Saratoga Today 1-18

Lo c a l Volume 8 • Issue 2

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I n d e p e n d e n t

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F r e e

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Gun Laws Draw Fire

saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Local business left with questions as Senator Marchione’s petition takes off

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY ROUND LAKE — As New York residents went to bed Monday evening, there was word out of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office of the forthcoming New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act of 2013 (NY SAFE ACT). By Tuesday morning, it had passed through the New York State Senate by a vote of 43-18. That afternoon, it passed the New York State Assembly by a vote of 104-43.

By Wednesday morning, the questions from outraged gun owners started coming and the

gun stores started worrying.

If you were traveling down Route 9 in Round Lake earlier this week, you’re likely to have seen a line of cars stretching down the road in front of Zack’s Sports, not

“It’s only been live a little over two days and we’re at 64,029 signatures.”

—Senator Kathy Marchione to mention a packed parking lot.

That’s because people were in a rush to get their hands on whatever they could before Governor Cuomo signed the legislation

into law. By Wednesday morning though, the store wasn’t sure if they were even going to open without knowing what was or was not legal for them to sell.

With even gun stores wary of what they can and cannot sell, it’s likely that the general public is going to seek further clarification on these laws.

“The most common question is people asking whether what they have is legal, whether it’s a high-capacity magazine or a tenround magazine or if it comes right down to the gun,” said the owner of Zack’s Sports, Kevin Zacharewiz.

The store was a mob scene on Tuesday, as people raced to acquire whatever they could

SARATOGA SPRINGS — If you are one of those people burning with ideas but can’t seem to get the notion out there or develop it further, this may be just the ticket you need—54 hours of buzzing excitement, networking, a team of like-minded individuals

working with you and the possibility of having your idea backed by an investor. Think Shark Tank Saratoga style — that’s Startup Weekend Saratoga.

“It is like a true collaborative brain,” said Bob Manasier. “A lot of people come here with great ideas, some come to network, others come to maybe join a team. It is a great opportunity to showcase your idea and it is a great way of

networking for business.”

Startup Weekend Saratoga, a part of Startup Weekend International, is coming to town March 1–3. It is designed to match hopeful entrepreneurs with investors and mentors in a 54-hour marathon where individuals with an idea for a product or business have the opportunity to pitch their idea to the audience. If their idea is one of the top vote gatherers, a

Chocolate Mill We got a glimpse of the Chocolate Mill, Saratoga’s newest destination offering some of the finest pastries around.

See News pg. 8

Saratoga Springs City Council The gun show debate rages on, with protesters hoping to see action taken before scheduled March arms fair.

See News pg. 11 NYS Senator Kathy Marchione (R, C — Halfmoon) launched an online petition in hopes of repealing NY SAFE ACT, and estimates 1,300 new signatures per hour.

See Gun Laws pg. 7

Inside TODAY Publisher’s Desk

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Business 8–9 Obituaries 14

Shark Tank, Saratoga Style

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY

Featured Stories

Education 16–17 Fun and Games

“A pile of rocks ceases to be a rock when somebody contemplates it with the idea of a cathedral in mind.”

—Antoine St. Exupery See Startup pg. 10

Pulse/Local Gigs

22 24–27

Weekend Forecast FRIDAY

26|13 SATURDAY

34|17 SUNDAY

27|8

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Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Scenes from an Upstate Gun Show SARATOGA SPRINGS — The issue of gun safety has been on the minds of many Saratoga County residents, with some in favor of tighter legislation being passed and others feeling their rights as American citizens are being impinged. Groups representing both philosophies came out to protest during the NEACA Arms Fair January 12–13 at the Saratoga City Center. The show was a point of contention between the two sides, as gun safety advocates urged the City Center to cancel the show and any subsequent shows from happening within city limits, by holding up cut outs of angels meant to represent the lives lost during the events of Sandy Hook Elementary.

Our photographer was on the scene as the show opened to an anxious crowd, which kept the show at capacity for the majority of the day.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013 Wallace Daniel Julius, 44, of Gridley Street in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 8 along South Broadway and charged with assault in the third-degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Julius allegedly assaulted a female at the St. Charles Motel and fled the scene. When police caught up with him he was identified by the victim and taken into custody. The victim was treated by EMS at the scene.

Uhura Ajene Bennett, 26, of Vanderbilt Terrace in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 8 and charged with grand larceny in the fourth-degree exceeding $1,000, a Class E felony. Bennett was arrested on a warrant issued after an incident on November 17, 2012. He allegedly stole two diamond bracelets from Olde Saratoga Coin Shop, each valued at over $1,000.

Emily R. Latalladi, of Birch Meadow in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 11 along Weibel Avenue and charged with petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. Latalladi was allegedly observed by Kohl’s Loss Prevention team placing store merchandise in her handbag. As she attempted to leave, she was confronted, but refused to comply. When officers arrived, they discovered over $400 worth of merchandise that Latalladi could not produce receipts for, and matched the description provided by the security camera.

Linton G. Morfan, 26, of Dyre Circle in Saratoga Springs, was

arrested January 12 along High Rock Avenue and charged with driving while intoxicated, and operating a motor vehicle with blood-alcohol content greater than .08 percent, both Class A misdemeanors. He was also charged with leaving the scene of an auto accident and unsafe backing, both violation charges. Morgan was allegedly spotted by officers as he backed into another vehicle, located in a parking lot along Lake Avenue. He allegedly did not stop to check the damages, and continued out of the parking lot until stopped by police.

He was issued a field sobriety test and taken into custody.

Derek L. Adams, 29, of Hayner Heights in Halfmoon, was arrested January 12 along Broadway and charged with driving while intoxicated, and operating a motor vehicle with blood-alcohol content greater than .08 percent, both Class A misdemeanors. Officers responded to reports of an altercation at the corner of Broadway and Caroline Street.

When officers arrived, a grey vehicle started driving away.

Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as Adams, who appeared to be in an intoxicated state. He was issued a field sobriety test and taken into custody.

Juan J. Munguia, 23, of Vanderbilt Terrace in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 12 along Jefferson Terrace and charged with criminal trespass in the third-degree, a Class B misdemeanor. Munguia was arrested

BLOTTER after entering a location along Jefferson Street he had previously been advised not to enter.

Raymond D. Boyce, Jr., 23, of David Lane in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 13 along Hathorn Boulevard and charged with driving while intoxicated, aggravated driving while intoxicated, and operating a motor vehicle with bloodalcohol content greater than .08 percent, all Class A misdemeanors. Boyce was stopped by police in the city around 4:30 a.m. During the traffic stop, officers performed a field sobriety test, and Boyce was taken into custody.

Patrick K. Pomian, 23, of Fairview Chapel Road in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, was arrested January 14 along Washington Street and charged with driving while intoxicated, and operating a motor vehicle with blood-alcohol content greater than .08 percent, both Class A misdemeanors. Officers observed Pomian’s vehicle acting in an erratic manner, and stopped the vehicle. He was issued a field sobriety test and taken into custody.

Brandy May Wright, 21, of Jefferson Terrace in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 14 and charged with grand larceny in the fourth-degree exceeding $1,000, a Class E felony. Wright was arrested on a

warrant issued for an incident occurring November 11, 2012.

She is alleged to have stolen in excess of $1,000 during a domestic dispute.

Bruce C. Albert, 57, of Zephyr Lane in Saratoga Springs, was arrested January 14 and charged with disorderly conduct, a violation. After officers

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responded to his residence for a third time on noise complaints, Albert allegedly discarded the paperwork and refused to comply with the order, becoming disruptive and abusive toward his neighbors. He was arrested and transported to the Saratoga Springs police department for processing.

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Locally Owned and Operated 5 Case Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866 Phone: (518) 581-2480 Fax: (518) 581-2487 SaratogaTODAYNewspaper.com Hours of Operation 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Monday–Friday Publisher/Editor Chad Beatty 581-2480 x 212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com General Manager Robin Mitchell 581-2480 x 208 rmitchell@saratogapublishing.com Advertising Chris Bushee 581-2480 x 201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com Jim Daley 581-2480 x 209 jdaley@saratogapublishing.com Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Art Department Richard Hale 581-2480 x 202 Production Director rhale@saratogapublishing.com Eric Havens 581-2480 x 207 ehavens@saratogapublishing.com Jessica Kane 581-2480 x 215 jkane@saratogapublishing.com Editorial Andrew Marshall 581-2480 x 206 Managing Editor, Sports amarshall@saratogapublishing.com Chelsea DiSchiano 581-2480 x 214 Features Editor, Pulse, Community Corner chelsea@saratogapublishing.com Patricia Older 581-2480 x 203 Business Editor, Obituaries, Briefs patricia@saratogapublishing.com Calendar Cindy Durfey 581-2480 x 204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com Photographer Mark Bolles 490-1757 mbolles@photoandgraphic.com Distribution Kim Beatty 581-2480 x 205 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

week in Review Gov. Cuomo Enacts Nation’s Strictest Gun Laws NEW YORK — The New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act of 2013 (NY SAFE ACT) was passed in the New York State Senate by a vote of 43-18 and in the New York State Assembly by a vote of 104-43 on January 15.

The new legislation puts New York at the forefront of the nation’s increasing gun restriction policies after the Newtown shooting that cost the lives of 22 children and six adults.

Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the measure into law less than an hour after it won final passage in the Legislature.

“The bill balances the urgent need to both crack down on these lethal weapons and keep our communities safe, while still ensuring that sportsmen and other legal gun owners have access to the guns to which they are entitled,” said a statement released by the Office of the Governor.

New York State Senator Kathy Marchione (R-Halfmoon) created a petition the day the legislation was passed in her efforts to repeal the new law and stop the “new, restrictive and unconstitutional gun control measures being rammed through at a breakneck, breathtaking speed at the federal and state levels of government,” as she said in a statement released January 16.

Maplewood Manor Officially Transferred to LDC BALLSTON SPA — After months of protests, public hearings and heated arguments, the county-owned public nursing home Maplewood Manor has officially been transferred over to a Limited Development Corporation, or LDC. Only five members of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, which has a total of 23 board members, voted against the privatization of the home. Many of the supervisors said over the months of public debates that they felt there was no other choice in the matter, with the nursing home projected to have a $9.8 million deficit in 2012.

A group of relatives of the nursing home’s residents, Maplewood Manor Family Council, will still petition for a chance to stop the privatization. However, with this vote the nursing home is no longer in the hands of the county and a petition will likely not do much to change the outcome of Maplewood Manor’s fate.

Patti Southworth of Ballston, Dick Lucia of Corinth, Dan Lewza of Milton, Preston Jenkins of Moreau and Joanne Yepsen of Saratoga Springs were the five supervisors who voted against the transfer.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Clifton Park Woman Charged with Vehicular Manslaughter CLIFTON PARK — After hitting a man while allegedly drunk driving and sending him to the hospital with injuries November 30, charges against a Clifton Park woman were upgraded after the man died a month later due to his injuries received in the accident.

Thomas Baker, 49, was driving on Route 67 when his car was struck by Traci L. Briskin, 39, who had run a stop sign on Jockey Street in Charlton.

Immediately after the crash, Briskin was charged with driving while intoxicated, vehicular assault and failure to stop for a stop sign. Baker was transported to Albany Medical Center and underwent surgery for serious injuries. Almost a month later, on December 23, 2012, Baker died of those injuries.

On January 16, Briskin was arraigned on a charge of vehicular manslaughter, a felony. She was released on a $20,000 bail bond and is due to reappear in Charlton Town Court February 7.

A Saratoga County grand jury will hear the case.

Ballston Spa Bank Robber Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison BALLSTON SPA — Nigel R. Guy, 32, pleaded guilty in November

to second-degree robbery after previously robbing a Route 50 bank by pretending he had a weapon and then crashing his car while attempting to flee the scene. Guy was sentenced January 15 to 10 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision.

Guy entered the Adirondack Trust Co. bank on Route 50 in Ballston Spa, across the street from Ballston Spa High School, at about 1:45 p.m. May 24, 2012.

He handed the teller a bag and told her to fill it with money, keeping his hand in his pocket the whole time to make it seem like he had a gun. The teller then filled Guy’s bag with an undisclosed amount of money and Guy fled to his car parked at the school.

While driving away from the scene, Guy crashed his car into a truck at the intersection of Middleline and Northline roads, proceeding to get out and flee on foot. He was quickly caught by the police.

The nearby schools were put into lockdown mode and dismissal was delayed while the suspect was still at large. Police searched the area for an alleged accomplice but ultimately determined Guy acted alone.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

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From the Publisher’s Desk . . .

by Chad Beatty Saratoga TODAY It may be a little late to say this… but welcome back and Happy New Year!

By now hopefully you have noticed the new look of our newspaper and have visited our newlyredesigned website.

If you have a particularly keen eye, you may have even noticed that the look of the front page is quite different from last week. I know what you’re thinking, “That isn’t good! Their branding needs to stay consistent!”

Well, here is what happened in a nutshell. Last week turned out to be one of those weeks, especially on production day, when anything that could go wrong, did go wrong.

Good old Murphy and his law were in full effect for Saratoga TODAY. The week began with our production director getting called into jury duty for up to two weeks! I am all for fulfilling your civic duty, but of course they had to call him the week we are launching a re-design, a new website and have a magazine going to press! Couldn’t the defendants and plaintiffs have waited another week? It appears as though “My publisher doesn’t want me at jury duty” isn’t a legitimate excuse.

Me shouting “I object!” likely doesn’t hold very much weight in a court of law.

On top of that our internet went down, the design program crashed and a second designer came down with the flu.

So, long story short, we got the paper to press four hours late, not to mention we had to drive a disk to the printer because of our electronic transfer problems. I am just happy we overcame all of our obstacles and had a paper on the street first thing Friday morning, although it wasn’t quite what we had planned.

Needless to say the press crew was not happy as well as the drivers and…well let’s just say no one was really happy about it.

So, here we are with our new front page. I have to say that I am very pleased with the new look.

I think it is dynamic, clean and impactful. We made the very tough decision to reserve the American flag background for special occasions. It was a tough choice and we vacillated back and forth for weeks, but based our final decision on the cleanness of the overall look.

Also, if you haven’t had the opportunity to, I strongly recommend you visit our newly-redesigned website. A lot of effort went into the new look and features. One of the favorites so far seems to be our team of local bloggers, hitting topics ranging in everything from fitness to fashion with dogs in between.

You can check it out at: www.

SaratogaTODAYnewspaper.com We still have a punch list for the website about 30 items deep but we are working through them oneby-one. If you have any suggestions for ANY of our products we would love to hear from you.

In closing I would like to give a big Thank You to my staff for working long hours to make all of this

possible and I want to put kudos out to Trina Lucas, our social columnist, and Colleen Pierre of SaratogaMama.com Thank you again for being a part of our extended family and remember to support all of our locally owned and operated businesses.

I hope you all have a healthy, happy and prosperous new year!

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Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Public Commenters Still Pushing for Gun Show Ban

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — While the January NEACA Arms Fair may have come and gone without incident, the debate over whether the city should continue to allow future gun shows to take place raged on during the public comment portion of the January 15 Saratoga Springs City Council meeting.

With the January gun show in the rearview mirror, gun safety advocates focused their attention on seeing the next arms fair — scheduled for the weekend of March 15-17 — is cancelled or moved to a

venue outside city limits.

Deirdre Ladd, of the group “Saratogians for Gun Safety,” stated that her group intends to protest any and all arms fairs held at the City Center. There are also two more shows scheduled for August and October of this year. She stated that she was proud to stand in protest in honor of the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, but condemned the masked protesters who she described as “gun-toting masked people waving swastikas and Confederate flags,” who were shouting at her and her children.

A few members of the assembled pro-gun crowd featured individuals wearing a mask resembling

English revolutionary Guy Fawkes, which has been come to symbolize the online collective/hacking outfit Anonymous, though there is no indication the individuals at the protest were affiliated with the group.

Ladd said it took a lot of courage for her to stand there that day, and asked the council to display their courage by banning all future gun shows at the City Center.

David Chew, who prefaced that he had not intended to speak that evening, pointed out that over 5,000 individuals came out to the gun show, which in 30 years of being in the city has never once reported an incident. He acknowledged that there may have been “a couple of morons” at the protest, but that the city should not be so eager to turn away commerce in the name of “feel-good legislation.”

“Please don’t make the mistake of chasing commerce out of this city just because someone is afraid of a gun,” said Chew.

Susan Steer, the gun safety activist who has been at the very

forefront of the debate, said that if the Council passed a resolution banning gun shows at the City Center that they might be willing to listen. She also made mention of the hostility she encountered while “expressing her First Amendment rights” outside of the City Center during the gun show.

Mark Baker, the president of the City Center Authority, was one of the last to speak. He made mention of the show’s popularity while also acknowledging some of the more abrasive pro-gun protesters.

He spoke with the tired patience

of a man only trying to do what was best for the city and the City Center, while remaining open to the thoughts of those who oppose the gun show.

“Last weekend for the City Center, we had the largest, single attendance day in our history. It was one of the busiest public show weekends we’ve ever hosted. It was also incident free.”

Baker said he encouraged the show’s promoter, David Petronis, to make a contribution to the city in appreciation for the service provided by the police department during the protests. He added that Petronis agreed to make a $1,000 contribution and that the City Center would match it.

In other Saratoga Springs City Council news, there was some tension among board members as they attempted to review the city’s Comprehensive Plan, which must be reviewed every five years. Mayor Scott Johnson had hoped to award a bid to M.J. Engineering and Land Surveying P.C. to carry out the update, but Accounts Commissioner John Franck asked why a bid was being awarded before a committee could be formed.

That led to Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan inquiring as to how the Comprehensive Plan committee is formed. She believes the council should be allowed input into the decision, while the mayor feels he should be allowed to appoint the committee himself.

Madigan cited that the City Charter does not give the mayor the authority to make the selections.

The matter was tabled until the February 5 meeting, after Commissioner Franck removed his agenda item approving the award of bid to M.J. Engineering.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

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Senator Marchione Reacts to New Gun Laws continued from page 1 before it became illegal. By Wednesday, the store’s inventory had been somewhat depleted not only by customers, but by the store not wanting to sell anything that might get them in trouble.

While there are 13 main provisions to the NY SAFE ACT, the intricacies do not seem to be worked out, which could cost store owners business in the meantime.

“They want to know when the law is going to go into effect or when certain types of laws are going into effect,” said Zacharewiz. “It’s a big gun control package, and within this package, there are many different aspects to see when these go into effect.”

As could be expected, Zacharewiz says his customers have not been pleased with the legislation.

“Yeah, people are unhappy.

New York State Senator Kathy Marchione has an excellent petition that people are signing and getting out there. She has over 30,000 names at this moment.

There’s going to be a march on Albany’s Capital Steps this Saturday,” said Zacharewiz.

The petition Zacharewiz is referring to has been spearheaded by NYS Senator Kathy Marchione (R, C — Halfmoon), who feels both President Barack Obama and Governor Cuomo are acting too quickly, and that it is coming at the expense of the citizen’s Second Amendment Rights.

“Millions of New Yorkers correctly believe that their Second Amendment rights and Constitutional freedoms are under an unrelenting assault from new, restrictive and unconstitutional gun control measures being rammed through at a breakneck, breathtaking speed at the federal and state levels of government,” said Marchione in a statement released January 16.

When reached by phone, Marchione reacted to the petition’s incredibly rapid growth with pleasant surprise.

“I was surprised that we had gotten so many signatures in such a short period of time. It’s only been live a little over two days and we’re at 64,029 signatures,” said Marchione. “That’s a tremendous amount of signatures

in that period of time. I think it’s a way people are able to give us their opinion and let us know that they’re not happy with the new law.”

With the ink still drying on the new legislation, the store owner says he’s been trying to find out more information from New York State and the New York State Police, who are likely inundated with similar requests from across the Empire State. He mentions that they might not even be sure what to tell the gun dealers as they’re still trying to sort out the new rules.

“The state has been no help at all,” said Zacharewiz. “I feel for them, I’ve been on the phone with the state police now for some time — actually since the senate passed the proposal.

Unfortunately the legal department doesn’t know what’s going and therefore they can’t push that information to the dealers.”

He continued, “They just opened up a website putting up information on the website, but the amount on the website is not even one percent of what’s really going on.”

Senator Marchione’s statement felt that the recent legislation was put forth without any input from the citizens, who she says likely would have objected to such sweeping reform regardless of whether you are for or against increased gun safety measures.

“The President’s new gun control announced today — the bulk of which is being implemented via unilateral Executive authority by 23 actions and is wholly unconstitutional — along with Governor Cuomo’s unconstitutional NY SAFE ACT, were enacted without a single public hearing or formal opportunity for citizen input,” said Marchione.

“No matter where you stand on guns, our government acting with zero accountability to, and zero input from, the citizens it serves should send a chill down the spine of anyone who believes in freedom. This continued, dramatic expansion of the nanny state is a threat to liberty and it needs to stop.”

For now, Zack’s Sports’ phone continues to ring off the hook as people call to ask questions about NY SAFE ACT—as

well as inquire as to what time the store closes. Zacharewiz says his store is taking a conservative stance, where if they’re unsure of whether it’s legal, you might have to wait to make that purchase. He says until he gets more information, there are a few things you won’t be able to get if you visit

Zack’s Sports this weekend.

“I don’t know what’s legal, because the state police aren’t giving me what’s legal. At this point, we’re not selling, whether it’s our policy or the law’s policy, we’re not selling any long guns that are semi-automatic with a detachable box magazine. We’re

not selling any magazines that are above seven rounds. We’re not selling any handguns that are semi-automatic with a magazine of over seven rounds.”

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BUSINESS

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

The Chocolate Mill: More Than Just a Pastry Shop

by Patricia Older Saratoga TODAY SARATOGA SPRINGS — Tucked in between stores on Broadway is a unique pastry shop that is not your ordinary, everyday coffeehouse. Bringing to life the ambiance and style of French pastry shops known as patisseries, The Chocolate Mill offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere where friends and strangers can gather and chat about everyday subjects over rich, aromatic coffees, pastry delicacies and chocolates.

“Every European country has a version of the patisserie,” explained owner Frank Vollkommer. “It is a pastry shop and café with coffees and pastries and artisan chocolates. It is a staple in the people’s lives – it is where everyone gathers and knows everyone else and they sit down and enjoy good conversation over good coffee and delicious pastries.”

And like some European countries where the patisseries are required to have a certified pastry chef, The Chocolate Mill has Vollkommer, who is himself, a Certified Master Pastry Chef.

Vollkommer, who also owns The Chocolate Mill in downtown Glens Falls, opened the Saratoga store earlier this month and is already developing regular clientele.

“We offer a product, but aesthetics and customer service are equally important,” said Vollkommer, who has extensive experience in the

Frank Vollkommer. Photo provided by MarkBolles.com

culinary field.

At 14 he began working in the kitchens of area restaurants as a dishwasher, eventually working his way up to being the cook. But that was not enough for the young entrepreneur – he had his sights on being a chef, and not any ordinary chef, but a Certified Master Pastry Chef – one of the highest levels of achievements for the culinary arts.

to test by a Master Chef. To qualify for Master Pastry Chef candidacy, participants must go through a rigorous 10-day exam that tests them from the second they arrive at the location to the moment the kitchen is cleaned to leave.

Applicants are tested on, among others, academics, food science and practical aspects from baking to creating show pieces.

“The product is only a portion of what we provide. The service we provide is very important and before a single flake from a croissant lands on your plate, that service level must be met.”

—Frank Vollkommer “I always had an interest in pastries,” said Vollkommer, a lifelong Saratogian. “But to make the transition to pastry chef I had to have a second job.”

One of the reasons for the second job is the requirements involved for certification. Certification not only requires extensive experience in the field, but one has to be invited

“Worldwide there are only 12 CMPC’s,” said Vollkommer. “And only four have passed the 10-day exam.”

Vollkommer is one of the four.

“It is not only about what you know and your experience and knowledge of the craft,” continued Vollkommer. “It is also about your professionalism, your work ethics and your stamina under pressure. The exam is made difficult for a reason.”

Vollkommer pointed out, though, that becoming a CMPC is not what he considered his greatest achievement in life so far.

“If I was to look at what I considered my greatest achievement, being a certified pastry chef is not at the top,” explained the soft-spoken chef.

“Opening a business and finding success as an entrepreneur in these tough economic times has by far been the most rewarding from a personal fulfillment standpoint.”

It was the success of his Glens Falls store which led him to open one in the Spa City, Vollkommer explained.

Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, had met Vollkommer when he opened his Glens Falls’ store and had been with that chamber.

“He kept encouraging me to open a branch here,” said Vollkommer, who credits the officials in Glens Falls and the Local Development Corporation for help in opening that first location.

After some brainstorming and looking for the right location with Shimkus’ help, Vollkommer settled at 382 Broadway, a small narrow shop adjacent from the Division Street crossing.

As a self-proclaimed do-it-yourselfer, Vollkommer and his brother set to work transforming the storefront into an American version of the patisserie with a Saratoga Springs flair.

“I did all the physical work myself along with my brother, Craig, who is a contractor,” said Vollkommer. “It took us about two months.”

With Saratoga-themed artwork carefully placed and rich coffee tones on the walls, the shop is warm and inviting. While seating is limited, Vollkommer pointed out the benchstyle table at the back of the shop and noted that he loves it when he sees the table full and people chatting.

“A café is a social place — it is a place where you come in as strangers and leave as friends,” explained Vollkommer. “I travelled and worked in Switzerland, Austria, Vienna – and it is a regular occasion for people to sit with a cup of coffee and a pastry and talk with friends about their families, their work, politics. I love to look back here and see this table full of people chatting and having a good time.”

Noting that there is more to The Chocolate Mill than a coffee and pastry shop, Vollkommer said the majority of his business is in specialty event and wedding cakes and that they make proprietary coffees labeled with the Chocolate Mill brand.

“We have Chocolate Mill Roast Saratoga and Chocolate Mill Roast Glens Falls,” said Vollkommer, adding that they like to keep the selections of pastries, desserts and chocolates interesting and exciting.

“We change the desserts seasonally and change the chocolates and confections to keep it interesting.

We also do special events, wedding cakes and we create customized cakes. That’s the part of the business you don’t really see.”

With 20 employees, Vollkommer said they are equipped to handle just about any size special event or party.

“The product is only a portion of what we provide. The service we provide is very important and before a single flake from a croissant lands on your plate, that service level must be met,” said Vollkommer, admitting that maintaining that level of high expectations is a career in itself.

“I have very high standards and maintaining those standards with two stores is a full-time job,” he said. “We want to know people’s names and establish relationships with people.

Kind of like “Cheers,” where everyone knows your name – that is what I want for us, where everyone knows who you are and you enjoy yourself.”

Hoping to expand the physical space of the shop in the future, as well as offer lunches and a breakfast menu like his Glens Falls location, Vollkommer said he is happy to be back in his hometown.

“I think there is a nice synergy,” said Vollkommer. “Our focus is our neighbors — the people who live and work here.”

The Chocolate Mill is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 8 a.m.–11 p.m.; and Sunday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

Outdoor seating will available in the spring and summer. For more information, call (518) 871-1210.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

BUSINESS 9

Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga Merges With Northeast Orthopaedics

Malta Business and Professional Association Annual Dinner

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Two major orthopedic offices merged this month, forming one of the largest teams of physicians, doctor assistants and nurse practitioners in the Capital Region.

Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga and Northeast Orthopaedics, Albany, combined on January 1 becoming OrthoNY. The new team will care for all aspects of bone and joint conditions with 27 physicians, 19 physician assistants and two nurse practioners in seven regional offices – Saratoga Springs, Malta, Clifton Park, Latham, East Greenbush, Delmar and Albany.

Leaders for both groups agree that the collaboration positions

The Malta Business and Professional Association will hold its 2013 Annual Dinner on Wednesday, January 23 at Panza’s Restaurant located on at 510 Route 9P, Saratoga Springs with a reception to begin at 6 p.m. Cost is $40 for pre-registered members and $50 for non-members and late registrations. Walk-ins are welcome.

Members and non-members are invited to attend this year’s event which features Jim Snack from the Humor Project. Snack is a Certified Speaking Professional who specializes in creating programs that engage participants in active learning. An accomplished

them to optimally serve patients.

The current clinical and administrative staffs will remain and be integrated to provide whole orthopaedic care. Alan Okun, Northeast Orthopaedics’ former practice administrator, is now Chief Executive Officer of the new organization.

“Northeast Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga look forward to saving lifestyles from Hudson to the Adirondacks,” said Okun. “We have spent a great deal of time considering this merger and its many implications. We are confident that combining our resources and expertise will result in a comprehensive

orthopedic practice for those who matter most—our patients.”

Regina Colaes, practice administrator for Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga, shared Okun’s enthusiasm.

“The decision to merge Northeast Orthopaedics and Orthopaedic Associates of Saratoga to form OrthoNY will significantly benefit our patients,” Colaes said. “The mix of skilled physicians and wide array of support staff from the two practices means our patients will experience a level of orthopaedic care unmatched in New York State.”

OrthoNY employs over 200 people in the Capital District area.

Saratoga Care Appoints New Members SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Care, Inc., the parent organization for Saratoga Hospital, has named four men from the Saratoga area to their Board of Trustees: George E. Silver, Jr., M.D., N. Keith Stewart, Michael J. Toohey and Stephan R. von Schenk. The board also re-elected Michael D. West, chairperson; David M. Mastrianni, MD, co-vice chairperson; Janice M. White, co-vice chairperson; Michael H. Iacolucci, treasurer; and Donna Montalto, secretary.

Saratoga Care is also the parent organization of Saratoga Hospital Nursing Home, Wilton Medical Arts, Malta Medical Arts, Saratoga Surgery Center, Saratoga Family Physicians, Schuylerville Family Health, Saratoga Family Health and Galway Family Health.

The new board members replace retiring trustees Brian Fredette, Michele J. Mehler, William W. O’Connor, M.D. and Deane S. Pfeil.

Dr. Silver, a resident of Saratoga Springs, is a partner in OrthoNY. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Union College in Schenectady, his medical degree, with honors, from Georgetown University and completed an orthopedic residency at the University of Rochester/Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Mr. Stewart has owned and operated a State Farm Insurance Agency in Burnt Hills since 1989. He recently completed his fourth elected term as a member of the Ballston Spa Central School District Board of Education, most recently as Board President. Mr. Stewart also serves on the Town of Malta Ethics Committee. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the State University College at Oneonta and his Master of Arts degree from The University at Albany. He is a member of the Society of Financial Service Professional and holds a Chartered Life Underwriter professional designation.

Mr. Toohey has been a practicing attorney in Saratoga Springs since 1975. He is a partner in the law firm of Snyder, Kiley, Toohey, Corbett & Cox. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Villanova University and a Juris Doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law. He serves on the boards of directors of Double H Hole-in-the-Woods Ranch and Catholic Charities of Saratoga Warren & Washington Counties and is currently chairman of the board of trustees of the Saratoga Regional YMCA. He previously chaired the Saratoga Springs City Center Authority, the Saratoga Regional YMCA Board of Directors, the Saratoga County

Chamber of Commerce and has been asked to serve for two terms as Chairman Emeritus of the Chamber.

Mr. von Schenk has been the Executive Vice President at The Adirondack Trust Company since 2004. Prior to that, he held positions as vice president for Commercial Lending at The Troy Savings Bank and vice president at Fleet Bank of New York. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Utica College and an MBA in Finance from State University at Albany.

magician and sleight-of-hand artist, Jim’s programs are always a captivating blend of magic and message.

In addition to laughter and networking, the first 60 online registrants will receive a complimentary copy of 1001 Ways to Add Humor to Your Life and to Your Work by The Humor Project’s founder, Joel Goodman.

For more information, visit http://www.MaltaBPA.com or email MaltaBPA@gmail.com.

To register for the 2013 MBPA Annual Dinner, go to http://www.

MaltaBPA.com. Email MaltaBPA@ gmail for more information.

Roohan Realty Welcomes Minehan SARATOGA SPRINGS — Roohan Realty is pleased to announce that Jack Minehan, licensed sales associate, has joined the company. With over two decades in the construction industry and six years in residential mortgages, Jack has experience that will translate into a successful career in residential real estate sales. Jack lives in Malta with his wife Meg. He can be reached at (518) 421-8662 or at jminehan@roohanrealty.com.

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Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Startup Weekend Comes to Saratoga Springs continued from page 1 team is formed to use the rest of the night and the following day to develop the idea into a viable product or business.

“It is where 120 people come together and we match people with ideas with business people bringing like-minded individuals together,” said local organizer Bob Manasier. “The ones who get the most interest then form a group and develop the idea to pitch to a panel of judges.”

Manasier, who is an entrepreneur himself, said that at many of the Startup Weekends, the majority of the ideas are for applications and programs aimed at technology, but that he hoped there would be more ideas around the

manufacturing aspect given the close proximity of the tech park in Malta.

“Typically there are a lot of apps and software ideas, but for here, we’d like to see manufacturing ideas because we think it would have more of an impact on the region,” said Manasier, who has an office in Saratoga.

While people who already have launched their idea into a business can come in and pitch it with hopes of garnering investors, Manasier said the actual contest is for people who have not started a business or marketed the product.

“It cannot be a real company or product yet,” said Manasier.

“But you can come in with your

idea and pitch it.”

The event begins with networking on Friday night. There will be food and drinks for participants with life and business coaches circulating throughout.

“There will be legal counsel, marketing executives, accountants, venture cap coaches,” said Manasier. “It is like directional resourcing. Then they work on their pitch.”

With anywhere from three to fifteen minutes, the person with the idea will try and pitch their idea during the open mic portion of the event with the hopes of gathering the most votes.

“When you are fundraising,

you have less than a minute to hook the funder,” explained Manasier. “This works the same way.”

After the pitches, the winners of the Friday night pitch will form teams with other likeminded people, usually about six per team, and begin trying to develop the idea into a more concrete presentation.

“You have to decide if it is tangible and does it have an impact,” said Manasier. “You need to figure out how to market it and how it will you make it work.”

The teams spend Friday night and throughout Saturday developing the idea into a tangible business plan.

Kyle Kesterson of New York City and self-proclaimed Startup Weekend junkie says he never knew his love of drawing cartoon creatures could turn into a lucrative business.

“We took doodling and characters and turned it into a possible business,” said Kesterson of the app they developed for a Facebook game. “It is like planting a seed you do not know where it is going to go or grow.”

Startup Weekend organizers suggest that to prepare for the event, participants can do a few things beforehand to give them a slight advantage.

According to the website, participants should do as much research as possible in order to give a persuasive pitch and attract a team; then to boil the idea down to the basics. They then need to practice their pitch using a timer.

“With 60 seconds, you only have time for a hook,” says the website. “So pull out the most attractive points of the idea and forget the rest.”

On Sunday the teams will get together and once again pitch

their idea to the audience, showing what they have done over the weekend to make the idea appealing to investors and business people.

“On Saturday and Sunday the teams focus on developing the idea, and then on Sunday they will demo their prototypes,” said Manasier, who has been involved in over 80 startup businesses. He added that the overall winner will receive a package of services designed to launch their idea into a reality.

“Startup Weekends are a lot like research and developing weekends,” said Manasier. “You are learning through the art of creating. You bring your idea, build a strategy with a team and then test it.”

He added that even the networking involved is invaluable to participants whether they come to pitch an idea, join a team or be a sponsor.

“You get to network with some of the best minds in the community,” said Manasier. “People can get involved as a mentor, judge, sponsor or organizer.”

Cost for the weekend is $99 with an early bird special of $75; students are $49; and scholarships are also available. Participants sign up for which ever area they feel is their niche. The areas of expertise include developers— software engineers, coders and developers; designers—anyone with a background in design; non-technical—anyone who is in business, marketing, PR; manufacturer—employees at a manufacturing firm, product designers and people interested in developing products.

For more information on the event or to sign up, visit their website at Saratoga.startupweekend.org or call (518) 584-9737 or (845) 494-9737.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

NEWS 11

City Residents Will Soon Be Able to Pay Tax and Utility Bills Online

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS — While no one likes the thought of paying bills, the city of Saratoga Springs is hoping to make the process a little easier for you as soon as next month.

During the January 15 City Council meeting, Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan proudly announced that the city will soon be able to pay both city utility and tax bills online, accessible through the city’s website (www. saratoga-springs.org.)

“We’ve been working for a while to bring this service to Saratoga Springs – basically since I took office,” said Madigan during the Finance department’s meeting agenda.

While she could not state for certain when she hopes this to go into effect, she is hopeful that the program will be ready for a February 1 launch – just in time for the first water and sewer bill.

“We are very close to going live with the online payment of utility and tax bills. I will be able to provide more details at our next council meeting, but I wanted to make the public and the council aware that they will very soon

Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors In 2013

Photo provided.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors has elected the following local business leaders to serve in key volunteer leadership positions for 2013: Mike O’Sullivan, as the Chair of the Board of Directors; Susan Halstead, as the immediate past-Chair of the Board of Directors; Stephan von Schenk, as the Chair-Elect; Matt Jones and Valerie Muratori, as the two Vice Chairs; David Collins as the Treasurer; and Dennis Albright as Secretary.

New volunteer members elected to serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors with terms starting on January 1, 2013, include: Theresa Agresta; Fran

Dingeman; Peter Goutos; Nafeesa Koslik; Angelo Mazzone; Jessica Petraccione; Brian Straughter; Eric Wickson; and Michael Toohey returning for one year as the Past Chair serving on the Board. In addition, David DeMarco and Marianne Barker have both been elected to fill newly vacant seats on the Board of Directors.

The volunteers who will be continuing to serve on the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors includes: Victoria Aldrich; Travis Bullard; Angelo Calbone; Dan Frankowski; Philip Glotzbach; Steve Heidorn; Patricia Mangino; Ian Murray; Mark Pepin; Steve Springer; and Marcia White.

be able to pay both utility and tax bills online.”

“Our goal is to have this go live by February,” said Madigan.

“Barring any technical difficulties, that is our goal and it will be for the first water and sewer bill.”

The city is working with a company called Official Payments, who worked with the city in developing the program.

“Official Payments has over 3,000 clients across all 50 states,

including the IRS and the state of New York. They’ve been working very closely with the city staff and the financial managing software that we use and it seems to be working well.”

The online payment process is subject to an undetermined “convenience charge” which Madigan states the city does not have anything to do with.

“This is not a fee the city charges. This is not a fee that the

city will see any payment from. It is a convenience fee from Official Payments, that if you so choose to pay your bill online, that fee will be assessed.”

Madigan says she hopes to have more specific information available during the February 5 council meeting.

“It’s about time,” remarked Accounts Commissioner John Franck at the end of Madigan’s announcement.

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LOCAL BRIEFS

Upcoming Town Meetings Town of Ballston: Ballston Town Hall 323 Charlton Road 885-8502 www.townofballstonny.org 1/23: Planning Board, 7:30 p.m.

1/29: Town Board, 7:30 p.m.

Village of Ballston Spa: 66 Front Street 885-5711 www.ballstonspany.org 1/28: Village Board, 7:30 p.m.

Town of Greenfield: 7 Wilton Road 893-7432 www.townofgreenfield.com 1/29: Planning Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Malta: 2540 Route 9 899-2818 www.malta-town.org 2/04: Town Board, 7:00 p.m.

Town of Milton: 503 Geyser Road 885-9220 www.townofmiltonny.org 1/23: Zoning Board, 7 p.m.

City of Saratoga Springs: 474 Broadway 587-3550 www.saratoga-springs.org 2/05: City Council, 7 p.m.

Town of Saratoga: 12 Spring Street, Schuylerville 695-3644 www.townofsaratoga.com 1/23: Planning Board, 7:30 p.m.

1/28: Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m.

Village of Schuylerville: 35 Spring Street 695-3881 www.villageofschuylerville.org 1/21: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

2/13: Village Board of Trustees, 7 p.m.

Town of Stillwater: 66 East St., Riverside Mechanicville, NY 12118 www.stillwaterny.org 1/15: Village Board, 7 p.m.

1/17: Town Board, 7 p.m.

Town of Wilton: 22 Traver Road 587-1939 www.townofwilton.com 1/16: Planning Board, 6:30 p.m.

1/24: Zoning Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors: 40 McMaster St, #1 Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-2240 www.saratogacountyny.gov

Horse Care Seminar Upstate Equine Medical Center has teamed up with Nutrena Feeds for their fifth annual client educational seminar on equine nutrition on Wednesday, January 30 at 7 p.m. at 362 Rugg Road, Schuylerville. Guest speakers are Dr. Jim Ward from Texas and George Peters of Win$um Ranch. Dr. Ward will discuss how to prevent colic and Mr. Peters will discuss round penning as a training tool to improve your relationship with your horse. Upstate veterinarians will also be present to address any questions. There will be door prizes, snacks and beverages.

RSVP by January 27 by phone at (518) 695-3744; fax (518) 6953465; email UpstateEquine@aol. com; or through Upstate Equine’s Facebook page.

Bus Trip to Ehrhardt’s The Old Saratoga Seniors is hosting a bus trip to historic Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Resort in Hawley, PA. on March 27 to see O’Malles Show and have lunch.

The bus will leave the train station is Saratoga Springs at 6:30 a.m., proceed to the American Legion in Schuylerville and leave there at 7 a.m. They will arrive at Ehrhardt’s at 10:30 a.m.; lunch is at 11:30 a.m. and the show begins at 1:30 p.m. The bus leaves for Saratoga at 3 p.m. with a snack provided, arriving at the Legion at 7:30 p.m. and train station at 8 p.m. Please call Mary LaMora at (518) 584-7986 for more information. Closing date is February 20.

Sweetheart Dinner Dance Bring your special partner for a night of dance, dinner and romance at the annual Sweetheart Dinner Dance held at the Saratoga/Wilton Elks Lodge on Saturday, February 9, from 6 p.m. to midnight. Appetizers and cash bar at 6 p.m., followed by a choice of prime rib, stuffed chicken or pasta primavera with sides and dessert at 7 p.m. Performing will be Gravity, providing a musical repertoire of favorite melodies.

Their high energy with amazing instrumentals makes the dance

floor a favorite place to be. Raffles, photo ops and other surprises will delight the attendees. Cost is $30 per person. Reservations only and must be made by February3.

Call Penny at (518) 587-7597 for more information or to make reservations.

Pasta Benefit Dinner A pasta dinner will be held Sunday January 27 from 3 – 7 p.m. at the Saratoga PBA Hall, 52 Weibel Avenue, on behalf of the Johnston-Carbonello families.

On December 23, 20-year-old James Johnston died in a tragic accident. He leaves behind an 18-month-old daughter Nicole and his 19-year-old fiancée Khirstian Carbonello. James was the sole provider for his family and Khirstian was a fulltime mom. All proceeds will go to the family. Penne, meatballs, sauce, salad and bread will be served.

A donation of $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and children is requested, take-out is available.

RSVP to swrrecruiting@gmail. com; walk-ins are welcome.

Auditions for Spring Musical Auditions for the Schuylerville Community Theater’s spring musical Bye, Bye Birdie will be held on April 19, 20 and 21.

Auditions for all cast members and two choruses (adult & teen) will be held on Wednesday evening, January 23 at the Schuylerville Junior/Senior High School in the auditorium starting at 6:30 p.m. Call backs and read-through will be held on Friday evening January 25 in the Schuyler Room of the Town of Saratoga Building on the corner of routes 4 and 29.

SCT is looking for a diverse cast of adults and teens ranging in age from 10 to the young at heart seniors and everything in between. For more information visit www.scttheater.org or call director Bill Howard at (518) 636-8444 or the SCT information line at (518) 695-5480.

A.L.L. Spring Brochure Whether your interests lie in art, literature, history, languages, religion, writing, the outdoors or a variety of other topics, A.L.L., the Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs, has something for you. Sponsored by Empire State College, the Academy offers non-credit, academic study groups

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013 as well as social and leadership opportunities to mature learners.

The spring term will begin April 8, with groups meeting during the daytime on Mondays through Thursdays. In addition to study groups, A.L.L. committees have planned several special events with the theme Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Mind to celebrate the Academy’s 20th anniversary. The Academy’s spring 2013 brochure and registration form are available at area libraries, through the A.L.L. office, and on the A.L.L. web site: www.esc.edu/ALL. Contact the office at: 518 587-2100, ext. 2415 to request a copy.

Call for Folk or Irish Musicians and Dancers Come audition for an opportunity to showcase your talent during “Café Malta-Irish Style,” an intimate coffee house at the Malta Community Center on Saturday evening, March 16. They are looking for talented musicians, vocalists, small acoustic bands, storytellers and/or dancers. The show is planned for the day before St. Patrick’s Day, so Irish tunes would be fun, but not mandatory. Auditions are held by appointment only. MCC is also looking for three to four talented teen or young adult singing waiters and/or waitresses. Contact Elyse Young, artistic director, at (518) 899-4411 x 305 or theater@ malta-town.org for more details or to schedule an audition.

Catholic Daughters of the America’s Monthly Meeting The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court McLaughlin #422, will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday, February 5 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 50 Pine Road, Saratoga Springs. Members gather at 6 for refreshments with the meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. Members will be bringing themed baskets for a raffle that will take place in the month of May. Proceeds from the raffle will go to charitable causes determined by the members of the court. New members are always welcome to come attend a meeting, ask questions and meet other members. For any questions or further information, contact Eileen Tuohy (Regent) at (518) 584-3472 or Anne Senecal (ViceRegent) at (518) 885-0663.

Annual Moonlight Ski & Snowshoe at Camp Saratoga Come explore luminary-lit trails among the meadows, forests, and wetland areas of Camp Saratoga on Saturday, January 26 from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. There will be warming bonfires and plenty of free hot cocoa. The terrain is suitable for all levels and ages. Drop in anytime during the evening, no registration is needed. Snowshoes will be available in the Winter Lodge on a first-come, first-served basis: free for members or $5/pair for non-members. This event is sponsored by the Wilton Rotary and Healthy Living Market and Café. Preregistration is required at least one business day in advance of the actual event. If Saratoga Springs School District cancels classes due bad weather, this program will also be cancelled.

For more information, please call the Preserve & Park office at (518) 450-0321 or via email at info@ wiltonpreserve.org.

Saturday Play Days Throughout January and February, the National Dance Museum will be offering Saturday Play Days.

Guests will be welcomed for the exclusive use of the Alfred Z. Solomon Children’s Wing on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission for supervising adults are free, children ages four and up are $3 each, children ages three and under are free.

PlayPass Membership holders also receive unlimited free admission for the visiting child and an accompanying adult. Call (518) 584-2225 for more information.

Literacy Program Tutors Needed Tutors for the Literacy program in Saratoga County are once again needed. Two New Tutor Orientations to recruit potential tutors have been scheduled for Tuesday, January 29 at the Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs, in the Susman Room from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and on Thursday, January 31at the Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park, in the Piracci Board Room from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. For details of training dates, visit www. literacynycap.org or call (518) 583-1232.

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013 Saturday Play Days

Friday, January 18 All You Can Eat Dinner

Principessa Elena Society, 13 Oak St., Saratoga Springs 5:00–7:00 p.m.

Italian Wedding Soup, Sausage, Peppers and Onions, Meatballs, Pasta w/Marinara Sauced, Salad, Dessert, Coffee, Bread/Butter.

Seniors $8; Regulars $9; Children 5-12 yrs. old $5; under 5 free.

Take out $10. Cash bar available.

For more information call (518) 584-4163.

Saturday, January 19 Hattie’s 12 Annual Mardi Gras Soiree

Canfield Casino, 1 E. Congress St. Saratoga Springs 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Benita Zahn of News Channel 13 will be the MC for the evening’s festivities. Garland Nelson and Soul Session will provide the entertainment, along with the dancers from Northeast Ballet.

Heather Bohn-Tallman will be on hand for Mardi Gras photos with her crazy booth. The event will also offer complimentary cocktails from 6:00–7:00 p.m., Mardi Gras inspired cuisine by Chef Jasper Alexander, cash bar and a silent auction. Valet parking available.

Reservations are $100 per person and can be made by calling Linda Passaretti at (518) 584-9330 ext.

122. All the funds raised will be designated for New York City Ballet’s SPAC residency.

ESCV Snowshoe

Saratoga Spa Park, Saratoga Springs 10:00 a.m.

Registration 9:30–9:55 a.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 125 So. Broadway, Saratoga This is not a guided event, just an opportunity to snow shoe with others.

National Dance Museum 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Through March 2013 the museum will be offering Saturday Play Days, welcoming guests for the exclusive use of the Alfred Z. Solomon Children’s Wing (all other exhibits will be closed at this time). The wing will be open for use on Saturdays from 10am– 3pm. Admissions are as follows: supervising adults are free, children 4 & up are $3 each, children 3 & under are free. PlayPass Membership holders also receive unlimited free admission for the visiting child and an accompanying adult. For more information visit www.dancemuseum.org.

Wilton Wildlife: Animal Tracking Snowshoe Walk

Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park: Camp Saratoga 10:00 a.m.

Winter is a great time to be looking for animal tracks. Take a leisurely walk on the trails of Camp Saratoga North and learn to identify the creatures that have walked before you. If you need to rent snowshoes they will be available at Parking Lot 1, free for members, $3 for non-members. Pre-registration is required 1 day prior to event.

For more information call (518) 450-0321.

Someday is Now: The artwork of Corita Kent

Tang Museum at Skidmore College January 19 through July 28 Noon–5:00 p.m.

A comprehensive collection of work by one of America’s most popular and important graphic artists, including iconic images from the turbulent 1960s and 70s will be on view (see local briefs for more details). For more information, visit www.skidmore. edu/tang, or call (518) 580-8080.

Sunday, January 20 The Sunday Club

Saratoga Springs Public Library, The Susman Room 12:00–3:00 p.m.

An informal weekend club for teens on the autism spectrum to get together socially and play board games. Please check website prior to coming as sometimes dates and times may change. www.sspl.org.

For more information call (518) 584-7680 opt. 3.

calendar

Monday, January 21

Wednesday, January 23

Red Cross Blood Drive

Special Library Babies

Saratoga Casino and Raceway, 342 Jefferson St. Saratoga Springs Noon–6:00 p.m.

Donate Blood! Save a life! One blood donation can save the lives of up to three people. Be a hero.

Donate. Call (800) 733-2767 to make an appointment.

Community Bingo (every Monday night)

The Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Land, Route 9, Saratoga Springs Doors Open at 4pm. Games begin at 7:00 p.m.

Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Weekly Specials Available from 5 p.m. Come spend an evening and play our 17 regular games, 2 cover-all specials, 2 different bell jar games. An evening of fun for old and young. For more information call (518) 584-2585.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA)

United Methodist Church — Adkins Room, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs (corner of Henning Rd.) Meets weekly.

7:00 p.m.

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Are you underweight? Overweight?

Obsessed with food, weight, dieting? You are not alone. Today, there is a solution. No drugs, no fees, no weigh-ins. For more information contact John (518) 605-3090 or Helena (518) 584-8190 or visit www.foodaddicts.org.

Tuesday, January 22 Special Parent Child Workshop

Susman Room, Saratoga Springs Public Library 10:15–10:45 a.m.

Children ages 12–36 months and their parent or caregiver will participate in interactive hands on learning and play stations. A children’s librarian will lead a circle time with song and movement activities. For more information call (518) 584-7860, press 3.

Crawshaw Story Room, Saratoga Springs Public Library 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

An informal playgroup for babies under 24 months with their parent or caregiver. For more information call call (518) 584-7860, press 3.

Auditions for Bye, Bye Birdie Schuylerville Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, 14 Spring St. Schuylerville 6:30 p.m.

Auditions for the Schuylerville Community Theater’s spring musical, Bye, Bye Birdie (which will be held on April 19, 20, and 21) for all cast members and 2 choruses (adult and teen). Call backs and read through will be held on Friday, January 25th in the Schuyler Room of the Town of Saratoga Building on the corner of Routes 4 and 29.We are looking for a diverse cast of adults and teens ranging in age from 10 to the young at heart seniors and everything in between. For more info visit: www.scttheater.org or call Director Bill Howard at (518) 636-8444 or the SCT information line at (518) 695-5480.

Thursday, January 24 Saratoga Springs School Board Meeting

Tang Teaching Museum – Payne Room 7:00 p.m.

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Family Friendly Events Friday

Parents Night Out at Tiny Tots Tea Room! Drop the kids off and enjoy a few hours to shop, dine, or catch a movie while your kids have a blast with dinner, dessert, arts and crafts and SO Much More!

Reservations and Pre-Payment Required. Call (518) 348-1050 for more information

Saturday

Learn the Chinese Lion Dance at World Awareness Children’s Museum in Glens Falls.

Program starts at 1:30 p.m.

Learn the Chinese Lion Dance during this three week workshop series conducted by Sifu Sam Ling of Ling’s Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy. This colorful, multi-person dance incorporates martial arts moves.

Two rehearsal weeks followed by a performance on February 2 to celebrate Chinese New Year!

Wilton Mall has partnered with the Children’s Museum at Saratoga and National Geographic Kids to present an opportunity for fun and interactive learning. This Saturday from 1-3pm kids will learn about polar animals, design headbands, play with magnatiles and lots more.

Sunday

It’s another Girls Day Out at The Saratoga Winery! Grab your friends for an afternoon of wine tasting, chocolate pairing, massages, spa treatments, demonstrations and sampling.

12–5 p.m. at The Saratoga Winery.

Compliments of:

Seek • Learn Find • Play Visit us online!

Send your local briefs to calendar@saratogapublishing.com before Monday at 5 p.m. for Friday publication.

14

obituaries

Emma Marie Benevelli Yaeger

D. Susan Knight BALLSTON SPA — D. Susan Knight passed away Monday, January 7 unexpectedly at the age of 53.

Born in Atlanta Georgia, she was the daughter of Ronald M. Seaman and Mary Helen (Yelton) Seaman. She married Thomas J. Knight on July 14, 1984 on the Melody Herford Ranch in Jackson, Wyoming and moved to Saratoga Springs in 1985.

Her mother, Mary Helen, predeceased her in 2003.

Sue leaves behind her husband of 28 years, Thomas J. Knight; her father Ronald M. Seaman and his wife Leoncia; sisters, Kathryn (Seaman) Harackiewicz, Pamela (Seaman) McCormick; brother, Ronald M. Seaman Jr. and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Monday, January 14, at the Skidmore Chapel.

Anthony Albert Boccitto Our dearest “Citto”, It’s been a few years since you’ve been here and we’re all trying to heal inside. Not a single day passes by where we are not in constant remembrance of you. When we hear the sweet sound of organ music, see an old model ship or smell sauce boiling on the stove it makes missing you that much harder...But knowing you are safe and resting peacefully amongst the angels gives us a sense of calmness. We will one day be able to see your toothy grin and hear your comforting voice telling us to come sit at the table for ‘just one more helping’ of our family’s favorite Italian dishes that you loved so much. Until that day, we remember you and miss you with all of our hearts and you will forever be “The leader of the Band”.

—Your loving family forever & always

Ruth Gieselman MALTA — Ruth Gieselman died on Thursday January 10. She was 89 years old.

Born on November 25, 1923, in Manhattan she was the daughter of the late Frank Gieselman and Sarah Lilienthal Gieselman.

Survivors include her brother Russell Gieselman and his wife

Theresa of Saratoga Springs, a niece Jeanette Barsky and her husband Peter of California and a nephew Russell P. Gieselman of Connecticut.

Funeral Services and burial were held on Monday at The Holy Rood Cemetery in Westbury.

Helen L. Berrigan

Barbara Holme Conroe SARATOGA SPRINGS — Mrs. Barbara Holme Conroe, age 81, died on Monday, January 14. She was born September 1, 1931 in Albany, the daughter of Furman D. and Irene Gordon Holme. She was the wife of Dr. Bruce A. Conroe of Wilton.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by four children,

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Scott of Cortland, David (Dianne) of Wilton, Laurie Mousaw (Jim) of Potsdam, and John (Robin) of Ballston Spa., six grandchildren Jenna Mousaw of Plattsburgh, Kaylie and Ryan Mousaw of Potsdam, Emilee and Allison Conroe of Ballston Spa, and Aura Moore (Jamie) of Machias, ME, and four great grandchildren.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Emma Marie Benevelli Yaeger, 92, of Woodlawn Commons, passed away on January 3. Emma was attended by her husband, Vincent; daughters Janice Yaeger and Jackie Pardon; and son-inlaw, Tod Pardon. She is also survived by her son, Robert Yaeger, of Minneapolis, and grandson, Dexter Guy Pardon. A cousin,

Rita Rainone, also remains, as do Benevelli nieces and nephews Lynn, Joan (Bartlett), Tom (and son Graham), Rick (and sons Kyle and Kevin), and Paul (and son John and new grandson, Leo).

Emma was born on July 12, 1920 in Stamford, CT to the late Clemente and Felicina Conterno Benevelli. Older siblings included the late Frank, John and Joseph Benevelli.

Funeral services will be in the spring with burial to follow at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Emma’s name to the Steiner Scholarship Fund, Waldorf School of Saratoga Springs, 122 Regent St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Sondra L. Infeld SARATOGA SPRINGS — Sondra L. Infield passed away Saturday, January 12. She was 73.

Born on July 18, 1939 in Hudson Falls, she was the daughter of the late Gerald D. and Ruth Z. Nolan Infield, who passed away in 1993.

Survivors include her lifetime companion Joan R. Buell; one

sister, Donna M. Stevens; one aunt, Geraldine LaPoint; one niece, Tracy McCarthy; two nephews, Thomas G. Tucker and Lt. Col. Philip R. Stevens; five great nieces and one great-great nephew.

Burial will be private.

Memorials may be made in her name to the charity of one’s choice.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Helen L. Berrigan of Lincoln Avenue and Friends Lake, Chestertown, passed away peacefully Friday, January 11 at Saratoga Hospital, after a brief illness. She was 91.

In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her husband, Tom; her brother James McBride; her sister Margaret McBride and a granddaughter.

Survivors include three sons, Thomas F. (Carol) Berrigan of Schuylerville, Joseph P. (Patricia) Berrigan of Saratoga Springs, George M. (JoAnn) Berrigan of South Glens Falls; two daughters, Margaret Berrigan (Ed Papero) and Nancy (Jack) Reap

all of Houston, TX; a sister, Jane M. James of South Glens Falls; nine grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; one great-greatgrandchild and several nieces and nephews. Helen’s family would like to give special thanks to the Saratoga Springs Fire Dept., Dr. Case and the nurses in the emergency room, Dr. Ares and the nursing staff on C3 for the excellent care given to Helen during her stay at the hospital.

Graveside services will be at the Chestertown Cemetery in the spring, at the convenience of the family.Donations may be made in Helen’s memory to the Saratoga Hospital Foundation, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Services will be held on Saturday January 19 at 2 p.m. at the Presbyterian-New England Congregational Church, 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs, with burial in the spring at Greenridge Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Presbyterian Church or Middlebury College Foundation, 2 Court St., Middlebury, VT 05753, or

Saratoga Hospital Care Foundation, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

NEWS

15th Annual Chowderfest to be Held February 2, 2013

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Enjoy some winter fun and some great food at the 15th Annual Chowderfest held in Saratoga Springs on Saturday, February 2 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. The event, coordinated by the Saratoga Convention and Tourism Bureau, is also part of the 16th Annual Winter Weekend.

Visitors can pick up a ballot and taste chowders from over 60 participating establishments and vote for their favorite. Each sample of chowder is $1, and is paid directly to the establishment.

Valid ballots need 5 stickers from participating businesses and can be turned in to the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center or the Saratoga Springs City Center. For an additional $10, Chowderfest attendees can take home an official long-sleeve Chowderfest T-shirt with a completed ballot.

Winners will be announced in front of the Saratoga Springs City Center at 6:30 p.m. on the day of the event.

New for the 2013 fest is an additional Chowderfest Award, called “Best Chowder-under 1,000 bowls served.”

In an effort to be more environmentally friendly, a limited number of official Chowderfest “CHUGS” (reusable mug/lid/ spoon combination) are being sold at Children’s Museum of Saratoga, Crafters Gallery Fine Art Fine Crafts, Franklin Community Center, Gaffney’s Restaurant, Impressions of Saratoga, Malika International Boutique, Inc., Mountainman Saratoga Outfitters, and the Saratoga Hilton Gift shop, The Brewing Boutique, for $10 each.

Visitors can also bring their four-legged family members as there are participants serving dog

chowder. The popular Dog Chow Down will take place at 1 p.m. at the Saratoga Downtowner Motel.

One of Mayor Johnson’s dogs will be on hand to pick the winning chowder!

For a second year in a row, Radio Disney will be coming to Chowderfest! Radio Disney will be in the Ben & Jerry’s parking lot at 34 Phila Street from 1–3 p.m.

Bring your little Chowderhounds to rock out to the sounds of Disney, play games and shake their winter blues away. Radio Disney is sponsored by Allerdice Rent-All and Ben & Jerry’s of Saratoga.

Enjoy music from Star 101.3 at the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. then ESPN 104.5 from 1:30–4 p.m. Eclectic Songs will be at the Saratoga Downtowner Motel parking lot from 10:30-1:30 p.m., GNA 107.7 from 1:45–3 p.m. then PopCrush 105.7 from 3-4:30 p.m.

The Hot 99.1 street team will be walking around Broadway handing out t-shirts. Fly 92 will be at the top of Caroline Street from 12:30-4 p.m., WEQX 102.7 from 1-3 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs City Center, and the always entertaining DJ Tim from Capital Disc Jockeys will be on deck with prizes at the Saratoga Springs City Center from 3:30-7 p.m.

Additional entertainment and event information is available on the website.

Chowderfest is presented

by KeyBank and made possible by the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau and Adirondack Trust Company, Clipper Magazine, Saratoga Springs City Center, D.A. Collins Company, Fly 92, Love Living In, Plan Ahead events, Price Chopper, Saratoga. com, Saratoga Living Magazine, Saratoga Bank & Trust Company, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, The Saratogian, Star 101.3, Stewarts Shops, Townsquare Media, US Foods and Westminster Cracker Company.

Chowderfest is an event that takes place during the 16th Annual Winter Weekend, February 1 3, 2013. For a list of participating restaurant, Winter Weekend events and further details, visit www.discoversaratoga.org/chowderfest or call (518) 584-1531.

15

16

Education

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Renowned Author Visits Maple Avenue Middle School, Presents “Five Golden Rules for Staying Connected to Children”

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY

S A R A T O G A SPRINGS — Local author and renowned speaker Stephen “Dr. Bird” Birchak, Ed.D, visited Maple Avenue Middle School January 16 to speak to parents about the different ways they can stay connected to their children as they grow into their adolescence years.

Dr. Bird opened his presentation with the thought that “middle school kids are a tough group to connect with.” He told parents that it can be hard for them to remember what happened to them when they were in middle school and how difficult that period of time in your life can be,

explaining that middle school is an age where children begin to think abstractly and have their own opinions, thus projecting their own insecurities onto other people—i.e. parents.

“Middle school is where we lose kids psychologically and mentally,” Dr. Bird explained. “It’s a critical time in their lives, so connecting with them is everything.”

He added that there will be plenty of battles with your children, but that some of the time parents must learn to just let things go.

“Even if you’re right, sometimes you have to let it go,” Dr. Bird said. “We can’t win every battle, because we have to put the relationship ahead of being right.”

Dr. Bird continued on to

point out four qualities of welladjusted people: impulse control, problem solving, conscience and empathy, and social understanding. He used several props to demonstrate his points, including Incredible Hulk-like fists, a funny face mask and a tiara and wand.

He also referenced his brother-inlaw several times throughout the presentation as an example of how not to act.

When talking about problem solving, he told parents to “put the brakes on and stop ourselves from lashing out. Miserable people believe the rest of the world is doing it to them,” he said. “Internal self control is realizing you have a choice, and no one can take away your choice to do what you want in certain circumstances.”

He then went on to explain his five rules on how to stay connected to children: 1. Practice the Behavior You Would Like to See in Others “Avoid humiliating your children in front of their friends,” Dr. Bird said. “Take the time to meet with them one on one.” He also advised parents to avoid raising their voices, sarcasm and passiveaggressive statements, and losing your temper with their children.

“If you want to teach personal control, you need to be a living example,” Dr. Bird added. “Treat all others in the manner that you wish to be treated.”

2. Become a Guide, Not a Dictator “The quickest way to create insanity is to mix rewards with punishments,” Dr. Bird said. He used his sister as an example, telling the audience a story about how she one day told her kids they were going on a trip to Disney

World, but then threatened to take away the trip every time the kids didn’t do what they were told.

“By the end of the three months, the kids didn’t even want to go to Disney anymore!” Dr. Bird exclaimed.

Dr. Bird also said to never take away or threaten a child with a reward they have earned, citing one of his former students whose mother would rip the pictures he drew whenever she was mad at him, causing him to be scared to take home anything that he was proud of for fear of it being ripped up.

“Guide others through their mistakes,” Dr. Bird said. “Don’t oppress them.”

He also said to avoid covert rules, or rules that are dictated by “today’s mood. ” “Consistency in rules and approaches provide the greatest sanctuary in an insane world,” he said.

3. Switch from problem focus to solution focus “When a student misbehaves, focus on the appropriate behavior,” Dr. Bird said.

He said to avoid lists of “thou shalt not” and to use a conducive environment and positive asset search when giving feedback, along with the “sandwich” technique: saying something positive, then critical, then positive again.

4. Join the scientists, not the victimists “Focus on group behaviors and celebrate group achievements, but don’t use mob mentality to solve your problems,” Dr. Bird said. “Don’t let the lateday meltdown or the one instance ruin the entire day—remember, 90 percent is an A-day.”

He also said to avoid battles.

“The goal of communication is to create understanding, while the goal of a battle is to win.”

5. Grow to become the person you want to be In his closing, Dr. Bird shared the story of a boy who was always seen smiling no matter what. Day after day, Dr. Bird saw the boy smiling. Finally, he decided to ask the boy why he was always so happy.

“Because,” the boy replied, “It’s fun to be me!”

“Isn’t that such a wise young boy?” Dr. Bird asked the audience. “What a life lesson we can learn from that. People always ask, ‘Do you enjoy your life?’

Really, the question should be, ‘Is it fun to be you?’”

He also reminded parents that there is a difference between a crisis and an inconvenience.

“In every incident that happens, you need to ask yourself: ‘Is this an actual crisis or just an inconvenience?’ Most of the time, it’s just an inconvenience,” Dr. Bird said.

Dr. Bird is the author of two books, “The Jerk Whisperer” and “How to Build a Child’s Character: By Tapping into Your Own.” For more information on the speaker, visit www. docbird.com. The presentation was made possible by a new initiative at Maple Avenue called Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). The program is an effort to promote and maximize academic achievement and behavioral competence in the Saratoga Springs City School District. For more information on PBIS, visit www.edline.net/pages/ Maple_Avenue_MS.

Attention Parents & Teachers: Saratoga Mama Magazine wants to feature local young artists and talented tikes in our upcoming editions! Do you have a spectacular science fair exhibit, awesome art project, or perfect poem that stands out? Send it to us and they may be famous—well, at least locally.

Please email your submissions to:

colleen@saratogamama.com.

(Please send photos or art in high resolution jpeg format

with the child’s name, grade and school.)

Education

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

17

Education Briefs A.L.L. Offers Variety of Spring Courses SARATOGA SPRINGS — Whether your interests lie in art, literature, history, languages, religion, writing, the outdoors or a variety of other topics, A.L.L., the Academy for Lifelong Learning at Saratoga Springs, has something for you.

Sponsored by Empire State College, the Academy offers non-credit, academic study groups as well as social and leadership opportunities to mature learners. Over 200 individuals within a two-hour radius will descend on the Saratoga area in the spring to participate in our study groups and events.

Unlike normal college courses, the study groups provide the opportunity to experience the joy of learning without the pressures of prerequisites, exams or term papers. Mature learners also appreciate the fact that classes are led by their fellow members and usually involve discussion and active learning rather than a lecture format.

The spring term will begin April 8, with groups meeting during the daytime on Mondays through Thursdays. In addition to study groups, A.L.L. committees have planned several special events with the theme Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Mind to celebrate the Academy’s 20th anniversary in 2012–2013.

Spring 2013 courses include: Contemporary Jewish Politics: “Why Do Jews Earn Like Episcopalians and Vote Like Puerto Ricans?”; Conversational German, Part 1; Hollywood: A “Pot Luck” Film Festival, Interpretive Hikes at Moreau Lake State Park; Iroquois Culture; Italian Conversation, Part 4; Making Sense of It All: Journaling as an Interpretive Tool; Mindful Doodling; Monday Speaker Series; Painting Lab; Telling Life Stories; The Writers Circle; Wednesday Speakers Series; What the Bible Really Says About the Roles of Women and Wildflower Identification for Beginners.

Academy membership for the term is $140.

This fee entitles members to enroll in up to three study groups, participate in social activities during the term, receive a subscription to the A.L.L. newsletter “ACADEMY NOTES,” submit work to “The Apple Tree,” A.L.L.’s literary and art journal, receive discounts at area restaurants and businesses, and vote at the annual meeting.

The Academy’s spring 2013 brochure and registration form are available at area libraries, through the A.L.L. office, and on the A.L.L. web site: www. esc.edu/ALL. Contact the office at: (518) 5872100, ext. 2415 to request a copy.

New and Improved Certified Production Technician Course Starts January 22 SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Washington-SaratogaWa r r e n - H a m i l t o n - E s s e x BOCES is launching a new and improved Certified Production Technician course on January 22. This 200-hour course was developed in conjunction with advanced manufacturing companies in the region who are seeking qualified employees who are fluid with technology, adaptable to change, and able to think on their feet.

The Certified Production Technician course focuses on the core skills and knowledge employers look for in production and supply chain logistics workers, positions that are in high demand in New York’s growing Tech Valley.

Classes meet Monday through Thursday from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the F. Donald Myers Education Center in Saratoga Springs.

Tuition is $3,000. The course includes an online component augmented by hands-on, industry-based projects. Students will obtain both theory and

practical experience with high tech machines.

Individuals who work well in a team setting, enjoy solving problems, have a desire to use state-ofthe art computerized equipment, and can learn to fabricate parts to precise specifications, are invited to apply by calling the WSWHE

BOCES Adult Continuing Education office at 518-746-3555.

Funding may be available to qualified individuals through the Workforce Investment Board.

For more information on the Certified Production Technician program, please call (518) 746-3555 or visit www.wswheboces.org/CPT.

NASA Grant Awarded to Schuylerville Robotics SCHUYLERVILLE — The Schuylerville Robotics Team has been awarded $6,500 from NASA to compete in their FIRST Regional Competition (FRC) next month. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. The FIRST Robotics competition is an intense experience that combines the excitement of a sport with the rigors of science and technology. FIRST describes the experiences as being as close to “real-world engineering” as a student can get.” (www.usfirst.org) This state competition is the first step toward advancing to national-level competition in

April 2013. As the team is completely self-sufficient, operating only through the commitment of parent and community volunteers, funding is still a major hurdle.

This hard-working team deserves the opportunity to compete at FRC and to qualify for thousands of dollars of college scholarships. With less than a month to go, they continue to build in hopes that someone will step up to provide the team the muchneeded financial support.

Schuylerville Robotics is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), organization. For more information, visit them on Facebook, or to make a donation, contact them at schuylervillerobotics@gmail.com. Please help keep their dreams alive.

18

Tooth Fairy The

Club

H.O.P.E. Clinic Adoptable Pets

Team Members at Saratoga Casino and Raceway Donate Blood Regularly: Annual Blood Drive Returns

P.O. Box 2497 Wilton, NY 12831 (518) 428-2994

Saratoga Springs — Saratoga Casino and Raceway and the American Red Cross are teaming up once again to host a blood drive on January 21, from Noon–6 p.m. Bill McQuiston, an employee of the casino for nearly 40 years, and a consistent donor, is aware of the extreme value of his blood type.

“My blood type is O-, which is a pretty rare blood group known as universal donors, meaning my blood can be used by any blood type.” Because of this, he has been donating since 1972.

Take a look at this week’s newest club members!

LOLA

KEGAN

LOGAN Tooth Fairy Club is sponsored by:

Nicole M. Byrne, D.M.D Pediatric Dentistry 659 Saratoga Road Gansevoort, New York 12831 (518) 226-6010

Lola is a sweet 8-year-old beagle mix who needs to be the only pet, queen of her castle. She easily attaches to adults, but is not comfortable with small children. She is a sweet little lady that would make a great companion and needs a home where she is not left alone for long. She would be a free adoption to a senior and would make a great addition.

You can call (518) 428-2994 for more information or, to fill out an online adoption application, visit www. hopeanimalrescue. org.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

5th Grader Donates Hair to Locks of Love Caroline Reals, a 5th grade student at Caroline St. Elementary School, just donated 10 inches of hair for Locks of Love. This is the second time she has donated. Danielle of Brooklyn Attitude gave Caroline her new look.

Two Local Community Leaders Join Saratoga Springs Rotary Club

Saratoga Springs — The Saratoga Springs Rotary Club recently inducted two new members who are leaders in the Saratoga Springs Piccirillo, community: Michael Superintendent of Saratoga Springs City School District, and David DeMarco, President of Saratoga National Bank & Trust Company. Mr.

Piccirillo was previously a member of the Shenendehowa Rotary Club, while Mr. DeMarco was formerly a Rotarian in Glens Falls.

Membership in the Saratoga Springs Rotary Club offers an excellent opportunity for businesses and individuals to carry out the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” and make a

positive impact in the community.

In the year ending June 30, 2012, the Club contributed more than $140,000 to local charities and student scholarships. The Club is currently preparing for its upcoming annual Saratoga Home & Lifestyle Show, which will be held at the Saratoga Springs City Center from March 1 to March 3.

Everything Family... visit us online!

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

helping hands

HELPDIRECTORY

SELF

AIDS Council of Northeastern New York Glens Falls (518) 743-0703 Alcoholics Anonymous Saratoga Springs (518) 587-0407

Narcotics Anonymous Saratoga/Albany (518) 448-6350 Overeaters Anonymous Saratoga Springs (518) 584-8730

Alzheimer’s Association Glens Falls (518) 793-5863

St. Peter’s Addiction Recovery Center Ballston Spa (518) 885-6884

Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis of Saratoga County Saratoga Springs (518) 583-0280 Hotline (518) 584-8188

Saratoga Center for the Family All aspects of family counseling Saratoga Springs (518) 587-8008

Franklin Community Center Food Pantry and Furniture Distribution Program (518) 587-9826 101 Washington Street (Food Pantry Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; free clothing/furniture Wed, Thurs, and Fri, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.)

Saratoga County Alcoholism Services Saratoga Springs (518) 587-8800

Gamblers Anonymous Saratoga/Albany (518) 292-0414

Shelters of Saratoga Saratoga Springs (518) 587-1097

Sexaholics Anonymous Saratoga Springs (518) 964-6292

Health and Support Groups Stepmother Support Group: Saratoga Stepmoms

Where: Virgil’s House, 86 Henry Street When: Every third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

What: Support group for women in a relationship with men who have children from a previous relationship.

Contact: saratogastepmoms@gmail.com

Caregiver Support Group

Where: Evergreen Adult Day Services, 357 Milton Avenue, Ballston Spa When: Last Tuesday of each month, 3-4 p.m.

What: Support for caregivers, families and friends of people with dementia.

Contact: Trudi Cholewinski (518) 691-1516

Parkinson’s Support Group

Where: Woodlawn Commons, Saratoga Springs When: Third Monday, at 2 p.m.

What: A group open to anyone with Parkinson’s disease, family members and friends.

Contact: Joyce Garlock (518) 885-6427

Parents Without Partners

Where: Shenedehowa Adult Community Center at Clifton Commons What: Single parents can meet other single parents in a supportive environment.

Contact: (518) 348-2062, www.meetup.com/PWP796

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

Where: Meetings held at two locations: Wesley Health Care Center Day Activity Room 133 Lawrence Street Saratoga Springs: Every Thursday at 7 p.m., with weigh-ins from 5:45–6:45 p.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Road Wilton Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., with weigh-ins from 5:30–6:30 p.m.

What: Support for those looking to lose weight in a sensible manner. Annual membership is $26 with monthly dues of $5.

Saratoga Fibromyalgia Friends

Where: Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry Street, Sussman Room When: Second Tuesday, 3–4:30 p.m.

Contact: Dawn (518) 470-4918

Saratoga Springs Debtors Anonymous

Where: United Methodist Church When: Tuesdays, 7:30–8:30 p.m.

What: Support for those who are dealing with debt and wishing to become more financially responsible. There are no dues or fees; the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop incurring unsecured debt.

Contact: saratogadebtbusters123@gmail.com.

19

A Ways to Help Franklin Community Center Chug on Over: We still have some chugs to sell for Chowderfest, which is February 2. If you need chugs, please consider buying them from us, as you’ll be helping your local community! $10 gets you a chug and a FCC recyclable grocery bag.

Or bring in groceries for the food pantry and get your chug for $8! Stop by the office M-F 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. We will be closed in honor of MLK Day on 1/21.

Cupid-Worthy Collaboration: For the entire month of February, you can help five local non-profits by donating to our collaborative supply drive.

Representatives from Domestic Violence Rape Crisis Services, Franklin Community Center, Rebuilding Together Saratoga, Saratoga Senior Center, and Saratoga Center for the Family have been meeting for several months, pooling ideas and strategies and exploring ways to consolidate resources by working together. One way we realized the community could help in a tangible and relatively simple way would be by donating new and essential supplies that could potentially decrease each agency’s bottom line.

Supplies Needed (New Only, Please): Paper towels, toilet paper, copy paper, dish soap, hand soap, cleaning products, office supplies (Ziploc bags, disposable gloves, pens, paper clips, staples, post-it notes).

Drop Off Locations: Franklin Community Center (10 Franklin Street), The Senior Center (5 Williams Street), Saratoga Center for the Family (359 Ballston Ave) Time: Donations can be dropped off at the above

locations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

All donations received will be distributed amongst the five agencies. These necessities are essential, but often costly.

Support from the community ensures that each organization can maintain their primary focus of providing effective programming to those they serve.

Putnam Den Benefit Concert: Do you love music? How about helping out a good cause at the same time? Join us on February 9 at Putnam Den at 7 p.m. for a concert to benefit Franklin Community Center by “The Mike Perkins Project”. A huge thank you to Mike Perkins, Saratoga Eagle and Budweiser for making this happen. It’s $20 per person/$30 per couple; you can pay at the door. Casual dress. Danceable rock music with food from Mama Mia’s and drink specials throughout the night!

Mattress Mania: Green Conscience, at 33 Church Street, is holding a “SHARE YOUR LOVE” event. If you buy an organic mattress from them in February, 20 percent of the proceeds can go to FCC. All Savvy Rest organic mattresses are made of natural Dunlop or Talalay latex rubber, with durable casings of certified organic wool and certified organic cotton. Customized comfort-for everyone The natural latex foam in a Savvy Rest is supremely comfortable, supportive and pressure relieving. This natural mattress will respond reliably to your weight and shape for many years. If you’ve been considering a new mattress, February might be a great time!

20 It’s where NEED to be.

YOU

Publication Day: Friday

Ad Copy Due:

Wednesday, 12 pm

Space Reservation Due: Monday, 5 pm

FOR RENT

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Classified marketplace classified@saratogapublishing.com

Call (518) 581-2480 x204 GARAGE SALE

HELP WANTED

AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for hands on Aviation Career. FAA approvedprogram. Financial aid if qualified -Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-296-7093 Drivers: BUYING/SELLING Great Hometime, $.40 CPM plus Bonus, Benefits, 99% BUYING/SELLING: No-Touch, 24 hr. dispatch, Gold, gold coins, sterling late model equip. CDL-A silver, silver coins, silver 2yrs tractor/trailer exp. req. plate, diamonds, fine watches Logistics One: 1-888-598(Rolex, Cartier, Patek), paint- 7248 , x120 ings, furs, estates. Call for Driver-

appointment 917‐696‐2024 $0.03 quarterly bonus, plus JAY $0.01 increase per mile after 6 and 12 months. Daily SAWMILLS or Weekly pay. CDL-A, 3 from only $3997.00‐ months current exp.

MAKE & SAVE MONEY 800-414-9569

with your own bandmill‐ www.driveknight.com Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship.

Drivers- FREE Info/DVD: www.

HIRING EXPERIENCED/ NorwoodSawmills.com INEXPERIENCED TANKER DRIVERS! Earn up to $.51/ 1‐800‐578‐1363 Ext.300N mile! New Fleet Volvo Tractors! 1 Year OTR Exp. Req.-Tanker Training Available. Call Today: 877-882-6537 www.

OakleyTransport.com

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

HUGE GARAGE SALE Sat. 8-4 491 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs Contractors’ tools, home goods, lots of collectors’ items (Barbie, etc.), sporting goods, and clothes.

BUSINESS OPP. START NOW! OPEN RED HOT DOLLAR, DOLLAR PLUS, MAILBOX, DISCOUNT PARTY, $10 CLOTHING STORE, TEEN STORE, FITNESS CENTER FROM $51,900 WORLDWIDE! WWW.DRSS16.COM 1-800-518-3064 BUY REAL VIAGRA, Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn, Propecia & more... FDAApproved,U.S.A. Pharmacies. Next day delivery avaiable. Order online or by phone at viamedic.com, 800-467-0295

ADOPTION

ADOPT: 3+1=Happiness. Looking to adopt another little miracle and make our little Lucy a big sister. Contact Robin & Neil @ 866‐303‐0668, http:// www.rnladopt.info/.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013 Adirondack Christian Fellowship 8 Mountain Ledge, Wilton 587-0623; acfsaratoga.com Services: Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.

Adirondack Friends Meeting 27 Saratoga Ave., S. Glens Falls 793-3755, AdirondackFM@nycap. rr.com; www.adirondackfriendsmeeting.org Regina Baird Haag, pastoral minister Services: 10:30 a.m. Sunday The Alliance Church 257 Rowland St., Ballston Spa 885-6524 Services: Morn. Worship 10:30 a.m.

Assembly of God Faith Chapel 6 Burgoyne St., Schuylerville 695-6069 Rev. Jason Proctor Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Assembly of God Saratoga 118 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6081 Services: Sunday Worship 10 a.m., coffee served at 9:45 a.m.

Bacon Hill Reformed Church 560 Route 32N, Bacon Hill 695-3074 Rev. Janet Vincent Services: Worship service 10 a.m.

Sunday School 10 a.m.

All are welcome.

Handicapped accessible.

Baha’i Community of Saratoga Springs 584-9679; 692-7694; usbnc.org.

Ballston Center Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church 58 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa 885-7312; ballstoncenterarpchurch.org Services: Sunday Worship Service, 10:30 a.m.

Ballston Spa United Methodist Church 101 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-6886 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Bethesda Episcopal Church 41 Washington St., Saratoga Springs 584-5980 Services: Sunday 6:30, 8 & 10 a.m.

Church of Christ at Clifton Park 7 Old Route 146 371-6611; cliftonparkchurchofchrist.com Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Christ Community Reformed Church 1010 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7654; ccrc-cpny.org.

Services: Sundays 10 a.m.

Christ Episcopal Church Routes 50 & 67, Ballston Spa 885-1031 Services: Sunday 8 & 10 a.m.

Christian Restoration Ministries Saratoga Senior Center 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs 796-4323 Pastor Pat Roach Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; 6:30 p.m.

Congregation Shaara Tfille 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 584-2370; saratogasynagogue.org Services: Saturday 9:30 a.m., Monday & Thursday 7:30 a.m., third Friday each month 7:30 p.m.

Handicapped Accessible

Corinth Free Methodist Church 20 Hamilton Ave., Corinth 654-9255; 792-0271 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Corinth United Methodist Church 243 Main Street, Corinth 654-2521 cfumc@cnyconnect.net Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Cornerstone Community Church Malta Commons 899-7001; mycornerstonechurch.org Associate Pastor Paul Shepherd Services: Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Community 2001 Route 9, Round Lake 877-8506, ccorpusc@nycap.rr.com Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.; Weekday Masses: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.

Eastern Orthodox— Christ the Savior 349 Eastline Road, Ballston Spa 786-3100;xcsavior@yahoo.com.

Services: Sunday: 9:15 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Saratoga Springs 45 Washington St. 584-6301 Services: Sunday: 11 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa 202 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-8361; bspabaptist.org Services: 10:30 a.m. worship 9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) First Presbyterian Church of Ballston Spa 22 West High St., Ballston Spa 885-5583 Services: Sunday at 10 a.m.

Full Gospel Tabernacle 207 Redmond Road, Gansevoort 793-2739 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.; Bible Study: Thursday 6:30 p.m.

Galway United Methodist Church 2056 East Street (at intersection of Route 147), Galway 882-6520 www.galway-united-methodistchurch.com Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

(9:00 a.m. in July and August) Grace Brethren Church 137 W. Milton Rd., Ballston Spa 587-0649 Rev. Dan Pierce Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Greater Grace Community Church Pastor David Moore 899-7777, thechurch@ggccmalta.org Services: Wednesday 7:30 p.m. Good Times Restaurant, Lake Rd. 2nd floor; Friday 7:30 p.m. Saratoga Chapel, Eastline & Lake Rds; Sunday 10 a.m. - Glenville Senior Center, 32 Worden Rd. Greenfield Center Baptist Church 30 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center 893-7429 Services: Sunday School for all ages - 9:45 a.m.

Church Service - 11 a.m.

Prayer Meeting - Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

Highway Tabernacle Church 90 River Rd., Mechanicville 664-4442 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

RELIGION Hope Church 206 Greenfield Ave., Ballston Spa 885-7442 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Jonesville United Methodist 963 Main St., Clifton Park 877-7332 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Living Springs Community Church 59 Pine Rd., Saratoga Springs 584-9112 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Living Waters Church of God 4330 State Rt. 50, Saratoga Springs 587-0484; livingwaterscog.us Services: Sundays 10 a.m.

Malta Presbyterian Church Dunning Street, Malta 899-5992 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Malta Ridge United Methodist Church 729 Malta Ave., Ext., Malta 581-0210 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Middle Grove United Methodist Church 581-2973 Pastor Bonnie Bates Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Handicapped accessible New Horizon Church 150 Perry Road, Saratoga Springs 587-0711 Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

New Life Fellowship 51 Old Gick Rd., ­­ Saratoga Springs 580-1810; newlifeinsaratoga.org.

Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.–Noon Childcare is available at all services.

NorthStar Church Shenendehowa High School West Auditorium, Clifton Park 371-2811; northstarchurch.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Old Saratoga Reformed Church 48 Pearl St., Schuylerville oldsaratogareformedchurch.org Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Old Stone Church (American Baptist) 159 Stone Church Rd., Ballston Spa 583-1002 Services: Sunday: 9 a.m.; Adult Sunday School 9:00 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m. Coffee & Fellowship in Living Stone Hall; Wednesday: noon potluck luncheon; 1 p.m. choir rehearsal; 2 p.m. Bible Study Group Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake 399-5713 Services: Saturday 5 p.m.

Sunday 8:15 & 10:15 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Presbyterian-NE Congregational Church 24 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 584-6091; pnecc.org Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Quaker Springs United Methodist Church 466 Route 32 South, Quaker Springs 695-3101; qsumc.com Pastor Al Johnson Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

River of Hope Fellowship 100 Saratoga Village Blvd. Malta Cmns., Ste. 3, Malta 881-1505; riverofhopefellowship.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Roman Catholic Church of St. Peter 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-2375 Services: Eucharistic Celebrations: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m.

St. Clement’s Roman Catholic Church 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-6122 Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 8, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. & 5 p.m.

St. George’s Episcopal Church 912 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-6351; stgeorge@csdsl.net Services: Saturday 4:30 p.m.; Sunday 8 & 9:30 a.m.

St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church 3159 Route 9N, Greenfield Center 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; www.stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m. Handicapped accessible St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church 167 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa 885-7411; stmarysbsta.org Services: Saturday 4 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon.

Handicapped accessible St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 771 Route 29, Rock City Falls 893-7680; sjoegctr@nycap.rr.com; www.stjosephschurchgreenfieldcenter.org Services: Sunday 8:30 am.

Handicapped accessible.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 149 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-0904 Services: Saturday 5 p.m. with Holy Communion. Sundays 8:30 & 11 a.m. with Holy Communion.

St. Peter Lutheran Church 2776 Route 9, Malta 583-4153 Services: Sunday 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School at 9:15 a.m.

St. Thomas of Canterbury 242 Grooms Rd., Halfmoon st-thomas-of-canterbury.org Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga Abundant Life Church 2325 Route 50 South, Saratoga Springs 885-5456; saratogaabundantlife.org Services: Sunday 9:30 a.m.

Saratoga Chabad 130 Circular St., Saratoga Springs 526-0773; saratora@aol.com; saratogachabad.com

21

Saratoga Friends Meeting (Quaker) Rts. 32 and 71 Quaker Springs 587-7477; 399-5013 Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Saratoga United Methodist Church Henning Road, Saratoga Springs 584-3720; saratogaumc.com.

Services: Sunday 9 & 10:45 a.m.

Handicapped accessible.

Saratoga Seventh-Day Adventist Church 399 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs 882-9384; saratogasda.org Services: Sabbath School: 10 a.m.

Worship Service: 11:30 a.m.

Shenendehowa United Methodist 971 Route 146, Clifton Park 371-7964 Services: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m.

Simpson United Methodist Church Rock City Road, Rock City Falls 885-4794 Services: Sunday 10:45 a.m.

Soul Saving Station for Every Nation Christ Crusaders of America 62 Henry St., Saratoga Springs 584-3122 Services: Sunday 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Temple Sinai 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-8730 www.saratogasinai.org Friday 8 p.m. Oneg Sabbat Saturday 10:30 a.m.

Oneg Sabbat Handicapped accessible The Salvation Army Worship, Service & Community Center 27 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs 584-1640; Mail-P.O. Box 652 Captain Aaron A. Boone, Sr.; Captain Amber S. Boone Commanding Officers/Ministers Services: Sunday School 10 a.m.; Praise & Worship 11 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church 155 Ballard Rd., Gansevoort 584-9107 tumcwilton.com Rev. Patti Molik-Pastor Services: Sunday 10 a.m.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-1555; uusaratoga.org Services, Nursery Care, and Religious Education: Sundays 10 a.m. Youth Group: Sundays 11:30 a.m.

Unity Church in Albany 21 King Ave., Albany 453-3603 Services: Sunday 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

West Charlton United Presbyterian Church 1331 Sacandaga Rd., West Charlton 882-9874 westcharltonupc.org Rev. Thomas Gregg, Pastor Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wilton Baptist Church 755 Saratoga Rd, Wilton 583-2736; wiltonbaptist@gmail.com; wiltonbaptistchurch.com Services: Sunday Service 11 a.m.

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fun and games Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Puzzles

See puzzle solutions on page 28

Across 1 Socks for Clinton, e.g.

4 Mums’ relatives, in a way 9 Weber State University city 14 Trouble 15 Petrol purchase 16 __ Laredo, Mexico 17 Bolshevik film festival fodder?

19 Key of the “Eroica” symphony 20 Grant 21 With 51-Across, Puerto Rico pecan and Cuban coconut custard?

23 Ode preposition 25 Musician’s deg.

26 Auden’s vineyard?

33 Dawn deity 34 Last words 35 “__ Peach”: Allman Brothers album 38 Subdued 40 Montréal moniker 41 Jewel box item 42 Gym ball 43 Attic window 45 Doctor of music?

46 Side dish made with russets and Tanqueray?

49 Sigma follower 50 Hosp. readout 51 See 21-Across 57 “The Kiss” painter 61 Lot of baloney 62 Legendary musician responsible for what’s missing from 17-, 21-, 26and 46-Across 64 It’s often stored upside-down 65 City on the Penobscot 66 Have a life 67 “Naturalis Historia” author 68 Parlement français division 69 “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” author Brown Down 1 Cut down 2 Adam’s apple spot 3 Lincoln in-law 4 Looked askance 5 Actress Tyler 6 Left __: rewarded 7 Cologne crowd?

Level: 1

2

3

4

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk

© 2013 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Media Services. All rights reserved.

See puzzle solution on page 28 8 Zaire’s Mobutu __ Seko 9 Unrepeated event, in Essex 10 Roared 11 Upper-bod muscle 12 Cole Porter’s “Well, Did You __?”

13 A or E, but not I, O or U 18 Instrument heard on Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bookends” 22 EPA concern 24 45-Across genre 26 Sub 27 Happy __ 28 Legally prohibit 29 Côte-d’Or crop 30 Ecuadoran province named for its gold production 31 Its capital is Amiens 32 Gauge opening?

At the Movies with Trey Roohan Jack Reacher

Have you ever seen someone who you know deserved to rot in jail get away with it? What if they somehow wound up committing the exact same crime? Could you let them get away with that a second time? I doubt it.

When we first join the characters, we find ourselves in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A sniper attack ends the lives of five seemingly random people. With an abundance of evidence against him, the police arrest and charge former Army sharpshooter James Barr (played

by Joseph Sikora). Rather than confess and throw himself on the mercy of the court, the way District Attorney Alex Rodin (played by Richard Jenkins) and his lead investigator, Detective Emerson (played by David Oyelowo) would like, he writes “find Jack Reacher” on a piece of paper and that’s the last we hear from him for sometime. Jack Reacher (played by Tom Cruise) is a former military police officer who served with distinction and all but vanished from the earth once he left the service. The D.A. and lead investigator ask how they’re supposed to find someone like that and just as one of the characters says “you don’t find him, he finds you” he shows up at their office. By this time, perhaps as a result of misconduct on the part of police and prison officials, James Barr is in a coma. His lawyer, Helen Rodin (defense attorney and daughter of the District Attorney played by Rosamund Pike) introduces herself to Jack Reacher and asks him to work as her investigator. Reacher tells Rodin how he and Barr first became acquainted. Barr, a sharpshooter who never fired a single shot during a battle scenario, has been trained for a task he was never ordered to attempt. He, out of desperation, kills several men who are completely unknown to him. As it turns out, those men were civilian contractors and Barr killed them as they were concluding a rape rally. Barr was acquitted and Reacher, certain he will commit a similar crime in the future, vowed to be there when he did.

I wouldn’t call myself a Tom Cruise fan. I’ve seen films he was in that I liked (examples include A Few Good Men, the Mission: Impossible series, and Collateral) and I’ve seen him in movies I hated (Knight and Day, War of the Worlds, Vanilla Sky). I would consider myself a Rosamund Pike fan; however I have only seen two other films in which she appeared (Die Another Day and The Big Year). I wouldn’t call Jack Reacher a masterpiece or some sort of reemergence of Cruise’s career, but it was very entertaining and I’m glad I saw it. If you’re an action fan, you should see it too. (7.0/10) For comments and questions, contact me at movies@roohanrealty.com.

36 Bagels, shapewise 37 Closing word 39 Cyberface 41 Nutty 43 Smear 44 Denver-to-Wichita dir.

47 Q neighbor 48 Citrus hybrid 51 Soviet letters 52 Kazakhstan border sea 53 Pasta __: food brand 54 Long poem 55 Yorkshire river 56 Gas on Broadway 58 Tech debut of 2010 59 Just 60 Genealogy chart 63 Trial evidence, at times

Writing the Right Word by Dave Dowling Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices.

British Isles, Great Britain, United Kingdom The British Isles consists of the United Kingdom and its islands (Orkneys, Shetlands, and the Isle of Man).

Great Britain consists of England, Scotland, and Wales.

The United Kingdom consists of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Dave Dowling is the author of the The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Signed copies are available for purchase at the gifts and home goods store, Homessence on Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

food

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Which Brussels Sprout Are You?

During a recent weekend, a group of friends were amazed by how many fresh vegetables could still be found at the Saratoga Springs Farmers’ Market. This led to a discussion of Brussels sprouts and the best ways to prepare them.

There were of course those skeptics who said, “There is no way to prepare Brussels sprouts that would make me like them,” and others who urged, “If you just had them prepared like (insert your own favorite preparation here.), you would change your mind about Brussels sprouts.”

It was a lively discussion that went “real” when someone proposed we should have a “Brussels sprouts night.” And so it began…four friends would cook after a mad dash to the farmers’ market where they found pounds of fresh local Brussels sprouts, onions, cheese, bacon, herbs and garlic. Then the preparation and the tasting got going!

In the end the votes were evenly divided. Out of the dozen present,

only one steadfastly refused to admit Brussels sprouts were good (even though that individual did finish off their plate, especially the preparation for meat lovers).

It seemed to come down to food personalities. Below, see if you can find “your personality”.

(Note: Ingredients marked * are available at the Saratoga Springs Farmers’ Market, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. every Saturday at the Division Street School. Vendors accept tokens purchased with credit, debit and EBT cards, which are available at desk in the main entrance to the school.)

The Spicy One (A family favorite, done from memory) Ingredients • 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts cut in half * • 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil • 2 fresh garlic cloves, chopped * • ½ tsp. cumin seeds • ½ tsp. Kosher salt • 2 tbsp brown sugar • Juice from ½ lemon • Pinch of red pepper flakes Directions Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Meanwhile heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic, cumin seeds and kosher salt; sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Toss with the Brussels sprouts and place all on a baking dish. Roast 20-25 minutes, and serve immediately

The Bare Essentials (From Ina Garten’s TheBarefootContessa.com) Ingredients • 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts * • 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil • ½ tsp. kosher salt • ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut off any worn parts (stem, outer leaves) from the sprouts. You want clean and green only. Toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt and pepper. Pour sprouts on a sheet pan and roast for 35-40 minutes, shaking the pan from time to time to ensure even browning. They are done when crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. If you like them salty sprinkle some more salt on and serve immediately. (Some of our tasters sprinkled fresh parmesan cheese over top of these sprouts and thought it made the dish go from just all right to superb).

Give me a Break!

Hello, my Foodie Friends!

Well it’s been nice having my two kids home from college for winter break and it will be sad to see them return to school. I am still having a tough time getting over the first time they got on the school bus and left my wife and me at the bus stop. I will admit though that there are adjustments on both sides with young adults storming in and taking over.

For instance, my son and

daughter have mentioned that walking around in my pajamas in front of their friends is embarrassing to them. They claim that my pajamas are actually underwear!

Not so! They are special New York Yankee shorts! They are plotting to put me in a nursing home soon and laugh at me when I mispronounce the names of some their all-time favorite singers like Ne-Yo! Who knew Ne-Yo is pronounced “Neo?” From now on, maybe my name should be written as Jo-Han…but you can still call me John!

My son is turning into a great cook and baker! However, cleaning up seems to be left for our live-in maid and butler. I actually walked in the house after closing my store and smelled baked

brownies and the remnant aroma of steaks. I then started following a trail on the floor of crumbs and grease and other unidentifiable foods. My anger was growing at the hurricane results when I came to the end of the trail to find my son curled up on the couch sleeping and the dog drinking his chocolate milk which he left on the floor. I looked at him and I swear he looked five years old and was once again Daddy’s boy. I caved and put a blanket on him. The dog and I cleaned up the mess before Pay- Ola (Paula) came home to praise her first born for cooking us up such a great meal.

Life is short and I would never trade these moments because: “Life Happens in the Kitchen!”

Take care, Jo-Han and Pay-Ola

The Meat Lover (Adapted from “Bacon Brussels Sprouts” by Emeril Lagasse, foodnetwork.com) Ingredients • ½ pound bacon * • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced * • 4 garlic cloves, chopped * • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved * • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper • Sugar, optional Directions In a large, deep skillet (with available lid), cook the bacon over medium-high heat until browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; reduce the heat to medium and sauté 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove garlic and onion from the pan and set aside. Add the Brussels sprouts in batches and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown on the outside. Crumble the bacon and sprinkle over the sprouts; then spoon on the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Stir everything in the skillet, adding the salt and pepper to taste with a pinch of sugar (if desired). Cover skillet with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally, until sprouts are just tender, about 10 minutes. Serve warm.

PULSE

24

Award-Winning Filmmaker to Appear in Saratoga Springs SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Emmy and Peabody award-winning filmmaker Carole Hart will be appearing in Saratoga Springs on Saturday, Janunary 19 at 7 p.m. at the Dee Sarno Theater in the Saratoga Arts Center located at 320 Broadway. The cost for the program is $20.

She is appearing to screen her most recent film, a documentary called “For the Next 7 Generations,” a film about the true story of 13 indigenous grandmothers from around the world who are called together to travel across the world on a mission of peace.

Carole Hart won her first Emmy award for her work on

“Sesame Street,” another Emmy for an NBC series for adolescents she created and produced called “Hot Hero Sandwich,” and an Emmy and Peabody award for the multimedia project she created in collaboration with Marlo Thomas, the landmark Grammywinning album, best-selling book and TV special, “Free to Be…You and Me,” which just celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

She has also directed and produced numerous other films and docudramas for television.

Her latest film project, “For the Next 7 Generations,” was four years in the making and shot on location in the Amazon rainforest, the mountains of Mexico,

North America, and at a private meeting with the Dalai Lama in India, and follows what happens when these 13 wise women unite.

Facing a world in crisis, these indigenous grandmothers share with us their visions of healing and a call for change now, before it’s too late. This film documents their unparalleled journey and timely perspectives on a timeless wisdom.

This program is co-sponsored by The Saratoga Integrative Medicine Education Network, or SIMEN, and the Healing Springs Journal magazine.

For more information, call Saratoga Integrative Medicine Education Network at 210-1557.

Chowderfest Dance Flash Mob (Shhh—It’s a Secret!)

The Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau is looking for dancers of all ages and abilities to take part in a dance flash mob on Caroline Street during Chowderfest on February 2.

The easy-to-learn dance will be taught by eba Dance Theater. Register to be a part

of this unique experience at www.etouches.com/chowderfest. Feel free to share with your friends. Come as a group and have a blast! A completed registration is required for each dancer.

On the day of the flash mob, sign in at the Saratoga City Center at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, February

2. The Flash Mob Dance Instruction will begin promptly at 10 am. The first 200 people to sign in will receive a free Chowderfest beanie to be worn during the dance. Claim your space on Caroline Street at 11:40 a.m.

The Flash Mob will begin at 11:45 a.m.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Schuylerville Community Theatre Holding Auditions for “Bye Bye Birdie”

The Schuylerville Community Theater is pleased to announce its spring musical production, “Bye, Bye Birdie” to be held on April 19, 20 and 21.

Auditions for cast members will be held on Wednesday evening, January 23, 2013 at the Schuylerville Jr./Sr. High School in the auditorium. Call backs and full run-through will be held on Friday evening January 25 in the Schuyler Room of the Town of Saratoga Building on the corner of Routes 4 and 29. Starting time for registration and auditions is 6:30 p.m.

Artistic Director Bill Howard, Musical Director, Dennis Searles and Choreographer, Joann Searles are looking for a diverse cast of adults and teens ranging in age from 10 to the young at heart seniors and everything in between who want to have fun and perform quality theater for Schuylerville and the surrounding areas.

Audition Participants will be asked to do the following at the audition: ➢ Sing 8 to 12 bars of a song from the show ➢ Read from the script of a director selected role ➢ Dance a short Movement Segment Roles to be cast (with age ranges of characters): Male: Albert Peterson – 30s Harry Macafee – 40s to 50s Conrad Birdie – 20s Hugo Peabody – High School Senior Randolph Macafee – age 10 or so Female: Rosie Alvarez – 30s Kim Macafee – 15 Ursul Merkle – 15 Mrs.Peterson – 50s to 60s Mrs. Macafee – 40s to 60s In addition to the above, two choruses are needed: an adult chorus and a teen chorus from which small character roles will be selected.

Production Crew is also needed for those who wish to work backstage helping to make it all happen.

Rehearsals will begin on Sunday, January 27. The first rehearsal will be at the Town Hall. A draft rehearsal schedule will be available at the audition on Wednesday 23. For more information please visit us on the web at scttheater.org or call Director Bill Howard at (518) 636-8444 or the SCT information line at (518) 695-5480.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Grace Pettis and Pierce Pettis Appear in Concert at Caffé Lena

SARATOGA SPRINGS — In 1987, singer-songwriter Pierce Pettis celebrated two milestones: the birth of his daughter Grace, and winning the New Folk Award at the Kerrville Folk Festival. In 40 years of the Kerrville Folk Festival there had never been any legacy winners, but last year Grace did her father proud by winning the New Folk Award herself. Grace and Pierce Pettis will be performing together Sunday, January 20 at 7 p.m. at Caffé Lena in Saratoga Springs.

Since the release of her selftitled debut album in the fall of 2009, Grace Pettis has been steadily building her reputation in the music industry. Her second album “Two Birds” recorded at the renowned Blue Rock Artist Ranch and Studio outside Austin and has already received accolades, including a five-star review in the October 2012 issue of the British music magazine Maverick. Grace twice performed on the Main Stage this past summer at the Kerrville Folk Festival, including a duo show

with her father Pierce. Now a seasoned troubadour, Grace’s 20-city “Two Birds” Release Tour took her from Austin to Boston and she will be a Showcase Artist at the 2013 International Folk Alliance Conference in Toronto.

Graces’ father, Pierce Pettis, first attracted notice as a staff writer at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios when his “Song at the End of the Movie” found its way on Joan Baez’s 1979 album “Honest Lullaby”. His varied musical career has featured multiple albums for the High Street and Compass record labels and a stint as a staff songwriter at PolyGram. Pierce’s honors include a 1999 ASCAP Country Music Award for the Garth Brooks hit “You Move Me” and his songs have covered by a wide range of artists from Art Garfunkel to Dar Williams.

For additional information about Grace Pettis visit www.gracepettis.com. To learn more about Pierce Pettis, visit www.piercepettis.com.

PULSE

25

Tang Museum Hosts Major Retrospective of Artist, Activist and Educator Corita Kent SARATOGA SPRINGS — A comprehensive collection of work by one of America’s most popular and important graphic artists, including iconic images from the turbulent 1960s and 70s, will be on view at the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College.

“Someday is Now: The Art of Corita Kent” debuts January 19 and will run through July 28. The opening reception is January 26 from 6–7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

This is the first full-scale survey of more than 30 years of work

by Corita Kent (1918–1986), legendary teacher at Immaculate Heart College in Los Angeles and civil rights and anti-war activist.

More than 200 of her vibrant serigraph prints, drawings, paintings, and rarely seen photos and videos from the Corita Art Center in Los Angeles combine to make this a comprehensive history of the artist.

“This is a wonderful time to celebrate and appreciate Corita Kent, and her optimistic belief in the power of art and teaching,” said Tang Dayton Director Ian Berry, who co-curated the exhibit with L.A.-based independent curator and art critic Michael Duncan.

An active spirit permeated K nt’s life, with printmaking a populist medium for communication with the world around her. In posters and murals, she posed philosophical questions about racism, poverty, war, and conflicts between radical and conservative positions inside the Catholic Church.

Works such as manflowers (1969) touched directly on the brutalities of the war in Vietnam. She sought to address the stark realities of the world with messages of hope and joy, explaining: “It is a huge danger to pretend awful things do not happen. But you need enough

hope to keep on going. I am trying to make hope. And you have to grab it where you can.”

Also opening at the Tang on January 26 are “Opener 24—Carrie Moyer: Pirate Jenny”; “Elevator Music 24—Yoko Ono: Listen”; and “Paul Shambroom: Meetings,” photographs shown in conjunction

with the ongoing exhibit “We the People.”

The Tang Museum is open noon–5 p.m., Tuesday–Sunday, closed on Mondays and major holidays, and open until 9 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information, visit www.skidmore.edu/tang, or call (518) 580-8080.

PULSE Calling All Beer-Lovers: Druthers Begins Monthly Beer-Pairing Dinners

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Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

by Chelsea DiSchiano Saratoga TODAY There are plenty of restaurants that pair food with different wines, but what about all the beer-lovers out there? Don’t they deserve to have their food especially complemented by certain beers, too?

This is the question that inspired the men behind Druthers Brewing to begin a series of monthly beer-pairing dinners at their restaurant, hosting their very first one Wednesday, January 23.

“We want to do dinners that highlight the beers that we do have on tap—we really want to use the flavors of the beers in the food the chefs prepare,” said Brian Martell, CPO and chief pub officer of Druthers.

Executive Chef Sean Comiskey explained that he created a menu to cater towards foods that can be smoked for a “more natural pairing.”

“We like to differentiate ourselves from the competition with the equipment that we’re using, so we based this menu solely around smoked food,” Comiskey said. “It’s something we like to do here because

we have our own smoker on the premise, so we’re looking to smoke items and foods that aren’t normally done—not ribs, not BBQ. We’re just cooking with wood and trying to complement the beer because they go really well together.”

Each meal of the five courses Comiskey is cooking up will be

paired with a different beer from the restaurant’s very own taps, each meal designed to complement the beer as they get heavier.

“You need to set up the menu and beers according to how harsh they are on your palette,” Comiskey explained. “So we base our food menu off of the general lighter beers, then move to a little more powerful beer and then towards the end we get to the sweeter beers with more malt and hops that would ruin your palette for anything to follow [if you drank them at the beginning of the meal].

“We’ll start with a pilsner that I cook with on a daily basis, then a Hefeweizen, a Winter Warmer, then an IPA—that’s been the most popular beer since we unveiled it—and then lastly we’ll have a Porter to go with the cake and coffee,” Comiskey said.

Though the majority of the dinner features courses with meat, the chef will provide vegetarian options for those who request it.

“It’s fun—we’re not pretentious, we’re not trying to do a wine and food pairing—we’re pairing our beer with fun, well-prepared ingredients,” Comiskey said. “We’re trying to make it as local as possible and the beer is made onsite. It will be different than what you can get from anywhere else. It’s a good deal and there’s plenty of food and plenty of beer, so you won’t leave hungry.”

The food and beer pairing will take place January 23 at Druthers, located at 381 Broadway. To reserve a spot at the dinner, call (518) 3065275 or email info@druthersbrewing.com

PULSE

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Local Gigs Week of 1/18-1/24

Send listings to amarshall@saratogapublishing.com

Friday, 1/18:

Saturday, 1/19:

Dave Fisk Quartet, 9 pm

Frank Jaklitsch, 8 pm

Rob Pulsifer, 9 pm

High Peaks Band, 9 pm

The Schmooze, 9 pm

Rich Ortiz, 9 pm

Headroom, 8 pm

Vivid [from CT], 10:30 pm

Brother Sun, 8 pm

On Your Mark, 9 pm

Live Acoustic Music, 7 pm

Hair of the Dog, 9 pm

Rich Ortiz, 9 pm

70s Dance Party!, 8 pm

Jimmy Kelly, 9 pm @ irish times — 583.0003

Sunday, 1/20:

Crispy Critters, 5:30 pm

Pierce & Grace Pettis, 7 pm

@ 9 Maple Ave — 583.2582 @ bailey’s — 583.6060

@ bentley’s — 899.4300

@ bayou cafe — 384.7226 @ caffè lena — 583.0022 @ druther’s — 306.5275

@ gaffney’s — 587.7359

@ jp bruno’s — 745.1180

Funk Evolution, 10:30 pm @ jp bruno’s — 745.1180

Grand Cental Station, 9 pm @ the mill — 899.5253

Forthlin Road Band, 9 pm @ the parting glass — 583.1916

George Giroux, 9 pm @ primelive ultra lounge — 583.4563

The Audiostars, 9 pm @ vapor — 792.8282

Saturday, 1/19: Todd Nelson’s TN3, 9 pm @ 9 Maple Ave — 583.2582

Ubuntu, 9 pm @ bailey’s — 583.6060

Chalkdust Torture!, 8 pm @ bayou cafe — 384.7226

Sugar Pill, 7 pm @ bentley’s — 899.4300

@ caffè lena — 583.0022 @ gaffney’s — 587.7359

@ irish times — 583.0003 @ jp bruno’s — 745.1180 @ the mill — 899.5253

@ the parting glass — 583.1916

@ primelive ultra lounge — 583.4563

@ @ caffè lena — 583.0022

Thursday, 1/24: Live Acoustic Music, 8 pm @ druther’s — 306.5275

TBA, 9 pm

@ gaffney’s — 587.7359

Celtic Session, 8 pm @ the parting glass — 583.1916

Open Mic Nights: Sun. Open Mic, 7 pm @ bailey’s — 583.6060

Thur. Open Mic, 7 pm @ caffè lena — 583.0022

Tue. w/Rick Bolton, 8 pm @ gaffney’s — 587.7359

Wed. Open Mic, 8 pm @ putnam den — 584.8066

Thur. Open Mic, 10 pm @ circus café — 583.1106

photo provided

DON’T MISS IT! Grand Central Station

Friday January 18 at 9 pm @ the mill 518.899.5253

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SPORTS

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Community Sports Bulletin

Local Pilates Studio to Host Informal Open House

What’s Happening at Gavin Park?

Zumba at Gavin Park – *New Start Date*

Our Zumba parties will have a late start…sessions began the week of January 14. You still have time to join the Latin inspired dance fitness Zumba party at Gavin Park that features exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats which are easy to follow. Before you know it, you’re getting fit and your energy level is soaring! There’s nothing else like a Zumba Fitness Party. Classes run for six weeks: each Monday, (5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.), and each Wednesday, (6:15 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.). You can sign up for one or for both sessions!

Pre-registration is required. Sorry, no “drop-ins” allowed.

Space is limited and registration is going on now. (Participants must be at least 15 years of age.) Don’t miss out….register now.

To register, stop down to Gavin Park, or register online at www. townofwilton.com, Parks & Recreation Department. For additional information, contact (518) 584-9455.

Winter Breakers Club at Gavin Park SARATOGA SPRINGS – Reform, A True Pilates Studio is hosting an informal Open House on Thursday, January 24 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Meghan Del Prete, owner of Reform Pilates, is providing a relaxed, pressure-free opportunity for the public to come observe and try out Pilates apparatus.

Attendees will be able to watch private sessions and small group classes as well as ask the instructors about their Pilates questions.

Free 15-minute demos are also available for people to use the apparatus with guidance of an instructor (pre-registration is requested.) Everyone who attends will be entered into a raffle for the Introduction to Pilates package (valued at $250) and get 10 percent off all boutique purchases. For further information about the Open House and the Reform studio, go to their website at www.reformyourbody.com.

The studio is located at 18 Division Street, Suite 203, Saratoga Springs. For more information call (518) 871-1315.

Gorilla Basketball at Gavin Park Get ready for another exciting season of our fun-filled Gorilla Basketball program. Don’t miss the fun! This program is for children ages four through six who have little or no playing experience. Children learn the fundamentals of the game including dribbling, passing and shooting in a fun and relaxed environment. Coaches teach the basics of the game by utilizing drills and small scrimmages. Each participant receives a T-shirt.

Program runs Sundays, January 27 through March 3 from 9 to 10 a.m., and is limited to 20 participants. Pre-registration is required and is going on now. Ensure your child’s spot now by registering online through the Parks and Recreation link at www.townofwilton.com or by stopping by the park office during regular business hours.

Send your sports stories or briefs to Andrew Marshall, Sports Editor at amarshall @saratoga publishing.com

Puzzle solutions from pg. 22

Looking for child care during the Winter school break, February 19-22? We have the perfect solution for you. Gavin Park is once again offering a school break program and has expanded its registration to include Kindergarten through 7th grades. Program hours are 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. New program fee is $36 per day (three day minimum) for Wilton residents, ($37 per day, and three day minimum for non-residents). Enrollment fee includes a light afternoon snack and drink, as well as gym activities, crafts, movies, bingo and outside fun. Students need to bring their own lunches with drinks.

Pre-registration is required and is going on now. Space is limited and registration ends soon. Don’t miss out! Just stop down to Gavin Park, or visit us online at www.townofwilton.com, Parks & Recreation Department and register your child for a full day of fun in our Breakers Club!

Birthday Party Packages at Gavin Park

Hey, it’s cold out there! Come inside for a cozy birthday party and enjoy a personalized celebration designed with YOU in mind!

Select from the Crafty Kid or the Sporty Sport package. Each package comes with age appropriate games and activities. Don’t wait!

Schedule your child’s special party day now. Call (518) 584-9455 during regular business hours on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

SPORTS

Saratoga Springs Grad Weaver Hired by Buffalo Bills as D-Line Coach

by Andrew Marshall Saratoga TODAY BUFFALO – The Buffalo Bills are working their way through a complete overhaul of their coaching staff this off season, in hopes of finally snapping the longest current playoff drought in the National Football League. In doing so, they’ve added a little local flavor to their defensive coaching ranks, adding former NFL player and Saratoga Springs High School graduate Anthony Weaver as their defensive line coach.

Weaver joins the Bills staff after leaving the New York Jets, where he served as an assistant defensive line coach last season. He joins a

staff being put together by firsttime head coach Doug Marrone, who Buffalo hired after two seasons as the head coach for the Syracuse Orange. Marrone went 25-25 in his stint at Syracuse and won both bowl games the team appeared in during that time.

The Bills and Marrone were able to poach the Jets’ defensive coordinator, Mike Pettine, earlier this month and Pettine appears to be bringing some of his staff with him. Weaver now inherits one of the most talent-heavy defensive lines in the entire NFL, which includes $100 million-dollar-free agent signing Mario Williams, Mark Anderson, former Pro Bowl selection Kyle Williams and the

NICK SMITH This week’s athlete of the week is Saratoga Springs boys varsity basketball player Nick Smith. Smith was instrumental in nailing down the Blue Streaks’ 54-46 win January 11 against the Niskayuna Silver Warriors. The senior guard had nine points to go along with six assists, and made three of four free throws the last minute of the game along with some crucial steals and rebounds during the fourth quarter to seal the team’s fifth win of the season. Honorable

mentions go to John Rach who finished with 13 points and 11 rebounds and Noah Arciero, who had 16 points.

If you would like to nominate a local student-athlete (or athletes) for Saratoga TODAY’s Athlete of the Week, send an email to amarshall@saratogapublishing for consideration.

We accept nominations for both performance and sportsmanship, as well as students making a difference in their communities.

Bills’ 2011 first round draft pick out of the University of Alabama, Marcell Dareus.

Despite the star power crowding the line of scrimmage, Weaver will have his work cut out for him as he attempts to shape the talent into an effective unit. Buffalo finished 22nd in total team defense this season, which is mostly due to their inability to stop opposing running backs. The Bills finished 30th overall against the run, giving up 145.8 yards per game. One of Weaver’s first tasks will be figuring out how to shore up that abysmal run defense.

The former Blue Streak played collegiately at Notre Dame, before being selected in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. (He was taken just one round after Baltimore drafted long time free safety Ed Reed.) He spent four seasons with the Ravens, appearing in 57 games for the club before leaving for the Houston Texans in 2006. He would play 46 games in three seasons for the Texans, before retiring in 2008.

He finished with 15.5 career sacks, three interceptions and 257 tackles in seven seasons.

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SPORTS

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

Baseball Hall of Defame Damian Fantauzzi

There will not be any baseball player inductees to the Baseball Hall of Fame this year. It’s only the eighth time in the Hall’s history that this has happened. The closest candidate was Craig Biggio of the Houston Astros, who totaled 3,060 hits in his career and made seven All-Star appearances, all while playing three positions in

his illustrious career (catcher, second base and outfield). He topped the ballot with 388 votes - 39 shy of the 427 needed for election. There were 569 ballots cast, the third highest total in the history of voting, but none of the 37 candidates in the 2013 vote gained the necessary 75 percent needed.

So, who votes? The Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) does the work and there were 569 ballots cast. This is the first time since 1996 that the association has not picked a Hall of Famer.

Commenting on the election, the Hall’s president Jeff Idelson said, “The standards for earning election to the Hall of Fame have been very high ever since the rules were created in 1936. We realize the challenges voters are faced with in this era. The Hall of Fame has always entrusted the exclusive voting privilege to the Baseball Writers Association of America. We remain pleased with their role in evaluating candidates based on the criteria we provide.”

Other players named with more than half of the ballots were pitcher Jack Morris (Detroit Tigers for 14 seasons including stints with the Twins, Blue Jays, Indians) with 385 votes, first baseman Jeff Bagwell with 339 (Houston Astros), catcher Mike Piazza with 329 votes (Dodgers, Mets, Marlins) and outfielder Tim Raines (Expos, White Sox, Yankees) with 297 votes.

Biggio and Piazza were each on the ballot for the first time, Morris for the 14th year, Bagwell the third and Raines the sixth. Players remain on the ballot for up to 15 years provided they receive five percent of the vote in any year. There were 19 who failed to make the cut this year (29 votes) - 18 of the 24 players who were on the ballot for the first time. This includes outfielder and former beloved Yankee, Bernie Williams, who was on the ballot the second time. First-year candidates who received sufficient support to remain in addition to Biggio and Piazza were pitchers Curt Schilling and Roger Clemens, along with outfielders Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa. Outfielder Dale Murphy, in his 15th and final year on the ballot, received 106 votes.

Other holdovers are first basemen Mark McGwire (Cardinals), Fred McGriff (who played for MANY teams); Don Mattingly (Yankees) and Rafael Palmeiro (Cubs, Texas, Baltimore); pitcher Lee Smith (many teams); shortstop Alan Trammell (Tiger for 20 years); designated hitter/third baseman Edgar Martinez (Mariners for 17 years) and outfielder Larry Walker (Expos, Rockies, Cardinals.)

Just a little history for you baseball fans! How difficult is it for these baseball writers to vote on these candidates? I’m guessing it isn’t an easy job and during the modern era, it’s become an even more difficult position. Obviously, no one in Cooperstown was trying to pitch a shutout of the eligible candidates.

But one has to admire the process and how it is carried out. I think it’s fair and there must be many circumstances that have to be weighed when casting a vote for America’s baseball heroes.

The process used by the BBWAA is more than fair because it is a prolonged intense look that can be measured over a fifteen year period with plenty of scrutiny. It would seem that over that time period, that there is no one who can really be overlooked because of the method of examining something so closely!

One wonders if the guidelines should be changed because of the distinctive shadow of the steroid era. Also, is it time to change or reexamine the process used for voting? It seems to me there couldn’t be a better group than the baseball writers to execute what needs to be done, mainly because they all have a common cause and interest, in a serious concern for the game.

I think that it is evident that the BBWAA took this vote a bit more seriously than others; there have to be so many questions, especially during the past decade, for these writers to process in their minds than probably ever before.

The suspicions of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) have created a whole new question for the baseball writers to consider. How do they determine if any of the candidates are users? This might be a reason that Mike Piazza,

Curt Schilling, Craig Biggio and his teammate, Jeff Bagwell, were not inducted. The baseball writers might be concerned that one of these candidates (that should probably be inducted) could have used steroids or another form of PEDs during their careers. Taking a look at the modern era of athletics, how does one categorize who did what and who didn’t?

Looks like maybe another Lance Armstrong story, such as: if all of the candidates used PEDs, things could get grim for the Hall.

Lance was accused of doping, but so did mostly everyone else on the “tour!” So who gets the multiple yellow jerseys and the seven Tour de France titles, even if Armstrong finally fesses up that he did doping? So where does it end or should I say what will the new beginning look like in all of sports, not to mention the problems confronting the Baseball Hall of Fame or Defamed? Do we have a quagmire underfoot of a changing world of athletics?

I certainly don’t envy the BBWAA for the task that confronts them in the years to come.

Maybe there needs to be an award for the “liars club” or even a marking like on the Walk of Fame at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood, with a star for acting professional athletes. Who knows what going to happen with the Baseball Hall of Fame or any other designated awards for athletes? I certainly don’t have an answer.

There are some who say it is part of the changing demographics of baseball and other sports. I just can’t buy that. I do feel that there can become such mistrust in the athletic world, when it comes to who is using what and who isn’t.

Where do we draw the line and how do we do that? This can get real messy - even more than it already is - and it puts a hole in the road to the future of institutions like the Baseball Hall of Fame. Where does it stop, how can it stop and will it stop? I think this the beginning of a constant problem or a new beginning for professional world of sports where PEDs are accepted. But I certainly hope not!

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

SPORTS

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Thoroughbreds’ Great Shooting Downs RIT SARATOGA SPRINGS - A hot shooting Skidmore College men’s basketball team hit 14 of 22 three-point attempts in an 83-60 Liberty League win over RIT at the Williamson Sports Center, Saturday.

The Thoroughbreds complete the weekend league sweep to improve to 3-2 and 9-5 overall. The Tigers are 0-4 and 4-9.

Tanner Brooks led all scorers with 23 points to go along with five rebounds, two assists and a pair of

Defense Key to Women’s Basketball Victory

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Skidmore College women’s basketball team didn’t allow a field goal for a stretch of nearly nine minutes in the second half in a 49-47 Liberty League win over RIT, January 12 at the Williamson Sports Center.

The Thoroughbreds are all alone in second place with a 4-1 league mark and 6-8 overall record.

The Tigers are 0-4 and 3-9.

Skidmore guard Molly McLaughlin led all scorers with 12 points on four three-pointers.

She also had five assists and four rebounds. Dani DeGregory added nine points and four assists, while Jordyn Wartts chipped in nine points and three assists.

Ashylnn Palmitesso led RIT with 11 points off the bench.

Mallory Apperson had seven points and eight rebounds and Kayla Wheeler scored six points and pulled down nine boards.

The Tigers led by seven at the half, 29-22, with 14 points coming in the paint.

Skidmore kept it close early in the second half and then took over defensively in the game’s final nine minutes.

RIT led 40-34 on a Wheeler layup with 9:02 to play. That would be the last Tiger field goal until a Palmitesso three with 18 seconds left in the game. The Thoroughbreds used an 11-2 run to take their first lead of the game, 45-42, on a McLaughlin three with 1:59 to play.

Skidmore tacked on four more points to extend the lead to seven, 49-42, with 0:33 to play. Palmitesso

hit her three and then Jackie Hom scored after a Thoroughbred miss for the 49-47 final.

Skidmore shot 52.9 percent from the floor in the second half, while holding the Tigers to 25.9 percent.

The Thoroughbreds are at Vassar on January 18.

steals. Connor Merrill scored 16 points and had four blocks, while Aldin Medunjanin and Kevin Dahill had 11 each. Medunjanin also had eight rebounds and eight assists.

Nick Dobson, Brendan Reinert, and Casey Bobelis scored 11 each for RIT. Skidmore led the entire game, stretching a 45-31 halftime lead into as many as 28 points in the second half.

Brooks hit six of eight threes

in the first half, finishing 6-9 for the game. Merrill was 6-9 for the game, while Dahill was 5-6.

Medunjanin went 4-4 from the free throw line to extend his streak to 22 straight makes over the past four games.

RIT was a respectable 24-51 from the floor, but went 1-10 from beyond the arc. The Tigers also struggled from the free point line, making 11 of 27 for 40.7 percent.

Skidmore is on the road at Vassar on January 18.

Volume 8 • Issue 2

See Anthony Weaver pg. 29

FREE

Week of January 18 – January 24, 2013

SPORTS

See Pilates Open House pg. 28

Skidmore Men’s and Women’s Basketball Win At Home

Photos courtesy of Greg Fisher