting Glass Pub. “The first couple were nerve-wracking for me, I could feel her fear and see her clam up on stage,” said Nikki. Choosing popular favorites such as Radiohead’s “Creep”, Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated”, and Meghan Trainor’s “Like I’m gonna lose you,” Karleigh becomes more confident with each performance. “I like songs everyone knows so they can sing along too,” said Karleigh. Honing her craft in front of others does come with inherent rewards. “I often hear people say that’s she’s amazing. She’s just so great,” said Nikki. Slowly, the fear that Karleigh initially faced is being replaced by other feelings. “It’s fun for me. It’s an outlet,” said Karleigh. The satisfaction that comes with facing one’s fears is followed by feelings of accomplishment, and the worlds of joy that can lead to success. Open mic nights make these types of rewards possible. “It’s a great way for kids to conquer their fears,” said Nikki. SS
Open Mic Nights
Café Lena, Mondays 7:30 pm | 47 Phila Street | 518.583.0022 Circus Café, Thursdays 10 pm | 392 Broadway | 518.583.1106 Gaffney’s Restaurant, Tuesdays 7pm | 16 Caroline Street | 518.587.7359 The Parting Glass Pub, Dates Vary 40-42 Lake Avenue | 518.583.1916
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THE ADIRONDACK EXPERIENCE The Adirondack museum's 60th season is here with its beautiful Blue Mountain and lake views. Featuring 22 modern exhibition galleries and historic buildings, the museum immerses its visitors in the story of the Adirondacks and its people. With permanent exhibitions on Boats & Boating, Wood and Waters, and the great outdoors there is so much to discover about the
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history of the spectacular Adirondacks. With activities and areas designed specifically for children, the Adirondack Experience museum is a fantastic location to take the family this fall. For more information about the Adirondack Museum, call (518) 352-7311, email info@adirondackmuseum.org, or visit www.theadkx.org. Open daily through October 9th
SARATOGA DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION'S
Saratoga
Fall Festival
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 10AM - 6PM A spectacular celebration of fall and Halloween starts on Saturday the 28th with Free Family Fun in Downtown Saratoga. The day is due to be full of fall crafts, entertainment, and live music. Roll a pumpkin down Caroline Street, or paint one to take home at G. Willikers. Create your own holiday treat at the Bread Basket, where cupcake decorating will be hosted. Other opportunities for fun include face-painting and hair chalking, magicians, clowns, rock climbing, fall carnival games, pony rides and a petting zoo. End the day by watching your kids walk in the children’s costume parade. Line up starts at 3PM at The City Center and the parade will end at the Congress Park Carousel where the Department of Public works will sponsor the kids to ride for free!
GHOSTS
in the
Yaddo Gardens TOURS
FRIDAYS AND SUNDAYS MID SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 31 5:00 PM
Feel the energy and creativity of the forces of the Earth! Share in the Spiritual intrigue from Native Americans, Edgar Allan Poe, the Trask family, and other contemporary visitors! Docent led tours begin at the Yaddo Garden Parking lot and last for approimately 1 hour. This tour of the Yaddo Gardens does not include the Yaddo Mansion. Cost is $10 per person (children 12 and under are free). Private docent led ghost tours may be arranged MidSeptember – October 31. Contact Yaddo at (518) 5840746 or visit www.yaddo.org. 172 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
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Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin' Festival SEPTEMBER 24 11AM – 4PM
PUMPKIN FESTIVALS
Held at Stoweflake Mountain Resort in Stowe, Vermont, this festival presents the challenge of building the ultimate trebuchet, the modern catapult. Adults and kids are invited to test their intellectual prowess or to come and watch pumpkins get launched and smashed. vtpumpkinchuckin.blogspot.com
Pumpkintown USA SEPTEMBER 17 OCTOBER 31 10AM – 5PM Connecticut's premier "Not Scary" fall celebration is a small village by the name of Pumpkintown, where its inhabitants are over 70 Pumpkinheaded people and animals. Find out what life in Pumpkintown is like while on a hayride through the forest and explore their old fashioned village which includes a post office, saloon, church, and more! www.pumpkintown.com
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular OCTOBER 5 - NOVEMBER 5 View a nighttime display of over 5,000 jack-o-lanterns at Providence, Rhode Island's Roger William Park Zoo. The 2017 presentation titled, "American Treasures" highlights America's history and culture. Other areas of the trails include Humanitarian Heroes, Endangered Species, and more! www.rwpzoo.org
New Hampshire's 27th Great Pumpkin Festival OCTOBER 13-14 A two day, community based, family oriented Spooktacular that celebrates artistry and creativity the autumn way with over 20,000 Jack-O-Lanterns. Flaunt your Halloween spirit in your costume during the grand parade or by carving a pumpkin to be lit. Haunted attractions and amusement rides will also be there to for fall celebration! www.nhpumpkinfestival.com
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Post Time Memories
with Dennis G. Hogan
Playin' in the Band Another season of racing at historic Saratoga Race Course has come and gone; now instead of racing forms, it’s our memories we hold firmly in our hands: the foggy mornings and cool nights, the wins and losses, the parties and partings - all the sights and most notably: the sounds. For years I’ve walked the grounds, head buried in the program and in search of a live prospect; all the while a soundtrack of horns and fiddles, guitars and banjos played in the background. No doubt Saratoga attracts the finest horses, fittest jockeys and fattest purses – though its grand stage also makes room for some of the best musicians from the Capital District and beyond. Let’s take it from the top with the Spa’s longtime house band ‘Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers.’ “It’s a mixture of New Orleans traditional jazz, 1920’s hot jazz, and 30’s and 40’s swing jazz,” said founding member Don Dworkin, who along with multiinstrumentalist Peter Davis and trombone artiste Tom Shields form the core of the toe-tappin’est troupe to ever spring from the Spa.
(left to right) Don Dworkin, Danny Lipsitz, Tom Shields, Jeff Hughes, Peter Davis, and dancers Emily Vanston and Ray Davis ©Mike Brown Imagenation
partner Peter Davis. Peter recalls the early days.
“I sometimes play music and there’s a huge fan base for ‘swing’ over there. In Barcelona alone there are “Back in the 70’s I got a call. ‘I hear they’re looking for a banjo player over at the track,’ said a friend. So, six swing dance schools. The music is as American as it goes but it’s been exported all over the world.” I called the number he gave me and who picks up the phone but Harvey Pack.” Peter also has a bounty of charts to go over once track season ends. Allow me to solo a bit here Peter: for those not familiar with Harvey, he’s a much-beloved character of immense presence who may best be remembered as NYRA’s one-time resident handicapper and all-around ambassador of racing. Take it away Peter… “So Harvey says, ‘Alright, come over tomorrow and you can audition.’ Well, I planned on bringing over a fiddler and a guitar player, and I was playing bluegrass banjo at the time. We were rather hippiefied people and had dressed up in our best clothes, and Harvey said to us, ‘ok, play somethin’.’ “We did and Harvey scratched his head. ‘That’s bluegrass,’ said Harvey. I then realized he was looking for jazz banjo music. I knew one tune called “The World is Waiting for the Sunrise.” So I played that and Harvey said, ‘Alright, ya’ got the job. Now go home an’ get dressed and be back in two hours.’
“We thought we were dressed! We lived near the track and were able to borrow clothes from “We play music to make people happy – and to neighbors, but the next day Harvey took us dance. It’s takes a bit of talent to play but it doesn’t take talent to listen and be moved by it,” added Don. shopping and bought us red jackets and black pants and ties, and for the next ten years or so we played “We’re there to entertain people and color the day ‘old-timey’ and bluegrass music. with some good tunes.” Don is a Buffalo native who came to the Albany area to attend SUNY back in the 70’s. He’d already honed his chops playing in jug bands with improvised instruments, though it was in another project, ‘Doc Scanlon’s Rhythm Boys’, where he met long-time 174 | SIMPLY SARATOGA | FALL 2017
“Then in the mid-80’s, I got involved with ‘Reggie’s Red Hot Feetwarmers,’ and it’s been a little over 30 years that we’ve been at Saratoga.”
“I do a lot of school programs, arts and education residencies. I teach at Jay Unger and Molly Mason’s guitar camps, and I’m the director of the Flurry Festival, which brings about five thousand people from around the world to Saratoga Springs each winter to do traditional dancing. I also have a company that books all the other bands that play at the track throughout the Saratoga meet.” I wondered if Don and Peter, while making music elsewhere in the off-season, anticipate returning to the Spa and the ‘Feetwarmers.’ “Oh yeah,” said Don. “Once January hits we’re looking forward to that first day.” “I keep busy all year round,” admitted Peter. “But the minute you walk on the track it’s like you never left. And what’s great about ‘Reggie’s’ is we bring in top dancers, and Don brings in a number of accomplished players from cities like Boston and New York to play with us. It’s absolutely mind blowing to play with these people. I’m forever pinching myself that I get to play with such great musicians - I’m a very lucky guy.” And we’re all lucky to have the ‘Feetwarmers.’ Just the thought of them will keep you toasty in the winter, tappin’ your toes ‘til you’re back on the floor for yet another season at Saratoga. SS
During the off-season Don spends time at his second home in Barcelona, Spain. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
HISTORY
Our
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE GEORGE BOLSTER COLLECTION
FOR MORE ON THIS PHOTO SEE PAGE 178.
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MINERAL WATER:
Saratoga's Genie in a Bottle WRITTEN BY CHARLIE KUENZEL, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE GEORGE BOLSTER COLLECTION
AS THE TOP AMERICAN RESORT DESTINATION IN THE 1800s, Saratoga Springs built its reputation as a health resort on the famous mineral water that bubbled from the earth in the city. Our founding father, Gideon Putnam had set forth the rule that the water would always be free at the well, but bottling and selling the water for profit was a very accepted practice. Millions of bottles of our famous mineral water were shipped to many distant destinations, some as far away as China. The millions of bottles of mineral water that were shipped out of the city were our “calling card” to advertise the existence of this great resort destination. Since the trend in the 1800s was to re-use, the empty embossed lettered glass mineral water bottles lived on in many homes holding other fluids but always reminding the owner of the original contents and the source city of Saratoga Springs. All this bottling and shipping started with a man named John Clarke. At age
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50, Clarke moved to Saratoga Springs in the summer 1823 after a very successful career operating the first soda fountains in New York City in 1819. Clarke was a wealthy man when he arrived in our city and knew the carbonated beverage business when he purchased the Congress Spring. Clarke improved the Congress Spring site and then began to make plans to bottle the famous mineral water. He went into business with a man named Lynch and began the process of hand filling bottles with mineral water from the Congress Spring. The bottling process was operated year-round but suspended during the height of the tourist season to ensure a plentiful supply of water at the spring for daily visitors. By 1830 the bottles were being filled in the off season at a rate of a gallon a minute. These bottles had a cork applied that kept the natural carbonation in the bottle with the help of a wire basket (like champagne) to hold the cork in place. There was no automation available for this bottling process. The bottles were made by hand, filled by hand, and corked the same way. By the time we reached the later part saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
of the 1800s about 5-8 million bottles of mineral water were shipped each year from the city. It was John Clarke who set the standard for the bottling of mineral water in many ways. He determined that his beloved Congress Spring water would be sold in pint and quart sized bottles. He set the shape and color of the bottles, with raised embossed letters that advertised the name “Congress Spring,” and its source city of “Saratoga Springs” on the usual green or dark brown colored bottles. The color of the bottles was genius. The dark green color was helpful in two ways. The first was economic, with green glass being produced from less purified sand that had an amount of residual iron that made the process cheaper but the glass darker in color. This darker color was the second way that the bottles helped the sales. Since the mineral water was believed to be “medicinal” in nature it made sense that the dark container would protect the precise water from “denaturing” in strong sunlight, like medicine bottles of today. As well as saving money, the dark color produced a sense of confirmation for the medicinal value of the water.
Congress Water Bottle
In the early days of bottling the waters, the cost per bottle was important but as volume of sales increased the cost per bottle became the main way to increase profit margin. John Clarke approached glass blower Oscar Granger from Vernon, New York, to consider moving his glass bottle works to the Saratoga Springs area to cut down on transportation costs. A deal was finally worked out and the entire glass blowing factory was moved to the area north of the city on a mountain which is the location of present day Lake Desolation. The area was chosen not because it was easy to move the product down the mountain to the bottling plant, but because of the location of the source materials to produce the bottles. Sand and wood drove the decision. Sand was the main ingredient in glass and wood produced the heat for the furnaces that would melt the sand and allow the glass blowers to produce the bottles. The area near Lake Desolation had both. The mountain had a tremendous amount of hemlock which the Grangers loved as a fuel source and in that area the name, Sandhill Road, confirms the raw material for the glass bottles. One account shows the glass factory used 360 full cords of wood per year in their operations. Glass blowers would take a lump of molten glass from the furnace area using a four-foot-long blow pipe. The glass blower would roll and adjust the amount of glass until it was the right size and then place it inside a hinged mold for the bottle. Once inside the mold the blower would blow on the blow pipe to form the molten glass in the mold’s shape. After a short time, the artisan would open the mold to release the new bottle and then the worker would blow more glass to apply a lip to finish the bottle for shipment. It wasn’t until about 1900 before automation would make bottles with applied lips in one step. In the early days of Saratoga Springs there were only four naturally occurring mineral springs that were enjoyed by visitors. Once the idea of bottling and using the waters for baths was made popular, then drilling made the number of mineral springs rise to a high of 203 operating mineral springs. All 203 springs had a slightly different taste and mineral content. These differences meant that the potential for big profits existed if you had the water with the taste that most people enjoyed. The worst over-use of the water came from a series of drilled springs near the present-day Lincoln Bath building on South Broadway. The National Carbonic Company used these mineral springs as a source for carbon dioxide gas for urban soda fountains. The waters were pumped in large quantities and allowed to sit in silos until the gas was separated from the water, and then the water was dumped and gas was bottled for shipment. This process was repeated daily until the water table began to drop and many established mineral springs ran dry.
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In the early 1900s a group of concerned citizens in the city, led by Spencer Trask and Edgar Truman Brackett, helped to pass legislation to protect the mineral springs. Most of the 200 springs were capped to protect just 17 springs that were allowed to continue to operate in the city. Over time the water table recovered and the springs were saved. During this process the lands owned by the carbonation companies were confiscated and provided the space to start the building of the Saratoga Spa State Park and the protection of the mineral springs that defined our city from the beginning. SS
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Rarely Seen Photos of OLD SARATOGA Springs WRITTEN BY CHARLIE KUENZEL, PERMISSION FROM SARATOGA SPRINGS HISTORY MUSEUM SPECIAL THANKS TO CURATOR JOHN CONNERS, IMAGES FROM THE GEORGE S. BOLSTER COLLECTION
BRIDGE CONNECTING THE BALLROOM TO CONGRESS HALL
KENSINGTON HOTEL
Congress Hall was on the southeast corner of Broadway and Spring Street. It did not have on the site a ballroom like the other large hotels of the day. Later a ballroom was added for the guests of the Congress and was built on the northeast corner of Broadway and Spring Street. To make it easier and cleaner for the women of the day to go from the hotel to the ballroom, this bridge was erected above an unpaved Spring Street.
For most of the 1800s the large hotels on Broadway dominated the discussions of Saratoga summer guests, but there were many other wonderful hotels in the city. The Kensington was located on north side of Union Avenue between Circular Street and Regent Street. Larger version on page 175.
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GRAND UNION HOTEL SEEN FROM CONGRESS PARK
The area in the foreground was the original site of the Congress Hall Hotel. The hotel was torn down in 1911. You can see that the 77th NY Regimental Monument has been moved from its original Broadway site to the park and the construction of the Spencer Trask/Spirit of Life memorial with the Spirit of Life has been completed. The Grand Union Hotel is a huge structure in the distance.
COLUMBIAN SPRING • 1859
The Columbian Spring was located, as today, in Congress Park. It was recorded that his image shows many summer visitors from southern states in the year 1859. Hundreds of people visited the spring daily as part of the “health regiment” of the day. Although the nearby Congress Spring was the most popular morning spring in the city, all the springs saw daily usage. saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Mac finN drug company #
5 IN THE SERIES...
WRITTEN BY CAROL GODETTE, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE GEORGE BOLSTER COLLECTION
1932
The interior of the original store was an elegant mixture of marble, glass and wood. Drugs were compounded at the rear of the store. Like most drugstores of the time, a soda fountain was a necessity. Pharmacists could make medicine more palatable to children by mixing it with flavored syrups. Note the upstairs office where Minnie Foster, office manager, did the books and banking.
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1938 The original Mac Finn Drug Company, located at 396 Broadway, opened in 1916.
1933
This 1933 photo captures the thought that went into store front windows.
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1942
Many local women such as Irma Mintzer shopped exclusively at Mac Finn’s for Elizabeth Arden products. Elizabeth Arden herself designed some of the eye catching window displays. Here's one from March 1942.
1957
The January 27, 1957 Broadway fire destroyed the block of Broadway from Mac Finn’s at 396, north to 418 Broadway. Milton and Charlie Mintzer, owners of Mac Finn’s, relocated the store to 402 Broadway.
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Drugs, Fire & COKE: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Mac Finn Drug Company
1 It was named after a large statured
Scottsman by the first name of Mac and the last name of Finn.
2 Milton and Charlie Mintzer from Catskill,
New York bought the store in July 1954 so they could live near their brother, Dr. Joseph Mintzer, a pediatrician new to Saratoga Springs. The brothers remained very close, frequently spent time together golfing and volunteering at their synagogue.
3 It was truly a family operation. The Mintzer's
retired dad, Julius, worked as the deliveryman. Employees who weren’t family became extended family to the Mintzers. After working at Mac Finn’s for 25 years, pharmacy technician Shirley Schultz considers the Mintzers her family.
4 Mac Finn’s had exclusive rights to sell Russell Stover candy. As a high school student seasonal employee, niece Loretta Mintzer Ostrov recalls their best selling Christmas gift - Russell Stover boxed chocolates.
5 Elizabeth Arden – famous for changing the
face of women’s cosmetics with a high end line of beauty products – personally designed some of the window displays. Shirley Schultz reports that Elizabeth even waited on customers during one of her visits.
6 Mac Finn’s was one of 6 “mom and pop”
1957
This January 28, 1957 photo displays the remains of the Mac Finn Drug Co. following the devastating Broadway fire. The Mintzers were only able to salvage a large glass vase and a wooden filing shelf. They maintained a Broadway location at 402 Broadway until May 1992. They then consolidated their business to their second location at 212 Lake Avenue. The Mintzers closed their mom and pop operation on Lake Avenue in June 1999. (photo courtesy of Saratoga Room, Saratoga Springs Public Library)
Stuart Mintzer, Milton's son, explains... “The dog, Barney, was my dad’s favorite and often came to the store to visit and hang out”
independent pharmacies servicing Saratoga Springs. These independents bonded together and acted cooperatively rather than competitively to help each other out. Wells Pharmacy and Menges and Curtis would lend the Mintzers medication if they needed it for a customer.
7 The Mac Finn’s soda fountain at 396 Broadway
was a favorite teen stop serving up the best vanilla cokes.
8 Prescription delivery was free. Sometimes
Julius would travel miles into the country to get people their medication.
9 Bricks from the Mac Finn building killed patrolman Fredrick Pettit during a sudden explosion in the early morning hours of the historic January 27, 1957 Broadway fire.
10 As a result of the fire, the store relocated
to 402 Broadway, now home to Uncommon Grounds. They also ran a second location on the corner of Lake and Granger Avenues.
Photo circa 1970s provided by Stuart Mintzer
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Behind the Scenes
Cover credit...
Fall 2017 Cover Shoot
LOCATION: As you can see from these beautiful BTS pics from Alice Corey, this Dave Trojanski built, Bonacio Construction home provided the ideal backdrop for our cover shoot… inviting, spacious and so sunny - just perfect! This home is #10 on the tour and is located at Pine Brook Landing, 2 Rose Terrace, Saratoga Springs. INTERIOR DESIGNER: Shelly Walker, Finishing Touches Home Décor & More COVER GIRL: Liz Bishop, CBS6 News Anchor HAIR STYLIST: Jaysie Walts, Hair Creations MAKE UP STYLIST: Carina Scott Makeup
Thank you E EVERYONautiful
er be for anoth of Homes se ca Show V CO ER!
WARDROBE: Pam Worth, Spoken Boutique (for both Liz and Chris) PRODUCED BY: Chris Vallone Bushee BTS PHOTOS: Alice Corey Photography COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Randall Perry Photography
Thanks, Randall - we did it! Pam getting phone pics!
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From left to right: Carina Scott Antonucci, Jaysie Walts, Pam Worth, Chris Vallone Bushee, Randall Perry, Shelly Walker, Julie Gracz, Lisa Licata …and Barry Potoker
Carina & Jaysie adding the finishing touches!
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