LOCAL • INDEPENDENT • FREE Volume 11 • Issue 34 • August 26– September 1, 2016
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Food Network Glass, Grass, and Pillows Names Local Eatery as a Top Mom & Pop
by Megin Potter Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA — A positive recommendation from an unknown source resulted in a lifelong dream coming true for one local restauranteur this week. The Country Corner Café earned national recognition when it was included in a list of the Food Network’s Taste of Homes Top 24 Mom & Pop Restaurants in the U.S. “It was really quite a surprise,” said owner Roseann Hotaling about receiving the call that she’d been selected. The marvelous power of word of mouth had spread to the article’s Chicago-based writer Samantha Lande about their hearty breakfast and lunch items. “It really is a bit of a mystery, but with us also celebrating our 25th year in business, it’s an especially prestigious honor for us to be included, and really a dream come true,” said Hotaling. Perhaps it is that The Country Corner Café serves a large selection of distinctively Northeastern home-cooked favorites from recipes that Hotaling learned growing up on a farm See Food pg. 25
Photo by MarkBolles.com
Shadowing a Giant Heart Through Hidden Homes
by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Meeting Deanna Hensley for the first time is like meeting an old friend, a great quality in a homeless outreach coordinator. Her giant heart shows in her welcoming smile and gentle, fierce protection of Saratoga Springs’ homeless neighbors. On Friday, August 12, Hensley invited me, Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), and congressional staffer Marilyn Smith to ride along with her during her outreach work for Shelters of Saratoga (SOS). We began in Congress Park, meeting at the park’s north entrance in front of her white van. “I usually have the RV, but it’s in the shop,” See Glass pg. 12-13
Congressman Paul Tonko and SOS Outreach Coordinator Deanna Hensley discussed the needs of Saratoga’s homeless population during a recent homeless outreach ride-along. Photo by Marilyn Smith.
Whoa! Cuomo: Down the Stretch
by Maureen Werther Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — With only hours to go before racing fans stream through the gates at historic Saratoga Racetrack, Governor Cuomo has not RSVP’d to his invitation to attend the 147th running of the Travers Stakes Saturday [as of print time of this paper]. According to an assistant in the Governor’s Invitations office, the invitation was received but is “still under review and a response is still
forthcoming.” In July, Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing, a committee formed through the Saratoga County Regional Chamber of Commerce, sent the governor an invitation to visit the Saratoga racetrack and see firsthand why it is such a special place. The goal of the invitation was to change the governor’s mind about delaying re-privatization of NYRA for yet another year. In 2012, after several years of declining revenues, a bankruptcy filing and scandals related to excessive See Cuomo pg. 15
Travers Full Coverage See pg. 45-52
Inside TODAY Blotter 4-5 Obituaries 6-7 Business 18-19 Education 22-23 Pulse 31-40 Sports 44-56
2
Man on the Street
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
“My #1 Bucket List Item is...”
Asked on Broadway
Win the trifecta at Saratoga. –Scott McCourt, Harvard Mass.
Retire to the islands. –Pete Masterson, Philadelphia Fun! –Frank Turk, Rockland County (left)
Take my wife shopping and go to the track. –Paul Johnson, Brooklyn (right)
We’ve been checking things off all year! We went to the Kentucky Derby, went to see Barbara Streisand, and now we’re going to see Bruno Mars. –Linda Ellis (right)
I want to feel fulfilled. –Jordan Morse, Clifton Park (right) I’ve heard about those crazy zip lines in the Caribbean that go over the ocean or through a jungle or something, I’d love to do that. –Greg Theiss, Clifton Park (left)
I’m Italian, so I really want to go to Italy with my family. –Gina Ciprianai, New York City
I just did it! We got married two days ago. –Ricky and Kayla Scott, Walden
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
NEWS 3
Moose Loose in Racing Museum! by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Authorities so far are silent about a moose sighting at the National Museum of Racing and Hall
‘Longshot’ and pal reminisce about meeting the Philly Phanatic
Author Vicki Addesso Dodd and Illustrator Patrick Jankowski were joined by ‘Longshot’
Battling head-to-head down the stretch are Saratoga Lake’s answer to the Ortiz brothers: and Lucien (4) and Ronin (7)
The Family that Colors Together… Future Banksy Josef Abele shows sister Hanna and parents Laurie and Peter of Wilton the proper technique
of Fame on Sunday afternoon, August 21. It is believed that this was the same antlered mammal that was the subject of Vicki Addesso Dodd’s second foray into moose-ography: ‘A Moose in My Starting Gate,’ which was in the process of being released at the Museum, to the delight of young and old alike. Other activities at the release party included coloring, “create your own race horse” project and complimentary charecterture provided to all that would pose, in addition to a book reading and signing by Ms. Dodd and illustrator Patrick Jankowski. But, of course, no one can really prepare for the moose-mania that ensues when a Bullwinkle disciple takes its place at the signing table. “ I was, at once, shocked and thrilled!” noted Ms. Dodd. “But after all, we have learned that moose pretty much show up anywhere they want to.” The moose, which sources tell Saratoga TODAY answers to the name ‘Longshot,’ but has a street name of ‘BambiDaddy,’ was observed enjoying exchanging “high hooves” with fans as well as posing for photo ops. These sources advise the public that ‘Longshot’ is frequently observed humming Elvis tunes, including ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ and ‘Viva Las Vegas,’ which they believe is unusual for this species, and yet cited no empirical research to back this claim. The public is advised to be on the lookout for ‘Longshot,’ though they cautioned he was not dangerous: it’s just a good idea to know where your moose is at all times. If you missed the signing, contact Vicki Addesso Dodd at SaratogaSpringsPublishing@ gmail.com
Kelsey Dodd goes the Mermaid Route
4
BLOTTER
Saratoga County Sheriff
NEWS AND ARRESTS Malta Man Arrested for Menacing Police Officer
Missing Moreau Adults Found Safe Mial Pierce and Betty Yole, the vulnerable adults first reported missing on August 17, were found safe and taken into protective custody by the Canadian Border Services. At approximately 2:40 a.m. on Thursday, August 18 the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office was notified by Canadian Border Services that the two missing vulnerable adults had been located crossing into Canada at the Champlain entry point. Arrangements to transport Pierce and Yole back to their adult care facility in Moreau are currently being made.
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John T. Perry, 55, of Malta was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with menacing a police officer and criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. Perry is accused of intentionally placing a police officer in reasonable fear or physical injury, serious physical injury, or death by displaying a knife. He is also charged with possessing a dangerous knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person, after having previously been convicted of a crime.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Daniel M. Fay, 36, of Mechanicville was arrested Monday, August 8 and charged with assault in the third degree. Fay was arrested following an investigation into a domestic incident at 14 Joyce Rd in Mechanicville. He was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility on a five hundred dollar cash bail or one thousand dollar bail bond, and is scheduled to appear for sentencing at a later date.
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Kirieme M. Pitts, 24, of Cohoes was arrested Thursday, August 11 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. Melton was arrested as a result of an investigation by the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office Narcotics Unit to combat the trafficking and sale of illegal narcotics within Saratoga County. Pitts was arraigned in the Town of Clifton Park Court and remanded to the custody of the Saratoga County Sheriff ’s Office on a $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bail bond.
Two Arrested in Illegal Narcotics Investigation Christopher B. Melton, 31, of Ballston Spa was arrested Thursday, August 11 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. Melton was arrested as a result of a joint investigation by the Saratoga County
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Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and the Ballston Spa Police Department to combat the trafficking and sale of illegal narcotics within Saratoga County. He was arraigned in the Town of Ballston Court and remanded to the custody of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office on a $20,000 cash bail or $40,000 bail bond.
Mechanicville Man Arrested Following Domestic Incident
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
COURTS: John F. Morgano, of Cairo pled on Thursday, August 18 to the felony charge of burglary in the third degree. Sentencing is scheduled for October 13.
ARRESTS: Shawn M. Johnson, 34, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Friday, August 12 and charged with petit larceny. Stephen B. McDonough, 25, of Albany was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, and operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver. Megan A. Volz, 23, of Atlanta, GA was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with driving while intoxicated, speeding in a posted zone, and running a red light. James A. Rockymore, 32, of Chambersburg, PA was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, and one equipment violation. Cristian L. Rodriguez, 20, of Queens was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with unlawful imprisonment in the second degree and assault in the third degree. Tyson X. O’Connel, 37, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Saturday, August 13 and charged with assault in the third degree. Quentin Pinkney, 35, of Albany was arrested Monday, August 15 and charged with the felony charges of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree and criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree. Sonia L. Older, 35, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Tuesday, August 16 and charged with assault in the third degree. Melissa S. Anderson, 44, of Ballston Spa was arrested Tuesday, August 16 and charged with operating a
motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and three counts of failing to signal. Miriam R. Sanders, 47, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Wednesday, August 17 and charged with petit larceny. Malgorza T. Kasperk, 54, of Maspeth was arrested Wednesday, August 17 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree. Eileen F. Snyder, 66, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Wednesday, August 17 and charged with theft of services. Lino Guzman-Lopez, 27, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Thursday, August 18 and charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree. Paul R. Daiutolo, 44, of Rochester was arrested Thursday, August 18 and charged with an unsafe lane change, failing to signal a turn, parking violations, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, and driving while intoxicated. Destiny M. Robinson, 21, of Galway was arrested Thursday, August 18 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree. Gary P. Mottau, 57, of Wilton was arrested Thursday, August 18 and charged with an open container. Patrick J. Collins, 20, of Broadalbin was arrested Thursday, August 18 and charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and failing to keep right. Dominic M. Mazzeo, 64, and Michael J. Curran, 54, both of Randolph, MA were arrested Thursday, August 18. Mazzeo was charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, failing to keep right, an unsafe lane change, and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Curran was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Anne N. Carroll, 63, of Aiken, SC was arrested Friday, August 19
BLOTTER 5 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, and one equipment violation. Paul E. Rostick, 31, of Watervliet was arrested Friday, August 19 and charged with operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver, driving the wrong way down a one way street, and the felony charge of driving while intoxicated. Keith B. Kovatch, 40 and Leslie C. Mann, 38, both of Ballston Spa, were arrested Friday, August 19. Kovatch was charged with an open container, and Mann was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, unlawful possession of marijuana, and three counts of possession of a controlled substance outside of its original container. Katrina M. Dancz, 46, and Jeremy M. Depasquale, 36, both of Saratoga Springs, were arrested Friday, August 19 and both charged with trespassing.
Joseph J. Boniello, 30, of Hyde Park was arrested Friday, August 19 and charged with being a fugitive from justice. Boniello was wanted out of NJ for a charge of receiving stolen property. Carolyn M. Fox, 28, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Friday, August 19 and charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree. Wilfredo Oceio, 19, of Elmont was arrested Friday, August 19 and charged with assault in the third degree. Paul M. Bittner, 39, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Saturday, August 20 and charged with
driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, and unsafe backing. Manuel R. Lopez-Romero, 24, of Saratoga Springs was arrested Saturday, August 20 and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving with a BAC of more than .08 of one percent, and aggravated driving while intoxicated. Kim J. Allen, 53, of Schenectady and Stanley W. Mlodzianowski, 37, of Saratoga Springs were arrested Saturday, August 20 and both charged with open containers.
6
OBITUARIES
Barbara Zelikofsky Rapp
Bryon C. McKim
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Barbara (Bobbie) Zelikofsky Rapp, 85, formerly of West Hartford, CT., died Saturday, August 20, 2016 after a long illness. Born February 6, 1931 in Saratoga Springs, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Freda Levine Zelikofsky. Bobbie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt. She was a longtime member of Congregation Sharra Tfille in Saratoga Springs. She graduated from Saratoga Springs High School where she was a cheerleader and also attended Alfred University. Bobbie raised her family in West Hartford, CT, during which time she used her fine fashion sense as a personal shopper, model and fashion show coordinator. She retired to Saratoga Springs and married her early sweetheart, Dr. Franklin Rapp in September of 1996. They shared the happiest years of their lives together in her beloved Saratoga Springs, wintering in Boynton Beach, Florida. Her smile, charm, grace, style and love of children were experienced by all who knew her for even a moment. She was vivacious, fun loving and a joy to be with. She was an avid swimmer and enjoyed playing tennis, skiing and playing golf. To her husband Frank, she was “The Flower of Saratoga.” In addition to her parents, Bobbie was predeceased by her loving sister and brother, Selma Berkowitz and Gerald (Zelikofsky) Selig. Bobbie leaves behind her husband, Dr. Franklin Rapp; her daughters, Lauren Tobin of Tampa, FL and Carrie Levine (David) Beecher of Madison, CT; three grandchildren, Charlie Maxwell Tobin of Tampa, FL and Maddie and Haley Beecher, both of Madison, CT; four nieces, Susan (Bob) Edwards, Joanne (Jim) Dwornik, Judith (Harold) Zassenhaus and Sandi (Robert) Wieskopf. In addition, she leaves behind Frank’s daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held on Tuesday August 23, 2016 at Congregation Shaara Tfille, located at 84 Weibel Avenue in Saratoga Springs. Burial followed in the Jewish Community Center Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Ave., 7th Floor, New York, New York 10001. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
COLONIE — Bryon C. McKim, 30, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 21, 2016 at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. Bryon is survived by his loving wife Kerry A. McKim and his beloved daughter Madeleine C. McKim. He was the son of Dale M. Jr. and Beverly A. McKim of Williamsville, NY. He is also survived by his brother, Dale M. McKim III and his wife Kelly, of Amherst, NY, two nephews, Patrick and Thomas and too many friends to name. Bryon was a 2003 graduate of Saratoga Springs High School and then graduated from Siena College in 2008 with a degree in economics. He then attended Albany Law School where he earned his Juris Doctor in 2011. He was admitted into the New York State Bar Association in 2012. Bryon was employed as an Attorney with the New York State Assembly Minority Conference. He was also in private practice as a partner in the Law Offices of James Walsh. Bryon was highly respected as one of the foremost and sought- after election lawyers in New York State. He successfully argued cases involving election and ballot access matters in front of the New York State Supreme Court, its Appellate Divisions, and the New York State Court of Appeals, New York’s highest ranking court. He was also undefeated as legal counsel for numerous political nominating conventions. Bryon was the co-founder of the Albany Bills Backers. He dedicated many years to the New York State Young Republicans as well as the Young Republican National Federation where he met his wife Kerry. Bryon was a Brother of Masters Lodge Number Five, F & AM, Albany, NY. He was a force to be reckoned with on the rugby pitch, playing for both the Albany Law and the Albany Law Alumni teams. Bryon was a passionate Siena Saints Basketball season ticket holder. During the summer months he could be found at the Saratoga Track Meet. Bryon and his wife Kerry were avid cruisers and together founded Millennialcruiser.com. Bryon was a diehard sports fan and specifically rooted for the following teams: Buffalo Bills, Boston Red Sox, Buffalo Sabres, Siena Saints Basketball, the American World Cup Team and Chelsea Soccer in the Premier League. Of all the accomplishments in Bryon’s life, he was most proud of being a father to Maddy. Whether it was shopping for dresses or playing with princesses, Maddy was the center of his world. He even made sure the first movie
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016 Maddy watched was his favorite, Top Gun. Donations may be sent to the Madeleine McKim Educational Trust, care of Law Offices of James Walsh, 20 Church Ave, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 26, 2016 from 3 to 8 p.m. at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, NY, 12205. A mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament, 607 Central Ave, Albany, NY, 12206. Interment will follow at Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands, NY. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit NewComerAlbany.com. See more at: ttp://www.legacy.com/obituaries/saratogian/obituary.aspx?page=lifest ory&pid=181155010#sthash.zWFzTp6t.cxrV4Uw5.dpuf
Edward J. Biss SCHUYLERVILLE — Edward J. Biss, age 86, passed away on Monday, August 22, 2016 at home unexpectedly. He was born on April 11, 1930 in Saratoga Springs, the son of the late Joseph and Mary Lesko Biss. Edward graduated from Schuylerville High School, class of 1948. Ed grew up on the family farm eventually taking it over, and with the help of his nephew Rick, the farm grew to what it is today. In his youth Ed enjoyed hunting, fishing and his dog Jack. But as he grew older his interests migrated to his plants, flowers and the grafting of his fruit trees. He looked forward to his yearly trip to the Tunbridge Fair for weeks ahead of time, but his happiest day was when he bought his property in Vermont. His family was truly important to him. Ed is survived by his sister, Emma Speidel, brother, George, many nieces and nephews and his close friends that would stop by or call for “advice.” He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Helen, Rose, Mary, Agnes, Julia, baby sister Anna and his brother Joseph. At the family’s request there will be no calling hours. A private service will be held on Saturday, August 27 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave. (Rte 9 and/or Marion Ave.) in Saratoga Springs. In lieu of flowers, Ed would love it if you would plant a tree or you can make a contribution to the charity of your choice. If you wish to express your online condolences or view the Obituary, please visit our website at www. compassionatefuneralcare.com
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
OBITUARIES 7
Howard Polmateer, Jr.
Janna Cargin
SCHUYLERVILLE — Howard Polmateer, Jr., 87, passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2016 at The Pines Nursing Home in Glens Falls surrounded by loving family and staff. He was born May 19, 1929, son of the late Howard and Louemma (Pryme) Polmateer. He graduated from Council Rock High School, Newtown, PA, and as a proficient athlete he was scouted by the Philadelphia Phillies. Howard was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served in post-war Germany, honorably discharged as corporal in 1953. Howard worked over 20 years as a heavy equipment operator throughout the Philadelphia, PA area, then worked 24 years, retiring from Stevens and Thompson Paper Company in Middle Falls. After retirement, he enjoyed working as a security guard at the Saratoga Race Track. Howard was the most enthusiastic supporter and fan for all his children and grandchildren’s sports activities! He was an avid sports fan for over 45 years of the Schuylerville High School basketball and football teams. Howard was a member of the Greenwich VFW and a member and past trustee of the Schuylerville United Methodist Church. Howard was a very loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather. He thoroughly enjoyed and was very proud of his large family! He was known as an outgoing character and sports enthusiast, enjoying family parties, card games, and playing lottery ticket gifts. Survivors include his cherished wife of 63 years, Betty (Rice) Polmateer; and 8 children, Nellie (Jeff ) Dumas of Schuylerville, Dawn (Steve) Freeman of Coudersport, PA, Chip (Sue) Polmateer of Schuylerville, Ron (Pam) Polmateer of East Durham, Dennis (Carrie) Polmateer of Johnsonville, Lisa (John) Biss of Lake Desolation, Bev (Jim) Moras of Latham and Mark (Colleen) Polmateer of Myrtle Beach, SC. He was cherished as PopPop of 19 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by his sister, Lillian Goman, and grandson, Brian Polmateer. Howard touched and influenced the lives of many who were honored to call him Dad, PopPop and friend. His loving influence and memories will stay with us forever. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. A funeral service was held Wednesday, August 24, 2016 at the Schuylerville United Methodist Church with Pastor Benjamin Lalka officiating. Burial followed in the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. at 12:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Schuylerville United Methodist Church, c/o Trustees, 51 Church St., Schuylerville, NY 12871. Arrangements are under the direction of Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home, 13 Gates Ave., Schuylerville..
GLENS FALLS — Janna Cargin, age 62, passed away on Friday, August 19, 2016 at Glens Falls Hospital surrounded by her loving family, and has gone home to be with the Lord. She was born on December 11, 1953 in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of the late John Hutchinson and Helen Van Vlack Hutchinson. Janna married Nathan Cargin on July 29, 1976. Janna was a homemaker, and one of her favorite things to do was to visit with her family and her grandchildren. Janna also enjoyed art, especially creating with waterbased paints and colored pencils. She was a wonderful listener and “counselor” for her siblings and children. Janna is survived by her loving husband, Nathan; sons, Jason Cargin (Cassie) and Johnny Cargin; daughter, Carrie Newton; sisters, Debby Benson (Bobby), Ann Sobolik (Dan), Joan Green (Dave) and Jill Paulson (Kevin); brothers, John Hutchinson (Mary), Hutch Daniels, and Jeff Hutchinson; seven grandchildren and one very special dog. She is preceded in death by parents and brother, David Hutchinson. A celebration of life service was held on Tuesday, August 23, 2016 at the Adirondack Christian Fellowship, 8 Mountain Ledge Drive in Wilton. Arrangements are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. If you wish to express your online condolences or view the Obituary, please visit our website at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com
Lori A. Henry SARATOGA SPRINGS — Lori A. Henry, age 55, passed away on Tuesday, August 23, 2016 unexpectedly. She was born on March 6, 1961 in Troy, the daughter of Joseph Paluch and Kathleen Sikorski Paluch. Lori was an Electronics Assembler at Espey for many years. She married the love of her life Richard C. Henry Jr. She enjoyed camping, gardening, hand crafts and especially spending time with her family. Lori is survived by her husband, Richard Henry Jr.; son, Richard Henry III (Danielle); daughter, Bridget Henry; sister, Lisa Paluch; brothers, David Paluch,, Joseph “Jay” Paluch (Sharon); sister-in-law, Robin Smathers (Dyatt); brothers-in-law, Gilbert Henry (Samantha), Jonathan Henry (Sara); grandchildren, Keely, Aurora Henry, nieces and nephews, Carrie Lasher (Michael), Courtney Burlingame (Skylar), Cathleen Burlingame (Schuyler), Sydney, Spencer, Kendall, and Emmie Paluch, Bonnie Ballard (Jeremy), Heidi Smathers, Nikki Presley (Dustin), Gilbert Henry, Rachel Henry, Hannah Henry, Caleb Gammon, Andrew Henry (Vanessa), Jordan Henry, and Freda, her beloved Dachshund. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister-inlaw, Beverly Gammon. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 547 Saratoga Road in Glenville, NY, with Pastor Daniel
May Officiating. Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, August 26, 2016 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave, (Rte 9 and/or Marion Ave.) in Saratoga Springs. Interment will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 29, 2016 at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road in Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Lori to the North Shore Animal League, 16 Lewyt St., Port Washington, NY 11050 or the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 547 Saratoga Road, Glenville, NY 12302. If you wish to express your online condolences or view the Obituary, please visit our website at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com
Suzanne Bolster Toussaint SARATOGA SPRINGS — Suzanne Bolster Toussaint passed into heaven on Friday, Aug. 19, 2016, surrounded by her family, at Saratoga Hospital, following a long illness. Suzanne was born in Saratoga Springs and was the daughter of the late George S. and Helen (Baker) Bolster. She graduated from St. Peter’s Academy (Saratoga Catholic Central) in the Class of 1961. She earned her Registered Nursing Degree at St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in Utica, NY in 1964 and worked at Saratoga Hospital in the Labor, Delivery and Nursery Department upon her graduation. She then devoted her love, talent and life to her family. She returned to her nursing profession at St. Margaret’s Center for Children in Albany, from which she retired in 2000. On July 10, 1965 she married her husband of 51 years, Stephen R. Toussaint in the historic Church of St. Peter. Ms. Judith Toussaint attended her as maid of honor and Stephen’s brother Joseph P. Toussaint was best man. A reception was held at Siro’s Restaurant following the ceremony and they honeymooned in Quebec, Canada. Survivors include her husband, Stephen and their ten children: Renee (Tom Kane), Marci, Collette, Allisse (Byron Wilhoite), Stephen Jr. (Christine Sokol), Brigitte (Rick Eglintine), Ginelle (Jason LaPeitro), William (Joanne), Neil (Suy Anne) and Suzanne (Kevin Greenwood); one brother, Frederick (Margaret) Bolster, 13 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends gathered to remember her on Monday, Aug. 22, 2016 at the William J. Burke and Sons/ Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, Aug. 23 in St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church, 231 Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs, by the Rev. George J. Blasick, C.Ss.R., pastor. Burial followed in the family plot at St. Peter’s Cemetery, West Ave. in Saratoga Springs. The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at Saratoga Hospital for their truly exceptional care, compassion and kindness during her illness. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Suzanne’s name may be made to the George S. Bolster Collection of the Saratoga Springs History Museum, P.O. Box 216, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
8
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
A Double Dose Hail to of “Awwww…” Troop 16! Rebuilding Together Saratoga County extends hearty thanks to
Troop 16 for staining a ramp for a woman living with a disability!
2016 Compassion Award Nominations Requested
Welcome to our corner of the world to Maya Marianne and Brynn Elizabeth! These twin girls were born at Bellevue Hospital, and made their grand appearance on Wednesday, August 10. Maya was the first twin to arrive at 11:30 am weighing 6 lbs., 14 oz. and was 20 inches long, followed by her little sister, Brynn Elizabeth at 6 lbs., 10 oz., and also stretched 20 inches long. Their proud parents are
Nathan and Beth Stengrevics. Big sister / role model Laila looks forward to showing her baby sisters everything she knows! Doting grandparents are Dan and Marianne Caruso and Andy and Joanne Stengrevics. Maya and Brynn’s arrival was reported to cause Daddy Nate to burst into song – a good thing in this case as Nate is a pro musician (“Just Nate”) who plays all over this market. Congratulations everyone!
The Giving Circle Compassion Award commends the ideals and values of The Giving Circle, selfless compassion, and award compassion in action. Honoring those individuals who go above and beyond demonstrating devotion, dedication, tenderheartedness, dependability and perseverance to the needy and suffering beings locally, nationally and internationally. The Giving Circle Compassion Award recognizes that even the simplest act of kindness can have the greatest impact on the quality of life for the underserved and downtrodden. This award encourages selfless acts and promotes altruism and compassion in future generations. Meanwhile, you can help by nominating the 2016 Compassion Award recipients in each of the following categories: Resident: An individual who has through selfless compassion most influenced or touched
people of the Saratoga region Nonprofit: A local charity, social club, faith-based organization or service group that has through selfless compassion most influenced or touched people of the Saratoga region Business: A local business that has through selfless compassion most influenced or touched people of the Saratoga region Volunteer of the Year: This year we are seeking nominations for two very special awards:
TGC Local Volunteer: A Giving Circle volunteer who has through selfless compassion most influenced or touched people of the Saratoga region TGC Uganda Volunteer: A Giving Circle volunteer who has through selfless compassion most influenced or touched people of our Uganda projects. To vote, or for more information, visit thegivingcircle.org/ wordpress/2016-taste-of-africacompassion-awards/
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Big, Big Hoot for this Owl-to-be! Buzz, and all of us at Saratoga TODAY are mega-proud of our SSHS intern Allison Capasso, who did such an outstanding job that we hired her for a paid gig this summer. During her last couple of weeks here, Allie turned into a complete slugger, grabbing the front page with her story about Fasig-Tipton
sales; filing several great concert reviews; and other stories… but just as importantly, she did all the grunt work that is necessary to put together a comprehensive paper like ours – including compiling and filing our local gigs, week in review/blotter and man on the street pages with great efficiency. Most importantly, she
did it all with a likable manner that made her very popular here. By the time you read this, Allie will be ensconced at Temple University in Philadelphia, where she will no doubt smoke her journalism courses – in fact: Hey Philly Inquirer – you got a no-brainer intern here! If she can deal with
Buzz as a mentor, she can certainly make a dent in your workload… just sayin’. And just sayin’ that Allie has set a standard during her time here that will be difficult to approach, and near-impossible to equal. Good luck Allie! We miss you already.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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Praise for Pitney Farm I met Sandy and Paul Arnold when I attended the August 7 fundraiser for The Pitney Farm project. The Pitney Farm project was nothing like what I expected. I am a product of the postVietnam 70’s (when I was in my later 20’s) and I had my fair share of counter culture
acquaintances and experiences. My view of “community farming” was not good. From my understanding of this project, my new view is that The Pitney Farm is as much about the American Dream and the entrepreneurial spirit of motivated individuals as it is about the preservation
of farm land. As a Republican I strongly support small business and good business opportunities always intrigue me. What I learned was that, with proper farming techniques, a family on a 5-acre farm can produce up to a million dollars in gross revenue yearly. As “mega-farm” corporations continue to crank out
good looking but poor quality food products, (sort of like our education system) the opportunity for small successful farms has never been greater. Where better to encourage and be at the leading edge of this age-old business innovation than in the Best Small City in America Saratoga Springs, NY.
Today’s farmers are among the most technologically intelligent agents on the planet but are often not seen that way. The Arnolds are about changing that perception and I applaud both them and the Pitney Farm project. John Safford Saratoga Springs
Mayor’s Office Most Transparent in History In response to the recent Saratoga Springs City Council meetings, as a staunchly devoted member of this community, I am deeply offended by the hostility and downright bullying aimed directly at our Mayor, Joanne Yepsen. While this community has witnessed Mayor Yepsen work tirelessly across the aisle and across issues with nothing but honesty and a steadfast devotion to this great city, opposing
council members have worked to undermine the integrity of the Mayor’s Office, only to serve as a platform in which to deliver their own personal vendettas. Saratoga Springs has a transparent and ethical Mayor, and this has always been apparent. Joanne Yepsen has thrown the doors open to City Hall with the most transparent administration in the history of Saratoga Springs; posting schedules online for
the public to see, holding open office hours, and literally removed the barrier from the Mayor’s office to allow constituents to enter freely. Since elected, Mayor Yepsen has cut through partisan gridlock, appointing over 50 Republicans and Independence party members to work alongside Democrats on city commissions and boards, and has brought positivity, inclusivity and vision to our city while
establishing genuine partnerships between the Mayor’s office and the community. Commissioner Madigan’s unpredictable and unprofessional outbursts, laughing and mocking the very code of conduct she helped to write and voted on during the live-streamed council meetings is not just unsettling and disturbing but is an insult and an embarrassment to every member of this community. This petty political posturing has created an
abusive and stressful environment where personal attacks and political rabblerousing have become the established norm, degenerating our political rhetoric to better match that of Donald Trump’s, not our local Democratic Party. The residents do deserve better; better behavior from our city council members who need to work with our Mayor, not against her. Desiree A. Farley Saratoga Springs
What’s Sauce for the Gander… At a recent Saratoga Springs City Council meeting, I spoke for my allotted two minutes concerning Commissioner Scirocco’s unauthorized action in waiving hundreds of thousands of dollars in water connection fees for selected developers. Over the past two years, some Democrats on the City Council have been all too eager to make excuses for these actions by abolishing the entire water connection fee program altogether, while it was still under investigation by the Office of the State Comptroller, a case still pending. Because two minutes of public comment before the City Council meeting is hardly enough to shed additional information on this story, this letter continues to call into question the sheer hypocrisy
of the same City Council members responsible for calling out the Mayor on issues dealing with ethics and transparency. The creation of the City’s water connection fee program came about by local law in the early 1990’s after being recommended by the State Department of Environmental Conservation in its 1988 report on Loughberry Lake. The commendable purpose of the program was to have developers, not ratepayers, help pay for the growth inducing impacts created by new development. Last year, after twentytwo years of making developers pay their fair share of growth inducing impacts, City Council members (Scirocco and Madigan) decided to put the entire burden of raising much needed revenue for water system improvements
onto the City water ratepayer. Because of this change, developers got the breaks and city water rate payers got the bill for an additional $570,000 in new fees added to the City’s annual water bill. And, the story doesn’t end there. In January of last year Commissioner Scirocco announced rules for completely terminating the connection fee program by proclaiming that any project requiring a new connection to the City’s water system and filed with the City before December 26, 2014, would be required to pay the fee. They’re on the hook for the fee and unless they get an exemption they still have to pay, Scirocco said. But, when other developers learned that some of their fellow builders had made their
water connection fees disappear, they wanted equal treatment. Last August, these same developers put Scirocco on notice that these inconsistent policies were illegal and unacceptable. In a final move, in September 2015, these same developers, along with their attorney, met with Scirocco and made another $600,000 in fees go away without any public discussion or notification to the City Council. The New York State Comptroller continues to investigate why our Commissioners of Finance and Public Works would be eager to abolish a fair and reliable revenue stream not paid for by the taxpayers. Most competent public officials continuously search for fair revenue streams which do not burden the taxpayer. But not Commissioners Madigan and
Scirocco. We all ask why not? So, given their recent calls against Mayor Yepsen, where was Commissioner Madigan’s and Commissioner Mathiesen’s sense of righteous indignation when friend and fellow Commissioner Scirocco was unilaterally giving the store away in direct violation of the City Code to the tune of almost two million dollars to date in water connection fees, with more to come, as development continues in our City? Where was their call for an ethics review and censure two years ago when the public and editorial boards from three area newspapers were calling on the City Council, the State Comptroller and the Attorney General for accountability? Philip H. Diamond Saratoga Springs
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NEWS
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Glass, Grass, and Pillows Continued from front page.
said Hensley. “I park in the same spot so they know to look for me here. It’s not rare for me to make 25 contacts in a day.” It was a beautiful morning, a summer breeze lifting spirits while cooling the temperature across the green, tree-dotted grassy expanse. Mothers were pushing strollers, a visiting family was tasting the spring waters at the pump, and joggers were getting their morning exercise. And here and there, among the typical Saratoga Season crowd, a few men slowly walked in, found a shade tree, and lay down to sleep. One here, one there, seemingly random but some had their favorite spots. We watched as Hensley walked over to each of them, checking to see if they needed medical assistance or water or even a pair of socks. “Sometimes they’ve been drinking and are sleeping it off,” said Hensley. “Sometimes they are angry, or sick, or just have headaches. They don’t pay attention to hydration. They
appreciate someone out here noticing and saying ‘hey, drink water.’” Hensley is careful, and listens well to the homeless neighbors in her care so she can keep them and herself safe. “We do have people who take advantage and try to prey on the weaker ones,” she said. “You never know what you might find walking up to someone, just have to be ready for anything. I do my research, so I know whether or not I’m walking up on a sex offender or someone with a violent history. So far I have not had anyone threaten me, and I think it’s because you have to show you care. They know me out here, know I can stand this close, and they have nothing to fear from me. If they ask for a hug, I’ll give it. One guy told me he hadn’t had a hug in 8 years. Can you imagine?” She opened the back of the van (filled with water bottles, t-shirts, baby wipes, foot powder, ramen noodles, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and sometimes tarps and sleeping bags) as Shawn walked over, a former roofer suffering from
Photos by Norra Reyes.
Teenagers with nowhere else to go will hang out and even sleep here.
Hensley checks on a sleeping man to offer water, socks, and access to homeless services.
alcoholism and other issues. “Hi, Shawn, how are you feeling today?” asked Hensley, as if she’d known him forever. “Want some raviolis?” Shawn stood a little hesitantly at first, unsure of us strangers around the van, but Tonko reached out to shake his hand and learn a little more about him. Shawn had once had a family, a home in Ballston Lake, and a job roofing and siding, but one mistake led to another, and like many in trouble who lack support, he tried to find solace in alcohol, and has been homeless 9 years and 7 months as a result. His daughter, Michaela Rose, is 10 now. “It makes me not think,” he said about the drinking. “I don’t want to think anymore.” He sat down on the pavement between the van and a parked car to empty his sneaker. Hensley put a bottle of water by him and some food in his backpack. His blue eyes would make Sinatra proud, and his ready smile belied the serious resignation in his eyes. “I’m going to die soon,” the 34-year-old told us with an unnervingly quiet calm that made me want to check his pockets for anything he might hurt himself with. “I gave up on myself. I’m in such rough shape. It is what it is.” And he smiled, as if he
were trying to make us feel better. Hensley and Tonko stepped aside and spoke urgently with him, and later Hensley told me that she wished she could throw a burlap sack over his head and just take him to a doctor, but she can’t take him unless he wants to go. According to Hensley, 85 to 90 percent of the people she meets tell her they have a pain inside that they can’t kill, so they try to kill it with alcohol. “There are so many like Shawn,” she said. “Good people, locals. That guy over there was an engineer at GE, worked 31 years. His wife got sick, and he lost everything to debts. Now he’s on the street.” Tonko told me he felt it was important to see the situation with his own eyes. “There are too many faceless discussions about homeless solutions,” he said. “Anecdotal evidence is a powerful tool to get things done. If our neighbors are homeless and struggling, we need to find a way to address their needs with care and dignity.” Hensley has so many stories to tell the Congressman. She talked about Alex, a Saratoga native who turned 21 on Thursday, Aug 25. His mom moved him from home to home, until he finally ended up in foster care, “…where bad things
happened,” said Hensley. “He was severely abused in foster care.” “Locally?” I asked. “Locally,” she answered seriously. After that, she said, Alex didn’t feel safe in any system, not even SOS. Another man walked up as well as a teenager and a woman. Shawn and the three additions all knew each other and they all knew Hensley. The scene could almost have been a family out for a picnic, but one was joking one minute and crying the next, and the youngest played it cool, showing me his prison tattoo. He had good news – he had just landed a job putting labels on bottles at a local brewery. They needed care, though, including showers and a safe place to sleep. One homeless man reached up to his head, politely excused himself, and bent down to swipe the dust from his scalp, which showered down as if he’d spent a week at the beach. Even he was surprised and said he had been careful to sleep on the sleeping bag and not in the dirt. Not one of us stepped back from him, though, and it was clear that even those of us just visiting couldn’t help but have our hearts reach out to this fellow needing a little human compassion.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
NEWS 13
Shadowing a Giant Heart Through Hidden Homes
Deanna Hensley shows Congressman Tonko and his staff person, Marilyn Smith, an abandoned encampment where the homeless recently lived.
Shawn, a former roofer, has a ready smile and word of kindness for his homeless friends, often giving the last of his own change to others in spite of his own homelessness.
Deanna Hensley encourages Shawn (center) to allow her to bring him to his doctor soon.
Hensley began her work with SOS in March of this year, and has already built trust and helped many members of the local homeless community. Her vast experience stems from her work with the homeless in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she worked in a few different capacities, including in an adolescent acute unit for several years. When asked what she hopes to gain from hosting ride-alongs with reporters and elected officials, Hensley said, “We need easier access to detox and rehabilitation facilities, places that won’t keep them for only a few hours.” Currently, Hensley drives her “guys” to either St. Peter’s in Albany or St. Mary’s in Troy for those services. Anecdotally, she hears from homeless individuals that local places will take them in for three or four hours and then discharge them. Hensley hopes that legislators at the state and federal levels will understand that health coverage for the homeless population needs to cover longer-term detoxification, so it is out of their systems and they are given education and support to keep it out, as well as counseling services to address the underlying problems that made them become addicted to substances or alcohol in the first place. “Once you treat the addiction, you have to treat the person, and we need that. I will put them in the RV and take them, then and there, if they say they are ready for rehab,” said Hensley. “I don’t want to risk losing that window.” Hensley was glad Tonko came along and spent so much time on
the ride along. At one point, she told him, “Normally they clam up around strangers, but they really opened up with you. You could be an outreach person.” After a couple hours, we left Congress Park in her van to visit an abandoned encampment, a home for the homeless. She surprised us when she pulled to the side of a road in a well-known section of the city, and took us to a hidden path through the woods we would never have seen without someone showing it to us. We climbed over a fallen tree; slipped a little down a hill; crunched through dead leaves, mud and underbrush; and found ourselves in a small clearing. The trees muffled the sounds from the road, and the beauty of healthy green plants and trees seemed incongruous next to the broken bottles of vodka and overturned shopping carts. As I stood there surveying the empty food wrappers, a torn tarp, tufts of grass peeping up around shards of glass and a moldy pillow, I imagined people sleeping here. It was peaceful, a hiding place from everything about the world that could scare you, a place where you could hide even from yourself. Someone like me, educated and with years of work experience, or even someone like Tonko, who has dedicated his career to public service, could one day find ourselves in a hidden home like this. One mistake, one economic downturn, one house fire, one illness – and everything I – or Tonko – or Hensley – or anyone – had built could disappear. That could be me, numbed to sleep by
alcohol and rustling leaves, on that pillow, grass, and glass. In that quiet place, Hensley asked us what it would be like to have to live with nothing but our own thoughts, regrets, frightening memories. What it would be like to have to choose to live, not just day by day, but hour by hour. “Some people say they should just get up and get a job,” said Hensley. “They say it as if a homeless person just decided one day they’d be more comfortable sleeping and drinking on the ground, that it would be more comfortable than having a home or a job. It’s sad to see that stigma. People only see the aggression, but not what’s behind the
aggression. They [the homeless] are not the bad guys. These are mothers, fathers, brothers, daughters.” Bottom line, human resiliency depends on a support system, meaning people who care, who have giant hearts like Hensley. If such a person, friend, relative, neighbor doesn’t exist in your life, it’s that much harder to get up from a fall, especially a tragic fall. There but for the grace of God and the caring people in my life, go I. Hensley said the one thing she wishes everyone would take to heart is, “Just because someone is unshowered and sitting against a tree with a backpack doesn’t mean they should be judged; it doesn’t mean they don’t deserve
your kindness. Be kind to everyone, because, as the saying goes, you don’t know what battle they are fighting.” And no one could be kinder than Deanna Hensley. To support her work and the countless other volunteers and professionals working with the homeless in Saratoga, a series of colorfully-painted drop boxes have been placed along Broadway to accept check and cash donations. [See our story “New Donation Boxes Hit the Streets of Saratoga Springs” by Allison Capasso in Saratoga TODAY’s August 19 edition.] For more information about Shelters of Saratoga or how you can help, visit sheltersofsaratoga.org or call 518-581-1097.
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NEWS
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Commissioner Scirocco Speaks for the Trees by Maureen Werther for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Commissioner of Public Works, Skip Scirocco, spoke at the August 16 City Council meeting about the plight of local trees and plans underway by the Department of Public Works (DPW) to stop the “destructive practice” of creating mulch volcanoes around the city’s trees. According to “volcano-style” mulching opponents, it is a practice used by many commercial landscapers as a decorative addition to the landscape. Opponents say it is extremely detrimental to the tree. While some may think it looks nice, it suffocates the tree’s root system, causes excessive moisture and mold to form, and facilitates the growth of organisms that destroy the tree bark. In May 2015, Sustainable Saratoga sent out an e-mail blast titled, “Mulch Volcanoes Kill Trees – Let’s end their use in Saratoga.” It discussed the practice of volcano-mulching in an effort to educate citizens about the damage it causes the trees. This past Spring, signs began to appear on residential lawns, with images of the correct and incorrect ways to place mulch around trees. Sustainable Saratoga is a non-profit organization, begun in 2008, that “promotes sustainable practices and the protection of natural resources through education, advocacy and action, for the benefit of current and future generations in the Saratoga Springs area,” according to its website. Commissioner Scirocco stated at the City Council meeting that trees belonging to the city are a natural resource and should be protected and nurtured carefully and properly.
He noted that the DPW has a professional arborist on staff and also talked about the valuable work of Sustainable Saratoga and the importance of sharing this information with the local residents. “Landscapers do it [volcanostyle mulching] because people think it looks nice,” he said. “But the problem is, it kills the tree.” He went on to say that the DPW wants citizens to be aware of this issue and he is posting information about it on the City’s website. He continued by saying that, “If we see it on a public tree, we are going to remove it.” He added that, if people buy a new tree and plant it in this manner, “It is the surest way to kill a tree.” Tom Denny, a retired music professor from Skidmore and a volunteer on Sustainable Saratoga’s Urban Forestry Project, said that the non-profit is very pleased by the Commissioner’s pro-active policy to eradicate the practice of mulch volcanoes. “We view the trees in the City as a valuable asset. Taxpayers’ dollars are used to invest in these trees, and the practice of mulch volcanoes is a decorative fad, not a horticultural practice,” said Denny in a recent phone interview. He added that the organization, “Applauds the Commissioner’s educational efforts and pro-active measures being taken by the DPW.” Jesse Elwert Peters, local ecologist and proprietor of Jessecology, Eco-Friendly Landscape Design, agreed wholeheartedly with the Commissioner’s position on the practice of volcano-mulching. In response to Scirocco’s statement at the City Council meeting, she stated that, “The common practice of many landscapers and neophyte gardeners
to smother the bases of trees and herbaceous plants with mulch makes the trees and plants struggle much harder for survival.
Their resistance to microbial diseases plummets, and you often see white, powdery mildew forming on the bark near the mulch
volcano. Trees and plants need space clear of anything but the dirt they arrived in around their root ball for optimal health.”
Travers Nearly Sold Out About Tickets and Ground Rules SARATOGA SPRINGS — With a sold-out paid crowd anticipated for one of the banner days of the summer racing season, the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) strongly encourages fans to purchase tickets in advance for the 147th running of the Grade 1, $1.25 million Travers at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, August 27. Based on the current pace of sales, NYRA officials predict a sell-out for Travers Day which is expected to feature the
first full field for the Travers since 1977. Limited grandstand general admission is currently available for purchase. Tickets are $10 and available online at Ticketmaster.com, in-person at the NYRA Box Office at Saratoga Race Course, or by phone at 1-844-NYRATIX. There is a purchase limit of 8 general admission tickets per person. Clubhouse upgrades will not be available on Travers Day. Clubhouse general admission, reserved seats, dining and hospitality are sold out. Travers Day attendance, as previously announced, will be capped at 50,000, similar to last year, in an effort to provide the best experience possible for guests. Saratoga season pass holders are guaranteed admission on Travers Day. All guests on Travers Day are subject to enhanced screening upon entering the grounds and should allot extra time for arrival. Guests will
not be permitted to run once inside the property for their safety. This policy will be strictly enforced. When saving picnic tables, there is a strict limit of one per person. Any patron caught selling a free picnic table will be subject to expulsion from track grounds. Coolers are permitted on the track apron and Top of the Stretch provided they are no larger than 12 x 18 inches. Coolers are not permitted in the building or Clubhouse. Glass containers are strictly prohibited on the grounds. There is no breakfast on the Clubhouse Porch on Travers Day and backstretch tram tours will not be available. Fans planning to attend the Travers can review a full list of prohibited and permitted items at NYRA.com/ Travers. No storage will be provided for patrons arriving or attempting to enter the venue with prohibited items.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
NEWS 15
Whoa! Cuomo: Down the Stretch Continued from front page.
withholding of monies on “exotic” wagers, the NYRA board was put under public control by the Legislature and the Governor. According to the legislative findings of the Reorganization board act, “In no later than three years, the state racing franchise shall be returned to private control…” However, at the time these findings were stated, there was no plan set forth to guide how the Reorganization board would be replaced. Fast forward four years. The re-privatization that was supposed to occur in 2015 was delayed for another year as part of the state’s budget legislation, which included the one-year extension of the Reorganization board. In April 2016, a bill for NYRA re-privatization passed in the legislature with bi-partisan support, only to have Governor Cuomo threaten a veto if it was put on his desk. Rather than risk putting NY Thoroughbred racing in limbo, the legislature returned, two days after voting in favor of re-privatization, and quickly passed another bill to keep the existing Reorganization board operational until 2017. Shortly thereafter, the Concerned Citizens for Saratoga Racing was formed by Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Maureen Lewi, Chair of the committee. Their movement, #Whoa Cuomo, has garnered a great deal of media attention and captured the interest of local citizens and racing fans from across the region. On Wednesday, August 17, following an appearance at an unrelated event in the Bronx, Governor Cuomo stated that his goal has always been to re-privatize NYRA, “once it got back on solid footing.” However, he added that he feels it is important for the State to continue to have oversight because of the State’s “significant investment” in NYRA.
One of the biggest concerns of the Concerned Citizens group is what they call the Reorganization boards’ lack of flexibility and inability to make nimble decisions. Shimkus said that, “While the government may have been able to fix the betting scandal of a few years ago, it is not good at growing the fan base, attracting more people to the track or securing innovative breeding practices.” He added that, “it [the Reorganization board] is not the dynamic, innovative organization that we need to make it [NYRA] more profitable and more sustainable moving forward…. the future of horse racing is in jeopardy as long as it remains under government control.” Maureen Lewi, Chair of Concerned Citizens, agreed with Shimkus’ statements and added that, “While we think the current administration is doing a great job, we feel that, from a competitive standpoint, we must go forward with track improvements and other longrange plans. But, this board can’t do that. We also feel that, if you make an agreement, you should stick to it. The Governor wants to change the agreement!” Bennett Liebman, Interim Director of the Government Law Center at Albany Law School, founder of the Saratoga Institute on Equine Racing and Gaming Law, the foremost authority on racing law and racing history in New York and, until recently, an advisor to Governor Cuomo, is basically disgusted with the entire goings on, both at the Governor’s office and in the offices of the Concerned Citizens group. As a panel member at the Equine Racing’s August 9 conference, he questioned why the Concerned Citizens group is in such a hurry to dismantle the reorganization board if business is so good in Saratoga as a result of the board’s work. He also disagreed with the Concerned Citizen’s assertion that the current board is incapable of long-term strategic
planning and noted that the current board, “Has done as much, if not more long-term planning than any previous NYRA board.” He called the argument a red-herring or, in this case, “An equine wild goose chase.” Liebman also criticized Governor Cuomo for not reprivatizing the board in 2016, when it had, in fact, achieved its goals of returning NYRA to profitability and improving horse racing conditions and safety at the track. He also chastised Cuomo for trying
to change another part of the agreement, which allocates a pre-designated percentage of VLT revenues to NYRA for use in capital improvements, purses, and breeding. Cuomo wants to cap the amount of VLT revenues going to NYRA and funnel the amounts in excess of the cap to the state education fund. This is another major bone of contention for the Concerned Citizens, and Liebman stated that, while the funds for education may be necessary and important, that doesn’t justify changing the
terms of the agreement. So, the horse-wrangling continues and probably will right up until the horses are in the starting gate. Even if the Governor agrees at the last minute to accept the Concerned Citizens’ gracious invitation, it remains to be seen whether his presence here will precipitate any gamechanging epiphany on his part that would cause him to change his strategy down the home stretch.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
NEWS 17
2016 Showcase of Homes SARATOGA SPRINGS — Tickets for the area’s premiere new home tour, the 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes, are now on sale. Tickets are available at Adirondack Trust, Saratoga National Bank and Trustco Bank locations; Curtis Lumber in Ballston Spa and Queensbury; Realty USA in Clifton Park; and Roohan Realty in Saratoga Springs. Tickets are available at any showcase home during tour hours of 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. or can also be purchased online at the new website at www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. Once again this year, each showcase ticket holder will receive a free shoe/
tote bag at the first home visited. The 2016 Saratoga Showcase of Homes is proudly presented over three weekends beginning September 17-18, 24-25 and October 1-2. Tickets are still only $20 which allows you to visit these spectacular homes over six weekend days from 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. This year’s edition is a blockbuster event with a recordbreaking 20 locations from 16 of our area’s finest builders on display in Saratoga County. Participating award-winning builders are; Bella Home Builders, Barbera Homes, Belmonte Builders, Blitman Development, Bonacio
Construction, Caruso Home Builders, Farone–Amedore, Herbinger Homes, Heritage Custom Builders, LaFemme Home Builders, Malta Development, McPadden Builders, Saratoga Builders, Terrace Homebuilders, Volpe Custom Homes and Witt Construction. To view an interactive mobile map with locations, directions and much more, please visit the new enhanced website. “Taste of Showcase” Preview A special “Taste of Showcase” preview at 6 selected homes in close proximity to each other is scheduled for Friday, September 16
from 5 to 10 p.m. featuring food samplings from area chefs along with local craft beer and wine tastings. The restaurants participating are: 15 Church, 2 West, Augie’s, Jacob and Anthony’s, Lake Ridge and Osteria Danny. There will be a limited number of tickets for this evening available and the cost is $25 each. The combination pack of this special Taste of Showcase Preview event and a regular Showcase of Homes ticket is $40 each. Now celebrating its 21st year, this annual community event has contributed over $900,000 to our local charities. Proceeds from the
Showcase of Homes will benefit Rebuilding Together Saratoga County (www. rebuildingtogethersaratoga. org) and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties (www.glensfallshabitat.org). For more details on the 2015 Saratoga Showcase of Homes event, visit www.saratogashowcaseofhomes.com. For more information about Saratoga Builders Association visit www.saratogabuilders. org or contact Barry Potoker, Executive Director at 518-3660946 or bpotoker@saratogabuilders.org.
Local Habitat for Humanity Completes Two Homes in 2016 SARATOGA SPRINGS — Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties is set to break ground on its second build of the year within the next two weeks. This build represents a new period of growth for the affiliate, as it sets a new record with the completion of two homes in one year. “We’ve experienced an unprecedented amount of generosity this year, which has allowed us to expand our model to accommodate building multiple homes. The people of Saratoga County have really come forward to address the affordable housing issue with some major donations of time, labor, materials, and land. It’s been a pleasure to see the community come together to support the advancement of our affiliate,” said Tammy DiCara, president of the local affiliate. The organization will be dedicating build #26 on 125 Division Street in Saratoga Springs on Thursday, August 2h at 10:30 a.m. for the Clements family. With the goal of addressing the need for affordable housing, the City of Saratoga Springs generously donated 195 Division Street to Habitat for Humanity.
Habitat partnered with the Saratoga Builders Association, Rebuilding Together Saratoga, and community volunteers to build this home, and the family is expected to move into their first home later this month. On August 10 the organization demolished build #27, located on 26 Cherry Street in Saratoga Springs and will have the groundbreaking at the location within the next few weeks. The build at Cherry Street is largely possible thanks to a $70,000 donation from Thrivent Builds. Excluding governmental funding, Thrivent Builds is Habitat’s largest single source of funding, constructing and repairing more than 48,000 homes in the U.S. and around the world since 2005. The current home at 26 Cherry Street is set to be replaced with a new two family townhome slated to be complete by the end of 2016. “The relationship between Thrivent and Habitat is a tremendous blessing to our local Habitat affiliate,” said Bill Bufkins, a Financial Associate with Thrivent Financial. “The financial support we are receiving comes at just the right time as we are making the move to serve multiple families
each year and expand the good we do. The City of Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Builders Association and Rebuilding
Together Saratoga deserve a lot of recognition as well. Without their help we would not be poised to turn what now
stands at 26 Cherry Street into decent, affordable housing for two families this year.”
18
BUSINESS
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Prosperity Partnership Solidifies Business Retention and Expansion Efforts by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY MALTA — With its economic development infrastructure firmly in place, the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership, located at 2911 Route 9 in Malta, has been steadily strengthening its business outreach, knocking on innumerable local doors as part of its commitment to business retention and expansion in the county. The Partnership has also been hosting a series of informational sessions, convening and educating broader groups of people on substantive topics, with enlightening results. One such informational session was the August 11 luncheon on the topic of site
selection. The Partnership invited Chris Steele of Investment Consulting Associates, a well-established site location and economic development consulting firm, to share his 25 years of company location experience and answer questions about project readiness, relationships and marketing. Much of Steele’s presentation was an overview of how companies go through the location process, and the kinds of companies that are looking to expand or relocate. He spoke about the ways communities can be prepared to attract companies. “Saratoga is appealing for a couple of reasons,” said Steele. “It has a good basic, diverse labor force. Skilled
and trainable for a variety of functions. We had looked at it recently for small office space functions and logistics and skilled manufacturing. It’s also right in the middle of a couple logistics chains, making it easy to get into and out of. The highway and rail access to both of those are in good standing.” Steele did admit that New York State, when it comes to attracting business, is a mixed bag. “The state has done very well in terms of marketing and outreach,” said Steele, “but doesn’t have too good a ranking with the Tax Foundation. Communities across the state are handicapped by that.” Despite that, Steele encouraged the county to continue its outreach to decision makers. “I’m just one class of decision- maker,” he said. “Keep talking and raise more awareness about what the county is trying to do, then more conversations like these can happen.” Steele added that the Partnership is on the right track. “I would say, certainly, what the Partnership is doing is a good way to bring stakeholders and decision-makers together so the community can make the best possible showing.” The Partnership, along with the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Southern Saratoga County, announced its Business First Saratoga initiative in March, to serve local business owners by developing relationships to better understand the opportunities and challenges of doing business in the region. This includes assistance with workforce development, financing, international markets access, government regulations, resources for small businesses, and utilities. Earlier this summer, the Partnership hired heavy-hitter Shelby Schneider, formerly with the Saratoga Economic Development Corporation and a respected figure in the business community, to lead the outreach to local businesses and identify concerns, strengths, and potential
Shelby Schneider, director of business retention and expansion at the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership, has been successfully accelerating Business First Saratoga, which launched in March 2016. Photo provided. growth. Schneider also spent a few years in a manufacturing environment, and she said that experience has helped her see both sides of the economic development equation. “For example, when I was at Shmaltz Brewing Company, we’d have job openings for brewers for months and months and months,” she said. “Talking with other brewers, we found that industry growth had outpaced the talent pipeline. So we reached out to the regional workforce development boards and worked with Schenectady Community College and put together a workforce training program, and the boards contributed to help underwrite the tuition.” Schneider explained that is how economic development works, that the more businesses she meets, the more she can see connections between similar industry needs and work to find solutions. “You can help businesses grow and thrive that way,” she said. Steele agrees. “I think it’s vitally important [knocking
on doors]. It’s something you have to do, otherwise you miss warning signs. The more you understand about your own business base and why they chose to be there, the more it helps to understand what kind of entrepreneurial business you can support.” The Partnership is hosting a “Back to School, Back to Business” networking event for Saratoga County business professionals on Wednesday, September 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Saratoga National Golf Club to talk about what’s on the docket for fall. Additionally, the nonprofit will be hosting an Economic Development Summit for elected and public officials to talk about economic development in the post-election political environment, as well as discussing community preparedness, best practices, and more on November 10. For more information about these events and the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership, visit SaratogaPartnership.org.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Valentine Joins Cancer Unit
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Hospital announced Dr. Elizabeth Valentine, MD has joined the Saratoga Hematology/Oncology at Malta practice. The practice focuses on preventing and treating cancer and blood disorders, including leukemias, anemias, and bleeding and clotting conditions, as well as a focus on genetic risk assessment counseling. Valentine was fellowshiptrained at SUNY Upstate Medical Center and has Board Certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine with subspecialty certification in Hematology and Oncology. She is a member of the Saratoga Hospital Medical Group, the hospital’s multi-specialty practice. Saratoga Hematology/Oncology at Malta is located at Northway Exit 12 in the Saratoga Medical Park at Malta. The medical park also includes the Saratoga Hospital Outpatient Infusion Center. Dr. Valentine’s office can be reached at 518.289.2717, or visit saratogahospital.org for more information.
SPAC Surpasses Capital Campaign Goal SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center
(SPAC) has successfully surpassed its initial goal for its 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign, raising over $5 million before the conclusion of its 50th anniversary season. Publicly announced by President and Executive Director Marcia White at SPAC’s Annual Meeting in May, this campaign is the first ever undertaken in SPAC’s five-decade history. The arts center has secured $5.22 million from two hundred and fifty donors, including full generous support from the Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s Board of Directors. The funds will be used to support three distinct areas of SPAC’s operations: programming, capital improvements, and SPAC’s endowment fund. Although SPAC has surpassed its initial goal, the campaign will continue through the end of the 2016 calendar year. More information about the campaign can be found online at spac.org or by calling 518-584-9330.
Kelly Joins BSNB
BUSINESS BRIEFS 19 operations and staff supervision. Kelly went to John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received a bachelor of arts degree in political science. Prior to joining BSNB he had held several retail management positions. For more information about BSNB, visit www.bsnb.com.
Drop Boxes Raise $700 SARATOGA SPRINGS — So far, the drop boxes along Broadway have raised $700 for the Shelters of Saratoga and other homeless services in the first week of installation. The 12 donation boxes are colorfully painted by 12 different local artists. Collections are done by the Saratoga County Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Special Assessment Board will disperse accordingly. The donation boxes were the brainchild of Harvey Fox, owner of Fox Jewelers and Chairman of the Special Assessment Board, along with Vice Chairman Tom Roohan and board member Mike Ingersol.
Adirondack EDC Wins EAP Award
BALLSTON SPA — Michael Kelly has been named Personal Banker at Ballston Spa National Bank according to Chris Dowd, president and CEO. As a Personal Banker, Kelly will be supporting the branch and playing a key role in enhancing the customer experience by proactively providing the best financial solutions for new and existing customers. Kelly will also assist branch management with daily
SARANAC LAKE — The Adirondack Economic Development Corporation has been selected as one of three 2016 Award for Excellence recipients. The organization was chosen for its outstanding program performance and achievement, exemplary leadership, and their dedication to the entrepreneurs of New York State. AEDC is a not-for-profit with the mission of providing access to capital, training and technical assistance to North Country small businesses. AEDC’s work is guided by its vision of a resurgence in the North Country’s private sector, driven by small businesses and increased entrepreneurial investment, which will build personal wealth, create employment, grow incomes, and strengthen local communities.
This past year the EAP at the Adirondack Economic Development Corporation: provided services to 54 new and prior year clients; helped start or retain 16 businesses; assisted 14 businesses in increasing their sales by $1.3 Million; worked with 20 businesses to expand or retain a total of 64 employees; secured 15 small-business loan packages resulting in $632,200 in financing; and oversaw the creation of 15 business plans. In 2016, the EAP network provided services to more than 1,515 participants who increased sales by $31.9 million, started or retained 309 businesses, increased and/or retained 2,181 jobs, and secured $7.8 million in financing. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov. For more information about the Adirondack Economic Development Corporation, visit www.aedconline. com.
WIB Breakfast at Track SARATOGA SPRINGS — The annual Women in Business Breakfast at the Track event is set for Wednesday, August 31 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Open to female Saratoga County Chamber members or employees of a member firm for great networking while enjoying breakfast just a few feet from the race course. Cost is $25 cash, payable the morning of the event. Parking is $12, but refunded if you leave before 10 a.m. RSVP by Monday, August 30 at noon so we are able to secure enough seating. Register at www.saratoga.org.
Moreau Emergency Squad Crowdfunding MOREAU — The Moreau Emergency Squad, Inc. (MES) is
looking to expand its facilities in order to meet the increased need for emergency services in their rapidly growing service area. As a way to help fund the furnishings for the expansion, the group is running an online crowdfunding campaign in hopes of raising just over $32,000. MES provides basic and advanced life support paramedic services to South Glens Falls, Moreau, Northumberland and other surrounding communities. Services are provided predominantly with volunteer drivers, EMTs and paramedics. MES recently purchased the land next to their current facilities to allow ample room to expand and meet the needs of their growing team. The new expansion will include living and sleep quarters as well as several offices for the staff and volunteers. MES has set a fundraising goal of $32,567 and has about a month remaining in its online campaign. To support the Moreau Emergency Squad, please visit RedBasket.org/1032.
Feast of the Fields SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Feast of the Fields event to benefit Saratoga PLAN will take place Thursday, September 15, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Saratoga National Golf Club to benefit Saratoga PLAN. The event supports the group’s mission of promoting local agriculture, trail systems, wildlife habitats, the importance of buying and eating locally raised food, and a great quality of life. This year’s Feast theme is BERRIES. Chefs and farmers are challenged to incorporate local berries into their dishes. The evening will also include musical entertainment and a silent auction. More information can be found on the Feast of the Fields event page at www.saratogaplan.org.
20 BALLSTON 40 Forestbrook Drive, $327,618.77. Heritage Builders Group sold property to Erin Pollay 27 Miller Court, $400,000. Lawrence and Catherine Roger sold property to Michael and Katrina Bailey
CHARLTON 879 Charlton Road, $250,000. Frank and Marilyn Overstrom sold property to Paul and Emily Sisson 1088 Peaceable Street, $374,200. Raymond Gload sold property to Lisa and Austin Zacchio 1527 Division St., $75,000. First Niagara Bank sold property to Michael and Melanie Miller
CLIFTON PARK 2 Lynn Court, $349,100. Vincent and Karen Matteo sold property to David and Pamela Stowater 7 Legends Way, $470,000. Colleen and Arthur Tyll
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS sold property to Albert Madonna and Pamela Payette 40 Willard Drive, $133,000. Brent and Kirk and Donald and Gregory Morgan sold property to Xuefeng Zhang and Yi Lei 671 Bruno Road, $310,000. Robert and Holly Urban sold property to Christopher and Taraneh Welch 9 Quince Court, $475,000. Damian and Kristen Compa sold property to Tricia Mavrides 35 Berkshire Dr. West, $325,000. Brain Brzek sold property to Krishnan Thattai and Lavanya Subramaniam 15 Rustic Bridge Road, $260,000. Adam Scheerens sold property to Edward Fredrick and Lisa Diantonio 1 McIntosh Lane, $243,000. Andrew and Katherine Jetter sold property to Jeremy and Sarah Meyers 4 Settlers Lane, $237,000. Sanford and Jean Kemp sold property to Richard and Sharon Walsh 283 Sugar Hill Road,
$65,000. Boni Builders sold property to Ryan Boni
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
GALWAY
78 Esopus Drive, $237,000. Kimberly Hyatt sold property to Robert and Ileana Casey
3026 South Shore Rd., $130,200. Clifford Meacham and Elaine Wall sold property to Melissa Troia
53 Brookline Drive, $310,000. Stephan and Karen Boiko sold property to Gary and Leigh Wojciechowski
6078 Woodsite Rd., $179,900. Nora Pavlak sold property to Horace and Nyrelle Horton
10 Glenbrook Drive, $154,900. Christopher Burn sold property to Joshua Duell 11 Heavenly Way, $443,500. Thomas and Mattina Temps sold property to Mohamed Rabie 39 Longkill Rd., $258,000. Deborah Botch sold property to Gladys Ketchum 4 Dhara Court, $120,000. Kain Development sold property to Dedraff Bloom Custom Builders
CORINTH 18 Sherman Ave., $142,000. Keith Wells sold property to Douglas Champagne 69 Clothier Rd., $8,500. Mark King sold property to Joanne King
GREENFIELD
Lot 10 David Lane, $361,999. John Paul Builders sold property to Joshua Hogan and Stephanie Bradley 207 Yorktown Dr., $130,000. Kathleen and William Finneran sold property to Mary Ann Logan 13 Rosemore Place, $348,735. Abele Builders sold property to Deborah Botch
454 NYS Route 9, $400,000. Byrne Sharon sold property to Maple and Main LLC
Lot 18 Ridgewood Dr., $19,500. Clifton Park Materials Group LLC sold property to Town of Halfmoon
7 Hughes Rd. and 209 Young Rd., $185,000. Zachary Evans sold property to Craig Smith and Rebecca Witkop
21 A Pointe West Dr., $126,000. Pointe West Townhouse of Halfmoon sold property to Andrea Tanski
236 So. Greenfield Road, $161,000. Ralph and Walter and Davis and Robert Barss sold property to James and Louisa Barss
32 George Ave., $98,000. Caliber Real Estate Service LLC sold property to Lisa Santy
HALFMOON 8 Pruyn Hill Rd., $150,000. Anthony and Marie and Vincent and Anne Caschera sold property to Todd Caschera Lot 14 David Lane, $361,731. John Paull Builders sold property to Binod and Sharmila Mainalee 8 Back Spin Drive, $278,125. Fairways of Halfmoon sold property to Daniel Garrity and Linda Danahy
MALTA
Lot 45 Maiden Circle, $411,512. John Luke Development sold property to Kasey Cram 244 Van Aernem Road, $110,000. William and Diane Kultzow sold property to Christina Defilippo 1 Eighth Street, $99,745. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development sold property to Jamie Brundige
MECHANICVILLE 37 Round Lake Round, $146,000. Ann Mone sold property to Basil Muir
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
MILTON 34 Dublin Drive, $212,500. Frank and Dian sold property to Robert and Candace Sullivan 16 Deerfield Place, $197,500. National Residential Nominee Services sold property to Matthew Thompson 12 Linden Lane, $234,970. University and Green LLC sold property to Rebecca Hudson 3238 Galway Road, $163,000. Pennymac Loan Service LLC sold property to Joshua Pingelki 3790 Lewis Road, $25,000. Richard and Kathlyn Denner sold property to Ronald and Joyce Bormann
MOREAU 10 Coriand Avenue, $55,000. Elly Fischler sold property to Driftwoood Contracting 15 Dorrer Avenue, $243,000. Scott and Beth Pechtel sold property to Jesse Tyree 1555 Route 9, $120,000. Bayview Laon Servicing LLC sold property to Kenneth Beecher 351 Gansevoort Rd., $271,914.87. George and Meghan Riley sold property to Volt Asset Holding Trust
NORTHUMBERLAND 421 Wall St., $408,368.12. Anne and Kenneth Cornell sold property to Federal National Mortgage Association 425 Grange Hall Road, $294,690.02. Robert and Heather Goodspeed sold property to Wells Fargo Bank
SARATOGA SPRINGS 104 Kaydeross Park Road, $297,500. Michael Sternklar sold property to Emily Reilly 296 Nelson Ave., $350,000. Robert and Linda McTague sold property to Eric Morser and Angela Ellis 13 Cassidy Drive, $392,000. Richard and Elaine Phillips sold property to William Curran 280 Washington Street, $255,000. Stuart and Mary and Brian Miller sold property to Seth and Danna Yellin
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS
6 Wagon Wheel Trail, $184,000. Nathaniel and Shannon Kenderdine sold property to Keith and Christine Lansley 4 Lincoln Court, $204,217.90. Kenneth Trendell and Courtney Spencer sold property to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Staffords Bridge Rd., $55,000. Karen Harrison sold property to Mark Harrison
STILLWATER 84 Jack Halloran Road, $255,000. Antonietta Bannon sold property to Barry and Carolyn Wygel 35 Native Dancer Lane, $335,000. Robert and Florence Kussius
sold property to Karen and David Billman 396 County Road 75, $78,000. Richard Raut sold property to Schworm Enterprises 23 Lakepointe Way Lot 35, $317,758. Mason Street sold property to Donald and Mary Catellier
WILTON 45 Dimmick Road, $399,880.10. John and Kathy Oser sold property to Pennymac Corp. 19 Christina Court, $100,000. Kathleen and Christine Burt sold property to Alex Perez
21
22
EDUCATION
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Stillwater Central Schools Welcomes New Superintendent by Maisie Guzi Saratoga TODAY STILLWATER — The Stillwater Central School District Board of Education appointed Patricia Morris as Superintendent of Schools beginning on July 1. The Board first announced its intent to appoint Morris at a meeting in February 2016, offering her a three-year contract with a starting salary of $140,000. Tom Hems, President of the Stillwater Board of Education, is excited about Morris’s new leadership position. He endorsed her with the “full support of the Board of Education” after they released their decision to appoint her last February. “Mrs. Morris promoted a vision and an outlook for all students going forward in which she also recognizes the district’s need for change and to adapt to the education system in the future,” said Hems. “Also, being a district leader for years has prepared Mrs. Morris for the next step.”
Morris has been involved in the Stillwater district since 1992, working her way up from a substitute teacher all the way to the Stillwater Middle School Principal from 2008 to 2016 before accepting this role. “I realized as I moved into different positions that I could impact more children,” Morris said. “That is why I am so excited for my new role. My vision is to provide opportunities for all students to succeed at all levels.” Morris earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Master of Science in Teaching from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. She holds the following teaching certifications: English 7-12, Elementary Teacher N-6, School Administrator and Supervisor, and School District Administrator. She also completed the New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS) Future Superintendents’ Academy and Fiscal Navigation for Superintendents Training. “I was getting a bachelor
in lit[erature] and not really knowing what to do with it that led me to pursue a career in education,” said Morris. “I decided to focus on my love of learning and my love of kids, that’s really what it’s all about.” Morris and the Board of Education outlined their district goals for the year at a Board meeting on Tuesday, August 16. One of the district’s main goals for the year is unifying the different buildings and expanding communication and partnership within the district. “We want to make sure every student leaves here with a plan,” Morris said. “Whether that’s a four-year college, or the army, or the work force, we want to make sure each student is taking the right steps they need to get there.” In the long term, she looks forward to looking at data trends to see if these plans come to fruition, and learning how they can best help the kids to achieve their goals. “I believe in the kids, teachers, staff, and community
and that if we all work together this is the best place for kids,” said Morris. “It’s about being happy in the now and also looking toward the future.” Aside from her work, Morris enjoys spending time with her family and
her three golden retrievers. She describes herself as a big “football mom,” as her two sons play football at Alfred University and Stillwater High School. Additionally, she likes to unwind by reading and paddle boarding.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
EDUCATION BRIEFS
23
B-Spa Elementary Robotics
BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa students recently had the opportunity to participate in a week long LEGO Robotics Academy at the Ballston Spa High School. Members of the school’s FIRST Robotics Competition Team 3044,
OxBe4, offered the LEGO Robotics Academy as part of their efforts to get 4th, 5th and 6th grade students involved in STEM activities. The intent of the program is to expand the students’ creative interests in LEGO building while also
peaking their technological curiosity. Students worked with their peers in teams and learned how to construct as well as program robots utilizing LEGO Mindstorms kits. The LEGO Robotics Academy, which is an annual fundraiser for
Team 3044, provides an opportunity for the High School students to develop their communication and leadership skills as they work with the younger students. The week culminated with the students demonstrating what they learned
Salvation Army Back to School Bash
Fall Term Class Registration and Membership Application packet in area libraries, the Academy office at 111 West Avenue in Saratoga Springs or on the website at www.esc. edu/all. Registration forms are being accepted for open classes through the beginning of the term. As of August 18, two classes have filled Great Decisions and Legend, Literature and Mythology in Music. Waiting lists have been started for these. Call the Academy office for current class availability at 518-5872100 x2415 or go to www.esc. edu/all.
as a special site for the digital game during the final Mondays of the 2016 meet. Pokemon Go players are invited to go on a quest to collect the most Pokemon at Saratoga Race Course during the weekly family festival, which is held each Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Pavilion. Players can obtain rules and register at the Pavilion beginning at 11 a.m. The individual who collects the most Pokemon throughout the day will be awarded 2,500 Pokecoins. Lures will be dropped throughout the afternoon to attract Pokemon to various track landmarks, including the Saratoga Pavilion, Saratoga Walk of Fame, Horse Sense exhibit and the Jockey Silks Room porch. Players can replenish their Pokemon-catching tools at three Pokestops located on track grounds: the Big Red
Spring, the Coach Stepping Stone near the Saratoga Pavilion; and the Union Avenue Entrance. The 2016 summer meet at Saratoga Race Course
SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Springs Salvation Army is hosting a Back to School Bash for families with children in the community on Tuesday, August 30 at 6 p.m. School supplies and school clothes will be available for students along with free hot dogs, a bounce house and other fun activities. There also will be information on the new after-school enrichment program that will start in September. The Greater Things Enrichment program will run Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. when school is in session. The Salvation Army is located at 27 Woodlawn Avenue. For more information about The Salvation Army’s programs and service in the Saratoga Springs, call 518-584-1640.
A.L.L. Fall Class Registrations Open SARATOGA SPRINGS — Fall class registration at the Academy for Lifelong Learning (A.L.L.) continues through mid-September. Thirty-seven classes, including several lecture series, begin the week of September 12 and run through November 10. Look for the
Pokemon Go Mondays SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Berkshire Bank Family Mondays event series at Saratoga Race Course invites Pokemon Go players to the Saratoga Pavilion at the track
for their parents and friends as they earned their EV3 Robotics License. Many of the students who attended the program will now apply the knowledge they learned this summer as they participate on FIRST LEGO League Robotics teams in the Ballston Spa schools this coming fall. For more information about FIRST Robotics, visit www.usfirst. org/. For more photos and information about the event, visit the Ballston Spa High School team website at http://team3044.com or follow the twitter feed @OxBe4 for more information. Please contact Ballston Spa K-12 Science Coordinator Diane Irwin at the Ballston Spa High School 518-8847150 for additional information on robotics initiatives or by email at dirwin@bscsd.org. continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 5. For more information about Saratoga Race Course, visitNYRA.com.
24 Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623 | acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m. Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls 793-3755 | adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St, Schuylerville 695-6069 | Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6081 | Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Bacon Hill Reformed Church* 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill | 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent | Services: Worship service 10 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m. Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694 | usbnc.org Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa | 885-7312 ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship, 10:30 a.m. Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-6886 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Bethesda Episcopal Church* 41 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs Bethesdachurch.org | 584-5980 The Very Rev’d Marshall J. Vang Services: Sunday 8:00AM & 10:00AM Calvary Capital District 17 Low Street, Ballston Spa | Pastor Andrew Holt Services: Sunday 10 am | calvarycd.com Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6611 | cliftonparkchurchofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park | 371-7654 ccrc-cpny.org | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Christ Episcopal Church Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa | 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m. Christian Restoration Ministries Saratoga Senior Center 5 Williams St, Saratoga Springs 796-4323 | Pastor Pat Roach Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; 6:30 p.m. Christian Science Church 107 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-0221 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Community Alliance Church 257 Rowland St, Ballston Spa 885-6524 | Services: Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Congregation Shaara Tfille* 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370 | saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 10 a.m. Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave, Corinth 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street, Corinth 654-2521 | cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Cornerstone Community Church 516 Park Ave., Mechanicville | 664-5204 mycornerstonechurch.org | Pastor Frank Galerie Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506 | ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.;
RELIGION Eastern Orthodox — Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100 | xcsavior@yahoo.com. Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 584-6301 | Services: Sunday 11 a.m. First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-8361 | bspabaptist.org Services: 10:30 a.m. worship, 9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St, Ballston Spa 885-5583 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East St, Galway | 882-6520 galway-united-methodist-church.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. (9 a.m. in July and August) Grace Fellowship Saratoga 165 High Rock Ave, Saratoga | 691-0301 saratoga.gracefellowship.com Pastor: Mike Adams Services: Sundays 9 & 11 a.m. Grace Brethren Church* 137 W. Milton Road, Ballston Spa 587-0649 | Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore | 899-7777 thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Road, Greenfield Center | 893-7429 Services: Sunday School for all ages - 9:45 a.m.; Church Service - 11 a.m. Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Road, Mechanicville | 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Hope Church 206 Greenfield Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7442 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St, Clifton Park 877-7332 | Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs 584-9112 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484 | livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m. Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 | Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave. Ext, Malta 581-0210 | Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Middle Grove United Methodist Church* 581-2973 | Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m. Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Corner of Jefferson St. & Crescent St. Saratoga Springs | 584-9441 Rev. Dr. Victor L. Collier, Pastor New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 | Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Road, Saratoga Springs 580-1810 | newlifeinsaratoga.org. Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
NorthStar Church Gowana Middle School, Clifton Park 371-2811 | northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. Old Saratoga Reformed Church* 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Road, Ballston Spa 583-1002 | Services: Sunday 9 a.m.; Adult Sunday School 9 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m. Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church* 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake 399-5713 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m. Sunday 8:15 & 10:15 a.m. Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 584-6091 | pnecchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Quaker Springs United Methodist Church* 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs 695-3101 | qsumc.com Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday 9 a.m. River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd, Malta Cmns, Ste. 3 | 881-1505 riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m. St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-6122 | Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 5 p.m., 1 p.m. Spanish Service St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351 | stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church* 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680 stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m. St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church* 167 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa 885-7411 | stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., Noon. St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church* 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls 893-7680 | sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com Services: Sunday 8:30 am. St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-0904 | Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta | 583-4153 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 1 Grove Street, Schuylerville 695-3918 | Rev. Donna J. Arnold Services: Sunday 8 & 9 a.m. St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Road, Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456 | SALChurch.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.
Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St, Saratoga Springs 526-0773 | saratogachabad.com Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71, Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga United Methodist Church* Henning Road, Saratoga Springs 584-3720 | saratogaumc.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs 882-9384 | saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11:30 a.m. Schuylerville United Methodist Church* 51 Church St, Schuylerville 695-3101 | sumethodist.org Services: Worship at 11am Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m. Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Road, Rock City Falls 885-4794 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St, Saratoga Springs Services: Sunday 10 a.m. www.SOULSAVINGSTATIONCHURCH.COM Stillwater United Church (Presbyterian U.S.A.) 747 Hudson Avenue, Stillwater | 664-7984 stillwaterunitedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Temple Sinai* 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 | saratogasinai.org Shabbat Services: Friday 6 p.m. or 8p.m. (rotating schedule) Saturdays: 10:30a.m. Terra Nova Church* 45 Washington St, Saratoga Springs 833-0504 | terranovachurch.org Services: Sunday 5:30 p.m. The Salvation Army/ Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave, Saratoga Springs 584-1640 Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road, Gansevoort 584-9107 | tumcwilton.com Rev Keith Mann Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555 | uusaratoga.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m. Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave., Albany 453-3603 Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Road, West Charlton 882-9874 | westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Road, Wilton 583-2736 wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday 11 a.m.
* — Handicap Accessible
25
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Meet Reverend Mann
by Norra Reyes Saratoga TODAY
WILTON – The Trinity United Methodist Church at 155 Ballard Road welcomed a new pastor in January, Reverend Keith Mann, who brings a wealth of life experience to the position. Rev. Mann retired from the New York State Police, and then served as a Town Justice in Greenwich. He was also the original owner of The Ice Cream Man. “There were several situations while I was in the State Police and as a Town Justice that lead me into the ministry, and there were some very serious situations I was involved in,” said Rev. Mann. “I was part of the assault team at the Attica prison riot [September 9, 1971]. It was during that riot, when we were in process of taking the prison back, that I turned my life really to focus on Christ.” Even though he has seen and experienced some of the biggest challenges people can face, he says there isn’t any one,
Reverend Keith Mann
particular answer for people who come to him with their troubles. He says it’s all about the listening. “The best thing is to listen to what they have to say, and God will always provide you with an answer,” said Rev. Mann.
He graduated from Wesley Theological Seminary, and his first appointment was as a Pastoral Care Coordinator (chaplain) at Glens Falls Hospital where he served from 1999 to 2001. “Ten years ago, I came in as
a supply pastor here for one year,” said Rev. Mann, “making pastoral calls. The district superintendent called me last October and asked me if I would come back. What the Conference does is they see what the needs are in a church and match the pastor that has those gifts.” Rev. Mann said his goals as a new pastor include local missions and strengthening people’s faith. “I’ve always believed a pastor is all about love the people, love the people, love the people,” he emphasized. Rev. Mann and his wife, Sharlene, live in Greenwich and have two grown sons and four grandchildren. During his downtime he helps his youngest son with his mulch business, which is located next to The Ice Cream Man. “I also have a little vegetable garden, and I do enjoy that,” said Rev. Mann, and then he added, chuckling, “My wife always says that when I go out she knows I’ll be gone for at least an hour or so because I enjoy talking to people.” Rev. Mann is happy in his
Trinity United Methodist Church
new position, and honored to be a part of the Trinity family. “It’s just that the Trinity Church is such a welcoming church,” he said. “They reach out in the community. We have the food pantry, and we also have the Meals On Wheels for senior citizens, and we have a women’s group that really is an outreach – it’s very caring, a loving church.” For more information, contact the Trinity United Methodist Church office at 518-584-9107 or visit www. tumcwilton.weebly.com.
Food Network Names Local Eatery as a Top Mom & Pop Continued from front page.
in rural Delaware County. It was a time when harvesting from the huge garden, putting up preserves, and eating home-grown beef was just the way things were done. “I’ve always focused on home-style country food while
adding a fun flare to keep it fun and exciting,” said Hotaling. The Food Network article points out their PBJ Cristo made with Hotaling’s own homemade jam, Saratoga Organic Peanut Butter, and sliced bananas on thick French toast, as well as their large line of “The Benedicts” which play with the definition of eggs
Photo by Mark Bolles
Photo by Mark Bolles
benedict. From the traditional, to the Crab Cake “Benny,” and their newest Southern Style with fried green tomatoes and pork sausage on a buttermilk biscuit, they continue to experiment with familiar ingredients to great success.
Being singled out as the best is about more than their food, which keeps the locals and the seasonal tourists satisfied year after year. It’s also about how the food brings people together. A community of local
producers adds in the fresh flavors of yummy local chocolate, coffee, produce and pantry staples to round out all the preserves, biscuits, scones, muffins and pies baked in-house. Continued on Pg 27
26
FOOD
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Building a Bee Garden Through Trial and Error
Saturdays, 9 to 1 Lincoln Baths, 65 So. Broadway Saratoga Spa State Park
by Mary Peryea for Saratoga TODAY Last fall I moved from an apartment in Tupper Lake, surrounded by flower beds that I had planted over several years, to a home in Saratoga Springs that was devoid of a garden. I was determined to remedy that situation, so I transplanted some of my perennials to my new home. I brought Asiatic lilies, lupines, coneflowers, poppies and more. My husband dug some beds and I got everything transplanted by November 1. Spring arrived. I was happy to see that most of my transplants had survived the winter, thankfully an unusually mild one. I wanted to make my flower beds pollinator-friendly, so started to research what I needed to do on the internet.
I was happy to see that some of the plants I’d brought were just right, but knew I had more planning to do. Enter the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, with a plethora of experts on both flower and vegetable gardening. The vendors were more than happy to share their knowledge with a newbie like me. All of the vendors I spoke with emphasized the same thing: Native plants, which are well-adapted to local soils and climates, are the best sources for nectar and pollen for native pollinators like bees, butterflies and birds. Pollinators help maintain healthy plant communities that provide food that sustains wildlife, and they play an essential role in crop production. The Natural Resources Defense Council reports that one of every three bites of food Americans consume comes from a plant visited by bees or other pollinators. Sadly, however, pollinators are threatened by habitat loss, disease and excessive use of pesticides. I added more of the types of perennials that can be found at Dawn Foglia’s Wild Things Rescue Nursery stall such as rudbeckia, liatris, spiderwort and asters to my garden. I
left some milkweed that had sprung up in the back yard. I chose annuals that are readily available from such vendors as the Balet Flowers & Design and the Burger Farm that attract pollinators such as zinnias and cosmos. And despite an attack by the red lily beetle, I avoided using any pesticide. Instead, I picked the pests and their larvae off by hand. I put up a hummingbird feeder as well. So how did I do? Well, my flowerbed was beautiful and colorful. But I saw not a single bee, butterfly or hummingbird. What did I do wrong? I don’t know, but I’ll have plenty of time to ponder that and research this winter. I want to add more flowers, but I’ve read that modern hybrids, especially those with “doubled” flowers, do not attract pollinators. So much for the gorgeous daylilies I’ve been eying. Now if I could only figure out how to outwit that groundhog that’s been eating my flower buds... Visit the Saratoga Farmers’ Market 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through the end of October at High Rock Park.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
FOOD 27
Whose Turn is it to Wash the Dishes? dishes and also can be used on multiple types of surfaces. The Kuhn Rikon Stay Clean Scrubber stays cleaner than your typical sponge since the non-porous silicone bristles dry faster and will not harbor bacteria. The sponge is BPA free, and is an environmentally friendly alternative to disposable sponges. Make short work of washing dishes, countertop messes and more with this reusable silicone sponge. Made of durable, heat-resistant silicone, it is gentle enough for use with nonstick cookware, yet can handle even dried-on messes with ease. And you
by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY Hello Foodie Friends. Each week we write about the fun of creating and cooking fabulous dishes. However, with making these dishes comes the mess and dreaded task of cleaning up which becomes someone’s responsibility. Many conflicts occur within a household on whose turn it is to wash the dishes. I remember in my childhood years fighting with my four other siblings on who would be assigned the chore of doing the dishes. Having grown up in an Italian household with five children, my mother ran a tight ship and made sure Continued from Pg 25
For example, from Schuylerville there are eggs from Thomas’ Poultry Farm and milk in refillable glass bottles from King Brothers Dairy. There are vegetables from two local farmer’s markets to ensure the freshest food keeps coming to the tables. Bringing food to you with a smile is the experienced and
Provided by Country Corner Cafe
all of us were assigned cleaning duties. Fighting over who was going to wash the dishes was a common occurrence even after my mother made it clear whose job it was that evening. Through the years we learned that washing the dishes did not take that long when each of us helped out. When we shared and helped each other in our household chores, we then had plenty of time to go and do what we wanted afterwards. Through the years of doing chores together and playing together, we became good
friends, a friendship that still holds today. “You know you’re an adult when you get excited when there is a new sponge in the sink”. Author Unknown. To this day, believe it or not, I enjoy washing dishes. I love bringing home new types of items to help me with this chore. One of the newest items we have is a silicone scrubber from Kuhn Rikon. Say goodbye to the smelly sponges you have under your sink. With this new sponge, there are 5,000 silicone bristles that help to clean your
friendly front house staff in an atmosphere decorated with antiques and family items collected over time. To add to the nostalgic feel, there’s music from the 50’s and 60’s playing in the background of their expanded dining room. “I’m just so honored to be a part of this wonderful community. This just gives Saratoga another
plug and it gives people the idea to come to this area any time of the year,” added Hotaling. The Country Corner Café 25 Church Street, Saratoga Springs 518-583-7889 http://countrycornercafe.net Hours: Mon. – Fri. 7 a.m.- 2 p.m. Sat. & Sun. 7 a.m.- 3 p.m.
can toss it in the dishwasher when you’re done cleaning for a sponge that is as good as new every time you use it. It is dishwasher safe, so you’re always cleaning with a clean sponge. This fun and flexible scrubber will stand the test of time. So, whose ever job it is to wash the dishes, try out this new sponge! Come visit Saratoga Springs’ CTTC, where we have Tools for Cooks! Have fun cooking and cleaning up! Remember my Foodie Friends, “Life Happens in the Kitchen”. Take Care, John and Paula.
28
LOCAL BRIEFS
Annual Senior Picnic The Saratoga County Office for the Aging is pleased to host the annual senior picnic. Come join the fun. This event is for Saratoga County seniors age 60 and over. It will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2016 at the Saratoga County Fairgrounds in Ballston Spa. Lunch will be served at noon. Menu : BBQ chicken, potato salad, cole slaw, baked beans, dinner roll, lemon layer cake, and beverages. No take outs. No animals allowed. We will have live music. Tickets are required to attend and will not be sold at the door. Tickets can be purchased at The Office for the Aging for $4 each until 9/1/2016. Please call (518) 8844100 for details. Vendor/Craft Fair Round Lake United Methodist Church is hosting a Vendor/Craft Fair on Saturday, September 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a variety of vendors including Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, ThirtyOne, Tupperware and LuLaRoe designs. Participating local crafters will have jewelry, knitted items, mobiles, photography stoneware and much more for sale. Each participant will have an item available to bid on during a Chinese auction. All proceeds from the sale will be used to support the ministries of the Round Lake United Methodist Church. Call for Performing Artists – Musicians, Singers, Dancers Elyse Young, Malta’s Artistic Director is auditioning talent for a variety of events for the fall. The first event is “Spotlight on Malta” being presented during Malta Community Day on September 10. Variety acts of all types appropriate for family audiences are sought. On September 11 and 12, Malta’s Spotlighter’s Theatre Troupe is holding auditions for their December production
of “A Fairytale Christmas Carol” for ages 8-Adult. And then, together will Acting Academy students, a Halloween Variety Show Extravaganza will be presented on October 28. Songs with a Halloween theme are preferred for this NEW event! Contact Young at theater@malta-town.org or (518) 899-4411 x305 for an audition appointment or more details. Tailgate Party to Benefit Veterans Join us on September 11, 2016 at 11:45 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the VFW Post 420, 190 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs for a tailgate party. $1 draft beer and cash bar for bottle beer, wine and well drinks, food, big screen TV’s for opening day football games, and vendors. Enjoy live music – Skippy and the Pistons, Jeff Brisbin and more. Donation $10. Storytelling Open Mic in Saratoga Enjoy a wonderful evening as storytellers from Saratoga and the Capital District share contemporary, personal, and traditional stories. New storytellers are always welcome. September’s featured teller is Dr. Claire Beetlestone. Dr. Beetlestone is not only a practicing physician, she has been a docent to a tropical zoo, a dancer, and an art impresario. She has traveled from America through Europe, Asia, and Africa, listening along the way. Dr. Beetlestone has collected a trove of wonderful stories, specializing in international folktales, always making sure to leave a few of her own behind. Wednesday, September 14 at 7 p.m. Sign-ups for storytellers at 6:45 pm. Spring St. Gallery, 110 Spring St., Saratoga Springs. Admission is $5. NatureFest NatureFest will be held on September 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Moreau Lake State Park. Free fun-filled family day of interactive nature related activities, raptor birds, insects, and reptiles. There will be fun crafts and activities for the kids, like birdhouse building, face painting, pumpkin
painting and much more. There will also be nature related educational booths, representatives from local parks, rescue organizations and wagon rides. Food is available that day as well as silent auction and tours of the nature center. All donations collected will go to The Friends of Moreau Lake (non-profit). The Friends of Moreau Lake support the Moreau Lake Nature Center, environmental education classes as well as offering crafts and special events for the park. We are working toward being a ZeroWaste event so bring your reusable water bottle and get a free pin or magnet! Havurah Vatik Stand up, sit down, laugh, laugh, laugh! Join us on September 20, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Congregation Shaara Tfille, located at 84 Weibel Ave, Saratoga Springs as we start off our Havurah Vatik fall season with a wealth of hilarious stand-up comedy from the Golden Years of the Catskills, cheerfully offering you “Catskills on Broadway.” Let Freddie Roman, Mal Z. Lawrence, Dick Capri, and Louise Duart work their comedic magic: howl, weep, and then feel great -- laughter is the best medicine wise men say. OK, these oldtime, all-time greats of the Borscht Belt are not here in person, but the wonders of cinematic technology provide us with front-row seats. Let the chuckles begin and the guffaws grow. A catered lunch will follow. All Saratoga area seniors, 55 plus are welcome. Call the Temple Sinai Havurah Vatik reservation line at (518) 584-8730, ext. 4. 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
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016 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) 695-3385. Monthly Indoor Craft and Garage Sale On Sunday, September 25, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. the popular Elks Ladies Auxiliary Indoor Craft and Garage Sale will take place at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club off Maple Avenue on Elks Lane. Admission is free with over 40 vendors. Great parking, bargains galore, lunch, books, household items, sports equipment, hand-made items, clothing, jewelry, party vendors, pet supplies and just about anything you can imagine may be found here. New vendors are signing up every month. Rain or shine. A fun activity the entire family enjoys. Come browse, visit, eat, or just get out of the house with a friend. All proceeds go to our local charities. All markets are held the fourth Sunday of each month: next sales dates are October 23, November 13 and an extra date on November 27. Tables are $15 for an 8 ft. table; call (518) 289-5470 for information or to sign up for a table(s). Open Mic Fundraiser Showcase your talent at SOUNDBYTES, Saratoga Soundtrack’s open mic fundraiser and we invite you to participate on Friday, October 7, 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, located at 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs, NY. Performance time: 1 or 2 songs or 5 minutes, 16 acts only for 90 minutes show. NO application process/audition. Age limit: If you are between 15 and 105, you are eligible to perform. Order of appearance will be given when intent to perform is received. Cost is $10 at the door suggested donation, including participants. Cash bar and snacks will be provided by Knights of Columbus If you are interested in performing, email your name or group name and contact information with a
brief description of your talent to tcfit@aol.com by August 31. The 14th Annual “The Way We Were” Car Show The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association and Saratoga Automobile Museum will, once again, partner to bring the 14th Annual “The Way We Were” Car Show is to be held Sunday, October 9, 2016 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Front St. in Ballston Spa. The rain date will be October 16. The public is invited to come stroll our historic village, check out the hundreds of cars and trucks on display, and enjoy the music, vendors and downtown businesses. It’s a great day for the whole family. For more information, visit www.ballston. org or call (518) 885-2772. Fall Craft Fair and Bake Sale The American Legion Auxiliary at Post 1450, located on Grooms Rd. in Halfmoon is planning their annual fall craft fair and bake sale for October 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafters who are interested in attending can email alcraftshow@aol.com for more information. Seeking Volunteers The Saratoga National Cemetery Support Committee is seeking volunteers that can help out at the cemetery. The Support Committee works with the Director of the cemetery to provide help at cemetery functions. The committee meets at the cemetery every 3rd Wednesday of the month. If you would like to volunteer to help out or for more information please contact John Mehan at (518) 664-2797 or the Cemetery Administration Office at (518) 581-9128. You do not have to be a veteran to volunteer, male and female volunteers are needed. Community Connections Your free hour could change a senior’s life. Volunteers needed. Do you have an hour to assist with visiting, transportation, shopping & more? Please contact Kris at (518) 584-1621 ext. 208.
Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016 Summer Craft and Food Festival
Family Friendly Event
Friday, August 26 History, Legends, Lore and More Guided Walking Tour Saratoga Heritage Area Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 10:30 – Noon A 90-minute walking tour that concentrates on historic Congress Park and the colorful characters who helped make Saratoga what it is! This guided tour of legends and lore will walk you through history while sipping the famous mineral waters and strolling through the Victorian Congress park. Cost is $8 for adults, children under 12 are free. Tours are held Monday – Saturday through August. September and October tours will be Saturday only. For more information, call (518) 5873241.
Saturday, August 27 Walk with Compassion Capital Region Halfmoon Town Hall, 2 Halfmoon Town Plaza, Halfmoon, 9:30 a.m. 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. For more information, visit www. walkwithcompassion.com.
Adirondack Folk School, 51 Main St., Lake Luzerne, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Dozens of craft and food vendors are expected, and Mac Petrequin will play his signature blue grass music from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.adirondackfolkschool.org.
A Call to Artists and Artisans Grant Cottage, 100 Mt. McGregor Rd., Wilton, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. The Friends of U.S. Grant Cottage Historic Site invite artists to participate in a one day “Plein Air” painting event. Artists are invited to bring their easels and painting supplies to set up anywhere on the grounds to paint the historic site and its landmark landscape and panoramic views. The event is free to artist. Paintings will be auctioned off at the Fine Arts Festival on September 18 to benefit Grant’s Cottage (50/50 percentage rate). Music will be provided by the Lost Rounders, “Politics and Patriots” starting at 1 p.m. For more information or to register contact Bev at bjsartworks@ gmail.com or call (518) 793-9350.
“Politics and Patriots” with the Lost Radio Rounders Grant Cottage, 100 Mt. McGregor Rd., Wilton, 1 p.m. Before there were political attack ads, there were attack songs! For this 2016 Presidential election season acoustic duo Lost Radio Rounders have created the perfect musical/historical program. “Politics & Patriots” blends harmony, history and humor to both inform and entertain. From our nation’s earliest campaigns to the days of F.D.R., politicians created “songsters,” booklets of lyrics promoting themselves and tearing down their opponents. These lyrics were set to the melodies of classic folk songs or popular tunes of the day. “Oh Susanna,” “Auld Lang Syne,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and many others lent their melodies to a candidate. “Politics & Patriots” shows that issues such as suffrage, abolition, and prohibition were also addressed
CALENDAR 29 29 in song. For more information, visit www.grantcottage.org.
Sunday, August 28 Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation Summer Stroll: Saratoga’s Historic Westside South Franklin Street (Gideon Putnam Cemetery Entrance), 10:30 a.m. Stroll leader Susan Brooks will lead guests through the restored historic West Side, also known as Little Dublin. Guests will learn about Saratoga’s Irish and Italian immigrants who helped shape the history of this unique district. The stroll will last approximately 90 minutes. Tickets are $5 for members and $8 for nonmembers.
Evening Vespers Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church, 24 Circular St, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m. Join us on the lawn for an al fresco worship experience of prayers and music, Sunday evenings in August. This is a casual service, so please come as you are. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. Visitors welcome. For information, call (518) 584-6091.
Monday, August 29 Writer’s Spring Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs, 6 p.m. This is a writer’s group for authors of any form. If you’ve been looking for other writers to chat with, get feedback on your writing, or just a place full of creative energy to help inspire you, join us for a discussion on our craft.
Tuesday, August 30 “How Can We Do This Better?” National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, 191 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. A discussion with trainer Gary Contessa. One of the top trainers on the NYRA circuit will lead a discussion with audience
members on ways to improve the sport of thoroughbred racing. Free with Museum Admission.
Summer Concert Series in Congress Park: Cryin’ Out Loud Congress Park, Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m. With an energizing live show that features five dynamic vocalists, a fluid rhythm section, and a hot three-piece horn section, Cryin’ Out Loud will definitely make your event one to remember. During a live performance you can feel their energy inspire the crowd, taking listeners on a musical journey that encompasses the greatest hits of Pop, RnB, Country, Disco, Motown and Classic Rock.
Wednesday, August 31 Ready for School Party Northshire Bookstore, 424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, 11 a.m. Join us for a morning party, just for children about to start school for the first time. Authors Deirdre Sullivan and Linda Marshall will share their comforting picture books about the start of school, and local teachers will be on hand to share a craft project and talk about a typical school day. We’ll also offer a special discount on school supplies and other back to school items. For more information and other events visit www. northshire.com.
Bicycle Tour Saratoga National Historic Park, Route 4 and State Route 32, Stillwater, 6 – 8 p.m. A free, ranger guided 5 mile bike tour of Saratoga Battlefield. 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, call the Visitor Center at (518) 670-2985.
Around the World: A Multicultural Arts Program
Families will hear some fascinating stories from Native American storyteller, Jim Bruchac, who is always a crowdpleaser. Saratoga Arts made this program possible with a Community Arts Grant funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. For more information, visit www. schuylervillelibrary.sals.edu.
FANs of Ballston Spa Kelley Park, Ballston Spa, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
We’ll have a fun familycentered activity followed by free Stewart’s ice cream for all. Surrounded by a walking trail, dog park, creek and village pool, Kelley Park has a lot to offer. Our event will last for about 45 minutes, but bring suits for swimming beforehand (only $2 per person if not a registered member) at the pool. We will be holding various activities from crafts to kickball to kites.
Thursday, September 1 Adirondack Chapter 60, Korean War Veterans Association Meeting VFW Home, Veterans’ Way, Saratoga Springs, 1:30 p.m. Veterans who served anywhere during the Korean War or in Korea at any time, spouses, widows and friends are all invited to attend. For further information or to obtain an application to join the association, are asked to call Comm. Roger Calkins at (518) 584-3037.
Barber Shop on Broadway Downtown Saratoga Springs, 6:30 – 9 p.m. The award-winning Racing City Chorus will present its seventh season of strolling a cappella performances of standards, pop songs and patriotic numbers on the sidewalks of downtown Saratoga Springs during the thoroughbred race meet.
Schuylerville Public Library, 52 Ferry Street Schuylerville, 6 p.m.
Send your calendar events to calendar@saratogapublishing.com two weeks prior to the event.
30 30
Puzzles Across 1 Gear tooth 4 Scotch whisky brand 9 Apples, e.g. 14 Sushi bar tuna 15 “Inside the NBA” analyst Shaq 16 Scary bacteria 17 *Dots-and-dashes system 19 Charged toward 20 Long Island airport town 21 “Divergent” star Woodley 23 Robber, to cops 26 Join the game 27 Electrical unit of resistance 30 Fish market offering 33 Revolutionary Guevara 36 *Entree 38 Linen fiber source 39 Statesman Stevenson 40 Part of UNLV 41 Fly like a parasailer 42 Weed-control tools 43 *Boxy British economy car 45 “Take your pick” 46 Ironed 47 Grounded fast jet, briefly 48 Affordable __ Act 50 “This __ unfair!” 52 Car thief on a pleasure spin 56 Car wheel shafts 60 Offensively pungent 61 *Venue for hypothetical legal cases 64 Stop to think, say 65 Alma __ 66 Word in itineraries 67 Tricky road curves 68 Roast host, and a hint to the answers to starred clues 69 Wild blue yonder Down 1 Victoria’s Secret garment, for short 2 Cries of discovery 3 “You go, __!” 4 “My Cousin Vinny” co-star 5 Post-apartheid ruling party: Abbr. 6 Prefix with conservative 7 Father figures 8 “Ick!”
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016 See puzzle solutions on page 54
See puzzle solution on page 54 9 Hazards 10 Central Florida city 11 *Wallet alternatives 12 Zing 13 Web browsing destination 18 Dainty taste 22 Church recess 24 Vintage vehicle 25 One of Tony Soprano’s henchmen 27 Mutual of __ 28 Was wearing 29 *Hannah Montana portrayer 31 Fiber-rich cereals 32 St. Francis of __ 34 Greek god of the underworld 35 Use, as influence 37 __ in November
38 Showman Ziegfeld 41 Devout term for a churchyard 43 TV “neigh” sayer 44 These, in Nice 46 Lion family units 49 Roll out of the sack 51 Kitchenware brand 52 Bit of mockery 53 Andean stew tubers 54 Buxom one-named supermodel 55 What the buffalo do, in song 57 Disposable diapers brand 58 “CHiPs” star Estrada 59 Time at a motel 62 Non-Rx 63 Golfer’s gadget ... or where it’s used
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: Calendar, Calender, Colander Calendar is the correct spelling for a system of recording time. Calender is an old word that refers to a machine used in finishing paper and cloth. A colander is a perforated, bowl-shaped kitchen utensil for draining liquids and rinsing food. 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
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Imagine: Garland Calls the Tune...
...And Saratoga Sings!
Photos by Francesco D’Amico.
See Page 36.
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
THE SOCIETY PAGES WRITTEN BY CARRIE ROWLANDS JOHNSON – PHOTOS BY ALICE COREY PHOTOGRAPHY
(left to right) Ginny Stoliker, Shirl Lloyd, Caryn Kennedy, Ashley Jurica, Cindy Harrington, Meghan Moran, Mike Finocchi, Rosemary Riedhammer
T
Former Mayor Ken and Karen Klotz, Eileen Harren, Jim and Shelley Steiger
Truly One Fine Day! Shelters of Saratoga Benefit – Saratoga National – Tuesday August 23 he sun gifted its late-summer warmth; elegantly displayed, healthy, tasty make-your-own salads offered themselves from buffet tables; ladies (and a few gentlemen) dressed in summer sundresses and business-wear mingled as they sipped cocktails and chatted with friends; A pop-up boutique by Lifestyles provided a pleasant shopping opportunity; guests browsed the silent auction…. all of the ingredients for One Fine Day, enabling the charity event to graciously live up to its name.
Shelters of Saratoga held its annual fundraiser, One Fine Day, at Saratoga National on the afternoon of August 24. A former SOS beneficiary, Theresa Taylor, shared the inspiring story of how SOS helped her turn her life around, providing shelter when she was homeless. With the help of SOS and other programs, today Theresa has her Master of Social Work degree from Syracuse University which she is utilizing as a Behavioral Health Emergency Services Clinician at Glens Falls Hospital. Shelters of Saratoga provides individuals such as Theresa Taylor with safe shelter, support services and sustainable strategies to end homelessness in the Greater Saratoga Region. SOS relies heavily on the community’s generosity to meet the complex needs of the hundreds of individuals they serve each year. For more information, visit www.sheltersofsaratoga.org. -Carrie Rowlands Johnson Carrie Rowlands Johnson is owner of the blogging bar and a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Blake Realtors in Saratoga. She is a freelance writer for Simply Saratoga Magazine. Alice Corey is owner of Alice Corey Photography. 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 Kathleen Fyfe, Annamaria Bellantoni, Ellen Brodie
Paula Dalton, Karen Turcotte, Sarah Burger, Deb Walton, Tammy Goldsmith, Nancy Rasner, Gail Berley, Michele Madigan
Sandra Foley, Patty Riggi, Johnny Rich, Mary Eckardt, Rachel Dwyer, Kathy Goodwin - in no particular order. If you know one, chances are you know them all!
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
33 PULSE Hey, Bartender!
FCC’s Second Annual Guest Bartender Evening at Harvey’s Restaurant and Bar
Guest Bartenders Molly Bush and Kathy Henry Ryan Bouchey, Nick DeCelle, Jen Allen and and their specialty cocktails. Kathy’s (r) “Toga Tea-riffic” took home top auction dollars Tim Maguire
“The lovely ladies of Franklin” are joined by The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President - Community Development Kathleen Fyfe (at left): Associate Director Jaime Williams, Executive Director Kari Cushing, Family Outreach Educators Chloe Williams and Lindsay Welsh, Project Lift Program Coordinators Suzanne Carpenter, Courtney Ellis and Colleen Potte. SARATOGA SPRINGS — On Tuesday, August 22, Franklin Community Center (FCC - visit franklincommunitycenter.org) held its Second Annual Guest Bartender Evening at Harvey’s Restaurant and Bar (14 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs). While not a gala, per se’, it had the same festive atmosphere and was jammed to the rafters and on the rooftop porch of the multi-level facility. Also like a Gala, the evening’s festivities benefitted a very worthy cause. Franklin Community Center is the epitome of a community asset - A Non-Profit Organization providing basic necessities and services to less fortunate individuals and families in Saratoga Springs and other communities in the County. They have provided these services for over 30 years, and serve over 6,000 people each year.
Because of all this service, a number of business and community leaders came out to provide service to patrons at Harvey’s. All proceeds, including tips, were directly donated to FCC. Each guest bartender concocted a specialty cocktail – which was auctioned off for some hefty donations. “FCC’s Second Annual Guest Bartender Evening at Harvey’s Restaurant and Bar was a great time,” said FCC Associate Director Jaime Williams. “Because of many people’s generosity, over $3,500 was raised to support the programs and services of the Center.” The bartender line-up for the evening included Molly Bush, Stephen Cutting-Miller, Kathy Henry, Lisa Munter, Brian Nadeau, Mike Perkins, Barry Potoker, Todd Shimkus and Christianne Smith, with Mike Munter and Zack Manz as the auctioneers.
Spotted among the packed house were Bart Altamari, Mary Grace Manz, Kristen Mann, Nina Sontz and Rob Rothschild, Kathleen Fyfe, Raj Ghoshal, John Munter, Maire Masterson, Ryan Bouchey, Jennifer Allen, Tom Roohan, Matt Jones, Alyssa Menshausen, Gina Peca, Karen and Faust D’Andrea, Barb and Paul Calhoun, Larry Pohl and “the many lovely ladies from Franklin,” Jaime said. We agree on everything Kathy Henry took home to Bartender Drink Challenge with her “Toga Tea-Riffic” which brought in a generous $650, with Stephen Cutting-Miller’s “Saratoga Limelight” a close second - raising $550. In sum - a dark day success. Cheers! - Arthur Gonick, Photos by Francesco D’Amico
FCC Executive Director Kari Kushing did not need to shake down Zack Manz and Andy Pleat for cash by putting them up against the wall at Harvey’s, yet she decided to do it anyway
Guest Bartender Christianne Smith presents a well-crafted martini to the delight of the masses. Insiders say she could have used Pepto Bismol as an ingredient and still garner major tips – all to benefit FCC
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
The People’s Lawn “What is your favorite SPAC memory?”
“I saw Coldplay in 2009.” – Wendy Arendt, from Arizona
“I saw The Beach Boys here when I was 16. It was my first concert. – Michele Dowd (left) “I saw Janis Joplin in the late 60s or early 70s.” – Ted Klarsfeld (middle) “Zac Brown Band.” – Martha Meader (right) All three are from Saratoga Springs
“I saw the 1812 overture in the lawn, with fireworks!” – Julie Eager, from Niskayuna “I saw Yo Yo Ma here.” – Susan Greenquist, from New Hampshire
A SPAC Memory Maestro Eugene Ormandy and SPAC I would like to share with you this picture - and the role Craig Hankenson, former Executive Director of Saratoga Performing Arts Center played in the history of SPAC. The photo shows Craig Hankenson and Eugene Ormandy as Eugene (on right) receives the Key to the City of Saratoga Springs. On Thursday, August 11, Craig Hankenson received a letter noting the celebration of Eugene Ormandy’s contribution to the Arts at SPAC. The event was held on Wednesday, August 17. Though Craig was contacted approximately two years ago to be a part of SPAC’s 50th year anniversary, he did not hear back as to when any special event was planned. Craig Hankenson spent 12 years working at SPAC in its early formative years - in a town then known primarily for the August summer horse races to its current stature as a major performing arts center, which brings in an array of world class talent every summer. The strong ties with Eugene Ormandy and the enormous presence that The Philadelphia Orchestra brings to
SPAC every summer are a part of Craig Hankenson’s contributions and vision. I do believe your readers would be interested in the ties and role Craig Hankenson has had with The Philadelphia Orchestra and Eugene Ormandy and SPAC. Eugene Ormandy’s legacy and The Philadelphia Orchestra are crucial to the community that supports and embraces Symphony Orchestras, which need our support now more than ever. Craig Hankenson is currently president of Producers, Inc. (visit www.producersinc.com) and he
has spent his career in the arts bringing the best to all who love and support the arts. Craig Hankenson hired both Nancy Meyer and Herb Chesbrough and sadly he and I mourn that both their bright spirits at SPAC are gone. I hope you might be interested in the role Craig Hankenson played in the growth of SPAC and the special friendship he shared with Eugene Ormandy. Sincerely, Kathy D. Hankenson Tampa, FL
“It’s our first time here! We’ve loved it so far.” – Mary Schutz, from Myrtle Beach, and Suzanne Parker, from Ballston Lake
SPAC Postcard: 1966
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Goo Goo Dolls and Collective Soul: Sunny Energy to SPAC on a Rainy Night SARATOGA SPRINGS — For a cold and wet Saratoga night, the heat was definitely turned up in the SPAC Amphitheater on Sunday, August 21. As a long time Collective Soul fan, my appreciation for the band increased during their live performance. Lead singer Ed Roland was nothing short of raw rock and roll energy, which set the tone for the evening.
The Goo Goo Dolls took the stage and didn¹t let the ball drop. With fans on their feet from the very first song, John Rzeznick led his band members through what may have been one of their most energy packed sessions yet. Except for those out on the lawn, no one inside was even vaguely aware of the weather. — Photos and Report by Sharon Castro
Solidifying A SPAC Cornerstone Marcia White Honored in her Final Season as SPAC President
SARATOGA SPRINGS – A series of events in August were held at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) to honor and thank outgoing SPAC President and Executive Director Marcia White, for her long-time contributions toward assuring SPAC’s fiscal health and programming excellence. On Saturday, August 6, Ms. White had a garden, located by the Patron Lounge and Charlie Gate, dedicated to her by SPAC Patron and Supporter Ronald Riggi. This dedication preceded a dedication of her very own commemorative star on the SPAC Walk of Fame – an innovation Marcia White initiated as President to honor the many influential and important people who were intrinsic in establishing SPAC as a leading performance venue. Later, on Saturday, August 20, “Marcia’s Garden” was enhanced by the unveiling of a Golden Circle – commemorating those individuals and institutions that generously donated to SPAC and its Capital Campaigns. All photos by MarkBolles.com. - Arthur Gonick
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Imagine That: Saratoga Sings!
Garland Nelson Leads Congress Park Audience in “Group Sing” Photos by Francesco D’Amico
by Ciara Austin for Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Hundreds of Saratoga residents and visitors gathered in Congress Park on Tuesday
night, August 23 for Imagine: Saratoga Sings, a pop-up “community-wide summer evening singing experience.” The free concert, sponsored by the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau, was a
family-friendly event produced as a collaborative effort by local “Soulist” musician Garland Nelson, On Deck Saratoga and O’Laughlin Productions. At approximately 7:40 p.m., concertgoers were
invited to raise their voices in song together with Nelson to sing John Lennon’s legendary song, “Imagine.” A unifying moment for all involved, the song’s lyrics continue to resonate forty-five years later as we
still strive to be a world that “will live as one.” Following the sing along, Nelson and his band did a phenomenal job energizing the crowd by playing hits from artists such as Stevie Wonder and Earth Wind and Fire. Many felt compelled by the sounds of the live music to get up off their picnic blankets and take to the park’s pathways to create their own dance floor. Nelson closed the evening with a special rendition of “Amazing Grace” as he held his daughter, Imani. An evening of positivity and togetherness, “Imagine: Saratoga Sings!” truly encapsulated how the City of Saratoga Springs values the importance of creating new, lasting memories and traditions for our community. If you missed this happening, or want to relive it again, visit Arts Spark Facebook page: facebook.com/ArtsSpark Ciara Austin is a writer/ blogger who writes about horse racing, fashion, arts/ cultural and social topics that occur from Saratoga Springs to Southern California. Visit her blog at ciaratoga.com
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Rodger That: Spot On! Rodger Wyland is a Multi-Media Sports Authority in The Capital Region, and Proves it Every Day by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — “Well, inside I was freaking out. But it was too good an opportunity to pass up.” So said Rodger Wyland, a fixture in this market’s sports world, reminiscing about his first broadcast, which happened to take place on Travers Day, 1986, as a then-new addition to the WNYT-13 sports team. “Here I am, Born and raised in Altoona, PA, so of course we have heard of Saratoga, but never did I imagine that my debut assignment would put me on the roof to anchor our station’s coverage,” Wyland said. Well, if he was nervous, it apparently didn’t show. For on Friday, August 26, Rodger Wyland, along with co-host John Pricci, will be up on the roof again, anchoring WNYT’s Travers Preview program, from 7-7:30 p.m. – a mere 30 years later. His regular sports program, “Big Board Sports,” has blossomed into the region’s “Must See TV” sports broadcast, on the network (NBC) affiliate that invented that catch phrase, as well as the network that will bring the big race, and show off Saratoga itself to the world on Saturday, August 27. And after the Travers, look for the Wyland-Pricci alliance to be on air with post-game analysis at about 6:20 p.m. “So there I was, scrambling to prepare for that first broadcast, and I’m looking around the press box for some experts to interview,” Wyland said. “John at the time was the race analyst for Long Island’s Newsday, in addition to being an extremely colorful individual. John didn’t hesitate: He said, ‘Sure, I’ll do it!’ “He really bailed me out on that first broadcast. And we’ve been friends ever since,” Wyland concluded. In a number of ways, this 30th anniversary has brought Rodger Wyland full circle. In addition to the WYNT anniversary, he this month transitioned to a higher plane on another other broadcast branch of his sports ‘tree’: Radio, as he moved
104.5 The Team Host Rodger Wyland (r) with Producer/Partner Brady Farkas (c) chat with Saratoga TODAY handicapping columnist Tom Amello during a recent Friday live broadcast originating from Saratoga Race Course. to 104.5 the Team, an FM affiliate of sports powerhouse ESPN Radio, after several years on AM980. His show airs Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon, with Friday’s broadcast originating live from Saratoga Race Course. “I really got an offer I couldn’t refuse,” Wyland said. “For one thing, I have the syndicated “Mike and Mike Show” (Greenberg and Golic) from 6 to 10 a.m. as a leadin. The ratings are huge!” “More importantly,” he continued, “I’ve got a big-time producer/partner on the show in Brady Farkas. This is a big upgrade. Most hosts get a producer who screens calls, cues breaks. Brady is on the mic next to mine. I can’t say enough about the guy! He knows his stuff, and puts it out there effectively. Even our good-natured ribbing and repartee is mixed with a major dose of respect. I’m telling your readers – watch this one. He’s going to do some great things,” he concluded. We met last Friday, August 19, after the conclusion of his live radio show at the Race Course. A quick jaunt to a nearby Dunkin’ Donuts stand. Caffeine in tow, we looked for a place to sit and chat. Failing that, we settled in around a recycle barrel and chatted a lot about racing trends. Wearing shades – we weren’t bothered by any fans (his, not mine). And so, we dug into the 2016 Saratoga Race Meet trends. “What a meet so far!” he said. “Just halfway through, and we’ve got
a lot of star power. No Triple Crown Winner, like American Pharoah in 2015 – but this meet has depth in its roster of outstanding performers.” So with three of the six racing weeks in the books, I asked him who his MVP of the meet would be if current trends continue. “I got to go with my man from Mechanicville – Trainer Chad Brown. I remember interviewing him after he won his very first stakes race here years ago,” Rodger said. “But this is not a case of ‘homerism,’ the guy delivers – particularly on grass. He’s loaded up for the Travers as well, with three entries.” That would be My Man Sam, Gift
Photo Courtesy of 104.5TheTeam.com Box and Connect – all who landed in the field of 14 for Saturday’s Grade 1 Classic. Switching to the Jockey colony, Rodger’s top picks for the win title: “Now this is tough. A very competitive, high-quality group. I’m picking the Ortiz brothers one and two, with a slight edge to Jose over Irad, but I say it will be neck-and-neck to the wire at this meet. Number three, kind of funny calling him a ‘dark horse,’ but John
Velazquez has come back strong this meet,” he said. Now, onto horses – and I take great pains to remind you that this conversation took place the day before the Alabama, won for fun by Songbird. “You can’t look past Songbird – what a star! You can see greatness radiate off her. Her Coaching Club American Oaks victory here earlier in the meet (Sunday, July 24 – when
Continued on page 55.
PULSE Guilt-free Pleasure! Stewart’s Shops Ice Cream Eating Contest
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Photos by MarkBolles.com
“Step right up!”- When Budding Broadcast Superstar Carli, 10, Speaks with Good Cheer and Verve, even the Adults Listen!
by Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Call it high noon at exactly 2:10 p.m. This is the event I put on my calendar first when the whole NYRA shootin’ match is released.
Anyone on my team can pick to cover anything else… Whitney Handicap? Sure, take it. Some celebrity-handicapping seminar? Go for it… But this one’s mine. Short course: The 2016 renewal of the Stewart’s ice cream
eating contest, on Wednesday, August 23 was not only a smash, per usual – but a day when records were not just broken in two of the three divisions – ladies and gentlemen, they were obliterated. Pulverized by New Jersey visitor Nolan Epstein, 64, lopping
a good 20 seconds off the adult division record for downing a pint of Philly Vanilla – clocking in at a sizzling 38 seconds! That could melt your freezer, let alone everything in it. And yet, the record eradication would continue, as
hometown teen Arturo Fragoso, 15, kicked it in like Secretariat in his prime and dusted all – never looking back, astounding the swollen crowd of lactose/sugar combo devotees and registering a blistering 39 seconds – one tick off the 2-minute old adult record. It says here mark Arturo down as a future adult division star – and don’t think Joey Chestnut isn’t thinking: “I should invite this guy over for a dog,” or something similar. Yes, on a day when records fell, we salute all the winners: - Jersey must love Philly, as we hail 8-year old Jase Catullo for a solid win in the kids division – where the oooy-gooey deliciousness sometimes distracts. Young Mr. Jase was having none of that – earning a solid 1 min, 14 second triumph - Finally, a big tip-o-thescoop to Maria D’Amelia and the crack Stewart’s marketing crew – one and all. They epitomize why NOBODY takes my Stewart’s ice cream eating contest away from me! But I will learn to share. In fact, I just did. Great job, everyone – see you next year.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Here’s to the Winners! Kids (6-12): Jase Catullo, 8, Chatham, NJ 1 min 14 sec
Teens (13-17): Arturo Fragoso, 15, Saratoga Springs, NY : 39 sec Adults (18+): Nolan Epstein, 64, Old Bridge, NJ : 38 sec Official Times Provided By Stewart’s Shops Marketing
30th Anniversary Invitational at Saratoga Arts
The Arts Center Gallery, Saratoga Arts Center 320 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. September 2 - October 29 • Opening Reception: Friday, September 9, 6 - 8 p.m. • Craft beer and hors d’ouvres • Provided by Druthers Brewing Company • Family Friendly • Free and open to the public
SARATOGA SPRINGS —Saratoga Arts will be celebrating their 30th anniversary with 30 artists who have exhibited in The Arts Center Gallery since it opened our doors! Artwork in the 30th Anniversary Invitational will represent the most recent body of work since their last exhibition at Saratoga Arts. Artists: Adam Daily Francelise Dawkins
Katie DeGroot Anne Diggory Chris Duncan Jill Fishon-Kovachick Scott Nelson Foster Anne Francey Deb Hall Tracy Helgeson Liz Howe Richard Garrison Chloe Kettlewell Shawn Lawson Willie Marlowe Beverly Mastrianni Pat McEvoy David Miller Doretta Miller Victoria Palermo Judith Plotner Tom Schottman Ben Schwab Sergio Sericolo Charles Steckler Roy Stevens Susan Stuart Stephen Tyson Laura Von Rosk Harry Wirtz
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
week of 8/26-9/01 friday, 8/26:
saturday, 8/27:
The Schmooze, 9 pm @ Bailey’s Café — 583.6060
Rich Clements Band, 9 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060
Quickstep CD Release Concert with The Ladles, 7 pm @ Caffè Lena — 583.0022
The T’s, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791
Toga Boys, 7 pm @ Carson’s Woodside Tavern — 584.9791 Dirt Cheap, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Rich Clements Band, 9 pm @ Druthers — 306.5275 Side Effects, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Jack’s Attic, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Audiostars, 7 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Rick Reis, 6:30 pm @ Kraverie — 450.7423 Mark Kleinhaut Quartet, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Al + Kathy Bain, 6 pm @ Olde Bryan Inn — 587.2990 George Moscatello & Shiri Zorn, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Blind Crow, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Rob Fleming, 7 pm @ Peabody’s — 886.8673 Audiostars, 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Exiles on River Street (Rolling Stones Tribute), 10 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 The Heators, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Third Rail, 6 pm @ Saratoga Winery 584.9463 Total Soul, 5:30 pm @ Siro’s — 584.4030 Chris Coccia, 8/10 pm @ The Comedy Works — 275.6897 Sean Lyons, 6 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253 Latin Night, 8 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849 Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Rob Aronstein, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
Radio Junkies, 10 pm @ Caroline St. Pub — 583.9400 Sugar Pill, 9 pm @ Druthers — 306.5275 Acoustic Circus, 9 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Soul Session, 7 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Rick on the Roof, 7 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 The Wallies, 10 pm @ Harvey’s — 583.0003 Jon LeRoy Trio, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Avenue — 583.2582 Matt McCabe + Gary Blodgett, 6 pm @ Olde Bryan Inn — 587.2990 Rat Tail Jimmy, 9 pm @ Peabody’s — 886.8673 Scott Bassinson, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 DRYER, 9 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Start Making Sense (Talking Heads Tribute), 9:30 pm @ Putnam Den — 584.8066 Rich Ortiz, 9 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Master Cylinders / Decadia / Kathy Sledge, 6 pm @ Siro’s (Funny Cide Bar) — 584.4030
Sirsy, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359
Latin Night, 8 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849
Aaron Audet, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909
Off Track Band, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916
Steve Candlen, 6 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026
Noreen Pratt, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
Live Jazz Brunch, 10 am @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 James Hood, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Marcus Ruggiero, 3 pm @ Saratoga Winery — 584.9463 Dirt Cheap, 5:30 pm @ Siro’s — 584.4030 Hot Club of Saratoga, 7:30 pm @ Spring St. Gallery — 928.9414 Hot Club of Saratoga noon @ The Merry Monk 584.6665 Deena Chapell, 10:30 am @ Park Side Eatery — 907.4337 Kevin Kinney, 8 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Dollard/Panza, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
monday, 8/29: Steve Candlen, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 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 Marcus Ruggiero, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230
wednesday, 8/31: R+B with Azzaam + Roosevelt, 7 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 Toga Boys, 8 pm @ Gaffney’s — 587.7359 Hot Club of Saratoga, 8 pm @ Hamlet + Ghost — 450.7287 Big Medicine, 6 pm @ Horseshoe Inn — 587.4909 Nancy Kamet (Inside), 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Kustre Kings (Outside), 6:30 pm @ Primetime Ultra Lounge — 583.4563 Master Cylinders / Ladies in Black, 5:30 pm @ Siro’s — 584.4030 Pat Decker, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Mike Spears, 8/10 pm @ The Comedy Works — 275.6897 Motown Night, 8 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849 Fenimore Blues, 7 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Christine Spero, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
Chris Coccia, 8/10 pm @ The Comedy Works — 275.6897
Dirt Cheap, 5:30 pm @ Siro’s — 584.4030
thursday, 9/01:
The Velmas (Inside), 9 pm @ The Mill — 899.5253
Latin Night, 8 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849
Foldin’ Money, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060
80s + 90s Dance, 8 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849
Mike Purcell, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
Deena Chappell Trio, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014
Forthlin Road, 9 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916
tuesday, 8/30:
Mike Purcell, 7 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
Foldin’ Money, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060
The Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026
sunday, 8/28: Padriac Decker, 7 pm @ Bailey’s — 583.6060 Al Bruno, 9 pm @ Crown Grill — 583.1105 Rick Nelson, 3 pm @ Druthers — 306.5275
Deena Chappell Trio, 7 pm @ Mouzon House — 226.0014 The Masters of Nostalgia, 8:30 pm @ One Caroline — 587.2026 Jeff Brisbin, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Chris Coccia, 8/10 pm @ The Comedy Works — 275.6897
Jeff Brisbin, 8 pm @ Saratoga City Tavern — 581.3230 Chris Coccia, 8/10 pm @ The Comedy Works — 275.6897 Latin Night , 8:00 pm @ The Newberry Music Hall — 877.565.3849 Off Track Band, 8:00 pm @ The Parting Glass — 583.1916 Noreen Pratt, 7:00 pm @ Wishing Well — 584.7640
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
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Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
WINNER’S CIRCLE Saratoga TODAY Newspaper’s Guide to the 2016 Racing Season at the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York
‘Overlooked’ Horses Will Factor Big in Travers Once in a Lifetime Field Expected Saturday
by Brendan O’Meara for Saratoga TODAY The first few weeks of the Saratoga meet act as this slow burn. It’s a nice, s’more-melting kind of heat. Then along comes the Travers Stakes—a can of gasoline—that categorically sets the night sky ablaze. The running of this year’s race, the $1.25 million Mid-Summer Derby, will see a full field, 14 horses. Gone are the days of Bernardini, who 10 years ago ran against five other donkeys (apologies to Bluegrass Cat) to claim the race in a veritable walkover. This year will not be so easy, not even for the heavy favorite Exaggerator. Only once before has there been 14 horses in the Travers, that coming in 1977 when the most
popular song in American was Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright).” Twelfth on the list? Abba’s “Dancing Queen.” Thirteenth? Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville.” The list is far too rich and I’m going to pump the brakes before I skid into the rails of what was a killer year in popular music. Plus, a Haskell winner hasn’t won this race since Point Given back in 2001, and Exaggerator is no Point Given. This marks the best betting race since the Derby, where you’ll have to keep a lid on your excitement as you run and laugh like a hyena to Window 301. There are a lot of good, live horses at long morning-line odds. Destin at 10-1? This horse finished a whisker away from winning the Belmont Stakes. Laoban - winner of the Jim Dandy, at 15-1? This one is especially confusing especially when you look at a horse like Connect, trained by Chad Brown, a colt going off at 4-1 odds, second on the morning line. Connect won the Junior Jim Dandy, better known as the Curlin Stakes, by going to the lead and
winning in a time of 1:48.69 over a field of unaccomplished rivals. Laoban, a maiden before winning the Jim Dandy, also went to the lead, won his race in 1:48.39 and defeated Creator, the Belmont Stakes winner; Destin, the Belmont runner up; Governor Malibu, the Peter Pan runner up; and Mohayman, a horse once pegged as the horse to beat in the Kentucky Derby. The theme of this year’s Travers may be “overlooked.” “A little bit,” said trainer Todd Pletcher, echoing that overlooked sentiment. “Just being beaten by a whisker in the Belmont is a pretty good effort. He’s pretty consistent and shows up every time with a really good effort. We feel like he has a big one in him and we’re hoping it’s Saturday.” Eric Guillot, trainer to Laoban, who also moonlights as a low-level practitioner of voodoo, often gets written off as someone who merely throws speedballs into races hoping to steal it on the front end. He worked that angle with aplomb with Moreno, a horse who nearly won the Travers back in 2013. Laoban, a monster if
there ever was one, stands 17 hands tall—Zenyatta-big, like Shaqhands—and does his damage on the lead. But he won’t run this race like it’s the King’s Bishop. “It’s simple,” Guillot said. “I’m not going to go 46 and change because if he does he won’t finish, a big horse like him, a 17-hand monster. I was never able to get him to relax. I would ship him across the country and get there on Wednesday and he wasn’t a good doer and I couldn’t school him. Here, I can school him. If they go 47 and change I want the lead. If they go 46 and change I don’t. I’m as confident as I was last race [the Jim Dandy]; pretty confident.” That should frighten trainer Keith Desormeaux, who has the division-leading Exaggerator ready to go. As I’ve said before, Exaggerator has a way of bringing low-pressure weather systems with him. No horse’s odds will drop faster than his if Upstate New York erupts into a classic end-of-August deluge. But if it doesn’t rain (the forecast calls for a high of 83, 10 percent chance of rain, an all-around perfect day),
then Exaggerator better bring his lunch pail and steel-toe boots. Again, Pletcher, “I don’t think it’s easy to identify a horse to beat. Based on the overall form, you’d have to say Exaggerator is the most accomplished horse in the field. But while he’s built quite a resume, he still has something to prove on the fast track. But I have a lot of respect for him.” Exaggertor won the Preakness and Haskell over off-tracks. He lost the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes over fast tracks. It appears he’ll have a fast track at Saratoga come post time. This will be the biggest field of three-year-olds since the Kentucky Derby and the edge would have to go toward horses used to that kind of traffic, namely horses that can get into the clear and dictate the terms of the race. That doesn’t include Exaggerator. Not over a fast track. Either way, with 14 horses entering the gate for the first time in 39 years, this is a once-in-a-lifetime sight to see, a race that promises to factor big for Champion Three-Year-Old.
46 WINNER’S
CIRCLE
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Weezie at the Flagpole by Louisa Foye for Saratoga TODAY As Songbird whistled across the finish line in the 136th running of The Alabama, animated Track Announcer Larry Collmus exclaimed, “She’s a perfect 10”, and indeed, this wonderful filly is! On a beautiful August afternoon, she upped her undefeated record to 10 for 10, and thrilled the 40,000 fans that came out to see her with a seven length dominating victory. Although her winning time of 2:03 for the 1-1/4 race was no threat to the stakes record of 2:00.80 set by the immortal Go for Wand, she was nonetheless a pure joy to watch! One can only hope that the performance lifted the spirits of her ailing owner, Rick Porter, who was unable to be here in person to see his star filly race. Chad Brown’s lightly raced Going for
Broke, a daughter of Blame, racing in her Stakes debut, looked as impressive as another filly possibly could going up against Songbird, rallying from sixth to second in the final half mile. Hall of Famer and winning Jockey, Mike Smith was absolutely mobbed by his adoring fans after the race, but I was blessed to catch him earlier in a quieter moment behind the Jocks Room when my buddy, longtime Valet Tony Millan, tipped me off that he was working out on the Equicizer out back. It’s no wonder that the 51-year-old Hall of Famer is in such amazing shape, as it’s very apparent how impeccable his training regimen is! He hopped off the Equicizer and walked over to the hidden back fence to greet me and my young friend Matt Christian, and signed my recent BloodHorse cover of Songbird’s Coaching Club American Oaks
victory. I teasingly reminded him of how sad we were here in New York when he decided to move his tack to sunny California, but I can certainly understand why. We had 11 great years (1989-2000) with him tho’. Songbird headed back to Cali Sunday night, but is expected to return east to run in the $1,000,000 Cotillion at Parx, on September 24, as her final prep for the Breeders Cup. Saturday began with a Trainers autograph signing to honor the legacy of the hugely popular and beloved fixture in New York racing, Dominic Galluscio, and benefit the Lustgarten Foundation, which advances research related to pancreatic cancer. Dom, who died far too soon in 2014 from this dreaded disease, saddled more than 1000 winners during his 34-year career on the NYRA circuit, and amassed total purse earnings of $31.3 million. I met Dom’s adorable nephew on the eve of the Alabama at The West Side Sports Bar, and I promised him that I’d wear purple to pay tribute to his Uncle, which I did, along with my favorite amethyst jewelry.
At the start of Saturday’s card, Luis Saez was “en fuego”, as he captured three of the first four races, and if it weren’t for Dale Romans’ horse being scratched in the 3rd that Luis was going to ride, he may have won four straight! In the 2nd race he rode D. Wayne Lukas and Willis Horton’s 2-year old, Blame Willis, to victory. These same connections carried him to the Winner’s Circle in the 2013 Travers aboard Will Take Charge. José Ortiz began a streak of his own, starting with The Troy, a 5.5 furlong sprint on the Mellon Turf aboard Disco Partner, and continuing in the 6th, with a great ride coming out of the tough 11 hole, on Brian Lynch’s Oscar Performance, which paid a decent $14 for the win. In the Grade I, Fourstardave, Hall of Fame Trainer Bill Mott picked up his first of two Grade I victories on Saturday, when Tourist, with Joel Rosario up, battled New York-bred, King Kreesa, and Irad Ortiz, the pacesetter, throughout, but finally turned him back, and also held off the late charge by A Lot, and Javi Castellano, for the win. Later on the West Coast, Mott’s Harmonize, with Junior
Alvarado making the trip West for the mount, captured the Delmar Oaks. What a great way to end the day for the always humble and gracious Mott, who I had literally run into on his way to the Paddock before the Fourstardave! He could not possibly have been any nicer, when I mentioned to him that Layla Griffin, a young Exercise Rider from Ireland who gallops for him, stays in my house! Bill will be honored this Friday when he receives the distinguished Red Jacket, and a spot on our Saratoga Walk of Fame, during a ceremony in the Winner’s Circle. Earlier in the week, Johnny Velazquez avoided a potential catastrophe in The Bolton Landing, aboard Wesley Ward’s sprinter Con Te Partiro, when he deftly maneuvered around the fallen 3/2 favorite, Lull, and Jockey Manny Franco, who lay in a heap! Heartspoke, and Arlington Park Jockey, E.T. Baird, had drifted out and clipped heels with Lull, creating the accident. Thank goodness no one was injured, and Johnny was able to down the fading leaders with one big move, bringing the 9-1 shot home to victory! On Thursday, Manny experienced a different kind of bad luck when he was on Big Miah Englehart’s Clifton Pleasure, who was barely nosed out by Chad Brown’s Battle of Evermore and Javi in a NY-bred Allowance. Manny did manage to get a win in the 7th for George Weaver on Malibu Stacy, but it was José Ortiz who picked up four wins on the card to pull even with his brother Irad, at 32 wins. José’s day was culminated by an impressive victory in The Union Avenue for Sheila Rosenblum’s Hot City Girl,
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
WINNER’S
47 CIRCLE
A PERFECT 10! when they broke well and wired the field! On Thursday evening, Andy Serling had a fine line-up at The Parting Glass for his weekly ESPN Radio Show, Live at the Rail, when he had guests Steve Asmussen, newly minted Hall of Famer, Florent Geroux, after his huge Saturday at Arlington Park, and very entertaining Owner, Jimmy Riccio, whose son is the agent for the red-hot José Ortiz. Following the show, Jockey Aaron Gryder’s beautiful wife Natalie entertained those still left from the big crowd, with her fine voice and adept guitar skills. Aaron is one of the original founders of The Giving Circle, and a veteran from New York to California and beyond. On Friday’s card in The Skidmore, a 5.5 furlong sprint for 2-year olds on the Mellon Turf, it was nice to see that the always hardworking duo of Jockey Angel Arroyo and Agent Tony Micallef were rewarded by John Terranova with a live mount on his Harlan’s Harmony. It is very difficult for any jock outside of the Top 10, and their agents, to get any mounts at all, so it made me very happy to see that Angel and Tony’s efforts resulted in their first Stakes victory of the meet. ‘Tho Friday’s card was filled with mostly chalk, an aggressive ride by Ricardo Santana in the 9th, gave Colombian-born Trainer and Owner, Jaime Mejia, his first win of the Meet with Copingaway, and he paid $54! White-hot Jamaican Trainer Charlie Baker continued his amazing run when he took Friday’s 7th Race with Riot Worthy, and in Monday’s The Summer Colony, his recently claimed 5-year old mare, Rachel’s Temper, ran down Graham Motion’s 4-year old Tiger Ride, and Hall of Famer Edgar Prado (in town only for this mount) with an impressive
stretch run, to give Charlie his 8th win of the Meet, from only 20 entries! Incredible! In Friday’s feature, The Adirondack, for 2-year old fillies at 6.5 furlongs (rescheduled after last Saturday’s crazy weather,), many of us, including me, we’re beating ourselves up for ignoring Todd Pletcher’s 2-year old daughter of Arch, by Storm Cat, Nonna Mela, who embarrassed us, winning handily by six lengths under Javi, and paying $19.80. What were we thinking? Todd and Johnny won The Schuylerville on Opening Day, also for 2-year old fillies, but at a half furlong shorter, with another good-looking filly, Sweet Loretta, and we should’ve known better! Later Saturday evening, many of us intently watched the other big card at Delmar, and were wowed by California Chrome’s performance in the $1,000,000, Grade 1, Pacific Classic! The gorgeous 5-year old chestnut, still shining like a brand new copper penny, proved that it didn’t matter if he was stuck on the rail in the unfavorable one hole. With just one tap on his right shoulder by Victor Espinoza, it was GAME OVER! I have no idea why neither Hall of Famer Gary Stevens, on the great 6-year old mare Beholder, nor Rafael Bejarano, on the 4-year old Big Brown beast, Dortmund, didn’t engage California Chrome early on, as they should’ve at least tried to pounce on CC up front, to give themselves a chance! After Kiaran McLaughlin and Sheik Mo decided to run their sophomore son of Tapit, Mohaymen, in Saturday’s Grade I, 7-furlong, King’s Bishop instead of The Travers, I’d have to imagine that they’d use this same thinking and consider running Frosted in the Breeders Cup Dirt Mile now,
instead of The Classic, after this dominating performance by CC at a mile and a quarter! Highlights on Sunday’s card included a 53-1 shot winning the 3rd Race for Sammy Camacho’s first win of the Meet, and likewise for Big Miah’s Dad, Chris Englehart, “getting off the duck” with his first win, as Manny Franco got Chelios home with a late stretch drive, in a thriller! Steve Asmussen’s good-looking 2-year old filly, Vertical Oak, was also impressive with a 6-length victory, under Ricardo Santana, in the 7th Race for maidens. In Sunday’s feature, The Lake Placid, a 1-1/8, $300,000, Grade II on the inner turf, Johnny V. had a brilliant ride on Jimmy Toner’s 3-year old Tapit filly, Time and Motion, as he displayed his Hall of Fame skills with a perfectly timed stretch run! Florent Geroux was aboard the favorite, Catch a Glimpse, who was undefeated on the turf at 8 for 8, and was the lone speed in the race. FloG let her race to the front, but she was run down and beaten at the wire by crafty Johnny, who guided Time and Motion with the precision of a Swiss watch! Perhaps moving forward, her Trainer, Mark Casse, will opt for the shorter distances that the speedy Catch a Glimpse was accustomed to running in Europe, as the extra furlong proved to be too much for her this day. On Monday’s card, Tom Albertrani “got off the duck”, too, when he picked up his first win of the meet in the 2nd, with Sadler’s Joy. In the 3rd Race, Carlos Martin, who is having a very good meet, reminded us of days of old, when he brought back Greyjoy on just five days rest! The 4-year old grey gelding showed no problem doing this, winning again under Irad Ortiz! Irad and brother José
went back and forth, trading places all day in their quest to be top dog in the Jockey Standings, and they finished Week 5 one win apart, with Irad on top, 39-38! Javi and Johnny are still very much in the fight with 34 and 30, setting up an exciting race to the finish for the very much-coveted Angel Cordero Jockey Title. Chad Brown is still running away with the Trainers Title, but we will see if Todd Pletcher can make this race more interesting over the final two weeks! I am eagerly anticipating the wide-open, 14-horse field, for Saturday’s Travers, and it’s anybody’s guess who will emerge victorious! Chad Brown is entering a trio of horses, including the pair that came in 1st and 2nd for him in The Curlin Stakes earlier in the Meet. Connect, Johnny V will once again ride rhw 3-year old son of Curlin, while the rider for Gift Box is still TBA at this writing. The young and talented Manny Franco was named by
Chad as the rider for his other entry, My Man Sam. Bob Baffert, in spite of his notoriously bad luck in the Mid-Summer Derby, will nonetheless enter the pair of American Freedom, who will be ridden by Rafael Bejarano, and Arrogate, who Mike Smith will return to ride. Eric Guillot will once again try to upset the field with his Whitney winner, Laoban, with José Ortiz up again, and Keith Desormeaux with brother Kent up will run his slop-happy Exaggerator. Javi Castellano will ride Todd Pletcher’s lone entry – Destin-. Irad Ortiz will once again ride Steve Asmussen’s Creator, while Florent Geroux will ride Gunrunner, Steve’s other entry. Christophe Clement will try to get a much needed win for his barn with Governor Malibu, who will be ridden by Joel Rosario, while Dallas Stewart’s Forever d’Oro will be ridden by Luis Saez. With the Meet sadly hitting the top of the stretch, see you next week for Travers Day coverage!
48 WINNER’S
CIRCLE
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
The Grim Reaper’s Favorite Race Handicapping the Travers Stakes
by Tom Amello Saratoga TODAY The questions begin after whichever horse crosses the finish line to win the Belmont
Stakes: Which Triple Crown participants and late developing three-year old colts will battle in racing’s Mid-Summer Derby – The Travers? And, will another Graded Stakes posttime favorite fall victim to the Grim Reaper’s and his posse of diggers that are forever on call at the Saratoga Graveyard? Twenty-two colts were nominated this year’s edition of The Travers, including Preakness winner Exaggerator and Belmont winner Creator. Twenty-two will not meet the starter. In fact, over the last twenty years field size for The Travers has been as short as six (2006 won by Bernardini)
to as many as 12 (2008 won by Colonel John). Field size is always important. The shorter the field, the less likely traffic trouble to compromise chances of winning. Over the last twenty years, five post-time favorites have managed to win The Travers. That’s 25 percent - in a game where the overall average is 30-33 percent and where, as of this writing, favorites at this Saratoga meeting are winning 38 percent. Why DO favorites lose in The Travers more often? There are several reasons: First, not all favorites are equal. Some are strong, solid and legitimate. Most are vulnerable. And still others are just false. But solid, strong, legitimate favorites lose too, especially in graded stakes. Second, race dynamics or the pace shape of the race, can compromise the favorite. Third, in an attempt to keep the “best horse” in the race out of traffic trouble, favorites are often taken wide and kept racing wide around the track, covering more ground than others. Trakus, a feature at NYRA tracks, uses GPS to record distance traveled. By Trakus standards, eight feet of
extra ground travelled is equal to a length. Travelling thirty-two feet more translates to eight lengths. That is significant in a game of where nostrils often separate winners from non-winners. Fourth, favorites encounter traffic troubles. Troubles might start at the break if rivals veer in or out into other horses or at any time during the running of a race. And, finally, Thoroughbreds are not machines; even the machines at NASCAR break down. American Pharoah was a legitimate favorite in 2015 in a field of 10. American Pharoah, in my opinion, was defeated by race dynamics and trip. In all his previous races, this colt raced either on the lead clear of rivals or outside horses and in the clear. Frosted’s jockey Jose Lezcano, subbing for the injured Joel Rosario, under instructions or on his own, did not allow American Pharoah to clear. Additionally, Lezcano, displaying legendary Angel Cordero-era race riding, pinned him against the rail. American Pharoah never raced under these conditions. He handled it, battling throughout. He put Frosted away but the effort took its toll. He was
unable to hold off closing long shot Keen Ice (5th choice in the wagering at 16-1), who experienced a perfect trip and was the beneficiary of the race dynamics. Upset. In 2015, also a field of 10, Bob Baffert’s Bayern and Jimmy Jerkens’ Wicked Strong were cofavored at 5-2. Bayern appeared vulnerable following a decisive win in the Haskell at Monmouth Park. Questions about how much that effort took out of him and whether or not he could repeat it on short rest were answered when he finished last. The chart caller had co-favorite Wicked Strong “five-wide into the backstretch, forwardly placed outside…and three-wide on the final turn and into the stretch…” Wicked Strong and jockey Rajiv Maragh did not see stable mate and rival V.E.Day (sixth choice in the wagering at 19-1) and Javier Castellano rallying along the inside. Castellano saved all the ground; Maragh took the overland route giving up several lengths. Upset. The 2013 edition brought a field of 9 to the starter. Todd Pletcher’s Verrazano went favored, with Belmont Winner and stable mate Palace Malice second choice at 5-2, and
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
WINNER’S
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Odds Rank of the Four Finishers 2006-2015 Year
American Pharoah arrives at Saratoga in advance of the 2015 Travers. Photo by Sharon Castro
Kentucky Derby winner Orb at 3-1. Eric Guillot’s speedball Moreno (eighth choice in the wagering at 31-1) dictated race dynamics that compromised Verrazano. Palace Malice stumbled at the start and lost his chance. Orb’s overall health and form were suspect after the Derby. Deep closer Will Take Charge (fourth choice in the wagering at 9-1) enjoyed a perfect trip behind the strong pace set by Moreno, saved ground, angled out in the stretch and was just up to nail that rival on the wire. Upset. Favored Alpha (5-2) won the 2012 Travers over a field of 10 rivals. Or did he? Well, yes and no. That day, Golden Ticket (eighth choice in the betting at 33-1), an also ran in that year’s Kentucky Derby, managed to dead-heat with Alpha for the win. Upset…sorta.
Favorites, even solid, legitimate favorites, lose. Stuff happens. So, in The Travers Stakes, when favorites lose, which horse wins? The winner is often looking at you from the odds board. Since 1996, in nineteen of the twenty editions of The Travers, the winner has been ranked sixth choice or lower in the betting, the exception is Golden Ticket’s dead heat win with Alpha, ranked eighth choice in 2012. Nine of the last twenty editions have been won by five post time favorites, or four second choices. That is 45 percent won by the “chalks.” But when the chalks lose, the eraser is usually found among mid-priced horses ranked with the narrow range of third to sixth betting choices. A way to consider playing if you are looking for an upset winner in the 2016 Travers, is
to wait until the money shows on the odds board. Depending on the size of the field, concentrate on choices four through six. Make a few small win bets on potential double-digit returns. Make modest exactas using the race favorites with your win choices. 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
Rank
Field Size
2015 5-1-3-4 10 2014 6-4-2-5 10 2013 4-8-3-2 9 2012 8-1-7-5 11 (DEAD HEAT) 2011 1-6-9-4 10 2010 6-3-4-11 11 2009 2-7-1-3 7 2008 2-3-1-4 12 2007 1-4-7-2 7 2006 1-2-6-5 6 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 August 26– September 1, 2016
Raucci’s Corner
The Collector: The Travers, The Trophy and a Tale of the Turf by Joseph Raucci, as told to Arthur Gonick Saratoga TODAY The Travers Stakes will be contested Saturday, a prestigious event that dates back to 1864. Its roots would coincide
with General William Tecumseh Sherman’s siege of Atlanta that was being contested just about a thousand miles south of here that summer. The race itself over the years has become an event for three-year-old colts that is surpassed only by the three legs of
the Triple Crown. It has seen the greats such as the incomparable Man O’ War. He took it in 1920. The 1941 winner Whirlaway - the only colt to win both the Triple Crown and Travers. Then in 1953 it would be Alfred G. Vanderbilt’s gray ghost – Native Dancer who now owns his own special place at the end of Union Avenue. 1957 and Gallant Man. And gallant he was as he shined here under the watchful eyes of the great Johnny Nerud. 1959 would bring another dancer. This one Sword Dancer a name high on the list of champions. 1962 would be the year of Jaipur and Ridan. One of the greatest head-tohead battles in the history of the sport. Jaipur would prevail by a hair and track announcer Fred Capposella would make his name synonymous with the art of race calling. 1966 and ‘67 would see back-toback all time greats— Ogden Phipps’ Buckpasser in ‘66. And the next year – the last of the Woodward’s line of champions - the spectacular Damascus. It would continue with Horse of the year Arts And Letters to end the 1960s.
1978 would see the pinnacle of this race. Affirmed and Alydar fresh off their Triple Crown duels would meet for the last time. The back-to-back Horse of The Year Affirmed would take it... only to hand it over to his archrival Alydar on a disqualification that would sour the day’s festivities. The 80s would see the likes of Chief ’s Crown, Forty Niner. Another Phipps great, one of my favorites, Easy Goer. Then, in the last decade of the century it would be a champion to remember --Holy Bull in 1994. The new Millennium would bring us another with Point Given in 2001. A champ who made it look easy ‘laying the points, so to speak. And how about Saratoga’s own Mary Lou Whitney getting hers with Birdstone in 2008. And last, though surely not least, is last year’s rendition. We asked and begged for it. And the twelfth Triple Crown Champion gave us our dream. Bob Baffert brought American Pharoah to the mecca of “The Sport Of Kings.” For two days his fans were able to be a part of the spectacle. On Friday, he would work
out on the main track where fifteen thousand would attend the morning extravaganza. Then on Saturday the old stands would again rumble as they do when the immortals race here. The Pharoah would take to the track to go after the prize that dangled a mile and a quarter away. It was not to be. Although he put on a gallant effort, it would be Keen Ice that would prevail. A stunned crowd lingered in silence as they witnessed another victim of “The Graveyard of Champions”. Pharoah would go on to win The Breeders’ Cup and a walkover to Horse Of The Year Honors. And so it continues. Other great names and giant killers will make their way here. With the hope that they too can make their way to the Winners Circle. And take with it the coveted Man O’ War Cup that is so cherished as a lasting memento of this, The Travers Stakes. The Man O’ War Cup The trophy for the Travers Stakes dates back to 1920. It was produced by Tiffany & Company to be given to the winner of the great match race that was to be contested at Kenilworth Racetrack in
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
Ontario, Canada. It would bring together the 1919 Triple Crown Winner –Sir Barton and none other than a synonym for perfection – the immortal Man O’ War. The gold trophy and the unheard of at the time purse of one hundred thousand dollars would await the victor. Man O’ War would easily get the best of his worthy rival. And with that the above mentioned cup and purse money, Mrs. Samuel Riddle, whose husband was the owner of this great champion, presented the cup to the Saratoga Association to be the permanent trophy for the Travers Stakes.
WINNER’S
It is brought out to be viewed by the fans on Travers Day as the presentations are being made to the connections of the winner. It is treated with the kind of respect here that one would expect to see at the Tower Of London where the Crown Jewels are displayed. For the owner of the winner, though: A smaller sterling silver with gold plate version that is theirs to keep. The older ones are not an exact copy of the original. Yet they are similar and quite attractive in their own right, as shown on these pages (see also back page).
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The 1949 rendition was won by a Canadian owned colt by the name Arise –a hard hitter who won his share of races. And from the looks of things he surely arose that August day. Piloted by Con Errico. This was the biggest win of his not so stellar career. Arise did go on to win the 1951 Monmouth Handicap. Later, he was elected to the Canadian Horse Racing Hall Of Fame. This newer version of the owner’s trophy is an exact smaller version of the permanent one. I can’t give you a time frame of when this change took place. It would be my guess sometime in the late 20th century. Both versions are quite stunning, however. I hope that Saturday some of you who read this get close enough to see the presentation of the cup. It will be a chore. And yet one that is well worth the effort. Buckpasser I am going to personalize this 1966 running of The Travers Stakes. Not only is it my favorite one - my all time favorite horse, Buckpasser, won it. It was also a hands-on experience for me-I will set the stage. I was fourteen going on ten. My brother Pat was working
for Allied Maintenance, a company that had the not-sogreat distinction of keeping the grandstands clean on racing days. Anyway, Pat came home for lunch that Travers Day. He told my mother that his boss, Vlastemil Bilek - you heard it right – someone Mr. Bilek knew needed a helper for the day. My brother asked my mother if I could do it. Mom said it was okay. So Pat and I walked to the track and Vlastemil was waiting for us at the grandstand gate. Here we met a man who introduced himself as a photographer for Sports Illustrated. He brought me to the clubhouse where he proceeded to go directly to the $50 window. They were in a small area in the corner on the first floor. When he was finished betting he took me upstairs, where we walked and climbed a series of stairways and walkways. We ended up on top of the clubhouse. He brought me to a camera that looked like an antiaircraft gun to me at the time. He explained that when the horses hit the top of the stretch
during the running of the Travers, I should look through the lens, hit a button and the camera would take pictures as I followed the leader down the stretch. OK, I thought - this will be easy. That is, until the sight of the horses making the far turn became reality. I froze. The camera probably took a hundred pictures of the top of the stretch.. I was a complete failure in my first job. Now it was time to meet him at the same spot – that $50 window area after the race. I dejectedly made my way down the stairs and walkways. The photographer was waiting for me. He asked me how things went. I humbly nodded my head. He pulled out this big bankroll and handed me a 100 dollar bill! I had never seen one before. I took it. Did I regret taking it? No… Well, maybe a little.. What I still regret is not seeing the great Buckpasser win the race.
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CIRCLE
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
B.E.S.T Says “Be our Guest”
by Nikia Harris for Saratoga TODAY
SARATOGA SPRINGS – I watched a number of volunteers set the tables, and lyrics of a song from ‘Beauty and the Beast’ started playing in my head, when I walked up to the banquet tent that was set up for over 500 NYRA workers on Sunday, August 21. “Be our guest, be our guest, put our service to the test. Tie your napkin round your neck Cherie, and we provide the rest”. That’s exactly what B.E.S.T does for over 7,000 workers here at the Saratoga Race Track, and also at downstate tracks during the racing meets.
B.E.S.T stands for Backstretch Employment Service Team and what surprised me, was that there were only ten main people who oversee the organization of the nonprofit program that is located onsite. The night’s menu consisted of Good Old Southern Comfort food, catered by Panza’s. The workers seemed to come and go throughout different times of the night. Because of his or her varying workloads, it was hard to have everyone under the same roof at the same time. The organization works closely with the Saratoga community, accepting donations from Grace Fellowship Church and other contributors year-round to fill their
“clothing store,” which is made up of necessities the dedicated workers may need - such as sneakers, jackets, and winter items, because even though we only see these workers for six summer weeks of track season, The horses and trainers stay in the stables up until November and it gets mighty brisk at 3 a.m. while they are out in the crisp morning air greeting their favorite equine. When the going gets tough for the exercise riders or hot-walkers, and their bodies start to ache, they have the ability to see a chiropractor on the weekends, and also practice Yoga and acupuncture. These services are sub-contracted through Saratoga Hospital. There
is a clinic on site, so workers do not have to go far in order to get the help they need. In the Recreational center there are pool tables lined up in the main area, and to the right there is a hallway leading to offices where workers can sign up for medical insurance, also get their teeth cleaned, and eyes examined. I spoke to B.E.S.T’s Executive Director, Paul Ruchames, and he made it clear that the reason behind these benefits is to show appreciation. “No one is left behind here, this is a community within our community, and along with the trainers/workers, B.E.S.T stands
‘Groom of the Day’ is a B.E.S.T. program stewarded by John Hendrickson. Photo by Adam Coglianese/NYRA
Marylou Whitney and John Hendrickson come to as many Sunday dinners as possible. Photos provided.
A worker receives care at the B.E.S.T. clinic. Photo Provided.
by them 100 percent,” he said. In fact, the track is what makes all of our ‘worlds go around’ here in the Capital Region. Without it, and the people who do the work, we wouldn’t be who we are. But a lot of people do not know the work involved with keeping the track and horses up to par. B.E.S.T. does, and will continue to do so. They have arranged for anyone working with them who has substance abuse issues to seek the proper care from therapists that offer services, and even have weekly AA meetings in hopes to keep the workers ‘on the right track’. The medical programs teach workers about prevention, and awareness of their bodies, and are constantly reminding them to take it easy; that it’s not OK to push yourself to the limit, even though most of them do because it is in their nature. Paul and I spoke briefly of John Hendrickson’s program called “Groom of the day” which promotes groomsmen that participate in every fifth race. They are spotlighted because of all their hard work – usually behind the scenes. The audience often just sees the payoff when the horse is out there strutting its stuff. Mr. Hendrickson wanted to let the grooms know that their dedication is not unseen – it is appreciated. And really, everything about B.E.S.T. offers praise to diversity. Without these workers, there wouldn’t be a Race Track, and these Dinners are one of many ways that B.E.S.T reminds them that their work isn’t small. It is essential. I left Sunday’s dinner with a smile. Because I knew a little bit more about being behind the scene at the racetrack, and I have never met so many honest, hardworking people who loved their jobs so much. They eat, breathe, and sleep racetrack life, and the ones I spoke with were truly grateful for the B.E.S.T services that are offered to them. I could only imagine being away from my family for months at a time having to “work like a horse” in order to provide. We should all raise a glass to B.E.S.T, for being a caring organization that makes the dinners less of a “soup kitchen” but rather one of many benefits to thank the NYRA workers on a weekly basis.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
SPORTS 53
Ryan Lochte: Can He Recover From His Fib?
by Damian Fantauzzi for Saratoga TODAY Here are a few famous sports personalities who are viewed as infamous athletes, because they were caught in a lie, or finally admitted their guilt: Marion Jones was the most heralded women’s track and field athlete in the world at the start of this century, winning five medals at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. But when the investigation into the BALCO performance-enhancing drug scandal erupted in 2002, Jones was caught in the crosshairs. BALCO founder Victor Conte named Jones as one of his clients during a 2003 interview, also implicating her former boyfriend, sprinter Tim Montgomery. Assistant U.S. attorney and federal agent, Jeff Novitzky - interviewed Jones but she lied about her involvement with BALCO. She continued to deny using PEDs until finally admitting in October 2007 that she began using steroids just before the start of the 2000 Games. She was stripped of her five Olympic medals from 2000 and officially retired from the sport. Tammy Thomas wasn’t yet a household name in the world of cycling, but she became a well-known figure in the BALCO scandal, mostly because she was the first athlete to go to trial as a result of the steroid distribution ring. Thomas also was accused of lying to a federal agent in 2003, which hindered and delayed the investigation into other participants in the scandal. Thomas already had been banned for life from cycling after the performance-enhancing drug Norbolethone was detected in her urine in August 2002. Some of the most damning evidence prosecutors had on Thomas were medical records that revealed she had grown a full beard and experienced dramatic voice changes. According to testimony during her
trial, Thomas seemed to be in the middle of shaving her face when an Olympic drug tester made an unannounced visit to her home in 2002. Thomas became the ninth BALCO figure to be convicted, but got off with six months’ home confinement and five years’ probation. Pete Rose didn’t veer from his story that he never bet on baseball as a player or manager until 2004, when he admitted to making wagers as manager of the Cincinnati Reds. “That was my mistake for not coming clean a lot earlier,” Rose told ABC News three days before the release of his autobiography, “My Prison Without Bars,” in which he details his addiction to gambling. Rose insisted he never bet on baseball as a player, but MLB’s alltime hits leader was undone with that claim in 2015 as well. ESPN’s Outside the Lines obtained documents that showed Rose – while still a player – bet thousands of dollars on games involving every MLB team. Rose finally admitted, after 15 years of denial, that he bet on baseball, but never on, or against his team. Tiger Woods won 14 majors between 1997 and 2008, putting him well on pace to break the record of 18 by Jack Nicklaus. But his personal life and golf game seemed to fall apart around the same time of his November 2009 automobile crash in front of his Florida mansion. That widely publicized incident opened a tightly closed door to Woods’ extramarital life that led to his divorce from Elin Nordegren less than a year later and might have affected his mental edge, as he hasn’t won a major championship since. “When you’re living a life that is a lie, life isn’t fun,” Woods said before the 2010 Masters. Nordegren’s words were much harsher when she gave her first interview a few months later, telling People magazine she felt “stupid” for not catching on sooner to his lies and infidelity. “The word betrayal isn’t strong enough,” she said. “I felt like my whole world had fallen apart. It seemed that my world as I thought it was had never existed. I felt embarrassed for having been so deceived.” We all know about Lance Armstrong by this point. While there’s no denying whatsoever that Armstrong did beat cancer (and, to his credit, raised millions for research afterwards), his unprecedented seven consecutive Tour de France titles were stripped when it was revealed that he too was taking performance
enhancing drugs. Despite continuing to raise funds for cancer research, the lie became Armstrong’s legacy, with many still calling his deceit unforgivable. For what it’s worth also, his legacy is forever ruined. Unfortunately, the Ryan Lochte scandal has become one of the biggest stories out of the Rio Olympics. He has been beat down by the American press for telling a lie that he was held at gunpoint. He admitted to his “immature” fabrication about the incident. He has been called all sorts of things by the media: stupid, privileged, a spoiled rich kid, and an national embarrassment and has been ridiculed on national TV by people like Al Roker and Matt Lauer, to name a few. He has also publically apologized to the Olympic Committee, Rio, his teammates and America. All is good, but note the difference in the example of the defamed athletes above. These people committed a crime to their sport by doing illegal acts, like taking performance enhancing drugs, or cheating on their spouse (a crime against the institution of marriage), and broke the rules. There will be the stigma of shame over Lochte’s head for years to come. But his acts, compared
what the others’ did, were minor and immature. Just like the kid who stole a pack of gum, denied it and blamed his friends. Or, like the kid who knocked down the neighbor’s bird feeder, as a prank, and denied doing so, even though the neighbor saw him do it from the window. No one was injured, there was repairable damage done to property, nothing was life threatening, there wasn’t a drug deal. The whole thing was an immature act that should fade into the Olympic archives. I don’t understand why it has become such a huge media steamroller. Is he a white rich kid who did something stupid? Unfortunately for him, yes! He will obviously pay for his mistake, but will it affect his life? I doubt it; he only lost one endorsement so far. He comes from a wealthy family, and after he does the right thing, with the many apologies, life will go on for him, whether he learned a lesson or not. So, game over! The 2016 Summer Olympics was a credit to Rio; all went well, with little problem. Despite all of the bad press that Rio and the Olympic Committee endured, the games were a great success. The biggest story should be about the athletes, and not only the Americans, but the way these stars of aquatics, track and field, gymnastics,
volleyball, basketball, golf, tennis, judo, wrestling, boxing and the many more athletic disciplines that were preformed in one place, 42 in total. The 121 medals the USA earned is the big story. This past Monday, I was watching one of the daily morning shows; their first Olympic topic was about Ryan Lochte. I found it disturbing that with what our athletes accomplished, that Lochte’s “little spoiled boy” act got top billing. My hat goes off to all of our athletes, medal or no medal, 99.8 percent of those who participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics did their country proud. Yahoo Sports stated that we will remember a series of historical firsts: a first-time Olympian winning four gold medals, a first-ever Olympic team composed of refugee athletes, the first African American athlete to take home an individual medal in Olympic swimming, and a first gold medal for the host nation in the one sport it values above all others. And, with athletes like Phelps, Allyson Felix, and Bolt taking their final Olympic bows, and behindthe-scenes greats like Marta Karolyi and Coach K also stepping down after Rio. Just maybe, Rio might have hosted the best Olympics ever!
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ALBANY — On Saturday, August 13, Mike DeAnzeris of Embrace The Race appeared on WNYT NewsChannel 13 to talk about his clothing line inspired by Saratoga horse racing culture. “We are moved by the enthusiasm with which our customers and fans wear and
share EMBRACE THE RACE®! Thanks to these ambassadors, NBC took notice and invited us to share the celebratory message of our brand and the Horse Racing Lifestyle. The response to the segment has been outstanding and we’re truly grateful for the opportunity,” said Mike DeAnzeris,
President/Founder. Founded and based in Saratoga Springs, EMBRACE THE RACE® is the exclusive provider of The Apparel for the Horse Racing Lifestyle® and The Official Apparel of Horse Racing®. They have customers in all 50 states and 5 countries around the globe.
54
SPORTS
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
COMMUNITY SPORTS BULLETIN 2016 Saratoga Blue Devil Baseball Tryouts 14-15U for Fall 2016/ Summer2017 When: Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 10am 12pm Where: Geyser Baseball (Big) Field. Geyser Park. Directions: Northway to exit 13n, get on route 9 north. Turn left at Ave. of the Pines (SPAC entrance) Go thru the park and you will come to a light at intersection of route 50. Straight thru the light onto Geyser Road. You will go over a railroad overpass then turn right at the light and a quick left onto Adams Road, parking lot will be 200 yards down on your left. For more information, call Jerry Faiola (518-728-5413) or email at jerryfaiola9@gmail.com
JR NBA REGISTRATION AT GAVIN PARK WILTON - Gavin Park’s highly successful youth basketball league is gearing up for another great season of Jr. NBA. This recreational program is open to boys and girls grades 2 through 10. All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome, and everyone receives equal playing time. The league is divided into four groups: grades 2-3, grades 4-5, grades 6-7, and grades 8-10, (based upon the grade which the child will enter for the 20162017 school year). Placement dates are scheduled for October
3 through October 6. Once the child is assigned to a coach, the team is scheduled for one practice per week, on the same night and time, for one hour. Assigned practice times run from 5 - 8:30 p.m. Practice begins the week of October 17. Games begin November 5. All games will take place on Saturdays, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., at Gavin Park. Players must attend a minimum of 7 practices and 6 games to participate in the tournament. Registration for Wilton residents is open now & non-resident registration begins August 29. The deadline to register is September 30. The cost is $125 for Wilton residents, $165 for Saratoga Springs City School District residents, and $175 for all others. The cost includes a full uniform. Gavin Park is located at 10 Lewis Drive in the Town of Wilton. Registration may be completed online at: www.townofwilton.com, or in person at the Gavin Park Office. Questions may be answered by calling the park office at (518) 584-9455.
Still Time to Make a Big Splash! Gavin Splash Park Fees: $2/Wilton Residents* $5/Non-Wilton Residents *Proof of residency required (license, utility bill, tax document, etc) Children 2 and under are free with paying adult There is
no fee for supervising parents/ guardians who are not utilizing the wet area of the Splash Park. HOURS: 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Maximum of 135 Splash Park users on the wet surface at any one time. DAILY HOURS UPDATES AND CLOSINGS CAN BE FOUND ON THE GAVIN PARK FACEBOOK PAGE or by calling (518) 584-9455 The Splash Park will be CLOSED during bad weather. In the case of thunder/lightning, the Splash Park will close immediately, and patrons will be asked to leave. No refunds will be issued.
YO! Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratogapublishing.com
Saratoga Fall Youth Field Hockey Program 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
Puzzle solutions from pg. 30 Send your sports stories or briefs to Arthur Gonick, Sports Editor at arthur@saratoga publishing.com
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
Fall Youth Beginner Tennis Lessons at Gavin Park Open to ages 7-10. Learn the basic skills of tennis. Program takes place on our tennis courts. In the event of rain, the program will be held in our gym. Tennis rackets available for use. Registration ends Sept. 19. Minimum 8 people; Maximum 12 Register online: https:// apm.activecommunities.com/ wiltonrecreation/
Fall Youth Rugby Dates: September 11 October 30 Location: Saratoga Rugby Grounds (5 Clement Ave) Ages: 6-13 (Boys and Girls) Times: Sundays 1 - 2:30 p.m. Registration Link: https:// saratogarugby.org/youth/ Facebook Page: https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / groups/1477271199192594/ PROGRAM OVERVIEW: Welcome to the new and most exciting Olympic Sport! The
Youth Rugby program follows the same safe guidelines and principles as other youth programs around the world. This non-contact variation of rugby introduces all types of athletes to the fastest growing sport in all of America! Over the course of the program, participants will learn the fundamental components and rules of the sport, as well as progress to flag variation game models. Rugby incorporates skill components of many popular sports (soccer, basketball, lacrosse, football). This global emphasis of sportsmanship and comraderie in the game of rugby is taught and implemented in this program. The program is run, coached and part of Saratoga Rugby Club!
Saratoga Springs Recreation Department 2016 Fall Indoor Floor Hockey Registration Underway This introductory program is open to children ages 6-12 and will run from September 12-October 17. Sign up at the Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue. Early Bird registration ends October 11. Visit www. SaratogaRec.com for more information. Or Contact us: 518-5873550 x2300 or email recreservations@saratogasprings.org.
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
SPORTS 55
Rodger That: Spot On! Continued from page 37. Songbird won by 5 ¼ lengths) was good enough to convince me. I expect that she will smash a similar field in the Alabama,” he said. (Songbird took that one the next day by seven lengths at odds on). “Number two. It’s Chad Brown’s Connected. Primed for the Travers (as of press time, second morning line choice to Exaggerator at 4-1). Coming into this beautifully. And number three… well, what’s wrong with Frosted? Not a thing! We tend to overlook him because he will only race once at Saratoga (a Grade I Whitney Handicap victory) and this meet is geared to the 2 and 3-year olds. I wish he would try the Woodward,
but his next race will be the Jockey Club Gold Cup, then, hopefully on to the Breeders’ Cup.” So how about one longshot Travers pick before we sign off? “I’ll take Laoban. A longshot (15-1 in that same morning line) - but maybe not really. He broke his maiden in the Jim Dandy (July 30), first win in six starts - at 27-1, however. So we’ll see. I’m partial to his trainer, Eric Guillot. I visited his barn a while back, and he had this whole voodoo set-up with an opposing trainer’s head on it. Hard to go against voodoo,” Rodger said laughing. “What a character.” “So let’s go with the Connected/Laoban exacta. Bet it big and call it a day!” Looking forward, we promised to discuss High School
football once it started rolling, and in September, he was looking forward to promoting a golf tournament at Orchard Creek Country Club to benefit the Thomas Patrick Morrison Foundation, named after a
two-year old child who succumbed and passed on January 20, 2006, as a result of a mitochondrial disorder. Rodger also recently concluded a soccer camp that benefitted the foundation. We’ll be happy to help
promote the tournament when details are finalized. It’s a no-brainer to do right by a person’s most near-and-dear cause, particularly when that person has spent decades doing the right thing in our market.
Volume 11 • Issue 34
Rodger Wyland pg. 36
FREE
Week of August 26– September 1, 2016
SPORTS
Community Sports Bulletin pg. 54
147th Travers: 14 Race for Victory
Photo by MarkBolles.com
Complete Coverage in Winners Circle Pages 45-52