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Volume 7 • Issue 2 SaratogaPublishing.com
Back to Basics Low-Tech Education in a High-Tech World by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS – At what point is technology appropriate to introduce to young, developing minds? As some schools rush to arm their students each with their own iPad, replace chalkboards with SMART boards and television screens to create an interactive, technologicallydriven educational experience, others
like the Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs favor interactions between teachers and students over interactive experiences between students and computer screens. The use of technology in schools, especially as such technology becomes cheaper and easier for districts to acquire, has become more commonplace with each passing day. But for parents like Douglas Reamer, who worked for the State
See Local page 11
Rottie Rescue! Saving Lives Four Paws at a Time by Christina James Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS- An innovative group of animal lovers is taking on a pretty daunting task: changing public opinion. Tina Hudson, Darryl Saunders, Tom Lange, Lori Fallon and Jami Nazzaro make up Rottie Empire Rescue (RER), an agency that is giving hope to hundreds of shelter dogs and shedding a new light on some public misconceptions.
RER adopts dogs that are typically hard to find homes for - dogs with physical limitations like amputated limbs; anxiety from a lifetime of abuse; or bad reputations, like a rottweiler or a pit bull. After receiving these dogs from area shelters, emergency rescue operations or unsatisfactory owners, RER does a lot more than toss them into a cage and cross their fingers. “We do not board dogs,” said RER
11th Annual Mardi Gras This Weekend! pg 25
See Rottweiler page 5
Inside TODAY...
Fire Station Burns Residents Malta Homeowners Protest Proposed Midtown Location by Barb Cook Saratoga TODAY MALTA – A proposed midtown fire station is the hot topic in Malta. The fire department has a list of reasons for choosing a Dunning Street location, but residents say they want to “live in a forest” and their forest is rapidly disappearing. Donna Kessler has lived in the Luther Forest neighborhood for 28
years. Her backyard abuts the fouracre parcel that the Fire Companies of Malta are eyeing for the midtown station. If built, the fire station parking lot would be 75 feet from her property line. She said that’s not enough of a buffer. “It just doesn’t fit in the environment there; it’s a residential area,” Kessler asserted. Richard Guerin, grant manager and
pgs 12-19
Obituaries pgs 6-7 Business
pg 8
Education pg 9 Pulse
pgs 22-25
See Fire Station page 10
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Friday, January 13, 2012
TODAY
Local Author Leads Students Down the Winding Trail
photos by MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
Storyteller James Bruchac engages with students at Dorothy Nolan Elementary School
by Mark Bolles Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS Local author, storyteller and
wilderness educator James Bruchac told tall tales to students at Dorothy Nolan Elementary School on Wednesday, January 11. The children were captivated by James’ animated and embellished stories of How Chipmunk Got His Stripes and Racoon's Last Race. Mr. Bruchac also shared his real life experiences as an expert animal tracker complete with stunning examples of animal tracks he cast himself.
SARATOGA
TODAY
BLOTTER
Friday, January 13, 2012
Kim J. Hein, 37, of 16 Meehan Rd., Mechanicville, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Hein was arrested November 4 in Mechanicville and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing March 1.
Brad A. Bova, 32, address unknown, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-B felony. Bova was arrested April 12 in Saratoga Springs and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing February 28.
George L. Sperow, 54, of 3901 Lewis Rd., Apt. 99, Milton, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Sperow was arrested August 28 in Milton and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing February 28.
Jennifer L. Samuel, 33, pleaded guilty to a charge of third-degree attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, a class-C felony. Samuel was arrested in Saratoga Springs for incidents that occurred February 10 and May 17 and was sentenced to one and a half years in state prison and one year post release supervision.
Christopher D. Barnes, 32, of 417 Northern Pines Rd., Lot 31, Gansevoort, pleaded guilty to a charge of first-degree criminal contempt, a class-E felony. Barnes was arrested September 9 in Wilton and was sentenced to six months in Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation. Corey R. Coulter, 43, of 106 Grenadier Court, Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Coulter was arrested July 1 in Halfmoon and was sentenced to five years of probation and ignition interlock device. Katrina J. Piterniak, 25, of 13 New Castle Rd., Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle, a class-E felony. Piterniak was arrested May 31 in Halfmoon and was sentenced to five years of probation and ignition interlock device.
Randall A. Hait, 39, of 145 3rd Ave., Mechanicville, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Hait was arrested December 9 in Mechanicville and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing March 1. Anthony D. Medaglia, 38, of 430 Route 146, #182, Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-D felony. Medaglia was arrested August 13 in Saratoga Springs and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing February 27.
year in Saratoga County Jail. Jennifer B. Fisher, 39, of 110 Jack Halloran Rd., Stillwater, pleaded guilty to a charge of seconddegree vehicular assault, a class-E felony. Fisher was arrested May 20 in Stillwater and is scheduled to return to court for sentencing March 1. Laurie A. Fletcher, 36, of 82 Stewart Bridge Rd., Hadley, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Fletcher was arrested July 30 in Hadley for an incident that occurred July 29 and was is scheduled to return to court for sentencing March 1. Joseph P. Lynch, 28, of 5 Merion Ave., Clifton Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Lynch was arrested June 24 in Malta and was sentenced to five years of probation and ignition interlock device. Michelle M. Eastridge, 31, of P.O. Box 230, Dover Plains, pleaded guilty to a charge of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony. Eastridge was arrested September 14 in Saratoga Springs and was sentenced to time served, five years of
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probation and ignition interlock device. Paul E. Etzel, 29, of 201 Rockhaven Rd., Middle Grove, was resentenced December 20 by Judge Jerry Scarano to enlarged conditions of probation to include drug treatment court. Etzel was originally convicted December 22, 2008, of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he had been sentenced to time served and five years of probation.
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Patrick J. Burch, 28, of 1251 Fort Miller Rd., Ft. Edward, was resentenced December 19 by Judge Jerry Scarano to nine months in Saratoga County Jail with credit for time served and probation terminated. Burch was originally convicted May 6, 2010, of driving while intoxicated, a class-E felony, for which he had been sentenced to five days in Saratoga County Jail and five years of probation.
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Editorial Roger A. Hayden, 42, of 161 Maple Ave., Ballston Spa, pleaded guilty to charges of driving while intoxicated and first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, both class-E felonies. Hayden was arrested May 7 in Milton and was sentenced to one
Yael Goldman, Managing Editor Business/News 581-2480 x 214 news@saratogapublishing.com
Andrew Marshall Reporter
581-2480 x 203 amarshall@saratogapublishing.com Daniel Schechtman Sports, Education 581-2480 x 206 reporter@saratogapublishing.com
Christina James, Editorial Assistant Obituaries / Community Corner/Helping Hands 581-2480 x 213 cjames@saratogapublishing.com
Calendar & Briefs Christina James 581-2480 x 213 cjames@saratogapublishing.com
Photographer Mark Bolles 490-1757 mbolles@photoandgraphic.com
Columnist Meghan D. Lemery meghanlemery@yahoo.com
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WEEK IN REVIEW
New Year, New Members for Wilton Town Board WILTON – The Wilton Town Board met for the first time in the new year Thursday, January 5, welcoming new members John Lant and Steven Streicher into the fold, along with returning Councilmen Robert Pulsifer, Robert Rice and Supervisor Arthur Johnson. After voting last month to delay reappointments to various boards and authorities until the new members had been sworn in, Ethics Board member Shirley Jung and Planning Board member Brett Hebner were denied by a 3-2 margin each. In both cases, Lant and Johnson voted in favor of reappointment, while Pulsifer, Rice and Streicher voted against. Ron Slone was appointed to the Planning Board to take Hebner’s place, with Albert Mottau and Dean Kolligan reappointed to the Zoning Board and Scot Duffy reappointed to the Wilton Water and Sewer Authority. In other business, the board passed a resolution to demolish the vacant building at 425 Wilton-Gansevoort Rd., deemed a danger to public safety. The town has pursued the building’s demolition for months, and will move forward unless the owners follow through themselves and demolish the structure before January 31.
GlobalFoundries Begins Test Production of IBM Chip MALTA – GlobalFoundries and IBM announced Monday, January 9 that the semiconductor fab will manufacture an advanced computer chip for IBM. The chips are the first silicon product to be manufactured at GlobalFoundries’ advanced manufacturing facility, Fab 8, at the Luther Forest Technology Campus in Malta. With the announcement comes the expectation that GlobalFoundries will ramp to volume production in the second half of 2012. IBM recently began initial production of the powerful chip at its 300mm fab in East Fishkill, New York. Test chip production is already underway at GlobalFoundries, as the
fab prepares to take on its first announced customer in Malta. The chips are based on IBM’s 32nm, Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) technology, which was jointly developed with GlobalFoundries and other members of IBM’s Process Development Alliance. Early research was conducted at the University at Albany’s College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering. The technology vastly improves microprocessor performance in multi-core designs and speeds the movement of graphics in gaming, networking, and other image intensive, multi-media applications.
Man Charged for Stealing from Elderly Woman SARATOGA
SPRINGS
–
Authorities have arrested Nickolas D. Capone of Glens Falls on charges of second degree grand larceny, a classC felony. Capone is alleged to have stolen upward of $50,000 from an elderly woman, by using his role as power of attorney to redirect funds from the victim’s account to his own. Authorities believe this could have been going on since as far back as October of 2010, and continued until October of 2011. Capone was arraigned this week in Saratoga Springs City Court by the Hon. Judge Jeffery Wait before being taken to Saratoga County jail. He is being held without bail at this time. The victim is not a relative of Capone’s. The investigation is on-going and further charges against Capone could be forthcoming.
Apartment Site Approved SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Springs City Planning Board voted 5-1 in favor of a proposed apartment complex on the corner of Seward and Morgan streets last Wednesday, January 11. The plan calls for a 57-unit complex, with approximately 106 bedrooms. The proposal had been reviewed by the planning board seven times in the last year, and was finally approved following changes regarding parking and height of buildings.
Casino sees 11.7 Percent Increase
SARATOGA
Friday, January 13, 2012
SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Casino and Raceway (SCR) reported an overall increase in all source handle of 11.7 percent after the close of their 70th season late last year – this in the face of news that overall the industry declined 5.5 percent in wagering dollars for 2011. Wagering from simulcasting on thoroughbred and harness products, as well as on live racing, reached $61 million compared to $55 million in the previous year. According to John Matarazzo, director of racing operations at SCR, the substantial increase, which bucked the national trend, was a direct result of additional handle generated through their interactive wagering platform called SaratogaBets. Increases in wagering on the raceway’s live product in simulcasting outlets also played a part. "The influx of purse money through VLT’s has improved the quality of our product. It’s attracting better-quality race horses and top tier trainers and drivers. As a result, we have more global fan appeal," Matarazzo stated. Overall, handle was up 7 percent on products simulcasted into SCR as compared to 2010. SCR also showed a major increase in wagering on its own harness product through external simulcasting outlets. Handle from these outlets
TODAY
exceeded $24 million in 2011, up 25 percent from 2010. The raceway expects continued growth in 2012.
Driver Charged in Deadly Car Wreck BALLSTON SPA - Brian A Vecchio, 18, of Ballston Spa, was charged with six motor vehicle violations following the death of his passenger and local Ballston Spa teen, Noelle Sarah Johnsen. Johnsen died from her injuries after Vecchio’s truck crashed into a telephone pole Saturday, January 7. Charges against Vecchio include unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, crossing the double-yellow line, speed not reasonable or prudent and reckless driving. Vecchio’s father, Anthony Vecchio, was charged with permitting the unlicensed operation. See page 7 for Noelle Sarah Johnsen’s obituary.
Raceway Prepared Gambling Laws Change
if
SARATOGA SPRINGS - Saratoga Gaming and Raceway has plans for a $40 million expansion to include a new hotel, event venue and gaming floor if Las Vegas-style gambling laws are adopted in New York State. Governor Andrew Cuomo has recently called for a constitutional amendment that would permit table games staffed by dealers, in addition to the electronic gaming terminals. The changes could be years away, but the raceway has plans to be ready to start construction as soon as legally possible. If completed, the expansion would increase the size of the raceway by 40 percent, and would accommodate classic table games such as blackjack, roulette and craps. It is estimated that New York State gamblers spend nearly $3 billion in out-of-state casinos.
SARATOGA
TODAY
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Friday, January 13, 2012
Rottweiler Rescue continued from Page 1 President Tina Hudson. “[The dogs we have] don’t kennel well. They’re sensitive dogs. They don’t do well at shelters because they’re so loyal. They miss their people and they grieve.” Instead, RER finds foster homes for the dogs they take in, and that is where their adoption makeover begins. “We learn the dog’s mannerisms, address any triggers,” said Hudson. “If they aren’t crate trained, we crate train them. If they aren’t housebroken, we housebreak them.” Dogs that wouldn’t get a second glance at the area shelter are nurtured, groomed, respected and, most importantly, understood at an RER foster home. “When a ‘bully’ breed like a rottweiler is turned over to a shelter, odds are it will be euthanized,” said Hudson. “But [they are] the best breed of dog I’ve ever been involved with.” Although they are an extremely loyal, sensitive and intelligent breed, rottweilers are not typically wellknown for these characteristics. With large muscle mass and powerful jaws, rottweilers are usually portrayed as temperamental time bombs, just waiting to attack. Stereotypes like these keep RER hard at work; in fact, they’re the reason RER was formed in the first place. “I had been involved with rottie rescue for 10 years when I met
Bentley,” said Hudson. “He had two broken legs, was a dwarf, and the organization that I was working with wouldn’t put the money into him.” Bentley’s physical limitations, as well as the fact that he was a rottweiler, made him a hard-sell to area shelters. Paying for his medical expenses alone would be costly. No one wanted to invest in a dog that would more than likely end up un-adoptable. Why not just euthanize him now? Frustrated and tired of feeling helpless, Tina enlisted Tom Lange, and together, with Bentley, they decided to create their own rescue agency. And the rest, as they say, is history. Since their passionate beginning in 2010, Rottie Empire Rescue has saved countless dogs and their scope continues to widen. After a devastating tornado crippled Birmingham, Ala., RER was there to take 20 dogs back north to find homes; and in February of last year, when 200 rottweilers were seized in an animal cruelty case in Coryell County, Texas, RER took as many as they could. “One of the ‘Texas 200,’ Anya, tested positive for heartworm,” Hudson said. “So, we paid her medical bills and she was actually adopted out to the district attorney of Albany.” Extreme cases of abuse and neglect account for a good number of RER’s rescues and the rehabilitation and rehoming of these animals requires a lot of community help. “Without the support of the community, we are nothing,” said Hudson. “Benson’s Pet Center and Milton Manor provide us with so
much. Benson’s feeds our dogs and even holds a bottle drive to benefit us. Without them, we couldn’t operate.” “Saratoga is a dog-friendly town,” said RER Treasurer Tom Lange. “That’s why it was important for us to be here. We need the support and understanding of the community. Dogs need help everywhere; don’t breed or buy while thousands die. People need to make rescue their first choice.” For more information on how to adopt an RER dog or ways to volunteer your services, visit www.rottieempirerescue.com.
Photo Provided
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SARATOGA
OBITUARIES
Friday, January 13, 2012
Richard Owen Palmer
Glen Walter Smith Saratoga Springs, NY- Glen Walter Smith, 72, passed away Tuesday, December 20, 2011. Born March 22, 1939, in Ketchikan, Alaska, he was the son of the late Senator of Alaska Walter O. and Itha S. Winchell Smith. Glen is survived by his wife, Betty; son, Ted S. (Claudia) Smith; daughter, Tina C. (Teddy) Sechrist; sister, Ann M. Aus; grandchildren, Shaunna, Stacy, Ian and Skip; and greatgrandchildren, Malaya and Jacob. Funeral services were
held in his honor Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at the Saratoga Chapel, 359 East Line Rd., Ballston Spa. Interment will be at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, NY 12871. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Glen’s name to the Saratoga Chapel. Services are under the direction of Compassionate
Funeral
Care,
A private family service for Richard will be held at a later date. Services are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Richard’s name to Albany Medical Center for cancer research, 47 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208.
Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY
Kenneth D. Lantz
12866.
Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Alma C. Reilly Mechanicville, NY – Alma C. Reilly, 85, passed away Thursday, January 5, 2012. Born July 12, 1926, in Mechanicville, she was the daughter of the late Joseph G. and Ann (Hickey) Connors. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by a sister, Alice McMahon and two brothers, William T. Connors and Howard “Pete” Connors. Survivors include her loving husband of 62 years, Howard H. Reilly; nine children, Patrick, Thomas, Peter (Brenda), Daniel (Gail), Timothy (Diane), Erin Chaskey (Harold), Alice, Nora Neal (Geoff) and Michael; brothers and sisters, James G. Connors, Joan
Clifton Park, NY- Richard Owen Palmer, 68, passed away after a brief battle with Lymphoma and Leukemia cancer. Richard was born February 27, 1943, in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Richard and Lillian Filander Palmer. He is survived by his sons, Christopher, Douglas (Kate), Steven, Thomas (Michelle) and James (Jody) Palmer; 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
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Robert W. Coadney Galway, NY – Robert W. Coadney, 71, passed away Friday, January 6, 2012.A graveside service with military honors was held Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville.
TODAY
C. Guthinger, John H. Connors and Ellen Connors-Brown; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, January 9, 2012, at St. Mary’s Church, Milton Ave., Ballston Spa. Burial will be in the family plot at St. Paul’s Cemetery, Mechanicville. Donations may be made in Alma’s memory to the Saratoga Hospital Foundation, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Saratoga Springs, NY - Kenneth D. Lantz, 88, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Born September 24, 1923, Kenneth was the son of the late Durward and Helen (Place) Lantz. In addition to his parents, Kenneth was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Evelyn Anne Lantz. Survivors include three sons and their wives, Thomas D. (Andrea), James E.(Gail) and Richard J. (Carol) Lantz; 10 grandchildren, Jennifer, Thomas, Carrie, Jeffrey,
Patricia, Richard, Kenneth, Stephanie, Danielle and Andrea; and seven greatgrandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Friday, January 13, 2012, at St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Burial will follow at 11 a.m. at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville. Memorials may be made in Kenneth’s name to the charity of one's choice. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Rita R. Phillips Saratoga Springs, NY – Rita R. Phillips, 77, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2012. Born April 5, 1934, in North Adams, MA, she was the daughter of the late Ouilia and Mary (Petrie) Masson. In addition to her parents, Rita is predeceased by her husband George E. Phillips who passed away February 13, 2006. Survivors include her son, Randy (Debra) Phillips; grandchildren, Kyle and Brandi Phillips; sisters, Marlene Fondry and Gloria (James) Smith; and
great-granddaughter, Alyxandra Steepe. There will be no public calling hours. A graveside service was held Thursday, January 12, 2012, at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, (518) 584-5373. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
Agnes F. Day Saratoga Springs, NY- Agnes F. Day died Thursday, December 8, 2011. She was born February 20, 1920, in Passaic, NJ. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Lesko Biss. She was predeceased by sisters, Helen Biss, Rose King, Mary Paulfus, Julia Biss and Anna Helenek; and a brother, Joseph Biss. She is survived by her sons, Dennis and Eugene Day; granddaughter, Heather Day; brothers, Edward and
George (Marilyn) Biss; and sister, Emma Speidel. A memorial service was held Saturday, December 17, 2011. Services are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Saratoga Community Hospice, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
John W. Kraus Saratoga Springs, NY- John W. Kraus,
In lieu of flowers, donations may be
70, passed away January, 8, 2012, after
sent to The Community Hospice of
a short illness.
Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga
John was born August, 9, 1941, in Rochester, NY. He is survived by his loving wife,
Springs, NY 12866. Private family services will be held. Services are under the direction of
Linda; children, Kathleen Minniear,
Compassionate
Funeral
Care,
402
Paul Kraus and Julie Lynn Kraus; and
Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY
two grandchildren, Jake and Jaylyn.
12866.
SARATOGA
TODAY
OBITUARIES
Friday, January 13, 2012
Marvin Lee "Skip" Hoag Jr. Hudson Falls, NY Marvin Lee "Skip" Hoag Jr., 47, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 1, 2011, at his home, after a seven-year battle with brain cancer. Born March 23, 1964, in Glens Falls, NY, he was the first son of the late Marvin Lee Hoag Sr. and Vivian A. (Breault) Hoag Norton. Skip was predeceased by his father, Marvin Lee Hoag Sr.; grandmother, Miza Hoag; aunt, Miza Barnes; uncles, Steven and Duane Breault; aunt, Colleen Johnson; cousins, Walter Barnes and Kathleen Fenton; grandmother, Anna Ray; and grandfathers, Leonard Breault and Donald Hoag. Skip is survived by his daughter, Kayla Hoag;
mother, Vivian A. (Frederick) Norton; sisters, Mary Jane (Jack) Tifft, Bernadette A. Michael, Rebecca L. (Clarence) Thomas and Anne L. (Aaron) Gull; brothers, Edward F. (Connie) Hoag and Rolland G. (Olivia) Hoag; stepsisters, Mary (Paul) Miller, Susan
(Greg) Brown and Paula (Rodney) Hall; stepbrother, David (Kathy) Norton; aunts and uncles, Kathleen (Morris) Andrews, Mary (Walter) Evans, Mary Joseph, Dale Breault, Malcomb Breault, Kenny Breault, Arthur Breault, Leonard Breault and Tiny Hoag (Duane) Parry; nephews, Curtis, Matthew, Jonathan, Jacob, Joshua, Clarence Jr. (TJ), Tim, Kirk, Charles, Isaiah, Jordan and Jayden; and nieces, Ashley, Kerstin, Laura and Cassidy. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at St. Ann's Church, Fort Ann, NY. Burial will be at a later date. Services are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Duane O’Dell Saratoga Springs, NYDuane O’Dell, 49, passed away unexpectedly January 1, 2012, after an auto pedestrian accident on Route 9 in Saratoga Springs. Duane was born August 11, 1963, in Saratoga Springs, NY, to Leon J. O’Dell and Rosemarie Capone. He is survived by his mother, Rosemarie Betsch (Clayton Coonrood); brothers, Michael
Capone and Lee, Jeffrey and Mark O’Dell; sisters, Roseann (Donald) Aubin, Corine Irish and Brenda Sazio; and many other family and friends who loved him. A private family service for Duane will be held at a later date. Services are under the direction of Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in Duane’s memory to Compassionate Funeral Care
Saratoga County Deceased Veteran of the Month Harold Louie Stevens “He Paid the Price for Freedom.” The Saratoga County Veterans Service Agency has named Harold Louie Stevens the January 2012 Deceased Veteran of the Month. Stevens will be honored Tuesday, January 17 during a public ceremony. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. at 40 McMaster St. in Ballston Spa, and is followed by a reception. Stevens was enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1942-1944 and was attached to the 60th Division. He served in the Tank Corps during WWII and took part in the Invasion of Sicily and the D-Day invasion of Fortress Europe. Stevens, a 1942 Saratoga Springs High School graduate, was killed in action August 22, 1944, during the Battle of St. Lo, France. Stevens is survived by his sisters, Marlow O’Donnell, Betty Butterfield, Velma Wilson, Linda Budinger and Evelyn Hover; and his brother, Robert.
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Noelle Sarah Johnsen Ballston Spa, NY – Noelle Sarah Johnsen died in a car accident January 7, 2012. She had just turned 17 on December 27. Noelle is predeceased by her loving grandparents, Sarah (Minna) and Ed (Papa) Johnsen, Mildred (Nana) Johnsen and Jean (Gram) Franklin. Noelle is survived by her parents, Melody Scaia, Jim Hathaway and Eric and Sally Johnsen; stepsiblings, David, Shane and Nicole Hathaway; grandparents, Frank Scaia, John and Dale DeMartino, Papa and Mama Hathaway and Prather and Patricia Palmer; aunts and uncles, Eddie (Melissa) Johnsen, Jenn (Bob) Goodfellow, Cathie Joyce, Lori Johnsen, Carlos (Brandie) Calderon, Chris (Steph) Ward, Bob (Leah) Kane, Eric (Johnna) Guido, Kris Lee Scaia, Bonnie Scaia, Bonnie Barr and Thad (Mo) Palmer; cousins, Danitra and Scaia Calderon, Abby and Cheyenne Ward, Robert Kane III, Gianna Guido, Alex and Tiffany Scaia,
Kevin, Jess and Timmy Goodfellow, Christina and Margot Joyce, Keliann Kirby, Ryan and Brady Johnsen and Evan, Tallia and Cole Palmer. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday, January 12, 2012, at St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Contributions can be made to the Noelle Johnsen Memorial Fund at Saratoga National Bank & Trust Company, 91 West Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
To view the full-text version of the obituaries printed on this page, visit the archive section of www.SaratogaTodayNewspaper.com. It is the policy of Saratoga TODAY to publish obituaries as a service to our readers. Please send your obituaries to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com.
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BUSINESS
Saratoga TODAY Welcomes Andrew Marshall SARATOGA SPRINGS – Saratoga TODAY Newspaper is proud to announce that Andrew Marshall has joined our editorial team as a full-time reporter. Marshall began Monday, January 9, and will transition into the position of sports editor, as Daniel Schechtman takes over Pulse. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Andy to our team and look forward to introducing him to the members of communities we serve,” said Chad Beatty, publisher and owner of Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.” Marshall is an experienced sports
Adirondack Welcomes New Member
SBA Appointment SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Saratoga Builders Association (SBA) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Doug Winters to its 11-member
Friday, January 13, 2012
TODAY
Party-Planning Made Simple Business Plans Children’s Birthday Celebrations, Creates Ease of Mind for Parents by Yael Goldman Saratoga TODAY
and entertainment writer and blogger. His hobbies include playing golf, collecting vinyl records and reading. You can reach Andrew Marshall via phone at (518) 581-2480, ext. 206, or via email at amarshall@saratogapublishing.com.
Trust board. Winters, a Ballston Spa resBoard ident, is the owner of Spa City
SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Adirondack Trust Company announced that Christel A. MacLean has been nominated to stand for election to its board of directors at the annual stockholder’s meeting to be held February 1. MacLean, a Saratoga Springs resident, is the managing partner of Sperry’s Restaurant Group and Circus Restaurant Group. She is also the principal of MacLean Management Group as well as the principal broker of Realty Saratoga. In addition, MacLean serves locally as a founding board Member and co-vice president of the board of directors of SaratogaArts Fest; as a member of the board of directors of the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association; as the PTA president of Division Street Elementary School; and as a student mentor through the Skidmore College Mentoring Program.
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Builders. Specializing in custom home construction, his company strives for excellence in home building and remodeling.
Pinnacle Realty Re-Opens in Saratoga SARATOGA SPRINGS – Pinnacle Realty Saratoga LLC recently announced the re-opening of their 70 Lake Avenue office on January 1. The local real estate group, which has its home office at 2575 Route 9 in Malta, is thrilled to be operating in Saratoga Springs once again. Bruce McClellan, broker and owner of Pinnacle Realty Saratoga, said the re-opening signifies a positive outlook for the 2012 real estate market. “It looks like we have some new enthusiasm for the real estate business and we are really pleased to be able to open in Saratoga Springs,” McClellan said. “It’s an exciting opportunity for us.” Four agents are already working out of the Lake Avenue office. McClellan said Pinnacle Realty looks forward to welcoming new agents in 2012. For more information, call (518) 580-9300 or visit www.thepinnaclepost.com.
SARATOGA SPRINGS – When high-end event planners Jessica and Joshua Herberger launched Experience Events in 2005, they didn’t exactly have single digit birthday celebrations in mind. But after having children of their own, the couple decided to expand their event planning business, which they run out of an office/studio at 526 Maple Ave., to help fellow parents afford the creative and personal birthday parties they desire. “Everyone wants their parties to feel special, not only [the people] that are spending $100,000 dollars on a very high-end wedding,” Jessica said. “We love our job and we love being able to service our clients, but we wanted to offer a service that is really useful for the everyday client like ourselves – like our friends who just want to have really great parties for their [children] but just don’t have time to do it.” As parents, the Herbergers understood that celebrating a child’s 10th birthday can be as special to a parent as any other milestone occasion, but that time and budget are common hindrances. So the Herbergers decided to expand their services to include easy and creative solutions for children’s birthday parties. This fall they built The Studio, a nearly 1,000 squarefoot blank canvas that offers an easy alternative to dealing with the mess of hosting a birthday party at home or the expense of renting out a traditional venue. The space is easily transformed to furnish parties of many sizes and themes and for almost any occasion. Jessica says it’s the perfect alterna-
Photo provided
This paleontology-theme birthday party is just one of many creative celebrations held at The Studio! tive to the “ho-hum, bouncehousey” birthday party. “A lot of parents want to have great parties but don’t have the time or have run out of places to have them – they don’t necessarily want to have a party at their house because it’s extra work and extra cleanup,” she said. The Studio is a place to meet, create and celebrate any occasion anyway you’d like. And, if you need it, the space comes with the expertise of the Herbergers who have a million and one ideas for livening the empty room. Parents have the option to dressup the space on their own or they can enlist Experience Events. The Herbergers can put together an imaginative and personal affair with just a few weeks’ notice – parties inspired by the popular fictional character Junie B. Jones or a paleontology-themed adventure are just two unique examples. “The list of what we could do could go on,” she said.
But what if you still want to host your little one’s birthday celebration at home, and just lack the wherewithal to put it together? Try the Party Crate – a customizable handmade single-purchase package that includes the necessities for a creative occasion at home or anywhere else. “It has all of the things you would need for a great party, and it’s delivered to your doorstep,” Jessica said, explaining that the crate offers the same benefits of having a planner or stylist onboard. “It [comes with] connect the dot instructions.” The Party Crate comes with invites, favors, decorations, serving dishes, and even a grocery list to tell you exactly what to buy. “There is no thinking needed, but you still end up with a really creative party,” she said. Experience Events has a signature line of crates that are completely hassle free – all you have to do is pick one and wait for it to arrive. But even these predetermined options are personal and unique – “It’s great décor; like what you see in the magazines and wish you could [recreate]. We do that for you,” she said. The Herbergers also fill orders for customizable crates. Jessica said they put anything together. No matter which option you choose, a party planned with the help and imagination of Experience Events is a parent’s secret to hosting a celebration they can enjoy from beginning to end. For more information about The Studio or Experience Events, visit www.expeventdesign.com or call (518) 441-8000.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
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BOCES Cultural Exchange Program Welcomes Chinese Educators to Tour Region by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA COUNTY - Four educators from the Southwest University in Chongqing, China, were invited to tour local schools Tuesday and Wednesday as part of a cultural exchange program with the Washington-Saratoga-WarrenHamilton-Essex (WSWHE) BOCES Language and Culture Resource Center. The program, which is supported by a grant from the Hanban-Asia Society Confucius Classroom Network, welcomed educators to visit elementary schools in Burnt Hills, Ballston Spa, Glens Falls, South Glens Falls, Fort Ann and Saratoga Springs, where students introduced the educators to their schools and showed off class projects. “We’re trying to gain a mutual understanding and learn from one another,” said Peggy Sharkey, grant manager for the WSWHE BOCES Language and Culture Resource Center. “We sent two administrators with this program to China in November, while they’re here today and interested in observing student-centered classrooms and activities based on the lessons.” As well as supporting the visits between America and China, the Hanban-Asia grant also affords BOCES the opportunity to teach school children the Chinese language, something that isn’t typically offered at most schools. “What’s unique about our program is that we offer students a similar opportunity that they’d have during a program where they’d learn Spanish or French, but with this program they have an opportunity to learn Chinese. It’s extracurricular, so the kids take their classes after school, online and during the summer,” said Sharkey. One stop along their tour included observing a special classroom in Ballston Spa, where unlike a majority of schools participating in the program, gifted fourth and fifth graders meet once a week during school hours to participate in the
Project Chinese Exploratory Program. There the students study Chinese language and culture weekly with teachers provided by BOCES, making the class a mustsee for the visiting director of teaching affairs from Southwest University, Shibin Wu. “Because education in China is a set curriculum for everybody, we want to come here and see the way American teaching tailors education depending on a student’s ability,” said Wu. “We hope to observe how a student’s interest and quality guides the educational process.” Typically, explained Sharkey, students in China can expect class sizes of roughly 50 students, with a more traditional, lecture-based method of teaching driving the activity. “It’s teacher-centered, where the students are taking notes and preparing for an exam,” said Sharkey. “Here in the United States, a more recent teaching method focuses on what the student is doing in the classroom. That includes small group projects and other learning activities.” With approximately 350 students participating at over a dozen local sites, students are also encouraged to create a pen pal relationship through email or Skype with Chinese students in the program’s sister school. “Becoming e-pals with students in our sister school allows our students to form greater relationships between our two countries,” said Sharkey. “It gives the kids more opportunities for language learning and helps them to gain an international perspective.”
Send your education stories or briefs to Daniel Schechtman at reporter@saratoga publishing.com
Dates Changed for ELA and Math Exams SARATOGA COUNTY - The New York State Department of Education has changed the dates set for the English Learning Arts (ELA) and math exams for grades 3-8. Because this is a recent change, school calenders printed and handed out to parents and students prior to the change are likely not up-to-date. The ELA exam for grades 3-8 has been moved to Tuesday, April 17 - Thursday, April 19, 2012. The math exam has been rescheduled for Wednesday, April 25 - Friday, April 27, 2012. In addition to the above changes, exams scheduled for the month of June are also expected to be amended. For the latest schedules, visit www.p12.nysed.gov/apda/sched ules.
Ballston Spa High School Receives Innovative Arts Grant BALLSTON SPA – Ballston Spa High School will be awarded funding in the amount of $2,152 for a Connecting
Improvisation, Education, and 21st Century Learning Skills artist-inresidence program. The program is funded in part by the Arts-inEducation/Local Capacity Building Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by Saratoga Arts. Administrators and faculty from the Ballston Spa Central School District collaborated with Kat Koppett, owner of Koppett + Co. based in Schenectady, to write the grant and create an innovative artist-in-residence program for high school students enrolled in the business marketing and management courses and career exploration and internship program. “I am excited to be able to bring my expertise to this area of the Capital Region and work with students in the Ballston Spa Central School District,” stated Kat Koppett. “For a school district such as Ballston Spa, this collaboration is fitting since the concept is not only innovative, but cutting edge.” This group of over 70 students will receive an innovative educational experience infusing the art of improv into the business curriculum, focusing on creativity, collaboration, communication, team-
building and leadership skills. Students will have the opportunity to participate in an innovative concept that has been successful in business, industry and universities throughout the country. Prestigious business schools such as Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and MIT’s Sloan School of Management have been using improvisational theater to further enhance 21st century skill sets with those students enrolled in their business programs. Koppett has created and delivered numerous training programs on the art of improvisational theater to major corporations such as Chanel, Pepsi and JP Morgan Chase and is currently working with business majors attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy. She also is codirector of The Mop & Bucket Company that performs every Friday evening at Proctor’s Theatre. For more information, visit www.mopco.org. For more information about the program or how to support the arts, contact Courtney Lamport, coordinator of development, at (518) 884-7195, ext. 1369 or via email at clamport@bscsd.org.
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Fire Station continued from Page 1 researcher for the Malta Ridge Volunteer Fire Company, said two studies were conducted that pointed to the Dunning Street site. A 2009 Fire Protection Master Plan study recommended combining services between the Malta Ridge and Round Lake fire companies, together named the Fire Companies of Malta. The second studied the use of townowned land and concluded that the green parcel was best suited for a firehouse. “We don’t oppose them consolidating fire departments,” said Barbara Fenton. “We just don’t want it there.” Fenton has owned her home on May Apple Way for 25 years. Her yard backs up to Ellsworth Commons, and she said her entire backyard has been “decimated” by it. “That (Ellsworth Commons) is the
Friday, January 13, 2012 thing that woke up the sleeping giant, so to speak,” said Kessler. “Now we’re on the leading edge of what’s going on here at the firehouse and have been trying to fight it from the get-go.” That fight included a petition signed by 400 residents that was presented to the town board at the January 3 reorganizational meeting. Andrew Lamothe, president of the board of the Fox Wander West Neighborhood Association, said he was originally approached by the fire department to get support for the project, but as he talked to his neighbors he realized they were opposed to it. “The neighborhood association board has to support the neighbors,” he said. The petition consisted of one sentence: “We the undersigned oppose the building of a firehouse on Dunning Street.” Guerin said a history of the property revealed that it was part of the planned development district that was proposed to the town by the Luther
Forest Corporation in 1977. The parcel was set aside for future use commercially or as a fire station or town hall. In 2005 the land was donated to the town of Malta and has been appraised for about $500,000. Guerin said to buy a comparable site from a developer would cost about $3.5 million. The fire companies have been saving toward the purchase of land for three years. The Fire Protection Master Plan study recommended closing two of the four current locations, so those properties would be sold and the money used toward the new fire station and equipment. “It’s going to save money, improve service and it’s a smart use of government property,” Guerin said. Residents said the two-lane road, punctuated by roundabouts, is already strained by the increased traffic flow from Global Foundries. “There’s really no place in an emergency situation for people to pull over to get out of the way of a fire
truck, especially a hook-and-ladder truck like they’re talking about getting,” said Fenton. Guerin said a 100-foot ladder truck is necessary to reach the roofs of Ellsworth Commons and GlobalFoundries, but none of the fire stations are large enough to garage one. Supervisor Paul Sausville said he respects the fire department’s view on the matter, but it should be put to a
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public referendum. “I’m recommending to the town board that we put the matter up before the voters and let the voters decide,” he said. “I don’t have anything against the firemen, they do a great job,” said Kessler. “Where would we be without them? But it’s where they want to put the firehouse that’s our problem.”
National Grid Hosts Public Forum for Proposed Pipeline by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY MALTA – Residents were invited to a pair of informational forums and public statement hearings held by the New York State Public Safety Commission (PSC) and National Grid on Tuesday, January 10 to express their opinion on a proposed natural gas pipeline extension that would service GlobalFoundries. Representatives from the PSC, National Grid and GlobalFoundries were in attendance. Residents have been asked to volunteer statements of public record regarding their opinion on the project. Statements will be accepted until February 17, 2012. The pipeline extension will primarily serve the $4.6 billion GlobalFoundries chip plant located in Luther Forest Technology Campus in Malta. The PSC’s required findings state that the construction and operation of the facility is in the public interest. Residents living within 150 feet of the four mile long projected work site were required to be notified of the forums. Construction of the $10 million steel pipeline would begin in the town of Ballston, and run north through the town of Malta. GlobalFoundries is concerned that the energy demands for the plant will exceed available delivery capacity. The company believes the proposed pipeline would ensure their plant will be served with enough energy. “[The plant] requires as much
electricity as a small city,” said GlobalFoundries representative Mike Russo. “There are no other comparable large volume customers.” Only five statements were given in person during the forums, none of which expressed concern. Recent retiree Philip Dobie spoke at the first of two forums held. Dobie is a Malta resident and former business representative of District 106 for the International Union of Operating Engineers. He expressed nothing but support for the project, and the positive impact he feels it’s having on the local economy. “This has been a tremendous help during a tough economy,” Dobie’s statement reads. “It’s put thousands of workers to work.” The pipeline project could create as many as 500 new jobs, and they could be coming sooner rather than later. Barring a setback in the approval process, National Grid plans to start construction sometime this spring – and finish sometime in the coming fall. “It’s a fairly narrow time frame to install that pipeline,” said project manager for National Grid, Ed Wencis. GlobalFoundries is hoping to increase production at their Malta-based computer chip plant by early 2013. The pipeline’s extension would provide GlobalFoundries enough energy to do so. Those interested in making a public statement may do so online at www.dps.state.ny.us/ or via telephone at 1-800-335-2120.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
Local School Weighs Impact of Technology continued from Page 1 of New York as the Chief Economist for Labor and the Chief of Work Development and relied heavily on technology, sending his children to the tech-free Waldorf Elementary School was a no-brainer. “Technology is just a tool – like a calculator, for you to use. The most important thing is you have to learn how to understand patterns,” said Reamer, whose two daughters have graduated from the Waldorf system. “Understanding those patterns and learning how to think and make connections is key – the actual computer itself is kind of a meaningless tool without the ability to understand those connections or to think for yourself.” Not that Waldorf believes children should never be introduced to technology. In fact, argue the school’s administrators, technology can be extremely useful to students at the appropriate age, usually at the high school level. But for developing minds at the elementary and middle schools, Waldorf worries that technology can in many ways replace a child’s imagination, which in turn stifles creative, original thought. “Looking at children and how they develop, we try to support their capacities to think through their own concrete experiences,” said Abigail Reid, a third grade teacher at Waldorf School with 12 years of teaching experience. “Technology is something that is an abstraction and is appropriate at a later time in a student’s development. But at the younger age, we like to give them a lot of real life, hands-on experience, which helps them to really digest the material.” Instead of using an app or computer program to learn about measurements, Reid and her class will learn about cups and quarts while baking and cooking. Instead of using a program to simulate building a structure to meet specifications, the children learn how to physically take measurements to build a small teepee from
trees the class gathered in Reid’s own backyard. It’s by experiencing these lessons first hand, and not as filtered through a screen, that Waldorf argues leads to a deeper, more meaningful understanding. For Administrative Manager Katherine Scherff, the process is similar to what happens when someone reads a book as compared to seeing the movie. “When you read a book, many times you have a whole picture of what that book was like in your head,” said Scherff. “But then the moment you see it in the movie, now it’s somebody else’s picture. Your [idea] is all gone.” Scherff argues that one of the dangers inherent with introducing children to technology while they’re still developing is that their ability to think creatively or to use their imagination is greatly diminished. Technology, in this regard, acts like a shortcut – handing us the Hollywood version of a story on the silver screen instead of asking us to imagine the story for ourselves. “As students get older, the skills that allow them to creatively think through a process and to really understand that process may not be there,” said Scherff. “I think that technology can hamper a student’s ability to be able to do that.” And perhaps the Waldorf School is on to something here – after all, the results speak for themselves. “Approximately 99 percent of our students graduate from high school,” said Scherff, who also noted that from 1994 - 2004, 94 percent of graduating students enrolled nationally in a
Waldorf program progressed onto college. But when the time finally comes for Waldorf students to adopt technology at the high school level, do said students struggle to adapt compared to their peers? For parents of Waldorf students who have witnessed the transition, the answer seems to be a resounding no. “It’s such a part of life today that there was really no transition at all,”
said Reamer. “I can’t do half of what they do on their cell phones. In fact, they might even be better at using the technology because once they get it, they’re creative. They can use all these different apps and understand what they’re doing, and then they can go off and run with it.” The technological landscape is fast moving and in an almost constant state of flux. New products come out at a blistering pace, making it easier
and faster to complete many everyday tasks. “But what you really want is someone who can think and develop an idea, and then let the computer do the grunt work for you,” said Reamer. “But you’ve got to have the idea first. You’ve got to develop a thought. And that’s where the real strength lies for the kids graduating through the Waldorf system.”
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Saratoga Hospital’s New Gym Designed with Older Adults in Mind by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Regional Therapy Center at 6 Care Lane in Saratoga Springs, a service of Saratoga Hospital, has opened a new health and fitness gym designed with a very specific crowd in mind.
“We’re targeting people who probably are adults or older adults,” said Peggy Lounsbury, director of the Regional Therapy Center of Saratoga Hospital. “It’s not intended to be a place for superconditioning or body building. The intent is to support the mission of the hospital, which is to help keep our patients in the community healthy.”
The new gym, which opened its doors in mid-December, is strictly an adults-only gym, where all members must be at least 21 years of age or older. Open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Lounsbury sees the new fitness gym as something unique to the region, a facility that can fill a void in the community for people who may otherwise feel uncom-
fortable going to a traditional, larger gym facility. “We’ve really tried to tailor fit the gym to be a safe environment for people who might be hesitant about using exercise equipment,” said Lounsbury. The new health and fitness gym features many pieces of equipment you might find at a standard facility - recumbent and upright bikes, elliptical runners, leg presses, treadmills and the like. But special pieces of equipment are also onsite to cater specifically to the older generation of adults who may struggle with traditional exercise machines. “We have some of the heavy duty treadmills that you might see in a regular gym, but then we also have some that are specifically picked out that are low to the ground so it’s easier for someone to get on to,” said Lounsbury. “When you don’t have that problem, you don’t realize it’s an issue. But with some of these specially designed treadmills that are lower to the ground with longer hand rails, it becomes possible for those with that issue to use the equipment.” The new gym provides a great opportunity for those transitioning from physical therapy to continue their exercise, helping them to get stronger, stay healthier and avoid being readmitted to a hospital because they lack the physical activity. But even if an individual is not coming off of a round of physical therapy, the gym provides a casual and comfortable environment for members to exercise and socialize. “There are probably a lot of older adults who just don’t feel comfortable going to a standard gym,” said Lounsbury. “We don’t have shower facilities here - most people don’t build up much of a sweat after their workout. Many wear their street clothes with appropriate sneakers
because we’re a safe and casual environment.” In addition to specialized exercise equipment, the new fitness gym has deliberately set up a special socialization area, allowing members to strike up a friendly conversation with one another. “We purposely put in a social area so that maybe members will exercise for a little while and then they’ll go socialize with their friends. When it comes to keeping people healthy, if you reduce isolation and get them out, you make them healthier just by preventing that withdrawal that tends to happen,” said Lounsbury. “We’re hoping that people who are maybe feeling like they can’t do something or can’t go out, people with chronic conditions, might see that there’s an alternative where they can go.” For those suffering from chronic conditions, such as congestive heart failure, the gym will also provide oxygen should the need arise. “When you’re tethered to an oxygen tank you tend to feel stuck in your house, and the last thing you’d ever think of doing is going to a gym. So we do provide oxygen, and we’re hoping that people who are sitting at home, feeling isolated, might feel motivated to at least come and check us out to see if this is an opportunity for them to be a little more active.” A trained staff will be on hand full-time at the gym, including an exercise physiologist and physical and occupational therapists. Members are welcomed to schedule one-on-one time with trainers for guidance or assistance, or they can simply use the facility at their own pace and schedule. “The health and fitness gym is a safe place where we do cardiac and pulmonary rehab, which could be concurrent to people exercising. There’s also physical therapy and occupational therapy going on all day long in the same area, so there’s a healing atmosphere here, different than your standard gym,” said Lounsbury. Memberships are available on a six-month, three-month and month-to-month basis. To learn more about the facility, call (518) 583-8383, or visit them at their location Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. at 6 Care Lane in Saratoga Springs.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
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Winter Greens Stir-fry: A Delicious Way to Eat Healthy
Suzanne Voigt Farmers’ Market I haven’t always been a lover of winter greens – in fact I don’t think Swiss chard, kale, bok choy, mustard greens, whole spinach, etc. had ever been on our family’s table until I started working at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. Historically my husband disdained anything green on his plate. So when Michael Kilpatrick of Kilpatrick Family Farm challenged me to bring home a bag of his winter Asian greens years ago, it was a mixture of dread and trepidation. On the ride home with the greens I started realizing that this really wouldn’t be so bad after all. My husband loves Chinese food…hmmm...mix the greens in with his favorite stir-fry sauce and some meat and he would never know! That night I put together a stir-fry
sauce, threw in some herbs and spices, added some protein (shrimp) and presented dinner. After a few judgmental glances I reassured hubby that it was his favorite Asian dish with FRESH ingredients – hunger prevailed and he took a bite and then another bite and soon the bowl was empty and he was asking for seconds! It was another victory in the transformation of my family’s palate from factory food to fresh! The spinach and Swiss chard were beautifully sweet soft and mild complementing the slight crunch of the bok choy. The sauce was made of sesame and vegetable oils infused with onion, fresh garlic, ginger and red pepper with a dash of soy sauce which delicately complemented both the vegetables and shrimp perfectly. Since that first meal of discovery, winter greens have become a regular ingredient to many family meals. The farmers at the winter market continue to introduce new and delicious exotic greens, furthering our experimentation. We add kale, karobi, parsnips, collard greens and shaved carrots. We use the greens to create an Italian flavor by dropping the soy and using
olive oil and tomatoes. We also serve the greens with chicken, fish, pasta, rice or tofu. We love to use chili seasonings and add frozen garden corn to spinach and kale with beef for a south of the border flair. What my family and I have discovered is, when it comes to the winter greens at the Saratoga Farmers’ market, your imagination is the only limit to their enjoyment. Asian Stir-fry with Winter Greens Ingredients 1-2 T vegetable oil 1 yellow onion diced 1/2-1 lb shrimp, shelled/deveined 1 carrot, shaved 1 frozen garden green pepper shards (fresh, if you have them) 1/2 bunch Swiss chard 1 bunch bok choy 1/2 -1bag fresh spinach 1 tsp red pepper 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, minced 2 tsp sesame oil 1/4 c chicken broth 1/4 c soy sauce 1 T rice wine vinegar 1 tsp brown sugar (a sprinkle of cornstarch
Breakfast Time! by Jodie Fitz Saratoga TODAY
One of my New Year’s resolutions is to really watch what we are eating on our way out the door each morning. And, with staggering schedules and a rush hour styled routine, it can be challenging. In fact, now that I have teens in the house it’s even more difficult, because they either claim they “aren’t hungry” or that they “don’t like that” anymore, which can often bring them to an argumentative state. Honestly, between you and me….I think it’s harder to appeal to a teenager’s taste buds than it was to my toddlers. So, I’ve had to get creative with breakfast. As a result, I have been focusing my attention on introducing a new recipe, at least once a week, that can keep the balance not just in my household, but in the dietary intake of my kids while still appealing to their ‘like’ list. Here is a recipe that has worked at my counter and successfully includes whole grain, protein, vegetable and dairy all in one setting without an argument (of course, my guys like almost anything that leans toward a Mexican-styled dish, so we’re safe over here at this kitchen…hope it’s an option at yours). Happy New Year!
Breakfast Burritos Ingredients 1 red bell pepper 1 green bell pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil, light 2 eggs, large 8 oz. Monterey Jack jalapeño cheese, shredded 2 flour tortillas (preferably whole grain) Taco sauce, mild Nonstick cooking spray
Directions Wash, remove the seeds and cut the peppers into thin strips. Sauté the peppers in the olive oil until the peppers are fully cooked. Set the cooked peppers aside. Cook the eggs in a scrambled fashion without the milk. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Divide the eggs in half and add them to the center of the tortilla round. Add two tablespoons of cheese to each burrito and top with 4-5 slices of the cooked peppers. Roll the tortilla in burrito fashion and place them in a glass baking dish coated with the nonstick cooking spray, seam side down. Top the burritos with a tablespoon of taco sauce over each burrito. Add one additional tablespoon of cheese over the top of each burrito. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese has melted. Serve with a fruit salad. Note: The peppers can be stored in a proper storage container in the refrigerator for use within three days or frozen and thawed for future use.
if the sauce is too liquid for your desires) Directions The thing to remember about stirfry is there are no rules. It’s almost impossible to make a bad sauce, mix and substitute ingredients with what you like and have available. Prep all veggies and protein ahead, make the sauce first and set aside, and then stir-fry ingredients in the order of their cooking time so all ingredients come out tender and not overdone. 1. Cut/dice all vegetables, herbs and protein. Set aside in individual piles. 2. Sauce: In a sauce pan, combine 1/2 the minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chicken broth, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar and brown sugar. Heat for five minutes or until sugar
Winter greens are very nutritious, high in iron, magnesium, Vitamins B9, A, K, C and fiber has dissolved and spice fragrances have infused into the liquid. Set aside. 3. In a wok or suitable pan for stir-frying, put in sesame oil and bring to hot temp. Add onion, shrimp and sauté. Then add the green pepper, carrot, Swiss chard stems and bok choy in that order, ending with fresh spinach and greens from the Swiss chard. Constantly stir over the heat. Immediately sprinkle in the red pepper and after a minute or two add the sauce and stir in. Meal is done! (I like to serve this dish over rice, which can be cooking while you stir-fry.)
Tea Accessories
John Reardon Compliments to the Chef Hello Foodies! Happy Friday the 13th! I don’t know about you, but I like something to comfort me on a gloomy day and mom always recommended a cup of tea with honey. That’s my inspiration for this week’s gadget(s) my love for loose tea and the fun accessories that go with it: tea balls, infusers and honey dippers! I prefer these gadgets as do my customers. Tea balls and infusers are both used to steep your loose tea in your cup or pot. They are a re-usable alternative to the tea-bag. Most tea balls are made with a tight metal mesh that keeps the tea leaves inside, but allows for the hot water
to drift in and the flavor to seep out. All you have to do is open the latch, place your tea leaves inside and close it up. A tea ball is similar to a tea bag, the metal chain can hang over the side of your mug or tea pot. A tea infuser is like the combination of a tea ball and a spoon. Just squeeze the handle, place your loose tea inside and remove it when the tea is to your liking. I have many customers that use both of these gadgets for steeping herbs in sauces and soups as well. Another great item is the honey dipper – these are practical and fun! (If you are a squeeze-bottle person you won’t be needing one of these.) To use the dipper, simply open your jar of honey, dip it in the honey and twist. Then place the honey-covered dipper into your cup or twist it onto your food. It’s far more fun than a spoon and easy to clean up too. Now, all you have to do is call your mom and ask her to enjoy a cup of tea with you while you catch up. Or invite your little girl to a tea party but be sure dad and her brother are invited too! Bon appétit! Take Care, John
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Ask the Financial Advisor Paul C. Hogan, CFA Fenimore Asset Management
Q:
Are long-term bonds the best place to obtain income in this market?
I prefer the stocks of dividend-paying companies for income and potential capital appreciation. Today, investors can own a portfolio of solid dividend-paying
A:
stocks that provide income, but also have the potential for capital appreciation. To me, this is a compelling investment alternative to bonds for income generation, at this point, since long-term interest rates are at or near record lows. Additionally, we have seen dividend-paying stocks in the S&P 500 Index significantly outperform non-dividend paying stocks over the past year. In 2011, dividend-paying stocks in the S&P 500 Index increased 3.4 percent, on average, compared to nondividend paying stocks which only returned 1.7 percent. However, there is a strategy to investing in dividend-paying companies that can “boost” results even more. It’s easy to put together a portfolio of dividend-paying stocks; however, an important part of investing in these types of stocks is the growth of the dividend. This “boosting” strategy is investing in businesses that have grown their dividends
more than 10 percent over the last five years. In fact, the companies in the S&P 500 that have grown their dividends more than 10 percent over the last five years had a 5.9 percent stock price increase, on average, for 2011. This represents more than one and a half times the return of the average dividend-paying stock in the index for 2011, and three times more than the non-dividend paying stocks. The reason these corporations performed so well is because they were able to grow in the current economy. They are winners. They have grown their earnings through the recession and many are now earning all-time high profits. These corporations do not need the economy to improve – they are winning now. They are investing in their businesses and still have enough extra cash to increase the dividends paid to shareholders. This is the type of company in which I prefer to invest.
I spend a lot of time looking for businesses that have strong competitive advantages and will endure over a long period of time. I like to see managements that are innovative and know their industries inside-and-out. These leadership teams must be honest and ethical and deal with shareholders of the company in a forthright manner. I also want them to have low debt on the balance sheet, earn a high return on their capital, and generate more cash than they need so that they can use the money to increase value for their shareholders. In addition to paying out dividends, they are able to buy back stock, reinvest in the operation, and/or make acquisitions. Once I find these enterprises, I typically buy a significant amount of shares and hold onto them for several years allowing the business to grow. During this period, I meet with management regularly to ensure that my investment thesis is
still intact. Dividend-paying stocks do not insulate an investor from stock market volatility; however, a shareholder can certainly capture the dividend regardless of price fluctuations. So if you are looking for income, remember that it is possible to invest in a growing revenue stream through dividend-paying stocks while also having the potential for capital appreciation. Paul C. Hogan, CFA The writer is a Research Analyst at Fenimore Asset Management Fenimore Asset Management (Fenimore) is an independent investment advisory firm located in , and has been hand-selecting investments for almost four decades. Fenimore manages individual and institutional portfolios, and two mutual funds ─ FAM Funds ─ the FAM Value Fund and FAM Equity-Income Fund.
Internet Safety Expert to Speak at City Center Nationally-Celebrated Illustrator SARATOGA SPRINGS – and online predators. An internationally respected Exhibits Work at Bottle Museum According to Nielsen Marketing On Friday, January 13 at 6:30 and Research, the top three gifts on children's Christmas lists last year were Apple’s iPad, iPod Touch and iPhone. Each of these hot sellers, in addition to other popular gaming devices such as the Wii and Xbox, is Internet-enabled, making children more vulnerable to digital dangers, including cyberbullying, accidental pornography exposure
p.m., Donna Rice Hughes, president and chairman of Enough is Enough (EIE), will give a free presentation entitled, “Empowering Parents to Keep Kids Safe Online.” The event will be held at the City Center, 522 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Registration is required. To reserve a seat, please call (518) 783-5332 or email info@cdyfc.org.
Internet safety expert and advocate, Rice Hughes will provide parents, educators and other caring adults with the basic information they need to know how to keep children safe in today’s Internet world. “With the addition of more Internet-accessible devices in homes today, it’s vital to make sure that all online experiences are safe for kids and adults,” said Dave Lenehan, conference director for Latham-based Capital District Youth for Christ (YFC), which is sponsoring the presentation. “Donna brings a wealth of experience and research, as well as a commitment to protecting families [from] online dangers. YFC believes it’s crucial to share this information and help families make the web a safe experience.” Rice Hughes, who holds an undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina, has spoken widely about Internet safety issues on outlets including, CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, Dateline, The Today Show, Oprah and 20/20. She is also the author of “Kids Online: Protecting Your Children In Cyberspace” (Revell, September 1998).
BALLSTON SPA –An exhibit showcasing creations by nationally acclaimed children’s book illustrator Jody Wheeler will be displayed in the Jan Rutland Artists’ Space at the National Bottle Museum, located at 76 Milton Avenue in Ballston Spa, until February 3. Acting Museum Director Larry Rutland said he hopes parents, grandparents and educators will take advantage of this golden opportunity to bring young readers to the museum to view images crafted over the past three decades by one of the nation’s most popular children’s book illustrators. At last count Wheeler, who is a Ballston Spa High School graduate, – had some 75 titles in her portfolio, ranging from fiction titles for young readers to nonfiction titles for middle readers as well as keepsake memory books, activity books, calendars, greeting cards and many other products. Included in the exhibit are illustrations that introduced such characters as E.T., The Extraterrestrial and collaborations that have breathed new life into characters in remakes of such titles as Ludwig Bemelmans’ Madeline, Don Freeman’s Corduroy the Bear and those in some of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books – specifically the Farmer Boy books about the early days of Laura’s husband Almanzo Wilder. Wheeler has most recently completed illustrations for “An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving” by Louisa May Alcott and The First Noel (both from Ideals Publishing) as well as a book based on characters created by the late Ezra Jack Keats titled “Roberto Walks Home.” (To view samples, visit www.wheelerillustration.com or www.zazzle.com/wheelart.) “The invitation to exhibit samples of my illustrations in my hometown means so much to me,” said Wheeler, who often draws upon memories of her upstate New York childhood when painting images to accompany stories for young readers. A not-for-profit educational institution, the National Bottle Museum is open weekdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Group tours and field trips may be booked by calling (518) 885-7589. For more information, visit www.nationalbottlemuseum.org.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, January 13, 2012
15
“Tomato Tomatoe” Should We Call the Whole the Thing Off? Breaking Down Communication Between Mars and Venus
Meghan D. Lemery LCSW-R At a recent holiday celebration amongst dear friends and family members I polled a few people about what would be an inspiring topic to write about for the new year. My dear pal “Man Cave” swallowed his fruitcake jubilee and answered before the question was even fully out. “Would you PLEASE do one on communication; it is impossible to figure you people out!” (Side note: “you people” refers to us gal pals.) Mrs. Man Cave quickly responded, “YES! PUH-LEEEESE, write something about how to get your man to listen to you! I have to ask HIM to do things over and over again; he just doesn’t get it!” Several of the ladies nodded in agreement while several of the men crossed over to the other side of the kitchen island to support Mr. Man Cave in his frustration. I was certain we would break out into a battle of the sexes musical with Sandy and Danny as the stars. The fact is, if BOTH Mars and Venus were willing to take a step back and seek to understand the differences in our styles of communication, rather than to be understood, peace and harmony would be a lot closer to home than tuning into an hour of “Delilah.” When breaking down the gender gap it’s always best to start with the basics. Ready for these gems of truth? Pay attention, this could change all of your relationships with the opposite sex forever. GPS. The Global Positioning System is defined by Wikipedia as, “a space based satellite system that provides location and time information in all weather anywhere on or near the Earth, where there is an unobstructed line of sight.” In other words, with your GPS communication style in place it is highly unlikely you will get lost in the forest of frustration, anxiety, heartbreak and rage. Ladies, men are simple. If you tell
the men in your life factually what you need you have given them an unobstructed map to make you happy. Men communicate on a basic level, while women tend to be more emotional, sensitive and detail oriented in their styles of communication. Men on the other hand, want to be told what the issue is and how to fix it. They will literally shut down and hear your voice as the Charlie Brown teacher when you start obstructing the conversation with a high level of emotion, frustration and blame. I have come to believe in practicing couples counseling for over 12 years, that men have a secret switch located on the back of their necks that makes them completely hard of hearing when we ladies start to talk about our feelings of discontentment when it comes to the relationship. This frustration serves as an obstruction in communication and voila, instead of getting to your destination of having your needs met you have veered off a cliff and need a tow truck and ambulance to get you back on track. When men throw up their hands in frustration to the women in their life and say “I don’t get it,” they are NOT lying. Trust me ladies, the “I don’t get it” response is not a conspiracy theory against women to make us crazy. Rather, they REALLY don’t get it. So, next time you need to communicate something important to your man think of your friendly GPS that guides you to your destination every time. Use that smooth, clear, direct voice (you can
even add the accent to spice things up a bit). Let’s try an example of what NOT to do when communicating your needs to Mr. Man Cave. Exhibit A: You are tired and feel that you have had no time to connect with your sweetie pie. You crave some alone time and are feeling disconnected. You hope he too feels the same way and give him subtle hints that you need some one-onone. You mention your desire to spend time together a few times but it’s always when a million other things are going on. You get angry that he doesn’t meet your need and when you communicate your frustration with him he looks at you like you are speaking “crazy talk.” This reaction sets the stage for a fantastic blowout. Fight. Frustration. Confusion. Silence. Further disconnect. This is the time to definitely RE-CALCULATE! Exhibit B: Start by finding a time when things are quiet and you are both not stressed. For example, if you know that you are too tired at night for a pow wow don’t pick evening hours to have a talk and make your needs known. Once you pick the right moment, be clear and direct about making your needs known. “I really miss you and want to plan some time together. What night or weekend can we make this happen? I can get the babysitter lined up if you can pick the night and plan
the evening. It would be great to share a nice dinner with you. Since you know Chinese food makes me swell the next day, I would appreciate it if you would leave that out of our date night options.” You just gave Mr. Man Cave a map of how to please you with explicit instructions about how to get to the final destination: peace and harmony in the relationship. No obstructions clear the way for getting exactly what you want: A great date night connecting with your sweetie pie over a meal that won’t end up with a mouth full of Benadryl and swollen ankles. No one gets to their destination without a clear plan. You don’t get to be mad at your sweetie pie if you have not been crystal clear and direct about what you want. What happens if you use the GPS method of communication repeatedly and your sweetie pie ignores the
directions? Get a third party to help make sure you are free of any and all obstructions to good communication and do some soul searching about continuing down a dead end path. At the start of this glorious new year, let’s make a pact to communicate in ALL of our relationships with clarity, honesty, responsibility and respect. Get back to the basics, clear the road of any and all obstructions and watch how your GPS style of communication can get you back on track! Wishing you a fantastic journey for 2012! May all of your road trips take you exactly where you want to go! Ms. Lemery is a psychotherapist practicing in Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs. Visit meghanlemery.com for information on her new novel, upcoming workshops and latest articles.
SARATOGA
Friday, January 13, 2012
16
TODAY
Running From Achilles Tendonitis by James B. Markwica, MSPT for Saratoga TODAY With New Year’s resolutions fully in effect, most of us have exhausted the myriad of excuses as to why we aren’t taking better care of ourselves and participating in winter activities and sports. It’s at this point that we believe it’s necessary to simply throw ourselves back into the swing of things by pounding the pavement with running, hiking the snowy mountain trails, or just returning to a more aggressive and lengthened aerobic walk. Invariably what seems to happen out of nowhere is heel pain, sometimes severe heel pain. What is this and how could it happen when you took a couple of minutes to ease into your activity at a slower pace? It may be Achilles tendonitis due to inflammation or irritation of the Achilles tendon, the dense band of tissue running up the back of your lower leg attaching your calf to your heel. It is rather common for Achilles tendonitis to result from sports that place an intense amount of stress on your calf muscle which is made up of the gastrocnemius and the soleus
muscles. However, it is just as likely to begin when initiating a sudden increase in the frequency and intensity of any weight bearing activity, even walking. Structural problems may also be to blame like spurs or small tears. In addition to general tenderness over your tendon, you may notice pain or a dull ache when pushing off of your foot while walking. This may lessen as your tendon warms up. You may especially note this in the morning while taking your first painful steps which unexplainably resolve until you increase your activity later in the day. Improper conditioning including poor flexibility and inadequate strength is typically the perfect recipe to develop a tendonitis when added to walking, running, jumping or pushing up on your toes. Flattened arches (excessive pronation or pes planus) may also be a predisposing factor. Sometimes even trauma to the tendon may be the cause. But it’s likely that it is simply a matter of too much, too soon, as you didn’t properly warm-up. Although self treatment is avail-
able via rest, ice and medication (under your physician’s advice), your best bet is prevention. Starting slowly and increasing your activity level gradually is the first step. Warm-up using stretches that focus on your gastroc and soleus muscles along with your hamstrings. You can easily stretch your gastrocnemius by leaning forward against a wall with your hands. Leave the leg you are stretching back behind you, heel on the ground and knee straight. Your resting leg is the forward leg. Hold your gentle stretch for 10 – 30 seconds for five repetitions. To stretch to soleus, the lower deeper muscle, maintain the previous position but bend the knee of the back stretching leg and lower your hips a bit. The hamstring stretch is best attained when lying on your back, resting leg bent, and stretching knee supported with your hands as you actively raise your foot to the ceiling. Feel the stretch down the back of the leg. Strengthening of your calf muscle is equally important and can easily be accomplished by rising up onto your toes and slowly returning your heels to the ground. Perform this
Photo Provided exercise in sets of 10 reps for two to three sets to begin. You can further advance the strengthening exercise by turning both heels in together or out apart for sets of 10 repetitions. Be sure to gradually increase day by day making sure you do not overdo it. Cross-training or training on multiple surfaces performing multiple various impact activities is a good idea as well. And of course, the educated choice of appropriate shoe wear is essential. Be sure to choose shoes that fit, provide adequate cushioning for your heel, and have a firm arch support which will aide in minimizing tension on the Achilles tendon. In the event you recognize the onset warning signs of Achilles tendonitis, be sure to rest, ice, compress and elevate. If possible, keep moving, as it is essential that prolonged periods of inactivity be avoided. Be sure to move your foot and ankle through its full range of motion regularly and perform gentle stretches
to remain flexible. If you or someone you know suffers from heel and Achilles tendon pain, it is ill-advised to begin a new exercise program without consulting first with your physician physical therapist, certified athletic trainer, physiatrist or other specialist who regularly treats foot and extremity pain. It is important to first get an accurate diagnosis for the cause of pain, as the specific exercises recommended will depend on the cause. Achilles tendonitis, if left untreated, may become a much more serious condition that can lead to surgical intervention. James Markwica, MS PT is a New York State Licensed Physical Therapist at LaMarco Physical Therapy, 417 Geyser Road in Ballston Spa and 30 Gick Road in Saratoga Springs. For questions of follow-up, contact James at 587-3256 or online at www.lamarcopt.com.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, January 13, 2012
Ready or Not Kate Towne Sherwin Saratoga SAHM I have learned so much from being a mother — so much about myself, about others, about the world and humanity and eternity and so many huge things (as well as, of course, things like how to change a wriggly child’s dirty diaper) — and this growth in what I hope is wisdom and understanding has been one of the things I’m most grateful for. I feel like I’ve been forced into being a better person, by hook or by crook, by these small, screechy, stinky, adorable, rascally, lovable children. It’s not always easy, certainly, and sometimes it’s downright miserable, but I take a look at the person I am now, the person I’ve become, since that first little one made his way into my arms seven years ago, and I’m humbled, and pleased. Each child has taught me new things, and our little one on-theway is no exception. I was thinking of all this the night before New Year’s Eve, when, at 37.5 weeks pregnant (technically full-term), I was unable to sleep through constant, regular contractions, more intense than they’d ever been during this pregnancy. For three hours, in the wee hours, I watched the clock, timed the contractions, debated whether or not to wake my husband up, debated whether or not to call the doctor, and sort of freaked out. Mostly I was freaked out because I wasn’t totally ready for the baby to come. I wasn’t ready mentally (I’d thought about it, dreamed about it, wished the birth would come sooner rather than later, but hadn’t actually thought it would be this soon) or practically (I’d almost finished all my to-do’s — all the washing of newborn clothes and burp cloths, etc. — but not quite … even my bag wasn’t totally packed). And seriously, in the midst of all that, I still had the thought pop in my head: Ah! Another life lesson! There are only
so many plans you can make and contingencies to prepare for — sometimes it’s all just taken out of your hands, ready or not. The last few weeks of pregnancy, and then labor and delivery, might be the things that have hammered this home for me more than any other. This baby is the fifth I’ll deliver, and I still feel like I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to giving birth. I’m always amazed when I hear other mothers speak about labor and delivery with voices of experience and knowledge, and yet there is still nothing I feel like I can contribute with any certainty or confidence. I only know what happened with me, with each of my babies, and each experience is simultaneously fuzzy and clear, if that makes any sense, and I feel simultaneously empowered and vulnerable when recalling the details of each of my baby’s births. It’s a strange thing, and so elemental, so primitive, in the very best sense, even in our medical, scientific, modern society, the whole bringing a baby into the world, that I have to think there are some really significant things to be learned from it. I love reading others’ birth stories, especially those that tend to more natural ways of birthing — epidural-free, for example, or in tubs in one’s kitchen. I love the thought I often hear batted around of women who gave birth while working in the fields and then go back to work with the minutes-old babe strapped to them. Is that even possible? I’ve known some amazingly strong women whom I could actually see being able to do something like that! I’m fascinated by labors that progress so quickly the moms aren’t able to make it to the
17 hospital in time, or arrive too late for a planned epidural, or arrive too late even for a planned C-section! These stories, to me, are all evidence of how out-of-our-control birth can be. To me, it’s terrifying and freeing, all at the same time. I’ve never actually gone into labor while at home. Three of my four boys were induced due to concerns with pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and gestational diabetes; the one who started naturally actually began when I was already in the hospital, in a bed in the maternity ward, for a couple-hour blood pressure check. I asked for an epidural pretty quickly with all four of them, despite my ninemonths-long thought, every single time, that maybe “this will be the time I go epidural-free!” As a result of all this, I don’t really feel like I have a good sense of what active labor feels like, when laying in my bed in the middle of the night. All I knew on the eve of New Year’s Eve was that my contractions felt “different,” more intense; that they continued for much longer than usual, that neither laying down nor walking around helped, and that I was terrified of figuring out too late that I should have called the doctor. A home birth has never been a dream of mine. So I called the doctor, feeling terrible that I woke her up at 2:45 in the morning, feeling silly as I talked to her because I knew that being able to talk through contractions was a sign they weren’t that bad. But the doctor decided I should go to the hospital, and so we did. I now have my very own middle-of-the-night hospital visit story! And my very own false alarm story. Indeed, this mother of four born babies could not determine on her own if she was in active labor or not. An hour and a half after checking in at the hospital, we were sent home with instructions to call
“There are only so many plans you can make and contingencies to prepare for — sometimes it’s all just taken out of your hands, ready or not.”
again if things progressed. They did not. I’m writing this the day before I’m due at the hospital for yet another scheduled induction. My birth history, gestational diabetes, and estimated size of this baby are all working against any thoughts or hopes I’d had of going into labor on my own. At least this — this feeling of everything being out of my hands — is something I’m becoming an expert on. And I’m grateful for the details as they are: a competent and experienced medical staff watching the health of me and my baby closely; the opportunity to have everything planned and buttoned up, from who’s going to watch the other boys to having
everything at home ready for the new baby to even having this column written and submitted on time; the chance to truly sit and think and pray and prepare myself for the task ahead of delivering a baby; the always new yet familiar responsibilities of a newborn; and the life lessons and human truths that bringing a baby into the world impart in a different way than anything else I’ve ever experienced. Kate Towne Sherwin is a stayat-home mom (SAHM) living in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Steve, and their sons Thomas (7), Gabriel (5), John Dominic (3), and Xavier (1); they expect their fifth baby in January 2012. She can be reached at sksherwin@hotmail.com.
SARATOGA
Friday, January 13, 2012
18
TODAY
Local Senior Center Activities, News Ballston Area Seniors Swear-in 2012 Officers
Photo provided
Outgoing President Bert Grandin swears-in the newly elected 2012 officers (pictured from left to right): Neil Heffernan, president; Fred Peter, vice president; Diane Kennedy, treasurer; Judith Mullen, secretary; Margaret Wheeler, membership chair; and Dick Bardsley, Kathy Hedgeman and Patsy Schiavo, directors. For more information about the Ballston Area Seniors, contact President Neil Heffernan at (518) 885-6740
Senior Citizens Center of Saratoga Springs Address: 5 Williams Street, Saratoga Springs Phone Number: (518) 584-1621 Email Address: seniorcentermarketing@gmail.com Website: www.saratogaseniorcenter.org
Upcoming Events
tial hearing screenings at the center. Call the center to sign up.
Ice Cream Social Thursday, January 26, from 6:30-8 p.m. Enjoy make-your-own sundaes and listen to a hip duo perform hits from the 40s and 50s made famous by your favorite singers. Buy your tickets early. Members are $4, nonmembers are $6.
Book Club Meeting Tuesday, January 31 from 3-4 p.m. The Book Club will meet to discuss “Sarah’s Key” by Tatiana De Rosnay.
How to Wake Up Pain Free Thursday, January 26 from 1-2 p.m. Combat joint and muscle stiffness in the morning by attending this informational session with Sports and Physical Therapy. Please sign up in advance. Movie: “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” Wednesday, January 25, 3 p.m. Cost: $2 for members, $4 for nonmembers. Please sign up in advance. Free Hearing Screenings Tuesday, January 31, 11-3 Dana Wilhite, Doctor of Audiology at the Saratoga Hearing Center, will provide free confiden-
Play Mahjong! Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. To sign up, call Deanna at (518) 886-8522. Join the Quilting Club! Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Instruction is available. Anyone interested in crocheting or knitting is welcome.
January Van Trips Members are encouraged to sign up for these exciting and fun trips! All trips must be pre-paid and depart from the center parking lot. Participants are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time. If a van trip doesn’t fill up one week prior to the trip date, non-members are not allowed to sign up for an addition charge of $5. Invite your
friends to attend! January 17: Saratoga Casino & Raceway Play the video gaming machines and enjoy the delicious Garden Buffet for lunch. On Tuesdays, players 55 and over pay only $6.95 for a top-notch all-you-can-eat buffet. Join Club 55 and get even more incentives! The van leaves the center at 10 a.m. and returns at 2:30 p.m. Van fee only $1. January 20: Albany Institute of History and Art Start out with lunch at the private University Club ($10-15) in downtown Albany. Then head across the street to the Albany Institute for a guided tour of the George Washington and Dr. Vanderveer’s Civil War Journals exhibits. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the Egyptian Gallery, Hudson River paintings and the Museum Gift Shop. The van leaves the center at 9:45 a.m. and return at 3:30 p.m. Cost is $18 plus lunch. Restaurant has stairs. January 27: Tour of the Albany Capital Building Get a behind-the-scenes tour of this architec¬tural wonder including government chambers, staircases and works of art. Afterward enjoy lunch at Lombardo’s ($10-15). Trip cost is $10. The van leaves the center at 8:30 a.m. and returns at 3 p.m. Extensive walking, elevators available.
Olde Saratoga Seniors Upcoming Events: Group Meeting and Sandwich Luncheon Wednesday, January 18 at noon Schuylerville Town Hall. There will be surprise entertainment. Van Trip in March The seniors are sponsoring a trip to the log cabin in Holyoke, MA, Wednesday, March 6, 2012, where the group will enjoy a traditional Irish feast with entertainment provided by the legendary Irish Rovers. The bus will arrive at the American Legion at 8:15 a.m. to load, with a departure time of 8:30. The group will head home at 3:30 p.m. with an estimated return time of 7:30 p.m. $60 per person, due February 1. For more information, call Mary Lamora at (518) 584-7986.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, January 13, 2012
19
Jessie Finds Her Forever Home Jill Sweet
Whiskers and Tales I frequently urge people to adopt their next pet from the county shelter. There are so many animals waiting there for a forever home. People need to realize, however, that some of these homeless creatures come with “baggage” from their earlier life experiences. Sometimes the animal’s history has not been positive and as a result will present challenges for the new adopting family. Nevertheless, working with these homeless pets can be very rewarding. In fact, each animal we have brought into our home has taught us something important about animal behavior, training and trust, as well as something about ourselves. Last fall, my husband Steve and I decided it was time to adopt a second dog. We typically enjoy having two dogs and it had been over a year since my first service dog, Vida, passed “over the rainbow bridge,” leaving Moses as the only dog in our household along with our two cats. It is not a good idea to adopt a new pet immediately after the passing of your beloved former pet because you have not had time to grieve and you may become impatient with the new one because it is not at all like the one you so desperately wish was still by your side. While I am a lab lover, Steve has always had a soft spot for shepherds, so we started looking at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for a shepherd-type dog that needed a home. After a few weeks, we saw a photo on the shelter website of a stray dog the employees had named Jessie. She looked like a beautiful black or very dark brown Belgian Shepherd mix. I drove over to see her. She was on the small side, but very alert, and curious about me. I sat with her for a time and learned what I could about her story. Jessie had been picked up as a stray in Milton. She had on a yellow collar, but no tags. No one came looking for her. No one called about her. I couldn’t help wonder why no one was searching for this fine-looking girl. Her teeth indicated that she was around 2 years old. She had been
spayed and she appeared to be in good health. Next, I brought Moses to meet Jessie. With supervision by the shelter employee who was working with Jessie, we watched the two dogs play in an open area. They seemed to be getting along well. Finally, Steve came out to meet her. After another day to think about it, Steve was ready to adopt Jessie. After bringing her home, we quickly learned that she was very affectionate, knew basic commands, and was full of energy. We also learned that like most herding dogs she had a “high prey drive.” In other words, she would chase anything that ran from her. In our fenced backyard this meant she chased squirrels, but in the house she chased the cats. Our very social male tiger cat, Sully, loved the game, but our more reclusive female black cat, Magic, was not amused at all. We also learned that Jessie displayed fear aggression whenever a stranger approached her. She would
bark, bare her teeth, and look like she could rip out the stranger’s throat! This time it was our vet that was not amused. With Moses, Jessie always wanted to play rough. At first, Moses would wrestle with her and he always won due to his greater size. Nevertheless, Jessie always wanted more and after a few weeks, Moses whose inclination is to be a lover, not a fighter, grew tired of Jessie’s constant attempts to engage him in rough and tumble play. When they were both outside in the yard Jessie would try to herd Moses by running at him, nipping his hindquarters and barking. If we were raising sheep all these behaviors would be very useful, but poor Moses would look up at me as if to ask, “Why did you bring her home? Can’t we trade her in for another kind of dog?” Unfortunately, many people do return an adopted dog at the first sign of problems rather than allowing time for the animal and the family to adjust. Besides, Steve was already
Animals Available
at the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for adoption. For More Information Call (518) 885-4113.
Bear is a housebroken 8-monthold shepherd mix. He is great on a leash, but doesn’t get along with cats.
Blanche is a beautiful 2-year-old mix that was given to the shelter because her owner developed allergies. Now she is in desperate need of a place to call home.
Buddy is an incredible 12-yearold Chihuahua whose owner died. He is great with people and all other animals and needs a loving person to care for him.
Chucky’s owner passed away and now he is without a home. He is 4 years old and neutered and would love to find a forever home.
Paulie is a spunky, adult neutered male who would make the perfect indoor/outdoor cat for a loving family.
Simba is litter trained, great with kids, dogs and other cats! He is the perfect friendly pet!
very attached to Jessie and her shepherd ways. Unlike Steve, I was not so happy about Jessie. Next to Moses, she seemed much too busy all the time. One day I wanted to see if I could tire her out, so I took her for a five-mile trot along side my wheelchair at top speed. After our run I brought her home and she bolted out into the yard with reserve energy to chase a few squirrels! Was there no limit to this dog’s energy? To deal with her fear aggression upon meeting new people, we resorted to putting her outside until our guests were in the living room sitting comfortably in chairs. If they wanted to meet Jessie, we told them we would be letting Jessie in, but they had to act as if she was invisible (no eye contact, no touch, no talk) until she greeted them and she had their scent. This worked beautifully. When
she can make the first move, she is not afraid and only wants to make friends. If people do not want to go along with this, we just let her stay outside with her squirrel duty. After all, she is the type of dog that needs a job. We have now had Jessie in our home for almost three months and she has already calmed down considerably. She and the cats have worked things out in their own ways. Steve has taken her through six weeks of obedience training, and I have stopped unfairly comparing her to Moses who is a very different breed and who had two years of professional training to be a service dog. Actually, I have begun to appreciate Jessie for Jessie. Like all the other pets we have had over the years she is teaching me something about acceptance, patience, and maybe even love. Happy New Year!
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20 upcoming town meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 1/18: Parks & Rec. Committee, 7:30 p.m. Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 1/17: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 1/17: City Council, 7 p.m. 1/18: Design Review Commission, 7 p.m. Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 1/16: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY www.stillwaterny.org Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 1/18: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m. Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St., # 1 Ballston Spa, NY (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov 1/17: Board of Supervisors, 4 p.m. 1/19: InterCounty, 10:30 a.m. 1/19: Planning Board, 4 p.m.
Send your local briefs to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication
Friday, January 13, 2012
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2012 Economic Forecast with Hugh Johnson Hyatt Place Saratoga, 20 State Farm Place, Malta The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County and Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) welcome Hugh Johnson, nationally-renowned local expert in economic forecasting, Wednesday, January 18, from 7:309:30 a.m. Join Mr. Johnson as he shares how the global, national and local economy may impact your business. Cost is $20 per person including breakfast. This event is reserved for members of The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County or Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC). For information on joining the chamber, call (518) 371-7748 and to join SEDC, call (518) 587-0945.
Nominations Needed for Military Child of the Year Operation Homefront is announcing the last call for 2012 Military Child of the Year Award nominations. The award will be given to an outstanding military child from each branch of service: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The winners, who each will receive $5,000, will be flown with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C. for special recognition ceremony April 5. Nominations are being accepted online until January 15. Ideal candidates for the Military Child of the Year Award demonstrate resilience and strength of character, and thrive in the face of the challenges of military life. For more information, visit www.operationhomefront.net/tristate or call (845) 331-2624.
Saratoga Bridges Golf Trip Raffle Saratoga Bridges is holding a limited raffle of only 300 tickets for $100 each to the first Major Golf Tournament in 2012 at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, GA, April 4-5, 2012. The drawing will be held March 12. Saratoga Bridges is very grateful to Relph Benefit Advisors as tickets are extremely hard to obtain and they have been generously donated for the fourth year! First Prize package includes: a private charter plane from Albany or Rochester to the tourney; a round at the Palmetto Golf Club in Aiken, SC, or shopping in Aiken; dinner; an overnight stay; spectator at the tourney; and shuttle transportation both days. Second Prize is a $100 gift card from Price Chopper and Third Prize is a $50 Gift Card from Price Chopper. Purchase tickets at www.saratogabridges.org..
Southern Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Turns 45 2012 marks The Chamber of Southern Saratoga County’s 45th Anniversary as a destination for success for the business community in one of the most thriving areas of New York State. Southern Saratoga County is home to a broad range of industries from agriculture to manufacturing to retail and the chamber represents them all in their diverse membership of nearly 1,000 businesses. In addition, the following individuals will serve as officers of the chamber in 2012: Paul Milton, chair-elect; Dianne Barber Kansas, first vice chair; Dr. Penny Haynes, secretary; Daniel Kumlander, treasurer; and Eddie Hicks, immediate past chair. New Board members for 2012 include Michele Brown and Paul Browning, For more information, visit www.southernsaratoga.org.
Crafty Shopper’s Marketplace Needs Vendors Malta Community Center, 1 Bayberry Dr., Malta The Malta Community Center Crafty Shopper’s Marketplace will be Saturday, May 5, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Vendors of manufactured and handcrafted merchandise are invited to apply for a space at this indoor/outdoor market at the center. Booth fees are $50 for an inside space or $40 for an outside space. Call the Malta Community Center at (518) 899-4411 for an application or more information.
Want to Get Published? Galway Junior/Senior High School students are partnering with the Galway Public Library to publish a coffee table book in the spring. They would like to include material from community members, such as poems and quotes, photos, drawings, paintings and sketches. To submit an item for review, digital files may be emailed to villagepress1@gmail.com or director@galwaypubliclibrary.org. Specific artwork requirements are posted on both the Galway School District and Galway Public Library websites.
National Writing and Arts Competitions for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students Deaf and hard-of-hearing high school students are encouraged to enter two creative competitions for cash prizes offered by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). The first contest is the RIT Digital Arts, Film and Animation Competition for Deaf and Hard-ofHearing Students. Qualified students in ninth through 12th grade may submit up to two entries (one per cate-
gory) from the following: Web design, graphic media, film, 3-D animation, interactive media and photo illustration. To qualify, students must submit the following by postal mail: an entry form; a 150 to 300-word descriptive essay about their work; and the artwork itself on CD or DVD. Winners will receive cash prizes at an awards ceremony in the spring and have their winning work exhibited in the Dyer Arts Center on the RIT campus. For an entry form or more information, visit www.rit.edu/NTID/ArtsNR.The deadline to register is January 15. The second competition is RIT’s SpiRIT Writing Contest for deaf or hard of hearing students in tenth through 12th grade. Students can win their choice of a scholarship and travel expenses to the Explore Your Future Program at RIT’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf, or a $500 cash prize. Complete contest guidelines and entry information are available at www.rit.edu/ NTID/WritingContestNR.The deadline to enter is March 15. For more information about either competition, call (585) 475-7695 (voice/TTY) or (585) 286-4555 (videophone).
SUNY Alumni Association Looking for Members Chinatown Restaurant, Route 9, Queensbury The newly-formed SUNY Adirondack Alumni Association is hosting an informal get-together on Wednesday, January 18, from 4:30-6 p.m. to seek SUNY Adirondack alumni who are willing to serve on the association’s various committees. The event is open to all SUNY Adirondack alumni. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served, and a cash bar will be available. The Association has six committees: Activities, Communications, Community Service, Education, IT/Administration and Membership Benefits. The purpose of the January 18 meeting is to outline the goals and targets for each committee, and to recruit committee members. For more information, or to RSVP, contact Bob Myers at (518) 743-2230 or email him at alumni@sunyacc.edu.
Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trusts Gives Grant to Project Lift The Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust granted Franklin Community Center's after-school prevention program, Project Lift, $5,000 toward continuing the program for the 2012 calendar year. This is the second time Project Lift has received grant funding from The Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust; back in 2008, they helped offset the cost of the program’s expansion into Geyser Road Elementary School. The Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust was established in 2004 and has given away millions of dollars to programs in our local community.
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Meditation Classes in Saratoga Springs 19 Maple Ave., Second Floor Evening Classes, Wednesdays, 7 – 8:30 p.m., January 18 – February 29 Topics range from overcoming stress and finding peace to transfusing our relationships with others with meaning and happiness. Each class includes a guided meditation, teaching and discussion. Drop in for any class or attend all. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $10 per class ($5 for seniors and students). Lunchtime Meditations, Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon - 12:45 p.m. Let go of daily stress and enjoy a mid-day meditation in a peaceful space. The emphasis is on developing a calm and positive mind. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $5 per class. For more information, visit www.meditateinsaratoga.org or call (845)856-9000.
Brookside Museum Closed Most of January 6 Charlton St., Ballston Spa The museum at the Saratoga County Historical Society will be closed January 1-30 and will reopen Tuesday, January 31, at 10 a.m.
Kinder Skate Program This program is designed to expose kids to the slippery world of ice skating. An early start in skating can produce a lifetime of pleasure. A responsible adult must accompany children on the ice and be available to assist instructors. Please use single blade skates only, rental skates will be available for $4. Kinder Skate is for children ages 3-6 at the Vernon and Weibel Ice Rinks. The cost for 1 session for city resident is $30 or non-city is $60. For more information, call (518) 587-3550, ext. 2300.
Zumba Classes Recreation Center, 15 Vanderbilt Ave., Saratoga Springs The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department will be offering Zumba classes Monday and Wednesday nights at 6 p.m. For information about price and registration, call (518) 587-3550, ext. 2300.
Annual Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe Date Change Camp Saratoga, Scout Rd., Wilton The popular Annual Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe has been rescheduled for Saturday, February 4, from 6-9:30 p.m. Enjoy 2.5 miles of lit, groomed trails. The terrain is suitable for all levels and ages and includes a smaller 1-mile loop. Participants can arrive anytime. Snowshoes will be available on a first-come first-serve basis in the warming hut off Lot 1. The rental fee is $3/person for non-members. There is no charge for WWPP members. Call (518) 450-0321 for more information. This event is free and open to the public.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
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Sunday, January 15 Breakfast Buffet
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events
Friday, January 13 Internet Safety Presentation
City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs At 6:30 p.m., Donna Rice Hughes, president and chairman of Enough is Enough will give a free presentation entitled, “Empowering Parents to Keep Kids Safe Online.” Registration is required. To reserve a seat, call (518) 783-5332, or email info@cdyfc.org.
Saratoga Film Forum Presents “The Way” 320 Broadway, Dee Sarno Theater, Saratoga Springs Emilio Estevez's “The Way,” an inspirational story about family, friends, and the challenges we face while navigating an ever-changing and complicated world, is being shown at 7:30 p.m. An additional matinee is being shown Sunday at 3 p.m. General admission is $7 and film forum members pay $5. Popcorn and other concessions will also be available for purchase.
Saturday, January 14 Waldorf School Alumni Reunion Fifty South, 2128 Doubleday Ave., Ballston Spa Waldorf and Springhill alumni are invited to attend a reunion gathering at 8:30 p.m. to celebrate with friends and faculty.
Saratoga Film Forum Presents “Wallace and Gromit” 320 Broadway, Dee Sarno Theater, Saratoga Springs A collection of three of the best animated short films featuring the would-be inventor Wallace and his long-suffering dog Gromit: “A Grand Day Out” (1989), “The Wrong Trousers” (1993) and “A Close Shave” (1995). The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and is only $2 for children and $5 for adults to attend. Send your calendar items to Christina James at cjames@saratogapublishing.com before 5 p.m. on Monday for Friday publication.
1 Elks Lane, Route 9, Saratoga Springs Let the Saratoga-Wilton Elks serve you a buffet breakfast from 8:30-11 a.m. Adults $7, seniors/military with ID $6, children 5-12 $5 and under 5 eat free. Takeouts $8.
Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast Applebee’s, 3 Lowe’s Dr., Saratoga Springs The 16U Saratoga Thunder Softball Team is holding a fundraiser from 810 a.m. to help raise money for travel tournaments. The breakfast consists of pancakes, bacon and choice of breakfast drink. The cost is $5.
Monday, January 16 Parkinson's Support Group Meeting Woodlawn Commons, Saratoga Springs This 2 p.m. meeting is open to anyone with Parkinson's Disease, family members and friends. For more information, call Joyce Garlock at (518) 885-6427 or Dorothy Clark at (518) 584-3894.
Winter Scavenger Hunt Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park, Camp Saratoga, Scout Rd., Gansevoort The program, which runs from 1-2 p.m., will be a fun afternoon of outdoor exploration where participants will learn to use their senses to explore the outdoors during winter while completing a nature scavenger hunt. This program is designed for children ages 5 and older. Snowshoes are needed and will be available for rental 30 minutes before the program, free for members and $5 for non-members. If there is no snow, the program will take place without snowshoes. Please meet in Parking Lot #1 on Scout Road. For more information or to pre-register, contact (518) 4500321.
Tuesday, January 17 Live from NY’s 92nd St. Y Jewish Community Center, 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs Congregation Shaara Tfille is hosting their second fall satellite broadcast “Live from NY’s 92nd Street Y” at 8 p.m. The satellite broadcast will feature “Will to Create, Will to Live: The Music of Terezin.” The broadcast is open to the public and tickets are $10. Doors open at 7:15. Refreshments will be available and no outside food items are permitted in the building. For more information or to make reservations, call (518) 584-2370 or email saratogajcc@verizon.net.
Rifle Competition
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The Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club Route 32, Victory Will continue rifle competition at 7 p.m., and every Tuesday through March 13. Everyone is welcome. Bring your own 22 caliber rifle and ammunition. For additional information, contact Ron at (518) 695-3917.
Wednesday, January 18 Storyteller Kate Dudding SUNY Empire State College, 2 Union Ave., Room 126, Saratoga Springs The Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs (A.L.L.) continues its brown bag lunch and learn series with a listeners’ favorite session from Kate Dudding. Grab your bag lunch and stop by for this special program beginning at noon.
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HELPING HANDS Snow Angels Help Area Seniors Emeritus at Landing of Queensbury, an Emeritus Senior Living Community, recently launched a new program to aide area seniors with the needs arising from the recent cold, inclement weather. The campaign, known as the Snow Angel Program, seeks to help local seniors to better deal with the obstacles that the winter weather creates. “What we’re doing is delivering hot meals, shoveling walkways and visiting seniors who may not have anyone in the area to do these things,” said Emeritus Executive Director Bonnie Thomas. “There are many seniors in need in our immediate community who would benefit from some outreach. We let them know someone cares.” To meet the needs of as many individuals as possible, dedicated volunteer angels are needed. Those interested in helping out with this service are asked to contact Community Relations Director Polly Karling at (518) 793-5556.
Hungry to do Some Good?
Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting Schuylerville Town Hall The Olde Saratoga Seniors meet at noon for a sandwich luncheon. There will be surprise entertainment.
Friday, January 20
Not sure what to do for dinner this Wednesday? Franklin Community Center thinks Mexican food sounds like a good idea. Join them Wednesday, January 18, at Cantina and 30 percent of your bill will benefit their countless community programs. Visit the center’s website at www.franklincommunitycenter.org to print off this voucher (it’s on the home page) and then bring it and an appetite to Cantina, 430 Broadway, on Wednesday. Reservations are strongly suggested. Call (518) 587-5577 to reserve your table.
All-You-Can-Eat Dinner 13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs The Principessa Elena Society at will have its monthly fundraising allyou-can-eat dinner from 5-7 p.m. Seniors $8, adults $9, children 5-12 $5 and takeouts $10. For information, call (518) 584-4163.
Upcoming Blood Drives St. Peters Lutheran Church
Glens Falls Civic Center
Town of Milton Community American Legion Post 1450
Center 2776 Rt. 9, Malta 1 Civic Center Plaza, Glens Falls 275 Grooms Rd., Clifton Park 310 Northline Rd., Ballston Spa Wednesday, January 18, from 1-6 Saturday, January 14, Monday, January 16, Tuesday, January 17, from 7:30-11:30 a.m from noon-6 p.m. p.m. from 1-6 p.m. *Receive a coupon for a free * Receive coupon for free pound * Receive coupon for free pound * Receive coupon for free pound pound of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee of Dunkin Donuts coffee of Dunkin Donuts coffee of Dunkin Donuts coffee
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A MAN AND HIS MICROPHONE
Check out the solo guitar styling Just Nate, appearing Friday, January 13 at The Mill on High Rock Avenue in Saratoga, and Saturday, January 14 at Ravenswood Pub on Route 146 in Clifton Park.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
Local Gigs
TODAY
Send listings to entertainment@saratogapublishing.com
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Friday, January 13, 2012
Joel Brown wants to take you “Places” by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - Joel Brown, chairman of the music department at Skidmore, has made a life’s work from his passion for music. That passion is reflected in the recently completed solo album Brown calls, “Places.” The 10track album is a return to recorded music for Skidmore’s classical guitar instructor after an almost twoyear hiatus. Brown had most recently been playing with the group Triple Play. “Places” is a reflection of Brown’s personal and artistic influences, drawing inspiration from a wide selection of styles and sounds. An older audience will immediately recognize and appreciate the classic pop sounds mixed with Motown and folk. “I guess you could say this is my first solo record,” said Brown, “And definitely the first as a singer and songwriter.” It should only take one listen to get an idea of how varied in style the album is. The first five tracks all seem to represent a different genre yet Brown manages to blend them together to achieve his own sound. The opener is a song called “Places You Call Home,” which is a call back to the title of the album. According to Brown, the song was inspired by his children, and is one he is particularly proud of as a songwriter. The song features a three-part voice harmony that immediately recalls Simon & Garfunkel. The album includes a very lively version of The Beatles’ “Drive My Car,” both in tribute to his favorite band, and also as a way to have some fun with a classic song. “I wondered what it would sound like if you sang ‘Drive My Car’ over ‘Hallelujah, I Love Her So’ by Ray Charles.” said Brown. Between the upbeat saxophone and trumpet, Brown easily captures the spirit of Motown he was hoping for, all while doing it with his own style. Other songs like the bluesy “When Love’s Not On Your Side,” and the hopeful “Start to Start” include the use of a Hammond B3 organ, which produces the kind of body you’d hear when listening to Motown. The album takes a sharp turn in
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style with the song “Cold War.” Softer and quieter than the rest of the pieces, the lyrics are ripe with metaphor between a personal relationship and a diplomatic dispute. “Cold War” is more soul-baring than the rest of the pieces, suggesting a difficult or unproductive relationship coming to a stalemate. The song features a soft clarinet accompaniment from Joel’s father, classical clarinetist Frank Brown. The last track “This Morning’s All Gone,” was arranged by Joel’s son Jason. His sister Linn sings back up on “Start to Start,” making a grand total of three generations of the Brown family involved with the album. Brown started playing with Triple Play back in 1999, touring all over the country with artists Chris Brubeck, and Peter “Madcat” Ruth. The recording process for “Places” provided a different kind of experience from working with Triple Play. The album was recorded mainly in the home studio of Dave Maswick, who also plays with Brown on every track. “Recording in a smaller setting, I really felt a more personal connection to the album,” Brown recalled.
The album features mostly original compositions by Brown, with the exception of “Girl Like That,” which was written by Dave Maswick. Brown enjoyed making this record, but more importantly, making it his own record. “I had a lot more freedom, and was able to express my own ideas, or rather express them without other input.” “Places” is currently available on CDBaby.com, and Brown hopes to have it listed on Amazon.com in the near future. A listing of his past and future live performances can be found on his website, w w w . J o e l B r o w n Music.com.
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Saratoga Clay Arts Center Prepares for Chili Bowl The Saratoga Clay Arts Center is beginning preparation for their First Annual Chili Bowl Fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday January 28, 2012. The event is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Schuylerville Area Food and Emergency Relief Fund and The Franklin Community Center Food Pantry. The Arts Center has made over 500 chili bowls that will be on sale at the event. Each bowl is a hand-crafted “one-of-a-kind” piece of art, and is yours to keep following the event. The event will feature a “Chili Challenge” with local celebrity chefs such as News Channel 13’s Bob Kovachick, Kim Klopstock of Fifty South, Rob Chrust of Amigos Cantina, Mike McLoughlin of Curtis Lumber, and Jasper Alexander of Hattie’s Chicken Shack all submitting recipes for judgment. Admission is $1 or one non-perishable food item to be collected at the gate. The Saratoga Clay Arts Center is located at 167 Hayes Road in Schuylerville. For more information or to buy tickets online, go to www.saratogaPhoto Provided clayarts.org.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
TODAY
Renowned Dance Company Opens Center in Saratoga Photos by MarkBolles.com
by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Myers Dance Company held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house Saturday, January 7 in celebration of their new studio location at 153 Regent Street in downtown Saratoga. The Schenectady-based
troupe has been in residency at Proctor’s Theatre since 1990, and decided to expand to include a studio further north. Overseeing the event was the center’s artistic director and Saratoga resident Darleen Myers. Myers wanted to bring the company to Saratoga to accommodate more of her home community, who she feels will benefit from a closer location and
added convenience. “I felt the demand has been here for quite a few years now, and we wanted to make it easier on some of the students from Glens Falls or Saratoga Springs who have been commuting,” said Myers. “It was a natural fit.” Those also in attendance for the ceremony include Mayor Scott Johnson, and Northeast Ballet Board President Dan Hurteau. Dancers from the Northeast Ballet held a class following the reception that was open for public observation. The Albany Symphony provided the entertainment during a champagne toast and reception following the ribbon-cutting. New York City Ballet principal dancer Wendy Whelan has been named the artistic adviser to the center, and will instruct class there in the
future. Whelan has previously worked with Myers on other projects, and thinks Whelan was the best choice for the position. “She loves the kids, and she loves the company, and we’re very happy to have her involved,” said Myers, “We get along both artistically and personally, it’s a great match.” Building on the annual success of the Nutcracker Tea performances at SPAC each year, the expansion hopes to add to the talent pool of dancers and choreographers in the area, as well as broaden the dance community in general. Students once driving from Saratoga now have the option to attend classes at a far more convenient location, and the center hopes to add new students who may not have otherwise been able to attend in Schenectady.
While other locations were considered, Myers believes the right building was selected for the new center. The Regent Street building holds a bit of local history. It was once the venue for the Skidmore campus theater, and more recently housed an antique center. Myers acknowledged the unique traits a dance center would require, “There’s some unusual requirements, wood floors, high ceilings, no obstructions.” The center began offering registration for upcoming winter classes at the open house. Classes are offered once a week for beginning students, and more involved instruction for advanced students are also available. For more information, call Northeast Ballet at (518) 374-0376 or visit them online at www.MyersNortheast.org.
Johannes Moser to make SPAC Debut in 2012 World-Renowned Cellist Headlining Chamber Music Festival Photo SARATOGA SPRINGS -- German-Canadian cellist Johannes Moser will mark his Saratoga Performing Arts Center provided (SPAC) debut and his inaugural appearance with The Philadelphia Orchestra on August 4, performing Dvorak’s Cello Concerto. The cellist will also headline the August Chamber Music Festival program. “Johannes Moser is among the best of the new generation of classical soloists, earning rave reviews across the world for masterful performances and a brilliant technique that can easily move from elegant to electrifying,” said Marcia J. White, SPAC’s president & executive director. “We are thrilled to offer Saratoga audiences the opportunity to experience this gifted, young cellist as he makes his debuts at SPAC and with The Philadelphia Orchestra.” In commenting on his appearance at SPAC, the cellist said, “I am absolutely thrilled to be making my debut at SPAC with one of the most prestigious American orchestras. The additional opportunity to collaborate with the Orchestra’s musicians in a chamber music setting is especially exciting for me; I could not imagine a better finale to my season." Moser began the 2012 concert season by making his debut with the Berlin Philharmonic playing the Schumann concerto with Zubin Mehta, who hand selected Johannes to perform for his 50th Anniversary concert. Reviewer Mark Swed of the LA Times praised Moser’s premiere of the piece stating, “[Moser] was a delight. He enthusiastically anticipated each turn of phrase. His tone sang and carried easily. He engaged the orchestra musicians, and they seemed to grow better by the measure when playing with him.” Johannes has gained a reputation for his exquisite performances of lesserknown repertoire. His affinity for new music has brought him much attention from leading conductors such as Pierre Boulez, who invited him to make his U.S. debut with the Chicago Symphony on the Rands Concerto.
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Friday, January 13, 2012
National Museum of Dance holding a “Salsa Sunday” The National Museum of Dance invites you to heat up the winter blues and Salsa the afternoon away on Salsa Sunday, January 22, 2012. The event is co-sponsored by Tango Fusion Dance Company. The event will feature Salsa dance classes for children and adults and a performance by Tango Fusion. Company members performing include co-directors Diane Lachtrupp-Martinez and Johnny Martinez, Deborah Otto-Jones, Richard Jones, Juan Soler and Arlette Meader. Classes will begin at 2p.m. on Sunday. Ages 7 and up can register for children’s Salsa classes, with a dance movement class available for children ages 4 through 6. DJ Johnny and Joey Martinez will be helping you find your groove providing the uptempo Latin beats. Admission for the event is $15 per person, $25 per couple, and $30 for families (two adults, and children under 15.) For more information on Salsa Sunday, or the National Museum of Dance, log onto their website at www.dancemuseum.org. In case of in bad weather, the make-up date for this event is Sunday, February 5. The National Museum of Dance is a nonprofit organization located at 99 South Broadway within Saratoga State Park.
Local Author to Speak at Sand Lake Center for the Arts
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Scott Christianson, author of "Freeing Charles: The Struggle to Free a Slave on the Eve of the Civil War," will present a lecture and slideshow on Charles Nalle at the Sand Lake Center for the Arts. Charles was an escaped slave from Virginia who was placed in Sand Lake by the Underground Railroad. He later moved to Troy and was arrested to be returned to his owner. Harriet Tubman and a crowd of both white and black citizens rescued him and smuggled him to Watervliet where he was again captured and again rescued. Later the citizens of Troy paid to gain his freedom from slavery. Following the program there will be a question and answer period and book signing along with prints by Mark Priest depicting the events in Troy. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children under 18. The Sand Lake Center for the Arts is located at 2880 Route 43 in Sand Lake. For more information on the author or the event, visit www.slca-ctp.org.
Photo Exhibit Examines City’s History The National Museum of Dance is currently showing an exhibit called “I’ve Got a Home: Inside a Community of Color.” The photo-exhibit examines African American members of the community, and their history in Saratoga. The exhibit’s creator, Daesha Devon Harris, is a Saratoga Springs native that draws inspiration from her hometown. “This project was created with love for Saratoga and is an integral part of our collective history as well as an example of how the arts enrich our culture and community,” said Harris. She hopes the community will take a personal interest to her work, saying, “I hope that the viewers will connect with the personal stories and will leave the exhibit with a greater appreciation and understanding of the contemporary and historic contributions of people of color within our community.” The display will run through February 26, 2012. For more information, contact the National Museum of Dance at www.dancemuseum.org. For more information on the artist, visit www.daeshadevonharris.com.
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11th Annual Hattie’s Restaurant “Mardi Gras” This Weekend Photos by MarkBolles.com
Hattie’s Restaurant wants you to bring your beads and celebrate New Orleans style. The restaurant will hold its 11th annual Mardi Gras celebration this coming Saturday, January 14. The event will take place at the Canfield Casino in Saratoga’s Congress Park. Proceeds from the event are going to benefit Saratoga Sponsor-A-Scholar. The foundation helps economically underprivileged students from Saratoga Springs High school graduate and prepare for college. Past events have helped Hattie’s raise over $200,000 for their respective causes. Admission is $75 dollars and includes traditional Mardi Gras cuisine prepared by Hattie’s own Jasper Alexander. The event will begin with a complimentary cocktail hour at 6p.m. followed by a cash bar. There will be a silent auction fundraiser for charity throughout the evening. The Bread Basket Bakery will be providing an array of desserts including cake pops and a “whoopie-bar.” Live entertainment will be provided by Garland Nelson and Soul Session, and dancers from the Northeast Ballet will be performing as well. There will be a wacky photo booth run by Heather Bohm-Tallman. News Channel 13’s Benita Zahn will serve as “mistress” of ceremonies. Reservations and tickets are still available, and can be purchased by calling (518) 584-4790.
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Community Corner
Wine, Cheese and Cracker Tasting Event a Success
Milton Grange #685 and Greenfield Grange #807 hosted a very successful wine tasting at The Saratoga Winery to benefit farmers in Schoharie County still recovering from flood damage caused by Hurricanes Irene and Lee. The organization Schoharie County Community Action Program (SCAPP) was chosen to distribute the funds. Marcy Holmes of SCCAP was presented with a check for just over $2000. Pictured: Shana and Lynn Cumm of Greenfield Grange, Marcy Holmes of SCCAP, Paul Coleman and Rob Pastore of Milton Grange.
SARATOGA
Friday, January 13, 2012
Happy 65th Anniversary!
Wesley Health Care Center residents Walter and Lucille Taylor recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with a party. Congratulations to the Taylors!
TODAY
the
Tooth fairy club Take a look at this week’s new club members
Bridges to Skidmore College Graduation
Teressa
Happy 100th Birthday! Wesley Health Care Center resident, Rose Venn, celebrated her 100th birthday January 3. Rose, who is a retired registered nurse from Victory Mills is shown above with her daughter Mary Ann Venn-Parillo.
Isabella The tooth fairy club is sponsored by:
Monday, December 5, the Bridges to Skidmore Program held their first graduation ceremony in Skidmore’s Murray-Aikins Dining Hall. Seven individuals proudly wore their graduation gowns and received a diploma after spending four semesters in the program. One of the Saratoga Bridges graduates will continue as a student advisor to the remaining students.
659 Saratoga Rd. Gansevoort, NY 12831 (518) 226-6010
Mechanicville Teens Have Seen Enough
Reality Check teens in Mechanicville celebrated the new year with big changes in the city of Mechanicville. Local youth gathered blindfolded to send a message that dangerous tobacco marketing should be removed from stores where kids shop. Unless community leaders and storeowners enforce change, wearing a blindfold will be the only way for kids to avoid this deadly influence.
Peppermint Pig Hunt Winner Winner of the Saratoga S p r i n g s Preservation Foundation’s Peppermint Pig Hunt Keith White of Clifton Park accepts his prize.
SARATOGA
TODAY
Friday, January 13, 2012
Sudoku
PUZZLES PUZZLES PUZZLES Crossword
27 Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase. Martin Luther King Jr.
Words to know: insurgent: adj. Rebellious. N. A person who revolts against authority. See puzzle solutions on page 30
ACROSS
See puzzle solution on page 30
Scrabblegram
See puzzle solution on page 30
Movie Review Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
1 Sign of age 5 Asian city whose name means “place of the gods” 10 Buds 14 “Play it, Sam” speaker 15 Legendary creator of talking animals 16 Fairy tale side, often 17 Peevish audience? 19 Jim-dandy 20 Third baseman Ron posthumously elected to the Hall of Fame in December 2011 21 Something for nothing 23 Know-it-__: self-proclaimed brains 26 Carrier with a portmanteau name 27 Irritable telemarketer? 32 Place for a ring 33 Like London fog 34 Range of understanding 38 Cpls., e.g. 40 Bucs and Nats 42 First name in sports cars 43 Belief 45 Rap sheet listing 47 Graffiti ID 48 Sect members telling off-color jokes? 51 Winter climberʼs need 54 Ornate metalware 55 “If I may ...” 58 High capital 62 Sunburn soother 63 Surly sort? 66 River to the Moray Firth 67 Footnote abbr. 68 Rock bands? 69 Help hold up, say 70 Country dances 71 On deck DOWN 1 Wilde and Twain, e.g. 2 Zeno of __ 3 Part of AAA: Abbr. 4 Wood being tested for use as artificial bone 5 Get behind 6 The other woman 7 Since 8 Go bad
A legendary showdown that anyone could’ve seen coming. Like Captain Hook and Peter Pan or Robin Hood and the Sheriff of Nottingham, if one is mentioned, the other must be soon enough. So is the case with Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty. Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) is on the hunt for the man who escaped his grasp in his last adventure without so much as bearing his face on camera. Watson (played by Jude Law) is hoping to put Holmes, Moriarty, and a life of intrigue, danger and oddities behind him. Though, choosing Holmes as his best man makes it appear as though he is, at least, conflicted. And when Moriarty (played by Jared Harris) takes the life of the only woman who ever outsmarted Holmes (twice), walking away is no longer an option for either of them. I liked the first film a lot. More than I expected to, in fact. But in depicting the thought process that allows Holmes to gain advantage, director Guy Ritchie seems to have found an addiction. To see that exact same process being undertaken by Moriarty at the exact
At The Movies With Trey Roohan
Gasoline Alley
9 Post-trial proceeding 10 Partridgeʼs perch? 11 To have, in Le Havre 12 McCartney of Wings 13 Smooth and glossy 18 Yellows 22 Critical care abbr. 24 Interpol command center site, locally 25 Cut stone 27 Slight change? 28 Derby, for example 29 Memphis middle name 30 Mimicking 31 Old string player 35 Certain forced bet 36 Winter Palace ruler 37 Big bikes
39 Briefly, show whose name appears under “123” in its logo 41 NYC neighborhood 44 Roll before flying 46 Come from behind 49 Love __ 50 “Somethingʼs Gotta Give” actress 51 Bucky Beaverʼs toothpaste 52 One of Us? 53 Jagged 56 Sunbeam speck 57 Chant ending 59 Woodpile in “Light My Fire” 60 Peak 61 Tang 64 “Fantasia” unit 65 Mil. centers
time is a step too far. Not to mention the slow-motion run through a forest being decimated by explosions is a white flag, more or less, in a picture like this. Entertaining, yes, but completely unoriginal. (6.3/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.
Broom Hilda
Animal Crackers
SARATOGA
Friday, January 13, 2012
28
@
classified TODAY’s
classified saratoga publishing
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Call (518) 581-2480 x 204
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SELL YOUR CAR, TRUCK or SUV TODAY! All 50 states, fast pick-up and payment. Any condition, make or model. Call now 1-877-818-8848 www.MyCarforCash.net CASH FOR CARS! We Buy ANY Car or Truck, Running or NOT! Damaged, Wrecked, Salvaged OK! Get a top dollar INSTANT offer today! 1-800-267-1591
BOOK - The Chronicles of Saratoga signed by Evelyn Benett Britten 9/17/59. Collectors item. Mint Condition. $150.00. Call 383-3617 BUYING COINS- Gold, Silver & ALL Coins, Stamps, Paper Money, Entire Collections worth $5,000 or more. Travel to your home. CASH paid. Call Marc 1-800-488-4175 Wanted new or used snowmobiles, will accept as a trade-in for a brand new HUD-SON portable sawmill or a firewood processor. Call Now 800-765-7297 www.hud-son.com SAWMILLS from only $3997- MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD:† www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N
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Clean As A Whistle Professional Residential Cleaning From our shining customer service, to your sparkling clean home, you can count on Clean As A Whistle! Reliable. Insured. Bonded 518-894-4476
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Reach the most readers with Saratoga TODAY Classifieds! Call 581-2480 TODAY!!
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Friday, January 13, 2012
FOR RENT
FOR RENT
WILTON McGregor Village Apts. WINTER SPECIAL - 1ST MONTH FREE 2 bdrm, 1 bath. Cats only. (A/C avail) 518-886-8013 All 1st flr. units includes features for persons w/disabilities required by the Fair Housing Act. Now $775/month,
REAL ESTATE
$65,000
$70,000
WILTON 108 ROBBINS RD
GREENFIELD 401 PLANK RD
Great, approved building lot.Over an acre and convenient! Near Northway, malls and Saratoga. Low Wilton taxes. Approved well and septic design. Call listing agent for survey Bring your builder. Deferred closing possible
Almost 28 acres of lovely wooded land on the side of a mountain. Stream , saleable lumber and views. Great for hunting, camping or a summer getaway. Saratoga schools
Jane W Mehan 587-4500 jmehan@roohanrealty.com RoohanRealty.com
$329,900
BALLSTON LAKE 2 KNOTTINGLEY PL A beautiful ranch nestled on 2.65 acres. 9' ceilings through out, family room w/cathedral ceiling, corner gas fireplace and hardwood floor. Formal dining room. A great cherry kitchen w/angled island w/ breakfast bar, stainless appliances, tiled floor and large dining area w/ sliding glass doors that lead to a covered porch and stone patio.
Sharon Byrne (518) 527-4914 sharonbyrne.com
Jane W Mehan 587-4500 jmehan@roohanrealty.com RoohanRealty.com
$359,000
SARATOGA SPRINGS 6 MAXWELL DR
Fabulous, like new, home in a wonderful family neighborhood. Why live in the burbs when you can be close to Broadway, shopping and the HS! Spacious, 4 bdrm, 2.5 baths, colonial w/hardwood floors, granite kitchen w/SS appliances, family room w/fp, large master suite, ceramic tile, big new deck, totally fenced yard, a Saratoga front porch and much much more. This is so much better than new! Jane W Mehan 587-4500 jmehan@roohanrealty.com RoohanRealty.com
OPEN HOUSE SAT. 1/14 12-2 PM
$219,900 BALLSTON LAKE 16 NOORD LA
Lovely split ranch in Shen schools. Hardwood floors, new bath with granite countertops and ceramic tile. This home also offers three zone heating with programmable thermostats. Dir: Ushers Rd to Left on Longkill to Right on Main St to left on Hubbs to left on Dutch Meadow to left on Noord Faye F Rispoli (518) 512-9060 rispoli@ffrispoli.com
$719,900
SARATOGA SPRINGS 28 TYLER DR "Woodlands" on Saratoga Lake. Truely spectacular home, permium lot with woods behind, amenities include lake access, indoor & outdoor pools, tennis, rec rm, gym, access to boat docks & beach. Custom home w/outdoor Trek deck & stone fireplace. Gorgeous custom kitchen, tile & granite. Two story family rm, beautiful sunroom. Fabulous master bedroom suite w/window seat, fireplace and cathedral ceiling. Skylight in master bath and much more. Sharon Byrne (518) 527-4914 sharonbyrne.com
$304,900
SARATOGA SPRINGS 4 ROUND TABLE RD
Lovely 4 bdrm, 2.5 bath family home on a wonderful family street. Only 7 yrs young, this colonial boast hardwood floors, custom kitchen, family room w/fp, large living room, formal dining room and a great master suite with whirlpool tub and walk-in closet. 3 other spacious bdrms for your growing family. Cozy backyard and Saratoga front porch for those summer nights. $2,000 credit for landscaping Jane W Mehan 587-4500 jmehan@roohanrealty.com RoohanRealty.com
OPEN HOUSE SUN. 12-3
SARATOGA SPRINGS 6 TYLER DRIVE Almost new, executive home in the highly desirable Woodlands at Water's Edge. Enjoy the lake, pools and marina in a private HOA, and live in a turn key 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath Colonial with many upgrades: granite counters, screened porch, and new patio. John Burke, Broker/Owner 518-580-8500
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SARATOGA
SPORTS
It's not War! Damian Fantauzzi Disturbing incidents have occurred in the past year or so where some fans have attacked one another in the stands or parking lots after professional sporting events. Disappointment turned into anger has created situations of violence, inciting some to retaliate against spectators or fans that support the "other" team. These are cases where the victim was brutality beaten by perpetrators who have the mentality of a mob. Most people in America take their sports seriously and demonstrate loyalty to the geographical region where they live and root for the local teams. For example, I am a New York Yankee fan, like my dad and his brothers. But I also have friends who live in the area who are Red Sox fans (but note, I did say “friends,” and they will always be my friends). There is no discontent or disconnect on my part because they don't support the Yanks, or conversely, because I do. It's a friendly rivalry and it's fun! But in the past year there has been an epidemic of beatings at professional sporting events like baseball, football, basketball and hockey. Last spring in Los Angeles, when the
Send your sports stories and briefs to Daniel Schechtman, Sports Editor at sports@saratoga publishing.com
Dodgers were playing the San Francisco Giants on opening day of the 2011 baseball season, a Giants fan was brutally beaten by two Dodger fans for wearing a jersey in support of his team. His life has been altered as a direct result of that crime. There is a possibility that he may be handicapped for life due to the brain damage which resulted from severe blows to the head. Recently a young man who was at a Jets-Eagles game incurred damage to his vision because he was beaten and harassed by some Eagles fans. Just a couple of weeks ago a young marine was at the NHL's "Winter Outdoor Classic" game in Philadelphia between the Rangers and the Flyers. The marine had just returned home from Afghanistan, only to be beaten by a few Flyers fans because he wore a Rangers jersey and the New York team won in overtime. He is a Purple Heart recipient. A couple of years ago, at a high school hockey game, and I don't recall where this occurred, but two parents got into a fight and one parent was killed by the other - sad stuff! There are stories about fans of opposing teams emptying the stands out on to the field or court throwing fists at each other, creating a huge brawl. In my own past when I played college basketball at New Mexico Highlands University, we were playing our arch rivals St. Michaels College of Santa Fe, and a fight broke out between the fans. The bleachers emptied out onto the floor and the players of both teams headed to the locker rooms for safety. Professional sports are a form
Friday, January 13, 2012
Girls’ Basketball Schedule
TODAY
Boys’ Basketball Schedule
of entertainment, where the teams and athletes are playing for a salary. In many circumstances Ballston Spa Ballston Spa they are not committed to the 1/06: at Guilderland, 36-48 L 1/06: vs. Guilderland, 53-72 L area that they represent. They do 1/10: vs. Burnt Hills, 48-44 W 1/10: at Burnt Hills, 48-59 L have an allegiance to the team 1/13: at Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m. 1/13: vs. Saratoga Springs, 7 p.m. but are not involved with the Burnt Hills Burnt Hills community. Sorry to say it, but 1/06: vs. Colonie, 41-53 L 1/06: at Colonie, 31-66 L it’s a fact! Perhaps a relatable 1/10: vs. Ballston Spa, 59-48 W 1/10: at Ballston Spa, 44-48 L comparison is that there are 1/13: at Shenendehowa, 7 p.m. 1/13: vs. Shenendehowa, 7 p.m. employees and professional people of local businesses who live Saratoga Springs Saratoga Springs in other communities. They're 1/06: at Bethlehem, 52-65 L 1/06: vs. Bethlehem, 44-67 L doing their jobs but living else1/10: at Niskayuna, 41-46 L 1/10: vs. Niskayuna, 46-47 L where and may not be as heavily 1/13: vs. Ballston Spa, 7 p.m. 1/13: at Ballston Spa, 7 p.m. invested in the community. There Schuylerville are exceptions to the rule, but we Schuylerville all have the right to live where 1/06: vs. Cambridge, 53-46 W 1/06: at Cambridge, 62-46 W we feel comfortable. What does 1/11: at Tamarac, 46-52 L 1/10: vs. Tamarac, 65-47 W this mean to the fans? I admit, I 1/13: at Stillwater, 7:30 p.m. 1/13: vs. Stillwater, 7:30 p.m. don't know! But I do know that South Glens Falls South Glens Falls there are people out there who somehow have lost sight of what 1/06: vs. Broadalbin-Perth, 42-31 W 1/09: at Hudson Falls, 52-44 W sports are supposed to be about: 1/10: vs. Hudson Falls, 33-37 L 1/17: at Glens Falls, 7:30 p.m. entertainment, not war! 1/16: vs. Glens Falls, 7 p.m. 1/20: at Johnstown, 7 p.m. Being upset about your team losing a game is OK and normal. It's like politics – you're not a bad person because you vote for the other party! Our lives are dominated by pros and cons and in this country people have options to make a choice whether it agrees or disagrees with your ideological philosophy. It's what democracy is all about! These beatings are another form of bullying that has trickled up into the adult world all the way from the schoolyard, and some people need to accept that they can't have everything their way. Maybe there needs to be photo provided more consequences to control the Champions and Elks organizers pictured from L to R: Steve Dorsey, Duncan Moller, thugs in the stands. How about Charlie Beck, Grayson DuMortier, Grace Schmidt, Devin Davidson and Les Cole the use of a breathalyzer on fans SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge No. 161 before they buy a beer? Sound held its annual Hoop Shoot basketball awards ceremony Saturday, ridiculous? Yes, it does! But just December 7, where 17 competitors were awarded for top three finishes maybe it’s a solution that could between three age brackets for boys and girls. prevent a crime before it hapOf those with a first-place finish, Charlie Beck and Grace Schmidt are pens, protecting the innocent fan set to advance to Regionals Saturday, February 4 at the Cohoes that supports and cheers for the Community Center. other team.
puzzle solutions from pg. 27
Elks Hoop Shoot Champions Honored
SARATOGA
TODAY
SPORTS
Friday, January 13, 2012
31
Spartans Stomp Scotties in Suburban Council Standoff by Daniel Schechtman Saratoga TODAY BURNT HILLS - The Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Spartans played four quarters of consistent basketball Tuesday, January 10, outlasting the Ballston Spa
Scotties to earn the 59-48 victory. The first half featured close and competitive play, with Ballston Spa’s Drew Bishop, Ryan McVaigh and Spenser Moseman each scoring well to keep the game within reach. But a strong Spartans’ offense led by Robert Knightes and Austin Nydeggar
photos by MarkBolles.com • Saratoga TODAY
The Spartans waste little time transitioning from defense to offense against the struggling Scotties.
stopped the Scotties from taking the upper hand. With a game still up for grabs, Burnt Hills led at the half 26-24. But if Ballston Spa was able to hang tight in the first, the Scotties’ grasp shook loose in the second half as the Spartan offense began to soar. By the end of the third quarter the Spartans had widened their lead by a 42-34 margin, scoring 16 points on offense while holding Ballston Spa to only 10. The Spartans sealed their win with a 17-point fourth quarter, outhustling the Scotties (who put up 14 points) to grab the 59-48 victory. Ballston Spa falls to 2-8 overall for the season. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake improves to 4-6 overall. The Spartans’ Robert Knightes was the high-scorer for the evening, netting 16 points for his performance. Teammate Austin
photos by MarkBolles.com
Burnt Hills’ David Wellington goes for 3 early in the game against Ballston Spa. Nydeggar added 12, with David Wellington chipping in with 10. Ballston Spa’s Drew Bishop led his team with 12 points, with Ryan McVaigh and Spenser Moseman each contributing 11. Ballston Spa returns to action
Friday, January 13, when they face Saratoga Springs on the Scotties’ home turf. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake will travel to Shenendehowa Friday, January 13 for their next game against the Plainsmen.
It’s Not War page 30
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sports
Vol. 7 • Issue 2 • FREE • Saratoga TODAY Photos by MarkBolles.com
See Page 31
Elks Hoop Shoot page 30 Friday, January 13, 2012