LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 11 • Issue 29 • July 22 – July 28, 2016
saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com • (518) 581-2480
Lets Roll!
Complete First Week Coverage Pages 37-44
Photo by Adam Mooshian/NYRA
Brown’s Beach Update
by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY
STILLWATER — Brown’s Beach will remain closed to swimming for an undetermined amount of days until a series of tests conclude water safety.
Stillwater Town Supervisor Ed Kinowski said it is highly unlikely the contamination had anything to do with the July 4th spill of 5,000 gallons of untreated sewage into Saratoga Lake because Brown’s Beach is south of that location and the lake’s water currents would have
Amanda Engels, Jack Brennan (age 7), George Brennan (age 5) enjoy Brown’s Beach even if they can’t swim. Photo by Francesco D’Amico. See Beach pg. 7
Mayor Censured
by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY
Kaitlin’s Korner Opens See pg. 18
Inside TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS — A contentious City Council meeting Tuesday, July 19, resulted in a 3-2 vote to censure Mayor Joanne Yepsen for ethics violations. This is the first censure of a sitting mayor in the history of Saratoga Springs. As first highlighted in “Recusal or Refusal” by Arthur Gonick in Saratoga TODAY’s April 15 issue, questions arose surrounding Yepsen’s efforts to solicit business from the Saratoga Hospital Foundation for Critical Needs Now, a grant-writing business Yepsen
See Mayor pg. 11
Blotter 5 Obituaries 6 Business 16-17 Education 18-19 Pulse 26-32 Winners Circle
37-44
Sports 47-47
2
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Man on the Street ““If you won big at the track and had enough money to never work again, what would you do with your time?””
“We would travel. We would go to the Grand Canyon, and then Ireland.” – Sharron Burke (left) and Ron Burke (right), from Niantic, Connecticut
“I would do volunteer work with children; anything to give back to the kids.” – Linda Johnson, from Brooklyn
“I would do charity work with animals and the elderly.” – Mary Anne Moore (left), from Ottawa, Ontario
“I would buy a house on Lake George and come to Saratoga on Saturday nights! I would also donate money to Saratoga Hosptial.” – Amy Dumary (left), from Saratoga
“I’d be part of that, as well. I would also travel.” – Bill Moore (right), from Ottawa, Ontario
“I would take my family on vacations.” – Maria Hefferman (right), from Saratoga
“I would buy six more dresses like the one I’m wearing in all different colors!” – Gigi Rosselli (right), from Loudonville “I would reopen an Italian Church in Albany that was around when I grew up. I would also do something with the youth.” – Tom Rosselli (left), from Loudonville
“I would work on genealogy and go to all the places that my ancestors are from, like England.” – Mary Beth Truman, from Saratoga
“I would buy lots of big houses. I would also travel to Europe.” – Kim Fiore (middle), from Miami “I would buy a little cottage on the ocean on Long Island or Florida.” – Melanie Murphy (right), from Saratoga “I’d go to the Adirondacks a lot to find peace.” – Don Washburn, from Sacandaga Lake
“I’d take care of my family.” – Carol Pollett (left), from Saratoga
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
NEWS 3
175th Opening of Saratoga County Fair
The Saratoga County Fair opened for its 175th anniversary on Tuesday, July 19. Over five generations of descendants of the original families associated with the very first Fair were represented. Photo provided.
Adirondack Trust Supports County Fair
Adirondack Trust Company Executive Vice President Charles Wait, Jr. visited the Saratoga County Fairgrounds to officially present a $25,000 check supporting the building of the new Adirondack Trust Company sponsored horse barn. The “Adirondack Trust Company Equine Center” will soon host the Fair’s Saddle and Draft Horse competitions and exhibitions, including the Eight-Horse Hitch, boasting 4,000 pounds of thundering, earth shaking, horse power never before seen or heard in this area. Pictured L to R- Sarah Welch, 175th Anniversary Co-Chair and SCAS Director; Chuck Curtiss, President of the Saratoga County Agricultural Society; Charles V. Wait, Jr. Adirondack Trust Executive Vice President; Audrey Poitras, 175th Anniversary Co-Chair and SCAS Director. Photo provided.
Trustco Bank Supports County Fair
Trustco Bank provided the Saratoga County Fair with a $5,000 donation to the Saratoga County Agricultural Society, resulting in the Talent Pavilion being named Trustco Talent Pavilion. Some of the Fair’s most popular events are held in the Pavilion, including the Talent Contests, the LEGO contest, the 4-H Interscholastic Robotics Demonstration, and the nightly Hypnosis shows this year by the renowned Lance Gifford. Left to right: Audrey Poitras, 175th Anniversary Co-Chair and SCAS Director; Chuck Curtiss, President of the Saratoga County Agricultural Society; Thomas M. Poitras, Assistant Secretary of Trustco Bank; Sarah Welch, 175th Anniversary Co-Chair and SCAS Director. Photo provided.
4
NEWS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Ribbon Cutting for Two SARATOGA SPRINGS — Julie and Company Realty and West Side Management of Saratoga held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 14 in celebration of their new office space. The event was held in the lobby of The Lofts at 18 Division Street, and was led by the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce. Julie and Co. Realty began in November 2015, and has since held its office space in suite 307 at The Lofts while its permanent residence was being built out. The business has continued to grow over its eight months of operation while also maintaining its “boutique” status with a select group of skilled agents. West Side Management was also occupying space at The Lofts in suite 206. West Side Management has continued to flourish as well, managing 15 million dollars in annual revenue and 21 properties. The two companies will be moving into suite 314 at The Lofts. For more information about Julie and Co. Realty, visit www.JulieCoRealty. com or email info@juliecorealty. For more about West Side Management, visit www.WSMGMTsaratoga.com or call 518-587-7600.
Julie and Company Realty.
West Side Management
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BLOTTER 5
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
COURTS: Shaddin J. Brennan, 30, of Corinth pled on Monday, July 11 to the felony charge of burglary in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for September 6. Thomas R. McCall, 27, of Saratoga Springs pled on Monday, July 11 to the felony charge of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for September 12. William E. Panten, 27, of Latham was sentenced on Tuesday, July 12 to one to three years in prison and three years of conditional discharge, after pleading guilty to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated and the misdemeanor charge of petit larceny. Adam C. Dottino, 20, of New Scotland was arraigned on Tuesday, July 12 on the felony charge of rape in the third degree and the violent felony charges of rape in the first degree and sexual abuse in the first degree. Daniel J. Champlin, 30, of Clifton Park was arraigned on Tuesday, July 12 on the felony charges of two counts of driving while intoxicated and one count of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, and the misdemeanor charges of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree, the aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree, resisting arrest, reckless driving, and unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree. Christopher J. Sisson, 27, of Ballston Spa was sentenced on Wednesday, July 13 to five days in jail and five years of probation, after pleading guilty to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Stephen G. Clark, 34, of Hudson Falls pled on Thursday, July 14 to the felony charge of failure to register a change of address within 10 days. Sentencing is scheduled for September 12. Kelley A. Murphy, 31, of Buffalo was sentenced on Thursday, July 14 to five days in jail and five years of probation, after pleading guilty to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.
John G. LaMountain, 40, of Ballston Spa was sentenced on Thursday, July 14 to five years of probation, after pleading guilty to the felony charge of driving while intoxicated.
ARRESTS: Adamsimon A. Farah, 23, of Ashburn, VA was arrested on Saturday, July 2 and charged with the felony charges of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree. Cortland R. Vargas, 22, of Middle Grove was arrested on Tuesday, July 12 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC more than .08 of .1 percent, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree, unlawful possession of marijuana and the traffic violations of vehicle entering stop or yield intersection and no/ expired inspection certificate. James J. Garafalo, 22, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Tuesday, July 12 and charged with harassment in the second degree and the felony charge of attempted robbery in the third degree. Kevin D. Germain, 57, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Tuesday, July 12 and charged with petit larceny and open container. Alexa C. Dalberto, 27, of Mechanicville was arrested on Wednesday, July 13 and charged with driving while intoxicated, aggravated driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC more than .08 of .1 percent and the traffic violation of following a motor vehicle too closely. Joseph A. Deschenes, 45, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Wednesday, July 13 and charged with trespass. Shawn M. Johnson, 33, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Wednesday, July 13 and charged with open container and disorderly conduct. Jeremy M. Depasquale, 36, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Wednesday, July 13 and charged with open container. Nicklas W. Cooley, 38, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on
Wednesday, July 13 and charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree. Robert J. Mabeus, 20, of Colonie was arrested on Thursday, July 14 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree and the traffic violations of failure to signal a turn, operating out of class and operating an unregistered motor vehicle on the highway. Michael J. Lewis, 36, of Saratoga Springs and Thomas M. Fitzgerald, 59, of Schenectady were arrested on Thursday, July 14 and charged with one count each of open container. Siobhan M. Muldoon, 25, of Saratoga Springs was arrested on Friday, July 15 and charged with criminal trespass in the third degree. Dominick Refino, 31, of Malta, Michael J. Wolff, 21, of Ballston Spa, Adam D. Livingstone, 24, of Ballston Spa were arrested on Friday, July 15 and charged with one count each of criminal possession
of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Refino and Wolff were charged with one count each of and Livingstone was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance outside original container. Refino was charged with tampering with physical evidence. Livingstone was charged with criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree. Jessica A. Gilchrist, 29, of Albany was arrested on Saturday, July 16 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC more than .08 of .1 percent, aggravated driving while intoxicated, and the traffic violations of refusal of a prescreen test, failure to signal a turn, failure to
signal a turn at the last 100 feet, and failure to keep right. Amanda E. Murray, 33, of Ballston Spa and Michael A. Wolf, 27, of Ballston Spa were arrested on Saturday, July 16 and charged with one count each of unlawful possession of marijuana. Murray was charged with two counts of and Wolf was charged with one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Murray was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance outside original container. Roy Stanley, 20, of Ireland was arrested on Sunday, July 17 and charged with trespass.
6
OBITUARIES
Gwendolyn Prudhomme
F. “Paul” Kennedy
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Gwendolyn Elizabeth Prudhomme of Saratoga Springs passed away on Thursday, July 14, 2016 in her home at age 73, with her family by her side. Gwen fought a courageous battle against MDS Gwen was born to parents Vaughan and Sarah Jones of Derry, NH on February 5, 1943. Gwen shared her parents with her older brother Bob (Carol) Jones, who she idolized. Gwen attended Pinkerton Academy and then went to Maine Medical where she received a degree as an X-Ray Technician. Gwen married Arnie Prudhomme in 1964 and the couple had two daughters, Melissa (John Oliver) Prudhomme and Darcy (Peter) Jones. She was a teaching assistant and ran the computer lab for many years at Milton Terrace in Ballston Spa alongside her very special friend, Nancy Church, before retiring in 2001. Upon her retirement Gwen continued to stay active in her community by spreading her love of gardening at the Saratoga Auto Museum and Brookhaven Golf Club. Gwen’s greatest love and dedication was to her three wonderful grandchildren; Jay, Griffin, and Bryson who she loved dearly. In addition to many family members, Gwen leaves behind dear friends from Florida to New York who all shared in her love of gardening and golf. The family would like to thank the medical staff at Saratoga Oncology with special thanks to Dr. DelMonte, the men and women in the lab and at the front desk who always made Gwen feel special. Gwen spent many hours receiving blood transfusions at Saratoga Hospital and became extremely close with her favorite nurse, Georgie. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Gwen’s life on Friday, July 22, 2016 at 10 a.m. at the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Avenue in Saratoga Springs. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Jimmy Fund at Dana Farber in Boston, MA (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168). Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — F. “Paul” Kennedy, 77, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 15, 2016 at Saratoga Hospital. Paul was born April 5, 1939, in Niskayuna, the son of the late Francis and Pauline (Maroney) Kennedy. He graduated from LaSalle Institute in Troy and attended Georgetown University. Paul later earned a Master’s degree in Liberal Studies from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Paul was employed by Crawford and Company during his professional career. Throughout his life, Paul lived in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Long Island, and Florida. He was an active member of his church community in both Florida (St. Jerome’s), and more currently at St. Clement’s Parish in Saratoga Springs. Paul enjoyed singing in the church choir and sharing his gift of music with others. Paul was a generous person and a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He was a warm and gracious soul who will be sorely missed by the many people whose lives he touched. Besides his parents, Paul is predeceased by his sister, Joan Repetto. Survivors include his wife, Ellen Fontaine (Kennedy); son, Peter Kennedy and daughter Elizabeth KennedyHemsey (George); stepdaughter, Maria Fontaine; sister, Barbara Chandler (Richard) and several nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives gathered to remember him on Thursday, July 21, 2016 at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs where a Mass of Christian Burial followed. At Paul’s request, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110 or to the Estherville Animal Rescue Shelter, 100 Russell Road, Greenfield Center, N.Y. 12833. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Vincent J. Smith DELAND, FL — Vincent J. Smith, Sr., 92, of Deland, Florida and formerly of Middle Grove, passed into heaven June 24, 2016 to embrace his loving wife of 68 years, Jean E. Perry. He was born on January 25, 1925 in Passaic, NJ to James and Anne (Petrick) Smith, Sr. He is
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016 predeceased by his brother James Smith, Jr. (Rose) and brother Thomas Smith (Florence). He is survived by his sister Theresa Sullivan and brother-in-law William Perry. Vince was a happy man, always whistling and singing. One of his best talents was storytelling. He had a way of wanting him to tell you more and left you wondering. Anyone who knew him said “he made me laugh!” He was always willing to help anyone in need. Vince loved hunting and fishing. He is one of the original twelve members of The Baldwin Club in Stony Creek. He shared with anyone willing to listen how to make the best of the outdoors. He always taught us to live simply and enjoy life. His employment was with Milliman and Hall Lumber Co. in Saratoga, NYS Forestry and he did various tile and carpentry work. His many great talents also include gardening and woodworking. Our families and friends have enjoyed his many handcrafts, from dollhouses with furniture, whittled canoes, paddle boats, angels, wooden shoes, mice and lighthouses. Vince is survived by his daughters Linda Vrooman (David), Karen Strickland (Tom) and son Vincent “Buzz” Smith (Denise); grandchildren, David Vrooman (Stacy), Darryl Vrooman (Justin Bowman), Kimberly Vrooman James (Mark), Leslie Smith, Heather Jarvis (Jamie) and Joshua Smith (Andrea); great-grandchildren Kaylie Vrooman Corynn and Madelynn Jarvis, Marlee and Cameron James, Remy Smith and one on the way! May he find peace in joining grandsons Billy Perkins and Vincent “Shawn” Smith in heaven. His infectious smile and happiness will be missed by all. Graveside services will be held Saturday, July 23 at 10 a.m. in Middle Grove Cemetery.
William Edward Pitman ROME, NY — William Edward Pitman, 68, formerly of Saratoga Springs, died on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at Rome Memorial Hospital, Rome, NY. Born on January 23, 1948 in Albany, he was the son of the late Robert and Leona Pitman. A 1967 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School, William enlisted in the United States Air Force and spent twenty years on active duty, retiring in 1988. During his time in the Air Force he did tours in Vietnam, South Korea, Great Britain and several duty stations in the United States. William is survived by his sister, Leona Pitman of Ballston Spa and a step brother, Robert Pitman of Saratoga Springs. Graveside services with military honors will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Friday, July 22, 2016 at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville. Donations may be made in his name to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
NEWS 7
Taste of Malta Brown’s Beach Update MALTA — The Malta Business and Professional Association held its 8th Annual Taste of Malta on Tuesday, July 19, at Hudson Valley Community College’s TECSMART, 345 Hermes Road. Attendees sampled items from Campagna Restaurant, Jimmy’s Pizza and Pasta, Dock Brown’s Lakeside Tavern, Dunning Street Station, Lake Ridge, Panza’s Restaurant, Leah’s
Cakery and many more. Proceeds from the event support the Ballston Spa Partnership for Innovation in Education Fund, which supports several Ballston Spa Central School District’s most innovative initiatives, including the Clean Technologies and Sustainable Industries Early College in High School (Clean Tech ECHS) held at the HVCC’s TEC-SMART facility in Malta.
Photos by Francesco D’Amico.
Scott Ringwood and Diana Murphy of Lake Ridge Restaurant.
Marlene Devitt, Bill Gauhs, and Eileen and Peter Farley.
Stephanie Schiffer and Carmine Franco.
Taste of Malta Chair Karen McGowan, Rich Karwan, Tony Panza, Todd Shimkus.
Continued from front page.
carried the spill further north, not south. “We are only in week two of the closed beach,” said Kinowski, “and I know everyone is disappointed, but they won’t be disappointed with all the data we’re collecting.” The NYS Department of Health has issued the following statement: “Brown’s Beach remains closed for swimming and wading because of bacteriological water quality samples that have exceeded the state standard of 235 E. coli per 100 ml for fresh water. The Town of Stillwater has taken additional samples and once water quality improves and is below the state standard, the beach may reopen for swimming and wading. State DOH will continue to work with the town to evaluate potential sources of the bacteria and mitigation steps. For more information about E. coli, please see: http:// www.health.ny.gov/diseases/ c om mu n i c abl e / e _ c ol i / f a c t _ sheet.htm.”
Brown’s Beach is closed to swimming due to E. coli levels found in water samples. Photo by Francesco D’Amico.
Currently, Brown’s Beach is the only regulated swimming area on the lake. It is the up to each municipality that touches the lake to decide whether to test any of the swimming locations in their respective areas. In order to assure the safety of residents and visitors, the Town of Stillwater began regular testing in April long before Brown’s Beach opened, and had E. coli levels that were well below the state health standard until the recent DOH test. “We’re always in the single or low double digits. We didn’t have a problem until
the DOH test,” said Kinowski. “So we started a series of testing and we aren’t done. One test doesn’t answer for rainstorm or windstorm events, or bird populations. We want to build a database. Our aim is to see if there’s a temporary issue or a longer issue, which takes time. I’m hoping by the end of this week to gather enough data to decide if there’s as pattern. DOH, DEC, EnCon have all been very helpful. We’re doing actual counts, so someone is looking through a microscope counting bacteria because we want it done right.”
8
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Cuteness Knows No Boundaries! Burnt Hills Oratorio Society Announces Scholarship Winners
CLIFTON PARK — Well, yes. We generally do not travel south of Round Lake and Burnt Hills – but when Buzz has a specimen this handsome, we stretch a little. Meet Trev, son of Javier and Katie-Hickey-Rodriguez – they of the (regrettably) gone restaurant Javier’s in Saratoga Springs. Rumor has it that a bounce house helped with the primary incisor bouncing out of Trey’s head! The good news is that the Rodriguez’s also maintain a residence in NYC – so BUZZ set up diplomatic clearance for Trev to receive a big prize
package under his pillow from the Metro NY and Saratoga County tooth fairy chapters – hence the big smile… Keep it up, Trev!
Wesley Community Employee Honored for Dedication to Senior Care
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Wesley Community, a leading provider in housing and services for independent seniors and those requiring all levels of care, announced On Monday, July 11 that one of its staff members has been recognized for extraordinary dedication to senior care services by LeadingAge New York. Laurie Wetsel, resident financial services manager at The Wesley Community, received the 2016 LeadingAge New York Employee of Distinction Award during a recent ceremony at The Wesley Community campus in Saratoga Springs. The award recognizes the efforts of front line staff of non-profit senior care and services organizations in
New York State. Only 18 people are chosen for the award every year. Wetsel was recognized for her positive attitude, team spirit, and going above and beyond expectations. Pictured are Wesley Community Resident Financial Services Manager Laurie Wetsel accepts the LeadingAge New York Employee of Distinction Award from Kristen Myers, Vice President of Member Services and Marketing at LeadingAge New York, during a special ceremony at the Wesley Community. Wetsel was honored for her dedication to senior care services. Wetzel (center) is with Mark Luciano (left), Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, and Tom Lewis (right), Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator Kathy Marchione.
BURNT HILLS – The Burnt Hills Oratorio Society (BHOS) hosted its 19th Annual Vocal Scholarship Award competition at the Saratoga Springs Public Library on June 4. Juniors and Seniors from high schools throughout the Greater Capital Region were invited to compete. Of six applicants performing selections from the standard song repertoire, juniors Marissa Scotti and Kaeli Heffner, from Guilderland and
Shenendehowa High Schools respectively, each won a $750 award. Both students plan to pursue a career in vocal music. They have taken voice lessons with Capital Region teachers Shannon DeFranqueville, Rae Jean Teeter, Corine Salon, Michael Lotano, and Heather Baird. Ms. Scotti has sung Maria in “West Side Story” in a CR Kids Production at The Egg and, among many other honors, scored
first place in the Novice Division of the Mendelssohn Classical Singers’ competition. Ms. Heffner won TANYS excellence awards in performance and vocal performance for her role as Martha in the “Secret Garden.” Both young women participated in the NYSSMA All State Festival in 2015 at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, Heffner in the Women’s Chorus and Scotti in the Mixed Chorus.
Ice Cream Social at Children’s Museum!
SARATOGA SPRINGS — In anticipation of their renovation (see Saratoga TODAY – July 15) The Children’s Museum at Saratoga had an ice cream social. The children participated in the groundbreaking and then enjoyed their Stewart’s goodness during their snack break. Here enjoying are Avery and Olivia; Brayton; and Julia, Jacob and Ema. Delish!
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
9
10
OP/ED LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Disregarded Sewage Saratoga Lake I doubt the article about the spill of untreated sewage into Saratoga Lake in your July 8 issue was of much comfort to those residents who reside at the formerly pristine lakes’ edges, or who use it recreationally, or fish it. In the article, David Winchell, a spokesperson for the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation, reported that a “Valve at pumping station #4 failed, resulting in the release of
5,000 gallons of untreated sewage, into Saratoga Lake.” Two paragraphs later, Dan Rourke, Executive Dir. for Saratoga’s Sewage District, assured everyone “It was purely residential waste water, whatever goes down your drains, sinks, TOILETS, showers -- we’re not talking about toxic chemicals or anything,” said Rourke....sort of a “gosh, what’s all the fuss about?” amelioration. When last I heard, human effluence in any amount can cause Ebola and other
sickening and dangerous illnesses, regardless of the ratio of sewage to total lake water capacity. It only takes one swimmer inadvertently swallowing affected water, and one fish ingesting a bit of untreated human refuse, (then caught and eaten by humans) to be a serious health hazard. While the workers who gave up their 4th to spend 6 hours fixing the valve are to be applauded, no mention was made of any effort to clean up the spill, or add purifying chemicals, particularly in the area where the valve rupture first occurred. Doesn’t simply disregarding the 5,000 gallons of filth seem a bit cavalier?? Have some Saratoga Lake fish for lunch, Mr. Rourke?? Judith Thomas Saratoga Springs
If Saratoga Lake could talk, it would cry and say, “Help save my life. My main body of water is a little over four miles long. I have been a good lake for Saratoga County and surrounding area. I have tried to take care of all the fish that make me their home and all the swimmers that enjoy my good water for swimming. I have been faithful to the people that use me. I now ask for help as I am dying a slow, but sure death. “I am too small for the number of boats that now use me, along with other things [invasive species, herbicides, pesticides, oil on water, prescription waste disposal, and fertilizers] going into me. The handwriting is on the wall. Can’t anyone see what is taking place with me? For those that know, please care about me.
For others that don’t know and don’t care I say, turn around and do something while there is a little life left in me.” “I love serving the people in this area. There is nothing worse than when a body of water dies. What good is a dead lake when all the fun is gone? Let those that can do something do so now before it is too late.” Sign up as a volunteer with Saratoga Lake Protection and Improvement District (SLPID) to promote stewardship of Saratoga Lake at SLPID.org. While you’re there, check out the 2015 Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program Scorecard for Saratoga Lake. (This article was inspired by Mary Ellen Ryall.) Sid Gordon Saratoga Springs
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
ETHICS BOARD
11
Saratoga Springs Mayor Censured City Council Votes for AG, JCOPE Review Continued from front page.
co-owns. Her efforts to secure the freelance work came at a time when the hospital had business before the Council. The City’s ethics board, volunteers appointed by the Mayor, reviewed the case and determined that the Mayor had violated City ethics rules. During the board’s review, Yepsen submitted a response to the ethics board through her attorney, which she read at Tuesday’s council meeting. She emphasized that it is important to not use the volunteer board for political purposes, and she called for improvement and clarification of ethics language, including making the standard of practice in line with state-level ethics policy. The mayor disagreed with the ethics board’s findings, and protested her innocence throughout the meeting, reiterating, “I have done nothing wrong.” The part-time nature of being a city council member at a salary of $14,500 a year often requires the elected official to either own a business, work at a business, or be
retribution. “Not that there is,” he said, “but it could be seen that way. This is certainly a lesson in being transparent as early as possible and not waiting so long.” Madigan proposed the council officially accept the decision of the ethics board. Yepsen recused herself from that vote and the other four council memSaratoga Springs City Council members Michele bers voted in favor of Madigan, “Skip” Scirocco, and Mayor Joanne Yepsen sit together at the July 13 unveiling of the “Sara” artwork accepting it. Commissioner of outside the City Center. Photo by Sharon Castro. Public Works Anthony retired, according to Commissioner Scirocco read a resoluof Finance Michele Madigan. tion into the minutes that called on Madigan emphasized that the censuring the mayor for her ethics mayor understood this, as do all violations. council members, which has been A censure is a harsh rebuke shown by their years of service. and severe warning. According to Additionally, Commissioner of city attorney Tony Izzo, a censure Public Safety Christian Mathiesen has no legal effect on the mayor, and noted that Yepsen’s recusal on a the city charter is silent on the point critical vote for Saratoga Hospital of censure. He referred to a censure after it had chosen not to pursue as an opinion, not much different hiring her could be looked upon as than opinions that are commonly
voiced by council members over the years. “The censure does not in any way diminish the authority of the elected official,” said Izzo. Along with the censure, the resolution requests the New York State Attorney General’s office and the Joint Commission on Public Ethics review the ethics board’s findings to see if further action is needed. Explained Sirocco, “I want to make this clear that this is not a political effort. This emphasizes the importance of having independent bodies review this matter. What do we do when a council member violates ethics? That’s why we have to forward them somewhere.” Commissioner of Accounts
John Franck said that while he agreed with the ethics board’s findings, he disagreed with forwarding it to the AG and JCOPE. He said, “There’s no criminal activity here, and no fraud, so unless someone tells me different, this is overreaching.” The mayor did not recuse herself from this vote, and the resolution passed 3 to 2 with Yepsen and Franck voting against. The public comment period was contentious as speakers took on the issue, some in avid support of the mayor and others against, even calling for the mayor to step down. Since the meeting, the Republican and Independence local parties are also calling for the mayor to resign.
12
NEWS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Code Blue Still Remains “Homeless” by Maureen Werther Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — With the dog days of summer finally upon us, it may be hard to imagine freezing temperatures right around the corner. But that is what Mike Finocchi, Executive Director of Shelters of Saratoga is doing. When the announcement was made a few months ago that the Salvation Army would no longer be able to accommodate Code Blue this coming winter, Shelters of Saratoga received a lot of supportive response from the local community.
But, with no deal yet in place to lease a space for the coming season, Finocchi wants to remind people that he and his team are still actively searching for a vacant building that will offer adequate shelter for the homeless population when the temperature drops to 32 degrees. He welcomes any information from members of the community about possible vacant building opportunities. “The executive order issued by the governor last year means that, regardless of what time of day or night it is, if the temperature hits 32 degrees, we are required to have
shelters available for the homeless to come in off the street,” said Finocchi. He went on to say that the executive order did not create as much difficulty for larger cities that already have 24-hour facilities for their homeless population. “Here, it’s different. We can’t accommodate the homeless here at SOS, because it’s a dry shelter,” he added. Several churches have offered the use of space, but the same problem arises if temperatures drop during the day while other programs may be in progress at these locations. Finocchi and his team are
currently working with backstretch Chaplain, Humberto Chavez, to determine if NYRA will consider making the women’s dormitory or the jockey’s club at the track available for Code Blue. “We sent him a letter last week,” said Finocchi, “and he understands how serious this is.” The Chaplain is expected to present the situation to NYRA officials in the next month. “But of course, we are not putting all our eggs in one basket,” he continued. Finocchi is also working with his development team and board member Mark Bertrand, founder of The Giving Circle. They have identified a few other vacant buildings, one of which is located near the Franklin Community Center. Finocchi said the building in question was previously occupied by Informz, and he is hopeful that, given the proximity to the Community Center, there may be an opportunity to lease that space without any resistance from the surrounding residents or businesses. His team is also looking into the Soul Saving Station church located on Crescent Street, and they have been trying to reach out to its pastor, who
lives in Schenectady. The goal of SOS is to locate a building that can be leased for up to two years. During that time, SOS will launch a capital campaign to raise funds to either build or purchase a permanent location. “This would be a 24-hour dropin site that would be staffed with case managers. The homeless could come in here to get cleaned up, have access to toiletry items and other basic necessities. But, more importantly, they would have access to case managers and mental health services and support.” Finocchi talked about how difficult it is to get the homeless into the system, and he envisions the permanent facility also offering mailboxes that would enable the homeless population to gain better accessibility to the services that are available to them. “The ultimate goal is nobody has to sleep on the streets,” he said. “We don’t want anyone else freezing to death on the streets this winter.” For more information about the site search or to donate, please visit www.codebluesaratoga.org/wordpress/sample-page/site-search/ or call Mike Finocci at 518-581-1097.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
NEWS 13
28 Clinton St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, 518-584-3255 July 12, 2016 The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo Governor of New York State NYS State Capitol Building Albany, NY 12224 Dear Governor Cuomo: We are writing to invite you to visit the Saratoga Race Course during the upcoming 40-day Race Meeting which begins on Friday, July 22, and ends on Monday, September 5, 2016. As you know, the Saratoga Race Course is a national treasure and a significant economic engine for the Capital Region. We believe your understanding of just how special our race course is to our community, this region and the Thoroughbred horse racing industry in New York and the US will be dramatically enhanced by such a personal visit. We’d like to spend some time with you at the Saratoga Race Course watching a couple of races. This historic setting offers everyone a special opportunity to explain why we feel so strongly that NYRA should be reprivatized as a private not-for-profit corporation without altering the franchise agreement. This visit will allow you to see and hear the excitement that builds within this sports and entertainment venue as each race starts and the winners come to the finish line in front of thousands of fans of all ages. We’d encourage you to make time as well so that we can bring you around the grounds of the Saratoga Race Course where you’ll be able to see what we are doing to improve the living conditions of backstretch workers. We’d like the opportunity to introduce you to some of the legendary trainers, owners and jockeys who could race anywhere but choose to spend their summers here in Saratoga. If time permits, a tour of a local horse farm as well as an equine hospital will demonstrate how we breed and care for our equine athletes here in Saratoga. We have 40 days this summer to make this visit happen. If you accept, we will be sure to include our local legislators in these tours, meetings and discussions. Please have your office give us a call at 518-584-3255 to work on setting this up. Come spend some time with us this summer, in Saratoga - The Summer Place To Be, and see for yourself what all of the fuss is about! Sincerely, Todd Shimkus, President, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Sincerely, Maureen Lewi, Chair, Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing
Lefner Named Chief of Newborn Medicine
SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga Hospital has announced the naming of Jennifer Lefner, MD as Chief of Newborn Medicine. A Board Certified Neonatologist, Lefner will lead a team that provides round-theclock neonatology coverage at the hospital’s birthing unit. Lefner received her fellowship training at Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island and practiced neonatology most recently at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany. She is a member of the Saratoga Hospital Medical Group. “We are especially pleased to have someone of Dr. Lefner’s experience and compassion become our Chief of Newborn Medicine,” said Richard Falivena, DO, MPH, Vice President, Chief Medical and Physician Integration Officer at Saratoga Hospital. “Mothers who
deliver their babies here at Saratoga Hospital can be assured they have, with Dr. Lefner and her team, a level of expertise that is unmatched in our region.” For more information about newborn medicine or other departments with Saratoga Hospital, go to www.saratogahospital.org.
14
NEWS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Saratoga’s Tourism Leads to Unexpected Economic Benefits by Pat Holland for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Locals have always known that Saratoga Springs has an influence greater than our small city, with appreciation for the town’s beauty stretching beyond its borders. Recently, USA Today listed Broadway in Saratoga as one of the Top Ten Best Main Streets in the United States, as chosen by a panel of revitalization experts and finalized by readers’ online voting. The honor is thanks in no small part to the beautification efforts of local businesses in partnership with the municipality. One such business, Dehn’s Flowers at 180 Beekman Street, has participated for many years in the summer beautification of Saratoga Springs, and was rewarded of a good job well done by a track tourist bringing the local business’
talents to her home town. About fourteen years ago, a tourist from New London, Connecticut, was so impressed by the hanging flower baskets throughout Saratoga that she visited City Hall to find out who was responsible for the charming creations. She was directed to Dehn’s Flowers, who were enlisted to build similar hanging baskets each year for New London. John Mishoe, co-owner of Dehn’s Flowers, said that the relationship with New London lasted for about nine years before going local. The town of New London sent two trucks each year to collect the creations and bring them back to be displayed. Dehn’s wasn’t the only local business to benefit from the project. During their discussion, New London also asked Mishoe for the builder of the baskets that were used to display the flowers. Mishoe referred them to Allerdice
Dehn’s Flowers provided the colorful display seen this summer around the Native Dancer Memorial. Photo by Sharon Castro.
Hardware, who created a set of hanging baskets inspired by the ones they created for Saratoga, to be displayed in New London. A few years later, they expanded the project, and again approached Allerdice to create more of the baskets. Dehn’s also created displays for the nearby town of Darien, Connecticut, who were inspired by the beautification efforts in New London. A simple visit from a track regular turned into almost a decade of business for Dehn’s, who spent about nine years creating the flower baskets for both New London and Darien before both
towns eventually went local. New London alone spent about $5,500 at Dehn’s on the project each year, an unexpected economic boost during a typically slow season for the florist. “Track tourists aren’t usually looking for flowers,” Mishoe said. “Summer is usually a waning time
for retail sales.” Dehn’s also contracted with the town of Newburgh, NY, and bids annually for similar projects in Schenectady and Troy. In addition to local businesses contracting with other towns, some have become so popular with tourists that they have opened locations beyond Saratoga. Todd Garofano, President of the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau, provided a few examples of local Saratoga businesses that have expanded to Burlington, Vermont. Esperanto, Saratoga Olive Oil, and Saratoga Paint and Sip all originated in Saratoga Springs and eventually opened additional locations in Burlington.
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
BALLSTON SPA 16 Spring Circle, $383,438. Briarwood Brooks Development LLC sold property to Christina Cowper. 87 McMaster St., $253,000. Gary Dale and Rachel Roe-Dale sold property to Gregory Vukelic and Tara Akstull. 99 Midline Rd., $240,000. Michael and Margaret Wolf sold property to Pavlo and Anya Zaderdej. 84 Beacon St., $258,751. Traditional Builders LTD. sold property to Cynthia Bader. Route 67 & East Line Rd., $1,031,120. Harold Schultz sold property to Blue Heron Trail I Housing Development Fund Company Inc. 800 & 820 Route 67, $768,652. Harold Schultz sold property to Blue Heron Trail II LLC. 800 Route 67 & 509 East Line Rd., $670,228. Harold Schultz sold property to CFB Realty LLC. 3 Harvester Way Lot 87, $404,657. Legacy Custom Homes LLC sold property to Patrick Moran and Lisa Haraden. 88 Beacon St., $237,431. Traditional Builders LTD sold property to Mary Joyce. 105 Lancaster Ct., $265,254. Traditional Homebuilders and Development Inc. sold property to Maria Sanganetti.
MALTA
John Luke Development Co. LLC sold property to Mark and Beth Phelps. 40 Bayberry Dr., $347,000. David Washburn and Demetria Konnis sold property to Brian and Nancy Barraclough. 39 Lindenwood Dr., $356,500. Mark Thompson and Aimee Bain sold property to Liming Ji and Chen Yue. 1139 Laural Lane, $210,000. George Rogers sold property to Allyson Bozeth.
SARATOGA SPRINGS 66 White St., $975,000. Amber Hall sold property to Michael and Gena Salz. 108 Nelson Ave., $480,000. Judith Schrade sold property to Orangecat Properties LLC. 18 Division St. Unit 516, $535,000. Gerald Erchak (by Exec) sold property to Nancy Sciocchetti. 15 Pamela Lane, $471,115. Blitman Saratoga LLC sold property to Timothy and Ellen Brooks. 144 Woodlawn Ave., $430,000. Amy Oldenburg sold property to Uwe Tigor and Devra Cohen-Tigor. 96 White St., $739,000. Ethan Lerman (by Agent) sold property to Christopher Rice and Jennifer McMahon. 26 Freedom Way, $4,846,338. Munter Land Holdings LLC sold property to Macora LLC.
9 Hillman Loop, $309,375. Farone Amedore LLC sold property to Sharon Bryan.
105 North St., $385,000. Deborah Stephens sold property to John Panagot, Jr.
60 Yachtsmans Way, $609,480. Malta Land Company LLC sold property to Mark and Lacey Neiswender.
115 North St., $470,000. John Trautner and Kerry BrownTrautner sold property to Amy and James Ryan.
Lot 9 Maiden Circle, $438,557.
1 Lakewood Dr., $325,000.
Michael Durling sold property to Sean and Therese Connolly. 6 Westbury Dr., $444,000. Gloria Wiebicke (by Co-Execs) sold property to Christopher Black. 70 Railroad Place Unit 204, $767,500. Melissa and Kevin Hammond sold property to Colleen Milot. 318 Ballston Ave. Unit F, $319,000. 318 Ballston Ave LLC sold property to Tracy and Robert Boutelle. 2 Stony Brook Dr., $894,000. Paul and Janel Browning sold property to Ryan and Amy Lacasse. 268 Broadway Unit 306, $1,300,570. 262 Broadway LLC sold property to Marcia Krantz. 11 Pamela Lane, $465,100. Blitman Saratoga LLC sold property to Andrew and Dawn Cowley. 6 Knight Way, $238,220. Diane Hemsworth sold property to John Nieminski.
WILTON 24 Dakota Dr. $270,000. Peter and Suzanne Valenti (co-
Trustees) sold property to Kevin and Deborah Hayden. 10 Shefield Rd. $313,000. Raymond and Margaret Bishop sold property to Joseph and Angela Stadelmeyer. 19 Timbira Dr., $360,000. Michelle and Roger Tarte, Jr. sold property to Marena Euashachai. 24 Cider Mill Way, $555,092. Smith Bridge LLC sold property to Diane and Richard Euler. 21 Brookside Dr., $425,000. Patricia Ford and Ingrid Porter sold property to Barbara Primeau. 61 Hearthstone Dr., $479,800. Ral and Elissa Mazza sold property to Paul and Kelly Meier.
15 14 Huntington Ct., $584,900. Margaret and John Ida, Jr. sold property to Patricia Ford and Ingrid Porter. Trolley Bed Lane, $400,000. TSK Communities II LLC sold property to Richard Wolfe. 5 Aberdeen Way, $219,900. Matthew and Sandra Raco sold property to Erik Collier and Adrienne Slayko. 49 Timbira Dr., $314,400. Anthony and Jacqueline Coraine sold property to Rizaldy and Rizalina Pajaron. 350 Ruggles Rd., $433,000. John and Laura Bolognino sold property to Rita Febrero.
16
BUSINESS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
“Arts Spark” Launches Newest Addition to Creative Economy by Maureen Werther Saratoga TODAY MALTA — Interactive Media Consulting, LLC, of Saratoga Springs hosted a launch and networking event at Creative Corks in Malta on Thursday night to introduce Arts Spark, its newest online business platform for artists. In addition to music and light fare, attendees were introduced to the new portal and given demos on how to use it effectively. IMC staff and interns were also on hand to help guests sign up for free memberships. Arts Sparks was developed in response to a 2014 report by the Capital Region Upstate Economy Project, which identified a lack of business support services for creative entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses. Beth Moeller, owner of IMC, has worked with a number of artists and arts-centered projects over the course of IMC’s 20 years in business,
including Saratoga First Night, Opera Saratoga, and SaratogaArtsFest and she explained the need for this type of business platform. “Artists love doing their art, but not so much the business side of things.” Arts Spark is a business platform designed specifically for what Moeller refers to as “creatives,” and it offers both free and paid membership services that include online forums, the ability to add events on its calendar, web-hosting, email accounts, and e-commerce capabilities for online sales. Moeller stated that her team worked very hard for the past two years developing the platform and including features that would be especially pertinent to “creatives.” She also noted that the Union Graduate College MBA program chose Arts Spark as one of its business test cases, with graduate students working to develop the business and financial operations plans.
Moeller said that, during the process, “The MBA students asked us a lot of really good questions that proved so useful to us in developing Arts Spark. It was a very nice collaborative effort.” The launch party featured live demonstrations of various technology tools such as Facebook Live and Periscope streaming. A Skype feed of Dallas-based guitarist, Pete Weise provided music for the evening, while also serving as another demonstration of how artists can take advantage of technology tools to promote and grow their businesses.
IMC staff recorded a time lapse video of the event using Go Pro, which will be posted on YouTube, and there was a large canvas with the Arts Spark logo set up for artists at the event to help decorate. Moeller announced the inclusion of a searchable artist database that will be available on the Arts Spark website before the end of the year. For a nominal annual fee, creative entrepreneurs will be able to post their information, and the database will be accessible online for anyone who is looking for an artist,
photographer, freelance writer, or other creative type of service. Moeller also talked about upcoming seminars IMC will host, beginning in late September. The first one will feature John MacPherson, whose syndicated comic strip, “Close to Home” appears in more than 300 newspapers nationwide. MacPherson will give a presentation on “Marketing Your Brand.” Moeller said the venue for this event is still being determined. For more information about Arts Spark, visit www.arts-spark.com. For more information about IMC, visit www.imediaconsult.com.
Personalized Retail Can Improve Sleep by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — One of the major draws to Saratoga Springs is the number of small, mom-and-pop retail stores that appeal to shoppers looking for a more personalized shopping experience, as well as to support the local economy. Dreamsleep Mattress Outlet, Inc., is one such business, dedicated to helping people get a good night’s rest. It opened in April of 2003 on Congress Street, and has been at the current location of 250 Washington since 2010. Owner Stephen Smith has one employee and works every aspect of the business, including making many of the deliveries himself. His mattress expertise stems from decades in the business. “The biggest change in the industry,” he said, “is that there is a lot more diversity of product. There used to be matching mattresses and boxes, but now you can have one box set that fits all systems, so it’s the mattress that changes.” For example, mattresses aren’t flip-able any more. Instead they have different cushioning on top. There are so many choices; it can be confusing for
the consumer. “By the time Consumer Reports comes out, the mattress they are reporting on is obsolete because the lines change every two years,” said Smith. “Manufacturers do this to freshen up the offerings, and it’s also a way for them to make money. It’s better to change the product and the price at the same time.” That’s why there are so many different styles, because manufacturers just need to change the top padding, which helps them change the price. Another big change is the increased competition. “My edge compared to big box stores is service,” said Smith. “I’m local; I’m the one delivering so it’s timely and you’re not waiting all day for someone to show up. I’m not in this to get rich. I work within a person’s budget, maybe knocking a little off, because I’d rather see someone in a better mattress then a cheaper one that doesn’t work for their needs.” He says sometimes a customer comes in asking for better support, when what they really want is firmness, and that’s why personalized service makes such a difference in making a mattress purchase. “The difference between support and firmness is that support
is underneath in the coils, and firmness is the softness on top,” said Smith. “When a customer comes in, I’ll talk with them and find out how they sleep and their needs, determine a support level, then have them lay down on 3 different beds with the same exact coil but different softness on top.” People who tend to sleep on their side like a softer mattress, and people who sleep on their back or stomach prefer firmer mattresses, although he says that’s not always the case. He said most mattresses last 8 to 10 years, but what felt good 5 years ago doesn’t feel good 5 years later because the human body can change faster than the bed does. Such a longterm purchase needs careful thought and Smith prides himself on being able to listen well and help make the best personmattress match. “If you’re happy, you will tell your friends,” said Smith. “You’re not speaking to a nameless person here, so I have to do the best I can to make someone happy or that repeat business won’t come. I’m getting repeat business from people from when I first opened.” Dreamsleep specializes in all mattress needs, including memory foam, gel memory foam, and traditional inner spring mattresses. The retailer carries many brands, including Simmons Beautyrest, Therapedic and American Bedding. Special sizes are available. Everything is made in the USA and the memory foam is not imported. For more information, visit dreamsleepmattressoutlet.com or call Smith at 518-587-5310.
BUSINESS BRIEFS 17
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Dorando Named Associate Attorney
BALLSTON SPA — Donnellan and Knussman, PLLC. announced that Attorney Nicholas Dorando was admitted to the New York State Bar in June 2016 and subsequently named an Associate Attorney with the firm. Dorando is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the Albany County Bar Association, and practices family and matrimonial law. Dorando received his Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Politics, and Society from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa in 2012 and earned his Juris Doctorate from Albany Law School, graduating in May 2015. Dorando’s law school career was defined by a focus in courtroom practice, having been selected twice for the school’s traveling moot court trial team, as well as being the recipient of the Capital District Trial Lawyers’ Association Prize and an inductee to the Order of the Barristers for demonstrated excellence in Courtroom advocacy. Donnellan and Knussman is a full service matrimonial and family law firm located in Ballston Spa. For more information or a free consultation, call 518-884-0200 or visit www. dklawfirmny.com.
Saratoga National Bank Earns 5-Star Rating SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company was recognized in June as a 5-Star Superior bank by BauerFinancial, Inc., the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm. Saratoga National has earned this designation for the past 29 consecutive quarters.
The 5-Star rating indicates Saratoga National Bank and Trust Company is one of the strongest banks in the nation. To earn 5 Stars, banks must excel in areas of capital quality, asset quality and profitability, according to Karen Dorway, President of BauerFinancial. Based in Coral Gables, Florida, BauerFinancial has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No institution pays BauerFinancial to neither rate it, nor can any choose to be excluded. Consumers may learn more at bauerfinancial.com. Saratoga National Bank provides banking, investment, insurance and other financial services through nine Capital Region locations. More information is available online at saratoganational.com.
Drawing from over 200 interviews filmed in 20 countries, Poverty, Inc. unearths an uncomfortable side of charity we can no longer ignore. The showing takes place at the Bow-Tie Cinemas, 19 Railroad Place, Tuesday, August 2 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. Cost is $10. To view a trailer of the film: www. povertyinc.org. To register, visit Saratoga.org.
PEP Welcomes Kommer
Re-Showing of Poverty, Inc. SARATOGA SPRINGS — Back by popular demand, The Saratoga County Chamber is once again screening the multi-award winning documentary, Poverty, Inc. to continue the conversation in our community about the global aide system. This time around, we will have co-producer Mark Weber in attendance to help answer questions and facilitate the conversation further. The West has positioned itself as the protagonist of development, giving rise to a vast multibillion dollar poverty industry - the business of doing good has never been better. Yet the results have been mixed, in some cases even catastrophic, and leaders in the developing world are growing increasingly vocal in calling for change.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Patient Experience Project (PEP) welcomes Sarah Kommer to its staff. In her role as a project manager, Kommer enables the agency to plan, manage, and execute client campaigns and programs. Kommer brings to her new position more than five years of project management experience. She has managed campaigns for pharmaceutical brands such as Fosrenol, Otezla PsA, Stribild, and Aristada, and coordinated day-to-day deliverables for managed health care and financial industry accounts that entailed
the integration of print, web, and email marketing. Kommer earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University at Albany, and an associate’s degree in business administration from Hudson Valley Community College, Troy. The Patient Experience Project (PEP) is a full-service, patient-centric communications firm serving the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and biotech industries. PEP’s unique, nationally recognized approach centers around the collaboration of the foremost disease experts— patients themselves—to cocreate authentic programs and content for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Learn more at www.the-pep.com.
Twin Bridges Orientation & Mixer BALLSTON SPA — The Twin Bridges Council of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce will host an Orientation and Mixer on Tuesday, August 9 at Carson’s Woodside Tavern, 57 New York 9P. Cost is $5. Take a break from track season and join us as we network overlooking Saratoga Lake. Immediately before the mixer, from 4 to 5 p.m., there will be an Orientation for all new and existing members looking to learn more about how they can maximize their Chamber investment. To register, visit Saratoga.org.
18
EDUCATION
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
“Kaitlin’s Korner” Opens with Celebration at Gavin Park by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY WILTON — On Saturday, July 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., is a Grand Opening celebration of Kaitlin’s Korner, a new inclusive playground at Gavin Park at 10 Lewis Drive. The public is welcome to this free event that will include pony rides, face painting, and live music. Kaitlin’s Korner is one of only a handful of playgrounds across the country that serves special needs children. This will be one of less than a dozen inclusive playgrounds in the entire state, and the second of its kind in the Capital District. It was the brainchild of Rebecca Bowman whose daughter Kaitlin, at age 3, was diagnosed with the genetic disease Late Infantile Neuronal Ceriod
Kaitlin’s Korner at Gavin Park is one of a handful of special needs playgrounds in the nation. Photo by Francesco D’Amico.
Kaitlin Bowman, who suffers from Batten’s Disease, is the inspiration behind the new playground. Photo provided.
Lipofuscinosis, commonly known as Type 2 Batten Disease. “There’s not very many
[inclusive playgrounds] out there,” said Bowman. So, after an extensive community fundraising campaign and working in concert with the Town of Wilton and Gavin Park, the dream became reality. “We extended the existing Gavin Park playground about 3,000 feet, cutting the end of it open so everyone can play together, no segregation. One of the things that was my goal is to have all of the children play together,” said Bowman. The ground cover for Kaitlin’s Korner is durable carpet, rather than wood chips, so children in wheelchairs or walkers can easily maneuver themselves across it. The
adapted swings are bucket seats, two of which have a harness that will hold the child in, and the we-saw (teeter-totter) has bucket seats as well. The merry-go-round is called an OmniSpin®, which cradles children that don’t have good trunk support, and the roller table slide is horizontal, with arches above it so children can propel themselves along it, getting that fast-slide feeling without danger of falling. “She loves it,” said Bowman of her daughter’s reaction to the new playground. “She loves the swings and the slide and the spinner. It had become unsafe for her to be able to use a playground, and it’s nice to actually get her back on a playground and have it be safe for her. To see it actually come to fruition is very exciting, especially within Kaitlin’s lifetime.” Director of Gavin Park Stephen Porto said the Town is delighted to have this kind of offering. “This will serve a lot of children who should have something like it,” said Porto, “and I hope more parks will begin building these kinds
Photo by Francesco D’Amico.
of facilities. We’re grateful to Rebecca Bowman for choosing Gavin Park.” The Town’s contribution helped provide additional funds from state and local grants as well as providing the location. Bowman said there were too many organizations and people to thank, but a list of supporters and donors can be found on the website below. There will be another benefit for Kaitlin’s medical needs on August 27, with live bands, raffles, a silent auction and a pig roast. Details are at the same website. Saturday’s Kaitlin’s Korner Grand Opening celebration is free and open to the public. Kaitlin and Rebecca Bowman will be attending, as well as Town and State officials, including Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner. In addition, “In Spite of Ourselves” will be performing, and Adirondack Dream Catchers Farm will be providing pony rides and a petting zoo. For more information about Kaitlin’s Korner or Come Together for Kaitlin, visit www. cometogetherforkaitlin.com.
EDUCATION BRIEFS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
19
Roberts’ Ice Sculpture Demo Earns Gold Medal at National Competition HUDSON FALLS — Career and Technical Education (CTE) student Lily Roberts is Number One in the nation among her peers as she placed first in the Action Skills competition at the SkillsUSA 52nd annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, from June 20 to 24. Roberts is the second CTE student to have captured the gold on the national stage. In 2010, MacKenzie Baker from Warrensburg won first place in medical assisting. Roberts won for her demonstration “Creating Art by Combining STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) Technology and Ice.” She competed against 27 students in the Action Skills category in which students performed a demonstration of 5 to 7 minutes in length. Roberts demonstrated how STEM is used when sculpting ice. She also explained how these skills are used
in culinary arts and how art is integrated into everything we do. She demonstrated the arts in Culinary Arts as well as job opportunities in the future in the hospitality field. Her conclusion was that she added art to STEM to make STEAM. The leaders in business and industry judged the competition looking for organization, demonstration, and the cohesive manner in which Roberts taught how to sculpt ice. Roberts was one among five Career and Technical Education students who won in the SkillsUSA state competition and were invited to demonstrate their hands-on abilities in their chosen fields on the national stage. Winners took home not just titles, but scholarships and prizes. Roberts, for example, won $500 in prizes. “We have an outstanding reputation for training students who can competently complete any
task placed before them,” said Rick Horn, principal at the Southern Adirondack Education Center. “It’s a testament to our students, our teachers, and our programs.” In June, Roberts received a completion certificate from the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program with Chef Charlie Jones at the Southern Adirondack Education Center in Hudson Falls. She is also a recent graduate from Fort Ann High School. Additionally, Saratoga High School senior Maygan Carpenter, who is a Criminal Justice student at the F. Donald Myers Education Center, was elected as a New York State Officer Secretary for SkillsUSA. She first attended the National State Officer events from June 18 to 20 for team and leadership training in Louisville and then joined the other CTE students as a voting delegate at the National Leadership and Skills Conference.
New Vaccine Requirements for September STATEWIDE — On October 26 last year, Governor Cuomo signed new vaccination requirements into law. Children entering or attending 7th and 12th grades on or after September 1, 2016 are required to have an adequate dose or doses of the vaccine against meningococcal disease as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Meningococcal meningitis is a serious disease that can lead to death within hours. Survivors may be left with severe disabilities, including the loss of limbs, cognitive deficits, paralysis, deafness, or seizures. The ACIP recommends a single dose of vaccine against meningococcal serogroups A, C, W-135, and Y (MenACWY vaccine; brand names Menactra® or Menveo®) should
be administered to all adolescents at age 11 or 12 years. A second (booster) dose of MenACWY vaccine should be administered at age 16 years. The booster dose is not necessary for adolescents who receive the first dose of MenACWY at 16 years of age or older. The minimum interval between doses of MenACWY vaccine is 8 weeks
A serogroup B meningococcal vaccine series (MenB vaccine) may be administered to adolescents and young adults 16 through 23 years of age, at the discretion of the healthcare provider. The preferred age for MenB vaccine is 16 through 18 years of age. For more information, contact your school’s health office.
Maddry Makes Dean’s Honor List SARATOGA SPRINGS — James A. Murphy Jr. and Constance King Murphy of Saratoga Springs announced their grandson, Conor J. Maddry, a freshman at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, has been named to the Dean’s Honor List for the Spring 2016 semester. Maddry
is the son of Tyler Maddry and Constance M. Maddry, of Great Falls, VA and Lake Desolation, NY. Maddry is studying Electric Engineering. This summer he is a paid intern at the Integrated Air and Missile Defense facility of Northrup Grumman Corp. near Dulles Airport.
Four other area students also competed in Louisville at the national event. Below are the SAEC students who competed, listing their name, competition, CTE program, and home school: • Connor Lavoie, CNC Milling, Machine Tool Technology, Whitehall • Allison Vrooman, Nurse Assisting, Health Occupations, Fort Ann • The team to compete in Promotional Bulletin Board: Tyler Vaughn, Cosmetology, and Emily Fox, Cosmetology, Granville To qualify for nationals, students had to win top spots in the local, regional and state SkillsUSA competitions where high school students from Career and Technical schools vie for titles. Students prepare as if they are training for a highly competitive athletic event, staying after school to practice their skill in such fields as culinary arts, medical occupations, and machine tool technology. The National Leadership and Skills Conference showcases CTE students. More than 16,000 people — including students, teachers and business partners — participated in the weeklong event, with, a total
Lily Roberts stands among her competitors in the Action Skills category at the SkillsUSA National Conference.
6,000 contestants in the 100 contests offered. Championships are held at the Kentucky Exposition Center. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled work force. SkillsUSA helps each student excel. It was formerly known as Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA). For more information, visit CareerAndTechEd.org.
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FOOD
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Back to the Land With Blind Buck Farm
Saturdays, 9 to 1 Wednesdays, 3 to 6 High Rock Park
by Sarah Morin for Saratoga TODAY
Located in Salem, New York, Blind Buck Farm is home to a variety of fiber-bearing animals, whose fleece is hand-collected, made into yarn and roving at local mills, and returned to the farm to be dyed with metal-free, nontoxic dyes. “By keeping our own flocks, we can guarantee
that all of our fiber is natural,” says owner Lubna Dabbagh. A favorite yarn produced at Blind Buck is their Signature Blend which combines Merino mohair and Leicester longwool. Dabbagh notes that the fun part of yarn production is choosing a variety of colorways for the finished product. Inspiration comes from the abiding colors on the farm as well as from nature itself, including flowers, exotic fish and birds. The result is a delightful combination of tones from earthy to bright. The farm is home to 25 purebred Angora goats, 30 Merino sheep, and seven Angora rabbits, all of which produce rare and exceptional fibers. In 2014, Blind Buck also acquired a flock
of four Leicester Longwood sheep, an acutely endangered species. According to Dabbagh, contributing to the propagation of a rare and endangered species is one of the farm’s proudest accomplishments. All of the animals on the farm are naturally raised, spending the summer months in pastures. During the winter, they are fed a diet of organic hay and grain. In addition to fiber products, Blind Buck Farm cultivates many uncommon vegetable varieties. Among these are chocolate bell peppers, chocolate tomatoes, Delmonico squash, and watermelon turnips, all grown from organic and heirloom seeds, and never treated with chemical pesticides. Dabbagh also raises turkeys and chickens which are housed in pastures and fed organic grain. Eggs produced by the hens are a colorful array of blue, brown, and white, which customers call “the Easter egg collection.”
Back to the land is the sustaining principle of Blind Buck Farm. Conscious of the impact of high quality goods on the sustainability of community and environment, Dabbagh advocates the purchase and use of local products to nurture and
support local economies. As Dabbagh says, “I always point out that during this last economic downturn if communities had been more self sufficient, with more exchange of local goods and services, many families would have suffered less than they did.” Open all year, Blind Buck Farm has a store on the farm which carries their full line of yarn products and produce. Dabbagh encourages visitors to tour the farm, sample produce, and taste the fresh farm eggs. A special delight of a visit to the farm is letting children gather their own eggs from the chicken coop . In addition to the farm store, Blind Buck’s products can be found at the Saratoga, Bolton Landing, and Warrensburg farmers’ markets where Dabbagh also offers free knitting instruction. Visit the Saratoga Farmers’ Market at High Rock Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
FOOD 21
“And They’re Off ! ”
by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello Foodie Friends. Welcome to Saratoga Springs Race Course’s 153rd anniversary of horse racing. The racing season is on! Along with the race course that attracts individuals from all over the world, the Saratoga Race Course provides an original beauty that no set designer could reproduce, for films such as “Sea biscuit,” “Saratoga,” “The Horse Whisperer,” “Billy Bathgate,” “Ghost Story,” and “My Old Man.” A scene in Ian Fleming’s James Bond novel, “Diamonds are Forever,” also features a scene at the Saratoga Race Course. In 1999, Saratoga Race Course was rated as Sports Illustrated’s #10 sports venue of the 20th Century. Many people come to not only be part of the atmosphere of our country’s oldest track, but to also admire the beauty of the race horses. The horses are amazing to watch, they are truly spectacular animals. I always
catch my breath at the majestic beauty of the horses that come to Saratoga Springs to race. “Health, History, and Horses” is a local motto that represents Saratoga Springs. Racing and equestrian art capture the beauty of horses within our community. Among this are cutting boards from wood artist Adam Cielinski that are made right here in Saratoga Springs! We have a diverse assortment of food safe cutting and serving boards that are made with a Saratogian flare. At Compliments to the Chef, we love wood cutting boards! Good hard woods such as oak, maple, walnut, ash, and cherry are tough cutting surfaces that have been used for centuries to cut food or butcher meat on. Early man just cut down any old tree to butcher and cut meat on but quickly realized that soft woods got people sick. A good cutting board properly maintained can last a lifetime and they are safer than plastic which if it isn’t sanitized or left wet can actually harbor bacteria. Some of the reasons for this are: 1. Plastic is not water-absorbent, so it stays wet longer, which means longer bacterial survival. 2. Wood is water-absorbent, so it dries faster, which means shorter bacterial survival. 3. Wood contains natural antibiotic agents that retard bacterial growth. Adam’s boards are part of Saratoga Springs Art History. They are each different and no two are exactly the same. We have
boards shaped like horse heads, pigs, guitars, violins, hearts, bears, fish, whales, apples, owls, ducks, and handled serving boards. The good news is they are reasonably priced too! Wood cutting boards have been in my family for generations and we hand them down. Stop in and pick up a piece of Saratoga History and have something that you can hand down in your family. A little advice on their care: 1. Dry the board immediately after (hand) washing, and 2. Once a month, rub the board with oil, to keep it waterrepellent and warp-free. Apply a coat of warm food-safe mineral oil, let soak in, and then wipe off the excess. Scratches can be sanded out then re-oiled. Choosing an Adam Cielinski wood cutting board can make a great “Saratoga” gift to bring to family or friends or it can be one for your own home. Bring a horse head to celebrate the racing season or for the equestrian, or choose from one that may reflect a special love or hobby of a person you are buying for. They are simply beautiful and functional. Remember, “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Enjoy Saratoga Springs this summer. Take advantage of the incredible offerings in our own community. Stop by Compliments to the Chef at 46 Marion Avenue; Saratoga Springs’ true kitchen essentials store. Take care, John and Paula
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LOCAL BRIEFS
Polo by Twilight The annual Palamountain Scholarship benefit, a highly anticipated Saratoga Springs summer tradition and one of Skidmore College’s biggest events to raise money for scholarships – will be held Tuesday, July 26, at the Saratoga Polo Field, at 5:30 p.m. The evening will feature a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions, and a polo match, with two teams competing for the Palamountain Cup. All proceeds from the scholarship benefit go to the Joseph C. and Anne T. Palamountain Scholarship Fund. The general ticket price is $150, with special “junior level” prices available—$75 for ages 30 and under and $100 for ages 3140. Attendees are encouraged to use #polobytwilight on social media. For more information on the benefit, go to www.skidmore.edu/ palamountainbenefit. Dairy Haus Truck and Motorcycle Show All makes of cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome, no cut off year. See beautiful cars, trucks, motorcycles, customs, and hot rods at Dairy Haus located at 476 Maple Ave. in Saratoga Springs on July 30, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ( where all the ice cream is homemade). This event also has an opportunity to adopt a pet. Music by DJ Andy Narzynski. Those wanting to get more information to enter their car should visit www. Capital CarShows.com or call Bill Schroeder at (518) 6647466 for more information. Picnic Honoring All Military and Veterans On July 31, Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge #161, located at 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs is honoring all military and veterans, active and retired in the local area with a familyoriented picnic at our lodge from Noon to 4 p.m. Military
and veterans are invited to bring your family members with you, kids of all ages too. Fun activities for everyone. Lunch will be served from Noon until 3 p.m. Activities: Horseshoe tournament, dream ponies and zoo will be there for pony rides and petting zoo from 1 – 3 p.m. DJ Patty Reynolds with music and kid’s entertainment, cake walk. Please call the lodge at (518) 584-2585 or Debbie Gerber (518) 791-1025 to let us know how many from your family or group will be attending. Burnt Hills Oratorio Summer Sing Lose yourself in music, friends and ice cream. Join The Burnt Hills Oratorio Society for its second Summer Sing, Tuesday, August 2, 5:30 at Lakeside Farms Pavilion in Ballston Lake. Here is your chance to lift your voice in song with others. Come prepared to make your own ice cream sundae (Thank you, Stewart’s Shops!) and sing the Mozart Requiem and a selection of songs from Broadway musicals. Music will be provided. Bring spouses, family, and friends. The cost is $10 per person which covers the cost of the event. For more info, www.bhos.us, or just show up! Lakeside Farms, 336 Schauber Road, Ballston Lake, rain or shine. Horses, History and Handicapping Sponsored by Thorofan and presented by The Academy for Lifelong Learning, a special 4-week summer program, Tuesday evenings at Longfellows Conference Center located at 500 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Remaining programs are August 2, 16 and 23, 7:008:30 p.m. 8/2: Gary Contessa – trainer. 8/16: Chad Summers - handicapper and manager, 8/23: Teresa Genaro - turf writer. With special appearances from handicapper Tom Amello. Open to the Public. Admission includes assorted cookies, soft drinks, milk and water. General Public Admission: $55 for all 4 sessions or $15 per session
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
at the door, Academy or ThoroFan Member Admission: $50 for 4 sessions or $15 at the door. Registration is required for 4-session package by July 19. For more information or to become a member ($60), contact the Academy office vera.kasson@esc.edu or 5872100 x2415. Seating is limited.
that participants know the basics of their camera already, i.e. focusing, using manual settings, how to change ISO, shutter speed, and F stops. Space is limited; RSVP to Saratoga PLAN by calling (518) 587-5554. The event is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
Hudson River Piecemakers Quilt Show The Quilt show will be held at Hadley Luzerne High School located at 273 Lake Ave. in Lake Luzerne. On Saturday, August 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, August 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $6 or $5 with a canned good for the local food pantry Quilt appraisals (fee) are available by appt. Call (518) 370-1667.
SommerFest St. Peter Lutheran Church to host “SommerFest”, August 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a tag sale, food, and free family fun activities. All proceeds to benefit social services camp program for local children. The Church is located at 2776 Route 9 (across from Malta Drive-In) for more information call the church at (518) 583-4153 (leave message).
Flags at Half Mast A special program, free and open to the public at Grants Cottage, located at Mt. McGregor in the Town of Moreau at 1 p.m. Historian, author, and educator Brooks D. Simpson will draw from three of his books: The Reconstruction Presidents, Ulysses S. Grant, Triumph and Adversity and Let Us Have Peace in his presentation. Brooks Simpson is the commemorative speaker at this annual event which acknowledges Grant’s funeral in August of 1885. Images from the funeral procession in New York City will be viewed in the Visitor Center later in the day. For more information visit www.grantcottage.org. Saratoga PLAN to Host Nature Photography Workshop Saratoga PLAN will host a photography seminar with photographer Linda Eastman at the Orra Phelps Preserve in Wilton on Saturday, August 20th from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Participants will learn how to capture the beauty of the natural world through photography. Everyone will receive personal advice and suggestions on their work. Participants should bring their camera, any lenses they wish to use, and a tripod if possible. It is recommended
Tee-Off for TRF/PDJF The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF) have teamed up to organize a lively day of golf and games during Travers week to benefit the two vital non-profit organizations. The first annual “Tee-Off for TRF/PDJF” will be held at McGregor Links Country Club on Tuesday, August 23. Breakfast buffet starts at 10 a.m. with a shot-gun start before noon. A cocktail lunch, catered by the new Maestro’s at McGregor, opens at 4:30 p.m. Eclipse Award winning jockey and TRF Board Member, Richard Migliore will host the event. The cost is $225 per golfer and this includes cart, greens fees, breakfast, tee-favors, cocktails and lunch. There will be contests all day and an awards presentation during the cocktail luncheon. For those who wish to come only for cocktails and lunch at 4:30 p.m., the cost is $50 per person. Sponsorships to support the day and the work of the charities are available. For more information, visit http://www.trfinc.org/event/ golf/ , or call (518)226-0028. Walk with Compassion Capital Region
Walk with Compassion is the walk to end child poverty. Compassion International’s new fundraising walk series, Walk with Compassion, was created to address the challenges of vulnerable children around the world that go beyond what monthly sponsorship covers.The money we raise together helps to fund critical needs such as: medical emergencies, disaster relief, HIV/AIDS response, caring for unsponsored children, clean water, and much more. The walk will take place at the Halfmoon Town Hall on August 27 at 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit www. walkwithcompassion.com. Old Saratoga Seniors Trip to Lake George Steamboat The Old Saratoga Seniors are hosting a trip to the Lake George Steamboat Company, the Lac du Saint Sacrement with a buffet lunch and entertainment, on Friday, September 23, 2016. Bus leaves Saratoga Train Station at 9:30 a.m. and the American Legion in Schuylerville at 10:00 a.m.; returning approximately 4 pm. Checks payable to Old Saratoga Seniors for $36 and mail to Mary Lamora, 19 Seward St. D16, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 by August 4. For further info call Mary, (518) 584-7986. Bus Trip to House of Ephesus Shrine & Chapel in Vermont The bus trip will be held on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016 and is sponsored by Ct. Stella Maris, #396 Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Bus departs at 8 a.m. from Notre Dame Visitation, Schuylerville, will pick up at K-Mart, Greenwich and St. Patrick’s Church, Cambridge. Please bring your own lunch and beverage. Scheduled return will be approximately 5 to 5:30 p.m. Cost is $25.00 per person, payment is due at registration. For reservations and information, please call Marvil Patrick, (518) 6953385.
Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016 Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation summer Stroll: Post Time
Family Friendly Event
Friday, July 22 Skidmore Chamber Music Institute: Final student performance with Decoda Zankel Music Center, Ladd Concert Hall, Skidmore Campus, 5 p.m. For more information call (518) 580-5546.
Saturday, July 23 Flower Show Saratoga Town Hall, corner of Spring and Broad St., Schuylerville, 1 – 5 p.m. The Schuylerville Garden Club will present its annual National Garden Club Standard Flower Show entitled “Prose, Poetry and Posies”. There will be Floral Design, Horticulture and Photograph divisions. The floral and horticulture divisions will be judged by trained judges. The photos will be judged by the people attending the show. All divisions reflect a “Book Titles” theme. Sunday, July 24 hours are noon-4 p.m. The show will also include plant, glove and bake sales, prizes from a benefit table, youth and special exhibits and a “Floral Design” Demonstration on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. by Tim Healey, floral designer who will use designs to portray popular story book titles. Admission and refreshments are free. For more information, go to www. schuylervillegardenclub.org.
Sunday, July 24 Dharma Meditation with Pierre Zimmerman One Big Roof, Center for Mindful Practices, 538 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Health & Wellness Building, Saratoga Springs, 9-10:15 a.m. Weekly meditation followed by short discussion. All contemplative traditions honored. By donation. For more information call (413)992-7012 or visit www.oneroofsaratoga.com.
Meet on the SE Corner of Nelson & Union Avenue, 10:30 a.m. Explore the Saratoga Race Course area along Union Avenue with Georgia Horner. The stroll begins at 10:30 a.m. and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Tour features the Reading Rooms, National Museum of Racing, Oklahoma Track, and the Fasig-Tipton Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion. Tickets are $5 for Members and $8 for Non-members. The tour is sponsored by Druthers Brewing Company. Premiere Summer Sponsor is Stewart’s Shops. For more information, visit www. saratogapreservation.org.
Monday, July 25 Paint and Sip Tea Schuylerville Public Library, 52 Ferry St., Schuylerville, 6 p.m. Cynthia Mahoney and the Schuylerville Library presents our first Paint and Sip. Adults are welcome to spend a few hours painting, while sipping tea (hot or iced – the Library will have both). Please note, space is very limited and registration is online at http:// schuylervillelibrary.sals.edu/. For more information call (518) 6956641.
Developing a Consistent Spiritual Practice Workshop Woodlawn Commons, 156 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, 6:30 p.m. Albany-Saratoga Spiritual Adventures is hosting a workshop on Developing a Consistent Spiritual Practice.Do you find it hard to fit in your spiritual life? Is your spiritual practice inconsistent? Come learn some tools and strategies for broadening and strengthening your spiritual practice so that you can lead a richer life. Suggested donation: $20. For more information, visit www. newthoughtnewyork.org or call (518) 366-9918.
Tuesday, July 26 Get Your Glam On MacFadden Administration Building, Blue Streaks Blvd., Saratoga Springs, 6 – 9 p.m. Learn about makeup application, skin types, do’s and don’ts. Bring your own skin care and makeup
CALENDAR 23 products. Registration $11, materials fee $5. Register online at district website, community continuing education. For questions call (518) 583-4782 or continuing_education@ saatogaschools.org.
Saratoga Friends Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. New Saratoga Friends is a social group for baby boomers who are new to the Saratoga area and are interested in making new friends to socialize with. We also welcome folks who are not new to the area but want to make new friends. This is NOT a dating or “singles” group! Couples and singles are welcome and there is no membership fee. Group members plan social activities based on their interests. For more info or questions contact newsaratogafriends@gmail. com or join our New Saratoga Friends Meetup group (also free; go to www.Meetup.com).
Film - Modern Ruin: A World’s Fair Pavilion Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St., Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, in partnership with Universal Preservation Hall, invite you to join us for the free screening of “Modern Ruin: A World’s Fair Pavilion” by Matthew Silva and Aquarela Pictures. The film tells the story of the pavilion, its varied uses, years of neglect, and growing advocacy to save this landmark. Doors open at 6:30. A panel discussion to follow film. Premiere Summer Sponsor: Stewart’s Shops. For more information, visit www. saratogapreservation.org.
Gospel Tent Meeting Free Spirit Fellowship, 1425 W. High St., Ballston Spa. 7 p.m. Join us as we experience the blessings of God through music and The Word. For questions or more information call (518) 885-3149.
Horses, History and Handicapping Longfellows Conference Center, 500 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs. 7:008:30 p.m. Sponsored by Thorofan and presented by The Academy for Lifelong Learning, a special 4-week summer program. This week’s program features Matt Muzikar - a jockey agent. Open to the Public. Admission includes assorted cookies, soft drinks, milk and
water. General Public Admission: $55 for all 4 sessions or $15 per session at the door, Academy or ThoroFan Member Admission: $50 for 4 sessions or $15 at the door. Registration is required for 4-session package by July 19. For more information or to become a member ($60), contact the Academy office vera.kasson@esc.edu or (518) 5872100 x2415. Seating is limited.
Wednesday, July 27 Volkswalk for Fun, Fitness and Friendship Start Point: Saratoga Tec-Smart Walk, HVCC Tec-smart Parking Lot 345 Hermes Rd., Malta, 9 a.m. & 6 p.m. Register 30 minutes before start. A volkswalk is a leisurely walk (typically 10k or 6.2 miles. A 3 mile route is also offered) through a scenic and or historic area over a premarked trail. Information is available at www.ava.org or www.walkescv. org.
Cancer Support Group Saratoga Hospital, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs. Noon – 1 p.m. A cancer diagnosis can be shocking and traumatic, and survivorship requires many skills to navigate the journey towards well-being. The cancer support group, regardless of the type of cancer one faces, is a safe container to explore common physical, financial, emotional, cognitive, developmental, familial and spiritual issues. Pierre Zimmerman, who facilitates this group, has been working with people who have cancer for the last 12 years, leading support groups, mindfulness based stress reduction programs and spiritual retreats. Pierre is a survivor of stage 4 cancer, diagnosed in 2001 and given a few months to live. He has been dedicating a large part of his life since then to supporting people on their journeys with cancer. Call Pierre at (413) 992-7012 to register and confirm, as schedule may be subject to change. Free and open to all.
Meatloaf & Liver / Onions Dinner Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs, 4:30-6:30 pm Donation Requested: Adults $12, Seniors and Military (Active/Retired with ID Card) $11, Children 5—12 $8, Under 5 Free, Takeouts $12. Cash Bar Available. Call (518) 5842585 for more information.
Bicycle Tour Saratoga National Historic Park, Route 4 and State Route 32, Stillwater, 6 – 8 p.m. A free, ranger guided 5 mile bike tourof Saratoga Battlefield. Scenic views of the historic grounds, knowledgeable staff and volunteer guides with unique stories of the park. Meet in the parking lot. In case of inclement weather, bike tour will be cancelled. Bring your bike, water, and insect repellent. Helmets required. For more information about these or other events at Saratoga National Historical Park, call the Visitor Center at (518) 6702985.
Saratoga Blues & Jam Night– Open Mic Night Spring Street Gallery, 110 Spring St., Saratoga Springs, Signup 7 p.m., Opening Set 7:30 p.m. Sonny Speed, NYS Blues Hall of Fame inductee, will be hosting the evening for SABS. Featuring: Juan Becerra - Juan has progressed to master a blend of finger-style blues seasoned with jazz chords and a warm, smoky vocal tone.Monthly event on the 4th Wednesday of the month. Come on down to listen and or play the Blues! Admission is only $5. One of Saratoga best musical values. Contact (only if necessary): Phil Drum phild1214@gmail.com.
Thursday, July 28 New York City Ballet Musicians & Friends Dee Sarno Theater, Saratoga Arts, 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, Noon Orchestra Ensemble (Elaine Chelton, piano; Ron Wasserman, bass; Derek Ratzenboeck, violin; Luellen Abdoo, violin; Eugene Moye, cello; Harrison Hollinsworth, bassoon; Leah Hollingsworth, viola; Robert Harvey, saxophone) performing works of Rossini, Beethoven, Shostakovich, Wasserman. Suggested donation $7. For more information, visit www. saratoga-arts.org.
Free Concert in the Park Wiswall Park, Front St., Ballston Spa, 6 – 8 p.m. The concert series is free to the public. This week’s concert features, Emily Teller (Acoustic/Singer songwriter). For more information, visit www.ballston.org.
Send your calendar events to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
THE SOCIETY PAGES BROUGHT TO YOU BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON & ALICE COREY OF the blogging bar
Pamela Polacsek (Communications Specialist, Saratoga Bridges) and Volunteers/Saratoga Lauren and Tyler LaFountaine Bridges Clients Jeremy Armstrong and Vicky DeNew
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White Party to Benefit Saratoga Bridges – Saturday, July 16 ARATOGA SPRINGS – It had all the ingredients for the perfect summer party— guests dressed in their finest, most flattering whites; live music from the band Gravity luring dancers to the floor; fully stocked bars flowing with champagne, wines, beers, spirits and Ketel One Vodka; cozy seating areas; delicious food stations from Old Daley Custom Catering; a silent auction; a live auction hosted by Saratoga TODAY’s own Publisher and Past President of the Saratoga Bridges Foundation Board, Chad Beatty; and a sky lit by fireworks signaling the ending of this magical night. The party of the season to benefit Saratoga Bridges made a very successful debut at Saratoga Polo Association grounds Saturday, July 16, drawing nearly seven hundred ticket holders.
Colleen Carlson, Angelo Calbone, Kathleen Meyers
The White Party is one of the highlights of the summer gala season in Saratoga, eagerly anticipated by many. It has been recognized as one of the top 25 Fundraising Events (net revenue) from the Albany Business Review since 2013 and is one of Saratoga.com’s Fab Five Awardees for Best Events in 2014 and 2015! The evening was like a beacon for the generous, with more than 110 thousand dollars raised to benefit Saratoga Bridges. One of the largest non-profits in NYS, Saratoga Bridges helps foster independence in people with developmental disabilities by promoting their abilities and achievements. The organization is committed to ensuring that the individuals they serve are able to realize their goals, hopes and dreams as they work, shop, play, and volunteer while leading full, productive and contributing lives. The magical evening started with helicopter touch down, delivering Co-Chairs Patti Riggi and the Robin Dalton family onto the Polo fields. It ended just as dynamically, with the night sky lit by a grand fireworks display, courtesy of FIREWORKS by Santore. This is the sixth year of the Saratoga Bridges White Party but the first year it was held at The Saratoga Polo Club. -Carrie Rowlands Johnson Carrie Rowlands Johnson and Alice Corey are co-owners of the blogging bar, a Saratoga-based start-up company offering blogging and writing; social media management; and photography services to small to medium-sized businesses. Together they cover the social scene in Saratoga, offering you a sneak peek inside charity galas and fundraising parties. If you’d like your event featured, email us at thebloggingbar@gmail.com
Carolyn and Phil Bayly
Neil Golub, Jane Golub, Jennifer Maser, Lannie Goldstock
Co-Chair Patti Riggi and family
All photos by Alice Corey Photography
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
THE SOCIETY PAGES BROUGHT TO YOU BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON & ALICE COREY OF the blogging bar
A late trainer scratch did not deter Team Hattie’s (Jasper Alexander, trainer; Beth Alexander, Filiy) from snagging the team money raised title – by $12!
Katie Nemer, trainer; Angela Amedio, Filly
Game/Set/Match for Team Colt 45!: Todd Shimkus, Trainer; Mike Billok, Colt
Mary Gavin, Trainer; Colleen Carlson, Filly
Julie cox, Trainer; Johanna Friedman, Original Filly Eat your heart out Vanna!: JHFH’s Brian and Heather Straughter flank MC Tom Durkin
Team Abue & G-Pa: Susanna Hoffman, Trainer (Jake’s grandma); Mike Hoffman, Colt (Jake’s grandfather)
S
Lucky 7 Roohan Realty Team: Justin Team Sillery: Filly Natalie; Hogan, Colt; Stephanie Hogan, Trainer Trainer Elaine
Erin Smith, Filly; Tammy Haarman, Trainer
Fifth Annual Finest Fillies and Some Colts – Wednesday, July 20 ARATOGA SPRINGS – In the words of Saratoga’s most-loved voice of summer and of tonight’s event, Tom Durkin, “This really isn’t gambling because in gambling someone has to lose. There are no losers here tonight… gamble away.” So they drank and they gambled and Jake’s Help From Heaven and the families it supports came out the overall winner, breaking its’ fundraising goal before the event even started. By the end, Finest Fillies… and Some Colts on Wednesday, July 20, smashed their goal and completely obliterated the most optimistic of hopes – with a whopping 40 percent increase over last year – more than $32,000 dollars raised for this beloved Saratoga charity! Jakes Help from Heaven was created by Heather and Brian Straughter, in loving memory of their own sweet son, Jake, who passed away at four years old.
The charity buys and delivers gifts to medically challenged individuals. Finest Fillies was launched five years ago. This year, the addition of a few males to the teams prompted the renaming to Finest Fillies… and Some Colts. Nine teams, each made up of a trainer and a Fillie or a Colt, engaged in creative fundraising prior to the night of the event. Natalie Silvery and her niece, Elaine, making up Team Sillery, threw a porch party and held a “crazy sale” at Saratoga Trunk. Katie Nemer and Angela Amedio organized a car wash at Nemer’s in Schenectady and a Rooftop Spinning and Yoga class with Saratoga Cycling Studio. Some chose to go a more traditional route, engaging family and friends. Others launched a social media campaign. Jake’s grandparents, Susana and Mike Hoffman, called on colleagues in the hotel industry. Tonight’s winners, Beth and Jasper Alexander of Team Hattie’s, concocted a special cocktail, Jake’s Crazy Cardinal Cocktail, and donated the entire 10-dollar menu price to the cause. Setting this apart from the many other fundraisers and galas held during Saratoga’s summer season, Finest Fillies… and Some Colts staged a game show, entertaining the audience with personality and good old fashioned competition. A unique event – benefitting a cause dear to the hearts of many. -Carrie Rowlands Johnson Carrie Rowlands Johnson and Alice Corey are co-owners of the blogging bar, a Saratoga-based start-up company offering blogging and writing; social media management; and photography services to small to medium-sized businesses. Together they cover the social scene in Saratoga, offering you a sneak peek inside charity galas and fundraising parties. If you’d like your event featured, email us at thebloggingbar@gmail.com
All photos by Alice Corey Photography
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by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY
Friday, July 22
Hats Off, Brothers and Sisters! Throughout Downtown Saratoga Springs
The Hot Club of Saratoga Springs Adirondack Trust - 7-8; 8:15-9:30; 10-11
Racing City Chorus Saratoga Tea & Honey Co. - 7-7:45; 8-8:45; 9-9:45; 10-10:45
Alan Darcy Ben and Jerry’s - 7-8:30; 9:30-11
Porch Fire Savory Pantry - 7-8:30; 9:30-11
Bluz House Rockers Caroline Street – 7-8; 8:15-9:30; 10-11
Saturday, July 23
Sirsy Division Street - 7-7:45; 8-8:45; 9-9:45; 10-10:45
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Sirsy Division Street - 7-7:45; 8-8:45; 9-9:45; 10-10:45 Erin Harkes Band Caroline Street - 7-8; 8:15-9:30; 10-11
Fenimore Blues Adirondack Trust - 7-8; 8:15-9:30; 10-11
Racing City Chorus Saratoga Tea & Honey Co. - 7-7:45; 8-8:45; 9-9:45; 10-10:45
Alan Darcy Ben and Jerry’s - 7-8:30; 9:30-11
Porch Fire Savory Pantry - 7-8:30; 9:30-11 Bluz House Rockers photo by MarkBolles.com
In the Chips!
SARATOGA SPRINGS – Let’s keep it simple: This was the best ‘first-time event’ PULSE has ever been to. It had it all! Start with 4,500+ paid admissions (and kids get in free) to the Inaugural Saratoga Springs Chip Festival on Saturday, July 16 at The Saratoga Springs City Center. A celebrity panel of judges, from local, regional and internationally famous (think Culinary Institute of America) restaurants. Lots of starving people. Plenty of samples and take-away bags galore. Even Alexis the chalk lady and her friend Shorty the juggler! I could go on and on… The guys from Wise kept their eyes on the prize – but hometown heroes the Original Saratoga Chips took home plenty of ribbons – including a gold for their “Old Glories” – long may they crunch. Congrats to the Jameson family and their merry band of George Crum disciples – long may they crunch! And a big shout-out to the Saratoga Lions – a justifiably proud pride. We got there at noon and, with the nearby Farmers’ Market in full swing, we should have walked downtown – oh, no – we don’t need a parking structure. Sure. Photos by Francesco D’Amico, Gail Carmichael Stein and assorted PULSE-eratzi.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
27 PULSE
It’s a Triple Play! It’s a (Total Body) Trifecta!
BALLSTON SPA— Beginner/Intermediate ballet dancers in the region will have the rare opportunity to dance with members of New York City Ballet when the company is in residence at SPAC this month. The ‘Dance With the Dancers’ Series, now in its 18th year, will be offered at Total Body Trifecta Studio located at My Gym, 2100 Saratoga Avenue, in Ballston Spa. The mixed level ballet classes are open to ages 13 – Adult. Each class will include technique and movement sequences inspired by ballets in the NYCB repertory. Corps de Ballet dancer Andrew Scordato will teach on Saturdays, July 23 and 30 from 9:30-10:45 a.m. Corps de Ballet dancer David Prottas (pictured – photo by Henry Leutwyler) will teach on Monday, July 25 from 4:55-6:10 p.m. Each class is $20 or all four for $75. A limited number of observers will be admitted for $5 on July 25 and 30. Make checks payable to Total Body Trifecta, c/o 15 Red Coach Trail, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Visit totalbodytrifecta.com for more information.
SARATOGA SPRINGS— Extend your Racing Kickoff / Hats Off groove by going to see Triple Play on Friday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs. Over the past decade, Chris Brubeck (on bass, trombone and piano), guitarist Joel Brown, and multi-instrumentalist Peter ‘Madcat’ Ruth have honed a vast and vivid repertoire encompassing Delta blues, Tin Pan Alley standards, New Orleans grooves, jazz gems, and incisive originals. With all three contributing vocals, Triple Play delivers an epic sojourn through American music unlike any other band on the scene.
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Remembrance of the General’s Death at U. S. Grant Cottage
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
NYCB’s Ace of Bass
WILTON – July 23, 1885 is the day that the 18th president of the USA died in Saratoga County. Since that date falls on a Saturday this year, Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Historic Site in Wilton is planning a major commemorative pageant. The general who is credited with saving the Union in the Civil War and then carrying out Lincoln's vision of a reunited country, spent the last six weeks of his life in a little Cottage on Mt. McGregor completing his memoirs with the help of Mark Twain before dying of throat cancer. 131 years ago, there was a special ceremony for General Grant after he died and every year the volunteer historians recreate the events of that day into what is called Remembrance Day. This photo was taken during a recent Remembrance Day, when volunteers dress in their Victorian finest to note the passing of the "Man who Saved the Union." General Grant was suffering from terminal throat cancer when he arrived at Mt. McGregor by train to finish writing the history of his role in the Mexican and Civil War. He finished the manuscript on the porch of the Cottage and died three days later. Everything in the Cottage is kept just the way it was in the summer of 1885. After the 1 p.m. program this Saturday, the public is invited to tour the rooms where Grant spent his final days.
SARATOGA SPRINGS – Ron Wasserman, Principal Bass Player with New York City Ballet Orchestra, will perform his original composition Trilaterus and other selections at the NYC Ballet Orchestra and Friends Annual Concert presented at the Saratoga Arts Center, 320 Broadway Saratoga Springs. The program is free to attend.
It has become a tradition to mark this somber occasion by recreating the Grant family circle and allowing those who loved him most to speak about Grant as a friend, husband, father, and grandfather. Re-enactors in period clothing will gather on the Cottage porch to celebrate the extraordinary life of the man they loved and respected.
Other performers include: Elaine Cheltron, piano; Ron Wasserman, Bass; Derek Ratzenboeck, violin; Luellen Abdoo, violin; Eugene Moye, cello; Harrison Hollingsworth, bassoon; Leah Hollingsworth, viola; Robert Harvey, saxophone.
Like We Say, Daddy-o… Grease is the Word!
SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Children’s Theatre will perform Grease at the JBK (Janet Kinghorn Bernhard) Theater, Skidmore College on Friday, July 22 and Saturday July 23, at 1 and 7 p.m. Local teens, ranging in age from 13-18 will be starring in the musical. All tickets are sold at the door - General admission is $10. Kids 10 and under are FREE. Refreshments will be available. Rehearsal photos by MarkBolles.com
PULSE
My SPAC Moment:
The Photo of My Life
As a professional photographer, I often say my work is my joy. It’s my art form. It’s my life. It does not define me as a person, but it completes me on so many levels. Whether a wedding, a fashion event, or a mare giving birth, I’m so grateful and honored to document life in this way. I’ve had so many special moments looking through the lens of my camera and capturing life as it happens, but nothing quite like this. It was a warm summer night in 2014, and the rare opportunity to photograph the NYC Ballet was bestowed upon me. When I saw this photo, I smiled. It was pure joy! The photo of my life. June 12, 2014… and it happened at SPAC. Lisa Miller Studio di Luce
July 22 – July 28, 2016
FREE
PULSE
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
A Reason to Rave… 25 Years of DAVE! by Allison Capasso Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — There’s nothing quite like Dave weekend in Saratoga. Dave Matthews Band returned to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for another weekend filled with music and fun as part of their 25th anniversary celebration. Thousands of fans gathered on Friday, July 15 and Saturday, July 16 for the beloved Saratoga tradition. The crowd was filled with positive energy and people of all ages joyfully dancing the night away. The rock band kicked off their 36th performance at SPAC on Friday with “So Right,” followed by multiple other hit tunes including “Crash Into Me,” “Satellite,” and “Crush.” They dedicated most of the set list, however,
to some of their less popular songs, leaving out many of their biggest hits such as “Ants Marching” and “American Baby.” Dave himself gave a great performance with solid vocals that carried through the crowd full of fans singing every lyric along with him. Dave wasn’t the only member who shined onstage this past weekend. One of the defining factors of the band is their incredible instrumental skills. The seven-member group includes Tim Reynolds on guitar, Carter Beauford on drums, Boyd Tinsley on violin, Stefan Lessard on bass, Jeff Coffin on saxophone and Rashawn Ross on trumpet. Throughout the night, the band played some songs that featured the remarkable skill of these instrumentalists, including the 20-minute long
Photos By Sharon Castro
rendition of “Seek Up.” The group welcomed another musician onstage towards the end of their set, as well. Dave Pietro joined the group and played the saxophone during “Grey Street.” The band ended the night with a three song encore. Dave Matthews Band
originated in 1991, and has since released eight studio albums, four of which have debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top 200, and around sixty live albums. The group will be taking a break from touring in 2017. It was overall a beautiful
night full of great energy and great music. This was my first DMB experience, and it was truly one to remember. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy one of their shows. Dave, Saratoga will definitely miss you next summer!
SPAC GOES SOUTH by Mark Bolles for Saratoga TODAY A slinky slide guitar sounded off a hot summer night at SPAC on Wednesday, July 14 as the North Mississippi Allstars kicked off a three-band ticket. The opener resonated with the crowd as the audience swayed to the blues-infused southern rock style. Los Lobos took the stage in the middle spot and delivered a performance that was tight as a tamale - but lacking in flavor. The band from East LA only began to sizzle when Derek Trucks joined for the closing number, Más y más. The Jacksonville, Floridabased Tedeschi Trucks Band was the main event. The musical magic of the husband-wife team Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks transfixed the audience. With a soulful sound and a brilliant horn section, it was surprising to see so many spectators in their seats. Those who
wanted to get up and into the groove were relegated to the back of the amphitheater and lawn. Although much of the audience lacked energy, the performers did not. Break-out solos by most of the large rock and soul ensemble dotted the set sometimes entering the realm of avant-garde. Truly, Tedeschi Trucks is a musician’s band.
Photos by Francesco D’Amico
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
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She was… An American Girl!
Photos by Mark Bolles.com
My SPAC Moments The NYC Ballet: One Local Family’s Time-Honored Tradition by Sarah K. Parker Ward for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Jen Allen sits across from me, shading her eyes and smiling on the patio behind Comfort Kitchen, reminiscing at length about her longstanding tradition with the annual NYC ballet performance held at SPAC. When I’d asked her to share her history with hallmark venue, I knew it existed, but I’d no idea how extensive it was. “It’s an amazing place,” she says, “Growing up here, it was what you did; it was the place to be because it’s a safe place that’s affordable and offers so many levels of fun.” She continues, explaining that after her family returned to the area when she was eight, “[SPAC] became a cornerstone of my childhood, my teenage years, and even my college experience.” Now, Jen serves on the SPAC Junior Committee and also acts as a liaison for her employer, Saratoga Eagle, and the venue.
Her parents have both been SPAC ushers for nearly a decade, but were active attendees for many years before. And while she recalls seeing everyone from The Beach Boys to The B52s perform there over the years, it’s the NYC Ballet that holds a special place in her memory. “It was always this big to do, a big treat,” Jen begins, “My mom and her closest friend would get my sister and I and her friend’s daughter all fancied up in our dresses and make a whole day out of it. We’d start with afternoon tea downtown and then we’d be allowed to pick out candies at Sweet Temptations that we’d bring with us to the matinee.” “When we arrived at the ballet, we’d go in with our little water misters and our hand fans and we just had the most amazing time.” Jen talks about how taking advantage of the wide diversity of the SPAC events exposed her to so much of what the world had to offer – and how that’s important
to pass on to the next generation. “There are more and more of us,” she says, referencing her expanding family tree. “And we have different family traditions around different events now. The Jazz Fest has become a big deal because all of the men in the family are excited about it too. But the ballet,” she pauses, no doubt recalling the timeless matriarchal moments curated at the event, “is just really special.” I ask her about the American Girl Pre-show, now in it’s eighth year, and she nods emphatically. “It’s really nice,” she smiles, “It makes something foreign and perhaps seemingly boring just so approachable and fun for kids girls and boys - today. I can’t wait to watch my nieces grow with our tradition around it.” This year’s American Girl Night is Wednesday, July 27. Haven’t purchased your tickets yet? Don’t miss out on this exceptional family event complete with petting zoo, lemonade
A family tradition: Jen Allen and her niece
and cookies, photo booths and more! Round up your little ones with their favorite doll or animal
(Pro Tip: it doesn’t have to be an American Girl) and visit spac.org for ticket details.
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
week of 7/22-7/28
friday, 7/22: The Schmooze, 9 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 Just Nate, 9 pm @ Bentley’s — 899.4300 Bumper Jacksons, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 The T’s, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 The Road Kings, 8 pm @ Dozer’s — 587.9478 Wide Awake, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Leah Woods, 7 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 The Lucky Valentines, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Audiostars, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Dueling Pianos, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Chuck Lamb Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Al + Kathy Bain, 6 pm @ Olde Bryan Inn — 587.2990 George Muscatello, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Matt Mirabile, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Emily Teller, 7 pm @ Peabody’s — 886.8673 Dan Sherwin, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Paradox Saints w/ Iudica, Factory Radio + Conor Jackson, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 High Peaks Band, 6 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Moriah Formica, 8 pm @ Trick Shot Billiards — 383.8771 Christine Spero, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
saturday, 7/23: Jean Rohe + The End of the World Show, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Keller + Cannon, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Radio Junkies, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Sugar Pill, 9 pm @ Druthers — 306.5275 Virgil Cain, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Bad Chaperones, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Rick on the Roof, 7 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 SPAC Ballet Gala with Soul Session/ Garland Nelson Post Party @SPAC The Wallies, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Audiostars, 8 pm @ Nanola — 587.1300 Pete Sweeney Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Rattail Jimmy, 9 pm @ Peabody’s — 886.8673 Andy Iorio, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Angels on the Fourth w/ Black Ships + The End Men, 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Jonathan Newell Band, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463
Gunther Weezul, Brawler, Renewal of Faith + Kill All Betrayers, 7 pm @ Trick Shot Billiards — 383.8771 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
sunday, 7/24: Steve Candlen, 9 pm @ Druthers — 306.5275 Sirsy, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Rich Ortiz, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Maurizio Russomanno, 3 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Hot Club of Saratoga, noon @ The Merry Monk — 584.6665 Marcus Ruggiero, 3 pm @ The Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
monday, 7/25: Megan Houde, 6:30 pm @ Brook Tavern — 871.1473 Jeff Walton, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Tim Wechgelaer, 7:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026
tuesday, 7/26: Rich Ortiz, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Open Mic w/ Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359
wednesday, 7/27: Toga Boys, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Hot Club of Saratoga, 8 pm @ Hamlet + Ghost — 450.7287 The Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Andy Iorio, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Garland Nelson, 6:30 pm @ Diamond Club Grill, Embassy Suites — 290-9090 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916
thursday, 7/28: Open Mic, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022 Matty Finn, 6 pm @ Carney’s Tavern — 952.7177 Toga Boys, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Open Mic, 10 pm @ Circus Café — 583.1106 Chris O’Leary Band, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Pat Decker on the Roof, 6 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Hot Club of Saratoga, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014 Chris Carey + Mike O’Donnell, 8 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Rich Ortiz, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Doobie Decimal System w/ Midnight North, 8 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Soul Session/Garland Nelson, 8 pm @ Baileys Cafe, 583 - 6060 Celtic Session, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916
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CLASSIFIED
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
MARKETPLACE
classified@saratogapublishing.com
Call (518) 581-2480 x204 AUCTIONS August 13, 1PM Real Estate, Antiques, Art, Boat. “Thousand Island Sunset Lodge” located in Thousand Islands Region of Lake Ontario. 20 Acres and 1100 ft shoreline in 4 tracts. 5500 sq ft craftsman style house with all the latest smart house features. 5 bedroom 4 bath. For more information visit woltz.com or call 800-551-3588. Woltz & Associates, Inc. Real Estate Brokers & Auctioneers. Sale held in conjunction with Lake Ontario Realty/Amanda Miller Broker 49MI0953024
VACATION RENTALS OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Resort Services. 1-800638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com
GARAGE SALES
CONSTRUCTION
MISC FOR SALE
Moving Sale, Glens Falls - 10 Ridge St. Apt. 2A. Scoville’s downsizing apartment. Antiques, furnishings, art work, oriental rugs, Petrof Grand Piano, Egyptian desk, Bombay Vitrine curio cabinet, marble top tables, and many more treasures! July 23 & 24 and August 6 & 7, 8am-4pm. Call 518-538-1576 or 518-744-7697 for private showing.
CUSTOM WINDOWS $199 Installed! White, double hung, tilt-ins. A+ BBB Member. Family owned since 1975! Call Chris, 1-866-272-7533. Contractors: Call 7am-9am. Homeowners: Call Anytime. www.uscustomwindowsdoors.com
36” high round table w/2 matching chairs, $50. Toilet 17.5” high (handicap height) oblong seat, $25. Hospital bed, power & manual controls, rails, air mattress, $50. Call 518-587-6406.
Multi-family sale, July 22, Friday 3-6 p.m. and July 23, Saturday 9 a.m.- Noon. Children books, toys, kids clothing, ages 2-10, toys, bicycles, helmets, small household furniture, kitchen items, and much more. Address: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs, yard. 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. (518) 584-1555.
Large estate sale: 10 Shuvee Lane, Gansevoort, 12831, (approx. 2 miles north of MISCELLANEOUS MacGregor Links) Sat./Sun., SAWMILLS from only $4397.00- 7-23 & 7-24-16, 9a – 4p. large MAKE & SAVE MONEY with appliances, furniture, bedroom your own bandmill- Cut lumber suite, dining table w/chairs, any dimension. In stock ready to tables, Ethan Allen bookshelf/ ship! FREE Info/DVD: organizer, pool table, Belarus www.NorwoodSawmills.com piano, lg. area rug (new), futon, 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N exercise bike, patio tables w/ chairs, lg. aquarium, misc AUTO DONATIONS household items, tools, snow Donate your car to Wheels For blower, lawn mower, electric Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. tiller, power washer, trimmer/ We offer free towing and your edger, large cat condo and donation is 100% tax deductible. toys, bicycle, girls and women’s clothing, books & lots more. Call 518-650-1110 Today!
MORTGAGES
LOTS & ACREAGE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN LAND BARGAIN! 39 acres$99,900! Woods, mowed fields, stunning valley views, great deer hunting! 3 hours NY City! Twn rd, elect. EZ terms! 888-905-8847 ADIRONDACK CABIN 30 acres- $199,900. Rustic U-finish cabin with lake access, trout stream, woods, just 3 hours from NY City and 40 mins Albany! Several other structures. Terms Avail. Call 888-479-3394 NewYorkLandandLakes.com Mountain Top Liquidation 30 Mile Views! 4.3 Acres only $29,900. 90 mins from the city! Excellent Financing Call Now 888-320-0920
LAND FOR SALE 83 Historic Farm Acres on the Vermont border. Half hour to Saratoga and Dorset Vt. Asking $180,000. Call 518-243-9695.
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
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ADOPTION
WANTED TO BUY
Unplanned Pregnancy? Need help? FREE assistance: caring staff, counseling and financial help. You choose the loving, preapproved adoptive parents. Joy 1-866-922-3678. www. ForeverFamiliesThrough Adoption.org. Hablamos Espanol.
CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid! Call JENNI Today! 800-413-3479 www.CashForYourTestStrips.com
HELP WANTED
36
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Puzzles Across 1 Device in a jogger’s armband, maybe 5 Off-mike comment 10 Deck swabbers 14 Emperor with a bow 15 Language of 14-Across 16 Mayberry kid 17 Bureau of Indian Affairs purview 19 Heating or cooling outlet 20 Nationality suffix 21 BB-shaped veggie 22 Pay attention to 23 1989 handheld gadget release 29 “Magic Mike” actor Channing __ 30 Disparaging 31 Have yet to pay 32 Prof’s aides 34 Stat for Madison Bumgarner 35 Chaplin of “Game of Thrones” 36 Manhattan landmark, and a hint to this puzzle’s circles 39 Word before drill or engine 41 Clothes drier 42 Fish-on-the-line sign 43 “__ knows?” 44 Gentle gaits 46 Implicit 50 Mr. Wilson’s bane 53 Comparable 54 Modern, in Berlin 55 Through 56 “__ go bragh!” 57 Polynesian-themed restaurant chain 61 Data unit 62 Ready to hit 63 Event with specials 64 1930s heavyweight champ Max 65 Oddballs 66 Mined materials Down 1 Sharply focused 2 Empire conquered by Alexander the Great 3 “Murder on the __ Express” 4 Driver’s lic. info 5 “Midnight in Paris” writer/director Woody 6 Light lunches 7 “Give __ rest!”
See puzzle solutions on page 46
See puzzle solution on page 46 8 Racket 9 Come to a halt 10 “Philadelphia” or “Chicago,” e.g. 11 Test type 12 Force to make a commitment 13 Tennis match part 18 Theoretical evolutionary link 22 Bovary’s title: Abbr. 24 Helen Keller, to Anne Sullivan 25 In this world 26 Young lady 27 Alter to fit 28 Passing remark? 33 Planetarium projections 35 Liver or kidney 36 Longtime newsman with the catchphrase “And that’s the way it is” 37 Prison uprising
38 Filmmaker with a distinctive style 39 F on a DVD player, perhaps 40 Informal “Understood” 44 Sardine container 45 Writer/illustrator Maurice 47 Pricey hors d’oeuvre 48 Spiky winter hanger 49 Pokes fun at 51 West Coast NFLer 52 Hooks up with 56 Partner of flow 57 License plate 58 Postal worker’s beat: Abbr. 59 Grandpa Simpson 60 Brandy bottle letters
Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling
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: A part, Apart A part refers to the union of something. Volunteering at the hospital has become a part of her routine. Apart refers to a separation in place, position, or time. If anything sets her apart, it’s her volunteer work at the hospital. 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 davedowling59@yahoo.com
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
WINNER’S CIRCLE Saratoga TODAY Newspaper’s Guide to the 2016 Racing Season at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York
In 2016, the ‘Bird is the Word
by Brendan O’Meara for Saratoga TODAY Did you hear that? The west coast knows a thing or two about the ground shaking beneath its feet, of fault lines rubbing together, strong motion as author Jonathan Franzen might call it. It also knows a thing or two about undefeated fillies. This latest one is the best threeyear-old in the country and her name is Songbird. Not maybe the best threeyear-old. The best three-year-old. No, she didn’t win the BIG ONE, that cute little race in Kentucky. Most people will still put Nyquist atop the list of the best three-year-olds by virtue of his Derby score. As an aside, we need to devalue the Derby as a measure pure ability. It’s become far too much of a crapshoot. The field size,
the random post-positions. There’s a reason why they say the luckiest horse wins the Derby and the best horse wins the Belmont. Anyway. Songbird has been playing with her gender the way a cat swats at a once-four-legged mouse. It’s gotten to the point of pure cruelty. The Incredible Hulk shows more empathy than Songbird. Her latest return to the track was so laughably brilliant that running against fillies is merely a way for owner Rick Porter, trainer Jerry Hollendorfer and jockey Mike Smith to make some easy hay. But these guys, one presumes, don’t need more hay. What they need are iconic moments, more hyphenated modifiers before their names, more commas after. So, yes, her next race will in fact be against fillies, but it will be at [you get one guess] in the [you get two guesses]. ……. In the now $500,000 Grade I Coaching Club American Oaks, the CCAO for those in the know, Songbird will highlight the opening weekend on Sunday, July 24 at the Spa and show us a thing or two about star power. Her attendance alone bumped
up the purse of the CCAO $200,000, an increase of 66 percent from the original $300,000 bag of roasted peanuts. The CCAO isn’t the type of race you’d peg as the one to up the ante, but there’s a reason for this. The sheer brilliance of this move (your welcome, NYRA) is threefold. One, it baited her connections to run at Saratoga, the best place to run if you’re a competitive, summer horse. Two, it gives her a race over the surface. Three, and here’s the big one, if/when she wins, she essentially has no excuse, barring health, not to run against the boys in the Travers Stakes. And an added bonus? She gets five weeks rest versus the other colts who will enter the Mid-Summer Derby with only four. Presumably she will face the Kentucky Derby winner Nyquist, who is running in the Haskell Invitational on July 31, the Preakness winner Exaggerator, who is running in the Jim Dandy on July 30, and the Belmont Stakes winner Creator, who is also running in the Jim Dandy. Now, this being a betting sport, odds are one of those three horses will not reach the Travers. It’s always nice to sit around the cribbage board
and wish upon a Risen Star that we will see the Derby, Preakness and Belmont winners run in the Travers. And, for the one nerd out there that will cite American Pharoah as three birds in one epic stone in last year’s Travers, just… stop. Please. We’re talking three separate horses, 12 hooves by my calculations (nailed it). In 2013 we flirted with such a thing when Orb (Derby winner who would never win another race) and Belmont winner Palace Malice (who would win like a lot more races) lost to Will Take Charge. Oxbow, that year’s Preakness winner, missed the Travers. 2009 was another year that shaped up to have not only the three Triple Crown race winners run against each other, but to have one of them be a filly. Give it up for 2016 Hall of Famer Rachel Alexandra! Mine That Bird (the Derby winner who would never win another race) defected in the middle of the night a week before the Travers, while Rachel had bigger things in mind, which left Summer Bird, the Belmont winner, to hold the mantle of the TC and win the darn race in the slop. That brings us to this year, where the hopes are even higher. We have
a Big 4 and maybe we’ll have a onein-four chance of all them running 10 furlongs on the last Saturday in August. So Songbird will set the bar and set the tone. Given that the CCAO is run at 1 1/8th miles, the same distance as the classic Travers prep the Jim Dandy, her time, should she win, will tell the story. If it compares, or surpasses the Jim Dandy winner, then watch out. She’ll have no excuse beside her own health to skip the Travers. After Songbird won the Grade II Summertime Oaks at Santa Anita on June 18, Smith said in a Paulick Report story, “I knew she was going to fire today. I just tried to stay out of her way. She has wings on her hooves, I swear. She just goes into stealth mode. It scares me to think of how good she is, I try not to think of it.” This from the guy who, you know, piloted that other undefeated west-coast filly/ mare to 19 straight wins. Then, if Songbird wins the Travers (like her daddy Medaglia d’Oro did 13—gag—years ago), we’re talking Horse of the Year. Rachel beat the boys. Havre de Grace beat the boys. Let’s hope Songbird can be the third lady musketeer at this the Graveyard of Champions.
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Yes, We Advocate! For Doing the Right Thing 15th Annual Equine Advocates Gala by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — This event has everything: among its many attributes are a cocktail hour, gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions and dancing to the music of Body and Soul with a special tribute to Prince. But that’s not why you should go to Equine Advocates Gala on Friday, July 29 at the historic Canfield Casino in Saratoga Springs. The organization will also be celebrating its 20th birthday, as well as the 15th anniversary of this event in Saratoga. This year’s honorees are:
- Hall of Fame Trainer Jonathan Sheppard. A sports legend, he has trained 13 Eclipse Award winners, winning six Breeders’ Cup races (four steeplechase and two over the flat), as well as being the leading US steeplechase trainer of all time in victories and earnings. Equine Advocates will honor him with the Ellen and Herbert Moelis Safe Home Equine Protection Award for his humane treatment of racehorses. - Lisa Caporizzo. She worked on placing countless companion animals, and is also the co-founder of the Free to Be Me Rescue for dogs and cats. Her husband, Steve Caporizzo, is the
Chief Meteorologist at News10 ABC where he hosts The Pet Connection. For the past 25 years, he also has been dedicated to placing companion animals and has helped thousands find homes through his TV work and his advocacy. Assemblyman Jim Tedisco will be on hand to present Steve and Lisa with their award. The event is known for its unique and alluring items… a few of the many choice ones include: - An authentic halter worn by Storm Cat, with Letter of Authenticity, plus a book about the horse signed by Jonathan Sheppard. - A Kentucky Derby experience for four: Two rooms for three nights in Louisville and seats for the 2017 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs. - Meet and greet with Kelly Ripa at “Live! With Kelly” for four But that’s still not why you should go. “Lisa and I do a lot of fostering of pets.” Steve Caporizzo said, in an interview with Equine Advocates Founder and President Susan Wagner. “My wife is so into helping the underdogs. We personally take some hospice pets and the ones that nobody wants the three-legged dog, the one-eyed cat or the one who
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Canfield Casino Saratoga Springs Tickets: $250 For info: 518-392-0175 events@equineadvocates.org
Lisa and Steve Caporizzo, and Legendary Trainer Jonathan Sheppard (photo: Catherine French) will be this year’s honorees on July 29.
has a bad heart. The group that my wife co-founded is the ‘Free To Be Me’ Rescue. It’s a wonderful group that does so much, and she her close friend work together as a team. What they do is inspiring.” Hint: You’re starting to learn why you should go. But there’s more:
“Some of the happiest days of my life was when I owned horses,” Steve Caporizzo continued. “There is a special bond. Bottom line, horses are companion animals. This country would not be the country it is without horses. They made this country great. They brought us West - they plowed our fields. They entertain us with racing. “No matter what you think about horse racing there has to be a better outcome for these athletes. Why in the state of New York, with many millions and millions of dollars in revenues, in jobs, are brought into the state because of horse racing why do we treat them the way we do? “I always say, why can’t they take 1 percent of their money at the end of the racing season and donate it to horse rescues? I bet you if you survey the people who go to the track they’d be happy to donate and let part of their winnings go to help horse rescue groups in New York State. How can a state as great as New York justify the transport of horses to slaughter?” Steve Caporizzo concluded. And that, my friends is why you should go. It’s not a small ticket, but it’s a big mission. A unique mission, a worthwhile mission. It’s as simple as respecting those animals that have given us such pleasure throughout their lives at the end of their days. We advocate. We advocate for doing the right thing. Go.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
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Making Money “Chasing” Fences
by Tom Amello for Saratoga TODAY Do ya ‘Chase? That is, do you have an interest in watching and wagering on Saratoga races that are run over fences? Steeplechase racing is deeply embedded in the tradition and history that is Saratoga Race Course. According the long-tenured NSA Director of Racing Bill Gallo, “There has never been a race meet conducted at Saratoga Race Course without a Steeplechase race.” For the
Top Steeplechase trainers: Jack Fisher Cyril Murphy Jonathan Sheppard Doug Fout Top Steeplechase Jockeys: Connor Hankin Jack Doyle Ross Gerhaghty Gerard Galligan Gustav Dahl Top Owners/ Stables: Irvin Naylor Burton Street – US Amy Tyler Rowe Robert Kinsley Stonelea Stables LLC Jimmy Day Liz Voss
past several meetings, however, the National Steeplechase Association (NSA) has been trying to reclaim its niche at the Summer Place to Be. Founded in 1885, NSA stages different forms of jump racing in the United States. The NSA is “the governing body of American racing over fences, a Thoroughbred sport that emphasizes festive racing events with family and friends, safety for all its participants, and preservation of open space. Steeplechase race meets are valued members of their communities and raise millions of dollars each year for local charities.” The NSA and its calendar of jump events is much like the PGA Golf Tour. Like the PGA, NSA teams with local communities to raise funds for charitable causes. In fact, Steeplechase races were an integral part of the once popular but now defunct pre-meet Open House fundraising extravaganza at Saratoga Race Course! The Steeplechase annual “tour” calendar follows the season. Steeplechase begins in South Carolina in March and steadily makes its way north. Early summer brings a shift from open space, nonwagering events in local communities to East Coast race tracks and parimutuel wagering. And that is where the Steeplechase set and the NSA has come to a strained relationship with flat track handicappers and the New York Racing Association. Handle, money bet on Steeplechase races, is significantly lower than flat races. Additionally, flat race bettors voiced loud protest when Steeplechase races were positioned as part of multi-race exotic wagers. NYRA bowed to the noise of flat track bettors by limiting the number of jump races carded at Saratoga and positioning these races earliest on the daily race card. To address the negative
perception of its product among bettors, the NSA has made strides in recent years to educate and promote their jump product. NSA developed a user friendly website (nationalsteeplechase.com) with information flat handicappers are accustomed to receiving: an informative history of the sport, events schedule and race conditions for each event, results, trainer, jockey and owner standings, and video replays. NSA has a standing committee for Promotion and Growth. In April of 2014, the Committee adopted and promulgated a new rating system for winners over hurdles. Ratings are likely to appeal to flat handicappers who use “ratings” on a regular basis such as Beyer Speed Figures or BRIS/ TimeformUS Power Ratings. Ratings are available on the website. More recently and importantly, NSA approved a significant change in the actual running of jump races. Fields will no longer jump what has been the final fence before the dash to the wire. The decision, grounded in horse and human safety, recognizes the “fatigue factor” experienced by jumpers in the final stages of a race that is 2 and 1/16th miles or longer. A longer sprint to the wire minimizes the inherent risks of the latter stages of a Steeplechase race. Director of Racing Bill Gallo tells us, “Handicapping a jump race is no more difficult than handicapping a flat race.” In fact, the principals are the same. Start with the connections. The top five trainers, owners and jockeys win the most races. (See Box) Class is as important over jumps as flats. The Iroquois meet held in May at Percy Warner in Nashville, Tennessee is the premier spring event. Like Saratoga, this meet features top class competitors. Horses that participated and fenced well in races that day often hold a class edge when entered to jump
at Saratoga. Tempt Me Alex from trainer Liz Voss won the Marcellus Frost ahead of Jack Fisher’s Ice It and African Oil, a Spa competitor in 2015. Pay attention when you see any of these in the Saratoga entries. Several participants in the Grade 1 Iroquois will vie over fences in the Grade 2 A. P. Smithwick and Grade 1 NY Turf Writers at Saratoga. As in flat racing, race conditions published in the Condition Book and atop past performances stipulate weight to be carried. Astute handicappers understand race conditions. Simply, more accomplished horses carry more weight. Improving horses carry less weight but are sometimes capable of beating their more accomplished rivals at better than fair odds. The least accomplished carry the lowest weight and are always long shots. Finally, as has been said, “The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; but that is the way to bet.” Steeplechase racing is more often than not the second career for a flat runner. Fast flat runners who transition to become good jumpers are likely to be fast over fences. A look back into past performances should reveal which were fastest before the switch from flats to jumps. The Steeplechase course over Saratoga’s inner turf has always been kind to speed. And the elimination of the final fence should favor speedy finishers. Steeplechase races open each
Wednesday and Thursday race card in 2016. Wednesday races are for Overnight Allowance competition; Thursday races are for Stakes competitors. Visit nationalsteeplechase.com, check out the standings, watch a few replays from The Iroquois and join the ‘Chase this summer at the Spa. Tom Amello began his Thoroughbred education over 50 years ago. In 1984, Tom created his own database of New York trainers and horses that became the foundation for the Saratoga selection sheet, Trackfacts. For over twenty years Tom produced and hosted original programming covering Thoroughbred racing for Capital District OTB Television. Tom conducts numerous handicapping seminars and workshops, including participation in “Count Down to…” programs at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame and the “History, Horses and Handicapping” program at SUNY Empire State College’s Academy for Lifelong Learning. In 2013, Tom published Playing the Odds Board: Gateway to the Game,™ a guide that makes betting easier to understand and more fun for those new to Thoroughbred racing. Tom, with his daughter Kate, owns and operates the Brunswick at Saratoga Bed and Breakfast at 143 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Contact Tom at trkfacts@nycp.rr.ocm.
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Backstretch Beat Saratoga Race Course and the Oklahoma:
by Marion E. Altieri for Saratoga TODAY All fans of horse racing, and anyone who’s seen the 2002 film Seabiscuit knows that somehow—fictionalized or otherwise—the “nothing horse” who became the “legend” of Seabiscuit was found by Charles Howard at Saratoga. The film depicts a much different scenario of that first man/equine meeting than historians tell: in fact, Howard was in Saratoga to buy horses for Bing Crosby, when Seabiscuit caught his eye after the horse won a pair of races. Howard bought the ‘Biscuit for $8,000 (approx. $138,000+ today), and the rest, as they say, is history. But the heart of the story is not that Howard bought
Seabiscuit—it’s that he bought Seabiscuit HERE. Saratoga had lured both Howard and Seabiscuit’s previous owner here, and, while they thought that they were here just for business—for the horses, it was far more than just a place to race. Saratoga, as you know, was founded on the magical, medicinal waters that course justbeneath the surface here. The power of those waters—and their proclaimed abilities to heal everything from warts to “Consumption”—drew humans here eons long before Europeans discovered the secret. If water can be a healing property, for humans and vegetation alike, fed by Saratoga’s healing waters—then, doesn’t it stand to reason that animals who live or rest here similarly would benefit from time spent within these city limits? Of course it does. For many years, wise Thoroughbred trainers and owners have brought their steeds to Saratoga Springs to rest, rejuvenate and rev up for important upcoming races. If Saratoga is Disneyland for Adults, then the Saratoga Race Course and its main
training track, the Oklahoma, is Summer Camp for Horses. It’s not peculiar that some of the world’s most revered race horses have dwelled in stalls right next to perfectly-fine horses whose destinies were not to take the world by storm. Whether your horse is on her way up— on her way down—destined to retire to stud, or to a career
in Dressage—your owner and trainer want only the best for you - as if you were Secretariat or Man O’War. Hundreds-of-thousands of horses have shared space and figuratively broken bread with each other during the weeks of the Saratoga meet. It’s natural that some of these horses are famous, and some are not. And, while there are no “presidential
suites”—extraordinary stalls fit for equine royalty—the horses don’t mind, and don’t complain if they do. But it’s not exclusive accommodations (or lack thereof) that bring Thoroughbreds to Saratoga for an overnight or an entire summer. Just like a spa for humans, there’s something for everyone here. The equine “camp” residents
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
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“Summer Camp for Seabiscuit”
From Seabiscuit to Rachel Alexandra (photo by Sharon Castro), horses have come to the Spa to heal, rest, race and win!
have grazed on the grass, and drunk deeply of the waters that so many humans also have found to be curative for ailments and emotional upsets. Like their human connections, the horses come here to race and to win. But also like their people, racehorses come to breathe in that fresh Adirondack air and chill before going on to the Keeneland and Belmont Autumn meets; then the Breeders’ Cup and the Dubai World Cup in late March. Retired NYRA track announcer, Tom Durkin, always referred to this place as, “The Spaaaaaa.” Indeed, Saratoga Race Course, as much a part of the soul of this city and county, is rich in water, soil, vegetation and fresh
air—all of which contribute to the calming, medicinal effects that bring peace to the soul and coalescence to the cells. Rock star horses come here to recuperate, often following surgery or other medical issues. Afleet Alex comes to mind, the Champion’s Champion who rose like a Phoenix from near-disaster to winning the 2005 Preakness by 4 ¾ lengths. Later that summer, in July, Alex’s fall campaign was derailed due to a hairline fracture in his left front cannon bone, near the ankle. Fortunately, the fracture was discovered very early: he received the appropriate medical care, and spent the Saratoga race meet hanging in and around Barn 24 on the cool, verdant main track backstretch. His leg was
wrapped, but he didn’t seem to mind when we visited him in his stall. He was breathing and drinking deeply, neighing and tossing his head. Summer Camp Life: evident in Afleet Alex’s renewed enthusiasm for life, under the shade of ancient canopy trees. The late, great Jess Jackson— owner of both Curlin and Rachel Alexandra—made sure that his Champions spent ample time at Saratoga Summer Camp. In 2008, Curlin was riding high on his fouryear-old campaign: by the time the Saratoga meet began, he’d already chewed up the track in Dubai, to take both the Jaguar Trophy Handicap and the Dubai World Cup. Then he came to Kentucky, to take the Stephen Foster in resounding fashion.
Mr. Jackson brought his world-class horse to the worldclass spa: only The Best for The Best. Curlin spent the summer of 2008 at Saratoga—much to the joy of fans and media, who greeted him every, single morning—and at the end of that summer, Curlin won the Woodward in thrilling fashion. After taking over the world of racing, the horse deserved a rest in the calming environment, and—after he’d rested, he showed the world that he was ready to keep on keeping on. After the Woodward, he won the Jockey Club Gold Cup for a second consecutive year, and was rightfully inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014. Jackson’s Rachel Alexandra came to Saratoga Summer Camp in 2009, and enjoyed it so much that she came back for the entire summer of 2010. Like everyone else (fans, media), I was at her barn virtually every day. She slept in the same stall in Asmussen’s barn, as had her friend and stablemate, Curlin, in 2008. After winning several stakes races in 2009 (including the Kentucky Oaks, which she won by 20 ¼ lengths)— the Mother Goose and Haskell— Asmussen and Jackson brought
the Queen to Saratoga to hang out and just be a horse until her Saratoga debut in the Woodward at the end of August. Rather than merely flying her in the week of the race, her connections wisely gave her an entire summer of Saratoga water, fresh air and greenery. Rachel Alexandra, like Curlin, Afleet Alex, Secretariat, Seattle Slew, Kelso and other truly great horses (and those who aspire to greatness) – all have spent time in this home-away-from home, this “summer camp.” Saratoga - where life is easy, breezy. Until you race, of course. But two minutes of exertion out of six weeks is a small price to pay for the gift of inhaling Adirondack air, and feeling the tension melt away like winter’s last snow. All horses, all humans, should get six weeks in Saratoga, at least once. When she’s not writing, editing and posting as Director of Communications for Trainer, Gary Contessa, Marion writes for “Equicurean,” “Saratoga TODAY Newspaper,” TalkOfTheTrack.com, and works on the second in her series of children’s horse-themed books. In her free time, she... oh, she has no free time...
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Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Opening Weekend! FRIDAY, JULY 22 Opening Day: The 2016 season at Saratoga Race Course gets underway with gates opening at 11 a.m. Opening Day will kick off with a pair of graded stakes: Grade 3, $150,000 Schuylerville for 2-yearold fillies and the Grade 2, $200,000 Lake George for 3-year-old turf fillies. First race post time is 1 p.m. Reserved Seats and Hospitality: A limited number of reserved seats are available opening weekend, as are bookings for select hospitality offerings, including the At the Rail Pavilion and Luxury Suites. Reserved seats are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com. Reservations for the At the Rail and Luxury Suites may be made through the NYRA Box Office by phone at (844) NYRA-TIX. Ticket sales and reservations are based on availability; all will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Scratch-Off Ticket: All fans in attendance on
Opening Day will receive a free scratch-off ticket with paid admission. Fans will have an opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including $100 betting vouchers and NYRA merchandise, as well as vouchers for concessions, program books, general admission and parking. Bets Squad: Opening Day will feature the debut of the Bets Squad, a group of individuals available to educate fans on various aspects of wagering, including how to read a program book and use a self-service betting terminal. The Bets Squad will be stationed in gazebos located in the upper grandstand and outside the paddock entrance throughout the meet, and will also be available for consultation in the NYRA Bets Lounge on Saturdays. Fans can schedule private sessions with Bets Squad members. Taste NY: Craft Beer: Opening Day welcomes the return of the highly popular Taste NY which offers guests a selection of New York craft beers available for sampling each Friday of the
meet in partnership with the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets. Fans will be able to sample five craft beers for $5 at the Saratoga Pavilion, presented by Time Warner Cable News, from noon to 5 p.m. Community Outreach Booth: The New York Racing Association will host the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) at the Community Outreach Booth on Opening Day, in honor of the performing art venue’s 50th anniversary season. Located next to the Jockey Silks Room and across from the Saratoga Walk of Fame. the Community Outreach Booth provides one nonprofit organization per day with an exclusive opportunity to interact with the thousands of guests who visit Saratoga Race Course, share information about its work and host fundraising initiatives. Hats Off to Saratoga Festival: The annual festival invites fans to celebrate the return of the thoroughbreds with free music and entertainment along Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs from 7 to 11 p.m. The event is presented by the Saratoga County Chamber
of Commerce and the New York Racing Association.
SATURDAY, JULY 23 Diana and Sanford: Saturday’s highlights include the Grade 3, $150,000 Sanford for juveniles and the first Grade 1
of the meet, the $500,000 Diana for turf fillies and mares. NYRA Bets Lounge: Fans are invited to visit the all-new NYRA Bets Lounge, located within the Saratoga Pavilion, presented by Time Warner Cable News. The NYRA Bets Lounge will offer handicapping tips and analysis from racing professionals and also feature a champagne bar and Lifestyles clothing boutique.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
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Here’s What’s Happening at Saratoga Race Course Low Roller Challenge: Saturday will feature the Low Roller Challenge, presented by NYRA Bets, which allows aspiring handicappers the opportunity to experience the thrill of tournament play for $40, with $30 going towards live bankroll and $10 to the prize pool. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. at the NYRA Bets Lounge in the Saratoga Pavilion, presented by Time Warner Cable News. Community Outreach Booth: The Community Outreach Booth will host the SADS Foundation, a non-profit organization established to inform the public on the effects of untreated and/or undiagnosed cardiac arrhythmias. Hats Off to Saratoga Festival: The second night of theopening weekend festival will again feature nearly a dozen bands in downtown Saratoga Springs from 7 to 11 p.m. to provide fans with a memorable night of free music and entertainment.
SUNDAY, JULY 24 Coaching Club American Oaks: Sunday marks the appearance of reigning Juvenile Filly
Eclipse champion Songbird in the Grade 1, $500,000 Coaching Club American Oaks for 3-year-old fillies. Saratoga Baseball Cap Giveaway: Fans will have the opportunity to take home the first premium giveaway of the 2016 season: a Saratoga baseball cap, presented by Saratoga Casino Hotel, free with paid admission, while supplies last. For the first time, all season ticket plan and season pass holders will be guaranteed to receive the giveaway if they redeem the item by 3 p.m. Season pass and season ticket plan holders will be required to utilize the line designated for them at each entry gate. 25th Annual Saratoga Hat Contest, presented by Hatsational by DEI: Hundreds of contestants will don creative and fashionable millinery to compete in what has become a staple of opening weekend at Saratoga Race Course. Registration begins at noon under the grandstand for three categories: Kreative Kids, Fashionably Saratoga and Uniquely Saratoga. Hats will be judged after the second, third and fourth races on the track apron with the
contestants vying for a variety of prizes, including a $100 Hatsational by DEI gift card. Taste NY: Food and Artisans: Returning for the 2016 summer meet, Taste NY: Food and Artisans is a lively on-track market filled with vendors featuring products made exclusively in New York State. Products include jams, baked goods and hand-crafted soap, amongst other items. The market will be held each Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Saratoga Pavilion, presented by Time Warner Cable News. Low Roller Challenge: Sunday will include the return of the Low Roller Challenge, presented by NYRA Bets, which allows aspiring handicappers the opportunity to experience the thrill of tournament play for $40, with $30 going towards live bankroll and $10 to the prize pool. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. near the Fourstardave Sports Bar. Community Outreach
Booth: The NYRA Community Outreach Booth will host the Saratoga Springs Figure Skating Club, one of the largest skating clubs in the Capital Region which has been promoting the sport recreationally and competitively for more than 30 years.
MONDAY, JULY 25 Berkshire Bank Family Mondays: Monday will be highlighted by the return of Berkshire Bank Family Mondays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Saratoga Pavilion. All kid-friendly games and activities, including the opportunity to pet a retired thoroughbred, are free of charge, with the exception of one designated activity which carries a suggested donation to benefit a local school or PTA. The beneficiary of the first Monday of the season is Brown School
in Schenectady. Berkshire Bank Family Mondays is presented with support from Pediatric Dental Group of New York. Low Roller Challenge: Monday will include the continuation of the Low Roller Challenge, presented by NYRA Bets, which allows aspiring handicappers the opportunity to experience the thrill of tournament play for $40, with $30 going towards live bankroll and $10 to the prize pool. Registration begins at 11 a.m. near the Fourstardave Sports Bar. Community Outreach Booth: The Community Outreach Booth will host the Albany Police Athletic League (PAL), an organization located in the heart of Albany focused on bringing law enforcement and the youth community together.
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Track-tacular Characters Meet Weezie at the Flagpole by Louisa Foye for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Is it possible for the same childlike joy and wonder we felt back in the day to remain with us years after our initial discovery, and through the subsequent anticipation, of a new favorite thing? Indeed it is, if we are referring to Opening Day at our beloved and iconic Saratoga Race Track! From time immemorial, those of us who were lucky
enough to grow up an earshot away from Cappy’s (Fred Capossela) distinctive race calls, cherish the hellos of the first week, and dread the goodbyes of the last! Amidst all the sadness and madness that currently rules our world, a day at the races gives us all a chance to step back in time, and to step away from reality, as we feel our heartbeat race a little faster, and our heartstrings tugged at a little harder, all while being overcome with nostalgia!
May we all find time to reminisce and enjoy just one of the many wonderful sidebars that will all play a part during the next 6+ weeks of top rated theatre, and 40 glorious days of unparalleled racing! Welcome back to the hallowed grounds of our magnificent and historic neighbor, and may the horse be with you! Weezie is a lifelong racing fan and native, and will offer weekly observations throughout the meet.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
SPORTS 45
Rooftop Spinning!
SARATOGA SPRINGS – They are at it again! Angela Amedio and her minions take spinning to another level, literally! Disdaining all noise ordinances, they rocked the house and the heavens atop the Washington Building on Saturday, July 16 – all to benefit Jake’s Help from Heaven! See more fun activities at SaratogaCyclingStudio.com. Photos by Francesco D’Amico
Team USA’s Irish Eyes Are Smilin’! Strong Showing in Junior and open Mounted Games World Team Championships
COUNTY CORK, IRELAND – Ted Butler is one proud grandpa! The Saratoga Springs resident, a former Commissioner of Finance in the Ellsworth Jones administration, is bursting buttons over his granddaughter Libby’s (age 16) performance as a member of Team USA at the Junior and Open World Mounted Games Team Championships in Ireland, which were held from July 11-17. What are mounted games? Think Home Run Derby, NBA 3-point shooting, punt, pass and kick competitions – all combined – on horseback! Mounted games’ skills include: Bang-a-balloon, Hula-hoop, Jousting, Litter lifters and much more! Proud parents Dr. David and Peppy Butler of Franklin, TN report that after the final rounds of competition Team USA, Open division finished fourth in the B Finals. The Under 17 Team USA finished in 8th place in the A finals. But even better, they were the only team out of 16 international squads on borrowed ponies to make it into the A finals! I can’t wait till we get them here on our turf! Great job Libby, and team USA! - Arthur Gonick
Springettes Leap and Dominate in Cali!
LONG BEACH, CALIF. —Fourteen athletes from the Saratoga Regional YMCA Springettes Gymnastics Team traveled with their families to Long Beach, California for the YMCA Gymnastics 2016 National Championships from June 29 through July 3. Kim Hewitt and Vicky Plitt coached the Springettes. The week started with Springettes team captain Sydney Hedge attending the reception for graduating seniors. This took place on the Queen Mary, docked in Long Beach. All seniors were recognized for their years in YMCA gymnastics. The next day was the march and the opening ceremonies, where over 1300 athletes marched in from 29 different states. The next two days were filled with competition where
our girls received 30 medals in their sessions of competition. The last day of competition is set aside for our upper level girls, who have the opportunity to qualify to the all-around championships if they are in the top 25 of their age group after all sessions of competition are combined. This year BOTH of our athletes at level 8 qualified for the All-around Finals! Marissa Verro finished third in the country in the senior age division after two days of hit routines. Abby Moller finished 25th in day one of the juniors competition to qualify for the all-around finals, but unfortunately sustained an injury on the first day on her last event, and was not able to compete on the second day of competition. Way to show ‘em, Springettes!
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SPORTS
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN Saratoga Fall Youth Field Hockey Program
online: https://activenet018.active. com/wiltonrecreation/
The Saratoga Springs Booster Club will be hosting its sixth fall season of youth field hockey beginning on August 30 and ending on October 1. The program is open to youths in grades third through sixth. No experience needed. The program features practices working on fundamental skills and at least three play days with other area school club programs. The youth program brochure can be downloaded from the Booster Club’s website at www.eteamz. com/Saratogafieldhockey1. Registration is now open and the cost is $95 for the fall season, which includes a team vest for new players. For more information please contact Jo-Anne Hostig, Saratoga head field hockey coach at Tig10@juno.com.
YO!
Zumba at Gavin Park Ditch the workout, and join the PARTY! This Latin inspired workout program is not your typical workout. This workout will get you moving to music, while actually enjoying yourself. Preregistration is required at least one business day prior. No dropins allowed (pre-registration required). BTW, Our gym has air conditioning! Fee per session: Wilton Res. - $45; Saratoga School Dist.$55; Other- $60. Sessions are on Mondays from 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. from July 11 August 15. Register at Gavin Park or
7/22 In Sports History: 1912 The 5th Olympic games in Stockholm, Sweden closes where Jim Thorpe won both the pentathlon and the decathlon.
Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratogapublishing.com
Saratoga Springs Recreation 2016 Summer Clinics and Programs The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department will again be offering an extensive and varied list of programs and clinics for summer 2016. Choose from boys and girls basketball, volleyball, baseball, field hockey, tennis, boys and girls lacrosse, soccer, cheerleading, skateboarding, softball, track, running, sandlot baseball, flag football and ice skating lessons.
2016 Fall Soccer Registration Has Begun Follow your goals with the Saratoga Springs Recreation Department’s 2016 Fall Soccer program. This program is open to children grades Pre K-12 and will run September 10-October 29. Players will be separated by grade and exposed to skill development based on age and skill level. Register before August 15 in order to receive the Early Bird
2016 SUMMER BREAK TRIPLE THREAT BASKETBALL CAMP
Have some fun, make some friends, learn some basketball! OPEN TO ALL CHILDREN AND RUN BY COACH TONY DEVIZZIO (cell-932-1525) (home-584-8092) THIS IS NOT A SARATOGA RECREATION PROGRAM, see sign-up information below. -SARATOGA SPRINGS EAST SIDE RECREATION COURTS; MONDAY, JULY 25 – FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2016 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. AGES: 5-14 DIVISIONS FOR BOYS/GIRLS – (DEPENDENT ON READINESS LEVEL) -SKILL-DRILLS AND COMPETITIONS FOR SHOOTING, DRIBBLING, PASSING, ETC. 1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3 TOURNEY GAMES - FREE FREEZE-POPS EACH DAY, YOU SHOULD BRING SOMETHING TO DRINK AND ADDITIONAL SNACKS. CHAMPIONSHIP FRIDAY (ALL CONTESTS AND TOURNAMENT GAMES) - AWARDS CEREMONY – 11:30-11:45 a.m. - FRIDAY (LASTS 15 MINUTES - EVERYONE GETS SOMETHING!) $70 fee and form due before/or on first day. (checks made to: Tony Devizzio, 743 Malta Ave. Ext, Ballston Spa, NY 12020) Discount. Two volunteer coaches per team are needed at all levels. Registration fee is waived for the child of each coach who registers by August 15. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue. For additional information or to download forms go to www.SaratogaRec. com. Questions? Call 518-5873550 x2300 or email recreservations@saratoga-springs.org. 1 Blue Streak Blvd. Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Ph: 518-587-6690, ext. 33304
Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series The Camp Saratoga 5K Trail Series will be held on Mondays, July 25, August 8 and August 22, at 6:15 p.m. at Camp Saratoga, Wilton Wildlife Preserve and Park. The races
Puzzle solutions from pg. 36
are open to all and registration is $5 at the door. Proceeds benefit the Wilton Wildlife Preserve and the Saratoga Spa State Park. Refreshments and raffle prizes afterwards. Grand prizes for best times for all 5 events, continual improvement and most family members. For more information visit www.saratogastryders.org or email laura@saratogastryders.org
Summer 2016 Recreation Center Hours The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department’s summer hours at the Recreation Center (through October 9) will be Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Recreation Center will be closed Monday, September 5. For additional information, call 518587-3550 x2300 or visit www.
SaratogaRec.com.
Summer Intro to Ice Skating Registration Join us on the ice this summer for Intro to Ice Skating. This Saratoga Springs Recreation Department program will introduce skaters ages 3 through adult to the exciting world of ice skating. Already know the basics? This program will build upon skills already learned. A strong foundation can produce of lifetime of pleasure on the ice. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue For additional information or to download forms visit www.SaratogaRec.com. Questions? Call 518-587-3550 x2300 or email recreservations@ saratoga-springs.org.
Week of July 22 – July 28, 2016
SPORTS 47
It’s Always Sunny at Polo! Polo Legend Sunny Hale Returns to Saratoga Polo for the “Battle of the Sexes” SARATOGA SPRINGS — Polo is one of the few sports where men and women play on the same field, and in fact, Saratoga Springs has a proud legacy of featuring some of the best players in the world, like Sunny Hale, the highest rated women’s player in history. Sunny returns for her triumphant fourth year to Whitney Field, where she has wowed the crowds in the past, playing in an all women’s tournament– but this year, in a twist, she will be leading an all-star women’s team against an equally impressive all men’s team that Cuko Escapite has put together for the Veuve Clicquot Challenge Tournament on Sunday, July 24. For fans of Saratoga Polo, the Veuve Clicquot Challenge matches have become the mustsee matches of the whole summer, and this year the stakes are even greater, but Sunny has always
shown her prowess to lead the way in what typically was just a man’s sport. In 2000, she was on the winning team in the US Open Polo Championships, becoming the first woman to do so. At the time of the 2000 championship, she outranked 96 percent of players in the world, including men. While the progress of equality on the polo field for men and women has moved forward exponentially, one only need go back one generation to witness circumstances where Sunny’s mother, Sue Sally Hale, was only allowed to compete as a polo player in the 1950s and ‘60s disguised as a man. Sunny Hale is now an acclaimed author, debuting the book “Let’s Talk Polo” to her already storied career. Besides being the founder of the American Polo Horse Association, she is currently the highest rated woman polo player
in America at 3 Goals, the first woman in history to win the US Open Polo Championship (the most prestigious and highest level polo tournament played in the United States), attained the highest rating ever given to a woman (in the history of the sport) of 5 Goals, after winning the US Open Polo Championship with Outback Steakhouse Polo Team in 2000. If you want some perspective, these ratings are the equivalent of a woman playing as a professional on the winning team in the NFL, the World Series or NBA Championships. Jim Rossi, Managing Partner of Saratoga Polo, looks at this opportunity with excitement and satisfaction. “Saratoga Polo was one of the first polo clubs to spotlight women in major tournaments. With the help of sponsors like Veuve Clicquot, we are proud to bring this fastest growing
Sunny Hale
part of the sport to the Saratoga Springs destination.” As a salute to the tradition started during the Napoleonic Wars by Madame Clicquot, guests at the Clubhouse will get a chance to sabre a bottle of champagne with a sword guided by our sabrage experts.
The Veuve Clicquot Challenge public matches will be on Sunday, July 24th at Saratoga Polo Association’s Whitney Field at 5:30 p.m., with the gates opening at 4 p.m. To purchase tickets, or for more information, visit Saratogapolo.com, or call 518-584-8108.