Photo by Eric Soderquist
by Dave Waite | Sponsored by The Saratoga County History Roundtable
Contact The Saratoga County History Roundtable at: saratogacohistoryroundtable@gmail.com
In April of 1930, the gates of the Conklingville Dam closed for the first time, beginning the process of flooding 27 miles of the Sacandaga Valley to create a new body of water that would provide both recreation and power to the region. While it was already being called Sacandaga Reservoir, there was another name being considered, one that would honor the chief engineer of the project, forty-five-yearold Edward Haynes Sargent. A graduate of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sargent had started working for New York State as a surveyor in 1911. He had been involved with the reservoir project since its beginning and oversaw the construction of the Conklingville Dam.
It was a reasonable proposal to have his name attached to the body of water he had created. In an interview years after this project was completed, Sargent’s son, Edward H. Sargent, Jr., reminisced that one of his father’s favorite stories was of a state legislator who jokingly suggested that he would “be glad to see the name stick” if the engineer would cooperate by passing away. Though his name was never used, Edward Sargent lived another 20 years, passing away at the age of 69 in 1954. Engraved on his gravestone in the Edinburgh Cemetery there is a map of the reservoir he helped create.
In the months before the closing of the dam, local newspapers had been reporting the growing controversy over a name for the reservoir. During this time thousands of suggestions had been proposed, some good, and some of questionable merit. Here are some examples from Letters to the Editor published in the Gloversville Morning Herald:
I would like to suggest Hudsondaga Lake as a name. Earl Davis
Why not name it “Lake Adirondack”? A.P.W., Gloversville
“Memory Lake.” Mrs. L. W. Cole, Johnstown
For a name with a higher sounding, I suggest “Greater Sacandaga” Mrs. W. Sprung, Gloversville
“Sir William Johnson Lake” Miss Lucy J. Sinclair, Summer-house near Fish-House
In February of 1930, Tracy R. Howard of Ormond, Florida, a subscriber to the Morning Herald with property on the newly
created shoreline, brought up the idea of having a formal vote for the new name. At first, the newspaper rejected the idea, pointing out both the extra work it would put on their staff, as well as the fact that naming the lake was not a decision local citizens were being offered.
When the newspaper saw that the controversy over Sargent Lake was not diminishing, on June 24th they began printing a voting coupon each day that could be sent into their office to be tallied. Offering only the choice of Lake Sacandaga or Sargent Lake, the votes that came in on the first day were 118 for Sacandaga, and none for Sargent.
At the same time as the ballots were being distributed, Frank Rogers, the manager of the paper filed an application with the state submitting “Lake Sacandaga” as the official name of the lake created by the impounding of the Sacandaga River. While the Hudson River District Regulating Board was pushing for Sargent Lake, the decision was in the hands of the New York State Department of Education’s Committee on Geographic Names. While a state law had been passed giving the Education Department authority “over the naming of mountains, and other natural features,” there were questions raised if that included artificial bodies of water such as a reservoir.
To establish the public interest in the naming of this new lake, Rogers accompanied the application with a letter to committee secretary Arnold van Laer, and also published in the June 23, 1930, Gloversville Herald, that concluded with this obvious preference for a name:
I am sending part of the clippings of communications sent to our newspapers during the period when the whole countryside took an interest in offering suggestions for names. You will find a large variety, the majority, I believe, favoring “Lake Sacandaga.” You may have noted that newspapers in Ballston, Amsterdam, Albany, Troy, and Schenectady, gave editorial comments upon the fact that “Lake Sacandaga” is the most fitting name for this body of water, Yours sincerely, The Leader Republican Herald, Frank L. Rogers, General Manager.
At the end of the first week of voting the voice of the people was clearly calling for Lake Sacandaga. Each day hundreds of ballots were coming into the newspaper office,
with the tally so far being 2136 to 12. The voting closed on July 3rd with a final 380 votes placed into the hands of the Leader Herald. Soon headlines like this one from the Glens Falls Times were proclaiming “Almost Unanimous for Lake Sacandaga.” While it was certainly written to catch the reader’s eye, it expressed the truth as Lake Sacandaga amassed 3177 votes to only 19 for Sargent Lake.
It would take the State of New York six months to make a final decision, announcing in February of 1931 that the name would be Sacandaga Reservoir. With all of the talk about an Education Department committee making the decision, it seems that in reality, the final say was always in the hands of the Hudson River Regulating Board, with clear proof given in their announcement of this decision when they stated “the new reservoir will remain Sacandaga reservoir, as it has been known ever since the reservoir project was proposed.” For the next 30 years, everyone settled into calling this new body of water “Sacandaga Reservoir,” with the next proposed change again coming from the group that had chosen the first name.
On June 5, 1960, the Albany Times Union ran an article with the headline ‘Reservoir’ Name Scares Vacationers: Sacandaga Name Change Eyed. The Hudson River Regulating Board now merged into the Black River-Hudson River Regulating Board, proposed making the name “Great Sacandaga Lake,” removing the often-misunderstood designation as a reservoir. They hoped that through this change boaters, fishermen and others looking for recreation would not assume that this body of water was closed to the public like many similarly named bodies of water across the northeast.
This new name, Great Sacandaga Lake, became official in 1968 through a bill signed by Governor Nelson Rockefeller. In the announcement, the Great Sacandaga was called “one of the last and most popular unspoiled vacation lands in the Northeast.
In the 56 years that have passed since this change, this body of water has provided countless thousands with opportunity for swimming, boating, and many other forms of outdoor recreation, and through the work of so many now and in the future the Great Sacandaga Lake will continue to hold its place a premiere attraction for many generations to come.
fun for the entire family, with music, raffles, craft show, food trucks, beverages and bounce houses. Live music will be presented over three nights and one afternoon featuring local and regional talent of various genres.
LAKE GEORGE — Kelly’s Angels presents four days of music, food, crafts and more when Kelly’s Angels’ SummerLovin’ Funfest returns to Lake George July 18-21.
The event will take place at Shepard Park on the Lake George waterfront, to raise money for the Kelly’s Angels mission of helping children and families as they deal with the loss of a loved one, serious illness or significant adversity.
The event will include free
Admission is free and the Funfest schedule will include the return of the amazing nighttime drone lights show over Lake George on Thursday, July 18.
BAND LINEUP
• Thursday, July 18 – 6 p.m.
The Newell Family. 7:30 p.m.
Funk Evolution
• Friday, July 19 – 6 p.m.
Dirt Cheap. 7:30 p.m. E.B. JEB
• Saturday, July 20 – 5 p.m. Sundance. 7:30 p.m. Big Sky Country.
• Sunday, July 21 – 2 p.m.
Doubletap
Now in its 14th year, Kelly’s Angels has brought
much-needed joy to hundreds of Capital Region children who have lost a parent or primary caregiver to cancer or other illness or event. Founded by NewsChannel 13 anchor/ reporter Mark Mulholland in memory of his wife who passed away at the age of 37, Kelly’s Angels has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants and scholarships to Capital Region children and families.
Kelly’s Angels - a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit - gives Fun Grants to children who have lost a parent, primary caregiver, or sibling to cancer, and the grants allow kids to buy something special or visit a place that makes them happy. “Angel Aid” helps families struggling with expenses related to lifethreatening illness, and “Angel Hugs” are a single, modest grant to remind a surviving parent that
they are not alone. Kelly’s Angels also provides college scholarships to area students who have overcome adversity and shown a commitment to helping other children, and the organization’s “Hugs for Ukraine” program has provided grants to Ukrainian
families who were forced to flee their war-torn country.
For more information, go to: Check www.kellysangelsinc. org/summerlovin, or email: KellysAngelsInc@gmail.com.
GREENFIELD CENTER —
John R. Relyea, age 69, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Saratoga Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 19, 1955, in Saratoga Springs, NY, John was the beloved son of the late John A. Relyea and Florence E. Pratt Relyea. He spent many years as a respected plumber with the Local 773 Union in Glens Falls, earning a reputation for his dedication and hard work.
John loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed weekend car rides with his two sisters exploring Vermont and the North Country. He was also affectionately known as a member of the Grumpy Old Man Club. As an enthusiastic outdoorsman, he embraced the activities of every season. His happiest times were spent
riding his Harley, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, boating or relaxing at the cabin. His love for music and his vibrant personality always made him the life of the party.
John is survived by his son, Jeremy Relyea (Samantha); his daughters, Kristen Marotta (Joseph) and Eryn DuMoulin (Tyrel Hempstead); his sisters, Lisa Marshall (Raymond Alguire) and Nancy Engestrom (Richard); his grandchildren, Natalie Relyea, Keeley Marotta, Cole Marotta, Hudson Marotta, Hunter DuMoulin, Layla DuMoulin, Cameron Kenny and Tyler Lally; great-grandson Lane Clements; as well as many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
There will be a church service at The First Baptist Church of Saratoga, 45 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs on July 27th at 10 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 27th at 2 p.m. at Jeremy Relyea’s home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., located at 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Condolences may be shared at www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— Dorothy Lee (Smith) Sanders passed away on July 5, 2024. She was 90 years old. Dorothy was a resident of Saratoga Springs for 63 years. Her beloved husband of 65 years, Gordon Sanders, predeceased her in 2020. They owned and operated The Style Shop, women’s and children’s clothing stores in Ballston Spa, Mechanicville and Schuylerville for forty years. Dorothy was a lifelong member and volunteer at Congregation Shaara Tfille of Saratoga Springs. She was a lifelong member and volunteer for Hadassah International. She
WILTON — James W. Parker died June 26, 2024. A service was held on July 2 at Compassionate Funeral Care followed by a graveside service with military honors at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
was born and raised in Troy, New York, and graduated from Troy High School in 1952. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in New York City until marrying Gordon and joining him while he served in the Army in Germany.
She is survived by her loving family, two sons, Garrett Sanders of Delmar, NY (Jane Sanders) and Barry Sanders, Andover, MA (Patricia Sanders), two grandsons, Michael Sanders of Denver, CO (Jessica Solomon Sanders) and Jeremy Sanders of Baltimore, MD (Jessica Smolarz Sanders) and two great-granddaughters, Rebecca Goldie of Denver and Eva Jean of Baltimore.
Dorothy’s many friends and caregivers crossed generations and backgrounds, and she
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Robert Kriser, died June 26, 2024. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, July 19 at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
SARATOGA SPRINGS — It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen Bickelhaupt, who left us on August 22, 2023. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 12 at Greenridge Cemetery, 17 Green Ridge Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
made lasting connections with everyone she met.
A funeral service was held on Monday July 8 at Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Burial followed in the Jewish Community Center Cemetery. Donations in Dorothy’s memory may be made to Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Online remembrances may be made at www. burkefuneralhome.com
WILTON — Robert Lawrence passed away July 8, 2024. Calling hours will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16 at Compassionate Funeral Care followed by a graveside service with military honors at 1:30 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
GANSEVOORT — Donald Kenneth Bouton peacefully passed away July 2, 2024. Calling hours were held July 8 at Compassionate Funeral Care followed by a funeral service. A graveside service was on July 9 at Gansevoort Cemetery. Visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
Lorenzo J. Parker, 28, of Schenectady, was sentenced to 2-1/2 years in a state correction facility and 1 year post-release supervision, after pleading to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth-degree, charged February 2022 in Clifton Park.
Annmarie Balzano, 54, of Ballston Spa, pleaded to felony DWI, charged June 2023 in Malta. Sentencing Sept. 19.
Cedric D. Sanchez, 28, of Yonkers, N.Y., pleaded to attempted burglary in the second-degree, charged in Milton. Sentencing Aug. 2.
Matthew G. Peck, 46, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded to felony DWI, charged November 2023 in Milton. Sentencing Aug. 16.
Lacey C. Weber, 46, of Stillwater, was sentenced to 5 days incarceration / 5 years probation, after pleading to felony DWI, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, charged August 2022 in Mechanicville.
Tyrone T. Carter, 37, of Troy, pleaded to felony burglary, charged October 2023 in Waterford. Sentencing Aug. 29.
The Sheriff’s Office attempted to perform a traffic stop on Church Hill Road in the Town of Halfmoon. After initially stopping his vehicle, Steven L. Devlin, 42, of Chohoes, allegedly fled from patrols, resulting in a low speed vehicle pursuit. The pursuit of Devlin travelled into the Town of Waterford, the City of Troy and subsequently onto 787 in the City of Cohoes where he was stopped and taken into custody. It is alleged that during the pursuit Mr. Devlin intentionally struck a marked Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle. He was taken into custody and charged with the listed offenses: Driving while intoxicated, Failure to yield the right of way to an emergency vehicle, Aggravated unlicensed operation, Circumventing an ignition interlock device. Devlin was processed and released with traffic and appearance tickets, and is scheduled to appear in Halfmoon Town Court at a later date.
The Sheriff’s Office responded to Home Depot in the Town of Halfmoon for a report of larceny. Following an investigation, Daniel R. Jennings Jr., 33, of Halfmoon, was arrested and charged with Grand Larceny 4th (Class E Felony). It is alleged that Jennings stole merchandise from the store valued at over
$1,700. He was arraigned in Halfmoon Town Court by Town Justice Federa and remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility without bail. He is scheduled to appear in Halfmoon Town Court at a later date.
The Sheriff’s Office responded to an active burglary on Schauber Road in the town of Clifton Park. As a result of the investigation into the complaint, Shaun A. Sheriff, 32, of Ballston Lake was arrested and charged with burglary in the 2nd degree (class C felony) and grand larceny in the 4th degree (class E felony). Sheriff is accused of entering and remaining unlawfully within a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime therein and of stealing credit cards belonging to the homeowner. He was sent to the Saratoga County Jail in lieu of bail, bond, or partially secured bond pending further action in the matter.
The Sheriff’s Office arrested Kaila M. Pascarella, 34, of Troy on a warrant issued by the Wilton Town Court for grand larceny in the 4th degree (class E felony) and conspiracy in the 5th degree (class A misdemeanor). Pascarella is accused of stealing property from Walmart in the town of Wilton on January 1, 2023, and of agreeing with one or more persons to engage in or cause the commission of
a felony. She was released on an appearance ticket pending further action in the matter in Wilton court.
Investigation into a crash on Goode Road in Milton led to the arrest of Morgan E. McGrath, 23, Ballston Spa charged with aggravated unlicensed operation
of a motor vehicle in the 1st degree (class E felony), DWI, and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08% or greater (unclassified misdemeanors). Additional charges included operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated with a revoked driver’s license.
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2254 Route 50 South Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Phone: 518-581-2480 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
BALLSTON SPA —
The Saratoga County Career Center in conjunction with the Greater Capital Region Career Centers will hold the following free virtual career workshops during July:
July 18 at 11AM: Completing Job Applications. Statistics show approximately 50% of mid-sized companies and almost all large corporations use an applicant tracking system to screen candidates for job opportunities. Learn how to prepare your online application to get the most visibility from hiring managers.
July 19 at 10:30AM: Networking. Networking is your strategic tool for cultivating lasting relationships, fostering professional growth, and unlocking opportunities. Join us for an approachable journey to understanding networking.
July 23 at 11AM: Overcoming Barriers. Join an informal discussion about how
to overcome potential stumbling blocks to finding a job. Whether you’re facing transportation needs, childcare needs, prior justice system involvement, inexperience, health concerns or more, this workshop will provide you with resources and strategies to help you meet your goals.
July 23 at 1:30PM: Social Media. Your social media presence can make or break your ability to find a job. Learn how to use social media to your advantage in searching for a job and marketing yourself to land the job or career you’ve always wanted.
Registration is required for all workshops. Visit https:// thejoblink.org/calendar/ to register or call the Saratoga County Career Center at 518884-4170 for more information. The workshops are offered as part of the Saratoga County Career Center’s WorkPays! workforce education campaign.
GLENS FALLS — The 14th season of the popular summer event, ‘Take a Bite,’ starts on Wednesday, July 10, and will run every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. through Aug. 14, announced.
During the event, restaurants take to the sidewalks to offer affordably priced “small plate” menu items.
Enjoy the beauty of Glens Falls, while experiencing the best of downtown restaurants and retailers, including live music, a bounce house, and good
company, according to presenter the Glens Falls Collaborative.
Adult beverages maybe enjoyed outdoors along Glen Street, which will be closed off during the event.
For more details and performance lineup, follow Downtown Glens Falls on Facebook.
The event is sponsored and supported by the Glens Falls Collaborative, City of Glens Falls, the Glens Falls BID, Advokate, and the Take A Bite Committee.
BALLSTON SPA — The Saratoga County History Center has announced its popular county-wide walking tour program for the 2024 season, which will be held on Wednesdays in July and September in locations throughout Saratoga County.
Great Ladies Tour. Dr. Hollis Palmer. July 17 10 am.This tour along North Broadway in Saratoga Springs will be led by the retired educator and popular local author of 16 books on Saratoga and its environs. The tour will be based on stories from his book “Saratoga’s Great
Ladies” focusing on the families that lived in the Victorian mansions along this broad avenue. Palmer will be offering his books for sale at the end of the tour.
LakeHill Road Burnt Hills.
Rick Reynolds July 31 10 am. Ballston Town Historian Rick Reynolds will be returning to take tour attendees on a 2-mile stroll and hear tales of the farms, stores, schools and a wallpaper factory along Lakehill Road. Rick will look back into history, but also peer into the future of Burnt Hills. A bus will bring walkers back to their cars at Stevens School after the tour.
Hudson Crossing Park. Kate Morse and Mike Biekiewicz Sept. 11 at 1pm. Executive Director Kate Morse and local historian Mike Biekiewicz we lead an easy, one mile walk of the Park located at Lock 5 on the Champlain canal north of Schuylerville. This tour will explore the history of the area from its inhabitation by the First Nations to the Burgoyne
invasion on 1777 and the impact of the canal on the community during the 19th century. They will also discuss the challenges of working as environmental steward along the waterway.
Corinth Rural Cemetery. Rachel Clothier Sept. 25 1pm. Corinth Town Historian Rachel Clothier will explore the stories behind the gravestones at this cemetery located on Route 9N as you enter the village. From soldiers and sailors to merchants and miscreants, attendees will discover a sampling of the people who have lived in Corinth over two centuries. Rachel will also discuss the consolidation of other earlier cemeteries into this large cemetery.
Registration is available at the History Center’s website https://brooksidemuseum. org/ Suggested donations for the tours are $10. Specific directions will be available upon registration.
“4th of July Love”
Now is your chance to get your photos published! Email your photo to: Design@SaratogaPublishing.com
BALLSTON SPA — The annual Saratoga County Fair runs from Tuesday, July 23 through Sunday, July 28.
The annual Saratoga County Fair features hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of exhibits, a wide variety of foods, live music, special show attractions and spectacular midway rides.
Established in 1841, the Saratoga County Fair is presented by the Saratoga County
Agricultural Society, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Each year the Fair provides visitors with an engaging and entertaining opportunity to connect with Saratoga County’s rich agricultural heritage.
Fair hours are TuesdaySaturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Fairgrounds & Expo Center is located at 162 Prospect St. Ballston Spa.
A full program of 2024
Saratoga County Fair events and attractions is now available online at the Saratoga County Fair website at https:// saratogacountyfair.org/events/. Admission, tickets, parking and other information is available on the Fair’s homepage https:// saratogacountyfair.org/. For more information contact the Saratoga County Fair Office at 518-885-9701.
by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS —
The following proposed projects are under consideration for review by the Saratoga Springs Design Review Commission this week.
-The proposed partial
demolition and reconstruction of 140 Grand Ave., a Greek Revival-style home originally built in 1850. The proposed project includes tearing down two-thirds of the existing building, while preserving the original structure. The proposal was first brought to the DRC in December 2023.
- The Saratoga Regional
YMCA is seeking the demolition of a “vacant, dilapidated and dangerous house” it had acquired at 300 West Ave., according to documents filed with the city on July 3. The 1940s era bungalow with approximately 850 square feet of living space is described as being in extensive disrepair
internally and externally and detrimental to the property value of neighbors.
-A Historic Review is under review this week by the Saratoga Springs Design Review Board regarding the installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations alongside the Hilton.
The applicant is 534 Saratoga Broadway, LP.
-RISE Housing and Support Services is seeking Architectural Review of second floor addition / level 3 alteration of property at 127 Union Ave. RISE acquired the parcel in 1998, according to documents filed with the city.
BALLSTON SPA —
The towns of Moreau, Northumberland and Stillwater received a total of $604,306 in funding to Preserve Farmland and Open Space in Saratoga County, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors announced July 2. The funding will preserve approximately 200 acres of open space and farmland this year.
“The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors is proud of our efforts to preserve more than 6,000 acres of open space and farmland over the past 20 years allowing the exponential
expansion of our parks and recreation network,” Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett said in a statement. “We have proactively invested in preserving a balance between our preservation efforts and economic development to ensure sustainable growth that nourishes both our economy and the environment.”
Specifically, the 2024 award recipients are:
The Town of Moreau received a grant award of $38,203 for Open Space Preservation of the Kropp-Rowson Palmertown
Ridge for the preservation of approximately 81-acres of mixed forest and meadowed property.
The Town of Northumberland received a grant award of $382,771 for Farmland Protection of the Butler Family Farm for the protection of approximately 75-acres of cropland.
The Town of Stillwater received a grant award of $183,332 for Farmland Protection of the Tanner Ridge Farm for the protection of approximately 47.10-acres of equestrian farmland.
by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— Colors were presented, and anthems sung. Words of prayer were spoken, and local political leaders sat to join about 100 other attendees in the hot summer sun to celebrate the city’s unveiling of its long-awaited opening of Fire Station no. 3 this week.
“It’s been over 20 years in the making – and some would argue it’s been over 30,” former Chief Joseph Dolan noted on an August afternoon in 2022 when the ceremonial shovels first broke ground on Henning Road. On July 9, 2024, the new fire station was officially declared open for business.
Aaron Dyer, current Acting Chief of the Saratoga Springs Fire Department, watched as nine of his firefighters physically muscled a 38,000-pound engine truck back in to its bay. The activity is a practice that dates back to the early 19th century days of the then-Village of Saratoga Springs, when a group of local volunteers first got organized with a mission of fighting fires.
“It’s a tradition that dates back to when fire equipment was pulled around by horsedrawn carriages,” Dyer explained. “When firefighters returned from service, they would unhook the horses and then have to manually push
that fire carriage or trailer back into the fire station to get it prepared for the next call for service,” he said.
The city’s two other existing stations were both built in the 20th century and are located, respectively, on Lake Avenue in the downtown district, and on West Avenue on the city’s west side.
The location of Station 3, which stands directly behind Saratoga Race Course, provides rapid access to the north-and-south running Northway, the east-west running state Route 29, and will dramatically improve the response times to the city’s eastern ridge.
The city of Saratoga Springs is comprised of approximately 29 total square miles, with about 13,400 housing units and a population of just under 29,000, according to the Department of Public Safety’s annual report released in March 2024. In 2023, the Saratoga Springs Fire Department responded to 6,990 calls for service - a 9.2% increase compared to 2022.
The $8.7 million Station 3 stands on land donated by NYRA and includes an apparatus bay and support/ administrative area with a 1,500 sq. ft. mezzanine, according to details provided by the Hueber-Breuer Construction Company. It includes a kitchen, a fitness room, a classroom and also houses the Saratoga County Hazmat vehicle.
“With this building we also have an emergency operation center which gives us the ability to oversee and handle any large incident in the city or the county if the need arises,” Dyer said.
The station houses one engine and an ambulance staffed 24 hours a day, a reserve ladder truck as well as the county hazmat truck. Six firefighters work at the station daily. Overall, 84 firefighters work in the city’s three stations, which are open 24/7. To best provide coverage for the city, a total of 112 to 115 firefighters would be ideal, Dryer said, and the process
of staffing the city’s three firehouses is ongoing.
City Supervisor Michele Madigan served as Saratoga Springs Finance Commissioner from 2012-2021, when the city made the push to turn thoughts of an eastside station into a reality. “It was a long time coming,” Madigan said. “We put the financing in place in 2019, and we are finally now seeing the fruition of our labor coming true.”
Regarding the county’s commitment, City Supervisor Matt Veitch said the county pays for the supplies and service calls made that involve the hazmat team. “With a
little bit of negotiation and a little bit of discussion, the county board approved $300,000 toward this project – essentially the cost of a bay for one of the vehicles which would be our hazmat vehicle,” Veitch said.
“The individuals who are called on to do the work, to face those things that are unknown, are willing to put their lives on the line for all of us,” city Mayor John Safford said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “I think we need to keep in mind that it’s the willingness of people to do this that makes a city work.”
SCHUYLERVILLE — The Schuylerville Garden Club will present its annual National Garden Club Inc. Standard Flower Show entitled “A Little Bit Country” 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, and noon – 4 p.m. Sunday, July 21 at Saratoga Town Hall, 12 Spring St. (corner of Spring & Broad) in Schuylerville, NY.
There will be Floral Design, Horticulture and Artistic Crafts competitions which will be judged by trained judges. A Photography division will be judged by the people attending
the show. The public is invited to submit photos to the photo division and horticulture specimens to the horticulture division. See the website for details. All divisions reflect the “Country” theme.
The Schuylerville Garden Club, established in 1938, has presented many annual Flower Shows and won numerous national and state garden club awards for the shows.
Admission and refreshments are free. For more information, visit: www. schuylervillegardenclub.org.
Lynn Joyce sold property at 88 Beacon St to Elizabeth Demuro for $400,000
Adrianne Abbruzzese sold property at 67 Cornerstone Dr to Marjorie Young for $366,000
US Bank Trust NA as Trust sold property at 56 Ballston Ave to Olivia Mannion for $325,000
Eastline Holdings LLC sold property at 8 Aspen Dr to TongCheng Chen for $536,069
American Estate and Trust sold property at 151 Kingsley Rd to Susan Messere for $200,000
Bernard Ingram sold property at 17 Everson Way to Michal Pastore for $549,000
Carey Mann sold property at 18 Pine St to William Freeman for $200,000
William Nikas sold property at 241 Hunt Lake Rd to Luke Nikas for $225,000
Thomas McDonough sold property at 192 Thimbleberry Rd to Alexander Ely for $360,000
838 Rentals LLC sold property at 29 Cedarwood Dr. to Matthew Jacques for $420,000
Jason Barry sold property at 40 Larkspur Dr to Elyn Schwartz for $400,000
Oppertune Time LLC sold
property at 1059 Middle Line Rd to Kaydeross Construction Company for $100,000
Richard Hammell sold property at 16 Glen St to Skyrock Properties LLC for $273,500
Heather Capuano sold property at 548 Acland Blvd to Michael Mistretta for $440,000
Jennifer Pratt sold property at 247 Wilbur Rd to Michael Crook for $324,900
Jeffrey Daszewski sold property at 109 Chelsea Dr to Emmanuel Maillet for $575,000
Darryl De Haas sold property at Lot 18 Walden Dr to Eric Chen for $217,500
Deanna Scannell sold property at 168 Clinton St to Laura Mullen for $645,000
Jeffrey Greenhouse sold property at 24 Tompion Lane to George Yund for $315,000
Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St # 465 to Linda Pace for $1,500,000
Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St # 264 to Daniel Lill for $936,000
Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St # 463 to Adelphi Condo THR LLC for $900,000
James Fulmer sold property at 104 Van Dam St to Alexander Kendall for $420,000
Weng Jian Qin sold property at 135 Church St to Daniel Sullivan for $805,000
Andrew Yin sold property at 77 Van Dam St 202 to Michael Crislip for $386,000
Bolen Builders sold property at 372-376 Lake Ave to Herman Exterior Homes LLC for $720,000
Saratoga National Bank and Trust Co sold property at 91 West Ave to Stewart’s Shops Corp for $1,100,000
Saratoga Wilton Group LLC sold property at 2,4,6,8,12,13,14-17 Eastpointe Dr to Pigliavento Assoc. LLC for $1,650,000.
Sean Belfry sold property at 12 Shuvee Lane to BGRS Relocation Inc for $505,000
BGRS Relocation sold property at 12 Shuvee Lane to Addison Schmidt for $505,000
James Parillo sold property at 847 Route 9 to Holy Moses Land Holdings LLC for $330,000
Walter Kozak sold property at 4288 Rt 50 to Church on 50 LLC for $228,000
Jason Marcello sold property at 10 Lakeview Dr to James Whalen for $515,000
Ronald Taylor sold property at 25 Foxhound run to Steven O’Brien for $2,050,000.
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— As visitors fill up downtown hotels for the start of track season, less than four miles away, Hotel Brookmere is buzzing with activity. Construction workers scattered across the 90,000-square-foot property only have about five months left until opening day, and there’s still plenty of work to be done before guests can arrive and kick their feet up.
Come December, this
active construction site will transform into what Brookmere General Manager Julian Miller called an “all-encompassing resort where folks can get everything right here.”
Nestled on nearly 10 acres of tree-filled land (the former home of Longfellows Hotel & Restaurant), the 88-room luxury hotel will include a ballroom, courtyard, outdoor swimming pool, and fitness center. But the two jewels of the property will probably be the appropriatelynamed Arbor Spa, and Regent, a French restaurant and bar that Miller said would be “approachable” and “not stuffy.”
“We want the restaurant and the ballroom and the event spaces to really feel like the living room of Saratoga, in a way,” said Amber Mathias, director of project management at Bonacio Construction. “We want people to come here and for this to be their go-to choice.”
Unlike some of the bustling accommodations on Broadway, Brookmere advertises itself as a tranquil retreat. The hotel’s interior design “plays with upstate New York and the change of the seasons,” Mathias said. The ballroom and lobby will have a blue, wintery vibe. The restaurant area will be brighter, invoking summertime. The guest rooms will have an autumnal feel, with green walls, dark brown furniture, and stag-covered wallpapers that bring the Adirondacks to mind.
Indeed, nature is a recurring theme throughout the property. Step outside the spa where the swimming pool will be and you’ll find the entrance to a nature trail. Launch a golf ball towards the trees and it might land on a fairway at the Saratoga National Golf Club. Stroll towards the golf course and you’ll come upon Lake Lonely, which borders the property.
The amount of space at Brookmere, both inside and out, might be its defining feature when compared to other Saratoga hotels. So it’s probably no surprise that Miller is already booking events scheduled for next year.
“People are already looking
at Belmont next summer. People are already looking at racing season events. And weddings, we’ve already had 2026 inquiries,” Miller said.
Although the hotel won’t be open until December, guests may be able to start booking rooms as soon as August. Brookmere will also be working on beefing up its staff in the coming months. Miller said he expects the hotel to hire around 90-100 employees. Positions are currently open for executive-level staffers.
To learn more about Hotel Brookmere, visit www. hotelbrookmere.com, or follow their recently-launched social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Silver Therapeutics, a cannabis company co-owned by a Saratoga Springs resident, opened the first recreational dispensary in the city last Friday on Weibel Avenue.
“We wanted to be first,” said Brendan McKee, a co-founder of Silver Therapeutics. “We wanted to be in the community as soon as we could.”
Beating other companies to the punch while navigating New York’s regulatory requirements was a challenge, McKee said, but no more daunting than dealing with the requirements in other nearby states such as Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont, where Silver Therapeutics collectively owns six other locations. McKee said that he tells aspiring dispensary owners that opening a shop is “probably going to take you twice as long as you think, and cost you twice as much as you think.”
Silver Therapeutics was keen to plant its flag in Saratoga because Josh Silver, a local attorney and co-founder of Silver Therapeutics, lives in the city with his wife and two children. Silver’s sister is also the license holder and partner for the Saratoga location, making it a woman-owned enterprise. According to trade publication MjBiz, 39% of cannabis executives in 2023 were women, an 18% increase from the previous year.
Aside from its ownership, McKee said that Silver Therapeutics distinguishes itself from competitors by working with wholesale partners to drive down prices, sponsoring community events, and maintaining a 90% employee retention rate.
“Our team members are happy,” McKee said. “We take care of them and, as a result, they take care of our customers.”
Located at 75 Weibel Avenue across from The Springs apartment complex, Silver Therapeutics is now fully operational and open daily from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Hospital is planning to build a new medical office building near its primary location at 211 Church Street, according to a request made to the Saratoga Springs Planning Board earlier this week.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Druthers Brewing Company launched its latest special brew this week. HorsePlay, a blonde ale brewed with peach tea from The Whistling Kettle, was created in support of Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga.
Each purchase of HorsePlay will directly contribute to funding the essential care and well-being of the horses involved in therapeutic programs. The can’s design was created by local artist Frankie Flores.
HorsePlay will be available at all five Druthers Brewing locations, at the Saratoga Race Course, and at a variety of local vendors including Price Choppers/Market 32s, Bevs Beverage Centers, and Eddy’s Beverage.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of Druthers Brewing Company and the launch of ‘HorsePlay’,” said Meg
Koloskie, development manager at Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga, in a statement. “This initiative not only raises vital funds for our organization but also raises awareness about the transformative power of equine therapy. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in need.”
The hospital reportedly wants to demolish an existing building to build a new 60,000-square-foot facility.
Saratoga TODAY will have more on this developing story in next week’s issue.
Check us out for all your local news, community updates, events, announcements and more!
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS —
Short-term rental regulations in Saratoga Springs will likely entail significantly lower licensing fees than originally proposed, Commissioner of Accounts Dillon Moran said during a July 2 city council meeting.
Moran updated residents on future plans for shortterm rentals after his initial proposal attracted controversy in February for, among other things, a $1,000 licensing fee.
The details of an updated
proposal are still being ironed out, but Moran said that recent state regulations have impacted the city’s plans. Moran expects the state to have a software solution for its registration requirement, meaning that Saratoga Springs will have a licensing process rather than a local registry.
Because he’s confident that sales and bed taxes will be collected, Moran said that licensing fees could be as little as $50 for homeowners renting out their primary residence. Nonprimary residences, however, may incur a steeper fee.
In an effort not to harm
those whose income is dependent on short-term rentals, Moran said the city would allow homeowners to rent out their properties for 180 days, or half the year. According to the city’s zoning laws, residential areas are intended for primary residences. As a result, Moran said, those homes cannot be rented out for more than 180 days.
The revised short-term rental regulations proposal will reflect “a lot of thought, a lot of input, and the best direction for our community,” Moran said.
Once the revised proposal is unveiled, the city will hold a public hearing to discuss it.
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— Captains Aida and Oscar Rolon have been appointed to the Salvation Army Saratoga Springs office, it was announced last week. Lieutenants Cassidy and Michael Dow, who served in Saratoga for the past two years, have been reassigned to Oswego.
“It is an honor to continue our journey and mission
of serving others in these new roles,” said Captain Aida Rolon in a statement. “As the cost of living continues to have a bigger and bigger impact on families and individuals in Saratoga Springs already struggling to put food on the table, and a roof over their heads, we are eager to build upon our predecessors’ work and
want to provide a strong foundation for the future.”
The Rolons have been with The Salvation Army for 15 years. Before coming to New York, they were stationed at The Salvation Army Guayama Ray and Joan Kroc Center in Puerto Rico. They grew up in Loiza, Puerto Rico and have two young adult children together.
After an extensive renovation project, the Italian food
store and catering company
this week. The family-owned business has been serving the Capital Region since 1945.
The renovation project included the addition of a 1,400 square-foot, full-service kitchen. As a result, the Saratoga market is now able to feature readyto-serve hot food items such as penne alla vodka, tortellini alfredo, chicken marsala, chicken meatballs, arancini, stuffed shells, and more.
To commemorate its reopening, Cardona’s held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor John Safford and Saratoga Live TV personality Richard Migliore, who handed out samples of “The Mig,” a sandwich named after him.
Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. In your daily writing and speaking, try to make sure you use the right word in the right place with the right spelling. By doing so, its effect will affect your communication in a positive way. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices.
This Week: Historic, Historical
Historic refers to something improtant or memorable.
The opening of the wing is a historic occoasion for the hospital
Historical means concered with or relating to history.
Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wild” is a historical novel.
Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words
Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at dave.dowling65@gmail.com
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— Abner Doubleday, best known as the man who did not invent baseball, is probably the most consequential figure in American history to have lived in Ballston Spa. He witnessed the beginning of the Civil War. He led an infantry division at the Battle of Gettysburg. He even accompanied Abraham Lincoln on a train ride prior to the Gettysburg Address.
But there’s another side to the legendary general that few know about; a secret history that connects Doubleday to Buddhist sages, transcendentalists, and Russian mystics.
“It’s a bit of an odd story,”
began Benjamin Bogin, an associate professor of Asian Studies at Skidmore College.
For Bogin, discovering that secret history began in July 1992, when Bogin’s uncle Rick Fields published the book, “How the Swans Came to the Lake: A Narrative History of Buddhism in America.” In that book is a chapter about the Theosophical Society, an organization founded by the Russian mystic Madame Blavatsky in 1875. The society helped introduce Buddhism and other Asian religions to America. Among the many Americans interested in these newly-introduced religions was none other than Civil War hero Abner Doubleday.
“He was a very philosophical and spiritually-inclined child,” Bogin said. During his military
training, a young Doubleday wrote a letter to Ralph Waldo Emerson, the famed leader of the Transcendentalist movement. Around that time, transcendentalists became some of the first writers to translate and publish Buddhist literature for American audiences.
In his letter to Emerson, Doubleday expressed doubts about the morality of being a soldier. He also displayed a keen interest in Christianity and Asian religions. Doubleday was “looking to those areas as a source of illumination for other ways to understand the world and our place in it,” Bogin said.
Doubleday’s interest in religion and spirituality continued throughout his life. His experiences in war may have also steered him in the direction of the Theosophical Society. “Coming face to face with that degree of violence and death led him to search for meaning,” Bogin said.
Although Americans’ understanding of Buddhism was quite rudimentary at the time, the possibility of communicating with the dead held significant appeal for those who’d lost loved ones during the Civil War. 19th-century spiritualism became increasingly popular, especially in upstate New York, where the Fox sisters supposedly talked to spirits (they later revealed the whole thing was a hoax), and where Joseph Smith allegedly had visions that led to the creation of Mormonism. Even the mineral water spring that helped make Ballston Spa famous had its origins in “spiritual and visionary
mystic traditions that were really widespread in the 19th century,” Bogin said.
Those traditions greatly interested Doubleday, who retired from the military in 1873 and some years later, became an official member of the Theosophical Society. When founder Madame Blavatsky departed the U.S. for India, Doubleday became the organization’s president.
As president, Doubleday apparently wrote quite a bit about the society and its beliefs. But those writings are closely guarded by leaders of the present-day society, who have not granted outsiders access to Doubleday’s letters and diaries. Nonetheless, obituaries at the time of Doubleday’s death in 1893 make references to his tenure with the Theosophical Society. One obituary even identified him as a Buddhist.
Despite his esteemed
military career and lifelong interest in spiritual matters, Doubleday would become best known for a false story spread in the early 1900s that cemented the myth that he invented the game of baseball. In fact, there’s scant evidence Doubleday had anything to do with baseball.
“I think people shy away from Doubleday because only a fool would believe he invented baseball,” Bogin said. “No one says, ‘oh yeah, I’m from the same town as the guy who didn’t invent baseball.’”
A bit of historical fake news has shrouded the true story of Doubleday’s role in America’s early exploration of spiritualism, mysticism, and Asian religions. That secret history, partially obscured due to scholars not having access to Doubleday’s writings while he was president of the Theosophical Society, is still being uncovered.
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— K-12 enrollment has been steadily declining in Saratoga County for more than a decade despite overall population growth, data from
the New York State Education Department shows.
In the 2012-2013 school year, there were 34,282 K-12 students in the county. A decade later, the number stood at 31,360, an 8.5% drop.
The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce said it will “monitor” these numbers
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— The Saratoga Schools Education Foundation (SSES) announced last week that it would fund three grant projects totaling $15,000 for the 2024-2025 school year.
Virtual Reality Headsets at Maple Avenue Middle School Library
This $4,500 grant will support the purchase of eight Virtual Reality headsets that will allow students to explore interactive 3D worlds. Students will have the ability to “travel” to places around the world or even inside the human body without ever leaving the library.
Adaptive Bikes for Secondary Physical Education Classes
This grant is jointly funded with $3,000 from SSES and $2,500 from Saratoga Shredders
and the Dake Foundation for Children. The grant will support the purchase of specially equipped bicycles to allow middle and high school students in the unified physical education classes to participate in the Bikes in Schools PE curriculum at the Saratoga Springs City School District.
Math Unit Blocks at Lake Avenue & Division Street Elementary Schools
This $5,000 grant will support the purchase of wooden Unit Block Sets for the classroom to promote hands-on learning in mathematics for elementary students. The grant will also fund the purchase of a Unit Block curriculum to help teachers maximize the impact of these materials on cognitive growth and problem-solving skills for students.
due to declining enrollment’s impact on the local labor pool.
The chamber also said that declining enrollment plus increases in median home sale prices “speaks to the growing need for more workforce housing across Saratoga County.”
In the Saratoga Springs City School District, K-12 enrollment has decreased from nearly 6,000 in 2021-2022 to 5,798 in 2023-2024, according to data presented by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lisa Cutting in May. The district is also seeing an increase in economically disadvantaged student enrollment, from 1,435 (or 24% of all students) in 21-22, to 1,687 (29%) in 23-24.
HIGH ROCK PARK
SATURDAYS
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
WEDNESDAYS 3 - 6 p.m.
by Jodie Fitz for Saratoga TODAY
Thecharcuterie craze feels like it just took off a few years ago, but the art of the charcuterie has existed for hundreds of years dating back to the Greeks and Romans when they cured meats for long trips. However, it was in France when this ‘graze craze’ really took hold dating back to the 15th century and the combination of cured meats*, specialty cheeses*, nuts and fruits* has stood the test of time and is still shared at gatherings today.
Our culture has taken this ancient art, and the definition of charcuterie, and have given it a modern spin with endless possibilities. The term charcuterie no longer just refers to cured meats at the center of a nibble platter (although it may to some), but now entertains the notion of foods brought together for people to gather around and nosh over good conversation.
The Breakfast Charcuterie
The breakfast charcuterie can be simply done with baked goods*, fresh fruits*, jams* and yogurts*. And yet, it can be taken to many various levels with pancakes, cooked meats*, waffles*, syrups*, honey* and other specialty items like skewed fruit, dips and other specialty foods.
The Dinner Charcuterie
The dinner charcuterie can pretty much embody any cooked meat with vegetables, sides and fixings. I personally love some of the burger charcuteries with cooked burgers in the center surrounded by all of the toppings, fresh vegetables and salads to choose from all in one wonderful display.
The Dessert Charcuterie
Who doesn’t love a dessert charcuterie? Again, a
platter to be easily themed! One of my personal favorites would be mini cakes at the center surrounded by various toppings; fruits, syrups, chopped candies, flavored whipped creams all so that each guest can create their own variation of flavor to enjoy.
Whatever your flare on the charcuterie happens to be, at the end of the day, it’s really about a memorable gathering of people enjoying fine foods together. And cured meats can be added to each of them if you’re holding on to the traditional definition of a charcuterie board (wink)
*Many items can be located at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market to create your charcuterie work of art.
The Saratoga Farmer’s Market is open on Wednesdays from 3- 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at High Rock Park in downtown Saratoga Springs. The Monday market at Clifton Park is open from 2-5 p.m. at the Shenendehowa Methodist Church on Route 146. The Thursday Market at Milton begins Thursday, July 11 through August 29 at the Burgess Kimball Memorial Park from 3-6 p.m. Find us online at www. saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.
YIELDS: 8 servings | PREP TIME: 10 min
*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market
• 16 ounces canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (approximately 1 lemon)
• 2 cloves garlic*
• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ice water
• 1/4 cup parsley* or basil* (finely minced)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted in ghee*)
Place all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth. Check for seasoning and add more garlic, lemon or salt as desired. To serve, spread on to platter and top with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Serve with fresh vegetables*, crostini* and other breads*.
by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY
Paella is a perfect party dish because it’s a one-pot meal, and because it feeds a crowd. Paella is a rice dish from Spain that has become very popular and is known around the world. It originated in the fields of a region called Valencia in eastern Spain. Paella is meant to show off the rice itself and to highlight a few special ingredients. These can be vegetables, fish, shellfish or meat including sausage in seafood paella and you may also find chicken in it. Do not forget the saffron -- it is the essential spice of the dish. Whatever paella you make, it should use short- or mediumgrain rice, which should be cooked uncovered in a flavorful stock. Spanish Bomba rice is the best to use. It’s fun to make paella over a grill or on the stove. However, it is important that you have the right pan for this dish; the Paella Pan! The Paella pan should be shallow and have sloping sides, which helps the rice cook evenly and develops more intense flavor. As the pans get larger, they grow in diameter rather than depth, which allows for more delicious socarrat. And like all authentic paella pans, they do not have
This time of year, brings many family reunions, friendship gatherings, and special events that include great food and fun times.
matching lids (since paella is traditionally cooked in an open pan). We sell the traditional carbon steel pans. A good pan has dimples on the bottom to serve several functions. They trap small amounts of liquid and thus promote even cooking, they make the pan rigid, and they prevent warping. Now what the heck is socarrat? When you make paella, socarrat is the caramelized bottom layer of rice that sometimes forms on the pan. Many people consider the socarrat the prized part of the paella. Also, there is speculation that socarrat has aphrodisiac powers, and that it is what fuels the passion of those renowned Spanish lovers. I myself am Irish, French and Italian so the passion is taken care of by the French and Italian parts. But I might like a little Antonio
Banderas side of me to crop up from time to time! How about: tu es muy bonita Paula?
We love Paella. It is yummy in my tummy!! If you are not sure what dish to serve for upcoming events this summer; consider Paella. At Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place in Saratoga Springs, we sell various sizes of Paella pans, and other cooking tools to help you with your creation. Stop by Saratoga Springs’ true kitchen essentials store for the supplies you need to eat, drink and be merry with family and friends! Remember my Foodie Friends: “Life Happens in the Kitchen”
• 6 cups clam or seafood broth
• 1 tsp thread saffron
• 1 ½ pounds fleshed fish, cut in bite-sized pieces
• 1 dozen mussels
• 1 dozen small clams
• 12 large shrimp in shells
• Ground sea salt
• 2 tbsp parsley, minced
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
STEP 1
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 8 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 6 scallions, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 cups Bomba paella rice or paella rice
• Lemon wedges
• Alioli (garlic mayonnaise)
Heat broth in a large pot. Stir in saffron. Pat fish and shrimp dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and let sit 10 minutes. Use a mortar and pestle to mash parsley, garlic, thyme and 1/8 tsp salt into a paste; stir in paprika. Add water if necessary to form a paste.
STEP 2
Heat 6 tbsp of oil in 15” paella pan over medium high heat and quickly brown the fish 1-2 minutes. Do not fully cook. Remove to warm platter. Add remaining 2 tbsp of oil, onion, scallions and bell pepper to paella pan and cook until the vegetables are slightly softened. Raise heat, add tomato and cook until it becomes saucelike, 2 to 5 minutes. Pour in the hot broth and bring to a boil. Sprinkle the rice evenly across the pan. Boil for 3 minutes, stirring rice and rotating pan occasionally. Add all reserved fish (but not shrimp). Stir in parsley paste. Taste for salt. Do not stir after this point. Lower the heat, continue to simmer until rice is no longer soupy but enough liquid remains to continue cooking the rice (about 10 min.). Add extra liquid if necessary.
STEP 3
Arrange shrimp, clams and mussels over rice, placing edges of mussel and clam shells so they open facing up. Cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes until rice is almost done. Remove pan from the heat and cover with foil. Let sit 10 minutes. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with fresh alioli.
courtesy of Sally Vargas at simplyrecipes.com
Week of July 12 -
FRIDAY, JULY 12
Grand, Gilded and Glorious: A Saratoga Stroll
Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10:30 a.m. –Noon. This 90-minute guided walking tour will entertain and enlighten both visitors and residents with the famed stories of this great city. Saratoga Springs was the playground of the rich and famous during the 1800’s and provides the stories of this wonderful, gilded period in our history. This unique and engaging tour will guide participants from the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center to Congress Park and will conclude with a complete tour of the elegant Canfield Casino. Tuesday – Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – Noon, $20 per person. For reservations, please call the Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center: 518-587-3241.
SATURDAY, JULY 13
Rummage Sale
Ballston Spa United Methodist Church, 101 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa | 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Enter at back of the church.
Car Show & Live Music in the Park
Middle Grove Town Park, 438 Middle Grove Rd, Middle Grove | Cars: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $10 registration fee. Top 15 People Choice Trophies announced at 2:30 p.m. Live Music: from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. provided by Elizabeth Conant, Bonnie Greco, Out of Reach and New American Cuisine. Free public admission. Bring along your family, friends, and folding chairs and enjoy the talented musicians, the antique cars, trucks, tractors. Have lunch from our food booth. Shop with our vendors. “Keep Greenfield’s History Alive for our future Generations”
Celebrate Family Day
Congress Park, Downtown Saratoga Springs | Noon – 4
p.m. Celebrate Family Day is a free event. Games, crafts, face painting, snacks, live music, information about local family support services. Free Admission.
Ballston Area Seniors
Monthly Dance
Milton Community Center, 310 Northline Rd. Ballston Spa | 7 – 10 p.m. The dance is open to the public. Ample free parking. There will be a donation of $7 per person. Snacks and refreshment will be provided. Dance to the music of Peaceful Country Band. (Adults Only). For more information call 518490-2851.
SUNDAY, JULY 14
29th Annual Saratoga Soroptimist Secret Gardens Tour
Eleven Unique Gardens in Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, and Wilton | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Purchase $25 advance tickets at www.soroptimistsaratoga. org or at Northshire Bookstore, Cudney’s Cleaners, Faddegon’s Nursery or Adirondack Trust Co. branches. Day-of tickets for $30 will be sold while supplies last from 9:30 a.m. to noon outside the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, 297 Broadway. Garden descriptions and suggested driving directions are provided with purchase. The tour supports programs and individuals benefiting women and girls, including Wellspring. Questions? Email secretgardensinfo@gmail.com.
MONDAY, JULY 15
4th Annual Gumbo with Kendrick for TRF Party
The Principessa Elena Society, 13 Oak Street, Saratoga Springs | 6 – 9 p.m. Louisiana native and jockey Kendrick Carmouche will again prepare gumbo for this event, which will benefit the Saratoga Springs-based Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF), a 501(c) (3) non-profit that is the nation’s oldest and largest
Thoroughbred rescue and sanctuary organization. Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 cash only at the door. The menu will be gumbo, rice, cornbread, salad and dessert. There will also be live music. For tickets, https:// donorbox.org/events/606398
TUESDAY, JULY 16
11th Annual Klezmer & Kosher Festival
Clifton Commons, Outside Clifton Park Senior Center, Clifton Park | 5:30 p.m. It’ll be a lively day— with a kosher dinner, crafts, games and of course, a live Klezmer Concert. An amazing line-up of musicians will play traditional Klezmer songs as well as Chassidic and Israeli melodies. RSVP 518-495-0779 or go to www.cliftonparkchabad.com to register with a $15 per person all-inclusive fee.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17
History Centers Wednesday Walking Tour
North Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 10 a.m. Great Ladies Tour. Dr. Hollis Palmer. This tour along North Broadway will be led by the retired educator and popular local author of 16 books on Saratoga and its environs. The tour will be based on stories from his book “Saratoga’s Great Ladies” focusing on the families that lived in the Victorian mansions along this broad avenue. Dr. Palmer will be offering his books for sale at the end of the tour. Registration is available at the History Center’s website https://brooksidemuseum. org/ Suggested donations for the tours are $10. Specific directions will be available upon registration.
Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. For curbside pickup only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. - Noon to place an order, 518-584-2585. Menu: chicken & biscuits, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad. Dinner $15 each (cash only).
The Gift of a Lifetime
Halfmoon Town Hall, A. James Bold Meeting Room, 2 Halfmoon Town Plaza, Halfmoon | 5 p.m. A special event unveiling three historic indentured documents from the 1700’s, generously donated by Mr. Joe Lawrence of Georgia. These invaluable documents, written on animal skin and dating back to 1700, were meticulously restored and framed at no cost to the Town. The event will also feature a Cemetery Map from 1871 and minutes of the first Halfmoon Town Board meeting held on April 1, 1788. The documents, which include the oldest indenture from 1700 with attorney Philip Schuyler, Esq., are in remarkable condition for their age.
Pitney Meadows Fire Feast
223 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs | 6-9 p.m. Saratoga’s most unique summer event features local chefs cooking over six open-fire pits. The chefs will source meat, fish, cheese, wine, beer, and produce from local producers and Pitney Meadows’ farm fields. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided by Bars without Boundaries. Guests can also enjoy drinks from select local breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Seasonal cocktails and mocktails will be available as well. Tickets available: https://www. pitneymeadowscommunityfarm. org/fire-feast/
Astronomy Club
Galway Public Library, 2112 East Street, Galway | 6:30 p.m. There will be a presentation about summer constellations. The Astronomy Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., and is open to adults and teens (middle school and older). Registration is requested, but not required, by calling 518882-6385.
2024 Music in the Park
Gavin Park, 10 Lewis Dr., Saratoga Springs | 7 – 9 p.m. Tonight’s performer is T.S. Ensemble. Music every Wednesday through August 28.
Film - Las Dos Mariette Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weible Rd., Saratoga Springs
| 7 p.m. Join us for a specially arranged screening of the film Las Dos Mariette – The Two Mariettes (in Spanish with English subtitles). For more than seven decades, Mariette Diamant—who escaped with her parents from Nazi-occupied France during WWII—would hide the Jewish origins of her family for fear of retaliation. But at 90, Mariette decides to shed light on that past that haunts her and reveal her true identity. $5 per person. Refreshments to follow.
Broadway Musicals – A Jewish Legacy
Temple Sinai, 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 7 p.m. A live showing and panel discussion. A PBS documentary celebrating the Jewish roots of a distinctly American form of art, the Broadway musical. For over 50 years of its development, the songs of the Broadway musical were created almost exclusively by Jewish Americans. The documentary looks at the origins of contemporary Broadway in Yiddish theater, the connection of the art form to the early 20th Century version of the American Dream, and the pervasiveness of successful songs that influenced pop culture and vice versa. $5 donation requested. Registration required at Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, https:// lp.constantcontactpages. com/cu/N1mRZPt/ SJCFHomePageSummer2024
fluxxbaby ‚girlfluxx EP‘ release tour and Death Rattled
Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | | 8 - 9:30 p.m. Tickets! $10-25 sliding scale. Join us for Zurich-based fluxxbaby’s ‚girlfluxx EP‘ release tour with Death Rattled, Troy-based musician Manuel J. Perez III, presented by Improv Spaces at Saratoga Arts. fluxxbaby focuses on harsh sounds and deconstructed rhythms, capturing the abstraction, loneliness, and brutality of late capitalism in 2024 and shaping it into her own soundtrack. Death Rattled explores the assembling, juxtaposition, and disfiguration of recognizable symbols through multimedia and audiovisual mediums.
Bike Donations and Volunteers Needed
Please consider donating unwanted bicycles with tires over 20” that are in fixable condition! Also, we are in constant need of bikes with tires 24” and over, any style. We’re happy to fix them up! Not sure if your bike is in fixable condition - send us a pic and we’ll
let you know. We need your help - despite closing several times for our volunteer mechanics to catch up, we are still way behind and could use your help. Not sure how to fix a bike, but good with the public or with paperwork – we could use your help too. Please reach out to info@bikeatoga.org or via text 518-290-0746
Annual Garage and Bake Sale
The Galway United Methodist Church will hold its annual Garage and Bake Sale on Friday,
July 19 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday, July 20 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. This sale is a multi-family sale that includes clothing, furniture, sporting goods, toys tools, household items, collectibles, electronics, books, baby items and much more. The sale is held indoors come rain or shine. A bake sale will be held at the same time. The public is welcome to attend. The church is located at the corner of Rte. 147 and CR 45 in the Village of Galway.
Book Sale
The Friends of the Galway Public
Library will be holding a large book sale at the Galway Public Library, 2112 East St, Galway, on Saturday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Books of all genres as well as DVDs. Your monetary donation fills your bag!
Frances Day 2024
The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College announces its annual summer open house, Frances Day, will be on Saturday, July 20, beginning at 2 p.m. The family-friendly event honors the museum’s namesake, Frances
Young Tang, Skidmore College Class of ’61, and offers multiple ways for visitors to explore the museum’s stellar program of contemporary art exhibitions and events, with tours, art-making activities, food, music, giveaways and more. At 5 p.m. acclaimed Capital Region musician and performer Taína Asili and her ensemble take the stage for an energetic concert. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit http:// tang.skidmore.edu or call Visitors Services at 518-580-8080. Fundraiser for BluePath Service
by Dr. Matt Smith, DC for Saratoga TODAY
Staying adequately hydrated is integral to maintaining good health and overall well-being. However, many individuals struggle to consume the recommended daily amount of water. Incorporating some simple yet effective strategies into your daily routine can help ensure you stay adequately hydrated. Here are some helpful tips on how to drink enough water every day.
1. SET A DAILY GOAL Aim to drink a specific amount of water each day, such as the commonly recommended 8 glasses or 2 liters. Having a
target can serve as a reminder to keep sipping water throughout the day.
2. CARRY A WATER BOTTLE Always have a water bottle with you wherever you go. This makes it easier to take a sip whenever you feel thirsty, ensuring a steady intake of water throughout the day.
3. USE APPS OR REMINDERS Several apps are available that can help track your water intake and send reminders to drink water at regular intervals. Setting alarms on your phone or using sticky notes as reminders can also be effective.
4. INFUSE YOUR WATER Add natural flavor to your water by infusing it with fruits like lemon, cucumber, berries, or mint. This can make drinking water more enjoyable and may encourage you to consume more.
5. CREATE A ROUTINE Establish specific times during the day when you will drink water, such as a glass upon waking up, one before each meal, and one before bed. Making hydration a habitual part of your daily routine can increase your water intake.
6. MONITOR YOUR PROGRESS Keep track of your
water consumption throughout the day. You can use a journal, an app, or simply mark your water bottle with time goals to ensure you are drinking consistently.
7. CONSUME WATERRICH FOODS Incorporate foods with high water content, such as fruits (like watermelon and oranges) and vegetables (like cucumber and celery), into your meals and snacks. These foods can contribute significantly to your overall hydration.
8. OPT FOR WATER INSTEAD OF OTHER BEVERAGES Whenever possible, choose water over sugary drinks, sodas, or caffeinated beverages. Not only does this help with hydration, but it also reduces your intake of added sugars and unnecessary calories.
9. LINK WATER CONSUMPTION TO DAILY ACTIVITIES Associate drinking water with specific daily activities, such as every time you check your emails, after using the restroom, or during TV commercial breaks. This can help make drinking water a natural part of your routine.
10. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY Pay attention to your
body’s signals of thirst and hydration. Feeling thirsty is a sign that your body needs water, so make it a habit to drink whenever you feel thirsty. By incorporating these simple tips into your daily life, you can ensure that you stay adequately hydrated and reap the numerous benefits that come with proper hydration. Remember, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your health, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Dr. Matt Smith has been a Chiropractor in Saratoga Springs for 36 years. He and his daughter Dr. Kevy Smith Minogue can be reached at 518-587-2064 or at MySaratogaChiropractor.com.
by Matt Dorsey for Saratoga TODAY
The purchase or sale of their home can be one of the most stressful things that a client undertakes. That is especially true in today’s market where multiple offers are common and houses may sell quickly above the listing price. Here is a basic set of questions and answers to help you navigate the process successfully.
WHO PREPARES THE CONTRACT OF SALE?
Contracts for sale of real estate are typically prepared by the real estate agent representing the buyer. If no real estate agent is involved, then the contract would likely be prepared by the attorney for the buyer.
ARE THERE STANDARD FORMS FOR REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS?
Yes. There is a standard form for real estate contracts, which sometimes can vary based on what county you are in.
WHAT ARE THE GENERAL TERMS OF THE CONTRACT?
The contract covers all the terms you would expect to see, including the price, financing, title issues, taxes, inspections, cost prorations, attorney approval, and perhaps most importantly –the timelines.
WHAT ARE THE KEY TIMELINES?
The key timelines include: when the deal will close, how long the attorneys have to review the contract, when financing will be confirmed, and when the inspections take place.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLOSE THE DEAL?
Typical real estate contracts take 60 to 90 days from initial contract to closing the title. With the current real estate market, however, many deals are atypical. In an effort to appeal to a seller in a situation where multiple offers may be made on the same property, buyers today may offer to close in an expedited manner, i.e. in 30 to 45 days.
WHEN DO THE ATTORNEYS REVIEW THE CONTRACT?
The attorneys review the contract after both parties sign it. This is what is known as the attorney review period, which typically lasts three to five days. During that time, the attorneys have an opportunity to request changes or clarifications to the contract. Such changes and clarifications are subject to approval, rejection, or modification by the other attorney. Once the negotiations are concluded, the attorney approval period is considered “closed”.
HOW DOES FINANCING PLAY A ROLE?
Most people need to obtain a mortgage to buy their home. As a result, contracts generally have a mortgage contingency, which states that the buyer must seek and obtain a mortgage within a particular time frame. Usually, the time frame is approximately 30 days. It is understood that if mortgage commitment is delayed, that deadline can be extended.
ARE ALL CONTRACTS CONTINGENT ON FINANCING?
No. In fact, in today’s competitive real estate market, more deals are “cash deals”, meaning the buyer is not conditioning their purchase on their obtaining a mortgage. In those cases, the buyer either has the actual cash in hand or has independent access to financing that they can rely on, i.e. an existing home equity line of credit.
What happens if the buyer cannot get a mortgage?
If the contract is conditioned on obtaining the mortgage, the buyer would be able to get out of the contract if they cannot
obtain the financing they need. This is somewhat uncommon. In fact, many buyers come to the process armed with a prequalification letter from their bank confirming they have the ability to obtain a mortgage up to a certain amount.
CAN A PURCHASE BE CONDITIONED ON THE SALE OF ANOTHER HOME?
The purchase contract can be conditioned on the sale of the buyer’s current home. In that case, the buyer is presumably using the funds from that sale to purchase their new home. If the seller is willing to agree to such a condition, they may ask that it be lifted if a second buyer approaches them to purchase the home without such a condition in place.
WHAT IS INVOLVED WITH A TITLE SEARCH?
Title searches are customarily done in advance of the closing. A title search company will review the current and prior deeds to confirm that the seller owns the property they are selling. In addition, the title search will address whether there are any liens against the property that must be resolved before closing. Liens can exist if the seller has any judgments against them, if there is a mortgage against the property, or if there are any unpaid property taxes.
WHAT HAPPENS IF LIENS ARE FOUND?
If liens are found against the property, then they would have to be paid off at closing. For example, if the seller did not timely pay their property taxes, those back taxes would have to be paid off at closing out of the money the buyer brings to the table.
WHAT TYPE OF INSPECTIONS ARE TYPICALLY DONE?
Inspections are typically done for the structural condition of the home, pests, mold, radon, and water and septic issues. If any of these inspections reveal a problem, then the buyer would have the opportunity to either get out of the contract or potentially renegotiate the purchase price. In response to a request to renegotiate, the seller can refuse and take the position
that the sale is an “as is” sale and not agree to lower the price. ARE INSPECTIONS ALWAYS REQUIRED?
No. Given the current competitive real estate market, some buyers are willing to forgo inspections in an effort to make their offer more appealing to the seller. In that case, the buyer obviously takes the risk that there are defects in the home that will require attention after they buy it.
WHAT HAPPENS AT CLOSING?
At closing, the buyer pays the seller for the home and receives a deed in exchange. If mortgage financing is involved, the buyer signs the mortgage, and it is recorded in the County Clerk’s office along with the deed. The closing date set in the contract is generally an “on or about” date, meaning that the closing will
not necessarily occur on that particular date, but generally within a week or so of it.
The real estate closing process can be stressful for buyers and sellers. It is advisable to obtain the services of an experienced real estate attorney to ensure that your rights are protected, and that the process goes as smoothly as possible. To those prospective buyers out there – happy house hunting and good luck!
Matthew J. Dorsey, Esq. is a Shareholder with O’Connell and Aronowitz, 1 Court Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. Over his twenty-seven years of practice, he has focused in the areas of elder law, estate planning, and estate administration. Mr. Dorsey can be reached at (518)584-5205, mdorsey@oalaw.com and www. oalaw.com.
by Stephen Kyne, CFP
Sterling Manor Financial for Saratoga TODAY
With the dollar currently dominating the currency markets, now is the perfect time to take advantage of its strength when planning your summer travel. For those looking to explore new destinations or revisit old favorites, a strong dollar can make all the difference in saving money and getting the most out of your vacation. Here are some tips on how to make the most of the strong dollar when planning
your summer travel.
One of the first things to consider when planning your summer travel is choosing destinations where the dollar is strong relative to the local currency. This can help stretch your travel budget and allow you to enjoy more activities and experiences during your trip. Countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Latin America are known for offering great value for travelers, especially when the dollar is strong.
Once you’ve decided on your destination, it’s important to book accommodations and flights in advance to take advantage of favorable exchange rates. By locking in your travel expenses early, you can avoid potential fluctuations in currency values and secure the best deals. Additionally, consider using a credit card that offers no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges while traveling abroad.
While abroad, look for ways to save money on everyday expenses by eating at local eateries, taking public
transportation, and shopping at markets and street vendors. By avoiding tourist traps and touristy areas, you can experience the local culture and save money at the same time. Consider staying in accommodations like Airbnb or hostels, which can be more budget-friendly than traditional hotels.
Another way to make the most of the strong dollar is to take advantage of exchange rate fluctuations. By monitoring currency values and exchanging money at the most favorable rates, you can maximize your travel budget and get more bang for your buck. Consider using online currency exchange services or withdrawing cash from ATMs to avoid high fees and unfavorable exchange rates.
If you’re planning to travel to multiple countries during your summer vacation, consider using a multi-currency card or travel money card to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and minimize currency conversion fees. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies onto the card and make purchases in different countries without
incurring additional charges.
Finally, consider taking advantage of travel deals and promotions that are available during the summer season. Many airlines, hotels, and tour operators offer discounted rates and special packages during the summer months to attract travelers. By doing your research and booking early, you can save money and enjoy a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.
The strong dollar presents a great opportunity for savvy travelers to make the most of their summer vacation. By choosing destinations where the dollar is strong, booking accommodations and flights in advance, and monitoring exchange rates,
you can save money and get the most out of your travel experience. With a little planning and research, you can enjoy a memorable summer vacation without overspending.
Stephen Kyne CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC in Saratoga Springs.
Securities offered through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sterling Manor Financial, LLC, or Cadaret Grant & Co., Inc., SEC registered investment advisors. Sterling Manor Financial and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities. 18 Division St, Ste 202, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-583-4040
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up for success as they return to their school routines.
As the summer sun warms our days and children revel in the freedom of extended hours, it’s also a pivotal opportunity to focus on their eye health. For many young ones, managing myopia—or nearsightedness—can be a significant part of their health journey. With the advent of myopia control programs, this season presents an ideal window for families to consider proactive steps in their children’s eye care routines.
Myopia, a condition where distant objects appear blurry, has seen a marked increase in prevalence among children in recent years. Factors such as increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities are contributing to this trend. However, advancements in optometry have introduced innovative solutions to tackle myopia progression effectively.
Summer vacation offers a unique advantage for initiating or intensifying myopia control efforts. With more leisure time, children can better acclimate to wearing corrective lenses, particularly contact lenses which require a period of adjustment. These lenses not only correct vision but can also play a crucial role in slowing down the rate of myopia progression. Proper usage and care of contact lenses can be learned and practiced more consistently during the relaxed summer months, setting
Moreover, summer camps and recreational activities provide opportunities for kids to experience various environments while wearing contact lenses, thereby enhancing their comfort and confidence in using them. Optometrists specializing in myopia control can guide families through the process, ensuring that each child receives personalized care and optimal vision correction strategies.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to seize this season as a chance to prioritize their children’s eye health. By participating in myopia control programs, families not only
address current vision concerns but also invest in their children’s long-term eye health and wellbeing. Early intervention and consistent management are key in mitigating the progression of myopia, ultimately promoting healthier eyesight into adulthood.
As we embrace the joys of summer, let us also embrace the opportunity to safeguard our children’s vision. Myopia control programs empower families to take proactive steps towards maintaining clear vision and healthy eyes for their children. Together, we can ensure that this summer shines brightly with both fun-filled activities and a clear focus on eye health.
Susan Halstead is a Nationally and NYS Licensed Optician and is the owner of Family Vision Care Center in Saratoga Springs. FVCC has been serving Saratoga County since 1920 with Susan as it’s third owner. Susan can be reached for comments or questions via text or call (518)584-6111 or email Susan@familyvisioncarecenter.com
by Katherine Morna Towne for Saratoga TODAY
I wrote about our daily summer schedule in a column twelve years ago. I remember so clearly the day that inspired me to institute the schedule — it was the last day of school, which was a half day; I had just come home from picking my school boys up from school (at that time it was just my older two, who had just finished second grade and Kindergarten); in addition to them, I had a threeyear-old, two-year-old, and fivemonth-old; everyone was going bananas and I felt like I was losing my mind. And it wasn’t even the first full day of summer vacation! That day I put together a daily schedule that I stuck to pretty closely all summer: the kids that were old enough went outside in the yard after breakfast until lunchtime, followed by quick baths, then lunch, then inside playing/read-aloud/errands until naptime, then dinner prep, dinner, after-dinner playing, and bedtime. It saved me that summer, and many summers since.
Our summertime daily schedule has changed in some big ways since then, since the big boys have summer jobs and I work part-time in the summer and the little ones are old enough that I don’t need them to be outside all morning for me to get things done. Some other things going on in our summers that we didn’t have back then include swimming lessons, visits to the lake, and getting my older two ready to go to college at the end of the summer.
But there are several things I do still try to enforce, for all ages as much as possible (though my oldest is an adult and my second will be shortly), that hearken back to those early days. One is cultivating boredom. The experts all say it’s a good idea for kids to be bored with some regularity.
In an article on the Child Mind Institute web site called “The Benefits of Boredom,” author Gia Miller reveals that boredom “helps kids build tolerance of less-than-ideal experiences … develop planning strategies, problem-solving skills, flexibility and organizational skills … [and] fosters creativity, self-esteem
and original thinking.” (https:// childmind.org/article/the-benefits-of-boredom/) Even if the experts didn’t say so, I would say so, since I’ve seen over and over again that being bored leads my kids to engage in more imaginative and more creative play, and leads them to be able to entertain themselves better, which, in addition to helping them become more capable kids, was so important for me all those years when I had a small baby who needed me more than the bigger kids.
Another thing I still encourage (more than require at this point) is outside time. My big boys get enough, between their outdoor jobs and outdoor sports, and we go to our favorite lake a lot during the summer, which often means full days of fresh air and sunshine (my youngest fell asleep on the couch two minutes after coming in at the end of such a day recently, such good exhaustion!), but I often still shoo the younger boys out to the yard when I’m trying to get something done inside and they’re underfoot. I’m usually met with complaints — “It’s too hot!” “It’s too buggy!” “There’s
nothing to doooo!” — and they might spend a good few minutes when they first get out there draped all over the porch step or the ground as if they had no energy to do anything, or (worse) coming back in to ask twenty times if they can come in yet, but it doesn’t take long before they’re playing and climbing and getting dirty.
Another thing I insist upon during the summer is restricted screen time (by which I mean personal screens: video games and computers [that kind of usage isn’t allowed on the phones]; we all enjoy shared TV time and movies). My general rule about video games is one hour per weekend day per child (which, admittedly, often turns into extra turns and bonus turns, sometimes attached to having done extra chores, sometimes to just have some peaceful time for Mom and Dad!), but during the school year I never waver on my ban on them during the week. Monday through Thursday there are no video games allowed. During the summer, I’m a little more flexible, as rainy days can be especially hard. My middlethrough high school boys also have their own devices for school, which I do allow them to use during the week, though the rule is no more than one hour per day. I find this to be much harder to monitor, and I often catch a boy on his computer who says, “Ummm … I don’t know?” when I ask how long he’s been on it. But
I’m consoled by the fact that just having the mindset of restricted screen time results in far more restricted screen time than we would have if I didn’t have this mindset.
I also make a lot of time for reading. The big boys have summer reading requirements for school, and there are a few books I’ll read aloud: Charlotte’s Web and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for my littlest guy (and anyone else who wants to listen), Harry Potter and Wonder for the bigger kids. Once we’ve finished a book that has a movie, we’ll watch the movie, which is always a nice way to end one story and move on to another. Though I start every summer reading Charlotte’s Web, this was the first summer my youngest was old enough to pay attention all the way through and really *get* the storyline and details. When we watched the movie and Charlotte waved goodbye to Wilbur for the last time at the end of the fair, my sensitive boy cried and cried. Such a sad and tender moment, but it also gave me such a feeling of joy as a lover of stories that my boy’s heart had been touched and that we were able to share that (because, of course, I was crying too!).
Now that we’re nearly halfway through July, we’re firmly in summer, and I hope you’re all making the most of this time off from school and the hot weather like we’re trying to! (When I write again next month, we’ll be gearing up to go back to school, gah!) Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 19, 17, 16, 14, 12, 10, and 5. Email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.
Publication Day: Friday
Jolly Road Enterprises, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/03/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o Lemery Greisler LLC, 60 Railroad Place, Suite 502, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: General. 06/07, 06/14, 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12/2024. 13136
Notice of formation of COPY THAT PRINT SHOP LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on May 15, 2024 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: The LLC, 74 Warren Street, Ste. 1, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 06/14, 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19/2024. 13169
Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC)
The Name of the LLC is K9 ADVENTURES, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 3, 2024. Office Location: 229 County Route 76, Stillwater, NY 12170 County of Saratoga Under section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. The secretary of state is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the secretary of state shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 229 County Route 76, Stillwater, NY 12170. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the LLCL. 06/14, 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19/2024. 13178
Notice of formation of Muddy River Farrier Services LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/03/2024 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: P.O. Box 43, Hadley, NY 12835. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 06/14, 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19/2024. 13180
Notice of formation of 518 WellFit, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 06/07/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 69 Cornerstone Dr., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13214
163 Flike Road, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13215
29 Major Dickinson Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13216
171 Flike Road, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General.
06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13217
6 Lake Street, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General.
06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13218
739 Hudson Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13219
894 Hudson Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General.
06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13220
133 County Road 76, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General.
06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13221
132 N Central Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General.
06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13222
243 S Third Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13223
18-20 Vanderwerken Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13224
89 Round Lake Avenue, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/13/24. Office in Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 40 Jolly Road, Stillwater, NY 12170. Purpose: General. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13225
Notice of formation of SHATTUCK MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION LLC.
Articles of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05-30-2024. Office location: Saratoga County, SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail service of process to RANDIE SHATTUCK, 12 HEMLOCK DRIVE, GREENFIELD CENTER, NY 12833. RANDIE K. SHATTUCK is designated as agent for SOP 12 HEMLOCK DRIVE, GREENFIELD CENTER, NEW YORK 12833. Company is organized for any lawful purpose. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13226
Notice of registration of DELOZIER EQUINE INSURANCE AGENCY LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary
of State of New York on 3/26/2024 . Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: c/o 3H Agent Services, Inc., 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 06/21, 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26/2024. 13232
Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC) Under Section 206 of The Limited Liability Company Law. The name of the LLC is West Madison Holdings, LLC The Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on June 18, 2024. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. The office of the LLC is to be located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State is designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served. The address of which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is 3 Cedarcrest Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024. 13244
Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC). Name of the LLC is: 39 RUGGLES ROAD, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 18, 2024. Office Location: 74 Robinwood Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065 County of Saratoga.Under section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law
The secretary of state is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the secretary of state shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 74 Robinwood Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065 The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may
be organized under the LLCL. 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024. 13246
Notice of Formation of LLC. Articles of Organization for Young Road Properties LLC were filed with the Secretary of State of New York on June 24, 2024. Office Located in 11 Court Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon which process may be served and a copy of process shall be mailed by the Secretary of State to the LLC at LLC ADDRESS. Purpose: for any lawful activity for which limited liability companies may be formed under the law.
06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024.13248
Notice of Organization of CHAMP ENERGY LLC Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. The name of the limited liability company is Champ Energy LLC. Articles of Organization of Champ Energy LLC were filed with the New York State Department of State Division of Corporations, State Records and Uniform Commercial Code on May 15, 2024. The County within the state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is Saratoga County. The street address of the principal business location is 3 Horseshoe Drive, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. The limited liability company is organized to carry on all lawful activities. 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024.13249
Notice of formation of C.Yard Films LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/28/2024 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: PO Box 150, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024. 13250
Notice of formation of Aesthetic Radiance Solutions, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 05/29/2024 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 845 State Route 50, #1232, Burnt Hills, N.Y. 12027. Purpose: Cosmetics. 06/28, 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02/2024. 13254
Harper Campbell LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 07/01/2024. Off. Loc.: Saratoga Co. SSNY desig. as agt. upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 31 Lakewood Dr., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. General PurposeAny lawful purpose permitted. 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09/2024. 13273
Notice of formation of Tipton Lane Advisory, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 02/19/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 29 Madison Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09/2024. 13275
Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company. The name of the Limited Liability Company is 1445 ROUTE 9, LLC. The date of filing of the Articles of Organization with the Department of State was May 30, 2024. The county in New York in which the office of the company is located is Saratoga. The principal place of business for the Limited Liability Company is: 1445 Route 9, Fort Edward (Town of Moreau), NY 12828. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the company upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the company served upon him or her to Rusty R. Saunders, 2 Garnet Mine Court, Gansevoort, NY 12831. The email address to which the Secretary of State shall email notice of the fact that process against the limited liability company has been served electronically upon the Secretary of State is: rrsaunders2003@gmail. com.The business purpose of the company is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under the Laws of the State of New York. 07/05, 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09/2024. 13281
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: JROAA, L.L.C. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on June 25, 2024. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 120 Pine Street, Corinth, New York 12822.
Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13282
Notice of Formation of 11:11 Creations LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 03/12/2024. Office Location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: E11even Photography Studios, 3035 Route 50 #1003, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. Purpose: any lawful activity. 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13283
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Adirondack Woodwright LLC Notice is hereby given of Adirondack Woodwright LLC as a DOM limited liability company. The Art. of Org were filed with the NYS Sec. of State on 7/3/24. The office in Saratoga Co. NYSDOS is designated as the agent and the office address 3782 Lewis Rd Ballston Spa NY. No registered agent or specific date of dissolution. The Company is organized for all purposes permitted under the laws. Filer: Colleen A. Dooley, Esq. PLLC PO Box 760, Latham, NY 12110. 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13284
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the Saratoga County Sewer District #1 Lakeview Landing Force Main Extension, as per specification 24-SDLLFME-1.
A pre-bid conference will be held on Friday July 12, 2024 at the project site in the Town of Malta on Galleon Drive beginning at 11:00 a.m. No other pre-bid conference will be scheduled. Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Monday, July 8, 2024 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www. empirestatebidsystem.com Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. All work shall be subject to equal opportunity in employment, State wage rates and all other requirements in
accordance with applicable law. JOHN T. WARMT Director of Purchasing Saratoga County 7/12/2024, 13293
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Saratoga County Department of Central Services, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for Saratoga County Building 5 Roof Replacement, as per specification 24-PWB5RP-3.
A pre-bid conference will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. Interested Contractors are to meet in the lobby of Building 5 for sign in, 50 West High Street, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 Bid documents may only be obtained on or after Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from The Empire State Bid System at no cost from the following website: www. empirestatebidsystem.com
Saratoga County, through its Central Services Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids. All work shall be subject to equal opportunity in employment, State wage rates and all other requirements in accordance with applicable law.
JOHN T. WARMT
Director of Purchasing
Saratoga County 7/12/2024, 13294
Notice of formation of Drive Physical Therapy, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on May 17, 2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the PLLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of the process should be mailed to the PLLC at 12 Whirlaway Blvd Gansevoort, NY 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13297
Notice of formation of Create Calm, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 07/07/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 25 Vista Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13298
Notice of formation of JDS Healing Care, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 2/17/2024. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 53 Nicklaus Drive, Gansevoort, NY, 12831. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 07/12, 07/19, 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, 08/16/2024. 13303
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SARATOGA SPRINGS
— The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College presents the 23rd season of its popular summer concert series, Upbeat on the Roof, which will run each Thursday through Aug. 15. Also returning this season are art-making activity kits for kids, called Crafts on the Grass.
The musical acts this season include returning favorites, rising stars, and award-winners of the vibrant Capital Region music scene, as well as a new collaboration with The Orchard Project, a theater and performance incubator in residence at Skidmore.
Visitors are invited to bring blankets, camping chairs, food, and drink to picnic on the lawn.
Craft kits will be available at 5:30 pm; concerts begin at 6 pm.
The Lineup
July 18: Great Mutations — Indie rock. The Troy based rock band that plays melodic, literate songs about love, work, and death. Since their formation in 2012, they have released four studio albums, including their most recent LP, Gifted Kids, in April.
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— Caffè Lena announced the hiring of Joanne Brown as the venue’s new Marketing & Communications person.
With a background in music which began with an internship at MTV, Brown’s career has included work in the publicity departments of A&M Records, Capitol Records, Milan Records, Windham Hill, Windham Hill Jazz, and High Street Records, as well as at the independent PR Firm, Kathryn Schenker Associates. She has also worked freelance on projects for artists such as the Saw Doctors, Bob Mould, and Gavin Friday.
As co-partner of the firm Trinity Eight, she contributed to projects like The Digital Origami Tigers, and The Streets of Afghanistan, among others.
July 25: Dust Bowl Faeries — Dark cabaret. Celebrating their tenth year in 2024, Dust Bowl Faeries perform a faerie-tale medley of dark cabaret and gothic polka music, infused with a dose of witchcraft and a dusting of woodland magic.
The accordion driven freak-folk ensemble hails from the New York Hudson Valley.
Later this summer:
Aug. 1: Drank the Gold — Contemporary traditional Irish and American tunes; Aug. 8: Dan Carr and the Cure for Asthma — Indie rock; Aug. 15: Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band — Americana.
Before each concert, Tang
museum educators will offer Crafts on the Grass: art-making kits for kids starting at 5:30 pm. A different kit with a craft project will be available each week. All projects are suitable for children aged 5 and up, with adult supervision. Materials will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The Tang galleries will be open before and after the concerts. In the case of inclement weather, the art-making activities and concerts will be held inside the museum.
Admission is free. For more information, visit the Upbeat on the Roof event pages at https:// tang.skidmore.edu/calendar/ category/20-upbeat-on-the-roof.
CAPITAL REGION — The Upstate Theater Coalition for a Fairgame has awarded over $167,000 Fairgame Arts Grants to 44 non-profit arts and cultural organizations in the three New York state casino regions: Capital Region, Catskills and Southern Tier.
Earlier this year,
organizations across the state in these three regions were invited to apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The gaming revenues of Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady, Resorts World Catskills, del Lago Resort & Casino and Tioga Downs Casino Resort fund these grants.
The Upstate Theatre
Coalition for a Fairgame, consisting of 12 performing arts organizations, was established in collaboration with the casinos to promote economic cooperation. The coalition launched the Fairgame Arts Grants to support programs benefiting organizations in the associated regions.
Local awardees included:
Opera Saratoga, $5,000; Saratoga Chamber Players, Inc. $4,000; The Orchard Project, $5,000. The Upstate Theater Coalition for a Fairgame includes Bardavon (Poughkeepsie), Bethel Woods Center for the Arts (Bethel), Clemens Center (Elmira), Forum Theatre (Binghamton),
Palace Performing Arts Center (Albany), Proctors (Schenectady), West Herr Auditorium Theatre (Rochester), Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Springs City Center, State Theatre of Ithaca, MVP Arena (Albany) and Troy Savings Bank Music Hall.
Artisan Trails in Washington County takes place Saturday and Sunday.
WASHINGTON
COUNTY — Explore artist studios and mini artist faires in a weekend of celebration of the talent in scenic, historic Washington County.
The sixth annual Artisan Trails in Washington County event takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, July 13 and 14,, with live demonstrations, plein aire painting, workshops, and, of course, plenty of art available for collectors to purchase.
New this year are vendor Hub Locations, and Artisan Partners. Hub locations are an opportunity for multiple artisans to show the passion they infuse into their craft at different locations of note within our county. Artisan Partners are breweries, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, wineries and other establishments who add to the tour experience through their quality food, beverage, and lodging options.
Visitors will be guided to
each site via maps both online and paper, plus roadside signs. The tour typically includes studios of painters, textile artists, metal sculpturists, stained glass artists, photographers, potters, furniture makers, beekeepers, blacksmiths, farms, cider houses, breweries and more. The event itself is free and open to the public.
More information is available at www.artisan-trails.org
*Key: GI= Grade 1 Stakes | GII= Grade 2 Stakes | GIII= Grade 3 Stakes
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced post times and the lineup of attractions, entertainment and events for the 2024 summer meet at historic Saratoga Race Course.
Highlighted by the 155th edition of the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 24 and the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 3, Saratoga will open on Thursday, July 11 and run through Monday, September 2.
Following the four-day opening week, racing will be conducted five days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, apart from the final week, when the meet will conclude on Labor Day.
First post will be 1:10 p.m. EDT every day except Saturdays, when first post will be 12:35 p.m. DraftKings Travers Day will feature a special first post of 11:40 a.m. Admission gates will open for live racing at 11 a.m. for all but DraftKings Travers Day when gates will open at 9 a.m.
Breakfast at Saratoga, driven by CDTA, will get underway daily at 7 a.m. through 9:30 a.m., excluding DraftKings Travers Day and Labor Day. Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy a buffet breakfast against the backdrop of morning training as well as claim the free picnic tables in the Rivers Casino Backyard.
The Ticketmaster Box Office at Saratoga Race Course will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. beginning Saturday, July 6 through Sunday, July 14. The box office, located at Gate A on Union Avenue, will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during all live racing days of the summer meet (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).
The 2024 summer meet will feature the following events lineup:
THURSDAY, JULY 11 - SUNDAY, JULY 14
The 2024 Saratoga summer meet will get underway on Thursday, July 11 with the traditional running of the
Schuylerville for 2-year-old fillies, followed by the first Grade 1 of the season, the Diana, on Saturday, July 13. The four-day annual celebration will be highlighted by live musical entertainment.
*Mondays and Tuesdays = Dark Days. No racing.
FRIDAY, JULY 12
Coronation Cup: F3YO, 5 1/2 - Turf, Purse
$150,000
The Wilton: F3YO, 1 Mile - Dirt, Purse $135,000
SATURDAY, JULY 13
GI Diana: F&M 4&UP, 1 1/8 - Turf, Purse
$500,000
GIII Kelso: 4&UP, 1 Mile - Turf, Purse $175,000
GIII Sanford: 2YO, 6 Furlongs - Dirt, Purse $175,000
SUNDAY, JULY 14
GIII Quick Call presented by Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation: 3YO, 5 1/2 Furlongs - Turf, Purse $175,000 WEDNESDAY, JULY 17
GI A.P. Smithwick Memorial (Steeplechase): 4&UP, 2 3/8 - Turf, Purse $150,000
NYSSS Statue of Liberty Division (R): F3YO, 1 Mile - Turf, Purse $150,000
THURSDAY, JULY 18
NYSSS Cab Calloway Division (R): 3YO, 1 Mile - Turf, Purse $150,000
The Purdy’s Summer Concert Stage will host live musical performances each afternoon of the season from popular local and regional bands.
Friday, July 12: Soul City Band
Saturday, July 13: 18 Strings of Trouble
Sunday, July 14: Dealt the Blues
Wednesday, July 17: Garland Nelson Band
Thursday, July 18: The Orion Kribs Band
TASTE NY PAVILION: EVERY THURSDAY-SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 11
New York-made food and beverages will be available for sample and purchase at the Taste NY Pavilion, located inside Gate A at the Top of the Stretch, where fans can enjoy New York craft beers, wines, spirits, cheese and chocolate (must be 21 and over to sample and purchase alcoholic beverages). Featured products hail from Montauk to the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks as a showcase of the state’s robust food and beverage industry.
SARATOGA BREAKFAST AND BREEDING FARM TOUR:
EVERY WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY AND SELECT SUNDAYS, BEGINNING JULY 12
The popular Saratoga Breakfast and Breeding Farm tours, which were first introduced in 2022, will be expanded this summer to meet growing demand. The program will be offered Wednesday through Saturday (excludes July 13, Aug. 24), plus select Sundays, beginning Friday, July 12 through Saturday, August 31. This year will feature newcomer Sugar Plum Farm to supplement incumbents Song Hill Thoroughbreds and Old Tavern Farm.
Fans will enjoy a buffet breakfast during morning training at Saratoga Race Course before boarding a CDTA trolley to that day’s breeding farm before returning to the Spa for the afternoon’s races. Tickets must be reserved in advance at NYRA.com Each tour accommodates up to 52 guests. Admission to Saratoga Race Course is included in the package.
EVERY FRIDAY-SUNDAY
BEGINNING JULY 12
Fans of all ages can pet a retired thoroughbred every Friday through Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Berkshire Bank Horse Sense. The educational exhibit also includes fun facts about the life and career of a thoroughbred. The family-friendly attraction is located inside Gate A and is presented by Berkshire Bank.
SUNDAY BRUNCH AT THE RAIL OF THE 1863 CLUB
EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 14
Fans are invited to enjoy a brunch buffet while experiencing The Rail at the 1863 Club, the firstfloor banquet space at the 1863 Club. Tickets start at $105 and include admission, a table seat for the day, brunch buffet, soft drinks, Post Parade program book, tax and gratuity. Reservations are available by calling the NYRA Box Office at 844-NYRA-TIX or online at Ticketmaster.com
EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 14
Enjoy your Sunday at the races in the Paddock Suite, learning betting strategies and tips from expert handicappers. Tickets start at $75 and include admission, Post Parade program book and a table seat for the day within the climate-controlled, shared suite overlooking the historic saddling area. Fans will also be treated to a meet-and-greet with Saratoga Race Course’s track announcer Frank Mirahmadi. Tickets can be purchased online through Fevo.
SUNDAYS AT THE FAMILY FUN ZONE
EVERY SUNDAY BEGINNING JULY 14
Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions and educational activities each Sunday inside the Family
on August 18.
by William G. Gotimer, Jr.
Saratoga - to quote a song by Dolly Parton - “Here you come again”. It seems like it was only yesterday that we were racing at Saratoga (or in this instance five weeks) but each year the Saratoga Race Course honors tradition but begins with high hopes and expectations for new excitement. Saratoga Race Course is a paradox- constantly changing, yet timeless - living one foot in one 21st century and one in the 20th (and even adding a respectful nod to the 19th).
However, this year is a little bit different. While it seems wildly inappropriate to suggest that the Belmont Stakes is an appetizer for other races, that observation seems appropriate this year. New York Racing Association spokesman Patrick McKenna expects that “the momentum out of an incredibly successful first Belmont Stakes at Saratoga” combined with more national television coverage on Fox than ever bodes well for the meet. While it remains to be seen whether the four-day meet surrounding the Belmont Stakes will whet or dampen the appetite of racing fans for the full meet, the particularly early start of July 11th may surprise some. The forty racing days run from July 11th through Labor Day on September 2nd.
Despite the high quality of racing at Saratoga, last year’s meet was marred by two high profile equine fatalities on marquee racing days. The memories of those tragedies have not fully faded with novice or veteran fans. It is therefore imperative
that the sport improve equine and human safety to protect its social license to operate. The full-throated opposition and persistent largely unsuccessful legal challenges by the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association’s to the federal regulation implemented to improve safety under the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act of 2020 (“HISA”) is evidence that the magnitude of the problem is not fully appreciated by many in the industry. Whether or not HISA is the answer, maintaining the status quo is very literally gambling with the sport’s future. Let’s hope strides toward equine safety continue to be made whether under HISA or otherwise.
The current length of the meet and number of races run has inevitably led to a decline in overall racing quality and no less than top trainer Chad Brown has publicly bemoaned the number of “cheap races on the card.” Of course, this comes with the territory as there simply are not enough quality horses in enough different barns to card mostly allowance and stakes races. Those like me, who look back at the twenty-four day meets over four weeks with fondness, remember the ultra-high quality of the races every day during those times. But a limited number of races and limiting each trainer to no more than 40 stalls were the driving factor behind those cards. For better or worse neither of those conditions will
return soon and there will be numerous races for lower priced horses and less grandiose connections to fill the cards.
Attending the races live at Saratoga is an all-day event and adding to that experience are the unwavering efforts and hospitality offered by the NYRABets crew. Tina Nomikoudis and Donny Nelson for more than a dozen years have fine-tuned their efforts and improved on track amenities for NYRABets VIP bettors. They include seats, Daily Racing Forms, special events and admission to the Curlin Room. The NYRABets crew shows appreciation for bettor’s loyalty in numerous and sundry ways. With a membership growth effort underway this year, NYRABets will offer VIP status to any bettor meeting the criteria with other ADW providers who move to their platform.
As horse players increasingly rely upon advanced technology to handicap races, many find it disruptive to attend live. One accommodation that a veteran and successful horse player has suggested to me would be the availability of small lockers for personal items. That way the tools of handicapping could be left at the track overnight allowing fans to go out directly to experience Saratoga’s restaurants and nightlife. This is a suggestion that is worth pursuing either by the NYRA or a sharp entrepreneur.
From a handicapping perspective remember Saratoga
racing is as much about people and connections as it is about horses, just as old friends gather at the racetrack once a year, certain connections aim their best efforts for Saratoga. These include James Bond, David Donk, Horacio De Paz, John Terranova, Larry Johnson, Chester and Mary Broman, Barry K. Schwartz and Reeves Racing. Among the larger outfits, the aforementioned Chad Brown is rumored to have a particularly strong cast of two-years-olds this
season, Linda Rice is expected to have entries at all levels and Todd Pletcher simply said to me “We are always excited for the Saratoga Meet.”
I started the column by quoting Dolly Parton and will end by quoting my grandmother - Gertrude Donavan Gotimer – an astute handicapper in her own right, who often said, “If you are lucky enough to be in Saratoga you are lucky enough!” Saratoga – timeless.
Written & Photographed by
Tony Podlaski for Saratoga
TODAY
By arriving at Saratoga Race Course in early May, Danny Gargan has the opportunity to develop his younger horses for a possible brighter future.
One of the common characteristics of spring in Saratoga Springs is the opening of the Oklahoma Training Track and now the Saratoga Race Course main track in mid-April.
Each spring, trainers like Chad Brown, Todd Pletcher, Bill Mott and Christophe Clement bring a plethora of their horses to train and prepare for the Saratoga meet while occasionally racing downstate and other tracks.
Other trainers from downstate and outside of New York bring their smaller group of horses with the similar goal. However, Danny Gargan’s goal is different.
For Gargan, the opening of the training track and main track is more than a preparation for the annual Saratoga meet; it is also an opportunity for his younger horses develop into a possible brighter future.
“We are here to try to accomplish something more than a race meet,” Gargan said.
“If we have a decent race meet, that’s fine. We are trying to get these young horses started. We are focused on younger horses developing into better [horses] down the road and in the future.”
Gargan has brought a stable to Saratoga just before the meet each year since 2013. Over the last 11 years, he has won several races that include Tax in the Grade 2 Jim Dandy and R Free Roll in the Grade 3 Honor Miss.
Though, one horse helped Gargan make his decision of brining horses to Saratoga once the tracks opened for training: Dakota Gold.
Toward the end of the Saratoga 2021 meet, Dakota Gold won his debut in an offthe-turf race at Saratoga. Just a little over three weeks later,
the New York-bred gelding won the Nownownow Stakes at Monmouth Park, then continued to stay at Saratoga through early November.
Since then, Dakota Gold continues to training at Saratoga during the spring, summer, and fall months before going to Florida for the winter. This training strategy appears to have positive impact on him by winning a pair of New York Stallion Stakes races as a 3-year-old and taking the Hudson Valley Stakes as a 4-year-old. He has also finished either second or third in five other listed stakes races.
Dornoch, winner of the Belmont Stakes here at Saratoga last month, can now be added to the list of Gargan’s horses who have followed that path to stakes-winning success.
In May 2023, Dornoch, as a 2-year-old, arrived to the Saratoga for training,
which included 10 published workouts, before finishing second behind Seize the Grey in his first start. After Dornoch finished second in the Sapling Stakes at Monmouth, then winning his first race in October at Keeneland, Gargan brought him back to New York where he won the Grade 2 Remsen Stakes at Aqueduct in December.
Even Gargan’s other stakes-winning 3-year-old Society Man started training here at Saratoga last year. While it took Society Man four races to win his first start in March at Aqueduct, the gelding came back with a respectable secondplace finish in the Grade 2 Wood Memorial in April and a convincing victory in the Grade 3 Matt Winn Stakes at Churchill Downs last month. Gargan believes that serene environment and excellent track maintenance
“ We are focused on younger horses developing into better [horses] down the road and in the future.”
from NYRA Executive Vice President of Operations and Capital Projects Glen Kozak and his staff has helped his horses remain relaxed and sound.
“It’s the tracks and facilities,” Gargan said. “It is peaceful. The horses are relaxed here. We have round pens. We can graze them. It is more like a farm setting. It gives the horses a chance to get not too wound up. Horses develop when they are not stressed. If you train at a racetrack all of the time, I feel like it is harder because they are stressed all of the time. This is a more laid-back environment that gives the horses the best chance to develop.”
“New York is lucky by having the best track man in the country,” Gargan added. “Glen Kozak is, by far, the best track man. He takes unbelievable care of all of these tracks. I give him a lot of credit to where we are. We are lucky to have him as our horses stay sound here. We are trying to get stakes horses every year, and this is how to
do it.”
Gargan currently has 38 horses, which includes 14 2-year-olds, that he rotates between here and downstate.
One of his 2-year-olds who has gained attention is Complexion, who is a halfsister to multiple Grade 1 winner Jack Christopher.
After arriving at Saratoga in May while posting five solid workouts over the Oklahoma Training Track, Complexion came out with an impressive performance three weeks ago by winning her debut by 6½ lengths at Aqueduct. Based off that performance, Gargan entered her for the $175,000 Schuylerville Stakes on Opening Day.
“I like her a lot. I think she has some talent,” Gargan said. “I have a few [2-year-olds] who I like a lot, but it’s still early.
I don’t have a big two-turn horse right now who could be a Dornoch. We don’t get horses like him every day, but we might have a couple of fillies of the caliber.”
Other horses who have been training at Saratoga for Gargan include New York-bred Ramblin’ Wreck (winner of last year’s Rick Violette Stakes) and Queen’s Martini (won debut at Saratoga last year).
“We are trying to get these young horses started,” he added. “We are trying to get them in the right direction down the road. We are trying to look at another Society Man and Dornoch for next year. That’s our goal. We have been coming here, we had multiple stakes horses. Let’s knock on wood and hope that keeps happening.”
by Joe Raucci for Saratoga TODAY
It’s here. the track announcer will speak the familiar words “It is now post time” followed by “And they’re off” and the historic Spa’s racing season will be underway.
There are few sporting venues that can compare to the beauty and charm of America’s greatest horse racing destination. Augusta, home of the Masters, along with Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, tributes to baseball’s glorious past may compare, but none can surpass it.
It’s Summer in Saratoga. Adding to the mystique of “The Sport of Kings,” The Performing Arts Center will host some of
the finest talent in the music world. Golf courses abound. Up the road from Union Avenue sits Saratoga National. A marvelous layout, it is as challenging as it is beautiful. The eighteen hole course in the Spa State Park is scenic and not as demanding as the afore mentioned. It makes for an enjoyable morning before heading over to the track.
What can compare with
walking down historic Union Avenue and the entrance to the racecourse. If one has the time, a visit to the National Museum of racing is a worthwhile stop on the way. The world of thoroughbred racing is on display. Here the horses, trainers and jockeys who surpassed their rivals in talent and fortitude are enshrined for eternity in Horse Racing’s Hall of Fame. Trophies won by America’s greatest stables
abound in rooms befitting their importance. It is a must stop for the serious racing fan. For the novice and the vacationer who come to Saratoga, it can be a wonderful learning experience. Then it’s a short walk into the past. The enticement of the historic track awaits. The ghosts of Man o’ War, Secretariat and so many other great champions can be felt, as one strolls the beautiful grounds.
The main reason one comes here is to wager on the magnificent thoroughbreds that are bred to display speed and endurance over distances ranging from five furlongs to more than a mile and a half.
At Saratoga you can expect the best of them to appear. They will strut their stuff in search of a visit to the winner’s
circle. The best will compete in a stakes race schedule that is stacked with major events. The Whitney Stakes, The Alabama, and the coveted Travers Stakes lead the way. This years” Mid Summer Derby” may be one for the ages. If all goes well it’s a distinct probability that the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga winner will be entered in the race. How about that to ice the cake for one of America’s greatest horse races. The meet will be full of surprises. You can bet on that. It’s what makes horse racing such an interesting sport. You can also be rest assured that a champion in the making will make an appearance here. That has been a sure thing since racing began here in 1863. Get ready, the best is yet to come.
by Jonathon Norcross Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS —
From ancient Rome to Saratoga Springs, the sport of bocce has a long and storied history that is still being celebrated by local players such as Michael Scialdone Sharkey, whose passion for the sport has resulted in tens of millions of hits on social media platforms.
Sharkey’s family hailed from Vitulazio, Italy, a small town about 22 miles north of Naples, where they would play bocce in their vineyard every Sunday. When they came to America, the family started hosting tournaments in central New York and the Finger Lakes. Growing up in Saratoga Springs, Sharkey even had a bocce court in his backyard. Today, he is both a gold-medalwinning national tournament player, and the owner of the Bocce Broadcast Network (BBN), which livestreams games on YouTube.
“I just spent all my money on all this camera equipment and switchers and all this stuff that I had no idea how it worked at first,” Sharkey said. He lugged his gear to the Italian Community Center in Troy and recorded some league games that he then uploaded to YouTube.
To Sharkey’s surprise, the videos quickly generated hundreds of views.
Encouraged, Sharkey began broadcasting tournaments from around the country, including the Las Vegas Bocce National Open Championship in Nevada, and the United States Bocce Federation National Championship in St. Louis, Missouri.
“There’s this whole kind of underground tournament circuit that the sport operates on, and until recently, nobody really was aware of it, outside of the players and their families,” Sharkey said.
The BBN made those tournaments accessible to a wider audience, allowing new generations of fans to become engrossed in the ancient sport.
SARATOGA SPRINGS
— The Battle by Saratoga, a Memorial Day weekend baseball tournament, will return for its fifth iteration on May 24-26, 2025, AAU Baseball announced last week. Since its inception in 2021, the tournament has experienced significant growth. Starting with just 40 teams, the 2024 event saw participation from 114 teams across the Northeast United States.
WILTON — Saratoga Bridges will host its 21st annual
J. Michael Fitzgibbons Memorial Golf Classic at McGregor Links Country Club on Monday, July 29 at 10 a.m. The event includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, contests, dinner, complimentary beverages on the course, and golf apparel. A small award ceremony will also be held.
“I see the excitement in people when they see the sport for the first time,” Sharkey said. “A lot of people played growing up in the backyard or wherever, but when you see the next level, the professional level of this sport, people get excited about it.”
While the network broadcasts bocce to the world, Sharkey is also working to increase the sport’s popularity here at home.
In January, Saratoga Springs approved plans to build a $13,000 bocce court in Veteran’s Memorial Park. Sharkey’s father, who has built many of his own courts, reached out to the city to offer his assistance.
“Saratoga has the money to do nice things, so we’re hoping they’ll build some nice courts out there and maybe in the future we can have some leagues there,” Sharkey said. “We can introduce people to the sport, but then also introduce them to this competitive style if they want to take it further.”
Last year, local high schools piloted a unified bocce program
run by Special Olympics New York. The league provided an opportunity for students with limitations in adaptive areas to play bocce. The pilot program was a success, and in October 2023, the BBN broadcast the unified championship tournament live from the Italian American Community Center in Albany.
As the sport grows in popularity both nationally and locally, Sharkey noted that bocce has survived for generations thanks
to the hard work of countless volunteers. “There’s just this real generational passion for the sport that I think is really unique,” Sharkey said.
The BBN’s next broadcast will be the World Series of Bocce at the Toccolana Club in Rome, New York on July 18-21. The network is also scheduled to cover the ABC Open at the Palazzo di Bocce in Lake Orion, Michigan in September.
Tickets will not be sold at the event. Spots must be reserved by July 17. To purchase tickets, go to www.saratogabridges.org and click on fundraising events, then click on The J. Michael Fitzgibbons Memorial Golf Classic. Tickets are $225 per golfer or $900 for a foursome.
Thousands of runners participated in the 18th annual Firecracker4 race on Independence Day morning in downtown Saratoga Springs.
